Now here's a Christmas contest for you at Overstock.com -- the All I want for Christmas Giveaway. When you visit their site, you have the chance to sign up to win the item of your choice, up to $1000, and the opportunity to invite 5 friends to sign up. If you win, so do your friends, too!

Not only that, but there's the grand prize. After five days, one individual will be picked to receive ALL FIVE of days of their selections. Yeah, you've done your math right -- that's up to $5000 worth of prizes in one shot.

What gift do i want? Well, today I registered for the HP Pavilion tx1200 1.8 GHz Tablet PC. It is a great computer with all the bells and whistles. It has great speed, a 120 GB hard drive, and 2 gigs of RAM. That should take care of all of my computing needs right there, but when you add the Ethernet card and the CD-RW, that makes it even better. Heck, it comes close to what is available on my desktop! And what is really nice is the way the screen can be turned to face different directions, it means that there are some things I could use it for in the classroom that a traditional desktop could not be used.

So what do you think – did I make the right choice?

Posted by: Greg at 06:25 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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You know, one of my favorite movies in the last few years was Hitch, starring Will Smith. It was a lot of fun, and dealt with a matchmaker who taught his clients how to sweep a woman off her feet. Indeed, I don't think I have laughed so hard during a movie in years.

Believe it or not, there are actually guys like that out there who say they can teach you The Rules of Seduction. Now that sounds like an interesting concept to me. Let's set aside the question of ethics for a minute -- but just a minute -- and ask the key question: "Is there a way to guarantee that you can pick up any woman you want?" These guys say that there are, and that they can be learned if you have the motivation.

Now there is the ethical question related to these rules. Are you out to use these women and cast them aside? Or are you looking for romance and love? If the latter is the case, I can’t argue against learning The Rules of Seduction as a way of meeting that special one. If one is into selfish pleasure, definitely not – but then again, could such techniques work for one who was insincere? We’ll find out on December 7 when the UK’s Channel 4 airs a special about these pick up artists.

Posted by: Greg at 02:59 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Oh, wait -- that's a constant occurrence for the old bat anyway.

But the latest report from Iraq makes the apologist for all things jihadi look particularly foolish and biased -- civilian deaths are falling in a dramatic fashion due to the surge.

The number of Iraqis killed last month fell to 718, an Associated Press tally showed, the lowest monthly death toll since just before the 2006 bombing of a Shiite shrine provoked a vicious cycle of retaliatory sectarian violence.

The figures come as the military says violence has fallen to levels not seen in nearly two years, while acknowledging that Iraqis are still dying in unacceptable numbers.

* * *

It was the third consecutive monthly decline in the death toll of Iraqi civilians and security forces since August, when a massive suicide bombing targeting minority Yazidis in northern Iraq helped push the figure to at least 1,956.

Some 500 are thought to have perished in the bombing of the Yazidis.

At least 1,023 Iraqis were killed in September, 911 in October and 718 in November, the lowest since January 2006, when 615 Iraqis were killed, according to figures compiled by the AP from hospital, police and military officials, as well as accounts from reporters and photographers. Insurgent deaths were not included. Other counts differ and some have given higher civilian death tolls.

The number of U.S. troop deaths also declined for the sixth consecutive month, with at least 37 recorded in November, according to an AP tally based on military figures. That was the lowest number since March 2006, when 31 American service members died.

The U.S. military has said the decline in the number of deadly attacks is largely due to a troop buildup this summer of some 30,000 additional troops that enabled them to get closer to the population, as well as a sharp turn of public opinion against al-Qaida in Iraq and other extremist groups.

Yeah, there's that whole problem of success undermining the liberals' preferred policy of surrender and retreat.

But not to worry -- the media shills for the Islamist jihadis are always willing to put matters into perspective with the help for the academic shills for Islamist jihadis. Take this Columbia (of course) professor and UN (of course) official who is anointed an expert on civilian casualties despite working with health and nutrition issues.

An expert on the effect of conflicts on civilians agreed, saying that while the downward trend was positive, it needed to be kept in perspective.

"We've gone from horrific levels of murder to very bad, which is an improvement but not a reason to celebrate," said Richard Garfield, a professor at New York's Columbia University and a manager of health and nutrition for the World Health Organization.

"At these so-called low levels, there's a massive number of excess deaths still likely to occur."

Expert, of course, is AP speak for "someone who agrees with us, regardless of credentials.

