Professional Women of NAPW Charleston Local Chapter Learn to Get Organized at Summer Networking Events

The NAPW Charleston Local Chapter met for several networking events this summer. The Chapter met at The Ice House this June in Summerville for a professional networking event. Members learned about the benefit of staying organized at home, at work, and even at play. The group also met for a Social Mixer at Accent on Wine to network and to discuss mutual business goals.

At the June meeting, Michelle Forrester, business owner of Style by Constantine, spoke about one of the most important components of her business: getting organized.

"Michelle organizes homes, small offices, filing, and storage systems, and computers. She has plenty of advice to offer on how we can all benefit from being organized," said Catherine.

Michelle described different levels of 'unorganized persons' and the way that poor organizat women's jackets ional skills can negatively impact a person's productivity, stress levels, and well-being. She explained that "hoarders" are Level 3 'unorganized' persons.

Michelle addressed all of the day-to-day details as well, giving the group pointers on how to organize their closets. To maximize one's wardrobe, she suggested keeping photos of clothing and accessories. "Photos are a fun way to organize your wardrobe, and mix and match outfits and accessories," she said.

Michelle went to school for interior design. She was a realtor and now focuses her practice in the real estate industry, helping realtors and other professionals be as efficient as possible.

The Local Charleston Chapter met for a social event in July at Accent on Wine in Summerville where members networked and discussed mutual business goals. They had a surprise guest, Wendell Nolan, CEO-Editor of The Sentinel News. The members explained the NAPW website and Wendell interviewed President Catherine Marshall for an article, which will be posted on The Sentinel website and in The Summerville Journal Scene.

"We had great turn out," Catherine said of the meetings. "Feedback and overall response was great." Planning for future events was a key focus of the meeting, as well as the Chapter's plan to implement a Board of Directors and various committees. Members expressed a strong desire to continue meetings, invite their friends and colleagues, and speak at future meetings.

Among the members in attendance during summer meetings were Carolyn Goodwine, Lauren Williams, Robin Giangrande, Virginia Rgers, Donna Vallone, Raquel Byrnum, Gigi Spires, and Michelle Forrester.

The National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) is the largest and most recognized network of female professionals. NAPW provides a forum where women can interact, exchange ideas, educate, network, and empower. NAPW Local Chapters allow members to maximize their experience through meetings, networking opportunities, and professional events.

For additional information regarding the NAPW Charleston Local Chapter and/or NAPW, please visit http://www.napw.com.

Follow NAPW on Facebook and Twitter.

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Style Tips for Autumn Winter Fashion

As the days grow shorter and you find yourself packing away your sunglasses for another season, don't mourn the sun… Celebrate autumn with a fabulous new wardrobe packed full of exciting styles you'll love wearing all the way through to spring.

To help you make fantastic choices for your wardrobe this season, the style experts at Bonmarche have 5 handy tips to help you choose your perfect autumn winter look.

1.    Don't Be Afraid of Colour

During the drab months of winter, it can be hard to feel inspired to wear colour. This season, embrace the rich shades of red, blue, teal and purple coming into a Bonmarche store near you!

Whether you're wearing a new skirt or a picking a plus size blouse for work, try one of the fabulous new styles in a range of inspiring colours and prints; perfect for smart and casual occasions.

2.    It's Never Too Late To Try Something New

When you've found your favourite look, it can seem daunting to try a new style or fit. This year, why not try a box pleated skirt instead of an A line skirt…or a fitted blouse instead of your favourite t-shirt? Bonmarche are proud to create plus size fashion designed to fit and flatter; so you'll look fantastic whether you're sporting an elegant new dress or relaxing in leisurewear. You may even surprise yourself and find a whole new you!

3.    When in Doubt…Accessorise!

If you've already picked your autumn winter wardrobe or you're working to a budget, why not try accessorising? We offer great value for money and for the price of a coffee; you can find yourself a fantastic new hat, scarf or gloves to match and co-ordinate with your favourite outfits. Bonmarche accessories come in a range of colours and styles and there is something for every occasion; be it a chiffon scarf for an evening out or a winter hat for a walk in the park.

4.    Make a Statement

Fashion is fun, so don't be afraid to make a statement with a bold fashion choice. Pick a printed top over a plain basic t-shirt and don't be wary of mixing patterns! Bonmarche have a great range of co-ordinated items in fabulous prints you'll love. Match up co-ordinating ladies tops and skirts for a striking all over look that will make a statement and ensure you are noticed and admired wherever you're going.

5.    Comfort is King

Comfort should always be top of your priorities and at Bonmarche, comfort and style are always at the forefront of the designers minds to ensure you're always happy with your fashion choices. With a fantastic range of comfortable fashion choices including ladies trousers with elasticated waists and plus size jumpers in soft fabrics; you'll always feel comfortable wearing ladies fashion from Bonmarche.

About Bonmarche

Bonmarché is the largest retailer catering for women aged 50 years plus in the United Kingdom. We pride ourselves on offering quality clothing with appropriate styling, g women's jackets reat value and in a wide range of sizes.

The Bonmarche fashion range includes casual and formal separates, outerwear, dresses, swimwear, lingerie, nightwear and accessories. Exclusive to Bonmarche are collections from couturier - David Emmanuel known for designing fabulous clothes for celebrities and the British Royal Family.

Find Bonmarché online at Bonmarche.co.uk where you can shop online for your favourite womens plus size clothing and have them delivered to your home or collect in store at one of our 268 stores nationwide.

Leaving-the-nest.com Sells Undergarment Subscriptions “Just In Time” for College

Leaving-the-nest.com is an internet startup business that specializes in providing clothing necessities and other essentials to sons and daughters when they spread their wings, leave the nest, and head off to start college or join the work force. This is a challenging time for many parents, who still want to help and provide for their children. Leaving-the-nest.com makes the transition a little easier by regularly delivering socks, underwear, t-shirts, camisoles, sports bras, toiletries and, of course, goodies to kids away from home. The system works like a magazine subscription - items selected are delivered throughout the year.

The timing of this parent-friendly business could not be better as literally millions of kids across the country are starting college. Students have flooded stores for back-to-school supplies, moved into their college dorms, attended their first college classes and commenced a new chapter in their lives. Even though these students are now ready to face the world on their own with their new found freedom and independence, their parents may not be ready to let go.

This is an emotional and exciting time for parents. Parents flashback to memories of the baby they carried home from the hospital in a tiny diaper; who grew into a curious, inquisitive, underoo-wearing toddler whose bare feet patrolled the house; and who changed entirely too-fast-too-soon into a teenager. Even though the time has come for their children to step foot into a new world outside of their immediate and day-to-day care, parents can still ensure that their children will not have to entirely fend for themselves. Leaving-thenest.com provides parents with an inexpensive and convenient way to provide their children with basic necessities. A subscription to Leaving-the-nest.com allows parents everywhere to rest assured that their kids are well-covered (in more ways than one!).

