Scientists are always looking to plants to find medicinal and therapeutic secrets. Discoveries of natural compounds within the olive tree and olives, provide promising health and medical benefits. Organic olive oil has significant health related properties that have spanned centuries and cultures in the Mediterranean.
The Mediterranean olive dates back 6000 years and was native to Iran, Syria and Palestine (Asia Minor). From there it spread to the Mediterranean basin. It is one of the earliest known cultivated trees. According to the Bible, an olive leaf was that which a dove brought back to Noah, as an indication the great flood waters were abating.
The olive tree thrives best in a sunny position and climate. A rocky subsoil suits it well. The trunk is knotty, hard, and gnarled, the bark smooth and ash colored. Olive wood is valuable for its durability and is crafted into many items such as gourmet cooking utensils. The olive tree experiences slow growth, but it lives very long. It is reported that the olive trees on Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, are over 2000 years old. It is commonly believed the Bible passage of “the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine,” refers to the olive tree. Olive leaves are silver grey-green, and possesses the health qualities of “olive leaf extract” which is pressed from them. Extracted from olive leaves is a bitter substance named oleuropein. In the 1960’s researchers reported that oleuropein lowered blood pressure in animals, this caused immediate medicinal interest in the olive leaf. There are new studies that indicate olive leaf extract may be a natural preventative against the common cold and flu.
The olive is believed to be a source of wealth for the Minoan Kingdom. Egyptians tombs dating back as far as 2000 BC have been proved to contain olives. The Greeks spread the usage of olives to the Romans who, in turn, spread it across their vast empire. The use of olive oil has been advocated by many religions and cultures. The early Greek Kings were anointed with olive oil. It was also used to anoint winning Olympic athletes. Across many cultures, olive oil is recognized for healthy benefits for both the inner and outward body.
Some research indicates extra-virgin olive oil is the most digestible of the edible fats. Olive oil also it helps to assimilate vitamins A, D and K in the human body. Benefits of consuming olive oil include slowing down the aging process and helps liver, bile, and intestinal functions. Olive oil is valued for its culinary attributes and organoleptic virtues, these being: flavor, bouquet or aroma, and color. Various grades of olive oil are derived from the time of pressing. Earlier pressings are regarded as better quality. Cold pressed olive oil is a pressing process requiring no heat or chemicals, which destroy vital nutrients. This olive oil is generally the best to use for cooking and healthy cuisine.
Olive oil has been extensively used in cooking and forms an integral part of the basic Mediterranean diet. It is a healthier substitute to butter. Strong and pungent flavored olive oils are great for frying fish or other items having a strong flavor. Extra virgin olive oil goes well with salads. A late harvest mission variety olive oil, which is mellow, can be used for baking cakes. Gourmet olive oil is a healthier and tastier substitute to other fatty cooking oils. The health benefits of cold pressed olive oil already have federal agency approval. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized marketing ads that say organic olive oil helps reduce the risk of coronary disease and disorders.
Given below is a simple recipe for olive oil bread dipping sauce.
Bread Dipping Sauce
Servings : 2 - 4
Preparation time : 10 minutes
Ingredients:
½ cup virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced (Italian parsley is best)
1 tablespoon fresh basil, minced
½ teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced
1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, crushed well
1/8 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Salt, to taste
Method:
Heat the olive oil in a pan. Add the garlic and sauté till it changes color. Add all the other ingredients and cook for about 2 – 3 minutes. Remove from the heat. Serve as a bread dip.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Olive Wood Craftsmanship And Herbes De Provence From France
For the gourmet cook there is nothing like a fine olivewood kitchen tool for a gourmet gift. Olivewood is known for its robustness and highly prized as a wood cooking utensil. Olive wood is known for its hygienic qualities and also its beauty. Olive wood makes a great natural selection for any cook or kitchen.
Olive wood from Europe is recognized as the premium wood to fashion gourmet wood cooking utensils. Research from the University of Wisconsin, has proved through tests, that wood is more hygienic than any kind of molded plastic. Wooden products are safer than plastic kitchen items because bacteria like salmonella cannot survive for more than three minutes on a wood surface, yet it will remain viable on or in a plastic equivalent.
Kitchen utensils and kitchenware are made from European olive wood because of its high grade of durability. Olive wood carpentry and craftsmanship has been handed down from generation to generation, from family to family, in the Provence area of France. The Provence locale is picturesque and compelling to visit. Hilltop towns overlook the Mediterranean Sea, and bask in the warm temperate climate. Gourmet cooking from this area is famous for incorporating the organic herbs and spices grown here. Special dried herb mixes are featured in gourmet Herbes de Provence. Gourmet chefs and cooks from around the world utilize French Herbes de Provence for its pure flavor in their finest recipes. This region has become known for its gourmet cuisine, rich history, and olive wood artisans. It has become a natural for gourmet gift products to be made from olive wood, here.
The olive wood selected for their products is of the finest aged quality and is extremely robust. Each olive wood piece is processed naturally to bring out the unique grain pattern inherent to olive wood. The olive wood raw material is hand selected and skillfully crafted by wood carving professionals. Because of the nature of olive wood, over 75% of the rough material may be turned to waste, to manufacture a fine grade kitchen utensil or olive wood gourmet gift item.
Numerous shops from Paris to Nice will include olive wood gift items of extraordinary quality. Tourists find exceptional bargains that are individually made and exquisite.
One such item is an olive wood herb mill or herb grinder, which is used to grind dried herbs and salts. Each mill is hand made, and at completion, solely unique. No two pieces of olive wood material are the same, thus the wood grain and veining pattern are never similar from piece to piece. Like pepper grinding mills, an olivewood herb grinder offers the fresh ground taste and aroma of fresh herbs to any gourmet dish.
An olive wood herb mill has made many cooks happy as a thoughtful kitchen gourmet gift.
Olive wood from Europe is recognized as the premium wood to fashion gourmet wood cooking utensils. Research from the University of Wisconsin, has proved through tests, that wood is more hygienic than any kind of molded plastic. Wooden products are safer than plastic kitchen items because bacteria like salmonella cannot survive for more than three minutes on a wood surface, yet it will remain viable on or in a plastic equivalent.
Kitchen utensils and kitchenware are made from European olive wood because of its high grade of durability. Olive wood carpentry and craftsmanship has been handed down from generation to generation, from family to family, in the Provence area of France. The Provence locale is picturesque and compelling to visit. Hilltop towns overlook the Mediterranean Sea, and bask in the warm temperate climate. Gourmet cooking from this area is famous for incorporating the organic herbs and spices grown here. Special dried herb mixes are featured in gourmet Herbes de Provence. Gourmet chefs and cooks from around the world utilize French Herbes de Provence for its pure flavor in their finest recipes. This region has become known for its gourmet cuisine, rich history, and olive wood artisans. It has become a natural for gourmet gift products to be made from olive wood, here.
The olive wood selected for their products is of the finest aged quality and is extremely robust. Each olive wood piece is processed naturally to bring out the unique grain pattern inherent to olive wood. The olive wood raw material is hand selected and skillfully crafted by wood carving professionals. Because of the nature of olive wood, over 75% of the rough material may be turned to waste, to manufacture a fine grade kitchen utensil or olive wood gourmet gift item.
Numerous shops from Paris to Nice will include olive wood gift items of extraordinary quality. Tourists find exceptional bargains that are individually made and exquisite.
One such item is an olive wood herb mill or herb grinder, which is used to grind dried herbs and salts. Each mill is hand made, and at completion, solely unique. No two pieces of olive wood material are the same, thus the wood grain and veining pattern are never similar from piece to piece. Like pepper grinding mills, an olivewood herb grinder offers the fresh ground taste and aroma of fresh herbs to any gourmet dish.
An olive wood herb mill has made many cooks happy as a thoughtful kitchen gourmet gift.
Onions, Fabulous, Superb Perfection
Onions are absolutely one of the most delicious and flexible commodities you use in the kitchen. From savory steaming soups to satisfying homemade salsa, onions play an important part in our daily cooking.
Flavorful appetizers from onion dips to salad dressing, main course casseroles, even the onion focaccia bread accompaniment for dinner.
Buying onions is a simple task. Look for dry, papery skins with no soft spots. You should also notice the absence of any strong odor. A good dry onion will have very little to no smell to it at all. If it has a strong onion odor the onion has already began to turn bad.
Varieties of onion include, Vidalia, Texas 1015, Red, Green, the Walla Walla from Washington and Maui from Hawaii. Sweet onions such as Vidalia and Walla Walla are mellow enough to eat raw, but they are excellent "baked" on the grill and served with grilled steaks or burgers. Try them in the oven too.
Caramelizing onions during cooking will give a rich sweetness to recipes, enhancing kitchen aromas and have everyone asking, “What’s for dinner?” Followed shortly by “fabulous, superb and perfection.”
Capt’n Salsa has an almost comical way of storing onions, but it really works.
Grab an old pair of your wife’s panty hose, cut off the legs. Now you simply drop an onion down into the leg of the hose and tie a knot directly above the onion. Repeat this process until each onion is secured and hang the hose in a cool dry, well ventilated space, out of direct sun light.
To remove the onion, simply cut the hose with a pair of scissors right below the knot and the onion easily falls out. You should be able to keep your onions for about three months.
Kosher salt is one of the best things to use to remove the smell of the onion from your hands. Wash your hands using a little dish washing soap, water and about a teaspoon full of salt. Any salt will do, I just like the course texture of the kosher salt. Rinse your hands and repeat if necessary.
Tears when you chop those onions?
How do you get rid of the tears? Here are a few simple suggestions to “ease your pain.”
You can place the onion in the refrigerator for about thirty minutes prior to chopping or if you are in a hurry toss them in the freezer for about four to five minutes. The cold will tone down the sulfur compound in the juice of the onion. In addition be sure to use the sharpest knife possible to expedite your chopping chores.
Flavorful appetizers from onion dips to salad dressing, main course casseroles, even the onion focaccia bread accompaniment for dinner.
Buying onions is a simple task. Look for dry, papery skins with no soft spots. You should also notice the absence of any strong odor. A good dry onion will have very little to no smell to it at all. If it has a strong onion odor the onion has already began to turn bad.
Varieties of onion include, Vidalia, Texas 1015, Red, Green, the Walla Walla from Washington and Maui from Hawaii. Sweet onions such as Vidalia and Walla Walla are mellow enough to eat raw, but they are excellent "baked" on the grill and served with grilled steaks or burgers. Try them in the oven too.
Caramelizing onions during cooking will give a rich sweetness to recipes, enhancing kitchen aromas and have everyone asking, “What’s for dinner?” Followed shortly by “fabulous, superb and perfection.”
Capt’n Salsa has an almost comical way of storing onions, but it really works.
Grab an old pair of your wife’s panty hose, cut off the legs. Now you simply drop an onion down into the leg of the hose and tie a knot directly above the onion. Repeat this process until each onion is secured and hang the hose in a cool dry, well ventilated space, out of direct sun light.
To remove the onion, simply cut the hose with a pair of scissors right below the knot and the onion easily falls out. You should be able to keep your onions for about three months.
Kosher salt is one of the best things to use to remove the smell of the onion from your hands. Wash your hands using a little dish washing soap, water and about a teaspoon full of salt. Any salt will do, I just like the course texture of the kosher salt. Rinse your hands and repeat if necessary.
Tears when you chop those onions?
How do you get rid of the tears? Here are a few simple suggestions to “ease your pain.”
You can place the onion in the refrigerator for about thirty minutes prior to chopping or if you are in a hurry toss them in the freezer for about four to five minutes. The cold will tone down the sulfur compound in the juice of the onion. In addition be sure to use the sharpest knife possible to expedite your chopping chores.
Quality - Cooks Knives - A Cutting Edge Investment
Of all the tools and utensils used in the kitchen today, it is probably the knife that rewards the most careful selection. When you consider it, a knife is an extension of your hand. To fillet, slice and chop requires manual dexterity. If a knife allows you to move and handle your ingredients in a natural and easy way, this will add to your cooking enjoyment and mastery.
There are a wide variety of cooks knives available today. In addition to the quality traditional European brands such as Henckels, Wusthof and Sabatier, there is a fascinating array of Japanese and oriental brands, such as Global, I.O. Shen, Tojiro and Kai. These Japanese brands tend to be made of harder steel and have thinner blades. They hold their edge for longer and are sharper, making them ideal for precision and accuracy. However they do take longer to sharpen and maintain than their European counterparts, which are generally considered to be easier to look after, more sturdy and great for chopping for example.
But how do you choose which is right for you? First and foremost, you should consider the tasks that you perform most regularly and choose accordingly. Here are a couple of things that you may like to bear in mind:
Material: High carbon steel is generally considered the best performer, but can discolor with use, although this is purely cosmetic. High carbon stainless steel is a popular choice, will look great and will take and maintain a sharp edge. Stainless steel is generally less expensive, will retain its good looks but is not hard enough to maintain the best possible edge. Ceramic blades are so hard that they will maintain a sharp edge for months or years with little maintenance. However, they are more expensive to buy and may require diamond-sharpening.
Handles: The next material choice to consider is for the handle. Handles generally fall into three categories; wood, stainless steel or composition. Some chefs prefer the feel of wood although wood is not allowed in many commercial kitchens. Composition handles help ensure a safe grip on the knife when handling wet items, and are generally preferred over more slippery stainless steel. However, both are sanitary and virtually maintenance-free.
Types of knives: There are some tasks in the kitchen which, if performed regularly, warrant having a special knife for the job. However, there are three knives that will probably see the most wear and tear; a chef’s knife, a paring knife and a serrated knife.
A good chef’s knife will typically have a blade 6" - 12" long. It will be used for slicing, dicing, chopping and mincing. I can even be used for boning large cuts of meat if you do not have a cleaver. The side of the blade is great for crushing garlic etc.
A paring knife will have a 3-4" long blade and will be used for peeling and paring fruit and vegetables and for trimming where a larger blade would be cumbersome.
A serrated blade is used for cutting through bread, bagels, baguettes etc and should have a blade log enough to cut through a large loaf or a sandwich cake.
These three kitchen work-horses will serve you well and, if you’re on a tight budget, will serve most purposes.
If chosen wisely, a quality set of cooks knives will increase your cooking enjoyment and be a valuable investment for a long time to come.
There are a wide variety of cooks knives available today. In addition to the quality traditional European brands such as Henckels, Wusthof and Sabatier, there is a fascinating array of Japanese and oriental brands, such as Global, I.O. Shen, Tojiro and Kai. These Japanese brands tend to be made of harder steel and have thinner blades. They hold their edge for longer and are sharper, making them ideal for precision and accuracy. However they do take longer to sharpen and maintain than their European counterparts, which are generally considered to be easier to look after, more sturdy and great for chopping for example.
But how do you choose which is right for you? First and foremost, you should consider the tasks that you perform most regularly and choose accordingly. Here are a couple of things that you may like to bear in mind:
Material: High carbon steel is generally considered the best performer, but can discolor with use, although this is purely cosmetic. High carbon stainless steel is a popular choice, will look great and will take and maintain a sharp edge. Stainless steel is generally less expensive, will retain its good looks but is not hard enough to maintain the best possible edge. Ceramic blades are so hard that they will maintain a sharp edge for months or years with little maintenance. However, they are more expensive to buy and may require diamond-sharpening.
Handles: The next material choice to consider is for the handle. Handles generally fall into three categories; wood, stainless steel or composition. Some chefs prefer the feel of wood although wood is not allowed in many commercial kitchens. Composition handles help ensure a safe grip on the knife when handling wet items, and are generally preferred over more slippery stainless steel. However, both are sanitary and virtually maintenance-free.
Types of knives: There are some tasks in the kitchen which, if performed regularly, warrant having a special knife for the job. However, there are three knives that will probably see the most wear and tear; a chef’s knife, a paring knife and a serrated knife.
A good chef’s knife will typically have a blade 6" - 12" long. It will be used for slicing, dicing, chopping and mincing. I can even be used for boning large cuts of meat if you do not have a cleaver. The side of the blade is great for crushing garlic etc.
