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Monday, August 31, 2009

Top 10 Foods For Tasty Fat-Loss - Washington, DC Personal Trainer Tells All

By Josef Brandenburg

Drastically changing your food habits can be very painful, especially if you are asked to give up the foods that you love. Many of us cringe at the thought of missing out on some of our favorite meals in order to follow a diet plan to loose that extra flab. After all, diets are not usually associated with mouth-watering meals. The truth is, there are plenty of healthy foods that are also delicious. Your Washington, DC personal fitness trainer can still share with you the secrets to losing weight while still eating amazing foods.

1. Grass-Fed Beef.Beef has a high content of saturated fats that is why a majority of personal trainers advise you to stay away from it. But the fact is that all kinds of beef are not the same. Grass fed beef is the exception. It is actually good for you.

Now that Ive gotten some eyebrows raised and some dieting mouths watering, let me tell you the goodness of this type of beef. Your Washington, DC personal trainer puts grass-fed beef into the list because its packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein and fat-burning CLA, and is relatively low in saturated fat.

We all know that Cows generally feed on grass but in order to increase their market value, they are forcefully fed corn and soy. This has made them easily prone to bacterial infections and they are ultimately treated with antibiotics regularly. This forceful feeding has also lead to accumulation of fat in their meat. With a view to make cows fatter in less time, we humans have made them less healthy for consumption.

Authentic grass-fed beef can be bought from reliable stalls at a farmers market.

2. Turkey bacon. Who says you cant have bacon? Your Washington, DC personal trainer considers the turkey bacon as one the best ingeniously created foods for the health-conscious! It may not be as tasty as the hailed, but it sure can leave your mouth watering for it. Its tasty, protein-rich and low in calories! Eat it with your favorite veggies if you start to feel guilty about putting it in your mouth!

3. Shrimp. Lets add some Seafood to our menu. Shrimp is a rich source of Vitamin D, B12 and Selenium. These are helpful in developing strong bones, releasing high energy and rich anti oxidant providers. Shrimp is also a low fat and low calorie food suitable for heart patients and those who are on a diet. Two minutes is all the time you need to cook them.

4. Farm-fresh egg. As with beef, not all eggs are created equal. Farm-fresh eggs are harvested from chickens that were limited to eating pastures (grass-fed chickens, if I must put it). Farm-fresh eggs differ in color from the usual eggs who see in markets and groceries and can be bought from a farmers market. Its great benefits include: low in cholesterol and saturated fat; and it has more omega-3 vitamin A and E compared to regular white eggs.

5. Berries. Berries are like little treats that come in fun shapes and colors. They are very good for your health not only because they are low in calories and even low in sugar but also because they are a great source of vitamin C, potassium, flavonoids, phytochemicals, folate and some calcium.

6. Cauliflower. Veggies like cauliflower are very useful for liver functioning because they are packed with compounds that enable the liver to neutralize potentially toxic substances namely - glucosinolate and thiocyanate. It also contains indole-3-carbinol which is a phtonutrient that controls bad cholesterol levels in the body by restricting the secretion of an LDL-carrier that transfers them to tissues in our body.

7. Spinach. These healthy greens are known to be anti-cancers. They are rich in beta carotene, vitamin C and K, and magnesium (nutrient that helps lower blood pressure). They also contain lutein (for good eyesight) and iron. Your Washington, DC personal trainer strongly recommends this since it is certified fat-free and low in calories.

8. Metabolic Drive. Metabolic Drive is a protein powder to be mixed with water or skim milk to make a protein shake. These shakes are a great source of protein and they provide you with a lot of energy. They taste so good that you wont even realize that you are drinking a health drink that is low in carbohydrates.

9 & 10. Tamari Almond and Sugar-free chocolate. Everybody deserves a healthy treat! Almonds may be too bland for most peoples liking, but not tamari almonds! These contain vitamin B3, manganese, protein and tryptophan (an essential in building serotonin--- a hormone that helps us sleep soundly and achieve a stable mood). Sugar-free chocolates completely redefine what chocolates should be--- cocoa-rich and less sugar-y! Cocoa beans are rich in anti-oxidants, flavonoids and good (essential) cholesterol.

Healthy, balanced meals must never scare anybody who wants to achieve the great benefits of a weight loss program. Your Washington, DC personal trainer can assure you that your journey to fat loss can always be tasty! - 24553

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Sunday, August 30, 2009

The UK Poole Restaurant Guide

By Matthew Horne

If you are dining out in the UK, you of course want to know where to go. Especially when you are trying to find a Poole restaurant. Its not always the easiest thing when you are finding a good place to eat, but knowing where to go essentially will help. Here you will find some tips to help you when you are trying to find a restaurant. So here is one review to help you with your search.

Many different kinds of restaurants exist in Poole. This area has almost any kind of food that you can think of, with restaurants that aim to fit close to anyone's taste and budget. With so many choices, sometimes making a decision may become overwhelming and is the reason we have done reviews of some of the restaurant in the area, so your decision will become easier the next time.

Locally in Poole, Ceasars has been making itself quite a reputation. Ever since establishing in 1998, they have become known for a restaurant that rates highly for its hospitality. Customers enjoy the contemporary design of the restaurant, as well as the food that is always delivered to each table with a smile and in perfection when it comes to taste.

Customers rate Ceasars highly in the way that the staff is attentive, as well as giving them a feeling of coziness. People love the selections that are offered from the large menu and the excellent prices. However, not only is there a variety of choices at a great price, but also the food always comes to the table cooked to perfection.

Ceasars is open five days a week. They offer a lunch menu Tuesday through Saturday. Dinner is served every night from 7 pm to midnight. Every evening, people have the option to choose a two course set evening at a low price of 12. 50 per person. They offer catering and a party menu as well. Enjoy the selection that they offer on their menu as well as for their drinks.

At Ceasar's they always work to deliver the best, in not only food, but service as well. They continue to live up to the reputation that they have built and now work to make it stronger.

Ceasar's comes highly recommended, for the service they offer as well as excellent food. This kind of restaurant will offer you an evening that you will enjoy. You are sure to recommend them to friends as well as others after trying them for yourself. They offer quality at a great price for all. They have a selection that caters to all tastes and budgets alike. - 24553

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Saturday, August 29, 2009

A Ruby Tuesday Coupon Can Be Used To Order Many Favorite Foods At Ruby Tuesdays Restaurant

By Zanesha Etherson

Ruby Tuesday restaurant is an American casual dining restaurant that was founded in 1972 and was named after the Rolling Stones song of the same name. Ruby Tuesday restaurant is loved by many and having Ruby Tuesday coupons can really make the dining experience even more enjoyable.

So what should your order with your Ruby Tuesday coupons? Let us discuss the top menu items that Ruby Tuesday has to offer.

When eating out at a restaurant, the first thing you usually order is the appetizer. Ruby Tuesday has many appetizer choices to choose from but the best appetizer to order with your Ruby Tuesday coupons is their Thai Phoon Shrimp which are Golden-brown fried shrimp tossed in a fiery-yet-sweet chile sauce.

A second choice for appetizers to use your Ruby Tuesday coupons on would be their Jumbo Lump Crab Cake. With almost all crab and nearly no cake, it is made from fresh premium jumbo lump crab meat and seared to a golden brown state.

If you are more interested in eating healthy, then use your Ruby Tuesday coupons to eat from their Salad Bar or you could order one of their salads from the menu like their Grilled Chicken Salad. Their Grilled Chicken Salad is served with fresh cut chicken, tomatoes, cheese and fresh mixed greens with light ranch dressing on the side.

For the main course meal, use your Ruby Tuesday coupons to order their Ribs and Louisiana Fried Shrimp. The crisp, golden-brown shrimp has a bit of Cajun spice in the breading and is served with a half-rack of barbecue baby back ribs.

As a second option for the main course meal to use with your Ruby Tuesday coupons, you can try their Peppercorn Mushroom Sirloin steak which is 9 ounces and cut with the perfect combination of sauteed baby portabella mushrooms, tasty black pepper and Parmesan cream sauce.

These are just a few of the many items you can purchase with your Ruby Tuesday coupons. Whether you are searching in the local newspaper or online, finding Ruby Tuesday coupons can be very beneficial to you if you can find them. - 24553

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Friday, August 28, 2009

Fresh and Made Perfectly, Coffee the Way Nature Intended

By Eric Welcome

Do you wake up each morning to a pot of coffee that makes your nose twist? Have you dumbed down your tastebuds to the point where you'll even settle for a cup of instant?

