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	<title>Keep Searching &#187; holidays</title>
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		<title>Country Christmas Idea: Milkweek Pod Poinsettia Ornaments</title>
		<link>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/07/country_christmas_idea_milkweek_pod_poinsettia_ornaments/</link>
		<comments>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/07/country_christmas_idea_milkweek_pod_poinsettia_ornaments/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 07 Jul 2010 10:21:03 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[Country Christmas Idea: Milkweek Pod Poinsettia Ornaments plus articles and information on Holidays]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Country Christmas Idea: Milkweek Pod Poinsettia Ornaments</p>
<p>Country Christmas Idea: Milkweed Pod Poinsettia OrnamentsAt first glance, milkweed plants and poinsettias don't seem to have much in common. If you live in an area where milkweed grows wild, however, you can use the dried milkweed pods to make poinsettia ornaments for your Christmas tree. Here's how:1. Collect some dried milkweed pods. In the fall, the milkweed plants have already gone to seed but the dried pods will still be attached to the plant. You will need six "halves" of a milkweed pod for each poinsettia flower that you are going to make.2. After you have collected the milkweed pods and have brought them into the house, put them in a warm spot for a few days or a week to dry out more. This is especially important if it has been rainy and damp outside.3. Glue the milkweed pod halves together side-by-side in a circle so that they look like a flower. A hot glue gun works well for gluing the pods together.4. Decorate your poinsettia flowers with spray paint and glitter, or, if you don't want to spray paint your poinsettias, just use glue and glitter. Mix and match and experiment with colors.5. Glue a loop of string, yarn, twine or ribbon to the back of the poinsettia flower. Once the glue is dry, your ornament is ready to hang on the Christmas tree. You could also give these as gifts - four or six to set, or however many you want to give.About The AuthorLeAnn R. Ralph is a freelance writer in west central Wisconsin. She is the editor of the Wisconsin Regional Writer (the quarterly publication of the Wisconsin Regional Writers' Assoc.) and is the author of the book: Christmas In Dairyland (True Stories From a Wisconsin Farm) (August 2003; trade paperback). Share the view from Rural Route 2 and celebrate Christmas during a simpler time. FREE SHIPPING on autographed copies. Free sample chapters on-line. http://ruralroute2.com; bigpines@ruralroute2.com</p>
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		<title>Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas &#8211; How to Tap in to the Holiday Publicity Bonanza</title>
		<link>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/07/have_yourself_a_merry_little_christmas_-_how_to_tap_in_to_the_holiday_publicity_bonanza/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 07 Jul 2010 08:21:01 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.keep-searching.com/?p=5224</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - How to Tap in to the Holiday Publicity Bonanza plus articles and information on Holidays]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas - How to Tap in to the Holiday Publicity Bonanza</p>
<p>If your product or service can be given as a gift, a publicitywindfall awaits at the end of the year - but you need to startworking in June.  Each December, media outlets cover the newest,the hottest and the most unusual  Holiday gifts.  The reportersassigned to develop these pieces typically depend on two sourcesof information:<br />
1. Phone interviews with local store owners<br />
- and -<br />
2. Press materials that have been sent by publicity seekers.<br />
Let's deal with Point 1.  Here's a cool trick:  In earlyNovember, write a letter to stores and major websites that carryyour product. Remind them that they may be hearing fromjournalists soon about hot gift ideas, and request that theyconsider mentioning your product when that happens.  Point out afew reasons why your product is the newest, coolest, best orwhatever.  Ask the vendor to drop you an e-mail or give you acall if a story results that mentions your product.<br />
Now, on to old-fashioned publicity. When to contact the mediadepends on the publication or program's lead time (how far inadvance of publication or airing the material is developed).Magazines like Woman's Day have a lead time up to six months, soget materials to them now.  Newspapers have a lead time as shortas a week for feature material, so send materials in November. Inbetween are wire services, medium-lead magazines, "in-flight"magazines and others.  To learn the lead time of a particularmedia outlet, call the editorial department. If that doesn'twork, try the advertising department.<br />
