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	<title> &#187; Pier55</title>
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		<title>Cheap Fashion for Women</title>
		<link>http://www.pier55.com/beauty-fashion/fashion-for-women/cheap-fashion-for-women/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pier55.com/beauty-fashion/fashion-for-women/cheap-fashion-for-women/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jul 2010 22:17:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pier55</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fashion for Women]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pier55.com/?p=1222</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are places where you can find great deals on discount designer clothing, allowing you to look great and save your budget at the same time.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Cheap women&#8217;s fashion is one of the most popular selling classifications of clothing in the world, and it is a consistently growing segment of the industry.  There are places where you can find great deals on discount designer clothing, allowing you to look great and save your budget at the same time.  When it comes to cheap women&#8217;s fashion, the style of the clothes usually is not compromised by the price.  In fact, sometimes the more expensive it is, the simpler the design.</p>
<p>There are two elements to being fashionable.  Of course, the designs of the clothing are very important.  The materials that are used to make the clothing are just as critical.</p>
<p>These two aspects of women&#8217;s clothing – especially when it involves specific lines such as formal, casual, maternity, etc. – has a significant impact on the stylishness of the clothing.  The best part of this is the fact that most of these cheap women&#8217;s fashions are available at discounted rates all year round at most boutiques, especially during the sale season.</p>
<p>There are many types of clothing available with many different designs, cuts and finishes, and so it should not be hard to find something that not only fits you properly but that you find attractive and appealing as well.  One of the most popular types of clothing (which has had an influence on cheap women’s fashion) is Casual Wear. This refers to anything that you would wear on a regular day or family get together.</p>
<p>This casual wear basically can be found in any store, usually at discounted prices, most of the time, simply because it so popular.  This factor also ensures that the quality of this particular type of discounted clothing is not lacking in any way.</p>
<p>Another aspect of fashion, as said before, is that of the material used to make the clothing. When it comes to cheap women&#8217;s fashion, what truly matters most, besides the design, is the strength or durability of the clothes.  This is determined by the material used.</p>
<p>Usually, in order to be as affordable as possible, cheap women&#8217;s fashion is made from cotton, polyester, nylon, or a common blend which is machine washable.  In today’s busy world, women don’t want to spend a lot of time doing laundry.  Therefore, “wrinkle-free” clothing is very popular.</p>
<p>Of course, comfort is an important consideration as well.  Cotton is one of the most common materials used in making clothes.  It is casual, and comfortable, while being fashionable, and at the same time is relatively inexpensive.</p>
<p>The availability of items which make up the category of Cheap Women’s Fashion extends to things other than clothing.  Accessories, handbags and shoes can also be found at reasonable prices.</p>
<p>Surprisingly, there are excellent sources for designer handbags and accessories on the internet.  In many cases, you can buy from a manufacturer’s distributor at below-retail prices.  They sometimes run sales on discontinued items, or seasonal items.  If you know where to look for these fashions and when to buy, you can save thousands of dollars on designer dresses, shirts, pants, shoes and accessories.</p>
<p>Most women have an abundance of shoes.  They absolutely adore shoes.   Over the last 20 years, the trend has gone away from heals (unless dressing up) to comfortable shoes for everyday use.  This has diminished the demand for high-end designer shoes, and made it easier to find shoes at good prices.</p>
<p>It’s not typical that shoes are purchased over the internet because you should try them on before buying.  Therefore, I suggest outlet stores as a good place to find well-priced shoes that will look good and are comfortable.</p>
<p>I know that you can pick up designer clothing at a fraction of the original price. Cheap women’s fashions &#8211; clothing, shoes, accessories and handbags &#8211; are yours for the taking if you know where and when to look.</p>
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		<title>How to Decide on a Career</title>
		<link>http://www.pier55.com/careers-money/careers/how-to-decide-on-a-career/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pier55.com/careers-money/careers/how-to-decide-on-a-career/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 08 Jul 2010 22:46:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pier55</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Careers]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pier55.com/careers-money/careers/how-to-decide-on-a-career/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[People choose careers depending on their aptitudes and abilities, economic conditions, and career models adopted in their country.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>How to decide on career? In this article we will list the most important factors to consider for doing just that.</p>
<p><strong>How to Decide on a Career Path</strong></p>
<p>So, how to decide on career path that&#8217;s right for you? You have two options: try to make a career in the area of your expertise, or learn a new skill that&#8217;s more promising for making a career. Look around carefully – life changes rapidly, and something that used to be promising and in demand yesterday may have become outdated today. A successful career change means making your new career better in at least two aspects: higher pay and better work satisfaction.</p>