When most of us want fine food we go to our favorite restaurant, or some of us might prepare our own meals at home. But when it comes to coffee, we rarely even ask, "is this premium, gourmet coffee?" Why not? Don't we deserve the best cup of coffee we can find?

Gourmet coffee sounds expensive but the reality is that coffee is extremely affordable, unless of course you're buying it at Starbucks every day.

To make your own gourmet coffee, start with the coffee beans. Gourmet Coffee beans can be purchased in several forms, by the pound or by the kilo and so on and there are several varieties from which to choose. Some of the most admired gourmet coffee beans include Kona, Jamaican Blue Mountain, and Sumatra types.

One of the tricks to preparing an amazing cup of gourmet coffee is to start with the beans. Don't buy pre-ground coffee as the grounds can dry. When left in whole bean form, the coffee bean protects its amazing freshness and flavor until the moment you brew it.

Coffee beans, like wine, are named after their region of origin. For instance the Kona Bean is grown in the volcanic soil of Kona, Hawaii. Kona beans are known for their rich, smooth flavor.

So now you need to grind your beans but in order to do so you need a grinder. There are a number of different grinders on the market, CoffeeMate makes a pretty good one as does Black and Decker. The grinders are on the low end of the price scale and give you limited control over the consistency.

Our favorite way to brew coffee is with a french press. French press coffee has a very bold flavor and makes just about any other coffee seem tame in comparison.

It is now time to dump out the old grinds and bring in the beans. Start grinding your way to the freshest way to start any morning today. - 24553

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Thursday, August 27, 2009

Top Tips For Taking Food Photos

By Julie Wong

There are a number of different tips that could be learned when discussing the subject of food photography and what every food photographer should know. We will go cover a few of the introductory tips here. Some of the important ideas to keep in mind are lighting, props, quickness and enhancement. Here we will learn techniques for food photographers to take the next step.

Lighting the scene

Light is obviously the tool of a photographer second to the camera itself. Getting this right is always the trick with any kind of photography. With food photography though it is super important. Get it wrong and no amount of photoshop work will bring the picture to life.

Props

Food photographers setting up to take a picture not only arrange the food neatly but they also include a plate or table cloth to add the surrounding. The idea is not to clutter the picture but allow room for a few extra items you can add to it like a glass, napkin, or a fork. These items can be placed in the background in a secondary location of your picture area, giving it extra spice.

If you do a lot of food photography then shopping at second hand markets can be a great way to build your box of props. You can pick up expensive items like large pots and dishes and vases for a few dollars and a smile. If you do not do much then you may have to go shopping for what you need and bill the client!

Be Fast

If you are a slow-coach perfectionist then food photography may be hard for your to master. Like master chefs that throw masterpieces dishes together in minutes master food photographers capture the essence in minutes too. Be quick else it will be a mess is the thing to remember with food photography. As soon as food warms or cools it droops, melts, discolours and a whole range of other things. Be ready with all the lighting and use placeholder items such as places to get the lighting right. Once the food is there you should be shooting.

Instant way to improve your photos

One simple way is to simply use a light high quality vegetable oil and brush it on the food! This will create a high quality shiny finish that we love to see on food.

Touch base with the chef

You will usually be working with a food professional be it a stylist or chef. Hopefully you are not on a low budget shoot and have to do the displays yourself.

Take a few minutes before the shoot to talk with the chef and ask them how they like to work. Ask them if there is anything you need to know about the food that may not be obvious. If nothing else this will make them feel good so you will then be able to work closer and better together. - 24553

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Wednesday, August 26, 2009

How To Buy Restaurant Furniture

By Sam Bousack

Food is not the most important piece to the popularity of any restaurant. You always want to make sure to have a staff that is friendly, as well as furniture that set the tone of the restaurant to a cozy feeling for all. These are all the things to consider when you want to buy restaurant furniture.

As mentioned before, others perceptions of the restaurant has a lot to with the way that the restaurant has been laid out and the furniture that it contains. This is what gives people the feeling of comfort and get them to want to come back in the future in addition to the food. When you do not take care to the overall design of the restaurant you can mistakenly give customers the feeling that you don't care about the way that it looks.

Buy Restaurant Furniture On Sale Now

Restaurants don't have to always buy restaurant furniture that is new, since there are some cases that owners can get away with furniture that is used as long as it is not in bad condition and put in the right places. When restaurants are just starting off, used furniture can offer a great advantage and is worth the buy when it fits into the theme of the restaurant.

Often, used restaurant furniture comes at a great price and good condition. The other advantage has to do with those that are just starting and want to make sure that they make it in the market before putting a lot of money into the restaurant. Others enjoy the antique that some of the piece offer, which is something that you cannot always get when you buy restaurant furniture that is new.

When you buy furniture that is used, it helps with you keeping up with the changes in the market. You don't want to keep the restaurant the same for too long and want to add to the way that it looks. By buying furniture that is used, you are better able to do this since the furniture is not as expensive as new furniture.

One other thing that some restaurant owners fail to take into consideration is the cost of the newer furniture in comparison to older furniture. Another thing has to do with how a lot of the newer furniture tends to make noise to the embarrassment of the customer. When you are buying used restaurant furniture, always make sure that there is a difference in the cost of the new compared to the old.

You always want to make sure that you buy restaurant furniture that is used, which compliments the decor of the restaurant. Considering these things are sure to help in the decoration of any new or old restaurant alike. - 24553

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Tuesday, August 25, 2009

How To Use Dairy Produce: Part 1 - Milk

By Owen Jones

The Basic Preparation Of Foodstuffs: Dairy Products

These fairly basic tips may seem quite irrelevant to most modern householders who own a refrigerator, but modern technology do make people sloppy and so it is very worth while to know 'why' we ought do some things. For example, it is worth remembering these tips when your refrigerator is broken or is so small that it will not hold everything you have, such as when camping or boating or on holiday in some (parts of) countries in the world.

MILK:

Milk is known as 'nature's perfect food', because no other food, consumed on its own, can support adult human life. It is of the utmost importance for the growth and development of adolescents, but it must be clean, because bacteria find it very nourishing too and quickly grow in it. If you did not buy your milk pasteurized, then you should scald it and cool it quickly before drinking it.

How To Scald Milk: Rinse a clean saucepan with cold water, pour in the milk and apply heat until bubbles form around the side of the pan. Keep it at this temperature, that is not letting it boil, for 3 minutes. Do not overheat, as milk burns easily. Pour immediately into a clean jug and place in a basin of cold water and cover with a fine cloth to prevent the ingress of flies and dust.

How To Keep Milk Fresh: If milk the is not be preserved in the receptacles in which you bought it, pour it into a clean container, which has been rinsed with cold water. A warm receptacle will cause the milk to stick to the sides and go off much more quickly. Always keep milk covered and in the coolest place in the larder. it is a good tip to remember that draughts usually occur at ground-level and that hot air rises. Never keep milk in an airless cupboard and in hot weather stand the milk in a container in a bowl of water with the cloth covering hanging in the water. The muslin will soak up water, which will evaporate, which dissipates the heat, ensuring that the container remains cool. Keep milk away from strong-smelling foods, as it absorbs smells easily. Never mix old and new milk together.

Sour Milk: When milk comes straight from the cow is slightly alkaline, but as it ages, lactic acid is created and it becomes what we call 'sour'. Pasteurizing or scalding the milk retards this process. Milk which is 'on the turn' can be rejuvenated by boiling with a pinch of bicarbonate of soda to restore the alkalinity. Once the milk has gone too far and has curdled, it can be strained through (cheese) cloth, thereby separating the curds from the whey. The curds can be used as a filling for cakes, tarts, scones etc and the whey can be used as the liquid for making scones, cakes and soups etc., as it still retains a lot of its goodness.

Evaporated Milk: Evaporated milk is ordinary milk, which has had some of its water content driven off by heat in some form or another before being canned. Once reconstituted by adding water, it will last only slightly longer than fresh milk.

Condensed Milk: This is simply evaporated milk to which sugar has been added before canning. Sugar acts as a preservative and will preserve the milk for about a week. Do not keep in the tin, but decant it into a jug or bottle.