What you send should be kept simple -- a press release about yourproduct/service, a pitch letter explaining why it's such a greatgift idea, and, if applicable, a disk with color product photos.See our articles "How to Write a Great Pitch Letter"              http://www.publicityinsider.com/pitch.asp and "How to Write aGreat Press Release" http://www.publicityinsider.com/release.aspfor more details.<br />
As you craft the materials, think about where yourproduct/service fits.  Based on its nature, cost, rarity orusefulness, it may work with a variety of typical Christmas Giftstories such as: Great Stocking Stuffer Ideas, Gifts forTeenagers, Gifts for the Person Who Has It All, Gifts forExecutives, Gifts that Relax, etc.  By suggesting a category foryour product, rather than simply stating "Here's a product thatwould make a nice holiday gift", you're making yourself stand out-- and maybe even giving the journalist an idea for a story anglethat he or she wouldn't have thought about otherwise.  Eitherway, your chances of getting coverage are greatly improved.Bill Stoller, the "Publicity Insider", has spent two decades asone of America's top publicists.  Now, through his website, eZineand subscription newsletter, Free Publicity: The Newsletter forPR-Hungry Businesses http://www.PublicityInsider.com/freepub.asp , he's sharing -- for the very first time -- his secrets of scoringbig publicity.  For free articles, killer publicity tips andmuch, much more, visit Bill's exclusive new site:http://www.publicityInsider.com</p>
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		<title>The Fathers Day Celebration</title>
		<link>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/06/the_fathers_day_celebration/</link>
		<comments>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/06/the_fathers_day_celebration/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jul 2010 12:21:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.keep-searching.com/?p=5108</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Fathers Day Celebration plus articles and information on Holidays]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Fathers Day Celebration</p>
<p>Fathers Day is another reason to celebrate another responsible adult in the family. If some of our media sources would have it though, you would think that there are no real fathers around to celebrate on Fathers Day.Sure there may be many deadbeats who not only have never given a bath, given pep talks to their children or never cooked a meal for their family but there are way, way more good Fathers willing to go that very last mile for their family! But for some very odd reason, it is not publicized like the negatives around fathers.So what can you do to honor the father in your life who's willing to run to the store in the middle of the night for a last minute treat? So what can you do to honor the father who figures out how to pay that unexpected bill? So what can you really do to honor the father who makes sure if it's within his powers to make sure his family has a place to sleep, food to eat and more, honor him and here are some suggestions;Fathers Day - Honor Suggestion!Make every effort possible to have a peaceful family day and for dinner everyone can share with dad why he is so special to them. For example mom, you could lead with "I am glad that the kids have you as a father, we made a great pick." And assist the smaller children - ask them did you enjoy for example playing with dad? And if they say yes, tell them to tell him.Fathers Day - Honor Suggestion!Give him a free day from his life responsibilities and duties by pampering him. Men also need breaks or down time to renew from life! And please don't pitch a fit if he decides he would like to spend the rest of his last few Fathers Day hours with the guys - hopefully respectful hours. Pamper him on this day.Honor all the fathers in your life by letting them know how you feel! Remember this old saying, "action speaks louder than words?" Well, nothing beats words and action with meaning from the heart.Angela Renee really enjoys giving moms the information they need to succeed in every aspect of their life as a woman, as a partner in a relationship, and as a mother. Do you want more tips to help you with every area of your life? Well visit http://www.worlds-best-mothers-guide.com today! Ask us a question, signup for our rss feed and newsletter to never miss out on the information you need again. Go to http://www.worlds-best-mothers-guide.com</p>
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		<title>Inexpensive Christmas Stocking Stuffer Ideas For Kids</title>
		<link>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/06/inexpensive_christmas_stocking_stuffer_ideas_for_kids/</link>
		<comments>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/06/inexpensive_christmas_stocking_stuffer_ideas_for_kids/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jul 2010 08:21:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[Inexpensive Christmas Stocking Stuffer Ideas For Kids plus articles and information on Holidays]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Inexpensive Christmas Stocking Stuffer Ideas For Kids</p>
