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<title>Latest Fashion Articles</title>
<link>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/</link>
<description>Articles at BetterLifeAdvice</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title>10 Great Winter Fashion Trends This Season</title>
<link>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/10-great-winter-fashion-trends-this-season.html</link>
<guid>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/10-great-winter-fashion-trends-this-season.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 13:01:56 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ It's that time of the year again with snowflakes falling, yuletide cheer and Christmas shopping, hot cups of coco and cozy warm fireplace with sizzling embers of coal crackling away. But what's heating up the fashion scene this winter, a closer look reveals some interesting insights on the latest winter fashions.

This seasons winter colours

True to the season, soft snowy white shades seem to be a good choice for clothes that blend in with the winter theme. Another popular colour to helps produce a sharp contrast is Black and various shades of bright black; while dull and muted greys give a nice warm and fuzzy touch and hues of rich red right through to mellow maroon are reflective of the season. 

For women, earthy colours ranging from the deep shades of olive, maroon, brown, deep blue's to chocolate brown are colours set to form the trend. While for men, muted shades of pink, lavender, brick red, grey, deep shades of purple and black are whatâ€™s going to be setting the stage for fashion. 

Hair

Choosing the right hair style to go with the fashion and season can be a daunting task. You don't want to be seen in last year's styles and certainly not something thatâ€™s not the hottest rage at the moment. So if you're trying to figure out the hairdo that's the pick of the season by stylists and fashion models;  it's time to let you in on that little secret, apparently for women wearing your hair in the all so classic 'Bob Cut' seems to be the favoured trend this season. 

Men on the other to make the cut will have to aim to get their hair into the bushy straight yet carefully dishevelled look that gets tucked away into the tops of their mufflers. 

Hats

If you like hats you're in luck, this season hoods, hats and caps are the rage. Large knitted beanies or those furry oversized Moroccan hats all in this winter. The styles in vogue are hats that are either huge and puffy or tiny and pointed. Fur lined hoods blended into the garment are also turning heads this winter. 

Coats

This season coats come with a nice thick mantle like look that feature tousled sleeves and funnelled collars. Other patterns included coats with widely placed collars and a rich furry texture. 

Fabrics

The prevailing tendencies for fabrics this season are fabrics that are over-worked with several different effects across their surfaces. The fabrics are very solid or concrete with a sort of untamed natural feel blended with soft lustres. Prints around the winter theme are almost subtle while the focus in on rich exterior of the fabric. 

Lightweight wool or reworked cottons are the base for designs that will debut this winter.

Effects

Complementing the feel and textures of fabrics the designs around these effects that are set to make the stage this winter, range from, long pleats, to subtle wrinkles and clearly visible overstitches, to the blistered and tangled effects.

Cashmere worked in with regular wool and mohair is blended to give the fabrics a light yet visibly textured look. While some of the other fabrics are roughly cut to give a thatched heavily threaded effect. Most knits are made with heavily emphasised gages to draw out the raw protective feel against the winter chill.

Denim is one of those fabrics that will probably be around forever, this winter, the theme is a slight gleam in the denim with an oxidised look. In fact this seasons going to have you seeing a lot of ultra cool effects. 

Scarves 

This season, trade in your old winter muffler for those large woollen scarves that can be draped over your shoulders like a stole. Embodied with various prints on dulled wool the scarf lends a casual yet protective loo to the wearer be it a man or a woman. 

Footwear

Ankle length shoes in shades of silver and grey are this winters winner. They shriek elegance and comfort in a very casual sort of way. For women transparent slippers laced with silver give an almost Cinderella effect. 

Jewellery

Jewellery designs highlighting the winter season are marvellous add onsâ€™ silver snowflake pendants and large broaches like a sprig of holly or mistletoe make some really eye catching accessories. Chunky silver bracelets and large but light earrings that dangle add to the effect.