Dried Milk: Dried milk comes in a variety of forms and particular attention should be paid to the instructions on the label. Specialized products can be bought for babies, invalids, convalescents and dieters, all of which contain varying amounts and types of added vitamins and minerals. Usually, they are very much lower in fat content than ordinary milk. - 24553

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Monday, August 24, 2009

How To Choose The Right Diet To Reduce Symptoms Of Ulcerative Colitis

By Marc Marseille

Ulcerative colitis is a condition that affects the intestines. The condition causes sufferers to have troubles digesting their food and causes terrible discomfort. This problem originates when the internal lining of the of the colon and rectal wall becomes reddened. Symptoms of ulcerative colitis can end in belly pains, cramps and diarrhea.

It is important to maintain a good diet for colitis because there are several foods that can set off the symptoms. The preference of foods in your diet plays a big part in controlling the condition. In addition to avoiding foods that sets off the guts sufferers can also opt healthier alternatives to reduce the effects. The suitable diet for colitis goes a long way in reducing inflammation and reddishness to the rectal wall.

There are also additional side effects of ulcerative colitis that ought to inspire sufferers to follow the appropriate diet for colitis. The other side effects that can cause discomfort is weakness and anemia. Low energy is a major problem for sufferers because it can cause them to lose the enthusiasm for life. Tiredness can even lead to depression which is an added issue in its own.

Numerous people believe that certain foods can cause ulcerative colitis, but this is plainly not the case. Although foods may not be the cause, the wrong diet for colitis can certainly aggravate the situation. Stress is another issue that can cause the condition to go downhill.

Organizing the condition is the solution to a conventional healthy existence. A good colitis diet is significant in keeping a grip on the disease. Nutrient rich meals are mandatory in avoiding the side effects such as lack of fluids, anemia and weakness.

A good balanced diet for colitis should incorporate complex carbohydrates, whole grains, good fats and protein. You can still eat the conventional foods like meat, fish, and poultry. Vegans with colitis can swap soy products for the nutrients found in foods such as poultry, meat and sea food.

A suitable diet for colitis can not be complete without the dodging of certain foods and bad lifestyle. Caffeine and alcohol is definitely not acceptable because they have been known to cause great damage to colitis sufferers. Other foods to stay away from include: piquant foods, dried beans, and fruits with pulps or seeds to name a few.

Ulcerative colitis is a condition that can be unbearable if is not suitably managed. The good news is with the right diet for colitis and some attention, the condition does not have to manage your life. The condition may even cause you to live a better life than most others if you follow the diet plan. - 24553

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Sunday, August 23, 2009

A Walmart Gift Card - The Best Gift To Give Someone

By Errin Dubas-Wanbury

Have you ever had to go to a house warming party or a wedding and had absolutely no idea what to get the guest of honor? Well, a Walmart Gift Card can be the answer you were looking for to use as a gift.

Sometimes it can be tough to pick out a gift for someone, especially if you do not know what gifts they have already received from other people. Giving someone a Walmart Gift Card is something that you know they can use.

Do you know why giving someone a Walmart Gift Card is a good idea? Well, first of all, Walmart Department stores are the largest retail stores in the United States. Whether you are buying clothes or computer equipment, or even furniture, you can purchase all these things at Walmart.

What is even more impressive is that you can go grocery shopping there too. A lot of the name brand foods that you see in your typical grocery store can be found at Walmart and usually at a lower price. This makes having Walmart Gift Cards as a gift even more valuable.

Giving someone a Walmart Gift Card avoids the embarrassment of giving someone a present that they already received from someone else. Even if someone else gave them a Walmart Gift Card, the person could use both gift cards to buy different things. They will still enjoy both gifts the same.

A Walmart Gift Card is truly a great gift to give someone if you do not know exactly what they need. This card eliminates the guess work because they are able to buy whatever they need with the card.

So how do you get a Walmart Gift Card? Well, one way would be by purchasing the Walmart Gift Card online on the official Walmart department store's website. There are also other ways of getting a Walmart Gift Card.

Another way for you to get a Walmart Gift Card is to search for companies online that are willing to give away these Walmart Gift Cards for free. It's up to you on how you decide to get the Walmart Gift Card but it definitely does make for a nice house warming or wedding gift. - 24553

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Saturday, August 22, 2009

A Short History Of Coffee

By Lee Reid

The original history of drinking coffee is difficult to verify.

The legend is that long ago, a sheepherder realized the effects of coffee while tending his sheep.

His sheep became very active when they ate a certain type of berry off a plant.

He tried them himself, and felt the same effect.

Rumor has it that a monk told him to be careful of the devil's fruit.

However, it is also rumored that the monks used the fruit to stay awake and pray.

Another legend is that long ago, there was an Arabian man who was banished to the desert.

He tried boiling and eating an unknown plant.

He could survive in the harsh desert just by eating the plant.

Nearby residents of a town close to the desert felt that the mans survival was a religious message.

The plant became known as Mocha, named after the desert town.

It is said that the coffee plant was originally found only in Ethiopia.

They wrapped it in animal fat to eat while on raids.

It was transported to Arabia, it grew, and they controlled the market of it.

The first to actually drink coffee as we know it today were the Turks.

They added spices such as clove and cinnamon to create a sweeter taste.

Via the Venetian trade merchants, coffee found its way to Europe.

Soon after, coffee became a popular drink and coffee houses began to be built.

Today, people all over the world enjoy drinking coffee throughout the day.

With all of the flavors and blends of coffee to enjoy, I suggest you try a cup today!

If you are looking for great deals for coffee and coffee makers, give the net a try.

There are some great net shops that have deals that are normally much cheaper than what you would pay at your local hardware store. When you are ready to purchase, take a few minutes first and do a quick search on the net.

Doing a search on the net allows you the chance to easily and quickly compare prices, thus you can be sure in getting the best available deal for your hard earned money.

One of the best parts of net shopping is that you will be able to locate those rare or hard to find brands of coffee that you can't seem to find anywhere else. - 24553

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Friday, August 21, 2009

Learning Hot to Use Cash Advance Services

By Frank Williams

A cash advance can be quite hard to understand. Moreover, to put it more clearly, it is not the loan application that is difficult to understand. After all anyone can apply to borrow money, if they are in a hard financial patch. It is the interest that is added onto the cash advance that is frequently harder to understand though. Some people just want to get their hands on the money and do not ever think about the interest rate they have signed up for. If they did, they would probably get a nasty surprise.

Cash advances employ interest rates that are higher even than most credit card companies and that already explains a great deal about cash advances. Therefore, if you really do want to get a cash advance, then you have to be prepared to pay a lot of interest, which means that you should do some research before filing for a cash advance loan.

There is one way to do the research that will answer most, if not all of your questions and that is the Internet. All you have to do is search for "cash advance" and you will find all the information that you need. However, don't be sucked in by the smiling, happy faces you will see everywhere saying how cash advances saved them from so much debt, just browse around and look for the fine print and the interest rate that you will have to repay the company. This simple method of research will make you aware of the situation before you get the nasty shock of the repayment structure.

Moreover, with quick cash advance loans you don't have to stand for hours in a long queue or spend a lot of time filling in tiresome application forms. The online application process is very easy; in fact, it is as simple as sitting at your computer and filing a request online. However, the time you save on making an application should not be wasted, rather, it should be put to go use in doing some extra research.

Nowadays, making quick cash advance loans is a highly profitable business. After all, you just have to lend some money for a fairly short length of time and then you gain a really good profit after a matter of only a month or so. There are several reasons for the huge growth in popularity of these so-called payday cash advances.

The main reason for this sudden rise in popularity is that the loans are almost instantly and readily available. There are hundreds of cash advance loan providers out there too. Furthermore, getting the loan only takes about 24 hours, so the money is practically in your pocket as soon as you ask for it.

It is obvious from all this that research can be a priceless tool - it can save you tons of money that I'm sure you would rather keep in your own pockets than put it in those of the loan company. After all, you worked for it and if you do your research properly, then you will find a cash advance company that will help you to keep as much of it as possible by offering you the payday advance at the lowest interest rate possible. - 24553

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Thursday, August 20, 2009

How To Get Ahead In The Field Of Wedding Photography

By Anthony Clark

The field of wedding photography is a rather competitive one. The purpose of this article is to provide novice photographers with suggestions on how they can achieve success in this field.

(1) If you are going to photograph destination weddings, make sure you have a user-friendly online ordering system. People from out of town will not be able to visit your studio in person. Be prepared to process orders online. Think about letting another vendor handle purchases and sales.

2) Develop working relationships with different wedding vendors to increase the referrals to your photography business. This can include hotels, honeymoon resorts, bridal services, and caterers, to name just a few. Offer to take portraits at no charge, as well as complimentary prints and consultations with your vendors. For instance, with a resort, you should offer to take suite or portrait photos at no charge. Make sure you are on the head of their preferred vendor referral list. Watch for new businesses or organizations that are starting up in your area and contact them to inquire about putting you on their lineup of preferred vendors.

