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Make 2009 Your Best Year Yet

Posted by Zhana on February 2, 2009 at 2:30pm

Are you achieving the glorious results you want?You have unlimited potential and you deserve the very best.Check out Success Strategies today.Are you a Black entrepreneur? I want to help you promote your business. This is free of charge. Check out my Strong Black Business Community.Not a member of Squidoo yet? Join here for free.Who have you helped? Helping others is said to be the best way to success. Send me your story. The best ones will be published.Here's to your success!Zhana

If you want to receive the best from others, you must accept the best in you

Posted by Sophia Bailey on February 1, 2009 at 4:16pm

I can't believe January is over today and we are already moving on to valentines day and the first school half term of the year. How are you doing with your new year re-solutions?I had an awesome interview with Gilly onthe speak-easy radio show on www.playvybz.com this week where we spoke about resolutions as well as lots of other topics, it was a great show and the station owner Andrea Photiou is young entrepreneur who is doing amazing things.Here is a video snippet of my radio interview - http://theppsn.ning.com/video/gilly-interviews-sophia-bailey which tells you a couple of things you maybe didnt know about me ;-) but the whole interview is 90 minutes, I'll be posting it to the PPSN site soon. - http://theppsn.ning.comAfter the Obama Inauguration, everyone is looking for their perfect Mr or Mrs Obama and it has sparked many a debate about how to attract that perfect person. If you were in our online networking event on Jan 20th you would have picked up a few tips but if you have any tips to share, i'd love to hear them.It also got me thinking about the dating scene and who or what is really on offer?" If you want to receive the best from others, you must accept the best in you"Sophia BaileyWith Valentines day coming up soon, I've had a few event invites but listening to some single people, you'd forgive me for thinking there is no point in trying."women only want my friendship " ,"women just want my money" , "men just want one thing"We do a lot of talking about what's lacking in other people but we skip past what we're actually offering. We know we have to become like the person we wish to attract, or why else would they want us?;but in addition, believing that people are attracted to you for one thing means you believe you only have one thing to offer - Think about that."What you believe about yourself determines how you show yourself and people will always treat you the way you see you."You might find that you continually attract people looking for someone that offers just one thing, be it people that are healing and just want friendship, deceptive people that just want money or married people who want a fling.Things wont change until you start to see yourself as someone who no longer offers one thing but has a long list of things to offer.This fortnight write a list of your best qualities, get your loved ones to list good things about you and list the best qualities of people you admire, they reflect you too.On Valentines Day, read your list to remind yourself of the amazing all inclusive package that you are.Sophia Xxp.s If you are enjoying my new column in the Voice newspaper 'Words of Wisdom' do send a note to the editor@gvmedia.co.uk This weeks column is on page 30... Many thanks!p.p.s check out some of the blogs below from our members and post them some feedback if you can :-)p.p.p.s (she's so extra!) feel free to send me a valentines e-card, being single means i get more cards right?5 GREAT WAYS TO START THE DAYBY LEAH SALMONIf getting up in the morning is an unbearable event, here are 5 ways to make this one of the best parts of the day. Naturally.1. Wake up with a smile - There is no better way to start the day than to be faced with something lovely as soon as you open your eyes. So find a picture of something you really love, whether that a picture of the latest sports car, a beautiful bunch of flowers, you favourite old teddy or something you find really funny and position it so that as soon as you wake up you see it...........and smile. This may sound silly, but ....TO READ MORE VISIT - http://theppsn.ning.com/profiles/blogs/5-great-ways-to-start-the-day2009 - YOUR GOALS YOUR FUTUREBY NICK MOODYWith the new year now three weeks old, how many of us experienced an all too brief period of time at the turn of the year where we felt optimistic about the year ahead, set ourselves new goals and challenges, and told ourselves that this time next year we'd be millionaires? I'm sure that I wasn't alone in setting new and better expectations of myself in 2009......TO READ MORE VISIT - http://theppsn.ning.com/profiles/blogs/2009-your-goals-your-futureBEAUTY OR THE BEASTBY ROGER MILLARLook at this image above what do you see a young woman, or an old hag? Whatever you can see try and see the opposite you will probably struggle to see itMany of you will have already seen, at some point in your lives, this classic optical illusion. How can this picture be used from a coaching perspective?A school of thought suggests that the majority of women who look at this picture will see the old hag, the theory goes that women are generally unhappy about some aspect of their appearance, hence they see and focus on the negative aspects first and lastTO READ MORE VISIT - http://theppsn.ning.com/profiles/blogs/beauty-or-the-beast

Enter Da Vinci’s Li Brow Giveaway! Feb 1st - Feb 28th

Posted by Da Vinci on February 1, 2009 at 5:00am

How To Enter:

Visit www.davincisbloglog.com go to our contest page

Fill Out The Entry Form

& Leave At least one comment on an article on the site for each entry

(ENTRY IS NOT VALID WITHOUT A COMMENT MADE ON ANOTHER ARTICLE ON THIS SITE)

This Month's Contest "Da Vinci's Li Brow Giveaway!" is running from Feb. 1st - Feb. 28th. It's open to residents of the united states and canada 18 and over. (please make sure you follow the rules)

You can enter multiple times to help increase your chances of winning, the drawing is done at random.