So, make sure you watch out for these lovely trends that are bound to take the country by storm. And honestly, you really do not have to own expensive designer wear to make a statement. Even your local stores will stock up on some of these new designs. This winter season ensure you treat yourself to some of these trendy fashions and go paint the town red! ]]></description>
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<title>3 Tips on Choosing the Right Perfume for You</title>
<link>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/3-tips-on-choosing-the-right-perfume-for-you.html</link>
<guid>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/3-tips-on-choosing-the-right-perfume-for-you.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:53:56 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ With the thousands of fragrances in the market, it can sometimes be tricky to choose the one that is perfect for your taste, personality, the occasion, and other factors. Check out the following basic tips that you may find useful when choosing and even wearing the perfect perfume for you.

1.	Determine your budget.

Perfumes are priced in a very big range, from very inexpensive colognes to luxurious designer brands. Determining your budget or the money you are prepared to spend beforehand will help narrow down the choices and will save you a lot of time.

2.	Know what particular smell you want and go for it.

Decide on what type of fragrance you want based on what use the perfume would be to you. For instance, is it for special occasions? Is it to please or seduce a lover? Is it for everyday wash and wear? If you plan to please someone, make sure to research on the particular fragrances he or she likes. If you want it to be an everyday whiff you can wear to work or school, you may want to buy a lighter and fresher scent. If it’s for big parties and formal events, choose a perfume that makes a stronger impact by blending well with your body chemistry.

Other factors like the weather or season are also important to consider. For instance, if you live in a very humid setting, floral fragrances with a woody or musky base often complement the sultry weather. If you’re often surrounded by a lot of people in near proximity, don’t choose a very strong perfume because not everyone likes perfume. Citrus, sea breeze and other herb and floral fragrances are often fresh and rejuvenating, perfect for someone always on the go. If you will be out on a date and want to heighten the romance, choose a scent that is a bit stronger but not overpowering. Usually oriental spices project confidence and sophistication. Meanwhile, aromatic blends are perfect for men who like to smell like a true man exuding with machismo and security. 

3.	Examine carefully before buying. 

When you’ve finally narrowed down your choices and you’re ready to go to a perfume shop, don’t forget to carefully examine each perfume you fancy before getting ahead of yourself and purchasing. Take note that your nose can only handle so much and testing 20 perfumes consecutively will prove to be futile. Before you start spraying a perfume on your wrist, spray it first on a card or paper and decide if you like it. If not, move on to the next. Once you find a scent you think is perfect, start testing it on your body. Apply a small amount on your wrist or at the back of your arm. Sometimes the saleslady will offer to apply some in her own skin and have you smell it. This is a no-no because each of us reacts to perfumes in different ways. Make sure the perfume is perfect for you by putting it on your own skin. Wait for a few minutes because fragrances start to grow on you and smell different after a while. ]]></description>
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<title>70 - 80% Of Women Do Not Wear The Right Size Bra!</title>
<link>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/70-80-of-women-do-not-wear-the-right-size-bra.html</link>
<guid>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/70-80-of-women-do-not-wear-the-right-size-bra.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:45:56 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Every woman knows the difficulty involved in finding the right bra. Questions like What cup Size are you now? What style do you require? Seem to never end! 


Well...First and foremost it is essential that you know your correct size. A badly fitting bra can lead to back problems, muscle tension, and even headaches. If you are in your teen years, the strain caused by a badly fitting bra can lead to permanent problems with posture and even back pain. So that?s why teens should be fit by a bra expert at least twice a year or even after every noticeable growth pattern. 

Your first consideration should be the reason you need the bra; is it for athletics, coverage, comfort or support? There are different types and styles of bras made for specific types of bodies and physical activities. Although it would be nice, no one bra can do it all; you have different bras for different jobs. A Sexy bra for those intimate private moments or a Sports Bra for when you want to perform arduous exercise. 

First Bras 

Training bras are for younger girls who have just started to develop breasts and are not able to fit into standard size bras. Age is not the concern, rather its getting the right fit and support for your breast size. 

Wireless Bras 

Light support or wireless bras usually have no Underwire and are sometimes the preferred choice for those with smaller breasts. They are less constricting and more comfortable than full support bras. As they are wireless they offer less shaping and more freedom than other bras. You can find the padded and unpadded variety; what you choose is a matter of personal preference. 

