Blue Tree launches 24 hour GPS Monitoring Service

Blue Tree Services are now providing telephone support to those people who do not have access to a computer but want to use a GPS location device.

The tracking device uses Geo Positioning Satellite signals that are sent to the unit every 8 seconds and can determine the position of the unit to within four metres.
This data is then sent to Blue Tree's control centre which monitors this information.

Blue Tree's monitoring service works in two ways. It will monitor the tracking device but will also provide this information to the designated authorised people.

Mike Smuts, Managing Director of Blue Tree Services, commented "The person carrying the unit has the reassurance of knowing that they only have to press a button to let Blue Tree know they are in trouble and we will call their chosen contact. Equally anyone worried about a person carrying a unit can call us and find out where they are."

ChakraVibe Opens New Store

ChakraVibe (www.chakravibe.com) is pleased to announce the launch of its new, redesigned site and online store. The source for yoga-inspired jewelry with meaning and intention since 2006, ChakraVibe offers an even greater array of designer jewelry.

This launch represents a new beginning that goes beyond ChakraVibe's offering of jewelry for the mind, body and soul. In this time of change, ChakraVibe is also a platform to inspire visitors to create positive changes within themselves and the world.

"2009 is here and what better time than now to encourage positive changes in our collective consciousness," says Barbara Breuner, a founding partner of ChakraVibe. "At Chakra Vibe, we're inspired to redirect our focus and set new intentions. We want to encourage our visitors to do the same."

Throughout 2009, ChakraVibe will expand on information around the chakras - the body's energy centers--and how they can bring balance to your life. ChakraVibe.com will feature yoga teachers and their personal stories, and collaborate with inspiring individuals dedicated to strong causes. Part of the new site is the "What's your vibe? Blog," to encourage conversation among those for whom inner peace and beauty reflects their outer self.

ChakraVibe jewelry. Jewelry in tune with your life and your chakra vibe.

The perfect blend of age-old wisdom and contemporary style, ChakraVibe jewelry is linked by color to the seven chakras - the body's essential energy centers. Crafted in high quality sterling silver and bejeweled with fine Swarovski crystals and semi-precious beads, ChakraVibe necklaces, bracelets and earrings enable you to enhance your being and center yourself with positive energy.

The new ChakraVibe site features a larger selection of necklaces, bracelets and earrings, including more pieces in the popular OM collection, designed by Teresa Buccione. Yoga plays an important role in Teresa's life, and is the influencing force behind her designs. "Yoga gives me positive energy, keeping me grounded and spiritually connected," Teresa explains. "These are qualities I bring to my designs."

You can become a real doll!

And you don't have to be a female for that. The thing is that a truly amazing thing is possible now: you can become your own action figurine - and your entire family can do so. It's a amazing and completely wonderful, so please make sure you put this on your "must do" list right now!

Artist Cyndi Safstrom creates look-alike dolls of everyday people from her studio in Vernon Hills. Cyndi sculpts faces from clients' photos, and then integrates the custom head into an 11" vinyl doll body. Dressed in the clothing of their choice, clients will receive a "mini me" of themselves or a loved one.

When Ms. Safstrom created an action figure of a fellow You Tuber for his birthday in 2007, she didn't expect it to turn into a new career. "I had lost my corporate job earlier in the year. Zipster08 put up a You Tube video showing off his doll, and the orders started coming in." Be A Doll was born.

YouTubers kept Cyndi busy making action figures for the first year. The majority of her business came from men wanting action figures of themselves. In early 2008 she created a website and opened her talents to the rest of the world.

Be A Doll has now shipped personal dolls/action figures all over the world, mainly as gifts for wives, husbands, parents, siblings, and friends. "I love doing something creative for a living and helping people express their love and appreciation for each other."

Photos of Cyndi's work can be viewed at the Be A Doll website. Instructions for ordering, type of photos required, customer reviews are found there as well.

Be A Doll creates 11" dolls of real people like YOU. Action figures for everyday heroes.

See samples of their work at http://www.be-a-doll.com,

Florida Southern Roofing Certified as a Green Screened Contractor

Florida Southern Roofing and Sheetmetal Inc. has been certified as a Green Screened Roofing Contractor.

"I'm honored that each of our technicians and roofing specialists can now wear the Green Screened patch on their uniforms," says Brian Wallace, owner of Florida Southern Roofing and Sheetmetal. "It signifies that we understand our responsibility to the environment and to our community, as well as our commitment to providing our customers with the best possible service."

Florida Southern Roofing's trained and certified Green Screened Roofing specialists provide EcoSharp Home Evaluations that evaluate every aspect of a roof, including shingles or tiles, gutters, insulation and ventilation. The final assessment identifies and explains any deficiencies that might shorten the roof's lifespan, cause other damage to the home, or result in overinflated energy bills. The assessment includes recommendations for eliminating the problems to increase the life of the roof and lessen the environmental impact. Roofs can waste as much as 34 percent of the energy a home uses, often due to ventilation and insulation problems.

Florida Southern Roofing received their Green Screened Roofing training and certification through Roofers' Success International.

About Florida Southern Roofing

A third-generation business, Florida Southern Roofing has been in operation for over 50 years. Employing over 140 people, it serves customers in Sarasota, Manatee, Hillsborough, Pinellas and Charlotte counties. For additional information, call 782.0409 or visit www.floridasouthernroofing.com.

Here Is How to Make Your Car Safer

No matter how careful you are when you drive, the unexpected can happen. Whether you become stranded in a snowstorm or your car breaks down on a lonely road, you'll want to make sure that you have supplies to help you get through the time until help arrives.

Automobile Maintenance and Safety

Preventing your car from breaking down in the first place is, of course, the best defense. Routine maintenance will help keep your car safer and in working order. Items to look after include, but are not limited to:

Tires: A tire blowout or tread separation can cause a crash or, at the very least, render your vehicle undrivable. Make sure that your tires are correctly inflated. Use the proper tires for your vehicle and the driving conditions in your area.

General maintenance: Get your car's fluids checked periodically. These include transmission, power steering and brake fluids, and oil. Your blinkers, headlights and taillights, parking lights and windshield wipers should be in working order.

