Girlfriend Getaways
Posted: 7/29/2010

Timeshares provide spacious accommodations in fabulous locations and can be terrific for girls-only vacations.

(NAPSI)-An increasing number of American women have discovered that a great thing to do for their families is to get away from them. A refreshing vacation with women friends, it seems, can make a big difference.

Many women today are busy, stressed out and tired from the multiple roles they perform at work and at home. A Girlfriend Getaway gives them the chance to recharge their batteries and reconnect with and focus on their own well-being.

That may be why a new survey released by the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) found 38 percent of women have taken a girlfriend getaway and 63 percent expect to in the next couple of years.

To help keep Girlfriend Getaways fun, affordable and stress-free, ARDA offers "how-to" travel options and a free guide downloadable at www.vacationbetter.org.

Women's Lives Loved
Posted: 7/29/2010

(NAPSI)-An intriguing book provides insights into women's lives and friendships that many women--and the men who care about them--may find revealing.

It's the story of 11 ordinary women with an extraordinary bond. The Wall Street Journal's "Moving On" columnist Jeffrey Zaslow, co-author of "The Last Lecture," chronicles their lives from their early days in the town of Ames, Iowa.

They moved to eight different states, yet managed to maintain an enduring friendship that would carry them through college and careers, marriage and motherhood, dating and divorce, illnesses and even a mysterious death. The "girls" have a lifetime of memories, some evocative of their generation and others that will resonate with any woman who has ever had a friend.

That's important, according to research at the University of Missouri. It found that women who have a strong support system--a network of friends and family they call on for help--are more likely to have high self-esteem. This book can almost serve as a manual on developing, keeping and reviving friendships.

Now available in paperback from Gotham Books, "The Girls From Ames" captures what it was like to be girls in the '60s, to come of age in the '70s and '80s and enter middle age in the new millennium.

To learn more, visit www.girlsfromames.com.

Healthy Living At Any Age

Olympic great Dorothy Hamill

(NAPSA)-Good nutrition, an active lifestyle and a smart skin care regimen are all important factors in achieving and maintaining a healthy body at any age. To look and feel your best, it is essential to develop a simple routine that can be followed daily.

"It has been almost 35 years since I won the gold medal at the winter Olympics, but I still spend a lot of time on the ice, and keeping my body healthy is important to me," says figure skater Dorothy Hamill. "But as I get older, my nutrition, fitness and skin care needs have changed, and I have had to adjust my routine accordingly." Here are some tips that Hamill follows to stay healthy and look and feel her best:

• Shorten showers-"Following a workout, a long, hot shower feels great on tired muscles," says Hamill. "But it is actually one of the worst things you can do for your skin." Hot water strips your skin of its natural oils, leaving it looking and feeling dry. So keep showers and baths short-10 minutes or less is best.
  
  
• Use lotion daily-"I have definitely seen some signs of my skin getting drier-it's rougher and itchier," she notes. The most effective thing you can do to keep your skin healthy at any age is to moisturize your body daily with an ultramoisturizing lotion. She recommends Vaseline(r) Clinical Therapy body lotion, which provides prescription-strength moisturization without the need of a prescription. "I use it every day to help heal my dry skin."
  
  
• Eat breakfast-No matter how busy your schedule gets, always make sure to eat breakfast. It gets your metabolism going, gives you more energy and helps regulate food cravings all day. A good "go-to" breakfast is parfait with yogurt, fruit and whole grain granola-plus some eggs for protein.
  
  
• Include fats in your diet-Another easy way to stay healthy is to include at least one quality fat in your diet each day. Hamill suggests a little almond butter on rice cakes-one of her favorites. Walnuts are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for skin and hair and reduce the risk of chronic heart disease.
  
  
• Exercise daily-To combat stiffness, Hamill exercises every day. "Everyone should try to get in at least 20 minutes," she says. Try leg squats while holding on to a chair, taking stairs instead of the elevator, or using cans from your pantry as weights.
  
  
• Exercise to sleep-It may seem counterintuitive, but when you start feeling like you are not getting enough sleep, hit the gym. Getting the right amount of exercise can help you get to sleep faster, get better-quality sleep, and stay asleep through the night. Bottom line: Being well rested means better overall health. Visit www.EverydayHealth.com to view more of Hamill's tips for staying healthy at any age and download a $1 coupon for her favorite lotion, Vaseline(r) Clinical Therapy.

Understanding The Emotional Impact Of Low Sexual Desire And Associated Distress Of Women

A growing body of research may provide insights into a medical condition that affects women and their relationships.

(NAPSA)-Women are known to talk about their personal matters-from everyday topics like their jobs, to intimate details about their relationships. But when the details get a little too personal-especially for women experiencing problems such as low sexual desire-many women hide their feelings rather than risk embarrassment. But wouldn't it be better to just talk about it and find out what's going on?