Underwire Bras 

Full support or underwire bras usually have an underwire or plastic boning holding them up. It doesn?t matter what breast size you are, however it is a must for those with larger cup sizes. They also are available in padded or unpadded varieties. 

Push Up Bras 

Sometimes referred to as padded bras and more famously attributed to the Wonderbra. They lift the breasts and add more shape to them with extra padding. There are some more innovative versions around that use silicone inserts or water sacks to enhance your look even further. They are known to "lift and separate" the breasts, creating a full cleavage and most importantly offer lots of support. 

Plus Size Bras 

Plus size bras have finally found a home away from the unsightly bras of yesteryear to the sleek and sexy bras of today. From sports to sexy to your everyday bra, plus size bras are know available in many styles and brands. You can get extremely feminine lacy plus size bras, or bras finished in satin, silk, lace and cotton, under wire and strapless bras. 

Sports Bras 

Probably the least flattering and sexy in the bra family but ironically the most important one for growing teens to have. As well as offering full support, they also stop the breasts from moving during strenuous activity. The tissue in your breasts is very delicate and growing tissue especially needs to be protected during high impact exercise. 

Nursing Bras 

Your breasts start changing shape from the fourth month of pregnancy. As a result, most women find their previous bra too small. Purchase a nursing bras close to your due date or shortly after your baby arrives, because your breasts will grow larger toward the end of your pregnancy and when milk comes in. Consider buying a bra that has flaps and can be opened and refastened easily. Since milk leakage is inevitable, it also makes sense to buy nursing pads to protect both your bra and clothes. It is always better to buy 100% cotton bras, as cotton is a breathable fabric. Synthetic fabrics trap moisture and encourage bacterial growth and soreness. 

Mastectomy Bras 

These types of bras are designed with pockets in the cup area to hold a breast prosthesis. There is a wide range of styles and colors available. The silicone breast prosthesis simulates the natural breast with regards to its shape and weight. The prosthesis?s main advantage of is that it provides symmetry and balance to a persons body, who has survived from breast cancer. Wearing the right prosthesis is primarily important to your ultimate comfort level. With a superior fitting prosthesis, and a well-made and fitted mastectomy bra, you in turn will help to balance your posture and provide fortification for your chest and breast cancer scars. 

Now you know the importance of the bra and the many types available, you should know firstly what size you need and how to determine that size. The following article gives you an insight into how to measure your self and the importance of a well fitted bra. ]]></description>
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<title>7 Ways to Grow Flowers</title>
<link>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/7-ways-to-grow-flowers.html</link>
<guid>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/7-ways-to-grow-flowers.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:37:56 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Flowering landscape trees are the crown jewels of the yard. 
Perhaps no other plants, individually, can have as great an 
impact on how a yard looks in spring. Browse the articles to 
which I've linked below for information on particular varieties 
of flowering landscape trees. Pictures are included. 

Crape Myrtles: Landscape Trees of the South 

A popular choice in flowering landscape trees for Southerners, 
crape myrtles have a long blooming period (mid-summer to 
fall). The blooming clusters of these flowering landscape trees 
come in pink, white, red and lavender. The clusters appear on 
the tips of new wood. Northerners can sometimes get away 
with treating these flowering landscape trees as perennials 
that die back in winter but come back in spring. 

Trees

Not all specimens with a weeping habit are flowering 
landscape trees, but this article looks at several weeping 
varieties that do bloom, headed by four types of cherry. 
Saucer Magnolias 

The size and shape of the blooms are what suggested the 
common name for these flowering landscape trees. Want a 
specimen with a brilliant bloom as big as a saucer? Access 
information on these beauties here. 

