Does It Matter What You Wear?

Susan Dunn, MA, Personal and Professional Development Coach

Of course it does! We want to be appropriately and comfortably dressed so it isn't distracting.

How can you court your honey when your shirt collar is choking you? your waistband is too tight? How can you represent your client if the judge doesn't allow women lawyers to appear in court in pants? How can you enjoy touring the Turtle Farm on Barbados when it's 95 degrees and you've got on polyester slacks? How can you work the Trade Show when your feet are killing you?

CLOTHING AS NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION
Clothing can show:

� How much money you have
� How you spend your money
� Your values
� How you take care of things
� How organized you are
� How creative you are
� What profession or industry you're in
� Whether you're a copy-cat or an original

ANALYZE THIS

It's easy to do -- clothing is all around us -- so spend some time analyzing. This is something you need to master.

It's been said "dress for the position you next want," so take a look around your office. Where are the lines drawn. How do you fit in?

Be mindful. Are you representing what you want to, and what you intend to? I'm thinking of the mother at our children's 8th grade outdoor morning graduation ceremony in spangles, cleavage, boa and dangly earrings. What look was she after, I wondered. She had achieved the "appearing nightly" look.

FIND OUT WHAT'S APPROPRIATE

The emotionally intelligent person plans ahead. When planning to travel on business, call a coach in the area you're going to.

Male lawyers in San Antonio, TX USA wear suspenders, while when my sister first started practicing law in D. C., judges did not permit women lawyers to wear pantsuits in court.

In San Antonio, TX there isn't much use for a coat rack. I had no idea when I got to the Chicago Art Museum that I could check my coat and boots. There were lockers. How nice! But neither was I prepared for how hot they keep their buildings. People who come to San Antonio are never prepared for how icy we keep our buildings in the summer.

DOES IT REALLY MATTER?

Of course it does, because you want to be able to concentrate on what's really important.

You'll probably have a sense of what areas of the country are different, and in which areas dress matters more than in others.

I had no idea for instance what to wear for a professional trip to Seattle, Washington (USA). Don't laugh, but all I'd seen in photos was lumber jackets and jeans. Of course YOU are not your CLOTHES, but the more comfortable I am, the better I can do my job, and the more I'll enjoy myself.

As my friend who didn't listen to me and took her bright floral patterned dresses to D. C. found out, there are good ways to stand out, and there are bad ways to stand out. In the room of 300 people all wearing solid colors, she might as well have had a bone in her nose. She found it hard to get it out of her mind. That can take the edge off what you're about!

FORGETTING

Where I live it is 98 for a good part of the year, and then plummets all the way to, oh maybe freezing once in a while. It is said to snow once every ten years, but it's been longer than that since last it did. Therefore, I forget what "cold" means. I know cold, I went to college in Minnesota but I forget the feel of it.

When I arrived in Duluth, MN in February and it was 40 below - honest degrees, not windchill - I was appalled. When you check with that coach, don't settle for "it's cold up here" or "it could be 40 below," ask them "what's should I bring?" and, as I did before going to Russia, "please tell me what it feesl like when it's 70 degrees with 100 percent humidity and wind blowing at X mph."

If you're female, ask that coach about jewelry. I was so grateful to the mentor who told me when I attended my first XX conference that the women in that profession in that town would be "draped in jewelry, rings, bracelets, necklaces earrings, toe rings, naval rings -" Of course I would like to know the opposite, too. Why? Well, it's not cool to sit down to a business dinner in Seattle and ask for iced tea. If you know what I mean. Oh, you haven't done that? Let me tell you what happens. Everyone's head jerks toward you. Then they look away. The waiter stammers and shifts from foot to foot. You realize immediately there is no iced tea in this town. But the waiter won't let it go. "I'll brew some tea," he says, "and bring you a glass of ice." "Or just shoot me," I'm thinking. Then he adds, "Is that what iced tea is like?" Everyone is still looking at the ceiling.

ASK THE COACH

Your answers are only as good as your questions. Here's a good question to ask that coach: "What will I wish I'd brought with me that I won't think of." That will trigger the "tourist" mindset in your resource person. Oh the things I've wished I'd brought.

�A well broken in pair of sandals for my Caribbean cruise
�A bathing suit for my December trip to Chicago. Of course the hotel had a hot tub. They all do.
�A pair of comfortable heels each time I've given a presentation. Why do I fool myself?
�Slacks with elastic waistline for cruises
�Something Tencel for long trips
�The black Pashmina shawl that works with everything. Why do I leave it in the back of my closet?
�Something for the rain. It rains when you go somewhere else. You can go to the dollar store and buy what amounts to disposable ponchos and head covers. (Great for touring Russia in the summer or Seattle nearly any time).
�Something really cute for vacations. You think you want to go funky, but then you see someone in a smashing linen matching outfit, and there you are, buying something cute in the hotel store with a price tag that isn't cute at all.
�An evening bag. With an evening bag you can get by with that same black Tencel skirt - you know what I mean.
�Jeans. Dry cleaned and starched.
�Sensible shoes. Oh was I mad when they wouldn't let me rent a motorbike on Grand Cayman with my thong sandals, and the heels back in my room wouldn't have made the cut either.
�That thing that's hanging on the back of your chair if you're in an office right now. You know what I mean. Bring it along for when you get cold which could be anywhere, any time.

Find out what you need to know and master the fundamentals so you don't have to think about what you've got on!

©Susan Dunn, MA, The EQ Coach, http://www.susandunn.cc . Coaching, distance learning, and ebooks around emotional intelligence for your continued personal and professional development. I train and certify EQ coaches. Get in this field, dubbed "white hot" by the press, now, before it's crowded, and offer your clients something of real value. Start tomorrow, no residence requirement. Mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc for free ezine.

5 Ways to Win the War on Clutter
Dietta L. Stewart

5 Ways to Win the War on Clutter
By: Dietta L. Stewart

I had probably walked past that closet a hundred times, each time telling myself
how badly it needed cleaned. But each time I had an excuse. A good one too,
I'd get to it next weekend. Finally, after many weeks of putting it off I opened
the door to my youngest daughter's closet. It had been declared a hazardous
area, I would need special equipment before moving in. Armed with my 13-gallon
trash bag I took a deep breath and ventured in. What a mess. A half hour into the
task I wondered if there was an end to the mounds of Barbie shoes, jewelry beads,
crayons, (hey, these are brand new crayons!), Barbie clothes, doll house furniture-
You get the idea.
About 3 hours and 5, yes 5 trash bags later, I was finished. The closet had been
seized and conquered. I had won one more battle over clutter. I wondered if I'd
ever win the war. I decided that I could. I'm going to show you how you can too.
Clutter is a monster that grows and multiplies without warning and appears when we
aren't looking. Clutter is a thief of peace and balance. It takes up space in our homes,
and our hearts. Clearing the clutter out of your life is surprisingly liberating. Even after
cleaning a small space like a drawer in your kitchen you will suddenly feel lighter.
Choose today to restore energy and vitality to your life by clearing away the clutter.
Here are 5 easy ways to get you started.
1. Define Clutter. What does clutter mean to you? In order to defeat something you
have to know what it is you're fighting.
2. Take one area at a time. Sort through your stuff, clean and dust as you go. Get
rid of things that no longer fit who you are.
3. Do regular clutter maintenance to keep it from getting out of control. Create a
a schedule for major clutter clearing, like spring and fall, or every New Year's day,.
4. Create a space for everything.
5. Decide what areas won't be clutter free. Unless you live by yourself or with
someone who is very neat, you have to deal with other people's clutter. If we
let it, clutter can cause many the argument, heartache and headache. To
alleviate the stress of trying to control someone else's clutter accept that some areas
will always be cluttered unless the person or people creating the clutter changes or
cleans it up. This is okay. Every where we have lived my husband has created a
spot where he puts everything he brings into the house and leaves it there. Magazines
mail, tools, you name it. In the past I would let this frustrate me and I tried my best to
change it, after over ten years of marriage it still hasn't changed. I don't think it ever
will, so I have learned to live with it. When I'm in the mood I clean it up. When I'm
not, I leave it.


Dietta L. Stewart is the Editor of the monthly newsletter Balance Boosters and the author of
The Balanced Woman: A Christian Woman's Guide to Balanced Living. To subscribe to her
Free newsletter send a blank email to mailto:balanceboosters-subscribe@topica.com or
Visit her website at http://www.balanceboosters.com New subscribers will receive her latest
Report "52 Ways to Balance Your Life" free.

Building Credibility of Your Brand Online...and Stay There

Johann Sebastian S.

In online commerce, credibility is as important to a brand as it is offline. But unlike its offline big brother, the Internet is an entirely different environment made up of bits and bytes, as opposed to physical substances. It imposes a set of constraints and imperatives for effective brand-building initiatives that evolves around leveraging and tweaking the building blocks of a website -- design and content.

For starters, the nonattendance of physical element on the Internet disturbs the very nature of commerce. Consumers are deprived of their ability to feel and touch the products, interact with salespeople, and of course, get an instant idea whether the store is credible.

Let's start with a real-life example. Say, Dave walked into a jewelry store along one of Manhattan's chic district to purchase a diamond ring. As he entered the store, he surveyed its physical attributes - decoration, salesperson, products, certifications granted - to see if the store had the credibility and capability to fulfill his desire.

While it is relatively straightforward for the jeweler (and any other brick-and-mortar business, for that matter) to instantly conjure up the sense of credibility, trustworthiness, and professionalism by tweaking its physical attributes, online retailers are left to figure out how pixels beamed from an 800x600-pixel screen can be merged harmonically to reach that objective.

