Imprinted Items is an Affordable Marketing Budget Resource

Imprinted items have become a staple of any reasonable marketing budget, whether it's a multi-million dollar corporation or a small mom-and-pop business. It's no secret that these nice, little advertising promotional products buy good behavior. Even the local auto repair shop will send a promotional calendar and the bank may hand out imprinted pens.

The mall is full of stores with imprinted bags and even the Starbucks latte is corporate branded as a subtle reinforcement. Surveys show that the next generation of consumers like being bribed into buying, rather than entertained into buying, as in their parents' generation.

Their grandparents' generation was enticed by practicality and appearance. Today's consumer is a complex being that wants the best of all worlds. Marketeers need to take heed and look at all available custom promotional options.

Imprinted items often come in and out of style in phases, but with a little bit of redesign, they can return with renewed popularity. For instance, promotional marketing lanyards quickly became a buzz idea when they first came out a few years ago -- mostly due to the fact that people were more and more concerned about losing their pieces of identification, their passports, their keys and their cell phones.

They even started using custom promotional lanyards to hold business cards or employee badges. "Lanyards have really saturated the market," admitted Charley Johynson, Marketing VP for SnugZ, "and we've been looking for ways to make lanyards exciting again, and to show people they're good for more than just tradeshows."

He explained that his distributor company is "spicing things up" by offering a one-time setup charge for new clients and allowing an unlimited number of color choices. Thanks to a new merger with Crestline, SnugZ offers a wide variety of dye sublimated lanyards with 13 background designs to add to the corporate logo (or the ability to submit original artwork). This functional gift is great for a variety of people of all age groups.

The good news regarding the influx of direct marketing promotions is that there are always exciting new imprinted promo items coming out! Many marketeers like to play it safe and stick with the imprinted pens, the t-shirts and the tote bags. However, for the internet savvy individual who's willing to go the extra mile to impress the public, there is a whole world of unusual items that are sure to make an impact! "HorizonSources" offers "logo toasters," which is every bit as intriguing as it sounds.

A custom imprinted message can be cooked right onto a slice of toast in a custom logo toaster! Another innovative idea is to take the successful corporate apparel formula but go beyond the traditional hats and t-shirts to offer imprinted promotional items like socks, tote bags or bottle cap opener/hats. At "4Imprint", custom socks go as low as $3.50/pair and there is a wide selection of trendy tote bags, coolers and duffel bags.

Glow-in-the-dark tattoos go over well for a club promotion, whereas a poncho or umbrella might go over especially well during the rainy season in the Northwest. In the age of technology, imprinted promo items like USB devices and mousepads have become industry favorites. In New York City, Lifebrands condoms offered branding opportunity for 4 cents/package, which definitely caught a lot of attention among that 20-something demographic!

"Health and fitness" is another theme many marketing divisions are running with now. Imprinted stress balls have become hot sellers because there are so many colors, shapes, sizes and graphics from which to choose.

Additional health product imprinted items include: big inflatable exercise balls, pedometers, spa sets, pill timers, portable first aid kits, digital jump ropes, sports water bottles, back massagers, frisbees and sunscreen. Health and fitness products promote wellness, while promoting a business at the same time, making it a win-win situation for everyone.

A Holiday Villa in Bali Provides More Fun For Everyone

Some of the best resort facilities in Bali are now opening up to welcoming large corporate tourist groups and family travelers to especially designed private beachfront homes - such as on the Petitenget Seminyak stretch. Though considered the outskirts, this is a trendy part of Bali and just a few minutes from the island's golden beach delights that tourists from colder climes claim they can never get enough of!

Not only will your Holiday Villa Bali be conveniently located in the trendiest of Bali's parts, it will also mean you will probably be able to please every member of your family by choosing the right location for your private beach home when you do so. For, this location is in close proximity to the golden beaches that offer plenty of water sports opportunities, a wide choice of high-end shopping pleasures as boutiques line the area along with gourmet delights available at a host of fine restaurants dotting the boulevard.

So, while the other members of your family are suitably engrossed in pursuing personal interests, be it souvenir shopping, picking a designer beach wardrobe or learning local crafts (yes, some beach-front stores provide these classes too), you can leave your cares behind and unwind, at an easy pace, at your very own serene villas Bali location. Some come complete with attached mini-garden, kitchen with in-house local chef on call, or lap pool so you can really put your feet up and vacation in style!

Additionally, if you pick the right private beach villas program, say, for example one that is newly opened and therefore offering a discounted promotional rate or even an off-season rebate, you can get more value for your money at the holiday villa Bali of your choice. You can end up paying significantly less than you would at a hotel, which would invariably expect you to share certain facilities with other guests, whereas at your very own private holiday home, you can enjoy unlimited peace, tropical beauty and tranquility and activities without a holiday program coordinator telling you when and how to have fun!

Most luxury properties offer a sense of heightened comfort such as the top-end serene villas Bali tourism is currently presenting for the discriminating value travel shopper, therefore these combine understated elegance in the design of their villas, which typically have air-conditioned bedrooms with fashionable dining, living and kitchen and deck areas. In addition to the above features, the bathrooms are also tastefully done up with designer fittings.

Outdoor terraces attached to the suite usually connect to a mini-pool or garden facility, making a holiday villa Bali idea one that will deliver undoubtedly on the privacy, comfort and high-end luxury requirements.

Personalized service from a friendly, yet professional in-house staff and luxurious bedrooms with walk-in wardrobes, WIFI connectivity, a home entertainment center, chinaware and cutlery included in the dining room and necessary kitchen appliances make up the very minimum on offer at the best holiday Villa Bali. So, be sure to check for these features when you book yours!

Hotel Bars With History

Historic hotel bars are a treasure trove of epic stories, illicit conversations, and Old World glamour. For centuries, these lush watering holes have been host to countless movers and shakers, from puzzling Pablo Picasso to the forever fashionable Jackie Kennedy.

So pull up a stool at a favorite haunt of the brilliant Charlie Chaplin or slink into an elegant booth where Christian Dior dreamed up iconic designs. This list of historic hotel bars around the world is sure to have you sipping like a star in no time.

The Blue Bar
Berkeley Hotel
Wilton Place
London SW1X 7RL

Mirroring the same luxury standards as The Berkeley Hotel's five-star accommodations and service, The Blue Bar is an in-house drinking den where both hotel guests and affluent visitors indulge in cocktails and caviar. Titanic in grandeur yet more like a submarine in layout, the venue harkens back to the hotel's 19th Century origins retaining an air of exclusivity with its network of small chambers and intimate lounging quarters, perfect for stylish socialites and successful professionals looking for a touch of privacy. Although the gracious Blue Bar welcomes any well-dressed guest, its white-collar prices have made it an easy choice for history makers looking to spend a few hours in the lap of luxury.

Chateau Marmont
8221 West Sunset Boulevard
West Hollywood, CA 90046

Perched on the Sunset Strip hillside and modeled after a French villa, Chateau Marmont is perhaps Hollywood's most historic celebrity hideaway, most likely thanks to a staff known to turn a blind eye to outrageous behavior - after all, this is the place where John Belushi overdosed, Jim Morrison fell off the roof, and members of Led Zeppelin rode their motorcycles through the lobby. Nowadays, this fairy-tale castle is usually full of mostly A-list guests from the worlds of fashion, music, and film who check in to enjoy a few lazy and luxurious days of international cuisine and poolside cocktails. One of the rare high-end bars in Los Angeles that eschews the fickle nature of normal Hollywood hotspots, Chateau Marmont endures as a go-to spot where celebs can mix and mingle without fear of reading about their escapades in the gossip blogs the next day.

De Las Letras Hotel and Restaurante
Calle Gran Vía, 11
28013 Madrid

Situated right in the center of Gran Vía, De Las Letras Hotel and Restaurante is an iconic four-star hotel that's been at the forefront of modern architecture and design since its start back in 1917. The real treat at Las Letras, however, is El Ático, a rooftop terrace accessible through the elevators located just past reception. The panoramic view of the elaborate architecture and spires of Gran Vía and downtown Madrid provides a spectacular backdrop for patrons eager to escape the sounds of the bustling city streets below.

Le Bar du Plaza Athénée
25 Avenue Montaigne
75008 Paris

Tucked inside a luxurious five-star hotel that has hosted everyone from Rudolph Valentino to Jackie Kennedy, Le Bar du Plaza Athénée is a chic little hideaway with high-end cocktails in swanky surroundings that outshine most other bars in Paris. Molded wood paneling, delicate chandeliers, and high ceilings recall the art nouveau elegance of the hotel itself, while distinctly modern features like metal and leather stools, high glass tables, and an immense sculpted glass bar illuminated from within give the space a slick, iced-out aesthetic. Never a rowdy scene, Le Bar's sophisticated environment is more conducive to meeting friends for a drink or two and reveling in the white-glove service.

Landmark Luxury Hotels in New York City

New York City is not short of hotels, in fact it is hard to know where to begin when confronted with hundreds of luxury hotels all within the same area. With the current economic downturn, would-be travelers are well-advised to look for bargains in the luxury hotel sector that are simply too good to be true. You may not be able to afford a top five star hotel normally, but if you can take advantage of the short breaks and offers there are many great deals to be had. Here are some suggestions for luxury hotels in New York which are true city landmarks. Staying in one of these will be a memorable experience, for all the right reasons!

Acclaimed the world over, this luxury hotel group is how things should be done in a five star hotel. The Four Seasons New York City is no exception, with consistent merit on the Condé Nast Gold List and one of the Top 100 Hotels in the USA and Canada, this is a luxury hotel which you will not want to leave. Its great location puts Times Square, Central Park, Broadway and exclusive shopping on Fifth just a short stroll from your door.

