A Crazy Day - Clinton and Prisoners

Okay, this is a crazy news day. First came the news that President Bill Clinton went to North Korea and secured the release of the two women, including Lisa Ling, being held there. This was probably already a done deal. Someone described it as a photo op for North Korea, and they are probably right. Still, the important thing is that the women are being pardoned and released.

Now comes word that a federal judicial panel has ordered California to reduce its prisoner count by 44,000 over two years because it's "the only way to bring the system's medical care up to adequate standards." Okay, so, they want to put dangerous criminals out on the street because of this reported medical neglect? I'm sorry, but I don't care.

Please don't get me wrong. I'm all for prisoners having adequate care, but I am NOT for releasing 44,000 dangerous lawbreakers simply because there's a problem in the system.

The governor is appealing the decision to the Supreme Court. Let's hope they have more sense.

The Acai Berry Rage

Losing weight is a difficult thing, and the market today contains all kinds of diet options. One of the biggest rages out there today is Acai Berry, a product Oprah Winfrey backs. You can get the acai berry products at this website.

Odds and Ends from Me

Hi Everyone!

It's been a while since I've done a check in but there's been a lot happening. With my financial situation, I've just been struggling so much, but things are now on the upswing. A huge weight has been lifted from me and I can breathe again. My disability finally came through so very soon I won't have to wake up with all that stress. The bills will be paid. What a relief!

Cassie's been just fine since those scary seizures a while back. I'm so grateful for that. It's so hard to watch her when that happens. I'm always on the smell out for skunks because it's highly possible they are the source of the seizures. My dogs are my joys, and they keep me smiling.

I'm watching So You Think You Can Dance and they've been doing some of the past routines from past seasons. I've been wondering why the Mercy number with the door that Twitch and Lacey did hadn't been featured yet. They did the routine tonight, only Katie performed it instead of Lacey. I'm curious why Lacey didn't perform. It has nothing to do with Dancing with the Stars because Chelsea's been on at least twice doing routines and she's also part of the DWTS family.

Please remember to use the links to Amazon.com on the right hand side of this blog. No matter what you're buying, if you start by using that link, I'll benefit from it. Even with the disability coming through, I still need to earn some money. Over on Review Stream, I'm now one of their featured authors so it's much easier to find my reviews there now, if you're interested. You can click on my name there, read my profile, and then click on the link to my reviews. It's really easy now.

I'm off to start work on a fan fic story. I can't wait to immerse myself back into my universe. It's so therapeutic, and I just treasure everyone associated with it.

One more thing. Please don't support tabloid trash. When you buy an issue or read a headline and pass that untruth on, you are supporting hurtful nonsense. People like Patrick Swayze have to deal with that nonsense when they should be focused on their health and getting well. They have families, and those family members have to endure this craziness. Please don't be a part of hurting the Swayzes or any other celebrity. Yes they are in public domain, but they are also human beings.

Have a great day!

Now Bookmarked on My Computer

Admittedly, I haven't heard about this music and download search engine until this evening, but I just now tried it out and am now totally sold on it. I'm listening to an mp3 that I've been wanting for over a year but could never find available for free online anywhere. It took me about 10 seconds to find it on this site. I'm so very excited to finally have it on my computer.

Rapidshare Search Engine merges the rapidshare file download application with the rapid4me search engine. It's growing in rapid fire leaps and bounds with an increased numbers of users. They can add one more to that number. I'm sold!

Sprucing Up Your Presentations

Businesses, professional organizations, and entrepreneurs are just a few entities that can take advantage of this awesome offer to purchase personalized pocket folders. These folders can be ordered in several different sizes, in many different colors, and in various quantities. In fact, one of the things that makes this offer unique is that the minimum order is only 100 versus the 250 that other companies require.

Using personalized pocket folders is a snappy way of presenting your company's or organization's information to potential consumers. They can be used for special presentations as well. To be honest, there's no end to the ways that these folders can be used.

Custom Presentation Folders can include your own logo imprinted on the folders via a custom hot stamp die. That will impress customers or visiting dignitaries. It's a great way to spruce up any project plan or presentation.

Searching for Home

If you live in the Wisconsin area, or are looking to relocate to that region, you'll want to check out this website where you can get information on rental properties. Rental properties are ideal for those not currently in a situation where they afford to buy a house. They are also great options if you aren't sure where you want to live permanently. Perhaps you know you want to live in Wisconsin, but aren't totally sure where. Utilizing a rental property, perhaps Apartments in Platteville, allows you to check out this area and ensure it fits your needs before buying a home.

Some people might want a rental property because they have temporary business in Wisconsin. They might want to check out Apartments in Madison versus staying in a hotel for months on end.

Whatever your reason, you can review Apartments in Wisconsin that are of interest to you at this website. It's quick and easy to select the rental type you want and the low and maximum amount of rent you want to pay. If you register, the search engine will take you to a listing of sites with all the details about the rental properties that match your criteria. Even if you don't register, you can still see the various sites available to get an idea of what is there. It's an easy way to shop for a place to stay.

Vacation Rental Information

When you're looking for the perfect getaway or retreat, now you can rely on VacationRental.org to make sure you get exactly what you want. This is an online, luxury vacation rental registry. You might also want to check out the web directory at vrwd.com.

Optimizing Business

Providing a superior data software program for the collection and reporting of information relating to waste management is the focus of Wastedge.com. This online application helps to optimize the user's workforce, resulting in a more efficient service that can be offered to their customers. Click on this link -- Skip Bin Software -- to find out more information and take advantage of a free trial. It's definitely worth a look.