<p>Start by answering the following questions. What do you like doing? Can you turn it into a well-paid career? If not, what new can you learn that you&#8217;d enjoy doing and that&#8217;s in demand? What can you offer to potential employers right now? Is this enough for a good career trampoline, or do you need to expand on your knowledge first? Rate your product: rate yourself as a professional, your skills, and work experience. At the same time, analyze the market and its demands.</p>
<p>If you have a dawning skill, remember that many companies will hire less educated but smart, active and loyal employees, and invest in them. Lack of education is not always a problem. The company will train you if you are a promising employee.</p>
<p><strong>How to Decide on Career Model</strong></p>
<p>There are two defined career models to choose from:</p>
<p>1. Lifetime employment. The longer you work, the more you get paid.</p>
<p>2. Frequently changing jobs. The greater your experience is, the more you get paid.</p>
<p>The first approach is inherent in many Asian countries, especially in Japan. In Japan, the standard is the so-called &#8220;lifetime employment&#8221; &#8211; a person works all their life for the same company. They never leave and the company never fires them, unless the company is on the verge of liquidation. The longer they work, the higher their salary becomes. They are paid more for their longevity.</p>
<p>In Europe and the U.S., people change jobs many times throughout their career. Some experts even recommend doing so once every 5 years. Many large companies plan the careers of their young staff with this in mind. For example, a young specialist may have to work at least in 5 different departments of the company during their first 10 years of working there.</p>
<p>So, how to decide on career model that&#8217;s right for you? Ask yourself this: are you reluctant to change jobs or do you like to change them often? Listen to your heart.</p>
<p><strong>Assistance for How to Decide on Career </strong></p>
<p>Deciding on a career is difficult. That&#8217;s why many countries have created special units to assist in solving this problem. Such services carry out psychological testing, and compare the &#8220;portrait&#8221; of the potential employee with the requirements for successful entry into a specific profession.</p>
<p>Conclusion on How to Decide on Career</p>
<p>People choose careers depending on their aptitudes and abilities, economic conditions, and career models adopted in their country. The success of any career depends on the path the person chose in the very beginning, and how well they will plan and develop their career in the future. So, knowing how to decide on career is very important. Remember the golden rule: change your career – change your life.</p>
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		<title>Natural Treatment for Panic Attacks</title>
		<link>http://www.pier55.com/health-fitness/psychological/natural-treatment-for-panic-attacks/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pier55.com/health-fitness/psychological/natural-treatment-for-panic-attacks/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 23 Jun 2010 22:33:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pier55</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Psychological]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pier55.com/?p=1218</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are numerous people, who choose natural remedies for panic attacks over any prescription drugs. The reasons for this include personal intolerance, not willing to depend on drugs, and fear of side effects.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are numerous people, who choose natural remedies for panic attacks over any prescription drugs. The reasons for this include personal intolerance, not willing to depend on drugs, and fear of side effects. Many people are using natural remedies for panic attacks so successfully that they managed to eliminate their attacks once and for all. In this article, we will list the most popular home remedies for panic attacks.</p>
<p>Niacinamide (Vitamin PP): This is a vitamin that is involved in many oxidative reactions of living cells. It is found in rye bread, buckwheat, beans, meat, mushrooms, liver, and kidneys. It can also be taken as a supplement. Thousands of people with panic attacks say that taking niacinamide daily is the best of all natural remedies for panic attacks.</p>
<p>Vitamin B Complex: The other helpful natural remedies for panic attacks are vitamins B6 and B12. Many sufferers recommend taking vitamin B complex as a daily supplement. Some say that there was an improvement in their condition within 2-3 weeks from starting them.</p>
<p>Magnesium Supplements: There are reports of people who managed to virtually cure their panic attacks using this remedy. Many sufferers take magnesium supplements together with B vitamins and niacinamide.</p>
<p>Exercise: Natural remedies for panic attacks include the old as the hills methods – exercise, good diet, and sleep. Regular exercise (3 times a week) helps to burn excessive adrenaline and the built-up energy on a regular basis. Exercising at the time of a panic attack will help to relieve the immediate symptoms: as soon as the sufferer senses the onset of an attack, they start to walk or run around to burn the excessive adrenaline.</p>
<p>Good Diet: Just like exercise, a good diet can work wonders for most any condition, both physical and mental. So, if you can, try to improve your diet.</p>
<p>Enough Sleep: Most people recommend maintaining a certain sleeping routine and sleep for at least 8 hours per day.</p>
<p>Positive Thinking: Different mind control techniques are powerful natural remedies for panic attacks. Talk positive to yourself and say the following: it&#8217;s normal, it&#8217;s okay, I’m not dying, it’s my body, and I’m in control. The mind over matter is a fact of life. We can talk to our bodies and help our minds acknowledge that what’s happening to us is nothing to be afraid of. Recognizing the attack trains your body to recognize it also.</p>