<p>After all the gifts have been purchased and placed under the tree, that is the time that many remember in a panic that the stockings over the fireplace still need to be stuffed. Holiday budgets have most likely been spent and there isn't a whole lot of extra money available. Even with a limited budget, there are a number of quality stocking stuffer ideas that are both practical and will bring a smile to to faces of the little ones.If you are at a complete loss of what to get, take a trip to your local dollar store and walk the isles. There should be a large selection of goods at a price that is right for you to choose from which should quickly fill up the stockings. In addition, consider the following Christmas stocking stuffer ideas that can have a dual benefit:Batteries: Instead of wrapping up  the batteries with the gift, separate them into stocking stuffers. Since you'd need to purchase them anyway for the toys, they aren't an extra expense. By separating them out, you make a start on your stocking stuffing and the kids will love them because they can start playing any electronic devices they received.School Supplies: Here is another practical stocking stuffer that you'd have to purchase in the future for your kids anyway. You kill two birds with one stone by getting them the school supplies they need and filling up the stocking a little more.Disposable Camera: With all the activity going on during Christmas day, you probably don't have the time to take pictures and document the day. Let your children do it for you. They'll have great fun taking photos from their own unique perspective that will add to any photo album.Art and Craft Supplies: Again, these are supplies that you are likely to need for other activities in the future. Kids love to create and any arts and craft materials make great stocking stuffers. Coloring books, crayons, colored pencils, markers and paints all fit the bill and can be used for other activities long after Christmas is over.Mini Games or Card Games: Travel size editions of their favorite games or card games that can be played in the car are another good stocking stuffer. The kids can play these on their own, but they have the multiple benefit that they can be used in the car to keep the children occupied during any holiday trips you make.Christmas Letter: You might want to consider writing a Christmas letter to your child telling him or her all the fun things you remember from the past year. This doesn't cost any money, can become a lovely Christmas tradition and will be a gift that the child will treasure long after Christmas is over.By taking a little time to consider stocking stuffers, you won't need to spend a lot of money to fill those socks over the fireplace mantle while still bringing smiles to the faces of your children when they peak inside.Jeffrey Strain is owner of http://www.savingadvice.com -- a website dedicated to providing useful money saving tips and articles</p>
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		<title>Thriving Through the Holidays</title>
		<link>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/05/thriving_through_the_holidays/</link>
		<comments>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/05/thriving_through_the_holidays/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 05 Jul 2010 12:21:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[Thriving Through the Holidays plus articles and information on Holidays]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Thriving Through the Holidays</p>
<p>The holidays are upon us; a time of celebration and joy. I love the last days of November through the beginning of the New Year. The pure magic of the holidays is something that I anticipate and enjoy each and every year.For some though, the holidays have lost the joy and excitement they at other times have had. The pace of life has grown so fast - much faster than those first holidays I remember in my life - that some people don't enjoy the times they get to spend with their family and friends during what is supposed to be days filled with joy and peace.Why is that? Probably a lot can be laid at the feet of how fast paced our times are, but that isn't all.I believe our holiday times should be wonderful and filled with lasting and enjoyable moments and memories. So how can we ensure that we come out of the holidays in January with great memories of the past month? Here are six thoughts that will help you experience the holidays the way they were intended to be experienced:1. Be Temperate.<br />
