Quadrantids Meteor Shower - January 3-4, 2011

2011 starts with an impressive meteor shower for those ready to brave a cold night. The Quadrantids take place the night of Monday January 3rd into the morning of Tuesday January 4th, and are made better by the fact that the Moon is new, meaning no interference from moonlight.

As always, the best viewing of any meteor shower is from a dark location, ideally away from city lights. But I have had some success right in my backyard in San Francisco by positioning myself away from direct lights such as streetlights and houselights, and allowing myself 5 to 10 minutes to adapt to the darkness. Once dark adapted, the winter sky shimmers and Quadrantids are readily visible. In dark skies outside of cities you can expect up to 2 meteors per minute, but in the City I am happy to see 1 meteor every few minutes. This year should be as good a show as any, and despite our rainy Northern California weather the outlook is good.

To see this shower, position yourself facing northeast but give yourself as much of a view of the sky as possible. A lawn chair is best (along with blankets and a hat), as the meteors appear to originate in the constellation Bootes in the northeast part of the sky, but the meteors radiate in every direction away from this point.

For some fun background and history of this meteor shower, check out Astronomy.com and NASA's "What's Up" blog series. Image is courtesy of NASA.

Stay warm, and here's to good skies!

The Top 40 Movies of 2010

Not many movie years out there like this one. It started off godawful slow, but once the summer was half over, it felt like we were in the midst of a full-time parade of landmark cinema. Per usual, there were a few crashing disappointments come December, but overall, there were lots of breathtaking pieces sprinkled throughout these past 12 months, and a shocking number of them were about REAL

The Top 40 Movies of 2010

Not many movie years out there like this one. It started off godawful slow, but once the summer was half over, it felt like we were in the midst of a full-time parade of landmark cinema. Per usual, there were a few crashing disappointments come December, but overall, there were lots of breathtaking pieces sprinkled throughout these past 12 months, and a shocking number of them were about REAL

Got Balance?

Looking for a healthier, happier, more satisfied life? 

Check out my Free “Life Balance” Workshop On-line

This 30-minute, five-part series on the Basics of Balancing Work and Family is an over-view of ideas and strategies to help you achieve a balance with your work, personal and family life.The workshop, offered by the University of Florida/Hillsborough County Extension Service, includes a handout to help you personalize the information and develop a satisfying life plan that fits you.

Visit us at: http://hillsboroughfcs.ifas.ufl.edu/BalancingSeries.html

Resolution for the New Year

If you make New Year’s Resolutions, you might want to think about making a resolution to eat breakfast if you don’t already do this every morning. Busy families especially need to add this to their list of healthy habits.

It can seem as if mornings just fly by when rushing to get ready for work and school. Eating breakfast can easily be forgotten or neglected on busy mornings. However, breakfast is a very important meal for you and your family.

Eating a morning meal has many health benefits. It is important to refuel your body after not eating for many hours during the night. Breakfast provides the glucose that is the primary energy source for the body and the brain. The American Dietetic Association states the breakfast skippers often feel tired, restless, or irritable in the morning. The brain’s functions are very sensitive to changing glucose levels. Research has also shown that missing this meal diminishes the mental performance of children, young adults, and the elderly.

Eating breakfast may also help in weight management because it reduces hunger and prevents eating binges. People who eat a daily breakfast are far less likely to become obese, compared to those who skip the first meal of the day, according to one study by the Harvard Medical School.

So, make a New Year’s Resolution and start off your day on the right foot. Make sure that breakfast is included in your family’s routine. Simple meals such as whole-grain cereals, fresh fruits, and eggs can be prepared easily and quickly. These kinds of foods also provide energy and many nutrients your family need to stay healthy.

Being with the In-laws at Holiday Time

Did somebody forget to tell you that when you married the person - you married the family? You don’t have to have seen the movie series “Meet the Parents” to know what challenges may lie ahead. The holiday season usually involves extended and in-law family members getting together and this can sometimes cause conflict.

Unfortunately for some, we can’t control the way our in-laws behave towards us, but we can control the way we react. Some family therapists offer the following tips. First, identify the issue. Are your in-laws unreasonable or are you being impatient?

Second, regulate your reactions. Take a deep breath when necessary and control your temper in heated situations.

Third, look for compromising solutions. Don’t be a victim, but be willing to sacrifice for the sake of maintaining peace. You don’t always have to be right and you don’t always have to have the last word.

Finally, act rather than react. Prepare yourself for possible conflict and decide ahead of time how you will react or respond. Remember to be control of your actions and words – even if the in-laws are not!

Renowned marriage researcher, Dr. John Gottman says that when dealing with conflict with the in-laws, it’s important to put your spouse first and not to tolerate any contempt toward your spouse from your parents. This simple act set a precedent that your marriage cannot be divided. Discuss issues with your spouse prior to visits with the in-laws to ensure that you will always be on the same page. Beware making critical comments, however, after all, these people you may be complaining about are deeply connected to the person you love.

If you and your spouse actively listen to each other and tend to your relationship (in preparation of dealing with conflict as a team,) you will be more likely to become stronger than to be broken down.

Shimmering Early Morning Sky

As we approach the latest sunrise of the year (January 4th at 7:25 am in San Francisco), the morning sky remains dark enough to see stars until well after 6:00 am. That means that the early riser is rewarded with some lovely sights to close out 2010 and welcome 2011. Brilliant Venus dominates the sky each morning, shining bright in the South-East well before dawn. This week the waning Moon presents a changing landscape as it moves past Saturn, the bright star Spica (see diagram on the right), and then later in the week Venus and Mercury. Following the Solstice-Total-Lunar-Eclipse, the Moon is tracking downward on the Ecliptic, meaning that each Morning it is following the planets from high in the sky on a steep angle toward the horizon.

If you are not an early riser, don't despair. I'll have a post about the Winter skies soon. All you have to do is look up (especially if you are up at midnight on New Year's Eve and have clear skies). The Winter is a fantastic time to enjoy the stars.

Image courtesy of Sky and Telescope Magazine.

Raghav Photoshoot

The Spotlight UK studios were used for the Photoshoot of Indo- Canadian singer Raghav for Ink Magazine. We also caught up with the R&B artist for an exclusive interview. 

Take Care of Yourself During the Holidays

Although the winter holiday season should be a time of enjoyment, the events associated with the season are often the cause of stress.

When we’re feeling stressed we’re much more likely to neglect our needs, but that is when we need to take care of ourselves the most! Making sure that we eat healthy foods, get plenty of rest, exercise, and take time out for relaxing activities helps bolster us and renews our physical and emotional resources.

During the holidays it is tempting to eat too much (and the wrong kinds of foods), drink too much alcohol, skip the exercise, and stay up too late. Although a little indulgence is okay, forgetting to take care of ourselves day after day leaves us physically and emotionally drained, and unable to handle the stressors that will come our way.

If you are up late one night because of a party or gift-wrapping session, make sure that you go to bed early the next night. Try to increase your physical activity by going walking after meals, and taking stairs rather than elevators. Even walking in the mall can be a great source of exercise! If you enjoy trying all of the different goodies at a party, make sure to just try a little bit of each. Then focus on the healthier foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean meats.

You may also want to ask yourself if you are truly hungry, or simply eating because the food is there. Finally, try to take some time out for yourself, even if it’s only a few minutes while you’re lying in bed in the morning. Hot baths or showers are relaxing, reading can be a great escape, and some people find meditation helpful. Everyone is different, so you will need to figure out what sort of activity provides a good way for you to take a break and decompress.

