Wood Pellet Stoves - The Future Is Heating Up

Wood Pellet Stoves - The Future Is Heating Up

 by: Richard Banks

If you are tired of hauling and splitting loads of cordwood, storing it and then carrying it again into the home, but still desire the ambience and radiance of a wood burning stove, then it may be time to check out the benefits of a wood pellet stove. Although on a direct cost comparison basis, the pellet fuel works out more expensive, it does come ready to use, and the wood pellet stove takes considerably less effort to operate and clean.

Using pellets of compressed sawdust, that provide obvious benefits for the home and environment, woodburning pellet stoves come in a wide variety of styles,both traditional and modern, as well as size, finish and heating output. More clean burning than traditional stoves, some wood pellet stoves are equipped with fans and thermostats for distributing the heat output more evenly within the room. As a rule of thumb most wood pellet stoves store about three days fuel, and require on average cleaning once a month; a simple job of just emptying an ashtray. Whilst freestanding wood pellet stoves offer greater design positioning flexibility, fireplace insert models are available as well as wood pellet furnaces that can be installed in basements or outhouses to heat the whole house. Depending on the manufacturer such as St.Croix stoves or Lancaster pellet stoves, these appliances can provide a heat output of anywhere between 10000 and 50000 BTU per hour.

As noted earlier, wood pellet stoves come in a wide variety of styles, sizes and finishes, but the first important decision when making a choice is the basic configuration of the stove. Freestanding pellet stoves offer the greatest flexibility in installation choice. Supported by a pedestal or on legs, freestanding pellet stoves are designed to be installed in almost any living area of the home, but they must be installed on a non-combustible floor protector. An added advantage is that wood pellet stoves can be installed much nearer to combustible surfaces than is required by more traditional heating stoves.

Wood pellet stoves that are designed to be fireplace inserts can be readily installed into existing fireplaces and decorative panels are available to cover the space between the fireplace insert and the fireplace opening. Some wood pellet fireplace inserts are approved only for use in masonry fireplaces, whilst others can also be installed in approved factory built metal fireplaces. Built-in wood pellet stoves are an economical choice that offers homes without an existing fireplace, the look of an insert in a fireplace setting. Non-combustible materials such as brick can be applied to the area around the front of the wood pellet stove to give the appearance of a fireplace. Once again a non-combustible floor protector is required, sometimes with additional spacers to provide an air space under the unit. Pellet furnaces are larger appliances designed to heat an entire house through ductwork. They are usually installed in a basement or outhouse and like all wood pellet stoves require efficient venting to the outside through an approved vent or flue.

As with all types of heating stoves, it is important when installing wood pellet stoves to ensure that they have an efficient means of expelling the waste gases and smoke, usually a chimney or compatible flue. It is advisable to seek advice from a certified dealer/installer who will advise and if required supply and install a suitable venting system. Indeed most suppliers of wood pellet stoves offer a complete installation service.

About The Author Richard Banks is a contractor with many years experience in home remodelling and improvements. For more information on fireplaces visit Fireplace Capital. fireplacecapital.co

Grocery Shopping The Healthy Menu Mailer Way

Grocery Shopping The Healthy Menu Mailer Way

 by: Susanne Myers

I have to admit, grocery shopping isn’t exactly one of my favorite things to do. In case you can’t “hear” the sarcasm in my voice, let me tell you that I’d rather be doing just about anything other than grocery shopping. I tried delegating it to my husband, but we usually end up eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and potato chips when I do that.

Since I can’t avoid grocery shopping, I found a few things that make it a more pleasant and most importantly a faster process. I’d like to share my grocery shopping tips with you.

1) Make a shopping list and stick to it.

Making a list and sticking to it will keep you from buying too much junk. Not only will it encourage you and your family to stick to the new healthy eating lifestyle, it will also save you some money on your grocery bill.

Please apply common sense to this though. If you remember that you forgot to put your baby’s diapers on the list, by all means get them. On the other hand, if you feel tempted to get the new chocolate pie because there is a two for one sale, skip it. You get the idea.

2) Eat a snack before you go grocery shopping.

Never go grocery shopping while you are hungry. You’ll be much more tempted to buy junk food and already prepared meals. You’ll also end up buying much more than you really need. Either go shopping right after a meal, or eat a small snack before you go. Even eating a piece of fruit and drinking a glass of water will keep you from feeling hungry while you are in the store.

3) Avoid the aisles with the chips, snacks and candy

Don’t tempt yourself by going down the “junk food” aisles. You’re only human and the candy and snack manufacturers put a lot of money into making their products as tempting and appealing as possible. The easiest way to avoid having those items land in your cart is to skip the aisles entirely.

4) Buy fresh meat and produce whenever possible

Buy your meat and produce fresh whenever possible. You’ll get the most nutritional bang for your buck that way. If there is something you either can’t find fresh, or it just doesn’t look good, go with a frozen version. The only exception to this is tomatoes, especially if you are going to cook them anyway. Tomatoes loose their nutritional value quickly after they are picked. If you are making tomato sauce or are using them in a stew or soup, just stick with canned tomatoes. They are canned immediately after they are picked and contain more nutrients than a batch that has been sitting in a truck for days.

5) Write your grocery list with your supermarket in mind

You will make your shopping trip much easier and faster if you keep the layout of your market in mind when you write your shopping list. Think about the departments and isles you go through first and put those items on your list. Mentally make your way through the rest of the store adding your items to your list as you go. You’ll avoid backtracking for an item further down on your list once you are in the store.

