How to make your own spanx

make your own spanx

It's interesting:
"You know, I’ve been to lots of great weddings, but today may have been the best. The small, ornate chapel – the beautiful music – the sincere words that Paul and Linda wrote themselves. Ladies and gentlemen, we all witnessed something very special."

Spanx, the revolutionary underwear that were designed by Sara Blakely promise to minimize love handles, cellulite and the dreaded muffin top. Starting at $25 a pop, they are a rather pricey solution to an embarrassing problem. But with some scissors, and old pantyhose, you can achieve the Spanx effect without paying the Spanx price! (And they work just as well, too!)

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Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Panty hose

Instructions

1. • 1

     Purchase an inexpensive pair of control top pantyhose in your size. Or better yet, if you have an old pair of control tops in your lingerie drawer, that would work, too.

   • 2

     Get a pair of scissors.

   • 3

     Cut off the pantyhose parts just leaving the control top panty intact.

   • 4

     Voila! There you have your self made Spanx that works just as well as the real thing and for pennies less! They'll flatten your tummy, hold in your muffin top and hide panty lines--and you'll have enough money left over to buy yourself at least 10 more control tops!

Tips &- Warnings

• Be sure to hand wash your fake Spanx to prolong its life and durability.

Source: www.ehow.comTags: control tops, just well, make your, make your spanx, pair control

Hotels near pine st. in seattle, washington

It's interesting:
"Linda is an extraordinary woman. Resilient and fun-loving. If anyone had told me Paul would find a woman who loves gourmet cooking, travelling to exotic places and debating the merits of the Arsenal back four as much as him, I wouldn't have believed them. Yet here she is. You two are going to have quite a life together. "

Seattle, Wash., is the hub of the Northwestern United States. Restaurants, shopping, nightlife and museums are all part of what this city has to offer visitors. Pine Street is nestled right in the middle of all of the action of downtown Seattle and is only a few blocks away from the world-famous Space Needle. If you are planning a vacation to Seattle, there is no better place to stay to see all of the sights than Pine Street. There are several hotels located near this street that will meet the needs for a romantic getaway for two or a trip for the entire family.

1. The Roosevelt

   • With a bright neon sign lighting up the Seattle cityscape, the Roosevelt Hotel is a landmark in this city on the corner of Seventh Avenue and Pine Street. Within walking distance of many of Seattle's attractions, this hotel has more than 150 rustic rooms featuring many different layouts. The amenities include high-definition televisions, coffeemakers, wireless Internet and a work desk. The Roosevelt also has suites available for those who want extra room or who are looking to enjoy a romantic vacation which includes a whirlpool tub.

     The Roosevelt Hotel

     1531 Seventh Ave.

     Seattle, WA 98101

     206-621-1200

     roosevelthotel.com

   Grand Hyatt

   • Situated on Pine Street in Seattle's famous theater district, the Grand Hyatt hotel is the perfect place to stay to take in downtown Seattle and all of its attractions. The 425 guest rooms all feature original artwork and high-definition televisions to make you feel comfortable away from home. A Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, a Starbucks and in-room dining options mean you never have to go very far to enjoy a great meal. Meeting rooms and event venues make this a great place for a conference as well.

     Grand Hyatt Seattle

     721 Pine St.

     Seattle, WA 98101

     206-774-1234

     grandseattle.hyatt.com

   Paramount Hotel

   • Another place to stay for a weekend on Pine Street is the Paramount Hotel. The Paramount is within a short drive of many of Seattle's best attractions including the Pike Place Market, the Space Needle and Puget Sound. The rooms and suites all feature a flat-screen cable television with access to HBO and pay-per-view, video games and free Internet access. An on-site Asian restaurant, fitness center and concierge service make this a stress-free place to stay while you enjoy the city.

     The Paramount Hotel

     724 Pine St.

     Seattle, WA 98101

     206-292-9500

     paramounthotelseattle.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Pine Street, place stay, Grand Hyatt, Paramount Hotel, Seattle 98101, away from, downtown Seattle

Wedding places in southern cailfornia

It's interesting:
"Charles Dickens said a measure of a woman’s love for her man was the lengths to which she was prepared to go to make him happy. If this holds true, then Linda, you have reached that goal, for Paul is the happiest I have ever seen him."

Southern California offers a variety of landscapes for outdoor weddings, including the Pacific Coast, San Bernardino Mountains and deserts. Cities in this region of the Golden State--Los Angeles, San Diego and Santa Barbara--also are home to cathedrals, resorts and chapels for indoor weddings. Most wedding venues in Southern California offer spaces for ceremonies and receptions.

1. Santa Barbara

   • Located in eastern Santa Barbara, the Four Seasons is a AAA five-diamond hotel and facilitates outdoor weddings on the hotel's oceanside lawn, which offers views of Santa Barbara Harbor. The hotel also features the upscale Loggia Ballroom, for couples who wish to have an indoor wedding. Four Seasons has an on-staff coordinator to assist with wedding rehearsals and ceremonies. Catering is available for receptions.

     Wedding ceremonies on Santa Barbara Harbor are available via the services of Cat Channel Charters. This day cruise has cabin for indoor ceremonies while sailing on the Harbor. The boat has tables and chairs for receptions, which occurs in the boat's cabin and outdoor deck. The boat operates year-round.

   Greater Los Angeles

   • Situated in downtown Los Angeles, the Cathedral of Our of the Lady of the Angels is a historic L.A. landmark and hosts wedding ceremonies in its grandiose sanctuary. This venue also offers receptions at its reception hall- the Chefs of Levys Restaurants offers catering services at this site. The cathedral requires that one of the wedded couple is of the Catholic faith.

     The Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens is in the Los Angeles suburb, San Marino, and provides gardens for outdoor weddings. The gardens also are available for wedding photos. Gardens for wedding ceremonies include the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden and North Vista. The venue offers catering and tables for receptions.

   Orange County

   • The Bella Mar mansion in Newport Beach has a 10,000-square-foot indoor space for wedding ceremonies. This space features wooden-beam ceilings, a stone fireplace and views of Newport Harbor. The mansion also has a courtyard with gardens for wedding photos and outdoor receptions. Bella Mar has an wedding coordinator and catering staff.

     Laguna Hills' Pacific Hills caters to traditional and ethnic wedding events. Wedding packages include an hour in the center's Newport Ballroom, chair setup and courtesy champagne. The Ballroom has an elegant atmosphere. The packages also provide catering services and dé-cor options, such as candle treatments, chair covers and vases.

   San Diego

   • Prado Restaurant, located in San Diego's Balboa Park, features five sites for wedding ceremonies and receptions, including the Grand Ballroom -- which has a 27-foot high ceiling and seating capacity of 380--and the Casa del Rey Moro Gardens--an outdoor space with multilevel terraces and fountain pool. Chairs and sound systems are available for indoor and outdoor ceremonies.

     The Anytime Wedding Chapel is in the San Diego suburb of Bonita. This intimate wedding space has a stained-glass window and accommodates 75 guests for ceremonies. Anytime also hosts theme weddings- the wedding party must provide costumes and dé-cor. The chapel does not have a space for receptions.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Santa Barbara, wedding ceremonies, outdoor weddings, Barbara Harbor, catering services, ceremonies Anytime, ceremonies receptions

Traditions of the scottish family heritage

It's interesting:
"What about the bride then, ladies and gentlemen? How wonderful she looks today. And Paul has scrubbed up quite nicely too – it’s amazing what a flannel and a bar of soap can do. But it’s a bit rude of him to have copied my outfit eh!"

Since the earliest days of the 12th century, Scotland has passed its traditions through the generations. On top of traditions from the first Scottish clans, families have added to and expanded Scottish traditions over time. From bagpipes and kilts to the song “-Auld Lang Syne”- and Scottish porridge, Scotland has a wide range of traditions that are celebrated and adhered to by families.

1. Meal Time

   • There are many common, traditional foods that a normal Scottish household eats for dinner regularly. Haggis, made from sheep lungs, heart and liver, is one of the most well-known Scottish meals. Minced meat pies, porridge, bannocks cakes made from barley and oat, and cullen, a smoked fish soup, are also popular dinner time dishes.

   Weddings

   • One week before a traditional Scottish wedding, the bride’-s mother will throw a “-show of presents,”- comparable to a bridal shower in the U.S. On the wedding day, the groom dresses in a traditional Highland kilt, kilt jacket and sporran. The couple walks to the altar together as bagpipes play in the background.

   Holidays

   • Families celebrate several holidays every year, including a feast on St. Andrew’-s Day, Boxing Day and Robert Burns' Night in memory of the late poet. While Christmas is very similar to Christmas in the United States, the Scottish New Year’-s celebration is called “-Hogmanay New Year,”- lasts for three days and is placed in importance above even Christmas Day.

