PBS Kids To The Rescue
by Adriana Copaceanu
PBS has been a leader in providing quality programs for children for nearly forty years, including classics such as Sesame Street, Mr. Rogers, Reading Rainbow and many more. Most of the children�s programs not only teach valuable skills, such as reading and math, but they include some inside jokes for the grownups, making it enjoyable for all.
Some of the newer shows are quickly becoming classics in their own right. Here are some of the more recent additions to the PBS Kids line up that will be sure to be future favorites.
Between the Lions � Following in the footsteps of The Electric Company, Between the Lions helps kids learn to read, with phonics lessons hidden in song and silliness. This often �punny� show focuses on a pride of librarian lions and a menagerie of other puppets. Segments such as �Gawain�s Word� (where two knights �blend on� and make a new word as they joust), �Cliff Hanger� and �Sam Spud� spoof popular movies, giving the parents a chuckle while the kids learn.
Jakers! The Adventure of Piggly Winks � This delightful computer animated series is a gem. There aren�t as many episodes of Jakers! as some of the other shows on PBS, so some stations only carry it occasionally. Each episode begins with Grandpa Piggly Winks spending time with his grandchildren, telling them stories of his childhood. Then the audience is treated to his flashbacks of his imagination-filled adventures with his friends on a farm in Ireland. Each episode also has a segment, featuring real grandparents.
Cyberchase � For years, most of the PBS Kids shows focused on reading skills, but then they introduced Cyberchase. This show taps into the popularity of the internet and teaches about math and logic. It follows the adventures of three young people who are pulled into �Cyberspace� to battle The Hacker (voiced by Christopher Lloyd), to keep him from taking over �Cyberspace�. Each episode also features a live segment where the lesson learned during the cartoon is reinforced in �real world� situations.
In addition to the shows, the PBS Kids� website offers the opportunity to explore through games based on their favorite shows. It also has great parent resources to help encourage young learners.
About The Author
Stabilize The System By Removing Spyware
Stabilize The System By Removing Spyware
by Arvind Singh
Spyware can kill the registry. Removing Spyware with anti Spyware may avert disaster. However, disaster can still strike if the Spyware is still in the registry. Clean the registry with Spyware removal like Microsoft free Spyware removal and free Spyware Adware removal programs to be safe.
Spyware is malicious software that can kill the registry. What does Spyware have to do with the windows registry? Well, everything and anything that happens on the computer is registered in the registry. The registry is an integral part of the operating system and whatever is added to the computer or removed from the computer is registered in the system registry. When a device such as any hardware is installed, the information pertaining to that hardware is recorded in the system registry. This information includes the kind of device it is and the name of the manufacturer as well.
When the device was installed and also when it was uninstalled is also recorded. If one needs to know what was installed in the PC and when they simply have to refer to the system registry for the information. However, when a device is uninstalled from the system the information is not removed completely from system. This information is not necessary and just contributes to slowing the system down. Therefore the registry along with the entire system must be cleaned of the Spyware, and useless information, by premium or free Spyware removal software.
Where Does Spyware Come In?
Spyware loads itself on to a system to collect personal data and secretly mail it to a web site or email address. This information is used for marketing and at many times criminal intent. Spyware operates secretly in the background while the computer is running, and can only be removed by Spyware removal programs. All the while the Spyware is gathering information from the system.
This Spyware is also stored in the system registry by the operating system. While the Spyware is operating, it is sending and receiving a lot of information over the Internet. This information is constantly updated in the registry by the operating system making the registry swell beyond proportions. As the registry grows the system slows and gradually begins to crawl.
What To Do When The System Slows?
When you discover the system has become slower than usual it is best to download and run some anti-virus utility or Spyware removal program. Though this software may remove the Spyware it will leave traces of the program in different parts of the registry. This then has to be cleaned with special free Spyware Adware removal software.
It is best to download free Adware Spyware removal programs or Microsoft free Spyware removal Software to take care of the problem instead of diving into the registry manually. That can cause more damage than good. Free yahoo Spyware removal software is good enough to get your system up and running again that too at a good speed. Spyware removal software also makes the system more stable and less prone to crashes.
About The Author
To know about the Registry Cleaner visit at: http://www.pcmantra.com/registry-cleaner.htm
Know more about Registry Cleaner?
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Sunday, March 30, 2008
Restaurants Start-Up and Systems Success
Restaurants Start-Up and Systems Success
by Daryl Des Marais
If you have a restaurant business or are planning on starting a restaurant business then there are several things you will need to do. Find the right products and supplies to start your organization. hiring the right staff, having a menu that is attractive to local consumers, and above all having the right location with the right atmosphere. Some good principles to follow when doing this is develop a business start-up strategy covering the above areas.
In starting a restaurant you may want to consider restaurants that are for sale, but be wary of the cost of leasing and the condition of the current business infrastructure and services to the building. You want to be able to start a restaurant with a minimum number of headaches when it comes to bills in the first few months. What is most important is generating the volume of customers you need and having a suitable systems and staffing operation to carry through on your potential successes.
Having worked under a successful chef in a French Bistro in the past, who ended up selling his business in a matter of years, over 20 years ago and helping some other owners become successful in expanding their customer base I can give you a few pointers.
1. Location of the Restaurant- This is key to the future of your business, the location must be suitable to traffic, if it is not then you better have a ... good reason for people to get to your location that no one else has. Traffic by foot and by cars as well as other means is important. Determining the traffic numbers in both these areas as others is very important for future business reasons.
2. Finding the Right Supplies for your Restaurant- There are so many suppliers in the restaurant industry and there are also numerous brokers, repairmen and resellers. You must tread carefully and do your homework, determine the benefits of the purchase and the costs. It could be as simple as drawing a line down the paper and including positive and negatives or doing a more involved cost benefit analysis. Also having an accountant review the opportunity would be beneficial in saving you problems down the road.
An example of a restaurant management supplier is: http://www.sodexho.com/food-management-services/restaurant-supply-wholesale.htm
3. Menu- One of the most important things may be the menu, especially in a larger city where there is more competition. You must adhere strictly to a defined menu that accentuates you and word of mouth about the best food you have in your chosen specialty. Size of the menu is also important in consideration of your costs and the types of foods you want to serve and or mix using basic ingredients. The opportunity to have prepared food is also available in assisting you with labour costs in preparing food.
An example for cost effective menu making online is: http://www.themenumaker.com/
4. Staffing- Staffing can be challenging, and in this industry, like other industries that can be entry-level at times it may be hard to find workers with dedication, principle and good ethics. Developing a good job description including duties and expectations and having a training day and or someone to assist them in job shadowing is beneficial. There are numerous other opportunities that you can use in developing HR Strategy. A good business example of HR Strategy in business would be IBM. In the restaurant industry you might look to good examples such as McDonald's, Starbucks or A&W. You might not have the leverage they have to offer some of the services of strategies but there are opportunities to offer similar environments. This however, takes a lot of time and work and having a hr consultant or business consultant would be beneficial. Having team uniforms may be one way to identify with your customers and may also benefit your staff's hygiene. A good example is: http://www.bestbuyuniforms.com/
5. Layout, Design and Attraction- This can make or break some businesses in the restaurant industry depending on their competition and consumer demand. Some areas expect a certain level of quality in service or food or variety in food selection. Other areas demand a layout that is unique and appealing or beneficial for movement. There are many options and completing a little research, getting feedback from other developers and restaurants.
A good book to read on restaurant design is: http://www.successfulrestaurantdesign.com/
6. Business Systems- There are numerous business systems available in the restaurant industry such as Squirrel, Microsoft etc. For more information on some of the current advanced portable systems see: http://www.actionsystems.com/
About The Author
A Diwali Banquet
A Diwali Banquet
by Liz Canham
Apart from the sweets and savouries which are eaten at Diwali, the main meals vary depending on the region of India.
Traditionally, different foods are eaten on the different days of the festival. On the first day, a sweet similar to fudge, made with semolina, cardamom, saffron, nuts and raisins, is eaten as well as a spicy bean curry. Some Hindus fast all day on the second day and at sunset eat a cracked wheat porridge sweetened with sugar. On the third day lentil fritters and Indian rice pudding might be eaten but on Diwali day itself and the following, New Years Day, huge banquets are prepared.