6) Clean veggies and herbs

Unpack and clean your vegetables and herbs as soon as you get back from the store. Loosely wrap them in some paper towels and stick them in a Ziploc bag. They’ll be ready to use when your recipes call for them.

7) To freeze or not to freeze?

Portion your meat out depending on how much each recipe calls for. Keep what you will be using over the next two days in the fridge and freeze the rest. With hamburger meat, you may want to freeze any portions you are not using the day you bought them.

You’ll see that by implementing even just a few of these tips, your shopping experience will be more pleasant and most importantly more efficient. You’ll spend less time in the supermarket and more time enjoying your family.

About The Author Susanne Myers, together with Christine Steendahl, owns and publishes the Healthy Menu Mailer. The Healthy Menu Mailer is a weekly publication that will provide you with a healthy and lean dinner recipe for each night of the week and a grocery list to go along with it. Members also have access to an ever-growing list of breakfast, lunch, snack and desert recipes and a members’ only forum for additional help and support. Join today at http://www.healthymenumailer.com.

Home Schooling – There Are Some Disadvantages

Home Schooling – There Are Some Disadvantages

 by: Kris Koonar

There are a number of advantages to home schooling your children. They get the educational material you know they should be getting. They get the one-on-one attention you know they deserve. Moreover, they don't encounter any of the problems with schools today like drugs and bullies. While you may know about the advantages, you should certainly take some time to think about the disadvantages to this method of educating your children before you enroll them in your personal academy.

If you think you are ready to home school your children, consider the following. First, think about whether or not you are truly ready to stay at home and spend hours on end instructing your child. Don't forget that being an instructor involves subject area research, create a curriculum, and assessing your child's competence. Next, think about whether or not you truly have the effective teaching skills necessary to help your child understand the concepts you are attempting to teach. You should also make sure that you are able to offer your child subject material that is correct. Furthermore, be sure that you truly understand your child from an academic standpoint. Knowing your child's strengths and weaknesses is an important part of the educational process. In addition to academics, part of the importance of school is socialization. If you are unable to provide activities for you child to help with the socialization process, home schooling probably is not for you. The last thing you should consider is whether or not you feel you can be solely held responsible for your child's education and knowledge.

Home schooling may seem like the perfect answer to your child's education problems, but unless you can competently provide instruction and socialization activities, it would be best to steer clear of the entire process. You want your child to get a good education to help them get a solid start in life, and you simply cannot do that if you are unprepared to dedicate yourself to your child's education.

If you need more information visit http://www.citizenschool.com to learn about Home Schooling and a High School Diploma or if you prefer phone 1-800-736-GRAD (4723) or email studentservices@citizenschool.com. Internet Marketing done by Crackmarketing.com

About The Author Kris Koonar is President of Crack Marketing (www.crackmarketing.com) leading a team of Internet Marketing Consultants with over 5 years of experience and 100's of projects. He is also writer of an Internet Marketing Course called "The Website MBA" (www.websitemba.com). Kris can be contacted at 1.877.270.7170 or kris@crackmarketing.com.

Airlines: One of the Great Innovations

Airlines: One of the Great Innovations

 by: Frederic Madore

Up, up, and away. Do you suppose Orville Wright had any idea of the enormity of his invention? That the world would be forever changed, by the single possible opportunity of flight?

Airlines, cell phones, and automobiles have made possible the most mobile society in the history of the world. Airlines have made possible the movement of man from one side of the continent to the other in just a few short hours. How did this great marvel of machine come into existence? It all began with a thought. The thought developed into an idea. And because two men believed in the possibility, the idea took shape and form. An airplane was born.

Today’s great jumbo jets have little in common with the early mechanical birds of flight, except the ability to catapult man into the air. We fly today as if it were one of the most natural behaviors for mankind. As if there has always been the opportunity of flight. Past the point of invention, the US Government was the first to actually take flight to a commercial level. A footnote here about the government: If you will notice, some of the greatest inventions of mankind would never have “gotten off the ground” were it not for the intervention of the US government. Air mail service was begun in the United States in 1918, and thus the commercial exploitation of flight.

Since that point in time, the airplane inventions and aircraft uses have quadrupled. So have the airline companies. Today we have Delta, Southwest, American Airlines, TWA, United and Northwest. These are just the national operators. There are so many local, small airline operators that we don’t have room to even begin. And, let’s not forget that the United States Air force is as strong and flight ready as ever. Boeing, perhaps the largest manufacturer worldwide of airplanes, sees to it that our government is fully equipped for all sorts of airline missions. The government has always sponsored the advancement of flight, whether by funding private ventures or by allocating tax money to work on research and development. One more than one occasion our wonderfully managed airlines have needed government assistance to help bail them out of bankruptcy proceedings. The greatest thorn in the side of airline companies in existence today is the inability to operate profitably.

All airlines today offer daily services to the major cities in the U.S., and most connect with the smaller airlines in the rural areas of our country. This is done so that service is available to all travelers, in the hopes of filling the aircraft with as many paying passengers as possible. Airlines must at some point achieve the dream of profitable operation, and begin to look at life in the black, instead of the red.

Now, as you sit back in your nice, air-conditioned flight seat, the beautiful cloudless sky introducing the sun, as it peeps over the horizon, the history of the airplane and the airline companies doesn’t cross your mind. You simply want to know what movie they’re showing during the flight…….

About The Author Frederic Madore is the founder of the http://www.airline-information-Center.info website. Whether you are looking for airlines information or cheap airlines tickets we can help you.