A paring knife will have a 3-4" long blade and will be used for peeling and paring fruit and vegetables and for trimming where a larger blade would be cumbersome.
A serrated blade is used for cutting through bread, bagels, baguettes etc and should have a blade log enough to cut through a large loaf or a sandwich cake.
These three kitchen work-horses will serve you well and, if you’re on a tight budget, will serve most purposes.
If chosen wisely, a quality set of cooks knives will increase your cooking enjoyment and be a valuable investment for a long time to come.
Parabolic Solar Oven
Mention solar power to someone and they immediately think of solar panels. A parabolic solar oven, however, has a much more practical use when it comes to feeding ourselves.
Parabolic Solar Oven
While searching for ways to reduce the use of nonrenewable resources, you might encounter solar power. Solar power, or solar energy, is the use of the sun's rays to either create energy (electricity), charge a battery, heat water or other fluids, passively heat homes through glass windows, or even cook foods. When solar power is used to cook food it's often in the form of a solar oven, which can be used in place of firewood and other fuels in order to cook meals. One popular type of solar oven is the parabolic solar oven, used over others for many reasons.
A parabolic solar oven collects the sun's rays by using a reflective surface in a parabola, or curved shape. There are many different styles of parabolic solar ovens available, and there are instructions available to create most of them. The parabolic style allows for food to cook at much the same rate as a conventional oven, making it more convenient than other outdoor cooking methods such as campfires. Additionally, since the parabolic solar oven doesn't use wood or other fuel, it's quicker to start cooking and requires little time to set up - whereas with a campfire, you've got to spend time hunting for firewood, as well as lighting the fire and waiting for it to get hot.
One easy way to start building your own parabolic solar oven is by using a ready-made satellite dish (of course, use one that someone has discarded). Its parabolic shape is perfect for creating the oven, and all you need to do is coat the inside with a reflective substance, such as a mirror finish reflective aluminum sheet. Other people prefer to start their parabolic solar oven with more of a bowl shape, as they believe this allows food inside to cook better and helps to shelter the food from the wind.
Once you have the parabolic solar oven, you need to consider the cooking pot. The pot needs to be of a dark color. It also needs to be placed in the correct position. The parabolic solar oven should be oriented to the sun. The pot should then be placed on a small stand so that it sits at the point of focus for the oven. If you imagine a magnifying glass, the pot should be located where the glass focuses its beam. Once in position, the oven should work for 60 to 90 minutes. If the food is not cooked by then or another pot needs heating, the oven should be readjusted to the orientation of the sun.
When using your parabolic solar oven, be sure to always wear UV (ultraviolet) protective sunglasses that are darkly tinted. The reflection off the aluminum that helps to cook the food at a quick rate also can burn your retinas quite easily. You'll also want to make sure to cover your parabolic solar oven whenever it's not in use - this will prevent accidental flashes of light from blinding people as well as prevent the oven from heating up when it's not needed. If you follow these simple steps, having your own parabolic solar cooker can be a great asset to your environmentally conscious lifestyle.
Parabolic Solar Oven
While searching for ways to reduce the use of nonrenewable resources, you might encounter solar power. Solar power, or solar energy, is the use of the sun's rays to either create energy (electricity), charge a battery, heat water or other fluids, passively heat homes through glass windows, or even cook foods. When solar power is used to cook food it's often in the form of a solar oven, which can be used in place of firewood and other fuels in order to cook meals. One popular type of solar oven is the parabolic solar oven, used over others for many reasons.
A parabolic solar oven collects the sun's rays by using a reflective surface in a parabola, or curved shape. There are many different styles of parabolic solar ovens available, and there are instructions available to create most of them. The parabolic style allows for food to cook at much the same rate as a conventional oven, making it more convenient than other outdoor cooking methods such as campfires. Additionally, since the parabolic solar oven doesn't use wood or other fuel, it's quicker to start cooking and requires little time to set up - whereas with a campfire, you've got to spend time hunting for firewood, as well as lighting the fire and waiting for it to get hot.
One easy way to start building your own parabolic solar oven is by using a ready-made satellite dish (of course, use one that someone has discarded). Its parabolic shape is perfect for creating the oven, and all you need to do is coat the inside with a reflective substance, such as a mirror finish reflective aluminum sheet. Other people prefer to start their parabolic solar oven with more of a bowl shape, as they believe this allows food inside to cook better and helps to shelter the food from the wind.
Once you have the parabolic solar oven, you need to consider the cooking pot. The pot needs to be of a dark color. It also needs to be placed in the correct position. The parabolic solar oven should be oriented to the sun. The pot should then be placed on a small stand so that it sits at the point of focus for the oven. If you imagine a magnifying glass, the pot should be located where the glass focuses its beam. Once in position, the oven should work for 60 to 90 minutes. If the food is not cooked by then or another pot needs heating, the oven should be readjusted to the orientation of the sun.
When using your parabolic solar oven, be sure to always wear UV (ultraviolet) protective sunglasses that are darkly tinted. The reflection off the aluminum that helps to cook the food at a quick rate also can burn your retinas quite easily. You'll also want to make sure to cover your parabolic solar oven whenever it's not in use - this will prevent accidental flashes of light from blinding people as well as prevent the oven from heating up when it's not needed. If you follow these simple steps, having your own parabolic solar cooker can be a great asset to your environmentally conscious lifestyle.
Outdoor Kitchen Barbeque
It is no secret that most of the people who are interested in an outdoor kitchen are in fact thinking mostly about an outdoor kitchen barbeque, it makes perfect sense that the main use for an outdoor kitchen would be to host as many barbeque parties as possible.
An outdoor kitchen is perfect for a barbeque, once you have seen an barbeque party held in a place that had an outdoor kitchen you would probably never want to go back to that messy, unorganized and completely uncool option of the old, more classic barbeque. The new era is here, and it is definitely growing in popularity which is absolutely natural.
Why bother with the old style barbeque, when you can have your own outdoor kitchen, making everything accessible and easy, very simple to maintain and clean and most of all, incredible help with food preparation and sanitation.
The outdoor kitchen barbeque market has got many different products in it, and it is important that you make a few decisions before you start your search for the ultimate outdoor kitchen barbeque. The one, most important decision is if you choose to go with the gas barbeque or the charcoal heated barbeque, this will have a great significance on your cooking, and the layout of your outdoor kitchen. Once you have made this decision it will be much easier for you to shop and research.
I would recommend having some idea about these two different cooking styles before you make this designs, you don't want to spend your money on an outdoor kitchen barbeque only to discover you prefer another cooking method at some friends barbeque party, you should also try and ask other family members what is their preference, since you would probably want them to enjoy this outdoor kitchen too.
One mistake I would recommend avoiding is not to ask around too much, people feel very strongly about the kind of barbeque they use and not everyone is open to hear new things, so the best way is just to try and taste the difference, either in a restaurant or at friends that have different kinds of barbeques.
The charcoal option has been a classic favorite for many years, but in the last few year more and more people are deciding to go with a gas grill. The variety of gas grills allows you to find one at almost any budget, a gas grill can cost anywhere between two hundred and four thousand dollars. As with all the accessories and features you add to your outdoor kitchen, the outdoor kitchen barbeque is really a question of how much you will be willing to spend, so think carefully of how much you plan to use this feature, and form my experience I can say that most people surprisingly under estimate their barbeque usage, simply because they fail to understand how easy it is to use on a regular, day to day basis.
Going foe the expensive barbeques is not necessarily a wise choice, but be sure that the best quality grills out there do cost a lot, you need to research this market because it has many products and players and things can change, always look for the heaviest grill and try and find out how much extras you get with it.
An outdoor kitchen is perfect for a barbeque, once you have seen an barbeque party held in a place that had an outdoor kitchen you would probably never want to go back to that messy, unorganized and completely uncool option of the old, more classic barbeque. The new era is here, and it is definitely growing in popularity which is absolutely natural.
Why bother with the old style barbeque, when you can have your own outdoor kitchen, making everything accessible and easy, very simple to maintain and clean and most of all, incredible help with food preparation and sanitation.
The outdoor kitchen barbeque market has got many different products in it, and it is important that you make a few decisions before you start your search for the ultimate outdoor kitchen barbeque. The one, most important decision is if you choose to go with the gas barbeque or the charcoal heated barbeque, this will have a great significance on your cooking, and the layout of your outdoor kitchen. Once you have made this decision it will be much easier for you to shop and research.
I would recommend having some idea about these two different cooking styles before you make this designs, you don't want to spend your money on an outdoor kitchen barbeque only to discover you prefer another cooking method at some friends barbeque party, you should also try and ask other family members what is their preference, since you would probably want them to enjoy this outdoor kitchen too.
One mistake I would recommend avoiding is not to ask around too much, people feel very strongly about the kind of barbeque they use and not everyone is open to hear new things, so the best way is just to try and taste the difference, either in a restaurant or at friends that have different kinds of barbeques.
The charcoal option has been a classic favorite for many years, but in the last few year more and more people are deciding to go with a gas grill. The variety of gas grills allows you to find one at almost any budget, a gas grill can cost anywhere between two hundred and four thousand dollars. As with all the accessories and features you add to your outdoor kitchen, the outdoor kitchen barbeque is really a question of how much you will be willing to spend, so think carefully of how much you plan to use this feature, and form my experience I can say that most people surprisingly under estimate their barbeque usage, simply because they fail to understand how easy it is to use on a regular, day to day basis.
Going foe the expensive barbeques is not necessarily a wise choice, but be sure that the best quality grills out there do cost a lot, you need to research this market because it has many products and players and things can change, always look for the heaviest grill and try and find out how much extras you get with it.
Metallic Cookware
The two essential features of a cookware are that it should have good thermal conductivity and that it should be chemically unreactive with the ingredients that are cooked in it. Metallic cookware are found to possess these essential features and hence are the most widely used forms of cookware across the globe. They are generally made from a narrow range of metals. Most metals that exhibit good thermal conductivity are too reactive to be used in food preparation. Hence selection of the right type of metal for cookware is crucial. The most popular metals that find usage in cookware are:
Aluminium
Aluminium is a lightweight metal which exhibits very good thermal conductivity. The main characteristics of aluminium are that it does not rust, and is resistant to many forms of corrosion. Being a soft metal, it is commonly alloyed with magnesium, copper, or bronze to increase its strength. It is generally available in sheet, cast or anodized forms. Sheet aluminum which is spun or stamped into form is commonly used for making baking sheets, pie plate, cake pans, steamers, pasta pots, skillets etc. Cast aluminium produces a thicker product than sheet aluminium and is suitable for saucepots, dutch ovens, heavyweight baking pans etc. However, due to the microscopic pores caused by the casting process, cast aluminium possesses low thermal conductivity than sheet aluminium. Anodized aluminium, on the other hand, has the naturally occurring layer of aluminium oxide thickened by an electrolytic process to create a surface that is hard and non-reactive.
Copper
Copper is a metal which has the unique characteristic of providing good thermal conductivity, besides ensuring even heating. Due to these advantages, copper cookware has found a prominant place in Western cooking. The best copper cookware were made out of a thick layer of copper to ensure good thermal conductivity and a thin layer of tin to prevent the metal from reacting with acidic foods. However they tend to be heavy, expensive and requires occasional retinning. Copper cookware are now available with stainless steel rather than tin linings which last much longer. They are best suited for high-heat, fast-cooking techniques.
Cast Iron
Cast iron cookware is slow to heat, but once heated, provides even heating. It is cost effective and can withstand very high temperatures. Being a reactive material, cast iron is known to react with high acid foods. Cast iron, being a porous material, requires seasoning before use. Though cast iron cookware can be washed with soap, it should not be soaked in water or left wet for long.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is an alloy of iron containing a minimum of 11.5 % chromium. It is resistant to corrosion and does not react with either alkaline or acidic foods. Stainless steel cookware though are light, cannot be easily scratched or dented. Though stainless steel finds general acceptance in cookware industry, its main drawback is its relatively poor heat conductivity. To overcome this, stainless steel cookware is generally made with a metal insert of copper or aluminium at the base.
Aluminium
Aluminium is a lightweight metal which exhibits very good thermal conductivity. The main characteristics of aluminium are that it does not rust, and is resistant to many forms of corrosion. Being a soft metal, it is commonly alloyed with magnesium, copper, or bronze to increase its strength. It is generally available in sheet, cast or anodized forms. Sheet aluminum which is spun or stamped into form is commonly used for making baking sheets, pie plate, cake pans, steamers, pasta pots, skillets etc. Cast aluminium produces a thicker product than sheet aluminium and is suitable for saucepots, dutch ovens, heavyweight baking pans etc. However, due to the microscopic pores caused by the casting process, cast aluminium possesses low thermal conductivity than sheet aluminium. Anodized aluminium, on the other hand, has the naturally occurring layer of aluminium oxide thickened by an electrolytic process to create a surface that is hard and non-reactive.
Copper
Copper is a metal which has the unique characteristic of providing good thermal conductivity, besides ensuring even heating. Due to these advantages, copper cookware has found a prominant place in Western cooking. The best copper cookware were made out of a thick layer of copper to ensure good thermal conductivity and a thin layer of tin to prevent the metal from reacting with acidic foods. However they tend to be heavy, expensive and requires occasional retinning. Copper cookware are now available with stainless steel rather than tin linings which last much longer. They are best suited for high-heat, fast-cooking techniques.
Cast Iron
Cast iron cookware is slow to heat, but once heated, provides even heating. It is cost effective and can withstand very high temperatures. Being a reactive material, cast iron is known to react with high acid foods. Cast iron, being a porous material, requires seasoning before use. Though cast iron cookware can be washed with soap, it should not be soaked in water or left wet for long.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is an alloy of iron containing a minimum of 11.5 % chromium. It is resistant to corrosion and does not react with either alkaline or acidic foods. Stainless steel cookware though are light, cannot be easily scratched or dented. Though stainless steel finds general acceptance in cookware industry, its main drawback is its relatively poor heat conductivity. To overcome this, stainless steel cookware is generally made with a metal insert of copper or aluminium at the base.
Mexican Family Night Menu
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Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe
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This is a Tex-Mex casserole dish that will be eaten up so fast. It is petty simple to make. It is assembled just like a Lasagna dish. Only differnece is that we use Corn Tortillas.
Ingredients:
* 10 - 7 inch corn tortillas
* 1 lb. chicken, cooked and shredded
* 1 lb. Cheddar cheese, shredded
* 1 pt. sour cream
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1 cup mayo.
* 1/4 green onions, chopped (garnish)
* 1 can Rotel, drained (garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350
2. Cook chicken, shred, and cool.
3. Mix shredded chicken, sour cream, chicken broth, taco seasoning, mayo, 3/4 of cheddar cheese, and salt & pepper in a bowl.
4. Lightly grease a 9x9 casserole dish.
5. Place 2 corn tortillas on bottom of the casserole dish.
6. Cover with chicken mixture.
7. Repeat until all tortillas are gone. Note: The final layer should be 2 tortillas.
8. Place drained Rotel and remaining cheddar cheese on top.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 45 min.
10. Remove foil and place under broiler for 3-5 mins.
11. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Tips from Chef Bek:
* Boil your chicken to prevent from overcooking.
* If Rotel is not available, use a can of Mexican Stewed Tomatoes.
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Black Bean Corn Salsa Recipe
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Salsa does just not have to be served with the traditional tortilla chips anymore. This black bean corn salsa is a great addition to any meal, or dish. Best of all, it is a fat free and low calorie accompaniment.
Happy Cooking!
* 1 can black beans - drained and washed
* 1 can corn - drained
* 1/2 cup diced red onion
* 1/4 cup diced jalapenos
* 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
* 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
* 2 large tomatoes - diced
* 2 cloves garlic - chopped
* salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Wash all your veggies, drain all your canned goods, and cut as described. Combine all into a plastic or glass container.
Chill in the refrigerator at least 8 hours, or overnight, before serving.
Tip From Chef Bek:
Do not use a metal container to store the salsa. The acids in the lime juice and tomatoes will have a reaction with the metal.