Keeping Fit

So many people today are into muscle building that sometimes it's hard to know the best way to get into that kind of shape. I've been on several forums with active bodybuilders and the like, and there are always a lot of questions about what kind of vitamins to take, what are the best fat burners, and even how to make sure they get the correct amount of protein to further their goals and keep their bodies healthy.

MuscleTech Reviews is a good, introductory site that provides a lot of information on muscle builders, fat burners, stacks, and more. What I like is that they thoroughly explain these different categories and then expound on it supplement suggestions that are appropriate to help with those areas.

If you're looking for information on this system for keeping your body fit, check out MuscleTech Reviews.

A Good Deal

When you need parts for your steering rack and steering box, head on over to Car Steering Wholesale where you can find the lowest prices on the parts you need. Not only that, but shipping is free on all orders, and that's a good deal.

The racks and boxes are ones that dealerships once could only offer. Now, though, you can parts like a bmw steering rack sent to you directly, and all parts come with a warranty. Their inventory of thousands are ready to ship, and if you need support, you can get it toll free. That's a good deal, too!

When Trouble Happens

When trouble happens, you need to make sure you get the right kind of help, especially when the subject is the law. These days the legal system is extremely complicated. It's nearly impossible for someone outside of the legal structure to really know how to deal with problems that might occur, some of which could have serious consequences if not handled correctly.

That's why North Carolinans should consider contacting The Law Offices of William Fay with questions and for assistance with traffic law, driving under the influence law, and criminal law. This drunk driving attorney Raleigh, NC can help you to understand your rights.

Even if your problem is less serious, Speeding Tickets Raleigh, NC, for example, this firm can answer your questions and present you with your legal options. You just don't want to take chances. Let the experts help.

This is especially true for criminal defense Raleigh. You need to know what you're facing so you can make the best possible legal decisions. The Law Offices of William Fay can help with that.

Consultations are free by calling their number or filling out the form on the website. If you've got legal issues ahead of you, you can't afford not to ask for a consultation.

Stylish and Modern

If it's time for a re-do of your bedroom and you really want something new and stylish, ERoomService has a variety of contemporary bedroom sets and furniture, all from top notch Italian and European designers. These sleek designs are stunning in their unique looks.

This modern bedroom furniture is worthy of being in any home decor magazine. The innovative designs are made with quality craftsmanship. You'll be the talk of your social group when you own one of these pieces.

In today's world, people love the fine lines of style, and this furniture certainly falls into that quality. Take a look and see which sets call out to you.

Go with CHIEF

Since 1977, CHIEF has offered competitive pricing, quick delivery, and terrific customer service for fire department, EMS, law enforcement, and surveyor equipment and apparel. Their website is consumer friendly and orders can be placed online, over the phone, by mail, or by fax. The choice is yours. Departments and agencies are given one contact person to deal with it all the time. This makes inquiries and handling orders even easier as you develop a rapport with your personal customer service representative.

When ordering any of their 40,000 superb products, including florida police gear, delivery is fast and available in a variety ways designed to meet your schedule and budgeting constraints.

Check CHIEF out today.

Take Me Away

After a long day at work or a stressful day dealing with obligations and chores, it feels so good to just kick back and relax. One of the ways I've always thought was just a super way of reinvigorating myself for the evening was to get into a hot tub. It's peaceful, soothing, and just feels great.

What is wonderful about hot tubs and spas is that you can enjoy them alone, with your significant other, or with friends. They come in various sizes, so it's totally up to you what style to get and how many people will be able to fill it at one time. When not in use, good hot spa covers are important to protect the spas so that they're ready to go when you are.

Personally, I prefer to just settle in on my own and let the vibrations of the water take me away to a land of peace and serenity. It's so nice.

Spruce Up and Clean Up

Now is a great time to spruce up your home, inside and outside, and clean up with big savings on all kinds of furniture. Whether you need to replace old, scratched, nicked, cracked, or otherwise well-used and well-lived in, and on, furniture or you just want to change out your decor with something more trendy or stylish, now's a great time to shop.

Office furniture is among the inventory available. I love writing tables and have since I was a little girl and saw my aunt's antique secretary, a cute piece of furniture to store all her stationary and writing tools and which had a pull down top that served as a writing table. It's adorable, and I love using it now since it's been passed down to me. While perusing this website's collection, I found some other really neat pieces, including the Mount Olympus Collection Table with Hutch. It's decoratative and useful, and it has storage space for pens, stamps, letters, and whatever else you might want to keep there.

Outdoor furniture is also part of the sizzling summer sale that is going on right now at the website. Teak wood, wicker, and metal furniture for dining, seating, and lounging are available, as well as a variety of accent pieces, stools, and fire pits. Whatever you need, you can find here.

Bathroom Vanities, bedding, entertainment centers, youth furniture, and much more are ripe for the picking.

Spruce up your home today and click on the links to really clean up and save on pricing. Many pieces include free shipping, and if you need planning help, there is an online room planning tool. Click on over now and save.

Feels So Good

I work so much at my computer that it's not uncommon for my back to begin aching. Sometimes my legs get tired of sitting, too. I just end up feeling uncomfortable, and that's when the fidgeting starts. After awhile, I have to get up and go relax elsewhere for a while, like sitting in a recliner or lying down on the bed. That may give me a change of pace, but it's not doing anything to really make me feel better. If I want that, I have to pull out one of my massage systems.