(3) Provide High Quality (this should be obvious). The meaning of this is the production of images that are exposed properly and are edited with correct colors. Devote time to create lovely books.

(4) Be open to helping with anything that will make a wedding proceed smoothly. Of course you are there to photograph the wedding, but you should also be open to doing an errand for the bride if the need arises. Offer to do more than just take photographs. Accepting additional responsibilities will result in an excellent reputation and many referrals.

5) Make the effort to form connections with clientele. There are a huge number of good photographers out there. If you make real and personal connections, you provide an added element of service and sense of ease.

If you adhere to the preceding advice, you can boost your success as a photographer in the competitive field of wedding photography. - 24553

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Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Want To Make Ice Cream - Try This Method - 2 Plastic Bags And 15 Minutes

By Mia Kane

Everyone should try this. It's good fun, and you get great ice cream. Try it at a dinner party, children's party, but best of all when you have bored kids looking for trouble around the house on a wet wet day. They are enthralled by this. You get one serving out of the method below, so each kid can make their very own.

What you will need to have ready for this.

You will need about a half cup of milk. Some people use cream, that's ok too. But this tastes just fine with milk. You can even go half and half if you want.

Some sugar, about a tablespoon will do.

Chocolate syrup or cocoa power or vanilla extract. About a 1/4 teaspoon.

Lots of ice, if you don't have enough you can buy it cheaply in any store or just fill up your ice trays or ice bags in advance.

You will need either rock salt or table salt for this method. Either is fine, though I think rock salt may be cheaper to use.

You also need two plastic bags. 1 Small and 1 Large. The small one should be quart sized and the large one gallon sized.

Some great dancing music.

So now let the games begin.

Mix the milk, flavoring and sugar all together in a bowl. That was easy. Once mixed put in the smaller bag and seal tightly, so that it cannot escape.

Take your bigger bag, and place the ice and salt into it. It should now be about half full with ice and salt combo.

Now take the small bag and put it into the big bag. The most important thing here is to make sure that both bags are are sealed really well as you don't want them mixing together. You can use tape if needed, that's fine.

And now the fun and magical bit. Put on that music, shake it on down, get that ice mixture moving around, shake it, massage it etc and in 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your dancing ability you will be rewarded with one serving of great ice cream. Hey presto! Enjoy. - 24553

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Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Foods That Make You Young

By Dr. Mathias Wikenslop

A recent study done by USDA scientist found that artichokes, beans, and acai berry were among the best foods to find the highest levels of the disease fighting compound known as antioxidants.

The new found discovery that Russet potatoes, pecans, and cinnamon contained high amounts of antioxidants was unknown until this study was done--confrmation was also given that . Antioxidants are important as they are thought to fight cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.

"The bottom line is the same--eat more fruits and veggies," says Ronald L. Prior, Ph.D., a chemist and nutritionist with the USDA's Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center in Little Rock, Ark., and lead author of the study. "This study confirms that those foods are full of benefits, particularly those with higher levels of antioxidants. Nuts and spices are also good sources."

This is the most comprehensive and complete study ever done on foods with antioxidants as the USDA used high tech equipment and analyzed more foods than in the previous studies. The researchers analyzed over 100 foods like acai berry, fruits, vegetables, spices and nuts.

The foods were analyzed and measured for the concentration levels of antioxidants and the capacity per serving of the antioxidants. Research showed the top fruits were the acai berry, cranberries, blueberries, and black berries. The highest levels found in the nut category were walnuts, hazelnuts, and pecans--Russet potatoes, beans, and artichokes were found to have the highest level antioxidant concentration in the vegetable category.

ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and oregano were found to have high amounts of antioxidants. Spices are usually consumed in small amounts, even though many are high in antioxidants.

The data should prove useful for those seeking to add more antioxidants in their diet. You must still use caution as the total antioxidant capacity of the foods does not necessarily reflect their potential health benefit, which depends on how they are absorbed and utilized in the body.

At the moment, there are no government guidelines for people to know many antioxidants to take and what kinds of antioxidants to consume in their daily meals--this is also the case with vitamins and minerals. A major barrier to such guidelines is a lack of consensus among nutrition researchers on uniform antioxidant measurements.

For the time being it is recommended that you eat a variety of fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants like cranberries and acai berries. - 24553

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Monday, August 17, 2009

Best Anti Gout Diet Tips

By Rashel Dan

If you want to prevent gout for life, start with your diet. This is not such an impossible task. Diet does play a large role in controlling and preventing gout, so depending on your daily intake, you can either increase or reduce your risk of gout.

A person can suffer from gout if he is born with it, it is present in his family or he is obese. It is also more prevalent among men and those who are 40 to 60 years of age. If you can relate to any of these then you may want to focus on preventive measures.

First of all, an anti gout diet consists of low-purine foods.

Foods high in fats and proteins have high purine content. Vegetable oils, greasy burgers and fatty fish are all high in purines, so you should avoid fried foods and naturally fatty produce. Basically, high purine content is found in almost all kinds of food: pork, beef, chicken, turkey, salmon, tuna, oysters, scallops, creams, eggs, peas and beans. But there are ways to have a low-purine diet and are illustrated below:

Take more fruits and vegetables.

A lot of vegetables and fruits are rich in potassium. Potassium regulates electrolytes in the body and has the ability to get rid of uric acid crystals from the blood. Potassium-rich fruits are bananas, avocados, apricots and cantaloupe. High-potassium vegetables include spinach, potatoes, asparagus, beets and pumpkin.

Begin your anti gout diet now.

Start with a low-fat protein food for breakfast. For example, drink low-fat milk and utilize only egg whites when cooking. Add onions and garlic for taste and use low-fat butter or margarine. High-protein foods that are low in fat have been found to be safe. Quench your thirst with vegetable juice or concentrated blackberry juice.

Lemon juice are known for its cleansing components. Incorporate it into your lunch. Lemon juice is filled with vitamin C and antioxidants to help flush your body from unwanted uric acids. Couple the drink with a hearty salad and meal using tofu to replace red meat or chicken, finely chopped fresh garlic and extra virgin olive oil.

For dinner, grill or bake lean meat in a foil to retain moisture. Pair with potatoes and steamed spinach. After dinners make sure to have a bowl of cherries, berries or grapes on the side.

Other tips for your anti gout diet:

Watch your weight. Gout has been linked with health problems such as diabetes and obesity. Slowly restrict calories by introducing more of the gout preventing foods mentioned earlier. Avoid crash diets as these can actually trigger gout flare-ups. A good anti gout diet is always a balanced diet.

Drink several glasses of water everyday. 8-10 glasses daily is ideal. Water dilutes uric acid (a cause of gout) and rids them from the body. Cloudy urine means you have high acid content in your body and this is not a healthy sign. Clear urine suggests that you are properly hydrated and well on your way to good health. - 24553

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Sunday, August 16, 2009

Choosing the Best Chocolate for the Best Health Benefits

By Nancy Herring

We'll all cherish the day we learned chocolate was good for us. Maybe a few naysayers still remain skeptical, but study after study is proclaiming the health benefits, both mental and physical, of chocolate. Even the Life Extension Foundation includes chocolate extract in their flagship vitamin formulas. Many folks are switching from their daily dose of coffee to a cup of hot chocolate. It's an antidepressant, an antioxidant, its full of vitamins and minerals, it improves sex drive, AND it tastes good. Really good. So what is the best way to get the health benefits? Is it as simple as eating cases of your childhood favorite chocolates? As you might have thought, there are considerations when indulging in chocolate as a regular part of your diet. But it can be done! Let's see how...

Raw, unroasted chocolate IS A MUST to really reap the health benefits. Little of this fact is given weight in the mass-media's portrayal of chocolate's health benefits, but its the crucial point for anyone interested in bettering their health naturally. There's a big difference in the chemical composition of un-roasted, naturally-dried chocolate when compared to 99% of the chocolate products available today. Nearly every single chocolate bar or drink, even at the large-chain heath food markets, is made from chocolate that's been roasted at high temperatures. 'Organic' does not mean raw; chocolate powder is not raw unless it says its raw. High-end organic hot chocolate drinks are still roasted, and likely processed with alkali to make them dissolve more easily. Why the roasting and processing? Because we've become accustom to chocolate looking and tasting like it has since our childhoods. Working with raw chocolate (called Cacao - note this is different than Cocoa!), like so many things that are really good for you, is best prepared at home using carefully selected ingredients. It's easy to do, and we'll include some recipes at the end. But first back to the question of why raw is better.