Windows and windshield: Do not leave clothes (such as dry-cleaning) hanging in your car window, as this will impede your view. Make sure that your windshield is free of cracks. Finally, in colder climates like Colorado's, clean the snow off your windshield and windows. This is a simple but important safety measure.

Items to Keep in Your Car

If your car does break down or get stuck, the supplies you keep in it could save your life. At all times, but especially during winter, the following items could be critical to your safety:

Food and water: Basic supplies like food and water are essential to have in your car. Granola bars, energy bars and trail mix are good options.

Toolkit: A toolkit containing items such as jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries (or a candle and method of lighting it), a few car-repair tools and a quart of oil may come in handy.

First-aid kit: Keep a simple first-aid kit that includes bandages, gauze, antiseptic cream and adhesive tape.

Cold-weather equipment: In snowy Colorado, if you have room in your vehicle, it is wise to carry a shovel, sand or ice-melt, and a blanket or other method of keeping warm.

Signals: You may not be able to stand outside your vehicle and flag down passing motorists. The weather may be against you, or it may be the middle of the night. Triangles and flares will alert other drivers to your presence and could prevent a crash.

Cell phone: A cell phone is a useful tool, but remember not to talk on it while you are driving.

Taking the initiative to keep up on your car's maintenance can prevent accidents and lower the risk of being stranded by a car breakdown. If you do become stranded, however, it does not have to be a harrowing experience when you have the right tools. In any case, preparing for the possibility can bring you peace of mind.

At the Denver, Colorado, Sawaya Rose & Kaplan, we have help thousands of people who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents. Because of our extensive experience in personal injury law, our attorneys have developed a wide network of resources that can help our clients get well and back into an active life.

Article provided by the Sawaya Law Firm at www.sawayalaw.com.

A New Diet to Help Children and Teenagers Appreciate Math and Science

It might sound unreal and incredible, but it might be true. In our family, our kids might actually get to love maths and science - and not in a dream!

The National Math and Science Initiative reports that only "29 percent of American fourth grade students, a third of eighth grade students, and barely 18 percent of 12th grade students perform at or above the proficient level in science." (http://www.nationalmathandscience.org/index.php/the-problem/the-problem.html) The National Academies reports an unacceptable level of performance for students, nationally, in math and science (http://www7.nationalacademies.org/Giving/Gordon_Ambach_Education_Presentation.html). Anecdotally, children and teenagers complain about having to learn math and science principles because of the lack of immediate application to their lives.

Also, America has a major childhood obesity epidemic with approximately 18% of 12-19 year olds being obese (it was 5% in 1980) (http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/obesity/childhood/index.htm). The World Health Organization says the childhood obesity epidemic is a global phenomenon (http://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity/publications/facts/obesity/en/).

A book published in May 2008 by Michael Dow, The Pen and Paper Diet, is based on the proven idea that the key to managing one's weight is using A Personal Daily Calorie Budget. By tracking calorie consumption using simple math in about 3 minutes a day, a person can consume the types of food and beverages he or she likes and manage their weight. Once a person develops the basic skill of a daily calorie budget, he or she can then focus on eating more healthy and exercising more. Michael used research from the National Academy of Sciences, USDA and CDC in his book.

"Although there has been limited research for estimated daily calorie requirements for children and teenagers," says Dow, "parents can consult with their family physician or contact a dietitian to determine a proper calorie budget. The issue is the human body needs an increasing amount of calories per day due to growth until about age 19. After that, when all primary variables involved with maintaining an ideal weight are controlled for (activity level and muscle mass), the human body begins a slow descent in required daily calorie consumption until death, sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass with aging) or other health disorder."

Dow bought a license to republish estimated calorie requirements by the National Academy of Sciences in his book. Until more thorough research is completed for children and teenagers, it may be best for overweight and obese children to consume about 300 less calories than their average daily consumption. Once they reach a stable weight or plateau and it is within an ideal BMI, they can then start increasing their calorie budget annually until age 19.

The Pen and Paper Diet provides a safe and cheap solution to address both the childhood obesity epidemic and academic decline of children in math and science. "Even kids need and want useful or immediately applicable information like adults in our information age," says Dow, "a calorie budget is a small step to meeting that need since it uses basic science and math. Maybe after an older child or teenager has been able to manage their weight using simple science, they be more interested in other science areas." ('If basic science can help me control my weight, what else would knowing more science ideas do for me.')

Visit http://www.ThePenAndPaperDiet.com for more info.

New Technology to Beat the Fitness Crunch

If families do not pay up they could be risking their own children's health. 9 Out of 10 children are predicted to grow up with dangerous amounts of fat in their bodies. Fat that can cause life-threatening diseases like cancer, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Busy modern lifestyles combined with the current economic climate have led to the Fitness Crunch, were families do not have the time or the money to be active enough. Technology, despite causing part of the lifestyle problem, is now rising to the challenge of the Fitness Crunch through exergaming company Gamercize.

Gamercize is a new kind of fitness technology that uses the power of video games to keep exercise interesting; by adding exercise to existing games. This week Gamercize has announced the new 3 in 1 GZ Family Fit home exercise machine that meets the required activity guidelines for everyone with convenience and fun.

The GZ Family Fit connects to a Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3 or Xbox 360 to keep your mind off the exercise effort as you play top video games. You have to keep moving to keep the game playing, stop and it will freeze you out until you start exercising again.

Not all members of the family play video games so the GZ Family Fit can be used for non-interactive traditional fitness too. With the combination of rowing and cycling functions, you can choose to read a book while comfortably cycling or watch the news with a rowing workout.

The GZ Family Fit easily folds away taking up less space than one stationary exercise bike and costs a fraction of the traditional route to active living with a price of just GBP699.90, available from http://www.gamercize.net.

Drug-Free Rehabilitation Programmes Are Best

Problems arise and even if they're painful and we would rather run away from them, it's better to deal with them and try to defeat them. Especially if the problems - drugs problems in our case - are connected with our loved ones.

"I tried methadone. I tried Subutex. I tried Valium. Neither solved my addiction and they were much harder to come off," says Michelle, a graduate of the Narconon Hastings programme. "I never bought into the message of 'learning to live with my addiction,' taking my daily substitute drug. I wanted to be off drugs. I wanted my life back so I could be a part of my family once again and be worthwhile and valued as a person to myself and others. Only a real, intensive residential programme, like Narconon, can help you achieve that."