8 Tips On How To Collect Antique Oriental Rugs

8 Tips On How To Collect Antique Oriental Rugs

 by: John Murray

Antique Oriental rugs have become highly sought after and highly collectable. In fact it is said the antique Oriental rugs are a better investment than investing in the stock market. These 8 tips on how to collect antique oriental rugs will keep you buying smart.

1. In the Beginning Don't buy

Now I bet your thinking that's a dumb tip if I'm in the market for collecting antique Oriental rugs. That's because in the beginning you have no idea what you are looking for. Take time to learn before you buy.

2. Buy Books

Begin by purchasing one or more of the collecting books available. Buy as many as you can afford to buy. They are an invaluable resource when identifying antique oriental rugs and they provide a host of other information on Oriental rugs.

3. Use Online Resources

Supplement those books with online resources. There are many sites offering information on antique Oriental rugs. Do a quick search and you'll have enough sites to keep you busy for quite some time.

4. Look at Rugs

Now that you've gained some general knowledge it's time to start having a look at a variety of antique Oriental rugs. Visit shops that sell them and begin by trying to identify where they're from, their age, and their material type. This process will better prepare you for having the ability to recognize an antique oriental rug that has value.

5. Specialize

There are so many types of antique Oriental rugs that you'll want to specialize in a type that interests you. Which styles of rug do you like the most? Once you've found your favorite begin to collect all the information you can find on that style. You'll very quickly gain skills that will make you a superior buyer. Over time you'll build an amazing collection of antique Oriental rugs.

6. Buy An Old Rug

Start by buying a cheap old worn rug. You can take this rug home and put it through the test. Find out about the textures, weaving process, and everything else you can. Don't spend much on it because you are going to dissect it.

7. Start Shopping

Now that you've done some reading, found a style to specialize in and your feeling a little more confident, you can start looking for your first real purchase. Many antique stores, carpet dealer, and auction houses will have antique oriental rugs. Don't forget about what's available online. Have a look around. If you find something that interests you drop the site an email or phone them.

8. Check Auction Houses

Once you get a little experience you'll want to check out some of the well known auction houses like Sotheby's or Christies. Once you know what you are looking for there are some great buys to be had purchasing this way.

Antique oriental rugs will only go up in value over time. Think of them as an investment into your retirement fund. Following these 8 tips to buying antique Oriental rugs will ensure you make sound investments.

About The Author John Murray makes it easy to go through the carpet buying process and provides tips to keep your carpet lasting long. To learn more and receive your free mini-course visit: http://www.carpets-guide.com.

Your Existing Clients. How a few Clicks & Good Response Time will Save You!

Your Existing Clients. How a few Clicks & Good Response Time will Save You!

 by: Anthony Jewell

As you develop your company you will start to pick up clients online. This is when you will start seeing the rewards of your efforts but also when you will start to learn the lessons that will shape your company and its success down the line. This article is to show you how a few minutes of your time and a few clicks of your mouse will save you alot of headaches as well as stress. It is something that we all take for granted but will help make your company more successful and keep your clients happy.

It is as simple as just a few clicks of your mouse. Whether you check emails morning, noon or night you need to get into a routine that allows you to respond back in a reasonable amount of time. So if you are going to respond back to clients in 1, 2, 5, 10, 12, 24 or 28 hours then you need to make sure you are consistent with this. This will build trust in your clients. It will also let them know when to look for mails from you. Always try to respond back in 48 hours or less. The sooner the better. It will make your clients feel safe with their decision to use your company but it will also let them know that you are there for them and that you care about them.

Now you may be thinking that I am making too much out of your response time. Well you could be right and I could be wrong, but more then likely I am right. I know, I know, I hate it when I am right too. I speak on this from personal experience of dealing with clients as well as being a client. Responding back in a timely manner will save your clients frustration as well as worries that they won't hear back from you ever again(you will be surprised how many will think this way). It will also show that you are a professional running a smooth operation.

This is show to be especially true when ever they send you a payment. Never wait more then 12 hours to respond back to your clients when you have received a payment. As soon as they send the payment a little bit of doubt will creep into their mind wondering if you are trustworthy, proove that you are. Unless you have told them otherwise of why your response may be late, get back to them the same day if you can. This will build trust in them as well as their confidence in you and will only make your working relationship better down the line.

This information and practice will prove most valuable when you are dealing with more then one client. You will be able to organize yourself so that you will follow the proper protocols to handle each situation. Your business will run smoothly, your clients will be happy and most important you will be successful!

About The Author Anthony Jewell has over 6 Years experience in the Web & Graphics World. You can visit my business at http://www.logo2d.com ©Copyright 2005 Logo2D.com : Feel free to use this article freely but please keep in the copyright

Hair Salon Nightmares? Here’s How To Choose A Good One - Auto Recovery

Hair Salon Nightmares? Here’s How To Choose A Good One - Auto Recovery

 by: Michael Barrows

The number one thing that you can do to guarantee that you always receive the best hair cuts, latest professional techniques and stellar service is to choose the right hair salon. Granted, that is easier said than done. With hair salons on practically every street corner, narrowing down your options to find the right hair salon can be confusing.

Getting a referral to a hair salon by family and friends could be a good way to begin your search. But do not stop there. As you may already know, no two hair stylists take the same artistic approach to their work. That means that a particular stylist or hair salon may do a fantastic job on your Cousin Suzie's long layers and still not be quite able to pull off your short textured crop. That does not mean that your cousin's hair salon is inferior in any way. It just means that you need to find a hair salon that is more suited to your particular style and needs.

