Forever Trendy

10 Favorite Valentine's Day Hollywood Looks

2006-02-13T16:00:00.000+08:00

If you have a hot Valentine's Day date, you probably know by now what you're going to wear. But what about your makeup and hair? Well, why not try something new? Here are 10 beautiful celebrity looks that would work for any Valentine's Day tryst -- pick your favorite star, and find out how to match her style!

10 Favorite Valentine's Day Hollywood Looks

Dog Breeds

2006-02-10T17:07:00.000+08:00

There is no other species of animal which comes in such an array of shapes, sizes and personalities as the dog. We have included information on 100 breeds, ranging from the world's smallest breed (the Chihuahua) to the tallest (the Irish Wolfhound). Whatever breed of dog you own, purebred or crossbred, it can truly be your best friend.

Awful Plastic Surgery

2006-02-09T09:36:00.000+08:00

Pamela Anderson started out with an awesomely beautiful natural pucker. She has unfortunately given in to pull of lip collagen and now her lips look like they are about to explode. Her top and bottom lips are the same size. Pity, she was once a beauty. Her original lips were much more flattering to her face.

Awful Plastic Surgery

Everything You Need to Know About Taking a Vacation without Your Clothes

2006-02-08T00:11:00.000+08:00

Chris Santilli has visited Hedonism II resort in Jamaica 34 times and written the highly entertaining The Naked Truth About Hedonism II (2nd edition, updated for 2004). In it she uncloaks the myths about this infamous nude resort. Chris recently gave this exclusive interview to Honeymoons/Romantic Getaways from About.

All types -- doctors and lawyers, musicians and artists, secretaries and truck drivers, moms and retirees. Guests are mostly white with 10 percent or so other races. The staff is primarily Black Jamaican. Most guests hail from the United States. At least half the guests are couples. Men outnumber women by at least 2 to 1. Some weeks the ratio seems more like 8 to 1. The average age is early 40s, with themid-range 30 to 55. son — that makes a difference in whether fun is had at Hedo.

Hedonism II Resort - Interview

Tinplate, trains and celluloid toys

2006-02-07T09:01:00.000+08:00

If you want to specialise in collecting toys with a particular theme, tinplate toys offer lots of options. Toy trains have always been popular, of course. Or for a more unusual choice, look out for toys made from celluloid.

Horse-drawn carriages, boats, submarines, cars and even airships are just some of the plethora of tinplate toys made during the late 19th and early 20th century which reflect contemporary developments in transport.

German toy companies led the field in the manufacture of tinplate toys and those made by well-known firms such as Bing, Märklin and Lehmann are famed for their accuracy.

The Bing car at the top of the page is a rear entry Tonneau with a clockwork mechanism, made about 1906. It's especially desirable because the hand-enamelled paintwork is in near-perfect condition. It's worth £5,000 to £8,000.

Märklin toys, such as this spirit-fired torpedo boat, can be identified by their distinctive maker's mark, which in this case is stamped on the boat's rudder. This one would cost between £4,500 and £6,500.

Now, go to check all your old toys!

What's this?

2006-02-06T08:56:00.000+08:00

What's this? Do you see it before? Ah, this is cat funiture, hehe...

Cat furniture

Pork Dumplings-- Chinese New Year delicious food

2006-02-03T12:10:00.000+08:00

Everyone in China knows better than to miss out on the most magnificent feast of the year. Trains, busses and highways are packed with people rushing to get home in time for the luckiest (as well as most fantastically delicious) feast of the year -- a feast that is largely comprised of homonym-inspired dishes. A homonym is a word that is either spelled or sounds the same as another word, but means something entirely different.

Chinese people make many dishes that have names that sound (or use ingredients that sound) like good luck wishes for the coming year. Turnips are cooked, because their name "cai tou" also means "good luck" in some dialects. Fish are served because the word for fish, "yu" sounds similar to the Chinese word for plenty, "yue." The freshwater fish crap is often served, because its name "li," also means "profit."

Finally, another popular Chinese dish is a side of dumplings or pot stickers, which the Chinese call "jiaozi." Dumplings are made not because they are a homonym but because they look similar to ancient Chinese money. In some regions of China, the chef of the house will secretly place a coin in the center of one jiaozi, and so the lucky person who bites into it and finds the coin is guaranteed an especially prosperous year to come!

These tasty treats make a perfect appetizer or you can serve them as a main dish. For a main dish count on about 15 dumplings per person. Serve with hoisin sauce, hot Chinese-style mustard and toasted sesame seeds.

Pork Dumplings

Sexy Feet

2006-02-02T00:04:00.000+08:00

In "The beast and the blonde" by Marina Warner she ascribes feet as the tell tale marks of identity and origin, perhaps through the literal-minded wordplay of the imagination, since they are the lowest part of the body and in touch with the earth as opposed to the heavens. Modern society has become so complex we may have lost touch of the simpler and latent meanings of our ancestry. This is certainly the case when trying to rationalise why feet are considered, erotic. The foot's inherent sexual symbolism has been related to the ancient earth contact association with fertility; the genital forces of reproduction; and with phallic symbolism of the male foot. We remain the only species who can copulate vertically face to face and be supported by our feet. In terms of evolution we were bipedal two million years before we developed the brain we now call our own. Throughout history the attractions of the small foot far outweighed those of their over proportioned relatives. Monstrous feet have always represented malformed, and malodorous appendages totally lacking in utility, charm, or sex appeal. Confucius wrote these matters about 2500 years ago. However the concept of an idealised foot probably has its origins within Judo-Christian belief. In Genisis, we read of God creating man in His own image and likeness. Hence all attempts to capture likeness in early Christian art, were idealised. In the history of western culture the making of art has been construed as an essentially masculine activity, while women have been relegated to the domain of temptress, childbearer and domestic.

Sexy Feet

Windsor Castle

2006-02-01T20:54:00.000+08:00

Windsor Castle is an official residence of The Queen and the largest occupied castle in the world. A Royal home and fortress for over 900 years, the Castle remains a working palace today.

Visitors can walk around the State Apartments, extensive suites of rooms at the heart of the working palace. For part of the year visitors can also see the Semi State rooms, which are some of the most splendid interiors in the castle. They are furnished with treasures from the Royal Collection including paintings by Holbein, Rubens, Van Dyck and Lawrence, fine tapestries and porcelain, sculpture and armour.

Within the Castle complex there are many additional attractions, including the Drawings Gallery, Queen Mary's dolls' house, and the fourteenth-century St. George's Chapel, the burial place of ten sovereigns and setting for many Royal weddings.