Oh, and remember one minor detail, folks -- the civilian dead are being killed by the terrorists, not by Americans. That won't end if we withdraw, and will get worse.

Posted by: Greg at 02:47 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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I just love the website over at MadGringo.com! Talk about making the casual ethos of a company and its products shine through! They certainly do show off their beach wear and other "Go Slow!" attitude merchandise to great effect. And their logo -- a pineapple skull and crossbones -- simply cries out "Hey! We're all about fun and relaxation."

Now what will you find at MadGringo.com? Well for one, you will find some of the best Hawaiian shirts I've sen anywhere, in a variety of colors an patterns. You'll fond sarongs in some of the same patterns. And then there are t-shirts, flip-flops, bags, and other merchandise epitomizing the "Go Slow" attitude. You'll even find some reasonably priced gift baskets -- all gathered up in an aluminum beer bucket! Yep, it is all about fun and relaxation over at that site.

The whole “Go Slow” ethos of MadGringo.com is one that calls for all of us to slow our lives down and take it easy. Too often, even our recreation is one frantic effort do something more. The Hawaiian shirts urge us to do something quite different – to be, rather than to do, during our leisure time. So Go Slow with Mad Gringo!

Posted by: Greg at 06:07 PM | Comments (1) | Add Comment
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Let's be honest -- there are a lot of folks out there doing web hosting. Not only that, there are a lot of different plans with a wide variety of features and fees. How do you get the best deal on the hosting of your site.

Well, there is a way to check it all out in advance so that you make the best web hosting choice. At WebHostingChoice.com they've compiled the information and allow you to use their Quick Web Host Search to find options that meet your needs. And all hostingservices are given a rating so that you can sort out the wheat from the chaff.

Posted by: Greg at 05:23 PM | Comments (1) | Add Comment
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As our 11th Christmas in Texas approaches, I feel the annual sadness over a broken promise. During the job hunt that brought us to Houston, I promised my wife that we would move no place where there was not snow at Christmas. In all this time, only once have we gotten snow at all.

Well, I may have found the solution to the problem -- instant snow! You guys probably think IÂ’m nuts, but there is a product called InstaSnow that just requires a little bit of water to produce realistic appearing snow. They use it for movies and plays, and it is great for decorating. Even better, it is non-toxic and reusable. I wonder if my wife will kill me if she wakes up Christmas morning and finds a InstaSnow-covered pat all the way from the bedroom t the Christmas tree?

Posted by: Greg at 05:25 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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I like to visit new places and see the sights. Indeed, when I studied in Mexico during my seminary career, my buddy George one day got an exasperated look on his face and began hollering at me about how he was sick and tired of me trying to find every attraction in the area.

As IÂ’ve gotten older, IÂ’ve come to realize that tours are often the best way to make sure you see what interests you and avoid the rip-offs and gimmicks. ThatÂ’s why I like the Trusted Tours and Attractions concept of offering you choices within your tour packages. For example, if I were to travel to Savannah, IÂ’d have the choice of a number of Old Town Trolley tours that would take me to great sites, as well as tours of special attractions and riverboat cruises complete with a nice meal. And the options are such that folks with interests from history to the arts, to architecture.

Oh, and donÂ’t forget to drop by and sign up for their e-newsletter. This month they are doing a drawing for 4 Sigtseeing Tour tickets in any one of their 21 cities, just for signing up for the newsletter. Or you could win an iPod Nano instead.

Posted by: Greg at 05:16 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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You know, online marketing just gets more and more interesting on a daily basis. Granted, that can be dangerous, as we have seen from the recent fiasco over at Facebook, but we know that there is a lot more good going on in the marketing field than bad.

One thing IÂ’d like to see is more online game development to draw in a wider audience for advertising. For example, a couple of years back there was an online travel agency that had a little miniature golf game that I got hooked on when it would pop up on my screen. Not only would I play, but I still have a bit of a loyalty to them, as I always check them out first when I need to make travel plans.

What I would do would be to work cooperatively with some of the online gaming sites. A number of them have opportunities for advertising that is almost subliminal in nature. Place the advertising, including weblinks, in a place where folks will see them and remember – and if they are clicked on by a player, freeze the game until they return. If this draws in hits immediately, that’s great, and it is likely to draw in additional hits later.