Not only will a subscription benefit children setting up their home away from home, but it will also help foster youth. Leaving-the-nest.com partnered with Just in Time for Foster Youth to help care for underprivileged and disadvantaged foster youths. Just in Time is a San Diego non-profit tha women's coats t provides resources for transitioning foster youth. Upon reaching 18 years of age, many foster youths are forced to start out on their own without the basic necessities a family might offer. Just in Time provides much needed volunteer-driven programs, gap services, school supplies, clothing and other assistance to help motivated foster youths stay off the streets and on their path to self-sufficient adulthood. Please visit http://www.jitfosteryouth.org for more information.

Leaving The Nest, Inc. will donate to Just in Time's Basic Needs program for every subscription purchased. It is the company's long-term goal to donate thousands of socks, t-shirts and underwear to former foster youths as the business grows.

Leaving-the-nest.com allows parents to take comfort in the fact that just because a child is out of sight he or she will never be out of mind or underwear.

About:
Leaving The Nest, Inc. is an online subscription based company that delivers quality socks, shirts, underwear and goodies from brands you know and trust at competive prices. The company just opened its business in the beginning of September. The company offers pre-set essential or custom subscriptions for men and women. For more information about Leaving The Nest, Inc., visit http://www.leaving-the-nest.com.

Fashionable Floridians Can Save Money and Support Domestic Violence Victims through Unique Trade-In Event

For 15 years, fashionable women across Florida have joined Patchington boutiques to help victims of domestic violence during Patchington's Semi-Annual Trade-In Event. This year's event runs from Tuesday, October 23th through Monday, October 29th. By bringing gently-used clothing to any Patchington location, customers receive up to $25 off each piece of comparable clothing they buy. Over 75,000 articles of clothing have been donated since the first Trade-In event was held. All items are donated to CASA and domestic violence shelters, which use them to support families in need.

Almost every man and woman knows someone who has been a victim of domestic violence. A woman is beaten every 15 seconds in the United States and four women die each day from abuse. Patchington is honored to help these women through its trade-in progra women's coats m and encourages women everywhere to take advantage of this opportunity to make a difference in a woman's life and claim this special discount.

Patchington's Trade-In event will be held in each of its 21 retail locations across Florida, with abuse-prevention agencies in each location benefiting from donations. Learn more about Patchington at http://www.patchington.com.

--- New Strides for Free People ---

The Free People brand, known for stocking an ever-popular assortment of shoes is creating its very own vintage-inspired footwear collection. The line of shoes, titled FP Collection, launches today with one heel and four boot styles, available on FreePeople.com and in 12 select stores country-wide.

Free People's shoe line features a rugged, worn, and tumbled look to complement its apparel. The starting point for the collection was hand-finished artisanal leathers that over time age, wear, and patina. One will find leathers full of texture and unique distressed effects recreating a vintage look with a modern lux twist. To further brand the pieces, the bottom soles display a Free People logo.

"Footwear seemed a natural next step for Free People," says Sheila Harrington, Free People's Director of Merchandising. "FP Collection features unique washes and a rugged feel, so customers can get the Free People look from head to toe. We're extremely excited to introduce the line and plan to continue to grow and women's jackets expand the assortment."

FP Collection embraces the relaxed, tougher side of Free People. The Landmark Boot laces up to the knee while the Heartworn and Sunbelt styles have a slouchy silhouette. Even heeled styles such as the Spellbound Boot and the Leighton Metal Tip Heel are designed to have an edgy aesthetic, with burnt leather and steel-tip toes respectively. Each style is designed to pair back seamlessly to Free People apparel.

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About Free People
Free People is a specialty clothing brand featuring the latest trends and vintage collections for women who live free through fashion, art, music and travel. The bohemian look consists of quality apparel, shoes, and accessories that invoke attributes of femininity, spirit, and creativity with its design. Free People is distributed globally via direct channels such as the Free People US site and Free People UK site, as well as specialty boutiques, top department stores, and the brand's own free standing retail locations in the U.S. and Canada.

Tax Write Offs For Canadian Real Estate Investors

Part One:

My Dad's accountant always tells him that it's not a bad thing to have to pay taxes because it means you are making money. I have no problem paying what's owed to the government, but I will do everything I can to make sure I am paying ONLY what is owed. After nearly eight years of building a multi-million dollar real estate portfolio I've learned a few pointers to minimize taxes on residential real estate investments.

Let's start with the basics. As a real estate investor, you will pay tax on the rental income you earn on the property as well as on any capital gains when you sell. The amount of tax you pay on rental income can be reduced dramatically by expenses such as maintenance, property management, capital cost allowance (depreciation), interest on your mortgage (but not the principal pay down), and other money spent to run your property. In another edition we will come back to some of the elements above. For this edition, let's focus in on the second major area you will pay tax on, and that is on Capital Gains when you sell your investment.

A Capital Gain occurs when you sell your property for more than you paid for it. You do not realize your capital gains until you sell.

To calculate your capital gain take the:

Money from the sale of your property

SUBTRACT

Costs of disposition (real estate agent fees, lawyers etc.)

SUBTRACT

What you paid for the property.

You will owe tax on 50% of the amount from the above calculation if the resulting number is positive (a capital gain). This amount gets added (or subtracted if it's a net loss) to your personal income and you are taxed accordingly.

If the property you are selling is your principal residence, then it is exempt from tax. According to Canada Revenue Agency, a property qualifies as your principal residence if in that year of filing:

* you acquire only to get the right to inhabit

* you own the property alone or jointly with another person

* you, your current or former spouse or common-law partner, or any of your children lived in it at some time during the year

* and, you designate the property as your principal residence.

Now, what if you live in the home for a few years, and then move out and rent it out for a few years as I did with the condo that I owned in Toronto? In that situation, the answer for me was that the condo could still be considered my principal residence for four years after I changed it's use. The catch is that I could not claim capital cost allowance on the condo, nor could I claim any other property as my principal residence at the same time. For me, this choice was easy because I moved into a property Dave and I already owned and had been treating as a rental property from the accounting sense of things. It was easier to keep the condo as my primary residence and continue to treat my new "home" as a rental property for accounting purposes. It's important to note that you and your significant other (including common law or same sex partner) cannot own two principal residences at the same time for tax purposes. You must choose one during the over-lapping period.

It's complicated and that is why my husband and I have accountants that we consult with on a regular basis to get the best advice.

PART TWO:

It felt like I won the lottery at tax time last year. My cheque from the government was five figures. I am not bragging about this, because the reality is that the sale of my Toronto Condo happened at a net loss to me after real estate agent fees and our Toronto women's coats tri-plex cost us almost $30,000 last year in unexpected repairs. So, the money I got from the government didn't come close to easing the financial pain I experienced in 2006, but it did make me glad they were investments and not solely my homes. Had they been only my homes, that money would have been gone for good.