Windsor Castle

Madonna buys 3rd house on block

2006-01-31T09:13:00.000+08:00

MADONNA has bought a second house next to her London mansion.

She has forked out £900,000 for the gaff in one of the capital’s smartest addresses so she can move in more staff.

The stunning mews property is at the end of the garden of the Queen Of Pop’s £7.5million Georgian terrace pile.

The singer already owns the mews property next door to the latest addition to her property empire. She lets her manager lives there.

Madge can now lay claim to owning a very considerable slice of Mayfair, London’s most exclusive borough.

The singer, who considers London to be home, lives at the five-storey main house, which is near Oxford Street, with hubby GUY RITCHIE, daughter Lourdes and son Rocco.

It is just round the corner from the home TONY BLAIR and wife CHERIE bought on posh Connaught Square.

Madonna buys 3rd house on block

chinese new year

2006-01-30T11:24:00.000+08:00

Chinese New Year starts with the New Moon on the first day of the new year and ends on the full moon 15 days later. The 15th day of the new year is called the Lantern Festival, which is celebrated at night with lantern displays and children carrying lanterns in a parade.

The Chinese calendar is based on a combination of lunar and solar movements. The lunar cycle is about 29.5 days. In order to "catch up" with the solar calendar the Chinese insert an extra month once every few years (seven years out of a 19-yearcycle). This is the same as adding an extra day on leap year. This is why, according to the solar calendar, the Chinese New Year falls on a different date each year.

New Year's Eve and New Year's Day are celebrated as a family affair, a time of reunion and thanksgiving. The celebration was traditionally highlighted with a religious ceremony given in honor of Heaven and Earth, the gods of the household and the family ancestors.

The sacrifice to the ancestors, the most vital of all the rituals, united the living members with those who had passed away. Departed relatives are remembered with great respect because they were responsible for laying the foundations for the fortune and glory of the family.

The presence of the ancestors is acknowledged on New Year's Eve with a dinner arranged for them at the family banquet table. The spirits of the ancestors, together with the living, celebrate the onset of the New Year as one great community. The communal feast called "surrounding the stove" or weilu. It symbolizes family unity and honors the past and present generations.

chinese new year

Handling Wedding Stress

2006-01-27T09:28:00.000+08:00

Myrna Ruskin is a Certified Stress Management Counselor that specializes in helping brides and grooms deal with and manage stress. She is President of Myrna Ruskin Associates, Inc. in New York City. She has been published in Modern Bride Magazine and a featured speaker at bridal events for companies such as Macy's and Fortunoff.

First, couples have to realize they shouldn't expect "perfection". Expect a "terrific" day and set reasonable expectations. Never forget that the main goal is to get married. Setting expectations that are too high will create stress and lead to frustration, and then more stress. There will be stress, you can count on it. Why? Because there are a lot of decisions to be made, many details to be worked out, and others may want, or try to influence you. That is not bad or wrong, it just requires that you and your fiancé be aware of what is really happening. Try to respond to issues and avoid reacting to things. It will make a big difference.

Handling Wedding Stress

50 Top Honeymoon Vacation Spots - Worldwide Vacations

2006-01-26T23:22:00.000+08:00

Results of Modern Bride's Travel Agent Poll

What are couples' favorite honeymoon destinations worldwide? When Modern Bride magazine published the results of its 2003 travel agent poll, these were the places agents named as tops for couples to go on a vacation or a honeymoon. They appear in order of popularity.

50 Top Honeymoon Vacation Spots

Wedding Shower Games, Ideas for The Bridal Event

2006-01-25T09:37:00.000+08:00

Need games or a theme for the bridal shower or Jack and Jill? In search of games to play at the reception? This site is full of ideas, activities, and inspirations perfect for you!

Try this one: Who Wants To Be The Bride
Here's how the "Millionaire" game can be adapted to your wedding shower. Rather than a million dollars, you offer a mystery gift in a nicely wrapped box. First come up with 15 questions about the bride and the groom that will lead to stories about the future couple. Then, get the correct answers add make up 3 incorrect answers for each question. Before you play, organize the questions from easy to difficult.

When To Play: Before opening gifts everyone is given a pad and paper and the 1st question is read and 4 answers are given, put the answers on a large piece of paper for everyone to see (one page per question). Each guest writes down what they believe the correct answer, should take 15-30 seconds. Now everyone shows the answer answer they selected. Those who answered correctly continue to play. Now the bride-to- be can expand on the question (How did you first meet?) while opening the first gift. The questions continue until there is just one person playing and she receives the gift. Note: 1 question is read before the opening of each gift. The combination of hearing the stories behind the question keeps this part of the shower interesting for all.

Wedding Shower Games

Traditional Wedding Invitations

2006-01-24T12:17:00.000+08:00

Traditional wedding invitations make a statement of elegance and class. If you are having a traditional wedding, the following information can help you to be sure your invitation is impeccable.

The invitation itself should be an oversized soft cream (also called "traditional white") card. A sheet of tissue is laid over the invitation to protect the ink and to lend an air of formality to the wedding invitation. A separate reception card is not required but can be added. An outer and inner envelope are also required.

Wording follows very specific rules, as well. The ink is always black in a formal wedding invitation. The names of the people who are paying for the wedding are on the invitation. If the parents of the bride are paying, their names should appear. If both sets of parents are sponsoring the wedding, all of their names should appear. If the couple is paying for their own wedding, their parents' names should never appear on the invitation.

Wedding Planning

Traditional Wedding Themes

2006-01-23T12:59:00.000+08:00

Are you planning to get marriged in this year? Come to find more details of the Traditional Wedding Themes.

For example,

Princess Theme
Locations: Cathedral, Museum, Ballroom
Colors: Pale Pink, Ivory, White
Flowers: Rose, Orchid, Stephanotis, Gardenia, Camellia
Attire: Opulent Silks & Satins, Pearls, Iridescence
Special Touches: Fine Crystal, Silverware, Elaborate Floral Arrangements, Full Orchestra, Ballroom Dancing, Valet Parking

Christmas Theme
Locations: Church, Home
Colors: Red, Green, Gold, Silver, White, Burgundy, Hunter Green
Flowers: Poinsettia, Evergreen, Holly, Baby's Breath
Attire: Taffeta, Plaid, Velvet Bows
Special Touches: Christmas Tree, Wreaths, Candlelight, Christmas Music

Traditional Wedding Themes

Where dose the Basketball game come from?

