Sexy Lingerie - Is Nightwear The Most Comfortable Option?

By Amanda Cotterill

For countless women, wearing nightwear can be out-and-out uncomfortable. Despite having a drawer full of lustrous lingerie and naughty nightwear, some women find that comfort is a late addition in the design of many of the pieces available and wind up not bothering with the whole idea.

We're not talking about the mental aspect of feeling uncomfortable. Oh no, these women do have a desire to wear something sexy from time to time. The kind of discomfort we're talking about is physical.

The thought of stiff corsets, underwire push-up bras, scratchy lace, and tiny panties that ride up in places decent folks won't mention in mixed company is more than most women can bear. Sleep time is supposed to be for soft flannel or cotton or a favourite T-shirt and sweatpants, right? True, those last items are less than flattering for a little fun in the bedroom, but they are comfy.

Girls, listen up. Ladies nightwear can be comfortable if you know what to look for. With so many of today's materials, you can be sexy and comfortable at the same time - and every night. The days of ladies nightwear used exclusively for an hour of playtime with your partner are over. Women have demanded practical, sexy lingerie - and designers have listened.

One of the most popular styles of ladies nightwear is the negligee. This type of lingerie is traditionally a long nightgown. Many styles are loose enough to be comfortable for wear the whole night long. Most styles are regular dress length, falling a few inches below the knee.

Nightgowns are especially sexy pieces for the bedroom. These traditional yet erotic pieces of lingerie are extraordinary for providing that special vagueness when it comes to your significant other. Try a nightgown that is knee-length for an extra bit of spice.

For those who want to feel fresh and young again, try a babydoll. Babydolls are relatively new to the scene, having been around only since the mid 1950s. The top blouse covers the torso and hips, and the cute, sexy outfit comes with matching panties.

The type of fabric you choose also contributes to the comfort factor. Nothing is more luxurious than satin or silk lingerie, but many women avoid these materials because they believe silk and satin required special care. Here are a few other types of materials to look for in comfortable lingerie:

- Chiffon: Chiffon is sheer and very soft, especially if it's made from silk.

- Lycra: "Lycra" is actually a brand name for a stretchy, body hugging material. Many nightgowns have Lycra on the top half and a loose, flowing skirt on the bottom.

- Cotton: An old standby, cotton is perfect for any climate. At one time, cotton lingerie was less than attractive. Views have changed and more designers are using this material.

- Silk: Silk is an amazing material. Cool to the touch when you first put it on, silk gradually warms to your skin. While silk is much more expensive than other materials, it is long lasting and won't irritate your skin.

- Satin: Heavier and shinier than silk, satin has many of the same qualities as silk, but doesn't retain moisture and is less expensive.

With so many choices available, there is no reason to think ladies nightwear needs to be uncomfortable to look good. Both comfort and style are easily attainable. Go ahead and shop around; you're sure to find something you like.

Amanda Cotterill has been involved in the erotic lingerie uk market for many years. This article outlines the benefits of women wearing silk lingerie as if that needed much explaining! Please include this credit if you use this article.

Leading Children To Success

By Nan Mcgee

The World Wide Web's latest addition carryyourclimate.com is launching November 29th and is offering the first 1000 stories free of charge.

"Interactive Immersion Stories" by Carry Your Climate offer adults a valuable tool to guide children with dignity and courage through challenging and exciting situations. Through stories adults can explain the "how" and the "why" in times of transition; it also puts the storyteller in a position to assist children in anticipating and managing outcomes. Experiences from the first day of school to surgery can cause anybody anxiety, Carry Your Climate specializes in enhancing children's self esteem by providing quality interactive short stories.

Adults who succeed in life are those who recognize early on that success is a state of mind. Storytelling is a wonderful resource to manage or influence the minds of young people. Research shows that emotions and self-esteem play an important role in the development of human intelligence and that low self-esteem may actually lead to learning disabilities. Stories can also be used as a tool to help children deal with their emotions.

This innovative technique for children to absorb new information is delivered through customizable short stories. After choosing a topic the customer enters a child's name and information related to the story and with the click of a button has created a customized story. The stories are printed at home in a bi-fold booklet and the child then has the opportunity to illustrate certain pages. These books serve the dual purpose of helping children shape their own future while embedding positive behaviors into cherished memories.

To leave lasting positive impressions on the children you know visit www.carryyourclimate.com .

Nan McGee Gilch, is a mother who witnessed the self esteem in one of her own children in crisis and chose to take a stand. Her child's inability to perform to school standards stemmed from a lack of self confidence. After a year of one on one encouragement through home schooling this child was reintegrated into the public school system and is now thriving.
To leave lasting positive impressions on the children you know visit http://www.carryyourclimate.com .

Using Perfume Samples - How Best To Use Them

By Jessica Bradbury

One of the best reasons to use perfume samples is to find out if you like the scent of the perfume and if you can wear it, before you actually
buy it. Perfume does not always smell good on just anyone; each individual has many different and natural body chemistry reactions to the effects
of perfume.

Although, some people cannot tolerate wearing or being around perfume, there are even more who do enjoy wearing and smelling perfumes, whether
they buy from a high-end store or purchased online at a discount or wholesale perfume business.

Although, perfumes may smell nice by sniffing the perfume bottle, you cannot really tell how a perfume will react to the body chemistry of

anyone. Once you apply a perfume sample to your skin you should wait about 10 to 15 minutes for the scent to develop and adapt to the features

of your skin.

It is best when sampling perfumes to use no more than three or four different types at one time. Doing so will help you to avoid devastating
your sense of smell, since your nose can only take so much and after awhile many different perfumes seem to fuse together on a single body and
produce unusual smells.

Perfume samples come in a wide variety of types from many different brand name manufacturers. You can try out all the latest designer and
signature perfumes you like by using perfume samples and then you can save money by buy your favorite perfumes at wholesale or discount prices.
Using perfume samples also help you find the right scent to wear for any occasion or time of day as well as even finding affordable gift ideas
when you share your perfume samples with others. When you use perfume samples you can save money while ensuring that the next bottle of men,
womens or kids perfume is not going to be a bottle that just sits on a shelf collecting dust.

Another great feature of using perfume samples is that you can try them all if you like to find just the right scent to match your sense of
taste and lifestyle, just not all of them at the same time. You should be able to find perfume samples in many local stores that sell perfume as
well as from some online discount perfume stores. Some popular magazines also provide you with small perfume samples.

When using perfume samples you may want to wait about an hour or so to find out how the true scent of the perfume may smell on you. However,
you should always trust your instinct when it comes to choosing the best perfume to wear. Perfume samples also make wonderful drawer and closet
sachets when you are in the mood for scenting your other items of attire.

Article written by Jessica Bradbury, you can learn more about designer perfume from her website, including chanel perfume.

Emancipation Insults Womanhood

By Anand Krishna

For, in many ways woman is superior to a man. Emancipation, on the other hand, lowers her status and makes it at part with man. Emancipation has a "Man" as its standard. It is a dirty word, for it does not consider the potentials of a woman. Woman's standard and status, both are not recognized. She is made, rather forced to struggle to meet man's standard. The question is: What for? Why should a woman struggle to meet such standard? Doesn't she have her own standard?

From a spiritual point of view "Women and Men are Equal". There the question of emancipation does not arise. At that point, for that matter, standards and status are of no relevance too. They are simply irrelevant.

Here, we are not discussing spirit. Spirit is beyond all discussions and arguments. It has nothing to do with agreements and disagreements. It Is. And, It Is Complete in Itself. No debate there, no nothing.

Here, we are discussing matter, which again is nothing but spirit in its gross form. That grossness is what we are discussing here. In their subtle forms, in their souls, men and women are still equal. They are not different. But, in their gross forms, they are definitely different. It is the grossness that makes the difference. And so, we must look sharply into this grossness.

I say, in many ways woman is superior to a man. In other words, I am also trying to say that in certain areas man is superior to woman. There are areas where woman is superior, and there are areas where man is superior. Each is unique. Each has some special qualities. That makes them compatible to each-other. That makes woman and man complement each other.

So, first of all let us drop this debate about superiority and inferiority. Neither woman is inferior to man, nor is man inferior to woman. Both are equally superiors - in their own ways, and their own areas.

But, because I am writing about woman, so in this article I shall confine myself to the superiority of woman and discuss man only when necessary.

For that, we must come back to the subject of "grossness" and how does it make woman superior to man in many ways..... Let us check her brain first:

1. It is scientifically, to be more specific, biologically proven now that the Pre-Frontal part of woman's brain is larger than man's. In woman, it also gets matured earlier than in man. Interestingly this part is related to one's ability to exercise Self-Control.

You may like to refer to the scriptures, Vedic, Taoist, Buddhist, Jain, Christian, and Islam, whatever - they all agree on "Self-Control" being "The Highest Virtue". It is therefore unfortunate and misconceived as well as misperceived when one quotes the same scriptures to prove woman's inferiority and puts her under man's sub ordinance. Such presumption would falsify the earlier common and universal statement found in all scriptures.

Indeed by this single virtue, women can make better leaders. If they develop skills to manage and organize, they can reach any heights. And, the good news is, they can make it earlier and faster than man.

2. Amygdala in female brain makes her less aggressive and not easily given to anger, and last but not least,

3. The Insula part of brain, that is larger and more active in woman, makes her more intuitive. Unlike man, she can perceive Truth, and therefore does not have to work with facts alone.

They can therefore make better judges, better advocates and attorneys, better in any given job where decision making is important.

She has got less muscle, so she is definitely not good at being a coolie or a porter. Those jobs can go to men. No problem.

She may be less of a thinker, she may not be good at philosophy, so let a man be Plato and Socrates. No problem again. She is more of a feeler, she feels better, she loves better - and that is what the world today needs. That is the need of the hour. She can fulfill that need.

Her chromosome is X-X, 23-23 - she is complete. Man's is X-Y, 23-22 - he is short by 1 mark. It is also known to all of us that "X" in man is inherited by him from his mother. X is Female Energy, which makes us move. A man cannot exist without X, he cannot exist with just Y-Y. Whereas a woman can exist without Y, she can exist with just X-X.