The easiest way to find a hair salon suited to your needs is to ask people with hair styles similar to what you want for a referral to their hair salon. These may be people you know or complete strangers that you see while you are out shopping. Do not be shy. If you see a cute style that you have been unsuccessfully trying to achieve, ask the person which hair salon they go to. You may never get a chance to do so again.

Another thing that you can do to make sure that you choose the right hair salon is to schedule a consultation. A consultation allows you to "feel out" a hair salon before making a commitment to a stylist that you may regret. During a consultation, you can observe the different techniques that the staff at the hair salon is using and how they interact with their customers. A consultation also gives you the chance to vocalize what you want and receive feedback from a professional, all before the first snip is made. Most hair salons also have a portfolio that you can look through of before and after pictures, which can give you a sense of what kind of work do.

During your search for the right hair salon, there are some red flags that can be easily detected that can warn you of impending disaster if you choose a particular hair salon. Here are just a few:

" Dirt and grime. A clean hair salon is mandated by the state, but some salons still tend to push the envelope where cleanliness is concerned. Look for sanitary procedures such as the use of clean combs and brushes, sanitary neck strips and a clean work station. If a hair salon feels dirty, do not frequent it. Look at it this way, if the stylists of a particular salon do not take enough pride in their hair salon to keep it clean, why would they take pride in the work they put out the door?

" Professionalism. The hair salon is a professional place, and you should feel like you have stepped into a den of luxury not one more suited to the Saturday nightlife. Again, it's all about pride. Professionals who take pride in their work will strive to create the right atmosphere for their customers.

" Communication. Communication is vital in a hair salon. Observe how the stylists interact with their customers. That is how they will interact with you.

In the end, it may take a little trial and error to find the right hair salon, but you can make your search easier by following the above advice. Always keep in mind, though, that choosing the wrong hair salon is not a death sentence. Simply brush yourself off and keep looking.

About The Author Michael Barrows' website gives great advice for good hair. Get your free ebook packed with hair style and hair care tips and advice, visit http://www.great-hairstyles.com.

What Is a Personal Benefit Statement and Why Do I Need One?

What Is a Personal Benefit Statement and Why Do I Need One?

 by: Greg Beverly

We all work very hard on coming up with the benefits of our products or services, (Still, 95% of us do THAT wrong, but that’s for another article) but we rarely think about a personal benefit statement. Specifically, I am referring to what most people call their “elevator speech.” The elevator speech as it is called refers to that 5-7 second opportunity you have to introduce yourself when someone asks, “So Bob, what do you do?” Answer with, I sell widgets for XYZ Company,” and more than likely your conversation is either over or about to head in a different direction.

Instead of responding with “I’m a financial planner,” (dull, boring) how about “I help people create and manage wealth!” Wow! Which of these do you think creates the most interest? Which one do you think might result in you getting a follow up question, which will allow you to go into more detail? Which one will cause the person you are speaking with to raise and eyebrow rather turn to look for an escape route?

Normally, I am not a big fan of using the word “I” to lead off a statement, but here it is almost a requirement. If you can come up with a better way to start, then by all means use it.

My personal statement is “I help sales professionals make more money…and work less.” It’s not perfect and has gone through numerous revisions and will go through numerous others. Notice the pause between making more money and working less. That does two things, it surprises the person that there’s even MORE benefit to doing business with me, and it also gives them an opportunity to briefly visualize making more money before I let them know that it comes with working less!

Just remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect. The important thing is for you to get started and mold and change your statement until it is effective. That’s a key here. Don’t wait until you have perfection. Take a moment right now to come up with a benefit statement. Do it in the least possible number of words. Now take what you come up with and mold it. Try it out on friends and family members, associates, anyone who will listen and give you an honest opinion.

Take your statement public and test it with others. If you get raised eyebrows and questions, you are definitely on the right track. If your conversation ends abruptly and the person you are talking to runs for the hills, it may be time to adjust. A personal benefit statement can set you apart from all of your competitors and I GUARANTEE it will lead to more inquiries…but only if you develop it and use it. Get started on it today! You’ll be glad you did.

About The Author Greg Beverly helps sales professionals make more money...and work less. He is a sales coach dedicated to helping create abundance for all who seek it. Find out the secrets to becoming a sales champion and living the life of your dreams by visiting www.salessuccess.yougethelp.com today.

Is Your Pillow A Pain In The Neck?

Is Your Pillow A Pain In The Neck?

 by: Patricia Bowlin

Most people don't know that pillows really need to be replaced every few years. They compress and get lumpy, and that's no way to sleep!

You may want to consider Tempur Pedic pillows- they're designed to deliver incredible comfort- and considered quiet the perfect pillow by many.

Tempur Pedic produces state-of-the-art pillows-and are used in most every major fine hotel and resort around the world, where the demand for the best is always in style.

If you've never tried a Tempurpedic pillow, the foam is so dense and supportive you won't believe it! It's no wonder why these pillows are so popular- afterall, this material was developed to provide the ultimate cushioning for US astronauts during liftoff.

If you've had trouble with neck pain because your pillow doesn't support you and align your spine that way it should, you probably have a hard time concentrating and focusing at work, which can be a real problem.

You'll find pillows that cost less than those from Tempur Pedic, but peaceful rest is worth the price, especially if you've been experiencing insomnia, an aching back or neck pain.