"People who suffer from a sexual problem often experience immense feelings of guilt and despair, which may negatively affect their personal lives and relationships," said Sheryl Kingsberg, Ph.D., Chief of Behavioral Medicine at University Hospitals, Case Medical Center and former President of the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)

In fact, a new survey found that women who have low sexual desire and associated distress said they often feel guilty (36 percent), frustrated (28.5 percent) or even inferior because of their sexual problem (18.1 percent). Some women with this condition said they are dissatisfied with their sexual relationship (36.3 percent) and are unhappy about their sex life (28.7 percent). These women also said that sex makes them feel stressed (21.6 percent). Well, they are not alone. "Nearly one in 10 women suffer from low sexual desire with associated distress, which may be a condition called Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder or HSDD," Dr. Kingsberg said. "It is important for women with HSDD or any sexual problem to talk openly with their health care provider about their issue rather than bottling up their emotions. That way, they can get the help they need."

HSDD is a decrease or lack of sexual desire that causes distress for the patient, may put a strain on their relationship with their partner, and is not due to the effects of a substance, including medications, or another medical condition.

To better understand women who suffer from HSDD, the New England Research Institutes in Watertown, Mass., is conducting the first-ever registry in female sexual health. By collecting data on each woman's medical history, lifestyle and relationships, the HSDD Registry for Women will hopefully provide a more complete picture of the natural history of HSDD and the long-term impact of the condition on women.

For additional resources on women's sexual health, visit www.SexandaHealthierYou.org.

The Cashmere Of Cotton Offers Superior Quality

The best cotton pills less and is incredibly soft, and the colors last longer. As a result, it is more comfortable to wear and a better buy.

(NAPSA)-Although cotton has been cultivated for thousands of years, it just keeps getting better-and as a result, more designers are featuring the best cottons in their new season's clothes.

Much of the cotton used in clothes today is a blend, but there's a growing demand for 100 percent Supima, known as the cashmere of cotton. This superior cotton is incredibly soft, it pills less and the color lasts longer. Grown only in the southwestern United States, it's 100 percent U.S. grown. Lane Bryant has answered the demand for this high-quality cotton by expanding its spring and beyond collections to include more styles and colors in this superior fabric.

Its collection of Supima wardrobe staples features plenty of beautiful knit tees and basics made from this quality cotton. These classic items are as fashionable as they are comfortable and retain their shape much longer than clothes made from cotton blends.

The assortment of new looks includes 17 styles in 29 colors, ranging from the popular cami to a ?-length sleeve Henley, while a selection of prints and stripes adds variety. All styles and colors are available in store and online at www.lanebryant.com.

With nearly 800 locations, the store is the nation's leading women's specialty apparel retailer, providing stylish and high-quality fashion in sizes 14-28.

A subsidiary of Charming Shoppes, Inc., the retailer sells a wide selection of career to casual apparel as well as accessories, hosiery and intimate apparel.

Improving Women's Quality Of Life

Many women may underestimate the impact that menopause can have on every aspect of their lives.

(NAPSA)-A recent survey found that women are often surprised by the degree to which menopause can affect every aspect of their lives. Learning more about this life transition may help reduce potentially negative aspects.

According to the "Menopause Impact Survey," sponsored by Teva Women's Health, Inc. and conducted by Yankelovich Inc., part of The Futures Company, a majority of women reported their menopause symptoms negatively impacted their personal health and well-being (67 percent), sex life (58 percent) and relationship with their significant other (52 percent).

Women may accept menopause as a part of life, but a majority were surprised by the timing of menopause and the impact it had on their lives. Two thirds of women reported being unprepared for the symptoms and impact of menopause. Many women experienced hot flashes, night sweats, emotional symptoms, mood swings and trouble concentrating, which negatively impacted their family, work and social life.

"While women theoretically understand that they will experience menopause, many underestimate the symptoms they may experience and how they will be impacted physically and emotionally," says David Portman, M.D., director and principal investigator of the Columbus Center for Women's Health Research. "Some studies have shown that women can have upwards of a dozen moderate-to-severe hot flashes a day."

Menopause also negatively impacts women on a deeper level -often affecting their well-being, confidence and even self-esteem. Particularly, 87 percent of women experience anxiety, depression and mood swings, and these symptoms negatively impact their relationships, family life and career.

Because every woman is different, it's important to discuss potential treatment options with her health care provider. Even though only one-quarter of women have tried prescription hormone therapy, 65 percent of these women reported being at least very happy with the effectiveness of the treatment. Women can go to Copewith Menopause.com to find the Menopause Impact Tool, a simple questionnaire designed to help facilitate a dialogue between a woman and her health care provider. Women can use the tool and print a one-page analysis for their next office visit.