Design matters

What then, should be on a marketer's priority list to position his site along its branding objectives? Design. Yes, design. The first thing a visitor encounters upon logging on to a site is the fa�ade, not what's in it (read: content). Out of a number of stores, how did Dave pick which one to enter in the first place? He zeroed in on one looks convincing and professional. For a moment, the long-term principle that content is king has to give way for design.

As a site's design varies to a great extent as its nature of business does, there are no sets of standards for a proper design. While a conservative nuance fits the image of a management consulting company, it might look dull and boring for a teen-apparel site. Colors, fonts, and graphics can be mixed together in variety of ways to come up with variety of combinations.

Yet web development has spawned a set of patterns shared by sites across diverse orientations, that address the nitty-gritty of a site anatomy: design, consisting of colors, background, and images; content, which covers writing style, fonts, and company information; and usability, related to screen size and pop-up ads.

Design

Colors

Just because there are hundreds of possible color blends in your image-editing software, doesn't mean you have to use them all. In general, a site's color composition is a blend between one or two base colors and their shade variations. The golden rule here is stick to colors already dominant in the industry, adding variations to convey your brand personality. Deflecting too far from the convention alters your image and spawns uncertainty about your business.

Background

During the early years of the Web, websites were adorned with background images. Overtime, realizing it was a distraction for users, websites ditched background image and opted for solid color instead. Nowadays, background image appears rudimentary, unprofessional, and is confined to personal websites or those of unsavory businesses.

Obviously, your background color should stem from your site's central color. To maintain readability however, go with shades that are bright yet easy on the eye, supposedly cream or white.

Images

Basically, images serve as an illustration and aesthetics to add more 'life' to an otherwise monotonous page. That said, unless you run an online art gallery you should use graphics sparingly, as too much of them could hamper users' browsing process and alter the personality of your brand.

For product illustration, stick with clear image taken point blank. For artistic purpose, aim for professionally developed ones that represent both aesthetics and the character of your brand.

Content

Writing style

There is nothing new here. Your copy, especially of product info, should be tight, to the point, and grammatically correct, for you to deliver your message effectively. A bit of puffery and flowery lines might do well as a welcome mat, but that's about it. For a content site, break your paragraphs in two to 3 lines of text - rather than according to sub-themes -- as reading on a monitor causes eyestrain. And no typos; even an occasional spelling mistake is intolerable and can taint your professionalism.

Fonts

The size, type, and color of your fonts must be readable and fit the overall design elements. Fonts that are too big overwhelm users, while too small ones are hard to read especially by people over 40.

Fonts in too many color variations look crude and rudimentary; stay with your site's base color(s) for headlines and black for text. Verdana, Times, and Arial are the types most commonly used today, in size 2 for text and 4 for headlines.

Company information

Providing detailed information about your company - the people, location, and contact - is compulsory to reinforce your credibility and assure users there are real business and real people behind your site. In your 'About Us' page, post concise information about your management board and financial backers, who in charge of what, etc.

Give users the physical location of your business -- real address, not P.O. Box -- along with your telephone and fax number, email address, and representative who takes inquiries (this person rather not be the webmaster, but staffers of marketing department).

Usability

Page length

Friends don't let friends hit 'Page Down' more than 3 times, and Web designers should remember this. For content sites lengthy pages mean long reading, which is particularly tiresome online. While the actual length doesn't change, breaking your content down to several pages unloads that burden. Better yet, provide a printer-friendly version for offline reading.

Horizontal scrolling

As noted by usability guru Jakob Nielsen, horizontal scrolling is one of the top ten Web usability failures in 2002. It drags down reading and makes scanning cumbersome, while implying rudimentary design and scant commitment to users' online experience.

Pop-up ads

Denounced as the bastard son of Internet marketing of 2002, pop-ups are going deeper down the toilet as major sites like iVillage, AOL, AskJeeves, and likely more to come, subsequently scraped pop-ups altogether last year. A real put off to online experience, pop-ups taint your brand credibility (remember X10?). A recent survey by GartnerG2 found that pop-up ads are the "most irritating," with 78.3 percent of respondents calling the ads "very annoying." Unless yours are a recognized and reputable brand name like The New York Times, stay away from pop-ups.

Of course, achieving a brand credibility that sustains overtime requires more than a good first impression. However, capturing a prospect's interest with an image you are trying to portray is a crucial step in communicating your brand and the personality it represents. And isn't that what we are aiming at?


Johann is an Internet Marketing Consultant at Microsoft The Business Internet Competency Center in Jakarta, Indonesia. You can reach him via email at independent@excite.com or visit his company's website http://www.mbicc.com and his online branding e-zine http://www.pranala.com

Hi, I'm Rebecca the Fashion & Beauty Consultant for Estate Jewelry International where we don't just sell jewelry but "pamper" the whole you!
It's always tough finding the "perfect" foundation for your skin type, color, and texture. Some products are heavy,some don't cover so well, others don't blend well. We'll review a few of the products which we tried.
Tinted Moisturizers
Laura Mercier tint moisturizer that leaves your skin feeling fresh. Comes in 7 shades all very natural. It has an SPF of 20 and is fortified with age-defying antioxidants.
Elizabeth Arden tint moisturizer blends easily with enough coverage that you don't feel naked. It doesn't build up on dry patches. Demotologist tested. It has a SPF of 15
Hydramax tint moisturizer is a lightweight hydrating lotion balancing moisture and coverage with natural-colour tint. Extract of Butterfly Lavender helps boost hydration by stimulating the water-trapping proteins essential for skin's proper moisture balance. Comes in 2 shades.
Bobbi Brown tint moisturizer won the "Best New Foundation" award in Nov 2004 in Health Magazine. This formula is rich and luxurious so its perfect for anyone with extra dry skin. It blends easily and gives skin light coverage. Deeply moisturizes skin, to help reduce the look of fine lines. Dermatologist tested.
Avon tint moisturizer is great for younger skin, however it has a tendency to stick out like a sore thumb on dry skin. I tried applying it as a foundation with a make up sponge and as a moisturiser using my fingertips and both times my skin looked terrible. It has a nice feel and a pleasant floral scent but the overall look it gave me was not natural in any way, the dry spots on my face seemed to show badly. Perhaps better suited for pre 40's skin.
Liquid Foundations
Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk liquid foundation is lush yet feather light with a very sheer texture. It is exceptional at correcting discoloration, elimating redness and blotchiness. Comes in 14 shades.
L'Oreal True Match liquid foundation is a nice light weight and has terrific texture. No oils, fragrences or pore clogging materials. Contains vitamins B & E as well as glycerin to nourish the skin. Available in 24 colors.
Laura Mercier liquid foundation is water based yet exceptionally creamy with a nice smooth finish. It has great coverage for a non oil based product. It isn't greasy or drying and the color matches well. Application is best with a sponge, and you can get more or less coverage depending on how much you apply. Takes a few minutes to set.
Revlon Age Defying liquid foundation has great coverage and does not feel heavy. It does have a fragrance which does not go away. May hot be the best choice if your skin is at all oily. By mid day face may tend to feel oily and some experience "zit" outbreaks. It has an SPF of 30. Limited colors.
T Leclerc Hydrating Fluid liquid foundation is best applied with a sponge or fingers. Its super thin so you hardly know its there. Comes in 6 shades. It has an SPF of 8.
Mousse Foundation
Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse is my all time favourite foundation. It gives great coverage but you feel like you've got nothing on. It's lighweight and easy to apply. I find it's best applied with fingers. If your skins a little on the dry side apply a moisturizer and then the mousse and it says light weight. It lasts all day and I've never had a break out using this product. It's advertised as a revolutionary whipped formula and that describes its texture perfetly. Available in 10 shades.
Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Mousse is easy to apply and it never looks cakey or thick. Good coverage for such a sheer foundation. Great for dry skin. If you have oily or dry skin you may find yourself oily by mid day. I must say the smell can be a little harsh. If your at all sensative to smells have a whiff before buying. Dermatologist, clinically, allergy tested. Recommended for all skin types, except extra-oily.
Erno Laszlo Absolute Finish Finishing Mousse Foundation is water free, air whipped providing flawless coverage. It is good for almost all skin types except for very oily skin and those that have a sensitivity to salicylic acid. Its very light and coverage can be sheer to complete. Stays on all day. Its a water free air whipped. Contains Emu Oil and essential fatty acids for non greasy moisturizing. Antioxidants vitamin A, C, & E to defend against free radical damage. It has UVA and UVB protection, and it is Dermatologist tested.
Wouldn't life be grand if one product worked for all of us. However, that's not the case so although I try and review products I cannot tell you how they will work on your skin. Most reputable cosmetic companies will refund or exchange a product if you are unhappy with it. When you find a product that works for you stay with it.
Remember your fashion statement includes the whole you from your hair to the polish on your toes, from your hat to your shoes, from your earrings to the rings on your fingers. So be sure to let the world know who you are and Make Your Fashion Statement!