A good massager device really feels great. It wakes up my muscles in a good way, and it soothes my aching back. The vibrations ease the aches and it all just makes me feel better. However, while I have a couple of different systems for massages, what I hate about them is that I have to pull them out of the closet, set them up, and then plug them him. For a person who loves convenience, that's a lot of extra steps that I'd rather pass on, especially when I have to undo it all when I'm done using the device. Plus, these devices only work in a piecemeal fashion. It works on a portion of my body, and that's it.

Now there's a better way to get those get vibrations rolling and that's with Human Touch Massage Chairs. These industry-leading chairs utilize expert advice from leading massage therapists, chiropractors, and physicians to replicate the human touch, giving chair users an incredible feeling of having an actual massage. The rolling and kneading techniques feel so good. This device actually emulates a full body massage, all the way along your body. There's nothing piecemeal about it at all.

The Human Touch Massage Chairs really bring a new dimension to comfort. Read more about these feel-good chairs at their website today.

Go With Coupons

In this economy, we need all the help we can get to save money. I know I do, and that's why whenever I shop online, I go in search of coupons for whatever businesses I'm ordering from. It's amazing how many deals are out there that we don't know about, and that's why Go Go Shopper exists, to provide a central place where thousands of coupons are kept for us to find whenever we need them.

Go Go Shopper has coupons for department store websites like J.C. Penney, Macys, and Sears. There are deals for supermarts and drugstores like Wal-Mart, Target, Drugstore.com, and Kohls. No stores or online retailers are precluded from being part of their database of savings.

HomeDecorators coupons are available, as are Sephora, New Egg, and Eddie Bauer. All you have to do is drop by the website and search by retailer or store type. You're sure to find coupon codes that will save you lots of money in the future. They even have them for Amazon.com.

Go Go Shopper is a gigantic resource of coupons and coupon codes that every person in this strange economy needs to take advantage of whenever they shop. I have in the past, and I plan to do so again in the future.

A Piece of Luxury

Rolex watches have long been the standard of sophistication and style. I loved it when I was given my first Rolex as a young girl. I was on top of the world. It was a great watch that I treasured as I grew up. Regardless of your age or gender, there's a Rolex watch out there that will make you proud and put a smile on your face.

There's a great website at www.bestoftime.com that is home to a terrific selection of these fine watches. They're offered at huge discount pricing, something which is possible because Best of Time is an independent dealer of new and pre-owned Rolex watches and offer their products with a very low markup.

Best of Time, also known as Alex Jewelry, is a reputable dealer, as proven by their membership in the Better Business Bureau. In fact, they are an official BBB accredited business, holding a stellar A+ rating. That's the most any company can achieve.

Take some time to peruse Best of Time's inventory of Rolex luxury watches and do some comparison shopping to prove to yourself that they have the lowest prices possible. Their entire inventory is one hundred percent genuine certified and authentic. They come with a three-year warranty and shipping is free via FedEx. That's a good deal!

Raising money for breast cancer research

Odds are that you know someone who has died from or is suffering from breast cancer. The dangerous cancer has no boundaries and infests family members, friends, acquaintances, and colleagues. Maybe you yourself are dealing with breast cancer. While progress has been made, it's time to get beyond this horrid killer and rid the world of breast cancer for good. One positive way to do that is to fund research that can help medical researchers understand breast cancer more thoroughly and to ultimately come up with better treatments and, one day, the cure.

One way to help fund this much-needed research is to raise money through the Pink Ribbon Gumballs Bubble Up program. Are you the owner of a salon, spa, or other female-oriented business? Do you have a connection to a pizza place, dance studio, or youth oriented gathering spot? If so, consider doing your part by placing a gumball vending machine in one of these places. Maybe you even want to get one for your home and make your gumballs available to your neighborhood. It could be the center of any party on the block.

What easier way is there for individuals and businesses to help in raising money for breast cancer research? The proceeds all go to a great cause, and it's easy to do and maintain. Bubble up with pink gumballs today!

The Sunglasses Athletes Adore

Tifosi Glasses is the place to go for quality sunglasses that athletes adore. These products are made to withstand and endure the abuse that being an athlete brings on them. No matter how much we sweat or move, these sunglasses will last. Even if we drop them, they'll still survive. They are the sunglasses of the athlete, and they come with a hundred percent low price guarantee.

Drop by tifosi glasses and look at all the great sunglasses they have to offer. They come in a variety of lens types, and there's no shipping charge for orders of $75 or more.

Let the athlete in you celebrate victory in glasses that will endure anything you can put it though. Shop Tifosi Glasses today!

Personal Chefs Are In

More than ever before, people who entertain are hiring personal chefs to make their parties unique. It's one of the best ways to make sure your get-togethers stand out for all the right reasons. Personal Chef Services can bring top quality foods to your events in New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

Better yet, you can hire personal chefs to prepare your meals at home. These chefs literally do everything for you, from grocery shopping to meal preparation, and it's all made to your specifications and tastes. It's the most convenient way to enjoy high quality food that is well made and tastes great.

Save yourself time and enjoy the benefits of hiring a personal chef. You'll be the envy of your neighbors.

Don't Overlook the Importance of Home Security

We live in a crazy and often fragile world today where people are desperate to survive. Cliché or not, desperate people do desperate things, and that's why our homes and lives are in more danger than ever before. That's also why it's ultra important to make sure that we protect our homes and families with appropriate safeguards, including secure window locks, door locks, and an alarm. Having a working home security system is vital to our safety in these volatile times.

A house safety alaram is so important to ensure that if someone tries to break into your home, that you'll be aware of it, as will your neighbors. The more people who realize a break-in is in process, the better the odds that the would-be invaders will flee.

Don't overlook the importance of a home security system. It's your home and family at stake.