Tempur Pedic makes several designs of bed pillow to meet your needs.

Let's look at each one briefly. Then you'll have the facts at hand to choose the very best pillow for your needs.

The Tempur Pedic Swedish Neck Pillow is recommended for people who need a more therapeutic sleep posture to ensure a better night's sleep.

The design contains a dual lobe which supports and cradles the curve of the neck, head and shoulders perfectly. This shape prevents undue pressure on the spine which often causes sleep problems like we mentioned before. You'll need to select the right size to ensure that your head is neither too high nor too low as this can stress the neck and actually inhibit breathing. Size selections range from the Junior, measuring 15 X 10 X 2.5 inches up to the King Medium which measures 34 X 14 X 4 inches. You'll find just the right size pillow for you in this Tempur Pedic line.

The ComfortPillow is a more traditional pillow in appearance. It provides the comfort you want- along with the support you need and fits into your regular pillow cases.

This pillow is available in Standard, measuring 25 X 19 inches or Queen which measures 29 X 19 inches.

The Millennium Neck Pillow provides a curved edge that is lower in the center and higher on each side to keep the neck aligned properly whether you choose to sleep on your back or side. The tilted front edge cradles you upper vertebrae for the most comfort and support imaginable.

This pillow comes in medium, measuring 22 X 13 X 4.2/2.5 inches and Queen Medium which measures 26 X 13 X 4.5/25 inches.

The Classic Pillow can be an inexpensive solution to your pillow needs. It provides support and comfort while using the traditional pillow design. You'll enjoy the neck and head support you need and find that standard pillow cases fit just fine. It measures 22 X 15 X 4 inches.

Have you ever thought about trying a body pillow?

I used to have trouble with my legs getting sore at night because of my side sleeping position. But now I can just wrap my legs around that body pillow and all is well!

Tempurpedic makes an awesome body pillow that will have you sleeping like a baby! It measures 36 X 14 inches, which should be long enough for about everyone.

If allergies or mites are a concern, you'll be very pleased to know that Tempur Pedic products are naturally treated to resist mites and household allergens. No CFCs or formaldehyde are used in these great products so you'll rest in comfort and get a good night's sleep!

Your next favorite pillow may really be Tempurpedic!

About The Author Patricia Bowlin makes it easy to create a bedroom with flair! Find countless Free tips, ideas and information here on choosing all of your bedding by visiting now http://www.best-in-bedding.com.

Buying A Used Car From A Dealer

Buying A Used Car From A Dealer

 by: Gregory Ashton

There are many challenges you will face when buying either a new or used car. It depends on the model that you want, how much is the budget, the size of your family and the options that go with it.

If you have an idea on the right car, then a little research on the value of the car in the market to date will be able to help the you when approaching a dealer.

This can be done by checking the internet or looking through the local newspaper before going to the various dealers in the area to make comparisons.

If the ideal car is not available on the lot, the if you tell the dealer about it these people can help by looking for that particular model or offer a similar car similar to your choice.

Since dealers often want to get rid of the cars quickly, it is also possible to get a good deal on what is available as long as it meets your requirements.

Most cars have a maintenance record. The buyer must ask the dealer to see it and if it is not available, then you should contact the dealership or repair shop where most of the work was done.

The buyer has the right to see a copy of the dealer’s warranty. To be safe, you can also ask if a service contract is provided in buying the used car. This contract that is offered by the dealer may or may not provide coverage that is in the manufacturer’s warranty which may cost extra.

Since the warranty usually comes when buying a car and the service contract does not, it is best to ask if you need to avail of by answering some questions;

• What are the differences between the coverage of the warranty and the service contract?

• What repairs are covered?

• Is routine maintenance covered?

• Who will pay for labor and parts if brought to the shop?

• Who is authorized to perform the repairs and where?

• How long does the service contract last?

• What are the cancellation and refund policies?

Just looking at the car will not give information if the car is in good condition. It should be test driven under various road conditions such as the highway or in traffic.

Since most people are not that knowledgeable about cars, it is advisable to bring the car to a reliable mechanic for proper inspection.

About The Author Gregory Ashton, your resident automobile enthusiast, bringing to you over 20 years of vehicular passion, and expertise; presents for your approval his insider secrets on selecting, buying, and maintianing the car that is ideal for you. http://www.best-car-buying-tips.com.

Business Blogging - 5 Tips to Help You Barrel Through Writer’s Block

Business Blogging - 5 Tips to Help You Barrel Through Writer’s Block

 by: Tinu AbayomiPaul

It’s inevitable. Everyone hits the wall. Whether you’ve been blogging ten weeks, ten minutes, or ten months, eventually you’ll find yourself with absolutely nothing to say.

Or so you think.

So what in the world do you do when you’re stumped?

1- Talk about what you’ve already talked about

Pick a topic you’ve gone over before and give it some spin.

Try a new angle, like playing devil’s advocate. For example, if you are a search engine journalist, and last week your position was that most mainstream sites need Google traffic to survive, try proving your point from the “con” perspective, instead of the “pro” position.

There are dozens of ways to write about the same thing. By putting your point another way, you might give someone in your audience what a client of mine referred to as an “Ah-ha!” moment. That's when they realize the true value of the items for sale at your site to them and their business.

2- Talk about what someone else is talking about

If you want to have a popular blog, find other bloggers in similar areas, and talk about what they said in their posts. Friendly debate can often spark the soap-opera like drama that will have both your audiences visiting both blogs to see what “the other fella” had to say.