Energy and stimulation is at the heart of the chocolate experience, but many people are sensitive to chocolate's effects. There are however, significant differences in the alkaloid structures of raw and roasted chocolate. Raw chocolate's stimulation comes primarily from theobromine, which has little anxiety producing effects. Studies by natural wellness professionals and user reports both note that while commercially prepared dark chocolate has a very stimulating action that caffeine sensitive individuals may find too strong, an equivalent amount of raw cacao does not. The stimulating effects are reported mild, gentle, and without a 'crash' that is often associated with caffeine. A reason for mothers to think about creating their own raw chocolate treats for their children, too. The jury is still out on the actual amount if caffeine in raw chocolate; some investigators have found none, some have found small amounts in the 'skin' of the cacao beans, and others of found only small amounts in beans that have fermented somewhat (an indication of a lower-quality cacao). Either way, if you've refrained from chocolate because of it's caffeine content, raw cacao may just be your answer to enjoying this treat again.

The really big news about chocolate has been it's antioxidant profile. Chocolate contains significant amounts of polyphenols -- the same important antioxidants found in green tea, red wine and green apples -- but in greater amounts. Dark chocolate contains an impressive 5% of these compounds, yet raw chocolate is made up of an incredible 10% concentration of these possibly life-extending molecules. Both roasting and processing with alkali (to make Dutch cocoa) reduce antioxidant concentration. Further, the increased absorbability of powdered raw cacao (perhaps the most versatile form of raw chocolate) over cacao nibs give them an edge in ORAC value, a measure of Oxidative Radical Absorbance Capacity.

Finally, the question of mood-enhancing neurochemicals and precursors. Chocolate contains significant quantities of the essential amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan intake has recently been collated with neurogenesis, the development of new brain cells, and both long and short term memory. The presence of tryptophan is critical for the production of serotonin, a primary neurotransmitter associated with mood (Prozac works on the principal of enhancing the action of serotonin). Once in the body tryptophan reacts with vitamins B6 and B3 in the presence of magnesium (all present in raw chocolate) to produce serotonin. Enhanced serotonin function assists in diminishing anxiety and stress - ccording to Dr. Gabriel Cousens, serotonin is literally our "stress-defense shield." Tryptophan is heat sensitive and is often deficient in many cooked-food diets, even when animal protein intake is high. In addition to tryptophan (but not heat sensitive) chocolate also contains PEA, the 'love hormone' and Anandamide the 'bliss chemical'.

Convinced? Ready for a little raw chocolate power? First its critical to find a good source; make sure the chocolate you're buying is raw - it's most often labeled as 'Cacao', the name for the raw chocolate beans and the tree on which they grow. Cacao nibs are small pieces of pure raw chocolate that can be eaten straight, or mixed with other healthy snacks like dried fruits. But the best-loved raw chocolate preparation is the original chocolate drink: hot chocolate. Now it won't be hot enough for long enough to convert any chemicals or to cook the chocolate, just to make it a warm comforting drink - and of course, heating the water isn't necessary at all (though in recipes calling for Coconut oil, it helps to blend the oil into the drink). So to make a cup, use powdered raw chocolate (grinding the nibs or beans in a coffee grinder can work, though you'll find this challenging as the natural oils in the chocolate will heat up and liquefy before the grinding is complete, leaving little crunchy bits). Put one or two tablespoons powdered chocolate, one to two teaspoons raw dark agave nectar (a low-glycemic index natural sweetner) and one to two teaspoons of Coconut oil in a blender. Add eight to twelve ounces almost-boiling water and blend for ten seconds. That's it! You'll find your personal favorite formula after a few preparations - more or less chocolate, oil, sweetener or water.

There are many, many recipes available online and in books about raw chocolate. Some favorite additions to the drink are Maca, cinnamon, tocopherols (a form of Vitamin E), and for the truly hard core, blue green algae and spirulina. Your own raw chocolate bars are very easy to make, really just by omitting the water and adjusting the oil and sweetener ratios to make a thick chocolate paste. Add some chopped nuts if you like, press into a casserole dish and put it in the refrigerator long enough to make it firm. Experiment; it's chocolate! You're supposed to have fun. And with raw chocolate, it might be the most fun you can have eating while positively benefiting your health. - 24553

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Saturday, August 15, 2009

Choosing the Right Juice Extractor for Your Kitchen

By Aaron Benjamin

Numerous juice makers may be used to help with getting juices out of fruits and vegetables. There are many physical advantages of a juice extractor that you can enjoy. These include a stronger immune system, additional vitamins and minerals in one's daily life and a more effective weight loss plan. This is all because of the natural benefits of the juice that the extractor makes.

One of the main features of these juice makers is that these are used to for getting juices out of fruits and vegetables without a hassle. With this, it is possible to get the juices to be totally natural, without any artificial ingredients that can be found in typical juices. Because of this fact, there will be many excellent health benefits that can be gotten thanks to the juices that are made in a Breville juice extractor.

An improved immune system can be gained thanks to a juice extractor. This is due to the fact that the vitamins that are found in fruits can be taken to assist with boosting the immune system; as a result, they allow the body to be less susceptible to colds.

Another excellent feature is that it will be easier to be able to drink the vitamins and minerals that come in these juices. A major factor about artificially-made juices is that many of them are sure to have artificial ingredients that can easily get in the way of the vitamins and other important nutrients. By taking the juices in their complete natural forms, it will be easier to get the vitamins and minerals that these juices can provide.

Another benefit is that it will be simpler for the body to gain strength. Although beverages such as coffee and soft drinks are a popular choice for staying awake and energized, individuals can easily wind up tired after a period of time. With the juices created by juice extractors, it will be easier to feel more awake and vigorous all day.

The eventually that can be taken from Breville juice fountains is that a weight loss plan will be easier to stick with. The nutrients found in juices can help to handle one's body and appetite so that a person can manage their weight with ease. Since the juices will be yummy, it won't be hard to keep control of your diet and reap the rewards.

The health benefits of a juice extractor are excellent for any individual who is wanting to buy one of these juice makers. The body will gain the ability to build a stronger immune system and will be able to absorb the vitamins and minerals that must be obtained. It will also be less difficult to control one's weight and to get more energy for the day. - 24553

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Friday, August 14, 2009

Eating Healthy as the Best Gout Home Remedy

By Rashel Dan

Searching for a low-cost gout remedy? You can now find effective gout treatments in your very own kitchen! You no longer need to jump from one pharmacy to another to relieve the pain and discomfort caused by gout. Commonly used gout home remedy are fruits, herbs, vegetables and roots. These have several benefits and are generally safe to use. They can also be used simultaneously and together with your medication.

A good gout home remedy will do the following:

- Relieve pain. - Reduce swelling - Eliminate stiffness - Detoxify and rid uric acid crystals from the body - Boost healthy blood circulation to aid in the flushing away of toxins - Speed healing of joint tissues to prevent uric acid build-up.

Fruits as gout home remedy:

Acid crystals are turned by potassium into a solution that is easily flushed out by the body. Fruits that are especially high in potassium are your best bet when it comes to curing gout. These high-potassium fruits include dried peaches, avocados, cantaloupe, oranges, bananas, tomatoes and dried prunes.

Other fruits have their benefits as gout home remedy too.

Lemon fuels the production of calcium carbonate, which balances acids in the body. Take the juice of lemon, dilute in water and drink as a gout home remedy.

Berries and cherries are also known to be effective against gout. You can start by purchasing blueberries, cherries and strawberries from your local supermarket as fresh produce or concentrated juices. These fruits are rich with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds and enzymes that neutralize uric acid in the body. Grapes are good, too, since they contain Alkalines that neutralize acidity.

Bananas and apples are also effective against gout. Maintaining a gout-preventing diet is as easy as eating 1 apple a day and 2-3 bananas per day for 4 days.

Herbs as gout home remedy:

One herb known to cure ailments is the turmeric. People from ancient times have been known to use this. Now it is known to be a potent antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic, antioxidant and blood strengthener. It is also considered to treat inflammation just like cortisone. Another herb, cayenne pepper, is known to have the same effect.

Also try artichoke, which contains cynarin. Cynarin is a compound known to prevent liver impairment and joint problems, thus benefiting those with gout.

You can also take in other herbs by drinking herbal teas such as buchu tea, which flushes out uric acid crystals from your system. Other gout-fighting herbs include parsley and saffron, which can be a natural diuretic and acid neutralizer.