This month's contests is a GREAT one there but there can only be ONE winner the prizes has an approximate value of $150 so enter today for your chance to win.

Only 9 Days Left - Running Start Accepting Applications

Posted by Alive Inc & ALIVE Magazine on February 1, 2009 at 3:00am

You're Invited to an All Exclusive Online Chat Party For Amber Scott Tonight 8 - 10 PM EST.

Posted by Brigitte Henry on February 1, 2009 at 12:23am

Hello My name is Brigitte Henry,The Admin. of Parteamamas.comI would like to extend an Invitation to you, to Tonight's Online Chat Room PartyYou're Invited to an All Exclusive Online Chat Party For Amber Scott Tonight 8 - 10 PM EST.Amber is Serving our Country in the United States Military I am hosting a party in her honor tonight!Hope that you will be able to attend!

Thank You for your support hope to see ya there!Online Party Location Link:Parteamamas.com

What is your competitive edge?

Posted by Lisa Henry on January 31, 2009 at 11:30pm

Greetings everyone!Developing your competitive edge is a must. I am a true guerrilla marketer just the same as most, however what has made me unique or stand out marketing for the legal community is my ability to adapt using media software creatively. I have spent years developing my edge to survive in the industry. There are numerous docket runners and legal marketers in my area in the same business who are creative when it comes to guerrilla marketing, but it is that edge of creating something our competitors cannot offer keeps us going. My competition are other legal marketers.My use of software and informational content are my edge in the industry. Keep in mind people do not buy features as much as they buy benefits. Marketing benefits is the key to gaining paying clients.If you fall and scratch your knee, it may benefit you to get a product that helps heal the wound on your knee. People seek out benefits, then browse or shop for the features. One product may feature an antibiotic creme, another may offer the feature in an easy no mess tube. Benefits usually come before features. When I market using how a service can truly benefit the desired target audience in a format unique from others I have created marketing a product or service with a competitive edge. For example, you have likely seen attorney TV commercials, newsletters, brochures, direct mailers or billboards. Now, how many of those commercials have you seen or heard the statement, "We will work for you" or " If you are hurt on your job, call the law office of ________"? Where is the edge, the uniqueness.?I learned quickly to market quality, not quantity which is another competitive edge rule that when followed, generates paying clients. A lot of "prospects" do not equal paying clients. It may seem as though you are not making progress when you market quality in the beginning, but your bottom line and what you receive in return will prove fruitful in the future. Quality is about planting seeds and preparing for the harvest. Quality marketing is marketing where your products and services benefit.What is your edge? What makes your product or service different from other products and services just like yours? I developed skills, along the way, that I can confidently add to my resume because of adapting and developing my competitive edge. See some examples below of how keeping up with technology has helped me expand into other areas.These are examples of wedding vendor sites: Mir-A-Co Designs and Elegant EventsWhen I created my Ning social network I wanted a unique banner so I designed from scratch this interactive banner: SweeThorn flash bannerYour edge will create business longevity. Create your edge today.It is always a Blessing to Share, Dream a World

Check out From A Writers POV Online Magazine February Edition!

Posted by Dominique on January 31, 2009 at 6:12am

From A Writers POV has been updated for it's February Edition! We are so excited about this edition because this month we are introducing our virtual magazine.You can view our virtual magazine on the homepage. Simply go to this link: www.fromawriterspov.webs.com and click on magazine. You will then see a link that directs you to the virtual magazine.Also, our Writing Events are back! This month's Writing Event is Love's Dedication. Check in each week to read each writers submission on Love! http://fromawriterspov.webs.com/thismonthswritingeven.htmAlso New!Weekly Feature (Celebrating Back History Month!) Get details here: http://fromawriterspov.webs.com/advertisemywritings.htmInspirational WritingArticlesNew Writing Event for March: "Just my Luck" We are looking for 4 writers to submit short stories on unbelievable moments. Get details here: http://fromawriterspov.webs.com/writingevent.htmDon't forget to leave your feedback in our survey!From A Writers POV wants to hear back from it's subscribers. We want to make some changes to our magazine. In the process, we want to make sure we are providing the services our subscribers need.Please take a moment to answer a few questions in our survey here: http://fromawriterspov.webs.com/magazinesurvey.htmWe truly appreciate your honest feedback!

DUI supports - March for Babies - help us reach our goal

Posted by Divasunlimited on January 31, 2009 at 5:27am

2009 MARCH OF DIMES MARCH FOR BABIES….Is back againWalking to give every baby a healthy start!I had the pleasure of attending the March of Dimes Kick - Off this week.As I was sitting at lunch listening to the speaker, she asked the question" Why are you a Team Captain?" (4yr veteran)The Answer for me: Enthusiasm is a result of being inspired!I am always inspired every time I go to the luncheon and hear a family's struggle and with the help of the March of Dimes they are able to overcome the odds in difficult situations. I also realize that this could have easily been my situation or someone I knew or cared about.So, yes I am ENTHUSIASTIC about the MARCH OF DIMES and that is why I need your help in helping me reach my goal. No amount is too small.Thank you in advance for your support ...General Donation2009 Goal - $1500.00go on-line - http://www. marchforbabies. org/rhondawilkins - no amount is too small

Looking to Be Your Own CEO ?