   Kilts and Skirts

   • In Scotland, only men wear the kilt -- while it’-s a type of skirt, women never wear kilts. Instead, women wear pleated skirts in a variety of tartan colors -- there are more then 4,000 tartan patterns to choose from. Women’-s skirts are longer than men’-s kilts. Traditional male wear also includes a kilt hose, jacket, sporran and garters. On wedding days, men -- including the groom and wedding guests -- wear kilts- at the end of the ceremony, the groom pins a piece of his clan’-s tartan to the bride’-s gown.

   Highland Games

   • Just as families in the States gather to watch the Olympics or the Super Bowl, Scottish families get together to watch the Highland Games. This enormous event combines several types of athletics, sports and games, including music and dance. Drum and fiddle competitions, sword dances and tug-of-wars only scratch the surface of how many activities make up the Highland Games. Men test their strength in the weight toss, hammer throw and stone throw and couples pair up to dance in the Highland Fling.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Highland Games, bride 8217-s, family heritage, jacket sporran, made from, scottish family, scottish family heritage

About wedding vows

It's interesting:
"Kick things off with a topical wedding-themed icebreaker, as this will show everybody that you've been thinking about the speech right up to the last minute."

Your wedding day is something that you will want to be as special and unique as you and your spouse-to-be are. Choosing your wedding vows with care will help make it a day that you will remember and cherish forever. Traditional or not, your wedding vows will help you focus on what you mean to each other, and on your new life together.

1. Significance

   • Wedding vows as we know them are a somewhat modern addition to the ceremony. In the past, the wedding was more of a contract signing and giving of the bride to the groom, almost as if she were a piece of property. Now, in the United States anyhow, there is no forced marriage. Each person has the choice about who they marry. Women are not treated as something to be sold or exchanged, but as being equal to men. That means that the way we do weddings, and what is acceptable as vows, has also changed.
     

     Wedding vows are offered from the bride to the groom, and from the groom to the bride, in front of witnesses. The vows can be repeated after the wedding officiant, or spoken directly between the couple. With witnesses present, the vows are said to indicate the couple's intentions and desires for their marriage.

   Types

   • When choosing what type of wedding vows to use, most couples try to make sure the vows are fitting to the theme of the wedding. If the wedding is traditional and the couple wants to keep that theme, the traditional wedding vows might be used.
     

     Even if the wedding is traditional, many couples choose to alter the vows to fit their relationship. They may even write their own.
     

     Traditional vows call for the bride and groom to repeat after the officiant, unless they prefer to memorize and say them without help. An example of traditional vows is: "I, (name), take you, (name), to be my (wife/husband), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish until death do us part."
     

     When a couple writes their own wedding vows, they may include a poem, quotation or anything else that is meaningful to them. Using their own feelings, emotions and ideas about what they each want in marriage, want to be as husband and wife and intend to follow through on for each other, the bride and groom may each write their vows to each other, or they may collaborate and write them together.
     

     The purpose of the wedding vows is the same, no matter what type is used. When the vows are exchanged, the declaration of love for each other, devotion and the intention of making a life together as husband and wife for as long as both live are witnessed by others. The celebration of marriage, with the exchange of wedding vows, begins a new life for the new family.

   Size

   • The length of the wedding vows depends on what the bride and groom choose. The traditional wedding vows, though short and simple, offer sentiment and a declaration of intentions, without being very lengthy.
     

     Wedding vows that are written by the bride and groom may be longer, shorter or the same length. There is no rule for length, but the overall desire with wedding vows is to make it as meaningful to the couple as possible.

   Benefits

   • Traditional wedding vows have the benefit of being pretty much universal. They offer ease of use and include all the most important aspects of marriage.
     

     If you choose another form of wedding vows, you may be able to make it more personal. With including something more meaningful to both of you, you can personalize your vows and create a beautiful vow exchange.
     

     The benefits of writing your own wedding vows include having the ability to speak from your own heart to the one you love.
     

     You could even combine using the traditional wedding vows with writing something for each other. With the best of both, your wedding is sure to be even more memorable to you, and to all your witnesses.

   Potential

   • Exchanging wedding vows is a wonderful way to declare to each other how you feel, what you want and how you want your life to be. They are romantic, honest, loving and full of the faith you need in each other to enter into this new relationship.
     

     When you begin your marriage by exchanging vows that come from your heart, whether traditional or personally written, you are taking the first step to your new life together.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding vows, each other, bride groom, life together, traditional wedding

Free things to do in ohio at christmas

It's interesting:
"The best man at my own wedding told me that one and it worked - for 15 years anyway, before she left me for someone short, fat and balding, who happened to ..."

Busy lives and full schedules can often hinder your being able to get into the Christmas spirit. Throughout Ohio, local municipalities and businesses offer free, family-friendly activities to the community. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy a traditional carriage ride or listen to a special Christmas concert. Bundle up, grab a neighbor or a family member, and head out for some Christmas cheer.

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1. Winterfest: Cleveland

   • Experience Winterfest, the annual holiday tree-lighting celebration in downtown Cleveland held at Public Square. The event takes place the weekend after Thanksgiving and includes family-friendly activities all day. Enjoy free horse-drawn carriage rides, musical concerts like the Radio Disney Stage Show and Christmas choirs, dancing and photos with Santa. Watch ice sculpting or go snow tubing at Progressive Field. Gather with thousands of locals to watch the lighting of the Christmas tree and other light displays for the season. This event is also televised.

   Franklin Park Conservatory: Columbus

   • Take a tour and get ideas for your own home at the annual gingerbread house competition at Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus. The competition includes youth, teen, adult and family categories, with judging based on appearance, difficulty and originality. A 10-foot poinsettia tree and almost 100 varieties of poinsettia plants are also featured. Enjoy romantic candlelight evenings and special activities for children. The competition is on display from Thanksgiving through December.

   Village Green Park: Powell

   • Bring in the season with free horse and carriage rides and children's crafts at the Village Green Park and Municipal Building in Powell. Listen to carolers and Christmas bells or stroll the local shops decorated for the season for gift ideas. Relax on a trolley ride before joining hundreds of others to watch both Santa Claus and the mayor of Powell light the official Christmas tree. Kids can enjoy a personal visit with Santa.

   Roscoe Village Christmas Candle Lighting: Coshocton

   • Get ready for the holiday season at the annual Christmas candle-lighting ceremony in Coshocton during the first three Saturdays each December. During the day, visitors can take complimentary carriage rides and enjoy hot-mulled cider with cookies or chestnuts roasted over an open fire. Listen to carolers and take the candlelight Roscoe Christmas Tour for a view of what Christmas was like in the 1800s. Join with others singing "Silent Night" by candlelight as the Christmas tree is first lit. Kids have the opportunity to make art with Santa, and the first Saturday features live reindeer.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: carriage rides, Christmas tree, with Santa, Conservatory Columbus, family-friendly activities, Franklin Park, Franklin Park Conservatory

Celebrity wedding hairstyles

It's interesting:
"Even world class comics know what it's like to die on stage, and a wedding ... Nobody wants the soundtrack of their wedding night to be a chorus of loud groans."

Celebrities have access to the top stylists to prepare them for their wedding. They have people who work in the hair and fashion industry to help them select the most flattering gowns, make up and hairstyles. Even if you aren't a celebrity you can still style your wedding like one. Start your transformation by examining some of the hottest celebrity wedding hairstyles and recreating your favorite celebrity's wedding do.

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1. Soft Romantic Curls

   • Rebecca Romijn went for a natural, romantic look by having her hair stylist gently pull the sides of her hair back and create soft curls around her face. According to the bride's wedding day hair stylist, Davy Wewkirk, Rebecca has naturally curly hair. He tamed her curls using a shine serum, then set her hair in large pin curls to create those large romantic curls. Once her hair set, Wewkirk separated the curls and teased the crown. He pulled sections of her hair back on each side and secured them around the nape of her neck using bobby pins and hairspray.

     Secure your hair with a decorative clip or a soft flowing veil to the back of your head instead of using only bobby pins. Set your hair using hot rollers the day of the ceremony if your hair isn't naturally curly to ensure large curls that will hold up throughout the day.

   Natural Hairstyle

   • Add a few romantic touches to your natural hairstyle. This works well if you have short hair, have a certain haircut or look best with your hair down. Wear your hair as you usually do but add a few curls or a little extra body for your special day. For example, when Eva Longoria married Tony Parker she added a few large curls around the bottom of her hair and wore a traditional wedding veil. Longoria also included a few jeweled hairpins to hold her veil in place.