<p>Diaphragm Breathing (Belly Breathing): Various breathing techniques are great natural remedies for panic attacks. Lie on the stomach and inhale pushing out your belly, then exhale bringing it back in. Make sure that you are not getting dizzy. Breathing techniques and concentrating on breathing helps many people cope with their attack.</p>
<p><a title="Aromatherapy" href="http://www.pier55.com/health-fitness/aromatherapy/what-is-aromatherapy/" target="_blank">Aromatherapy</a>: Scents are perfect natural remedies for panic attacks. The different scents that may help the sufferers include the calming scent of baby powder, lavender essential oil, and many others.</p>
<p>Avoiding Caffeine: Caffeine comes in different forms, including coffee, tea (even green tea), sodas, and even chocolate. Many sufferers report that giving up on caffeine in any form has helped them to combat their panic attacks.</p>
<p>Avoiding Alcohol: Some sufferers report that social drinking doesn’t harm them, but most people notice that having too many drinks per day may lead to something negative the next day. Especially provoking are considered to be spirits. Thus, the advice is – try to drink only socially, and only beverages containing a low amount of alcohol.</p>
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		<title>Suggestions for Party Food</title>
		<link>http://www.pier55.com/home-garden/party-planning/suggestions-for-party-food/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pier55.com/home-garden/party-planning/suggestions-for-party-food/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Jun 2010 21:46:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pier55</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Party Planning]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pier55.com/?p=1215</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Planning the menu is essential for any party to become a smashing success. Here are some ideas and suggestions for party food, for several popular party types]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Planning the menu is essential for any party to become a smashing success. Here are some ideas and suggestions for party food, for several popular party types.</p>
<p><strong>Fourth of July Party</strong></p>
<p>The Independence Day party menu is easy to plan: simply make it an all-American and very patriotic affair. Suggestions for party food: grilled foods (ribs, chicken, steak, hot sausage, kebab, hamburgers, hot dogs, and shrimp), deviled eggs, potato and macaroni salads, baked beans, chips and pretzels, corn on the cob, watermelon, apple pie, traditional flag cakes, iced tea and lemonade.</p>
<p><strong>Buffet Party</strong></p>
<p>A buffet party is perfect for limited space, and will allow everyone to choose what they want to eat. Party food suggestions: lots of appetizers (salad, cheese and crackers, vegetables and dip, shrimp cocktail), main course (carved ham, roast beef, baked pasta dishes, fried chicken), and desserts (cupcakes, tarts, cookies, chocolate).</p>
<p><strong>Caribbean Party</strong></p>
<p>Do you feel like something more exotic? Then a Caribbean party may be the way to go. The food selection simply needs to fall into the traditional Caribbean cuisine category. Suggestions for party food: crab cakes, chilled papaya soup, seafood, jerk pork, and sweet potato pudding.</p>
<p><strong>Hawaiian Party </strong></p>
<p>Hawaiian Party is yet another way to indulge in something more exotic. Suggestions for party food: Poi, Barbecue Huli Huli, traditional Hawaiian Pork Adobo, and Pina Coladas, Mai Tais, and Blue Hawaiian for drinks. Simply stick to the traditional foods of the Hawaiian Islands.</p>
<p><strong>Halloween Party</strong></p>
<p>Is it time for Halloween spooks and jack-o-lanterns again? The food selection for a Halloween party menu needs to be anything but ordinary. Suggestions for party food: any food with black food coloring and Halloween-themed scary looking decorations, plus the traditional candied apples, popcorn balls, and pumpkin dishes.</p>
<p><strong>Football Party</strong></p>
<p>Is your home team playing? Then you may want to hold a party for this very reason. Suggestions for party food: Sloppy Joe, dips (for vegetables, crackers, chips), cookies, cupcakes, beer and soda. Make sure to use your home team&#8217;s colors and banners for decoration.</p>
<p><strong>Graduation Party</strong></p>
<p>Is someone you know soon to become a graduate? It&#8217;s time for a smashing party then. Suggestions for party food menus: pizza, dessert buffet, finger food, taco bar, or the popular themed menus &#8211; Luau, Parisian, Mexican fiesta, or Hollywood.<br />
<strong><br />
Kentucky Derby Party </strong></p>
<p>Are you getting ready to don a wacky hat and enjoy a day at the horse races? You can finish your day with some or all of these: Mint Juleps, Henry Bain sauce, the Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich, Kentucky burgoo, and an extra yum Kentucky Derby pie made with chocolate and pecan nut. Serve Bourbon for drinks.</p>
<p><strong>New Years Eve Party </strong></p>
<p>New Year is here&#8230; again! And this time liven it up with a new addition to the regular food selection. Suggestions for party food: fondue, canapés, cheese cubes, fruit and veggie trays, pastries, relish tray, and lots of nuts &#8211; sweet or salty.</p>
<p>No matter what party you are going to hold, strive for a variety and make sure to offer a few sweet nibbles for dessert to satisfy everyone&#8217;s sweet tooth. Give your guests something to enjoy and remember.</p>
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		<title>The Benefits of Working from Home</title>