2006-01-20T16:06:00.000+08:00

Countless people love basketball game. They watch it, play it, work for it, and share the joy with others. Do you ever wondering that where does basketball game come from? Who is the genius to invent this wonderful game? Here, you can find the answer.

Canadian-born James Naismith, inventor of the game of basketball, was born November 6, 1861 in Almonte, Ontario. He and his three siblings were orphaned when both parents died of typhoid fever in 1871. They lived with their grandmother until she passed away, then moved in with an uncle who had a farm in Bennie's Corners, Ontario.

The popularity of basketball spread very quickly when people know how to play it. Soon it was played in all the YMCA gymnasiums in the eastern United States. Within seven years, the first intercollegiate game was played, in 1897. In 1898, the first Collegiate Association was formed. The National Basketball League (NBL) was formed in 1937. In 1949, a competing league, the Basketball Association of America (BAA), joined the NBL to form the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Ferrari 139

2006-01-19T09:59:00.000+08:00

The car is known internally at Ferrari as F139. Other names bandied about were Imola, F600 Imola, Maranello and Testarossa.

The 599 GTB aluminum body sits on a shortened version of the extruded aluminum space-frame architecture used on the 612 Scaglietti. The 599’s two doors are significantly shorter than those on the 612. This brings the wheelbase down to 110 inches, but the overall width remains close to the 612’s.

Weighing under 4000 pounds, the 599 GTB is set to leave the 4056-pound Scaglietti and the 4341-pound 575M in the dust.

At its heart is the latest incarnation of the F133F V12 engine used in the 612 Scaglietti. Where the 612 naming is liberal in its claim to a 6.0-liter (it is just 5748 cc), the 599 will have 1 cc greater capacity than the Enzo’s 5998 cc. Both the 575M Maranello and 612 Scaglietti manage 434 lb-ft of torque. The 599 GTB’s torque will rise to 460 lb-ft and be available lower in the revs, starting near 2000 rpm and rushing clear up to 6000 rpm.

Hence, all-important 0-to-60-mph bragging rights will give the 599 with updated F1 sequential shifting a 3.7-second result, keeping it even with the upcoming Porsche 997 911 Turbo, also to be introduced at Geneva. Compare this to the 4.2-second time on the 575M and 612, and the message is clear: The 599 will be a much more adept track car.

Globe Awards Nominations and Winners

2006-01-18T11:10:00.000+08:00

The Golden Globes is the only awards show today that combines the intimacy and spontaneity of a party for several hundred of film and TV's finest with the drama and anticipation of a live, worldwide-televised event.

Stars, journalists and guests freely mingle during the telecast with no designated 'seat-fillers,' lending the show an air of informality and casual elegance where anything can happen — and most often does. Winners good-naturedly moon the crowd (Jack Nicholson in 1999), have to be rousted out of the bathroom (Christine Lahti in 1998), or give their award away (Ving Rhames giving his statuette to his idol Jack Lemmon in 1998). But amid all the frivolity and good times, the awards have steadily grown in stature from their humble inception, today commanding a worldwide television audience of 250.000.000.

Globe Awards Nominations and Winners

History of the Geisha

2006-01-17T01:02:00.000+08:00

Whilst geisha are relatively modern in their emergence, dating back to the early 1700’s, “geisha-type” women have existed since the earliest history of Japan. Two notable predecessors to geisha were the Saburuko, who came onto the scene at the end of the seventh century, and the Shirabyoshi, who emerged during the late Heian – early Kamakura period (1185-1333AD).

Saburuko, (ones who serve), were the result of an increasing social displacement towards the end of the seventh century. Many women found themselves having to become wanderers, who, in order to survive, had to resort to trading their sexual favours. Whilst most of these women were from the lower class, there were among them women who were quite educated and talented. These particular Saburuko who were talented dancers and singers often found themselves invited to entertain at aristocratic gatherings.

Shirabyoshi (who adopted their name from the dance that they performed) appeared at a time when the social structure in Japan was starting to break down. The changing fortunes of many aristocratic families had resulted in the daughters of these families becoming Shirabyoshi in order to survive. These women, who were often highly educated, soon became valued for their dancing and poetic talent. They were supported by many upper class families – including the famous aristocratic families of the Fujiwara and Taira, and in some cases even gave birth to noble children.

History of the Geisha

Qipao / Cheongsam

2006-01-16T16:27:00.000+08:00

The cheongsam is a female dress with distinctive Chinese features and enjoys a growing popularity in the international world of high fashion.

The name "cheongsam," meaning simply "long dress," entered the English vocabulary from the dialect of China's Guangdong Province (Cantonese). In other parts of the country including Beijing, however, it is known as "qipao", which has a history behind it.

When the early Manchu rulers came to China proper, they organized certain people, mainly Manchus, into "banners" (qi) and called them "banner people" (qiren), which then became loosely the name of all Manchus. The Manchu women wore normally a one-piece dress which, likewise, came to be called "qipao" or "banner dress." Although the 1911 Revolution toppled the rule of the Qing (Manchu) Dynasty, the female dress survived the political change and, with later improvements, has become the traditional dress for Chinese women.

Qipao / Cheongsam

American Idol

2006-01-13T11:16:00.000+08:00

The hottest TV show--American Idol which will show after 4 more days!!! Excited!!!

The excitement is building! In less than a week, the much-anticipated fifth season of American Idol premieres with some of the best (and worst) singers you’ve ever heard or seen.

Tens of thousands auditioned in seven cites across America, vying for the chance to follow in the footsteps of Carrie, Fantasia, Ruben and Kelly! Idolonfox.com was there every step of the way to interview these aspiring Idols and snap thousands of pictures!

Who’s going to make it to the Final 24? Or the Final 12? Who’s the next American Idol? Don’t miss a note! The Season Premiere is this Tuesday and Wednesday 8/7c.

Are you the next Idol? Good luck!

The Most Expensive Watch

2006-01-12T17:07:00.000+08:00

NEW YORK - In December 1999, one of the most complicated watches ever made became the most expensive watch ever sold when it was hammered down for $11 million at Sotheby's.

The gold pocket watch, which featured 24 complications, was the result of a long-standing competition between two magnates of America's Gilded Age. New York financier Henry Graves Jr. and Ohio automobile engineer James Ward Packard vied with one another to own a timepiece with the greatest possible number of complications. (Complications are mechanical functions of the watch other than the hours, minutes and seconds.) Packard commissioned 13 complicated watches from Patek Philippe between 1900 and 1927. They included a perpetual calendar with phases and age of the moon, indication of sunrise and sunset, and a celestial chart depicting the constellations of stars in the sky over Packard's home in Ohio.