     Add a special tiara to your veil or, if you typically wear your hair using hair pins or clips, try a jeweled clip to hold your hair back. Try a beaded or crystal encrusted headband and wear a detachable veil that you can easily remove for the reception.

   Tight Wedding Bun

   • Try a traditional bun hairstyle to wear on your wedding day. Women fell in love with Sarah Jessica Parker's Carrie Bradshaw wedding look when she donned a designer princess wedding dress, tight bun hairstyle and veil with a splash of color from a large peacock feather. This style looks great on any bride and is fairly easy to emulate. Recreate Carrie's hairstyle by applying a half of a palm full of strong hold styling gel to wet hair. Brush your hair back and pull into a ponytail in the middle of your head. Secure using a hair colored ponytail holder. Wrap your ponytail around the ponytail holder and secure with hair colored bobby pins. Tuck remaining ends underneath your bun and finish with strong hold hairspray.

     Your stylist can create many variations on the traditional tight bun and include fresh flowers in the bun, braid portions of the bun or create a loose bun with tendril curls around your face. Like Carrie, experiment with signature accessories to make your wedding hairstyle one of a kind. Try baby's breath, crystal and beaded hair clips and decorative headbands, or use color in your hair accessories. Match your bridal party colors or add a splash of bright color.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your hair, hair back, bobby pins, curls around, large curls

How to write marriage vows for gays

write marriage vows for gays

It's interesting:
"At the wedding rehearsal yesterday evening, I had the pleasure of talking with Linda’s close friends. They talked about how she’s the friend they turn to when they need to vent over a foolish boyfriend or for advice on land the job of their dreams. They also said she has some pretty sweet moves on the dance floor. So let’s see them!"

For gay couples who are planning a commitment ceremony, finding the right words to express devotion to one another can be daunting. Though some individuals like to follow traditional guidelines in writing marriage vows, there are a range of creative options as well.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Write down your favorite poetic passages, scriptures or songs and use these as a starting point. Both of you should take the time to select meaningful words from favorite poems or songs to inject into your vows. Then, work together to blend them effectively.

   • 2

     Use the traditional wedding vows as a kind of outline for your own vows. The traditional vows go thus: "In the name of God, I, _______ take you, ___________to be my wife/husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow." You can choose to arrange or rearrange these in any way you choose.

   • 3

     Describe the moment when you knew you were in love with your partner. This can add an incredibly romantic dimension to your wedding vows. Each of you can just take a moment to express how you felt when you "knew" they were the one for you forever.

   • 4

     Express what your marriage means to you. This could range from "a lifetime of devotion and love" to "a union of hearts and souls forever." You should make it as romantic and personal as you can. Make these words last forever.

   • 5

     Incorporate words of gratitude into your marriage vows. Let your partner know how much you value and appreciate them and that your life would not be the same without them. Show them thanksgiving in your vows.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: marriage vows, your vows, into your, marriage vows gays, vows gays, wedding vows, when knew

Cabins on the river in texas hill country

It's interesting:
"Since meeting Linda, I've seen terrific changes in Paul. He seems much more confident these days. He's surer of what he wants. He's happier, and he's much more willing to bend these days, too. Although he’s still adamant that Arsenal will win the next seasons Champions League."

Texas Hill Country is fast becoming a popular playground for tourists visiting south central Texas. The area is situated north of San Antonio and mostly west of the city of Austin. Visitors to the area can kayak, fish, canoe, tube, raft or swim on its many lakes, streams and rivers. The many accommodations in Hill Country include cabins, RV parks, motels, hotels, spas, resorts, cabins, ranches, apartment rentals and cottages. For those interested in activities on one of the area rivers, several riverside cabins are available for rent to traveling tourists.

1. Roddy Tree Ranch

   • The Roddy Tree Ranch in Hunt, Texas, is located along the Guadalupe River in Texas Hill Country. The ranch features 800 feet of river access, two swimming pools, a catch-and-release fishing pond, a petting zoo, playground and several different outdoor leisure activities including horseshoes and badminton. The cottages at Roddy Tree can accommodate two to 10 guests- all include antique furnishings, full kitchens, TVs, DVD players, barbecue grills, picnic tables and bathrooms. Deluxe accommodations may include fireplaces, porches, decks and private laundry facilities. Cottages are available for rent year-round- rates vary according to amenities offered.

     Roddy Tree Ranch

     P.O. Box 820

     Hunt, TX 78024

     830-367-2871

     roddytree.com

   Foxfire Log Cabins

   • Foxfire Log Cabins, located in Texas Hill Country on the Sabinal River, features seven fully furnished log cabins that vary in size for large families, small groups or couples. According to its website, Foxfire has been recommended for travelers by several publications including the "New York Times," "Dallas Morning News" and the "Houston Chronicle." Each cabin contains a bathroom, a wood-burning fireplace, an outdoor fire ring, a fully furnished kitchen, open beam ceilings, wood floors and a living area. Some cabins also feature decks or porches. A center pavilion in the complex provides a common gathering spot for families and guests, a natural swimming hole is popular with kids and adults, a playground, basketball goal and volleyball net provide other outdoor recreation activities, and bird feeders throughout the grounds provide wildlife viewing opportunities. Foxfire Cabins is open year-round- rates vary by size of cabin and season.

     Foxfire Log Cabins

     117 Olsen Ranch Rd.

     Vanderpool, TX 78885

     830-966-2200

     foxfirecabins.com

   All Wimberley Lodging

   • All Wimberley Lodging offers a variety of vacation homes, cottages and log cabins in the city of Wimberley in Texas Hill Country. The company offers dozens of cabins and cottages located on the Blanco River. Cabins are all fully furnished and feature kitchens and bathrooms. All homes feature different amenities that may include multiple bedrooms or bathrooms, jetted bath tubs, garages or carports, porches or decks, fireplaces, patios, swimming pools or hot tubs. Rates vary by date, location and amenities.

     All Wimberley Lodging

     13820 Ranch Road 12

     Wimberley, TX 78676

     512-847-3909

     texashillcountryreservations.com

   Frio River Cabins

   • Frio River Cabins, located in Texas Hill Country in Leakey, offers cabin rentals year-round. Six cabins are available- all include air conditioning and heating, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and fully equipped kitchens. A few cabins also feature fireplaces. The location rents tubes and kayaks with shuttle service- many guests choose to fish and snorkel in the clear, spring-fed river. Nearby ranches offer horseback riding and volleyball, and horseshoe pits are available to guests on-site. Rates vary by season.

     Frio River Cabins

     P.O. Box 1048

     Leakey, Texas 78873

     830-232-5996

     friorivercabins.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Foxfire Cabins, Hill Country, River Cabins, Roddy Tree, Frio River, Frio River Cabins, fully furnished

Free fallin' song facts

It's interesting:
"Henry told me he's had a little upgrade in time for his wedding night. ... Gillian Simon's wedding has been better attended than this year's Liberal ..."

"Free Fallin' " is a song by pop/rock artist Tom Petty. The first song completed for his debut solo album, Full Moon Fever, it became a big chart hit and has remained a popular anthem since its release.

1. History

   • Tom Petty wrote and recorded "Free Fallin' " with his writing partner Jeff Lynne in only two days.

   Geography

   • "Free Fallin' " references several locales in the Los Angeles area, including the neighborhood of Reseda, the San Fernando Valley and Mulholland Drive.

   Significance

   • Released in June 1989, "Free Fallin' " reached the No.7 position on the Billboard Hot 100 and remained on the chart for 21 weeks.

   Fun Fact

   • MCA Records initially rejected Full Moon Fever because of what they perceived as a lack of hits, including "Free Fallin'." Tom Petty came back six months later with the same album and they accepted it.

   Artist Insight

   • In an interview with Esquire Magazine, Tom Petty admitted: " 'Free Fallin' is a very good song. Maybe it would be one of my favorites if it hadn't become this huge anthem. But I'm grateful that people like it."

   Effects

   • "Free Fallin' " has not waned in popularity. Rolling Stone ranked it No. 177 on its 500 Greatest Songs of All Time list in 2004. Popular artists such as Stevie Nicks and John Mayer have recorded cover versions of the song.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Free Fallin, Free Fallin, fallin song facts, Full Moon, Full Moon Fever, Moon Fever, song facts

How to make wedding monograms

make wedding monograms

It's interesting:
"I wish anyone who thinks that ‘bigger is always better’ could be with us right now, because they would surely be amazed at the tremendous amount of happiness and joy that can flow from the right group of well wishers. We are all truly privileged to have been asked to be a part of such a warm and intimate ceremony as Paul and Linda’s wedding, I offer my love and appreciation to the bride and groom for inviting me to play a role in such a very personal gathering. I’m sure we all want to congratulate Paul and Linda on their very first day as husband and wife and thank them for giving us a day we will never forget."