		<link>http://www.pier55.com/careers-money/online-business/working-from-home/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pier55.com/careers-money/online-business/working-from-home/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 29 May 2010 22:37:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pier55</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Online Business]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pier55.com/?p=1212</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are many benefits to working from home, and generally you can get started for a low price.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><!-- 		@page { margin: 0.79in } 		P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="JUSTIFY">There are many benefits to <em>working from home</em>, and generally you can get started for a low price. If you have a quality computer and a high speed internet then you can easily make money doing various types of freelance work. This includes writing, proofreading, transcribing, and creating websites. There are tons of people out there looking to hire individuals to complete such work.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="JUSTIFY">You get to decide what work you accept and what work you turn away. How many other jobs out there can you say that with? You also get to control how much time you spend working and how much time you spend on other activities. If you have children then you can have an extremely flexible schedule so that you can attend their activities.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="JUSTIFY">Working for yourself with your computer allows you to take it on the go to. Investing in a good laptop will ensure that even when you travel you will be able to check your messages and put in a few hours of work when you need to. This way you won’t feel tied to your computer or your house.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="JUSTIFY">Why spend your time doing work you hate when you can actually spend it doing work you love? You will be more motivated to complete the work on time when you actually enjoy it. In fact, it may seem silly to you when that paycheck comes in that you are making money doing something along those lines.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="JUSTIFY">Right now you may be struggling at a job you don’t like or completely out of work. When you decide to pursue a home based business using your computer you can connect with people out there all over the world. You can simply deliver their information through email attachments so it doesn’t matter that you aren’t right there within a close proximity to complete the work.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="JUSTIFY">Paying for daycare is very expensive so when you work from home with your computer you will be able to eliminate those expenses. You can also be home with a sick child instead of calling in sick yourself and having a pile of work to make up when you return. The level of stress that most people have significantly is reduced when they are working from home on their computer as well.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="JUSTIFY">You can use your home business to take off some deductions on your tax return as well. For example a section of your home that is used for work only, your computer, supplies, and even advertising expenses. Make sure you keep receipts and good records so that you are ready when it comes time to file your tax return.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;" align="JUSTIFY">As you can see there are quite a few benefits of working from home with your computer. This can allow you to have a business you love and that gives you some control over your future. You can make a great deal of money as well which most people need with the economic crisis we are all facing right now.</p>
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		<title>How to Contact the Paranormal</title>
		<link>http://www.pier55.com/bizzare-unusual/paranormal/how-to-contact-the-paranormal/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pier55.com/bizzare-unusual/paranormal/how-to-contact-the-paranormal/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 24 May 2010 21:41:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pier55</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Paranormal]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pier55.com/?p=1210</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How to contact the paranormal, and can you at all? Science is unable to prove or disprove the existence of the paranormal phenomena or the possibility of paranormal contacts. Nonetheless, thousands of people insist on having experienced something otherworldly. Many believers want to learn how to contact the paranormal.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>How to contact the paranormal, and can you at all? Science is unable to prove or disprove the existence of the paranormal phenomena or the possibility of paranormal contacts. Nonetheless, thousands of people insist on having experienced something otherworldly. Many believers want to learn how to contact the paranormal.</p>
<p>What could we contact? The paranormal can be seen as spirits (any incorporeal supernatural beings), ghosts (souls of the dead), demons (evil supernatural beings), or guardian angels (benevolent spiritual beings). It&#8217;s believed that these entities can be contacted through psychic mediums and paranormal investigators, or using Ouija boards, incantations, and meditation.</p>
<p><strong>Meditation</strong></p>
<p>Meditation is a discipline that aims to place the practitioner beyond their reflexive mind, into the state of a higher consciousness. Meditation is one of the safest ways to attempt to contact the supernatural. How to contact the paranormal through Meditation? Meditate. Make yourself comfortable, concentrate on your breathing, relax your body, and empty your mind. Be patient and willing to communicate, and you may feel the presence or receive a message. Ask clear and concise questions, and you may receive clear answers.</p>
<p><strong>Ouija board</strong></p>