Serving Suggestions:
* Serve with warm tortilla chips.
* Serve as a sauce for fresh fish.
* Wrap in a warm tortilla with chicken, sliced avocado, and lettuce.
* Place inside a breakfast omelet.
* Add to a bed of mixed greens with some crushed tortilla chips.
Chicken Enchilada Casserole Recipe
---------------------------------------------
This is a Tex-Mex casserole dish that will be eaten up so fast. It is petty simple to make. It is assembled just like a Lasagna dish. Only differnece is that we use Corn Tortillas.
Ingredients:
* 10 - 7 inch corn tortillas
* 1 lb. chicken, cooked and shredded
* 1 lb. Cheddar cheese, shredded
* 1 pt. sour cream
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1 cup mayo.
* 1/4 green onions, chopped (garnish)
* 1 can Rotel, drained (garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350
2. Cook chicken, shred, and cool.
3. Mix shredded chicken, sour cream, chicken broth, taco seasoning, mayo, 3/4 of cheddar cheese, and salt & pepper in a bowl.
4. Lightly grease a 9x9 casserole dish.
5. Place 2 corn tortillas on bottom of the casserole dish.
6. Cover with chicken mixture.
7. Repeat until all tortillas are gone. Note: The final layer should be 2 tortillas.
8. Place drained Rotel and remaining cheddar cheese on top.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 45 min.
10. Remove foil and place under broiler for 3-5 mins.
11. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Tips from Chef Bek:
* Boil your chicken to prevent from overcooking.
* If Rotel is not available, use a can of Mexican Stewed Tomatoes.
--------------------------------------
Black Bean Corn Salsa Recipe
--------------------------------------
Salsa does just not have to be served with the traditional tortilla chips anymore. This black bean corn salsa is a great addition to any meal, or dish. Best of all, it is a fat free and low calorie accompaniment.
Happy Cooking!
* 1 can black beans - drained and washed
* 1 can corn - drained
* 1/2 cup diced red onion
* 1/4 cup diced jalapenos
* 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
* 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
* 2 large tomatoes - diced
* 2 cloves garlic - chopped
* salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Wash all your veggies, drain all your canned goods, and cut as described. Combine all into a plastic or glass container.
Chill in the refrigerator at least 8 hours, or overnight, before serving.
Tip From Chef Bek:
Do not use a metal container to store the salsa. The acids in the lime juice and tomatoes will have a reaction with the metal.
Serving Suggestions:
* Serve with warm tortilla chips.
* Serve as a sauce for fresh fish.
* Wrap in a warm tortilla with chicken, sliced avocado, and lettuce.
* Place inside a breakfast omelet.
* Add to a bed of mixed greens with some crushed tortilla chips.
Dog Training – House Training Your Dog
One of the most confusing and anxiety-ridden areas of dog training is house training. Yet, it is one of the most important, especially for the humans involved.
The best way to understand and find success with house training is to use the dog’s own nature to help you.
Dogs are, by instinct, very clean animals. They would rather not soil any areas where they normally sleep or eat. Dogs are also creatures of habit --- they like to know where they’re supposed to go urinate and defecate. If the dog is taught to eliminate on gravel or concrete, they will tend to look for either of those surfaces to do so. If they’re taught to eliminate on grass or dirt, that’s where they will choose. Use these habits to your advantage.
Setting up the training area
This is the first step. Make sure the area you choose is small and confined. A bathroom works for this, or a place in a kitchen or garage also work well. Remember that crate training works well for puppies or small dogs, but for the larger animals, the crate is too confining.
You need to spend some time with this aspect of the training. You need to play with your dog in this area, and this is also where the dog will be taught to sleep and eat. Put together a special bed. This can be something you make up with items around the house, or you can go to the store and purchase a bed. Don’t worry of your dog eliminates in this area at first. Once they figure out that this is where the sleep and eat, they’ll stop eliminating there.
Once your dog realizes that the bed is for sleeping, you can begin to move it around the house. But, only when you’re there. When you’re not, put the bed back in the training area.
Setting up the toilet area
Now you need to determine where the toilet area is going to be located. Presumably, this will be outside the house. Wherever it is, it has to a place that the dog can go to whenever it needs to go. You need to go there with your dog so you can give the appropriate rewards for good behavior.
Establish a set feeding schedule for your dog. If the dog is in the habit of being fed at certain times, the natural process of elimination will also begin to occur at certain times. Once you learn when those times relate to the eating times, it will become much easier for you to guide the dog to the established toilet area.
Don’t forget to make sure your dog has ready access to the toilet area. That way mistakes aren’t as likely to occur.
Continuing the house training process
Once your dog is in the habit of eliminating in the toilet area and not in the sleeping/eating area, you can begin to extend the training area to the rest of the house. Do this slowly. Start by expanding to one additional room, and then gradually expand into other areas. Don’t expand into new areas until you’re sure your dog has control of its bladder and bowels. At first, do this only when you’re around. If you’re away, then put your dog back in the original training area.
Speeding up the process
If you have to move this process along more quickly, you can do so. Remember to proceed with caution, though. It’s better to go slowly than to have to try to retrain a dog later. If you’re going to try to speed things up, you will have to be there in order to reward your dog for successful eliminations. It is also important not to punish for mistakes. That will only confuse the dog and slow the process even further.
The best way to understand and find success with house training is to use the dog’s own nature to help you.
Dogs are, by instinct, very clean animals. They would rather not soil any areas where they normally sleep or eat. Dogs are also creatures of habit --- they like to know where they’re supposed to go urinate and defecate. If the dog is taught to eliminate on gravel or concrete, they will tend to look for either of those surfaces to do so. If they’re taught to eliminate on grass or dirt, that’s where they will choose. Use these habits to your advantage.
Setting up the training area
This is the first step. Make sure the area you choose is small and confined. A bathroom works for this, or a place in a kitchen or garage also work well. Remember that crate training works well for puppies or small dogs, but for the larger animals, the crate is too confining.
You need to spend some time with this aspect of the training. You need to play with your dog in this area, and this is also where the dog will be taught to sleep and eat. Put together a special bed. This can be something you make up with items around the house, or you can go to the store and purchase a bed. Don’t worry of your dog eliminates in this area at first. Once they figure out that this is where the sleep and eat, they’ll stop eliminating there.
Once your dog realizes that the bed is for sleeping, you can begin to move it around the house. But, only when you’re there. When you’re not, put the bed back in the training area.
Setting up the toilet area
Now you need to determine where the toilet area is going to be located. Presumably, this will be outside the house. Wherever it is, it has to a place that the dog can go to whenever it needs to go. You need to go there with your dog so you can give the appropriate rewards for good behavior.
Establish a set feeding schedule for your dog. If the dog is in the habit of being fed at certain times, the natural process of elimination will also begin to occur at certain times. Once you learn when those times relate to the eating times, it will become much easier for you to guide the dog to the established toilet area.
Don’t forget to make sure your dog has ready access to the toilet area. That way mistakes aren’t as likely to occur.
Continuing the house training process
Once your dog is in the habit of eliminating in the toilet area and not in the sleeping/eating area, you can begin to extend the training area to the rest of the house. Do this slowly. Start by expanding to one additional room, and then gradually expand into other areas. Don’t expand into new areas until you’re sure your dog has control of its bladder and bowels. At first, do this only when you’re around. If you’re away, then put your dog back in the original training area.
Speeding up the process
If you have to move this process along more quickly, you can do so. Remember to proceed with caution, though. It’s better to go slowly than to have to try to retrain a dog later. If you’re going to try to speed things up, you will have to be there in order to reward your dog for successful eliminations. It is also important not to punish for mistakes. That will only confuse the dog and slow the process even further.
Dog Training - How to Stop Possessiveness With Food
Though sometimes would like to believe otherwise, food is a dog's first priority, so the first step to successful training is to establish yourself as the leader, this can be achieved by showing him that he can only have his food at your discretion and command. Give him his dinner, allow him to eat for a few seconds, then take his bowl away from him. Use an appropriate sound each time you do so, such as "leave" or "stop", and keep the bowl for a few seconds.Provided he didn't show any aggression as you removed the bowl, tell him how 'good boy',give it back and allow him to continue eating. Repeat this two or three times during each meal for a few days, then once or twice a week for a few weeks.
Some dogs are never possessive with their food, but you may find if your dog came from a large litter, the only way he could obtain his share of the food was to threaten his brothers and sisters. Finding this action acheived the desired result (getting more food),he may well try it with you.If you don't sort this out very early on, this possessiveness will transfer to other things, such as bones, toys, furniture and so on, perhaps even to other members of the family.
To stop him being aggressive with his food, don't give him possession of it! By this I mean feed him by hand for a couple of weeks. Prepare his food in the bowl as usual, but don't put the bowl on the floor for him. Simply feed him a handful at a time. The bowl of food on the floor almost instinctively makes him want to guard it, so if he is not put in this position of needing to guard, he will not bite!
Feeding by hand also helps if your dog is dominant in other areas. It makes him completely reliant on you for the most important thing in his life,his food,and this will reinforce your position of pack leader, as he is only receiving the food from you and not from the bowl. You can also use this period of hand feeding to your benefit by making him perform some minor order from you for some of the food. Get him to sit first before one handful, or to lie down for the next, and so on. Don't make him run around for the food as this could cause digestive upsets.
You will find that after a couple weeks of this regime, his general attitude over possessions will change. You can then try giving him his food in a bowl again, and, provided there is no sign of aggression, continue to feed him normally.
For dogs that are food possessive, do not give them bones or toys, as they will attempt to guard these in the same way. Once the food possession has been sorted out, you can try introducing a toy, but make sure the dog understands that it is your toy, and he is only allowed to play with it with you, and when you decide the game is to end, you must end up with the toy.
Some dogs are never possessive with their food, but you may find if your dog came from a large litter, the only way he could obtain his share of the food was to threaten his brothers and sisters. Finding this action acheived the desired result (getting more food),he may well try it with you.If you don't sort this out very early on, this possessiveness will transfer to other things, such as bones, toys, furniture and so on, perhaps even to other members of the family.
To stop him being aggressive with his food, don't give him possession of it! By this I mean feed him by hand for a couple of weeks. Prepare his food in the bowl as usual, but don't put the bowl on the floor for him. Simply feed him a handful at a time. The bowl of food on the floor almost instinctively makes him want to guard it, so if he is not put in this position of needing to guard, he will not bite!
Feeding by hand also helps if your dog is dominant in other areas. It makes him completely reliant on you for the most important thing in his life,his food,and this will reinforce your position of pack leader, as he is only receiving the food from you and not from the bowl. You can also use this period of hand feeding to your benefit by making him perform some minor order from you for some of the food. Get him to sit first before one handful, or to lie down for the next, and so on. Don't make him run around for the food as this could cause digestive upsets.
You will find that after a couple weeks of this regime, his general attitude over possessions will change. You can then try giving him his food in a bowl again, and, provided there is no sign of aggression, continue to feed him normally.
For dogs that are food possessive, do not give them bones or toys, as they will attempt to guard these in the same way. Once the food possession has been sorted out, you can try introducing a toy, but make sure the dog understands that it is your toy, and he is only allowed to play with it with you, and when you decide the game is to end, you must end up with the toy.
Do’s and Don’ts Of Teaching Your Puppy Proper Socialization Skills
Teaching a puppy or a dog proper socialization skills is vital to the safety of both your dog and other dogs and people with whom he comes into contact. A properly socialized dog is a happy dog, and a joy to be around for both humans and animals. A poorly socialized dog, or one with no socialization at all, is a danger to other animals, other people and even his own family.
Socialization is best done when the puppy is as young as possible The socialization lessons a young puppy learns are difficult to undo, and it is important to remember that the socialization skills the puppy learns will affect his behavior for the rest of his life.
A dog that is properly socialized will be neither frightened of nor aggressive towards either animals or humans. A properly socialized dog will take each new experience and stimulus in stride, and not become fearful or aggressive. Dogs that are not properly socialized often bite because of fear, and such a dog can become a hazard and a liability to the family who owns it. Improperly socialized dogs are also unable to adapt to new situations. A routine matter like a trip to the vets or to a friends house can quickly stress the dog out and lead to all sorts of problems.
Socialization is best done when the puppy is very young, perhaps around 12 weeks of age. Even after 12 weeks, however, it is important that the puppy continues its socialization in order to refine the all important social skills. It is possible to socialize an older puppy, but it is very difficult to achieve after the all important 12 week period has passed.
There are so definite do’s and don’t when it comes to properly socializing any puppy. Let’s start with what to do. Later in this article we will explore what to avoid.
Socialization Do’s
• Make each of the socialization events as pleasant and non-threatening for the puppy as possible. If a puppy’s first experience with any new experience is an unpleasant one, it will be very difficult to undo that in the puppy’s mind. In some cases, an early trauma can morph into a phobia that can last for a lifetime. It is better to take things slow and avoid having the puppy become frightened or injured.
• Try inviting your friends over to meet the new puppy. It is important to included as many different people as possible in the puppy’s circle of acquaintances, including men, women, children, adults, as well as people of many diverse ethnic backgrounds and ages.
• Also invite friendly and healthy dogs and puppies over to meet your puppy. It is important for the puppy to meet a wide variety of other animals, including cats, hamsters, rabbits and other animals he is likely to meet. It is of course important to make sure that all animals the puppy comes into contact with have received all necessary vaccinations.
• Take the puppy to many different places, including shopping centers, pet stores, parks, school playgrounds and on walks around the neighborhood. Try to expose the puppy to places where they will be crowds of people and lots of diverse activity going on.
• Take the puppy for frequent short rides in the car. During these rides, be sure to stop the car once in a while and let the puppy look out the window at the world outside.
• Introduce your puppy to a variety of items that may be unfamiliar. The puppy should be exposed to common items like bags, boxes, vacuum cleaners, umbrellas, hats, etc. that may be frightening to him. Allow and encourage the puppy to explore these items and see that he has nothing to fear from them.
• Get the puppy used to a variety of objects by rearranging familiar ones. Simply placing a chair upside down, or placing a table on its side, creates an object that your puppy will perceive as totally new.
• Get the puppy used to common procedures like being brushed, bathed, having the nails clipped, teeth cleaned, ears cleaned, etc. Your groomer and your veterinarian with thank you for this.
• Introduce the puppy to common things around the house, such as stairs. Also introduce the puppy to the collar and leash, so he will be comfortable with these items.
Socialization Don'ts
There are of course some things to avoid when socializing a puppy. These socialization don’ts include:
• Do not place the puppy on the ground when strange animals are present. An attack, or even a surprise inspection, by an unknown animal could traumatize the puppy and hurt his socialization.
• Do not inadvertently reward fear based behavior. When the puppy shows fear, it is normal to try to sooth it, but this could reinforce the fear based behavior and make it worse. Since biting is often a fear based behavior, reinforcing fear can create problems with biting.
Socialization is best done when the puppy is as young as possible The socialization lessons a young puppy learns are difficult to undo, and it is important to remember that the socialization skills the puppy learns will affect his behavior for the rest of his life.
A dog that is properly socialized will be neither frightened of nor aggressive towards either animals or humans. A properly socialized dog will take each new experience and stimulus in stride, and not become fearful or aggressive. Dogs that are not properly socialized often bite because of fear, and such a dog can become a hazard and a liability to the family who owns it. Improperly socialized dogs are also unable to adapt to new situations. A routine matter like a trip to the vets or to a friends house can quickly stress the dog out and lead to all sorts of problems.
Socialization is best done when the puppy is very young, perhaps around 12 weeks of age. Even after 12 weeks, however, it is important that the puppy continues its socialization in order to refine the all important social skills. It is possible to socialize an older puppy, but it is very difficult to achieve after the all important 12 week period has passed.
There are so definite do’s and don’t when it comes to properly socializing any puppy. Let’s start with what to do. Later in this article we will explore what to avoid.
Socialization Do’s
• Make each of the socialization events as pleasant and non-threatening for the puppy as possible. If a puppy’s first experience with any new experience is an unpleasant one, it will be very difficult to undo that in the puppy’s mind. In some cases, an early trauma can morph into a phobia that can last for a lifetime. It is better to take things slow and avoid having the puppy become frightened or injured.