Monograms are customarily found on wedding invitations and can be carried through the entire theme of your wedding. Creating a custom monogram was once a difficult task unless you were a skilled calligrapher and had an abundance of time to handcraft each invitation. With the aid of a computer, however, creating your own monogram can be a quick, efficient, easy, mess free and affordable alternative to paying a stationary store to create your monogram.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Paint

Instructions

1. • 1

     Open a new Microsoft Word document on your computer. In the top menu choose Insert and then choose text box. A large box will appear on your screen. You can choose to create one solid monogram or you can choose to draw smaller boxes within the text box to create individual pieces of the monogram. The second option would be the best if you would like a monogram with a more layered look.

   • 2

     For this option create three boxes: one for the bride's first initial, one for the groom's first initial and one for the shared last initial. If the bride is not taking the groom's last name you could create four boxes: one with the bride's first initial, one with the bride's last initial, one with the groom's last initial and one with the groom's first initial. Or you could choose to do two boxes: one with the bride's first name and one with the groom's first name.

   • 3

     Select all of the text boxes that you have just created. Choose Format and then choose text box. If you do not want any background color or border around the different boxes, select no fill under the fill option. This will give you no background color. Then under line color choose the option for no line. This will ensure that there is no line or border around the boxes. If you decide you would like a border around the finished product create a text box around your finished monogram and select that text box, choose Format, text box, line, here you can choose the border color under the color option. You can choose the style of line you want and the weight or thickness of the line.

   • 4

     Now you can experiment with different fonts, colors, styles and layouts for your monogram. Traditionally, black is a popular color option for wedding monograms if you are placing it on a lighter colored background. In the first box type the bride's first initial, in the third box type the groom's first initial. These letters are typically a smaller font size than the shared last initial that you will type in the second text box.

   • 5

     Arrange the boxes so that the bride's first initial is on the upper left side, the groom's first initial is on the upper right side and the shared last initial is nestled between the first initials on a slightly lower level. This will give the monogram depth. If you do not like this arrangement, move the boxes around until you have the appearance you desire.

   • 6

     Select all of the boxes once you have the arrangement you prefer. To select all of the boxes, left click on the first box, while holding shift left click on the other boxes. While still holding shift, right click, select grouping and then select group. This will make your design into a solid grouping so the items will move together as one. You will now need to copy your image, press and hold the Ctrl key and the C key at the same time, this will copy your image.

   • 7

     Open Microsoft Paint and paste your image. To paste press and hold the Ctrl key while you press and hold the V key. You should see your image now pasted in Paint. Now you can save your monogram by choosing File, Save As. When the Save window opens choose to save as a JPEG where it reads, Save as Type. Give it a file name that you will recognize. Now you can import this image into wedding invitations, thank you cards, announcements and other wedding decor. If you are using a program other than Microsoft Word such as PowerPoint or Photoshop, these programs will allow you to save your image as a JPEG internally so you will not need to copy your monogram into Paint.

Tips &- Warnings

• You can use other programs such as Microsoft Power Point, Abode Photoshop or Illustrator. If you do not own any of these software programs, often trial versions can be downloaded free of charge.

• Do not make it overly cluttered or add excess design elements. This will detract from the overall look and make the monogram harder to read.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: first initial, bride first, groom first, last initial, your image, your monogram

Neat places to have kids' birthday parties in rockwall, texas

It's interesting:
"Now, I think you'll agree, after seeing the amount of free booze available at this wedding, that it's a good job it's a Bank Holiday this weekend. And if you do ..."

Rockwall, Texas, has many neat options when it comes to kids' birthday parties. Parents have the option to customize the party or let professionals organize and lead the activities for children. Optional locations range from gymnastic and sports facilities to all-in-one experiences.

Does this Spark an idea?

1. ASI Gymnastics

   • ASI Gymnastics hosts parties for children age 2 years and up, focused around gymnastic activities. An instructor leads the children through a series of activities organized by trained gymnastic coordinators in a private party room. Some of the options at ASI Gymnastics are trampolines, organized games and balloons. Parents are responsible for bringing and providing food, drinks and serving utensils for the party.

     ASI Gymnastics
     

     204 N. Lakeshore Drive
     

     Rockwall, TX 75087
     

     972-772-5510
     

     asigymnastics.com

   Rockwell Indoor Sports Expo

   • Rockwall Indoor Sports Expo (RISE) is an indoor sports facility with the capacity and equipment to host a children's sports birthday party. RISE offers basketball, flag football, volleyball, fencing and soccer tots for younger children. One of the options available for birthday parties are lock-in parties, where patrons have an all-night party from dusk till dawn. According to the RISE website, the facility hosts birthday parties for children age 4 years and up.

     Rise
     

     2922 S. Highway 205
     

     Rockwall, TX 75032
     

     972-772-9061
     

     riserockwall.com

   Chuck E. Cheese

   • Chuck E. Cheese's provides an all-in-one experience for children's birthday partys. Here, a child has access to rides, video games and high tech simulators. The staff organizes the party, so parents just have to bring the children. The rest is taken care of. Birthday packages include pizza for the children and a live music show by the cast of Chuck E. Cheese characters.

     Chuck E. Cheese's
     

     855 Ea. Interstate 30
     

     Rockwall, TX 75087
     

     972-722-5614
     

     chuckecheese.com

   The Little Gym

   • The Little Gym of Rockwall hosts birthday parties for children ages 1 to 12 years. Professional staff organize music, games and activities, so parents don't have to worry about preparation or clean-up. Some of the activities included are gymnastic obstacle courses and dance, in a non-competitive environment. Activities are organized around the ages of the children at the birthday party. It is recommended on the website to book ahead because free dates and time slots book up weeks in advance.

     The Little Gym of Rockwall
     

     2435 Ridge Road
     

     Rockwall, TX 75087
     

     972-412-4800
     

     thelittlegym.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: birthday parties, Chuck Cheese, kids birthday, kids birthday parties, parties children

How to make birch wedding cake stands

make birch wedding cake stands

It's interesting:
"That said, nobody wants the wedding party to go straight from the reception to the divorce courts, so your humour will need to be pitched just right. You want ..."

A wedding cake stand can enhance the theme and overall feel of a wedding, in addition to displaying the cake. A birch wood cake stand is the perfect choice for an outdoor wedding or one that features natural, woodsy components. Birch wedding cake stands are inexpensive and simple to make, with supplies that can be found at craft and home improvement stores.

Things You'll Need

• Cross-cut wood plaque
• Wood from a tree limb or stump
• Saw, if necessary
• Sandpaper
• Wood glue
• Wood clamp
• Parchment paper or food safe wood sealant

Instructions

1. • 1

     Select a round or oblong cross-cut wood plaque from a craft store or hardware store. Cross-cut wood plaques are cleaned and prepared for use.

   • 2

     Obtain a section of tree trunk or limb from wood that you have on your own property, or from a lumber yard or hardware store. Select a piece of wood that is smaller in diameter than the diameter of the plaque. The piece of limb or trunk will be used as the stand, so cut it to the desired height using a saw.

   • 3

     Ensure that the top and bottom of the trunk or limb piece are even and smooth. Use a saw to cut the top and bottom even, if necessary, and sand the top and bottom so that they are smooth.

   • 4

     Apply wood glue to the plaque and the center of the trunk or limb piece. Firmly press the two pieces together.

   • 5

     Place a wood clamp on the top of the plaque and the bottom of the trunk or limb piece and tighten the clamp. Keep the clamp tight enough to keep the pieces together but not tight enough to damage the surface of the wood. If you do not have a wood clamp, you can use a heavy, even object (such as a book) on the surface of the plaque to keep it flush against the wood.

   • 6

     Allow the glue on the cake stand to fully dry, according to the manufacturer's directions.

   • 7

     Apply a food-safe wood sealant to the top of the plaque before using it, or lay a piece of parchment paper cut to the shape of the cake beneath the cake so that the surface of the cake does not touch the wood.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: trunk limb, wedding cake, cake stand, cake stands, limb piece

Lasalle, illinois river cruises

It's interesting:
"Sorry if the speeches drag on. Wedding receptions can be a bit like an X Factor results show. You just want to skip through the talky bits to find out ..."

Step back in time to the turn of the century and cruise the Illinois River aboard a 19th-century river paddleboat. The captain and crew are dressed in period clothing and you may have just spent the morning touring the Hegeler Carus Mansion. Located at the crossroads of State Routes 80 and 39, along the Illinois River, LaSalle is just north of Flat Rock State Park. River cruises offer an entertaining, relaxing, informative, unique experience in which to explore LaSalle.