<p>Ouija board is a divination tool with letters, numbers, and the words &#8220;yes&#8221;, &#8220;no&#8221;, and &#8220;goodbye&#8221; printed on it. How to contact the paranormal using an Ouija board? Get an Ouija board, ask a question, place your fingers onto the board&#8217;s planchette and wait to see whether the pointer starts to glide towards symbols or words on its own.</p>
<p>Believers conceive the pointer to be operated by the communicating spirit, while skeptics believe it to be moved by the reflexive motor behavior of the participant(s). Paranormal investigators warn against using Ouija boards or conducting séances in the quest for paranormal contacts, believing these activities to be potentially dangerous. Some people, however, conceive these boards to be a safe means of opening a portal into the spirits&#8217; realm to communicate with them.</p>
<p><strong>Spells and Incantations</strong></p>
<p>Incantations involve recitation of supposedly magical words for casting spells on spirits, people or objects. In occultism and witchcraft, incantations can be used for raising spirits. How to contact the paranormal using incantations? Recite an incantation. Unprepared people are advised not to attempt doing this, as summoning a spirit is potentially dangerous.</p>
<p><strong>Psychic Mediums</strong></p>
<p>Psychic mediums are people who communicate with spirits, whether to foretell the future or to get answers to questions. This gift or ability is even claimed to be employed by law enforcement when working on hopeless cases of missing persons. How to contact the paranormal with assistance of a psychic medium? Locate a medium and ask them to contact a supernatural entity for you.</p>
<p>Paranormal Investigators</p>
<p>Paranormal investigators are trained specialists who travel to the supposed ghost hunts. They use video and audio equipment to determine whether there is any supernatural presence on the scene. Their equipment includes: digital and video cameras, tape recorders, and EMF meters. How to contact the paranormal with assistance of a paranormal investigator? Locate a paranormal investigator and get them to travel with you to the sight of a supposed ghost hunt. Paranormal investigators typically use the aid of psychic mediums to contact the spirits when needed.</p>
<p>Remember that paranormal contacts can be damaging for poorly prepared people. Learn more about this matter and the necessary safety measures to undertake before you actually attempt to learn how to contact the paranormal.</p>
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		<title>How to Paint Home Decorations</title>
		<link>http://www.pier55.com/home-garden/decoration/how-to-paint-home-decorations/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pier55.com/home-garden/decoration/how-to-paint-home-decorations/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 19 May 2010 22:29:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pier55</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Decoration]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pier55.com/?p=1207</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When it comes to home decor we often have to choose between affordable and beautiful, but not if it's a paint home decoration. There are two types of beautiful and cheap paint home decoration, which we'll discuss below.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When it comes to <em>home decor</em> we often have to choose between affordable and beautiful, but not if it&#8217;s a <em>paint home decoration</em>. There are two types of beautiful and cheap paint home decoration, which we&#8217;ll discuss below.</p>
<p>1. Painting Wallpapers and Stencils</p>
<p>Using painting wallpapers and stencils make for an affordable and unique paint home decoration.</p>
<p>Painting wallpapers have several layers of paper, and can withstand up to 5-10 layers of paint. The fun modern stencils will give free rein to your imagination, awaken the artist within, and allow you to create a true masterpiece on the wall. You can transform any wall into a blooming garden with swarms of butterflies, or anything else that you like. You can even write something personal on the wall, if you order personalized stencils. Modern stencils can be used hundreds of times without the risk of any damage to them. Thus, you can first practice on a piece of old wallpaper prior to painting the actual wall. You can also make stencils yourself: print a picture, glue it onto cardboard and cut along the contour.</p>
<p>For painting you&#8217;ll need a sponge, a few disposable plastic containers, paint tape and a roll of paper towels. The sponge is for painting. The containers are for mixing the paint. The towels are for removing the excess paint. The painting tape is for securing the stencil to the surface. You can use a spray adhesive instead of painting tape, as it may be more convenient. Once you are done, you&#8217;ll have a fascinating new paint home decoration.</p>
<p>2. Painting the Walls</p>
<p>How to paint the walls to create a beautiful paint home decoration? Let&#8217;s see.</p>
<p>Paint is a very delicate matter. When deposited on uneven or cracked surfaces, the paint will only emphasize these defects. So, the wall has to be prepared first. You&#8217;ll need to apply a layer of plaster onto the wall, then apply the primer and sand it. As a result, you&#8217;ll get a perfectly smooth surface, ready to paint right after the primer dries.</p>
<p>Two of the most popular conventional types of paint for paint home decoration are water-based paints and oil-based paints. Water paints make for healthy &#8220;breathing&#8221; walls. When applied to porous surfaces (plaster walls, wood tiles), water-based paints provide an excellent protective layer and a lasting matte finish. If the room is exposed to moisture, it&#8217;s best to use oil paints. Oil paint requires careful surface preparation. Before you apply oil paint onto the plaster, examine the wall underneath it. Block walls can be painted 2-3 months after the plaster was applied onto the wall, while brick walls can be painted only 4 months after.</p>
<p>Unconventional Finishes for Unique Paint Home Decoration</p>