Michelle is not the only person who feels this way. Even Professor Neil McKeganey, Director of Glasgow's Centre for Drug Misuse, was quoted recently describing the national trend towards drug substitution as "a shameful dereliction of our responsibility...we failed the majority of drug users by keeping them locked into addiction."

But residential drug rehabilitation is so much more expensive, some argue back. Really? A University of Glasgow study recently found a 7X better chance to be drug free 3 years after residential rehab than methadone. Many addicts who have enrolled with Narconon report that they did other illicit drugs at the same time they were doing methadone or other substitutes. The drug solves nothing between the ears, they say. It chemically blocks opiate cravings, but that is not the cause of the addiction - that's only the painful result.

It appears that in the last 15 months 15 out of 100 drug rehabilitation centres have closed in UK. This is because they were dependent on government subsidy. Those rehab centres that are supporting themselves charging fees for service are surviving, if with financial difficulty, because they are filling a real need.

Narconon Hastings, for example, is part of the international Narconon network which has produced over 27,000 drug-free graduates over the last decade. They have always set stably drug-free as their target objective - not living with your addiction, but freedom from. Recent post-programme monitoring of graduates by US Narconon centres, according to www.drugbulletin.org, reports that after a one-year follow up, better than 70% remained drug-free.

So there is good news. UK citizens and tax payers should ask for nothing less. Loved ones' lives and our communities' welfare are at stake.

Concerned Parents Launch Convenient Resource for Finding Top-Rated Daycare

If you're one of the parents looking for the best resources to keep their children safe and sound, there might be an answer!

While the concept of daycare information sites is not new, one web site recently launched by two innovative parents offers information and resources never before found through any other daycare research portal.

TopDaycareCenters.com was created by two parents who like many other parents, experienced difficulty and frustration when trying to find suitable daycare for their child. The site they developed is unique and inventive because it offers an abundance of comprehensive information that adheres to the needs of parents. That includes updated daycare listings , trusted content, and insightful ratings and reviews to support and assist busy, conscientious parents.

Daycare professionals also benefit from the site through greater exposure to parents who are actively seeking daycares in their area on search engines. They can upload images and provide extensive information about their daycare programs and encourage parents who use them to rate them on the site.

Features include, for example:

• A vast database that gives users instant access to details about daycare providers including current e-mail addresses, specific contact names, and daily hours of operation.

• Detailed information kept fresh, current, and trustworthy - and a user- friendly and lightening fast search engine tool conveniently located on the home page.

• Maps to daycare centers are automatically provided along with other pertinent search results.

• Parents can easily locate skilled and qualified daycare providers, and they can also proactively review daycare centers and daycare professionals who offer in-home daycare services.

• Read comments left by other parents who have hands-on experience with daycare centers, agencies, or individuals and contribute feedback in this interactive, easily navigated site.

Parents are busy. Most have full time jobs and can feel stressed as they try to devote the time and attention necessary to secure proper care for their children. They are even more aggravated by ineffective, unsuccessful searches for exceptional help, sufficient to match the important needs of their children. But now they have a free one-stop site that gives them everything they need and more, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Plus, it can all be accessed from the comfort of home or office through any internet connection.

About the personal injury thing

A personal injury refers to any physical or psychological damage caused by the negligence, recklessness or intention of another person or entity. A personal injury can devastate the victim physically, psychologically and financially. You may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages.

Leading causes of personal injuries may include:
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Construction or job-related accidents
• Slips and falls
• Birth defects
• Nursing home abuse
• Defective products
• Prescription errors

Compensation for Losses
Personal injury can cause you to experience devastating financial losses such as:
• Medical/doctor bills
• Funeral expenses
• Loss of Salary
• Loss of ability to work
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish

In a personal injury case, determining who is responsible for the injury sustained is of paramount importance. The one at fault could be a person, a company or a defective product.
It is a daunting task to set a dollar amount on injuries you suffered in an accident. The amount varies depending on each case and its' circumstances. It is simple to add up money spent and money lost but how can one determine the cost of pain and suffering or missed experiences and lost opportunities in life? It is important to obtain help and information to assist you in dealing with the serious losses you have suffered because of the negligence of another.

If you live in the Orlando, Florida area and you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury, please visit the website of The Law Offices of Michael Barszcz, M.D., J.D. today and learn more about your legal rights and whether you are entitled to compensation.

Source: The Law Offices of Michael Barszcz, M.D., J.D.
Website: http://www.themdjd.com

Become a farmer to be happy and healthy

New research* released by NS&I shows that gardeners are reaping the financial benefits of growing their own fruit and vegetables. Seventy eight per cent of those who grow their own said that people should consider nurturing their own home-grown produce as a way to save cash.

As NS&I announces the second year of its sponsoring the Royal Horticultural Society's (RHS) 'Grow Your Own' campaign, it is urging Brits to give growing a go - with even more financial benefits than simply boosting savings. The study also revealed that growing your own produce can teach valuable lessons about looking after personal finances. The research served to reinforce the message that having an investment savings account while producing home grown produce was a recipe for success.

90% of people said that growing their own produce was similar to having a savings account as they needed to plan ahead, and a similar number (92%) stated that for both disciplines it is only possible to reap the benefits through patience and regular effort.

Last year NS&I and the RHS joined forces to help improve the nation's health and wealth through the 'Grow Your Own' campaign - and this year the campaign returns with a new flavour as NS&I and the RHS encourage Britons to give fruit growing a try.

Tim Mack, Head of Marketing and Communication at NS&I, explained: "We're proud to actively support and sponsor the 'Grow Your Own' campaign, because we know that growing your own is just like saving in many ways - it helps you financially and your initial investment benefits from good planning and nurturing. Growing your own fruit or veg is not only worthwhile but is also something that can be done almost anywhere."

The sponsorship builds on the successful relationship that NS&I has had with the RHS for many years, including NS&I's involvement in the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show where in 2009, NS&I will again be supporting the Growing Tastes Cookery Theatre.

Richard Hunt, Corporate Development Manager at the RHS, added: "NS&I is an ideal partner for the Grow Your Own campaign, and we're delighted that these two national institutions are working together. We hope we will inspire the British public to use whatever space or means they have to get growing."