The Dazzling Rhinestone

Estate Jewelry International

Rhinestones have a glittering past. Originally rhinestones where referred to Czechoslovakian or Bohemian glass dating as far back as the 13th century in Bohemia and the Czech Republic. Both have a history steeped in beautiful hand blown glass as well as molded and cut glass.
By 1918 glass was no longer limited to functional items. Czechoslovakian glass began to make its appearance in dazzling and brilliant jewelry. This Czech glass became known as rhinestones.
Rhinestones were manmade gems from highly refined glass. By using various metals the glass was colored to the desired shade. It was then pressed into molds. Each stone was then ground and polished by machine, resulting in a brilliant glass stone. Often the stones were foiled on the back which increased their brilliance.
Today, the same refining process is still used. You will often here rhinestones referred to as paste. Originally paste was referred to a glass stone that made of ground glass which was molded and then melted, producing an opaque dense glass frosted stone. Paste had many air bubbles and swirl marks. The high lead content glass was then polished and faceted, and set on either copper or silver resulting in a brilliant stone. Today the term paste usually refers to rhinestones. In Europe rhinestones are often referred to as paste, strass, and diamante.
Austria is another area with a history in rhinestone production. In 1891 Daniel Swarovski created a new glass cutting machine which quite literally revolutionized the jewelry business. This machine could cut faceted glass, producing finely finished product in a very short time. Prior to this invention it would take a very long time for each stone to be hand cut and finished. Swarovski's background in glass making, combined with his glass cutting machine soon found him producing rhinestones with a lead content of over 30%. The brilliance of these rhinestones was superior to anything seen on the market. Swarovski wasn't content with his invention and the best rhinestones ever seen. His next invention was once again transforming to the jewelry industry. He created a vacuum plating for the backs of the stones with silver and gold, reducing the need for hand labor. Still today Swarovski rhinestones are recognized as the highest quality in the industry. Over 80% of rhinestone jewelry manufactured in America use Swarovski rhinestones.
Rhinestones have played an important role in costume jewelry for hundreds of years. It is used to enhance and accent, and sometimes rhinestones will provide the entire design. During the Victorian period common motifs for jewelry included snakes, flowers, and hands most often adorned with rhinestones.
The 1890s were a time for extravagant jewelry heavily adorned with rhinestones. As time moved forward designs became simpler with figural shapes once again making their fashion statement. However this time they were small and more elegant with small rhinestone accents.
During the Edwardian period extravagance had made a comeback with diamonds and pearls being the focal point. Once again rhinestones were in heavy use, often used to imitate the real thing.
During the 1920s fashions were rapidly changing. Dresses had gone from fitted to a looser more comfortable style. Two distinct styles occurred during this era - the feminine style and the androgynous style. Jewelry from the 1920s drew on the art deco period. The majority of rhinestone jewelry was made with clear rhinestones.
As the 1920s moved jewelry once again became bolder. Dramatic color was in style. Designer Coco Chanel was an integral figure in the setting the stage for jewelry of this era.
During the 1930s during the depression labor intensive fashion was no longer feasible. While the world was in turmoil, jewelry represented an affordable comfort to many women. Inexpensive costume jewelry could be used to revitalize an old outfit. The industry began to produce bright colored enamel pieces accented with rhinestones. Dogs, birds, or cats with a rhinestone eye were common place.
The jewelry during the 1940s once again became big and bold with rhinestones being produced in every imaginable color, large stones set on large bold settings was the norm.
By the 1950s there were two very distinct looks - elegant and sophisticated for the more mature woman, and casual and fun for the younger woman. The 1950s saw jewelry made completely from rhinestones. For the younger woman were flirty pieces, for the older woman sophisticated elegance. Rhinestone parures became extremely popular.
In 1953 the aurora borealis rhinestone was introduced to the market with its fabulous array of color. It was an instant hit!
By 1960s women were wearing very functional clothing. By the late 1960s the hippie fashions were extremely popular with their roots tied to Mother Nature. Tie dyed shirts, long flowing skirts, frayed jeans were everywhere. This generation had no interest in rhinestone jewelry.
By the mid 1970s the punk look had been born and the rhinestone was revitalized. It was the disco movement brought the rhinestone back to center stage. The disco movement turned into the club movement during the 1980s and rhinestone jewelry continued to gain popularity.
Since the 1970s rhinestone have remained main stream in the jewelry world. They continue to gain popularity and today there is a style to suit almost every ones needs. There is rhinestone jewelry which is perfect for a bride, rhinestone jewelry for a prom girl, rhinestone jewelry for the young and fun crowd, the business woman, the sophisticated woman, and the mature woman. Beautiful pieces of rhinestone jewelry adorn almost every woman's accessories.
If trends are an indication of the rhinestones future, it appears to have a vibrant healthy life ahead of it. Pleasing for most woman with a fashion sense who instantly recognize the value and beauty of rhinestones!



Estate Jewelry International has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing estate jewely & costume jewelry for all occasions, as well as a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

Ways to Prevent a Hectic Morning
Johann Erickson

Morning can often be a hectic time. Dragging yourself out of bed, making breakfast and getting ready, all in a short amount of time, is sometimes a stressful feat, but it doesn't have to be. These simple tips will help you de-stress and enjoy your mornings a lot more... even on Mondays.



Some days it's next to impossible to get out of bed. Give your body an energy boost first thing in the morning by keeping a chilled glass of juice by the bed. A few sips of fresh-squeezed orange juice can give you a boost and get you moving.



Do a few easy stretches to get your blood flowing and ease morning stiffness. A simple stretching routine every morning will not only make you feel better, it's also a great way to start the day.



Set aside a few minutes in the morning just for pampering yourself. Give yourself a quick massage, use a revitalizing face mask, or treat your skin with your favorite lotion. One great product for really pampering yourself is the Roll-A-Lotion massager and lotion applicator. It massages all over while applying your choice of lotion.



Or treat your feet and hands by applying an intense conditioning cream. Your nails and cuticles will benefit too.



Keep morning stress to a minimum by making things easy on yourself. Choose your outfit and do any ironing or other preparations before going to bed, so you can quickly get dressed in the morning. Lay out matching jewelry and accessories as well, so you aren't frantically searching for that matching earring or stocking without a run.



Keep your makeup and other accessories in a divided organizer so you can quickly grab just what you want. Free up your hands and save some time by investing in a hair dryer stand so you can style your hair quickly and easily. Hair dryer stands such as the one Seen on TV, are easily adjustable so you can use your hands to keep getting ready while your hair dries.



You've heard it before - breakfast is the right way to start the day. Well, it's true. Eating a healthy breakfast isn't just good for your body, it keeps your blood sugar levels even and helps reduce stress. Even if you're having a difficult morning, it will be much easier to handle if you've had a good breakfast.



It's easy to incorporate breakfast into your routine. You can eat cereal, yogurt or even a boiled egg while drying your hair. Or add a few extra minutes into your morning routine to sit down and enjoy a bowl of oatmeal.



Don't let the rush and demands of life steal away the beauty and peace of the morning. By taking just a few extra minutes in the right places, such as with a short massage, and saving a little time in other places, such as putting on makeup while drying your hair, you can make your mornings a lot less stressful and a lot more enjoyable.

Johann Erickson is the owner of Online Discount Mart and TV Products 4 Less. He is also a contributing writer for sites such as Helpful Home Ideas. Please include an active link to our site if you'd like to reprint this article.

Everything You Need to Know About a Secured Loan

John Mussi

If you're not familiar with the term, a secured loan is a loan which requires a security deposit of some kind (also known as collateral) to protect the lender against nonpayment. The secured loan is the preferred type of loan for lenders who deal with people with bad credit, but is also used when purchasing certain types of property (such as an automobile or real estate.) Interest rates tend to be lower with a secured loan than with an unsecured loan (which doesn't require collateral, but charges higher interest rates to cover the additional risk.)

Types of collateral
Just about any property with value can be used as collateral for a secured loan, though some types are more common than others. Jewelry and rare coin collections can be used as collateral for some loans, though they are usually held by the lender to help protect them from theft or loss. Automobiles and real estate are popular forms of collateral, and lenders usually allow you to keep them while you repay the loan- you simply turn over the deed or title and the lender is given a legal claim to the car or house in case you should default on you secured loan (which is a fancy way of saying that you don't pay it back.) Car financing and mortgages are both forms of secured loans, in which the automobile or real estate that you're buying with the loan serves as the collateral for the lender.

How a secured loan works
When you get a secured loan, the lender will either take your collateral or process your collateral so that they have a legal claim to it. You will receive the money for the loan, which is often somewhat less than the value of the collateral- that way if you should default on your secured loan then the lender will still be able to get their money back. When you repay your loan then the lender will either return the property that you submitted as collateral or they will present you with a release- which means that they no longer have any legal claim to the property and you can prove it. Should you default on your loan, however, then after attempting to collect the debt the lender will be free to repossess and sell your collateral in order to get their money back.

Shopping for a secured loan
Before deciding on a secured loan, you should shop around and compare your options. Look for the lender that offers the lowest interest rates and borrow only the minimum amount that you need to get by. After all, the less you borrow with a secured loan then the less you have to pay back- and the lower your chances of losing your collateral.

You may freely reprint this article provided the following author's biography (including the live URL link) remains intact:


John Mussi is the founder of Direct Online Loans who help homeowners find the best available loans via the www.directonlineloans.co.uk website.


Buying Jewelry For Your Business Part 5 Buying Diamond Jewelry
Sam Serio

Whether you presently own a retail or web based business and are looking for an additional profit center or you are thinking of starting a business, jewelry is a "no-brainer" choice for a proven product category. The buying public, (particularly women) never tires of jewelry as the choices in color, materials, finishes and styles are endless and innovations are continual. Every generation reinvents jewelry for itself in much the same way that it reinvents music and fashion. Styles change but the basic facts remain the same. If you are a seasoned professional, please consider the following a refresher course. To the new comer, use this information as a foundation for your ongoing jewelry education.

The Facts About Diamond Jewelry
As with other gems, diamond weight usually is stated in carats. Diamond weight may be described in decimal or fractional parts of a carat. If the weight is given in decimal parts of a carat, the figure should be accurate to the last decimal place. For example, ".30 carat" could represent a diamond that weighs between .295 - .304 carat. Some retailers describe diamond weight in fractions and use the fraction to represent a range of weights. For example, a diamond described as 1/2 carat could weigh between .47 - .54 carat. If diamond weight is stated as fractional parts of a carat, the retailer should disclose two things: that the weight is not exact, and the reasonable range of weight for each fraction or the weight tolerance being used.