As an added bonus, if both of you are using Trackback in your blogs, you’ve got yourself a mini-link party that other people who are speaking on similar topics will want to join..

3- Have yourself a good rant

The intimate nature and voice of blogs lends itself well to the opinionated, angry ramble. But as a professional, don’t let yourself get too unfocused, and remember to back up your opinion with facts.

4- Feature someone, something or somewhere

I like to call mine “of the Day”.

As I zip around the Net conducting my business and research, if my attention is called to a resource or tool that my audience might find useful, I hit my blog bookmarklet and save that bad boy for later.

Then when I get too busy for a full blown tip, I’ll crown the resource, feed, tool, download or freebie the featured “Deal of the Day”, changing the word deal to something else more appropriate as needed.

After a while, my audience started to look for it as a feature, as opposed to being upset at the interruption in my mad, mad rambles.

5- Let someone else talk for a change

Invite a guest blogger, or post an article that offers free reprint rights, the same way you would in a newsletter. Of course you want to leave the resource box intact, or let the guest promote their site, which brings me to the most common complaint about this tactic.

“But I don’t want to send people away from my site.”

Guess what? You’ll never believe what I found out. Ready?

In a recent startling discovery, I’ve found that 100% of my visitors eventually turn off their computers or take otherwise drastic measures that cause them to leave my site. Apparently this is beyond prevention, though you can stall them for hours sometimes with good content.

Of course you don’t want to send them on their way prematurely, but if you’re a good blogger, and have done what you can to make sure they sign up to your blog email updates or site feed, they’ll be back. Just be sure that you’re giving them a good enough reason.

In the meantime, since they’re going to leave anyway, it might as well be somewhere that gives you some direct or in-direct benefit.

So there you have it - enough material for five more days of posts.

Happy Blogging!

Copyright 2004 Tinu AbayomiPaul

About The Author Tinu AbayomiPaul Need more than five days worth of blog posts? Get more at http://www.freetraffictip.com/blogaboutthis. Or learn more about blogs and RSS at FreeTrafficTip.com.

Blinds The Perfect Window Covering

Blinds The Perfect Window Covering

 by: Betty Fletcher

Whether you are decorating for the first time or the thirty first time, adding blinds to your home can be one of the best ways to go about covering up those windows. The dilemma is this. You want the light to stream in through your home. You want the cold (or the heat in summer) to stay out. And, you must be able to have some privacy from those peeping neighbors. So, what can you cover your windows up that will give you all the advantages that you need? Blinds! There are hundreds of options to choose from. Fabric, wood, faux wood and even plastics can be used. Designs are really unlimited. In short, there are few products that can top blinds.

How To Choose Blinds For Your Home

How will you choose the right blinds for your home? With so many various types out there, you may be feeling overwhelmed. The fact is that you can limit your selections in several ways. In doing this, you will have found the perfect blinds for your needs. Here, ask yourself a few questions like these.

· Consider your need first. What do you want the blinds to do for you? Do you want them to allow light in? Do you want them to block light out? If this is the case, then you can find blinds that virtually blacken a room, perfect for those who are sleeping mid day or need a very dark space anytime of the day.

· Another thing to consider is your need for privacy. How much privacy do you need and want? There are several things to consider here. For example, some blinds will allow in rays of sunlight but will effectively block out the peeping tom’s in your area! Some will offer a wide selection of levels of privacy. Finding the right amount is necessary for each individual.

· Consider the room now. Many people like to put blinds throughout the home that are the same. The problem with this is, though, that unless all the rooms have the same design elements, it may not work. By making the blinds work with the room, you can create the allure of style, fashion, and taste better. For example, think about texture. You may be thinking of installing faux wood blinds throughout the home but is this going to match in texture to each room? Think about the texture, the color, the materials, and the overall look for the blinds you add to the room.

· Make sure to think about the size of the blinds. Do you want the blinds to extend over the window edge? Do you want the blinds to fit within the window frame? Or, you may even consider blinds that actually fit within the panels of the window itself for even more space savings.

Overall, choosing the blinds for your home should be like choosing the paint, the carpet, or the wallpaper that you put in a room. Consider all elements of the design and finished product so the finished result is what you want it to be.

About The Author This article was made possible by http://www.altablinds.info and Betty Fletcher.

Pomp, Circumstance and Fine Swedish Table Linen

Pomp, Circumstance and Fine Swedish Table Linen

 by: Calle Redhe

Although the history to fine Swedish table linen is impressive enough, the current reverence for its past can be seen in many international functions.

Since 1901, the Nobel Prize Award Ceremony has taken place in Stockholm, Sweden on December 10 (the anniversary of Albert Nobel's death). This is a ceremony that recognizes the brightest and most innovative minds in the world with prestige and honor.

With speeches and grand presentations, the Nobel Prize dinner is one of the biggest dinners in the world each year, and the most secret as well. Not only are winners and their families invited, but the Swedish Royal Family is in attendance as well. His Majesty the King of Sweden presents each of the winners with a diploma and a medal.

Upon each table are fine demonstrations of fine Swedish table linen-from the tablecloths to the napkins. And with about thirteen hundred guests, that's quite a few pieces of fine Swedish table linen to provide. This guest list is strict, including only a few hundred students and over ninety members of the royal family.

Each table is set with special Nobel tableware that was created for the ninetieth anniversary of the Nobel Prize (which was in 1991). The Swedish designers that created the pieces of tableware were Ingrid Dessau, Gunnar Cyren, and Karin Bjorquist. It is interesting to note that Sweden is the only country that uses a particular place setting for events that include the royal family.