Education Through Music

Music touches our souls. It nurtures us, entertains us, and it even educates us. From the time we are born, harmonies and melodies become a central part of our lives. It's fun, and it helps us to grow. Many people don't consider just how much music teaches us, even at a very young age.

Benefits Of Music Education for babies and young children include language skills development and fostering a love of music that can last throughout the decades. It's not just the notes and chords that are learned by children and even newborns, but it's movement itself, keeping beat to the tune and learning to dance and sway to what is being heard. Baby Music Class can help your child to learn music appreciation while also teaching them valuable life tools, such as self-control and listening skills. These are so valuable in life, and they really are learned from the moment we first open our eyes.

One of the best ways to make sure your young one gets this much-needed musical input is to check out kindermusik and enroll in one of their classes. Classes are available for newborns and go all the way up to 7 year-olds. These are creative courses designed to stimulate your child's growth through music. It's well worth checking out.

Beat the Heat

The heat is upon us. It's summertime, and that means one-hundred degree days with lots of sweat and humidity. We need to cool off, and there is nothing like taking a dip in the pool to take care of that. My parents had a pool built for us in the 1960's, and it's still going strong. It's needed to be re-plastered a couple of times, and we've made alterations, but the hours and hours of cooling fun this in-ground pool has provided has been worth every penny.

There are so many options in getting a pool built. There are custom pools that can be designed to your specifications and needs. People like different shapes and looks, and there really are no limits to what can be done in having a pool built to your desires. My sister had her pool built to fit her dream of having an outdoor sanctuary where she can relax, meditate, and commune with nature. She has a little garden there, too, and the pool is her centerpiece to this outdoor haven that she's had built for her.

People in Southern California can check out Orange County swimming pools and see how they can make the summer more enticing and liveable. Then there's always North San Diego swimming pools which offer their own solutions to cooling you and your family down. Beat the heat and click on those links today.

You Just Never Know When It Will Happen

The sad reality of life is that every time we set foot in our vehicles, there's a chance of an accident occurring. No one ever thinks it will happen to them, but it definitely happens. I know because I've been there. Years back, I was hit by a drunk driver. It was almost surreal because I actually knew it was going to happen. It was like time slowed down, and in my head, I went through all the steps I needed to make in order to not lose control of my car. I'll never forget a second of that. It's as clear to me today as it was when it happened. I remember every thought.

My point is that collisions happen, and it's often because of the other guy, just like my accident was. So, when the worse happens, you need to make sure you have a reputable auto body repair outfit to help get you back on the road. Click on this link -- body shops california -- and check out Collision Repair Experts, which is backed by several well known companies, including Dupont and 3M. Just take a look at their requirements for being one of their experts, and you'll see this is a quality group of body shops.

Vegas Memories and Fun

Las Vegas, Nevada has changed by leaps and bounds since the Strip took America by gambling storm. Whereas it was once a mecca of nothing more than slot machines and poker games, it's now a family environment, with theme parks for the kids to enjoy with or without their parents.

When I go back to Las Vegas, I want to stay at the same place I stayed at before, The Luxor. There's a number of reasons for that. First, I love the Egyptian design and the light beam that shines up into the sky. There's a great sideways elevator that takes a second to get used to, but is a real hoot. I adore that it looks like a sphinx and a pyramid, stirring up my archaeological juices. It just takes me back in time. Since it's summertime, their outdoor swimming pool would work for me big time.

I've read that the Titanic exhibit is coming to the Luxor soon, too. As someone who has studied and researched this legendary vessel, that really appeals to me. I'd spend hours taking that in.

While playing the slot machines, or some keno or Blackjack, can be fun, I'm sure I'd take some time to reflect back on my last trip to The Luxor. This seems very timely right now, too, with the passing of Michael Jackson. Several years ago, my sister and I were waiting to go on the boat ride that was part of first floor. All of a sudden, the line stopped moving. People were getting off the boats, but no one was getting on.

Finally, the reason for the odd behavior became apparent. There he was, Michael Jackson, complete with entourage. Everyone was stunned. It was an unannounced trip, at least to the Vegas tourists. He smiled and waved and then got on the boat ride. After several more empty boats followed, the line began moving again.

We took pictures, as did others. We also knew someone would call the media, and they did. I'm sure they sold their photo for a lot of money as it was on the news that evening, but for us, it was the thrill of seeing him that was the prize.

It was an incredible experience, one that paled only to seeing Barbra Streisand singing over at the MGM. For me, that's what Las Vegas is -- the unexpected and entertainment. I'm not sure I can ever top seeing both Michael Jackson and Barbra Streisand within twenty-four hours of each other, but with Vegas, you just never know. As a fan of Donny Osmond, I'd love to see his show with his sister, Marie. If Celine Dion were still there, I'd go see her. If Wayne Newton were performing, I'd definitely go see him. I saw him perform on another trip to Las Vegas one time, and that man knows how to put on a show. In addition, The Luxor is currently featuring the amazing Cirque du Soleil. Whatever your pleasure, be sure to order those Vegas show tickets.

So, whether you take in one of the theme areas, spend hours on end in the casino playing all of the various games, going to show after show, or doing a combination of all, Las Vegas makes for a winning trip, especially when you stay at an exciting and different hotel like The Luxor.

Difficult Choices

It's so easy to criticize a person's body. We all make snap judgments and even assumptions about a person based on our first impression, and so much of that first impression is centered on looks and appearance. Are they too short or too tall? Is their hair ratty or combed? Do they slouch or stand at attention? Do they have a smiling demeanor or one that seems to indicate they are at war with everyone, including themselves? Are they big busted, reminding you of Jayne Mansfield or the Anna Nicole Smith? These rash decisions we make about our fellow man can inhibit a person's chance to succeed in society.