Dinner Table Conversation Starters

Holiday family gatherings are a great opportunity to take time to share, talk and eat together. Of course, the holidays aren't the only occasion to enjoy lively conversation, so keep the family meal time a tradition in your household. Make it a goal to eat together as a family at least four times a week. Here are ideas for conversation starters. Pick a topic, enjoy quality time together and take the time to learn from and appreciate each other.
Name one thing that you would like to do this weekend.
If your picture were in the paper today, what would the caption say?
If you could be any type of animal, what would it be and why?
What is your favorite family tradition?
What family tradition would you like for us to start?
Talk about two things that your friends’ families do differently from ours.
Name one thing you appreciate about the person sitting on your right.
What outside activity could we do together as a family today?
What is the most interesting news you heard this week?
If you could be president, what is the first thing you would do?
What would you like to do after you finish high school?
What was the nicest thing you did for someone this week?
Tell us about your favorite food without using the name.
If you could have a super-power, what would it be?
If our family could have any animal in the world as a pet, what would you like to have? Why?
If we had a time machine, when and where would you like to visit?
If you could participate in any event in the Olympics, which event would it be? Why?
Tell us about your favorite part of the day.
If you could invite someone to dinner who would it be? Why?
If we had no electricity, what would our day be like?
If we were to write a family goal for this week, what would it be? What could we accomplish?
How could we as a family help others in our community?
Tell us a funny joke or story.

Holiday Safety at Grandma and Grandpa's House

If Grandma and Grandpa do not usually have young children in the home, it is likely that their home isn't childproofed. In addition to not having safety locks on cabinets, gates on stairs, or covers on electrical outlets, they may also have prescription medications that aren't in a child resistant container.


Things to be especially watchful for, and which you may want to be mindful of when visiting during the holidays, include:

• If there is a pool, does it have a fence? Can the child get to the area where the pool is located?

• Are there guns in the house? Are they stored unloaded or locked in a box with bullets locked separately?

• Are medications, poisons and household cleaners out of reach? What needs to be removed, locked up or put out of reach?

• If they have a pet, do you need to take special precautions to keep children safe?

• Are there gates on the stairs? Do you need to bring a portable gate?

• How can you remove small objects, such as nuts or candy dishes so young children cannot reach them?

• Can you remove breakable objects or put them out of reach of the children?

• Are there holiday decorations, such as lights, trees, plants, artificial snow or candles that could be potentially harmful to children? What can you do to make the environment safer for your child?

• Remember that holidays can be stressful for some children. Traveling, visiting family, a disruption of the regular routine, excessive noise and getting presents can increase your child’s stress levels. Try to maintain your child’s usually routines such as sleep and nap schedules and meal times. Remember to spend plenty of one-on-one time with your children so you both can enjoy the holidays. Take along indoor and outdoor games, activities and their favorite snacks for them.

Parents Give Teens Alcohol

The discussion about the drinking age comes up with some frequency in my classes for parents with adolescents and teens. It can be a challenge that many parents face. Yet, one recent study found that parents are in fact the source of alcohol for many teens today.


Using surveys of sixth, seventh and eighth graders from a middle school in urban Chicago, researchers from the University of Minnesota and the University of Florida studied alcohol use and sources of alcohol among these young teens. It’s common to hear about kids with fake ID’s who have been able to purchase alcohol and get into clubs, or older siblings and neighbors who provide alcohol to younger children. However, according to this study, social sources including family and friends were the most likely source of alcohol for these underage drinkers. In addition, parents were the primary source of alcohol to the middle school students in this study.

By the time they were in 8th grade, these students had increased their access to other sources, and were “taking alcohol from home, and getting alcohol from other adults, individuals under 21, and commercial sources”.

The researchers concluded that their findings reinforce the importance of educating parents about the impacts of providing alcohol to their children and their children’s friends. They recommended that parents who consume alcohol should be vigilant about locking up or monitoring alcohol in their homes. They also suggest that parents who provide their children with alcohol for special occasions or religious events should consider the subsequent effects, including increased risk behaviors associated with early acceptance of alcohol.

So if you’re considering supplying (or already supply) alcohol to your underage teens and their friends, you might want to consider the consequences.

Total Lunar Eclipse of December 20, 2010

Monday night December 20th, we get to witness a very exciting astronomical spectacle, a Total Lunar Eclipse. This one promises to be a special one, capping the longest night of the year with the strange and beautiful view of the full Moon being blotted out by the shadow of the Earth. The geometry of an eclipse is fairly textbook, but the experience is quite dramatic.

This eclipse will be visible from the western hemisphere, meaning that anyone on the entire night side of Earth will have a view of the full Moon and will see the phases of the eclipse. In this particular eclipse, the Moon passes through the darkest part of the Earth's shadow (umbra) meaning that the entire surface of the Moon will no longer have direct sunlight shining on it, but because of the atmosphere of the Earth, refracted rays of sunlight will in fact bend around the Earth and illuminate the Moon, creating a trademark orange or reddish color on the Moon, an eerie effect indeed. The excellent NASA Eclipse Website has much more detailed information on the eclipse.

The event starts at 10:33 pm in San Francisco, as the partial phases of the eclipse take about an hour. The period of "totality" when the entire surface of the Moon is dark, lasts about an hour from 11:41 pm until 12:53 am, and then the Moon is slowly revealed again for another hour. Cross your fingers for good weather, dress warmly, and enjoy this fascinating spectacle of nature. And if you have binoculars or a telescope, use them - this is exactly the time to get a close-up look at one of the wonders of the sky.

Image courtesy of the Universe Today.

Year-round Education

Year-round schooling is a hot topic among school districts across the United States, although it’s not a new idea. The first year-round school in the US opened in Indiana in 1904. What is not considered the traditional school-year calendar was designed to allow children to help their parents on the farm.


In recent decades, overcrowding, high drop-out rates and low standardized test scores have brought about a return of year-round school calendars, increasing from 410 public schools in 1985 to 3,095 in 2000.

Advantages includes: improved achievement test scores, reduced drop-out rates and more high school graduates going on to college, fewer discipline problems, improved teacher and student attendance, reduction in teacher stress, and reduction in class size. Another advantage is that minority youth tend to take advantage of educational opportunities provided through school activities occurring over breaks.

Disadvantages include findings that multi-tracks do not divide students and teachers equally in terms of ability. Also, year-round school calendars result in increased administrator and clerical burn-out, scheduling conflicts, siblings placed on different attendance schedules, less teacher enhancement opportunities and increased costs of operation.

As the debate continues, proponents honestly state that year-round schools are hard work to institute and that calendars don’t teach kids. Teachers do!

Imperfect Holidays

I wish I would have started a tradition thirty years ago. I would call this tradition “Holiday Bloopers” or “Things That Went Wrong.” This tradition wouldn’t be to remind me of my failures and short-comings, but it would serve to give us all something to laugh at years later.


Some of the best times I share with my extended family include laughing at mishaps, funny situations or down-right embarrassing moments when things didn’t quite go as planned. Perhaps we have a twisted sense of humor, but I believe hearty laughter is essential to families.

I would take photographs of each blooper. One would be of the huge pile of delicious, buttery mashed potatoes splattered on the kitchen floor when my wrist gave out and they just kept sliding out of the bowl and plopping to the floor while I (and everyone else) watched.

Another photo would be the beautiful bottoms of a dozen crispy, blackened, burned rolls – and don’t pretend you haven’t done this. And when a gift gets the wrong recipient’s name on it, such as when Uncle Henry got the lacey, pink Victoria’s Secrets unmentionables.

I don’t know why, but I just think it would be funny to see photographs of these things.