The women spend many days, prior to the festival itself, preparing food, usually in groups. Much of this time is spent making the snack and sweet foods of which the Indians are so fond but as the actual Diwali day approaches, attentions are turned to the major feast.
A Diwali feast would normally be vegetarian due to the vast number of non-meat eaters, both Hindu and non-Hindu throughout India. Typical dishes might be:
* Channa - chick peas and potatoes simmered in a sauce of saut�ed onions, bay leaves, cinnamon, cardamom, peppercorns, cloves, garlic, fresh ginger, ground coriander and cumin, garam masala, cayenne, mace, nutmeg, turmeric and chopped tomatoes.
* Navratan Korma - a rich mild vegetable curry of paneer, carrots, beans, peas, cauliflower, raisins, cashews and tomatoes, flavoured with bay leaves and coriander.
* Khasta Aloo - cubed par-boiled potatoes fried with cumin seeds, ground coriander, turmeric, fresh green chillies and fresh ginger paste, garnished with lime juice and chopped fresh coriander.
* Malaiwale Subzi Kofta Curry - diced cabbage and spinach flavoured with ground cumin, turmeric, garam masala and salt, bound together with gram flour and fried. This is served with a rich spicy gravy of onions, tomatoes, chillies and thick cream.
* Nariyal Aur Badam Wale Chawal - Basmati rice and coconut pulp cooked in coconut milk, with the additional flavourings of two different pastes. The first is sliced almonds, green chillies, garlic, cinnamon stick, cloves and cardamoms, fried in ghee and ground to a pulp with the coconut. The second is mustard seeds, curry leaves and onions, fried in oil.
* Dal Maharani which combines three different sorts of pulses with onions, tomatoes, green chillies, ginger and flavourings.
* Sag Dal - yellow split peas mixed with spinach, fried onion, garlic, cumin seeds, turmeric, garam masala and fresh ginger, garnished with chopped coriander.
* Pooris - wheat flour bread rounds, deep fried until they puff up into a ball.
* Raita - plain yoghurt whisked until smooth and mixed with raw onion, cucumber, cumin and coriander powder and cayenne pepper.
* Various pickles and chutneys
* Kheer - a type of rice pudding made with milk as well as condensed milk and decorated with chopped nuts or mixed with orange zest and chopped orange.
Of course, these examples are not exhaustive. Any dishes not eaten as a normal every day meal would be considered special enough for Diwali.
About The Author
As well as a love of Asian cooking as you can see in her Asian Food and Cookery website, Liz seeks to help newcomers to the world of internet marketing with tools, tips and training from her Liz-e-Biz website.
http://lizebiz.com/
Tips for a Peaceful Holiday Season
Tips for a Peaceful Holiday Season
by Thomas Easterday
Christmas is often the best time of year, but it can also be one of the most stressful. All of the family functions, driving from house to house, and baking dozens of Christmas cookies often wear us down, but I think we can all agree that the most stressful part of Christmas is shopping for all the presents.
So what is the solution? To give up the commercialism of the holiday and just enjoy it as the day of Christ�s birth? Tell that one to the kids! The key of a successful holiday season could be somewhere in the middle. Instead of worrying so much, you could leave yourself more time to appreciate the holiness of the holiday by being clever about your gift giving.
Basically, that means knowing how to give the perfect Christmas gift with the least amount of stress. Sounds like a Christmas miracle right? Not necessarily. First and foremost, you must remember not to wait until Christmas Eve to do your shopping. Even waiting to the last-month rush to shop can be a big mistake. That�s when you�re most likely to bump into other angry, miserable, and worried shoppers, just like you who are out there trying to find the best deal on the perfect present for each and every family member.
Instead, start shopping as soon as you have an inkling of what your loved ones wants. The key to knowing what a perfect present would be for somebody is to listen to them. Over the course of the year, when shopping with them, or going out to lunch, listen for clues to things that they really want�but would never buy for themselves. Keep an eye out for these things and buy them, even if it�s May and Christmas presents are the absolute last thing on your To-Do list. Or, start a Christmas list with all the names of your friends and family and ideas about what they may love. Since we are now in the age of the internet, you may even find it helpful to start a Favorites folder of gift ideas that you find throughout the year while searching the web.
By buying gifts throughout the year, you�ll be nearly finished in December and able to spend more quality holiday time with your friends and family, without the worry of your entire shopping list. Another good thing to keep in mind is that someone might be at your Christmas party or holiday get-together that was not on your original shopping list. Avoid feeling uncomfortable by buying extra presents, like candles, Christmas decorations, or DVD�s for just this situation. That way everyone has a present to open from Santa.
The perfect gift doesn�t have to be an object, and it doesn�t necessarily have to be for a close loved one. Another way to give the perfect �present��and regain some of your lost Christmas spirit�is to volunteer during the holidays. You could do something as simple as wrap gifts for people at your local shopping mall, or you could volunteer to dole out food at a soup kitchen. Whatever it is, volunteering can help you remember the truly important gifts in life.
Last but not least, whether you�re volunteering or shopping, remember that money isn�t everything�but it�s pretty important for your general welfare, so don�t overspend at the holidays. You don�t want Christmas to be forever known in your heart as the time you go into debt. Spend within your limits and within reason.
About The Author
Fudge Recipes
Fudge Recipes
by Jill Seader
This is one of those fudge recipes that my mom has made ever since I can remember. When I was lucky and none of my other siblings were around, she would let me eat the bits of chocolate left in the bowl. We always used to call it �licking the bowl� at my house. Always one of the best parts of being able to bake with mom. I have had a lot of fudge and none of it has ever compared to this fudge recipe that my mom always made. I do not know if it is because mom made it or because it is a good fudge recipe. Perhaps a bit of both. I hope you get to share it with someone special.
Fudge
2 tablespoons butter
2/3 cup evaporated milk
1 2/3 cups sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups miniature marshmallows
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Combine butter, milk, sugar, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a boil. Cook 4 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly. (Start timing when mixture starts to bubble around the edges of the pan.) Remove from heat. Stir in marshmallows, chocolate, vanilla, and nuts. Stir vigorously for 1 minute. Pour into an 8-inch square buttered pan. Cool in the refrigerator. Cut into squares.
This fudge recipe is for the peanut butter lover in your house. It is a recipe that is also pretty easy to make.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
1 cup peanut butter chips
1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons softened butter
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Put foil in an 8-inch square pan. In a microwave safe bowl, put the peanut butter chips, 2/3 cup of the sweetened condensed milk, and all of the butter. In another microwave safe bowl, put in the chocolate chips and the rest of the sweetened condensed milk. Microwave the peanut butter mixture on high for one minute or until the mixture is smooth when stirred. Then add in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to that mixture. Pour the mixture into the pan. Put the chocolate chip mixture in the microwave for one minute on high heat or until the mixture is smooth when stirred. Add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to that mixture and pour it over the peanut butter layer. Refrigerate and cut into squares when firm.
About The Author
Saturday, March 29, 2008
How To Register A Domain Name
How To Register A Domain Name
by George Meszaros
You may be wondering if you should get a .com, .net, .info, or .whatever kind of domain. So many different kinds of domain extensions to choose from, and so little time. If you are registering a domain name for a for profit business, you should always register a .com domain. From a brand perspective, there is no better domain than a .com domain. Most people associate business domains with the .com extension just like they associate school domains with the .edu extension.
It may not make any difference in the beginning, but the more successful you become the more it could hurt you. Let�s say you develop a new product idea and the .com domain name you want to call it is not available, so you register the .net domain instead. Sounds harmless enough. Now, let�s fast-forward a couple of years. You have spent time and money to develop your brand and people are searching for your product online with the .com extension simply because they expect you to own the domain with the .com extension.
Another reason to shy away from other than .com domain names is that someone may already have copyright protection for the domain name you want to register. Look further if the .com domain you desire is not available. Even if you don�t find the exact domain you initially searched for, you may find one that is better than your original idea.
Whenever the domain you desire is not available through the registrar, you can try purchasing it from the registered owner. Unfortunately, many people register domain names to take advantage of others. The common name for such a person is domain squatter. I only recommend buying domain names from domain squatters if you have money to burn. The more they know you want it, the worse your chances of getting a good deal.
In other situations, someone may have good reason to own your desired domain name. It is unlikely that you�ll be able to buy the domain name from a thriving online business. It is possible that you run across a Web site with the perfect domain name for your business.