Posted by Rasheda Chabane on January 31, 2009 at 4:00am

Then wait no longer we have a low-cost startup fee of $35 plus shipping and tax. You will receive your partner kit within one week of your order to start marketing and promoting your business to potential clients and business partners. Visit the site at http://divinestyle.soulpurpose.net and click on Join then complete the enrollment form for membership. I hope you will join our stylish and innovative group of business owners.Yours Truly,Rasheda

2009 Summer Programs For High School Students

Posted by Jim Neusom on January 30, 2009 at 10:00pm

Greetings Family,(Contact Information At The Bottom Of The Page)It's your friendly neighborhood "Digital Drummer" again...smileThe post below came from ConnectingBlack.com. For those that don’t know….ConnectingBlack.com was one of the first Black owned and operated social networks. Before MySpace, FaceBook, and the thousands that followed.ConnectingBlack.com in it’s heyday, had a subscriber base of over 20,000 Black professionals. According to Quantcast.com, their demographics consisted of mostly middle aged, educated, Black women, with an average annual income of over $60,000.Connecting Black is an excellent site for black professionals to network with each other and invaluable to black business owners who want to meet and interact with black interest groups and black entrepreneurs.They went down for almost a year, but they’re back and stronger then ever….let’s support them in their efforts to regain their former prominence in the Black online Diaspora.***************(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.comorcall(213) 944-4176***************************************************From: www.connectingBlack.comPosted By: William Hemmans1/29/2009 6:22:51 PM*I received this information from Dr. Charles Mills and want to pass along for anyone who might can use it.*2009 SUMMER PROGRAMS FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTSFREE!! MIT announces its MITES Program, (), a challenging 6 week summer program that prepares promising rising seniors for careers in engineering and science. If you are selected, all educational, housing, meals and activity costs are covered. You must, however, pay for your own transportation to and from MIT. To apply, go to http://mit.edu/mites/www Deadline is Feb. 2.GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY Science & Engineering Apprenticeship program (summer) -Applications due: Feb. 27, 2009 - This program places academically talented H.S. students (at least 16 yrs old, sophomores/ juniors) with interest in science & math in Dept. of Defense laboratories for an 8-wk period over the summer. This is an invaluable experience in the world of scientific research, with hands-on exposure to scientific & engineering practices not available in the HS environment. It is a paid apprenticeship ($2,000) and the students are assigned a scientist or engineer as their mentor. To apply online or get more information about the program: http://www.usaeop.com.FREE!! Princeton University announces its Summer Journalism Program for low-income sophomores or juniors with at least a 3.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) who have an interest in journalism. The cost is free including travel costs to and from Princeton! Apply now! Go to www.princeton.edu/sjp Deadline is Jan. 23. Please note: The deadline has been extended to February 20, 2009 (11:59 p.m.).FREE!! The National Center for Health Marketing's Global Health Odyssey Museum is pleased to offer the 2009 CDC Disease Detective Camp (DDC). DDC is an academic day camp for students who will be high school juniors and seniors during the 2009-2010 school year. Campers will take on the roles of disease detectives and learn how CDC safeguards the nation's health. The camp will be offered twice from June 22-26 and July 13-17. For more info and to apply to go www.cdc.gov/gcc/exhibit/camp.htm. Deadline is April 20.FREE!! The American Legion sponsors a week-long summer leadership program called Boys State. This year's program will be held at McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland from June 21-27. If you are a junior interested in a leadership opportunity see your guidance counselor right away for more information.NASA sponsors the National Space Club Scholars Program, a 6 week summer internship at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. It is open to students who will be 16 years old and have completed the 10th grade by June 2009, have demonstrated high academic success, and have an interest in space science or engineering as a career. Applicants must be U.S. citizens. Applications are available in the Career Center or online at www.education.gsfc.nasa.gov/pages/placement.html Apply now! The application must be postmarked by February 17, 2009.University of Maryland, College Park: Women in Engineering, E2@UMD, July 12-18 or July 19-25; rising juniors and seniors. Go to www.wie.umd.edu/precollege or call 301-405-3283 University of Maryland Young Scholars Program targets rising juniors and seniors who have a strong academic record and a desire to excel to experience college life while earning three academic credits. 14 courses are offered for three weeks from July 12 - 31, 2009. Visit www.ysp.umd.edu/prCITY YEAR, WASHINGTON DC (Americorps) - Graduating seniors who are not sure what they want to do after high school should consider applying for a paid community service position with City Year, Washington, DC., a group of 17-24 year olds committed to full-time service for ten months in the Washington, DC community. Benefits include: living stipen d ($200 per week), health care coverage, free metro pass, and $4,725 educational scholarship. For more info: www.cityyear.org or email: cmurphy@cityyear.org/dc or call: 202-776-7780, Amanda Seligman. Recruitment open houses will be held once a month at their headquarters: 918 U Street, NW, 2nd floor, Washington, DC 20001.***************************************************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)