With this tradition, we would delight in any “things gone wrong” moment instead of expecting everything to be perfect and getting disappointed when it’s not. In fact, we might even search out the “photograph of the season” to add to the pile. People aren’t perfect. Families aren’t perfect. Holidays don’t have to be perfect. They just have to bring us together.

I’m hoping my children and their families will gather (in the far, far future) to laugh about some of the stupid, clumsy or embarrassing things I have done.

Uprising Music Festival - Reggae Event of the Year

On Saturday 19th June Spotlight UK were at  Brixton Academy to film the Uprising Music Festival, billed as the Reggae event of the year for. It featured household Eeggae names such as Barrington Levy, Freddie McGregor, Cocoa Tea and Stevie Face as well as being hosted by musician, multi-millionaire and entrepreneur Levi Roots who founded Reggae Reggae Sauce. The footage filmed also went out on Jamaican and Reggae TV stations.

Teens Expect to Cohabit Before Marriage

I am constantly reminded that, just as every person is unique, every family is quite unique as well. What seems to work for some families may not work for others, whether it’s how they form their relationships or how they parent their children. Even among my own friends and relatives, what one person considers “normal,” others may think of as unacceptable. Such is the case with cohabitation before (or instead of) marriage.

Following in the footsteps of the Boomers, who redefined marriage and family in so many ways, today’s young adults often consider cohabitation not only “normal,” but almost think of it as a prerequisite to marriage. My daughter has already announced to me that she would never think about marrying someone without having lived with them – “cause you just don’t know what they’re really like until you live with them.” I cannot disagree with her about that!

In a recent study published in The Journal of Marriage and the Family, researchers found that not all teens expect to cohabit before they tie the knot, yet most still expect to marry. In fact, three quarters of the teens studied report having definite or probably expectations to marry in the future, and one quarter of those have no intention to cohabit prior to marriage. Still, about half of the teens report they expect to live with their future spouse prior to marriage. However, these teens also did not see cohabitation as a replacement for marriage.

Researchers also found that adolescents’ expectations to cohabit are based in part on two very important influences; their interactions with the opposite sex (including sexual activity as teens) and how their parents communicate their own values.

Geminid Meteor Shower 2010

One of the best Meteor Showers of the year takes place in favorable conditions on Monday night December 13th into the morning hours of December 14th. The shower is called the Geminids, named after the constellation Gemini. The Geminids appear to originate from the constellation Gemini which rises shortly after sunset and is high in the sky around midnight. This point in the sky is called the radiant, and if you trace the paths of the meteors backwards, they will all converge in this point.

Meteor showers generally get better late into the night because the Earth is rotated in the direction of its orbit around the Sun and consequently we encounter a higher number of meteors, on average. This is certainly true for the Geminids, and in dark conditions after midnight you might see 1 or even 2 meteors a minute. Being winter, you have to really prepare for this by dressing extremely well for your local conditions. I plan to get up early and look for Geminids in the early morning hours of Tuesday 14th, since the Sun does not impact the viewing until after 6:00 am.

This year is particularly favorable for the Geminids because the Moon is at First Quarter and will not be a factor after midnight. Stay warm and enjoy the show!

Image courtesy of Earth Sky.

Managing the Holidays with Young Children

Holiday time provides the "stuff" of childhood memories. Parents want their children to look back at holiday celebrations and remember them as a time of wonder, joy and fun. As parents, we create the values and excitement of the holiday season. Here are a few ideas to make this time special:

Don't expect that young children, especially toddlers, will fully understand the meaning of the holiday season. Remember that most children become very exhausted during holiday time. Be aware of your child's capacity to deal with the excitement and emotions and plan their schedule with these limitations in mind.

Keep to your child's routine as much as possible. Make sure that your child's mealtime schedule is not interrupted. Hungry children quickly become cranky children. For that matter, so do some adults! It's better to feed your child his or her meal than to wait until the special, large dinner. He or she can then play quietly, watch a movie, or nap while the adults have their meal.

Don't make major changes in your child's life during the holidays. This is not the time to wean him from the bottle, pacifier or crib. To avoid overwhelming your children by the crowded mall, shop by catalog, hire someone to shop for you, or hire a baby sitter to stay home with your young ones.

Many children are afraid of sitting on Santa's lap (can you blame them?) so don't force the situation for a magic Kodak moment. Most likely, you won't get the picture you want. You might consider standing next to Santa with your child.

Grandparents and other extended family members may not be used to having small children around, so plan separate activities with your children to give everyone a break. Try taking a walk with your children, reading a book out loud, or setting up a puzzle on a table in the corner for quiet time. Remember to keep your plans simple so the entire family enjoys the holidays.

Holiday Stress

We all have an image in our head about what the holidays should be like – sort of like a Norman Rockwell painting, right? These fantasies also include a picture-perfect family and wonderful images of celebrations from our childhood. We want to capture what it felt like to be that young child. Because of this, we often have unrealistic expectations of our time, energy, money – and our children’s behavior.


Our schedules are already hectic, yet the holiday season adds more demands. We scramble to make to-do lists, buy every gift, bake every dish, pull out every decoration, get everything done.

The holidays also mark the passage of time for us with a heightened loss or loneliness for some. We also examine our personal gains and losses this time of year and we are also reminded of life stages and life changes.

Many of us have families who are scattered through the states and world – and changed family situations that can make the holidays difficult. When we do come together, the holiday season can be a catalyst for unfinished emotional business and gatherings may not always be pleasant. Yet, we expect families to get along, just like on commercials that come out at this time of year.

We work hard to make the holidays perfect for everyone and ignore our need for rest and rejuvenation.

So this year, give yourself permission to take it easy, relax and enjoy your family. And if you happen to burn the dinner rolls, then just cut the bottoms off and forgive yourself! You are perfect just the way you are!

Watch for more Holiday Survival blogs and share your ideas.

KFOG Podcast - December 3, 2010

Today on the KFOG Morning Show Podcast with Irish Greg, we talked about the discovery of new stars in the galaxy, alien life forms right here on Earth, the upcoming Geminids Meteor Shower on December 13-14, the upcoming Total Lunar Eclipse on December 20-21, and Holiday Shopping including a special 10% discount on anything at Scope City in San Francisco (my favorite place to shop) if you mention KFOG or The Urban Astronomer. Click here to listen. And take advantage of the 10% offer while it lasts!

The Importance of Play

Adults who watch children at play think of it as having fun, goofing off or getting rid of extra energy. Yet play is actually how children learn and is essential to their healthy cognitive, social and physical development.


Play stimulates every aspect of a child’s development. Motor skills such as walking, kicking, or skipping are strengthened by sliding and running, by jumping rope, or playing ball. Children develop their fine motor skills and hand eye coordination with art work such as finger painting and coloring.

They build their thinking skills with games that require strategy and planning to reach a goal, making choices, or solving problems such as board games, puzzles, and models. Even making mud pies teaches children about measuring and mixing.

Playing with other children also helps youngsters develop social and interpersonal skills as they take turns, share their toys, and work as a team. Plus, they have the added benefit of the sheer joy of being with a friend. Play helps children develop confidence as they learn new things. What parent can forget a child’s look of pride as he or she finally masters a task?

Playing with your child can also build your relationship as you both enjoy each other’s company and have fun together. As adults, we often forget that we, too, still have permission to play. Play is what childhood is all about, so give children reasonable freedom to explore, provide interesting play things and play together often. So go ahead, get that Cootie game out, put your skates on, or play ball with your kids today.

Breakfast and School Performance

A very important component of your child’s school success is breakfast. In the morning, energy levels are low and need to be kick-started. Healthy breakfast foods help replenish these energy levels and provide nutrients, like calcium and iron, that often are low in children’s diets.