Rose of Sharon 

Although some people think of it as a landscape "tree" 
(because it gets tall and can be pruned so as to have a single 
trunk), rose of sharon is, in fact, a flowering shrub. The fact 
that it blooms relatively late -- and for a long time -- makes it 
a valuable plant for those looking to distribute their yard's 
color display throughout the growing season. 
Top 10 List of Flowering Landscape Trees and Shrubs for 
Spring |

This article features information on ten flowering landscape 
trees and shrubs that brighten our spring seasons. Included 
are redbud, callery pear and crabapple. 
Hawthorn: Late-Blooming Landscape Trees 

This article offers information on Washington hawthorn trees, 
which are perhaps most valued for the time at which they 
bloom (late spring to early summer). Many of the popular 
flowering specimens bloom earlier in the spring, and while 
their blossoms are pleasant sights for eyes sore from winter's 
barrenness, they desert us too quickly! ]]></description>
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<title>8 Great Gift Ideas For Your Boss This New Year</title>
<link>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/8-great-gift-ideas-for-your-boss-this-new-year.html</link>
<guid>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/8-great-gift-ideas-for-your-boss-this-new-year.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:29:56 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The New Year is a Festive time - and its time for loving, sharing and celebrating. Gifts, by far are the best way to express one's feelings and intent and a thoughtful gift is always well reciprocated. When it comes to picking a New Year gift for your boss, people usually find themselves in a state of perplexity; especially if they are running low on funds or perhaps if they are not sure about their bosses likes and dislikes. With a few helpful tips and ideas; you will be able to pick the right gift for your boss and a well intended gift is bound to be treasured for a lifetime and is usually well reciprocated. 

A Desk Calendar/Planner

A desk calendar or planner would not only fit within your budget; but also proves to be an ideal New Year gift for your â€œbusy as alwaysâ€ boss. If your budget allows you to be a bit flexible; you could even think of gifting a set of matching desk calendar and planner. This way, your boss would have easy access to his appointment schedules and each time he/she picks up that planner; heâ€™s going to be reminded of your thoughtful gesture; no matter where he is. Pick a calendar or planner that goes well with your bossâ€™s personality and taste. 

Gift Baskets

With a gift-basket; you have the advantage of picking a custom-made gift basket; which can perfectly fit within your budget and gives you the flexibility of choosing individual items for the basket. If you are facing a paucity of time or if your budget allows; you can even opt for a pre-made gift basket. Choose from stationary items to luxury chocolates to expensive pen sets, cuff links or perhaps some mini electronic gizmo. Stuff that basket with gifts that you think will complement your bossâ€™s personality and can be put to good use. 

A Pen and Pencil Set

Although this may seem as a banal gift idea; an elegant and well crafted pen set is usually well accepted and reciprocated and makes for an ideal New Year gift for your boss; be it male or female. You could even consider upgrading the pen and pencil set by getting it engraved by your Bossâ€™s initials or perhaps his company name. Just exercise your imagination well; and then decide on how you want to have it engraved. A wide variety of pen sets are available in wood as well as metal. If you donâ€™t have the time to go shopping to a physical novelty store; consider buying it online. That way; you are subjected to a wider variety of options and many online stores offer decent discounts during festive season. 

Tickets to a show, Concert or Game

This gift sure sounds like fun. Gift two or more tickets to your boss for a concert, game/sport or perhaps a show or performance. Itâ€™s the best way to remind him that he too like everyone else needs to snap out of his busy schedule and enjoy a nice night out at his favorite venue. Before you buy that ticket for him, it is a good idea to find out about his favorite sport, music band or performer. After all, you do not want to put him/her through an endurance test! If you are still unsure; take the advice of your colleagues or associates. 

Gift Certificates

With a gift certificate; you not only get the flexibility with your budget but also on the type of gift. You could pick a gift certificate for his favorite restaurant or store; depending upon his preference and your budget. Gift certificates could range any where between $20 to $100 or perhaps more. Gift certificates are also available for online shopping and this way your boss has an option to pick an item that best suits his/her requirement. Remember; with a gift certificate you could never go wrong especially if you are unsure of your bossâ€™s likes and dislikes. 

Treat your Boss to a Lunch at his favorite Restaurant

Let your Boss indulge in some epicurean delights. Find out about his favorite cuisine and restaurants in town and make sure you book a special table in advance as festive time is usually chock-a-block. This way; you also get to spend quality time with him and talk shop while treating him/her to his favorite cuisine. 