So, how can you maximize the tax write offs from real estate investments? Personally, I always consult my accountant. In over 15 years of using an accountant, I have only once paid him more than I have gotten back from the government. But, I don't just rely on him, I do have a decent understanding of what qualifies as current and capital expenses.

First, the definitions. An easy way to think of a CAPITAL EXPENSE is that it provides a lasting benefit and improves the property beyond it's original condition as most renovations do. If it's a separate asset like a new stove or fridge then it can usually be treated as a capital expense. Typically these expenses are significant (in the thousands of dollars). Usually these expenses must be deducted over several years versus current expenses which usually get fully deducted in the year they are incurred.

Some examples of capital expenses include:

* The purchase price of rental property,
* Fees associated with the purchase of the property such as legal fees,
* Purchase of furniture or appliances to go in the property,
* The addition of a deck to the property, or the addition of another bathroom.

A CURRENT EXPENSE is generally something that repairs the property to its original condition, for example a coat of paint or repairing stairs. The expense is usually one that recurs on a regular basis and provides a short term benefit. Some common current expenses include:

* Costs of renting the property out (property manager, advertising, cleaning costs),
* Insurance on the property,
* Interest on your mortgage (note that your principal repayment is not deductible),
* Maintenance and repairs that restore the property or item to it's original condition,
* Property taxes,
* Your hired help: accounting fees, property manager fees, cleaning people's wages, consultants, lawyers),
* Utilities,
* Travel costs to collect rent, view or work on the property (note that this includes transportation costs but not typically lodging or food),
* And office expenses that are directly related to your investment (things like long distance fax charges and telephone bills we have expensed but pens and paper we have not, although you can if it's directly related to your investment activities).

THE DISCLAIMER: We do not have any legal training, nor do we have extensive accounting training. We are not experts and we always consult with our accountants and legal counsel before we make decisions. We pay money to get quality advice when we need it and always advise our friends, family and readers to do the same.

Top 5 Manufacturers of Medical Uniforms

From scrub suits, to a nurse uniform up to a doctor's coat, every uniform has its name and pride. All hospital workers, medical schools, and even care givers are required to wear designated uniforms.

All hospital workers, medical schools, and even care givers are required to wear designated uniforms. All the manufacturers started from small businesses that made it big through the help of the Internet and some assistance from their friends.

1. The Silkroad Textiles, Inc is known in offering affordable scrub suits and fashionable styles. They assure that the customers will have their highest degree of attention and concern. All the confidence of the hospital or individual will not be misplaced and they will make every effort in order to meet the expectations, commitments and budget restrictions of the facility. They are based in the United States of America and have manufacturing operations in Pakistan. They were established last 2004 and their main market is North America. The total annual sales of the company are below US$1 Million.

2. The Apple care Enterprises makes and sells high quality and fashionable scrub suits and medical uniforms. They are currently based in the Philippines but can accommodate in sell onto other countries as well. They accept wholesale or retail buying. They have a less than 5 employees and can obtain an annual sales volume of less than US$ 1 million. They were established last 2001 and its main market is in Southeast Asia.

3. Power scrubs are selling suits for foreign and local markets. Their products are manufactured in the Philippines. They have a variety of cotton materials like that of Japanese, Thai, Italian and Chinese cottons. Some of their fabrics are made from polyester cotton combination. They a have a wide range of designs that would range from solid colors to that of printed creation. They have the following colors available:
? Blue
? Red
? teal green
? salmon
? pink gray
? royal blue
? midnight blue
? chocolate brown
? old rose
? baby blue
? powder pink
? pink passion
? green
? khaki
? Cream and many other colors.

Some of their fabrics have cartoon characters printed on it, making it applicable for pediatric wards or anywhere else in the hospital. Sizes of their suits vary widely from the available sizes of extra small, small, medium, large and extra large. Adjustable length is also available for people who want a larger or smaller size. They are flexible on their client's request and ideas. It is being sold at US $ 13 up to US $15per set, if within Metro Manila. Shipping charges will be given accordingly and discounts are given for bulk orders.

4. The Simply Elegant Fashions creates medical scrub suits even bridal gowns and foram evening gowns. Their origin started from women's coats 1989 but is fast becoming a well known local market for formal and evening gowns. This is after the expansion of their service last 2003. They have started making some medical scrub suits in some clients in North America and Europe. They have 11 up to 50 employees and their main market is mainly in Southeast Asia. They have an annual sales volume of US $1 million up to US $2.5 million.

5. Shaoxing Caihong Garments Limited is a manufacturer of the following:
? hospital clothing
? gowns
? scrub suits
? medical lab coats
? surgeon's gowns
? patient's nightwear
? nurse's uniforms
? hospital textiles
? Sheets & Pillow Cases
? Blankets
? Towels
? Baby Wraps
? Laundry Bags
? Hospitality Related Textiles
? Dressing Gowns
? Aprons, Duvet Covers
? Drapes
? Leggings
? Bath Mats and many others more.

They employed about 101 up to 500 people and it is based on Shanghai, China. Their main markets are North America, Oceania and Western Europe. Their reported total annual sales volume is US$2.5 up to US$5 million, as well as the export percentage of their products is 91 up to 100%.
Medical scrub suits are part of a medical health professional's daily uniform. It is very critical for a person working on hospital to have at least 3 sets. These uniforms also represent the hospital and the department they are assigned to.

Is It Time to Kick Your Butt Into Gear and Get Healthier?

It's Your Year - Are you ready to live healthier? If you've been living at less than optimum health, now is the time to kick your butt into gear! Whether you're looking to lose weight, eat better, stop smoking, or enjoy more energy, these seven steps for success will help you stay positive, stay motivated, and be on your way to the more fulfilling, active life that you know you can achieve.

Just one note: this is not another 'new' quick fix diet and exercise plan. If you're sick and tired of being presented with plans that promise you enormous benefits with little or no effort, then you're starting with the right attitude - and this is the plan for you. This is not another gimmick, miracle pill or secret plan. This is like getting specific directions to put you right on the path to your health and fitness goals. This plan is easy to implement -- just spend a few minutes following the surprisingly easy steps. This method will direct you and help convince you to improve your health and your life, even on the tightest of schedules.

Now that you're ready to take control of your health and kick your butt into gear, read on for the Seven Steps for Success! You'll want to get a pen and paper ready to do a little planning.
Ready? Let's kick your butt into ge women's coats ar!

Step 1: Decide & Commit
The first step toward better health and fitness involves nothing more than making a serious commitment and a promise to yourself to change some aspect of your lifestyle to become healthier. This means determining what is holding you back from being as healthy as you want to be, and then committing to making the changes necessary to actually follow through with those changes.

To do that, you first have to decide for yourself that right now you choose to start living a more healthy life. Once you've made the commitment to improve your health, you've got to figure out exactly how you will proceed. When you decide and commit to your goal, it's important to make it specific -- huge general goals are too difficult to follow through on. Start with one area of your fitness to focus on - whether it's exercise, eating less fast food, or whatever habits you've formed that you feel are detrimental to your overall health. Once you commit to one specific goal, don't be surprised if other healthy living practices just fall into place naturally!