The Most Expensive Watch

Tom Cruise voted most Annoying Star

2006-01-11T14:05:00.000+08:00

Hollywood star Tom Cruise has been voted the most annoying person of 2005, only a week after he was named most irritating in a British magazine poll.

Website AmIAnnoying.com compiles an annual chart from celebrities and groups, and found the majority of 10 million online voters couldn't stand Cruise, following his high-profile relationship with Katie Holmes.

Last week, "the War of the Worlds" star was voted most irritating by 10,000 readers of British magazine Empire, for his testy interview with Matt Lauer on NBC's "Today" show, and his constant expressions of love for his fiancee.

Find more from the list of 'Top 10 most annoying star of 2005'.

The New Sony Reader at CES

2006-01-10T08:12:00.000+08:00

We checked out the new "Sony Portable Reader System" at the Sony booth on the CES floor. Due for release later this spring, the new PRS-500 from Sony promises to simulate more of a "real book" reading experience and more. Tablet PC's, notebook computers and PDA's all make for good devices to read ebooks. However Sony has created the new "Sony Reader" to fill a gap in the experience that may need to be filled.

So just what is it that makes this device extra suitable for reading ebooks? For starters Sony claims that the Sony Reader uses "electronic paper technology" in the unit display. The idea is that the text and content appears just the way it would look in a paper book. Additionally, Sony is boasting that this display allows for light to enter and effect the "pages" just the way it would in a real book. The display is designed to work perfectly indoors and outdoors allowing the user to enjoy reading just as if the text and images were printed on paper.

The New Sony Reader at CES

Interview with Jennifer Saginor, Author of Playground

2006-01-09T15:01:00.000+08:00

Jennifer Saginor grew up with unlimited gumballs, homemade cookies, pool parties everyday, no homework and no bedtime. Sounds like a fantasy land for children, except for the drugs, half naked playmates and Hugh Hefner.

Jennifer's revealing and unbelievable story is documented in her new biography, Playground. Her story is definitely not your average biography; in one case she discusses having witnessed her very intelligent father turn into a syringe bearing maniac, carrying around an UZI, paranoid the mafia was after his pounds of cocaine, which she discovered hidden in the bathroom. Her fantasy land had quickly turned into a nightmare that no one could save her from.

Today Jennifer hosts high stakes poker games in upscale cigar bars in Beverly Hills with Ben Affleck, Matt Damon, Leonardo Dicaprio and Tobey Maguire to name a few. By night she ventures off into places she feels more at home, like nightclubs and after hour's bars.

Interview with Jennifer Saginor

The World's Most Famous Diamonds

2006-01-06T13:24:00.000+08:00

Carat weight is the most deciding factor as to the value of a diamond. A well cut diamond of SI 1 clarity and a weight of 4.00 carats would be worth alot more than one of the same clarity, but weighting 1.60 carats and VS2 clarity.

The largest faceted diamond in the world is the Golden Jubilee, weighing 545.67 carats. It is a Fancy Brownish-Yellow color and "fire rose cushion cut." It is unusual also because it has a certain type of rare color banding. The second largest faceted diamond in the world is the Star of Africa, also known as the Cullinan I. It weighs 530.20 carats and is a pear shape with 74 facets. The third largest diamond in the world is the Incomparable. It is a golden yellow-orange color, pear shaped, and weighs 407 carats. The fourth largest faceted diamond in the world is the Cullinan II. It was cut from the same stone as the Star of Africa - aka Cullinan I. It weighs 317.40 carats and is a cushion cut.

Up until 2001, the most valuable diamond (price-per-carat) was the 0.95-carat fancy red Hancock Red that had been sold at auction at Christies, NYC, for $880,000 ($926,315 per-carat). The stone was apparently purchased by a buyer representing the Sultan of Brunei, who reputedly has one of the largest collections of fancy colored diamonds in the world.

British Vogue Fashion Shows

2006-01-05T21:15:00.000+08:00

THE SHOWS ARE COMING... It's only just 2006, but the world's designers are preparing to show off all their latest menswear, couture and womenswear collections. See the new season's schedule, plus all the latest show photos and video.

Dates for Your Diary

AUTUMN/WINTER 2006-7 READY-TO-WEAR MENS

MILAN: January 15-19 2006
PARIS: January 27-31 2006

SPRING/SUMMER 2006 hAUTE COUTURE

PARIS: January 23-25 2006

Keep watching closely!

British Vogue Fashion Shows

Johnny Depp: Johnny Depp most popular star

2006-01-04T21:57:00.000+08:00

Johnny Depp has been voted the most popular star in Hollywood for the second year running.

The heartthrob actor beat celebrities like Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie to take the top spot in the poll, conducted by website imdb.com - the International Movie Database

The website revealed the handsome 42-year-old was more searched for than any other star in 2005 - including Jennifer Aniston and Tom Cruise, who were frequently in the news over the last 12 months.

Johnny Depp: Johnny Depp most popular star

Who designed this ride?

2006-01-03T17:52:00.000+08:00

Hi, Happy New Year to everyone! Time is flying fast which makes us more stress to catch the deadline of the work. Right now, we should be more relax and happier at the beginning of the 2006. Well, come to visit this website that full of funny movies, flash videos and picutures. It' s worth your smiles.

May your heart be open to all the joys in 2006!!

Who designed this ride?

Boost Your Bench

2006-01-02T11:53:00.000+08:00

Variety keeps your workouts fresh, but there are limits. If you try the reverse Canadian windmill extension before you've mastered the basics, you'll end up kissing the mat. That's why we asked Houston-based personal trainer Carter Hays, C.S.C.S., to develop a series of 6-week workout progressions. Each will take you from traditional, simple exercises to more advanced--and more rewarding--moves. The result: You'll beat boredom and improve as a lifter. With weight exercises, use an amount of weight that allows you to complete the sets with perfect form. Starting in week 2, you'll do two exercises. Do these routines once or twice a week.

Boost Your Bench

High-tech, feel-good brands to rule

2005-12-30T22:04:00.000+08:00

High-tech and feel-good brands will stay hot in 2006, but Britney Spears will not, according to the results of a consumer survey released yesterday that rates brands and celebrities in the news.

The list of image winners and losers shows that Madison Avenue marketing cannot trump free publicity -- good or bad -- according to marketing firms Landor Associates and Penn Schoen & Berland. Their second-annual Newsmaker Brands survey asked 1,744 adult consumers to rank 61 of the year's biggest products and celebrities on their performance in 2005 and prospects in the year ahead.