Holidays can be days of excess for many -- too much food, too many cookies and treats. Too much chocolate, schedules that are too busy. One thing that will help you enjoy the holidays is to be temperate. Enjoy the food. Enjoy the treats. Enjoy the busy schedule of activities and parties. But also be disciplined enough to know when to hold back, when to say, "no". When we go overboard we regret it and loose the opportunity to fully experience that moment. But when we enjoy a little and refrain from going too far, then we can enjoy all that little piece of time has to offer.2. Lower Your Expectations.<br />
Much of the frustration people experience from the holidays is from setting their expectations too high. They expect too much from friends or family, and when they don't get what they want, they get frustrated. They expect presents to be perfect and when they aren't, they get frustrated or disappointed. Instead of having huge expectations this holiday season, just take it as it comes and enjoy what you can. And this brings me to my next point.3. Enjoy What You Can and Ignore the Rest.<br />
This holiday season, go with an attitude of knowing that things will be what they will be. You can't control other people or their actions. If a family member pushes the limits of your patience, ignore that and instead focus on how much you can enjoy the time you have with other family members. If things don't go perfectly - which they won't - then enjoy what you can and let the rest slide. You will feel a lot better about life if you can take all things a little easier.4. Stay Out of Debt.<br />
Debt is a killer. It will steal your enjoyment of life. Be sure to stay within your financial boundaries this holiday season. The last thing you want is to start the New Year with a deeper burden financially. Know where you are financially and stay within those limits. You don't have to impress anyone, just buy gifts that you can afford and express your heartfelt feeling in the giving of the gift.5. Take Time for Yourself.<br />
Be sure that no matter how busy you get, that you take time for yourself. Take time to read. Take a long bath if that relaxes you. Take a walk. Spend some time of quiet in front of a fire. Don't rush through the holidays and sap all of your energy. Your mind and body need to be reenergized, so be sure to take time to do so.6. Focus on Your Spiritual Life.<br />
Ultimately, no matter what tradition you come from, the holidays are historically days in which we focus on the spiritual. Men and women are created with a natural draw toward spiritual life. However, our culture today tends to stay away from a focus on the spiritual, and that has even crept into our holidays. Be sure to place an emphasis on building your spiritual life and growing in that area. This will help keep you grounded and able to deal with anything that may come your way.Friends, we are coming to the end of another year. I have enjoyed this year immensely! This time of year is another chance to remember the important truths of life and to enjoy time with dear friends and family.May you experience the very best this holiday season and move into January better than ever!To your success, joy, and peace,<br />
Jim RohnReproduced with permission from Jim Rohn's Weekly E-zine.<br />
Copyright 2005 Jim Rohn International. All rights reserved<br />
worldwide. To subscribe to Jim Rohn's Weekly E-zine, go to<br />
http://Jim-Rohn.InspiresYOU.com</p>
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		<title>Experience Mothers Day In A Whole New Way</title>
		<link>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/05/experience_mothers_day_in_a_whole_new_way/</link>
		<comments>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/05/experience_mothers_day_in_a_whole_new_way/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 05 Jul 2010 07:21:04 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[Experience Mothers Day In A Whole New Way plus articles and information on Holidays]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Experience Mothers Day In A Whole New Way</p>
<p>Mother's Day is the day when sons, daughters and husbands buy gifts and flowers to recognize the incredible work mom has done raising the children. But some moms are unknowingly cheating themselves out of the full experience of Mother's Day. Many moms treat Mother's Day as a completely external experience when Mother's Day could be about so much more than just the well-deserved flowers and gifts.</p>
<p>Just Gifts &amp; Flowers May Not Make Mother's Day Special</p>
<p>All the gifts and flowers in the world will not make Mother's Day special unless you, Mom, are making Mother's Day a truly special day.  Make this Mother's Day a truly special Mother's Day by recapturing that wonderful feeling of anticipation you felt before your child's birth and that incredible feeling of elation you felt when your child was born. Embrace the feelings you felt when you held your baby for the first time. And then reflect upon the special moments you felt as your child developed into the wonderful son or daughter you have today. Do you feel that welling up of emotion when you think about your child in this way? Feels good; doesn't it?</p>
<p>Make This Mother's Day Special by Sharing Your Feelings</p>