Some diamonds may be treated to improve their appearance in similar ways as other gemstones. Since these treatments improve the clarity of the diamond, some jewelers refer to them as clarity enhancement. One type of treatment - fracture filling - conceals cracks in diamonds by filling them with a foreign substance. This filling may not be permanent and jewelers should
tell you if the diamond you're considering has been fracture-filled.

Another treatment - lasering - involves the use of a laser beam to improve the appearance of diamonds that have black inclusions or pots. A laser beam is aimed at the inclusion. Acid is then forced through a tiny tunnel made by the laser beam to remove the inclusion. Lasering is permanent and a laser-drilled stone does not require special care.

While a laser-drilled diamond may appear as beautiful as a comparable untreated stone, it may not be as valuable. That's because an untreated stone of the same quality is rarer and therefore more valuable. Jewelers should tell you whether the diamond you're considering has been laser-drilled.

Imitation diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, resemble diamonds in appearance but are much less costly. Certain laboratory created gemstones, such as lab-created moissanite, also resemble diamonds and may not be adequately detected by the instruments originally used to identify cubic zirconia. Ask your jeweler if he has the current testing equipment to distinguish between diamonds and other lab-created stones.
A diamond's value is based on four criteria: color, cut, clarity, and carat. The clarity and color of a diamond usually are graded. However, scales are not uniform: a clarity grade of "slightly included" may represent a different grade on one grading system versus another, depending on the terms used in the scale. Make sure you know how a particular scale and grade represent the color or clarity of the diamond you're considering. A diamond can be described as "flawless" only if it has no visible surface or internal imperfections when viewed under 10-power magnification by a skilled diamond grader.


For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of "How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off." This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at www.morninglightjewelry.com.

Do You Hear Wedding Bells?

Tanya Blok

So you've been in that perfect relationship for some time now. You've been dropping hints about the future and he is receiving you loud and clear. It's time to do a little "window shopping." After all, you don't want to leave one of the most important decisions in your life entirely up to him, do you? He WILL lose sleep over finding that perfect engagement ring, even though he will not admit it. So why not help him out a little, give him some guidance and direction.

There are so many choices when it comes to shopping for engagement rings and you and he will hear a lot of advice from a lot of "helpful" people. His "Uncle Charlie" will know a guy who knows a guy. Your sister will tell you that you have to get your ring where she got hers. Your co-worker will tell you about this really cool website. And on and on, there will be advice around every corner.

Let's go through some of the available options and identify the pros and cons of each. This should help you both figure out what the best option is for you.

Your Local Jewelry Store:
Definintely a great place to start. A jewelry store will have a small selection of pre-set engagement rings for you to see in person, and try on. If you run into a helpful sales associate that is willing to spend some time with you and explain all of the nuances of buying diamonds, it will be well worth your time.

PROS
Seeing the diamond in person. Nothing beats the feeling of seeing diamonds sparkle on your finger!

Talking to a knowlegable human being and getting answers to questions face to face.

CONS
Limited selection. Most local jewelry stores do not have the financial resources to carry a large inventory of diamonds. However, many stores do work with suppliers who are able to send them goods on memorandum (like consignment) if they have a customer who is looking for a particular diamond.

Price. You will pay more at a jeweler, period. Sure you can try and negotiate and feel like you got a better price, but a jeweler will not sell you that diamond for less than a substantial profit. Most jewelers need to make a "keystone" markup on every item, which is double what they paid for that diamond. This markup covers the high overhead costs of running a store including insurance, rent and sales commissions.

Antique Shops:
If you are looking for a ring that is truly unique, this is the place for you. You'll need to do some leg work and visit many different stores to see what's available, but it could be worth it in the long run.

PROS
Most likely to find a one of a kind ring. If you have the need to be an original, stick to your search and you will find that proverbial "diamond in the rough."

CONS
Unless you get lucky, expect a long search. You may only find a handful, if any rings in the shops you visit.

Most rings will not have any type of certification or appraisal. Unless you know a great deal about diamond grading, it is possible to get taken advatage of very easily.

The Internet
The Holy Grail and the Bottomless Pit of information, all wrapped in one. By far, you will find the largest selection of diamonds and engagement rings here, but that can be quite overwhelming. Start with the basics and work your way through this checklist.

1. Shape - Diamonds are cut into 10 most common shapes, but there are countless other "designer" shapes popping up in the industry on a regular basis. Most of the shapes are self explanatory (round, oval, pear, heart), but do you know what a Marquise or a Radiant looks like? Take a look at the most commonly available diamond shapes and decide what you like best.

2. Size - Bigger is better, right? Not necessarily. Unless your fiance has very deep pockets, you will not be getting a 5 carat boulder to weigh you down. Too many men are convinced that it has to be big. Would you like to have a big ugly rock that is dull and lifeless on your hand, just so you could tell everyone it's 3 carats, or would you rather have a beautiful, sparkling beacon of light catching all of your friends attention. You won't have to wave your hand in front of them to notice, they will come to you!

3. The 4 C's - The most common phrase in the diamond business and the most important when shopping for a diamond online. The 4 C's represent a diamond's cut, color, clarity and carat weight. CUT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT OF A DIAMOND'S FIRE AND BRILLIANCE. So many people buying diamonds focus on color and clarity, that cut is often overlooked. You can spend a fortune buying a flawless clarity and perfect color (white) diamond, yet if it is poorly cut, it will be dull and lifeless.

4. The Mouting Metal - This is basically a matter of personal preference and what looks best on you. Yellow gold is classic and works best for a solitaire engagement ring. Yellow gold is also better for mounting diamonds with a lower color grade (yellowish tint), because the yellow from the diamond blends into the setting. White gold and Platinum give a modern look and work best with three stone rings. Be sure to choose a diamond with a high color grade, otherwise the white moutning will negatively emphasise a yellowish diamond.

5. The Online Engagement Ring Builder - The most fun part of buying a diamond online is being able to build your own ring. Choose a diamond and a setting, then email it to your fiance. Even if he doesn't buy it online, he will know exactly what style to look for when he goes shopping. No surprises, and everyone is happy!

There are hundreds of diamond and jewelry web sites out there, but my advice is to stick with the leaders in the field. On their sites, you can browse thousands of diamonds as well as build your own engagement ring and see how different settings look with different shape diamonds. They both have highly knowlegable and very friendly customer service staff that can answer questions about diamonds and settings, and offer a no risk 100% guarantee and return policy.

You can also browse our site for weekly updates to diamond prices and more in depth diamond education. We also maintain a searchable database of diamonds from leading online jewelers so you can compare similar diamonds from multiple sources.

Good luck and CONGRATULATIONS!

For more information visit: Diamond prices and education

The Deadly Itch!
Arun Pal Singh

Copyright 2005 Arun Pal Singh

It is a story about Manku, a blind man who was lost in a maze of wealth. It is a story about each of us. Read and interpret carefully.

Manku was a poor blind man. He worked very hard to feed his family and himself. After day's toil everyday he could barely manage to survive. He was a talented man but the man he worked for did not pay him well. Manku never complained but always got sad when he received his monthly wages.

He wanted a good house. Good clothes for his children, a lot of jewelry for his wife and all possible comforts of life that money can bring. But everything seemed just a dream. He worked hard everyday on the same wages as the time passed by.

One day he considered going to maze of wealth. He had heard about this earlier too but people were speaking loudly now. He had always laughed at this earlier as he never believed in rumors. But now he had a reason to ponder. Sonkulat, his friend who went there had returned richer now and was all ga ga about this maze.

Manku decided to visit Sonkulat.

It was a maze located in a jungle in southwest and was full of wealth. There was an entrance door which led inside the maze. The maze was dead dark inside. Nothing visible inside. One has to grope inside that dark to find anything.

'It would not make much difference to me, I already do that', Manku thought.

There is only one door inside in that maze full of pitfalls that will lead to wealth house. But careful! You need to avoid pitfalls. Use my tip. Stay along the wall and feel for the door.

Manku did that. He stayed along the wall. But he could not avoid the falls. Sometimes it took days to come out of the pit. He struggled and struggled. A year passed and Manku came back, empty handed...

'You liar! You made a fool of me. There is no door there. It is a wall all around. No wealth there..' Manku yelled at Sonkulat while he listened.

'I will have to go back to job and spend my life in poverty' Manku sighed and went for his old master.

But Manku was wrong. There was a door indeed. It did lead to store house of wealth. Only he could not find it. Only if he knew why did he fail!

Manku had a strange uncontrollable itch that would appear suddenly and last for minutes. He would never know how he missed the door. But every time he was close to the door he would feel like itching. He would leave the wall to satisfy his itch. After his severe itch got controlled he would restart in opposite direction. He would complete the whole circle again to reach the door from the other side and his itch would strike again.

He missed the door many a times. Finally he decided to come back. He stopped pursuing his dreams.

Manku is back to his job now. He works everyday with a conviction that he is destined to be poor. He is no way content but he shows that he is.

Manku will never attempt to be rich again.

Every time you have failed and have an urge to quit, think. You might be about to succeed. Do not let your dreams be prey of that urge.

Beware of that urge. It is worse than the itch Manku had.

People become successful because they do not quit.

Wish you success.



Arun Pal Singh, a successful marketer and writer offers a unique and duplicable business opportunity at http://www.homeforprofits.com. To avail his free Income Course, send an e-mail to subscribe@homeforprofits.com with subject 'subscribe'.

Prom: The night you'll never forget and it didn't even break Mom and Dad

Rose DesRochers

My daughter's grade 8 grad is coming up in June and I was eagerly thinking of ways to keep the cost down. Even grade 8 grad is a big time in a girls life. This is a night for my daughter to remember but it shouldn't cost me and my husband a fortune.

For many parents prom is an expensive time of year and families are struggling financially to give their son or daughter the perfect night that they will remember a life time. Well there is no reason why you can't give them that night but on a budget you can afford. I have put together ten tips to help you save a few dollars.