Another icon of the city is the Pierre, with its chic French sophistication overlooking Central Park. You may not be able to live in this neighborhood, but you can enjoy it for the time you are here. Close to Museum Mile, staying at the Pierre is the ultimate in unadulterated luxury.

Right on Broadway near Times Square, you cannot fail to be impressed by the W Hotel Times Square. Close to the E-walk, E being for Entertainment, this hip luxury hotel is one of the best luxury hotels in New York City and is perfectly located for all the major sights.

The Mandarin Oriental is definitely a luxury hotel to look up to. This iconic skyscraper epitomizes the high-rise architecture for which New York City is so well known. Right on the corner of Times Square, in the Time Warner Center, you simply cannot get better than this luxury hotel for location, elegance and sheer decadence. With a host of awards and sterling service, the Mandarin Oriental guarantees a stay to remember.

Patio Covers Can Improve the Look of Your House

In the spring time a patio can really help you to enjoy the vibrant outdoors. You can organize summer parties and small picnic for your kids in the patio area. A patio gives you additional living space where guests and friends can be entertained. You can make your patio more impressive by adding attractive furniture, plants, colorful lights, rugs and paintings.

Adding a patio cover to your patio area can really be advantageous for you because these covers protect the area from the bright summer sun and rain. So, now let me tell you about some benefits of adding patio covers to your house.

1. It adds value to your house
It do not require additional space or area; in fact they really help in adding value to your home. Shade covers will give you the opportunity to spend time with your family and friends even under the blazing sun and when it is raining. Covers are very easy to install and they can really give an attractive look to your house.

2. The design and style should be considered
Before buying a shade cover you must consider the design and style. These days various home improvement stores and websites offer very good and unique patio cover designs to the customers. If you want you can even take good ideas and tips from your family and friends to create your own unique style and design.

3. High quality patio covers
High quality patio-covers are long lasting and durable and you can protect them from fading by applying good stain and sealers. If you are considering further home improvements in your house, then you can even cover your patio with glass or screen to give it the appearance of the sun room. Your patio cover would act as roof for sunroom.

4. Installing a patio cover
Installing a patio cover is not a very difficult task and you can even do it by yourself. For this construction process you need an installation kit which should include hardware, gauge stressed aluminum laminated skins, sealants, density EPS foam insulated panels, fasteners, columns and post wraps. All the written instruction about the construction process should also be provided in that kit.

5. You can hire a constructor
If you are not able install this by yourself then you can even hire a constructor for this process. An advantage of hiring a constructor is that they would provide you a life time warranty against finishing problems and leaks.

A properly built and engineered patio cover can really be a good investment for your house.

The Best iPhone Apps to Keep You Healthy

Tech experts have declared the iPhone as a gadget that revolutionized the way we use our mobile phones. For although this device is basically a cellphone, its apps have made it go beyond that. The best iPhone apps do not just amuse us the way we used to be with the built-in games that came with our old cellphones, but also help us do our tasks more efficiently.

There are even iPhone apps that can keep us healthy. Here are some of the best iPhone apps that users who are also health buffs must have.

Absolute Fitness

Absolute Fitness is an iPhone app that can help you keep track of your daily diet and exercise routines in your attempt to keep fit and healthy. The way it works is that you put in the food you ate in a day, as well as the amount and type of exercise that you did for that day.

After supplying this iPhone app with the required data, including personal data such as height, weight and age, Absolute Fitness will then generate figures that reflect your nutritional intake and the calories you have burned. All in all, Absolute Fitness is a good iPhone app that will help you become aware of your personal habits that will keep you healthy.

Brain Challenge

Exercise should not just involve the body but also the brain. In short, our brain also needs to be jogged every day. The best iPhone app for this purpose is Brain Challenge.

Brain Challenge is a set of games that present mathematical, visual, logical, and memory puzzles. They are easy to play, educational, and features a progression in difficulty that will keep you entertained as well.

Epocrates

Although Epocrates is mainly geared for the use of physicians, it is a nifty iPhone app for finding information about a certain drug. At a single glance, Epocrates tells the physician using it concise data about the drug they are looking at, the proper dosage by which it should be given to patients, side effects of the drug, any other allergic reactions that a patient might have in taking that drug, and other data.

Pedometer

Moving around, even with just walking, helps a lot in promoting health. Medical experts claim that we should take around 10,000 steps every day to keep healthy. Because we definitely cannot count our steps without stumbling over the numbers or simply losing track, Pedometer is an iPhone app that can count our steps for us.

Restaurant Nutrition

For many people, eating out is the only option to get a bite to eat, especially when they are on the go. Restaurant Nutrition is an iPhone app that serves as a restaurant locator as well as a measure of how nutritious the food you will be ordering is, whether it is for dine-in or for takeout. You can also keep track of the food you have eaten through the course of the day and keep track of your eating habits when you are not at home.

The apps that you will find on the iPhone are not just the usual software that you will find on a mobile phone. They serve many purposes; including helping us take care of ourselves.

Mobile DJ's - Making Money With Your iTunes Playlist

You're into music. It's your thing. You have an extensive library of songs from many genres and many eras. But can you turn your passion for music into a business? How about a business that can replace your full time job? Many mobile DJ's start out pondering this very same question. In this article, I'll show you how easy it is to get started as a DJ - even if you don't have all the right equipment.

Having a big iTunes playlist is more than just fun. It can be the first step toward becoming a DJ. If you have a love of music and the song library to show it, you would make a great DJ. The music is the most important part of DJing any event. Start out by looking over your playlist. Do you have music from all the popular genres? Maybe rap and country aren't your favorite genres, but as a DJ you will be expected to have these kinds of songs ready to play. Begin filling in the gaps in your music collection. You should be able to play any popular song from the last 40 years.

Lots of music lovers are lacking the other critical part of a mobile entertainment business: sound equipment. You can't just use your home stereo. Most DJ's have professional speakers with subwoofers, mixers, power amps, lights, and more. For your first couple gigs, you might want to borrow or rent equipment. Many music stores will rent out PA systems, which will work fine for most gigs. Renting or borrowing allows you to test out your business and see if it is profitable. After your first couple jobs, you can decide to purchase your own equipment. Using your iTunes playlist, or whatever program you choose, is fine for DJing an event. In fact, many DJ's are switching away from CDs and using iPods and laptops instead. It allows you to reduce the amount of equipment you carry, and you have instant access to every song in your library. That's much better than sifting through albums looking for a track.

Music lovers really can make a living in this business. It's exciting, profitable, and it doesn't require you to work 40 hours a week. Start growing your song library, and work on booking that first gig. You'll be the newest DJ in your town in no time.

Caravan Holidays - Without the Towing!

Static caravans, or caravan holiday homes as they are often known, are becoming more popular and with caravan sites situated all over the UK, there's bound to be one in an area you'll love to visit often.

Owning a caravan holiday home means that you can choose a unit on your ideal park and then have the freedom to use the holiday home as often as you like within the park's licence agreement. This could be up to 11 months of the year! You'll need to pay site rent to the park owner for the plot your static caravan is sited on, and for water and electric, in addition to the purchase price of your holiday home.

Buying a static caravan is an investment in your future holidays and may be of interest to you if you are planning to retire and would like to spend more time relaxing, without the stress of towing a touring caravan. Your static caravan will always be ready to use whenever you decide to pack a bag and head off for a few days or even a few weeks!

It can also be a great investment for young families as they can enjoy the school holidays away from home without the hefty price of staying in a hotel during the most expensive weeks of the year. Choose a seaside location and pack the bucket and spade to keep the children amused for hours.

There are many holiday parks that cater for different tastes, so whether you want peace and tranquility in a remote location, or a park with plenty to do and entertainment for the kids, there'll be one to suit you and your family's needs. And should your needs change or your family outgrow your holiday home, there's always the option to trade in the old caravan for a new one.

The cost of static caravans can vary greatly depending on the size, age and specification of the holiday home as well as the park on which it is sited. You'll need to do your homework and decide how much you're willing to spend. Also bear in mind the ongoing cost of site rent and any additional charges the park owner may make.

As a big investment, don't forget to insure your holiday home under a specialist policy that will cover both your caravan and the contents whilst occupied and unoccupied.

Staying Away From Destructive People

The friends we have and the company we keep can influence our actions, our emotions and even our philosophy of life. Medical researchers have proved that positive relationships and socialization with the right kind of people can keep a person in good mental, physical and spiritual health. Conversely, lack of healthy friendships and social support can lead to illness or even premature death. It is therefore important to develop a good Relationship IQ - to seek the company of people who are stable in character, trustworthy and have a healthy, robust attitude to life. Cultivating friendships with destructive people is a call to misery.

Characteristics of Destructive People:

No one in the world is perfect. We come with our own individual quirks and deficiencies. But there are limits beyond which relationships become unhealthy. The sooner we recognize this the easier it becomes to prevent, avoid or if possible repair dysfunctional relationships. Some traits stand out as destructive.

• Aggressive behaviour: Such a person always wants to be in a controlling position. He will dominate and manipulate people. He wants authority without accountability. He is stubborn and self willed and flares up when he can't have his way. He believes that in order to stay on top he must demolish opposition and competition.

• Intimidation: This is a bully. He will intimidate through speech and manner and humiliate the other person into subjection.

• Selfishness and Self-centeredness: He has his own interests at heart and is unsympathetic to the feelings of others.

• Abuse of Power: He exploits his subordinates; is dishonest and deceptive; Sexual harassment in the workplace is common; At home, he may subject his wife to physical and emotional abuse.

• Narcissism: He boasts and brags about himself. His inflated sense of importance makes him believe that he is always right. He thrives on flattery and adulation.