Carnegie Secret Formula

Posted by Kemi Fadojutimi on January 30, 2009 at 3:59pm

Carnegie Reveals His Secret FormulaIn 1883, while Carnegie was at the peak of his career, a boy was born to a poor family in a log cabin in the mountains of Virginia.It would be another 10 years before this boy would own his first pair of shoes, and 12 years before he saw a railroad train.Yet, this young man would one day become the advisor to presidents and mentor to millions. His name was Napoleon Hill."I discovered why my father named me Napoleon. I had a great uncle by the name of Napoleon Hill who was a multimillionaire. My father expected that he would leave some of his money to me on account of my having his name."But when the will was read, when I was 14, he had left out the entire branch of Hills from where I came. And I think that was the greatest favor that anybody ever did for me, because having had no inheritance, I had to go to work and learn to make my own money. The second great favor that someone did for me came from Mr. Andrew Carnegie."While in his early twenties, and working his way through college as a part-time reporter, Napoleon accepted an assignment to interview Andrew Carnegie — the wealthiest man in the world — and write an article about him.Carnegie, who was known as a great picker of men, saw something in young Napoleon that intrigued him.Without Napoleon knowing, Carnegie tried a little experiment. During the interview, Carnegie carelessly tossed his secret formula for success at young Napoleon.Then he sat back in his chair, with a merry twinkle in his eyes, and watched to see if this young man had brains enough to understand the full significance of what he had said to him.Napoleon grasped the concept right away but was unprepared for what the canny Scotsman had up his sleeve.Carnegie had finally found the person he was looking for. Now, at 73, he wanted to do more than just give away his money. He realized the potential good that his formula could do for others.He answered Napoleon's questions for three hours. When the time was up, Carnegie said:"This interview is just starting. Come on over to the house and we'll take it up after dinner."Napoleon was glad that he said "come on over to the house.""If he had said go over to the hotel and come back tomorrow morning, I'd have been broke because I had just about enough money in my pocket for the train ticket back home."After dinner, we went into the library and he talked about the necessity of passing on to future generations the sum total of what men like him had learned by a lifetime of trial and error. He said it was one of the sins of the ages that this knowledge was buried with great men when they died."Nobody had ever organized this information and made it available to the man on the street."Napoleon couldn't understand why Mr. Carnegie was wasting his time on a cub reporter like him. He was curious and kept his ears open and mouth shut.Carnegie went on to describe his philosophy — and formula for success — and explain what it would do for coming generations.Then he said:"Now, I've been talking to you for three days about this new philosophy. I've told you all that I know about it, about its possibilities and its potentials. I wish to ask you a question which you will please answer with a simple yes or no."If I commission you to become the author of this philosophy, give you letters of introduction to people whose help you'll need, are you willing to devote 20 years to research, because that's about how long it will take, earning your own way as you go along without any subsidy from me ... yes or no?""What would you have done if you had been sitting there in front of the richest man in the world, with about enough money in your pocket to pay your way back home, who had propositioned you to go to work for 20 years without compensation or without a subsidy? I knew I couldn't do it. I was certain of it. [Note: the reason why Carnegie asked him to do it without compensation will be clear in one of the following chapters.]"Isn't it strange that when you put an unusual opportunity before a person, the chances are 1,000 to 1 that his mind jumps to the 'no can do' part of it immediately."I didn't know this at the time, but I learned about it later. Mr. Carnegie made up his mind that when he put the question to me he would allow me only 60 seconds in which to say yes or no."Sixty seconds, that's all. I didn't see it, but he was sitting there with a stop watch behind his desk timing me, and it took me exactly 29 seconds to make up my mind that I would accept."Then, as Napoleon was about to leave, Carnegie said to him:"Well, Napoleon, 20 years is a long time and I have given you a pretty tough assignment, and you have accepted it. I want to warn you now that you're going to have many temptations along the way, long before you complete your 20 years of research, to quit, because that's the easiest thing that a weakling can do is quit."I don't think you're a weakling. If I had thought so, I would not have given you the opportunity. But I do know that you need something to bridge over your temptations to quit if and when they do come."I'm now going to give you a formula that will enable you to condition your mind so thoroughly that nothing in the world can stop you from going ahead and completing the task to which I have assigned you."Carnegie gave Napoleon a sentence to repeat — once at night and once again every morning.He told him that by repeating this simple sentence, Napoleon would never quit until he succeeded.This sentence, based on Carnegie's success formula, had the power to keep a person on track until he or she succeeded at whatever the person chose to do. Nothing could stop a person who repeated this sentence.At the time, Napoleon was puzzled by it. But as he started his research, it all made perfect sense ... and Carnegie's genius was evident.