The biggest category on the rise was technology, with Google, eBay, Amazon, Yahoo, iPod and digital video recorders among the top 10 predicted winners in the new year. Google tops the forecast for next year, after finishing this year behind iPod, which is forecast as No. 5 next year.

High-tech, feel-good brands to rule

Ancient Calendars

2005-12-29T15:11:00.000+08:00

Celestial bodies—the sun, moon, planets, and stars—have provided us a reference for measuring the passage of time throughout our existence. Ancient civilizations relied upon the apparent motion of these bodies through the sky to determine seasons, months, and years.

The earliest Egyptian calendar was based on the moon's cycles, but later the Egyptians realized that the “Dog Star” in Canis Major, which we call Sirius, rose next to the sun every 365 days, about when the annual inundation of the Nile began. Based on this knowledge, they devised a 365-day calendar that seems to have begun in 4236 B.C., the earliest recorded year in history.

Ancient Calendars

Frantisek Drtikol, Photographing the Nude

2005-12-28T15:37:00.000+08:00

Frantisek Drtikol, born in 1883 in Pribram, Czechoslovakia, Drtikol died in Prague in 1961.

He served as an apprentice at a portrait studio in Pribram before attending (1901-1903) the Munich Lehr- und Versuchsanstalt fur Photographie, a teaching and research institute for photography in Munich. Here he worked under the tutelage of G. H. Emmerich and Hans Spurl.

It was the experimental work of Frantisek Drtikol and other modernist photographers that brought the female nude into the realm of photography. By the 1930's, Drtikol's work clearly reflected the signs of a new age, as makeshift backdrops and harsh spotlighting, gave way to a sleek, more decorative style.

'PC-BOTS' Give New Meaning to “Mobile” Computing

2005-12-27T14:05:00.000+08:00

White Box Robotics has teamed with VIA Technologies, Inc. to create and define an entirely new industry called PC-BOTS.

These robots are powered by an industry standard VIA Mini-ITX mainboard. This mainboard along with other hardware such as hard drives, CD-Burners, DVD drives, web cams, etc., are then installed in the White Box Robotics 912 mobile platform. The end result is an amazingly high-tech, functional mobile robot.

They can do anything a PC can do, plus patrol your house for intruders, run errands, and allow you to check on your house while away from home. You see what the robots sees via a remote internet connection.

'PC-BOTS' Give New Meaning to “Mobile” Computing

Slim cell phones Review

2005-12-26T22:28:00.000+08:00

Despite all the tricked-out camera phones and smart phones out there, the hottest cell phone category in 2005 has been the superskinny cell phone. It's probably because people just don't like being bogged down by a bulky phone, which is often the case with feature-loaded smart phones. Slim phones also tend to look more fashionable, and our selections here definitely fit the bill. At a razor-thin 0.5 inch, the Motorola Razr V3 made headlines as one of the slimmest phones this year.

Slim cell phones

Ziyi Zhang on becoming a geisha

2005-12-24T12:46:00.000+08:00

Ziyi Zhang didn't speak any English when she made her American movie debut five years ago in Rush Hour 2. Now dubbed "China's gift to Hollywood" by Time magazine, this Beijing-born actress, 26, is crossing cultural lines.

Some say she will earn a best-actress Oscar nod for her role as a legendary geisha, Sayuri, in Memoirs of a Geisha, the big-screen adaptation of Arthur Golden's best-selling novel about the life of a traditional Japanese entertainer. Now, find more details from the interview.

Ziyi Zhang on becoming a geisha

Jessica Simpson to Save James Bond?

2005-12-23T17:35:00.000+08:00

James Bond is having a lot of trouble rounding up a babe to play Bond girl Vesper Lynd. The easy answer according to one published report from the UK is American blonde bombshell, Jessica Simpson.

Sure it’s a bit speculative but it might work.

The UK Sun reportedly dishes the rumor that the Dukes of Hazzard star may cut a deal to appear in the film.

Jessica Simpson to Save James Bond?

Elton John: 'I do! I do!'

2005-12-22T18:33:00.000+08:00

WINDSOR, Great Britain -- Britain's showbiz royalty, Elton John and David Furnish, exchanged vows and diamond wedding bands during a ceremony that capped the first week of legalized civil unions in the United Kingdom.

Opting to use the 17th century Town Hall where Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles got married in April, John and Furnish sealed their union with a kiss before facing hundreds of photographers and fans on the cobbled streets outside.

John, 58, and Furnish, 43, were among hundreds of same-sex couples tying the knot in England and Wales on Wednesday, the first day such ceremonies were possible. Others wed earlier this week in Northern Ireland and Scotland.

Elton John: 'I do! I do!'

Yoga may soothe chronic back pain

2005-12-21T00:00:00.000+08:00

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) -- People plagued by chronic lower backaches may find some relief in yoga class, researchers reported Monday.

It's possible that yoga's benefits for both the body and mind explain the effects on lower back pain, the study's lead author, Dr. Karen J. Sherman, told Reuters Health.

Yoga may soothe chronic back pain

Tom Cruise Buys Katie Holmes Birthday Toys

2005-12-20T15:30:00.000+08:00

Actor Tom Cruise offered his pregnant fiancée, Katie Holmes a special birthday celebration. The Hollywood hunk took Katie out to dinner, ice skating and toy shopping

Cruise, who does not allow Holmes to drive or go to the bathroom by herself now that she is pregnant, bought her a gasoline-powered Audi Cabrio that she can drive on the grounds of their estate. The $16,000 miniature car has an all-weather fiberglass body, rack-and-pinion steering, four-wheel disk brakes, and working horn, headlights, taillights, and turn signals. Its top speed is a maternity-safe 13 mph.

Tom Cruise Buys Katie Holmes Birthday Toys.

New Beetle - Compare

2005-12-19T01:44:00.000+08:00

See how your favorite Volkswagen stacks up in a side-by-side comparison. The VW enlisted Autodata, a leading provider of objective auto information, to make the analysis.

You can match up your Volkswagen to another VW or to one of our competitors. It’s pretty simple – just three steps, and you’ll have your comparison results in front of you.

Drive in a stylish, comfortable and safe way.

New Beetle - Compare

Paris Hilton tops PETA's worst-dressed list

2005-12-16T16:18:00.000+08:00

Paris Hilton has been named and shamed as America's worst dressed celebrity.

Animal rights group PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) said the hotel heiress deserved the award for her fur coats.

“Now we know what happens to all of Paris Hilton’s cast-off pets,” the animal-rights group quips of the fur-wearing, partying heiress in its annual worst-dressed list.