• Integrity Deficit Disorder: He knows what is right but doesn't do what is right. He is unreliable and cannot be trusted. He is hypercritical and ready to devalue others. Empathy is something he knows nothing about.

• Indecisiveness: Such a person wants others to decide how he should act. He is reactive rather than pro-active.

• Chronic grumbling: People or circumstances are always blocking his progress - a sure sign of incompetence.

• Negative view of life: He never takes risks for fear of failure.

How to Steer Clear of Destructive People:

1. Most people who get into destructive relationships lack self esteem. Learn to love and value yourself so that no one can bully, intimidate or manipulate you. Make it clear that you will not tolerate aggressive behaviour. Walk away from such a relationship without losing your cool. Reacting in anger will only give the bully satisfaction.

2. Never defend or cover up for such people. Expose them.

3. Challenge any situation with which you do not agree.

4. If your boss is a tyrant and unprincipled, make sure that his orders are in writing or in some verifiable form.

5. Walk away from people who whine all the time. They will depress you and colour your view of life. Refuse to take on other people's anxieties and resentments.

6. Avoid gossip mongers.

7. Choose your marriage partner wisely. Shun a bully or a person exhibiting destructive behaviour. Your life partner should make you feel good about yourself. There must be honesty, mutual respect and the ability to communicate freely.

Happiness is the best way to keep destructive people out of your life. Staying in the company of untrustworthy, incompetent and insecure people would mean endorsement of such behaviour. Set high standards for yourself and refuse to deviate from them. Surround yourself with healthy friendships and people of integrity. Do not give away your personal power by subjugating yourself to destructive people. Develop your relational skills.

The Most Popular Ways to Cruise the World

If you have the money and time then what better way to see the world then by cruise ship. It is possible to join cruises in many countries around the world and this can be something you do for a few days or even a few months. This is something that people try one time and then want to do on a more regular basis. What follows is a selection of some of the most popular options for going for a cruise.

Alaska cruises are a great way to see this less travelled area of the world. There are many different schedules available and you that go for different lengths of time. An example is the Alaskan wonders trip that leaves from Seattle and the journey lasts for eight days. After three days travelling by sea you will arrive at Ketchikan Alaska before moving onto Juneau and Skagway.

If Alaska sounds a bit too cold for you then you might well find the idea of a Caribbean as being more your thing. The Royal Caribbean offers a nine day cruise around leaving from Cape Liberty and visiting the eastern Caribbean islands. During the trip you will pass Puerto Rico, St Thomas, and the Dominican Republic.

If you want to see the Mediterranean then you will have quite a few choices of cruise ship as this is one of the most popular areas in the world for this type of holiday. This part of Europe offers some truly spectacular sights and what better way to see it than by sea. Different journeys will allow you visit different destinations and there are trip to meet most budgets.

The Disney Cruise line is the best option if you have children aged 3 to twelve. These devote a whole deck to children's activities and there are also lots of things for the whole family. Keeping children entertained on a normal cruise might sometimes be difficult, but there will always be something to keep them engaged during this trip. Supervised play means that if the adults feel the need for a break they can leave the kids in safe hands. Disney's magic Oceaneer club is going to be a real favorite and a place the kids will want to return to again and again during the trip.

If you are on your honeymoon or just fancy a romantic cruise then you will find that there is plenty on offer to meet your requirements. Silversea Cruises offers ultra luxury on relatively small ships that travel to different places around the globe. Seadream is another company offering pampered trips and plenty of romantic things to do while on board.

This is a type of holiday that everyone should experience at least once in their life. It promises to be an unforgettable experience, and travelling to places by sea really gives you the feeling of having arrived. This is always going to be a relaxing trip and the best way to get away from the normal day to day problems that you have to deal with during the rest of the year.

Prayer That Makes a Difference

Jabez was more honorable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying, "I gave birth to him in pain." Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request. 1 Chronicles 4:9, 10 (NIV).

Introduction
The first 9 chapters of 1 Chronicles are devoted to genealogies. In chapter 4, the author inserts a statement about a man called Jabez. We don't know much about Jabez. He is described as being more honorable than his brothers. Why he is described as being more honorable than his brothers, we don't know for certain. Tradition says that he distinguished himself as a Jewish scholar and that later a city of learning was named after him. Some biblical exegetes believe that he was pious as evident in his famous prayer. Another opinion is that he distinguished himself for some great service or patriotic act.

He was given the name Jabez, which can be translated as "pain" or as, "he will cause pain". His mother obviously had a painful birth. In biblical times, children were sometimes named after difficult situations. In any case, Jabez did not live up to his name but chose to become an honorable person. There are a few principles that we can learn from this brief passage of Scripture. We are going to look at three points: the who of prayer, the what of prayer, and the why of prayer.

The Who of Prayer
When we are looking at the who of prayer, we are considering two persons. Believers in the Lord Jesus Christ are the ones who have the right to pray. In our text, Jabez was an honorable man. Believers need to be people of integrity. God isn't just interested in our prayer; He is interested in our character. Sin or wrongdoing is an obstacle to answered prayer. People who have genuine integrity or are honorable will be people of prayer. They understand that they cannot successfully live their lives without depending on God.

In our text, we also learn that Jabez was called pain. His birth was a source of pain, and we have no idea of knowing if as a result he experienced a difficult childhood. In life, we often have encountered negative circumstances. Some of us have experienced rejection. We may have been rejected by a parent, by a sibling, by a lover. Rejection can impact us in negative ways. For example, it can leave us feeling worthless and unimportant. Perhaps, you know what it is to be neglected or abused. Abuse can be physical, emotional, verbal and sexual. Personal failure can leave persons feeling discouraged; they may feel that they can't do anything right.

One of the most difficult things to deal with is broken relationships. God has designed us to be relational. Even the most introverted person needs other people in order to survive. Strained relationships, separation, divorce all can take a toll on believers. Some people know the pain of having an abortion. There is also pain from the things that people have done to us. They may have gossiped about us, told lies on us, insulted us directly or indirectly or hurt us emotionally and/or physically.

However, negative circumstances don't have to define us; they don't have to determine our future. Some people react in negative ways to the pressures of life. They wallow in self-pity; they feel sorry for themselves and they want others to feel sorry for them. They become depressed, experiencing deep feelings of sadness and disappointment. This may be accompanied with the notion that life is not worth living. Others become anxious and fearful. They succumb to a spirit of worry and become loaded down by the cares of life. People become angry, bitter and unforgiving; they become harsh and critical and alienate others with antisocial behavior. Some people are stuck blaming others and circumstances; to them people are unfair and are the source of their problems; life is not fair.

Jabez was not going to allow his past to affect his future; he determined to overcome his past. Too many believers fail to step into their potential because they are still battling with the demons of the past. The past is gone but the future can be created and that future can be created using prayer. Someone has said that our future is as bright as the promises of God. God does not dwell in the past; time does not go backwards. Even as time moves forward, we also need to be moving forward.

It is obvious that Jabez was a person of faith. We too must be people of faith. The Bible makes it clear that without faith it is impossible to please God. Faith is the necessary key to appropriating the promises of God. Without faith, prayer cannot be effective. Faith is developed by spending time in the Word. God's Word is truth and it challenges us to develop right thoughts about God and about life. We see the world from God's perspective and we pray in conformity to His will.

Faith can also come from praying consistently; the more we develop the habit of prayer, the more our faith grows, particularly as we see answers to prayer. Our faith can grow from being around people of faith. Our faith is stimulated when we see people step out in faith and receive breakthroughs and blessings from God. We come to realize that if God can do it for them, He can do it for us. Hanging around people without faith does the opposite; it drains our faith and fills us with doubt. Even Jesus could not and did not do many miracles around people without faith. Our faith can grow by remembering what God has already done for us. Some people keep a prayer journal, and their faith is stirred up when they realize how faithful God has been in answering prayer. In the Old Testament, God would often remind His people of their deliverance from Egypt (the exodus) and the parting of the Red Sea.

The Who of Prayer also involves the God to Whom we pray. Jabez prayed to the God of Israel. It is important to note some of the qualities of God. He is omnipotent. God is all powerful; He can do the impossible. His creation of the universe is a clear indication of His power. This God that created such a vast universe is able to intervene in our lives in spectacular ways, but the real issue is whether we believe and expect that. God is omniscient. He is all knowing. He knows the details of the situations in our lives. We don't always know how to pray, what details to include, how to properly assess the situations in our lives. But, we don't have to worry because God knows. God is also all wise. He knows how best to answer prayer. God is omnipresent. He is able to act anywhere in the world. Our prayers can touch parts of the earth that our physical feet will never touch.

Further, God is faithful. He is faithful to His people and therefore we can trust Him. God doesn't simply say that He is faithful; He demonstrates it in various ways. Fulfilled prophecy in Scripture testifies to the faithfulness of God. Answered prayer testifies to the faithfulness of God. Only God has the perfect capacity to be faithful. He already knows all things and He is all powerful.

God also loves us. He blesses us because He loves us. If God cared nothing for us then we really could expect nothing from Him. God is a personal and intimate God. We are special to Him. The Bible tells us that nothing can separate us from the love of God.

In praying, we need to remember that God is a covenant keeping God. In the Old Testament, He revealed His covenant keeping name as Jehovah. He is Jehovah Sabaoth - the Lord of hosts. He is the Lord who fights for and vindicates His people. He is Jehovah Shammah - the Lord who is there. He is always there, always available. He walks with us through the trials of life. He is Jehovah Shalom - the Lord our peace. He heals our broken emotions and He gives us peace in difficult times. He is Jehovah Rapha - the Lord who heals. He heals us of sicknesses and diseases. He is Jehovah Jireh - the Lord who provides. God can meet all of our needs. All of these are covenant benefits that we can appropriate when we pray.