Step 2: Pinpoint Your Health Disappointments
Once you've made your commitment to change, it's time to get down and dirty. Examine your lifestyle and determine why you want to make changes. The fact that you are reading this shows that you are motivated to change - so what have your health drawbacks been? Have you, for whatever reason, found yourself unable or unwilling to see a health goal through to the end? Do you have a low energy level? Are you unable to keep up with your kids? Do you find you have just enough energy to make it through the day and fulfill your present commitments, then drag yourself home?

The key here is to be brutally honest and pinpoint the exact causes of your health disappointments. Take that piece of paper and a pen, and write them down. No one enjoys dealing with disappointment, but by taking a few minutes to face yours head-on, you're putting yourself in a position to acknowledge the reasons behind your disappointments. When you do this, you're able to discover what you want to change and understand why you want to change it.

Step 3: Preview
Step 2 was a bit unpleasant, but Step 3 is a lot more fun! Now is when you get to take the time to preview what your life will become when you start living a healthier lifestyle. Actually visualize yourself running through the park with your kids, looking lean in clothes you were never comfortable wearing before, taking that skiing or hiking trip you've been putting off, or spending your evenings enjoying life rather than heading for the couch to nap after work.

This is your chance to spend several minutes thinking about how you'll feel when you're happy and healthy. Visualize the day when you're fit and energized, and the old days of carrying excess weight and feeling lethargic are just memories. And keep in mind, this isn't a dream - it's a preview of the reality to come. Just as you did with Step 2, write down the preview that is in your mind, paying special attention to the things you'll do, the way you'll feel, and the impact it will have on your life and the lives of your loved ones.

Step 4: Develop Your Plan of Action (You Know More than You Think!)
Now that you've developed an understanding of where you are, why you want to change, and how your life will improve, it's time to start putting those thoughts and concepts into action. One common mistake that many of us make is the tendency to just dive into the quickest, most accessible "diet" or "fitness plan." Before taking off, it's important to develop a plan of action designed specifically for your lifestyle. There are plenty of resources that can fill in the gaps of information. The most important of these is your physician. Schedule an appointment to discuss your plan with your doctor, and get his or her feedback to ensure that your plans are safe.

There are many other resources available as well, including local experts, dietitians, and instructors. The Internet is filled with plenty of quality resources as well, including Web MD, Real Life on Yahoo!, The Real Age online site, Discovery Health, That's Fit on AOL, the American Council of Sport Medicine, and many others. Just make sure to avoid fly-by-night gimmicks and stick to the resources that are tried and true.

Type of Woods and Their Characteristics

There are other woods that are widely used besides these oak, walnut, mahogany and satinwood. Let us have a look at these uncommon woods and their appearances and their uses in our daily life.

While oak, walnut, mahogany and satinwood are recognized by most people, and one or more of them is present in almost every home, there are a large number of other woods used by cabinet-makers in the past that are not so easily identified. To describe them in words so that they can be named positively is not possible, but a general indication of their appearance and uses may be helpful.

Amboynas
A wood from the West Indies with a distinctive burr, looking like closely curled hairs over the light brown surface. It was used in the form of veneer.

Cedar
The harder varieties of this wood, known as Red Cedar, were used for making the linings of drawers in some better-quality eighteenth- and nineteenth-century furniture. It is not to be confused with the spongy open-grained cedar used for making cigar-boxes, which it resembles in sharing the same pleasant smell.

Ebony
A black wood of very closes grain and heavy in weight, which was popular for veneering at the end of the seventeenth century. Later, it was used in inlay and especially for the dark lines in stringing.

Elm
Somewhat similar in appearance to oak, this wood was in use during the seventeenth century and later. It is as hard as oak, but it tends to twist with age and is susceptible to woodworm.

Hare wood
The veneer of the sycamore, stained a grey colour, was called 'hare wood' in the eighteenth century. It has pleasing rippled markings, and was popular either as a veneer or for use in inlaying.

Lignum vitae
It is a hard heavy West Indian wood, of a dark brown colour with black markings. It was used occasionally as a veneer, but was principally made into bowls and cups, and similar pieces. Maple. The American 'bird's eye' maple has small markings all over its yellow-brown surface, and was popular during the nineteenth century. It was used particularly for veneering picture frames, but is found also on furniture.

Rosewood
It is an East Indian wood with a close grain and distinctive blackish lines on a brown ground. Although it was in use during the eighteenth century, it became widely popular during the nineteenth both as a veneer and in the solid when it was imported also from Brazil. It is a heavy timber, and chairs made from it are often found to have been broken from their own weight when carried.

Yew
The familiar tree of English churchyards makes a wood of a medium brown colour used sometimes in the solid and also for veneers. Furniture using either type is much sought after, and when found is usually expensive.

Papier-mache
This material, an imitation of wood, was made in England from the second half of the eighteenth century. The more usual method of making it was women's jackets to stick layers of paper together and leave them to dry, either flat or in moulds. The article was rubbed down until smooth and then painted several times and decorated; each layer of paint was baked gently in an oven to harden the coat and produce the final high gloss. Trays and tea-caddies were among the earliest articles made from papier-mache, but during the nineteenth century small tables, chairs and even bedsteads, were also produced.

In the above we can know how these woods appear and how they can be helpful. Some of these are more expensive than those oak, walnut, mahogany and satinwoods.

Christmas Gifts - Top 5 Gifts for Kids

The holiday season is coming up, and it's a busy time for everyone. One of the most critical things we have to do to get ready is to shop for gifts, which isn't always easy. We have to rack our brains and search diligently for the perfect gift for family, friends, and co-workers. Luckily, for most adults, if we can't think of anything else, we have the option of falling back on the gift card idea. But for the children in your life, you usually need to get something a bit bigger. After all, opening an envelope to get to a card isn't nearly as fun as tearing open the wrapping paper around a nice present!

If you have no idea what to get your kid recipients this year, take a look at these never-fail suggestions. These include gift ideas, and ways to make each present more personal for individual children.

Games and Toys

This may seem like an obvious answer to the gift-giving question, but I would suggest staying away from the simpler objects. Get toys that have some kind of educational value or that can be played with other children, so that the child can increase their own social skills. For older children, you could select things like the game of Scrabble, or a (more educational or interactive) video game. If you've got a much younger child to get a gift for, choose something that could help teach them how to spell, or how to distinguish between colors. You can feel good about giving these kinds of toys and games. Not only will the child have fun with your gift, but you could also see the item's benefit later in life when they are intelligent and well adjusted.