The RHS will be running a series of events throughout the year, demonstrating how easy and worthwhile home-grown produce is. Kicking off with a free open day on 7 March across all four RHS Gardens (Wisley, Rosemoor, Harlow Carr and Hyde Hall), the 'Grow Your Own' campaign will offer curious gardeners and keen amateurs top advice on how to grow and care for fruit and vegetables - with growing starter kits available to the first 2,000 visitors to each garden.

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*The survey, which questioned people about their growing and savings habits, was carried about by TNS in January 2009 among 1,009 GB adults aged 16+.

Obtaining Benefits from an Insolvent Insurance Company

Stuff regarding insurance should be handled with care, otherwise the risk is big. So it's always good - for you and your family - to make the best call when it comes to insurances.

Insurance should buy you peace of mind, knowing that you are covered financially if the worst should happen. What do you do if you file a claim only to find the insurance company is insolvent? In California, guarantee associations step in to provide coverage to policyholders.

Conservation and Liquidation Office
The Conservation and Liquidation Office (CLO) of the California Department of Insurance is responsible for determining whether an insurance company can continue normal operations, without interference by the Insurance Commissioner. If it can, your claim will be paid. Conservation happens when a Superior Court of California orders the Insurance Commissioner to manage an insurance company, usually when the company is insolvent so that the company's assets can be preserved and used to pay policyholders, creditors and other interested parties. When a Superior Court orders the Insurance Commissioner to end an insurance company's business by canceling existing policies and not issuing new policies, it is called liquidation. During liquidation, the Insurance Commissioner sells the company's assets to raise money to pay policyholders' claims. If the company is ordered into liquidation there are other protections in place.

California Insurance Guarantee Association
The California Insurance Guarantee Association (CIGA) provides protection for policyholders (property, casualty and workers' compensation) of insolvent insurers. If you have filed a claim and your insurance company goes into liquidation, CIGA will contact you and advise you of your rights under the Guarantee Act.
If your insurance company goes into liquidation before you file your claim you will receive notification from the CLO that your policy will be cancelled. If this happens you should immediately contact CIGA and send them a copy of the claim. You must also file a proof of claim with the Insurance Commissioner.
CIGA will determine whether your claim is covered. If it is they will pay your claim up to a limit of $500,000. Where either the whole or part of the amount is not covered, the residual claim will be dealt with by the CLO as part of the company's liquidation. In a liquidation, the amount you receive depend upon what assets remain in the insolvent company and the number and value of other creditors' claims. It is unlikely you will receive 100% of your claim.

California Life and Health Insurance Guarantee Association
The California Life and Health Insurance Guarantee Association (CLHIGA) provides limited protection for policyholders who are residents of California at the time an insurance company becomes insolvent. It also provides this protection to beneficiaries of policyholders regardless of where they live. CLHIGA is made up of insurers that sell life and health insurance and annuities. If a member is insolvent and is ordered to liquidate, a special deputy receiver processes the insurer's assets and liabilities, and CLHIGA takes charge of company's policies and providing coverage to policyholders.
CLHIGA will determine whether your claim is covered, and it is possible that CLHIGA will not pay the full value of your claim. For life insurance death benefit protection it pays 80% of the policy death benefit (up to $250,000). For life insurance net cash surrender and net cash withdrawal values, it pays 80% of the policy value up to a maximum of $100,000. Present value of annuity benefits including net cash surrender and net cash withdrawal values are paid 80% of present value (maximum of $100,000). The maximum total amount the Guarantee Association will provide for any one individual for life insurance and annuity coverage is $250,000, even if that individual is covered by multiple life insurance policies and annuities.
If the assets of the insolvent company are insufficient to cover claims, CLHIGA can assess member insurance companies to cover the shortfall. If your claim is not covered by CLHIGA the claim will be administered by the CLO as part of the company's liquidation.

Obtaining Damages from a Defendant's Insurance Company
If you have been awarded monetary compensation in a personal injury lawsuit, and the defendant's insurance company is insolvent, the defendant's claim on his or her insurance policy will be paid by the California Insurance Guarantee Association (CIGA). The minimum coverage required by the California Department of Motor Vehicles Code for automobile liability insurance is $15,000, and the maximum CIGA will pay is $500,000. If the amount paid by CIGA is less than that awarded to you, your own underinsured motorist coverage will apply to make up the difference.

Source: Furtado Jaspovice & Simons LC

Balli Real Estate Predicts Influx of Overseas Funds into UK Property Market

Getting a house for your family, a roof over their head is no longer the easiest thing to do, because of the tough economic times. But there might be solutions...

Balli Real Estate has predicted that UK property will be a lucrative proposition for overseas investors due to the current fluctuations in the world's currency exchanges and the fall in the value of Sterling caused by the global financial crisis.

Balli Real Estate, the developer of the 172 apartment Latitude property development currently under construction in central Birmingham, has witnessed an increase in levels of interest in the UK market from overseas in recent weeks, as a window of opportunity has opened with the fall of the pound against the world's major currencies and, as such, Balli property developments are set to be popular among those overseas looking to invest in UK property.

Vahid Alaghband, Group Chairman of Balli Group, observed that the fall in sterling has made the UK an attractive proposition for overseas investors. He commented: "The relative weakness of the pound against other currencies and the fluctuations of the exchange rates are currently proving to be very beneficial to buyers from overseas who are looking for new opportunities thrown up by the turmoil being experienced by real estate markets around the world."

Balli Real Estate suggests that the pound's fall on the world's currency markets will make the UK property market particularly attractive to buyers from the USA, Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates.

Hassan Alaghband, director at Balli, said: "The argument for an influx of overseas investment is compelling when you combine a 30% fall in the value of the pound with, in some cases, a similar fall in property values."

"Inward investment will help bring an increase in liquidity to the market, which will be an important factor in the recovery of the residential and commercial property markets in the UK," he added.

Balli Real Estate expects that established and mature markets will prove particularly attractive to foreign investors as the fundamentals of location; accessibility and communications will remain key drivers for occupiers.

David Reid of Balli Real Estate observed: "The old adage of 'location, location, location' holds good whether the market is good or bad and the established and proven locations of our towns and cities will continue to draw occupiers and purchasers."