The Nobel Prize dinner hall's sixty five tables are blanketed with about four hundred and seventy meters of fine Swedish table linen. On the fine Swedish table linen are many thousands of porcelain dishes, glasses and silverware pieces.

Although there are many suppliers of fine Swedish table linen in the country, Ekelund can profess to be the chief supplier of fine Swedish table linen to the Swedish Royal family since 1692. But Klaessbols is another linen company that provides the fine Swedish table linen for the Nobel Prize dinner, as well as to the royals.

The Swedish Royal Family not only uses fine Swedish table linen at all of their formal occasions-gala dinners, meetings with other heads of states, but also in their daily lives. In past history, maps and other decorations were painted onto linen and hung in the royal halls.

But you don't have to wear a crown to enjoy the luxury of fine Swedish table linen. When an everyday person embraces Swedish table linen as a part of their everyday life, then they are welcoming years of history and prestige into their own homes-a certain sense of royalty within themselves.

Thankfully fine Swedish table linen was not something that was carelessly tossed aside and replaced with modern technology. Family weaveries still exist in small towns of central Sweden today to give the new millennium its own piece of history and charm.

Whether as a wedding gift or a gift to ones self, fine Swedish table linen will tell the story of your life as it is shared by generations.

About The Author Calle Redhe is the owner and Master Weaver at Redhes Weavery in Bjorbo, Sweden. Redhes Weavery was founded in the mid-1940's and has become renowned for keeping alive the ancient Swedish traditions of patterning and quality most evident in the overshot weave cloths they produce today. He makes it easy for all to own table linens with the air of royalty. To learn what colors and weave are available visit: http://www.fine-swedish-table-linen.com.

How to Advertise To Your Opt-in Newsletter List, For Maximum Profit

How to Advertise To Your Opt-in Newsletter List, For Maximum Profit

 by: Cathy Qazalbash

Your opt-in or business list is the most valuable asset to your business. Your subscribers have made a positive decision to voluntary subscribe to your free newsletter. Subscribers to your newsletter are potential customers for you and deserve to be treated like the VIPs they are. Before advertising to them in the form of Solos and other ads in your newsletter, keep a few points in mind:

1. Create trust -credibility

2. Do not over advertise

3. Do opinion Polls/surveys to find what subscribers like

4. Target your advertising

Create trust -credibility: Good content in your newsletter will do this. Info articles and tips are the main source of content. If possible use either freshly written articles or write your own. Tips are always popular, small jokes and sayings are often used to lighten up the newsletter. All these things will help your readers enjoy their newsletter and when you publish a good quality newsletter it will boost your credibility and create trust with your subscribers.

Do not over advertise: This is a common mistake with publishers. A little advertising in the newsletter and not too many Solos will make your readers more responsive and less likely to unsubscribe. Too many ads in the newsletter and sending too many Solos will cut down your subscribers and less people will actually read your ads.

Opinion polls and surveys are useful for finding out what your subscribers are interested in. Make these short and simple and always respond to those who take the trouble to fill them out. Surveys are a very valuable way of keeping in touch with your readers and builds rapport. This means you can advertise what they need and get a better response, and sales.

Targeting your ads. Advertise according to your topic. For instance if you are a marketing home business newsletter try to keep your ads in this topic, do not advertise gardening things. Your readers will expect to be offered tools, products and services specifically designed to help them in their businesses.

Fine-Tune Your Advertising To Ensure Success

Advertising your business is more than putting out a few ads and hoping for the best. Your advertising campaign needs constant testing and monitoring, to ensure success. Here are some of the ways you can do this.

1. Monitoring (tracking)

2. Testing

3. Researching publications

4. Keeping Records

Monitoring: It is critical to your advertising campaign to monitor and track all your ads. In this way you can tell exactly which ones are working and those that that are failing. This will save you a lot of time and money. Here is a good ad tracker http://www.adminder.com/go.cgi?id=cathyayb

Testing: Testing ads will ensure you have the best ad for your market, Split test 2 classifieds 1st, then take the best performer and expand into a Solo. You will save money by testing cheaper ads before you send out expensive Solos.

Researching publications: When advertising in publications do your research before placing your ad. Subscribe to the ezine/newsletter and see what sort of readers they are targeting. You will be able to assess this by the type of ads they run on a regular basis, and the articles they publish. Check out the amount of ads and how many are in the publication (less ads equals better response)

Keeping Records: Note which ezines were successful and the ones that produced little or no results. Bigger lists are not always better. Record and note all your ad results. You can use Excell for this as it provides columns, which are easy to use. Note where you advertised, how much they cost size of list, and what success if any you had with the publication. Do not expect stunning results from a publication, that will rarely happen but even if you get a small response repeat the ad for at least 3-4 times, to properly assess the results.

When you fine tune your advertising you will get the maximum "bang for your buck." You will continue to improve your campaign and build your successful business. Not all advertising will work and you may have only small results at 1st but always continue to advertise products/services and you will build your business and expand your clientele.

Keep these points in mind and you will ensure your maximum response to your advertising and even some sales from your readers. Your newsletter is a business tool and your subscribers will expect some advertising. However remember your subscribers are not just dollar bills and should never feel you are using them. The old cliche "look after your subscribers and they will look after you," holds true for your advertising as well as your newsletter.