<p>Now that you have these special feelings on Mother's Day, share them with your child.  If your child lives too far away to visit, then experience these memories and feelings as you speak with your child on the phone. If your child is close enough to visit, then recapture these feelings while you are with them. Tell your child how you felt as you prepared for their arrival and how you felt on that incredible day when they were born. Then tell your child about the special childhood memories you cherish and why those memories are so special to you. End the conversation by telling your child how much you love who they have become and how they have made your life so much more complete.</p>
<p>This Mother's Day Will Have More Meaning When You Share Your Feelings</p>
<p>By experiencing Mother's Day in this way, you may feel you are doing all the work when this day is supposed to be the day you don't lift a finger. But experiencing Mother's Day in this way will give back far more than you give. You will feel so alive this Mother's Day that the gifts and flowers will have more meaning for you and your children. You will remember what is important in life. You will make this Mother's Day a truly special Mother's Day by experiencing it both inside and out.Lisa Dunning is a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Specializing in Parent/Child Relationship issues and author of "Good Parents Bad Parenting: How To Parent Together When Your Parenting Styles Are Worlds Apart".</p>
<p>Lisa Dunning is a columnist for Las Vegas Family Magazine &amp; Los Angeles Family Magazine and provides expert relationship and parenting advice for television and radio programs throughout the country.</p>
<p>To learn more about Lisa Dunning, her parenting book and other services, visit her website at http://www.LisaDunningMFT.com</p>
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		<title>Giving Thanks</title>
		<link>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/04/giving_thanks/</link>
		<comments>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/04/giving_thanks/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 04 Jul 2010 10:21:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
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		<description><![CDATA[Giving Thanks plus articles and information on Holidays]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Giving Thanks</p>
<p>Can you believe that Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away? What does Thanksgiving mean to you? For many of us it means turkey, dressing, pies and all the other goodies that go along with it. It also means family. But what else does it mean?There is a child's prayer that I used to say when I was little that goes:Thank you for the world so sweet,<br />
Thank you for the food we eat,<br />
Thank you for the birds that sing,<br />
Thank you God for everything.Do you remember that prayer? So simple and yet when a child says it, there is such complete honesty and trust in it, isn't there?We all know that we are supposed to be thankful for the things that God blesses us with. And of course, we are. But sometimes when we are going through through difficult times in our lives, we don't feel very thankful, do we?Psalms 116:17 says, "To Thee I shall offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving,<br />
And call upon the name of the Lord."What does that mean? It means that even in the midst of our fiery trials, we are to give thanks. Tall order sometimes, isn't it?Ephesians 5:18-21 says, "And do not get drunk, with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit<br />
speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord:<br />
always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father:<br />
and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ."So this Thanksgiving, let us remember to give thanks to the Father for all that he has done.Even though at times, things look bleak, know that God is always in control.Sincerely,Ruth A. Rusk<br />
Embracing Your Destiny--------------------------------------------------------------------------------email: ann2196@bellsouth.net</p>
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		<title>Incredibles Kid Birthday Party Idea</title>
		<link>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/04/incredibles_kid_birthday_party_idea/</link>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 04 Jul 2010 09:21:02 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Birthday]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Idea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Incredibles]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Party:]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Incredibles Kid Birthday Party Idea plus articles and information on Holidays]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Incredibles Kid Birthday Party Idea</p>
<p>Mr. Incredible and Elastiwoman to the Rescue.<br />