High-Tech Repair Jobs Are Part Of The Work-From-Home Trend

Experts say that over 4 million Americans now work entirely from home and 20 million work from home part-time.

(NAPSA)-When it comes to finding a rewarding job, a growing number of people think there's no place like home.

According to trend watcher Mark Penn, over 4 million Americans now work entirely from home and 20 million work from home part-time. Some say that tech jobs-such as programming or computer and smartphone repair-are particularly well suited to be part of this trend. For example, a leading provider of online technology services called Support.com recently announced that it is embarking on a campaign to hire more than 100 work-from-home online technology-solution engineers within the next 100 days.

Prospective hires must be bright, self-motivated individuals who are already highly competent at fixing computers as well as syncing printers, smartphones and other consumer tech appliances. They're also likely to be the person who friends and relatives call when their computer goes on the blink.

Upon an initial screening, Sup port.com applicants will undergo additional competency testing and, if selected, will be compensated to receive rigorous online training to ensure that they meet the "best in class" standards of technical aptitude and customer service developed by Support.com for its team of personal technology experts.

"Our services are in greater demand than ever as consumers are looking to us to ensure their computers, printers and other critical devices such as digital cameras are operating efficiently," said Josh Pickus, president and chief executive officer of Sup port.com. "To meet this demand, we're seeking to hire individuals with the right tech experience and talent in areas where jobs have been scarce and we can make a positive impact on their recovery."

Tech-savvy individuals who think they have the right stuff can click or visit http://corp.support. com/node/114/ to review the qualifications for employment and submit a confidential application.

Support.com, Inc. provides what it describes as "instant technology relief" to consumers and microbusinesses. Its expert "solutions engineers" can provide quick, cost-effective and satisfying technology support experience over the Internet and the phone using an advanced technology platform. For more information, visit www.support.com.

The Double Standard in the Tiger Woods Affair
By Brian Settles

A recurrent subject dominating the news landscape is the exposure of ongoing failures in relationships, high profile affairs, womanizing and sexual addictions. The super star professional golfer, Tiger Woods, is our latest obsession. Let’s get real! Powerful, famous, wealthy men are driven by the seduction of celebrity and the easy execution of prerogative in indulging their wildest fantasies due to their station in society. Most of the folks who make up the masses are trapped in lives of “quiet desperation” and find themselves drawn into a collective voyeurism, the result of which is the opportunity to voice a superficial outrage and to pass judgment on the very celebrities they admire. There may be a double standard here, especially among men who are sports enthusiasts and are in awe of Tiger’s incredible athletic talent, a talent which has propelled him into Super Stud status with the exposure of his Olympic record dalliances. People always seem outraged and puzzled by marital infidelities but why? Boys Will Be Boys and here’s why we always will be:

1. Celebrity- Sports stars, airline pilots, business executives, political figures and military heroes all attract a crowd of admirers. As a young man, I chose three from this group to lock in my steady stream of admirers. Some of my former basketball teammates who went on to NBA and pro football careers shared their “bar stories” about the ubiquitous flocks of groupies outside the locker room doors, eagerly waiting to clank some eyelashes and show off the freshly purchased red mini-skirts with knee high leather boots in the hopes of being invited to the after game parties. Talk about a book…As a former airline pilot logging thousands of layover hours in fancy hotel lounges, I routinely amused myself witnessing the atmospheric decorations of cuti-pies strategically placed for egos on the prowl in need of refreshment. The scene was often a veritable “meat market” as the pilots dubbed it. I recall the whimsical exhortations of the old Eastern Airlines captains to us junior pilots, “go ugly early.” Yeah, sad but true and chauvinistic.
   
   
2. Opportunity- Successful men (and women) with discretionary incomes are frequently on the road. Again, traveling salesmen, airline pilots, athletes, business executives and flesh pressing politicians by virtue of “getting away,” as a natural course of professional routine, have the carrot of secret escapades to tempt them. Examine the number of story lines in the movies and television that promote romance fantasy in exotic places: Spring Break, Sex in the City and Girls Gone Wild. I once viewed a made for TV special with a suspenseful story line of a bigamist airline captain with wives in two cities. Sporty! For those of us in the airline business the scenario had an air of plausibility given the occasional lines of flying with five and six day trips proportioned with equal days off. Men are conditioned by societal influences to seek out female attention. What is the saying, “When the cat’s away, the mice will play.” The option for temporary escape from routine ushers in a temptation to explore the fantasy waiting under the disguise of anonymity. Airline and military service afforded me frequent escapes from routine. A mischievous nature, and lack of supervision, was often a formula for drama.
   