1. La Salle Canal Boat

   • LaSalle Canal Boats offers several historic and educational canal boat cruises. Mules pull the canal boats, and employee-actors dressed as pioneers hand lead them down tow paths alongside the Illinois & Michigan. Actors posing as historical characters, such as Mary Todd Lincoln, reenact historical scenes on board the cruising canal boats. Lunches and snacks are provided and cruises range from one to five hours.

     LaSalle Canal Boat
     

     I & M Canal Boat Dock
     

     754 First Street
     

     LaSalle, Illinois
     

     815-220-1848
     

     lasallecanalboat.org

   Starved Rock Adventures

   • State of Illinois

     Starved Rock Adventures, named after a tall sandstone rock formation in Starved Rock State Park, offers one-hour narrated cruises aboard the paddle boat, "Belle of the Rock." It can carry 49 passengers and accommodates weddings, outings and large group tours. Private parties are also possible, as well as lunch cruises. Adult prices are $14. Seniors and children are charged reduced fees. Starved Rock Adventures rents kayaks, canoes, houseboats, cabins, suites and offers Florida Airboat rides.

     Starved Rock Adventures
     

     PO Box 2261
     

     Ottawa, Illinois 61350
     

     815-434-9200
     

     srarock.com

   Spirit of Peoria Tours

   • Great Seal of Illinois

     Styled after a three-tiered wedding cake, "Spirit of Peoria" is a paddle riverboat offering either two-day/one overnight, or three-day/two overnight packages. Cruises depart round-trip from Peoria and travel to Starved Rock State Park Lodge. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served aboard the river paddle-wheeler. Passengers are entertained with live music, participate in period style sing-a-longs and review-style shows. Actors in turn-of-the-century costume tell stories of river history. Starved Rock State Park Lodge is a historic landmark and full-service hotel. Guided Starved Rock hikes and evening entertainment are included.

     Spirit of Peoria Tours
     

     100 NE Water Street
     

     Peoria, Illinois 61606
     

     800-676-8988
     

     spiritofpeoria.com

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Starved Rock, Rock Adventures, Rock State, Rock State Park, Starved Rock Adventures, State Park, Canal Boat

Ideas for a wedding reception using royal blue, silver & white

It's interesting:
"I am quite sure that Linda will want to improve Paul a little because that's what wives do. Above all else I hope she'll teach him to entertain in this style and continue this fine hosting tradition."

If your favorite color is blue, pair it with silver and white to create a memorable wedding reception. Although this color combination is often used for winter weddings because the colors bring to mind the dramatic hues of snow and ice, there are several ways to use blue, silver and white in the venue to create lovely wedding dé-cor.

1. Table Dé-cor

   • Drape royal blue tablecloths over your tables to make a bold color statement and accent the tablecloths with silver or white runners made from organza, tulle or satin. Place the runners in the centers of the tables and allow their edges to hang over the sides of the tables. White plates and napkins with silver decorative accents look stunning when seen against a blue backdrop. Another option is to use a white tablecloth with a two-tone runner- one half of the runner can be blue and the other silver. Blue tablewear and napkins will brighten up white table linens and add a touch of drama.

   Chair Dé-cor

   • Chairs are a crucial element for your reception but can run on the pricey side to rent. A good way to transform an ordinary metal chair is to use a chair cover. Chair covers are often made of satin, cotton, lace or organza. Depending on the look you want, you can incorporate blue, silver and white into your seating. For example, when decorated with silver tulle bows that drape down to the floor, a cotton or silk blue chair cover can give the reception venue a romantic look. To add a touch of elegance and glamor, pair white chair covers with blue and silver silk bows.

   Table Centerpieces

   • There are several ways to incorporate blue, silver and white into your table centerpieces. Place royal blue candles of different lengths on a silver mirror and sprinkle blue flower petals or rhinestones onto the mirror for a glitzy effect. As a variation, place a blue floral wreath or faux pearls around the candle arrangement. Alternatively, hot glue artificial blue flowers such as carnations or roses to a round florist's foam ball. Cut the stems of the flowers until they measure 1 inch in length, and glue the flower heads to the ball, covering it in a spiral pattern. Place these blue floral balls in silver metallic bowls set in the middle of each table or align the floral balls along the runners.

   Balloon Bouquets

   • Balloon bouquets are playful decorations that you can place around the venue's entrance or by a gift table. Use six to eight balloons to create a large balloon bouquet. One option for a balloon bouquet is to accent four royal blue balloons with two white balloons and two silver balloons. For a glitzy touch, use pearlescent balloons in royal blue, medium blue and white and adorn the bouquets with silver curling ribbon. If you prefer, create balloon bouquets in a single color.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: silver white, blue silver, royal blue, blue silver white, with silver, wedding reception, balloon bouquet

Engagement ideas for new york

It's interesting:
"There's something special about a church wedding, but most of us here have to admit that we rarely set foot inside a church these days. In fact ..."

A marriage engagement is a life-changing event. Naturally, you want the proposal to be perfect, providing an ideal atmosphere to present the ring. Luckily, New York City offers a range of creative and romantic ways to propose to your significant other. From hansom-cab rides and helicopter tours to a romantic dinner and rowboating in Central Park, the Big Apple offers several settings to pop the big question.

1. Hansom Cabs and Row Boating in Central Park

   • Central Park's hansom vab rides will make your significant other feel like royalty. The horse-drawn carriages can be commissioned at Central Park South, and the rides take in sights such as the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, Columbus Circle and Fifth Avenue. The closeness of the coach, romantic setting and beauty of the park will provide the perfect backdrop for your proposal. Proposing marriage on a rowboat at the lake in the center of the park is another option. The lake (thecentralparkboathouse.com) is a romantic refuge, surrounded by towering trees, a boathouse and Bethesda Terrace, which features grand staircases and a fountain that attracts street performers, couples and tourists. The boat launch is open until dusk- rowboats are available to rent by the hour.

   Helicopter Tours

   • Asking someone to marry you as you glide above the Manhattan skyline is one of the more exciting ways to propose. Manhattan Sky Helicopter Tours (allnewyorktours.com) hosts 12-minute aerial excursions that provide birds-eye views of Ground Zero, Ellis Island, the Empire State Building and Central Park. Talk to your pilot before takeoff and have him hover over one of the city's top sights while you present the ring. The intimacy of the helicopter and stunning views will create a romantic atmosphere to help seal the deal. Helicopter tours operate daily and run year-round.

   Overnight Getaway

   • The Empire Hotel (empirehotelnyc.com)is a trendy choice in Midtown Manhattan for an overnight engagement getaway. Located steps away from Lincoln Center and Central Park, the boutique property offers a weekend "Romance in New York" package that includes junior suite accommodations and complimentary champagne. Hotel highlights include a full-service spa, rooftop plunge pool and upscale restaurants. During the summer, the private rooftop cabanas are an ideal place to pop the question. The cabanas feature daybeds, iPod docks which can be used to set the mood with romantic tunes and mini-fridges to chill champagne. The open-air atmosphere, views of Central Park and poolside setting combine to produce an elegant place to get engaged.

   Romantic Dinner

   • A romantic dinner is a down-to-earth way to propose. Bryant Park Grill (arkrestaurants.com) is an understated Midtown gem. The restaurant is housed in an elegant glass building with views of Bryant Park and the landmark New York Public Library Building. Bryant Park Grill serves American cuisine and has a seasonal, Parisian-style outdoor patio that is a romantic place to enjoy a meal and get down on one knee. Bateaux New York Dinner Cruise (bateauxnewyork.com) operates three-hour dinner excursions aboard glass-walled luxury yachts. The cruises run year-round and include three-course meals, a live music trio and city views. The "Romance on the River" upgrade is recommended to set up the proposal. The package includes dinner for two, a half-dozen roses, complimentary champagne and souvenir champagne flutes.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Central Park, Bryant Park, Bryant Park Grill, complimentary champagne, Engagement ideas, Engagement ideas york, Helicopter Tours

How to make tres leches cake

make tres leches cake

It's interesting:
"Linda’s been the driving factor when it came to planning this wedding, and Linda, it was perfect! All your hard work paid off, and I must say I’m honoured to be part of the only 5 minutes that you didn’t get to plan!"

Tres leches means "three milks," and refers to the 3 different kinds of milk the cake is soaked in. Tres leches cake is very popular in Latin America, especially in Mexico and Nicaragua. Make one yourself for your next special occasion following these easy steps.

Add this to my Recipe Box.