As a rule, I'm not personally that big on cosmetic surgery, but I do feel that sometimes people have a solid reason for making the choices that they do, especially with something like breast reduction surgery. Public scrutiny and health issues can all play a role in a woman making this very difficult decision. Oftentimes, the populace doesn't think about the fact that there are health issues for overly endowed women, but there are. Back pain and shoulder pain are the two most well known, along with the mental aspects of being ridiculed and gawked at much of the time.

MYA Make Yourself Amazing Cosmetic Surgery in the United Kingdom is one facility that offers this procedure as well as others. There's plenty of information on their website to help women decide if this is something for them. You can read about their surgeons, past experiences, and read patient stories. If this is an issue facing you, you want to make sure you have the best.

Paris Changed the Perception

"There was nothing strange about your daddy, it was strange what your daddy had to deal with."

That's what Al Sharpton said today at the Michael Jackson memorial. There's a lot of truth in that statement. The memorial was well done, respectful and upbeat at times. There were lots of tears.

As for what I didn't like:

1. Bernice King and her lime 'look at me' outfit;
2. Mariah Carey and her totally inappropriate exposed outfit (she didn't know where she was going?);
3. Smokey Robinson just standing like a statue during the Heal the World number at the end.
   

As for what I did like:

1. Jermaine Jackson's rendition of Smile for his brother;
2. Jennifer Hudson's wow-ful and soaring vocals;
3. Stevie Wonder's touching tribute;
4. The We Are the World/Heal the World number at the end, featuring Judith Hill, who was going to be a backup singer on the This is It tour.

That said, there were two standouts. Brooke Shields' comments leading into Jermaine's number were the most real and touching. I remember all the stuff in the tabloids about Brooke and Michael, so it was easy for me to understand all that she talked about.

The most important point was made at the very end, in an unscripted moment, by Paris Jackson, age 11. What she did was humanize her father. She called him 'Daddy' and said, "Ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine; and I just wanted to say I love him ... so much." In tears, she turned into her Aunt Janet and she wrote history. In one minute, Michael Jackson gained a new face, that of fatherhood that everyone can understand. He was that little girl's father, and she was in pain over his passing. Who didn't shed a tear at that moment.

Paris Jackson will carry on the legacy in one way or another.

This One's for the Dogs

On behalf of my two babies, Cassie and Tessa, I'm happy to let my readers know about this great new website that I discovered just this afternoon. As an animal lover, I truly appreciate sites like this one. The American Animal Care Center is a blog that discusses animals and animal news, with an emphasis on dogs and cats.

The first thing I noticed about the site was their post from July 3, which gave some interesting historical information, but which also reminded pet owners to take care during the celebrations occurring over the American Independence Day. With all that is going on around us, sometimes people don't stop and consider how their beloved animals will respond to loud noises and sights. It was a timely post, and I liked reading about that.

American Animal Care Center photos are bound to be great, judging from the one that was put up when the blog began. It made me laugh. I hope they do more like that as they grow, and I do plan to continue to keep taps on this site.

Stay in touch with the latest by following American Animal Care Center in news. It's truly a place for the animals to be loved and take center stage. My girls give it four paws up!

Time to Sleep

Getting a good night's sleep is so important, especially when you think about how stressed and hectic our lives are right now. Though the economy is sluggish, we need to pamper ourselves in ways that support us mentally and physically, and that includes sleeping in comfort. Just recently a report came out about the importance of getting those eight hours of sleep in preventing all kinds of ailments. The best way to get that much-needed shut-eye is to have a quality bed that is both beautiful and comfortable.

Time 4 Sleep has just about every kind of bed you could need. They have leather, wooden, metal, divan, French style, antique, and guest beds, just to name a few.

One of my favorites was the Tuscany style bed, which is a look of luxury and elegance. It's made of dark brown bicast leather which runs along the sides as well as with the headboard and footboard. It's a simple sophisticated look that fits in everywhere.

I also loved the beds that they have available for children, especially the fire engine one. It was just so bright and fun and perfect for the fire persons of the future. It's made of solid wood and is painted in a high gloss red finish.

There's a great selection at Time 4 Sleep. Check it out and catch up on your sleep.

Online Free Television

With cable costs soaring and satellite TV often inconvenient, entertainment is becoming more prevalent on our computers. We love watching television, and now we can get it free, and legally, on our PCs. Spreety TV Online : Watch TV Shows Online Free. It's a great way of locating and watching your favorite programming. I love what is commonly referred to as Webb-TV -- Dragnet, Adam-12, and Emergency! All of these are available through Spreety. It's the wave of the future!

Weddings Made Simple

Every time I watch an episode of Bridezillas on television, I wonder how any couple survives planning a wedding. There's so much to do, and the stress is enormous. Reception halls, caterers, florists, photographers, the church: there are so many elements of a wedding to be planned. It's not easy to find the right people and the right places to make your wedding headache free. Now there is a way to simplify the wedding process, and it's through a website called MiNeeds.

MiNeeds makes the tasks of locating affordable wedding service providers, including caterers, photographers, videographers, officiants, planners, and more. The service works everywhere, from Los Angeles Wedding Services to right here in my home town of Sacramento.

There's no more spending hours on the phone, trying to find the right people. Just sign up and let the companies come to you.

Life is frustrating

Life has been very frustrating. Blogspot has made it so that several bloggers can't post using the website. Someone suggested an alternate way of doing things, and that is what I am doing. I am very disappointed in blogspot because it seems like no one cares about this problem. That's all I'll say for now as I want to see if this works.