About The Author
Red Wine and White Wine
Red Wine and White Wine
by Tracy Crowe
I have been wondering about the difference between red wines and white wines. To me, they taste quite different. Red wines are heavier and more complex than white wine, and often tend to be less sweet. Why is this? Actually red and white wines are made quite differently. The differences between red and white wines include the kinds of grapes used, the fermentation and aging process, and the character and flavor of the wine.
White wines are almost always made from white grapes, although they can be made from black grapes, since the juice in most black grapes is clear. When white wine is made, the skins of the grapes are separated from the juice when they are put into a crushing machine. Then yeast is added to the juice for fermentation, until the juice becomes white wine. After filtering etc, the wine is aged by storing it in stainless steel or occasionally oak containers and bottled after a few months. White wines, then, are made without skins or seeds and are essentially fermented grape juice. They have a light character and have crisp fruit flavors and aromas. They can be sweet or dry or somewhere in between. Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio/ Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc are all white wines.
Red wine is usually made from red or black grapes, although all the kinds of grapes usually have a clear juice. The process of making red wine is different from the one of making white wine. After the grapes have been in the crushing machine, the red grapes with their skins and everything sit in a fermentation vat for a period of time, typically about one to two weeks. . The skins tend to rise to the surface of the mixture and form a layer on top. The winemaker frequently mixes this layer back into the fermenting juice (which is called must). After fermentation is over, the new wine is taken from the vat. A little "free run" juice is allowed to pour and the rest of the must is squeezed into "press wine". The wine is clarified and then is stored, usually in oak containers, for several months until it is ready to be bottled. The oak containers add additional wood tannins and flavors to the wine which help to intensify it and add richness to it. The result of this process is that red wines exhibit a set of rich flavors with spicy, herby, and even meaty characteristics. Beaujolais, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chianti, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel are all red wines.
The main difference between red and white wines is the amount of tannins they have. Since tannins largely come from the grape skins, red wines have more of them than white wines. Red wine acquires it's tannins in the process of maceration (leaving juice to mix together with the skin, seeds and woody bits). It is the tannins and skins of the red grapes which are released into the wine that contribute to the deep color and flavor of red wine. Tannins have a slightly bitter taste and create a dry puckery sensation in the mouth and in the back of the throat; and often lend a wonderful complexity to red wine. They also help preserve the wine. This is why red wines are usually aged longer than white wines.
There are as many different flavor profiles among red wines as there are among white ones. Some red wines are sweet and fruity, while some whites ( such as Chardonnay) have tannins from being stored in oak containers. Some German white wines have lasted for centuries, while some red wines are made for immeadiate consumption. For wines meant for consumption right away the winemaker takes out the bitter tannins, creating a fruity, fresh, and approachable wine. So, apart from the color, there are no hard and fast rules about the differences between red and white wine.
Is it true that red wine is better for you? The research of Dr Frankel has shown that red wine contains more antioxidants than white wine, although the total amount varies according to the variety of grape, region it was grown, the climate and soil it was grown in, and whether it was stored in oak (since wines stored in oak have more antioxidants) and the filtration techniques used. However the antioxidants in white wine are apparently more effective. The research of Dr Troup shows that the antioxidant molecules in white wine are smaller and thus more effective because they can be more easily absorbed. It seems that white wine is just as healthy as red wine.
In summary, the primary difference between red and white wine is the amount of tannins they contain, although there are no hard and fast rules about the differences between them outside of the color of the wine. Usually red wines are more complex, richer, and heavier, with spicy, herby, and even meaty characteristics. White wines are usually sweeter, and lighter, and have crisp fruit flavors and aromas. Neither is significantly better for you. Which wine is best for you to drink is simply a matter of taste.
About The Author
For more information about wine, visit http://thebestwineforme.com
Murder Mystery: An Innovative Party Theme
Murder Mystery: An Innovative Party Theme
by John Tarr
Everyone knows all about the concept behind a murder mystery. It is a genre based on the detection of the perpetrator of the murder. The murder mystery has captivated the minds of readers and viewers for ages. But what many people do not know is that murder mysteries have also added a lot of spice to innumerable dinner parties. No, there is no actual murder happening, all that happens is that a �murder mystery� game is played and the partygoers have to solve the murder.
Sound interesting? It is. There are a host of ideas that can be incorporated to make the mock murder mystery interesting. A lot of planning does go into the hosting of a party with this theme, but the end result is highly exciting and makes for a great evenings entertainment. There are parties that can be organized wherein a series of different scenes take place through the course of the meal. Murder mysteries can be tailor-made to suit your each and every requirement. A times, these parties can also include dinner guests as the key actors of the plot.
So will the dastardly murder be solved in the end? Of course, it will, and there will be a prize at the end of it for the winner. Murder mystery parties or murder mystery games in parties; have got long-standing popularity. In the days gone by, English country houses saw some of these exciting games being played. Today, you can host a murder mystery party in your house. The parties can have a large cast of characters or can be held over a smaller platform. It all depends on the size of the dining area, hall, the house, and number of guests that are a part of the party.
Though the whole concept behind murder mystery games looks very confusing and complex, such games are very easy to host and arrange. Further more, they are great fun and will add dollops of excitement to the proceedings. As you may well have gauged, the murder mystery game is a clue-based game, where all the guests participate as suspects. Your guests can don the roles of a particular character and all of them are the important ingredients of the concoction that is the murder mystery game. The game begins with the recreation of events that will lead to murder. The next course of action would be to let the accusations fly and the step-by-step revelation of clues.
It is made sure that all the participants of this game have a clear motive for committing the fictional crime and to spice up their characterization, a few skeletons in their cupboard. In the end only the real murderer will not have a watertight alibi, while all the others will have one. At the end of the game, the truth is found with due diligence and the unspeakable crime is solved.
Murder mystery games will go a long way in making your party unique and a whole lot memorable. So if you planning to host a party then think about giving �murder mystery� a shot.
About The Author
Friday, March 28, 2008
Goldilocks and the three Anti Spyware Products
Goldilocks and the three Anti Spyware Products
by Doug Woodall
Once apon a time, there was a young lady who became lost while traveling.
She decided to pull over at a rest stop and get online with her laptop to find directions. As she booted up her trusty laptop, she remembered her AntiVirus was about to expire. Well, she thought, I'll just search online for something that will get me by for now. The search engine results offered a variety of results, all claiming to be the best...some even claimed to cure gout!
First she reviewed the freebies. FreeAntiVirus4u.com looked good, but wait, here's a review about it that says it's actually Spyware! That won't do.
Ah, here's one that's only $ 12.95 and if I download it right now, Wow,I get a Ginsu knife set for free with it! They even cut pipe! But alas, she noticed that it had no online protection and the signatures had to be updated manually. This one won't do either.
Goldilocks was beginning to wonder if this was worth all the trouble. After all she thought, I just need a quick look at WolfsMaps.com and I can be on my way to Grandmas, but just then she remembered the website she had been recommended to last week. What a cute dog the websites Company Mascot was! The site stated that a computer could be hacked very easily without proper protection.
The thought of losing all of Grandmas recipes stored on her hard drive gave her a chill. The site also said, be it free, cheap or expensive, make sure it works for you! Read the agreement, read the manual, educate yourself in its use, also check reviews for customer satisfaction. Sounds like good advice she thought.
Goldilocks now felt purpose in her quest. She would insure her online safety, and then get directions over the hill and thru the woods. Wait a minute, That Website with the cute dog! She was sure it would have what she needed. It just felt....safe, like Grandmas house. After all, her Internet Security was paramount! She had heard horror stories about those wolves lurking online to take advantage of unsuspecting souls. Especially during full moons. (Opps, wrong story)
As the site loaded, she gasped! Ah, this is just right!
After just a few minutes she found an Anti Virus Product that ranked in the top 4! And it was not even expensive. Happily she downloaded and installed it. It only took her a few minutes to set it up. Before she rebooted to finish the install, she bookmarked the site so she could return later. She wanted information on Anti Spyware Products too. And there was a article titled "Facts about Firewalls" that looked interesting.
A few minutes later at Wolfsmaps.com she found where she had made her wrong turn. The way she was going now led to "Wolfsburg" where the "Lil Red Riding Hood Memorial" was. As she pulled back onto the freeway she thought, this would have made a great story!