Often a woman is behind a man's success. And, that is but natural - for woman is the very personification of Strength. In the Vedic tradition, she is called Shakti. And, Shakti means Energy, Power, Strength.

Her strength lies in her softness and subtlety, which makes her loving and full of empathy. Women can therefore make great nurses. They care more. As a mother she nourishes. As a sister, a sibling, she supports. As a wife or a lover, she strengthens.

I wonder if those who like to put her under man's sub ordinance are as much aware of these facts as we are. And, it is for that very reason that they would like to see her under their, "men's" sub ordinance. They know well that they cannot stand the competition.

In some countries women are chained for this very reason. They are not allowed to move, to grow. They are put behind the closed doors, under veils. They are confined within four walls. What suffocation! Unfortunately, some women have begun to believe in that as their destiny. This is shameful. Shame on the believers and shame on us who made them believe in it. There can be no greater blasphemy than this.

Women must know their strength. They must understand their role in shaping world's destiny, world's future. They are not helpless creatures living at the mercy of men. They are in this world to equally share all burdens and take part in all affairs.

This world does not belong to men alone. It belongs equally to men and women. It belongs to beasts of the land and birds in the air. A woman, who does not realize this, does not appreciate her Being and Role in the Existence - indeed insults her very womanhood. And, such a woman cannot be helped. But, a woman does not need any help anyway. She is a help unto herself.

Therefore, stop fighting for emancipation. Know it to be meaningless and senseless. Your womanhood is already yours; there is nothing to fight about. And, that womanhood is your strength. You are already strong. What is needed is just awareness, be aware of your strength. That is it.

This article is also published in Jakarta Post - Anand Krishna, http://www.aumkar.org

3 Makeup Styles For Parties

By Janice Wee

Going for a Christmas party, a new year party or a birthday party? How are you going to do your makeup?

A look at the models on the catwalks of some of the more flamboyant fashion shows reminds one of a cross between Tinkerbell and Xena, the warrior princess. You know, Amazonian height but with fairy makeup.

Now that is a look which is perfect for parties. All you need is shimmer makeup.

A point to note. Anyone above forty should avoid all out shimmer as while the shine highlights facial features, it also draws attention to existing fine lines and wrinkles. If you are young and your face is line-free, fantasy makeup is the way to go.

Makeup Style #1. Fantasy Makeup.
For that ethereal look, get a shimmery eye shadow or a shimmer powder in silver, gold, bronze, or any flattering color that captures your fancy. You would also need a brilliant lip gloss to go over your lipstick.

Wear a lipstick that you like, which flatters you. Then go over it with the shimmery gloss. Add some shimmer powder or gold or silver flecks to the center of your lip to emphasize your pout.

For the eyes, how far dare you go?
You can apply metallic eyeshadow over your entire eyelid for a real head turning look.
Or you could use a more neutral shade like peach, brown or lilac, but highlight the inner corner of the eye by lining it with a silver or gold eye pencil.

The lash out with black mascara.
If you like, you could even attach crystals to your eye lashes, with false lash glue. Or you could use a metallic mascara for gorgeous, magical lashes.

Finally, take a large powder brush and lightly dust shimmer powder over your cheekbones, your forehead, nose and chin.

Makeup Style #2. Dramatic Eye Makeup
Do you want Egyptian makeup or smoky eye makeup?
Both feature dramatic eyes.
However, strong eyes and strong lips would clash, so keep your look classy by going for nude lips.

For starters, do you want to use false lashes as well?
If you want really dramatic lashes, start off by trimming false lashes to fit your eyes and applying them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Or you could just use 3 coats of mascara instead when you are done.

With a makeup brush, put on the eyeshadow over the entire eyelid. For the Egyptian look, you can go for a medium shade of eye shadow, but use liquid black liner to draw a thick line on the upper lash line. Thicken the line as you move towards and beyond the outer corner of the eye. Line the lower lash line with an eye pencil if you find the liquid liner too tricky. How to apply eye make up - eyeliner

For smokey eyes, go for a deeper eyeshadow like charcoal, plum, midnight blue, deep green.. you get the picture. Apply the shadow over the entire eye lid. Then line upper and lower lashes with a black eye pencil and smudge the line. Finally, apply mascara.

Pick a nude shade for the lipstick or use a light lip gloss so that your lips do not compete with your eyes.

If you want goth makeup, leave your cheeks pale. If not, then use a blusher to contour your face or for radiance. Here's an article on how to apply blusher.

Makeup Style #3. Luscious lips.
If your lips are sensuous, or anything remotely like Angelina Jolie's, then focus on your lips.
For your eyes, apply a peach or nude brown shadow and a single coat of mascara.
Then choose a strong red lipstick, or a deep wine shade for your lips.

Use a lip pencil to line the lips. The use a lip brush to fill in your lips with your chosen lipstick. Use some blusher to add color to your cheeks and you are done.

These tips assume that you already have a great base to work with. Meaning, start off with foundation over your face for a great canvas. Read http://www.cheapestsale.com/health/makeup.html for more makeup tips

The Naked Truth - Electrolysis Compared to Laser Hair Removal

By Patricia Mitchell

How well does electrolysis work compared to laser hair removal? Electrolysis is the old heavy hitter in the world of hair permanent hair removal. The process destroys hair at the roots using needles and electricity, has been around in one form or another since the late 19thcentury and gained popularity throughout the 20th century. Not until the 1990's did a new technology arrive to rival electrolysis as a means of lasting hair removal.

This new hair removal technique was called laser hair removal or photoepilation. Laser hair removal was a more modern approach to lasting hair removal through the destruction of hair at its root. Since then, hair removal by laser has become the aesthetician and dermatologist's new best friend with many providers doing landmark business removing hair for males and females alike. Food and Drug Administration approved and widely accepted among dermatologists as an efficient means of hair removal, it is no surprise to see laser has risen quickly in popularity.

Each approach possesses unique benefits and drawbacks. Electrolysis offers truly permanent hair removal-a claim supported by the FDA-but, it is expensive, time consuming and therefore works best on small areas of the body. This fact leaves electrolysis ideal for the upper lip and eyebrows, but not a practical solution for removal of hair on the back or legs. Meanwhile, laser easily covers large portions of the body, but requires several sessions and primarily reduces and lightens hair growth rather than removing it on a permanent basis.

Additionally, until recently, laser worked best for the removal of dark hair from light skinned people. People with dark hair and dark skin or those of a fairer complexion could expect mixed or even limited results under the laser. Advances continue to be made, but electrolysis remains the most effective permanent hair removal option for the aforementioned groups of groups of individuals.

Should you choose electrolysis or laser hair removal? The answer depends on several things: the amount of hair you wish to remove, your complexion and your budget. The real differences that arise when electrolysis is compared to laser hair removal are the ones dictated by your hair removal goals.

Learn more about hair removal by visiting MyHairRemovalPro.com. We cover all topics ranging from pubic hair removal to back hair removal.

Stay At Home Moms - Experiences Into Opportunities

By Don Downes

There is a growing trend of moms who stay home to baby sit the kids, but want to make extra money. Or you have a job but have a desire to work from home so you'd be there more often. You might have wondered just how to go all about it and work from home. The majority of people, when they begin their quest for the perfect home based business, are more than a little perplexed by the wide range of opportunities that can be found on the internet and have little or no idea of what to look for.

There are actually several ways to work at home, and it doesn't matter if you're a stay at home mom, working mom, or a woman in general, there are opportunities to work globally online. The concept of being able to stay at home all day, doing things on the Internet, and still getting paid is rather attractive.

More so now than ever before, moms are working at home on the internet so that they can tend to their children, while contributing to their family's earnings. This revolution has started a movement, and many women have found it easy to ride the coattails of the trend to financial independence and freedom. All you need to know is the strategies and techniques that are used for high performance based online marketing and get started.

Google's Adsense and Yahoo's Search marketing are a few of these methods that offer this performance based online marketing strategy. Or, take advantage of the power of words and use article marketing. It's an inexpensive project and can impressively increase your pool of leads. For the purposes of article marketing, you have the ample market of parents and there is NO shortage of article topics to reach out to parents.

A stay-at-home mom works 24 hours a day in a job that often includes the demanding and highly important tasks of changing diapers, cleaning, cooking and providing unlimited love for biting youngsters and hormonal teens. If you were to transform your veteran moms tips and experiences into website, it could help you begin your transformation into a successful stay-at-home momprenuer. A lot of stay at home moms may think that their income potential is low, but as they work on and in their business stay at home moms discover that they have more earning potential than they initially thought.

Mom's experiences can translate into a fortune online. Staying at home and working online is not just for those that want some extra pocket change anymore. Work from home is everywhere you turn. Having said that, starting your own business -- if you're willing to do your homework and do what's essential to make it a success -- may well become one of the greatest decisions you ever made.

Don Downes is a top internet marketer who specializes in helping others succeed in creating multiple 6 figure marketing incomes working at home. To check out a great online automated home business perfect for stay at home moms visit => http://AutomateWealthOnline.com

Bag Yourself A Bargain

By Ceri Heathcote

End of season sales are a great way to bag yourself a bargain but do you usually find yourself buying a load of rubbish that you will never wear. I'm here to give you some top tips to getting the best bargains in the sales.

Ensure that you are well prepared for the sales. Start by finding out when the sales start. Decide on roughly what you want to get in the sales and have a look in the shops so you have a good idea of where to go first. The best items to buy in the sales are wardrobe basics and neutral coloured items with classic tailoring. These are the items that you are most likely to wear next season. This winters must have neon pink fluffy jumper will only be consigned to the bin when next winter comes and it is no longer in fashion. Some good buys are black tailored trousers, jeans, leather jackets, cashmere jumpers and white shirts.