Eating breakfast increases cognitive performance in children, especially tasks that involve processing complex thoughts. Other benefits of breakfast include the increased ability to concentrate, stay alert, solve problems, and memorize. Some studies have linked a good breakfast to better moods and improved performance on tests.

A healthy breakfast should consists of whole-grain bread or cereal combined with a calcium and protein source, such as low fat or fat-free milk, yogurt or cheese. A piece of fresh fruit is a good way to round out the meal.

Consider the atmosphere in which your children eat their breakfast, too. Do they have enough time to sit and eat what you or they have prepared or do they feel rushed? Planning enough time for a sit down breakfast is a great way to start the day at a low stress level.

It may take some planning ahead to make a healthy breakfast part of your child’s morning routine, but it can yield benefits related to academic performance as well as nutritional status and health. And that is certainly worth the effort.

Hillsborough County school children are provided a free breakfast, so if your morning routine just doesn’t allow breakfast at home, be sure your child gets to school in time for breakfast in the cafeteria.

Sexualization of Girls - What Parents Can Do

In its recent report on sexualization of girls in the media, the American Psychological Association reported numerous negative impacts of the powerful message that what matters is “how hot you look.” The pressure to be thin, beautiful and sexy can have devastating results on developing girls.

According to the APA research, when combining television, Internet and video games, children use media an average of 6 ½ hours per day. Girls now equal boys in video game use as well as Internet use. The researchers explain, “Massive exposure to media among youth creates the potential for massive exposure to portrayals that sexualize women and girls and teach girls that women are sexual objects.”

However, parents can still have a powerful influence on how their children interpret media messages and make healthy choices for themselves. For example, the APA recommends teaching girls to value themselves for who they are, rather than how they look; and teaching boys to value girls as friends, sisters and girlfriends rather than sexual objects.

They also suggest that parents “tune in and talk.” Watch, listen and read the same media your children are using and talk to them about it. Ask them what they think and listen carefully to what they tell you. Also speak up if you don’t like a TV show, video, music lyrics or even a doll. Let your children know what you object to and why.

Brilliant Venus and Old Moon in the Dawn Sky

With sunrise at 7:00 in the morning, I find this time of year to be one in which I can do some early morning stargazing without having to change my morning routine. This week the waning Moon provides a lovely scene against the backdrop of brilliant Venus, bright Saturn and the bright star Spica. The illustration demonstrates what to expect in the eastern skies as the Moon shrinks each day on its way to the New Moon on December 5^th. If you are a morning person with an interest in astronomy, this will be an excellent week for you. Get out your binoculars for an especially riveting view of these heavenly bodies, and take in a few minutes of beauty about an hour before the sunrise.

Teaching Teens about Money

In 2002 teens spent over 170 billion dollars - an increase of almost 40% in five years. Nearly 50% of today’s college students have four or more credit cards. I remember when my oldest child got her first job. She was barely 16 years old, but the credit card offers came pouring in! Although teens are controlling more and more money, studies have shown they have less and less financial understanding. How can we help our teens be more money smart?


University of Florida researchers recommend that parents introduce pre-teens between the ages of 9 and 12 to spending plans, savings and bank accounts. A teen’s income sources might include allowances, gift and/or employment. If you chose to give an allowance to your kids, determine the amount of an allowance they will receive based on how much her or she actually needs for school or other expenses, and how much the teen can spend as he or she chooses.

Encourage them to open a savings or checking account to begin managing their own money. Once teens have experience managing a checking account, they should be introduced to debit cards or pre-paid checking cards. They gradually become ready for credit cards. As a parent, we need to teach them to keep track of their purchases and to pay off balances each month.

Begin planning for the future with 16 to 18 years olds. Explain taxes and other with-holding that appear on their paychecks. Also, encourage them to open an investment account, placing whatever money they can into the account each pay period. By teaching financial dos and don’ts at an early age, researchers say we can reverse the trend of over-extended college students and personal bankruptcies later in life.

What parents can do to fit their child's temperament

Some babies have regular sleep patterns and cruise serenely through the day, while others wake up often during the night and during the day, demanding seemingly constant attention. Some children make friends easily and others have difficulty making friends. Just as babies are born with different combinations of physical characteristics, they also have certain patterns of behavior, or temperament, which make them unique.

Sometimes parents and children have different temperaments, and in that case, parents may need to adjust. How can you, as a parent, create a good fit between your own temperament and your child’s temperament? First, be aware of your temperament and how your child’s temperament is similar to or different from your own. Keep these differences in mind when you don’t see eye to eye on things, when your youngster pushes your limits, and when you have trouble understanding your child’s behavior.

Embrace what makes her or him unique, without comparing your child to others or trying to change your child. For example, you may have been painfully shy as a child and when you see your young child being shy, you might want to “force” your child to be more outgoing. Be patient, and actively work to change any negative reactions you have to your child’s behavior. Also, avoid situations that might set your child off. If your child becomes anxious around crowds and commotion, having a large birthday party at a busy play center may ruin the day for everyone.

When we can adjust our parenting methods so there is a good fit between our own temperament and the child’s, time together can be more enjoyable.

Review of iPhone Astronomy Apps: ISS Visibility and Iridium Flares

Two of my favorite iPhone apps are ISS Visibility and Iridium Flares, apps that help you to locate satellites very precisely. I use these two apps extensively, anytime I have clear skies and want to enjoy the spectacle of dazzling satellites crossing the sky, even here in the bright city lights of San Francisco. Continuing from my previous post on iPhone apps, here are two more reviews.

ISS Visibility does exactly what it promises by telling you when and where to look to see the International Space Station. Transits of the ISS across the evening or morning sky are impressive, whether the viewing is of the space station crossing a broad arc across the sky, or a short appearance that ends in the impressive flickering and fade of the ISS as it crosses the Earth's shadowline from daylight to night. At a price of $1.99, ISS Visibility gives you simple-to-use charts based on your location, and shows you where to look along with a nice 2D map showing the location of the ISS over Earth as it passes your viewing site.

Iridium Flares are bright lights in the sky that shine when Iridium Satellites in orbit around Earth reflect sunlight back toward the planet and produce a particularly bright glint of light in the sky for a few seconds. I find iridium flares wonderful to watch because at their best they flare up to -7 or -8 magnitude, many times brighter than Venus or Jupiter at their brightest. Also, being able to predict these special events is quite a lot of fun. I love to show off iridium flares to friends when the conditions permit. The Iridium Flares iPhone App costs a mere $0.99 but will pay back many times over.

Enjoy these two apps to see things in the sky that will certainly impress you.

Understanding Your Child's Temperament

When a second or third child is born, many parents immediately know that everything they thought they had figured out about parenting had just gone out the window. While siblings come from the same parents and environment, there is often little about each of their personalities that are in common. Each child has a different temperament and every parent learns this quickly. Learning about their temperaments and how to manage children’s differences can be quite an adventure.

All children are born with their own style of interacting with or responding to the world. In a groundbreaking study in the 1950’s, researchers identified nine temperament characteristics, or behavior traits, that clinicians and researchers continue to use today. The researchers found that these nine traits were present at birth and continued to influence development throughout life.

The nine temperament traits include a child’s activity level, their rhythm or lack of rhythm in sleeping and eating habits, and approach or withdrawal (for example, does the child shy away from new people or make friends with every stranger). Three additional temperament traits include adaptability, intensity, and a child’s typical mood.