Vegetables rich in potassium and are therefore good gout treatments are potatoes, spinach and carrots. As mentioned earlier, foods high in potassium detoxify the body from uric acid crystals. Also try eating more garlic as a gout home remedy-popularly known to be good for the heart, garlic has also been found to relieve gout symptoms. Finely chop fresh garlic and add to salads and other dishes as a natural gout home remedy.

Although these ingredients safe to use and are excellent gout home remedy, you should still consider consulting a physician. - 24553

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Thursday, August 13, 2009

Try Fresh Lobster -Make an Event Special

By Lorra Cloodpifer

A lot of people celebrate special occasions every year. That is truly wonderful, but the problem is, it is sometimes difficult to make each and every celebration different from the other. Now you might be thinking, what can you possibly do to make it happen? One perfect idea is by serving a fresh lobster.

There are countless of reasons why a fresh lobster is the answer to your problem. First of all, it is considered as one of the most interesting delicacies available in the market. Lobsters are one of the worlds most well-known and favorite treats because it is the finest in terms of taste in all the seafood out there.

Every feature of fresh lobster is the perfect focus for all the special events that you can think of. From holidays to birthdays to anniversaries to family or personal gatherings to any other event that you may wish to celebrate, it can be emphasized with fresh lobster. You can be assured that your party will be a hit.

You can make a simple feast and transform it into an experience that will be remembered by all of your guests just by serving a fresh lobster, so regardless of the occasion that you are planning, it can be an enjoyable one and can be regarded as a memory worth cherishing. In other words, there is nothing that can be compared to this treat.

Moreover, even if you have no forthcoming events being scheduled, you can still enjoy a fresh lobster at any time of the day because it is always the best means to pamper your palate. Each pleasant bite will always be satisfaction and will likewise be regarded as your best treat, whether eating alone or with a friend or family member.

Furthermore, be it a small, huge or simply a private dinner or event, a fresh lobster can truly make that day wonderful. In fact, the impression that you are about to make is only second to its extremely delightful taste. Not only you, but your guests as well, will certainly love each and every bite.

Are you still curious about a fresh lobster? Then why not try it and see for yourself? You will be surprised at how this delectable treat is going to be the main attraction at the party you are hosting. As stated earlier, parties should always make memories that are worth reminiscing. It would be nice to see your family and friends savoring the moment and enjoying the fresh lobsters extremely delicious taste, right? - 24553

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Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Get Your Food To Taste Crisper With Cooking Oil Filtration

By Brad Swanson

With the jumps in cooking technology, there have been major enhancements to the way food has been prepared. One of the first goals most food enterprises have attempted to accomplish is maintaining consistency in food production. With cooking oil filtration systems becoming readily available and with many conglomerates using these, food is prepared to explicit standards that are far more simply attained.

Oil Filtration Technology

Filtration technology to process and clean cooking oil has been about for a bit, but the technology has reached a point now where oil may be cleaned by as much as 90 nine %. When food is cooked, there's a giant amount of sediment left over in the oil caused by minute particles falling off into the oil. This leads to the oil to become rancid, to change in color and odour. This adversely affects the food being cooked in a frying range through successive generations since these minute particles incline to stick to the fresh food giving an overcooked odour, color and taste.

What the cooking oil filter attains is to mechanically run oil between the frying range, thru a number of ever smaller filters that trap particles and clean the oil. The filter then pumps the oil back into the frying range delivering cooking oil which has been scrubbed clean of particle matter. The result's food being fried that looks, smells and tastes fantastic.

Benefits of using a cooking oil filtration system

Any chef will instantly swear to the indisputable fact that food cooked in fresh oil is finer in quality than food that's prepared in cooking oil that has been used to fry food earlier. As mentioned above the first benefit of employing a filtration system to scrub oil is food that's consistent in quality. The absolute best restaurants and food production facilities pride themselves in the consistency of the food they produce. Now, with cooking oil filtration systems becoming widely available, this consistency could be maintained by everyone.

Next, there is a good deal of time wasted on changing oil in the frying range. The reason being because, once cooking has become rancid to a point where it is simply useless, it must be replaced. Replacing the oil means letting the oil cool so that it may be handled, it suggests emptying the range, cleaning the range and finally replacing the old oil with new. Cooking oil that is continually cleaned by a filtration system increases the life of the oil in the frying range by almost 5 times. This indicates that the frying range can now be steadily be used for five times longer.

There's also a large cost advantage too here since by employing the frying range longer and continuously, more food can be processed. This instantly increases the money the firm stands to gain. Also, there is an added increase in the amount of cash that is saved due to fewer oil changes. With oil being changed five times less, there's a fivefold saving in the cash being spent on cooking oil. - 24553

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Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Special Restaurant Tactics Set You Apart

By Jose L Riesco

It is important to try and find an edge of some kind and a certain type of advantage over the other businesses that surround you, so you should think about employing specific restaurant tactics to help you. Innovation is very important in this industry and those are able to think on the run and are flexible will always succeed.

Customized restaurant tactics are necessary because traditional promotions and advertising have limitations. Use these tactics if you are trying to get into a specific market. You might find that a nearby mall attracts a high proportion of school age visitors and in this case you could aim a promotion at the nearby high school specifically tailored to link the school with the mall.

Direct marketing should be used to supplement any bread-and-butter marketing operations that you have in place. Always remember that you should never classify your store as run-of-the-mill and should be prepared to use a variety of restaurant tactics to broadcast why you are different from the regular breed.

If you are considering direct marketing as one of your restaurant tactics, try putting together a personalized letter from the manager and distributing this to strategic groups. For example, you could get in touch with your local post office and see if you can get a list of recent arrivals to the area. A mailer could take the form of a welcome letter, enticing them to come in for a free appetizer.

If you want to make sure that you keep an edge on the competition, be careful when you are preparing to put in place specially designed restaurant tactics. Keep all the details close to your chest and do not broadcast any details until you are ready and then only tell those who need to know.

Consider introducing an element of curiosity and excitement to your promotions, these often turn out to be successful. If you find that sales are flagging or you are approaching a traditionally quiet time, come up with some creative ideas to give the place a boost. How about sending out an invitation including a key to a "treasure chest", which is located within your restaurant?

Before you embark upon a program of restaurant tactics, be sure that your operation is ready. You need to maintain a high level of customer service and employ only the best waiters, supervisors and front of house staff, chosen according to their people skills. Ensure that your standards are very high or there is no point in being aggressive as direct marketing will hardly benefit you if you are driving traffic through an inefficient operation!

Research is very important and you should not be afraid to contact online resources and ask questions if you have marketing issues specific to your restaurant. Help is readily available. - 24553

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Monday, August 10, 2009

McDonalds Coupons - Learn How To Find McDonalds Coupons In Your Area

By Sonora Slowdeen

Did you know that McDonalds restaurants serve over forty-seven million people every single day worldwide? There are over thirty-one thousand restaurants in more than one hundred and nineteen countries. McDonalds is by far, the largest food chain in the world.

McDonalds popularity is astounding. Even their menu items are recognizable. Foods like the Big Mac or their Chicken McNuggets are known around the world. All kids know what a Happy Meal is because of the McDonald's brand name.

The great thing about McDonalds is that all of their food is affordable. No matter what you are looking to order, you won't have to spend an arm and a leg to get a good quick meal. But as cheap as McDonalds food is, you can still eat for less at McDonalds.

When you have McDonalds coupons, you have the ability to take an already inexpensive meal and get it for next to nothing. With at least one McDonald's restaurant in almost every major city, its no wonder how having McDonalds coupons can come in handy.

So how do you find these McDonalds coupons? Well, there are several ways to find McDonalds coupons in your area but we are going to discuss the top three ways.

Checking the McDonalds official website would be one way to find McDonalds coupons online. If they are having any specials, you may be able to find some printable McDonalds coupons that you can use for your discounts.

Another way to get McDonalds coupons and savings would be to enter your email on the McDonald's website and become a McDonald's Preferred Subscriber. What does becoming a McDonald's Preferred Subscriber do for you? Well, it allows you to be the first to hear about promotional offers and discounts from McDonalds.

The best way to find McDonalds coupons is to find companies that will give away hundreds of dollars worth of McDonalds coupons to you for free. Why would they do that? Its simple, marketing research. There are many marketing companies out there that value your opinion and are willing to pay you for it. All you have to do is look for them and find them. - 24553

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Sunday, August 9, 2009

Recipe by Ingredients That You Already Have

By Mike Sasaki

The last thing you want to do after working all day at the office is to spend hours cooking dinner. This is a fear I used to have every weeknight. Add the time to do the dishes to the hours spent into the kitchen and your night is gone.