On the day of sales, have a really good breakfast to ensure you have enough energy to survive the scrum. Get there reasonably early or all of the best stuff will be gone. You may not be able to return sale items if they do not fit although your statutory rights should not be affected. The best option for ensuring that tops and jackets fit is to wear a vest top and just try them on in the shop, this will save valuable time and avoid queuing for the changing rooms. It is also a good idea to wear comfy shoes perhaps ballet pumps that can easily be slipped off if you want to try on shoes and there is no seat available.

The main thing to remember in the sales is if in doubt don't buy it, you will probably never get round to wearing it. If something is really cheap, it is only a bargain if you wear it. If you really can't face the scrum of sales in the high street, you can always try the online sales, a great way to bag yourself a bargain without leaving the warmth and comfort of your home. Designerhighstreet.com -The Ultimate Guide for Ladies of Style

Top 7 Things That a Woman Must Have in their Purse

By Kathy Summers

There are certain things that a woman must have in their bags or purse. We women can't go anywhere without those certain things. I, myself have a list of my must have in my bag.

1. Powder or Press Powder

This my first must have in my bag. I can't stand having an oily face so I always bring a powder. It makes me feel fresh every time I use a powder like fresh out of shower. Of course, if you bump into someone and you don't want them to see your oily face because it makes you look like you didn't have your bath.

2. Lipstick or Lip Gloss

I put this in my must have because I want to have luscious, kissable lips. I always have 3 shades of lipstick in my bag and a neutral lip gloss. In that way, I can match my lipstick with my mood or with the clothes I am wearing. I have a shade of an innocent look pink lipstick, a red flirty one, and another one for almost everyday use that is in between red and pink.

3. Liquid blusher or Blush-on

Liquid blusher that I could use both on my cheeks and on my lips, if I wanted to have a natural looking lips I'd use this. And I use the liquid blusher on my cheeks to have a natural looking blush, which I wear almost everyday. I only use the powdered blush-on just to enhance the liquid blusher if I go to parties or work.

4. Cologne or Perfume

Everyone wants to be fragrant, don't we? It boosts up my confidence if I smell good. I love a sweet, mild smell. When someone walks up to you or if you pass by someone at least you leave them with you're the scent of your perfume.

5. Wallet with money

Of course all of us need our wallets with us certainly with money. I always have my wallet with me because I have my ID's in my wallet. If I get lost or if I get into an accident at least they will have an idea who I am or who to contact in cases of emergencies. I keep an identity card in my wallet and persons to call in these cases. I also have my credit cards, automated machine cards, pictures of my family and my boyfriend, my identification cards, and of course MONEY.

6. Cellular Phone

Maybe this isn't a must have for other woman, but for me it is. I love having to call the people I love. I always make sure that I have contact with everyone, my friends, family, and my boyfriend. This is one way that I do tell show them that I love them and I miss them.

7. Mirror and Comb or Hair Brush

Nobody wants to look like a witch with their hair. You can't prevent a windy day you know. I like to brush my hair to keep it neat and clean looking, and yes you use a mirror to see if you look fine.

So that's it, do we have the same must haves?

Kathy Summers is a nurse in Washington. She loves to read books of almost about anything, but she enjoys reading more on health or medical stuff. For her, gaining more knowledge about our health is a good way to go. You can visit her site at http://ktsummers563.vox.com.

40, No Kids and Fabulous!

By Willow Banks

40 is a fabulous age, especially if you don't have kids! I celebrated my 40th birthday at a spa. Bathing in the sun, sipping my ginger elixir, I realized I've never been happier, or more fulfilled in my life. I would never want to go back to my 20s or 30s, and here are the reasons why:

#1: 20 and confused!

I remember being confused in my 20s. Trying desperately to find my footing in this world, I jumped from job to job, from relationship to relationship. Not sure about myself, I remember allowing people to sway me in various directions, whether it was my career, how I dressed, or whom I dated. Boy has that changed! Now I know exactly who I am, what I am, and no one can tell me otherwise.

#2: 30 and stressed out!

When I finally got to the top of my game as a marketing professional, I was overworked, overstressed, and my relationship suffered consequently. I reached my career goal at 31, but I also paid a heavy price. My health suffered, and so did my social life. People kept telling me that I was at my prime, that I should savor the moment, make a lot of money, bla bla bla... Yet I was miserable. And so 1 day, I walked into my boss's office and quit. By the way, please don't do that. I did have a back up plan to start my own business.

#3: 40 and fabulous!

Truth be told, now that I have established my business, which took me 7 years, I don't work as hard anymore. And this means more time to take care of my husband and myself. I have never been healthier, in better shape or, in my humble opinion, looked better! For 1 thing, I actually have time to eat lunch now. Something I didn't have time to do in my 30's, and couldn't afford to well in my 20's. Having the kind of self-confidence I never thought I'd have also helps!

#4: 40 and no kids!

The decision to not have children took a long time. For 1 thing, the peer pressure is enormous when you reach a certain age. All my friends have children now, and the natural question is always, "When are you getting pregnant?" But having children is a very personal decision, and my husband and I decided not to let other people influence us. We do enjoy our friends' children. We just don't want any of our own. But the added financial freedom and time allow us to pursue other things we enjoy in life, whether it is getting involved in the community, dining out, traveling, or the possibility of early retirement. Not to mention keeping my figure!

Mentally, now I realize it is important to enjoy the moment, whether you are in your 20's, 30's, or 40's. Each age comes with its own excitements, challenges and rewards. When I looked back, it was my 20's and 30's years that shaped me to be the person I am today. And for that, I'm grateful for all the heartbreaks, all the disappointments, and all the missteps.

Willow Banks is an entrepreneur and aspiring writer. Having been a copy writer for over 13 years, Willow Banks is currently working on her first novel. She runs a business selling company logo shirts and custom baseball hats.

What To Look For In Maternity Clothing

By Tabatha Jones

Maternity clothes are an important part of your pregnancy considering that you will need them for about six to seven months. You will also see that maternity clothes are not just what you wear but will also assist in how you feel. So you want to be assured that they are stylish and comfortable.

The Bra.

One of the most important pieces of maternity clothing you will purchase will be your maternity bra. Don't be hesitant to invest in a good bra. Your breasts will swell during pregnancy in preparation for breast-feeding, some women go up as much as three cup sizes. Even if you are not choosing to breast feed, your breasts will not know that until your doctor gives you the pill after your baby's birth to stop milk production. Your main focus on the bra should be that it fits comfortably and gives your breasts support. Proper support for your breasts is imperative during this time or they will hurt and could even cause you to have back pain. It would be helpful to have someone qualified from any lingerie department to assist you in finding the correct bra size for maximum support.

Mix and Match.

The good news is you are no longer restricted to overalls and large collared shirts. The bad news is maternity clothes do tend to be expensive. However, choose the right picks and it will be well worth your pennies. Being able to choose from maternity clothing that is stretchable but has style is always nice. Although, not everyone can go out and buy a whole new wardrobe, consider solid colors and buying new items that match what you wear normally. You'll be able to wear some of your pre pregnancy clothes as well as shoes and accessories. Accessories can help you get the most variety out of your wardrobe as well. Try scarf's, jewelry, handbags and shoes. This gives you the ability to mix and match, creating more outfits. Also, don't forget to throw in those maternity jeans. You may find the ones you like to be a bit pricey, but the better they fit the more you'll wear them.

Reveal It.

You may notice that many maternity clothing companies are showing maternity clothes that enhance being pregnant instead of hiding it. Just because you're carrying doesn't mean that you can't be sexy. So accentuate your new curves. It can be anything from a sleeveless shirt to a short maternity dress or a low-cut maternity top.

This will also help with your self-esteem, looking good means feeling good. If your budget doesn't allow for the clothes that catch your eye, invest in one outfit that makes you feel special. Even if it's a little summer dress it can make you look and feel like a million dollars. Don't forget to wear it as much as possible, celebrate while you can.

Do's and Don'ts.

Don't wear restrictive clothing such as tight belts or stockings with elastic bands. Do wear maternity support pantyhose or stockings. You don't want anything restrictive around your midsection, you do want to keep the blood flowing, which is the reason for support stockings. Pull them on before getting out of bed in the morning and before blood has a chance to pool in your legs to help minimize the risk of varicose veins.

Don't strut around in stilettos it's just not the right timing plus that wouldn't be a pretty fall. Do wear flats or shoes with wide chunky heels instead. Slip-on's will also be a very helpful as you will see. Don't wear a long sleeve sweater with nothing underneath during cold weather. Do layer your clothing.Your metabolic rate increases by about 20 percent when you're pregnant, which means that if everyone else is shivering, you will be complaining about the heat. With a layered look, you can peel clothes off as needed.

Shopping for maternity clothes shouldn't be something you're avoiding. Before you know it you will be showing with nothing to wear. Instead, have fun with it. This is your remedy for feeling sexy.

Savannah Hernandez
Mommy Appelseed http://www.mommyappelseed.com

Hairstyle Trends

By Jennie Gandhi

Hairstyle is defined as a style in which hair is cut and arranged. It serves as a mirror to an individual's inner personality and also reflects the social, political and cultural trends of humanity. The length, style and texture of hair greatly influence a person's facial features. Not only women but men also have been possessive about their hair and hairstyles.

Various different hair styles are specifically designed for different age group, face shape, skin tone, hair length as well as lifestyle. The foremost factor in selecting a flattering hairstyle is the face shape.

Most of the people have oval faces and almost all hairstyles including long, short, medium layered, straight or even curly suits oval faces. Choppy bobs and long waves look most beautiful on these faces. People with round face look best with hairstyles that add angles and conceal their round cheeks. Wispy fringes and side parts are the best hairstyles for these round faces. Long, rectangular faces look most beautiful with soft wispy bangs and layers. Very few people have heart shape and square shaped faces but then too there are various hairstyles that can suit them the best. Heart shaped faces are widest at temples and narrowest at chin and the best hairstyles that suits these kinds of faces are short shags, chin length bobs, swept forward layers and wispy bangs.
Square faces look more beautiful when the angular jaw is covered with any style of curls or layers. Soft wispy bangs, waves and curls also compliments square faces and balances the complete structure of the face.