Stuffed Animals

Plush animals are a favorite of many children, and can really be a particularly great gift. Most children love to collect them, and they're great to play with and keep close at night. Who among us hasn't had a stuffed animal to sleep with at night during some point in our childhood? And you may not realize it, but a plush toy can be educational as well, especially when it comes to younger children. When you get a realistic stuffed version of a real animal, the child will began to learn the features that animal has and will soon be able to identify it correctly in the wild or somewhere else. So they can have fun playing with them, and also increase their knowledge base. Also, the popularity of stuffed animals cannot be denied with the hype over such movies such as Madagascar and The Lion King. For example, get the child a stuffed lion, and they will soon have their very own "Simba." Or, maybe you know that the child wants a pet, but their parents aren't ready to get them one quite yet. Get them an authentic appearing stuffed dog or plush cat. That could be their first step in really understanding the animal, and learning how to take care of something.

Arts & Crafts, and Books

T women's jackets his can be another great idea. Even if the child isn't a little artist, practically all children enjoy such things as coloring books. It's not too difficult for them, but still lets them really use their creativity. Both books and arts & crafts can help inspire imagination and ingenuity. You might be surprised by what they can create! Take them from simply watching cartoons to maybe creating a cartoon of their own! As for books, they also can inspire the imagination and the creative side of the brain. Teach them new things, and increase their reading skills in a way that is still fun!

Clothing

It seems like every time we turn around, the children in our life have grown another inch. They've probably outgrown last year's winter clothes, which is why getting them a coat or a hat and mittens could be a great gift. And it may seem rather conservative for a child's gift, but it can be fun for them too. Get them clothing in their absolute favorite color, or a piece of clothing that resembles something from their favorite cartoon or movie.

Candy

Although not as personal as a plush toy, candy can also be a successful gift for children. Just make sure you know about any allergies they have, so you know what foods to avoid!

So remember, combine the educational and practical with fun, and you'll soon have the perfect gift!

Type of Woods and Their Characteristics

There are other woods that are widely used besides these oak, walnut, mahogany and satinwood. Let us have a look at these uncommon woods and their appearances and their uses in our daily life.

While oak, walnut, mahogany and satinwood are recognized by most people, and one or more of them is present in almost every home, there are a large number of other woods used by cabinet-makers in the past that are not so easily identified. To describe them in words so that they can be named positively is not possible, but a general indication of their appearance and uses may be helpful.

Amboynas
A wood from the West Indies with a distinctive burr, looking like closely curled hairs over the light brown surface. It was used in the form of veneer.

Cedar
The harder varieties of this wood, known as Red Cedar, were used for making the linings of drawers in some better-quality eighteenth- and nineteenth-century furniture. It is not to be confused with the spongy open-grained cedar used for making cigar-boxes, which it resembles in sharing the same pleasant smell.

Ebony
A black wood of very closes grain and heavy in weight, which was popular for veneering at the end of the seventeenth century. Later, it was used in inlay and especially for the dark lines in stringing.

Elm
Somewhat similar in appearance to oak, this wood was in use during the seventeenth century and later. It is as hard as oak, but it tends to twist with age and is susceptible to woodworm.

Hare wood
The veneer of the sycamore, stained a grey colour, was called 'hare wood' in the eighteenth century. It has pleasing rippled markings, and was popular either as a veneer or for use in inlaying.

Lignum vitae
It is a hard heavy West Indian wood, of a dark brown colour with black markings. It was used occasionally as a veneer, but was principally made into bowls and cups, and similar pieces. Maple. The American 'bird's eye' maple has small markings all over its yellow-brown surface, and was popular during the nineteenth century. It was used particularly for veneering picture frames, but is found also on furniture.

Rosewood
It is an East Indian wood with a close grain and distinctive blackish lines on a brown ground. Although it was in use during the eighteenth century, it became widely popular during the nineteenth both as a veneer and in the solid when it was imported also from Brazil. It is a heavy timber, and chairs made from it are often found to have been broken from their own weight when carried.

Yew
The familiar tree of English churchyards makes a wood of a medium brown colour used sometimes in the solid and also for veneers. Furniture using either type is much sought after, and when found is usually expensive.

Papier-mache
This material, an imitation of wood, was made in England from the second half of the eighteenth century. The more usual method of making it was women's jackets to stick layers of paper together and leave them to dry, either flat or in moulds. The article was rubbed down until smooth and then painted several times and decorated; each layer of paint was baked gently in an oven to harden the coat and produce the final high gloss. Trays and tea-caddies were among the earliest articles made from papier-mache, but during the nineteenth century small tables, chairs and even bedsteads, were also produced.

In the above we can know how these woods appear and how they can be helpful. Some of these are more expensive than those oak, walnut, mahogany and satinwoods.

10 Tips To Help Women Stay Fit & Healthy in 2008

Here are 10 tips for women to stay fit and healthy:

1. Staying fit and healthy starts with a balanced diet. Know and monitor the right weight for your age. Consult your doctor to learn what food you should avoid and follow your eating discipline routines. If you are trying to lose some weight, foods with high calories should be omitted from your meals. Food with high fiber and low fat should be included a priority in your grocery list instead of red meat, sugars and fats.

2. Drink plenty of water. Drinking at least eight glasses of water everyday. This cleanses the body from impurities. It is also advised for lactating women to increase water intake to keep the body hydrated. Water also helps to keep sinuses clear and is a natural antioxidant. It can also increase muscle tone and strength.

3. Take Vitamins and Supplements. Do not forget your Calcium supplement. Sufficient Calcium intake is beneficial for women of all ages. This has been proven to prevent having cramps and Pre-Menstrual Period (PMS) Symptoms. It also prevents Osteoporosis especially for menopausal women. Vitamin E boosts strong immune system. Women who undergo menopausal period should take Vitamin E-400 as it stops night sweats and hot flashes. Also, Vitamin E is said to be best in avoiding wrinkles when aging.

4. Quit smoking. If you are smoking, stop. It is also a big "NO" for pregnant women, as this will affect the health of the baby. Pregnant women who smoke may pass the harmful content of cigarettes to babies through the bloodstream. Recent studies have shown that women smokers are more prone to diseases than men smokers. Women who smoke have a high risk of getting breast cancer. Also limit your alcohol intake.

5. Incorporate exercises in your daily routine. Take a walk after work, use stairs instead of elevator or play with your kids when you are at home. Home exercises are also effective especially when you do not have time to go to the gym and would like to lose some weight. Tae-Bo and jumping rope are only a few of the many effective exercises you can do at home. Exercises help in limiting the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

6. Avoid stress. Many women are prone to too much stress. Stress has been known as cause to many sicknesses. As much as possible take time to relax. Read a good book, hang out with friends and engage into sports. Pamper yourself by going to parlors or you can do some shopping. And do not forget to get enough sleep to revive your energy. Set a bed time each night and stick to it in 2008!

7. Use sunscreen to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Wear hats when under the sun to protect your skin. Too much sun is bad for your skin. The skin is prone to cancer when exposed to too much sunlight. It also speeds up the aging of skin cells, which causes wrinkles to women. When swimming, consider buying a surfers swimwear from a sporting goods store, especially if you are in the water daily for many hours.