   
3. Ego Reinforcement - The popular morning ABC show, The DR’S, recently broached the subject of Why Men Cheat. So-called experts on the show stated that men are biologically predisposed to seek mating opportunities and even more so with elevation of ego and societal stature. That might explain the patterns of President Bill Clinton, John Edwards and South Carolina governor Mark Sanford. Other relationship therapists on the show suggested that women are predisposed to seek out “Alpha Males,” who are dominant, powerful and successful at what they do. When these two motives are joined, affairs happen. Being an airline pilot was a fantasy profession. When attractive women entice men, many don’t resist, unless slowed by age. Most of my life I struggled with subconscious fears of sexual inferiority and sought to conquer it through choosing a macho profession that afforded abundant opportunity for ego reinforcement through sexual conquest. This is an issue you can’t get most men to talk about but I submit that it is a prime mover in many aspects of our society. Lastly, illicit sexual gratification is often sought to reinforce the aphrodisiac of domination and control. Other than wealth, it’s the other great Power Trip. This could be at the root of Tiger’s debacle. But I am not a qualified shrink.
   
   
4. Societal Approval- In the old days, airline pilots (with smooth manners) could often choose whom to charm among the flight attendant crew members who volunteered to be wined and dined. The advent of Women’s Lib reduced the pool of layover playmates but committed pilot players, or those disenchanted with home life, still had fertile playgrounds for fun in the blue. I flew with many pilots who found wives among the flight attendants and gate agents. Familiarity may sometimes breed a bond. The grapevine stories are replete with hospital gossip about doctors chasing nurses around the operating room table; a few nurses found marriage partners during the chase. Within the military, superior ranking officers often surrendered to the temptation of cavorting with their perfumed subordinates. During my combat tour in Vietnam, I recall the colonels elbowing the junior officers out of the way at the bars to get first dibs on charming the nurses. During remote tours into combat zones, female soldiers find a delightful bump in their popularity. I chose to be a fighter pilot to “look good” and be part of that fighter pilot mystique that seeks maximum machismo for its reinforcement, the ultimate jock who gets glorified in films like “Top Gun,” “Officer and a Gentleman and “Iron Eagle.” It spawns a culture with an expectation of romance as the reward from the chase. All the above occupational hazards were part of the cultural benefit of professional access, publicly frowned upon, but tacitly endorsed, especially in the male dominated work environments. It was a glorious fantasy, living the life about which others could only fantasize, which is the source of the double standard and all the hoopla about Tiger’s transgressions.

In the final analysis, Tiger Woods is just a Man being a Man, a rich man. He just happens to be potentially the greatest golfer the world has known but being the husband of cute Norwegian wife and father of two adorable children, he has punched a big hole in his Good Ship Loli-pop. Society and its mouth piece, the media, sit in judgment but struggle with a double standard on the morality issue. The national attention that has been magnetized to the Tiger Woods’ family ordeal, with the accompanying “shock and awe” of the prolific philandering, goes in sharp contrast to the themes on so much of what sells on our television and movie screens. You name it, it is there- a culture of support for liberated sexual expression and cheating, ie “Desperate House Wives,” Young and the Restless, and Private Practice, etc. Quietly, there are many men (and women) who privately envy and high five Tiger for having been afforded the luxury of indulging his fantasies in spades. The hypnosis and invincibility of ego drove him to blow it. Access promotes overindulgence which promotes sloppiness. His challenge now is how to deal with paying the cost of exposure and disruption to his private, star quality life as society with its double standard looks on curiously. I know; I blew it also.

Brian Settles is a retired airline Captain, former Air Force combat pilot and sports jock who is the author of “No Reason For Dying: A reluctant Combat Pilot’s Confession of Hypocrisy, Infidelity and War.” Visit his website: www.CaptBrianSettles.com.

Insider's Guide To Updating Your Wardrobe On A Budget

Smart outfits for work don't have to cost a lot if you use a little creativity.

(NAPSA)-Even though cutting costs is top of mind, you still need to dress to impress, especially at the office. No matter what your personal style, office culture or shopping preferences are, you can save time and create a polished look by putting some savvy shopping and style strategies into action.

• Broaden your horizons beyond department and specialty stores. Check out off-price retailers such as Ross Dress for Less that carry the same current styles and name brands as department and specialty stores at significant savings.
  
  
• No matter where you shop, a good rule of thumb is that the new merchandise (at full price) will be front and center when you enter the store, but there's always a sale or clearance rack. Keep your eyes open for these markdowns-they are often located toward the back of the store.
  
  
• Remember that it pays to make friends. Befriend the sales associate and discover shopping secrets, including delivery schedules, the typical markdown cycle, and specific seasonal merchandise.
  