Things You'll Need

• 13 by 9-inch cake pan
• Fork
• Butter or margarine for greasing the cake pan
• Flour for dusting the cake pan
• Oven
• White cake mix
• 5 eggs
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 2/3 cup cooking oil
• 2 tsp. vanilla
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 1 cup whole milk
• 14 oz. can evaporated milk
• 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup half and half
• 2 cups whipping cream
• 6 Tbsp. sugar
• Rubber spatula for scraping the bowl
• Butter knife
• Platter with raised sides large enough to hold the cake

Instructions

1. • 1

     Grease and flour a 13 by 9-inch cake pan. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

   • 2

     Combine the cake mix, flour, 1 cup sugar, eggs, oil, 1 tsp. vanilla, baking powder and whole milk into a bowl. Blend on medium speed for 1 minute, scrape the bowl and blend on high speed for an additional minute.

   • 3

     Bake the cake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a butter knife inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean.

   • 4

     Cool the cake completely and turn out onto a large platter with raised sides. Poke the cake all over with the fork.

   • 5

     Mix together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and half and half. Gently pour over the cake until it will not absorb any more liquid. You may be left with a third of the liquid mixture, but that is okay.

   • 6

     Allow the cake to chill at least 4 hours in a refrigerator. Overnight is better if possible.

   • 7

     Beat the whipping cream with the sugar and remaining teaspoon of vanilla until it forms peaks. Frost the cake and serve.

Tips &- Warnings

• Garnish the top of the cake with coconut, thinly sliced tropical fruit like mango or papaya or with maraschino cherries if desired.

• For a slightly different flavor, add 1 Tbsp. of rum to the milk mixture before pouring it over the cake.

• Do like they do in the Caribbean and substitute cream of coconut for the condensed milk.

• The "Southern" variation of this cake adds 1/3 cup peach schnapps to the milk mixture, and garnishes the top with sliced peaches.

• Do not refrigerate the milk mixture before pouring it over the cake. It will absorb better at room temperature.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: condensed milk, leches cake, milk mixture, over cake, 9-inch cake, baking powder, baking powder whole

How to address wedding invitations to a lawyer

address wedding invitations to a lawyer

It's interesting:
"This wedding takes place during a week when the web is all astir over ... 4-Feb-201There's nothing like a wedding around Valentine's Day."

When addressing wedding invitations, take into account correctly address people with positions of stature. If one of your guests holds a position in the profession of law, address her name followed by the abbreviation for the word "esquire." The inner envelope should then contain just the individual's name with no title.

Things You'll Need

• Ink pen

Instructions

1. • 1

     Address the inner envelope. If your guest is a lawyer, address the inner envelope using Mr., Miss, Ms. or Mrs. and the guest's last name. The title doesn't have to be included in the inner envelope. Place this envelope inside the outer envelope.

   • 2

     Address the outer envelopes. Once again, use Mr., Miss, Ms. or Mrs. followed by the guest's first and last name and the abbreviation for "esquire," a lawyer's formal title. For example: Mr. John Doe, Esq., or Mr. and Mrs. John Doe, Esq.

   • 3

     Follow the title with the guest's street address, city, state and postal code. Do not use abbreviations.

   • 4

     Seal and mail the envelope with the required amount of postage.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: inner envelope, wedding invitations, address wedding, address wedding invitations, invitations lawyer, last name, wedding invitations lawyer

Christian ideas for wedding receptions

It's interesting:
"A wedding is a time for joy and fun, with friends and family gathered to see the happy couple off as they start their new life. But it is a time, too, when our ..."

Marriage is a sacred sacrament in the Christian religion. A Christian wedding reception will incorporate more spiritual and religious elements than a typical reception. The tone and structure of the reception will be shaped by the denomination the couple belongs to, how strictly they follow the tenants of their religion and what traditions or customs they would like to incorporate. Explanations of the traditions should be provided to help those not associated with the religion understand the meaning behind them.

1. Dancing Substitutions

   • Stricter sects and practitioners of Christianity do not believe in dancing and do not encourage guests to dance at weddings or other celebrations. In lieu of dancing, you will need to find other ways to entertain guests. A heartfelt toast to the couple or an anecdote about the newlyweds or their parents or grandparents will help keep guests engaged. Asking each guest, or one guest from each table, to share a favorite memory about the couple, a thought on love or marriage or an inspiring Bible quote would be meaningful as well. Show a slide show of the newlywed couple growing up, including images of their first Holy Communion and the couple's courtship.

   Poems and Readings

   • Display a framed quote or Bible verse on the placecard table or in another prominent place at the reception. If the quote is short enough, it could also be printed on a banner and displayed on a wall. Choose a Christian-themed quote from the Bible, from the pope or from a renowned advocate of love and peace, integral values in the Christian religion. For example, this quote from Ephesians 5:31 would apply: "For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh." Or this quote from Matthew 19:6: "Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder."

   Decor

   • Use traditional Christian imagery in designing the wedding reception decor. Candles are often used to represent holiness, spirituality and hope in the Christian religion. Place white candles on each table to represent love. Have the bride and groom light the candle on their table together, to symbolize their unity in matrimony. A popular Christian story of the love and protection Jesus offers is called Footprints, and tells a story of Jesus walking beside his follower along the beach, then carrying him when life becomes difficult. Use this story to represent the way married couples must also support each other through good and bad times. Place a decorative tray filled with sand on a table. Before placing it on the table, have the bride and groom step in the sand to make their footprints. Place a framed copy of Footprints beside the sand.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Christian religion, quote from, bride groom, Christian ideas, Christian ideas wedding

Problems of mixed marriages

It's interesting:
"'I used your site to create my wedding speech. I dropped in lots of clever one- liners and it was a great success. This site gave me everything I needed and more.' ..."

Marriage is a compromise at best. However, when you introduce major differences into a marriage such as race, religion or nationality, there are additional problems you may face. Many couples only think about the love they feel for one another until confronted with some of the problems of mixed marriages.

1. History

   • Mixed marriages have taken place since the beginning of time. As people explored and traveled, men would fall in love with local women and either stay or take the women back home with them. Marriages of mixed religions, races or cultures have traditionally met with resistance by either party's family or friends, or by society in general.

     Interracial marriages were illegal in the United States in some states until 1967. Couples were prosecuted and sentenced to jail for marrying other races, as noted in the infamous court case Loving vs. the State of Virginia. This couple consisted of a white man and a black woman who were forced to leave their Virginia home or go to jail. They left until they won their case in the Supreme Court.

   Types

   • When the term "mixed marriage" is used in the United States, it's often associated with interracial marriages, particularly of black and white couples. However, the term also defines the union of two people from different religious faiths or different nationalities.

     The problems of mixed marriages include resistance from family, friends and society, as well as individual ideas and expectations within the relationship. Family members may feel as though the person isn't embracing his culture or religion. They may not understand the other person's culture. Some family members may disown the person altogether. Fathers have commonly disowned their daughters for marrying outside their race or religion.

     Friends may have the same issues as family members, and may react by ending the friendship or degrading their friend or her new spouse.

     Society may be cruel to the couple. Mean, ignorant comments, dirty looks, discrimination and sometimes physical assaults may be perpetrated by strangers who do not understand or approve of mixed marriages.

   Geography

   • Couples who choose to enter into a mixed marriage are not immune from problems anywhere. Although some places, such as large cities in the United States, are generally more accepting, smaller towns and other countries may not be so accepting. Fortunately, tolerance and acceptance is becoming more common as laws change and the percentage of mixed marriages rises every year.

     Other countries have laws that make life nearly impossible for those who marry someone from another country. For example, Indonesia only recognizes the rights of citizens. If an Indonesian woman marries someone of another nationality, their children are considered citizens of the other country, even if the family lives in Indonesia. Upon the death of the husband, the woman will have to pay fees to sponsor her children, or they will be deported to their father's country of origin. If the woman were to die in that same scenario, her husband and children would be left homeless, as they would have no rights to any property in her name. They would also be deported without a sponsor.

   Time Frame

   • People and websites that are opposed to mixed marriages claim divorce rates are much higher than in traditional marriages. However, mixed marriages between races and religions are becoming increasingly popular, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In general, being a part of a mixed marriage is easier now than it was 40 years ago, particularly in the United States. This is due to the civil rights changes the country has undergone. Sadly, not all families or individuals have evolved to the point of accepting mixed marriages, or people of other races or religions for that matter.

   Misconceptions

   • Friends, family and society in general often have misconceptions of the people entering into a mixed marriage and the problems they may face. One common concern is that the person is losing his identity, culture or heritage. It is possible for both the husband and wife of a mixed marriage to accept, understand and embrace their partner's differences while maintaining their own. Partners in a mixed marriage often have to be stronger and more confident within themselves and their partnership than the average couple, due to the additional complications they will likely encounter from family, friends and society.