Attending a prom doesn't have to cost a fortune. Prom night doesn't have to break us. Girls the memories of prom will not be if you spent 20 dollars to get your nails done or arrived in a limo. The memories will be of who you were in school and the special times that you all shared.

1.The Tuxedo: Boys why bother renting that tuxedo when you can purchase a nice suit that you can wear again for under the cost of renting that tuxedo.

2.Hair and makeup: Girls the cost of hair and makeup is expensive. The boys are lucky they don't have to fork out this one. Hair, Makeup you're looking at an additional 80 dollars. For makeup call your local department store and see about getting your make up done on Prom day, also call around to your local salons and see if they have a package deal that includes both hair and makeup. You can also save money by having your mother put up your hair. Look at some of the styles for prom online and make a fun night with mom practicing the styles before the prom. You could also get in touch with Mary K and plan a makeup party early in the afternoon on prom day and the Mary K host will do your makeup free.

3.Limos: They are nice but they are so traditional and cost a lot. Why not gather a group of your friends together and do something off the wall. Arrive at your prom on the city bus or contact your school and rent a school bus for the evening and have all your friends pitch in.

4.The dress: Girls purchasing a new dress will cost you 200 dollars and for what something you won't wear again or will sit in your keep sake box. Why not shop on Ebay or your local used clothing store and get a dress for under the cost and then just pay the additional cost to have it dry cleaned. You may also want to check around with family and see if they have a bridesmaids dress or maybe your cousin still has her prom dress that you can borrow.

5. The flowers: Purchasing flowers from the flower store is going to cost you around 20 dollars. You can go to the craft store purchase the supplies to make your own corsages and boutonni for half the cost. They are so simple and fun to make. Make a fun day of it and invite your g/f over to make them with you.

6.The photos: Why hire a professional photographer when you can have dad take some nice photos with his digital camera and you can delete the ones that you don't like. Then you can save even more money by emailing them to friends and family.

7.Parties: Save on the big prom party. Gather a bunch of your friends together and have a fun post prom party. Some ideas might be a pool party or a bowling party.

8.The Jewelry: Girls, girls why pay the expensive cost of Jewelry when Mom and Gradma might have their own personal jewelry store right in their bedroom. The sentiments of borrowing something from Grandma will be more special than anything new that you purchase from the store for this special day.

9.The dinner: Save money by having a backyard barbeque or a romantic dinner at home with candles and the works and order take out.

10. Nails and Shoes: If your city has a beauty school, you can make a nail appointment and have a student put nails on you for a discounted price . You can exchange shoes with friends or purchase a nice pear of white pumps that you can wear again and again.

I hope that these ten useful tips will help you save money and still have your unforgettable night.


Rose DesRochers, Canada
admin@todays-woman.net
http://www.todays-woman.net
Rose is a published author and web columnist. She is also the founder of Today's Woman a supportive online writing community for men and women over 18.

How to Choose Fine Pearls
Amanda Raab

Pearls are very alluring and hold a quality that both defines elegance and natural beauty. There are more varieties and availability of pearls today than ever before. The "cultured pearl" now rivals with fine diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies.
Today most pearls are cultured, meaning that the mollusk is purposely inserted with an irritant or "nucleus" from which it creates a pearl. A better way to think of the difference between natural pearls and cultured pearls is to think of the natural pearl as a result of the mollusk working alone and the cultured pearls as a product of nature being helped by science. Cultured pearls are not "fake" like many people may think. The culturing process takes from two to three years and is a very delicate process. The pearl farmers have little control on what the outcome of the pearl will look like or if the mollusk will reject the nucleus. Not all pearls are fine quality or even desirable at all. The end result is ultimately a consequence of nature.
Choosing pearls that are of the best quality are determined by luster, nacre thickness and quality (the outer layer), color, surface perfection, shape, and size. The biggest factor of pearl quality is nacre thickness and quality which determines how long the pearl will last. Nacre thickness determines the longevity of the pearl and nacre quality determines how light reflects through the layers of the pearls. High luster and iridescence come from high quality nacre and any pearl with these characteristics has quality, thick nacre. When judging nacre look for uniform iridescence, intensity of luster, cracks and peeling, estimate thickness near the drill hole between the nacre and the shell bead (nacre is lighter). Pearls are very thick with at least .5 mm on all pearls, thick with at least.5mm on most pearls, medium with between .35 and .5 mm on most pearls, and thin with .25 mm or less on most pearls.
Luster is also important and one of the first factors to notice. Luster is an intense brightness that illuminates from within the pearl rather than just being "shiny" like in imitation pearls. The intense brightness results from light being reflected throughout the numerous layers of nacre. Quality pearls will have a sharp contrast between the brightest area where direct light is hitting the pearls and the shaded area creating an illusion of a "ball within the pearl." Check for luster by examining them under a fluorescent lamp and rolling them from side to side to examine uniform luster. Examine pearls over a light gray or white material and never black because it is harder to see the true quality of the pearl.
Pearl color is also important. When choosing pearls note there body color and overtones. The most desirable and more rare white pearls have "rose" colored overtones. Cream colored pearls are more affordable because they are less rare. Also, pearls can have tones rated in intensity. Darker toned pearls are more desirable and expensive compared to lighter toned pearls. Many natural body colors are available in pearls including white, black, gray, blue, gold, pink, and green. Distinctive colored pearls are rarer and harder to find. Have a qualified gemologist check the pearls to make sure they have not been dyed, especially for costlier pearls like the black or golden varieties.
Examine pearls' surface for blemishes. Although is best to check for most pearl characteristics on a light background, it is best to check for blemishes on a dark background. Check in both intense and diffused light. No pearls are perfect and small blemishes can be sacrificed for more important quality like nacre and luster. Pearls with higher luster conceal blemishes better.
When choosing pearls also consider shape. There are three pearl shapes including symmetrical, spherical, and baroque. The spherical is the rarest and most desirable. Symmetrical pearls include teardrop or pear-shaped pearls and desirable but usually less expensive than spherical pearls. Baroque pearls are irregularly shaped and often the least expensive.
Size should also be taken into consideration. Larger cultured pearls are rarer and more expensive. Akoya pearls over 7 � millimeters are much more costly and prices dramatically rise with each � millimeter over 8 millimeters. South Sea and Tahitian pearls also have high increase in price when size is over 15 millimeters.
One more factor to consider in pearls is the precision in matching the pearl quality in a string of pearls. It is important to take all of the above factors in consideration when matching the pearls. Graduated pearls also take careful matching. Pearl matching affects the value of the jewelry because when pearls are not matched properly it takes away from the appearance of the jewelry. Also, make sure the pearls are all drilled in the center so they lay properly. Off-center drilled pearls will not lay correctly and reduces the value of the piece.
It is always important to get a independent laboratory report when in doubt of pearl enhancements that may have been employed to make the pearls appear more valuable. Make sure the person appraising the pearls is a Graduate Gemologist (GG) which is the Gemological Institute of America's (GIA)highest award.
Other things to consider when purchasing pearls include finding out what the merchant's return policy is. Make sure they have at least a 30-day full refund policy.
Pure Pearls at www.purepearls.com is an excellent place to find fine quality pearl jewelry including Akoya pearls, Tahitian pearls, and Freshwater pearls. Pure Pearls has all of its pearl pieces appraised by a Graduate Gemologist and offers a 45-day guaranteed satisfaction policy.

President Of Pure Pearls
http://www.purepearls.com
Classic. Timeless. Luxury

Gas Prices Too High? Save on Everything Else

Gary Gray

As you know, gas prices are way up right now, and could hit all-time highs this summer. Since gas is a necessary commodity, the high prices may give us a good reason to complain. But instead of slamming your fist on the steering wheel the next time you
fill up, try saving money in other ways to make up the difference.

Now, I'm not talking about clipping newspaper coupons for your next visit to the grocery store (though that might be a good idea.) I'm talking about deals and discounts that are easy to find and easy to use--no cutting required.

Coupon sites on the World Wide Web provide a very valuable and FREE resource that can save consumers a lot of money. A lot of people don't think about looking at coupon sites before they shop for something online, but if they do, they'll find special coupons, discounts, or promotions. And we're not talking 5% off at Harry's House of Hairpieces. We're talking about great discounts from retailers like Target, PetsMart, Buy.com, Overstock.com, Home Depot, and many more.

Before you go shopping for a gift or something essential for yourself, I'd urge everyone to visit online coupon sites and see what you've been missing. Chances are, you'll find something that will save you a good amount of money on that purchase.

So what kind of deals can you get? These sites offer discounts, coupons, and promotions from retailers in any category, such as pet supplies, jewelry, apparel, toys, books and magazines, flowers and gifts, home and garden, sports and recreation, shoes, luggage, office supplies, and more. Many of them also feature a search function where users can look for deals on specific items or from specific retailers.

A lot of coupon-site promotions include free shipping, big "dollars-off" discounts on purchases from certain retailers or on certain items, and more. Many of the merchants featured on coupon sites provide "affiliate only" links to discounts, meaning shoppers would be unable to find those deals elsewhere. Some sites even offer a mailing list users can join to be notified of great deals when they come up.

These sites are usually updated frequently, sometimes even hourly, meaning you can be sure to get that one day only or weekend special. So before you go to make your next purchase on anything, remember that coupons sites can ensure you have the best deal you can possibly get.