Another important factor in selecting the right hairstyle is considering the hair texture, hair volumes and hair length.

Appealing and attractive long, thick, textured and coarse hair looks amazingly beautiful at any occasion in any crowd. Some of the most common and popular long hairstyles for women are straight, curls, waves and layers. Short hairstyles are usually preferred by working women who have less time to style up their hair. There are various short hairstyles like bangs, choppy cut, bob cut and pixie cut that provide stylish and young look. Both men and women have a wide choice of hairstyles for medium length hair. The latest fashion in medium hairstyles includes layers, bob cut, prom, curls, shags and sedu.

Apart from considering the facial structure, hair length and hair texture, the most important decision of a final hairstyle is taken on the basis of the current fashion trends. The latest trends in hairstyles include layers, fringes, curls, partings and ringlets. Layers transform the look of an individual and look great on medium and long hair length.
Curly hairstyles are back again with innovation and availability of various tools to produce stunning curls. They look most beautiful on medium and long hairs.
Fringes give an instant new look and ringlets with wisps of wavy or curly hair tend to soften the outer edge of face.

Another popular and current fashion trend is hair weaving. It is a new technique of addition or extension of hair by weaving or braiding. Many young females are found with hair weaves and it gives an amazing but beautiful and alluring look. Hairstyles with all its fashion trends and huge selection add on to the beauty of any individual. It is the most significant part of every fashion statement.

Single Women Have a Unique Retirement Problem

By Don Seibert

Much of the discussion concerning retirement planning is targeted toward men who are retiring from their careers with a spouse who seems to be considered 'along for the ride'. Perhaps that scenario was true in the fifties, sixties and seventies but, for a lot of the population, that is no longer true today.

Among the Baby Boomer generation are millions of single women who must plan for their retirement independent of any spouse. This is a double edged sword. While this independence eliminates the responsibility to provide for another person in your retirement years, it also means that there is only a single source of income to fund the retirement.

Obviously, the earlier that a woman begins to think about and plan for her retirement, the better off she will be when she gets to the retirement "Red Zone". The "Zone" begins 5 years before actual retirement and ends 5 years after your retirement date. At all times before you enter the Zone, time is on your side. If you make mistakes or the market for your investments has a downturn, you still have time to recover.

It is really important that you obtain some really good and independent advice concerning your retirement planning. By "independent", I mean a Certified Financial Planner to whom you directly pay a fee for his or her advice. Do not depend on advice from anybody who derives their income from a commission or fee based on the investment of your funds. This would be like asking a beautician if you need a new hairstyle!

Once you are in the Zone, however, you no longer have the advantage of time on your side and mistakes made during this time can prove very costly. During this time, for example, your investment strategy will likely become more conservative to reduce the potential for large losses in your investment portfolio. Beware of any advice during this time which points toward more risky investments.

While in the Zone, you must avoid doing anything that will disturb your retirement financial plan. Many just-retired women, feeling free of the ties that bound them, rush off to travel the world or invest in playthings (condos, lakehouses, motor homes, etc). You must avoid this temptation unless you are among the most fortunate of retirees!

For most of us, it would be good to consider using your free time to get involved in a post-retirement activity that will generate some extra cash and give you something productive to do so that you can retain your sense of self worth and remain as active as possible. Any extra money that you can earn from such an endeavor (and there are many, many such opportunities out there!), can be used to minimize the amount of your retirement nest egg that you will use each year.

You don't need to 'go to work' at another J.O.B., that is not what retirement is all about! You can find opportunities, though, that will allow you the freedom to do and go where you want and still provide some level of income. You probably won't require a tremendous income when you evaluate your retirement plan in its entirety. But, every dollar that you can keep from spending during the "Red Zone" years will provide a greater level of security for the rest of your retirement years.

Resources: Don Seibert is a retired business executive who, as an Expert Author, writes timely articles on many issues concerning sources of retirement income Having retired three times, he now is the host of http://www.RetireToEasyStreet.com Visit the site for a complete discussion of Retirement Income Options.

The Party Girl's Accessory Guide

By Janice Wee

What do you wear to a party?

Other than your party dress.

If you have new clothes for Christmas, it would be even better.
Even the most stunning outfit would look all the more gorgeous with the right accessories.

Accessories can turn an ordinary everyday outfit into something that is totally party ready. Add on a pair of ultra glamorous chandelier earrings, a pair of sexy high heels, put your hair up and do your makeup and you are ready to party the night away.

Actually, you might just be able to get away with last year's dresses with some smart accessories. Pick the really basic dresses. In a single color or in animal prints. These are the outfits that are still in style year after year. Then invest in a few great accessories to update your look.

All you need are these 3 basic items:

1. A stunning pair of shoes.
Make that 5 new pairs of party shoes. Especially if you intend to dance the night away, one night after another. The 12 dancing princesses come to mind.

Start with a pair of sleek black shoes that would go with everything.

If the weather permits a strappy pair of metallic stilettos are sexy party shoes. Remember to paint your toe nails or have them done professionally so that you can show off your gorgeous new pedicure.

A pair of satin pumps in a color that matches your favourite party dress would have you looking like a princess. Better yet. Jewelled shoes that are all out glamorous.

If you want an edgier look, nothing beats a pair of black boots, with high heels of course.

If you intend to dress to kill, high heel shoes, as high as you can take, are perfect. For one thing, such shoes give you a sexier gait when you walk. On top of that, high heel shoes make your legs look a mile long.

2. One absolutely gorgeous belt of the season.
On second thought, make that three new belts. In different colors. In different styles. Ideally, all should be wide belts with absolutely stunning buckles.

Go for dark belts as these would make you look slimmer.

Why belts?

This season, the hourglass look is hot. You can update last season's dress, or even last year's dress, by cinching the waist with a stunning new belt. That would create this season's hottest silhouette.

3. Stunning earrings.
Of all jewels, earrings are the ones that would create the most impact. These are worn closest to your face. Sparkling gems worn as earrings would light up your face beautifully.

Long earrings would highlight your neck, making you look sexier.

Chandelier earrings can transform the look of a basic dress, from plain, to elegantly sexy. A party goer needs at least one pair of stunnning chandeliers.

Drop earrings are great if you want to look elegant, but one something a little more subtle than chandeliers. Some dresses look better with drop earrings while others look better with chandeliers.

Sure, real diamonds, rubies and sapphires make a girl feel like a queen but what if you lose an earring while you party? Swarovski earrings are a smarter bet. These are as beautifully cut and so much more affordable. You could afford an entire collection of these classic earrings.

Check out the party wardrobe for more tips for the party girl.

Meet the shoes of your dreams at http://www.shoes-mall.net

Baba Yaga Stories

By Susun Weed

Who is Baba Yaga? She is the Goddess, she is the Witch, she is the Wise Woman, she is the Crone, she is aged Artemis.

Baba is Grandmother. In Tibet, fierce demons are Yagas. So she is the Grandmother Demon, Grandmother Dragon, the fearsome, the fierce.

Baba Yaga is the subject of many Russian folk tales or fairy tales. She is very very old.

How do we know? We are told her nose curves down and her chin curves up and they nearly meet. Since the cartilage in our noses, chins and ears continues to grow throughout our lives, only someone a hundred or more would have such a remarkable face. Her fingernails, it is said, are as thick and ridged as roof tiles. My, what a mineral-rich diet she must have! And they are stained brown. Any herbalists here who have noticed such a staining on their hands after a summer of harvesting? I have. In one of the first profiles of me ever published, the interviewer remarks on my brown-stained fingernails.

Baba Yaga lives in a house that nearly defies description, yet any herbalist would feel right at home there, overlooking perhaps that the latches on the cupboards, windows, and doors are human fingers, and that the door knocker is a toothed snout, and that the fence is made of bones and skulls. But that all pales when we step back and see that the whole house stands atop scaly yellow chicken legs. It moves about at its own whim, whirling like an ecstatic dancer around and around in a trance. Baba Yaga is Whirlwind Woman, Woman with Drum of the deep north, Shaman Woman, Deep-Dreaming Woman.

Baba Yaga is the keeper of the eternal fire, the spark of divine consciousness that informs the best of every profession, that lives in the best healers and the most intuitive herbalists. Baba Yaga, like all muses, like all guardians, like treasure-bestriding dragons everywhere, is not averse to sharing but she is demanding.

You must give to her, must do her bidding, before she will do yours and give to you.

With wrinkles enough to hide the world's secrets and a store of tales enough to fast talk my way out of any situation, I am surely the most fearsome thing ever seen, ever imagined: A powerful old woman at home with herself. I am Baba Yaga, and this is one of the stories in my basket.

BABA YAGA'S STORY OF SASSAFRAS
by way, I believe, of Doug Eliott

Old woman and old man lived together and each did their chores and they were happy. One cold winter evening, coming in from tending the animals, old man ventured: "Old woman, when I'm out on such a cold night my feet stay warm because you knit me such fine warm socks. I wouldn't want you to think I was complaining, but my hands are cold. Do you think you could knit me some socks for my hands?

Old woman thought for a while, a short while, then she smiled and said: "Old man, I would love to knit some socks for your hands. And she took out her yarn, and she took out her needles, and click clack click clack, she knit socks for old man's hands.

Old man was very happy and his hands were warm. Still, one evening, coming in from tending the animals, old man ventured: "Old woman. I sure am happy. My hands are warm now, as warm as my feet in those fine socks you knit me. But I have to take those hand socks off to do some of the chores, times when I need to use my thumbs, and then my hands are cold. Do you think you could knit me some socks for my hands that had thumbs?

Old woman thought for a while; she thought for a good long while; she thought all that night and all the next day and well into the next night and all through the whole next day too. Late that evening, before the warming fire, after all the chores were done, she smiled and said: "Old man, I would love to knit some socks with thumbs and trigger fingers for your hands."