Goldilocks was one of the lucky ones. Many have no idea they are not adequately protected while online. Some suffer incidents of identity theft which is rising drastically. Insure your Online Safety.
About The Author
Seltzer or Soda Waters, How Healthy are they
Seltzer or Soda Waters, How Healthy are they
by CD Harris
In recent years, America has seen the rise of the soda, with millions of gallons of soda consumed in the country each year. Many people drink multiple sodas each day and drink away hundreds of calories in the sodas alone. Newer studies are showing that some sodas that are filled with sugar and empty calories may be contributing to obesity in the nation, as well as other health problems as well. Some are beginning to recognize the dangers and change over to drinking seltzer and soda waters as alternative drinks to sodas.
Although many people are switching over to seltzer water drinks and flavored soda waters instead of drinking sodas, there are some who wonder whether or not the beverage choices are actually more healthy, or just a jazzed up version of the same old problem. Believe it or not, these new choices of seltzer water and soda waters actually are a great deal healthier than sodas. They actually are just regular water that has been carbonated and are usually just as healthy as drinking regular water, but with a bit more pizzazz and zip to them. They even top out diet sodas, since they are not filled with artificial sweeteners, which in some cases can be harmful.
If you want a drink with a bit more flavor than the plain seltzer waters, you may want to check out the flavored waters. Usually these waters are naturally flavored and do not contain sugar or artificial sweeteners and give water a whole new flavor. You can reap all the great health benefits of drinking your eight glasses of water daily, while enjoying great flavors, such as lemon, peach, strawberry, and even lime. What a great way to enjoy staying hydrated and healthy. You will want to make sure that you take a look at the labels of these types of water to make sure that there is not a great deal of sugar or sodium added along with the tasty flavor.
Another reason that these seltzer and soda waters can be a healthy choice is because some of them are now adding minerals and vitamins to them. While just drinking plain water is great for you, these new water products can help you get some of the extra nutrients that you may not be getting every day in your diet. While some may not have a significant amount of vitamins and minerals in them, every bit definitely helps when it comes to your health. Those who have low mineral deficiencies may be great candidates for drinking this type of water as well.
While many of the seltzer water and soda water choices are excellent and healthy drinks, there are some things that you may want to watch out for. There are some of these waters that may be adding in other ingredients. One thing you really need to watch out for is the sodium content. Some of these waters can have very high sodium contents in order to give them flavor. In this case, the seltzer or soda waters containing high sodium may actually dehydrate you instead of giving you the hydration that you need.
If you want to make seltzer water even more healthy for you, you may want to consider making your own mixtures. You can mix this carbonated water with various fruit juices to get a healthy drink, which is like a soda, to fill your �fizzy� craving. Seltzer waters also make great additives with warm versions, like apple cider as well. Having a great tasting drink and a healthy drink no longer have to be different things. You can have a great tasting drink that is healthy for you as well, without drinking a great deal of empty calories that will add to your waistline.
All in all, more Americans should probably be making the switch to these seltzer and soda waters instead of drinking so much soda. While sodas tend to dehydrate you, these tasty waters can help you stay hydrated and will have you feeling much better as well. If you want a healthy alternative for you and even for your children, these drinks can be great choices.
About The Author
http://SeltzerAndSoda.com
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Coffee Caffeine: How Much Is In Your Cup?
Coffee Caffeine: How Much Is In Your Cup?
by Matthew Hick
Coffee is a complex mixture of chemical components of the coffee bean. Some of these components are partially destroyed by the roasting process; however, many of these components are not. Caffeine is one of the components that is not affected by the roasting process. With the addition of hot water, the caffeine is extracted from the coffee bean.
Caffeine was discovered in coffee in 1820. Caffeine is an alkaloid that acts as a mild stimulant. It increases the blood pressure, stimulates the central nervous system and the action of the heart and lungs, and promotes urine formation. It also acts as a diuretic and delays fatigue. Caffeine does have some positive side effects. It has been found to help treat migraines since it helps constrict the dilated blood vessels, therefore reducing the pain. It also has been documented to increase the potency of aspirin and to slightly relieve the affects of asthma attacks. It has been suggested that caffeine has been linked to possible cancers and birth defects. However, this has not been confirmed and there are no bans or warnings that have been issued by the US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA).
The amount of caffeine found in the coffee beans varies. On average, a regular cup of coffee contains approximately 90 to 150 mg of caffeine. Coffee brewed in a drip coffee maker has about 115 to 175 mg of caffeine while other coffee makers may brew coffee with about 80 to 135 mg. Typically, espresso has about as much caffeine as a regular cup of coffee. On average, a standard espresso cup would have about 100 mg of caffeine. However, the serving size for espresso is much smaller. The actual content of caffeine per milliliter in an espresso is much higher than in a regular brew. Also, caffeine is assimilated quicker when ingested in a concentrated dosage such as an espresso cup.
The amount of caffeine found in coffee blends will also vary. The following are examples of the caffeine content for different coffee blends:
-Brazilian Bourbons: contains 1.20% caffeine
-Columbia Excelso: contains 1.34% caffeine
-Columbia Supremo: contains 1.34% caffeine
-French Roast: contains 1.22% caffeine
-Costa Rican Tarrazu: contains 1.35% caffeine
-Vienna Roast: contains 1.27% caffeine
-Decafs: contains 0.02% caffeine
People hypersensitive to the caffeine found in coffee may decide to drink decaffeinated coffee. This way, they can still enjoy the great coffee taste, yet avoid the caffeine. Coffee can be "decaffeinated" by treating the green beans with solvents called chlorinated hydrocarbons. Once the solvents are removed, the beans are then roasted by ordinary procedures. Most people become accustomed to decaffeinated coffee and do not have to worry about the effects of caffeine.
About The Author
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Malta Property Buyers Guide
Malta Property Buyers Guide
by Leo Fogarty
Buying a Home in Malta & Gozo
The Republic of Malta is a small country located in the Mediterranean Sea. This Southern European country encompasses Malta, Gozo, Comino and few other uninhabited islands. Malta is located at about 100 kilometers to the South of the Italian island of Sicily and 300 kilometers to the east of North Africa. Malta is a member country of the European Union since 2004.
Malta is blessed with beautiful sunny days almost round the year and the temperature never goes beyond comfortable levels. It rarely rains here and it never lasts for a long duration continuously. The annual rainfall in the country is only around 600mm. Added to this is the low tax structure in the country which will be an additional incentive for foreign investment.
Excellent and healthy weather conditions, cosmopolitan society, beautiful sea coast landscapes, friendly people and good health care facilities are the factors fondly remembered by tourists visiting the country. Many tourists make Malta their annual vacation destination.
Valletta is the capital city of Malta
Malta economy
Malta became popular a transit location for ships after the opening of Suez Canal in the middle of the eighteenth century. The county�s economy was at its peak during this period and sustained it for about a decade. With the advent of new generation sea liners, Malta lost its importance.
In recent times, lime stone business and tourism are the major economic activities in the country. Statistics indicate continuous increase in the number of foreign tourists visiting the country. The government has catalyzed this growth by investing on infrastructural facilities to suit the needs and lifestyles of foreign visitors. Liberalization and foreign direct investments have accelerated this growth and now Malta is back to its past economic glory.
Financial transactions
Maltese Lira (MLT) is the authorized currency in Malta. The conversion rate of this currency as on March 1, 2007 is:
1 Maltese Lira = 3.06899 US Dollars
1 Maltese Lira = 1.56507 British Pound
1 Maltese Lira = 2.32188 Euro
Exchange of foreign currency is not at all difficult in Malta, indicating the true cosmopolitan nature of the country. Popular foreign currencies can be exchanged easily in banks, foreign exchange bureaus and large hotels. Some of the foreign exchange bureaus are open 24 hours for the benefit of the customers. Automated foreign exchange machines are also located at many places in the country. Many large shops and restaurants also accept foreign currency. Traveler�s cheque can be exchanged in authorized foreign exchange agencies in the country.
American express, Visa, Master card and Diners club credit cards are accepted in the country. Malta has good number of ATM to take care of your cash liquidity, if the need arises.
Infrastructural facilities
Malta�s healthcare services are among the best in the world. Services offered in general and private hospitals are excellent. Private schools in Malta mostly follow British system of education and teach in English. Roads in Malta are being improved to make it suitable for international tourism development. The main advantage for UK citizens is that British driving license is valid here and you drive on the left side of the road. Good ferry services connect the islands and there is also a helicopter service connecting Malta and Gazo.