Posted by: Greg at 06:37 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Got a lawsuit? Stuck in court but needing cash now? Well, the folks at LawMax are available to help you fund your suit with a Lawsuit Cash Advance. They can advance you cash for your needs right now, and you only have to repay it (and pay the risk premium) if you win or settle your suit. This isn't the ideal situation in which to find yourself, but if medical bills, house payments, and other expenses can't otherwise be med, LawMax can be of great assistance to you.

Posted by: Greg at 11:10 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Dating is not easy. Where do you meet someone new if you find yourself in a church congregation without singles and have made the wise decision not to date in the workplace. Well, you can use an online personals site like DateHookup.com, which is a free online dating site.

What is great about the site? Well, other users seem genuine and fun, and come in all shapes and sizes and personalities. The forums are fun, everything from cerebral to fun to a bit on the risque side (no, not THAT risque), and looking through them you can see where folks are really developing relationships. And then there are the date suggestions – real ideas for you from other members who have found success – including date ideas from folks in your area involving local attractions. Not bad for a free site!

Posted by: Greg at 11:05 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Have you ever wanted to write a fan letter, but decided not to do it because it would probably land on the desk of some studio or record company intern and never be heard of again? That doesnÂ’t happen if you know the right person to contact. At CelebrityContacts.com, they have up-to-date celebrity addresses and can help you reach your favorite celebrity.

CelebrityContacts.com has a staff that has worked in entertainment for over 20 years. They’ve done the research, so they have the most accurate information for celebrity representatives and publicists. If you reach those folks, you’ll likely get that autograph or photo – and maybe even get that script read – if you use their service. There is no monthly fee or membership charge, and you only pay a small fee for when you get a contact address from CelebrityContacts.com.

Posted by: Greg at 06:39 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Just like every other form of media, the internet quickly became commercial. Why not? You have the means to reach millions – indeed, billions – of people on the internet, and so you need to account for it in any marketing strategy. And when your primary focus is the internet, it becomes crucial to have a good Internet Marketing Company to help you with search engine optimization, because you can live or die by PageRank and page ranking.

IÂ’m struck by the case studies that show how eVisibility.com outshines other internet marketing companies. McDonaldÂ’s overlooked the possibility of an internet campaign when they started test marketing the Angus Third Pounder until ten days before the burger was set to debut. When they got the call from the fast food giant, eVisibility.com created a website and online campaign for the new sandwiches, complete with a coupon for customers to download. They created a 3000 word list of keywords and phrases, and thereby were able to get the website visited by millions on search engines -- 119,000 visitors downloading 63,000 coupons in just the first two months. And they can do the same thing for you!

That isn't the only example their success as a search engine optimization company -- they provide fantastic examples for a number of their clients. I'm really impressed by some of them.

Posted by: Greg at 11:10 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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I will never forget remember the computer tragedy I had in the spring of 2006. My darling wife and I lost everything in a split-second of electronic betrayal as my hard drive crashed, taking with it 120 GB of data with it. It literally could not be replaced because I had not taken the time to back it up.

Now I did buy a backup storage device a couple of weeks before, but I hadn't gotten it hooked up and running yet. But the truth is that I didn't really need it -- Online Storage is available at reasonable rates through iBackup.com. All that missing data would have been easily available to me, because you can drag and drop files to and from your computer. So drop by and check out the solution to your backup needs -- iBackup.com.

Posted by: Greg at 10:43 PM | Comments (13) | Add Comment
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What's the old song say? SantaÂ’s got lots of toys and goodies in his sleigh. Well, we know who foots Santa's gift bill and how he needs to stretch that Christmas budget. So since Santa will certainly be buying some of those gifts online, he need to remember to use CouponChief.com.

At Coupon Chief, you can find all sorts of great savings on gifts for the whole family. Around our house that means that I will need to find some Christmas goodies for my darling wife. Those favorite pajamas are looking a bit threadbare – maybe I can find something new for her here at Kmart! And then there is the dog who thinks she is a child. I bet she'd like something from Doctors Foster and Smith -- a new collar, leash, and some toys. So look at CouponChief.com for special savings from all your favorite online retailers!

Posted by: Greg at 06:17 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Kids love getting mail. It is a special treat. And when I was little I enjoyed getting Letters From Santa every Christmas. I remember sitting down to write my letter to Santa at the start of each December, and then getting a letter back a few weeks later. Wouldn't you love for your children to have such Christmas memories, with their very own personalized Letters From Santa?