And she took out her yarn, and she took out her needles, and click clack click clack, she knit new socks - with thumbs - and trigger fingers - for old man. Then she took the old hand socks, the one with a thumb on the left and the one with the thumb on the right, and she tossed them out back, by the edge of the woods.

Neither old woman nor old man was happy with the new hand socks. The trigger fingers weren't next to the thumb, but across from it. They looked at each other and smiled.

Old man went out to do the chores with strange socks on his hands and old woman, she hardly had to think at all, this time. She took out her yarn, and she took out her needles, and click clack click clack, she knit socks with five thumbs for old man's hands.

It took some time, but when she was done with the last one, she gave them to old man with a grin. Then she took the hand socks with a thumb on each side and she tossed them out back, by the edge of the woods. And old man was very, very happy.

In the spring, out back, by the edge of the woods, a tree grew, with hand socks for leaves and the sweet smell of love lived long by two old folks. We call it sassafras.

Susun Weed
PO Box 64
Woodstock, NY 12498
Fax: 1-845-246-8081


Vibrant, passionate, and involved, Susun Weed has garnered an international reputation for her groundbreaking lectures, teachings, and writings on health and nutrition. She challenges conventional medical approaches with humor, insight, and her vast encyclopedic knowledge of herbal medicine. Unabashedly pro-woman, her animated and enthusiastic lectures are engaging and often profoundly provocative.

Susun is one of America's best-known authorities on herbal medicine and natural approaches to women's health. Her four best-selling books are recommended by expert herbalists and well-known physicians and are used and cherished by millions of women around the world. Learn more at http://www.susunweed.com

4 Questions You Should Ask Yourself Before Having Breast Augmentation Surgery

By Lucinda Starling

Breast augmentation surgery is one of today's most common cosmetic procedures. It has gained tremendous popularity in recent years. What can you expect? It's all over TV; we see it on the news, one celebrity had her boobs done! Then we see all these other stars in bikinis and wonder, how many of them are actually real? Advertising is also aggressive; there are lots of advertising about doctors and clinics and how they are the best place for you to have the procedure.

The continuing advancement of technology and the increase in plastic surgery operations indicate that these procedures are becoming more common and relatively free of risk, however, no surgery is really absolutely risk free.

If you are seriously thinking of getting a breast augmentation, first reflect on the following questions.

Why Are You Having Breast-Aug surgery?

Forget what you see on TV, set aside all the testimonials you have seen or heard about doctors and clinics. Get to the very bottom why you believe you need the procedure. Don't desire the procedure because other people say that it will improve your life; instead find out for sure if it will really improve yours. Do you really need it? And why?

If you have a good surgeon, he will be able to assist you in deciding upon it as well giving you an array of options, and even alternatives if you are not fully convinced of getting surgery. You shouldn't be pressured into it.



What are the risks?

Any surgical procedure administered under general anesthesia does have some risk to it. There is always the risk of a complication, even if your doctor has taken all necessary precautions. There is a need for a thorough physical examination prior to the surgery to ensure you are in good health. The doctor will also ask you if you are under any form of medication.

A good surgeon will sit down with you and talk you through the procedure and the possible complications and risks you face. Try not to make any hasty decisions, and carefully weigh the risks against the potential benefits.

Have you found the right doctor?

Finding the right surgeon for your procedure is not a matter of checking for accreditation. You have to find someone you can trust, some you are comfortable with, someone who can understand what it is you want to achieve.

Try to find out if you have any friends or relatives who has had the procedure and if they were happy with the doctor who performed it. If you have a trusted personal physician, ask for some referrals that you can check out. Make a list of possible doctors to check. It is important to research the doctor to ensure they are accredited and certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. A surgeon with hospital privileges is a plus; this means that a hospital committee has approved the doctor's training and competency to meet their criteria for performing a similar operation in their facilities. Some surgeries can be performed in a clinic and not a hospital. If you are considering a clinic for your procedure, check if they have appropriate medical personnel on hand and that the facilities are clean and medical waste is properly disposed of.

How much will it cost?

This is the last thing you should consider, because it should be least important in deciding which doctor or clinic to go to. This should not be the basis for your choice. Your doctor's qualifications and your comfort with him or her are more important than the cost, and you are likely to pay more anyway if there are complications or if you are not happy with the results.

Lucy Starling is a Registered Nurse and Internet Entrepreneur. Lucy likes to blog about matters that concern women such as breast augmentation surgery on her Breast Augmentation Blog on http://breast-augmentation-index.com

A Tale of Unexplained Infertility and Herbs

By Jodi Panayotov

So you are finally at the doctor's office after years of unsuccessful copulating, seeking an answer with a side of treatment. Admittedly it's been a relief to share with someone who's not going to run off and tell everyone you know your intimate secrets. Especially if it means your doctor is going to DO something.

The tests he sends you for are both embarrassing and painful but because they're going to shed fluorescent light on what ails you and your partner you'll live with them, even welcome them.

"You want me to put my feet, where..THERE, but they won't fit....auuuggghh!"
"How long did you say the needle had to stay in?" "Do I get anaesthetic?" "It's been twenty-four hours - should I still be in this much pain?" are all pressing questions you find yourself asking the doctor, whilst for your partner it's, "But how do I get it in there?" and "Do you have anything else but scotch/Penthouse?"

A couple of weeks later you're back, all anticipatory that they'll have found something and an indicated treatment will be offered.

Your partner is the first to receive his results and has to refrain from doing a Toyota 'Oh what a feeling' leap out of his chair at the news that his 'boys can swim'. Whilst happy for him you realize that this must mean it's you with the problem and nervously await the verdict.

It takes a while as there is much frowning, paper shuffling and throat clearing and mumbling on the part of the doctor.

'CHRIST,' you think, 'what's going on? Do I have a whole range of fertility issues?"

Eventually, as if he suddenly remembers there is a couple sitting in his office and it is not, after all, time for a leisurely Sunday-morning-paper type-browse of your notes, he looks up.

Both you and your partner stare at him, dry mouths slightly ajar.

"I'm afraid," he says, and you nod, feeling quite afraid yourself.

"I'm afraid that you have what we refer to as...um.."

Your hands grip the chair and you lean forward.

"It's ....er...UNEXPLAINED INFERTILITY."

"What's that???" you demand an explanation.

"It happens to about one in ten couples."

"What does?"

"The unexplained infertility as I've just said. It means basically that the tests didn't find anything untoward. Your tubes are clear, there's minimal endometriosis, and you're ovulating very month."

You realize it's like the answer to a multiple choice question - 'none of the above'.

"But are there other tests you can do, you know, something else...?"

"No those are the main ones we use."

"So what now?"

"Well it's up to you."

"Up to me?"

"Yes, you have three options. We can do a course of fertility drugs or we can try a cycle of IVF or we can do nothing."

Nothing, of course is out of the question, otherwise you wouldn't BE here. But IVF???? Already? When there's nothing discernibly wrong?

"T-tell me about the f-fertility drugs," you stammer.

"Well you take a course of Clomid which boosts ovulation, producing more eggs so increasing your chances of conception. But."

Why is there always a 'but'? "But what?"

"You also increase your chances of multiple births."

"Oh, is that all."

"Yes, I just had to inform you so that you make an informed choice."

"One more thing," you say after he's written a prescription and is holding it there in front of you like he's a game show host and you're about to take 'the money or the box'.

"How, if we have 'unexplained infertility', do you think this may work?"

"By boosting ovulation..."

"But you said I am ovulating."

"As I said, you'll produce larger and more eggs which increases your chances .."

You and your partner leave the office, taking the prescription and your unexplained infertility with you.

That night you pour a glass of water and open the packet of pills. Opening your mouth you pop the pill in, move it to the back of your tongue and take a large gulp of water.

There, you've swallowed it.

Dejection hardly describes the state you're in when, after two rounds of fertility drugs that left you cranky, bloated and empty-armed, you get around to making an appointment with that naturopath.

Two years and five months of forced copulation and a diagnosis of 'unexplained infertility' have played havoc with your well-being - if anything, right now you are an unwell being.

Along with unexplained infertility you've developed an unexplained reluctance to go back to your doctor. IVF is pending and this may have something to do with it though you can't be sure.

Every time you hear that combination of letters- I-V-F you go into a kind of dissociative fugue state. The best you can do is deal with it as an abstract theory, as something that happens to 'other people'. Your partner thinks you suffer from 'NIMO' or 'Not in My Ovaries' syndrome and you suspect he may be right though it's not something you'd ever admit.

Before you can even get in to see the naturopath you have homework - called temperature charting. It is explained that this will give clues as to why you're failing to conceive.

"But I have unexplained infertility," you bleat. Regrettably, these days you often sound more like a sheep than a woman.

"Everything has an explanation," comes the measured human reply.

Well, charting a temperature can't be too painful, at least it involves sticking a thermometer in your mouth as opposed to unspeakable instruments of torture in your pelvic region.

After weeks of waking in the morning at the same time to take your temperature in a religious though not godly manner, it is time to meet your naturopath. You slip the temperature chart into a plastic sleeve and drive off.

The 'clinic', whilst slightly alternative and rustic, manages to look professional and trustworthy. The naturopath, an unassuming gentle woman, ushers you in to her room.
It is very reassuring to note the absence of steel pointy objects and the smell you've come to think of as Eau d'Anaesthetique.

"Let's see what you have for me," she says, and you hand her the detailed history you've filled out, far more detailed than what you filled out at the doctor's, and the chart.

After a lengthy period of scrutiny, she beckons you to look at the chart.

"From the history you've given, you've suffered for years from dysmenhorrea and irregular menses and looking at your charts, ovulation's coming in too late."

"Late for what?" you ask stupidly whilst attempting to picture an irregular yet long-serving Prime Minister.

"Successful fertilization. What it means is that by the time your eggs come out of the follicle they're too old so they're not going to make a good embryo."

"That's it?"

"From what I can see, yes. And it's a common problem. Your irregularity and dysmenhorrea's never been treated."

"C-can you actually treat it?"

"Of course - there's a herbal formula for most things."