The Incredibles based on the hit Disney movie has become a favorite fun kid birthday party theme.<br />
The Incredibles Invitations<br />
Have fun creating a "top secret" message as your Incredibles child birthday party theme invitation.<br />
You might say something like this. "Calling all superheros... The Incredibles need your help!"<br />
"You're invited to help Mr. Incredible and Elastiwoman protect our city from the evil villain, "syndrom" at (insert the first and last name of your birthday child)'s birthday party... And we're celebrating with The Incredibles." "The superhero birthday action begins on (date of party)."<br />
"Our superhero birthday party location is top secret and will be known only to our superhero guests... Only by holding this invitation up and facing it toward a mirror will you be able to decode this secret address message."<br />
(Write the address backwards on the invitation so it will appear correctly when held up to a mirror).<br />
"Our superhero birthday party fun begins at (time) and will end at (time)."<br />
"Superhero refreshments will be served."<br />
"All superhero party guests are requested to RSVP using the secret telephone number known only to our invited superhero guests.(phone number)"<br />
"Every party guest wearing an Incredibles costume will be given a special secret party favor."<br />
Have fun and be creative with your invitation. Your guests will quickly get the idea that this party is going to be special. They won't be able to wait for your birthday party!<br />
The Incredibles Decorations<br />
Yellow, red and black are the main colors for The Incredibles.<br />
Get your Incredibles birthday party theme started right.<br />
Decorate with yellow, red and black balloons, and crepe paper... Put "superhero" signs all over the place. Next to your telephone put a sign that reads "telephone for superheros only." On the door to the restroom put up a sign that reads, "Superhero Restroom."<br />
Have fun, be creative, it's an Incredibles superhero party!<br />
On your front door, attach yellow, red and black balloons and a sign that reads "Secret Location, (name of your birthday child)'s Incredibles, superhero birthday party."<br />
Incredibles Birthday Party Theme Costumes<br />
Costumes are a great way to get everyone into your Incredibles birthday party theme.<br />
There are excellent online party stores and costume stores where you'll find a great selection of costumes including The Incredibles...<br />
Or you can try putting together your own costume... Using yellow, red and black as your main colors, put together your own creative version of Mr. Incredible or Elastiwoman.<br />
Say Cheese<br />
Remember your camera, digital camera and video camera... You're going to want to take lots of pictures and video of your birthday child and all their friends in costume. You'll want to remember how everyone looked in their Incredibles birthday party theme costumes.<br />
Get Your Incredibles Party Started Right<br />
You want to start your party as soon as the first guest arrives... Don't sit around waiting for everyone else, start having fun.<br />
Have a large glass or glass jar filled with yellow and red jelly beans and tell each guest to use their superhero X-Ray vision to guess how many jelly beans are in the jar...<br />
Write everyone's name on one piece of paper and put their guess next to their name... Then just before your party ends, announce the superhero guest with the best X-Ray vision. (whoever guessed closest to the actual number of jelly beans in the jar wins.)<br />
And remember to actually count the number of jelly beans you put in the jar before your birthday party begins... Then write the actual number on a piece of paper and put that piece of paper somewhere safe and where you can easily get to it.<br />
The Incredibles Movie And CD Fun<br />
Set your Incredibles birthday party theme right away by having The Incredibles movie DVD or video playing on your TV as your guests arrive. (You can turn the sound down low or off)... You can also surprise your birthday child by announcing that The Incredibles DVD or video is one of their birthday gifts...<br />
For music during your birthday party games and activities, play The Incredibles movie soundtrack CD. This is an excellent way to keep your Incredibles birthday party theme going... You can also make the CD a gift for your birthday child.<br />
The Incredibles Coloring Book<br />
Depending on the age of your group, you can pick up an Incredibles coloring book and some small boxes of crayons... Take pages out of the coloring book and let your party guests choose pages to color... This is also a fairly quiet activity.<br />
The Incredibles Puzzle<br />
Kids love puzzles and what better way for your guests to get to know each other than working on a puzzle together... Having a puzzle that fits your Incredibles birthday party theme is an added bonus.<br />
The Incredibles Superhero Food and Drink<br />
Even The Incredibles superheros need to replentish their energy after a long day of saving the world from the villainous "Syndrom."<br />