You can never go wrong with a Bottle of Wine

Well, consider this option only if your boss is not a complete abstainer. However, the bottle will definitely be popped open on New Yearâ€™s Eve and make it a perfect New Yearâ€™s gift for your boss. Choose between expensive or inexpensive and red or white wine depending on your budget and your bossâ€™s preferences. 

Golf Gifts

Find out if your boss is an avid golfer or even a beginner golfer. There are various golfing gifts available online to choose from that would fit your budget as well. ]]></description>
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<title>Abundant Perfume Choices</title>
<link>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/abundant-perfume-choices.html</link>
<guid>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/abundant-perfume-choices.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:21:56 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ There are so many scent and fragrance choices today as there is a great battle to capture our attention by the manufacturers of perfumes. How do we choose one over its competitor? For that matter, with the huge selection that there is, just getting started is a great challenge!

Let's explore some of the basic categories of perfumes and fragrances.

* Florals are the "all around" choice. That doesn't mean, however, that using a cheap version will do. High quality ingredients count for a lot, particularly when the consumer is searching for a distinctive feminine fragrance.

* Fruity perfumes and fragrances are different from their floral cousins in that they are best for warm weather. Also, the lady who likes tradition, yet a difference from the classic floral will enjoy the spicy, fruity difference.

* Younger consumers are drifting towards the more modern oceanic scents. They are unusual and intense and give off a nautical impression. A great choice for warmer months due to their outdoor-ish nature.

* The oriental varieties have a strong spicy scent. A choice of this variety is usually very personal as they are usually reserved for special events

* A pleasant refreshing choice is brought out by the earthy types of perfumes. Older folks tend to prefer these as they are traditional and less bold.

* Finally, the "green" varieties are a lighter fragrance that goes well on less formal, casual occasions.

So what to choose? Are you the type that doesn't like change? If so, use what you've always used, unless it no longer gives you the pleasure you once got from it. However, if you are of an open mind, expand your horizons and try something different...either from a different category or and different perfume from the same, time tested category. ]]></description>
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<title>Accessorizing Your Leather:  Great ideas to brighten your look!</title>
<link>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/accessorizing-your-leather-great-ideas-to-brighten-your-look.html</link>
<guid>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/accessorizing-your-leather-great-ideas-to-brighten-your-look.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:13:56 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Leather has been a favorite textile all over the world for thousands of years.  It was used in England, Germany, France, as well as many other countries to make luggage, clothing, shoes, handbags, and other products as different cultures saw fit.  The Indians used leather for their clothing, shoes, boots, jewelry, blankets, and homes.  

The Indians made their leather look more colorful and appealing to the eye.  They added beads on their boots and shoes, colorful dyes decorated the outside of their teepees, and feathers ornamented their leather head dresses.  The Indians found many ways to accessorize their leather.  

Today we have become accustomed to using leather for many aspects in life such as handbags, purses, shoes, clothing, coats, hats, jewelry, luggage, wallets, and fanny packs.  It is so easy to choose what we will wear and carry with what.  We have so many styles, colors, and different grades of leather to choose from.  All we have to do is go online or to a mall and buy what we like.  It is as easy as that.  

Your ensemble may be easier to accessorize than you think.  For instance, we use a certain style purse such as a clutch purse to wear with our evening wear.  Trendy handbags and sporty purses will embellish your jeans and a tee.  While a fanny pack or a backpack/book bag will work well on an adventurous hike or to a theme park.  Or how professional would you look carrying a fine leather briefcase walking into a corporate business meeting.   The way you accessorize your outfit says a lot about your personality.

Another way to accessorize your wardrobe could be with leather jewelry such as a chokers or leather necklace with a slide or beads on it.  Leather jewelry is very stylish in today’s fashion world and when you think about it, it has for quite some time.