"Our 'Latitude' development will see 172 apartments and penthouses located a short distance from New Street train station and the Bullring for private sale and, since its launch, over 60% of the total development has been sold. Situated in the heart of the city, on the corner of Bromsgrove and Hurst Street, 'Latitude' is just a few minutes' walk from the Bullring Shopping Centre and Birmingham New Street Station and supports our philosophy of providing high specification and stunning accommodation in desirable and prestige locations." he added.

Vahid Alaghband, Group Chairman of Balli Group, agreed: "'Latitude' is ideal for either owner occupiers or individual and bulk purchase investors looking to secure high quality property in the centre of one of the UK's premier cities. The scheme has been priced competitively making 'Latitude' excellent value for money when compared to other regional cities in the UK, such as Manchester, Southampton and London.

Vahid continued, "Housing demand in Birmingham is forecast to grow over the next decade, due to the city's expanding workforce and student population. With lower crime levels than comparable cities, good schools and improved retail provision Birmingham is well positioned to attract further investment and development."

Rendezvous Intimates Provides Rx for Relationship Health

I already said it and I'll keep repeating until I'm sure it's all clear for everybody: keeping the fire burning in a relationship is not as easy as it seemed when you first met your partner. But instead of kicking him or her away and starting over again, if you are sure he or she is the one for you, you have to keep fighting. Families are not just sugar and honey, after all!

With today's hectic lifestyle, sometimes keeping the relationship-fire burning is a challenge. With that in mind, Rendezvous Intimates, an online plus size lingerie and sensuality boutique operated by Clint and Susan Kearns of Wrightwood, California, has set out to offer products that help couples resurrect the intimacy and romance that first ignited the relationship.

"We carry lingerie for women with sexy curves," says Clint Kearns, "We carry fewer products, but they are all very carefully selected for fit and quality."

"There are many companies that carry all kinds of lingerie that won't work on a curvaceous figure. We look closely at every item before we add it to our inventory, to be sure our customers will be happy with their selection," added Susan Kearns. "Plus, we try to offer unique items that can't be found just anywhere. We want women of all shapes and sizes to feel sexy."

But lingerie isn't the only way to spice things up. Rendezvous has a line of books that include topics such as sensual massage, creative lovemaking techniques, and how to ensure a healthy sexual relationship after children. The site also includes a selection of romance-stimulating products that appeal to the timid as well as those who wish to experiment, ranging from natural aromatic oils to erotic jewelry to blindfolds and silk restraints.

"Activities that stimulate the senses are a powerful way to reestablish intimacy," says Susan, "It can be a simple as dimming the lamps, lighting some candles, and gently rubbing your lover's feet with scented oil."

The Kearns test nearly all the products they offer and provide personal feedback on many items. Susan said, "We have some creams that—up until we tried them—I would have discounted as gimmicks—but wow! We want to be sure the product's performance matches its claims."

Always keeping an eye towards health and comfort, the toys Rendezvous Intimates offers are all phthalate-free, medical grade materials. A complete line of earth friendly, hemp-based products are also available on the site.

The Kearns plan to continually add new products and aspire to grow the business into a web site that visitors will return to again and again for romantic inspiration. The site may be visited at http://www.rendezvousintimates.com.

Snoring Is Bad for Health, Bad for Relationships

And it's also annoying! Snoring is indeed a problem in the family, but not one you can do too much about. Or...?

In these stressful times, a good night's sleep has become especially valuable, and increasingly difficult to get. Snoring and sleep apnea (a medical problem where the airway collapses during sleep) rob people and their bed partners of the rest they need to face their daily challenges.

45% of the population snores and 20 million people in the United States alone have sleep apnea. Of these, only 10% have been diagnosed and treated; and of those treated, many cannot tolerate their prescribed medical device known as CPAP (continuous positive air pressure supplied through a nasal mask) - which supports the airway during sleep.

Snoring Isn't Sexy was formed to alert the public to the medical dangers and social hazards of snoring and sleep apnea, and to introduce an alternative treatment that can be provided by specially trained dentists.

Small, comfortable, dental mouthpieces that hold the lower jaw in a forward position have been proven to support the airway to prevent collapse, and have been approved as a primary treatment in mild to moderate sleep apnea - and, as an alternative to, or in conjunction with CPAP when needed.

Dr. Dennis D. Stuart of Corte Madera, California is now affiliated with Snoring Isn't Sexy. Dr. Stuart is a 1975 graduate of the University of Southern California School of Dentistry.

Dr. Stuart is a general dentist who, throughout his career, has had a keen interest in the study and treatment of patients with Temporomandibular disorders. He has had the great privilege of personally studying with some of the true pioneers in the field, among them, Dr. Peter K. Thomas, Dr. Charlie Pincus, Dr. L.D. Pankey, Dr. Charles Stuart, Dr. Harold Gelb, Dr. Janet Travell and Dr's Bernard and Robert Jankleson.

Dr. Stuart is also a graduate of the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies where he honed his studies in the field of Neuromuscular Dentistry and full-mouth reconstruction. Dr. Stuart has observed the evolution of the understanding of TMD problems, and strongly believes in the science of the computerized biomedical instrumentation that neuromuscular dentists have available: as it enables them to objectively measure and treat patients with bite-related problems that often are the cause of headaches, jaw joint dysfunction, ear symptomatology and neck pain.

At LVI under the tutelage of Dr. Kent Smith of Dallas, Texas, Dr. Stuart became aware of the significant health risks of obstructive sleep apnea, and the role that dentists can play in accessing and treating this highly under-diagnosed problem.

Dr. Stuart began treating his patients with OSA in 2008, and has already seen great results in the elimination of snoring and the reduction of sleep apnea.

"One of my patients, who had been unable to tolerate the use of a CPAP machine and had discontinued using it, reported that he felt I had not only saved his life, but salvaged his marriage with the mandibular advancement device that I made for him to use at night," said Dr. Stuart.

More information about snoring, sleep apnea and Dr. Stuart can be found at his web site at http://DennisDStuartDDS.SnoringIsntSexy.com.

Win a Perfect Honeymoon in Hawaii!

If you think that for a soon to be family there is something better and cooler than a perfect honeymoon in Hawaii, you're wrong. Because I'm talking about a FREE honeymoon which can be won by you if you act now! So don't waste time - it's not at all a problem to try your luck and, who knows, maybe even win the jackpot!