  
• Keeping your closet organized, knowing what you already have that you can build on-this season and next-is also a smart shopping strategy.
  
  
• Often the best deals are found by buying clothes early or late in the season.
  
  -As a general rule, when retailers are preparing for another season's inventory, they generally put old merchandise on sale to make room for new shipments. Take advantage of these deals by shopping at the end of the season.
  
  -Always look ahead when mapping your shopping strategy, as off-price stores will often stock merchandise in advance of the season (e.g., you may find coats in August and swimsuits in March).
  
  

Beyond knowing where and how to look for bargains, there are some smart style strategies you can employ by shopping to stretch your wardrobe and your budget.

• First, seek out investment pieces when they are deeply discounted-such as cashmere sweaters that you can wear year after year with anything from slacks and jeans to dresses, and trench coats that add a stylish flair to any outfit. Seek out neutrals, such as chocolate, charcoal, navy and basic black, that will stay true season after season.
  
  
• Second, never underestimate the power of accessories to change a look. Use current accessories such as a scarf or belt to freshen up classic pieces such as a basic sheath dress or blazer for the new season.
  
  
• The same principle holds true for jewelry. Costume jewelry, such as long necklaces layered together, can add a finished and posh look to your basic blazer, blouse or sweater.
  
  
• Lastly, look for ways to breathe new life into your favorite pieces and extend them across seasons, for example:
  • Take a summer dress into the office and into fall by pairing it with a jacket or cardigan, belt and opaque tights.
  • For casual Fridays, match your favorite evening top with a long cardigan and straight leg jeans for a current look.-Wide-leg khakis are not just appropriate for a weekend afternoon. Wear them with a blouse and heels for a trendy business look.

Getting smart on how to update your work clothes for less will help you look professional without breaking the bank. To learn more about Ross Dress for Less and find the nearest location, check out www.RossStores.com.

Dressing For A Successful Interview

Be smart when shopping for interview attire. Look for stylish yet affordable clothing and accessories that project professionalism.

(NAPSA)-The right outfit is an important part of making the best first impression at a job interview. And while some interview-dressing guidelines never change, style experts say there are a few new rules candidates should adhere to. They offer these tips:

• Think about your industry. Every industry has its own set of style rules. Banking, accounting and law, for instance, tend to be conservative, and job candidates should dress in a traditional black suit. Creative industries-such as advertising agencies, marketing firms and media companies-often have a business-casual dress code, and potential candidates might opt for slacks and a collared shirt.
  
  
• Do your homework. Many candidates are taught to research a company before they sit down for an interview. While you're researching, conduct some fashion reconnaissance. Before your interview, look online for photos of company employees at industry events and take cues on how they are dressed.
  
  
• Test it. The night before your interview, try everything on. If anything is too short, too tight or low cut, find something else to wear.
  
  
• Be polished. Ensure that your clothing is wrinkle- and stain-free, and check your shoes for scuffs. Finish off your interview look with the right accessories. Carry your rŽsumŽs in a briefcase, laptop bag or a structured handbag, and wear a watch. It subtly tells potential employers that you are reliable and that you value time and efficiency.
  
  
• Leave any luxury or designer clothing and accessories at home. A high-end handbag or a watch that costs thousands of dollars might be great for the weekend, but to a potential employer it could look frivolous. Look for stylish and affordable watch brands such as Timex, which has hundreds of styles for men and women, many under $100.
  
  
• Make an impression. With so much competition for the same jobs, you want to stand out, not just with your rŽsumŽ, but with your look as well. "Wear one item that reflects your personality and creativity," says style expert Amy Goodman. "A colorful tie, heirloom earrings, shoes with a unique detail or an eye-catching watch may be what helps an interviewer remember you from a sea of candidates."

For more style tips, visit www.TimexStyle.com.

Don’t Ignore Aches And Pains

Stretch and warm up to help prevent minor injuries from an active lifestyle.
Photo by Getty Images

(NAPSA)—Staying active can keep you healthy and feeling younger. Whether it’s recreational sports, going to the gym or just working around the house, physical activity helps both body and mind.

Sometimes an active lifestyle may lead to minor strains, sprains, and bruises, but there are ways to minimize injury. One way to prevent minor injuries is to slowly strengthen muscles with exercise. Before starting an activity—whether it’s cleaning the garage or going for a jog—it’s important to get your blood pumping by stretching and warming up.

If you do get injured, know when to consult a health care professional. Nearly 60 percent of people with acute back pain or other minor muscle strains and sprains did not see a health care professional for their pain, according to a recent American Pain Foundation survey of 2,192 Americans. Many of them said they felt they could tough it out. Experts say this isn’t the best approach.