• Try inviting your friends over to meet the new puppy. It is important to included as many different people as possible in the puppy’s circle of acquaintances, including men, women, children, adults, as well as people of many diverse ethnic backgrounds and ages.
• Also invite friendly and healthy dogs and puppies over to meet your puppy. It is important for the puppy to meet a wide variety of other animals, including cats, hamsters, rabbits and other animals he is likely to meet. It is of course important to make sure that all animals the puppy comes into contact with have received all necessary vaccinations.
• Take the puppy to many different places, including shopping centers, pet stores, parks, school playgrounds and on walks around the neighborhood. Try to expose the puppy to places where they will be crowds of people and lots of diverse activity going on.
• Take the puppy for frequent short rides in the car. During these rides, be sure to stop the car once in a while and let the puppy look out the window at the world outside.
• Introduce your puppy to a variety of items that may be unfamiliar. The puppy should be exposed to common items like bags, boxes, vacuum cleaners, umbrellas, hats, etc. that may be frightening to him. Allow and encourage the puppy to explore these items and see that he has nothing to fear from them.
• Get the puppy used to a variety of objects by rearranging familiar ones. Simply placing a chair upside down, or placing a table on its side, creates an object that your puppy will perceive as totally new.
• Get the puppy used to common procedures like being brushed, bathed, having the nails clipped, teeth cleaned, ears cleaned, etc. Your groomer and your veterinarian with thank you for this.
• Introduce the puppy to common things around the house, such as stairs. Also introduce the puppy to the collar and leash, so he will be comfortable with these items.
Socialization Don'ts
There are of course some things to avoid when socializing a puppy. These socialization don’ts include:
• Do not place the puppy on the ground when strange animals are present. An attack, or even a surprise inspection, by an unknown animal could traumatize the puppy and hurt his socialization.
• Do not inadvertently reward fear based behavior. When the puppy shows fear, it is normal to try to sooth it, but this could reinforce the fear based behavior and make it worse. Since biting is often a fear based behavior, reinforcing fear can create problems with biting.
Dog Bite: Prevent Or Deal With It
Statistics has it that 4.7 million people get bitten by dogs yearly. These bites range from minor nips to major attacks.
Dog is man's best friend, not his worst enemy. To make it stay that way, here are some tips for you to stay away from being bitten by a dog.
* How to Avoid being Bitten by A Dog
1. Don't Approach a Strange Dog.
It is a big no-no to go near just any dog you find adorable, particularly when that dog is tied or placed behind a fence or if it is in a car. A new or strange dog might think that you are threatening him or you are an intruder.
2. Don't Just Pet A Dog.
It is not advisable for anyone to suddenly just pet a dog, even his or her own dog, without letting him sniff and recognize you first.
3. Don't Ever Turn Your Back to a Dog Just to Run Away
This animal's instinct will dictate it chase and catch you. So, running away is not a good option.
4. Don't Disturb a Dog.
When a dog is sleeping, chewing on anything, caring for her puppies or eating, it is bad idea to shock or disturb it.
* How to Bite-Proof Your Own Dog
1. Neuter or spay your dog to reduce its tendency to roam and fight with other dogs.
2. Make it socialize to lessen its being nervous when a lot of people are around.
3. Train your dog to not chase anyone even when it's just for fun.
4. License your dog and provide for its regular care and rabies vaccinations.
5. Never let your dog roam alone.
* Things to Do if You are Bitten by A Dog
1. Never Panic.
This will only aggravate the situation. Stay calm and make sure that you make informed decisions.
2. Deal with the Wound Immediately.
Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water. This should be done immediately. Then, contact your physician for more care and advice.
3. Tell the Animal Care and Control Agency in Your Location about the Bite.
Report to the animal control personnel all the information you can supply regarding the dog. If it is a stray dog, describe the dog, where you saw him, whether you are familiar with it and also the direction which he went.
Dog is man's best friend, not his worst enemy. To make it stay that way, here are some tips for you to stay away from being bitten by a dog.
* How to Avoid being Bitten by A Dog
1. Don't Approach a Strange Dog.
It is a big no-no to go near just any dog you find adorable, particularly when that dog is tied or placed behind a fence or if it is in a car. A new or strange dog might think that you are threatening him or you are an intruder.
2. Don't Just Pet A Dog.
It is not advisable for anyone to suddenly just pet a dog, even his or her own dog, without letting him sniff and recognize you first.
3. Don't Ever Turn Your Back to a Dog Just to Run Away
This animal's instinct will dictate it chase and catch you. So, running away is not a good option.
4. Don't Disturb a Dog.
When a dog is sleeping, chewing on anything, caring for her puppies or eating, it is bad idea to shock or disturb it.
* How to Bite-Proof Your Own Dog
1. Neuter or spay your dog to reduce its tendency to roam and fight with other dogs.
2. Make it socialize to lessen its being nervous when a lot of people are around.
3. Train your dog to not chase anyone even when it's just for fun.
4. License your dog and provide for its regular care and rabies vaccinations.
5. Never let your dog roam alone.
* Things to Do if You are Bitten by A Dog
1. Never Panic.
This will only aggravate the situation. Stay calm and make sure that you make informed decisions.
2. Deal with the Wound Immediately.
Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water. This should be done immediately. Then, contact your physician for more care and advice.
3. Tell the Animal Care and Control Agency in Your Location about the Bite.
Report to the animal control personnel all the information you can supply regarding the dog. If it is a stray dog, describe the dog, where you saw him, whether you are familiar with it and also the direction which he went.
American Pit Bull Terrier: Is It The Right Dog Breed For You?
If you’re thinking about owning a Pit Bull terrier, it is important to understand the characteristics of the breed as well as your current lifestyle. Caring for a Pit Bull is a long-term commitment that needs to be taken seriously, not just a simple hobby that you participate in when time permits.
Unfortunately it is very difficult for many dogs to find a second home in the event that their owners “change their minds” and decide they don’t want a dog after all. The situation is even worse for Pit Bulls due to their reputation in today’s society.
Do you have the time and the energy to commit to a high energy breed such as a Pit Bull? Pit Bull terriers have very high exercise requirements and are happiest when they get plenty of play time.
If you are interested in owning a Pit Bull, you should possess a similar sense of adventure. A day at the beach, a park, or just playing frisbee in the backyard are all excellent things to do with your four-legged friend. These activities will also strengthen the bond between you and your dog and make ownership even more rewarding.
If you’re more of an inside person however and don’t enjoy exercising daily, you should seriously rethink your idea of Pit Bull ownership. There are many other excellent dog breeds that will probably be more suitable to your lifestyle and it isn't fair to penalize your dog simply because you are too selfish to get an alternative breed.
If you still are set on owning a Pit Bull, it is important that you begin training your dog as soon as you bring him home. Pit Bulls who aren’t properly trained can become more than a handful. On the other hand, a well-trained Pit can regularly impress others with good behavior.
Unfortunately it is very difficult for many dogs to find a second home in the event that their owners “change their minds” and decide they don’t want a dog after all. The situation is even worse for Pit Bulls due to their reputation in today’s society.
Do you have the time and the energy to commit to a high energy breed such as a Pit Bull? Pit Bull terriers have very high exercise requirements and are happiest when they get plenty of play time.
If you are interested in owning a Pit Bull, you should possess a similar sense of adventure. A day at the beach, a park, or just playing frisbee in the backyard are all excellent things to do with your four-legged friend. These activities will also strengthen the bond between you and your dog and make ownership even more rewarding.
If you’re more of an inside person however and don’t enjoy exercising daily, you should seriously rethink your idea of Pit Bull ownership. There are many other excellent dog breeds that will probably be more suitable to your lifestyle and it isn't fair to penalize your dog simply because you are too selfish to get an alternative breed.
If you still are set on owning a Pit Bull, it is important that you begin training your dog as soon as you bring him home. Pit Bulls who aren’t properly trained can become more than a handful. On the other hand, a well-trained Pit can regularly impress others with good behavior.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Tips To Creating A Professional Looking Photo Montage or Picture Slideshow
Are you one of those people that love creating photo video slideshows, or photo montages, from your most cherished photos? And do you ever wonder why your slideshow seems so bland compared to other professional looking photo slideshows? There are no hidden secrets to creating dynamic and interesting photo slideshows. By following just a few simple steps, you can be on your way to creating dynamic and professional looking photo montages from your favorite photos.
1. Use high resolution good quality photos.
The first and most important step in creating a good quality photo slideshow is using good photos. Nothing ruins a slideshow more than bad photos. If you are using scanned photos, make sure they are free of dust and have been color corrected. Digital photos are a better source for slideshows as they are already digitized and ready for use in your photo slideshow program. In addition to the visual quality of the image, make sure your scanned photo or digitized image is a high enough resolution. DVD video resolution is 720x480 pixels. At the minimum, I recommend using an image at least double the resolution of DVD video. I prefer 1500x1000 pixels at the minimum for all my photos. There is a reason for this preference and I’ll explain later why this is important.
2. Fill the screen with the photo. Get rid of the black space.
Have you ever seen photo slideshows with photos in the center of the screen with black space surrounding the photo? When I create slideshows, the photo in the slideshow takes up the entire screen. There is nothing visible other than the photo. No black space is visible on the screen beyond the photo. In my opinion, having any black space outside of the photo makes the slideshow appear unprofessional. It tells me the photo being used didn’t quite fit and centering it on the screen with black space around it was the only way the photo would work. The television and computer monitor is wider than it is tall, so horizontal photos work better than vertical photos. One reason for using photos that are at least 1500x1000 pixels will ensure your vertical photos fill the horizontal space of your monitor. One rule I go by is if the photo doesn’t work, don’t use it. Even if I think it’s a great photo and I want to include it in my slideshow, if the photo won’t work on the screen, I won’t include it in the project.
3. Limit the number of transition wipes.
Some photo montage programs come with a hundred different types of transition wipes. To many, that may be cool and the more wipes the software offers, the better the program may seem to be. When I view a photo montage that uses 20 different transition wipes, it draws importance away from the photos and viewers notice the transitions more than the images. Transition wipes should appear seamless and unnoticed. In all the photo montages I create, I use no more than 1 or 2 transition wipes, and most of the time, it’s just a simple fade in fade out photo transition. Using all the transition wipes your software comes with may be a cool thing, but the focus of the slideshow, which are your photos, is lost when this is done.
4. Make sure your viewers process the images by having an adequate hold time.
When you view a slideshow, have you ever experienced photos going by too quick and missing what you just viewed? Your audience needs to see and process the photos in you slideshow in order to enjoy and remember it. In the photo slideshows I create, I make sure each of my photos hold for 5-7 seconds, depending on the tempo of the project. And this hold time does not include the 1 second transition in the front and end of each image. You will need to decide what a good hold time will be. Too short and the viewer misses what was just shown. Too long and it feels like awkward silence.
5. Zoom, pan, and hold are keys to a dynamic photo montage.
I’m sure you’ve seen photo montages that have images fade in and fade out for 10 minutes and that’s pretty much all the photo montage does with the photos. After just 3 minutes of watching, I’m sure it gets a little monotonous. The photos may be interesting, but you might as well flip through a photo album if that is all your project does. To keep things interesting, I use a combination of 3 things for each image in the photo montage. The photos will zoom in or zoom out; pan up, down, left or right; or hold in place for the duration of that image. Combining these 3 techniques for your photos will create a dynamic and interesting photo montage. Regarding the zoom technique, having a higher resolution image, I recommend 1500x1000 pixels, will ensure your image doesn’t lose quality when zooming in. Image quality will be one less thing to be concerned with when working on your slideshow if you have good photos. Use good quality photos right from the start and you won’t have to go back and rescan or find replacement photos later. One final thing to remember is not to over do it. Keep in mind how much you zoom or move the image. Your viewer needs to be able to see the photo and if you put too much movement in the photo, he or she will miss what you’re trying to show. And mix up the movement. I typically zoom and pan four or five photos, and then hold one or two.
6. Try video intros and video endings in your slideshows.
If your slideshow program allows the use of inserting video into the project, try using specific video introductions in your project. For example, if you’re creating a slideshow from pictures of your daughter’s first birthday, find or create a video introduction that says “1st Birthday.” If you don’t know how to create a video intro, there are websites that specialize in providing videos for photo montage enthusiasts. One such website is www.instantimagers.com. They have a large library of video intros with affordable pricing. And the best thing is, you can download the video right after purchase without waiting for a cd to be shipped. Of course, check to see that your software will accept video files.
7. Keep the project at a respectable length.
You may have hundreds of photos you want to use and want the slideshow running forever, but a good slideshow run time should be 10-15 minutes. Anything longer than 15 minutes will slowly cause your audience to lose interest the longer the show runs. The creator of the slideshow may think its okay, but this will not be the case with your audience, the people you want to impress. In this case, too much of a good thing does ring true. I use about 3 songs in most of my projects. The average song is about 3.5 to 5 minutes long. Sticking to this format will keep your project within the 10-15 minute length. Add a fourth song if the playtime of your current 3 songs are too short.
8. Finish it off with a DVD box cover & disc art.
For the final touch, find artwork and print out a DVD cover that can be inserted into the DVD case. And if you have a DVD disc printer, print a nice design on the disc for that final professional touch. Again, www.instantimagers.com has a number of designs for the DVD cover & disc art. They have a great number of designs with different themes. Having some artwork for your DVD cover & DVD disc will look much better than having just a black DVD case and a white DVD disc. Not to mention, your family and friends will be very impressed!!!
I hope the above tips will help you in creating better photo montages. Try different things and see what works for you.
1. Use high resolution good quality photos.
The first and most important step in creating a good quality photo slideshow is using good photos. Nothing ruins a slideshow more than bad photos. If you are using scanned photos, make sure they are free of dust and have been color corrected. Digital photos are a better source for slideshows as they are already digitized and ready for use in your photo slideshow program. In addition to the visual quality of the image, make sure your scanned photo or digitized image is a high enough resolution. DVD video resolution is 720x480 pixels. At the minimum, I recommend using an image at least double the resolution of DVD video. I prefer 1500x1000 pixels at the minimum for all my photos. There is a reason for this preference and I’ll explain later why this is important.
2. Fill the screen with the photo. Get rid of the black space.
Have you ever seen photo slideshows with photos in the center of the screen with black space surrounding the photo? When I create slideshows, the photo in the slideshow takes up the entire screen. There is nothing visible other than the photo. No black space is visible on the screen beyond the photo. In my opinion, having any black space outside of the photo makes the slideshow appear unprofessional. It tells me the photo being used didn’t quite fit and centering it on the screen with black space around it was the only way the photo would work. The television and computer monitor is wider than it is tall, so horizontal photos work better than vertical photos. One reason for using photos that are at least 1500x1000 pixels will ensure your vertical photos fill the horizontal space of your monitor. One rule I go by is if the photo doesn’t work, don’t use it. Even if I think it’s a great photo and I want to include it in my slideshow, if the photo won’t work on the screen, I won’t include it in the project.
3. Limit the number of transition wipes.
Some photo montage programs come with a hundred different types of transition wipes. To many, that may be cool and the more wipes the software offers, the better the program may seem to be. When I view a photo montage that uses 20 different transition wipes, it draws importance away from the photos and viewers notice the transitions more than the images. Transition wipes should appear seamless and unnoticed. In all the photo montages I create, I use no more than 1 or 2 transition wipes, and most of the time, it’s just a simple fade in fade out photo transition. Using all the transition wipes your software comes with may be a cool thing, but the focus of the slideshow, which are your photos, is lost when this is done.
4. Make sure your viewers process the images by having an adequate hold time.
When you view a slideshow, have you ever experienced photos going by too quick and missing what you just viewed? Your audience needs to see and process the photos in you slideshow in order to enjoy and remember it. In the photo slideshows I create, I make sure each of my photos hold for 5-7 seconds, depending on the tempo of the project. And this hold time does not include the 1 second transition in the front and end of each image. You will need to decide what a good hold time will be. Too short and the viewer misses what was just shown. Too long and it feels like awkward silence.