Posted by: Greg at 11:21 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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One of the plays that I have always wanted to see is Sweeney Todd. It is an incredible story of revenge that is both entertaining and frightening at the same time. Well, I just took a few minutes to visit the official Sweeney Todd movie site to learn about the new movie starring Johnny Depp and directed by Tim Burton.

Now I'll be honest, this could be very interesting. As dark as Sweeney Todd is, it could conceivably contain one of the more chilling revenge scenes in film history. Currently, I'd have to say the best is the classic scene from the Godfather, where Michael Corleone takes out all his enemies as he stands at before the altar at the baptism of a child. While the child is washed clean by the sacrament, Corleone's organization -- including his own family -- is washed clean of betrayal through the varied, brutal murders of those who had betrayed his father and brother. The sunning contrast between holy and profane makes for a memorable act of revenge.

Sweeney Todd, of course, is all about a barber who is unjustly imprisoned. Upon release, he sets out to avenge himself and his wife and daughter, who suffered even more cruelly than he. He takes his revenge upon those he holds responsible, who are never seen again – while his lover bakes marvelous meat-pies to sell from her shop.

So take a couple of minutes and make friends with the Demon Barber of Fleet Street when you visit Sweeney Todd on MySpace. There may be fresh meat pies waiting!

Posted by: Greg at 11:05 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Now here is an interesting idea!

ShoppingAddicted.com is a blog that features product and store reviews. When you visit you will find reviews and tips on all sorts of different products, things like radar detectors, cell phones, digital cameras, and all sorts of other consumer goods.

You will also find links to other websites, ones that offer top deals on reviewed products.
ShoppingAddicted.com is also a blog with an attractive design, and it provides a user friendly experience.

Now this shopping guide blog is just getting started, and like all new blogs it needs traffic. Be sure to go and check it out. And if you are into ecommerce, you even purchase a review for your own website or products.

Want more details? Visit ShoppingAddicted.com to learn more.

Posted by: Greg at 06:44 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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I have to be honest with you -- I'd rather do just about anything than have to take out another loan. I don't like owing money if I don't have to.

But working where I do, I have any number of students who come from families with relatively little means, and that is how I first learned about the reality that is the payday loan. I mean, I hear about families facing the possibility of having the lights shut off or the car taken back because they don't have the cash to make a payment right now. In situations like that, a payday loan can be the difference between having what they need and losing what they have.

That's why folks that provide such loans exist. And with the advent of the internet, it is now possible to get payday loans online. We all know it is better not to have such a need, but when the need exists, it is good to know that there are options that exist to help meet those short-term financial needs.

Posted by: Greg at 11:06 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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I have always been fascinated by clocks and the telling of time. That fascination with time that led me to my fascination with both the past (history) and the future (science fiction).

I've owned many clocks over the years, most of them not of high quality. My favorite, is the one given to me to mark my fifth anniversary with my school district. It is a Howard Miller alarm clock, and it sits next to my bed. I love it – it is absolutely beautiful, and keeps excellent time. I'm still impressed by the quality, surprised that the district treated us all so well that year. And in return, I treat my clock well. I plan on keeping it a very long time.

Now I knew nothing about Howard Miller clocks when I opened the box at dinner that night, but my wife was quite impressed. I've since discovered that Howard Miller clocks are considered to be among the best in the world -- especially the Howard Miller grandfather clocks.

As my wife and I talk about redecorating, we are trying to make sure that we have a clock in the living room that will help to set the tone for the space and keep with the Old West/ranch house theme. Personally, I'm rather fond of this wall clock.

Posted by: Greg at 10:48 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Had I known about this program 25 years ago, I might have developed into a significantly better golfer who really enjoys the game instead of a high-handicap duffer. The Perfect Golf Swing is designed to teach anyone how to produce the perfect golf swing". One area that prevents most golfers from succeeding is hitting drives short instead of long distances – that was always my problem, and it is one of the big the reasons why the Perfect Golf Swing training program was created. It offers an easy to understand approach to hitting a golf ball and teaches you how the body should move to hit the ball consistently with power and accuracy. Maybe it is time to see if this old dog can learn some new tricks on the links.

Posted by: Greg at 06:51 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Do you need CRM software? Well if you do, AIMpromote is a fantastic on-demand lead management program. AIMpromote allows you to track every lead, trace every dollar, and check data on every business campaign in real-time, without having to wait for data to be gathered and reports generated -- because AIMpromote does it all for you! What more can a manager ask for in customer relationship management software?