The Rites of Women Pt. 2 - Celebrating the Mother to Be

Posted by Tonya K. Freeman on January 30, 2009 at 1:47pm

The Rites of Women Pt. 2By Tonya K. FreemanRite of Passage: Celebrating the Mother to BeAs a woman awaits the birth of her child, there is a ritual that is practiced in America and it is called a baby shower. It is the closest that we come to celebrating the state of being that a woman is in…the anticipation of the “almost here time.”There is another ritual that is becoming popular known as the Blessing Way Ceremony in honor of the Navajo Tradition. Some call it a Belly Blessing or Mother Blessing but it came to me as the “One Who Carries Life Within Blessing.” These celebrations usually take place in the latter part of the Oneness. Women who are family members and/or friends come to celebrate the wonders of Motherhood.When women gather in SiStarhood there is a healing effect that is in place. The bond that is formed in ritual is very strong and lifetime friendships develop.The celebration is usually planned by female members of the family, close friends or even a woman who facilitates these types of rituals and ceremonies. In fact the Mother to Be can create her own ceremony if she is so moved.On the day of the ritual, those who arrive to participate in a day of celebration, are smudged with the smoke of sage, cedar and lavender. If the smoke is irritating to the Mother especially, then an aromatherapy blend of the same ingredients can be added to spring water and sprinkled instead or they can be symbolically “swept clean” with a broom.The women then gather around the expectant Mother, encircling her and giving praise and thanks for the sacred space that is being created at that moment. Giving thanks for love and bless the space with moon water, moving in clockwise motion…making a joyful noise, gathering around, sharing birthing stories and tales of Motherhood.A specially decorated chair, designed for comfort is where the expectant Mother is seated, with flowers strewn about giving off a fragrant bouquet. Colorful pillows are placed on the floor for the adoration of the belly with henna painting or belly casting.Pampering can include tending the hair with loving strokes…all the while affirming a most beautiful birth with ease and grace. Women have traditionally given their community of SiStars a footbath scented with oils and herbs to comfort, rejuvenate and refresh one another. Follow through with a foot massage and the senses are truly pleasured. It is a time of sharing birthing stories that speak of joy, courage and love.In Africa, India and various cultures throughout the world there is a custom where the women of the clan paint the swelled belly with henna designs that speak to health, luck, joy, prosperity, spiritual awareness and protection. This beautiful work of art will adorn her belly until the day the child comes forth through the Web of Destiny. The painting, created only weeks before the day One became Two, is a reminder of the love, support, strength and courage of the SiStarhoodWomen like to help their SiStars look and feel beautiful from the inside out. The Hair Ritual is a relaxing experience that will prove to be beneficial to the body, mind and spirit. Weaving flowers into the hair or placing a crown of flowers upon the head is a way of showing honor to the initiation process of this Shamanic Priestess.A special piece of labor jewelry is presented and given by the Elder of the clan. This piece of jewelry is symbolic of all who gathered together in SiStarhood, that the Mother would be well prepared spiritually, emotionally and mentally for the journey that she is about to embark on.The dance of the belly is always a great way to end the festivities. That is when all of the women circle around the One Who Carries Life Within and they move their bodies like the ocean waves in celebration of an easy birth. It is a fun and joyous time being shared.Rites of Passage mark a very special time in our lives. These times should be acknowledged, honored and remembered for years to come. The ritual for the One Who Carries Life Within is inspired by the Ancestral Mothers and created for modern women.“Giving birth is priestess work; it requires a woman to pass through a painful and dangerous initiation in which she journeys to the threshold between worlds and risks her own life to help another soul to cross over.” Jalaya Bonheim Aphrodite’s Daughters

The Rites of Women Pt. 1 Menarche

Posted by Tonya K. Freeman on January 30, 2009 at 5:05am

The Rites of Women ©2005By Dr. Tonya K. FreemanFirst Rite: MenarcheFor a number of years now, I have been a strong advocate of women reclaiming their spiritual mysteries. In my workshops, seminars, and Primordial Priestess Training, the women are encouraged to identify and embrace the first mystery that they were introduced to, their Sacred Moon Cycle. By honoring this part of themselves, many have experienced a closer connection to Gaia’s rhythms and cycles, less cramps, less blood flow and in some cases less days of flowing. I love hearing reports such as these because it makes the work that I was born to do and love to do, a lot easier. There are still many miles to go, so to speak.As I think back upon my entry into womanhood the Summer of my thirteenth year. I remember that there was somewhat of a celebration given by my Mother, one of my aunts and my favorite female cousin. I had not really remembered that time, until now, as I am writing this article.These three very special women in my life cooked a special dinner, baked a cake, sat and talked woman to woman with me. My Aunt gave me a greeting card. The card was funny because it had a pill in it and read something like, “Put this pill between your knees and hold it.” I remember laughing and saying that I was not looking to get pregnant anytime soon.They bought me those “special” pads women use during “that time of the month” and showed me how to use them. My Mother even shared with me the use of a natural homemade pad, just in case.I recall a shopping trip with my Dad around that time. He bought me a few pieces of clothing and a pair of heels to add to my wardrobe. As I look back on that time, I am grateful that it was happy and joyful. I had forgotten how I was honored. It didn’t really occur to me what that celebratory Rite of Passage was all about. It never ceases to amaze me how events of the past are so relevant to my work today.Let me share with you some things that can possibly make the lives of women, my SiStars, my Daughters, even some of my Elders, a better experience, thereby, helping to make the world a better place one person at a time.Come with me on a journey into the Ancient Femi9 Mysteries.The first Rite of Passage for a young woman is such a natural one. It is the one where she begins her Sacred Bleed. This is a time of spiritual insight, dreams, visions and knowledge being shared by the Elder women of the family and the community. It is a time of transformation and the realization that you, as a woman can bleed for up to seven days and not die! Not only that, women created the first lunar calendar by counting the days until the next moon cycle. Just think how in tune to the cycles of nature you are at this time! Having the knowledge come to you from a feminine perspective, will allow you to honor yourself and be renewed.Most modern western women have not been privy to a positive experience of entering into womanhood. This point of view is changing, but not quickly enough, especially when I hear women talk about stopping their flow for four months or more. That can only bring disharmony to the female body and psyche as well. Life is out of balance when a woman does not honor the sacred aspects of herself.How about celebrating that special day by having a Blessed by the Moon Rite of Passage Ceremony? There should be Elder women from the family and maybe even the community coming together to celebrate this most auspicious time in a young woman’s life. The young flower may want to contribute her thoughts regarding festivities. After all, this is her day.Here is a scenario…the room is decorated with red and white flowers, red colored fruits and food, a special chair draped in red cloth and a red carpet for her to walk on.One of the Elder women, maybe her Mother, could make a special photo album filled of her previous years on Earth and present it to her. Music can be played for dancing and listening. The women attending could dance for the young maiden to send her loving energy and then have her to dance with them. A special Sacred Blood Bundle could be given to her with some items already in it…crystals, red candles and a special piece of red Moontime jewelry, just to get the bundle going. It can be a pouch or perhaps a doll. Handmade dolls have great meaning and hold great medicine.Our Ancestral Mothers knew of this blessed time and honored it. Will you?