This is Long Overdue

There was a time in my life when I had the best, most up-to-date skills in the office business world. I was very confident when I was searching for a job because I knew I had the knowledge and skills that it took to function well within the office environment. It did get me a position at an insurance company. What happened next, though, is that my career path shifted, and as I was promoted to insurance-related fields, the office skills weren't necessary or used.

When the time came for a shift and I no longer wanted to work in insurance but preferred to get back into a different office environment, I realized that while I was once very qualified, I no longer was. Word Perfect, for example, had become the program to know, but I had never used it. I wasn't qualified anymore for positions I otherwise would have been. Microsoft Office had come out and was being used as well, but again, it was foreign to me. My resume was good enough, but I couldn't get the jobs I wanted because I didn't know the new programs. How I wish that Learn. com had been around at that time.

This very unique website offers sales training via courses online for a reasonable fee. You don't have to drive to some school two nights a week, but you can work in the comfort of your own home and gain the skills that you need to be confident and assured during your next job interview. Courses are offered in a variety of areas, including Desktop, IT, Business, Compliance, and Healthcare.

Learn.com is much more than an online offering of courses, though. They also provide a Skill Score based on the user's aptitude in various areas. This gives the prospective employer something more than just a resume to consider. It also allows the individual a way to compare their abilities to others just by seeing what their numbers are.

I was very excited to see what Learn.com has to offer to both employers and job seekers. It's revolutionary, and it's about time a program like this was available.

What a Day

I'm almost afraid to see what else is going to happen today. First, we learn of Farrah Fawcett's death this morning, and now comes word that Michael Jackson has died of cardiac arrest. I was never a fan of the Jackson 5 or Michael Jackson, but I respect the talent that was there and the musical legacy that has been left for generations.

Jackson was surrounded by controversy for much of his life, and my hope now is that he just finds some peace. Everyone deserves that. His life took many strange turns, but I don't feel we're justified in judging him. Unless you're there, it's impossible to walk in shoes of another person.

What a day!

She Fought a Great Fight

Farrah Fawcett passed on this morning, and I felt it was important to pause and give her a moment of respect. She was much more than a pretty face or the women with the famous locks of hair that sparked a fad and craze that spanned the decades. She was a good actress, as her performances in shows like The Burning Bed and Extremities prove.

I liked Farrah. I didn't always agree with her, but she was just a human being like the rest of us, and she made mistakes.

I applaud how she tackled her cancer, doing so with extraordinary bravery. Recently, a special detailing her fight aired on NBC. It was pretty incredible. The documentary wasn't easy to watch, but it was the truth of what anal cancer can do to a person.

Farrah was iconic, and she'll be missed.

Help with Real Estate

Real estate can be a complicated business, and any dealings with real estate needs to be handled with care and proficiency. You can try to handle the deal yourself and risk making some huge blunder, or you can search the city for a capable attorney to make sure your interests are covered. Andrew Borrok is one such attorney. He works as a general counsel in New York City and is eager to protect your real estate investment. In addition to his law skills, Borrok is an entrepreneur in the real estate market with some wonderful successes in his past.

Just click on this link -- Andrew Borrok Fame Game -- to learn more about Borrok's history and associations, such as his sale of one of Manhattan's office buildings for a whopping $350 million.

As for his education, he's a graduate of the Columbia University Graduate School of Business and earned his law degree at Georgetown University Law Center.

If you've already gotten yourself into hot water with a property deal and need help to find justice, Borrok can help as well. A simple click here -- Andrew Borrok linkedin -- will assist you in getting in touch with Andrew Borrock and ultimately get you the help that you need.

Get Rid of Mr. Heat

The blazing sun-filled days of summer are here with gusto, with high temperatures that force their way into our homes, making life nearly unbearable for residents, unless our homes are adorned with the proper energy efficient windows that will block heat from seeping him and making us miserable in the process.

I'm a big believer in just how effective modern windows are as for many years I still had nothing but the old style in my home. My home was stuffy and so uncomfortable. Finally, I was able to get some new, Low-E window replacement products installed, and it's made a world of difference. I'm hoping to be able to get more with time to continue making my home more relaxing during those triple-digit days.

Sears Replacement Windows offers storm and custom windows that are solid and durable, energy efficient, and available in both traditional or contemporary styling. Customers can also benefit from the Stimulus Package and get a large tax credit for reducing their energy costs by purchasing these higher grade windows.

Sears Window Replacement are guaranteed, and it's easy to schedule an appointment. All you have to do is complete the online form. The end result will beautify your home and save you money. That's a combination that can't be beat.

Luxury is a Tic-Tock Away

Buying a watch isn't as simple as telling time. There are watches, and then there are Patek Philippe watches. These Switzerland-made luxury items are high quality, highly efficient timepieces that will bring delight to the wearer for years. You can find a variety of Patek Philippe watches at Finest Watches, an online luxury watch merchant.

The knowledgeable owner of Finest Watches is a proud collector of vintage watches who believes in providing personal care and attention to their customers. All new products are guaranteed and authentic and come with a one-year guarantee. For a real treat, check out these stylish and multi-functional Patek Phiippe watches today.

Telephone Time

Alexander Graham Bell couldn't possibly have imagined all the advanced gadgetry and gizmos that are associated with his simple invention of the telephone. No longer bulky, rotary, or even tied in to a physical location, phones today are complicated, complex devices that feature applications and features that can overwhelm as much as they can delight. It's no sin to be confused, but that just shouldn't be the case about something that has become such a vital and important part of our world.