The What of Prayer
Having looked at the who of prayer, now let's look at the what of prayer. Jabez prayed for four things. He prayed that God would bless him. In the Hebrew text, the word bless is used twice. We could say then that Jabez prayed for abundant blessing. Likewise, we are to pray for God's abundant blessings. We can pray for spiritual blessings. These could include intimacy with God, the fruit of the Holy Spirit, wisdom, understanding and righteous character. We can pray for financial and material blessings. God is not opposed to prospering His people providing that we don't succumb to the spirit of materialism.

We should also pray for physical blessings of health and healing. God is a healing God. The ministry of Jesus included several miracles of healing. In fact, Jesus did not refuse anyone that needed healing. We can pray for relational blessings. It is right to pray that God will bless our marriage, our relationship with our children and our friendships. We ought to pray for vocational blessings. We should pray for our jobs, believing God for promotions, salary increases, favor and good work relationships. We can even pray for intellectual blessings. We should pray for the capacity and ability to understand and to study. Through prayer we can tap into God's omniscience.

Jabez prayed that God would enlarge his territory. Jabez may have lived in the time when the Israelites were still conquering the Canaanites in claiming the Promised Land. God had promised the Israelites the land of Canaan, but in order to claim the land, the Israelites had to drive out the Canaanites. Although each tribe was allocated a part of the land, the extent of the portion for each individual family depended on how much of the land they were willing to claim.

In order to claim his territory Jabez had to defeat his enemies. The devil is holding on to some things that belong to the people of God. The devil is defeated, but we have to enforce his defeat by faith so that we can claim what rightfully belongs to us. We need to let God determine the extent of our boundary. We must not superficially and artificially set it ourselves. Small thinking will achieve small results. Large thinking will achieve large results. Faith is the ability to conceive the thoughts of God.

Jabez prayed that God's hand be with him. He wanted the presence of God in his life. Believers are to carry the presence of God. We are the ark of God. We are the holy of holies. Scripture indicates that unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain (Psalm 127:1). We need the glory of God to saturate our lives. We need God to go before us and to guide us. We need power and strength. We need the anointing of God to be effective in our ministry. Jesus was anointed by and accomplished His ministry in the Holy Spirit. Where two or three believers are gathered, the Lord is there. The church comes alive when the presence of God is there: worship becomes energized, gifts of the Holy Spirit are released, the love of God flows liberally, sinners are convicted, the Word is delivered with power and authority, the supernatural happens.

Finally, Jabez prayed that God would keep him from harm so that he will be free of pain. The Lord's Prayer includes a request for protection from the evil one or from evil. The devil wants to kill, steal and destroy; he wants to frustrate the purpose of God in our lives. He wants to undermine the call of God in our lives so that we become unproductive and waste our time. We need God to keep us from evil - the temptation to do what is wrong. Adam and Eve gave into temptation and forfeited paradise; their sin also impacted all of their descendants. Sin caused Cain to kill his brother Abel out of jealous rage. Because of sin, Noah got drunk and was humiliated by his son. When we give into temptation we can hurt and confuse others. We don't live in a vacuum; what we do affects others. The fall of a leader has a negative impact on followers. God calls us to holiness and we need His help to recognize what is sinful and to have the will power to avoid it.

The Why of Prayer
Having looked at the who of prayer and the what of prayer we can now look at the why of prayer. There are various reasons why we should pray. We should pray in order to glorify God. The life of the believer is really about the glory of God. Our prayers are not for self-gratification. Any time we lose sight of the glory of God our prayers have become selfish and self-centered. Also, we pray to accomplish the kingdom and the will of God. The Lord's Prayer tells us that we are to pray for God's kingdom to come and His will to be done on earth as it is done in heaven. When we look around our world, is this happening? Does God want a world dominated by false religions, sin, poverty, corruption and crime?

We pray because we need something from God. This is typically the primary reason why we pray. Scripture encourages us to present our petitions and requests to God. Jesus told us that we will receive what we ask for if we pray in His name and ask in faith. We pray because others need something from God. This is the ministry of intercession. We often are motivated to pray for a family member, a friend, or even a stranger who requests prayer. In essence, we pray to accomplish a particular result. Jabez prayed and God answered His prayer. What's the sense of praying if there are no positive results?

Conclusion
All believers are to pray and to know the God to whom they pray. We must pray strategically and purposefully as Jabez did. Finally, we must expect God to answer prayer.

3 Killer Video Marketing Tips

It's no secret that video marketing is all the rage today. If you think I'm kidding, take a look at a little site by the name of YouTube. I think it's ranked something like number 2 or 3 right now. The marketing videos at YouTube and other video sharing sites are rampant. And just as with article marketing, video marketing can put a lot of greenbacks in your pocket if you know what you're doing. This article is going to provide you with three killer video marketing tips that you can take to the bank.

At the very top of the tip list is this...be outrageous. The last thing people want to watch is some boring video of you sitting in front of your camera talking about the hot Internet marketing topic of the day. They're going to tune you out like yesterday's news. You want to do something that's original and off the wall. For example, you could do some mock phone calls from well known "gurus" who are just begging to see what you're next product is going to be. Naturally, you can't use any full names in this without their permission but you can certainly allude to things. Just make them subtle. Point is...be different.

Next tip...don't be cheap. Look, I know there are free solutions out there for making videos, but trust me on this, if you use them, your videos are going to look like amateur productions. If you're going to do this, do it right. Get professional equipment and software. Make sure you have the proper lighting. Buying lights isn't going to cost you an arm and a leg. And when you get a video camera, make sure it comes with a clip on mic. The sound quality of your video is actually MORE important than the video itself.

Finally, script out your video. Look, you're no professional actor. Okay, maybe some of you are, but most Internet marketers are not. They can't just get up in front of a camera and wing it. They're going to make tons of mistakes. So, script out your video. Rehearse it over and over until you have it just right. If you can spring for a teleprompter, get one. This will make your life a whole lot easier. Don't get in front of that camera until you know what you're going to say and have it down cold. Otherwise, you're going to come off as being amateurish.

By simply concentrating on being original and entertaining, getting the right equipment, and scripting out your videos, you'll find that they turn out a lot more professional and in the process end up making you a lot more money from your efforts.

To YOUR Success,

Why Do People Lie At Work - Workplace Communication Considered

It seems there is a lot of Machiavellian political politics being played in the modern workforce. We see this in offices, at the executive level, and even amongst employees in a retail setting. There's a lot of posturing, ladder climbing, and mind numbing gossip, much more than we see during regular socializing events, or in our homes. I'd like to talk to you about this for a moment if I might.

There was an article in Science Daily recently titled; "We Are Basically Honest - Except When We Are at Work, Study Suggests," on December 14, 2012 which stated;

"A new study has revealed we are more honest than you might think. The University of Oxford and the University of Bonn suggests that it pains us to tell lies, particularly when we are in our own homes. It appears that being honest is hugely important to our sense of who we are. However, while it might bother us to tell lies at home, we are less circumspect at work where we are probably more likely to bend the truth."

Well, if we know this to be true and that people are more apt to lie in the workplace than in their personal lives, or at school then we do have a problem. Whereas the article didn't speak of lying in education, I assume it also exist there. Is this where people learn to become better liars before going into the workplace? Do more people lie in the workplace who are educated and therefore have those jobs? None of these things were discussed, but I would speculate that perhaps this is a component of the overall challenges to this issue.

If you run a company, or are an office manager then you need to think about these things. If you are a CEO with an executive team, you need to make sure they work together, and not against each other. If everyone is trying to glorify themselves or come out on top, it will be very difficult for them to join together in the common cause of shareholders equity, quarterly profits, and beat the competition in the marketplace for the largest portion of the market share pie.

Maybe it is time that you talk to your staff at the office level, in the retail space, and also around the executive corporate boardroom about these findings, and what it means to the future your company. It's hard to work together as a team if everyone is telling stories and lying to each other. Ethics in the workplace is obviously a very important matter, something that you should have addressed already.

Of course, it starts in the minds of each and every individual and therefore I thought you should know about this. Indeed I hope you will please consider it all and think on it.

Satellite TV and the Rise of Lifestyle Programming

50 years ago the term lifestyle probably didn't carry the same material connotation that it does today. Maybe before it meant if you liked or played sports, of if you preferred baking over housekeeping, but in today's fast moving world, it means much more than just what you do. Now it signifies an entire way of life, specifically implying the brands we buy, the cars we drive, the places where we vacation, and how we recreation. Marketers target and sale lifestyles, not just products. The choices we make dictate how we are marketed to, and how we will buy in the future. Along with advertising campaigns and magazines how-to articles, satellite tv is full of channels encouraging viewers to live better, with more beauty, and a touch of the handmade. From the informative to the gastronomic, there is something for every lifestyle.

Discovery Health: When thinking of a life what is more important than health and vitality. More and more we are rethinking about what we put in our bodies, the chemicals we use to clean our house, and how our lifestyle choices affect our personal health and the health of our communities. This informative channel is less instructive than informative, but is the place to go for health and medicine-related topics, information regarding personal and family health issues, and a variety of enlightening series.

The Food Network: With a rise in the awareness of eating naturally and more organic, foodies are filling the airwaves with cooking shows shot in HD; shot so beautifully you will wonder how you ever stomached fast food. With fresh techniques, easy recipes, and cooking hosts as different as world-class chefs to restaurateurs to working mothers, there will be a recipe to fit every need and occasion.