5. Zoom, pan, and hold are keys to a dynamic photo montage.
I’m sure you’ve seen photo montages that have images fade in and fade out for 10 minutes and that’s pretty much all the photo montage does with the photos. After just 3 minutes of watching, I’m sure it gets a little monotonous. The photos may be interesting, but you might as well flip through a photo album if that is all your project does. To keep things interesting, I use a combination of 3 things for each image in the photo montage. The photos will zoom in or zoom out; pan up, down, left or right; or hold in place for the duration of that image. Combining these 3 techniques for your photos will create a dynamic and interesting photo montage. Regarding the zoom technique, having a higher resolution image, I recommend 1500x1000 pixels, will ensure your image doesn’t lose quality when zooming in. Image quality will be one less thing to be concerned with when working on your slideshow if you have good photos. Use good quality photos right from the start and you won’t have to go back and rescan or find replacement photos later. One final thing to remember is not to over do it. Keep in mind how much you zoom or move the image. Your viewer needs to be able to see the photo and if you put too much movement in the photo, he or she will miss what you’re trying to show. And mix up the movement. I typically zoom and pan four or five photos, and then hold one or two.
6. Try video intros and video endings in your slideshows.
If your slideshow program allows the use of inserting video into the project, try using specific video introductions in your project. For example, if you’re creating a slideshow from pictures of your daughter’s first birthday, find or create a video introduction that says “1st Birthday.” If you don’t know how to create a video intro, there are websites that specialize in providing videos for photo montage enthusiasts. One such website is www.instantimagers.com. They have a large library of video intros with affordable pricing. And the best thing is, you can download the video right after purchase without waiting for a cd to be shipped. Of course, check to see that your software will accept video files.
7. Keep the project at a respectable length.
You may have hundreds of photos you want to use and want the slideshow running forever, but a good slideshow run time should be 10-15 minutes. Anything longer than 15 minutes will slowly cause your audience to lose interest the longer the show runs. The creator of the slideshow may think its okay, but this will not be the case with your audience, the people you want to impress. In this case, too much of a good thing does ring true. I use about 3 songs in most of my projects. The average song is about 3.5 to 5 minutes long. Sticking to this format will keep your project within the 10-15 minute length. Add a fourth song if the playtime of your current 3 songs are too short.
8. Finish it off with a DVD box cover & disc art.
For the final touch, find artwork and print out a DVD cover that can be inserted into the DVD case. And if you have a DVD disc printer, print a nice design on the disc for that final professional touch. Again, www.instantimagers.com has a number of designs for the DVD cover & disc art. They have a great number of designs with different themes. Having some artwork for your DVD cover & DVD disc will look much better than having just a black DVD case and a white DVD disc. Not to mention, your family and friends will be very impressed!!!
I hope the above tips will help you in creating better photo montages. Try different things and see what works for you.
There Are Many Views About Collecting Antiques
1. People collect antiques because of the sentimental value. I have a ceramic parrot from my grandparents, a cupboard from another set of grandparents and a very old doll given to me by my great aunt. My husband has an antique cabinet record player and various old books and music from his family. The most wonderful thing about these antiques is not their value but who they belonged to and the stories that go with them. I can remember playing house with the cupboard when I visited my grandparents each summer. My husband remembers listening to his grandmother play the piano using the sheet music he now has.
2. My in-laws had an antique business and set up for sales and auctions. For many years their basement was filled with a treasure trove of fascinating items. They knew the price of so many items and could often tell you the worth of something without even having to look it up in one of the antique guides. They were also interested in fixing pieces that had been damaged, not so much for a better price but as a way to restore something from the past.
3. Our son loves antique games and collects them. He also enjoys antique books. His favorite things are the tiddly winks games he has collected from all over the world. The price isn’t as important as finding one that he doesn’t have or is very unique.
4. Some antique lovers like the chase. They enjoy combing stores and antique shops all over the U.S. for a specific or unusual item.
5. There are others who antique as a hobby and seldom buy. They just enjoy looking and seeing what different areas of the country have to offer. It is fun to spend a weekend looking at antique stores when on vacation or traveling.
6. Sometimes people look for antiques when furnishing their home. Antiques work well with many different time periods and often people know exactly what they want to finish a certain room or look. Antiques can add a special touch to a room that newer furnishings will not.
6. Then, of course, there are those who deal in the buying and selling of antiques. These are the hard core people who know the price range of the antiques and won’t buy too high or sell too low. They are usually more interested in prices than in the piece itself.
Antiques serve many purposes and provide enjoyment for people of all ages.
2. My in-laws had an antique business and set up for sales and auctions. For many years their basement was filled with a treasure trove of fascinating items. They knew the price of so many items and could often tell you the worth of something without even having to look it up in one of the antique guides. They were also interested in fixing pieces that had been damaged, not so much for a better price but as a way to restore something from the past.
3. Our son loves antique games and collects them. He also enjoys antique books. His favorite things are the tiddly winks games he has collected from all over the world. The price isn’t as important as finding one that he doesn’t have or is very unique.
4. Some antique lovers like the chase. They enjoy combing stores and antique shops all over the U.S. for a specific or unusual item.
5. There are others who antique as a hobby and seldom buy. They just enjoy looking and seeing what different areas of the country have to offer. It is fun to spend a weekend looking at antique stores when on vacation or traveling.
6. Sometimes people look for antiques when furnishing their home. Antiques work well with many different time periods and often people know exactly what they want to finish a certain room or look. Antiques can add a special touch to a room that newer furnishings will not.
6. Then, of course, there are those who deal in the buying and selling of antiques. These are the hard core people who know the price range of the antiques and won’t buy too high or sell too low. They are usually more interested in prices than in the piece itself.
Antiques serve many purposes and provide enjoyment for people of all ages.
The Hobby Of Saltwater Aquarium Fishkeeping
Quite simply, a saltwater aquarium is designed to offer saltwater marine life with a familiar and contained environment. As a hobby, saltwater aquariums allow individuals to purchase fish as pets and keep them inside their home. The first saltwater fishkeeping, for personal use, became increasingly popular in the 1950's and was widely enjoyed through the use of glass aquariums that are still famous today.
A saltwater aquarium typically features the tank itself, along with a filter, lighting and an aquarium heater. A saltwater aquarium can be purchased in a variety of different sizes, including small to the very large models. For this reason, prices vary greatly depending on the size and features of the saltwater aquarium.
The features of a saltwater aquarium are very important to the survival of the marine life. As they are used to moving water, filtration is a must. Otherwise, the water would become cloudy and the fish would deteriorate quickly. While lighting is perhaps not as important as a quality filtration unit, it does provide a sense of a routine in a distinction between light and dark. While in the wild, marine life experiences the difference between day and night and will find a similar lighting routine to be similar to their natural habitat.
It is very important that the water in a saltwater aquarium be tested regularly with the use of a test kit. In addition, regular water changes are required of every saltwater aquarium in order to keep the fish’s life clean and safe. Regular tap water, however, will likely feature contamination that may prove harmful to the fish. Chemicals and purifiers used to treat the water is found in most tap waters so, instead, a saltwater aquarium should be filled with distilled water. When changing the water in a saltwater aquarium, the owner must remove up to 20% of the current water and replace it with new saltwater, which is achieved through the use of a saltwater mix.
There are a number of ways to find the perfect fish and a saltwater aquarium to keep it safe. A pet shop is the most likely place to find rare saltwater marine life and provides the biggest selection, while many retail stores offer a freshwater fish selection. When purchasing, it is a good idea to ask if the fish comes with any type of guarantee and/or special car instructions. Saltwater fish are fragile and must be treated according to specific guidelines, which any pet shop owner will detail depending on the fish that you select.
A saltwater aquarium typically features the tank itself, along with a filter, lighting and an aquarium heater. A saltwater aquarium can be purchased in a variety of different sizes, including small to the very large models. For this reason, prices vary greatly depending on the size and features of the saltwater aquarium.
The features of a saltwater aquarium are very important to the survival of the marine life. As they are used to moving water, filtration is a must. Otherwise, the water would become cloudy and the fish would deteriorate quickly. While lighting is perhaps not as important as a quality filtration unit, it does provide a sense of a routine in a distinction between light and dark. While in the wild, marine life experiences the difference between day and night and will find a similar lighting routine to be similar to their natural habitat.
It is very important that the water in a saltwater aquarium be tested regularly with the use of a test kit. In addition, regular water changes are required of every saltwater aquarium in order to keep the fish’s life clean and safe. Regular tap water, however, will likely feature contamination that may prove harmful to the fish. Chemicals and purifiers used to treat the water is found in most tap waters so, instead, a saltwater aquarium should be filled with distilled water. When changing the water in a saltwater aquarium, the owner must remove up to 20% of the current water and replace it with new saltwater, which is achieved through the use of a saltwater mix.
There are a number of ways to find the perfect fish and a saltwater aquarium to keep it safe. A pet shop is the most likely place to find rare saltwater marine life and provides the biggest selection, while many retail stores offer a freshwater fish selection. When purchasing, it is a good idea to ask if the fish comes with any type of guarantee and/or special car instructions. Saltwater fish are fragile and must be treated according to specific guidelines, which any pet shop owner will detail depending on the fish that you select.
Best Gift Ideas For Her And Him This Holiday Season
Holiday shopping can be crazy—there are too many crowds, too many cars on snowy or rainy highways, and too much shopping stress where there should be holiday fun. Remember when gift giving WAS fun? It can be again, with a little help from online coupons. Online coupons are your ticket to easy shopping and FUN gift giving this year. A single mouse click on a coupon could be your ticket to great giving.
One of the big worries at holiday time is what to buy that special someone in your life. Men and women alike, struggle over what to buy each other. Instead of wringing your hands in the shopping malls, take a fun internet stroll over the wide variety of choices. For a man, try clicking on the Consumer Electronics section. You were probably planning a trip to Best Buy anyway, but now you can shop for the hottest Xbox games and IPod accessories online, thanks to your online coupon! What are the savings like? Everything from a selection of gifts for just under fifty dollars to rebate coupons for hot products like the latest Satellite Radio gadgets!
The man in your life will love your online coupon savings choices—and you’ll love the free shipping offers. With this particular retailer it’s important to act fast and forget the “late gift” tradition—many of the current coupons expire at the end of the holiday season. Other coupons may not expire at all, or have very long validation times, but remember the season and the often-longer mailing times.
For that special woman on your holiday shopping list online coupon selection is almost too much! Start with some of the more obvious choices, including that holiday favorite; the jewelry section. Delia’s, Diamond International and Fingerhut are just a few of the many choices. Your savings in this area can range from twenty percent off offers to triple-digit savings on select items. Men, you can’t go wrong with a gift with that diamond sparkle! If you’re looking for coupons with lots of smaller gifts in mind, try the Cosmetics and Fragrance section for even more savings. Does your special lady enjoy Eternity perfume by Calvin Klein? Check out the savings!
Your online coupons will do your wallet a world of good this holiday season, and bring a big smile to that special someone’s face
One of the big worries at holiday time is what to buy that special someone in your life. Men and women alike, struggle over what to buy each other. Instead of wringing your hands in the shopping malls, take a fun internet stroll over the wide variety of choices. For a man, try clicking on the Consumer Electronics section. You were probably planning a trip to Best Buy anyway, but now you can shop for the hottest Xbox games and IPod accessories online, thanks to your online coupon! What are the savings like? Everything from a selection of gifts for just under fifty dollars to rebate coupons for hot products like the latest Satellite Radio gadgets!
The man in your life will love your online coupon savings choices—and you’ll love the free shipping offers. With this particular retailer it’s important to act fast and forget the “late gift” tradition—many of the current coupons expire at the end of the holiday season. Other coupons may not expire at all, or have very long validation times, but remember the season and the often-longer mailing times.
For that special woman on your holiday shopping list online coupon selection is almost too much! Start with some of the more obvious choices, including that holiday favorite; the jewelry section. Delia’s, Diamond International and Fingerhut are just a few of the many choices. Your savings in this area can range from twenty percent off offers to triple-digit savings on select items. Men, you can’t go wrong with a gift with that diamond sparkle! If you’re looking for coupons with lots of smaller gifts in mind, try the Cosmetics and Fragrance section for even more savings. Does your special lady enjoy Eternity perfume by Calvin Klein? Check out the savings!
Your online coupons will do your wallet a world of good this holiday season, and bring a big smile to that special someone’s face
Digital Video Camera Rental: Putting You in the Picture
Digital video cameras continue to be as popular as ever. As they become more technologically sophisticated they're offering better quality and more functions in ever smaller packages. Top-of-the-range, high definition videocams can cost in excess of $3000 to buy. This figure would be even higher if existing mechanisms, which allow HD videos to be recorded on a conventional DV tape, couldn not be used.
It's hardly surprising, then, that digital video camera rental is fast becoming the preferred option for digital videocam users who only need to use the equipment for special occasions. With improvements in the technology moving fast, so fast that chances are a new model will already have been superseded by something better within six months, the trend to rent and not to buy seems set to continue.
As an irregular user, looking to take pictures at weddings or on holiday, constantly upgrading your digital videocam is neither a practical, nor cost-effective solution. Why not, then, get the best of both worlds – the latest models and the lowest prices – by choosing the rental option? Your biggest worry will be to pre-book well in advance at busy times of the year, like Christmas and New Year or Thanksgiving, to avoid disappointment. Look in the Yellow Pages or login to the internet, and you'll find there are some great deals to be had out there.
Great offers are available if you shop around. At Christmas and New Year, especially, extended and weekend rental bargains are to be had provided, as we've said, you book early. Throughout the year, even, many digital video camera rental outlets will offer an extra free rental day, and, at short notice, many shops will pull together a video camera package at very competitive prices.
The basic rental package, usually comprises spare batteries, charger, camcorder case, manufacturer's manual and a “quick-start” guide. Ease of use varies with the model, but the “Get Started” guide you should receive as part of the package will outline use of the main controls of On/Off, record and zoom buttons. A manual should also be supplied should you feel like exploring more options in detail.
Alternatively, as an infrequent user of digital camcorders, you will find that many rental outlets offer a photo printing or video transfer service, copying your film on to CD or DVD. Again, shop around for the best deals if you're interested in a complete service. Even with this service charge added to the hire cost, on any cost-benefit analysis you'll be getting a great deal.
Besides the basic package, optional extras are available. Accessories, such as tripods, external microphones and camcorder lights, though, are not seen as optional extras for many users who want to shoot that perfect picture for the perfect occasion. You will pay an extra hire charge for these items, as you will for video tapes and mini-DVD-Rs. The software to download your photos on to your PC will usually be included in the hire package, though. This software is very popular now and has largely replaced still photos on memory cards. Rent and you'll get the best for less.
Having decided that digital video camera rental is for you, the most important question to ask yourself before you proceed any further is: what do I want from a digital camcorder? Do I want a cheaper, standard format videocam, or would I prefer a high definition video?
Standard models use compact, 60-minute tapes, and can be plugged into the camcorder/playstation inputs on the front of many TVs and video recorders. The playback quality is very good. As a rule of thumb with standard models, the smaller the camera the fewer features it has. You want a larger optical zoom? Then you'll need to hire one of the slightly larger cameras. Even so, none is that big and all are easy to use for the novice.
But are you more technically-minded? If so, then an HD videocam, offering superb playback quality with four times the number of pixels as standard definition, would allow you to shoot a video of a wedding and edit the video on HDV. Be aware, though, that a very powerful PC is required to use video editing packages. The HDV footage can then be recorded on to a high definition DVD player with marvellous results.
Europe lags behind the U.S. where we have been able to enjoy high definition TV, and watch content from most of the major networks, for a number of years. Familiarity with the superb picture quality afforded by HD breeds contempt among aficionados for standard models. Renting a videocam allows the technically-minded to practise more demanding techniques and to produce top-class pictures without the substantial outlay involved in buying a top-notch videocam. And remember: as a perfectionist, you'll need accessories, too, which makes renting an even more attractive option.