With so many Smartphones For Sale out there that go beyond the traditional cell phones, it helps to have some guidance, and that's where Smartphonemonkey.com comes in handy. This blog has reviews and information about new and used products, including smart phones, mobile phones, and various phone accessories. One of their most recent blogs discusses iPhone applications, while another focuses on Navigon's MobileNavigator, and yet another blog touts gwabbit becoming a featured application on the Blackberry . Early this year there was a blog devoted to cell phone facts, which was interesting in showing the development of the cell phone in our culture.

The world is confusing enough. Our cell phones shouldn't be part of that confusion. Visiting this website can help to ease the stress and help make the choice on what phone is right for you. Check it out today, and you might even find one for sale that fits your needs.

Treasured Traveling

Traveling is so wonderful. I love to see the world and experience other cultures, seeing how the peoples on other parts of the globe live. There are wonders to be found everywhere. I love the history of places and the beauty that can be found in all countries. One corner I've yet to visit, though, is Asia. It's something I'd love to correct.

One place I've always thought it would be fascinating to visit is Japan. There's so much honor and tradition there. Growing up, I had a lot of pen pals from that country who I communicated with. They shared their love of Japan and told me all kinds of things about what it was like to live there, so it's a place that would be quite special to visit.

Accor Hotels has several places of accommodation available, and since I like to travel first class, I'd stay at their Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza, which is located in central Tokyo. Tokyo is a must-see spot in Japan, and it would probably be my jumping off point. They have comfortable rooms with great views of their bustling city and that's important to me. I want to see the night lights in the darkened sky.

The Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza has comfortable rooms that are spacious, which is one of the reasons I'm attracted to them. I hate being crunched in my hotel room. I want to be able to kick back and relax in between my sightseeing outings, and there's so much to see in Tokyo that I'll need that time to put my feet up and just recline in comfort.

While researching my accommodations, I noticed that this is a great time to travel to Japan, or anywhere in the Asian Pacific. Accor Hotels are currently offering a whopping 60% savings for anyone who books online between June 23-29 for stays starting July 10 and ending September 30, 2009. That's a great deal, so if you're planning your dream trip, or if you're traveling on business, be sure to check out this site and save.

A Real Satisfier

We see them just about everywhere we go. They're in our places of business, in courthouses, at arenas, automobile dealerships, schools, various stores, and just everywhere. They feed our hunger and quench our thirst and whereas once upon a time, they were limited in what they could offer, now the variety is wide spread. What is this common thing that nourishes us? Why, it's a vending machine.

Vending Machines are great moneymakers, especially when you deal with a company that has the newest and optimum setups available. If you're looking for a way to make some money, you should really take a consider taking on a Vending Machine Business. It's actually not as hard as you might think. In fact, you don't even have to find the locations to host your machines. A professional locator can do that for you and in the area that you want to work. You don't need to start with a fleet, either. Just do one and see how it can work for you, and go from there.

Vending Machine operations don't require a lot of attention, perhaps twenty minutes or so per location. These are the supreme machines, too, and not the mechanical kind that tend to break down. Contact these folks and let them run you through the process of how to get into this business for yourself and make some money. While we're cutting back in today's economy, we still reach for those quarters to slide into the vending machine to fill our stomachs and satisfy our thirsts. It's a likely winner!

Pool Time Fun

I've blogged before that I really enjoy playing pool and billiards. I find it entertaining and fun. Not only is it cool to play it for real in a physical location, but it's a terrific virtual game as well. I play with a game that I've downloaded, and there's also 8c1.net, a fast-loading site where you can play billiards online for free. You can meet friends from around the world as you play pool, or you can invite your own friends and play in a private room. This site offers you the opportunity to play multiplayer games and have a good time at no cost; registration is a snap, too. You just can't beat that!

A Funny Thing Happened

One thing that annoys me is to have a chip in my windshield, but then again, it makes me chuckle, too. I remember back in high school, my best friend and I went by the house of the president of the student body. We decided to have some fun with his car, and we soaped the thing but good. The next day he got up late, as was common, and discovered the deed. He had to go somewhere so he cleaned the car, which had a tiny chip on it, only it was hot, hot, hot, and his windshield cracked. It was a hoot, which I suppose is a funny thing to say, but it really was funny. He never did get it fixed, either. So, when I see a chipped or cracked windshield, I think about that guy and the innocence of playful youth. If you want to avoid this happening to you, check out Auto By Save. They can assist you with any of your windshield needs, as well as with other auto parts. Give them a try.

Dressing Up the Wall

Finding the best way to showcase our entertainment media can be a daunting task, but it can be done. It just takes a lot of time, patience, and research to locate the ideal items to fit our lifestyles and needs. Entertainment Center Furniture is a big part of our culture now, but we've evolved from situations where big screen TVs not only took up the entire room but were surrounded by ugliness. To the contrary, Entertainment Centers are now very stylish and can take the biggest TV and help it to enhance a room and not overpower it. Now our TVs are the centerpieces, surrounded by knick knacks, books, CDs, flowers, or whatever we choose to adorn our entertainment centers with.

This is one of the entertainment centers that I liked on this website. It houses a 50” TV screen. I love a big screen TV. It's vital to me. This one is made of birch wood and has a traditional brown cherry finish which includes the TV console, right and left piers, and a lighted bridge and shelf. The back panels are removable, there are levelers inside the cabinets, the audio component cabinets are ventilated, and there are multiple wiring ports. One of the elements I love about this set is that you can give it a custom-made feel by selecting different design elements to make it unique, such as adding arched beveled glass doors.