Author Gary Gray is co-founder of CouponChief.com which currently offers over 1400 discounts and deals from over 800 well-known, reputable retailers. This discount shopping site is updated with new coupons and deals daily, many of them not available anywhere else. Don't get frustrated by high prices! Save at http://www.CouponChief.com

Gas Prices and the Impact of Inflation
Jonathan Citrin

Year Item Price Rate of Inflation
03/80 Gasoline (per gallon) 1.252
03/05 Gasoline (per gallon) 2.065 2.02%

03/80 Bread, white, per lb 0.502
03/05 Bread, white, per lb 1.002 2.80%

03/80 Consumer Price Index 80.10
03/05 Consumer Price Index 193.30 3.59%

Source: U.S. Department of Labor - Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov)

What is Inflation?
Inflation is an indication of the rising cost of goods and services in the economy. For example, a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline was 1.252 in March of 1980. Comparatively, that same gallon was priced at 2.065 in March of 2005. Therefore, over the last 25 years, the cost of a gallon of gas has increased at an average annual rate of inflation of 2.02%. As another example, during the same 25 year period, the price of white bread increased at an annual rate of 2.80%.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is widely accepted as the measurement of general inflation in the United States. The CPI is calculated monthly by the U.S. Department of Labor - Bureau of Labor Statistics. It is an index based on the cost of items in more than 200 categories. They include: breakfast cereal, milk, wine, bedroom furniture, men's shirts and sweaters, jewelry, physicians' services, televisions, sports equipment, college tuition, postage, and haircuts.

Simply stated, the CPI tells us the average change over time in the cost of goods and services. From March 1980 to March 2005, the inflation of general goods and services averaged 3.59% annually.

How is Inflation Relevant?
Inflation has an impact on our plans for the future. When saving for retirement, college, a house, or simply budgeting for the next 12 months, the cost of goods and services have a direct impact on your goals. Due to inflation, your goals may cost more in the future than today. A meal that costs $10 today may cost $10.36 in one year. A car that costs $10,000 today may cost $10,359 in one year, and almost $12,000 in only 5 years. So, when planning for the future, you must consider inflation and the effect it may have on your goals.

Ways to Combat Inflation
One way to overcome prices that may rise due to inflation is to make your money grow at a rate higher than inflation. For example, if inflation is 3.59% annually, you will need to make your money grow at 3.60% or higher. Otherwise, though you may be saving and investing toward your goals, you may never actually achieve them.

Many investments provide a vehicle for "outpacing" inflation. Generally, stocks and bonds have historically earned an annual rate above inflation. Through careful planning and investing, it is possible to overcome inflation and its impact on prices.

In summary, a plan that does not account for inflation is in danger of failing. Therefore, it is important to remember inflation and invest in assets that will enable you to achieve your goals despite the effects inflation may have on the cost of goods and services.


About The Author: Jonathan Citrin provides financial goal planning services. Go to http://articles.citringroup.com for hundreds of educational articles about Personal Finance, Retirement Planning,Investment Planning, and College Savings.

When Your Customers Steal

Chris Malta

"When Your Customers Steal"
You know it's a slow news day when the news programs on TV turn their attention to their favorite new consumer warning
"Beware of online businesses!" they cry. "YOU could be SCAMMED on the Internet!"
Every time I see one of these news stories, I groan, and wonder how many sales my sites just lost. Then there are the ads for that new credit card that "protects" consumers against online fraud. They make Internet businesses people look like a bunch of thugs who meet in a sewer all day long to torture innocent consumers.
There a lot more honest, hardworking Netrepreneurs out there than scam artists. That doesn't make for a good news story, though, so we all take the lumps for the transgressions of a sordid few.
You know what I've never seen, though? I've never seen a headline story about the CUSTOMERS who scam the Netrepreneurs. I've seen stories about thieves robbing convenience stores. I've seen exposes featuring the practices favored by professional shoplifters. What about the "consumers" who target online businesses when they steal?
My partners and I market both informational products and brand name merchandise on the Internet. And we've been taken on both sides of the fence.
We publish a B2B (business to business) product called The Drop Ship Source Directory.
Recently, I received an email from someone who bought our Directory on EBay, and had questions about how they were to receive the information updates we send our customers every month. There was only one problem.
We don't SELL our Directory on EBay.
I was forced to write back to that person and tell him that he had been scammed. It was obvious to me that someone had purchased our product from us, and was reselling it to others illegally. How this scam artist expected to get away with reselling the product, I'll never know. At that time, it was a download that contained nearly a thousand pages. (Now, it's a much larger online database). There is a copyright notice on EVERY SINGLE PAGE. It's like me buying Stephen King's latest book on Amazon, typing it up into electronic form, and then reselling it on EBay. I'd have to be nuts to try something like that!
Last year, a site I was working with received an order for some moderately expensive jewelry. Nothing out of the ordinary. The credit card processed just fine, with the AVS (Automatic Verification System) coming back "green". This means that the online processing system had checked the card's information against the on-file address and zip code of its owner, and everything was OK. The Ship-to address was different from the card owner's Bill-to address, but that's nothing out of the ordinary either. LOTS of people buy jewelry and have it sent as a gift to another address.
A while later, we received a "chargeback" letter from the customer's bank. A chargeback means that the card owner has disputed the charge, and we have to show cause why we should not refund the money. At about the same time, we got a phone call from a police department in West Virginia, asking about that same order.
Turns out that a woman in West Virginia had inadvertently left her credit card on a checkout counter at a large department store. A clerk at that store picked up the card, and used it to make several online purchases. The clerk was having the purchases delivered to a vacant house RIGHT NEXT DOOR to his own. This guy must have left his brain cell in the 'fridge that day.
The above are both good examples of how WE, as Netrepreneurs, get "scammed". Maybe I've been luckier than most, but it has not happened to me all that many times.
We caught the guy who was reselling our Directory on EBay. What we did was this: The person who purchased the bootleg Directory was naturally very upset. I told him that if I were able to catch this person and confirm what had happened, I would see to it that his purchase was made good, and he would receive full access to our REAL Directory. He immediately sent me all the information he had on the auctioneer. Sure enough, the auctioneer was a customer of ours. I notified EBay's fraud department (SafeHarbor@EBay.com). I then contacted the perpetrator and elaborated on the penalties of copyright infringement. He pulled his auction listings immediately. We came to an agreement for restitution that I was satisfied with. I suggested to him that he refund the other people to whom he had already sold bootlegs, before THEY came after him.
The police in West Virginia caught the store clerk. They set up surveillance at the vacant house next door, and waited for more of his online purchases to arrive. After the case was prosecuted, we got the jewelry back. All we lost was a few dollars in shipping charges.
If you're in business, you're a potential target. Protect yourself as best you can. Use an AVS system when you accept credit cards. Confirm large-dollar purchases before processing them. When people charge thousands of dollars to buy large-ticket items from my sites, I always contact that customer to verify the purchase. I caught two stolen cards that way, BEFORE I got burned. Watch for multiple purchases of the same item by the same person. They'll end up being re-sold out of the trunk of a car, and you'll be stuck paying the REAL card owner back. Be aware of protection programs like EBay's Safe Harbor. And if you think you're being ripped off, don't just wait around to hear from someone about it. Contact the bank that issued the card, and the police in the area you think the perpetrator purchased from. They take credit card fraud very seriously.
Who knows? Maybe someday, someone will write a news story about it.
Chris Malta
WorldWide Brands, Inc.
For more information, visit http://www.YouCanDropship.com


Chris Malta is a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer. He has worked with computer Systems for 18 years. He's been involved in eCommerce systems, networking and site design for more than 6 years. He's taught college-level computer courses in Western NY. He developed The Drop Ship Source Directory, and he and his partners at Worldwide Brands, Inc., publish the Directory and run eCommerce sites of their own using Drop Shipping as their only business method.


Buying Gold Jewelry Without Being Ripped-Off
Sam Serio

Buying gold jewelry can be fun, exciting and confusing. Whether you're considering a gift of gold jewelry for someone special or as a treat for yourself, take some time to learn the terms used in the industry. Here's some information to help you get the best quality gold jewelry for your money, whether you're shopping in a traditional brick and mortar store or online.

Gold
The word gold, used by itself, means all gold or 24 karat (24K) gold. Because 24K gold is soft, it's usually mixed with other metals to increase its hardness and durability. If a piece of jewelry
is not 24 karat gold, the karat quality should accompany any claim that the item is gold.

The karat quality marking tells you what proportion of gold is mixed with the other metals. Fourteen karat (14K) jewelry contains 14 parts of gold, mixed in throughout with 10 parts of base metal. The higher the karat rating, the higher the proportion of gold in the piece of jewelry.

Most jewelry is marked with its karat quality, although marking is not required by law. Near the karat quality mark, you should see the name of the U.S. registered trademark of the company that will stand behind the mark. The trademark may be in the form of a name, symbol or initials. If you don't see a trademark accompanying a quality mark on a piece of jewelry, look for another piece.

Solid gold refers to an item made of any karat gold, if the inside of the item is not hollow. The proportion of gold in the piece of jewelry still is determined by the karat mark.

Jewelry can be plated with gold in a variety of ways. Gold plate refers to items that are either mechanically plated, electroplated, or plated by any other means with gold to a base metal. Eventually, gold plating wears away, but how soon will depend on how often the item is worn and how thick the plating is.

Gold-filled, gold overlay and rolled gold plate are terms used to describe jewelry that has a layer of at least 10 karat gold mechanically bonded to a base metal. If the jewelry is marked with one of these terms, the term or abbreviation should follow the karat quality of the gold used (for example, 14K Gold Overlay or 12K RGP). If the layer of karat gold is less than 1/20th of the total weight of the item, any marking must state the actual percentage of karat gold, such as 1/40 14K Gold Overlay.

Gold electroplate describes jewelry that has a layer (at least .175 microns thick) of a minimum of 10 karat gold deposited on a base metal by an electrolytic process. The terms gold flashed or gold washed describe products that have an extremely thin electroplating of gold (less than .175 microns thick). This will wear away more quickly than gold plate, gold-filled or gold electroplate.