So, novice or enthusiast, renting the equipment makes the best sense. The videocam's obsolescence, driven by continual improvements in technology, requires constant and expensive upgrading. The very high cost of buying top-of-the-range videocams, together with the easy availability of great-deal packages, including accessories, all make compelling reasons for renting and not buying.
“A picture is worth a thousand words”, so they say. Well, not quite, but it will have been worth reading a few hundred if you're now sold on the benefits of digital video camera rental.
It's hardly surprising, then, that digital video camera rental is fast becoming the preferred option for digital videocam users who only need to use the equipment for special occasions. With improvements in the technology moving fast, so fast that chances are a new model will already have been superseded by something better within six months, the trend to rent and not to buy seems set to continue.
As an irregular user, looking to take pictures at weddings or on holiday, constantly upgrading your digital videocam is neither a practical, nor cost-effective solution. Why not, then, get the best of both worlds – the latest models and the lowest prices – by choosing the rental option? Your biggest worry will be to pre-book well in advance at busy times of the year, like Christmas and New Year or Thanksgiving, to avoid disappointment. Look in the Yellow Pages or login to the internet, and you'll find there are some great deals to be had out there.
Great offers are available if you shop around. At Christmas and New Year, especially, extended and weekend rental bargains are to be had provided, as we've said, you book early. Throughout the year, even, many digital video camera rental outlets will offer an extra free rental day, and, at short notice, many shops will pull together a video camera package at very competitive prices.
The basic rental package, usually comprises spare batteries, charger, camcorder case, manufacturer's manual and a “quick-start” guide. Ease of use varies with the model, but the “Get Started” guide you should receive as part of the package will outline use of the main controls of On/Off, record and zoom buttons. A manual should also be supplied should you feel like exploring more options in detail.
Alternatively, as an infrequent user of digital camcorders, you will find that many rental outlets offer a photo printing or video transfer service, copying your film on to CD or DVD. Again, shop around for the best deals if you're interested in a complete service. Even with this service charge added to the hire cost, on any cost-benefit analysis you'll be getting a great deal.
Besides the basic package, optional extras are available. Accessories, such as tripods, external microphones and camcorder lights, though, are not seen as optional extras for many users who want to shoot that perfect picture for the perfect occasion. You will pay an extra hire charge for these items, as you will for video tapes and mini-DVD-Rs. The software to download your photos on to your PC will usually be included in the hire package, though. This software is very popular now and has largely replaced still photos on memory cards. Rent and you'll get the best for less.
Having decided that digital video camera rental is for you, the most important question to ask yourself before you proceed any further is: what do I want from a digital camcorder? Do I want a cheaper, standard format videocam, or would I prefer a high definition video?
Standard models use compact, 60-minute tapes, and can be plugged into the camcorder/playstation inputs on the front of many TVs and video recorders. The playback quality is very good. As a rule of thumb with standard models, the smaller the camera the fewer features it has. You want a larger optical zoom? Then you'll need to hire one of the slightly larger cameras. Even so, none is that big and all are easy to use for the novice.
But are you more technically-minded? If so, then an HD videocam, offering superb playback quality with four times the number of pixels as standard definition, would allow you to shoot a video of a wedding and edit the video on HDV. Be aware, though, that a very powerful PC is required to use video editing packages. The HDV footage can then be recorded on to a high definition DVD player with marvellous results.
Europe lags behind the U.S. where we have been able to enjoy high definition TV, and watch content from most of the major networks, for a number of years. Familiarity with the superb picture quality afforded by HD breeds contempt among aficionados for standard models. Renting a videocam allows the technically-minded to practise more demanding techniques and to produce top-class pictures without the substantial outlay involved in buying a top-notch videocam. And remember: as a perfectionist, you'll need accessories, too, which makes renting an even more attractive option.
So, novice or enthusiast, renting the equipment makes the best sense. The videocam's obsolescence, driven by continual improvements in technology, requires constant and expensive upgrading. The very high cost of buying top-of-the-range videocams, together with the easy availability of great-deal packages, including accessories, all make compelling reasons for renting and not buying.
“A picture is worth a thousand words”, so they say. Well, not quite, but it will have been worth reading a few hundred if you're now sold on the benefits of digital video camera rental.
How To Select The Right Memory Cards For Digital Cameras
Does it really make a difference what size memory card you use?
To your camera, no; to you, however, it could mean the difference between getting the picture you want or running out of space on your memory card.
When choosing the most logical size, take into account how many pictures you usually take at a time. Your needs if you are a world traveler will be different from those of a person who only uses a camera for holiday get-togethers.
You also need to decide how big the files are of the pictures you take. Smaller files such as pictures for online will take less space and enable you to fit more on a card.
Larger files for printing will need more room.
If you have a 2 mega-pixel camera, 128MB is usually enough. For a 3 or 4-megapixel camera, a 128MB or 256MB memory card is usually plenty. For a 5-megapixel camera, start with a 256MB memory card.
Here's a rough guideline of how many pictures a flash memory card can hold:
*A 128MB flash memory card can store about 21-41 large, uncompressed images or up to 100 small, compressed images. This is good enough for most photographic needs.
*A 256MB card will store about twice that, 42-82 large pictures and nearly 200 smaller ones. Important events like weddings and once in a lifetime events might warrant this size just to make sure you don’t miss that one special moment.
A 1GB card has room for nearly 4 times as much as a 256MB card, If you are planning a long vacation with a lot of picture taking, this might be best with the capacity to hold 168-328 large images and a total of close to 800 smaller images.
Whatever you decide, remember you can always use several smaller cards and just change them when they are full. It only takes a few seconds to switch memory cards, so don’t panic if you don’t have a large memory card.
To your camera, no; to you, however, it could mean the difference between getting the picture you want or running out of space on your memory card.
When choosing the most logical size, take into account how many pictures you usually take at a time. Your needs if you are a world traveler will be different from those of a person who only uses a camera for holiday get-togethers.
You also need to decide how big the files are of the pictures you take. Smaller files such as pictures for online will take less space and enable you to fit more on a card.
Larger files for printing will need more room.
If you have a 2 mega-pixel camera, 128MB is usually enough. For a 3 or 4-megapixel camera, a 128MB or 256MB memory card is usually plenty. For a 5-megapixel camera, start with a 256MB memory card.
Here's a rough guideline of how many pictures a flash memory card can hold:
*A 128MB flash memory card can store about 21-41 large, uncompressed images or up to 100 small, compressed images. This is good enough for most photographic needs.
*A 256MB card will store about twice that, 42-82 large pictures and nearly 200 smaller ones. Important events like weddings and once in a lifetime events might warrant this size just to make sure you don’t miss that one special moment.
A 1GB card has room for nearly 4 times as much as a 256MB card, If you are planning a long vacation with a lot of picture taking, this might be best with the capacity to hold 168-328 large images and a total of close to 800 smaller images.
Whatever you decide, remember you can always use several smaller cards and just change them when they are full. It only takes a few seconds to switch memory cards, so don’t panic if you don’t have a large memory card.
Faithbooking: Preserving Your Faith Through Your Scrapbooks
“We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.” Psalm 78:4
When you get down to it, the reason we scrapbook is to tell a story. The story of our lives, the milestones we’ve reached, the journeys we’ve gone on, the trials we’ve endured and the joys we’ve shared. That is what is found in each scrapbook page.
But if you are a person of faith, do you include how you prayed through the trials, leaned on your church family through your journeys and praised God for answering prayers? So often we forget to give credit to the Lord in our layouts for obvious demonstrations of His love for us!
Faithbooking is much more than just adding Bible verses to your pages. It is more like a prayer journal with photos, a way to preserve your faith through the art of scrapbooking! Since most prayer journals are private and highly personal in nature, you can use faithbooking or praisebooking, as other have called it, as a tangible way to share your faith with those you love!
Just think of the amazing treasure your children will have once you’re gone. Generations to come will see how your faith affected your life. So many of us have heard the legacies of our ancestors’ faith, but have little to show for it except stories passed down through the family. Faithbooking can not only serve as a family treasure, but a creative way to follow Psalm 78:4 and tell other generations of God’s wonders in our lives.
Many people prefer their faithbooking to be quite simple, with just some photos and journaling, but just as God works in many ways, I believe we all have our own personal faithbooking style. If you keep your focus on God’s hand in your life and not on making a page worthy for the cover of your favorite scrapbook magazine, I think your pages will show your faith in a way that is yours alone!
There are a growing number of companies that are making products just for Christians. I've found everything from papers, stickers, charms and eyelets with a Christian theme. While these are necessary to faithbooking, they do make nice additions to your pages and can help bring your pages together nicely.
Remember, faithbooking is all about God working in your life! There is no wrong way to do it if you keep your focus on Him!
When you get down to it, the reason we scrapbook is to tell a story. The story of our lives, the milestones we’ve reached, the journeys we’ve gone on, the trials we’ve endured and the joys we’ve shared. That is what is found in each scrapbook page.
But if you are a person of faith, do you include how you prayed through the trials, leaned on your church family through your journeys and praised God for answering prayers? So often we forget to give credit to the Lord in our layouts for obvious demonstrations of His love for us!
Faithbooking is much more than just adding Bible verses to your pages. It is more like a prayer journal with photos, a way to preserve your faith through the art of scrapbooking! Since most prayer journals are private and highly personal in nature, you can use faithbooking or praisebooking, as other have called it, as a tangible way to share your faith with those you love!
Just think of the amazing treasure your children will have once you’re gone. Generations to come will see how your faith affected your life. So many of us have heard the legacies of our ancestors’ faith, but have little to show for it except stories passed down through the family. Faithbooking can not only serve as a family treasure, but a creative way to follow Psalm 78:4 and tell other generations of God’s wonders in our lives.
Many people prefer their faithbooking to be quite simple, with just some photos and journaling, but just as God works in many ways, I believe we all have our own personal faithbooking style. If you keep your focus on God’s hand in your life and not on making a page worthy for the cover of your favorite scrapbook magazine, I think your pages will show your faith in a way that is yours alone!
There are a growing number of companies that are making products just for Christians. I've found everything from papers, stickers, charms and eyelets with a Christian theme. While these are necessary to faithbooking, they do make nice additions to your pages and can help bring your pages together nicely.
Remember, faithbooking is all about God working in your life! There is no wrong way to do it if you keep your focus on Him!
Get Started in the Wholesale Jewelry Business
If you are in search of a great e-commerce business, be sure to take a strong look at the wholesale jewelry business. Since the advent of the internet more and more people are doing their shopping online. This shopping includes people who are scouring the internet in search of quality jewelry at a great price. The online market for wholesale jewelry companies has been increasing every year, and there is no end in sight. People are in need of these products for work, their social wardrobe, or for gifts. But before deciding to go into this business, be sure to do a lot of research. It is important to know what you are getting yourself into before you start.
The first step to success would be to do some research on the companies that are currently selling online. Take notes on what you like and do not like about their operation. This way you can incorporate these ideas into your new business. Next, attempt to contact the owners of these companies and ask about their finances. See how much start-up money it took, and how long it was before they started to turn a profit. Finally, take into consideration how you will get your name in front of prospective buyers. Putting together a marketing plan can be one of the most important aspects of starting a wholesale jewelry business.
Overall, it is important to remember to do a lot of research before you start. This research will provide you with ideas, as well as help you to avoid any unwanted mistakes.
The first step to success would be to do some research on the companies that are currently selling online. Take notes on what you like and do not like about their operation. This way you can incorporate these ideas into your new business. Next, attempt to contact the owners of these companies and ask about their finances. See how much start-up money it took, and how long it was before they started to turn a profit. Finally, take into consideration how you will get your name in front of prospective buyers. Putting together a marketing plan can be one of the most important aspects of starting a wholesale jewelry business.
Overall, it is important to remember to do a lot of research before you start. This research will provide you with ideas, as well as help you to avoid any unwanted mistakes.
Building a Jewelry Wardrobe
Just as every woman needs a pair—or twenty—of jeans, a few pairs of black shoes (at the very least: ballet flats, thongs, kitten heels and stilettos), a cocktail dress, a few basic skirts, a chic business suit, a cardigan sweater…I could go on but you get my point. Just as every woman needs these fashion staples, she needs a few jewelry basics—seven actually—with which to accessorize her outfits.
Like a custom paint job on a sleek Harley, accessories personalize your style and tell the world that you care enough to go the extra mile for appearance’s sake. And we all know that appearance counts. Within the first three seconds of taking you in, people make judgments about you that you usually cannot reverse. So why not make a good first impression with a look that is polished, put together, and says that you pay attention to style and detail? Still with me? Good. Here are seven jewelry staples no well-dressed woman should be without. Choose any one of them to accessorize in a snap, and to ensure that snap judgments made about you reflect who you really are.
Diamond studs Anyone can pull off this classic accessory. Diamond studs are elegant, timeless and simple enough to be worn with other jewelry and any style of hair or dress. Look for clear, sparkling gems with at least ½ carat total weight, set in white gold or platinum (not yellow gold) to show off their colorlessness. As for shape, round studs will always be in style, but princess cut styles are popular—and classic too. Look for screw backs to help ensure that you won’t lose your investment, and make sure the setting is secure (I prefer four prongs to three).
Be warned that quality diamond studs can be pricey. Blue Nile.com has a beautiful pair of ½ carat tw diamond studs with screw backs for $600; Tiffany & Co. sells a beautiful pair of .22 total carat weight diamonds set it platinum for $875. Can’t afford these beauties? My sparkly CZ look-alikes get the job done, and cost under $40. And I don’t have to worry about losing—or insuring them.
Pearl studs Like diamond studs, pearl studs can be worn with every style of dress, and with all types of jewelry. Unlike diamond studs, pearl studs are surprisingly affordable, especially when you choose freshwater pearls, which today can rival the beauty of their saltwater cousins. Look for round white gems that are well-matched; these are classics and won’t go out of style. Beware of purchasing button-shaped (flattened) pearls when you think you’re getting round. Choose a back that is comfortable, secure and comprised of a metal your skin can tolerate, such as white gold, yellow gold or platinum.
When wearing pearls, keep in mind that the gems are typically associated with a demure, ladylike reputation, so they’re perfect for a job interview, wedding or other formal setting. Of course, classic pearls are perfect for daytime and casual events as well, and give the wearer a timeless, feminine look that is very polished.
When buying pearl studs, choose akoya cultured pearls or their far more affordable freshwater counterparts, which are just as beautiful. For the best look, choose pearls that are 6mm or greater in size. JR Dunn sells Mikimoto akoya cultured pearls in 6mm round white for $340; MoonRiverPearls.com sells round white freshwater cultured pearls in 7mm for $38.
Dangle earrings I love dangles for their drama, and because their typical hook backs make them easy to get on and off. But many dangles aren’t for everyday; they’ll look out of place with shorts and a tank, for example. If you’re going a bit more formal, though, you have many options with this earring style. Keep in mind that if you want your dangle earrings to become a jewelry staple, look for a classic, elegant design in a neutral color, such as an all metal style or one that ends in a cultured pearl, for example. For your staple piece, don’t choose anything trendy or cute; steer clear of hearts, stars, zodiac signs and skulls. (If you want to go trendy that’s fine, just buy something inexpensive.) As for what to choose, I prefer a dangle that hangs an inch or two below the earlobe to really make a statement. White gold and yellow gold bars, chains or chandeliers are timeless favorites. Of course, hairstyle and wardrobe will play a role here too. If your hair is very long you can get away with more dramatic—and longer—styles. Remember, though, if you wear a dramatic earring it’s best to skip the necklace and let the earrings speak for themselves.
Silver or gold hoop earrings Several styles of hoop earrings can be considered jewelry staples, from small diamond-encrusted loops to gargantuan, J.Lo-style hoops. It all depends on what you like, so choose hoops that fit your personality. Keep in mind, though, that oversize hoops can overpower short hair, an updo, or a face with small features, so take in the overall picture before you step out. Small gold, silver, diamond, pearl or CZ hoops go with everything and are always in style. Look for hoop earrings with a back that’s easy to fasten and won’t readily bend or fall out. And don’t wear gigantic hoops to a job interview or other professional setting, unless you work at Vogue.