You can't believe it - suddenly you've gone from having unexplained infertility to having unpronounceable and unspellable infertility. You feel like rejoicing. You share this with the naturopath.

"Ahh, that's where we need to speak of diet...no alcohol is part of it. And no caffeine and you must have blahblahblah vegetable proteins blahblahblah fish oil blahblah.."

You're barely listening you're so happy. The whole things is like an epiphany and you find yourself humming Louis Armstrong's 'What a Wonderful World.'

The naturopath interrupts the bit about 'I see babies cry and watch them grow' to tell you that your partner must also follow the strict pre-conception diet. This will not go down well but at this point you're too joyful to care. Your partner's still in the middle stages of recovery from the stress of ejaculating into a small jar so to have to take on further challenges at this stage will be an enormous ask.

The naturopath takes leave to mix your batch of herbs - you are pleased to note they are individually tailored to your needs and not from a large imported vat that hails from a country where people are paid a dollar a day for their labour. Especially when you, the consumer, pay fifty dollars.

The herbs leave a bitter taste in your mouth but nothing that can't be eradicated with the insertion of a peppermint.

When all is said and done, the herbs, you find, are easy to swallow.

By Jodi Panayotov, author of 'In Vitro Fertility Goddess' a non-fiction book abhout her fertility-obsessed absurd journey to motherhood.

The book has been described as "Australia's answer to Bridget Jones" by ABC Radio National Breakfast Presenter Fran Kelly.

To read more articles by the author or to buy the book go to http://invitrofertilitygoddess.com

Why Perfume Became So Popular?

By Roberto Sedycias

This is a question asked my many of us who are allergic to strong perfume fragrances. Perhaps the belief that perfume acts as an aphrodisiac holds its own to other more practical reasons to use these aromas.

Historically, perfume can be traced to the early Egyptians who mixed smoldering resins and woods and used them in their religious ceremonies. It was believed that perfumes were pleasing to the gods and would earn them better places in the next world. These deeply spiritual people were so concerned about keeping the gods pleased that containers of various perfumes were placed throughout the burial site. Some sources indicate that similar perfumes were used in. Evidence as to the strength of the perfume used was first experienced when the tomb of King Tutankhamen was open and the fragrance wafted through the open door. The fragrance was present for over 3,000 years!

In more contemporary times, a story is told of Napoleon, Emperor of France, who sent a letter to his lover Josephine telling her that he was returning home from battle within the week and directing her to not bathe until they had seen one another. Rarely are we ready to be in the same room with someone who has not bathed for several days so what was behind Napoleon`s letter?

Those who research human interaction, have discovered some unusual information regarding particular scents. It is believed that some of us have our appetites triggered by specific odors. Interestingly, our `fragrance center` is located in the same area of our brains with the arising of emotions. Perhaps this explains some specific actions such as an adult smelling a certain aroma and that triggering an emotion from his/her childhood.

Moving forward in history, we find the use of perfumes in the lavish Roman baths. Here, the bathers often applied perfume two or three times a day! Pets (dogs, horses) were often perfumed and during certain festivals, birds were released from their cages in order to spray them with perfume. Most of us would have stopped perfuming with dogs and horses, but not the Romans. They also liberally applied perfume to furniture, accent pieces and other household items. Of much interest is the evidence that servants wore different scents from non servants.

Most sources of information regarding perfume, note that the perfume container has always indicated the pleasantness or desirability of a particular scent or type of perfume. My own research has found fairly simple perfume containers many with near astronomical prices.

Perhaps the most significant information for consumers is that scents do not smell the same on all people. Because we each have scents of our own, some perfumes will react negatively and the desired effect of the perfume negated. It is important to test a scent before investing $50-hundreds of dollars in a small bottle!

Not all perfumes are alike. They have been identified as such: Perfume, which is the strongest and has the longest lasting aroma; Eau de Perfume, which is used to layer in preparation of the body for perfume; Eau de Toillett, much less concentrated that the others and is reported to smell much better than it would seem to indicate; Cologne, is the lightest fragrance and only lasts for a brief time.

Correct application of the perfume is also essential in conveying the desired scent. Perfume should be applied to pulse points such as the wrist, the inner elbow, neck, and behind the ears. These spots also provide heat necessary for the dissemination of the aroma.

Lastly, it is suggested that perfumes be applied following a shower and that they be applied directly to the skin and not to clothing. The advice to spray perfume into the air and to walk through the droplets has been found to be a myth.

This article can also be accessed from page Perfume
Roberto Sedycias works as IT consultant for PoloMercantil

The Spokesperson of the Fashion Industry

By Asif Wasim

Elle is a magazine that stays on the leading edge of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle trends. This women's magazine is published in 32 countries by Hachette Filipacchi Magazines (a French Company). Elle Magazine has become the world's leading fashion magazine for every woman in today's society. This magazine features fashion and beauty trends, lifestyles and personalities. Elle addresses new styles and runway trends in today's fashion and beauty world. Elle also includes controversial issues in contemporary society to inform their subscribers of emerging talent across all areas of popular culture.Elle magazine features runway shows and great articles for readers with sophistication. Covers cuisine and personalities and also gives you tips on travel plus guides to finding the best fashion and beauty styles to suit you. Elle brings the superstar look to the average lady and allows you to find your most beautiful self at any age. The first new fashion and style magazine.

Ablaze with bold color, fresh looks, new ideas. Its what style setting women prefer to read. For a fashion magazine Elle is definitely one of the ones that includes a few real articles here and there, vs. your typical mindless fashion mag. Also, the fashion shots are artistic and creative. I would recommend Elle over many other fashion magazines. It's tasteful and doesn't contain crude sexual insight, but is entertaining and semi-factual. Article subjects differ and are constantly of interest. Elle has a memorable article in every other issue including interesting fashion and beauty tips. Elle is for affluent successful young women desiring couture fashion, beauty and fitness advice. Editorials are well written and entertaining. Elle provides what you expect from a fashion magazine - and more - catering to the fashionable, smart, sophisticated, woman interested in more than just fashion.Elle unlike other magazines, does a great job at keeping things simple.

It boasts only four sections - On The Cover, Fashion, Features and Beauty and Fitness. A big thumbs up from me on this aspect. I hate it when a magazine creates 12 categories for things that can be lumped into a couple. If you're a female between the ages of 16 and 40, then the advertisements might be of interest to you. Products include make-up (Clinique, Estee Lauder, L'Oreal, Maybelline); clothing (Ann Taylor, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger); jewelry (Swatch, Piaget, Fendi); and perfume (Giorgio Armani, Dior). Nothing original - I'm sure the same ads are appearing in all of the other fashion magazines.Discover everything you need to find the look you love. From cutting-edge runway trends to stylish steals and must-have accessories, ELLE Magazine helps you create your kind of chic. Every issue is full of expert tips and secrets on hair, skin, make-up, health and fitness to keep you glowing. Elle sits somewhere between Vogue, Allure, and Marie Claire, without Vogue's coldness or narcissistic qualities, and Allure's sometimes vapid and repetitive articles about make-up trends, and with articles that are a bit more intelligent at times than Marie Claire's.

I like the fact that Elle also features an "Eco" or "Green" issue that supports and gives recognition to organic cosmetics, etc.To conclude my article i would have to say, is this brain surgery? No. Is this the best magazine ever published? No. But if you like female, fashion magazines that are thick on advertisements and have an article or two that appeal to you, pick Elle up, you won't be disappointed.

For more information about the author, Elle Magazine and subscriptions visit http://www.magazinearena.com

Challenges of a Single Mother

By Cheryl Sanchez

Single mother's face numerous challenges. Career, child care and even dating are among them. In order for a single mother to have a career that pays decent money, more often than not, it involves specialized training and overtime. This in turn produces a whole host of problems that must be addressed.

Child care is the most important of these factors. Especially with all the horror stories you here now days. If a single mother does not have a family member that can help out in this respect she must filter through for child care providers. This is a tough job.

Four critical factors that should be checked when searching for providers are; verifiable references, ratio of children under care, ability to talk personally to current provider clients, and cost.

First, an overview of your cities home page can often provide the necessary information, which can easily be verified through the site.

Second, there are state laws that mandate how many children can be provided for under one adult's supervision. Check with local laws for this information.

Third, if the provider cannot arrange for you to speak personally with at least two of their current clients, then look elsewhere.

Fourth, is the cost. Though money is normally tight for a single mother, this factor should have the least importance. Quality care is not cheap.

Employment and career choices are another challenge for single mothers. Even though most employers state that they do not discriminate, it is often a giant red flag when an applicant is a single mother. The employer often assumes the hiring of a single mother can adversely affect the company.

Examples: loss of time on the job from problems with child care. Calls received during working hours. Loss of concentration on the job when the child is ill and sick days taken when child cannot go to child care providers. Even pestering fellow employee's with school fund raising programs is a concern with employers.

The single mother, without knowing it, has the deck stacked against her, even before the interview. I feel that employers miss the fact that single mothers are the most dedicated, loyal and hardworking individuals in the work force today.

Another challenge that single mothers face is dating. Besides overcoming the problem of finding a significant other, the child or children will, no doubt, make this aspect of a single mother's life, very hard.

A single mother needs to be very careful on the dating scene. She needs to keep in mind, not only her own safety, but the safety of her child or children. There are some real sick puppies out there. Also, the single mother must find someone who is not put off by her "baggage". Men often refer to a single mother as having "baggage". They are interested in free and easy fun, not a ready made family.

If a single mother does manage to find someone who does not shy away from her "baggage" then after a certain length of time, she must consider introducing her child or children. This is a critical moment for the single mother. It can make or break a relationship. Even though he is aware that you have a child or children, seeing is believing.

Will they hit it off? Will your child or children be on their best behavior? Was this a good decision? The single mother also has to recognize that, even if the initial meeting went well, now is not the time to relax. The future will pose more obstacles and stress that she will need to deal with. But there is always hope on the horizon. After all, there is no other individual among us that is as strong and deserving of happiness as is the single mother. Did I mention, I'm a single mother.