Consider these fun superhero foods<br />
How about a "superhero sandwich?" Let each guest build their own (super) hero sandwich... Keep it simple and put fun superhero labels on everything.<br />
"Power Bread"<br />
"More Power Mustard"<br />
"Red Energy Sauce" (ketchup)<br />
"Power Pickles"<br />
"Total Energy Turkey"<br />
"Super-Sauce Mayo"<br />
"Mr. Incredible Celery"<br />
"Elastiwoman Cheese Slices"<br />
"Raw Energy Raisins"<br />
"Power Packed Carrot Sticks"<br />
The Incredibles Superhero Energy Drinks<br />
Try mixing Ginger Ale with cherry ice cream for a colorful superhero drink.<br />
Punch can be re-named "The Incredibles Super Sauce"<br />
For a fun and creative drink project, let your party guests mix three different and colorful Cool Aid drinks and Ginger Ale into their very own superhero drink... Cherry and Lime anyone?<br />
For extra fizz, let them add pop-rocks...<br />
Your Incredibles birthday party theme is going to be a big hit!<br />
For more FREE kid birthday party ideas visit us at:  Fun-Kid-Birthday-Parties.comMike Dougherty "Grandpa Mike" is a television and motion picture writer/producer/director who is now webmaster on Fun-Kid-Birthday-Parties.com and a movie based web site Best-DVD-Movie-Club.com</p>
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		<title>7 Tips on Giving Chocolates to Your Valentine</title>
		<link>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/04/7_tips_on_giving_chocolates_to_your_valentine/</link>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 04 Jul 2010 08:21:16 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[7]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chocolates]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Giving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[on]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tips]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Valentine]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[7 Tips on Giving Chocolates to Your Valentine plus articles and information on Holidays]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>7 Tips on Giving Chocolates to Your Valentine</p>
<p>Every year millions of people exchange chocolates on February 14th for Valentine's Day. This trend has grown very popular in recent times, especially with the rise of quality chocolates (...and the number of chocoholics). Still, even in these modern times there are a few things you need to consider before you run out and grab a chocolate gift.Fresh chocolates are the best to get<br />
Some of the larger chocolate candy makers make their chocolates for the "busy season" (December through February) as early as summer time. That means that some of the packaged chocolates you can purchase are several months old. Also, some of these chocolates are made with added preservatives which allow the chocolates to stay good longer, but can affect the taste.<br />
To get around this it is recommended you buy from a local chocolatier, candy store, or bakery who can produce a fresh chocolate treat for you (or at least one that is only a day or two old). If you are sending your chocolates to someone far away, check to see if there is a good local place that could deliver fresh chocolates for you and lessen the chance of shipping mishaps.Nothing beats a homemade gift<br />
For a more personal touch you can make your own box of chocolates to give to your valentine. Don't worry if you are not a whiz in the kitchen - even if your gift does not turn out perfectly, it will earn extra points because you made it especially for them. There are many books, magazines, and websites to turn to for help and guidance so you do not have to go it alone. This is also a chance for you to personalize the chocolates an make them extra special by adding your valentine's favorite fruits, nuts, liqueurs, flavors, etc. See the Chocolate Truffle recipe below for a good way to make your own homemade gift.The shape of love<br />
While hearts are often a common theme used for shaping chocolates and gift boxes, you can use any shape that would appeal to your valentine, such as flowers. You can be creative with cookie cutters, stencils, or decorator's icing to give your chocolates extra flair, such as drawing a heart, smiley face, or bow on your chocolates. Also consider the different ways you can dress up the gift box with ribbons, flowers, handwritten love poems, etc.Milk chocolate is not the only chocolate out there<br />
While most Americans favor milk chocolates, don't be afraid of using dark chocolate in your gift; for instance, you can do a mixed selection of 1/2 milk chocolate and 1/2 dark chocolate. If you are not sure if your valentine likes dark chocolate you might want to go for the mild and sweet taste of semisweet chocolate. If you want to go for intense chocolate flavor then go with the bittersweet dark chocolate.<br />