Diamond solitaire pendant There’s not enough room here to write about the five Cs of diamond quality, but, if you’re interested, there are a ton of sites out there where you can read about how to choose a diamond. As for the pendant, a single bezel set diamond on a white gold chain looks amazing, crisp and classic. Choose an 18-inch length with a secure clasp (I prefer lobster claw here) and make sure the chain is sturdy, yet thin and unobtrusive. It’s the diamond that you want to showcase here, not the chain. As with studs, you can get a gorgeous solitaire pendant made with a CZ, or, for a twist, try a pearl.
Pearl strand When choosing a classic pearl strand, look for an 18-inch princess length in a classic creamy white. This length is very versatile, and the color is timeless. Both akoya cultured pearls and freshwater cultured pearls fit the bill, although akoyas will be more expensive. Other factors to keep in mind: pearl size counts. After the 7.5-8.0 mm mark, prices rise dramatically, but a 6.5mm strand is lovely and affordable. Look at luster and surface. Pearls should have a high luster, or surface sheen, meaning they reflect light well. They should also be free from obvious blemishes. Pay attention to uniformity. Make sure the pearls are the same size, the same color and have a uniform luster—the warm glow that appears to come from within the pearl. To check that the pearls are uniformly round, roll the strand on a table. Matched pearls will roll smoothly.
So you think pearl strands are too Barbara Bush? A Tin Cup necklace, where the pearls are evenly spaced on a chain, is a gorgeous alternative.
A Classic Timepiece Lots of options here, but if you’re going to choose just one watch it has to be classic, functional and stylish. I like a water-resistant oversize sterling silver watch or a classic tank watch, both of which will look good with everything except formalwear (then you can tuck it in your clutch). A stainless steel band will wear better than leather, and is usually water-resistant, but try it on in case it feels too heavy or overwhelms your wrist. Stick with a classic white or muted watch face with numbers that are easy to read. (Bold colors are pretty, but distracting.) A glow-in-the-dark face is a plus. As for brands, Swiss Army has some great styles that wear well and don’t break the bank. If you have the means, a Tag Heuer or Rolex is always nice too.
When you have your seven basic jewelry staples, it’s time to play. There are so many other classics you can add to your jewelry box if you’re so inclined. A diamond tennis bracelet, a beautiful Tahitian pearl bracelet, an oversize pearl cocktail ring, or a signature piece in your birthstone all look terrific. Depending on your style personality and budget, you can choose plenty of other extras to keep up with fashion trends, but keep these on the inexpensive side as they likely won’t stand the test of time. For a statement-making piece, choose an oversize cocktail ring in a bold color. Or, if you like today’s layered look, pick several chain necklaces in your favorite metal in varying lengths, and layer them with pearl strands or oversized turquoise, wood or mother-of-pearl beaded necklaces. Wide wood, mother-of-pearl or metal cuffs always look terrific, and stackable bangles, especially personalized charm bracelets, are always fun. (Do spend more on charm bracelets, as you’ll probably hang on to these.)
Still stuck on what to wear? You can always go with my favorite and most valued piece of jewelry: a handcrafted, hand painted macaroni necklace made for me by my four-year-old son.
Like a custom paint job on a sleek Harley, accessories personalize your style and tell the world that you care enough to go the extra mile for appearance’s sake. And we all know that appearance counts. Within the first three seconds of taking you in, people make judgments about you that you usually cannot reverse. So why not make a good first impression with a look that is polished, put together, and says that you pay attention to style and detail? Still with me? Good. Here are seven jewelry staples no well-dressed woman should be without. Choose any one of them to accessorize in a snap, and to ensure that snap judgments made about you reflect who you really are.
Diamond studs Anyone can pull off this classic accessory. Diamond studs are elegant, timeless and simple enough to be worn with other jewelry and any style of hair or dress. Look for clear, sparkling gems with at least ½ carat total weight, set in white gold or platinum (not yellow gold) to show off their colorlessness. As for shape, round studs will always be in style, but princess cut styles are popular—and classic too. Look for screw backs to help ensure that you won’t lose your investment, and make sure the setting is secure (I prefer four prongs to three).
Be warned that quality diamond studs can be pricey. Blue Nile.com has a beautiful pair of ½ carat tw diamond studs with screw backs for $600; Tiffany & Co. sells a beautiful pair of .22 total carat weight diamonds set it platinum for $875. Can’t afford these beauties? My sparkly CZ look-alikes get the job done, and cost under $40. And I don’t have to worry about losing—or insuring them.
Pearl studs Like diamond studs, pearl studs can be worn with every style of dress, and with all types of jewelry. Unlike diamond studs, pearl studs are surprisingly affordable, especially when you choose freshwater pearls, which today can rival the beauty of their saltwater cousins. Look for round white gems that are well-matched; these are classics and won’t go out of style. Beware of purchasing button-shaped (flattened) pearls when you think you’re getting round. Choose a back that is comfortable, secure and comprised of a metal your skin can tolerate, such as white gold, yellow gold or platinum.
When wearing pearls, keep in mind that the gems are typically associated with a demure, ladylike reputation, so they’re perfect for a job interview, wedding or other formal setting. Of course, classic pearls are perfect for daytime and casual events as well, and give the wearer a timeless, feminine look that is very polished.
When buying pearl studs, choose akoya cultured pearls or their far more affordable freshwater counterparts, which are just as beautiful. For the best look, choose pearls that are 6mm or greater in size. JR Dunn sells Mikimoto akoya cultured pearls in 6mm round white for $340; MoonRiverPearls.com sells round white freshwater cultured pearls in 7mm for $38.
Dangle earrings I love dangles for their drama, and because their typical hook backs make them easy to get on and off. But many dangles aren’t for everyday; they’ll look out of place with shorts and a tank, for example. If you’re going a bit more formal, though, you have many options with this earring style. Keep in mind that if you want your dangle earrings to become a jewelry staple, look for a classic, elegant design in a neutral color, such as an all metal style or one that ends in a cultured pearl, for example. For your staple piece, don’t choose anything trendy or cute; steer clear of hearts, stars, zodiac signs and skulls. (If you want to go trendy that’s fine, just buy something inexpensive.) As for what to choose, I prefer a dangle that hangs an inch or two below the earlobe to really make a statement. White gold and yellow gold bars, chains or chandeliers are timeless favorites. Of course, hairstyle and wardrobe will play a role here too. If your hair is very long you can get away with more dramatic—and longer—styles. Remember, though, if you wear a dramatic earring it’s best to skip the necklace and let the earrings speak for themselves.
Silver or gold hoop earrings Several styles of hoop earrings can be considered jewelry staples, from small diamond-encrusted loops to gargantuan, J.Lo-style hoops. It all depends on what you like, so choose hoops that fit your personality. Keep in mind, though, that oversize hoops can overpower short hair, an updo, or a face with small features, so take in the overall picture before you step out. Small gold, silver, diamond, pearl or CZ hoops go with everything and are always in style. Look for hoop earrings with a back that’s easy to fasten and won’t readily bend or fall out. And don’t wear gigantic hoops to a job interview or other professional setting, unless you work at Vogue.
Diamond solitaire pendant There’s not enough room here to write about the five Cs of diamond quality, but, if you’re interested, there are a ton of sites out there where you can read about how to choose a diamond. As for the pendant, a single bezel set diamond on a white gold chain looks amazing, crisp and classic. Choose an 18-inch length with a secure clasp (I prefer lobster claw here) and make sure the chain is sturdy, yet thin and unobtrusive. It’s the diamond that you want to showcase here, not the chain. As with studs, you can get a gorgeous solitaire pendant made with a CZ, or, for a twist, try a pearl.
Pearl strand When choosing a classic pearl strand, look for an 18-inch princess length in a classic creamy white. This length is very versatile, and the color is timeless. Both akoya cultured pearls and freshwater cultured pearls fit the bill, although akoyas will be more expensive. Other factors to keep in mind: pearl size counts. After the 7.5-8.0 mm mark, prices rise dramatically, but a 6.5mm strand is lovely and affordable. Look at luster and surface. Pearls should have a high luster, or surface sheen, meaning they reflect light well. They should also be free from obvious blemishes. Pay attention to uniformity. Make sure the pearls are the same size, the same color and have a uniform luster—the warm glow that appears to come from within the pearl. To check that the pearls are uniformly round, roll the strand on a table. Matched pearls will roll smoothly.
So you think pearl strands are too Barbara Bush? A Tin Cup necklace, where the pearls are evenly spaced on a chain, is a gorgeous alternative.
A Classic Timepiece Lots of options here, but if you’re going to choose just one watch it has to be classic, functional and stylish. I like a water-resistant oversize sterling silver watch or a classic tank watch, both of which will look good with everything except formalwear (then you can tuck it in your clutch). A stainless steel band will wear better than leather, and is usually water-resistant, but try it on in case it feels too heavy or overwhelms your wrist. Stick with a classic white or muted watch face with numbers that are easy to read. (Bold colors are pretty, but distracting.) A glow-in-the-dark face is a plus. As for brands, Swiss Army has some great styles that wear well and don’t break the bank. If you have the means, a Tag Heuer or Rolex is always nice too.
When you have your seven basic jewelry staples, it’s time to play. There are so many other classics you can add to your jewelry box if you’re so inclined. A diamond tennis bracelet, a beautiful Tahitian pearl bracelet, an oversize pearl cocktail ring, or a signature piece in your birthstone all look terrific. Depending on your style personality and budget, you can choose plenty of other extras to keep up with fashion trends, but keep these on the inexpensive side as they likely won’t stand the test of time. For a statement-making piece, choose an oversize cocktail ring in a bold color. Or, if you like today’s layered look, pick several chain necklaces in your favorite metal in varying lengths, and layer them with pearl strands or oversized turquoise, wood or mother-of-pearl beaded necklaces. Wide wood, mother-of-pearl or metal cuffs always look terrific, and stackable bangles, especially personalized charm bracelets, are always fun. (Do spend more on charm bracelets, as you’ll probably hang on to these.)
Still stuck on what to wear? You can always go with my favorite and most valued piece of jewelry: a handcrafted, hand painted macaroni necklace made for me by my four-year-old son.
Diamond Simulant: The Other Face Of Real Diamond
The material that is similar in look to the diamond is known as diamond simulant. At present it plays an important role in the diamond simulant industry.
The diamond simulant has the same characteristics of a real diamond. With the diamond simulant or the manufactured diamond, the simulant can be made of artificial material. It can be a natural or it can be combination with both. The diamond simulant is different from the synthetic diamond and the major difference is the material properties. In the case of a synthetic diamond, the properties are same as the natural diamond. The diamond simulant has dispersion and hardness properties like natural diamonds and their properties help in imitation. The differences in a diamond simulant and in synthetic diamond can be found by diamond professionals only.
The common simulants that are used in the manufacturing of a diamond are the leaded glass and the cubic zirconia. Leaded glass is also known as Rhinestones. The other materials that are used rarely in manufacturing diamond simulant are strontium titanate and the synthetic retile. But today, the moissanite plays an important role in manufacturing of a diamond stimulant even though it is costly when compared to leaded glass and the cubic zirconia.
The following properties must be possessed by the diamond simulant to have a great look and fine craftsmanship.
• The diamond simulant should look like a natural diamond.
• The diamond simulant properties should be similar to a diamond.
• The diamond simulant should cater for non-destructive testing otherwise the fine finishing will not be achieved.
• It should match the durability and the density test as per the standard laid down process.
• There should not be any scratches on the diamond simulant, other wise it will be distinct from the natural diamond.
• The diamond simulant should be hard in nature comparing to other gems.
• The manufactured diamond should have crisp and sharp edges to provide a sparkling look.
• They should be flawless and should cater for fine polishing.
• The diamond simulant should pass the window panel test.
• The specific gravity of the manufactured diamond should be around 3.5, so that it resembles the natural diamond.
• The diamond simulant should be of same weight with that of real diamond.
• The diamond simulant should match the optics and color properties with that of the natural diamond.
Artificial simulants
Nowadays the simulants of the diamonds are carried in large masses to cater the needs of the diamond simulant industry. Due the improvements in various technologies it has become very easy to manufacture diamond simulants and these simulants look more original than the natural diamonds.
At present there are two distinct methods to manufacture the diamond simulant. One of the method is the high pressure and high temperature and commonly known as HPHT method. In this method, two presses are used to maintain the constant temperature and pressure. The two presses are the belt press and the cubic press. This is one of the cheapest methods to manufacture a diamond simulant.
The second method that is used is the chemical vapor deposition, which is also called as CVD method. In this the energy used to create plasma in which the gases are broken down to form the diamond on the top and the diamond simulant is provided with fine shapes and is cut into required sizes.
The diamond simulant has the same characteristics of a real diamond. With the diamond simulant or the manufactured diamond, the simulant can be made of artificial material. It can be a natural or it can be combination with both. The diamond simulant is different from the synthetic diamond and the major difference is the material properties. In the case of a synthetic diamond, the properties are same as the natural diamond. The diamond simulant has dispersion and hardness properties like natural diamonds and their properties help in imitation. The differences in a diamond simulant and in synthetic diamond can be found by diamond professionals only.
The common simulants that are used in the manufacturing of a diamond are the leaded glass and the cubic zirconia. Leaded glass is also known as Rhinestones. The other materials that are used rarely in manufacturing diamond simulant are strontium titanate and the synthetic retile. But today, the moissanite plays an important role in manufacturing of a diamond stimulant even though it is costly when compared to leaded glass and the cubic zirconia.
The following properties must be possessed by the diamond simulant to have a great look and fine craftsmanship.
• The diamond simulant should look like a natural diamond.
• The diamond simulant properties should be similar to a diamond.
• The diamond simulant should cater for non-destructive testing otherwise the fine finishing will not be achieved.
• It should match the durability and the density test as per the standard laid down process.
• There should not be any scratches on the diamond simulant, other wise it will be distinct from the natural diamond.
• The diamond simulant should be hard in nature comparing to other gems.
• The manufactured diamond should have crisp and sharp edges to provide a sparkling look.
• They should be flawless and should cater for fine polishing.
• The diamond simulant should pass the window panel test.
• The specific gravity of the manufactured diamond should be around 3.5, so that it resembles the natural diamond.
• The diamond simulant should be of same weight with that of real diamond.
• The diamond simulant should match the optics and color properties with that of the natural diamond.
Artificial simulants
Nowadays the simulants of the diamonds are carried in large masses to cater the needs of the diamond simulant industry. Due the improvements in various technologies it has become very easy to manufacture diamond simulants and these simulants look more original than the natural diamonds.
At present there are two distinct methods to manufacture the diamond simulant. One of the method is the high pressure and high temperature and commonly known as HPHT method. In this method, two presses are used to maintain the constant temperature and pressure. The two presses are the belt press and the cubic press. This is one of the cheapest methods to manufacture a diamond simulant.
The second method that is used is the chemical vapor deposition, which is also called as CVD method. In this the energy used to create plasma in which the gases are broken down to form the diamond on the top and the diamond simulant is provided with fine shapes and is cut into required sizes.
How To Know If A Diamond Is Fake Or Real
A diamond is a girl’s best friend! It is a beauty and unique nature makes it easy to admire. Diamond purchasing is a great task and an exciting pleasure. There are various types of diamonds so when buying real diamonds, one should learn about fake diamonds so that you will be able to distinguish between the fake vs. real diamond. Nowadays the best fake diamond is in great demand. Here are some of the simple solutions or the methods that will enable you to find out the difference between the fake vs. real diamond. The best way to know about the precious diamond is to acquire knowledge from a diamond professional. If possible take the diamond along with you to the shop and get all the details from the jeweler. The best fake diamond looks so similar to the real diamond that even a professional diamond jeweler may get confused and may have hard time to finding out whether it is a fake or the real diamond. In case you are not satisfied with the views regarding the real diamond from the professional, here is a way to find out which is a real diamond and which is a fake diamond.