Once a month through the end of 2009, TheBigDay is giving away a seven-night Hawaiian honeymoon. Any couple who creates a honeymoon registry on the TheBigDay website will automatically be entered in the contest. Couples use TheBigDay.com to register for the items and romantic activities of their honeymoon as wedding gifts. Wedding guests then select and purchase from an array of items, for example, a day of snorkeling, a sunset dinner cruise, kayaking, couples massage, hot-air ballooning and airfare contributions.

With their hotel partners, TheBigDay.com has already given away a seven-night honeymoon to the Fairmont Hawaii properties and a seven-night honeymoon to the Outrigger Reef on the Beach. The February's winner of a seven night stay at the Hyatt Regency on Maui will be drawn on March 12, 2009.

"Hawaii hotels love honeymooners and are very excited about the honeymoon registry concept," says Nancy Williams, Director of TheBigDay. "Participating in our monthly honeymoon giveaway is great way for our partners to promote both their properties and honeymoon registries for their resort. The winner of our December giveaway to the Fairmont Kea Lani and Fairmont Orchid is so excited to have won their dream honeymoon. The bride and groom have told everyone about both TheBigDay and the Fairmonts - what better marketing than a happy customer?" adds Williams.

A different Hawaii hotel partner has donated a seven-night stay for each month of the giveaway. In March, the Hawaiian Honeymoon Giveaway will be four nights at the Maui Prince Hotel and three nights at the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel. Room category will be Ocean View at each resort. The winning couple will have until March 15, 2010 to redeem their trip. Full details of the contest can be found at www.TheBigDay.com; some restrictions may apply. See official contest rules for full details.

Anger Management Resources Available for Tough Economy

Tough economy making you angry? Anger management might be the answer for you! Make sure you go there first before hurting your innocent family. You know they have no fault, yet they will still suffer!

Yacine Bell, an Oakland-based anger management provider and executive coach and certified anger management is reissuing a variety of anger management resources and tools this year specifically for those people struggling to cope with frustration, fear, and anger associated with the uncertain economy. Through her Anger Management Institute (AMI) http://www.angerinstitute.net based in Oakland, Bell intends to focus a variety of training sessions, workshops, informational sessions, and speaking engagements to empower others to recognize stress triggers that can lead to anger.

"Over the past 6-9 months, I have met with a number of managers of businesses wanting to find quick solutions to the rise in anger they're seeing exhibited by their staff, many of these managers are noticing that as the economy worsens their staff are greatly affected, particularly those who have greater challenges managing their anger," said Bell. "There's no doubt that during times of great stress whether it is stress caused by illness, natural disaster, or what many of us have experienced where job loss, foreclosure, and any number of other economic maladies are concerned," she said. "The result can lead to people feeling desperate, powerless, and for too many with anger control issues, can easily translate into heated arguments and even violence at home, the workplace, or just about any public place where people encounter one another."

Bell pointed out, however, that through careful training and understanding of the material, and being willing to change patterns many have grown accustomed to, the curriculum of simple techniques taught through her training sessions, can impact peoples' lives in profound and lasting ways. Given the scope of AMI's curriculum, which is recognized by the American Association of Anger Management Providers, it is geared to anyone whose behavior is consistently resulting in employment and relationship conflicts. Through AMI, Bell has been successful working within the large and small Bay Area businesses and organizations to address workplace anger and violence.

"One thing is for certain about these times we're living in, or any time we might be experiencing, and that is that while we cannot control which way the market performs or who might or might not receive a pink slip, we can control our reaction to these experiences which is really what anger managing is concerned with, helping people make the most out of their situation in a way that helps make their lives happier and more fulfilling," added Ms. Bell.

Complete and full details on the American Association Anger Management Providers can be found by visiting www.aaamp.org. Ms. Bell regularly writes a blog on the topic of coping with anger which is located at www.maddmanagement.com.

No Surprise, Men Turn to Cosmetic Surgery

Until not long ago, in your classic family, cosmetic surgery was completely out of the question. For the last twenty years, though, cosmetic surgery started to move from the "stars-only" area to the regular families and now it really is something regular - for women. It's time for that to change, and according to reports it's changing already: cosmetic surgery for men is now a blooming industry, despite the recession. The most popular thing? Removing manbags!

Dragon's Den Millionaire Duncan Bannatyne is the latest in a growing list of high profile men admitting to going under the knife to remove tired looking eye bags (Manbags) during a recent interview with Hello magazine, others have included the Apprentice's Sir Alan Sugar, heartthrob George Clooney and lead singer in U2, Bono.

Latest figures from Transform, the UK's largest cosmetic surgery provider indicates a staggering 102% increase, year-on-year, for the procedure among its male customers.

Cosmetic Surgery in the Credit Crunch

Transform surgeon, Dr Lorraine Ishak comments: "Job losses have already begun and more men are realising that they need to smarten up and look alert to stand out from the crowd. Today this goes beyond just wearing a smart suit." A tired looking man will still look tired even with a sharp haircut and clean shave. It's important to project a positive can do attitude at all times.

The group, which performs over 800 surgical procedures a month is also reporting a 15% year-on-year increase in male customers for its non-surgical procedures as Botox, dermal fillers and vitamin boosting Meso therapy become more popular.

Blepharopastry for Eye Bag Removal Procedure

Eye Bag Removal, or blepharoplasty, which reshapes the upper and lower eyelids costs around 4k and is the third most popular cosmetic procedure for men after Rhinoplasty (nose job) and Liposuction. To correct lower eye bags, a fine incision is made just below the eyelash line and the excess fat and skin is removed. Upper eyelids are corrected by the removal of a strip of skin in the natural crease of the eyelid.

Growing Male Cosmetics Market

As extreme as this may sound, it is simply endemic of wider trends within the Male beauty and grooming market. Recent data from TNS indicates that key categories in the GBP617m male toiletries market are in strong growth. 855,000 more shoppers were attracted into the male skincare category in the past year, which equates to a 20% growth year-on-year.

A lucrative market, it seems everyone is targeting the male cosmetic market. Boots recently developed a No7 For Men range which includes an anti fatigue eye stick and Superdrug has developed a mew male make-up range.

Personalize your Wedding with Memorable Creations!