“Because minor strains and sprains are common, people can underestimate their possible long-term effects, especially if not properly treated,” said Dr. Bruce Thomas, a physician at MIMA Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine and Assistant Professor of Family Medicine/Sports Medicine, Florida State University College of Medicine.

Treatment of minor strains, sprains, or bruises may include resting and icing the injured area. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to help decrease the short-term pain. These can be taken by mouth or in a patch that goes on the skin.

More tips can be found online at RealAge.com/StrainsAndSprains. The site also has a quiz to help you find out if you need to see a health care professional about your injury.

It’s important to take proper care of even minor injuries to reduce the chance of a more serious problem later.

Tips To Reduce Stress On Divorced Parents And Their Kids

A helpful Internet site offers ways to make communication between divorced parents more effective and less stressful for children.

(NAPSA)—The fact that parents are divorced should not keep special occasions such as holidays and birthdays from being joyous events—if both parents commit to shared planning, scheduling and coordination.

Divorced dad Paul Volker was navigating shared custody with his ex-wife when the stress of the situation inspired him to turn to the Internet for a better solution to their scheduling conflicts.

When he couldn’t find a resource online for divorced parents, he launched OurFamilyWizard. com to help families reduce stress and manage schedules seamlessly.

The company’s mission is to make communication between divorced parents with shared or joint custody more effective and less stressful for the children. The site offers a neutral location where parents can let down their guard and ultimately do what’s best for their kids.

Top tips divorced parents can follow to help reduce the stress of shared or joint custody include:

• Have a plan and discuss it with your child. Let your kids know where they will be and with whom for upcoming events so they are prepared in advance. The site offers kids access to family information, such as shared calendars, free of charge with a family subscription.
• Keep kids out of the middle. Many divorced parents rely on their children to act as a messenger about changes to visitation schedules and other important matters. It’s the adults’ responsibility to show children they can count on their parents to provide organization, consistency and stability after divorce.
• Provide reassurance. Children of divorced parents need to feel protected and loved. It’s important to provide reassurance and comfort to kids during significant, landmark occasions, such as the holidays and birthdays. Let them know that there is a plan in place and that both parents are on board.
• Use technology to stay organized and keep the peace. Planning and scheduling through a neutral Internet site allows divorced parents to communicate with each other without the need to pick up the phone. It’s a secure and fair way for both parents to participate in the process away from the children. The site features shared family calendars, protected message boards, notifications and reminders, a family journal, information management and an expense log.

Visit OurFamilyWizard.com for more information.

Technology Takes On The Battle Of The Bulge

TV can be an important piece of exercise equipment that doesn't hurt the wallet.

(NAPSA)-Two-thirds of adults in the U.S. are now obese or overweight, according to recent research by the Trust for America's Health. What's stopping most from getting the exercise they need? Not surprisingly, the most common answers are time and money.

Washington, D.C.-based fitness trainer Suzie Baird tells us that we don't need to make a big investment to begin living healthier. She suggests using everyday items that we already own to help fight the battle of the bulge and save money. "Simple ideas like using your PDA's or computer's calendar function to schedule an exercise 'appointment' can have a big impact on your daily commitment," said Baird.

TV can also be an important piece of exercise equipment that doesn't hurt the wallet. While it's often to blame for creating "couch potato syndrome," it can also be one of your best, least expensive and most convenient tech tools for staying fit. Today's gaming devices now offer advanced interactive exercise experiences for all ages. The options range from tennis to yoga to strength training and so much more.

Digital cable customers have a virtual 24-hour gym in their living rooms. A wide variety of health and fitness programming-available On Demand with a click of the remote-means there's something for everyone. Look for Pilates, fat-burning, cardio or boot camp programs. Learn to belly dance, get into hip-hop or step into the world of Bollywood dance in the privacy of your home.

On Demand viewers can also get in-depth sports instruction and coaching for a variety of activities by some of the most recognizable names in sports. Kids can learn soccer from Olympic champion Mia Hamm or get skateboarding advice from pro skateboarder Mike V. Other well-known experts offering tips On Demand to get family members up and moving include skiing great Bode Miller, baseball hero Tony Gwynn, and basketball megastar Bill Walton.

According to research by Rentrak, digital cable customers turned to free On Demand programming more than 65 million times in the last year with abdominal- and bun-targeted offerings among the most popular. The bottom line? Whether you're interested in boot camp, Bollywood or buns of steel, the trick is to make time to get moving and keep moving. For more information, go to www.ThisIsCable.com.

DivorceCare Offers 365 Days of Email Hope and Comfort for People in Divorce or Separation
DivorceCare's "One Day at a Time" emails will help newly divorced people find hope to make it through 2010. Over the past six years, 100,365 people have received help from these free, daily messages.