There are many ways to use leather to dress up your day, whether at work or at play.  These are just a few ideas on how to accessorize your wardrobe with leather.  Can you think of more? ]]></description>
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<title>Addiction: When Gambling Becomes a Problem</title>
<link>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/addiction-when-gambling-becomes-a-problem.html</link>
<guid>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/addiction-when-gambling-becomes-a-problem.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:05:56 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ While most people enjoy casino gambling, sports betting, lottery and bingo playing for the fun and excitement it provides, others may experience gambling as an addictive and distractive habit. Statistics show that while 85 percent of the adult population in the US enjoys some type of gambling every year, between 2 and 3 percent of will develop a gambling problem and 1 percent of them are diagnosed as pathological gamblers. 

Where can you draw the line between harmless gambling to problem gambling? How can you tell if you or your friend are compulsive gamblers? Here you can find answers to these questions and other questions regarding problem gambling and gambling addiction. 

What is the Meaning of Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling or compulsive gambling is defined as an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite the destructive effect of gambling on the gamblers life and despite feelings of guilt and remorse. Problem gambling tends to have a negative effect on the gamblers financial state, relationships and daily life. Severe cases of problem gambling can be defined as pathological gambling. 

Am I a Compulsive Gambler?
1) Do you gamble until your last penny runs out?
2) Do you gamble to win back your former losses or debts?
3) Did you ever had to borrow money to continue gamble?
4) Did your gambling habit ever made you lie to your friends or family?
5) Did you ever skip work or other obligation to gamble?
6) Do you tend to gamble to forget about your personal problems or to celebrate happy occasions?
7) Does gambling have a negative affect on your daily life or relationships?

If you have answered yes on at least one of the questions listed above, then you have a problem. 

Can Anyone Become a Compulsive Gambler?
Theoretically, yes. Any gambler can develop gambling problem regardless to the type of gambling he is occupied with, the amount of money and time he is spending on gambling. Researches show that slot machines that can be found in bars and convenient stores are the most addictive type of gambling activity, while lottery draws and bingo games are located on the other end of the scale. Gambling addiction is an emotional problem; its symptoms, causes and treatments are similar to any other form of addiction. 

How Can I treat Gambling Addiction?
1) Group Therapy:
Gamblers Anonymous offers a 12 step self help program similar to the one offered to alcohol addicts in Alcoholics Anonymous.  Group therapy also offers gambling addicts advice and support from professional counselors and other gambling addicts in different phases of their recovery process. Gambler Anonymous centers are available in more than 1,200 locations statewide.

2) Individual Therapy:
Cognitive or behavior therapy can help gambling addicts to identify their unaware thinking and acting patterns, which led them to gamble compulsively, and to replace them with controllable and healthier ways of thinking.

3) Psychiatric Medication:
It has recently been proven that antidepressant medications from the family of SSRIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can be affective in treatment of gambling addicts. ]]></description>
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<title>Adding Personal Touches to Your Wedding</title>
<link>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/adding-personal-touches-to-your-wedding.html</link>
<guid>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/adding-personal-touches-to-your-wedding.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:57:56 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A perfect wedding isn’t only beautiful, it’s personal. It’s got carefully selected details that are meaningful to you and your fiancé.  Here are some very simple ways to add your own subtle, unique touches to your ceremony and reception:
 