The Authors of the above Article, Sam and Tami Serio have been passionately involved with Jewelry and Gemstones for over fifteen-years. You are cordially invited to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com for a wealth of information about the fascinating world of Jewelry and Gemstones. Together they also shelter 20 abandoned and abused dogs & cats. A portion of their profits goes to the care and feeding of the animals.

Six Ways of Making Money on the Internet Without Quitting Your Day Job

Martin Avis

Not long ago, books, tapes and programs were all the
rage telling how easy it was to make money in mail
order. The ads are still running, and a few people are
still reaping the rewards. Remember the guy making
money from his kitchen table, wearing only his shorts?

Now the playing field has changed. Now it is the
Internet that offers the lazy way to riches.

Thousands of folks bought the books, and failed to get
rich. The Internet will also fail to deliver the
expected riches to millions of hopefuls.

But if you learn the closely-held secrets of online
success, YOU can be one of the few who profit.

Well, that is what they would have you believe. Truth
is, the secrets are easy to discover. So easy that I
will tell you some of them right now. And over the next
few issues, I will uncover all that you need to know to
really make the Internet work for you.

The Internet is a 24/7, 365 day shop, just bursting
with customers. Actually, it is more like a giant Arts
& Crafts fair. You've got to get the customer's
attention, while thousands of other stalls are doing
the same. Once you have attracted them, they look
at your stall. If they like what they see, you get the
chance to go into sales mode. At any time their
attention can waver and you lose the customer.

**************
If you do catch them, and they like what they buy, and
you were polite, helpful and courteous, then next time
the fair is held, they will head straight for you.
**************

The Internet is exactly like that.

The good news is that making money from the Internet
doesn't have to be a full time occupation. You can run
a business in a few hours a day without risking your
day job. Most of the hard work can be automated, and
there are hundreds of web sites offering free or very
inexpensive software solutions for problems you don't
even know you have got.

So why is it made to sound so difficult? There is a lot
of technical jargon out there, and it gets in the way
of developing a clear understanding of what you need to
do. Once you have progressed along the learning curve,
everything gets a lot simpler, but in the initial
stages, you just have to grit your teeth and read
everything you can lay your hands on. Go to
www.google.com and type '"internet marketing" ebook'
without the single quotes.

You will be presented with dozens, if not hundreds of
free or 'for sale' ebooks. Buy some. Get the free ones
and read, read, read.

There is no substitute for knowledge.

Here is a list of 6 questions that will lead you to
decide how you can start making money with your own web
site. It is not exhaustive: new ideas are being
developed all the time, but it covers the bases:

> Do you want to sell hard products or digital
products?

> Do you want to sell your own products, or someone
else's?

> Do you want to concentrate on selling one product
hard, or spread over a wide range of products?

> Do you want to accept payments online, or let
other people deal with the money?

> Do you want to capture email addresses so that you
can sell to them later?

> Do you want to run an affiliate program?

Let's look at these one at a time.

>>> Hard products, or digital products?

You can probably sell anything on the Internet.
However, if you are looking to run a business in your
spare time, digital information products are the
easiest to handle. Why? Simply because there is no
inventory to worry about, it is all in computer files
on your hard disk. Also, the products are delivered
directly to your customer, instantly.

>>> Do you want to sell your own products, or someone
else's?

Your own products can be the most profitable. If you
write an e-book and sell it for $25, who gets the $25?
You do. All of it. Every last cent apart from a small
commission to the credit card company. 'But I can't
write an e-book,' you say. Sure it can be difficult if
you have not written anything before, and you may think
you have nothing to say that people would pay good
money for. You are wrong! You do have a book inside
you. Almost everybody does.

Ken Evoy's outstanding book, written with Monique
Harris, *Make Your Knowledge Sell!*, will open your
eyes and get you writing anything from a four-page
report to a full sized book.

http://www.myks.sitesell.com/products43.html

>>> Do you want to concentrate on selling one product
hard, or spread over a wide range of products?

This is a very personal choice, and depends somewhat on
the target audience you will be aiming for and the
expected profit-per-sale. If you have a product that is
fairly high ticket, aimed at a niche audience, then you
are probably best off building a web site devoted
entirely to promoting that product.

Why waste your time diluting your efforts?

If, however, your audience is broad, and/or your profit
margin is small, then by all means try to cross-sell
them other products.

The choice has to be your own, but a lot of money is
being made at the moment from single product sites.

>>> Do you want to accept payments online, or let other
people deal with the money?

If you are starting out in business and have no
trading history, it will be difficult for you to
persuade your bank to give you a merchant account and
the so accept credit cards online.

There are ways around this, but they will cost you a
bigger percentage of your sale.

Don't even think about asking customers to send you a
check. This is the Internet: people just won't do it.

One good solution is ClickBank. If you plan to sell
digitally deliverable products only, ClickBank may be
the answer. Their setup charge and commissions are low,
and there are no monthly fees. Check them out at:

http://zzz.clickbank.net/r/?avisc

>>> Do you want to capture email addresses so that you
can sell to them later?

An increasing acceptable business plan is based upon
the idea of building a customer list and then selling
to them at a later date. To make this work, your web
site must be capable of generating a high traffic, and
must have content that is of real value to its readers.

Once you have established that, invite visitors to opt
in to your mailing list. This act gives you permission
to email them without risk of spamming (sending out
unsolicited email, which can get you into serious
trouble with your ISP). Then you set about building a
relationship with them through e-zines, newsletters,
special offers, tips, recommendations, site update
announcements and so on.

It can take up to seven communications before you make
a sale, so perseverance is required.

**************

This method is longer term, but virtually all the
Internet gurus agree that it is the most effective way
of making money online.

**************

>>> Do you want to run an affiliate program?

Affiliate programs are special relationships that you
create with companies that sell online. You advertise
their products and direct your visitors to their site.
They do all the work of selling, taking the money and
delivering the product and you sit back and reap the
commission payments.

With an affiliate program you can create a web site
offering one, two, or a million products. Create themed
sites (books, music, jewelry, art, you name it, there
will be an affiliate program for it). You can even
create entire department stores online.

And every time a customer buys a product, you will be
credited with anything from 2% to 60% commission. Just
wait for those checks to come rolling in!

Sounds easy? It isn't. Like any marketing method on the
Internet, it only works if you put in the effort. You
can design the best looking, hardest selling storefront
on the web and if nobody visits it, that is how many
sales you get. Zero.

Have no illusions, to make money on the Internet you
have to put in the work. Maybe not 12 hours a day,
seven days a week, but in the early days you will need
to devote some time to setting things up.

Like anything in life, the dream is alluring. But this
dream can, with hard work and perseverance, become a
reality. Then maybe you can think again about that day
job!

**************
"To fulfill a dream, to be allowed to sweat over lonely
labor, to be given a chance to create, is the meat and
potatoes of life. The money is the gravy."
>>> Bette Davis (1908-1989), actress.
**************

Martin Avis publishes a free weekly newsletter:
BizE-Zine - your unfair advantage in Internet marketing,
business and personal success.
To subscribe, and collect 4 great free gifts, please visit
http://www.BizE-zine.com

Look Good & Have Fun This Summer With The Perfect
Sher Matsen

It's that time of year when we pack up our bags and head to the beach for the day to enjoy those warm sunrays and the refreshing sound of the lapping water.

So what constitutes a good beach wardrobe. Well there are certain essentials that none of us forget. On goes the swimsuit and bathing suit cover, flip flops on our feet. Beach bag has been packed with the essentials - sunglasses, floppy hat, towel and a good book. Great - got the basics covered but what about the rest.

So if we are so prepared for a day at the beach, why is it by the time we get home we look pretty worn. Here are some helpful tips to make your day at the beach fun and keep you looking fashion fresh all day and all the way home.

First before you leave home, if you've got long hair pull it into a high pony tail or fun knot. Use some funky hair accessories that will stay in place when you're swimming. Try a fun colored bobble or some firm fastening clips in bright summer colors. If you pull your hair up your neck will stay cool and you'll look fresh all day with your neat hairdo.

Second slather yourself in sunscreen before leaving the house, then toss the sunscreen in your bag so you can reapply after a swim or every few hours. A sunburn is not only unhealthy and painful, it's unattractive, so don't let yourself turn into the lobster of the day. Your sunscreen should be a SPF of 15. It doesn't hurt to use a strong SPF on your face or your entire body if you burn easily.

Your beach bag should be large enough to hold your supplies for the day. Why not get something fun and fashionable to keep you looking fashion fresh. Make sure you've got all the daily essentials in your bag - sunglasses, sunscreen, a good book, a floppy hat, some lip gloss, and any other makeup touch ups you'll want. If you plan to wear eye makeup make sure it's waterproof. Stay away from heavy foundations. If you must apply something use a bronzer moisturizer. It's also a good idea to bring lip balm with an SPF15 to protect your lips. It never hurts to put some moisturizer in the bag. Include a snack and plenty of fluids. It's important not to get dehydrated.

Okay great we've got the basics covered now what about the wardrobe basics? If you're planning to wear a swimsuit it's usually easiest to put it on at home, that way you're not chasing down change rooms. So great - first on goes the swimsuit. Now what to wear for a cover? Well you've got plenty of choices. A tank top and shorts, tank and skort, or a nice light cotton dress all work well over top. Choose something that's easy to put on and take off, and choose fabrics that breathe to keep you cool. I also suggest including a long sleeved cotton blouse just incase you start to burn you can protect your shoulders and arms.

If you're planning on heading out later in the day without returning home you might want to toss a pair of jeans or long skirt into your bag. If your outing is going to extend into the evening you'll want to include a sweater for the cooler evening air. If you're worried about your evening wear getting sandy or wet at the beach, then place them in a separate bag and leave them in the trunk of your car. That way you are guaranteed they'll remain fresh.