Hotels, restaurants and bars are available in plenty in the country. Malta is also well known for its carnivals and club outings. The infrastructure is so good that international level carnivals can be conducted here.
The county�s business infrastructure is excellent with good communication facilities. The government has formulated many incentive packages and tax concessions to attract foreign investment.
Popular locations in Malta
Malta is a small country and all places within Malta can be covered within a day or two. Total area of Malta is around 245 square kilometers and Gozo has an area of just about 70 square kilometers. The length of Malta Island at the widest point is about 25 Kilometers and width at the maximum is just about 15 kilometers. In case of Gozo Island, the figures are 15 and 7 square kilometers respectively.
Malta is frequented by many foreign tourists round the year, mainly from European countries. UK accounts for nearly 50 % of the tourists visiting the country. UK citizens feel at home here because English is spoken a lot here and the weather is predominantly sunny.
Historical places
The country is proud of its long history and there are innumerable historically significant locations all around Malta and Gozo islands. The museums, the palace and churches in Valletta are few representatives of the history of the land.
Sight seeing
Malta has a vast coastal line with beaches that have crystal clear water, long sand stretches and naturally formed small rocky bays. Anchor bay and Paradise bay in the north, Peter�s pool and Pretty bay in the south and Ramla bay and blue lagoon in Gozo and Comino are a few such beaches. City tours can be a very beautiful experience. Country side tours are energizing due the unspoiled natural beauty of the area and hospitality of local people.
Sports facilities
Sports lovers will appreciate the sports clubs located in the country offering variety of sports facilities such as tennis, golf, swimming, squash, cricket, indoor games and general health and fitness facilities. Marsa Sports club and Union Club in Sliema are frequented by foreign nationals as the facilities are excellent and of international quality.
Sea diving enthusiasts will love Malta as the sea temperature seldom goes beyond the comfortable range of 13 to 25 degree Centigrade�� and the sea around the country is quite calm without any major tides. Excellent diving schools are available in Malta and diving gear can be leased near the beaches. A diving permit is required for divers in Malta.
Yachting is another popular sports activity in Malta. Excellent maintenance and sheltering facilities are available all around the country for all yachts of all sizes.
Malta Real estate
Main considerations for buying a property in Malta are the ambience and the price. In rural surroundings, real estate prices are much less than in the cities. Beach properties are the costliest in Malta. However one is never very far away from the beach considering the size of the country. Gozo island real estate will suitable for foreigners who love leisurely way of life. Many properties here are in rural surroundings and invariably overlook the sea. This is an ideal place for retirement settling.
With tourism activity increasing in the country, buying a property for rental purposes is lucrative. Government approval is required for foreigners to rent a property. Rental returns of five to six percent are feasible and the returns are dependent on the location and condition of the property.
Legal issues Real estate purchase in Malta
The legal system in Malta is based on the English system. The real estate purchase process is straight forward and simple and should not be a hurdle, particularly for foreigners from UK.
Foreigners have certain restrictions for purchasing property in Malta. These restrictions are basically formulated to protect the interest of local residents and keeping in view the limited property available for sale due to small size of the nation.
*
People form EU countries that are living in Malta continuously for more than five years can purchase more than one property in the country. There is no need for any government approval
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Other EU nationals who have lived for less than five years in Malta or living elsewhere can purchase single residential or commercial property without any permission
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All other foreigners need permission from the Ministry of Finance for buying a real estate property in Malta
In some notified areas of Malta and Gazo where property prices are very high, no foreigners can freely buy any number of real estate properties without any approval. In case of any doubt on this issue, it is necessary to check with Ministry of Finance before entering into any real estate contract in Malta
Purchasing process
Preliminary agreement
Once a property is identified as suitable for buying, the price is negotiated between the buyer and seller. The logical next step is to sign a preliminary agreement to seal the transaction. The buyer also deposits 10 % of the value of the property as a token of commitment for the purchase. A reliable advocate can help in drafting and finalizing this agreement
This finalization of this agreement generally takes about three months. This time can be utilized fruitfully for getting the government approval for the purchase and to complete the research on the property ownership and registration.
Purchase contract
Once the buyer is satisfied that the property is legal and the permission for the purchase is in place, the next step is to sign the final contract. The buyer�s lawyer generally prepares this document. The contact is signed by both the parties. All the payments that are due are settled by the buyer and the document is registered with the appropriate agency in order to legalize the change of ownership.
Stamp duties, legal fees and all other dues are settled by the buyer. The total time taken for the entire process is normally around five months. UK citizens will cherish the fact that the complete documentation is in English language.
Real estate purchase finance
The ideal arrangement to finance your purchase is through your own funds but this is seldom the case. Property mortgage is readily available in Malta and the banks finance up to 90 % of the funds. However the repayment period and interest levels in Malta are higher than in the United Kingdom. Banks in UK can also finance your real estate project in Malta.
The quantum of funds required, preferred repayment period, repayment capacity, forecasted foreign exchange rates etc are some of the factors that can influence the final decision for the mortgages. It is preferable to consult an expert in the relevant area for calculated decision in this regard.
Cost of purchasing
Buyers often tend to forget that additional costs, other than the negotiated purchase price can inflate the total cost of the purchase. Buyers should always compare the �total� cost with their allowable budget to make the final decision on the purchase of the property.
Real estate transactions attract a stamp duty of 5 % in Malta and notary fee of 1 %. In addition to this, if the services of an advocate or agents are utilized in the process they have to be paid the appropriate fee. It is a good practice to define their roles and fee in advance to avoid any misunderstanding when the amount is paid. Traveling expenses, hotel accommodation and all other incidental expenses also need to be considered to arrie at the total cost.
It is reasonable to allocate around 12 % of the purchase price for additional costs and other expenses. You may finally end up with little surplus money in hand which will be a good thing.
If the property requires remodeling, provision has to be made for such expenses also in the budget.
Malta property taxes
Foreigners will be happy to note that there are no annual taxes on real estate properties in Malta. Malta does not levy any capital gain tax. However one should be careful before selling the property. If the owner sells a property that was not his primary residence for the last three years, a hefty amount is charged as transfer tax.
There is no inheritance tax in Malta as long as there inherited property is not sold. But transfer tax is levied if an inherited property is sold.
Travel documents
As Malta is an EU member since May 2004, there is no restriction for EU nationals to tour the country. Many country nationals can stay for up to three months as tourists in Malta with a valid passport with no visa. Check with the embassy in the home country and get a complete list of the documents required before traveling to Malta.
Foreigners, who wish to reside permanently in Malta, must apply for a residency permit. Proof of sufficient funds or annual income has to be provided as a support document when applying for this permit. If a foreigner wants to work or start a business in the country, government permission is required.
Malta may make a difference
If you are looking for real estate in a sunny country, rich in culture, Malta is the right choice. Low taxes, relaxed life styles and popularity of the English language are very compelling reasons for a UK citizen to consider looking for a second home in Malta and Gozo islands.
About The Author
Fiber Facts
Fiber Facts
by Anne Ehmer
Fiber is part of a healthy diet, discover why.
Fiber plays a very important role in a healthy diet. Fiber is found in plants, and dietary fiber �the kind of fiber we eat- comes to us inside the fruits, vegetables and grains we eat.
Human provides no calories, as it cannot be digested by humans. Why is it so important then?
Fiber adds bulk to the diet. This bulk aids digestion by making food move faster through the system; not only preventing constipation but preventing the absorption of unhealthy substances as well. Fiber also protects the intestinal wall. With this function in mind, fiber helps to prevent diabetes, heart disease and diverticulosis, which sometimes develops into colon cancer.
Fiber makes you feel full faster and keeps you satisfied for longer, a priceless function when you are trying to control your weight.
DAILY RECOMMENDED AMOUNT OF FIBER
Older children, teenagers and adults should aim to have 20-35 grams fiber per day. Fresh fruit, vegetables and cereals should be introduced to younger children, but without counting grams. The amount of food young children should eat in a day doesn�t allow to reach this level of fiber in their diet.
WAYS WITH FIBER
The way to ensure adequate fiber intake is to eat a variety of foods, including more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, cereals, and dried beans and peas.
If you are not having enough, add fiber to your diet gradually. Water aids the passage of fiber through the digestive system, so drink plenty of fluids. Take a few weeks to build up the amount of fiber in your diet to avoid discomfort.