This center and all the other entertainment pieces and TV Stands are available at discounted prices and with free shipping to the contiguous 48 states, which is always a good deal and one that I always take note of. Another bonus for many is that they don't charge sales tax for the lower 48 states, either, except for California. If you have questions, there is a toll free number you can call for questions. Whether you need an expandable entertainment center or just need a TV Lift, you can find many to choose from on this website.

Is PayPal fair?

I need to share my latest frustration, and it's all about the PayPal monopoly on the internet money market. I was there at the beginning, when they first started. Just about everything was free at that point. Once they got individuals hooked, they targeted businesses, and once they had those all lined up in a row, the fees began, and they've continued ever since.

On June 1, without any advance notification to users of personal accounts *and* without any advisory on their website even, PayPal began to charge for all money received unless it was specifically marked 'personal' by the sender. That's not the default option. Naturally, to benefit themselves, PayPal has the system default to 'purchase'. This means that they are charging a fee, which is their flat rate plus a percentage of the amount sent. What a rip off!

I'm livid at the change. This means that Mom, who can barely use the computer, now has another step to follow or even her money to me gets a fee charged to it. This is just not right. These are personal accounts and there shouldn't be any charge at all. I could maybe understand a simple transaction fee, but why do they need a percentage?

The answer? PayPal is a greedy company with no caring for the consumers that helped to give it the monopoly it has on the market. Citibank tried to get into the money transfer business several years ago, and they were great. Unfortunately, they just didn't catch on.

Since eBay purchased PayPal, it's been even worse. I actually question the legality of eBay fees being charged and then another PayPal fee to handle the money, especially since eBay has set it up so that PayPal is about to be the only way to even deal. Where's the attorney who can challenge this system? I'm waiting for the class action suit. Someone just needs to get angry enough.

I'm fighting for survival. I don't need to have some of the small earnings I may make off the internet chipped into by this greedy, uncaring company.

The sad part is that there just isn't any alternatives. Where's the government control? After all, this change was done without any notification at all - zero, zilch, squat. Is that legal? Even if it is, it's not fair. PayPal is not fair.

Now These Are Cute

Tonight I found the cutest little things -- beaded stick pins. I swear, when I came to this site's home page, I smiled and broke out into a laugh. These are just the neatest, most fun items to have, be it for children, teenagers, or adults. These stick pins were apparently created by a woman who was trying to occupy some children during a storm back in 1996. It worked so well that now it's a business, and I can understand why.

These beaded stick pins come in five different categories -- signature, juniors, awareness, sports, and themes. Accompanying them is a Lanyard and holder, depending on how and what you order. There's an adorable lady bug, Christa the teacher with the apples, Barbara with the pink heart and pink ribbon representing breast cancer awareness (I really love that one), Marraco (one of the signature collection and the one that made me smile brightly upon seeing it), and just a whole lot more.

All of these are handmade in the USA and are guaranteed for a full year, which is pretty neat. They'd make great Fundraising Jewelry, too.

The site sells the stick pins and their holders. Consumers may want to pick up a Beaded Lanyard or two as well.

These are great items that are certain to delight and bring on smiles.

Summertime in Style

With the advent of summer, it's time to set up our yards and patios to make the most of the great weather we're having. Sprucing up the outdoors to make it an enjoyable place to relax, visit with family, friends, and neighbors, and maybe just take a nap is a big part of this time of the year. It's an uplifting season when things are light, sunny, and breezy, and topping that off is being able to enjoy the days in the comfort of the perfect outdoor furniture.

Patio Furniture can give your backyard a distinctive flair and style. It's something that can be a statement of who you are, from simple to sophisticated. The furniture you choose can actually set the tone and mood for your entire summer. Do you prefer the metallic, more sleek designs or maybe the more traditional wicker look? Whatever floats your summer boat can probably be found on this website.

They have a great selection of outdoor furniture, including teak dining sets, metal seating, club chairs, outdoor rugs, wicker seating, and fire pits, which are very appealing in my opinion. There's plenty more to choose from there as well.

A piece of outdoor furniture that I like a lot is this Carolina wicker outdoor sofa. It's one of several that they have on the website. It's made of whitewash rattan wicker over an aluminum frame. I adore this floral print. Blues are my favorite colors, and this design just makes me feel very serene and peaceful. I can easily envision this as the centerpiece to my backyard, with a couple of chairs and a table nearby, and then a Chaise Lounge, or maybe two, out by the pool. It would be terrific.

Now's the time to shop, too, because they are having an outdoor clearance sale with free shipping. Now free shipping on furniture is a darn good deal that deserves some real attention.

Vote For Adam-12

Shout Factory is taking a poll to see what viewers want released next. Adam-12's first couple of seasons has been released on DVD, but we want to see more. If you love this classic cop show with Kent McCord and Martin Milner, go here and vote!

Interact the Revolutionary Way

There's a really exciting new interactive site that all adults can enjoy called Zovue. What I love best about it is that it's a safe site. There's no inappropriate material, so while adults will love it, it's also a family environment. That's something I value a lot. The graphics are way cool.

We all love to chat and share our lives with others and on Zovue, you can chat immediately with your friends in real time. You can also share your opinion by rating just about everything, from fashion to gardens and cars.

Other benefits include a shopping network that you can share with your friends. It's really cool and is called a 'shared desktop'. You have to check that out! It's not just shopping you can share, but you can send notes and such. This is a creative and innovative tool that's quite exciting.

Another high point about Zovue.com is that you can store videos there, including those in high definition and from You Tube. That's something we can all utilize.

Zovue is a site for today!