WAKE FOREST, NC, Dec. 30 /Christian Newswire/ -- DivorceCare offers free email messages to help people in a marital breakup find daily peace and strength. Every morning, subscribers will wake up to a new message speaking directly to issues faced by those in divorce or separation. The messages feature counsel from 37 Christian experts, including Tony Evans, Kay Arthur, Anne Graham Lotz and Tim Clinton, and help from 60 individuals who've been through divorce or separation.

The "One Day at a Time" daily email messages are an excellent resource to help people facing a difficult breakup approach 2010 with new hope for the future.

"I would like to thank you for providing a great service to me through this tough divorce I'm going through," said Troy, from East Windsor, NJ. "The advice is inspiring through the emails, and I look forward to starting my day through prayer."

Kathy Leonard, author of the daily emails, hopes many hurting people discover this healing resource in 2010. "The messages are comforting and practical. My hope for the New Year is that, through them, many people will find the help to move forward in personal healing."

Often people in a divorce feel as if no one understands the depth of emotions they feel. Through these emails, readers are introduced to others who've experienced the breakup of their marriage and who openly share their struggles and victories.

Over the course of a year, recipients will learn what to expect in grief and how to move forward one step at a time. Readers will discover biblical answers to hard questions and be pointed toward God as the source of healing.

"Thank you for your daily devotionals. God being present in them each day has gotten me through the toughest year of my life!" said Mary, a subscriber from Fairfax, VA.

Subscribing to the daily email messages is easy. Fill out a brief form at www.divorcecare.org/dailyemails, and begin receiving emails the next day.

About DivorceCare
DivorceCare is a network of over 12,000 churches worldwide equipped to offer divorce recovery support groups. A searchable database of groups is located at www.divorcecare.org. DivorceCare is a ministry of Church Initiative of Wake Forest, NC.

Your Time To Shine

If you are getting together with the girls this season, opt for a casual look that's comfortable but also a little more glamorous than your everyday look.

(NAPSA)-Looking your best for the parties, family dinners and heartfelt moments that make the holidays memorable may be as simple as stocking up on a few key fashions. So mark your calendars and send back those RSVPs. It's time to shop so you can celebrate in style.

Deck The Halls
After-work parties are really all about looking fabulous while showing your personal style. If you're heading to the party straight from work, why not wear a pair of classicw black pants and a colorful beaded tunic or an embellished jacket? If your company tends to go all out, choose a more formal look such as a chiffon skirt and shimmering top.

Gather With Friends
Getting together with the girls over the holidays? You want a casual look that's comfortable but also a little more glamorous than your everyday look. Go for a colorful tunic with beads, sequins or pretty prints. Throw on your favorite pair of jeans and maybe a statement ring and you're ready to go.

Trim The Tree
Get out the tinsel and untangle those lights. It's time to decorate! During the holidays, it's fun to show your festive spirit, even if you're just hanging out at home or running to the mall. New fashion activewear mixes everyday casual comfort with embellishments like rhinestones and metallic stud detail.

Ring In The New
During the holidays (especially New Year's Eve), many women get all dolled up and head into town for a holiday show, a special dinner or to meet up with friends at a swanky hot spot. Wear a glamorous top with plenty of shimmer paired with your best trousers or a long, slimming skirt. You're sure to make an entrance that no one will forget. If you wear plus sizes (16-34), as over 30 percent of American women do, holiday fashions in the latest styles can be harder to find. Luckily, Catherines Plus Sizes has a gorgeous holiday collection featuring styles that will help you look your best. From after-work parties to quiet moments with the ones you love, Catherines is here to help you create memories that last a lifetime. Check out their holiday favorites and so much more at the stores and cather ines.com, which cater exclusively to plus-size women.

It's your time to shine, and the right clothes can help you look and feel your very best this holiday season and beyond.

Cold-Weather Hair Care
by Ernie McCraw

Hair can get stressed from home heat and rough weather. Conditioners can help.

(NAPSA)-When temperatures dip and indoor heat rises, hair can be robbed of important moisture. Add the stress of heat styling and it can become dull, brittle and hard to manage. Fortunately, a few minutes and the right conditioner can revitalize stressed hair.

When your hair loses moisture it starts to look dull and frizzy. Even worse, it can begin to split and break. To help your hair regain its luster during the cold, dry season, Sally Beauty Supply suggests adding a few steps to your beauty regime. To repair dry and frizzy hair, try a hot oil treatment such as Ion Hot Oil Deep Penetrating Treatment. Simply heat the bottle or tube in hot, water for two to three minutes, then apply and rinse. You should see immediate improvement. If hair becomes too oily, opt for a hair masque or a reconstructive conditioning créme.