My favorite beach look is this. And what's perfect is it keeps me looking fashion fresh throughout the day and takes me right into the evening. First I like a swimsuit that's got lots of support and is bright and cheerful. I throw a fitted tank on top and throw on a loose flouncy long skirt. The long skirt serves me through the evening and also works great to cover up if I'm starting to burn. I choose a lightweight material in a darker color with a pattern that accents the colors in my swimsuit. Flip flops are my footwear. Depending on where I'm heading after the beach I choose either a basic pair or one of my funky pair with rhinestones or crystals. Easy to walk in, feet breath, and terrific for an evening out. I keep a fitted light weight sweater in my car, and take a long sleeved cotton blouse down to the beach. I usually choose a long sleeved and long length blouse because it's versatile. I can knot it to create a short blouse, wear it long as a beach cover, and put it on if I start to burn on my upper body. I usually choose white or a soft pastel depending on my other colors. I like white because it's cool to wear and refreshing to look at. Every year I buy a fun new beach tote that's big enough for the beach but not too big as to take it with me for an evening out. I like a fun bag that's full of character.

Since I always feel naked without my jewelry I wear fashion jewelry to the beach. That way should I loose something I won't be out a lot of money and I won't feel so bad. I like to keep the earrings simple and elegant. I may or may not wear a necklace. Often I'll toss a funky wood necklace in the bag to add to the evening outfit. I like to wear a couple of fashion rings just to add the finishing touches. Now if you're fussy about tan lines you'll probably want to forgo the rings. I toss my watch in the bottom of my bag so I can put it on later.

That's it - simple is the key. Keep your beach wardrobe choices simple but fashionable. Think ahead so you can go from beach to an evening out without hassle. Remember to always make
your fashion statement!

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved

© Copyright Sher Matsen, All Rights Reserved.

About the author:
Sher has been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at Estate Jewelry International.

Threader Earrings -- a Fashion Jewelry Success Story

Sam Serio

New jewelry fashions need several factors going for them if they are to succeed. These include aesthetics, price, timing, and maybe even just sheer, plain luck. Threader earrings seem to have all these qualities in abundance. Also known as earthreads or ear strings, threader earrings have a very large following, especially among the young set, who think that they are and cool.

Threader earrings are exactly what they sound like: a length of a thin chain that the wearer threads through one or more ear piercings. The chain is attached to a small metal bar - called a lead -- on one end, and the other end is adorned with decorative materials such as gems, beads, or crystals. The wearer first inserts the lead, slides the chain through the piercing and then just lets the earring dangle. Threader earrings are especially attractive in individuals with two or more earlobe piercings because they can mix and match designs, and even knot or weave the chains of the threader earrings together to create a funky effect.

The chains used are very thin, delicate and light. They usually measure from three to five inches and are often made from metals such as gold vermeil and sterling silver. Influenced by the decorative ornaments used, the themes of threader earrings' designs range from the playful to the sophisticated. Pearl embellishments impart a sense of elegance, while multicolored vintage crystals or flashy glass beads make threader earrings perfect for casual wear.

Young celebrities, or those counting themselves as members of the X and Y generations, are ardent wearers of this type of ear fashion. The young and famous seen at highly publicized events wearing threader earrings include actresses Hilary Duff, Alicia Silverstone and Lindsey Lohan, as well as musicians such as Alicia Keys, JoJo and Kelly Clarkson.

Ear strings are an example of successful, contemporary fashion and they have the makings of something that is here to stay. They are functional, easy to wear and easily customizable; with just a little practice, they are easy to make. Threader earrings join other jewelry items that are instrumental in bringing out a person's sense of fashion and style.


For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of "How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off." This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at www.morninglightjewelry.com.

Make Money from Home .... Resell Mexican Products for Great Profits .... Buy low & sell SKY HIGH
ESther Gomez

Would You Like to Resell Mexican Products for Great Profits ?
Would You like to feel what's it like to have excellent profit margins as a retail merchant or wholesale distributor ?

Mexican products have become big sellers in every country of the world. The total value of Mexican products that are imported into the US alone exceeds the billion dollar mark by far. Thanks to their low cost, quality and uniqueness, most Mexican products can be resold for high profits. It's not uncommon for American and European traders dealing in Mexican art, paintings, silver or exotic leather to harvest handsome profit margins that in many cases exceed a 100% markup when they buy from the right suppliers.

Business Fact #1: There is no such thing as Free Lunch .-

Thanks to the Internet it might seem that finding low cost suppliers of profitable and fast moving Mexican products is an easy task, but it really isn't. The vast majority of the "suppliers" you find on the web are American companies or individuals that are basically reselling Mexican products at high margins. The truth is that with them as your sources you won't even get close to having the best possible wholesale prices.

To make fat JUICY profits in the import / export business you definitely MUST get in touch with the real - hard - to - find - low - cost - sources. There is simply no other way to make it BIG in this business. You NEED the Low cost SOURCES. Period. The cheaper you buy, the more competitive and profitable you get.

The problem is that discovering REAL low cost sources can be a difficult, time consuming and expensive mission. Some information providers on the web are charging $30 per manufacturer profile, while others can charge you more than $1000 per business directory, or even a subscription fee to access their trade leads database. But who do you think is listed on their databases? The Mexican manufacturers? or just another reseller eager to sell at a nice profit? Exactly!. Those trade leads databases are mainly filled with lists and lists of intermediaries and marketers that want to make money reselling the product for a heavy profit.


At Mexico-Store.com You can access these 3 valuable and updated sources of low cost suppliers:

1- The Mexican Rustic Handcrafts Manufacturers Directory

2- The Mexican Taxco Silver Jewelry Manufacturers Directory, and

3- The Mexican Leather Products Manufacturers Directory


These 3 trade directories are an excellent source for low cost products if you plan to resell silver jewelry, art, hand crafts or first class leather products on Ebay or start a wholesale or retail operation on the web and any where else.



It's all about the profits. YOUR Profits! at Mexico-Store.com .-

Don't get us wrong. We don't have any problem with being a reseller of Mexican products. It's totally legal and very PROFITABLE. But being a reseller your self, wouldn't it be better if you could cut the extra middleman and offer a better price to your customers ?

Access the updated Mexico Trade Manufacturers Directories today and start BARGAINING directly with AUTHENTIC manufacturers of thousands of Mexican products that sell incredibly well in the USA and other countries.

Our trade directories contain low cost Mexican manufacturers of beautiful rustic wrought iron, Taxco silver bracelets, earrings and more elegant jewelry, leather briefcases, folk art, leather clothing, blown crystal, luxurious leather furniture, Talavera pottery, textile and gift items, pewter d�cor, wood hand crafts, leather shoes and exotic boots, crocodile leather, swine, lamb and ostrich, oil paintings all made by skilled craftsmen and RELIABLE suppliers at incredible cheap prices.



Avoid those expensive resellers and get in touch with the real Mexican manufacturers today ! .-


We provide you with all the necessary contact information including email in most cases.

Some of these silver jewelry, handcrafts and leather products manufacturers do have a website. But that doesn't mean you can easily find them on the search engines. As we all know, its very hard to make it to the top of the search engine rankings and it can take more than 6 months to even get a website listed with them. That and the fact that most Mexican artisans are not as computer savvy as "we all think" are the main reason why you won't find that many websites at all of Mexican manufacturers listed on Google or Yahoo. In many cases their websites are not even optimized for the search engines to list them.


Don't expect to get the best possible prices from those Mexican products "providers" that you can find on the web for free .-


Most of the guys and companies that are ranking at the top of the search engine results are basically American companies that are reselling Mexican products. So don't expect to get the best possible prices from them. Don't kid your self. Marketers and other middlemen exist to make a profit. Everybody knows that. It's impossible for an intermediary to sell you at a manufacturer's low price. It's against their business model.


The only way you are going to make BIG cash is by dealing direct with Mexican sources.
Get our updated Mexico trade directories and start getting incredible low prices per silver gram or per handcrafted product that you can easily resell twice as much or translate into GREATER profit margins for your self.



Low cost Mexican products that sell incredibly well world wide at
Mexico-Store.com .-

With us You get fast access to this wealth of information, so that you can get in contact with the right suppliers as quick and convenient for you as possible.
Take a look at the kind of products you can start profiting from:

1- With our Mexican Silver Manufacturers Directory you will get great deals on silver rings for men and women in all sizes, earrings, necklaces, bangles, charms, chains and bracelets at super low prices per gram !

2- With the updated Mexican hand crafts and rustic furniture manufacturers directory you can get access to thousands of handcrafts that sell incredibly well in the USA and other countries.

Our directory contains Mexican manufacturers of beautiful rustic wrought iron, folk art, blown crystal, talavera pottery, textile and gift items, pewter d�cor, wood hand crafts and oil paintings all made by skilled craftsmen at the lowest prices.

3- With the updated Mexican Leather products manufacturers directory you can access ultra low cost suppliers of exotic, luxurious and profitable leather products that sell like crazy at expensive prices in many parts of the world.

We are talking about leather clothing, exotic boots and leather foot ware for men, woman and children, made of crocodile leather, ostrich, goat, swine, bovine and lamb, handbags, purses, elegant briefcases, soccer balls, wallets, leather cigar cases, laptop cases, sport and casual cloths among many more great products.



P.S: Bigger profits just around the corner.

If you already sell silver jewelry, leather or Mexican handcrafts, imagine the savings and the immediate extra profits that you can generate by contacting cheaper reliable suppliers.

Take this opportunity and Visit us TODAY! at Mexico-Store.com

Helping you buy direct from Mexico at real cheap prices!

http://www.mexico-store.com


Mexico-Store.com helps importers from every country in the world get access to low cost Mexican products with high resale value.