<p>There are three good examples of unconventional finishes for paint home decoration: “mosaic”, “velvety”, and “pearlescent”.</p>
<p>1. “Mosaic finish”. This finish consists of tiny bubbles, and is painted with a spray gun. Upon impact on the surface, the bubbles will break and form a pattern on the wall, resembling the texture of granite. This technology is suitable for almost any primed surfaces: concrete, wood panels, plywood, and glass.</p>
<p>2. “Velvety finish”. This finish has solid colored particles in it that form a velvety coating on the wall. The striking appearance of this finish makes it very popular for residential interiors.</p>
<p>3. “Pearlescent finish”. This finish will change color depending on the viewing angle.</p>
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		<title>Growing Medicinal Herbs</title>
		<link>http://www.pier55.com/home-garden/herb-gardening/growing-medicinal-herbs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pier55.com/home-garden/herb-gardening/growing-medicinal-herbs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 12 May 2010 21:51:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pier55</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Herb Gardening]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pier55.com/?p=1203</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There have been many studies conducted at one time or another that show that medicinal herbs actually do what the claims say they do. Let’s look at a few here...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><!-- 		@page { margin: 0.79in } 		P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;">Growing <em>medicinal herbs</em> has gone on for centuries. Doctors were few and far in-between not to mention the days when there were none, so people had to make do with what they knew how to do. This generally involved the use of herbs – knowledge that was passed down from generation to generation, and still occurs today, though likely not on such a large scale as it once was.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;">Nearly everywhere you look there are advertisements pitching one thing or another as the next great miracle cure. None however, stand the test of time as herbs do. In fact, there have been many studies conducted at one time or another that show that these medicinal herbs actually do what the claims say they do. Let’s look at a few here.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Chamomile</strong></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;">Chamomile is named for a dried flower that is used most often in making tea. Drinking it relaxes you and is said to have a sedative-like quality and has the ability to help you get to sleep.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;">It has been said that chamomile helps to ease inflammation as well as fever, yet there have been no studies conducted to prove this benefit. Still, stories date back for centuries making the claims. There have been studies conducted that have shown chamomile to have aided in ridding the stomach of ulcers that are caused by bacteria.</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-size: small;">Some people do indeed have allergic reactions to the pollen of the chamomile herb however it is for the most part safe and causes no adverse side-effects for those that use it.</span></p>
<p><strong>Echinacea</strong></p>
<p>One herb that is a perennial, Echinacea, has been the subject of numerous studies. It is considered to be an immune system aid, but science has yet to put any validation to the claim. Still, these studies have shown it to be effective and it is also help when there are problems with your upper respiratory system that are the cause of a cold.</p>
<p>Research has shown that it is instrumental in shortening the life of a cold. It is also known to help with the symptoms of a cold, as well as perhaps being instrumental decreasing the possibility of contracting as many colds in a given season. While it is perhaps difficult to prove that this is the case, the herb is indeed safe to use, and the “old-timers” swear by its use. There is one word of caution with the use of this herb, and that is that those with diabetes should speak with their physician before using this one.</p>
<p><strong>Feverfew</strong></p>
<p>This herb is best known for its use in treating inflammation as well as severe headaches. This is a very common herb that is found in medicinal gardening. This one however, should not be taken lightly. It is known to have side effects that can be quite sever, and it is also known to prevent blood from clotting. Among the side effects are the potential of mouth ulcers and perhaps inflammation of the skin. For those who have issues with their blood pressure, this one should be avoided because it is also known to increase the heart rate. These herbs contain parthenolide and glycoside and it can also hinder iron absorption in the body.</p>
<p><strong>Ginseng</strong></p>
<p>The use of ginseng is actually tracked back to ancient times. It is most commonly used in China and India, but can be found growing wild nearly anywhere. There have been studies that have shown ginseng to reduce blood sugar and to increase the HDL cholesterol levels (this is a good thing).</p>
<p>There has been no evidence to show that it actually has the ability to enhance your sex life, though you can find it for sale in many places for that very reason. If nothing else, perhaps the belief that it will is what increases the libido. Although a very safe herb, pregnant women and those that are breastfeeding should avoid any use of it because there are compounds within the herb it that mimic estrogen.</p>
<p>Taking too much of this herb can also cause asthma attacks and it has been known to significantly reduce blood sugar levels to a point where it is unhealthy.</p>
<p>If you intend to grow these herbs in order to avoid going to a doctor, then you need to gather as much information as possible to get a clear idea of what you are perhaps getting yourself into. This means you need to do a lot of research. Medicinal herbs have been around for centuries. Even those “back in the day” were well schooled on the effect of each herb on the body.</p>