A child’s persistence and attention span are also examined for temperament, as well as their sensory threshold, or their ability or inability to tolerate external stimuli, such as loud noises or bright lights. The final trait is distractibility; the child’s ability to shut out external distractions and stay with an activity.

As parents understand and embrace their children’s temperaments, they usually have better responses to their children, hopefully making the adventure of parenthood a more pleasant ride. More on temperament to follow on another day.

Preventing Holiday Exhaustion

To control your stress during the holidays, it’s important to have a balance of socializing with others and being by yourself. Give yourself time to reflect on the past year and time to think about what you want for the coming year. Set one or two goals for next year. This doesn’t mean a lengthy New Year’s Resolution list, but a few things you want to accomplish.


Keep a positive attitude. Find something you enjoy in each activity and event. Limit time with negative people as much as you can.

It’s important that you take care of yourself throughout the year and especially important during the holidays. This means watching what you eat and drink, getting enough rest and exercising. Take care of your own needs and pace yourself.

If you are getting together with relatives or returning to your parent’s home, anticipate what might happen and be prepared with a non-defensive response. Be realistic about your family and don’t use holiday celebrations to settle old conflicts. Plan on taking a quiet walk when people get to be too much.

Remember to engage in fun activities that aren’t costly so that you can focus on the true meaning and essence of the holidays. As a family, plan an event which involves helping the less fortunate.

Spend time individually with each child so they get the attention they need during the busy holiday season.

Practicing stress management exercises will help control your stress, too. For a free on-line stress management workshop, go to: http://hillsboroughfcs.ifas.ufl.edu/Stress-Management.html

Realistic Holiday Expectations

As wonderful as holidays are, they can also be a time of stress for individuals and families. Some of this stress comes from the expectations we each have of the holiday season. The difference between our expectations and our reality can be disappointing. Here are some ideas to maximize the pleasure of the holiday season.


Look at the difference between your expectations and your reality by assessing your current situation (including time and money) and acknowledge the limitations you and your family might have. Is it reasonable to expect that you can put on a holiday dinner just like grandma used to make? Is it reasonable for your children to expect the same amount of gifts under the tree this year if you have been out of a job for the past three months?

Adjust your plans and budget to be more realistic. Aim for reasonable and reachable goals. Be honest about your situation and your feelings with family members. A good start to a conversation might be: “I need to stick to a tighter budget this year and would like to adjust our holiday spending.” Or “I would like to cut back on the number of gifts we exchange this year, would you be willing to do this?”

Discuss gift giving in advance – Thanksgiving is a great time to talk about the December holiday plans. Offer a gift of time or help instead of a purchased object. In fact, I would love a home-made coupon book for car washes, window cleaning, weed-pulling or a back massage in my stocking! Children might like homemade coupons or gift certificates for one hour of Monopoly playing, a bike ride together, or one day free from chores. Remember to include fun activities for your family!

Leonid Meteor Shower 2010

A very fine meteor shower arrives this week. The Leonids peak on the night of November 17 and morning of November 18th, bringing a fairly reliable collection of meteors to the eastern skies. Best viewing is well after midnight into the early morning hours (around 4:00 AM until sunrise), when the Moon will have set and the Earth is better positioned to intersect more meteors.

Star Date Online has a nice article and image about the Leonids, so named because they appear to originate in the zodiac constellation of Leo. The constellation rises in the early morning sky and dominates the eastern sky. As the Sun does not break the darkness of the morning sky until 5:30 AM, the best darkness will be from 4:00 until 5:30 at which an observer in dark skies can see dozens of meteors per hour. Another good online resources is Astronomy.com with a good article on the Leonid shower.

Image from Astronomy.com.

Re-evaluating Your Holiday Traditions

Traditions are important to families. They reinforce meanings in life, bind us together and provide continuity of the past and present. It’s fun to pass down traditions we remember from our own childhood to our children and grandchildren.


In our busy world, however, it’s not always realistic to continue some traditions. If an old family tradition doesn’t work for your family anymore, recognize the need for change. Engage your family in the process of setting up new traditions that you can each participate in and enjoy together. Establish your own traditions while keeping the customs that mean the most to you.

Make a list of your traditional holiday preparations – from holiday greeting cards, gift exchanges, holiday meal preparation, to decorating and “clean up and take down” day.

Then gather your family together and ask what is important to each of them and see if they are willing to help continue that tradition. All family members must “buy into” the activities and at least lend a helping hand if not completely take over a task.

If a tradition has become unimportant to you, or not worth the time, energy and money you would spend on it, feel free to cross it off your list – at least for this year. You can re-evaluate it later.

Pare down your to-do list and write names of the people who will take responsibility or help out. Break large projects into several smaller steps. Then use good organizational and time management techniques to plan ahead, delegate or accomplish tasks necessary for each holiday tradition.

Film #138: Disneyland Dream (RIP: Robbins Barstow 1919-2010)

In 2008, among the 25 movies that the National Film Registry included in its yearly list of American movies to be preserved was one title I didn't recognize (not something new for me with the Registry; they're astonishing authorities on indespensible film obscurities). The movie's was called Disneyland Dream, and it was made in 1956 by a Connecticut family man named Robbins Barstow. I saw the

Film #138: Disneyland Dream (RIP: Robbins Barstow 1919-2010)

In 2008, among the 25 movies that the National Film Registry included in its yearly list of American movies to be preserved was one title I didn't recognize (not something new for me with the Registry; they're astonishing authorities on indespensible film obscurities). The movie's was called Disneyland Dream, and it was made in 1956 by a Connecticut family man named Robbins Barstow. I saw the

Film #137: Marcel The Shell With Shoes On

When I hear about something like Marcel The Shell With Shoes On (what a fantastic title), as I just have today, I feel both behind and in front of the times. Behind because this has become an "internet sensation" with nearly 1.5 million hits on You Tube. In front of, because I think it deserves many more hits, and it doesn't even have an entry on IMDB. It's directed and co-written by Dean

Film #137: Marcel The Shell With Shoes On

When I hear about something like Marcel The Shell With Shoes On (what a fantastic title), as I just have today, I feel both behind and in front of the times. Behind because this has become an "internet sensation" with nearly 1.5 million hits on You Tube. In front of, because I think it deserves many more hits, and it doesn't even have an entry on IMDB. It's directed and co-written by Dean

Selecting Work Out Clothes For The Gym

Gym workouts are the most effective ways to get yourself looking good and feeling great. The woman who is seeking to get probably the most out her weight reps and jogging sessions, though, needs to wear the absolute best clothing. Correct clothes presents looks, function, and luxury to the health-minded individual, and right here is a few essential women's gym clothing.

A snug sports bra is an important part of any woman's exercising wardrobe. Like or not, we dwell in a society that locations a lot emphasis on modesty in women's clothes in public and this carries over into the gym. In the gymnasium, a better range of motion is utilized than in on a regular basis activities, so the sports bra needs to be firm as well as enable for better motion. A workout must be thorough with out adding unnecessary pain, so the bra provides assist and security while performing exercises. Sports activities bras can be found in a really large number of colours, so there are many choices for the fashionably conscious.

In case you are seeking to obtain the most return on your

conditioning investment, circulation is the name of the game. Sensible shorts are due to this fact a vital piece of girls's health club clothing. You are not exactly sitting still whereas doing all your cardiovascular, so the shorts need to offer your legs essentially the most circulation possible. Although they'll must be flexible, they cannot be baggy. If they are too free fitting, they will develop into snared within the machines or end up embarrassingly on the floor while jogging or doing squats. The wandering eyes of some males can be irritating to a woman who is just attempting to get in a healthful exercise, so knee-length shorts are a superb style.