When you don�t peel fruits and vegetables, you are actually getting some more fiber. Cooked food may actually increase your fiber intake by decreasing the volume of the food that you eat. Eating fiber rich food is beneficial, no matter if it is cooked or raw.
HOW TO GET FIBER
There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble.
Soluble fiber attracts water and turns to gel during digestion, slowing it. Soluble fiber is found in oat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, beans, lentils, peas, and some fruits and vegetables. Soluble fiber has been scientifically proven to lower cholesterol, which can help prevent heart disease.
Insoluble fiber is found in foods such as wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains. Insoluble fiber seems to speed the passage of foods through the stomach and intestines.
THE DARK SIDE OF FIBER
Eating too much fiber in a short period of time can cause bloating and cramps. This usually goes away once the natural bacteria in the digestive system get used to the increase in fiber in the diet. This is the reason to take some weeks to reach the recommended amount of fiber.
It has been mentioned that too much fiber may interfere with the absorption of minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium, and calcium. As high fiber foods are usually also rich in minerals, this should not take your sleep away. However, consider this effect in the case of young children.
TIP
If you swallow a sharp object by accident �a little piece of broken glass, for instance- eat artichokes and asparagus -bread also helps. Their bulky fiber will wrap the object helping it to go through without causing injure.
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A Trip Down Memory Lane: The Sugarless Candy Store
A Trip Down Memory Lane: The Sugarless Candy Store
by Fred Goldman
A Trip Down Memory Lane: The Sugarless Candy Store
As a young child often one's fondest memory is entering the candy store or the candy aisle of a grocery store. Bright colored packages abound. The choices seem to be endless.
In Vermont, there are towns with true old fashioned candy stores. Wood plank flooring, maybe a scattering of saw dust, even the occasional pickle barrel! A delightful world filled with choices and choices and choices.
Would it suprise you to find out that the number one choice of candy and candy flavors is not chocolate, but... vanilla! It's true as unbelievable as it sounds.
Think of all the possibilities staring a child literal face to face since many counters are conveniently put at not adult height, but child hand height. There's a reason for this, ye old marketing tactic!
Imagine now a candy store counter, child and adult height, filled not with sugar-laden, teeth-decaying, calorie-engourging sweets, but your choice of the finest in sugarless candy and chocolate selections. Is this the dream of a sci-fi movie? No it is not. Nowadays we do have choices - and as time evolves (and rapidly) those choices are ensuring our choice of sugarfree or sugarless no longer means having to accept unappealing flavors and the byproducts of the "sugarless" product. Sweetners are making huge headway. Consumers can find delight in allowing themselves to choose sugarless candy based on pure taste alone. For those that begrudgingly have chosen the sugarfree sweet while gazing longingly at fat-inducing fancies have the satisfaction of full flavor without the rapid waistline growth.
All sorts of artificial sweetners are available on the market today. Unfortunately behind-the-scenes knowledge of these sweetners are never fully revealed to the public. You are most likely aware of just how many articifical sweetners never hold up and are pulled from grocery shelves. Sugar alcohols, the next step beyond, actually build in the blood and, for many, produce unfortunate (and embarassing) side effects.
Watching our waistlines means researching into the best healthy snack choices for ourselves. Read labels, make wise decisions.
About The Author
Diaper Bags - Convenience and Fashion
Diaper Bags - Convenience and Fashion
by Mike Jennings
Carrying a diaper bag is a necessity if you are a parent on the go. The baby diaper takes up very little space, however it is the bottles, wipes, toys, change of clothing etc. that can be a big hassle to lug around all day. We all have to use diapers bags if we travel with our babies, but they don't have to be overwhelming and ugly. We don't have to carry those heavy plastic bags around anymore if we don't want to. We have fashionable options that make using them a great deal easier.
You can get the convenience of a diaper bag and make a fashion statement at the same time. Designer diaper bags are becoming the biggest fashion statement for new parents to make. It's not only celebrities and rich people who use these anymore because designer diaper bags have gotten to be much more cost effective. You can find these designer diaper bags in many different styles, colors, fabrics and designs. My favorite right now is the sling bag, which looks like a modern sling back pack.
I know that when you are caring for a baby or two, that it is hard to find the time and the motivation to always look smart. You spend so much time on the children with the constant attention they need for feeding, changing and amusing, that you take a second place to it all. However, it is important to give yourself some time to in your busy day to be able to care for your self. While a designer diaper bag may seem like a luxury, it is one small way that you can pamper yourself so that when you are out you can feel smarter with a designer accessory.
I personally love the new back pack diaper bags because it provides me with more freedom for my arms. I am finding that fewer parents are struggling to hold the baby; push the stroller, carry the diaper bag, and heaven forbid the cell phone starts ringing. These new back pack diaper bags make it far easier for parents to multi task, and it is causing less stress for the traveling parent. They work wonders if you are traveling by bus. They allow parents to take many more calming breaths, which we all need; especially since it seems that whenever you are trying to multi task with your baby in your hands, this is the moment when your baby starts to cry. The back pack diaper bag was a life saver to me, and can be one for you too.
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Thursday, March 27, 2008
How To Register A Domain Name
How To Register A Domain Name
by George Meszaros
You may be wondering if you should get a .com, .net, .info, or .whatever kind of domain. So many different kinds of domain extensions to choose from, and so little time. If you are registering a domain name for a for profit business, you should always register a .com domain. From a brand perspective, there is no better domain than a .com domain. Most people associate business domains with the .com extension just like they associate school domains with the .edu extension.
It may not make any difference in the beginning, but the more successful you become the more it could hurt you. Let�s say you develop a new product idea and the .com domain name you want to call it is not available, so you register the .net domain instead. Sounds harmless enough. Now, let�s fast-forward a couple of years. You have spent time and money to develop your brand and people are searching for your product online with the .com extension simply because they expect you to own the domain with the .com extension.
Another reason to shy away from other than .com domain names is that someone may already have copyright protection for the domain name you want to register. Look further if the .com domain you desire is not available. Even if you don�t find the exact domain you initially searched for, you may find one that is better than your original idea.
Whenever the domain you desire is not available through the registrar, you can try purchasing it from the registered owner. Unfortunately, many people register domain names to take advantage of others. The common name for such a person is domain squatter. I only recommend buying domain names from domain squatters if you have money to burn. The more they know you want it, the worse your chances of getting a good deal.
In other situations, someone may have good reason to own your desired domain name. It is unlikely that you�ll be able to buy the domain name from a thriving online business. It is possible that you run across a Web site with the perfect domain name for your business.
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A Delicious Christmas Recipe To Make Your Mouth Water
A Delicious Christmas Recipe To Make Your Mouth Water
by Clive Jenkins
I don't know about you but the one thing I especially look forward to at Christmas time is the food. And I mean really look forward to it. Don't get me wrong here, I'm not saying Christmas is just about food, the festive season is a great time for bringing families together and celebrating, but hey, like I said, I really do like the food.
Traditions Of A Recipe For Christmas
This goes way back and to most families is the main focal point of their Christmas. Waiting to see what that big juicy Turkey will taste like and how it will be presented on the table. Of course there are many other meals for Christmas with a lot of these recipes having been passed through generations of families. It's kind of eerie when we think of this; I mean just think, our ancestors were tucking into the same mince pie that we are eating now at our Christmas Soir�e. Well, perhaps not the 'same' mince pie but certainly the same recipe perhaps.
Some Ideas For A Christmas Recipe
I think the fun recipes are desserts as these are a pleasure to create and everybody always loves a lovely Christmas pudding. The Christmas fruitcake is also a great choice and isn't too difficult to prepare.
A Simple Fruit Cake Recipe
Why not try this very easy fruit cake which doesn't take a great deal of time to prepare and tastes absolutely mouth watering. This is traditional recipe for Christmas time and will always be well received by your guests. To make this you will need to compile the following ingredients: -
One and a half cups of raisins
Three cups of sifted flour
One and a half cups of shredded dates
One cup of crushed nuts
Two cups of water that has been boiled
5 tablespoons of standard vegetable oil
One teaspoon of baking soda
Two cups of sugar
Two teaspoons each of cloves and cinnamon and add one teaspoon of salt.