Struggling Newbie in the affiliate world....passionate about writing....single mother who now and then escapes to the land of calgon. Recently put up my own site at http://www.cher-lynnesplace.com

Check it out if you have the time. Meanwhile I will just continue with my absent minded ramblings...

Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year Travelling Jewelry Wardrobe

By Janice Wee

Are you staying over at your parent's place for Thanksgiving?

Will you be attending one party after another during the holiday season?

Are you going away on a vacation?

Don't forget to bring along your jewelry wardrobe. If you are space-challenged, you might even be able to pack your entire jewelry wardrobe into a pillbox.

Get yourself cubic zirconia diamond and gemstone earrings. These are all the accessories you need to carry along with you for your travelling wardrobe.

For one thing, earrings set in sparkling gemstones enhance a woman's appearance instantly. As the light from the gemstones are reflected on the wearer's face, her skin looks more radiant and her eyes light up. Somehow diamond earrings are able to bring out a woman's innate beauty.

The best thing about earrings is that you can fit several pairs of earrings into a tiny coin purse or even a pillbox if you are talking about those tiny stud earrings. Larger chandelier earrings or shoulder dusters should fit nicely into a waist pouch or a coin purse or any spare space in your suitcase or even a CD wallet. In any case, you would be able to carry an entire jewelry wardrobe wherever you go.

Bring along diamond stud earrings for the day, larger clip on earrings (no dangles as these are distracting) for the office, hoops for glamour and shoulder dusters or chandelier earrings for red carpet moments when you want to look amazing.

Switch earrings when you go from day to night. Gorgeous drop earrings are wonderful for a romantic date, and chandelier earrings are for times when you are dressed to kill.

There is a major disadvantage with bringing around diamonds or precious gemstones with you when you travel. For one thing. you could get robbed. Or you might lose an expensive diamond earring while you are dancing, or moving from one place to another. That might mean hundreds or even thousands of dollars down the drain.

For women on the go, your best bet would be something that looks like diamonds and rubies and precious gemstones, but costs very little in comparison. I'm talking about costume jewelry. Unlike tacky costume jewelry centuries ago, today's imitation diamonds look so much like the real thing that you may need special instruments to tell the difference. The very affordable cubic zirconia is often used in place of diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds in the best costume jewelry that may be made of precious silver. You can even get a look-alike pair inspired by what your favourite Hollywood starlet wore to the oscars, or which your favourite celeb wore to the Grammys. You can even get jewelry inspired by Bulgari and other prohibitively expensive fine jewelry store. These cz earrings are jewels you can wear freely when you travel.

With cubic zirconia earrings, you can afford to collect a complete jewelry wardrobe. Pick earrings in colors you normally wear to match your clothes. These should be colors that flatter you.

Also get earrings that are white and colorless (think diamonds) as these would go with all your outfits.

Take into account your size.

If you are big, go for chunky jewelry. Few women can carry them off with panache and you are one of these lucky few. These are the earrings you can wear:

1. Large clip on earrings or button earrings.

2. Chandelier earrings

3. Shoulder Duster earrings

4. Stunning earrings with large drops

5. Large, chunky hoop earrings.

If you are petite, go for dainty earrings. Tiny studs wouldn't get lost on you as they might on your larger friends. Wear earrings that look wonderful on you but odd on them.

1. Tiny stud earrings

2. Delicate filigree earrings

3. Small drop earrings

4. Single stone ear studs

5. Dainty dangling earrings

You earring wardrobe can transform any outfit you wear.

Wearing a little black dress?

You can change your look by switching the accessories.
For a fancy dinner, try that LBD with a pair of shoulder dusters and a pair of metallic stilletto sandals. Style your hair in an updo and let a few tendrils loose.

For a romantic dinner, wear that black dress with demure drop earrings and mary janes. Tuck your hair behind your ears.

For a business presentation, wear that dress with a power jacket and clip on earrings or button earrings and a pair of black pumps.

For a sexy date, wear hoop earrings with your little black dress and a pair of Manilo Blahniks.

Get the picture?

Back home, you can organize your entire collection in a pretty jewelry box or a comparmentalized box meant for fish bait. Whichever suits your needs for your jewelry collection.

Get a few little black dresses and pair them with versatile diamond cubic zirconia earrings. You can compare prices of cubic zirconia jewelry

at http://www.cheapestsale.com/jewelry/CZ.html

Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling And Parting the Gender Curtain - A Quiz for Success-Minded Women

By D. Dutton

Corporate America's infamous glass ceiling is REAL. So what should all women in business know as they survey and strategically crash through that glass barrier toward the positions and salaries they deserve? Why does the centuries-strong Gender Curtain that still awaits become tougher to part the higher you go?

Whether you're a woman vying for an executive promotion, a CEO position, a board seat or the Oval Office itself, you'll want to discover how the glass ceiling and the gender curtain -- along with your appearance, your mindset and even words you use -- could be affecting your career success. Take this mini quiz!

***Where Do You Stand on The Ladder to Success?***

1. How would you respond if you disagree with a decision your boss makes?

a. Yes sir! I always agree with The Boss.

b. Understood, but please evaluate these points and reconsider your decision.

c. Hell with you! I disagree!

d. It's best to never question a decision by the boss, even if I don't agree.

2. Your choice: new title/position with your current company, 10% pay increase, same boss, no real change in authority... OR new job elsewhere, 5% pay increase, new title, lots of input on developing a new program.

a. Take the 10% raise. It's about the money!

b. Take the promotion because you might make a difference later.

c. Take the new job. Advance!

d. Discuss the promotion with your boss, explaining the need to gain real authority with any promotion.

3. Who's really in control?

a. I AM! I always evaluate how I can make my points, the same way a man would, so the CEO can accept my advice without feeling like he's "listening to Mommy!"

b. That MALE PEER! He's always getting away with making mistakes.

c. MY BOSS! He never listens, so I stopped talking, stopped participating I'm hurt because he won't take me seriously.

4. What to wear?

a. The Latest Fashion, short sassy skirts, hug-the-hips, fitted t-shirts, short jackets.

b. Fashion Plus Professional. Business clothes, fitted skirts and pantsuits, worn with nice button-down shirt buttoned to hide cleavage.

c. Comfort. Oversize skirt, big, bulky sweater, natural fabrics. I'm against corporate judgments.

d. Whatever's in the closet. People should appreciate my mind, not my clothes.

5. You're a seasoned speaker and know your topic. What are the most important things to remember before you make the big presentation to a large group of your peers and senior members of your industry?

a. Solidly know your material, but have notes, even if you think you can wing it.

b. Test your speaking and presenting equipment before the speech. No microphone or projector failures allowed!

c. Speak clearly and loudly to be heard. Speaking softly will bore the audience.

d. All of the above. A good presenter is always prepared.

Points-per-answer:

Question 1 (a 3; b 10; c 2; d 5)
Question 2 (a 2; b 3; c 10; d 5)
Question 3 (a 10; b 2; c 3)
Question 4 (a 0; b 10; c 2; d 5)
Question 5 (a 5; b 5; c 5; d 10)


37-50 total -- Wow! Glass is breaking all around you! You're ready to go all-the-way.

23-36 -- There's room to improve. Continue to work on your interpersonal skills and self-confidence.

8-22 -- Corporate America may not be your passion. You might consider taking your creative side in another direction.

Accomplished career expert Diane Dutton is a popular author, speaker, and sought-after interview guest. Her critically-acclaimed book is A WOMAN'S LADDER TO SUCCESS IS PAVED WITH BROKEN GLASS CEILINGS. Sign-up for her free newsletter, take her full quiz or learn more about her programs/advice at http://www.businesswomenspeak.com

Where to Find Discount Womens Perfume?

By Mark Robert

It is easy if you know where to look for the best deals. Once you know these secrets and with a little bit of time and effort, you may find different discount womens perfume that goes for a hundred dollars per ounce at a discounted price. Also note that since you buy the perfume at a discount, it doesn't mean it isn't any good.

Following are some of the secrets of buying discount womens perfume

Know When to Shop

They say timing is everything. If you shop at the right times during the year, you can find amazing discount women's perfume. After holidays, such as Christmas, Mother's Day, and Valentine's Day try at your local stores.

These stores should be having left-over perfumes packaged in holiday boxes. When holidays are over, the packaging is no good. Many stores will deeply discount womens perfume that is packaged for the holidays.

What if the store did not advertise for a sale for perfume?

If your store does not have an advertised sale you can ask discount for purchasing holiday leftovers. After holidays, the buyers are the boss. You are really helping the store to get rid of their old items in stock.

Stay on top of the newest trends in perfume

If you can stay on top of the newest trends from your favorite perfume manufacturer, you may also stumble upon some amazing women's perfume discounts. If you know that your favorite perfume maker is about to introduce a new line or even a newly shaped bottle, you can score huge discounts on the old styles. Most stores are happy to sell the old line at a mark down to make room for the new products they are receiving.

Ask

This is one of the simplest and greatest secret. ASK. If you feel you cannot stay on top of the newest trends in perfume, then do this. Ask the store clerk if they have old line of your favorite manufacturer's brand and if they can sell it to you at a discounted rate.

Know What to Ask For

Goto your local stores that sells perfume. Many stores sell the test bottles when they get to be about half full. Often you can buy your favorite fragrances at a fraction of the cost of a new bottle.

If you want to wear extremely expensive cologne but just can't afford it, ask the cosmetics clerk to sell you the sample bottle. You might end up paying ten dollars for an ounce of perfume that costs one hundred dollars for a two ounce bottle.

Buy Gift Baskets Instead Of Just Buying a Bottle

Another great way to find discount women's perfume is to buy gift baskets instead of just buying a bottle of your favorite scent. Often you will get other cosmetics such as soaps, lotions, powders, essential oils, or even several sizes of your favorite perfume in one basket for a fraction of what it would cost to buy the items all separately.

What to do with the gift items that you won't use?

Don't worry if the gift basket contains items you won't use. You can take those items and save money by giving them away as gifts. You can even take one gift basket and rewrap the contents to make gifts for two different friends or family members.