8. Make sure to visit your dentist to keep that beautiful smile. Always have it cleaned to prevent cavities and bad breath. Use a mouthwash daily. Mouthwash may also help prevent cold sores if used regularly.

9. Visit your Gynecologist. Women who are eighteen and above should have their Physical Examination annually especially for the Pap Smear test. Co-enzyme Q-10 is essential to help prevent breast cancer and it can be found in many better vitamins.

10. Find a truly wonderful liquid Multivitamin. Liquid multi-vitamins have a 90% better absorption rate. Always begin your day with your vitamins. women's coats Here's to your best health women in 2008!

Giving Your Dog a Home Spa Treatment

Taking your pet to the spa can be very expensive and time consuming, but you don't have to pay big bucks to get your dog into a special spa. In fact, you can do your own spa treatment right at home. It's a great way to bond with your dog and since most dogs prefer to hang out with their own humans, this is something that your dog is bound to enjoy.

What You'll Need

There are a few essentials that you'll need in order to give your canine friend a good experience. Items such as a comb or brush, shampoo and towels are all a very necessary part of bathing your pet. However, these are just the basics. To make the at home spa treatment something different from a normal b women's coats online ath, here are a few items that will make the whole experience better.

- Lavender scented conditioner. Make sure it's formulated for dogs and don't try using human conditioner which can burn sensitive skin.
- Music. Most pets really enjoy music and this can have a calming effect on both of you.
- Detangler spray. This is very helpful if your dog has long hair that tends to mat in the bath.
- Removable shower head. This allows you to easily rinse your dog without having to dump buckets of water on him.
- Knee pads. These will keep your knees from getting sore as you kneel by the tub.
- Non-slip bath mat. To prevent slipping and sliding, your pet can stand on the bath mat.

These extras will help your dog truly enjoy his spa treatment and it will make things easier on you, as well.

Tips for a Successful Spa Session

- Start with a massage. Get your dog nice and relaxed by stroking him and then lightly massaging his back and sides. Start lightly and then increase the pressure to where your dog seems happy. Watch for the sensitive area where the hips join the body, this can be rather ticklish.
- Keep treats handy. This is a pampering experience, so be sure to have some of your dog's favorite treats on hand. Throughout the session, compliment him on his great behavior and give him a treat.
- Use conditioner to add shine. One of the great things about a spa treatment is that your pet's coat is bright and shiny afterwards. The best way to get this professional look is with a good conditioner and then spritz a high shine spray over his fur as you brush him out.
- Don't use a blow dryer. While it may seem faster, the heat can be too much for the sensitive skin of your pet. It's best to simply dry your dog with a big fluffy towel instead.
- Brush first. This will ensure that the extra hair will end up in the brush or mitt, rather than your tub drain. Since most dogs tend to shed, even if you've done a thorough brushing, it can be useful to get a drain trap. This is simply a small bowl made of metal screening that sits in the drain, catching anything that threatens to go down. You can just lift it out and clean it later, without having to deal with clogged drains.

Giving your pet a home spa treatment can be a wonderful way to spend some quality time together. The end result is pretty nice, too. You'll have a sweet smelling dog who will be thrilled that you took the time to spend with him. Most animals are also calmer after a soothing treatment that includes aromatherapy (the lavender conditioner or spray) and music, along with a massage.

Bully Threatens New American Citizen

Vitya was a 40 year old Russian immigrant to the United States. He had lived in a midsized the Midwestern City for over 6 years. He worked in a factory not far from his home. He was granted citizenship in this country and was proud to be an American Citizen. After living in tyranny in the Soviet Union most of his life, he was grateful to be in a country where he could be himself. He lived in a decent neighborhood full of hard working people.

Most of them accepted him as another American in search of his dream. Because they shared some of the same values, he was a perfect fit to his community. It was a neighborhood that looked after the people who lived there. Vitya was a pea fashion jackets ceful man who had lived through decades of persecution and violence in the Soviet Union.

On the street where he lived, was one person who always caused trouble for Vitya. He seemed to have a problem with anyone that was not born in the United States and he did not mind showing it. He would often pitch insults at Vitya. He called him Rusky and many times told him to go back to where he came from. He would even send his dog out to chase him when he walked by his house. The guy had real issues, which were escalating out of control.

Once he even threw a bottle at Vitya. Vitya tried to ignore him, because he knew the rest of the neighbors were on his side. As a matter of fact, they did not care for the guy either. They saw him as just a bully causing trouble in an otherwise peaceful community. One day Vitya was walking down the street when he was approached by the bully. He had obviously been drinking. He said I am going to show you how America really works Rusky.

He pulled a club from under his coat and started to swing at Vitya. Vitya move around trying to dodge the club, but the guy kept swinging. A number of the neighbors were watching and some had already called the police. They were a tight knit group, because most of them worked in the same place.

They were not about to let one of their own get hurt. Some of the neighbors came to help Vitya. They surrounded the guy and he tried to use the club on them. They were bound and determined to hold this guy until the police arrived.

They were finally able to tackle the guy and keep him under control until the police arrived. They arrested him for assault. He still lives on the street and vows to get even with Vitya and the others someday. The neighbors go on with their lives, but they keep a close eye on him. They look forward to the day when this guy leaves the community.

Some people find reasons to dislike others if they are different. It is not just limited to the United States; it is worldwide. The United States is a melting pot of mostly hard working people from all over the world. You may have some bullies living in your neighborhood right now. Have a plan to defend yourself if violently approached.

The Connection Between Diet, Gray Hair And Baldness

Sizzling right out of a dozen laboratories has come the news-flash that lack of certain vitamins causes hair to turn gray and that these same vitamins can restore its color.It is such a brand new discovery that it is not yet positive how these beauty vitamins affect human beings.

In the usual course of nutrition research, discoveries are first tested on animals and then applied to man. Already the anti-gray hair vitamins have proved their potency in restoring color to the graying fur of foxes, dogs and rats. The next step is to try them on human beings.

No scientist will at this writing promise that vitamins will bring back the color to your gray hair or prevent its turning gray. They merely say they don't know. Nevertheless, though cagily noncommittal in public, scientists shed their caution when they're alone among their test tubes. Plenty of scientists are gray-haired, if not venerable, and a number of them are human enough to have taken their own gray hair medicine. Scattered reports have drifted out of the cloisters indicating that certain vitamin concentrates have succeeded in darkening the color of prematurely graying human hair.

There is still some dissension as to the exact vitamin that works these miracles, but it is certain that it is one or perhaps several factors of the miraculous B complex. The important thing is that, even though not specifically identified, the food sources of the factor are well known and easily available to anyone.