Paris Hilton tops PETA's worst-dressed list

Mazda Kabura Sports Concept to Debut at NAIAS

2005-12-15T01:34:00.000+08:00

COOL! Mazda Kabura, a compact sports coupe, is a concept car designed at Mazda’s design center in California. Kabura is the third design concept vehicle from Mazda following Mazda SASSOU (designed at Mazda’s European Design Center) and Mazda SENKU (designed at Mazda’s Yokohama R&D Center near Tokyo), each reflecting the global influences that Mazda chief designers can draw from.

Mazda Kabura Sports Concept to Debut at NAIAS

King Kong Island Home Is Pure Fantasy

2005-12-14T14:36:00.000+08:00

The massive star of the new movie King Kong, which opens today, effectively apes real gorillas. But the bizarre assortment of wildlife on the creature's island home seems to be from out of this world.

As seen in the remake of the 1933 film classic, Skull Island is supposed to lie somewhere in the Indian Ocean.

In the island's jungles roam a wide array of dinosaurs, including Tyrannosaurus rex; aggressive, 3-foot (90-centimeter) cockroaches; bloodthirsty car-size crabs. It's a world that violates most of modern science's evolutionary rules.

King Kong Island Home Is Pure Fantasy

Chocolate Recipes

2005-12-13T14:52:00.000+08:00

With coming Christmas patries, picnics, graduation parties, and backyard barbecues you want desserts that will be easy to eat and stand up to the heat! Try some of delicious recipes for bars like chocolate rice krispy treats or seven layer bars! Cookies are always a hit and travel well for those long distance family reunions. Or how about cupcakes like these easy Chocolate Cherry Cupcakes.

Chocolate Recipes

Top 99 Most Desirable Women

2005-12-12T14:55:00.000+08:00

What is the "Top 99" list?

The Top 99 Most Desirable Women is an annual list compiled by AskMen.com that ranks the year's most alluring females, based on votes cast by readers and staff and taking into account a number of criteria. Physical appeal alone does not secure a spot in the Top 99; the women on the list are there because they possess a combination of looks, intelligence and personality that set them apart. Guess, who are the most attractive women in 2005?

Top 99 Most Desirable Women

Free Daily Download-- All About Jazz!

2005-12-09T23:36:00.000+08:00

Absolutely cool! All About Jazz has been providing a free daily download for nearly two months! They're committed to offering an eclectic mix of tunes spanning all genres of jazz, and the feedback about this new free offering has been fantastic. As with most new ventures, the AAJ Download Center started slowly, but it's picking up steam quickly. They created a Top 50 Downloads of all time page, and the top five are all closing in on 1,000 downloads each.

Listen now....

AAJ's Year in Review 2005

Holiday Meal Makeovers

2005-12-08T16:56:00.000+08:00

We simply can't get away from the smells, tastes and, yes, cravings of the holidays. The scent of pine trees reminds me of steamy hot chocolate enjoyed after a hike through the woods with my family in search of the perfect Christmas tree. And who can truly enjoy hot chocolate without cookies to go with it?

Recent research showed that depriving college students of a favorite food ‑- chocolate, of course ‑- caused cravings only in those students who described themselves as restrained eaters. Since most of us try to decrease portions, avoid "forbidden" foods and search constantly for a method that helps us lose those last five pounds, we're probably all restrained eaters.

Holiday Meal Makeovers

Madonna

2005-12-07T01:27:00.000+08:00

Have you ever wanted to share a bottle of wine with Madonna? Delicious & flavorful bottles of Cabarnet Sauvignon, Barbera, Pinot Grigio, and UnWine are now available with Madonna's artwork to commemorate the amazing success of her latest album, Confessions on a Dance floor. This is a great time to be a Madonna fan! Celebrate with a bottle of Madonna wine.

Madonna

Victorias Secret

2005-12-06T00:15:00.000+08:00

THE VICTORIA'S SECRET FASHION SHOW, featuring some of the world's leading supermodels, will mark the final "Victoria's Secret Fashion Show" appearance for Tyra Banks and the first post-pregnancy runway appearance for Heidi Klum. Alongside supermodels Gisele Bundchen and Adriana Lima, the show will introduce the next generation of Victoria's Secret "Angels," including new sensations Selita Ebanks and Izabel Goulart, who will be making their fashion show debut.

In addition, Ricky Martin will perform his new hit single "Drop It On Me," from his new album Life. Seal will perform the hit songs "Love's Divine" and "Crazy," singing to his wife, model Heidi Klum. Trumpeter Chris Botti will open the fashion spectacular with a jazz rendition of "Embraceable You."

Victorias Secret

Modern Art Movements

2005-12-05T01:49:00.000+08:00

Art is beautiful, creative, passion, and human life. With the beginning of the Industrial Revolution in the second half of the 19th century, new art styles and movements appeared and disappeared at an increasingly fast pace - thus reflecting the growing rate of changes in our society. Here is a short overview on important modern art movements from Impressionism to Op Art.

Modern Art Movements

Fashion Styles city fashion dresses

2005-12-02T00:48:00.000+08:00

Fashion Trends Fall Winter 2005/2006

Neutral shades with vibrant graphic prints, geeks, and jet-set whites
As fall leads into a wintery fashion season, the runway trends for early 2006 incorporate a somewhat restrained color palatte as befitting the season. Neutral shades range from light bone to rose hued nudes.

Check it out, stay in trends but in your own style.

Fashion Styles city fashion dresses

Embedding Photos in Candles

2005-12-01T21:20:00.000+08:00

Need a last minute gift? A delightful, but easy to make, housewarming present? Try a handmade candle with your love ones' photo.

Embedding photos in candles isn’t as challenging as it might seem. If you’d like to share keepsake photos in a unique and charming way, this is a great way to do it. The largest obstacle in embedding photos in candles is probably getting the photos close enough to the surface so that you may clearly see what is depicted.

Put in a Christmas container to suprise the love ones, and you'll have a sure-fire holiday hit.

Embedding Photos in Candles

Cool! Down but not out for Mid Winter Panfish

2005-11-30T19:31:00.000+08:00

If you can find them you can catch them, plain and simple. Mid winter sunfish and crappies will usually bite as long as your bait is in the right neighborhood, and location then really is the "final answer" to hooking up with a nice bunch of panfish.

One of the hottest mid winter patterns to set up is no where near anything you might consider "classic" (at least when compared to open water), and could be as a basic as the middle of the lake. Basin areas in smaller lakes and flat areas in deeper bays off of bigger lakes is what we’re talking about, and will depend on what’s available.