   Considerations

   • Children are a common concern and source of problems within mixed marriages. Couples with different religious convictions may not agree on which faith to teach their children. The best way to avoid this problem is to discuss it at length before conceiving a child. Although things may change once the child is born, in-depth discussions and compromises can dispel potential problems. Teaching the children both faiths and letting them decide upon adulthood is a compromise many couples make.

     Children born of interracial or multinational couples should be taught the culture and heritage of both parents. Making children choose to identify with only part of their background is a recipe for disaster later in life.

     Society has long used the excuse that opposition to mixed marriages is based on the problems children would have to face because of their parents' decisions. However, many notable children born to interracial or international couples have thrived. These people include renowned golfer Tiger Woods, actress Halle Berry and the 44th president of the United States, Barack Obama.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: mixed marriages, mixed marriage, United States, family friends, family friends society

Etiquette for a wedding shower itinerary

It's interesting:
"Now, I think you'll agree, after seeing the amount of free booze available at this wedding, that it's a good job it's a Bank Holiday this weekend. And if you do ..."

Practical yet fun, a bridal shower is meant to shower an engaged couple with gifts to be used when establishing a home together. Progressively more relaxed, bridal shower etiquette has evolved throughout the years as styles and requirements change. A nice occasion to spend time with the bride, offer advice, and show support, there are still basics of wedding shower etiquette that should be adhered to so as not offend any guests or family members.

1. Organizing the Shower

   • Typically thrown by the maid of honor and/or bridesmaids, someone else can perform the organizational honors after checking with the maid of honor since the privilege lies with her. The bride should be comfortably involved throughout the process via emails and phone calls to ensure her approval of the process. The maid of honor should ask the bride if there is a particular theme she would prefer for the party and seek her advice on any food and drinks to ensure that her favorites are included.

   Guest List

   • It's important to keep in mind that there will be a diverse guest list of friends, family, and co-workers and their interactions should be considered. By tradition, a wedding shower is intended to be a gathering of a small, intimate group of the bride's friends and family. Including wedding party members and the mothers is mandatory. They should be assigned tasks such as running the party games or helping with the removal of gift wrap to help everyone feel like a key part of the day. Only guests invited to the wedding should receive invitations to the shower.

   Scheduling of Shower

   • Based on traditional etiquette, a shower should take place between four and six weeks before the wedding and any time of day is acceptable, but mid-morning or afternoon events are most common. It should be determined if the shower will be a more traditional "girls only" party or a couples party, more commonly referred to as a "Jack and Jill" wedding shower.

   Order of Events

   • An itinerary is a prerequisite. It's important to have a general idea of what activities will occur, and when. There is no set order that a bridal shower should occur, but it's important to note that gift opening should not be the first activity. The bride should talk to all the guests in attendance. Drinks and snacks should be served before the gifts are open, and games also are appropriate. This is out of respect for those who came and shows them that their presence and company are more valuable than the gift they brought. The gift opening segment of the shower can be boring for guests, but door prizes or party favors can lighten the atmosphere.

   Games and Sentiments

   • Games and sentiments are both personalized touches to any wedding shower. Games allow the guests to mingle and serve as an ice breaker at the start of the event so that they are comfortable as the afternoon progresses. The games should not be tacky or uncomfortable for the bride, but kept light and fun for all the guests to enjoy. Verbalized sentiments can bring the focus to the bride in a positive way as guests share advice or words of encouragement about her upcoming nuptials. The maid of honor can record each guests' sentiment for the bride to keep as she embarks on her exciting future of marriage.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: wedding shower, maid honor, bridal shower, bride should, Etiquette wedding, Etiquette wedding shower, friends family

How to do a curly updo hairstyle

do a curly updo hairstyle

It's interesting:
"Charles Dickens said a measure of a woman’s love for her man was the lengths to which she was prepared to go to make him happy. If this holds true, then Linda, you have reached that goal, for Paul is the happiest I have ever seen him."

Whether it is your wedding day, prom or a night out, a curly updo is almost always the way to make you feel that much more beautiful. Here are steps to create a salon masterpiece, without the salon price.

Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

• Curling iron or hot rollers

  Clear pony tail holder

  Hair pins

  Hairspray

  Hand held mirror

Instructions

1. • 1

     Wash, dry, comb and brush out your hair in preparation for the updo. It is helpful to use hair products that are appropriate for your hair type. If you are unsure about what types of products to use on your hair, find websites that sell good quality hair products. Many stylists prefer salon quality hair products to store brands, but it all depends upon your budget and if your scalp is sensitive.

   • 2

     Section out the hair and either curl it with a curling iron, or pin it up with hot rollers. It is usually easier to pull most of your hair up, leaving a 1-inch section at the bottom. This way you can take pieces of the hair that is left down, and curl it with a curling iron, or roll it up with hot rollers. After this bottom section is down, pull down another 1-inch section of hair and repeat the process. By the time you are through, your head needs to be covered with curls or hot rollers.

   • 3

     Take your curled hair and gently pull the hair up into a high pony tail using a pony tail holder. Try to keep from disturbing the curls too much, as the hair could lose some of its curl. Be very gentle and slow about pulling it up. You can use a comb or brush to brush the sides of your head as you pull up your hair. Just don't brush the curls.

   • 4

     Starting at the top middle of the pony tail, grab a strand of curl and pin to your head with hair pins. Continue like this all the way around the pony tail. This is to hide the pony tail, and give you a more polished updo look. Situate the curls around your head and pin them with the hair pins.

   • 5

     Curl any falling hair strands, and finish with hair spray. If you have used many hair pins, you can use a softer hair spray so that your hair has some movement and is more natural looking.

Tips &- Warnings

• If your hair is light brown to blond, use brown hair pins.

  If your hair is medium to dark brown or black, use black hair pins.

• Do not burn yourself using the heating tools.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: your hair, pony tail, hair pins, your head, curly updo, hair products, with hair

How to get a license to be a mobile dj

get a license to be a mobile dj

It's interesting:
"I would like to say that I have a lot of admiration for Linda. She met Paul during his ‘colt’ years, and has dealt with most of his flaws. She’s a beautiful lady, and an even more gorgeous bride. I hope Paul realizes just how lucky he is. But I still don’t know how he got her to say yes because all she seems to say now is “No! Paul, no!”"

A mobile DJ is an individual who works as a DJ part-time or full-time, usually from their own home. Since they don’-t have an office, they usually carry most of their equipment with them and they work from different locations constantly. One night they might be at the hottest club opening before working a birthday party the next day. Before working as a mobile DJ, you’-ll first need to obtain a license by registering as a small business. Read on to learn get a license to be a mobile DJ.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet access

Instructions

1. • 1

     Decide on the type of shows you’-ll be performing and where you’-ll be performing your music shows and working as a DJ. If you’-re working out of individual homes or if you only plan on only doing a few shows a year, you might not need a license. However if you work for a nightclub, you will need a license.

   • 2

     Visit the Small Business License website listed below and look for your state. This website lists all 50 states with information on the small business administration in each state. You’-ll need to find the closest office to you to apply for a license.

   • 3

     Go to your nearest small business administrator and ask about obtaining a license. You can also ask any questions you might have about the process or how much you’-ll need to pay upfront. If you need a tax identification number, you can also apply for one through the office.

   • 4

     Fill out the application using your proper information and being as honest as possible. The administration office will double check any information you give them, so you want to include as much information as possible.

   • 5

     Pay the small fee associated with obtaining a small business license and wait for your information to be mailed to you. Once the license arrives at your home, you can begin your mobile DJ business. You can also do a few shows prior to the license arriving, provided you make less than a specified amount in your state.

Tips &- Warnings

• Not all states require you to have a small business license to operate as a mobile DJ. You’-ll still need to record and document any money you make and pay taxes on that money at the end of the year. Obtaining a small business license can help you pay less taxes than you’-d pay otherwise.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: small business, business license, license mobile, mobile x2019-ll, need license

How to make rice paper feathers for a wedding cake

make rice paper feathers for a wedding cake

It's interesting:
"I would like to say that I have a lot of admiration for Linda. She met Paul during his ‘colt’ years, and has dealt with most of his flaws. She’s a beautiful lady, and an even more gorgeous bride. I hope Paul realizes just how lucky he is. But I still don’t know how he got her to say yes because all she seems to say now is “No! Paul, no!”"