Why cook when you can just go pick something up from the fast food joint? It's a lot easier, however, it's expensive and unhealthy without a doubt. Our goal is to get us all into the kitchen and stop spending money eating out.

Cooking at home is easy, healthier because you control the ingredients and stress relieving.

Planning is the most important part of getting a meal to the table without turning your life upside down.

Step 1 - Get a calendar and write out your meals for the week. I usually cook Sunday - Thursday. Also, it's very important to cook enough for lunch the next day. For example, if I'm making spaghetti on Monday, I make enough so I can take it for lunch on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Step 2 - Make a shopping list of groceries you need. A lot of times, compared to what you already have at home, you will find that you only need to purchase a couple groceries at the grocery store.

Step 3 - Go to the grocery store with your list. This trip to the grocery store can take 30 minutes to an hour depending on when you go. I go to the store early Sunday morning to beat the rush.

Step 4 - This is the fun step. Cook the meal. As soon as you have the ingredients at home, it's easy and fun to cook. With the proper planning and support from your family, cooking will be fun and stress free. Cooking could even be stress relieving. Feel free to substitute ingredients and add ingredients to your recipes.

Final step - Make your husband, wife or kids wash all the dishes. You did the hard part of buying the groceries and cooking the meal (even though cooking was the fun part...shhh), it's time for them to pitch in.

After a couple months, you will be addicted to cooking and you will see your savings increase and you will probably lose some pounds, too. - 24553

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Saturday, August 8, 2009

A Passion for Pink Stuff

By Ian Tyrrell

In the last few years, there has been a new colour invading high fashion and personal accessories: the colour pink. Pink lovers are finding new ways to incorporate their favourite colour, using pink as a fashion statement that seems to represent a whole outlook on life, even become an obsession. How did this trend start?

The story of Pink - Surprisingly, prior to World War II, the colour pink was more often associated with baby boys than girls. Red was viewed as a masculine colour, and baby boys were expected to wear the diluted colour red. Baby girls were often dressed in blue! However, things began to change starting sometime after the second World War, and pink began the rise to feminine dominance that would continue for decades.

The 1950s saw the rise of pink as a feminine symbol, as women returned from working in factories to working in the home. The booming post-war economy led to a rise in make-up sales and a corresponding association of the colour pink with women. Pink crept into high fashion: there was an "all pink" sequence in the Audrey Hepburn film "Funny Face." The phrase "Think pink" appeared in a musical number in the film and began to be used as a marketing phrase in magazines. The decade also saw the growing popularity of Barbie dolls, who were often dressed in the colour pink. The 1960s added to the trend with the "Pink Panther" films, which gave an ironic, cheeky twist to the colour. The 1980s gave us the song "Pink Cadillac" and films like "Pretty in Pink." The 2000s saw the rise of the musician Pink, who started her career with a shocking pink hair.

What Started the present Passion for Pink? - The current pink obsession was probably set in motion by the 2001 film "Legally Blond," in which Reese Witherspoon plays a law student who lives in a world of pink and even has a tiny pink-dressed dog. The comedy showed how a human "Barbie doll" could be tough and smart without losing her girlish femininity. Girls everywhere enjoyed the idea of combining intelligence with girly sexiness, and the popularity of pink products rose even further.

Pink Home Accessories - As pink's popularity has risen, a wide range of products for home decor are now available in the colour pink. Pink lovers can now use pink not only as an accent colour but as the colour scheme for entire rooms. Home decorators can now find pink sheets and blankets for the bedroom, and pink toothbrushes and shower curtains to create a bathroom that resembles a spa. Pink kitchen accessories are growing in popularity, too. There are now pink kettles and toasters for cooking, and even a pink microwave oven on the market.

Pink on the Road - Pink lovers are starting to bring their passion to their travels as well. Pink car accessories are now available, ranging from car mats to key chains. A pink steering wheel cover allows drivers to make a statement. Travellers by rail or air also have a chance to accessorize: elegant pink luggage is easy to pick out from at the airport carousel.

A Psychology of Pink - A "pink princess" is the nickname given to women devoted to the colour pink. Pink princesses embrace pink as a whole identity, a personal statement and an outlook on life. Edith Piaf's song "Ma Vie En Rose" translates well for these pink lovers: "My Life in Pink." The colour offers a wonderful combination of associations: on the one hand, pink is soft and flirty, but it is also elegant and fashionable. The growing field of colour psychology makes even more dramatic claims about pink, arguing that the presence of pink even has the power to soothe. Studies suggest that even criminals may behave better when surrounded by the colour pink.

The current obsession with pink may be a short-term trend, but it is also possible that it is part of a rising new view of life. Pink lovers are trying to "see the world through rose-colored glasses," to surround themselves with one more tool for happiness. - 24553

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Friday, August 7, 2009

How To Find The Best Waffle Makers For Your Needs

By Terry L. Jones

Waffle makers can be purchased within any budget or price range these days. They come in a variety of models with tons of different features, so how do you select the right one for your needs? The following criteria will help you determine which type of waffle machine you need and how much you should pay to get it.

Power is a big issue with any type of kitchen appliance. Usually, lower priced models of an appliance will have lower watts of power, and that means a more limited range of capabilities. These low power models are best suited to small households or consumers who will use them on a more limited or occasional basis.

For those who want to make larger batches of waffles or who will use the machine all the time, a higher watt model will be more suitable.

Capacity of the model is another concern. You can find very small models that only make a couple waffles at a time as well as very large professional models that will make large batches at a time. The size of your family or number of people you will often be serving at one time will determine which capacity you need.

Shape: Are you looking for a particular shaped waffle? If so, then make sure to look around and see all of your options before making a final purchase. Most models today come in a standard square shape, but you can find round models and even a traditional heart shaped waffle.

Price Range: The market carries these machines at a very wide price range. You could walk into virtually any store right now and find a very simple waffle maker for $20 or maybe even less. Or, you can look around online and find them well over $100. For most consumers looking to add this appliance to their home, a model in the $30 to $50 range will be suitable.

As with all things, you get what you pay for. The top of the line professional waffle machine will be last longer and do more things than a lower priced model meant for residential use. While these more expensive models are great, they aren't a good pick for everyone.

You probably don't need the absolute best waffle makers on the market in your kitchen. You just need a high quality model that meets all of your individual answers to the guidelines presented here. Find one that works in your home for your needs, and you will have delicious, golden brown waffles for many years to come. - 24553

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Thursday, August 6, 2009

The Cuisinart Mini Prep Will Have You Loving To Eat Your Veggies!

By Carlie Simpson

With the rise in availability of green foods and increased statistics of obesity many of us are turning to healthier options for their meals. But trying to be more fit can be frightening if it suggests more time preparing meals, higher grocery bills and sad diners.

Choosing healthier food doesn't mean you have got to work more and spend more. With a mixer, like the Cuisinart Mini-Prep, you can rapidly add more healthy ingredients to your meals.

Do Food Processors truly Work? Yes. And, they aren't the large monster appliances they were 40 years ago. I am living in a little house where appliances only stay if they're functional, useful and little. The Mini-Prep is great because it's only eight inches tall by 4 inches wide. That's smaller in comparison to my toaster. And, it's a better machine than plenty of my appliances because it's quick, it's simple to clean and it speeds up my preparation time.

Can't I just employ a Blender? Technically, yes. But, you wouldn't be ready to process the foods as fast and it might possibly be much harder to clean. With the Mini Prep you can even grind coffee and clean it without any residue remaining. My blender couldn't do that.

How do you employ a food processor To Make Healthier Meals? There are a wide variety of cookery books available with recipes that call for adding purees. This is one of the most simple methods to start. By adding a squash puree to your spaghetti sauce ( yes, even the canned ones ), you raise your plants by at least a serving without tasting it. By increasing your plants, you are also increasing your fiber. Purees can be added to a variety of foods as a method to increase your daily vegetable intake without actually having to eat piles of vegetables.

Beyond adding purees, with the Mini-Prep you can make your own salsas, dips, icings and other foods with fresh natural ingredients. This allows you to evade the preservatives and extra sugars added to several fast foods to extend their shelf lives. The Cuisinart Mini-Prep is also superb for chopping onions, grating cheese or helping you quickly get your ingredients ready for your recipes. And, with the straightforward clean up, you won't spend hours washing small parts. If you have small children just starting to eat solid foods, the Mini-Prep is an excellent tool for making your own baby food. And, if you make an additional batch of pureed crush or carrots, you can add it to your own meal.