FishingWorld

Slimming? It's easy peasy - Health

2005-11-29T00:15:00.000+08:00

The seven day GL diet: lose weight in time for Christmas the healthy way. In this extract from Nigel Denby's diet book, we show you how
What is the ultimate diet? It’s a claim that is so often made. I believe it should be based on sound scientific evidence, be easy to follow, safe to use and it should work! My choice is the glycaemic load (GL) diet and this extract from my book The 7-Day GL Diet will help you to lose a few pounds for Christmas if you follow it for a week. It doesn’t have to be a short-term quick fix — it can be a way of life.

It is not harms to have a try.

Slimming? It's easy peasy - Health

Beautiful Hairstyles for Women: Celebrity Hairstyles Pictures: 2006 Haircuts

2005-11-28T18:56:00.000+08:00

Beautiful Hairstyles for Women
Celebrity Hairstyles Pictures

"The hair is the richest ornament of women."

You can easily find your makeover idea from this site by browse through pictures of 2006 Haircuts, Wedding, Bridal, Formal, Trendy, Cute Popular Modern Prom Hairdos, Short Hair Styles Photos, Hair Magazines Movie Hairdo Pics, Polls, Curly, Homecoming, Updo, 2005 hair.

Beautiful Hairstyles for Women: Celebrity Hairstyles Pictures: 2006 Haircuts.

the guide to all things chic

2005-11-25T00:29:00.000+08:00

You can simplely find most of kinds of fasion, luxe, shopping, art, and work from famous disigners all over the world.

Love yourself and the one who loves you...

the guide to all things chic

Hotspots for winter holidays

2005-11-24T22:47:00.000+08:00

With less than a month to go until the winter vacations, excited travellers of the steel city have a reason to cheer.

Rather than being confined to the environs of Jamshedpur to welcome the New Year, many holiday revellers prefer to usher in 2006 outside the steel city.

While Goa is once again the favourite destination, Rajasthan and Kerala are not far behind.

Tour operators in Jamshedpur have their hands full with many educational institutions, groups and individuals making their bookings well in advance.

The Telegraph

Britney's Baby Covered

2005-11-23T15:11:00.000+08:00

Britney Spears' firstborn makes his debut in photos in the new issue of People, due out Friday. The newborn shares his first national publicity with mother Spears, who doesn't necessarily need the exposure, and father Kevin Federline, who's apparently going to need all the help he can get on the rap promotion front.

The cover shot shows the baby--that would be Sean Preston--snuggled in a blue-and-white blanket, and clutched tightly by a smiling Spears, while Federline, as is his way, looks on.

Britney's Baby Covered

A Dirrty Wedding--Christina Aguilera

2005-11-22T17:57:00.000+08:00

Shortly after 6 p.m. PST, Aguilera, 24, and Bratman, 28, exchanged vows -- and bands designed by London jeweler Stephen Webster -- in front of formally dressed family members and friends, including Aguileraâ€™s longtime manager Irving Azoff, (who introduced the couple in 2002), her mother, and her team of dancers, according to sources at the wedding. The couple got engaged on February 10, 2005, after two years of dating. It is the first marriage for both.

PerezHilton.com --

Who invented Cowboy Hat?

2005-11-21T16:59:00.000+08:00

The son of a Philadelphia hat maker created the first cowboy hat in 1865. His name was John B. Stetson, now known as the inventor of the cowboy hat.

John B. Stetson and some companions went west to seek the benefits of a drier climate. During a hunting trip, Stetson amused his friends by showing them how he could make cloth out of fur without weaving. Stetson used the fur from hides collected on the hunting trip. Kneading the fur and working it with his hands, dipping it into boiling water, spreading it out, kneading it, and dipping it again, he created a soft, smooth piece of felt. Using a technique that has been known since the beginning of modern civilization, Stetson amazed his friends by using the only material he had at hand--fur.

The Inventor

Vacation, Day, Medical Spas, Luxury SpaFinder Magazine

2005-11-18T12:57:00.000+08:00

Spa Finder is the leading resource for finding information on spa vacations, resorts, and hotels, and day, medical, and alternative spas in the U.S. and around the world. Browse through the different sections to find spas in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Washington D.C., West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

With their ever growing international reach, you can also find luxury spas in the most beautiful places in the world. Find an ideal and relax place to spend with your love ones, family and friends...

Vacation, Day, Medical Spas, Luxury SpaFinder Magazine

Finding the Rright Watch

2005-11-17T19:16:00.000+08:00

Even the best-dressed guys can get tripped up when it comes to buying the right watch. Watches are complex, can be expensive and there are a lot of them out there. So just what should you know when shopping for one? Well, you can start by looking at your wardrobe and your budget, and asking yourself a few questions.

Before you make any decisions, please answer a few general questions

# When will you be wearing it?
# What will you use it for -- work, going out, lounging around, playing sports?
# How do you feel about high-tech gadget watches?
# How much money do you want to spend? While you can conceivably get any style of watch for little money, certain watchmakers and brands command very high prices. I'm talking sports car high prices.

Or, if you want to buy a watch for special him, now, here is the answer...

50 Cent plans to publish novellas

2005-11-16T17:45:00.000+08:00

Rapper 50 Cent is to publish a series of fictional novellas and graphic novels featuring characters based on former members of his G-Unit group.

He is teaming up with MTV and Pocket Books, which is behind his recent memoir From Pieces To Weight, to launch to a new venture, G-Unit Books.

The first release in 2007 will be penned by Nikki Turner, author of A Hustler's Wife and The Glamorous Life.

The tales will explore "gritty" issues and themes from 50 Cent's songs.

50 Cent plans to publish novellas

Meet Bobbi Brown

2005-11-15T16:32:00.000+08:00

Every woman wants a naturaly beautiful face.

A Makeup Lesson with Bobbi Brown

Follow Bobbi's step-by-step instructions for a pretty daytime makeup look.

"Keep it simple, real, and approachable." That's what her modern beauty basics are all about.

Meet Bobbi

Wigs And Hairfashion Through The Centuries

2005-11-14T12:29:00.000+08:00

Wearing wigs is not just a trend in the world of fashion. On the contrary, when we look at history we learn that different styles of wigs have always played a significant role in fashion. Depending on the epoch, wigs were either used to demonstrate wealth or to stress the importance of the wearer. The more splendid the era, the more eccentric and pompous hairstyles were created. Wigs also served as a protection against cold and rain. In many wars wigs were also used to impress the enemy.