About The Author Article written by Cathy Qazalbash © Cathy is an experienced freelance writer/copywriter and publisher of the A-Y-B free marketing newsletter http://advertise-your-business.com http://copywriting-for-websites.com http://a1-newsletters.com

Golf Practice Isn’t Important If…

Golf Practice Isn’t Important If…

 by: Mike Pedersen

Golf practice can only help your game if your body can do what you ask of it on the range. Does that make sense? How often have you taken time out of your day to go to the range for golf practice only to leave more frustrated than when you did when you first got there?

Now come on…be honest! Every amateur golfer has experienced this more times than we can count.

Why is this?

Because our body can’t perform a mechanically sound swing when it is physically weak and tight. Picture the last time you hit a bucket of balls. Out of the whole bucket, how many swings really felt good, and the ball did what you wanted it to do?

I’ll bet you can count them on less than one hand. Or maybe I’m being harsh, and you can count them on less than 2 hands.

Either way, this is a common occurrence during a golf practice session.

Don’t get me wrong…golf practice is critical in improving your golf swing and overall game…but you first need to work on the “machine”, to be able to make the most out of your time during your golf practice.

Let’s look at the positive side!

You take my advice and start improving your golf specific strength and flexibility. It doesn’t take 2 hours a day in a gym to accomplish this. All of my programs, dvds and books incorporate affordable equipment that can be done in your home or even office.

The result?

The next time you plan a golf practice…it goes fantastic! You’re hitting more balls the way you want to. You’re enjoying your golf practice not getting frustrated. You even buy a new range card because you’re on a new high from such an awesome golf practice session.

That’s called Total Golf Performance!

You’ll soon be dominating your foursome and they’ll all want to know your “secret”.

Take this approach to your golf improvement and get a maximum return from your golf practice.

About The Author Mike Pedersen is one of the top golf performance experts in the country; Golf Magazine's expert at GolfOnline.com, author and founder of several cutting-edge online golf performance sites. Take a look at his just released golf training manual and dvds at http://www.performbettergolf.com.

Hello from Cuba (11) - Inside A Cuban Home

Hello from Cuba (11) - Inside A Cuban Home

 by: Susanne Pacher

So I am sitting here in a new place and I gotta hurry since I bought a $6 CUC Internet access card and I only have 53 minutes left.

At any rate, the dinner at Pedro´s family on Sunday was amazing. We took the GuaGua (Public Transit System) and after about 1 hour we arrived in the area of Marinao. From there we had to walk another 30 minutes or so to get to his house.

There I was received by an entire Cuban family, Pedro´s wife and daughter, his sister in law and their two female cousins who had come in from out of town. It was amazing being in a Cuban home, after having spent a whole week in an impersonal hotel. It was immediately obvious that the Cuban concept of family is very different from what I have experienced in Austria or Canada. Family members live in very tight living quarters since housing is scarce in Havana and often 2 or 3 generations live under one roof.

My friend told me that in his father´s house 3 of his brothers live in one bedroom (and they sometimes receive visits from their girlfriends who end up sleeping in the same room), his sister and mother sleep in one room (as his mother is divorced), and the father and another sibling sleep in another room. It´s very difficult to imagine this type of crammed living environment, there is definitely not much privacy....

By Canadian standards, the home is very basic, located in a complex with about 6 apartments, this apartment contains 2 bedrooms which are shared by my friend, his wife and daughter (who together have one bedroom), his wife´s sister (who has the other bedroom) and the father of the 2 ladies sleeps in the living room.

Furniture and decor are very basic and instead of upholstered sofas the furniture consists of traditional wooden chairs that have a colonial appearance. One of the cousins who was in from out of town got married last year to a friend of mine in Toronto, so she came to Havana to go to the Canadian Consulate to get her visa to finally go to Canada. Getting to go to Canada is not an easy thing at all for Cubans, since it is very difficult to obtain a Cuban passport.

We talked a lot about Canada and about the fact that life is very different, the climate, the environment, the concept of family. This discussion was particularly relevant since Pedro´s wife´s female cousin is hoping to come to Canada in the next 6 weeks as she is currently pregnant.

At any rate, the hospitality was great. I was received like a long-lost friend and the ladies had really taken great care to prepare an outstanding dinner. The table was full of dishes: fried chicken, white rice with bean sauce, fried sweet plaintains (one of my favourite foods) and a tasty bean salad. We had flan for dessert and it was one of the best meals I have had in Cuba so far.

I had brought a little souvenir for the family: 2 sets of coloured pens for the little girl which she absolutely loved and some beautiful flowers for the ladies of the house. The atmosphere was a little shy at first, but after a while we started chatting, asking each other questions about our respective lives in these 2 very different countries. All the while I was there I felt very special and I felt truly honoured to have had an opportunity to be introduced to a Cuban family and to experience Cuban hospitality first hand.

About The Author Susanne Pacher is the publisher of a website called Travel and Transitions (http://www.travelandtransitions.com). Travel and Transitions deals with unconventional travel and is chock full of advice, tips, real life travel experiences, interviews with travellers and travel experts, insights and reflections, cross-cultural issues, contests and many other features. You will also find stories about life and the t-ransitions that we face as we go through our own personal life-long journeys. Submit your own travel stories in our first travel story contest (http://www.travelandtransitions.com/contests.htm) and have a chance to win an amazing adventure cruise on the Amazon River. "Life is a Journey Explore New Horizons". The travel story with photos is published at Travel and Transitions – Travel Stories (http://www.travelandtransitions.com/stories_photos/hello_cuba_11.htm).