•Write your own wedding vows. It doesn’t have to read like poetry; the important thing is that it comes from your own heart. Print it out on an index card and keep it handy during the ceremony. 
•Compile a CD with songs that symbolize your relationship or how it evolved. Play this during your reception or even burn a copy and distribute as souvenirs. Insert a small piece of paper explaining why you chose those songs.
•Instead of tossing your bouquet, present it to your mother (or a dear friend or mentor) during your reception. You can also have an additional bouquet made for your groom to present his mother at the same time. 
•Guests often have free time on their hands during their reception. In the center of the table, place several pens and small pieces of paper in a pretty basket. Ask them to write their wishes, prayers, or advice for you and your fiancé. Compile in a scrapbook.
•Most wedding reception programs revolve around the couple: friends give speeches. Do something for the guests. Make a video of you and your fiancé talking about the people who’ve taught you what true love means. Mention friends who’ve demonstrated real loyalty, or family members who made great sacrifices for you. Intersperse your video with their photos. This is your chance to say thank you to all of them.
•If you have a close friend or family member who passed away, make him or her part of the occasion by inserting a small photo in your bouquet, or lighting a tribute candle at the church ceremony. 
•If you have ethnic roots, incorporate a marriage ritual from your culture into your ceremony or perform it during your reception.  
•Wear an heirloom. For example, you can use your grandmother’s veil, or wear a locket that belongs to your mother. This is an excellent way of creating a sense of continuity between generations, celebrating your own family even as you go on to begin your own. 
•Prepare an audio-video presentation that will be played during the last dance of the bride with the father. This can be just a simple montage of childhood photos. A guaranteed tear-jerker!  
•If you have kids, help them feel like they’re part of the new family by asking them to stand next to you as you say your vows.
•Add little elements that say something about your relationship as a couple. For example, if you’re giving away picture frames, insert a poem that you wrote or a copy of your wedding vows. If you met at a beach (and would rather not have a beach-themed wedding) incorporate shells into your table centerpiece. ]]></description>
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<title>All Natural, Chemical Free At Home Dry Cleaning Methods</title>
<link>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/all-natural-chemical-free-at-home-dry-cleaning-methods.html</link>
<guid>http://www.betterlifeadvice.com/fashion/all-natural-chemical-free-at-home-dry-cleaning-methods.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:49:56 -0800</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Perchloroethylene, better known as perc, is used by 80 percent of dry cleaners in the United States as a solvent to wash clothes that are “dry clean only.”  Despite its effectiveness, the use of this chemical has been linked to a range of health side effects and has recently come under heavy public scrutiny.  With heavy regulation from the Environmental Protection Agency, professional dry cleaners are seeking the use of a safer chemical—liquid carbon dioxide—to provide a green laundry alternative.  At-home dry cleaning kits such as Dry Cleaner’s Secret are providing the option of affordable & environmentally safe dry cleaning, that cuts down the energy-burning, waste producing processes that the professionals use.

The first step to green dry cleaning is replacing harmful chemicals with natural cleaning products.  Perchloroethylene (perc) is a synthetic chemical that is made from a reaction between ethylene and chlorine.  Like many synthetic chemicals, it poses a threat to our health.  Perc is a central nervous system depressant. Exposure to it can occur in the workplace or in the environment when it is released into air, water, land, or groundwater.  It can also occur when people use products containing perc, spend time in dry cleaning facilities that use perc, live above or adjacent to these dry cleaning facilities, or bring dry cleaned garments into their home before they are properly aired out. Short-term contact can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, and irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, and throat, while long term exposure poses greater threats, including liver and kidney damage and cancer.  

Liquid carbon dioxide (CO2) appears to be the most practical green dry cleaning solvent to replace perchloroethylene.  It is cheap, abundant, naturally occurring and can even be recycled from the industrial wastes from the manufacture of chemicals such as ammonia.  Most importantly, exposure to carbon dioxide has no health side effects.  The only drawbacks for dry cleaning with CO2 are that it does not clean as well as perc does and the machinery needed to use it is very expensive, thus a higher price is past on to the consumer.

A virtue of environmentalism is moderation.  That being said, green dry cleaning is best achieved if you do not dry clean at all or limit the use of professional dry cleaning by using at-home dry cleaning kits for garments with smaller spots and stains or that need to be freshened. Professional dry cleaning is a large process that uses a lot of energy and produces a lot of waste in the form of powder residue, sludge and wastewater.  If the dry cleaner is still using perc (it is still allowed in most states), these substances are hazardous.  At-home dry cleaning involves no more than a Dry Cleaner’s Secret cleaning cloth and your dryer.  There are no harmful chemicals involved and no waste.
 
While perc remains the most effective dry cleaning solvent, the use of natural cleaning products and at-home dry cleaning can only be beneficial to our health and our environment.

~ Ben Anton ]]></description>
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