HGTV: The Home and Garden TV Network takes its name from its magazine counterpart. As the name suggests, the priority to this media is the center of your days: your home. With inspirational interior decorating tips, landscaping projects, and a host of do-it-yourself ideas, this channel will keep you glued to your satellite tv... but only as long as it takes to get inspired to redecorate your living room. Get to work and let the experts help you spruce up an old closet, repaint an chipped desk, or reseed the lawn. With the economy tight, save a pretty penny on the cost of calling a repairman and let the experts guide you through a number of DIY projects for your home and garden.

Style: With your home and health taken care of and your dinner in the oven, the next thing to worry with is your personal sense of style. This channel makes it possible to take tips from the leaders of fashion, beauty, and entertainment. There are also shows featuring weddings and home decorating. No matter the specific topic, all series revolve around making viewers look better and feel great. With a number of reality shows shot in high definition, you are sure to get hooked on one of them, whether it be Style Her Famous or Dress My Nest. With an online site to accompany the TV channel, you can catch up on shows missed, hot shopping deals, and the latest in celebrity news.

Demotivate Yourself Now - Five Easy Ways

Is This Some Kind of a Joke?

I like easy. We're going to follow the path of least resistance and attack motivation from the back door as we explore five easy ways to demotivate yourself.

Many people, if not most, have no problem bemoaning the things they can't do and the things they don't want. Law of Attraction calls this contrast. It's the main reason why so many lives are derailed.

Before we attempt to get this train back on track, I want you to understand that this is going to be a tongue-in-cheek look at how to demotivate yourself. Unfortunately, there's no way you can read my sarcasm unless I point it out.

This is meant to be a fun article. However, if you see yourself in any of these five easy ways to demotivate yourself, now you know that you need to do the exact opposite as George did in one of the funniest Seinfeld episodes of all time. (Google George Does The Opposite - YouTube Video)

The Opposite of Motivate is Demotivate

"If you can believe it, you can achieve it."

And that's the problem right there. Too many people really BELIEVE they CAN'T achieve what they say they want. But let's look at the bright side - the contrast - the opposite. These people are the masters of our 5th technique in our five easy ways to demotivate yourself.

So the next time you get this weird feeling in the pit of your stomach to get off your slack backside and actually do something, here's the first of five easy ways to justify staying right there in your little comfy zone.

#5 - Hang Out with Low Achievers

One of the main influences in your life is the people you choose to hang out with, be they in real life, on TV or through practically any media at your disposal.

In order to demotivate yourself, you must pick people who have no goals or dreams and who don't hide the fact that they are envious of anyone and everyone who has them.

Read books, newspapers and magazines filled with gossip and trash talk... that is, if you read at all.

Spend all your time watching 'Reality TV'. No effort involved on your part; just soak up those nasty influences automatically through osmosis.

You can spot low achievers by the way they talk. Listen for cues like:

  • I wonder how many people he had to step on to get where he is
  • With money like that, he must be dealing drugs
  • I don't have much but I'm happier that way
  • I never get a break
  • People who are rich are snobs; it's all for show, baby - all for show

Yup, hang out as much as possible with people like this and in no time you'll see, you really can demotivate yourself.

#4 Cutting Down Achievers Makes You Appear Bigger

Our #4 technique to demotivate yourself is very similar to #5.

Whenever you see another person achieving something you perceive as special, be sure to cut them down. This way you'll appear bigger (well, at least to yourself - and that's what really counts, right?) This has several advantages:

  • It saves you the trouble of achieving something great on your own.
  • By minimizing someone else's accomplishments, it spares you the embarrassment of being compared to the person who is actually doing something as you misdirect the focus.
  • Since it's easier to cut people down rather than create value, you may become the new 'hero' of the 'loser nation'.

You can even be a high-profile achiever yourself and still utilize the lazy man's tactic of cutting others down to make yourself look bigger. Not only is this a great way to demotivate yourself, it's also the perfect way to DEMOTE yourself in the eyes of others. So while you may think cutting down achievers makes you look bigger, in the long run it actually has the opposite effect.

Put-downs and underhanded digs are favorite techniques of those who love to cut others down in order to build up their own image. Look for language such as:

  • I suppose that's OK... but look what he had to sacrifice in order to get it
  • The guy should take a blood test. No human could do that unless he was juiced.
  • I guess she's too good for her old friends now.
  • Look at that smile. I wonder if he takes that mask off at home.
  • How much is enough, already? What's he killing himself for?

You know the old saying, "A lie told often enough becomes the truth."

Even if you have no self-serving interest of making yourself look bigger by cutting others down, simply by thinking cut-down thoughts and lies is a sure way to demotivate yourself. Through justification in your own mind, you let yourself off the hook as far as having to contribute anything of value to society.

#3 Stop Setting Goals

Goal setting doesn't work. Come on, you've tried it, right? Did goal setting ever work for you. I'm not talking about the piddly little stuff that you would have gotten anyway, with or without goal setting. I'm talking about those 'stretch-yourself' goals. How many of those ever worked out for you?

I rest my case.

So grab the chips and a brewsky, go back to the couch and settle in for another mind-numbing experience of endless 'reality' shows. Heck, if it's really your 'goal' to demotivate yourself, it doesn't get much better than that, does it? (But I thought you weren't into goal setting)

That's right, don't even bother setting goals. In fact, don't bother working towards anything meaningful. For example, if your smart aleck brother-in-law offers you an opportunity to join his fast growing company, should you take it? WHAT?... and miss Jon and Kate Plus 8?

Oh, you can accept the generous dollar-an-hour raise at that job you hate. It would take a goal and a plan to actually leave all that 'security' for goodness sake! You're not planning on exerting yourself much more than a dollar's worth anyway, are you?

What If You Don't Stop Setting Goals?

For sure, don't do anything that might expand the already infinite possibilities that are available to you. Avoid at all costs things such as:

  • Taking courses
  • Starting a new hobby or business
  • Going to the gym to get back into shape
  • Joining a community group or civic organization to contribute to society. (blasphemous!)

Nope, stay right where you are on the big old comfy couch. Mind your own business. You don't bother them, they don't bother you, right?

People who deviate from this concept have been know to become excited, hopeful, and enthusiastic about their lives. How dangerous is that? That's certainly NOT the way to demotivate yourself.

So stop setting goals right now before the demotivation cops have to hunt you down and put a big hurt on you. This is for your own good. Stop it!

#2 Look for Reasons NOT to Do Something

Your primary purpose in life is to try to maintain the status quo. The sad truth is you have to demotivate yourself daily in order to do this. However, occasionally - OK, very rarely in your case - you get this weird feeling in your body.

At first, you have no idea what it is. Vaguely you get the sense that it is somehow connected with a wild thought you entertained yesterday. This strange sensation you are experiencing - perhaps for the first time - is that you actually want to DO something with this crazy new idea.

Whoa, Bud. Demotivate yourself now. Careful there not to get yourself all hot and bothered by this insane notion. Like the Good Book says,

"This too, shall pass."

Fight it. Resist it. Defeat it at all costs. Trust me, this is the best way to demotivate yourself.

Better you settle down and direct that over-active mind of yours towards something more practical like creating a new list of excuses just in case you eat a bad batch of nachos and cheese which causes you to take action before you have a chance to think this all through.

Seriously now! Get a hold of yourself.

Yup, a thorough list of excuses can save your bacon in tricky situations like this. It's one of the most effective ways to demotivate yourself. So let's not waste any time, lest that urge strikes and you find yourself doing something worthwhile.

Excuses, Excuses

Here's a few great excuses to get you started. Most people accept these without question because they are valid and airtight, especially in your case. You'll be safe with these:

  • Who am I, Einstein? I couldn't figure that out in a million years!
  • Do you realize how much time (effort, money, connections, etc.) that would take?
  • What... and be the laughing stock of my family and friends? Look what happened to...
  • Who am I kidding to attempt something so far-fetched?
  • It seemed like a good idea at the time but I'm really not that interested.

This list should suffice. After all, to come up with any more on your own would take even more effort. We certainly can't have any of that, can we?

If, for some reason, people (like that smart aleck brother-in-law for example) don't buy into these solid excuses, pretty much any "I can't, I wouldn't, I'm not" kind of thought will have you rapidly spinning off a plethora of even better excuses. Drown 'em with enough excuses and they'll eventually go away and leave you alone.

Can you think of a better way to demotivate yourself?

#1 Throw Yourself a Pity-Party

Well, we've finally counted down to #1 in our top five ways to demotivate yourself. You've worked hard to get people to leave you alone.

You hung out with the losers; now they're all dead, in jail or out finding some other sucker to mooch from because you certainly don't have anything they want or need.

As for the few go-getters you used to know, well they got tired pretty quick of your feeble attempts to hold them back at your level. They found other successful people to emulate and upon whom they could depend for support. 'Birds of a feather', you know.

You have nothing to look forward to because you stopped setting goals a long time ago. Those things only work for ruthless people and dope dealers. You are neither. In fact, you are nothing.

Have nothing.

Do nothing.

Be nothing.

The only thing you've got to show for your life is a long list of excuses. You should be proud though because with all your justifications and rationalizations, you successfully have managed to repel and sabotage any glimpse of success that may have ever come your way.

Congratulations.

It's party time!

The Prophecy Is Fulfilled

Except for one thing. You'll be drinking alone... out of an empty bottle.

You'll be sleeping alone tonight, too.

And they said it was lonely at the top? Ha!

You see, my friend, you are experiencing a self-fulfilling prophecy. As within, so without. Because you never felt good enough, smart enough, worthy enough or even likable enough, your outside circumstances now project and magnify your pitiful inner sanctum for all the world to see.