For more perfume related information visit http://www.coolniceperfume.com

Mark Robert's perfume site is Cool Nice Perfume And Beauty Tips blog is Queen Care

Sexy Chemise - Simple But Elegant

By Amanda Cotterill

Chemises started out as protective undergarments in the Middle Ages, essentially. They were worn under dresses as long smocks, protecting the body from oils and sweat. Men and women alike wore chemises, typically as a one-piece. Chemises originated around the time of the Roman Empire and carried over into the Middle Ages as a popular choice for undergarments. Currently, people continue to wear a version the chemise, mostly as the modern T-shirt.

Today's chemises are made from a variety of materials for women. They come in all kinds of lengths. Some have fitted tops with long flowing skirts and others are short and flirty with matching panties. These loose fitting garments have lost their full sleeves in favor of thin straps and delicate styling puts the chemise at the top of the list for naughty lingerie. Among the different choices for materials are:

* Mesh: Leave something to the imagination with a sheer mesh material. Still feel like you're covered, but naughty enough for a peek here and there.

* Silk: The ultimate in pampering, silk feels so good next to your skin and men can't resist it either.

* Satin: The look and feel of silk, but much cheaper and easier to care for.

* Lace: For the ultimate in elegance and femininity, lace is a timeless classic.

* Chiffon: Light, airy, and oh-so-glamorous. Bring out the diva in yourself with sexy lingerie of chiffon.

Chemises are ideal for those women looking to explore the world of women's undergarments with a safety net. A chemise can be anything and everything in the world of seduction, from wild, tormenting flare to delicate, sensual discretion. Chemises can work to provide sexy cool to any body type and are available in virtually any price range, making them the model seduction device for today's modern woman.

If you want to add to your naughty lingerie without going broke, chemises are a quick and easy way to do it. And the best part? Chemises are comfortable enough to wear on a regular basis. Far too many women have a misconception about sexy lingerie and think that in order to look sexy they have to suffer with tight fitting garments. But chemises aren't just for wearing in the bedroom, like camisoles, there are some chemises designed as dresses. One of the best ways to enjoy sexy lingerie is to wear it simply because it makes you feel good. Everyone wants to feel beautiful, whether or not they have someone to share it with. Go ahead and treat yourself to something naughty - or nice!

Amanda Cotterill has been involved in the erotic lingerie uk market for many years. This article outlines the benefits of women wearing sexy chemises as if that needed much explaining!

How To Apply Makeup

By Janice Wee

First what are you trying to achieve with makeup?

Do you want to look naturally radiant? Like yourself, only better looking?
Or do you want Halloween style makeup where makeup is painted on like a mask to hide your features?

If it is the former, the naturally pretty look you are after, well, this article is for you.

1. Moisturizer
Apply your daily moisturizer and let your skin soak it up. Go for one with SPF15 to give you the protection you need from the aging UV rays of the sun. Spread a tissue paper over your face to blot off the excess.

2. Concealer.
Do you really need a concealer? If your dark rings are really bad, a yellow toned concealer several shades lighter than your skin tone can lighten it a little. Just apply a little, blend it very well into your skin.

3. Foundation.
Pick a liquid foundation that suits your skin type. Clinique perfectly real foundation gives you a very natural, no makeup look while Clarins True Radiance Foundation had gold pigments that makes your skin seem to light up from within.

You can use a makeup sponge, a brush or your fingers to apply your foundation.

For the heaviest coverage, use your fingers. Dot foundation on forehead, nose, cheeks and chin and spread the foundation evenly with your fingers all over your face. Blend in the foundation as thoroughly as you can to avoid that streaky finish.

For more transparent coverage, use a makeup sponge. Soak the sponge in water and squeeze out all the excess water completely. When the sponge is damp but not wet (you can't wring out a single drop of water from it anymore) dot the foundation on the sponge. Squeeze it. Then paint your face with that sponge. Blend thoroughly into your skin for a natural and not freaky finish.

For the lightest coverage possible, for that no-makeup look that still leaves your skin gorgeous, put a little foundation on the back of your hand and pick it up with a brush. Paint that makeup onto your skin with the brush from the center of your face outwards. Blend thoroughly with the clean side of the brush.

Once your foundation is perfect, a touch of mascara on your lashes to open up the eyes and a slick of lip gloss on your lips for that kissable pout would complete your look. Clarins True Radiance Foundation for a radiant glow or Clinique perfectly real makeup for a no-makeup perfectly made up look.

More makeup tips at http://www.cosmeticsonline.info/makeup.html

Women - This Is What Your Life Is For

By Gayle Goldwin

The following was channeled from the Golden Circle of Ascended Feminine Masters, a group of illumined Beings dedicated to helping today's Woman reclaim True Feminine Power:

Our precious daughters, Our fondest wish for you is that you enjoy your lives, that they be for you exactly what you wish them to be.

Has anyone ever told you that this is the reason you are here? That enjoying your life to the fullest is the why you came to Earth? Our beloved daughters, We tell you now, this is what your life is for.

Now how you create that Joy, whatyou think, say and do to create that happiness in your life, is up to you and your soul. We cannot, in these Messages, tell you where your individual Joy lies, for that is unique to each of you, though you may be sure We never cease whispering it to you within the sacred space of your Heart.

But this much is true for all: when you create your life out of your soul's urgings, out of the longings
of your Spirit, Joy inevitably follows. When you create your life by following the highest callings of your Heart, you will know a happiness that can never be taken from you. It is yours forever because it arises from Within and will never be dependent upon any external event.

Our precious ones, We wish to share with you here how to attain that Joy-the concrete actions, the specific steps to take to make it a reality in your life.

First, know that We love you and that you are worthy of that Love. If you could but for a moment see yourselves as We see you, you would never again doubt your courage, capabilities or value. You deserve to be happy.

Second, value your self as We value you. We know your world is busy and makes many demands upon you. Those demands can make it difficult to find the quiet time, or any time, to pay attention to your self. Some of you have even been told that it's "selfish" to not focus on others' first. But know this: every "should" you've ever heard has been spoken by someone who wanted you to do something for them-to serve them, obey them, reflect well on them, or just make life easier in some way for them. Now, We ask you, just who is being "selfish" here?

It is well to be helpful and cooperative, but never at the cost of your own life, never at the cost of not doing what you came to life to do. When your time here is complete, and you look back on your life to assess it, what other measure of success can there be but, Did I Do What I Came To Do?

Our daughters, be as compassionate, nurturing and supportive of yourself as you are with others. You came to life with a purpose. You cannot fulfill that purpose if you are doing something else. Your Joy and fulfillment lie in doing what your Heart urges you to do, not what you think you "should" or "have to" do to gain approval or peace from those who would criticize you.

Third, begin to distinguish between the Feelings that arise from your soul and the Emotions generated by the thoughts imprinted upon your mind. (Editor's note: for help with this, see the Message, "Feelings-Turn Signals From Your Soul," at WomanSpiritOracles.com.) Honor your feelings, but question your emotions. Many of the emotions that drive your choices, and thus your lives, are generated out of the fears, "shoulds," "can'ts" and "have-tos" impressed upon you in childhood.

This will take Awareness and Willingness. But if you are willing to look at your life and acknowledge how you really feel about it, revelations will follow. These revelations will lead you to your Joy. Your joy will take you to your Purpose. And your purpose is your Destiny. It is also where you are happiest, because it is where you find your Freedom. Here at last, you know that your happiness is not dependent upon another outside yourself fulfilling some artificially generated emotional need. Here, you are happy because your true feelings are honored and fulfilled from within. This is where your freedom lies and it is realized by following the calling of your Heart.

Fourth, you can speed this process along by journaling your response to these questions:
What do you like to do here? How do you like to spend your hours? What would you do if you had absolutely nothing you ever had to do? Spend some time pondering these questions. It may take a few layers to get through what you've been told to think you have to do.

What do you like to be around? What kind of people? What activities or experiences? Where do you like to be? What kind of environments? What sounds do you like to hear, or not hear? As you move through this process, you will become more and more aware of how your activities, companions and environments either energize or drain you. Honor your inner urges that move you toward some and away from others.

What do you long for? Is there a dream you've had your entire life? And does thinking of it put a soft smile on your face? Some of you may have to do a bit of analysis to go beneath the things you've been told that convinced your mind you needed this or that. But know this: your spirit needs nothing from another. You came to this world to create something or to experience something. And no one but you knows what. Now the question is: are you willing to acknowledge it?

Are you willing to serve where it is a Joy for you to serve? And only where it is a Joy to serve? Yes, We know you have many things you have to do, many hands clamoring for your services. But We tell you this: enjoy what you are doing or stop doing it. Yes, you heard correctly. Stop doing it. Go do something physical to dissipate your discordant energies until you can return to it with love. And, if your un-enjoyment of it persists, then acknowledge that truth and be willing to find a way to exit the situation gracefully, for it means that you are truly in the Wrong Place for you.

Be willing, Our daughters. Be willing to acknowledge what is true for you. Be willing to acknowledge what you came to life for. Be willing to follow your Heart's call, wherever that leads you, for it is not possible to fail when doing what you came to life to do. So succeed in what matters most. Succeed in doing what you came to do. You do that by following your Joy.

� 2007 Gayle Goldwin. Excerpted from Messages From The High Mother, a collection of channeled messages from the group of illumined Beings Who guided the creation of WomanSpirit Oracles: Wisdom of the Ancients, Solutions for Today, a modern-day divination tool of Feminine Empowerment revealing the 33 archetypes of Divine Femininity present in every Woman. The set includes 33 oracle cards and a 198-page book containing clear delineations, guided Meditations, empowering Mantras and triumphal stories of history's most compelling women-plus a keepsake storage case for both book & cards. Available at Amazon.com or www.WomanSpiritOracles.com
Visit WomanSpiritOracles.com to read more Channeled Messages, get a Free Oracle Card Reading, or download Free Tips to increase your intuition, joy and confidence.