The Toxic Job

Posted by Tsmart78 on January 30, 2009 at 4:00am

Is your JOB toxic?? We have all heard of toxic relationships and friendships. You know the ones that bring you down, lead you down the wrong path, or cause you more harm or hurt than good. So, is your JOB toxic? And how can you tell. If your immediate response to the question was yes, then case closed. If you are not so sure whether your job is toxic or not, I have some things you may want to think about. I'm not professing to be a career counselor, or anything like that, but I had a conversation with a friend that some people may be able to relate to...~ Signs your job may be "toxic" ~- Are you literally saddened by thoughts of your job or the thought of going to work?- Do you constantly go to work in a good mood, but leave angry or depressed?- Have you or are you developing health issues, (for example, high blood pressure, ulceres, anxiety) due to job related stress?- Does your job consumes all aspects of your life, even when you don't want it to?- Does your job interfere with your personal life or cause a strain in your personal relationships? You know, you are constantly missing valuable family time because you have to work late or bring the job home with you. ( Think carefully about this, don't confuse it with a toxic relationship at home)- Has your behavior change negatively since you have been working at your job.?- Do the practices of your company conflict with your personal values?I think that if you've answered yes to more than one or two of these questions then you may have a toxic situation on your hands. But what should you do about it? Now, with the economy today, I would not advise just quitting. 71,000 jobs were lost on Monday, 10,000 on Wednesday, and there are certainly more to come. So chances of getting hired somewhere else are slim.But in the meantime, see if there are other ways to survive and keep your sanity. Instead of griping about your job, thank God, that you have a means to provide for yourself or your family. While you are there, take comfort in knowing that you are doing the best that you can do while you are at work. Set limitations for your self try to work late only once or twice a week, and then set limitations on how late you will stay. Say I'm leaving at "x o'clock" no matter what. And stick to it. If possible, find something you do like, whether it be another job, or your own business. And by all means, be sure not to take the stresses of the day out on your loved ones. They will be there for you long after that job has passed.

Meet My Beautiful Family

Posted by Wyteria Jacobo on January 30, 2009 at 12:24am

Find more photos like this on African Entrepreneurs

ShopRite's Breathe Alittle Easier Campaign

Posted by Denise Bethune on January 30, 2009 at 12:04am

Breath a Little Easier this Flu Season with ShopRite’s FREE Antibiotics Program - Free Antibiotics From January 11 Until March 28Wallet-free visits to local ShopRite Pharmacies for antibiotics become a reality starting this Sunday with the launch of ShopRite’s FREE Antibiotics program. Keeping true to its mission of delivering outstanding customer service and value, ShopRite is helping its customers breathe easier this flu season by offering a 14-day supply of commonly prescribed generic oral antibiotics -- FREE of charge. Antibiotics included in ShopRite’s program include: Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Bacitracin, Cephalexin, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline, Erythromycin, Penicillin VK, and SMZ-TMP.The FREE Antibiotics program is available to all customers with or without insurance at ShopRite Pharmacies across Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. To take part in the program, customers must have a valid prescription from their doctor. There is no membership or other commitment required.In addition, ShopRite Pharmacies have expanded their already existing 90-day, generic drug program by adding 60 new items. The $9.99, (90-Day) generic drug program allows customers additional savings for more than 375 commonly prescribed generic drugs used to treat a wide range of medical conditions including: Allergy and Asthma, Anti Viral, Arthritis Pain, Cholesterol, Diabetes, among others.“At ShopRite, our goal is to provide our customers with the best service and every day low prices. When you combine our new FREE Antibiotics program, along with our expanded 90-day/$9.99 generic drug program, we provide our customers with a comprehensive solution for meeting all of their prescription needs,” stated Karen Meleta, spokeswoman for ShopRite.For more information about the Free Antibiotic program, and the 90-Day Generic Drug program, visit our Pharmacy section.Even if you are not living in these areas, please forward this program..!!!