The good news is that this isn't the end of the trail for you. Oh, no - not by a long shot. As time goes by you'll feel more like a victim, focusing your vengeance on all the people who have crossed and cheated you in life. Think of the anger, jealousy, bitterness and rage you'll enjoy as you sit there alone at your pity-party. Just contemplating these thoughts is a quick and sure way to demotivate yourself.

So there they are folks, the top five ways to demotivate yourself. Your life is now a tangled mess of despair and hopelessness.

If you find the lack of companionship to be too much, repeat the five steps over and over. Somebody is bound to join you sooner or later. After all, misery loves company.

New Mobile Phones 2009 - Enter the World of Advanced Technology

In 21st century, mobile phones have reached to immense level, where one can't think life without this essential piece of technology. Now, its very rare that a person is not having mobile phone. Earlier, people used to have wired telephones, then wireless handsets came in to existence. From that time, large number of mobile manufacturing companies are doing some Research and Development. To a large extent, they have improved a lot. Like heavy weight handsets have converted into small lightweight devices.

Many of the renown brands have launched new phones in 2009. These handsets are complete conversion of high weight into light weight, normal keypad to full QWERTY keyboard and many more. The invention of 3G technology devices have brought a revolution in the whole world. Due to this innovation, mobile phones are now used for variety of purposes like now one can watch videos, share multimedia contents with compatible devices, listen to favorite music and even browse internet. Leading brands are coming forward with devices having high-end features, which completely satisfy your needs and requirements. Nowadays, we can observe some dissimilarity among few of the handsets. The reason is, they are being launched and aimed at different group of users.

Some of the instances of new mobile phone 2009 are Nokia 6600 slide, Samsung Tocco Lite and HTC Hero. The latest development of Nokia has grabbed everyone's attention with their astonishing design and fascinating features. The slider device has 2.2 inches TFT that displays 16 M colors and offers the resolution of 240 x 320 pixels. The user-friendly interface of the gadget facilitate you with ease in accessing functional menus. The 3.15MP camera enables you to capture memories, along with, autofocus and LED flash. The high resolution camera clicks excellent quality picture and for storing these captured images, you are facilitated with 18 MB internal memory. At same time, if user wants some more memory space, then it can be done by the use of microSD card. With this, memory can be expandable up to 4 GB. This handset is a perfect combination of style and entertainment tool.

Another innovation in 2009 is Samsung Tocco lite. It comes along with 3.15 MP camera and smile detection feature. Along with, the front is equipped with another VGA camera that is useful for video calling purpose. One can edit the captured photos and even upload them through high-speed internet. The front portion is fitted with 3.0 inches large TFT resistive touchscreen. It supports 256 k colors and delivers the resolution of 240 x 400 pixels. Moreover, the slider handset includes accelerometer sensor for automatic rotation of screen and handwriting recognition for security purpose. Samsung Tocco is available in three basic colors such as black, white and pink.

HTC Hero is also in the list of latest mobiles 2009. This brand is famous for its classy look touchscreen handsets. Hero is extremely stylish and unique gadget that can hold your attention with just one glimpse. With 3.2 inches large TFT display, it consists of multi touch input method and trackball that eases the navigation of menus. The alluring handset has a built-in media player, which supports MP3, WAV, WMA9 and AAC+ audio format files. It runs on Android OS and has Qualcomm MSM7200A 528 MHz processor.

Your Pastor Is An Endangered Species - Book Review

By: H.B. London, Jr. & Neil B. Wiseman (1996)

ISBN 1-56476-585-7

Book Price: $8.36

Pastoral ministry development

H.B. London, Jr. is Vice President of Ministry Outreach/Pastoral Ministries at Focus on the Family in Colorado Springs. He has also pastored churches for thirty one years. Neil B. Wiseman is Professor of Pastoral Development at Nazarene Bible College. He has pastored for over twenty years and another twenty years in pastoral support!

About your Pastor

London and Wiseman inject ideas in nine chapters. They express the following, pastors under fire (Ch. 1), what pastors wish congregations knew about ministry (Ch. 3), seven habits of highly effective church pillars (Ch. 7), creating a healthy congregation self-image (Ch. 8), a pastor's bill of rights (Ch. 9).

Addressing issues facing pastors

H.B. London, Jr. & Neil B. Wiseman connect with their audience through an informative style, using research data, quotes, and a variety of proofs to support their claims. They say, "Today's pastors face crises unknown to any other occupational groups... Credibility is down. Suspicions are up... dysfunctional people... leaders have less time... "

H.B. and Neil focus on current trends to support their case, indicating that "The consumer mentality seeping into the church is driving some pastors crazy with fear. It is estimated that as many as 80 percent of all church membership gains in a recent year were a result of people leaving one church and joining another."

Authors pose questions to focus readers on subjects such as, "Why does the church need pastors... To build up the body... expand our knowledge of the Son... facilitate our maturity... encourage our growth... church... built up... "

London and Wiseman give solutions to problems cited in early chapters, exhorting, "Try to protect your pastor from criticism... Try doubling your affirmation of your pastor... commit yourself to fix that which can be fixed... Positive second-hand affirmation will be reported on a church gossip line nearly as quickly as a negative report... "

With keen insight H.B. and Neil address the #1 issue facing pastors. They explain, "Church rumors usually focus on the pastor and those close to him... In grapevine discussions, accuracy is usually compromised... "

Pressures facing pastors today

H.B. London, Jr. & Neil B. Wiseman reveal with precision and supporting facts, the pressures facing pastors today.

Get Your Travel Membership Before Your North Carolina, Beach Vacation!

A beach vacation in North Carolina? You better believe it! Three Hundred miles of beautiful coast line, with sandy beaches at your convenience. The only secret you are missing is any beach vacation amenity is at your disposal no matter which hotel you pick!

The Northern coast of North Carolina keeps your attention with an economy built on farming, fishing, and of course surfing and sailing. A region where vibrant sunsets hang lazily over the sand and recreational opportunities are abundant.

If golfing is your thing, then prepare for tee boxes with ocean breezes walking distance from the vacation beach on the Southern coast. Oak Island offers a ten mile stretch of quiet surf and moderate tides. Fishermen enjoy fishing from piers, surf fishing, or deep sea fishing.

The Central coast has its own tradition. With its his historic sites, and Gardens you can discover a world of people, places, and objects from the past waiting to entertain you. Their historic homes offer glimpses into changing lifestyles from Colonial days through the early years of our nation. The gardens feature stunning displays of both contemporary and historic plants.

You may wonder how you will have access to every beach vacation hotel in North Carolina. That's the good news. There are travel memberships that offers the options to book your stay in over 5,000 hotels nationwide, with no block outs, no hot weeks, and no monthly fee! What a deal, the travel memberships also offers a lifetime membership at a fraction of the cost you would spend with other travel agents. You will have unlimited access to fifty two weeks of the year to thousands of resorts, beach to golf resorts, in 55 countries around the world.

Which beach vacation to North Carolina will you choose? There are several options, but please check to see which one fits your families needs before you make a decision. You will be surprised by the testimonies of clients who were caught off guard by the customer service, and amenities. Don't wait, click the link and learn more about your beach vacation, North Carolina.

In No Particular Order, 10 Must See Movies of 2009

500 Days of Summer: This film should be a strong contender for the now 10 flick deep Academy Awards - Best Picture category. This story presented in a nonlinear narrative (not in chronological sequence) depicts a memory driven look at a failed romance. Stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt (A River Runs Though It and 3rd Rock from the Sun) and Zooey Deschanel (Yes Man and Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy), engages the audience into the couple's relationship woes. The film produced for a meager $7.5 million grossed over $40 million at the box office and received a ton of critical acclaim. The soundtrack includes songs from the Smiths, Doves, Simon and Garfunkel as well as one of the best scenes in the film that incorporates the Hall and Oates classic "You Make My Dreams".

Funny People: Written and Directed by Judd Apatow and starring Adam Sandler and Seth Rogen, this not so funny film about comedy is the feel good movie of the year. Sandler plays George Simmons, a very successful comedian who learns that he is sick and has less than a year to live. Ira a newbie in the stand-up world finds his way to performing in the same club as George one night and ends up becoming his protégé. This movie clocked in at nearly 3 hours but the vibe created by the story, cameo appearances and the bond between George and Ira left me wanting more. Apatow also provided us with a wonderful soundtrack that includes songs from Paul McCartney, James Taylor (in addition to a live performance), Neil Diamond, John Lennon, Ringo Starr and Wilco. Sandler even pulls off a wonderful performance of the lost Beatles song" Real Love".

I Love You Man: Written and directed by John Hamburg (co-writer of Zoolander and Meet the Parents/Focker films). I Love You Man is a movie about a guy, made especially for guys (as well as Rush fans). This film is about Peter Klaven (Paul Rudd) who upon getting engaged to the woman of his dreams, suddenly realizes that he has no male friends to choose from to be his best man. Peter sets out on a series of very funny "man-dates" searching for the right guy. Sydney Fife (played by Jason Segel) becomes Peters new found 'bro". This film is extremely crude and in a large part the crudeness is what makes it so enjoyable. Cameo appearances include Lou Ferrigno and the band Rush.

Extract: After 12 years of King of the Hill, Mike Judge returns to the big screen with what feels like a sequel to his cult classic Office Space. Extract tells the story about workplace and marriage issues. The cast includes a wonderful performance by Jason Bateman (who plays the boss) along with Mila Kunis (voice of Meg on Family Guy and the love interest in Forgetting Sarah Marshall). The film also includes a great supporting cast including Ben Affleck playing Bateman's best friend and is the funniest performance of his career.