One of the most important facets of planning any wedding is the cake and pastry. Chefs are always striving to come up with something elegant and memorable. Among the many ways to add originality and flair to their creations is by using edible rice paper feathers. This decorative flourish brings a sophistication to any cake style and, with rice paper such a low-maintenance medium to work with, anyone who can draw a simple feather shape and use scissors can easily replicate this unique look.

Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

• Edible rice paper
• White 28 gauge wire
• Piping gel
• Card stock
• Pearl dust
• Teapot
• Felt tip non-toxic pen

Instructions

1. • 1

     Create a feather-shaped template out of the card stock and place the template on a sheet of rice paper.

   • 2

     Trace the shape with the felt tip pen and cut it from the rice paper sheet.

   • 3

     Snip diagonal cuts along both edges of the feather with the scissors. To emulate the look of an actual feather use a pair of scissors with small, slim blades. The tighter and more narrow the incisions are, the closer it will resemble the real thing.

   • 4

     Dip a piece of wire into the clear piping gel, making sure it's been covered thoroughly, then stick it to the rice paper feather. Set aside and let dry for about an hour or two.

   • 5

     Dust the feather with pearl dust to give it a glittering finish, then wave it over steam from the teapot for a brief period of time. Don't keep it in the steam too long or it will damage the feather as this step is used to make the feather wispy.

   • 6

     Repeat the process for multiple feathers to adorn the borders of the cake.

Tips &- Warnings

• Use caution when handling the finished feather as it is very fragile and can break easily.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: rice paper, paper feathers, rice paper feathers, wedding cake, feather with, feathers wedding, feathers wedding cake

How to make return address labels with clip art

make return address labels with clip art

It's interesting:
"Linda is beautiful. She’s intelligent. She’s funny. She can cook like Nigella Lawson and she’s got the patience of a saint. Paul, I can say with my hand on my heart that you’re one of the luckiest men alive. And she writes a cracking Best Man speech as well."

Creating return address labels in Microsoft Word is an incredibly easy task but, for a more professional look and presentation, you may want to venture into the realm of diverse clip art that is available both within Microsoft Office and on the Internet. This article outlines some of the more common methods and techniques for producing return address labels containing clip art. This article is not intended to be a comprehensive guide, but will instead provide the reader with an understanding of the basic means for producing return address labels with clip art.

Things You'll Need

• Microsoft Office (Microsoft Word 2003 or later)
• Return address labels, such as Avery labels
• Printer

Instructions

1. • 1

     Open Microsoft Word and go to Tools, Letters and Mailings, Envelopes and Labels.

   • 2

     Ensure you are on the Envelopes tab and then click within the "Return Address" window. Type the return address you desire to use for your return address labels, then click "Add to Document." If prompted, click "Yes" to save the return address as the default return address.

   • 3

     After step 2, a blank document will be opened, containing the desired return address previously typed in. At this point, you may insert clip art within the document, either "behind" the text (as a background), above the text or below the text.

   • 4

     Go to Insert, Pictures, Clip Art and choose a suitable clip art graphic to use for your return address labels. Keep in mind your actual return address text font color, size, style and the related labels on which you will be printing. In this document, assume the use of a color printer.

   • 5

     Click the "Clip Organizer" link near the lower right-hand portion of the screen. Then, when the Clip Organizer pops up, expand a section appropriate to the type of clip you want for your return address labels (Technology, Computing, in this example).

   • 6

     Within the related clips displayed, click the "drop-down" arrow to the right of the desired clip, then choose "Copy." Now the clip art is in your paste buffer, so close the Clip Art organizer Window by clicking the "X" in the upper right-hand portion of that window. During closing of the clip art window, if prompted, choose "Yes" to save the clip art in your buffer.

   • 7

     Click anywhere on the last line of your return address, then press the "End" key- this will place your cursor at the end of the last line of your address label. Now press "Enter." This will place the cursor one line below your return address. Now press "Ctrl-V," which will paste the clip art just below your return address.

   • 8

     Now resize the clip art to a size appropriate for approximately 2-by-4 inch labels (or labels of your own choosing). Click anywhere on the clip art image to highlight it- then right-click, and choose "Format Picture."

   • 9

     In the "Format" control panel, click the "Size" tab- then change the height to 11 percent (the width will change accordingly, as long as "Lock Aspect Ratio" is checked). (Note: if you uncheck "Lock Aspect Ratio," you may toy around with stretching the clip art image to varying sizes.) Click "OK."

   • 10

     The result after step 9 is a small (re-sized) version of the clip art placed just below your desired return address.

   • 11

     Go back to Tools, Letters and Mailings, Envelopes and Labels, and your graphic now will be displayed as part of your desired return address (unless you used more advanced options such as in step 15 below, in which case the graphic may not show, but it will print with your labels).

   • 12

     Now print your labels as usual. For example, click the "Labels" tab- click "Use return address-" ensure "Full page of same label" is selected- then click "Options."

   • 13

     Choose the appropriate label. This example uses an Avery Standard 2162 Mini-Address label just for demonstration. This label is "one across, three down" (that is, one column, three rows/labels). Choose the 2162 Mini-Address label, then click "OK." As in the previous steps, if prompted, choose "Yes" to the question regarding saving this as the "default return address."

   • 14

     Align and insert your labels in the printer- click "New Document" to ensure the format looks correct. This will create/open a new document with the labels in the chosen label format. If the format is acceptable, then click "Print" (or "File," "Print") and print the label document with clip art onto the labels that you placed in the printer. (Step 15 presents a look at a more advanced clip art label technique.)

   • 15

     For more advanced users: from step 9 above, in the Format Picture control panel, choose the "Size" tab, uncheck "Lock aspect ratio" and "Relative to.." options. Then click the "Layout" tab and choose "Behind Text." Next, click the "Picture" tab and try various options of "Grayscale" or "Washout," along with "Brightness" settings. Click "OK," then resize your clip art to the approximate size of your return address- drag your clip art on top of your return address- position as desired- then follow steps 11 through 14.

Tips &- Warnings

• Keep in mind that, if you are uncertain about the layout of the labels, instead of using expensive labels to do the initial printing, you may also print a label page on less expensive plain paper.

• Please note that different versions of Microsoft Word present the various label options in slightly different locations and with slightly different options---especially with Microsoft Word 2007 and higher.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: return address, address labels, your return, your return address, Microsoft Word, then click, return address labels

How to decorate a kitchen pass through

decorate a kitchen pass through

It's interesting:
"The best man at my own wedding told me that one and it worked - for 15 years anyway, before she left me for someone short, fat and balding, who happened to ..."

The kitchen pass through helps make bringing food and drinks from the kitchen to the dining room or living area a simple process. By eliminating the need to walk around the wall to deliver food to the table, serving a meal becomes an easier task. Decorating the space the right way helps not only enhance the decor in both the kitchen and the adjoining room, but it can also make the area a room focal point.

Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

• Paint and accessories
• Stencils
• Wine racks
• Bottles of wine
• Decorative plate collection
• Table

Instructions

1. • 1

     Use the decorating style that you've featured in the rest of the room as a guide for your decorating choices. For example, if you've selected a Tuscan decorating style, make sure that each item that you use to decorate this area fits that theme in color and style.

   • 2

     Make it an accent wall. Paint the wall in which the pass through appears a different color than the walls surrounding it. This emphasizes the wall, calling attention to the decorative accessories that you've chosen for the area. For example, try a hunter green on the pass through wall and leave the walls around it white or off-white. Paint the area inside the pass through a separate color as well. Finally, if your decorating style calls for textured paint styles, like Venetian plaster, take advantage of this technique in the pass through area. It adds visual interest without becoming overwhelming. (See Resources for a photo example of an accent wall.)

   • 3

     Play up the area with decorative stenciling. Stenciling allows you to bring a different color to places like the corners of the pass through. One place to add stencils is inside the lip of the wall. The lip is the area that shows the exposed cross-section of the wall where it has been cut out.

   • 4

     Adorn the space with wine racks. Since this is a dining area, include some aspect of this in your decorating. Some modern styles of wine racks feature a wrought-iron design with grapes, leaves and other decorative motifs cast into it. Flank each side of the pass through with a decorative wine rack. Fill with bottles of wine with decorative labels.

   • 5

     Hang a decorative plate collection above the top of the pass through. Show off some Blue Willow china or a collection of primitive plates in the Americana style.

   • 6

     Position a decorative table underneath the window, to balance to the area and visually anchor the look. Consider painting the table in one of your room's accent shades to bring in a pop of color. This piece of furniture also has a more utilitarian function- you can place serving dishes, extra plates and other items on it when you're having a dinner party to free up some of your dining table space.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: pass through, decorating style, kitchen pass, kitchen pass through, with decorative