I need someone that can provide the following services ASAP!

Posted by April Mason on January 29, 2009 at 11:56pm

Book interior layoutMake-Up Artist (ATL)Image Consultant (ATL)Hair Stylist (ATL)Contact me here or @ info@aprilmasonlive.com thank you much

Make this the Best V-Day Ever!…Whoever your date is (him or you!)

Posted by Debrah on January 29, 2009 at 9:43pm

Valentine’s Day. Immediately, these words conjure visions of roses, boxes of gourmet chocolates and an intimatenight with your loved one. But if you’ve been with the same person for years, or spending this year alone, chancesare things in the bedroom are more lackluster than explosive. Don’t let Valentine’s melt into another ordinary day.Spice things up with the following tips from Dana B. Myers, co-founder of Booty Parlor.1) Single this year? Be your own best Valentine…It’s Valentine’s Day and you’re alone. Maybe you just broke up. Perhaps it’s been months since you’ve had a lover. Or maybe your guy is just away on a business trip. Whatever the reason, you’re alone on the holiday dedicated to togetherness. Don’t get down, simply decide to treat yourself this year! Get flowers delivered at work (including a note to yourself!), have lunch at your favorite restaurant (thus avoiding the romantic dinner crowd) and treat yourself to that special something you’ve been eyeing - shoes, a bag, a new face cream…That night, blow yourself a big kiss in the mirror and jump into bed with an ultra-steamy read. Let it take you where it may... It might just be the best date you’ve had in a long time! And don’t forget, if you take time to reconnect with yourself, it will only help to make your future relationships even stronger!2) Coupled up? Treat yourself to Seductive Pre-Date Beauty Rituals!Before getting together with your special someone, tune into yourself to get your mind and body ready for romance. Set aside 30 minutes of “pre-date you time” so you can bring the hottest version of yourself to the table. Have a glass of wine (or bubbly), sit back and let your mind drift off into sexy fantasies about what’s in store for the night ahead. Indulge in coating your sexy bod in scented creams and seductive potions, twirl around to a song that gets your mojo moving, and do whatever else makes you feel your sexiest, most-feminine best. Before he arrives, get kiss-ready with Booty Parlor’s Kissaholic Kissing Kit. One spritz of the aphrodisiac-infused breath mist and he’ll be hooked!3) Don’t forget - it’s HIS day too!On V-day date night, let him pamper & treat you, but remember that he wants to feel special too, so find a way to make him feel like a king. Whether it’s a sweet love note passed across the table, an extra speciallove bite showing him how irresistible he is to you while waiting at valet or indulging in that fantasy he’s been going on (and on) about for months…tonight is his night as much as it is yours!About Dana Myers:Dana B. Myers is a Sexy Lifestyle Expert who’s been featured on VH-1, E! Entertainment, The Morning Show with Mike & Juliet and more. Her sex and relationship advice, and the seductive products she creates, are frequently showcased in women’s publications and on nationwide radio shows. Booty Parlor, the beauty parlor for your love life, has become the go-to place for American women to shop for Seductive Beauty essentials and Romantic Treats.

Why Should I Use the Proper Oil In My Vehicle?

Posted by Towanda D. Cooper on January 29, 2009 at 7:43pm

Last week, we discussed the importance of oil changes. I hope everyone put their's on their calendar. As promised, we will talk about the proper oil weight for your vehicle. Each vehicle has its own weight of oil. Today's vehicles use 5w20 or 5w30. There are rare occassions for vehicles to use 5w40. Synthetics and diesels are different type oils. We will discussed those oils in future blogs.When a vehicle uses 5w20 or 5w30, these numbers mean something. The "5" is the thinner part of the oil. It helps the oil to move quickly. The "w" is the winter part of the oil. It helps the oil in cold weather, and cold places. The "30" part of the oil is the second part. There are chemicals to help each variable work together. Also, this oil is call two-part oil. One part oils aren't used in vehicles, today. The two-part oils give your vehicle added protection over the one-part oils. Plus, the correct weighted oil doesn't make your engine work harder. Check your owner's manual for the recommended oil weight.When using heavier oils, the protection is and isn't there. It will help with the metal to metal part of protecting your vehicle. But, the oil won't do well in cold weather. People have asked me about using 20w50, in their vehicle. My answer is no. There is a misconception about older vehicles. Once the vehicle ages, you're suppose to use heavier oil. Why? Is there blue smoke coming out the tail pipe? If the answer is yes, heavier oils only band-aid the problem. Your vehicle is burning oil. A re-built or new engine, or the purchase of a new vehicle will remedy the problem.What about high mileage oil? My answer: Why? Has the characteristics of your vehicle changed? What were you using before these oils came on the market? In my opinion, high mileage oils are a hype tactic. If your vehicle isn't burning oil, the same weighted oil will be fine. Does name brand matter? I get into this conversion all the time. The name brand doesn't matter. Everybody has a preference. I'm not against your taste. My concern is that your vehicle has oil, and the correct weight of oil.Until next time, your the expert on your vehicle. Happy Motoring.