One of the nice features about AIMpromote is that you don't need to spend a large number of man-hours configuring software for your company. AIMpromote sets it all up for you, configuring the program to your needs and providing your people with the training that they need to use the program. That is all as part of the cost of the program! You and I both know that is better than most other lead management programs. They sell you the program, and then charge you an arm and a leg for those little necessities that are essential to your business, like technical support. But AIMPromote even has dedicated support representatives to work with you in the event you have difficulties or concerns. What more could you ask for as a customer?

Not convinced? Try AIMPromote free for 14 days.

Posted by: Greg at 11:30 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Let's be honest about credit cards -- they are the avenue to so much information about us, and can be both a source of financial opportunity and financial danger. I mean, one need only consider the recent breaches of credit card security to realize that they can be the vehicle to so much of your personal information as to virtually strip you naked for the world to see, and to allow great financial mischief to be made in your life. On the other hand, many credit card issuers monitor for fraud and will contact you if they see strange transactions.

However, there are benefits to credit cards, in terms of finding an offer that will save you money by allowing 0% balance transfers or offering 0% interest credit cards. So if you do find credit card use to be necessary, it is a good thing to shop around for the best offers.

Posted by: Greg at 11:00 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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With the way interest rates have been moving during the past month, those seeking find home loans that may be in luck with all the different loans available on the market. With the market for homes being uncertain in many areas, there are many people who are looking to stay in their current homes for the time being and just take out small homeowner loans to fix up their existing residence. If you can get the right financing and time it just right, this can be a great investment when you are ready to sell your home at some point in the future. The important thing is to stay focused on one or two areas of the home and not overextend yourself, no matter how much more the bank may be willing to loan you than you had originally applied for. Indeed, it was this sort of overreaching which was one the triggers to the recent credit crisis and why so many people had to take out a debt consolidation secured loan in order to pay off credit cards and high interest loans that were taken out in better times.

You can easily get quotes for a refinance online that will allow you to get bids from several lenders that are competing for your business. So no matter what type of loan you are looking, from a bridging loan to secured loans, you can find them with plenty of competition for your business. One great place to start looking is NetLoans.co.uk, for all your lending needs.

Posted by: Greg at 10:44 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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I don't know about you, but I always enjoy going out to a local club and hearing a little band or a local singer who brings a little something extra to their music. And while my preference is for country music, that doesn't mean that I won't listen to something good in another genre.

But when the night is over you can't take that undiscovered artist home with you, can you? Maybe they have their own CD, but often times they don't.

That is where unsigned.com comes in. They've got music from some of those independent artists that play right in your backyard -- or maybe in your cousin's backyard, six states away. Maybe it is that country band that never quite hit it big in Nashville but has a local following in your neck of the woods. Or maybe you are into grunge, and want to hear the latest from that local band from Pittsburgh that guy on your buddy list was telling you about last week. Guess what -- you might just find them available for download. It is certainly a lot cheaper than a trip to Pittsburgh, isn't it? Plus you don't have to go to Pittsburgh. which most folks would consider to be a benefit in and of itself. So check out Unsigned.com for great music, any genre.

Posted by: Greg at 06:45 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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I just found some really neat software over the weekend. LogoCreator 5.0 is a great Logo Design package from Laughingbird Software, and IÂ’ve had a lot of fun playing around with it for various purposes.

What do I like about the software? Well, a number of things. First, it comes configured a number of different ways for customers, so you donÂ’t have to buy more than you need. If you are looking to do a business-like corporate logo, you could purchase the Corporate Edition and be quite happy with its 80 pre-designed templates. Similarly, you can get the Travel-and-Leisure edition, the Entertainment edition, the Sports Pak, the Spiritual Edition or Real Estate edition. They even have a mascot creator package! And, of course, they have the Mega Pack, which includes everything. ThatÂ’s what IÂ’ve been working with, and IÂ’ve been quite pleased.

For example, IÂ’ve been working on a possible new logo for my website. IÂ’m getting ready for the big Minx change-over here before the first of the year, and I want the site to look its best.

Yeah, I know it needs work – that quote is not quite right for me yet, and I’m debating how to incorporate it (if at all). But the entire process, including importing the graphic (which is a breeze) took less than 20 minutes. I’ve also worked on some things for my classroom with the software, and am more pleased with those results.

If you run a business, the cost of this software is incredible. Getting a professionally designed logo can really cost you – but for a fraction of the cost, you can design your own and have a logo (or mascot) that will leave you quite pleased.