One of the first reports on the gray hair vitamins came out of the laboratories of Dr. Agnes Fay Morgan of the University of California just a few months ago. A strain of blac fashion coats online k-coated rats was fed a diet that included liberal amounts of four purified B vitamins: thiamin, riboflavin, nicotinic acid, and pyridoxine. In six to eight weeks the black hair of the rats began to turn gray. They ceased to grow and died within six to eight months. Their personal appearance was most unhappy; they looked like emaciated centenarians with loose, baggy skin and sparse gray hair.

This was exciting to all concerned except the rats. The animals didn't know what they were missing and neither did the scientists, but obviously it wasn't the four B vitamins. These had been obtained in the customary way by shaking water solutions of yeast, liver or rice bran with Fuller's earth.

The filtrate that remained after this process of separation obviously contained another vitamin or vitamins. This was satisfactorily proved when the rats showed immediate improvement and were quickly restored to full health by feeding concentrated extracts of the filtrate factor. Miraculously, the gray patches in their fur grew out with normal black color.

A six-week-old cocker spaniel with long, coal black, curly hair was put on a filtrate-deficient diet. Soon his hair lost pigment at the roots and within three months his coat was gray. Fed a filtrate made from yeast, his coat, too, resumed its glossy black hue.

Piebald rats in the care of Dr. Conrad Elvehjem of the University of Wisconsin turned gray on certain diets. He succeeded in restoring normal hair color by feeding them liver extract. A similar observation and cure was reported by Dr. Gulbrand Lunde and Dr. Hans Kringstad, two Norwegians who are credited with the first report on the antigray hair vitamin. In still another experiment, black-haired rats fed on a milk diet became anemic and their hair turned a silvery gray. In this case the color was restored by adding iron and copper to the diet.

Many investigators believe that pantothenic acid, one of the newer B vitamins, is the essential factor in preventing and restoring gray hair. Concentrated dosage of pure pantothenic acid has cured gray-haired rats; other investigators have failed to restore hair color with pantothenic acid alone. Dr. Morgan is convinced that pantothenic acid is concerned in the phenomenon of graying hair but that other factors are probably important also.

That one, perhaps the most essential, of these factors is a well-known chemical out of which novocain is made is indicated by the work of Dr. S. Ansbacher of the Squibb Institute for Medical Research. The substance, a B vitamin bearing the formidable name of para-aminobenzoic acid, has restored hair color to rats where pantothenic acid alone has failed.

Beauty Secrets That All Should Know

We all want to look our best. Although beauty is subjective, every individual has their own ideals to strive towards. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to start looking stunning in a short amount of time. The advice in this article will show you how to get the most out of your beauty routine.

Avoid using conditioner on a daily basis if your hair is finely textured. Simply one or two times per week should suffice. Instead of making your hair healthier, too much conditioner can weigh it down. Use conditioner with a light touch and limit how often you use it for a lighter look.

If you are going to blow dry your hair, be sure to use a heat protection spray beforehand in order to prevent damage. Every major store will have this in the beauty section. It is a great way to avoid split ends. The formula in the protectant will keep your hair hydrated and smelling wonderful!

If you want hair to grow faster you need to get enough vitamin H or biotin. It helps the body convert carbohydrates into energy and assists in metabolizing proteins. Your hair will greatly benefit from this. Eating nuts and eggs (with the yolks) will provide for the body's biotin requirements.

You can relax your mind and body by getting a massage periodically. There is a long list of benefits massage gives you; it promotes lymph drainage and toning, it removes toxins, and it stimulates your circulation. Take advantage of the luxury that frequent massages offer.

Have Vitamin E on hand. It has many different uses. It is an easy way to keep skin looking healthy and feeling soft. You can also use it to keep your nails smooth and your cuticles nice and soft.

Rub your face as few times as possible. This goes not only for rubbing out of tiredness or for an itch, but also for when you are moisturizing or cleansing your face. If you rub your skin too much, it can speed up the aging process. When drying your face, always pat gently with your towel.

If you use a blow dryer to style your hair, use a styling product that protects your hair from the heat. Many different grocery stores or department stores carry these products, which may help to prevent split ends and help reduce drying time. The formula in the protectant will keep your hair hydrated and smelling wonderful!

For a manicure that lasts all week, use a high-quality topcoat. The top coat should be applied right after your manicure, and keep applying thin touch-ups each day to prevent the polish from peeling or chipping. Having a high-quality top coat can make your manicure last several days longer than normal.

You can pour a little nail polish remover in your favorite nail polish to make it last a bit longer. Make sure you mix it up really good, before you apply it to your nails. The color may lighten, but it should be practically the same.

Apply some egg to your face in order to help make your skin more beautiful. Eggs have a lot of health benefits when consumed. They can also improve the health of your skin from the outside. Take three eggs, whisk, then rub the egg mixture onto your face. Let it set for no more than 20 minutes, then wash your face. You will be able to have healthy skin that is oil free.

Most people do not need to wash their hair everyday. This will only stimulate oil production and create excess oil. At the same time, washing your hair too infrequently can lead to greasiness, too; so washing every two days is ideal.

No one has the exact same viewpoint as another person. The idea of beauty is greatly influenced by someone's cultu women's jackets re and personal tastes. This also is about how a person would make themselves or others beautiful. The advice here should have provided you with some guidance on getting started on a beauty routine.

Granite Counter Tops or Frugal Affordable Look Alike Options

On one hand, a granite counter top is a classic upgrade for any home. It is extremely durable and offers brilliant variations of natural grain, color and deep veining which will always put it at the top of the list, for homeowners and their kitchens.

But, granite counter tops are one of the most expensive kitchen counter top options. And, it is not as trouble free as one might think. For example, careful consideration must be taken when choosing granite to ensure there are no cracks or large pits. Also, for a surface that resists stains, heat and scratching, a regularly scheduled sealer will need to be applied.

In other words, though granite is stone, it needs to be used with some discretionary caution.

Average current price, at the time of this writing, is $50 to $150. per square foot. Variation of price is based on availability and style of cut.

On the other hand, there are some frugal and equally fabulous options on the market today that will give your kitchen a granite or stone look without the granite price.

Engineered Composites: At $40 to $80 per square foot looks like stone and will fool all but the most discerning eye. The process of engineering involves mixing a small amount of natural granite with additional colorants that will mimic the natural grain, vein and depth of color. Engineering a slab allows for the buyer to have designer's options in respect to choice of color, density and shaping. This will still need some degree of sealing.

Laminate: A laminate counter top price tag ($15-$40 per square foot) is much lower than granite or the engineered composite but can provide a fantastic, maintenance free surface. Laminate uses a high tech method of copying the visual characteristics of granite by taking advantage of impressive printing technology. These design advancements allow for decorative edging and integration of the kitchen sink.

Custom design is unlimited and this granite imitation will not need sealing and is much more wear resistant.

Polymer Slabs: This wonderful option is not only affordable ($65 - $75 per square foot) but available for home owners who want the granite look but do not want to do a major kitchen demolition. These are custom designed sheets of a granite look alike, that fits over the existing counter top.