Many Young Women Wary Of A Life Without Periods

Posted by Black doctor. org on January 29, 2009 at 6:08pm

(BlackDoctor.org) -- Jennifer Burch has seen the ads for Seasonale, Barr Pharmaceutical's new packaging of the standard birth control pill that promises users just four periods a year.But, she said, she's not buying it."Let the body do what it does naturally," said Burch, a 32-year-old yoga instructor who said she was in the midst of her monthly period at the time, with its usual bothersome mood swings."If we weren't meant to have periods -- if for some evolutionary reason that made the most sense and was the healthiest -- then we wouldn't have them," Burch said from her home in New York City. "I say, let the energy flow."Susan Greenhalgh, a 40-year-old chemicals broker from Amityville, N.Y., has also put up with the physical and emotional hassles that come with periods. But, she said, she has her suspicions, too."As much as I would love to not be bothered by a monthly period, I can't believe that manipulating hormones and your body's natural cycle to that degree could be healthy," Greenhalgh said.And yet gynecologic experts say putting an end to the period is safe, and that the growing popularity of interventions such as Seasonale -- whose sales jumped 62 percent last year to over $110 million -- shows there are a lot of American women willing to take that step."I believe that most women would really like to get rid of their period," said Dr. Camelia Davtyan, an expert in women's health and assistant professor of medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, Medical Center. She pointed out that any woman who is on the Pill ceased having a real period long ago, anyway."When women are on the Pill and have a period, it's not a natural period -- there was no actual maturation or transformation of the lining of the uterus," Davtyan said. Instead, gynecologists call it "withdrawal bleeding." This bleeding only occurs because the uterine lining experiences a sudden drop in progestin during the placebo week, Davtyan explained.And the Pill's 7-day placebo "break" was arbitrary in the first place, she added."There's an anecdote that's floating around the gynecologic world that when the Pill was first introduced 40-something years ago, it was made by a bunch of guy gynecologists," Davtyan said. "They just thought women would be much happier to have something closer to their natural period, rather than to have no periods at all."Dr. Shari Brasner, an obstetrician/gynecologist affiliated with Mount Sinai Hospital, in New York City, said she's used the conventional Pill continuously -- without the 7-day break -- for years. She said opting for a life without periods has left her with no regrets."I have an incredibly busy day, and I was never the kind of woman who, quite frankly, had a rigid enough schedule that I could remember to go into the bathroom and deal with issues involving periods," Brasner said. "I did it on the basis of understanding what the pills were and believing that they were safe."Indeed, gynecologists have been prescribing "continuous" birth control pill regimens for decades to help women struggling with problems such as endometriosis. And, Brasner said, new products like Seasonale simply stretch the number of days women take the active pill.In Seasonale's case, women take the hormonal medication for 12 weeks at a time with a one-week placebo break 4 times per year, when the user experiences "withdrawal bleeding.""And that placebo week, quite frankly, was only added to just be more acceptable to the user," Brasner said. "The concept of going from 12 or 13 periods per year down to none was a huge [mental] leap, so they've tried to soften that by still giving women that occasional withdrawal bleeding. It doesn't serve any true medical purpose, though," she added.Seasonale is just the first of many period-suppressing products to hit the market. Drug maker Wyeth is hoping to receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval next month for its continuous low-dose contraceptive pill, Lybrel; Berlex Inc. has its own version poised for launch; and Organon USA is hoping to receive an FDA heads-up within the next few weeks for Implanon, a single-rod, three-year contraceptive implanted in the upper arm that's been used by European women for more than a decade.Just last week, the FDA announced its approval of Barr's successor product to Seasonale, a long-term contraceptive called Seasonique. The company said the new hormonal regimen should be available by prescription in July.Other long-term contraceptive devices currently available in the United States include NuvaRing, a three-week vaginal contraceptive ring, the Ortho-Evra patch, and Pfizer's injectable three-month contraceptive Depo-Provera.While long-term use of Depo-Provera can cause thinning bones, Davtyan said other hormone-based contraceptives do not pose bone risks. "Remember, estrogen is actually good for bones," she said."As for low-dose pills, the main side effect is blood clots," she said. "But whether a woman decides to take the Pill for 21 days or continuously for 28, most likely she will have a similar blood-clot risk." The absolute risk for any healthy, nonsmoking woman for a Pill-linked blood clot remains extremely low, experts say.According to Brasner, the take-home message for women is that these new hormonal contraceptive regimens contain "nothing new. We have had traditional birth-control for 40-some-odd years, and, overall, I think their safety has been proved."But, if that's true, why are women like Burch and Greenhalgh resistant to the idea of a life without periods?"I guess there is something about femininity and periods that kind of goes together psychologically," Davtyan said.Brasner agreed. "That's definitely been the biggest barrier to getting women to accept this," she said. "Even once I tell them that I firmly believe in its safety, and that I have used this myself, many of my patients will say, 'Yes, I hear you, I believe you -- but it's not really what I want.' "And both experts said that's totally fine with them."The bottom line is that [period suppression] is a safe thing to do, but it should be optional," Davtyan said. "Women should simply be given the option of having a monthly period, or a period once every three months, or not at all. Then they can decide."Get more information on various forms of birth control at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.By John Williams, BDO Staff Writer

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Note: this page contains paid content.