<p><em>Medicinal herbs</em> can be grown indoors or out, but are most commonly grown in pots, inside so that there are ready supplies of them available when they are needed.</p>
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		<title>Mini History of Womens Fashions</title>
		<link>http://www.pier55.com/beauty-fashion/fashion-for-women/mini-history-of-womens-fashions/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pier55.com/beauty-fashion/fashion-for-women/mini-history-of-womens-fashions/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 02 May 2010 21:44:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pier55</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fashion for Women]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pier55.com/?p=1200</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The beginning of the 20th century brought a tremendous influx of immigrants, new businesses and technologies, and substantial economic growth throughout America. One result of these changes was a profound influence on women’s fashion.  ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><!-- 		@page { margin: 0.79in } 		P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The beginning of the 20th century brought a tremendous influx of immigrants, new businesses and technologies, and substantial economic growth throughout America. One result of these changes was a profound influence on women’s fashion. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Paris and London set the fashion trends American women followed, if they could afford to do so, and these trends were tied to the tastes of the upper classes in France and Britain. In America, the Vanderbilts, Astors, and Roosevelts, copied the looks of European aristocracy.  In turn, rich American women were copied by middle class women.  In this way, Paris and London influenced the dominant look of American women, even though European designers did not directly design for the masses.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">For a brief time in women’s fashion history, women wore expensive, elaborate, ultra-feminine dresses that produced the fashionable S-shaped silhouette.  A good description of this look was given in a women’s fashion magazine of 1910: </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;">“<span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"><em>Based on the figure of the mature and well-built woman, the S-shaped silhouette is comprised of a bell-shaped skirt draped over taffeta petticoats; a small bustle gathering a train; and a lacy cotton or linen corset with whalebone stays that produced a clinched, wasp-like waist and flat stomach while exaggerating the size of the bust and hips.” </em></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The bust was further emphasized by a blouse decorated with frills, braids, and laces. The S shape created an unnatural bend in the back that tilted the woman&#8217;s upper body forward. In addition, a high, stiff collar drew the head slightly upward. A wide-brimmed hat was worn forward on the head to balance the S shape. Leather boots fastened with buttons, or pointed suede shoes with low heels, completed the fashionable woman&#8217;s look.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The S silhouette required much time and effort. First, the woman put on a chemise or vest of fine linen, silk, or muslin. Then, with help, she put on the corset, which laced at the back.  (Women’s fashion history has had its cruel side.  Many women experienced painful health issues which resulted from pulling these corsets too tightly). </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Then came the petticoats.  These rivaled the dress in detail and decorations and were hemmed with ruffles that rustled as a woman moved. After this daily ritual the woman was finally ready for her dress.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;">
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;">
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">As the decade wore on, skirts narrowed and rose slightly (to the ankle), changing the undergarments. To produce a narrower hipline, corsets no longer reached above the waist but moved down over the hips. This change required a more flexible structure, using lighter and smaller stays. Ruffled petticoats were replaced by closer fitting slips.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">No fashionable woman left her house without a hat in the early 1900s.  During this period, women&#8217;s small hats were lavishly trimmed with feathers, flowers, preserved birds, lace, ribbons, and buckles.  As the decade progressed, women&#8217;s hats increased in size, became still more lavishly trimmed, and were worn tilted forward or to one side with a face veil. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Most women</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Lucida Sans Unicode,sans-serif;">—</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">the rich were the exception</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Lucida Sans Unicode,sans-serif;">—</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">made their own clothes, following standardized patterns.  Professional dressmakers used the same patterns, or else they made dresses to order by copying European originals. The foundations for what would become America&#8217;s ready-to-wear clothing industry were set in this decade.  Eastern European tailors applied their skills and made New York the center of the clothing industry in America.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The American contribution to women’s fashion history was ready-to-wear clothing.  This innovation produced the shirtwaist, a blouse designed to be worn with a skirt. Paris looked down on the shirtwaist, which first appeared in the late nineteenth century.  But American working women took to the garment with more intense demand than any other garment in women’s fashion history. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">Sears, Roebuck catalogue offered 150 variations of it, priced from 39</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Lucida Sans Unicode,sans-serif;">¢</span></span><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;"> to $6.95. In 1907 a peek-a-boo shirtwaist shocked many conservatives with its eyelet embroidery, which allowed the flesh of the arm to show. By 1910 the national production of shirtwaists was a big business.  New York City alone turned out $60 million worth.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The main advantage of the shirtwaist was its suitability to the active lives most women were leading.  Designers used the shirtwaist to offer women a more comfortable range of skirts.  American women might want to follow European high-fashion trends in the evening, but for the rigors of everyday life they wanted a look that was stylish as well as functional.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">The shirtwaist rapidly became the symbol of a new generation of working women. These young women (called &#8220;pink-collar&#8221; workers) managed the growing paperwork generated by American businesses.   There had been increasing demand for office work since the invention of the typewriter in 1870. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0.16in; background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% #ffffff;"><span style="color: #000000;"><span style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif;">In addition, a woman could earn ten dollars or more a week in an office &#8211; twice what she could make in a clothing sweatshop.  And finally, these young women enjoyed a heterosexual social setting outside the supervision of the family. Single secretaries and typists became the age&#8217;s newest glamour girls, the heroines of serial stories in romance novels.</span></span></p>
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		<title>How to Make Easy and Cheap Party Food</title>
		<link>http://www.pier55.com/home-garden/party-planning/how-to-make-easy-and-cheap-party-food/</link>
		<comments>http://www.pier55.com/home-garden/party-planning/how-to-make-easy-and-cheap-party-food/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 26 Apr 2010 21:34:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Pier55</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Party Planning]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.pier55.com/?p=1198</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Are you looking for some easy cheap party food ideas? Here are several ideas that you might consider for your party...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Are you looking for some easy cheap party food ideas?  Here are several ideas that you might consider for your party:</p>
<p>1. Fritos and Dip</p>
<p>Chips and homemade dips are one of the most popular easy cheap party food ideas. Take 1/2 small jar of salsa, 1 bag of shredded cheese, 1 block of cream cheese, and 1 can of Hormel chili. Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl and melt it in a microwave. Serve with Fritos.</p>
<p>2. Baked Spinach and Garlic Cakes</p>
<p>This recipe uses ready-made Phyllo dough, making it easy to bake these cakes. Sauté chopped spinach with minced garlic, and let it cool. Spread one sheet of Phyllo dough onto an oven-proof dish, spread a thin layer of spinach with garlic over the dough, and cover it with another sheet of Phyllo dough. Bake at 350 F until golden brown.</p>
<p>3. Lit&#8217;l Smokies in a Blanket</p>
<p>Piggies in a blanket are one of the all-time favorite easy cheap party food ideas. Take one pack of Pillsbury crescent dinner rolls (24 rolls) and one pack of Lit&#8217;l Smokies (about 40 sausages in a package). Cut the crescents in half. Roll the sausages in. Stick a toothpick into each one to keep them tight. Heat the piggies at 350 F for 15-20 minutes, until light brown. Brush the piggies with butter after cooking.</p>
<p>4. Baked Lit&#8217;l Smokies</p>
<p>Take 1 package of Lit&#8217;l Smokies, put them into an oven-proof dish, and cover with your favorite BBQ sauce. Bake at 350 F for 1 hour, and serve on toothpicks.</p>
<p>5. French Bread with Garlic and Olive Oil</p>
<p>Bread is cheap and fulfilling, so stack up on it. Slice a few loafs of French bread, and rub the bread slices with a mix of olive oil and minced garlic. Toast the slices on both sides, top with some shredded cheese, and then grill.</p>
<p>6. Meatballs with BBQ sauce</p>
<p>Meatballs are yet another popular easy cheap party food. Take a bag of meatballs, lay them on a tray, cover them with BBQ sauce and bake them thoroughly.</p>
<p>7. Ham and Pineapple</p>
<p>Buy a can of ham from a Dollar store and a can of pineapple chunks. Use wooden skewers to make alternating ham and pineapple Kebobs. Grill or bake.</p>
<p>8. Fresh Veggie Tray</p>
<p>Fresh veggies are a perfect easy cheap party food. Purchase broccoli, baby carrots, celery, cherry tomatoes, and cauliflower. Lay them out on a tray. Serve with ranch dressing.</p>
<p>9. Deviled Eggs</p>
<p>There are thousands of recipes for deviled eggs to choose from. Deviled eggs are yet another perfect easy cheap party food, as well as they will allow for your creativity to work. Try not to add any unexpected ingredients to your eggs, such as sweet, crunchy, or spicy. Try not to add any chopped onion or minced garlic to the eggs either, as many people don&#8217;t like these tastes at a party. Use the good old hard boiled eggs, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, white wine vinegar, and other regular ingredients.</p>
<p>Other easy cheap party food ideas include:  finger sandwiches, pizza, homemade cookies and brownies, cupcakes from cake mix, crackers, nachos, chips, pretzels, homemade hot wings, cheese on toothpicks, and popcorn with cheese sprinkles. Purchase the generic brands of food, make lots of homemade dips for chips, and you will end up with tons of easy cheap party food.</p>
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