Preparation
Now that we have all the ingredients measured as above, simply find a clear and clean surface and then proceed to lay them out. Take the sugar together with the vegetable oil and your raisins and place these in a pot and simmer for approximately twenty minutes or so. Make sure you allow the mix to cool down for approx 5 minutes. During this time the soda, salt and pour cloves can be mixed together in a sifting fashion and then incorporated onto the now cooled down mix. Now get your nuts and start stirring the designated amount into complete mix. An old trick to stop the nuts from sinking is to also add some flour at the same time of adding the nuts. Simply then pour the finished mix into pan which has been pre-greased and bake in your oven at three hundred and twenty degrees for approximately one and a half hours. Set your timer for this and additionally check from time to time.
Making a delicious Fruit cake is just one out of many many mouth watering Christmas recipes that you can make. If you browse the internet you will find all sorts of ideas that you can put to use. Whether you refer to a cookbook or browse the web in general, with a little digging and delving you are bound to find the Christmas recipe that is just right for you and your family.
About The Author
If you require more Christmas Decoration info then be sure to visit the Outdoor Christmas Decoration Site which provides comprehensive help, advice and ideas on all aspects of Christmas Decoration. Clive thoroughly recommends this site so check it out today here: -http://www.outdoorchristmasdecorationsite.com
Buffalo Meat - A Cut Above The Rest
Buffalo Meat - A Cut Above The Rest
by Mike Sullivan
For many people, nothing could be more stressful than being a meat lover and be prescribed a low-calorie diet. Meat and low calories are self-contradictory, that�s the common perception. People who are trying to find a low-calorie meat that could replace the kind they are used to eating would do well to consider buffalo meat.
There are many Western-themed restaurants that offer buffalo (also known as American bison) dishes. Ted�s Montana Grill, co-founded by media mogul Ted Turner, which specializes in hand-cut beef and bison steaks, has locations in sixteen states. The Buffalo Bistro and Buffalo Grill in Utah�s Zion National Park are popular tourist attractions. Customers at such restaurants can anticipate being presented with specialties like roasted buffalo or grilled buffalo with a small serving of mashed potato, buffalo burger type served like Salisbury steak with French fries on the sides, regular buffalo steak with a generous serving of raw onion toppings, and even stewed buffalo served with a large mixture of green vegetables in it.
Roasted buffalo meat is especially popular, especially in its almost-raw form. Unlike meat from other animals, bison meat requires very little seasoning to bring out its naturally juicy and finger-licking flavor. A simple preparation technique would be to score the meat only on the surface and dab it with a little salt, a little pepper and olive oil, and it�s ready for cooking. One of the advantages that buffalo meat holds over regular beef is that it takes a shorter time to cook. Just sear both sides to lock in the flavor and you�re done!
Buffalo meat is the only meat with the 3 Ts - Texture, Tenderness and Taste. The flavor is sweeter, and it is lighter and less greasy than other kinds of meat I was used to, such as cow beef or pork or chicken. Also, buffalo meat does not need any tangy gravy to bring out its naturally good flavor; that is important because gravy for meat is usually heavy on calories.
There are some interesting healthful statistics about how, in many ways, buffalo meat is more nutritious than other kinds of animals� meat. It has around 70%-90% less fat than beef, and around 50% less cholesterol. Since it doesn�t have all those harmful fats, it has more protein, iron, amino acids and omega nutrients that a number of people are prescribed to take in the form of tasteless fish and raw vegetables. It is also eminently suitable for persons on a low-carbohydrate diet. A four-ounce serving contains no carbs, 11 grams of protein and three percent of total fat.
And the fat it contains is of the good kind, a monounsaturated fat known as omega-3 fatty acids. Adequate intake of this kind of fat has been scientifically proven to prevent heart disease and promote overall cardiovascular health. In fact, buffalo meat has been endorsed by the American Heart Association and prescribed by physicians for patients on a low-fat, low-calorie diet.
Buffaloes are grown in their natural elements in the open fields and are not given any chemical feeds or antibiotics or artificial growth hormones which are suspected of causing cancer. Since buffaloes are fed only natural grains and green grass, they have a natural strong resistance to diseases and their meat is not tainted with any harmful chemicals. In many ways, the meat of the buffalo, which feeds on nature�s grain and grass, has been graded to be far more excellent than cow, dog or chicken meat.
Today, we can enjoy buffalo steaks, soups, stews, and burgers either in restaurants or at home. Buffalo meat is conveniently available in most supermarkets and is offered by many websites. It�s a hearty, healthy, delicious, and convenient way to enjoy meat.
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Do You Have What It Takes To Run A Successful Home Business?
Do You Have What It Takes To Run A Successful Home Business?
by Yoshi Kundagawa
Now that you are in your own home business, no doubt you had to make some adjustments that where necessary. New techniques and a new way of thinking will assure your real success.
You also want to have what it takes to grab your golden star. But how can you be balanced and still have some fun? Very successful people have known this secret for a long time. We want to live our lives in a way that we can still have some fun. Well, as with everything, the right balance is the answer. No matter if we are young or a little older, we need to sit down and make time work for us. The time we spend in our business is important because this will translate into financial freedom and prosperity.
On the other hand, we need to spend some time to recuperate and refresh ourselves so that we can continue on our way to the top. How you will accomplish this in the right way will make the difference between failure and success in your home business.
This is vital to know and this has been a secret way for successful people to become what they are. You see, you want to have the right frame of mind and attract success and money to you and you can do this more easily when you are in harmony with yourself.
There is a great law in our universe and it is called the law of attraction, which means that you will attract to yourself what you want. But you have to sort out some things here, because while it is true that you want success and money, it is also true that you want even more. This is not your only endeavor! You also want to enjoy life and have some fun, but everything needs to be in it�s right place.
Time management is the answer! But wait, don�t think that it is difficult for you, it�s really simple and easy. With a regular schedule and some routine and the support of those who are close to you, it will all work out right.
There are people that are raking in truckloads of money and still have fun and everybody can do it. It�s just a matter of learning simple techniques from those who are already on the top.
So here is what you want to do, just make a good time schedule and be serious about your dedication to your home business.
Stick to your schedule and then take out some time to relax and have some fun. But remember the law of attraction! So be dedicated to your goals in life and to your home business plans and be passionately about it, it will work!
By being balanced, you can have some fun, too. Keep your goal in mind however!. You want to create your own wealth and have the financial freedom that so many people desire. Set your priorities in the right prospective!
When you do this you, have what it takes to be a successful business person and still have some fun.
About The Author
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
The Mountain Drive Wine Stomp
The Mountain Drive Wine Stomp
by Pierre Lafond
Mountain Drive in Santa Barbara in the 1950s was a center of bohemian life, inspired in part, by Jack Kerouac�s �On the Road�. Located in, what was then, an isolated area in the mountains above Montecito, a rich enclave then as now, and because of its then isolation, of cheap land - $1,000.- $2,000 an acre. Almost all Mountain Drivers built their own houses with the help of their friends and neighbors and often without the benefit of plans or permits.
Many, if not most, had day jobs but in the evenings and weekends they became true bohemians living their iconoclastic fantasies. They celebrated everything worth celebrating, Robert Burns Birthday, Bastille Day, Twelfth Night, the summer and winter equinox, sunset and above all the grape harvest. Wine was the social lubricant in an age where the dry martini reigned, and the wine of preference was Zinfandel from a small family winery in San Luis Obispo.
A Hollywood movie Seconds starring Rock Hudson includes the wine stomp as a central part of their narrative. Filmed on site and with real Mountain Drivers as extras.
Our first winemaker at Santa Barbara Winery was from Mountain Drive, an Optometrist by trade, but a bohemian by choice. What started this train of thought is that David Lafond lives in the house of what was then one of the principle actors on Mountain Drive. David has resuscitated, after more than 20 years absence, one of Mountain Drive�s most cherished celebrations - the Mountain Drive Wine Stomp and the choosing of a Wine Queen.
Today, because of technological advances, only children are allowed to stomp. Being lighter they are gentler. In the good old days the whole community got into the vat and preferably naked. The wine did not turn out half as well.
The bohemian spirit may have vanished, children rebel against their parents, and these are mostly the second generation Mountain Drivers, and maybe, just maybe, sitting on million dollar properties is inhibiting, but they still have a good time and the spirit is there. Hopefully the tradition will survive.