The most imporatnt moment of your life is here and you don't know what to do? Personalize your Wedding with Memorable and affordable creations so you will always know you have had your dream wedding and your family deserves all that it's good in the world! No worries, it's even easier than you probably imagine!

Anyone who has ever planned or participated in a wedding before knows how exciting and stressful it can be. You are always on the lookout for that amazing element to add to your wedding that will set your "big day" apart from any others.

TreasuredBlocks.com introduces our newest wedding line. These beautiful personally designed creations allow you to add that classic, unique and personalized element to your wedding. Imagine creating your own works of art in a few moments and making memories to last a lifetime. Each block is hand designed and assembled with products made in the U.S.

TreasuredBlocks.com offers the most exquisite collection of wedding blocks enabling you to create personalized gifts, maid of honor or best man gifts, bridesmaid's gifts, usher gifts, reception table centerpieces, guest table displays, wedding anniversary gifts, and much more.

Create a collection of you and your partner from your childhood to present day for all to see the memories you made prior to your engagement and the future of your life together. These gifts will make the perfect addition to your home and are personalized. For a finishing touch that leaves a lasting impression, add your own special thought to your blocks.

For those who are planning to propose - why not create a Treasured Block that features your favorite photo of you and your love along with the phrase, "Will you marry me?" This is a fantastic and memorable way to propose. It is a gift that will be cherished for the rest of your lives.

"Highly personalized weddings have taken over the mass-produced look of previous generations, and couples consistently seek new ways to set their weddings apart," Cori Russell continues. The Wedding Report, an online market research study of industry trends, reports, "above all, couples want their wedding day to be special and unique."
Treasuredblocks.com offers an affordable solution to meet the needs of truly creating the day you have always wished for, with personalized blocks that are like nothing anyone has seen before.

Four Mistakes That Ruin a Relationship

The truth is that, family or not, we can still do some mistakes that are able to ruin years of relationship and add to an abrupt end. In order to be aware of the worst of the worst and avoid communication mistakes that are capable of sending our partner running away, it's always good to read the news, like here on Everything Family Related. So read more:

Why is it that you can be sailing along in a conversation with your spouse or lover and seemingly everything is going great, and then all of a sudden it seems like you hit a complete dead-end beyond which you cannot move... and like everything freezes in the relationship?

Psychologist and marriage counselor Dr. Max Vogt has suggested an answer. One or both of you has committed what he calls one of the "Four Deadliest Communication Mistakes."

Dr. Vogt claims that any one of these four "communication mistakes" can stop intimacy dead in its tracks like a train wreck.

The "Four Mistakes" most often happen when people are trying to solve difficult or confusing parts of their relationship. Vogt says that the greatest opportunities for intimacy -- and the greatest chance at blowing the intimacy -- happen exactly at these moments. Which is why he suggests you need to understand when you are making those mistakes.

1. Explain yourself. You try to explain your position, and dig yourself in the more you try.

2. What he calls the "You Too," or turning the tables right back on your partner, showing them that they "are no angel either."

3. Asking "well, what do you want me to do different?" Although this seems like a generous offer, Vogt says more often than not it's just a way of "turning off the heat" from your partner and attempting to get them to become your "probation officer." Not a good idea in intimacy, says Vogt! We agree.

4. "Going away." By this, Vogt refers to both literally walking out with the attitude "I just can't take this right now," but also going away by spacing out, changing the topic or other (many other) creative tactics to turn down the heat.

Vogt claims that once a couple is in the "vicious cycle" of these deadly communication mistakes, it's often very difficult to get out of it. So his recommendation is to recognize the power of them and avoid them as much as possible.

For a Perfect Vacation, Destination: Thailand!

Believe it or not, even though it's so far away, Thailand is a great destination for the families who wish to have an exotic, wonderful holiday they will always remember. It's a different culture and it's simply amazing. Just read more about the perfect vacation for your family:

Kuoni, the long haul travel company, has released seven new Thailand travel videos, adding to the 75 Thailand hotel videos already available. Kuoni's selection of Thailand travel videos has now been acknowledged as the best in the UK.

"The Thai tourist board are delighted to see Kuoni further expanding their selection of Thailand travel videos," comments Abigail Silver of the Thai tourist board: "Kuoni's selection of Thailand travel videos is unsurpassed in the UK and helps show travellers what a superb destination Thailand is to visit."

The new destination videos feature some of the many travel highlights of Thailand holidays and come in addition to the 75 in depth hotel videos already available on Kuoni's award-winning website. Destination videos include an overview of the whole of Thailand, as well as resort videos for the lively city of Bangkok and the popular beaches of Phuket, Krabi & Hua Hin. Other videos feature the Thai islands and Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in northern Thailand. Each professionally filmed video also incorporates an informative voice over.

"We now have over 500 videos on our site which provide travellers with a fantastic opportunity to experience the destinations and hotels before deciding upon their holiday," said Matt Rooke, eBusiness Director at Kuoni. "We are very pleased to be adding Thailand holiday videos to our site and expect these Thailand videos alone will be seen by over 15,000 site visitors per month."

With over 40 years experience of providing holidays to Thailand and the Far East, Kuoni was recognised by UK travel agents as the best tour operator for holidays to the Far East in 2008. The company offers trips to over 100 Thai hotels in 17 resorts as well as a selection of cruises, tours and over 100 packaged multi-centre holiday options, with unlimited options for flexible, tailor made holidays.

Sexy Lingerie, The Answer For A Happy Family

Although we don't want to admit it (or would prefer it to be otherwise) the sexual aspect in a relationship, be it girlfriend/boyfriend or husband/wife is always important. We also know - those of us who are married - that passion tends to disappear after a while, so we have to do our best to keep it up under the sheets and still enjoy the happiness of a perfectly normal, happy family. One way to do so is to go for some sexy lingerie. Read more:

When the occasion calls for a special, seductive look, the New York based company Flirty Nites Lingerie has added several new, one-of-a-kind designs to their online store collections that make sexy lingerie work in and out of the bedroom. If you are in the mood for romance, these designs add a little Hollywood glamour to send a provocative invitation to your partner.

The allure of beautifully designed intimate apparel can reveal your secret fantasies and there's lingerie to suit every sexual attitude and preference. Flirty Nites Lingerie is the ideal place to find just the right outfit: whether it's a naughty indulgence of satin and lace, a sensuous feel of a second skin in leather or you want to add the sizzle and shine of vinyl, you can pump up your sex appeal with sexy lingerie and get attention you desire.