The first method is to check the diamond with the help of diamond tester as it will help you to differentiate between real diamond and best fake diamond. It is an electronic tester that can check all the diamonds except the moissanite stone for which the diamond tester is not reliable. The best fake diamond is the cubic zirconia and the weight of this diamond is around 50% more than a real diamond of the same size and shape. This weighing test also can find out the difference between fake vs. real diamond.
Another method for checking the best fake diamond is the transparency test in which the diamond is placed up side down on the news paper and if the written matter from the newspaper is legible then be sure that the diamond is not the real one and it can be a best fake diamond. One of the disadvantages of this method is that some of the stones may appear to be a real diamond due its fine cutting. In this case, one needs to be sure about the cutting methods of the stones. This method is very common and enables you to find the real diamond from the best fake diamond.
The third method that helps you to differentiate between fake vs. real diamond is the fog test. Hold the stone or the diamond and blow some air from your mouth on to the stone, if the fog appears on the stone and stays there for next few seconds then it shows that the stone is a best fake diamond because in case of a real diamond, the heat disappears instantly. The oily layers and dirt on the stone might create some problems to differentiate fake vs. real diamond. Thus, before carrying out a test for best fake diamond, clean its surface properly.
The ultra violet test is another method that will enable you to find out the real diamond from the best fake diamond. The real diamond projects blue color light if put under the ultra violet light or the black color. There are two options, if the blue light does not appear, it can be best fake diamond or can be a high quality diamond.
All of the above tests can satisfy all the test conditions to differentiate between a best fake diamond and the real diamond.
The first method is to check the diamond with the help of diamond tester as it will help you to differentiate between real diamond and best fake diamond. It is an electronic tester that can check all the diamonds except the moissanite stone for which the diamond tester is not reliable. The best fake diamond is the cubic zirconia and the weight of this diamond is around 50% more than a real diamond of the same size and shape. This weighing test also can find out the difference between fake vs. real diamond.
Another method for checking the best fake diamond is the transparency test in which the diamond is placed up side down on the news paper and if the written matter from the newspaper is legible then be sure that the diamond is not the real one and it can be a best fake diamond. One of the disadvantages of this method is that some of the stones may appear to be a real diamond due its fine cutting. In this case, one needs to be sure about the cutting methods of the stones. This method is very common and enables you to find the real diamond from the best fake diamond.
The third method that helps you to differentiate between fake vs. real diamond is the fog test. Hold the stone or the diamond and blow some air from your mouth on to the stone, if the fog appears on the stone and stays there for next few seconds then it shows that the stone is a best fake diamond because in case of a real diamond, the heat disappears instantly. The oily layers and dirt on the stone might create some problems to differentiate fake vs. real diamond. Thus, before carrying out a test for best fake diamond, clean its surface properly.
The ultra violet test is another method that will enable you to find out the real diamond from the best fake diamond. The real diamond projects blue color light if put under the ultra violet light or the black color. There are two options, if the blue light does not appear, it can be best fake diamond or can be a high quality diamond.
All of the above tests can satisfy all the test conditions to differentiate between a best fake diamond and the real diamond.
Diamonds And What To Do With Them
Diamonds are allotropes of carbon , whose hardness and high dispersion of light make it useful for industrial applications and jewelry.
Diamond in Greek means "impossible to tame". Diamonds are found mainly in central and southern Africa, although significant sources of the mineral have been discovered in Canada, Russia, Brazil, and Australia.
There are Synthetic Diamonds and Natural Diamonds.
There is something so special about diamonds, and they are so valuable, that people have been trying to make them for a long time.
Synthetic diamonds were first produced in 1953, in Stockholm ,Sweden by ASEA ,Sweden's major electrical manufacturing company. Pressure was maintained within a device at an estimated 83,000 atmospheres for an hour to produce these diamonds.
It now seems that it is possible to make diamonds in a laboratory so perfect down to the same atomic structure that DeBeers, the world's largest diamond consortium, is running scared.
And you know what, these diamonds can be made and sold at a profit.
Apparently there are in Russia alone 5 laboratories producing synthetic diamonds that have the same atomic structure as natural diamonds but with ONE difference, they are too perfect.
They have the same characteristics as real diamonds, the same hardness, same conductivity, the same sparkle.
Different types of Synthetic Diamonds:
2 different processes are being used to produce Synthetic Diamonds:
The oldest process uses pressure, lots of it, and carbon.
Since diamonds are carbon, eventually people were able to make diamonds in this manner, but these diamonds were easily distinguishable from natural diamonds.
Originally, the pressure process was developed by GE and, by major manufacturers, on a much larger scale.
There is also a cubic press system.
The newest process actually grows diamonds layer by layer as a chemical process and is called Chemical vapor deposition.
This process allows many new uses for diamonds which in the past had previously been either too expensive to implement or too difficult to make.
The most important characteristic of CVD diamond growth is the ability to control the properties of the diamond produced.
Diamonds are now being used to machine tools, especially for non-ferrous alloys. CVD diamond also has applications in electronics. Conductive diamond has been demonstrated as a useful electrode under many circumstances.
Diamonds are also being used as radiation detection devices. Diamonds also have uses as semiconductors because the diamonds can be contaminated with impurities.
Diamond is the ideal material. It can be used in computers to run them at speeds that would melt anything on the market today.
Diamonds can also replace rubies to make lasers of extreme power.
Diamonds can be used as memory storage devices which could be so small as to allow a cellphone to fit into a watch and an iPod to store 20,000 movies.
Diamond in Greek means "impossible to tame". Diamonds are found mainly in central and southern Africa, although significant sources of the mineral have been discovered in Canada, Russia, Brazil, and Australia.
There are Synthetic Diamonds and Natural Diamonds.
There is something so special about diamonds, and they are so valuable, that people have been trying to make them for a long time.
Synthetic diamonds were first produced in 1953, in Stockholm ,Sweden by ASEA ,Sweden's major electrical manufacturing company. Pressure was maintained within a device at an estimated 83,000 atmospheres for an hour to produce these diamonds.
It now seems that it is possible to make diamonds in a laboratory so perfect down to the same atomic structure that DeBeers, the world's largest diamond consortium, is running scared.
And you know what, these diamonds can be made and sold at a profit.
Apparently there are in Russia alone 5 laboratories producing synthetic diamonds that have the same atomic structure as natural diamonds but with ONE difference, they are too perfect.
They have the same characteristics as real diamonds, the same hardness, same conductivity, the same sparkle.
Different types of Synthetic Diamonds:
2 different processes are being used to produce Synthetic Diamonds:
The oldest process uses pressure, lots of it, and carbon.
Since diamonds are carbon, eventually people were able to make diamonds in this manner, but these diamonds were easily distinguishable from natural diamonds.
Originally, the pressure process was developed by GE and, by major manufacturers, on a much larger scale.
There is also a cubic press system.
The newest process actually grows diamonds layer by layer as a chemical process and is called Chemical vapor deposition.
This process allows many new uses for diamonds which in the past had previously been either too expensive to implement or too difficult to make.
The most important characteristic of CVD diamond growth is the ability to control the properties of the diamond produced.
Diamonds are now being used to machine tools, especially for non-ferrous alloys. CVD diamond also has applications in electronics. Conductive diamond has been demonstrated as a useful electrode under many circumstances.
Diamonds are also being used as radiation detection devices. Diamonds also have uses as semiconductors because the diamonds can be contaminated with impurities.
Diamond is the ideal material. It can be used in computers to run them at speeds that would melt anything on the market today.
Diamonds can also replace rubies to make lasers of extreme power.
Diamonds can be used as memory storage devices which could be so small as to allow a cellphone to fit into a watch and an iPod to store 20,000 movies.
Diamonds Are A Girls Best Friend
For many people, there’s only one way to propose and get engaged: with a diamond ring. It is considered to be a symbol of a man’s enduring love that he will spend a large amount on a large diamond that the woman can then show off to her friends and family – it shows that he can and will support her for the rest of her life.
This idea of giving diamond rings before marriage has been around for less than a century, however, as it was popularized entirely by Hollywood, allegedly because worldwide diamond monopoly De Beers paid off filmmakers to create a romantic image around diamonds, using the slogan ‘a diamond is forever’.
The reality is that diamonds are not intrinsically worth very much at all, with many people who try to sell their diamonds being shocked to discover that they can only get back a fraction of what they originally paid for them. Worse, many diamonds come from parts of the world where the locals have been oppressed and local officials bribed just so the company could set up a diamond mine, especially in Africa.
For these reasons – unjustified cost and ethical concerns – many people now prefer to use other gems in rings instead of diamonds. Fake diamonds with names like ‘diamonique’ and ‘diamonte’ are popular, as stones like rubies and emeralds.
However, for the real traditional feel, plenty of people still feel you can’t beat a diamond. When you’re looking for a diamond ring, it’s common to be worried mainly about how many carats the diamond is, but remember that its cut (that is, the way it has been cut out of the original mined material) can be even more important in giving the diamond a pleasant appearance.
Also, although this is entirely subjective, you might find it worth buying a ring where many small diamonds are used to pleasant effect, rather than one big diamond poking out of the top, and you should also consider getting a guarantee that the diamond is not a De Beers ‘conflict diamond’, so that no-one has suffered to get it to you.
This idea of giving diamond rings before marriage has been around for less than a century, however, as it was popularized entirely by Hollywood, allegedly because worldwide diamond monopoly De Beers paid off filmmakers to create a romantic image around diamonds, using the slogan ‘a diamond is forever’.
The reality is that diamonds are not intrinsically worth very much at all, with many people who try to sell their diamonds being shocked to discover that they can only get back a fraction of what they originally paid for them. Worse, many diamonds come from parts of the world where the locals have been oppressed and local officials bribed just so the company could set up a diamond mine, especially in Africa.
For these reasons – unjustified cost and ethical concerns – many people now prefer to use other gems in rings instead of diamonds. Fake diamonds with names like ‘diamonique’ and ‘diamonte’ are popular, as stones like rubies and emeralds.
However, for the real traditional feel, plenty of people still feel you can’t beat a diamond. When you’re looking for a diamond ring, it’s common to be worried mainly about how many carats the diamond is, but remember that its cut (that is, the way it has been cut out of the original mined material) can be even more important in giving the diamond a pleasant appearance.
Also, although this is entirely subjective, you might find it worth buying a ring where many small diamonds are used to pleasant effect, rather than one big diamond poking out of the top, and you should also consider getting a guarantee that the diamond is not a De Beers ‘conflict diamond’, so that no-one has suffered to get it to you.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Providing Customer Support To Your Hosting Clients
I have said in some of my other articles that a hosting company needs to provide good customer service to succeed. From past experience I know how annoying it can be for a client if their host doesn’t have a good support system in place. Many clients will expect fast replies to their support questions, and if you cannot supply this you may start to lose clients.
For a hosting company to be successful, they must be able to attract new clients to their service and keep their old ones. A host can build a large customer base in a few months, the hard job is keeping their clients.
The Types of Support Services
There are many different ways a host can offer customer support to their clients, I have listed just a few below:
Email Support
Telephone
Support Desk
Live Chat
Knowledge Base
Many hosts now offer 24/7 support as well, any new host should consider offering customer support around the clock, it can cost a lot to run this type of support service, however many clients do expect 24 hour support.
Email Support
This is a basic support system using emails, it can be a slow form of communication if the host or customer only checks their email inbox every hour for example. I would recommend providing an email address which clients can use to contact the support staff.
Telephone
Many hosting companies do offer phone support, however not all clients will use this method to contact the host. If the host can answer the phone for every call this can be a very quick method for answering clients’ questions. The costs associated with telephone support can be relatively low, if no free phone number is provided. This type of support isn’t necessary if the host provides other effective methods of contact.
Support Desk
I would recommend any new host to invest in a support desk, it can combine email support, FAQ (frequently asked questions), knowledge base, articles, and also allows for an online record of all replies.
Basically when a client needs support, they log into the support desk, create a ticket and when a support representative is free they can access the question (ticket) and reply online. Once the reply has been processed by the system, the client usually receives an email.
The advantages of a support desk means that a host can usually add unlimited departments and support staff, which means the host company can use outsourced support options, where another company can answer the support questions whenever needed.
The software required can range from nothing up to around $1000, many do have the same features. I would recommend that a host provides a support desk, but before they invest in one, shop around and ensure that they purchase one right for their needs.
Live Chat
Nearly every internet users has used some form of instant messenger service, this is what live chat is, it provides a platform for the support staff and customer to talk over the internet in real-time.
This is a very useful support service, and can be low in cost as well. There are many live chat services around, again I would recommend shopping around.
Knowledge Base
You can provide a question and answers section online for the most commonly answered questions. This can stop different clients contacting the support desk with the same questions, which can be time consuming and quite frankly annoying.
I would recommend provide this type of support, as it will save time and money in the long run and can be very easy to set-up.
Forum
A online forum provide a platform for your customers to contact each other, and ask questions. Providing a forum can reduce the number of support requests you receive each month because another member may be able to offer help.
An example of an online hosting forum is Web Hosting Complete (http://www.whcomplete.com), this forum offers free web hosting tutorials and articles to it’s members. Web Hosting Complete does not sell hosting services it’s self, so if you as a host and are not prepared to offer a forum to your clients you should consider linking to a site like this. As the forum site does not sell hosting there shouldn’t be much competition and you benefit from the site because they are providing free support to your clients.
Providing good customer support can cost money, however I believe that this is well worth as happy customers will generate more income.
For a hosting company to be successful, they must be able to attract new clients to their service and keep their old ones. A host can build a large customer base in a few months, the hard job is keeping their clients.
The Types of Support Services
There are many different ways a host can offer customer support to their clients, I have listed just a few below:
Email Support
Telephone
Support Desk
Live Chat
Knowledge Base
Many hosts now offer 24/7 support as well, any new host should consider offering customer support around the clock, it can cost a lot to run this type of support service, however many clients do expect 24 hour support.
Email Support
This is a basic support system using emails, it can be a slow form of communication if the host or customer only checks their email inbox every hour for example. I would recommend providing an email address which clients can use to contact the support staff.
Telephone
Many hosting companies do offer phone support, however not all clients will use this method to contact the host. If the host can answer the phone for every call this can be a very quick method for answering clients’ questions. The costs associated with telephone support can be relatively low, if no free phone number is provided. This type of support isn’t necessary if the host provides other effective methods of contact.
Support Desk
I would recommend any new host to invest in a support desk, it can combine email support, FAQ (frequently asked questions), knowledge base, articles, and also allows for an online record of all replies.
Basically when a client needs support, they log into the support desk, create a ticket and when a support representative is free they can access the question (ticket) and reply online. Once the reply has been processed by the system, the client usually receives an email.
The advantages of a support desk means that a host can usually add unlimited departments and support staff, which means the host company can use outsourced support options, where another company can answer the support questions whenever needed.
The software required can range from nothing up to around $1000, many do have the same features. I would recommend that a host provides a support desk, but before they invest in one, shop around and ensure that they purchase one right for their needs.
Live Chat
Nearly every internet users has used some form of instant messenger service, this is what live chat is, it provides a platform for the support staff and customer to talk over the internet in real-time.
This is a very useful support service, and can be low in cost as well. There are many live chat services around, again I would recommend shopping around.
Knowledge Base
You can provide a question and answers section online for the most commonly answered questions. This can stop different clients contacting the support desk with the same questions, which can be time consuming and quite frankly annoying.
I would recommend provide this type of support, as it will save time and money in the long run and can be very easy to set-up.
Forum
A online forum provide a platform for your customers to contact each other, and ask questions. Providing a forum can reduce the number of support requests you receive each month because another member may be able to offer help.
An example of an online hosting forum is Web Hosting Complete (http://www.whcomplete.com), this forum offers free web hosting tutorials and articles to it’s members. Web Hosting Complete does not sell hosting services it’s self, so if you as a host and are not prepared to offer a forum to your clients you should consider linking to a site like this. As the forum site does not sell hosting there shouldn’t be much competition and you benefit from the site because they are providing free support to your clients.
Providing good customer support can cost money, however I believe that this is well worth as happy customers will generate more income.
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