These weekly treatments can reverse the damage, while a good daily conditioner can help prevent additional damage. A daily conditioner shouldn't be so heavy that it leaves residue; it should lightly condition and detangle the hair. For example, One 'n Only Argan Oil can be used before styling as a treatment and even helps with frizz. If you have very coarse or curly hair, consider an additional leave-in detangler. Some daily conditioners target specific problems. For example, Miracle 7 Leave-in Mist helps prevent static electricity in addition to conditioning hair.

Heat styling can also rapidly damage hair. If you curl or straighten your hair with an appliance, you should always use heat-protecting products. Beyond The Zone Turn Up The Heat Serum provides thermal protection from heat stress, while conditioning and smoothing.

If you start noticing flakes on your sweaters, it might be time for anti- dandruff products. Those with pyrithione zinc or coal tar are the most effective. You can try Ion 2-in-1 Anti-Dandruff Shampoo + Conditioner or Ion Clear-T Dual Action Anti-Dandruff Shampoo to calm and heal itchy, dry scalps. Ernie McCraw is a licensed cosmetologist with more than 25 years in the beauty industry in all phases of cosmetology. To find a Sally Beauty store, call (800) ASK-SALLY or go to SallyBeauty.com.

Dentists Help Treat Chronic Headaches

A trip to a neuromuscular dentist could help treat chronic headaches.

(NAPSA)-A number of chronic headache sufferers are finding relief in what may be a surprising place: their dentist's chair. Experts say pain caused by temporomandibular (jaw joint) disorder, or TMD-which is commonly referred to as TMJ-causes migraine and tension headaches for numerous Americans. And a trip to a specially trained dentist could provide relief.

"When your bite is not right, it can lead to chronic pain. Just like flexing your arm for a second is comfortable, but flexing it for two to three minutes starts to hurt, holding the teeth together for a long period and in a poor position causes muscle pain," says Dr. Mark Duncan, clinical director at LVI Global, a postgraduate dental-training facility.

In addition to chronic headaches, TMD has been linked to grinding of the teeth, breathing problems and sleep disorders, as well as facial pain, neck, shoulder and back pain, clicking or popping in the jaw and limited jaw movement. Fortunately, Dr. Duncan says, "for chronic headache sufferers, there is hope." TMD is treatable.

• First, a neuromuscular dentist performs a comprehensive evaluation including an electronic analysis of jaw muscles to find their optimal resting position.
• Next, a jaw-repositioning orthotic-which looks like an athlete's mouth guard-is used to temporarily maintain this new relaxed position. Patients often report that pain they have endured for many years dissipates or goes away entirely in a matter of days.
• Finally, a patient can be fitted with crowns and veneers to permanently hold the new pain-free jaw position.

Less than 5 percent of the world's dentists are trained in neuromuscular dentistry. To find a specially trained dentist in your area, visit www.leadingdentists.com.

A Road Map To Managing Your Credit Cards

Credit cards can be a convenient way to manage your finances. However, consumers must pay attention to "the rules of the road."

(NAPSA)-Credit cards can be a convenient and secure way to manage your finances. When used properly, credit cards offer flexibility in spending and in managing your finances.

(It is important, however, to recognize that having credit cards does not mean you have to have debt. Loretta Abrams, from HSBC North America's Consumer Affairs Department, offers the following tips to keep you on the road to financial stability with credit cards:

Select a credit card that meets your spending needs
Research credit card options before you open a new account. Remember, simply opening new accounts can lower your credit score. Review and understand the terms and conditions of the card before you accept it.

Be aware of changes in the "rules of the road"

Portions of the new credit card law, known as the Credit CARD Act, are now in effect:

• Card issuers must give you at least 45 days' notice of an account change.
• You may have the opportunity to "opt out" of some of the changes and cancel your account without penalty, although you will need to pay off your existing balance.
• Card issuers must mail bills 21 days before payment due date.

Make sure you are aware of how these changes, as well as any additional ones that may have been imposed recently by your card issuer-such as increased interest rates or decreased credit lines-impact your account and when they take effect.

Don't let roadblocks get in the way
Read everything your card issuer sends you regarding your account; if you don't understand something, call the company for clarification.

Always make your payments on time. Ideally, plan to pay your full balance each month or at least pay more than the minimum amount due each month. Any extra you pay will go toward your highest APR balance.

Identity theft can ruin your credit. Protect yourself by reviewing each individual charge on every monthly statement, confirming the merchant and date and dollar amount of each transaction.

Confront detours head-on
If you are having trouble paying your credit card debt, call your lender. Doing nothing is never an option-the problem will not disappear. Most lenders have programs in place to help you or can direct you to a nonprofit credit counseling agency that can offer you assistance.

For more information on credit and other topics-in both English and Spanish-visit www.yourmoneycounts.com. You'll find interactive calculators designed to help make managing your finances easier.

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