Star Trek: This is not your father's Star Trek. In this highly entertaining and quick paced, action packed film, J.J. Abrams brings the dormant franchise back with a heavy hitting punch. For fans of the original series you are in for a treat when you see the dead-on casting of the young Enterprise crew. The opening battle is one of the greatest opening scenes filmed since Saving Private Ryan - I'm not kidding! Here we are thrown into a dire sequence of events that leads to the death of George Kirk and the birth of James T. Kirk simultaneously. Chris Pine plays Kirk with such precision that he would win a best actor nod in a perfect world. Along the way we are treated to other wonderful performances by Zachary Quinto (Heroes) as Spock, Karl Urban (Bourne Supremacy) as Bones, Zoe Saldana (Avatar) as Uhura and Simon Pegg (Hot Fuzz), providing us with the films comic relief as the young Scotty. Rounding off the crew is John Cho (Harold and Kumar) as Sulu and Anton Yelchin (young John Connor from Terminator - Salvation) as Chekov.

The Hurt Locker: This film is one of the most vivid depictions of the Iraq War ever made. Here Kathryn Bigelow (Point Break and Strange Days) tells a story of the United States Army Explosive Ordnance Team (EOD). Freelance reporter Mark Boal (In the Valley of Elah) penned the story while he was embedded with a real bomb squad stationed in Iraq. This is film-making at its grimiest best.

Public Enemies: A true action crime thriller from director Michael Mann. This quick paced and stylized movie tells the story of the hugely popular bank robber John Dillinger (Depp) whose lightning quick bank raids made him a folk hero during the depression era (not the current one). The film also depicts the early days of J. Edgar Hoover's inexperienced FBI and in particular one agent pursing Dillinger, Melvin Purvis (played by Bale). Time and again throughout the film Dillinger and his gang outwitted and outgunned the FBI in many wild chases and shootouts. Mann is known for his unique cinematography by making his films look visually stunning. This time around he mixes both HD and standard definition cameras into the mix and provides us with another work of art.

Whatever Works: Written and directed by Woody Allen. This is Allen's' return to narrative film-making using New York as his backdrop (after a 4 year European hiatus). Allen has revealed that the script itself was written in the early '70's, with Zero Mostel in mind for the main character Boris. The script was shelved after Mostel's death in 1977. Boris Yelnikoff (Larry David) plays an eccentric character that breaks down the imaginary fourth wall by speaking directly to the audience. In the midst of panic attacks and a suicide attempt Boris finds himself in the arms of a 21-year-old simple-minded woman played by Evan Rachel Wood. Whatever Works reminds us how funny Allen can be when he's not being serious.

My Sister's Keeper: A heart-wrenching film by director Nick Cassavetes (The Notebook). Cassavetes takes a gruesome topic and instead of making it a tear-jerker, creates a film that feels more like a 90 minute music video. Nevertheless you will still need to have a box of tissues handy. My Sisters Keeper is about a defense attorney (Cameron Diaz) who is forced out of retirement to return to the courtroom to defend herself and her husband (Jason Patric) when they are sued by their 13-year-old for emancipation. The daughter Anna Fitzgerald (Abigail Breslin/Little Miss Sunshine) was genetically conceived with the hope she could prolong her cancer-ridden sisters life. Here Breslin once again shows off her acting chops with yet another incredible performance.

Up In The Air: Written and directed by Jason Reitman (Juno, Thank you for Smoking). With this film we are treated to a timeless masterpiece. Here we meet Ryan Bingham whose job it is to fire people. George Clooney's dry wit makes him a very likable character with a not so popular job. Although he is the bearer of bad news, Clooney's acting is so good that we sympathize for him as he experiences some life changing experiences of his own. This is not a big budget film by any means but along with Hurt Locker and 500 Days of Summer will be looked at as a classic in years to come.

5 Girlfriend Getaway Vacations You'll Absolutely Love

I've written a series of articles on affordable and fun destinations and I've got some good news for you today... I'm letting you in on "5 Girlfriend Getaway Vacations You'll Absolutely Love."

The first is one of my favorite spots; Key West. Believe me when I tell you, there is something for everyone in Key West. Getting to Key West is fairly easy from just about any city in the USA. From Miami you can take a bus, rent a car and drive or, fly. One of my favorite hotels are the Sunset Key West Cottages. You'll find yourself on a private island with all the amenities to make your visit relaxing and memorable. There are so many great hotels and bed & breakfast inns to be found, Key West will fit practically every budget. You'll find an abundance of night life all along Duval Street and while there, you might try the ghost Walk tour. Search for "Key West hotel packages" and you'll find something to fit every budget.

People say it's bigger and better in Texas, and judging from the vast variety of Texas destinations, past visitors may have a good point. My three choices for a chic trip to Texas are... San Antonio, Austin, and Galveston. San Antonio has the famed River Walk and of course, the Alamo. Nearby, you'll find it easy walking or a short cab ride to La Villita; boutiques with fantastic shopping are found in historic 18th century buildings. Hop on board a river cruise along a cool and shaded body of water. Both sides of the river are lined with eateries and shops that offer lots of fun and unique Texas style entertainment. San Antonio is an affordable destination with hotel prices starting around $120.

Austin is the capitol of Texas and along with many hot spots along 6th street, a tour of the Governor's Mansion is educational and fun. The best view in town remains a secret, even to long time Austin locals, and a great way to resist the Mount Bonnell tourist bottle neck, is to arrange for a two-hour boat ride at Capital Cruises on Town Lake. These small, intimate boats are the easiest way to watch the sun go down, see the famous Austin bats, and enjoy a beautiful glance of Austin's awesome skyline. If you consider yourself a jazz lover, have dinner at the Elephant Room. Located in a basement on Congress Avenue, the Elephant Room enjoys a well deserved reputation as one of the top-ranked jazz clubs in the nation. The nightly shows at the Elephant Club provide a memorable time, even if you don't consider yourself a die-hard jazz fan.

Galveston Texas is in the enviable position of an actual economic rise. You may want to book a 3 day cruise on Carnival out of the Port of Galveston and then come back and see what the rest of what Galveston offers for fun and relaxation. Plan your stay at the beautiful San Louis Hotel or if your girlfriends are golfers, try the fantastic Moody Garden's Public Golf Course. Seventeen million dollars later, this course has just opened to the public in June 2008. Top of the line facilities including the new expansive club house are bringing great comments from all who play there. It's worth your time!

Moody Garden's also offer the unusual glass pyramids that house an actual rain forest and aquarium. This huge complex overlooks Offatt's Bayou where you can enjoy a sunset cruise on a large paddlewheel vessel. If the shopper in you is calling out, then you have to plan a trip to the Strand... Galveston's historic shopping mecca. You'll find great antiques shops and wonderful galleries all along this popular slice of Texas history. Shop till you drop and then cool off with some tasty appetizers at Yagas.

So Far, we've suggested a fun and let your hair down East Coast destination and three destinations in the central part of the U.S.A. Where's the third, you're wondering; it's easy and sophisticated... Napa Valley, California. For you oenophiles, Napa is paradise. However, when you want a break from wine tasting this area offers many decadent diversions.

Meadowood (Meadowood Resort- 800-458-8080) is a great home base for you and your girlfriends. With Eighty-five cottages, suites and lodges, nestled into the forested hillside of a beautiful valley, you'll be comfortable and secure. Enjoy your choice of pleasure including hiking, swimming, spa treatments, golf and even croquet. Be sure and visit St. Helena for a grande shopping experience. Stop by the St. Helena Olive Oil Company where you'll find a vast array of specialty vinegars, oils, jams, salamis and dessert sauces. For a high end experience in children's clothing and gifts, visit Freckle's. You'll find great souvenirs and gifts. For chocolate lovers, you must visit Woodhouse Chocolate where you'll find everything to satisfy your sweet tooth. You'll have to be the judge, but Napa locals seem to have a youthful aura around them. Maybe it's the stress-free living found in this wine country wonderland.

These all girl trips are just what the Doctor ordered to relieve stress and anxiety. Mothers call your daughters, girlfriends call your girlfriends. Start planning a fun and affordable all girl vacation today. These little getaways are exactly what you need to bring focus and reality back into your life. Search the internet for "chic trips" "girlfriend getaways" or, "girlfriend getaway travel" and start planning your fun escape today.

Benefits You Can Get Out of Elliptical Machines

In recent years, the popularity of elliptical trainers has seen a steady increase. Well, of course, this is not a surprise for the countless individuals who have experienced the benefits of the elliptical trainer, be it in terms of physical health or financial health.

Let's first discuss the physical health aspect. The elliptical trainer provides for low-impact exercises precisely because it lessens the strain and stress on the joints, specifically on the knees and ankles. Unlike the treadmill where your feet come up and step down on the platform, your feet never leave the comfort of the pedals since foot power is required.

And unlike in walking and jogging on normal terrain, your joints are not subjected to the impact of the contact between ground and feet. The worse thing is that your lower back is also adversely affected since stress is placed upon it by the additional weight. Think 2.5 more of your body weight being carried by your lower back and you get the drift.

Thus, elliptical trainers are the preferred means of cardiovascular training for athletes, fitness buffs and average individuals, even of older people, alike. And did we mention that there are no new things to adjust to with the elliptical trainer because it only requires the natural motions of walking and running?

Also, the regular and proper use of the elliptical trainer also leads to denser, healthier bones. This is because it is also a weight-bearing exercise that has been proven to delay the onset of bone-related diseases like osteoporosis. And it helps that your bones will not exactly break easily since it is a low-impact exercise, too.

Furthermore, the elliptical trainer provides for a dual-action workout. Or as some sectors call it, whole body conditioning. Basically, you get an upper and lower body workout that engages as many muscle groups as possible depending on the actions, speed and duration of the exercise.