At the beginning of the twentieth century more and more freely arranged hairpieces were used. With the introduction of short hair cuts around 1920 this trend literaly disappeared over night. In the Sixties hairpieces gained again in importance and the wearing of wigs became almost a must. Wigs were not only sold in specialized shops but in every department store. This strong demand led especially in Asia [South Korea] to an industrialization of the wig production. In this boom days of the wig, intensive research was done in the field of synthetic hair production. Research departments were successful and in a relatively short time good quality synthetic hair was available on the market.

Since then, the wearing of wigs and hair pieces has lost it’s importance. Just in the same way as in today’s fashion the motto is simple and comfortable. In everyday life, wigs are hardly ever used except for fashion shows, parties or after a chemotherapy.

However, the production of wigs for theatres and the film industry still takes place in exactly the same way as in former times: through artistic handicraft.

Wigs And Hairfashion Through The Centuries

Search the Collections

2005-11-11T00:42:00.000+08:00

The Victoria and Albert Museum has collected both dress and textiles since its earliest days. The collection covers fashionable dress from the 17th century to the present day, with the emphasis on progressive and influential designs from the major fashion
centres of Europe. The V&A collections also include accessories such as jewellery, gloves and handbags.

It' s worth your time to visit V&A to have fun and knowledge with your family.

V&A - Search the Collections

The History of Perfumes and Fragrance

2005-11-10T17:58:00.000+08:00

There has always been a trade in scents and by the year 2002 perfume had become a $10 billion industry. Today women have fragrance wardrobes of at least six different perfumes, rather than a single signature perfume, keeping one special perfume for occasion moments.

People have used perfume, oils and unguents on their bodies for thousands of years in lesser or greater amounts dependant on fashion whims. The early Egyptians used perfumed balms as part of religious ceremonies and later as part of pre love making preparations. Myrrh and Frankincense were exuded gums from trees used to scent the atmosphere in rituals. Other plants such as rose and peppermint were steeped in oils until a perfumed unguent formed. The unguent was then rubbed into the skin. It's interesting to note that perfume has come full circle today as more and more of us seek out high quality aromatherapy perfumed oils to use in exactly the same way as our ancestors did.

The History of Perfumes and Fragrance

Rose Color Meanings

2005-11-09T19:17:00.000+08:00

Roses the universal symbol of love in flowers. When giving flowers or roses did you ever wonder what they mean or want to convey a message? Where did the tradition come from? There are over 30 different meanings for roses and their varying colors, and hundreds for flowers alone.

Queen Cleopatra of Egypt is said to have blanketed her room 20 inches deep in roses petals to welcome her beloved Marc Antony's return.

Rose Color Meanings

Eat, Exercise, Relax, and Sleep Your Way to Better Sex

2005-11-08T17:15:00.000+08:00

We need to maintain a balance life. However, we are facing stress everyday. Thought about leading a healthier lifestyle but haven't gotten around to doing it? Here's a possible incentive: Experts say people who are mentally and physically fit are more likely to have good sex lives.

Eat, Exercise, Relax, and Sleep Your Way to Better Sex

"Breast" in Show

2005-11-07T19:46:00.000+08:00

It was the worst of times, it was the breast of times. And for many of these Hollywood stars, the breast times were the worst. From Janet Jackson's Boobgate to Tara Reid's slip of the slip at a Diddy do, Tinseltown's famous femmes have had some rather embarrassing frontal issues. On the other hand, stars like Anna Nicole Smith, Drew Barrymore and Jennifer Lopez have been successfully up front with their top-of-the-line, er, tops. Either way, there've been some unforgettable moments, all brought to you by our favorite stars and their chests.

"Breast" in Show

Worldwide Hotels, Online Reservation, Travel Guide, Reviews, Cars, Flights

2005-11-04T22:05:00.000+08:00

AsiaRooms.com provides a wide range of 60,000 hotels over the world, 45,000 reviews from our customers, hotel pictures, travel guides...
Our rates are up to 75% Discounted and include All Taxes !!!
Previously these special rates were available exclusively to travel agents and corporations. AsiaRooms makes them available to everyone.

Worldwide Hotels, Online Reservation, Travel Guide, Reviews, Cars, Flights

Home Automation--- Build A New Home

2005-11-03T22:19:00.000+08:00

Building a new home provides a unique opportunity to wire it with a plan for future needs. A Home Automation-Ready (HA-Ready) home contains the wiring substructure of the connected home of tomorrow. It means that every room from the front porch to the backyard and from the attic to the basement is wired for your current and future technology needs.

An HA-Ready home is equipped with much more than simple computer networking or a home theater system. And, it is manufacturer independent. You can install any currently available home automation or consumer electronics equipment -- or you can wait and install only those systems you want and at your own pace as your needs and your budget grow.

Home Automation

Planet of the Day

2005-11-02T22:28:00.000+08:00

There are about 200 billion stars in our Milky Way galaxy. Over the next million years our descendents will spread among the stars in an exponential explosion of life, remaking the galaxy as surely as life has remolded Earth in its own image.

Let's be conservative, and assume that only one star in 100 has a planet capable of being made into a habitable world, and that only star systems with such planets are ever occupied. That means 2 billion barren planets upon which to sow the seeds of life, or 2000 per year for the next million years--about five a day. Life grows geometrically, so the rate of expansion will be slow at first but will inexorably compound into a spherical wavefront of life propagating outward at a substantial fraction of the speed of light. As the settlement of the galaxy builds toward the crescendo, there will come a time when a new habitable planet is created every day, then even faster until the galaxy is everywhere alive.

Planet of the Day

Homemade Bath Salts - Bath Oils - Bubble Bath Recipes

2005-11-01T22:48:00.000+08:00

Create your own Bath oils, salts and bubble baths. Substitute or add other essential oils, herbs or salts to personalize your own versions. Place your wonderful new products in decorative bottles and enjoy!

High humidity areas tend to have problems with their baths salts hardening. To remedy this, just add a couple of tablespoons of glycerin to the recipe. Another important tip to remeber is to make sure all bottles are thoroughly washed and dried 24 hours before bottling recipe... this helps to prevent hardening as well.

Homemade Bath Salts - Bath Oils - Bubble Bath Recipes

Condé Nast Art: Vogue Magazine Covers From 1910-1958

2005-10-31T22:58:00.000+08:00

For over a century, Vogue has been the leading American magazine devoted to the best in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Nowhere is this more evident than in the illustrated covers from its first fifty years. The greatest artists and illustrators created some of the century's most celebrated examples of magazine art.

Condé Nast Art: Vogue Magazine