Installation takes only about a day with impressive results. Polymer sheets consisting of a mix of stone and polymer are created, that is lightweight and will resist almost anything including extreme temperatures of both hot a cold, scratches and stains.

Solid-Surfacing: The value in this frugal granite counter top option is that it provides superior design flexibility at women's jackets an affordable price ($50 - $60 a square foot). Perfect for that unusually shaped counter top, it can be formed to fit with invisible seaming. It's made from a plastic resin that is combined to imitate the look of stone rather than the specific visual properties of granite. It's a non porous surface that has powerful stain resistance.

Coating System: This is a fantastic option ($248. per 50 square feet of application) that requires no stone whatsoever. An ingenious system of layering paint that will give your tired old counter an impressive new stone look.

This method is sold as a 3 part package system which includes: 1. A base coat - this coat gives the counter top a new strong sealant and adhesive surface for the next 2 applications. 2. Decorative Chips - This layer provides the texture, look and depth needed to give the counter top a stone appearance. 3. Finish Coat - This final application provides the sealing and protective properties giving the final counter top strong and beautiful protection an active kitchen needs.

Granite counter tops and these available frugal variations have come a long way to ensure quality, and durability. Based on your kitchen design goals and DIY interest, there is a granite or quality look alike to fit every budget and style.

Essential Information On The Doberman Pinscher Dog Breed

It is believed that Doberman Pinschers were bred by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann in Germany somewhere around 1890. He wanted to breed a different type of dog that would be a great combination with strength, ferocity, yet loyal and intelligent. The Doberman Pinscher, also known as simply the "Doberman" is a common breed of domestic dog and a very common pet because of their loyal companionship and devotion. This breed is known for being not only loyal, but also very alert and smart.

For this reason, they have been used throughout history as police dogs, guard dogs and watch dogs. It is thought that this breed is a combination from the bloodlines of the Rottweiler, Black and Tan Terrier, German Shepherd and Pointer. They are inherently also a tracker and guardian.

Doberman Pinschers typically have a very powerful, compact, and medium-sized muscular square muscular body. They generally stand anywhere from twenty-four to twenty-eight inches tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere between sixty and one hundred pounds. Their coat sheds, but no more than a normal dog. Their coat has very short hair is known for it's glossy sheen and being low-maintenance.

Dobermans can be variations of color, however most people recognize the black color of this breed. However, they can be anywhere from black, reddish and a fawn color, depending on the genes in a specific breed. In American, the rust color Doberman Pinscher are most recognizable with their variations of a reddish rust mixed with the common black.

Generally known for their gentle nature, this breed is extremely intelligent, loving and loyal. Dobermans generally do not attack unless they sense they have been mistreated or if they sense that their family or any of the property, possessions or "territory" is in danger. This attack instinct when their family is in danger is because of their loyalty and devotion to their families and owners. This breed is considered to be very socialized and therefore do well as companions and pets and do well with other dogs. They are also very good with young children, but just need to be watched because of their large size.

Since this dog needs much food to maintain their energy, they can have anywhere from one and a half to two and a half cans of a high-quality meaty product or five cups of a complete, dry dog food with minerals and vitamins added. In the winter they can be given cod liver oil and yeast tablets to help their skin and coat stay healthy and shiny.

In addition to be a loyal house pet, the Doberman Pinscher has also been used as a guard dog to protect hi women's jackets s domain. Because of his ability to physically challenge human aggressors with his great strength and size and his loyalty and intelligence, most that would try to do harm to a house with a Doberman would think twice before doing harm. It is important to keep in mind that this breed will not be aggressive unless provoked or placed in a situation to protect.

The breed is believed to have been created from several different breeds of dogs that had a combination of the qualities that are encompassed in the Doberman today. Some of the breeds that the Doberman was created from are thought to be the Pinscher, the Beauceron, the Rottweiler, the Thuringian Shepherd Dog, the black Greyhound, the Great Dane, the Weimaraner, the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Manchester Terrier and the German Shepherd Dog.

Interior Painting Techniques-Paint For Fun With Everyday Household Items

Using paint and everyday household items can create beautiful walls. How about putting brown paper bags on your wall? Or using a comb to create a textured look? You can create unique beautiful wall treatments with both of these items.

The traditional brown paper bags you grew up with (at least those of us that are over 30) can be used in a number of ways to create amazing wall treatments. We will talk about two different uses for brown paper bags and paint.

The first option is to use them as wall paper. First step is to take the brown bags (or you can buy rolls of brown paper), tear them into different sized shapes, and then crumple them up. Keep a few with straight edges for the ceiling and any place that might need a straight edge.

Use wallpaper paste and adhere the paste to the paper (or the wall, or both) and randomly apply each piece slightly overlapping them to the wall. Do not try to straighten them out too much, you want that crumpled look to give the wall texture. After it has dried it is now time to have fun, it is time to paint. You can paint it with one single color; or do any kind of faux painting. women's jackets You have a great canvas with the crumpled paper as a textured backdrop for your paint.

A suggestion to enhance the look, after you have finished painting the wall always use either a metallic paint, darker color paint, or lighter color paint. Choose any color that is a contrast to the main color. Lightly go over the wall, rubbing it on with a rag, or dry brush the contrast color. Dry brush means to wipe off most of the color from the brush, before applying it to the wall. Less is more, you only want to highlight the texture created by the paper.

The next use of brown paper bag is similar but different. This time paint the bag before you tear it up, while it is flat. With this technique the use of regular paint and metallic gives it a wonderful contrast. You want to blend the colors; the main goal here is unexpected color combinations and covering the entire paper. When you are finished and it has dried, start tearing and crumpling just like the other technique. Apply this paper exactly as we did before. This is similar but this will give you a completely different look.

What about using a comb on your walls? This is very easy and fun. It requires a base coat color. Over the base coat you apply an accent color. Keep in mind when you finish you will see the base color slightly under the top coat of paint. Be sure to add paint extender (it is found in all paint and hardware stores) to the top coat of paint. You want the paint to stay wet longer and have a more transparent look.

Work in about 12" wide segments ceiling to floor. Apply a thin coat of the accent color with a roller over the base coat, take your comb (it works best with a large comb that all the teeth are evenly spaced), start at the ceiling put your comb with teeth against the wall and simply pull down, all the way to the floor without stopping. This will leave thin lines that show the base color underneath it. Repeat the process, when you get to the edge roll another coat of paint and repeat. Always wipe the comb off after every line. This gives a textured look with a surprise of the basecoat showing through.

When using the comb technique it really helps to have a friend standing by to roll the top coat of paint slightly ahead of you while you are doing the combing part. Note: you can buy specialty tools for this project or simply use a big comb it really works well.

As always practice, practice, and practice some more before you attack the wall. In the big picture the time spent practicing is the difference from a great look that you will love and something that is only ok.