Oh, and one other thing. I needed to ask some questions, and got great customer support – on a holiday weekend, no less!

Posted by: Greg at 04:10 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Looking to make inexpensive calls home for the holidays? Well PhoneCardsAvenue.com has a deal for you. They have great prices on phone cards for you -- both domestic and international phone cards -- so that you can save money on those long distance calls to loved ones.

All you need to do is visit their site, check out the available phone cards and the countries to which they are valid, pay online and receive the PINs online immediately.

What's more, they give great discounts on these cards -- they rebate 3% of your purchase back to you, so not only do you get great service, you also end up paying less than you would elsewhere. What a deal!

Posted by: Greg at 03:31 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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For me, sleeping problems can be devastating. After all, I have to wake up between 0400 and 0500 to get ready to head out to work, where my work day starts at 0700. If I don't sleep well at night, I am a wreck at school, and clearly not at my best.

I've tried prescription sleep aids in the past. They are a particularly bad choice for me, as I end up hung over until nearly noon when I use them. Besides, I have to be prepared to assist my wife overnight if she needs it, and a medication that knocks me into too deep a sleep makes that impossible.

I've tried over the counter med as well. All I'll say is that most have not worked for me. I've also modified my diet so that I don't do caffeine after noon.

That leads me to the issue of herbal supplements. I've not tried them out of concern about how they will impact my diabetes and blood pressure medication. However, I recently found out about one, Serenite, that is non-habit forming, does not cause drowsiness, and will not interfere with my other medications. Its ingredients include Avena sativa, Scuttelaria laterifolia, Passiflora incarnate, Coffea C30, Nux Vomica C30, eacheof which has positive benefits according to those knowledgeable in honmeopathy and herbalism.

Posted by: Greg at 08:26 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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I've mentioned the PAYjr Visa Buxx Card in the past. Well, now they have a new option for you if you have children under the age of 12 -- you can put the money your child earns for doing chores on a gift card from Target. That way you can teach the same lessons in responsibility, but with even more stringent limits on where the money is spent.

Posted by: Greg at 06:35 PM | Comments (15) | Add Comment
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Today, most new businesses need a web presence. It is just sort of expected – and really, it is a necessity if you are going to be successful. But who has the money to bring on a full-time staffer to serve as your webmaster? And are you really competent to do it yourself? I think you know the answers to both of those questions.

That is where you would do well to get in touch with the folks at AgentsOfValue.com. They can provide you with a virtual webmaster who will take care of your site for you. And for the person who needs secretarial assistance without the ability to afford a full-time executive assistant, they even can provide you with a virtual assistant who can do all your schedules, payments of bills, and correspondence for you. That way you can get the services you need without personnel you canÂ’t afford. That is a formula for business success.

Posted by: Greg at 03:25 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Just imagine it.

You need to replace the vehicle you are driving

You want to buy a decent, well-maintained used vehicle.

You need to look at a lot of good used cars to find the right one..

Then you need to look at car loans.

And you need to find insurance for it before you can drive it home.

I remember trying to deal with all three of those tasks the last time I bought a used car.

What would you say to one website that did it all?

Well, there is one -- NetCars.co.uk. What I find fantastic about it is how easy they make it to find just the right car. No wading through scads of ads -- you can look up just one make of car -- maybe a used Audi, for example, and be pinpointed to just those cars. There are pictures, even videos of the vehicles you want to see. How much easier could it be, especially when you can then arrange your financing and insurance right here? So if you are looking for a new-to-you used car in the UK, you really need to drop by and check out all that they have to offer you.

Posted by: Greg at 02:25 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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My wife and I have begun talking about returning to the site of our honeymoon -- Pigeon Forge, Tennessee -- while she is still mobile enough to get around without too much difficulty. So I've started to check out where we may be able to stay when we go back. That's when I found the site HotelsByCity.com, which is a Hotel Guide that has accommodations in over 500 cities listed on its website. I took a check and they were able to hook me up with at least 50 hotels in the immediate area! Indeed, they also have a great discussion of the available activities in the area, some of which we missed 12 years ago because we were "otherwise occupied".

Posted by: Greg at 06:55 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Would you like to help out someone with that old vehicle you have sitting in the garage, the driveway, or the backyard? You know, the one that you keep saying you are going to fix up, but has instead become a long-term project that you know in your heart is not going to get completed?