One side of fitness center clothes that's simple to neglect is moisture absorbency. No matter what kind of attire you are wearing, it should take in extra moisture easily. The salt from perspiration glides around in the water after we sweat and might irritate the pores and skin when sweaty physique components slide against every other. Chafing can happen, making for a workout you would somewhat neglect or for one you chop short. If a rash varieties, it would take just a few days to clear up, throwing off your workout routine. Garments that do not absorb moisture additionally depart behind sweaty reminders that someone has been on a machine earlier than you. You don't wish to be that lady.

Essential girls's gym clothing ought to present consolation whereas offering the very best benefit from exercise. Clothes might be the distinction between a refreshing exercise and a painful experience. Feeling and looking good is something ladies (and males) ought to look ahead to.

Popular Traditions And Origin Of Halloween

Lots of youngsters around the world are ready for the approaching of Halloween. This holiday only occur once every year and it has a long and interesting history. For lots of youngsters, Halloween is about candy and wearing costumes but it surely has a deeper meaning. There are two events which have possible connection on the origin of Halloween. First is Samhian as a Celtic harvest pageant and second is the celebration of Christianity of All Saints Day on November first.

Basically, the time period Halloween came from All Saints Day. It is also generally known as "All Hallows' Even". It has been rephrased and it is known as Hallowe'en because of the shortening of the word "Even" to e'en. The time period "Even" is the origin of the phrase eve and evening. Within the trendy period, individuals name it Halloween which implies the evening earlier than All Saints Day.

Halloween right now is made up of different traditions of individuals around the world. Fashionable traditions normally come from extra ancient traditions. Jack o' Lanterns is part of these traditions. Folks love to carve pumpkins during Halloween and turn it into Jack o' Lanterns. This tradition got here from an old Irish story about Stingy Jack who was cursed. The one mild of Stingy Jack comes

from a candle inside a turnip. It began with the craving of turnips and placing a lighted candle in it.

Wearing costumes throughout Halloween is also part of the long standing tradition. Numerous children buy greatest Halloween costumes and mimic their favourite cartoon or fairytale characters. A few of the youngsters additionally purchase finest Halloween costumes to scare people. They try to wear ghoul and ghost costumes to scare people. This tradition is claimed to have roots in different festivals within the earlier days. Before, Pagans wore costume to frighten demons. Immediately, children wore costumes to celebrate Halloween.

Different Halloween costumes in America on the previous years are influenced by widespread culture. Historical traditions solely play a small half within the development of Halloween costumes. Frankenstein and vampires are one of many standard characters from fashionable literatures in Europe. They are re-popularized by American horror films. These motion pictures have different props that are related to Halloween like ghosts, spirits and others. A number of the fashionable costumes are cartoon and fairy tale characters and tremendous heroes. Kids like to mimic their favorite super heroes and so they wish to wear gowns and appear to be a princess in a fairy tale.

Aside from wearing costumes and trick or deal with, people also love going to Hunted Houses throughout Halloween. Going to Hunted Houses is already part of the tradition of quite a lot of people. On the fashionable era, Haunted Homes are very popular and they are made accessible in theme parks when Halloween is coming.

Just About All the pieces You Should Know About The Emo Music Scene

Emo started out being a style of hardcore punk new music inside the 80s which revolved throughout the alternative beliefs than that of most hardcore punk artists of that time. Generally hardcore punk was associated to positivity and turning into 'manly'. Hardcore punk shows would often embody mainly males, and females have been very hardly ever at hardcore shows. The piece members and crowd were often shirtless and it was a extremely robust and uncooked style full of blood and sweat. Slightly than these typical kinds in hardcore, emo formed and was comparatively calm sounding in comparison and considerably more melodic.

The very first emo teams to kind had been notably Embrace, which was a bit fashioned by punk and straight edge veteran Ian MacKaye, one other 1 from the initially emo artists to kind is the piece "Rites Of Spring". The phrase "emocore" which stands for 'emotional hardcore' also started to turn into employed to categorise early emo groups.

Within the 90s the 2nd wave of emo started to become associated with the indie scene far more than the punk scene, as the initially wave of emo was. Important bands throughout the second wave of emo embody Sunny Day Genuine Estate, In the Drive-In and the Get Up Kids. Most of those groups shall be deemed indie to several, however as I've talked about by means of the

second wave of emo there was a grey space by which the two genres appeared to satisfy.

The third wave of emo which is the current wave in the genre grew to change into fairly mainstream, notably on account of the expansion of world huge web utilization plus the simple promotion of companies by way of social and music networking internet sites. There may be a whole lot of disagreement as to what current emo and screamo tracks and corporations are. Most individuals are likely to classify the piece "My Chemical Romance" as a result of the biggest and most mainstream emo strap from the current wave, even though My Chemical Romance themselves have publicly said that they do not have to be often known as an emo band. Other teams which are generally called emo/screamo artists are Senses Fall short, Bleed The Dream, Hawthorne Heights and numerous lots more.

There was significant controversy as regards to emo over the previous a number of years, primarily on account of misinterpretation and ignorance of your subject. As a result of the emo style tends to focus on emotional concepts including lack of actually like, relationships and points within existence many see it as being a whiny style and feel that the genre by itself is selling depression and self-mutilation of which every have nothing in any respect to positively do with emo at all. It is potential that some firms point out self mutilation and exact melancholy but but so do some metallic and goth firms of which are each commonly the most important haters of emo tradition. What numerous fail to recognize is that you simply simply don't have to be depressed or a cutter to grow to be interest and concerned in emo and screamo music and audio. Though it may be accurate that quite a few folks right this moment often observe a tradition to match in, in these cases you will sometimes come throughout those that adopt the self-mutilation and depression to aim fit in.

Emo and screamo tunes has additionally found by itself inside promoting lately as a result of claims that youngsters listening to emo companies are extra potential to commit suicide. In yet one more incident there was large advertising protection for an occasion in Mexico through which assaults on 'emo children' ended up in important marches in protest in the direction of the violence.

Evening Dresses That Complement Your Bodily Features

Celebration robes are definitely a significant portion of women's life. They reveal a girl's choice, style and outlook. There are lots of boutiques, shops and fashion designers from where you might avail your good gown for your memorable events. These dressmakers and shops go that extra mile that can assist you look lovely in the costume you favored, by offering you suggestions concerning the type and shade of gown that will suit your physique and texture and likewise concerning the accents that will match your gown. When looking for an evening costume, bridesmaid robe, bridal robe, big day gown, or anything at all for that matter, it is rather essential know your body and strategies to reinforce the options you want about it.

In case you are trying to hide a tummy, look for an evening gown style that doesn't draw a person's eye to your stomach. Empire waistlines, waistlines that sit on top of your ribcage, right beneath your bust with skirts that flare out slightly, do miracles for masking a not superb tummy. Sherri Hill Model: 3802 is a perfect elegant evening gown if in case you have one of these body. It's strapless that's beaded on top and is obtainable in colours orange, black and purple. Moreover, search for styles that appeal to the attention to your face, comparable to one-with shoulder kinds or square-neck halters and don't fret to attempt to stylize and put on earrings or necklaces that assist maintain

the eye on your stunning face.

If you want to conceal your hips, it's best to seek out an evening robe with an A-line skirt. As well as, if you select a style that has a band or sash at the natural waist it is going to help to attract the focus to your middle. Try a number of of chiffon attire with charmeuse accents on the waistline. Bear in mind that you may at all times personalize a look that you could be like, which doesn't absolutely flatter your type by utilizing the spaghetti straps and shawls that include nearly all of our dresses, by chopping the hem, or by selecting the best accents.