For women and men today, intimacy time can be precious and sexy lingerie for both genders can help you make the most of it; escalates the excitement and stimulates the eyes and sense of touch. Today's lingerie designers are creating versatile items that can be worn as fashion accessories that add sparkle to your personality. Wearing the Hollywood glamour of a silk embroidered corset with the modern look of a pair of curve-defining leather jeans, you are bound to be treated as a celebrity everywhere you go.

Inside the bedroom, accentuate your new look in sexy lingerie by creating a mysterious atmosphere to heighten the anticipation with candles or tease and arouse your partner's desire playing lover board games. You can choose a look that allows you to slowly reveal your delicious charms or release all of your inhibitions with daring sexy lingerie such as crotchless thong panties or cup-less baby dolls. Sometimes a complete change in the way you look can be just the ticket to a new and exciting erotic adventure.

At the announcement of the new collections, Lew Kornish, Marketing Director at Flirty Nites Lingerie stated: "With the variety of romantic accessories available today there is no reason for boredom in the bedroom. Use your imagination and Flirty Nites Lingerie will supply the sensual apparel and products you need to turn your fantasy into a reality."

When you want to find sexy lingerie that adds fuels to your sex drive, head straight for Flirty Nites Lingerie. You will find some delectable and sexy lingerie items for men from Lycra boxers to suspender-style thongs and pouches. Whether you select matching his & her lingerie or a novelty item just for him from the men's wear section, you can add some movie-star allure to the way you and your partner look.

Flirty Nites Lingerie selects only the finest creations from the top designers. Completely committed to excellent customer service, the sexy lingerie purchased at their secure online store is accompanied with a return and refund policy to ensure customer satisfaction. With one of the most diverse and extensive collections of first quality merchandise, the company seeks to provide their customers with one-stop shopping for all their romantic accessories.

Questions about Breast Reduction Surgery

If you can lose weight, this generally will reduce the size of your breasts. You can try this first; however, many women will continue to have large breasts even when they are thin.

Liposuction of the breasts can be effective in reducing the size of your breasts without causing major scarring. But many women do not opt for this tactic, because liposuction often causes your breasts to become saggy since the size of your skin is not reduced.

What is the long-term outcome like for most people?

Breast reduction has one of the most immediate and dramatic results of all plastic surgery procedures. First and foremost, you will find that your chronic physical pain and discomfort has subsided. Your body will be better proportioned, and your clothes will have a better fit. Although you may have yearned for these changes for a while, many women still need some time to adjust to their new body, physically and emotionally.

A highly qualified cosmetic surgeon will make the incisions as subtle as possible, but the scarring from this surgery is fairly extensive. They are often long, and they can remain pink or brown for several years. On the other hand, the scars will be in areas that are not seen unless you are topless. They can be hidden by most bathing suits.

Also, the possibility of breast feeding in the future may not be possible, because this procedure removes many of the milk ducts that lead to your nipples.

What type of scarring can I expect and it is always permanent?

Depending on the method used during surgery, breast reduction scars can range from a small scar near the underarm for a liposucation breast reduction to anchor-shaped scars that run you're your nipple to the bottom of your breast.

If you are healthy and do not smoke, chances are that you will heal faster and with fewer complications. However, scars from a breast reduction procedure are permanent. They often fade with time until they become barely visible, but they may never disappear forever. You will be able to wear a bra, bathing suit and low-cut tops without the scars showing.

We do not advise avoiding breast reduction surgery because of the possibility of permanent scarring, since the benefits of this procedure often outweigh the appearance of scars.

How long do the results of breast reduction surgery last?

After the procedure is completed, your breasts will be forever smaller than they were prior to the surgery. However, some patients who have gained weight, became pregnant or start, to take hormone pills following surgery will experiences changes in the size of their breasts.

Also, gravity may cause your altered breasts to sag over time. If this happens, you can have a breast lift procedure to lift and tighten your breasts, if desired.

What is the recovery period like?

Following surgery, it can take anywhere from six months to a year for your breasts to settle into their new shape. However, any bruising and swelling should disappear within the first several weeks. You should not lift anything or push any heavy objects for at least three to four weeks. Depending on how fast you heal, you may be able to exercise as soon as two weeks after your breast reduction procedure.

If you live in the Seattle, Washington area and would like to read more about breast reduction surgery, please visit the website of Pratt Plastic Surgery, with offices in Kirkland and Everett, today.

Source: Pratt Plastic Surgery

No Surprise: Life is good when it's green

This thing is clear: your family will enjoy it, the planet will enjoy it and your kids will do it too even if they are not aware of that fact at the moment. Living green is the thing to do and will always be news until we learn it by hard. It's our only planet, after all! Read more:

"With Life's Good When it's Green, we're focusing on environmentally sustainable solutions, developing Eco-Designs and distributing Eco-Products to help create a safer, cleaner world," said Mr. K.W. Kim, CEO of LG Electronics Middle East and Africa Regional Company. "We are committed to establishing clear operational accountability and creating products that not only enhance consumers' lives, but also encourage an environmentally responsible lifestyle."

From his end, the Managing Director of LGE Levant, Mr. Kevin Cha said, 'LGE hopes to promote healthier attitudes towards the environment, which is now a primary matter of a global concern in the 21st century. By implementing our company's eco-friendly strategy, we aim at reducing the environmental impact of our product's development, production, and circulation while improving efficiency of resources".

Recycling and energy efficiency were highlighted at this year's CES show which was held in Las Vegas 11-8 January. Key components of this initiative include: Eco-Design, Eco-Products, Management of Hazardous Materials, Recycling, Climate Change Policies, Eco-Supply Chain, and Environmental Safety and Communication.

These measures aim at achieving a number of long-term goals, such as making LGE products environmentally safe, resource- and energy-efficient. Moreover, LG Electronics has established several take-back programs and recycling facilities, allowing consumers to return end-of-life products. Such programs as the Eco-Supply require LG's vendors to also comply with national and international regulations. Another goal is to ensure that LG products are marked as either environmentally friendly or energy-saving products, guaranteeing that customers are positively aware of the aspect of environmental safety in LG products.