Generally, the higher the percentage of cocoa, the more bittersweet the chocolate will taste. If you are using unsweetened or baking chocolate, then you will want to mix it with something else, such as cream and sugar, to help bring down the intensity level.Timing is everything<br />
It is important to give the right amount of time towards your chocolate gift. If you are buying the chocolates you need to get your order in early to help avoid the last-minute rush. Some places have a cut-off date that they will take Valentine orders, especially if shipping or local delivery is involved. If you are making the chocolates you might want to try a practice run to work out any kinks that might come up and to help you get familiar with the recipe.<br />
The odds are good that you will do even better the next time you go through the recipe and you can make any adjustments you think would taste good to your valentine. Make sure you can get the ingredients you need from the store since the holiday rush can often deplete the local supply of chocolate, sugar, and other handy ingredients. If you purchase the chocolate early, store it in a cool, dry, dark place, not the refrigerator.So much chocolate, so little time<br />
There are a wide variety of chocolate gifts you can give: chocolate truffles, bonbons (chocolate shell with a creamy center), cake, brownies, fudge, cookies (chocolate, chocolate chip, chocolate dipped, etc.), chocolate dipped fruit/nuts/pretzels/whatever, and many others that you can purchase or make, so let your imagination run wild.As a final tip, here is a recipe for making Chocolate Truffles to help you get started:Chocolate Truffles</p>
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		<title>Honoring our Fathers</title>
		<link>http://www.keep-searching.com/2010/07/04/honoring_our_fathers/</link>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 04 Jul 2010 08:21:05 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fathers]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[Honoring our Fathers plus articles and information on Holidays]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Honoring our Fathers</p>
<p>This weekend as we celebrate Father's Day, take an opportunity to express gratitude for the many wonderful fathers we see giving their love, support and guidance to our children on a daily basis.Personally, in my own life, I am surrounded by them. From my own father, to my father-in-law, my husband and the many friends I am blessed to have.  I see them at the supermarket, holding their child while attempting to shop; on the street riding their bikes, with their children cautiously proceeding ahead; at the gymnasium, proudly watching their daughter attempt her first cartwheel and at church gently kissing their son on the cheek.Although mothers have typically been the nurturer in our society, fathers have a huge impact on the raising and development of our children. . A son will learn first hand from his father the balance between toughness and tenderness. Daughters look to their fathers for guidance and example on how to be treated by the men they will have in their lives.  Fathers are there to give support and protect their most prized possession?family.In the book, The Wonder Of Fathers, author C.R. Gibson writes?He goes by many names.  He serves many roles.  He's a shoulder to cry on, to lean on, and to climb on.  He can be quiet, boisterous, athletic, or scholarly.  He is his son's first role model and the first man his daughter will love.  And no matter what else he does in his life, fatherhood will be his most important and fulfilling achievement.For those of us who have been blessed to grow up with fathers in our lives, we are aware of the many roles they do play in our lifetime.  They are a teacher from whom you learn many of your most important lessons.  A coach who is always cheering for you no matter how good you are.  Strong arms to pick you up when you fall or hug you for no reason at all.  Fathers let you do things that mothers are to afraid to let you try.  They are the voice of reason when you are attempting to solve one of life's many problems.  They are the voice of support and love when your heart has been just broken and the protector who vows no one will ever break your heart again.This weekend take the opportunity to tell the fathers in your life just how important they are and how you appreciate them.  Say a prayer for those families who do not have their fathers with them for whatever reason. Make Father's Day a time to remember what is really important in this lifetime and when you nurture each other, everyone benefits.Peggy Porter is a nurse, Wellness Coach, and author of YumME MumME Makeover-How to Balance Womanhood and Motherhood by Nurturing the Me in MumMe. If you are a Mom and want to start creating a healthier balance in your life, go to http://www.seekingbalance.ca and register for Peggy's free monthly teleclass and Ecourse!  For more info you can also email peggy@seekingbalance.ca or call 506-832-0117.</p>
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