Regardless if you're endowed with a fuller bust or possess a barely broader again, it is possible to divert the attention away from that half to make the ideal shapely silhouette for a particular occasion. The goal is to attract an equal amount of attention to the bottom half of your body, so the top result's the ideal hourglass. You would avoid a night costume types with waists. Waistbands have a tendency to cut your complete body in half and maintain the eye in your high half. Check out a strapless fashion with a straight neckline, and a mermaid skirt. Faviana Type: 6604 is a cultured and complicated yet structured mermaid fashion evening robe in a rich navy color. It is a stretch satin with scalloped sweetheart neckline and mermaid style hem.

A attractive and attractive evening gown will certainly make you the center of attraction. Before buying for a night costume it's important to be specific in regards to the location you're going to and the budget you're going to shell out as well. Then accordingly list down the entire stores, boutiques and on-line outlets you are going to visit. Try magazines to have concept in regards to the latest developments and designs; you may as well take into account concepts out of your family and friends members. Select a gown that can match your skin tone and body shape. A black night gown suits all and is always in style.

Top Designer Evening Dresses

Evening dresses are primarily made to be worn for those exceptional events that occur in evening. Celebrations that are organized in at night time are habitually particular and so they require one thing eye-catchy and trendy wear. Dressing up for an evening revelry is in actual fact vital for any lady and it provides an exceptional feeling of jubilation in her. Because of this, night clothes are designed in sure detailed fashion for dressing in a stupendous manner.

Whether or not it's your promenade night time or the New Year's Eve, designer evening dresses are vastly fashionable no matter what the occasion. The present trend stays to be knee length dresses that can be placed on for an evening journey or even one that may be jazzed up for any really rocking night out. There is no scarcity to the several types of designer night clothes and costume patterns seen in the boutiques today. Each single evening gown pattern is fabricated after thoughtful planning and you may select the best costume pattern to flatter you in the absolute best way. Here is a peek at some methods to pick the precise kind of designer night dresses and gown patterns that could make you look merely beautiful to your particular occasion.

Night clothes with a halter neck will possible depart people round you with jealous appears on their faces. Designer night dress

patterns that integrate the halter neck could be greatest fitted to ladies with the peerlessly toned back. A low again will show the flirty aspect in you. In consequence, make sure you go all out to look nice and get that again and shoulders proper in form. Attractive halter night gowns are sure so as to add more glitter and attract to your evening. Faviana Fashion: 6607 is a sublime and alluring halter evening dress. It is out there in colours plum, aqua and black.

Designer night attire, that are designed as ball gowns, are most widely used for his or her tasteful and extremely sophisticated appeal. Designer ball robes are available in a variety of colours and fit to go well with the varied personalities of a lady. Designer evening ball robes may very well be fitting or with plenty of ruffles for that fuller look. A ball gown is likely to provde the look of a princess. This is truly the perfect evening gown sample for a lady who want to play Cinderella. Sherri Hill Style: 2223 is a stunning rosette covered night ball gown. It is an alluring strapless gown with a fitted bodice and full skirt. It is even more spectacular in individual within the blush color, white or red. This explicit special item has a protracted practice having a gently placed bow on the back. Perfect for any night, this particular eye-catching gown will certainly give an enduring impression. It is accessible in colours gentle pink, white, black and red.

The A-line night gown sample is most most popular by many. These dresses are finest for those ladies who would prefer to look beautiful and have a dainty female contact to all the look. Go for gentle tones if you wish to hold it easy and formal. Slightly pink and sequins can add to the glamour of the evening. Most likely crucial cause that has an impact on the twilight clothes is shade. Additionally, the stuff that is used in these sorts of dresses also performs an especially important function. Along with the above parts, one should also keep in mind that every robe can't work for or swimsuit on all physical structure. Thus, one ought to consider the physique form before selection.

Give A Tungsten Watch For An Eternal Gift

Tungsten is the toughest, most eternal substance that watches will be produced from. It might very effectively be that this is the long run materials of all diamond jewelry since the wide range of tungsten watches, tungsten rings as well as other superb tungsten diamond jewellery is consistently expanding.

Many contemporary watch manufacturing firms would go for tungsten as their favored substance relating to watch creating. It is just because a tungsten watch is recognized among the world's finest watches, produced of premium high quality resources. Moreover, a tungsten watch could maintain a substantial amount of punishment, for the reason that alloy engaged in making this watch is of your premium prime quality. Because of this, a tungsten watch may final even a lifetime, thus, it generally known as the watch that is eternal.

Tungsten gadgets are normally properly polished so that

you could make them search modern and shiny. Moreover they arrived with unbelievable design, doing them far more stylish and beautiful. A tungsten watch is what a hectic particular particular person demands, specifically for people which have been doing a whole lot of activities on a regular basis for the reason that watch will not be rapidly tarnished. So visualize a watch that neither dents nor scratches, or drop its finishing. Which is how unimaginable a tungsten watch is.

Made to final a lifetime, tungsten watches arrived in numerous styles that's appropriate for each women and men. These pretty watches additionally complement very properly with tungsten jewellery, such because the tungsten carbide bracelet and rings as very well as a result of the tungsten carbide pendants.

Tungsten carbide is now swiftly turning out to be the metal of possibility in terms of necklaces doing. The top goods will certainly seem stunningly classy and are even robust enough to withstand the everyday don and tear.

The steel involved in manufacturing these jewelries is critical, and that is the rationale why the worth of a tungsten watch is fairlt excessive priced. A tungsten watch very good when it comes to high quality, but can also be fairly low-price, and will make for an important gift. Certainly, a tungsten watch is what just about every functioning individual desires. The style, innovation and in addition the richness within the tungsten alloy will certainly stay eternal.

Sweden's Heavyweight Boxing Champ Ingemar Johansson

Former world heavyweight boxing champion Ingemar Johannson died at a nursing house in his native Kungsbacka, Sweden at the age of 76 early in 2009. No official cause of dying was given, but Johansson lately returned to the nursing house after a troublesome bout with pneumonia. Johansson had moved to the nursing home on the Swedish coast from Stockholm over ten years in the past after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's and dementia.

Johannson rocketed to worldwide fame and rock star like superstardom in Sweden by advantage of his 3rd spherical knockout victory over Floyd Patterson on June 26,'59 to turn out to be only the 5th heavyweight champion born outdoors of the US. Johannson was thought of the underdog going into the matchup, and because of the perception that he wasn't coaching significantly laborious entered the bout a 5/1 underdog. Johansson was steadily seen in Catskill nightspots during his training camp along with his enticing young secretary in stark distinction to Patterson's disciplined regimen in preparation for his title defense.

His efficiency in

opposition to the champ that night in Yankee Stadium shocked the boxing world"after a tentative first two rounds, Johannson floored Patterson with a short proper early in the third. The champ by no means recovered and with no three knockdown rule in effect was knocked down a complete of seven times earlier than referee Ruby Goldstein referred to as a halt to the proceedings and awarded the Swede the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world.

Johannson would hold the title for slightly below a 12 months earlier than he lost it back to Patterson in a rematch at the Polo Grounds in New York City. Patterson was the aggressor from the opening bell, and would ultimately regain his title as he knocked Johannson out chilly within the fifth spherical with a looping left hook. Johannson went down like he bought shot, and took a ten rely staring up on the lights with his leg twitching and blood dribbling out of his mouth. Within the immediate aftermath of his victory, Patterson displayed the category of a champion as he was extra involved about Johanssons nicely being than celebrating his win. Patterson sat on the canvas together with his fallen opponent cradling his head as medical personnel tended to Johannson. Floyd Patterson had simply turn into the primary man to regain the undisputed heavyweight championship, but his thoughts were with the man hed taken the title from.