Well, one option for you is to donate that vehicle to a charity that will use it (or the proceeds from its sale) to help others. That is what CarAngel is all about -- taking your donated vehicle and touching the lives of others for Christ through that donation.

Now let's say that you wish to donate a car in your area. Simply by visiting the CarAngel website, you can arrange for car donations in the area wehre you live. And once you donate the car and CarAngel disposes of it, they will post the information at their site and enable you to get the appropriate IRS paperwork for your taxes next spring.

What does CarAngel do? They partner with a number of other organizations to provide literacy training, food assistance, prison ministry and other charitable activities. They help with relief programs for children in other countries. CarAngel even offer Free Children's DVDs to help spread the Good News. Personally, I am really moved by the prison and jail ministry that the group does – they have sent books with a positive spiritual and motivational message to inmates and prison libraries around the country. What a wonderful gift – promoting literacy and self-improvement among individuals who need help turning their lives around!

There are lots of groups out there taking car donations. Why not select one with a Christian mission? Consider CarAngel when you make your donation of a car, RV, boat or other vehicle to a charitable organization. You will not be sorry that you did so.

Posted by: Greg at 04:32 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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gift cards can be a great thing to give for the holidays. There is just one problem -- when you go to use them, do you really remember who they came from? Besides, they are often so limiting -- your gift card usually has to be spent at one store.

But GiftCardLab.com has a neat way of dealing with both of these problems.

1) They offer you the chance to put any picture you want on the gift cards you give. That way you can show off your smiling face, the house, a favorite picture of you and the recipient -- or even the family dog!

2) Their gift cards are VISA debit cards, so that money can be spent by the recipient anywhere.

Think about it -- personalization and flexibility. What more could you ask for in a Christmas gift?

Posted by: Greg at 03:45 AM | Comments (290) | Add Comment
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As a history teacher, I love places like St. Augustine. It has the feeling of someplace quite old – and it is, in fact, the oldest city in Florida. The Mission of Nombre de Dios was founded in 1565, and one of Napoleon's nephews even visited the 150 year-old walled houses of Old St. Augustine Village. I would just love to be able to spend an evening soaking up these historic sites in locations in a festive atmosphere!

St. Augustine hosts many special events during the year, including the St. Augustine Artwalk, which is a self-guided tour of the many artistic sites of the city on the first Firday of every month. Imagine the fun of a stroll through the scenic city, examining the many beautiful exhibits put on by the art galleries of St. Augustine, many of which are housed in historic buildings. A free shuttle is also available.

Here's how it works. Beginning at Rembrandtz Fine Gifts for Fun People, you can visit over 20 galleries to see the work of many fine artists who make the area their home. Artists like Peter O'Neill, Ray Brilli and Jean Troemel are often featured in these galleries, as are the works of many fine artists. If you enjoy art, history, and the beauty of a scenic town, this is certainly the event for you.

Posted by: Greg at 02:55 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Years ago (almost thirty, if you must know), I drove a Datsun B210 (I did say nearly thirty years ago) with a 4-on-the-floor transmission. Man, I loved that car, and the joy of shifting from gear to gear. There's just something about manual transmission that is more manly than automatic transmission -- know what I mean?

Well anyway, I was headed home from school when a buddy pulled up along side of me, ready to race from light to light (hey -- I was 16). The light went green, I hit the gas and popped the clutch -- and nothing happened. I swear -- someone's grandma on a walker had more get-up-and-go than that little Datsun did. The transmission was shot

That's when I first got to know AAMCO. My Dad and I took that little brown car in that afternoon, and by the following evening I had her back, good as new, with a shiny new transmission that served me well until my parents sold her when I was in college. And ever since then, I have made a point of having my transmission checked and serviced by them, never by anyone else. That includes the preventative maintenance work. I know that in one of their shops, I will get good service from qualified mechanics at a good price.

Well, now they are running some specials for you at their website, as well as at the AAMCO coupon site.

Posted by: Greg at 06:11 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Pepperdine University has become a leading educational institution on the West Coast over the last 35 years as it has expanded from a small college to a major university. Today Pepperdine degrees are respected and recognized as a sign of a fine education characterized by rigorous programs that are concerned with ensuring that graduates are ready for excellence in their field of study.

Among the programs for which Pepperdine University is noted is the School of Business, which is consistently ranked among the top programs in the country by folks as diverse as Forbes, US News and World Report, Leadership Excellence Magazine, Financial Times, and many others. Indeed, Financial Times listed the program as being among the top 50 in the world.