Although never a part of this culture Santa Barbara Winery, and in fact, the whole wine industry in Santa Barbara County owes a debt to these pioneers and their love of the grape.
There is a book, Mountain Drive, compiled and edited by Elias Chiacos, published by Shoreline Press, P.O. Box 3562, Santa Barbara, CA 93130, that covers this early history of Mountain Drive with an ample selection of photos.
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Employers: Save Time By Hiring A Private Investigator To Conduct An Employee Background Check
Employers: Save Time By Hiring A Private Investigator To Conduct An Employee Background Check
by David Almeida
If you are in business, you know that it's important to have a variety of information about those individuals who are working with you. This is true whether the position involves a security detail, handling large amounts of cash or working with a great deal of information such as the social security numbers and credit information for your company's clients.
Therefore, conducting an employee background check is essential in many businesses. However, not every manager or owner will have the time to thoroughly check out everyone who has applied for and who is being considered for filling a position. That's where a private investigator comes in.
It's possible to hire a private investigator to conduct an employee background check for you.
With an employee background check, a private investigator can determine whether the prospective employee:
has a car or truck registered in his or her name;
has a clean driving record;
has indeed attended the college or university listed on his or her application;
has been sued or has a criminal record;
has ever filed for bankruptcy protection;
has sued a previous employer for worker's compensation;
has passed state licensing exams such as those for teachers, doctors, nurses or lawyers;
has ever failed a drug test; or
has been listed on the sex offenders registry.
With this information, you can verify the information that is on the applicant's resume and determine whether or not they meet the criteria that your company sets for its employees.
Much of the information that is included in an employee background check is information that is on public record. Therefore, some businesses may wonder why they should hire a private investigator when it is possible to get the information on their own.
There are a number of reasons why it makes sense to hire a private investigator to conduct an employee background check. Time is one reason: while as an employer may have to place a number of phone calls or conduct a number of searches just to determine who should be contacted to find the information, a private investigator is experienced at conducting employee background checks.
In addition to saving time by having someone else conduct an employee background check, your business will be able to continue to focus on your clients and customers. As a result, your day to day business will not slip through the cracks and you can be sure that the employee background check is conducted without bias.
When the same individuals who conduct interviews also conduct employee background checks, it's possible that a detail would be weighted based on the interview with or personality of the applicant. Because a private investigator is a neutral party, all that will be considered during the employee background check is the information that the search yields.
With that information, you will be better able to determine whether or not the applicant is someone who fits in with your company, your mission statement and the specifics of the position. And, thanks to an employee background check, you can be sure that the person who you hire is a reputable, reliable candidate who will help your business to grow.
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New York City Steakhouse Is An Ample Place For Dinning
New York City Steakhouse Is An Ample Place For Dinning
by Neil Folley
Anyone staying in a happening city of New York can find many steakhouses in this metro city. It is very exciting to visit your favorite steakhouse to splurge your taste buds. You can plan to visit in your favorite steakhouse with your beloved for celebrating your evening. For this, you take an early break from your office work and then visit there to make your evening memorable. You will surely find this place cool and peaceful to let you experience a mesmerizing evening. If you are visiting a steakhouse that is away from the humdrum of city, then undoubtedly you are going to have a wonderful time. Sometimes, it happens that you can experience one of most captivating and memorable moments of your life. You always mesmerize for all such fascinating moments in your life.
New York City Steakhouse has various options to indulge in either with your friends or colleagues for partying. There are many varieties of food which you can choose to fill your appetite. The waiters are dutiful in adhering you to give a better and satisfactory service. The manager of the steakhouse manages efficiently to make its customers pleased by offering a wonderful service. The ambience of this place is mind blowing to make your mood fresh with excitement and fun. Infact, the complete environment of the place is so much fascinating that guests can become spellbound. The sitting arrangement is properly managed so that visitors find it comfortable to have a good time here. Some people like to visit here in their free time and they stay here for hours to spend their time. In the mean time they order some starters to start their evening.
Varity of food items are available and you can order that you want to start with. Menu card can help you to select that food item which you want to try for new dish. The card has some food categories that contain foods like continental, thai, mexican and many others. All these varieties of foods have taste and you have any that satisfies your taste. Apart from fooding, steakhouse has a bar, and you can order your favorite drink from here. Most of us are fond of wines and other drinks and so we feel our food is incomplete without it. A steakhouse has all the varieties of drinks and even the most expensive ones too. In New York city, there are many steakhouses to appease the food lovers. But is it certainly not assuring that all the steakhouse will fill your taste bud.Therefore, you need to search a steakhouse that satisfies your taste.
Basically, it is known among many of us that steakhouse specializes in beef products. But this is not certain as they provide various other items too. Beef items are main foods that they serve for the visitors. These beef products are made from flesh of cows and buffalos and it is really yummy which pulls many people towards itself. These foods are very appetizing and many people do come to steakhouse for tasting these delicious foods.
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I Love German Wine And Food - A Baden Pinot Noir
I Love German Wine And Food - A Baden Pinot Noir
by Levi Reiss
If you are in the market for fine German wine and food, you should consider the Baden region of southeastern Germany. You may find a bargain, and I know that you will enjoy yourself fun on this fact-filled wine education tour in which we review a local Pinot Noir.
The Baden region is the southernmost wine-growing region in Germany. Most of its many vineyards are found in a long, narrow strip between the Black Forest and the Rhine River. Across this river lies the French wine region of Alsace. Although approximately sixty percent of local wine is white, the red Pinot Noir is definitely the most important grape variety in Baden. White varieties include the German-bred Mueller Thurgau, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Riesling. Baden ranks third in Germany for both vineyard acreage and total wine production. Slightly over one third of its wine production is QbA wine, the remainder is the higher quality QmP wine. Baden produces no table wine.
If you're going to be in Baden, why not visit Baden-Baden? This town, simply called Baden until 1931, is the center of a famous spa taking advantage of the local hot springs already known to the Ancient Romans. The city offers a casino, the oldest casino in Germany. This was where the famous Russian writer Fyodor Dostoyevsky wrote The Gambler. It wasn't only a labor of love; there were gambling debts to pay. Be sure to visit Abtei Lichtenthal, a medieval Cistercian abbey. The Festspielhaus Baden-Baden (Baden-Baden Festival Theatre) is Germany's largest opera house and concert hall with 2,500 seats.
Before reviewing the Baden wine and imported cheeses that we were lucky enough to purchase at a local wine store and a local Italian food store, here are a few suggestions of what to eat with indigenous wines when touring this beautiful region. Start with Schwarzwaelder Schinken (Black Forest Ham). Continue with Forelle (Trout) done in dozens of ways. For dessert indulge yourself with Schwarzwaelder Torte (Black Forest Cake, Chocolate Cake with Whipped Cream and Cherries).
OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed Konigschaffhausen Pinot Noir 2003 13.0% alcohol about $15
Let's start by quoting the marketing materials. The hot growing season of 2003 facilitated a level of ripeness in the vineyards of many regions, including Baden, that was almost unprecedented. Expect ripe strawberry, cherry, and plum aromas and flavors. This Pinot would complement grilled salmon or veal chops.
My first meal consisted of breaded, fried chicken breast with potato salad, eggplant, and tomato salad. Perhaps because I knew that the wine was a Pinot Noir, I tasted the earth and a bit of tobacco. This wine and food pairing was quite successful.
For my next tasting, I started with a tomato-based eggplant salad and humus topped by very piquant Moroccan spices. The heart of the meal was beef stew and potatoes. Once again I knew this Pinot Noir was a Pinot Noir and I enjoyed it all the way.
The final meal wasn't really a meal. It was a late night snack of cold barbequed chicken. The wine was excellent and tasted of light cherries. My initial reaction was that the wine came up short, but after a few sips I thought otherwise.
As often, I tried this wine with two cheeses. The first was an overripe French Camembert, a soft cow's milk cheese. The wine became flatter, and while it was still fruity what a shame to combine the two. It was as if somebody shaved the top off the wine. I guess you know by now that German Limberger cheese can be quite pungent; this one was certainly starting to smell but interestingly enough the odor didn't really affect its taste. My Pinot Noir retained a bit more of its fruit than when paired with the Camembert, but frankly, why waste this wine with this cheese?
Final verdict. I'm going to buy this wine again. The 2003 vintage is no longer available so I'll grab the 2004 and see what a difference a year makes.
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