Johannson would again face Patterson lower than a yr later, with the champ retaining his title via 6th round knockout after an thrilling slugfest that saw both rivals taste the canvas. Finally, nonetheless, Patterson's superior conditioning prevailed and he earned the victory. Johannson would fight only four extra instances after that, all in his home country of Sweden, before retiring for good in'63.

Patterson and Johannson remained lifelong friends, and would journey to go to one another yearly until Patterson's dying in 2006. Johannson made a lot of film appearances in Sweden, and spent time in Miami every year. He enjoyed good health properly into his 60's, until a variety of bodily illnesses took their toll.

Johannson was married and divorced twice, and is survived by five children. Ingemar Johannson loved rock star like status in Sweden during his title reign and remained a widely respected and admired sportsman throughout his life. He'll be remembered by the international boxing neighborhood for the vital position he played in popularizing the sport in Europe and Scandinavia.

Bill Wall Leather Jewelry & The Brand's Illustrious Founder Bill Wall

A Complete writeup concerning the Bill Wall Leather-based label, Invoice Wall Leather-based Jewellery and its illustrious Founder Invoice Wall. This article charts the reader by the founding history of the Bill Wall Leather label model and its speedy rise to the apex of the gothic sterling silver jewelry industry.

Invoice Wall's Early Life

It really takes a biker to understand what a biker wishes to wear & look like. For Invoice Wall, understanding what it meant, artistically & culturally to be a biker was simply second nature. Before his jaunt into the design world in 1985, Bill Wall had labored as a crew member on a fishing boat, did slightly freelance performing and construction work. Following an unlucky accident during which he broke his foot, Invoice Wall misplaced all his jobs and joined the ranks of the unemployed.

Following his immobilizing injury, the restless dwelling-certain Bill Wall began to tinker around with cloth. He shortly obtained a machine, some scrap material and commenced stitching designs, the very first of which was a motorcycle. With finances acting as a tight constraint, Bill needed to buy poorly sized, unwieldy scrap items of leather & cloth, combine them in an overlapping trend and sew designs over the stitches; a method

which satirically inspired a new type of jeans. A new fashion born from the resilience of Invoice Wall's character. Throughout this era of his life , Invoice Wall discovered the shortage of ergonomical and presentable biking gear in the market, and went about making a vogue id which bikers might be proud adopting.

The Daybreak of Invoice Wall Leather-based

From that time on, Bill Wall never looked back. Soon, Invoice started collaborating with a close buddy and shopper: the legendary biker jewellery designer Gabor Nagy, to design the complete set of using gear. Drawing inspiration from, Bill Wall began his enterprise into the world of sterling silver gothic jewelry, which he explored with the assistance of Gabor. The partnership finally impressed Bill Wall to create his personal line of gothic sterling silver jewellery generally known as Invoice Wall Leather-based Jewellery or BWL Jewellery, which is often in comparison with the vastly in style Chrome Hearts jewellery label. However, Bill Wall jewellery stays unique and distinguishable.

Why replicas, fakes and Bill Wall Leather-based impressed jewellery is rising in recognition

In recent years, Bill Wall Leather jewellery has confronted adversity in the form of several offshore rivals of equal capacity and talent, assets and talent to offer equally intricate, gorgeous and properly-crafted luxurious gothic styled silver jewelry to bikers & different fans at a small fraction of Bill Wall Leather-based jewelry prices. Now, fans of gothic sterling silver jewellery have an extensive range of alternate options to original Bill Wall Leather jewelry. Gothic silver jewellery followers are wising up to the truth of branding, which is basically nothing apart from an imaginary concept. Brand shouldn't be something which clients will at all times be willing to bear the price for. Given the widespread availability of cheaper & equally intricate choices, it's little surprise that designer label jewellery isn't an uncommon or uncommon sight on the streets however the luxury brand pricing of the original.

Nonetheless, in shopping for alternate options within the type of fakes or equally styled impressed designs, it is essential to confirm the standard of jewellery you're buying.

If You Are Not Comfy In What You Wear It Will Not Look Good On You

When it comes to personal style, it's all preference. You wear what you prefer. If you are attempting to wear something just because it can be trendy, but it had been not really comfortable, then it will not look right on you and you won't be happy.

Wearing something that you're not comfortable wearing isn't fun and if you are not completely comfortable wearing it, you will not be able to accomplish the look. What's the point of just wearing something to migrate in anyway? If it can be not your style, who cares it can be the design, don't waste some time and effort. You are more happy wearing what you want and what you are feeling comfortable wearing. If it happens being essentially the most current fad or style, so be it.

One thing everyone can agree on, no matter what is trendy and what's hot, are t-shirts. T-shirts are timeless, being a rule. Sometimes what's printed on them can be updated or not upward, but still working for the advantage of most people. One on the better things about t-shirts that make

them so popular is that they permit you to be an individual.

Regardless of whether you wear a logo of a trendy band within the shirt, something that everybody knows just by looking at it, it could still show their individuality, because you are showing something you like. Perhaps it is not the version of the shirt that you can the mall, but an actual concert shirt using the dates from the tour. That's even better the most original the shirt, the better. A million people can wear a million t-shirts and no two people have to possess identical exact one. Besides being so unique and allowing you to specific your individuality, t-shirts offer another huge advantage.

These are so comfortable. Who really wants to wear a shirt with stiff collar if you can throw on a t-shirt at home? There really is no other piece of clothing that is comparable to the way a t-shirt feels like if you wear one. These are so comfortable that many people wear a t-shirt to sleep because even pajamas are not as comfortable being a t-shirt.

Serving to Men To Choose Designer Jeans

Designer jeans are something that most girls have considered, shopped for and envied while most men have probably not even considered them. This are some things that men could add therefore to their wardrobe to receive a completely new sense of style. In addition they are going to be noticed more when they are out and wearing them.

If you have never checked out one of these higher priced pairs of jeans then be certain to know that there are advantages. One being you could get any style and size that you could imagine. Plus they are made from higher quality and thicker denim which ensures that they will last for years to come.

Variety if a key selling point for men who're buying these name jeans. You will discover colors, styles, fits and sizes that might not be accessible in all jean lines. Plus the jeans fit more desirable without any areas of gapping or sagging that tend to be seen with less expensive or value priced jeans

which can really make them a better value.

Value is another reason that lots of people choose this higher priced version of jeans. They are impressed when the jeans last them for years while still looking very nice. Plus the fact that they do not rip or wear out as quickly means actual savings in the long term so that you do not have to fret about spending more money now but instead saving more money later.

Certainly one of the items that you have to remember always with mens fashion is how the men typically don't want others to understand they care about fashion. So owning a perfect pair of jeans that may be paired with a couple mens dress shoes plus a mens dress shirt is an effective way to exhibit their style sense. It can be considerably more subtle and does not look like they are attempting as hard as mens suits would.

Probably the things that men often like the most about jeans is that they're so comfortable. This can be also why these are on the list of main pieces of most peoples wardrobes. It is usually possible for the man to become in style without having to get rid of their comfort.

There may be also the truth that you are able to wear an effective pair of jeans for many years to come. It is possible to choose to dress them up or dress them down in order that they can be worn to any event along with any setting. Each and every day you can enjoy wearing a good pair of jeans.

There is one thing to think about when you choose a pair of designer jeans or mens clothing. That is to make sure that you are getting what you want and that you are not choosing something too trendy. By choosing a more classic style you can really make sure that you want to wear them for years to come.