So if you are looking at MBA Programs as your next step towards success in your business career, PepperdineÂ’s Graziadio School of Business is one you ought to consider. They offer excellent programs for full-time students, part-time students, and business executives. Whether you are looking for a program where you are in-residence at the university or one that accommodates your full-time work schedule, Pepperdine University has a program that meet your needs available to you in California, many in the Los Angeles area, but some in other parts of California as well. So

Posted by: Greg at 05:00 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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Have you ever been on a site and had things go all screwy on you? I know I have, and it is frustrating -- especially when it involves a financial transaction. You always wonder if there is any way of getting an immediate answer to your question -- maybe speaking to a live person to get help or tech support -- but you know that such help is usually not available.

Well, over at BackgammonMasters.com, they have introduced a new Live Customer Support feature that will help you get assistance with problems or concerns you may have while playing on their site. This feature is available on all of their games, including backgammon, poker, perudo and blackjack. So if you are playing blackjack and you have a question, you can now slip out into the electronic lobby and answer a few questions to see if the automated support system can help you out, or you can call for a live person to answer your questions about the your concern with the
blackjack game immediately.

Now as I‘ve mentioned in the past, BackgammonMasters.com is an international site featuring games of skill available in twelve languages to accommodate players from around the world. And while the live customer support feature is currently available only in English, it will be rolled out in all languages once the feature has been fully tested.

Posted by: Greg at 03:55 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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I hear that the latest Stephen King movie is out in the theaters -- The Mist. Now I've not had a chance to see it yet, more have I seen any of the reviews. But I am familiar with the story upon which it is based, and have dropped by the website for the film to see what they have to say about it. And, of course, I've seen the pervasive advertising campaign for The Mist by Stephen King on television.

Of course, the story does spend a lot of time dealing with how people are changed by threatening situations. Indeed, you can learn a lot about a person by seeing how they react when subjected to the stress of a crisis, one where their life or safety might be on the line. I learned that when I was 18, and faced a really difficult situation with a couple of my friends, one in which we could have been seriously hurt or killed.

more...

Posted by: Greg at 06:56 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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It may come as a surprise to some folks, given that I am a public school teacher, but I am a firm believer that public schools are not the right answer for every student. Perhaps it is because I attended public, Episcopal, and Catholic schools while I was growing up, but I recognize that each of these settings -- along with many others -- are appropriate for different students. I certainly know that not every student in my classes belongs in a traditional classroom setting, and many need more individualized attention that they can get in a classroom setting. Add to that the fact that I have watched my cousin and her husband home school her nine children with fantastic results, and you will understand that I certainly don't fee threatened by parents who choose that route.

One issue that serves as an obstacle for some parents in choosing the home school option is the cost. I've seen many programs that are expensive. But today I ran across a K-12 Free Homeschool that offers a basic curriculum free of charge (except for a surprisingly small handling charge for materials). These are courses that can cost $250-$500 each from other suppliers.

Here's how it can be tuition-free. Various sponsors pay the costs for the program, and ask in return that families respond to questions, surveys and offers from those sponsors. There is no obligation to buy anything -- merely to provide honest feedback.

Of course, only the basic courses are free. Elective courses are available at a charge, as are the services of an online teacher to assist with instruction. Even then, the costs are reasonable, often less than these same services from commercial providers of home school material. If you would like to learn more, look at the K-12FreeHomeschool.org Course Catalog to find out more about the available courses. Please be aware that this program does have a strong Christian orientation.

Posted by: Greg at 02:45 AM | Comments (292) | Add Comment
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Folks, I can't believe that more students are not entering the first annual create-a-greeting-card $10,000 scholarship contest at The Gallery Collection. All you have to do is enter a photograph, artwork or computer graphic by January 15, 2008 and you have a chance to win this scholarship contest.

While you are there, you can look at the Christmas Cards, all occasion cards and holiday cards that they offer before you design, to give you an idea of the sorts of business greeting cards they publish. Oh, yes – make sure that you also visit The Gallery Collection to read the complete list of the official greeting cards scholarship contest rules and download the required application form.

Be creative! Enter the contest and do your best to win! Get your entry form filled out soon and design that special greeting card so you can have the chance to win a scholarship as well. Who knows – this may be the key to the college of your choice!

Posted by: Greg at 01:32 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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