The Mini-Prep is small enough to fit in your kitchen and conscientious enough that you are going to need to use it all of the time. It is made so that you can put it in the dishwasher at night and pull it out in the morning to make your own huevos rancheros with fresh homemade salsa. Eating healthy was never so much fun! - 24553

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Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Atkins Diet: Low Carb Diet Menu

By Joy Mitchell

With the coming of the New Age, gone are the days when having a Marilyn Monroe style figure was thought to be the epitome of what a woman should look like. Now we have waif-thin role models on what the perfect woman should look like, and this is the shape we want to have for ourselves as well. Therefore, most of us will turn to any and every diet possible, but it's a fact that a growing number of dieters are concentrating more on what the Atkins low carb diet menu has to offer for them than anything else.

Sure, there are any number of diets that are similar to the Atkins Plan and the low carb diet menu plans, but it must be stated that the Atkins Diet Plan was the first of these now very popular high fat, high protein, low carb diet menu plans. And the Atkins Diet low carb diet menu will offer you the most appetizing array of foods that you can select from.

However, with only a little clever mixing and matching on your part, you can even come up with different low carb diet menu plans that will rival anything found in any of the other similar diets. By going on the Atkins Diet, low carb diet menu planning becomes that much simpler for you, and you will not need to worry that what you're preparing will suit your dietary requirements.

The Atkins Diet low carb diet menu can assist solve your problem in like this and it can also help you make a list of foods and high carb diet menu plans that you may not eat. By doing this you can take your food lists shopping with you, where they can help you to make up your mind which foods should remain off your grocery list. This can be an invaluable aid to you in following your low carb diet menu.

This doesn't mean, of course. that it will be simple to stick to your low carb diet menu. Quite the contrary in fact, even though you can eat what can amount to virtually anything you want from the high fat high protein part of your Atkins Diet low carb diet menu, if you love your carbs you'll feel the loss of them.

And if you have been sustained for most of your life by these high carb foods, as most of us have, then you'll have an even more difficult time getting used to the ardours of the Atkins Diet low carb diet menu plans. The only thing that'll help you now in keeping on your low carb diet menu and away from your intense carb cravings could be your Atkins Diet low carb diet menu plans and the food lists.

So, keep your low carb diet menu plans close to you and your high carb foods away from you. These low carb diet menu plans and food lists will become your nearest allies in the next few weeks as you struggle through the induction phase, but don't worry. With a little perseverance on your part, you'll come through with flying colours and a slimmer body using your Atkins low carb diet menu. - 24553

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Tuesday, August 4, 2009

HEALTHY EATING IS EASY!

By Marilou Lissandrello

Eating healthy can be easy and simple to implement. Once you start making choices that are healthy and incorporate the habit into your life, it becomes second nature and you won't have to think about it much again. Make sure you always have healthy food choices available and the rest is a piece of cake.

When thinking about a meal or a snack, it needs to incorporate a proper balance between a protein, carbohydrate and fat.

Have you determined for yourself your daily caloric consumption needs? I know that for myself if I'm trying to lose wight, I cannot consume more than 1200 calories per day. On the other hand, if I'm trying to maintain my current weight, I'm allow to consumer 1500 calories per day.

Once you find out how many calories you should be eating, you then need to space them over 5-6 small daily meals/snacks through the day. The meals and or snacks should compliment each other with the proper balance of carbohydrates, fats and protein. I will give you an example of these choices to make during the day.

I should quickly mention something about portion sizes. Do you know what a serving of protein looks like? No, it's not the 16 ounce Prime Rib at your local steak house. A portion of protein is 3 ounces, the size of a woman's palm.

VISUAL EXAMPLES OF DIFFERENT FOOD PORTIONS:

* 1 medium fruit -- tight fist or tennis ball

* 1/2 cup of fruit, veggie, cooked cereal, rice or pasta -- cupcake size or tight fist

* 1 cup of tossed salad -- the amount you can hold in two hands cupped together.

* 1 medium baked potato -- computer mouse

* 1 cup of cold cereal -- large handful or tight fist

* 3 ounces of fish, meat or poultry -- deck of cards or a palm of a woman's hand

* 1 ounce of cheese -- 4 dice or the top half of your thumb

* 1 ounce of fish, meat, chicken or poultry -- 1 egg

* 1 tsp -- the tip of a medium-framed woman's thumb. 3 tsp is equal to 1 tbsp

BREAKFAST:

A good breakfast is key to starting your day off right. Skipping breakfast is a surefire way to setting ourselves up for failure to maintain level blood sugars. I suggest keeping breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the same calorie count and then adding two smaller snacks between meals.

Choose an item from each of the food groups for a healthy balanced breakfast.

Protein: 1 hard boiled egg, 1 cup nonfat milk, 1 cup low fat yogurt, 1 oz of low fat cheese

Carbohydrate: 1 slice of whole grain toast, bagel or muffin, 1/2 cup of whole grain cereal or oatmeal, or granola bar.

Fruit: 3/4 cup of raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, 1/2 banana, small apple, orange, grapefruit,

LUNCH AND DINNER:

Preparing lunch and dinner is very simple. Pick a lean protein, add some vegetables and top it off with some fruit for dessert.

Choose an item from each of the food groups for a healthy balanced lunch or dinner.

Protein: Lean beef, pork, beans, chicken, fish, turkey, etc.

Vegetable: Salad greens, spinach, zucchini, broccoli, cauliflower, and green beans, etc. For a serving size, fill about 1/4 of your plate with protein, 1/2 of your plate with vegetables, and the other quarter with healthy carbohydrates.

Carbohydrate: Brown rice, corn, sweet potatoes, white potatoes, 1 slice of whole grain bread etc.

Dessert: 1/2 banana, 1/2 cup of strawberries or raspberries with a dollop of nonfat whipped topping, pear, apple.

SNACKS:

Snacks are essential to successful weight loss. In order to maintain your metabolism in between meals, healthy snacks are essential. For your snack, consume between 100 to 125 calories.

Choose an item from each of the food groups for a healthy balanced snack.

Protein: 1 oz. low sodium, low fat luncheon meat, low fat string cheese, hard boiled egg, small yogurt cup, 1/4 cup of low fat cottage cheese.

Carbohydrate: Baby carrots, 1 slice of whole grain bread, 1/2 banana, apple, grapes, plum, etc.

Healthy fats: Handful of almonds, walnuts cashews or mixed nuts, 1 slice of avocado, 2 tbsp of peanut butter.

This is easy! Remember, these are just guidelines for healthy foods. You do not have to eat the same thing every day. There are so many more foods then what I listed here but be creative. Make healthy choices that are exciting. Try a new fruit and vegetable every week. Remember, this is easy! - 24553

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Monday, August 3, 2009

James Bond Theme Party - 10 Easy Ideas

By Damian Jackson

So you're thinking of throwing a party? Instead of making it an every day run of the mill party, why not make it a theme party? And why not make it a James Bond party theme?

Statistics repeatedly show that theme parties are much more enjoyable and are remembered in a much better light. So why not take a look at the following James Bond party theme ideas:

1. Decide early on if you are going for a particular James Bond movie, characters or an open Bond theme. Perhaps you could have a casino theme such as in Casino Royale?

2. The ladies should come dressed up very glamorously in red or black cocktail dress. Otherwise, how about a favorite Bond girl such as Pussy Galore, Miss Goodnight or Jinx?

3. For the guys, this is going to be great! Expect to see many black tie Sean Connery lookalikes. Also, if you have any Asian friends, suggest that they come as the evil Oddjob complete with top hat.

4. Consider hiring a Russian security guard to check your guests for concealed weapons at the entrance.

5. Get yourself a long red carpet. Have it stretch from the entrance up to the bar. Your guests could then be offered a Martini, shaken not stirred!

6. Whether you are having a casino or not, get some roulette wheels, poker tables, chips and cards for decorations.

7. Get other Bond merchandise and paraphernalia such as Walther PPK's. If you have a budget, hire an Austin Martin to park in the driveway.

8. You can get the best of Bond theme tune music to play at your party. It's available on CD!

9. For food, get some finger buffets. There should be plenty of variety! You could also hire a waiter if you have a budget!

10. For the drink, of course it should be Martini shaken not stirred! I would also get in lots of champagne! - 24553

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