On the lower part of your body, each step you take results in the utilization of the muscles on your legs like the quadriceps, hamstrings and glutes. For the upper part, the muscles on the chest and back as well as the triceps and biceps are exercised, thanks to the action of the handlebars. You can also substitute 2 to 5-pound hand weights to provide resistance as you swing your arms while striding your legs. Obviously, you will also be developing your coordination, rhythm and balance.

However, keep in mind that the elliptical trainer targets the lower part of the body more than the upper part. The general ratio is 70 is to 30, respectively and, hence, it is important to adopt the proper posture while using the machine. Of course, with such a dual action workout, you also burn more calories since you engage more muscles in the movements. This is good news for those wishing to lose weight without putting in too much of a perceived effort.

For all these benefits, elliptical trainers require little maintenance and little purchase cost. This is due to the fact that there is a lesser number of moving parts - motors, rollers, belts and bearings - to worry about unlike in treadmills.

If you have yet to try the elliptical trainer, then it is high time that you should do so. You will enjoy the valuable benefits at very reasonable prices with audio-visual entertainment to boot.

Holiday Gifts Ideas With a Personal Touch

It is always hard to shop for the holidays, especially if you want to get something personal and unique for someone who already has almost everything. There are a few items however, that they likely do not have yet and they are pretty reasonably priced. Here are a few ideas for unique Christmas presents and holiday gifts:

1. Secret Book Box - a secret stash box made out of a real book. It looks just like a book, and can be stored anywhere... like on a coffee table, end table or in a book case. These book boxes are really cool because since they are made out of real recycled books, they come in a variety of different subjects and sizes. They may even be able to make one out of the gift recipients favorite book (if available).

2. Personalized Jigsaw Puzzle - You can get a personalized jigsaw puzzle made from a picture you have. Just give them the picture and they turn it into a unique puzzle.

3. Homemade Root Beer/ Beer Brewing Kit - Available in root beer and regular beer, you can buy brewing kits to do right at home. It's a fun project that more than one person usually ends up benefiting from and is an awesome activity to do with your family.

4. Personalized DVD - there is a company who will take the picture you send in and actually insert that person into their very own mini-movie DVD. Most of the examples show children, but it's fun for adults too. At a get-togethers with family and friends, it usually gets a great laugh and provides entertainment for everyone.

5. Monthly Gift Clubs - you can give a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year. Monthly clubs send the recipient an "item of the month" directly to their home (or office). They have things like beer, pizza chocolate, cigars, wine and fruit. They come in different subscription lengths to fit every budget, so you can just buy one month, 12 months, or anything in between

Whatever you decide to get, always remember it is truly the thought that counts. Remembering those who are special at the holidays makes them feel good year-round.

Underground Hypnosis - Does it Work?

So "What is underground hypnosis?" Firstly, it is nothing like you have seen before.

These methods and techniques can instantly transform any person into a walking time bomb of hypnotic power. Underground Hypnosis teaches you formerly unknown mental tricks that will allow you to change someones mind immediately upon meeting them.

A lot people are very curious about this unnatural phenomenon. But did you know it's possible to hypnotize someone... without them even knowing? This was always thought to be impossible never to be shared with anyone, until Taylor Starr and a unique group of mental geniuses arrived on the scene and developed an amazing system called "Underground Hypnosis".

You will be completely shocked and will have never seen anything quite like this before in your life. This never before revealed knowledge has helped thousands of people to avhieve a better way of life. Regular Hypnosis does work don't get me wrong. But not like this. With Underground Hypnosis you'll learn extremely important persuasion techniques like NLP, Social Engineering, Alpha Control, and seduction.

Over the last few years, a subculture of secret societies has been spending all their time and effort tweaking and perfecting these tactics and routines. The Underground Hypnosis website has taken the internet by storm causing a whole lot of controversy in the hypnotic world... for good reason.

Here are a few examples of how these tactics have helped thousands of people:

1. Be the "ALPHA" in any situation.
2. Make anyone instantly like you even if its your enemy.
3. Make more sells and earn more money.
4. Build a better life for yourself.

There are 2 main Underground Hypnosis techniques:

1. Social Proof Techniques
2. Black Ops Techniques

Social proof techniques let you become the "alpha" in any situation. These techniques also make people instantly like you because it labels you as an entertaining and fun individual.

An example of a social proof technique is using embedded commands to make someone lose at paper rock scissors every time. People will become enamored that this person knows how to trick people into LOSING a simple game like this, and become curious... start opening up...

An example of a Black Ops Technique is the Black Ops Handshake. This is where you use a special form of a handshake that will interrupt your targets brain. During this split second "pattern interrupt" you can induce them into a trance instantly. (This might have been seen by the top hypnosis experts like Derren Brown on TV).

All these Techniques can be taught to ANYONE who wants to learn the power of Underground Hypnosis.

Get Him To Commit - The Right Way

When you start to read the many different ways that the online world suggests that you get your man to commit, you start to realize that there are a variety of negative things that you can do. Many of them are going to have you placating his ego so much that you'll lose a sense of your own self worth. It's that sort of negative enforcement that is driving many relationships into a negative light and status. If that sounds like something that you're experiencing from reading gossip columns or even blogs from so called experts it's time to look at something important, something vital, something that will actually work. The following are 3 ideas that will help you get him on one knee.

First and foremost, do not make him feel sorry for you. This is the worst tactic that online pundits are pushing and it drives many men away after some time. Sure, at first they will open up and try to save you and then when they realize that you were pushing an agenda they will pull back and get upset. Do not do this, instead, make sure that they see you fighting with all your might to be an independent person that is full of joy, and filled with great ideas and fun. You want to make sure they can take care of you but not because you can't, but because they want to. Getting them to realize that is a key that will unlock commitment faster than other methods.

The second thing that you need to do is avoid pulling back too far. Some methods call for you to give him a silent period or some plans far away from the relationship, but that can be interpreted in negative light. Instead, make sure that you are not smothering him but at the same time pushing him to try things that are outside of the relationship. If you have a hobby and he has one too, the two of you can spend separate time enjoying those things and then one day bring them together. Do not use that as a catalyst to create space for long periods of time in order to get him to commit. Push gently, some men are introverted and pushing too much will cause them to shut down. Gently nudge and you'll see great results in the long term.

The last thing that you need to do is trust your gut instincts. He might already be planning something big, he might have something in mind but he's trying to figure it out so he seems aloof at times. Make sure that you have open lines of communication about the future, whether you want kids, and don't drive it all on your own. Let him talk, get him to talk and use what he says to placate your need for commitment. You'll find that he'll drop to one knee in no time.

One note to remember, if you're not already in a relationship but have dated for a while, then make sure that you don't push him and don't sleep with them fast, try to save a little mystery, you'll find that it works great for the "good" guys.

Creating Buzz With Social Media

The Wikipedia definition of social media is online content created by people using highly accessible and scalable publishing technologies. At its most basic sense, social media is a shift in how people discover, read and share news, information and content. It's a fusion of sociology and technology, transforming monologues (one to many) into dialogues (many to many) and is the democratization of information, transoforming people from content readers into publishers. Social media has become extremely popular because it allows people to connect in the online world to form relationships for personal, political and business uses. Businesses also refer to social media as user-generated content (UGC) or consumer-generated medai (CGM).

That being said, I'll try to connect the different types of media with examples of the many ways to create a buzz that gets a high response or generates a lot of traffic.

1. Marketing Ideas, Reviews, Tips
We understand that everyone is advertising these days, just about anyone can use networking advise and tips whether their field is internet marketing, or entertainment, or fitness. Many people have become marketers to a certain degree in order to accomplish the results that they desire. It's always a good idea to increase knowledge of new things as a way to stay in touch with the current issues. The term networking is a concept that can be applied to many different fields and be very useful in different ways for the same purposes it is used. Therefore creating a buzz with social networking in nearly any field is a good choice in topics and methods.

2. Blogging Resources
Blogs and blogging is much more common today than it has been in the past. Even so much as almost replacing the term "site" with the word "blog". Experts agree that blogs go a long way to establish a better relationship with the general public and an efficient customer service in which a more personal touch can be used with consumers. Statistics say that blog readership is growing among all demographics.

Blogging isn't so much a hobby anymore, rather it's big business with many companies. Creating a buzz with a blog is an ideal way to drive traffic and give information about specials and features not explained on a regular company website. A blog is more personal naturally and can help your company provide a much more responsive customer service with comments and feedback.

3. Microblogging
The most popular way of communicating hot topics these days is through microblogging with networks such as Twitter. There are others and the choice is yours, but the emerging trends say a lot about the fantastic scope of the new networks. The numerous applications that are available for Twitter make the experience so much more fun and enjoyable. People become addicted and it's not so much work as it is a social experience to use it.

Of the many applications I'll choose only two to discuss with you today because of the bloggability and research that can and has been done and shared already. I have two concise methods for generating interest and positive communications about several ideas and topics.

The first is TweetCloud.com, an application that creates word clouds based on the most frequently used words in any public Twitterer's tweets. The users say you can "make a word cloud from a public Twitter stream." Not only is it fun and informative, but it delves into the minds of Twitter users and gives you an interesting look into just what their current obsessions are.

The second application I'd like to share with you is FileSocial.com. FileSocial allows you to share any file through your Twitter account. All you have to do is enter your Twitter login and password, write some text, and attach the document you want to share. Automatically, your Twitter will display a tweet with your message and a link to the file. How easy! That means any document from pdfs, pics, mp3s, to videos.

Keep in mind these are constantly changing and growing areas of communication and interaction. The stories, as the Wikipedia definition says, evolves and gets passed along so the buzz keeps moving on. The common interest at any given time is the uniqueness of the message and the coincidence of the individual user's experience with it. The beauty of it lies in the individual's imagination and the sharing of ideas.