May 30, 2009
It was common to have white bedding in everybodys bedroom quite some time back. today you find so much variety in these bedding that it becomes hard to choose. Nobody had considered that bedding could be made using such beautiful pastel shades and several materials.
Here are steps that you can follow to purchase the perfect bedsheet for yourself.
Evaluate the size of your bed
It is a common belief that one queen bed or king bed has the same dimensions which is so untrue. Usually the top measurings dont differ a lot but the other dimensions vary with each bed maker. Due to this divergence in the dimensions, it is safe to measure all the dimensions and the depth of your mattress too. Your bed could be shorter or longer than another one from the same manufacturer. It is always better to be ready with your beds proportions prior to shopping.
Choose your Depot
Bigger departmental storehouses have a separate section for linen and bedding and offer branded sheets and in-house brands under the same roof. Those looking for embroidered bedding or luxurious looking sheets can purchase them from a specialty shop. If you still cannot find what you want, try the online storehouses. In case you wish to buy regular bedding you can get a good deal at a discount rate outlet.
Do you know what is a thread count?
A thread count means the count of threads consisted in one square inch of a sheet in both weaving directions. You will find this thread count on the bed sheets label. More the thread count, more is the richness of the fabric. Beware of a very high thread count as the sheet may have thinner threads and not the texture you want. For the right soft feel, a thread count of 175 to around 300 is fine.
Determine on material for your bedsheet
A material that is moderately priced and feels nice to sleep on is the one for you. Though cotton fiber is the most preferable material, some people go for the cotton blends as they do not crease. A chili night calls for a flannel bed sheet. Then there is the all time preferred silk, satin or microfiber that provides luxury.
Check out the sheet dimensions
Measuring the bed sheet before purchasing is as important as measuring the bed size. With the bed sizing ready with you, check if the bed sheet you plan to buy will fit your bed. Take into account the average 7% shrinking that all bedding undergo after the first wash. If you have really liked the bedding you plan to purchase, always invest in some additional sets. these extra sets come in handy if you have kids at home.
These little tips will surely help you in choosing the right bed sheet for you and make every night a night to remember!
Sources
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May 27, 2009
The retail marketplace has seen a downturn in the last eight months with the units of sales reducing month on month. The economic downturn is a direct impact of men and women losing their jobs and the radio shows utilising the situation for media coverage. In the recent five months there has been over 10 great high street stores that have been forced out of business.
The internet has observed a different tale. With stock overheads lower than its high street competitors, and with savings online has allowed for British consumers to buy online and save themselves money at the same time. A fantastic combination. One of the finest things about internet shopping is the fact you might often compare a number of different stores all within a couple of minutes. You might well work out whether or not the cost you are paying is the very cheapest, and of course you additionally save on the travel fees. Buy Laptop Stands online and save money. Book a Life Coach in london online.
Some of the biggest sectors to see amazing growth online has been the computer furniture retailers which sell computer monitor arms and office furniture. Along side that has been personal development books, maybe to help men and women stay positive in the UK recession. And of course, UK men and women have presumably heard about the growth in sales of sexual toys.
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May 23, 2009
For most people who possess a home, one of the most important aspects of that home is the way it is decorated. People want décor to reflect who they are and what they like. Using table linens like tablecloths, napkins, place mats, table runners, table skirts and chair covers provide a great way for you to express yourself. Finding table linens in just the right color or pattern that complement the design of your kitchen and/or dining room is essential. However, one of the most significant aspects that people frequently overlook is the fabric of the linen. The table linens you use and the fabrics you select will determine the tone in your home.
An eat-in kitchen. When it comes to an eat-in kitchen or informal dining room, 100% woven polyester is a durable fabric perfect for a tablecloth. This is a fabric that can be found in a variety of colors certain to complement any décor . Need more pizzazz in your kitchen? Think about theme printed tablecloths like Apples & Cheese, Bistro, Arabesque or Monet. Made from a blend of poly/cotton fabric, these printed tablecloths are machine washable and dryer safe. Laminated fabric is still another choice for tablecloths. Laminated fabric can be found in a variety of colors and theme prints. Pick from Sandbox, Simplicity or Waterfall. Best of all, you will not need to machine wash a laminated fabric following every use, it can simply be wiped clean. If you want to change the look in your kitchen, you can easily do so by simply changing your tablecloth.
The formal dining room. A tablecloth produced from a damask fabric, satin or lace is a good choice for the formal dining room. Set the table with 100% spun polyester napkins or place mats to complement the tablecloth. Convey a more formal tone by using chair coverings made from the same 100% spun polyester and add a bow produced from the fabric of the tablecloth. A well decorated table is sure to establish your dining room as the showplace of your home.
Regardless of how simple or formal your dining will be, you want tablecloths that are going to last over time. Since tablecloths can be found in such a wide variety of fabrics, you are sure to have fun searching for the best tablecloths for your home.
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May 22, 2009
(Excerpted From The Jim Rohn One-Year Success Plan - Pillar Eleven: Accelerated Learning)
Hi, Jim Rohn here. This month we focus on accelerating our learning processes. How exciting! First, understand we possess the ability to improve and accelerate our learning curve. And second, this creates the potential of what we can continue to become. Wow! So let’s get started. Here is an overview of the month.
1. You are a Genius.
In week one, we discuss ways to unlock and tap into the incredible powerful potential you have in your mind. We will also cover the attitudes of successful learners and show how your attitude about learning will determine how far you go in your life and career.
2. Six Stages of Learning.
In week two we will talk about how to accelerate your learning and discover what your unique learning strengths and weaknesses are. We will also cover the topic of finding your particular learning style, and how to best tailor your learning to fit your unique needs.
3. Improve Your Memory.
In week three we will talk about how the mind and memory works and how to train it to remember more. We will also cover basic speed reading techniques and show you the importance of reading and how to develop a basic reading plan.
4. Life-long Learning.
In week four we will discuss the importance and benefits of being a lifetime learner. In addition, we will talk briefly about a basic plan for life-long learning and how to keep your mind tuned for success, as well as how to win the battles of thought that take place in our minds.
You are a Genius - Unlocking the Power of the Mind
This month we focus on the learning that comes through the power of the mind. Take care to feed and stimulate your brain, and you will expand your mind. A healthy brain is central to a healthy mind. Because the two are inextricably connected, I would like to start this month by giving an overview of the astounding complexity of the brain. Many of these facts may be familiar to you, but they are important reminders of this incredible tool God gave us. We again need to see the human brain and mind with wonder, awe and inspiration.
But first, what do we mean by “learning?”
Here are how some dictionaries define it:
–the act, process, or experience of gaining knowledge or skill
–knowledge or skill gained through schooling or study
–behavioral modification especially through experience or conditioning
–to gain knowledge, comprehension, or mastery through experience or study
Keep this in mind as we go through the month. Learning is gaining knowledge through various means.
Now, a little about the brain:
The brain is the equivalent of a human supercomputer. Your brain is more complicated than any computer mankind has ever made. Maximizing your brain’s ability is essential to becoming the success you desire to become - because it controls who you are. It is the command center involved in and controlling absolutely everything you do. Your brain determines how you think, feel, and act.
Simply put: When your brain is working at peak performance, it allows you to be your best, because it controls the rest.
Here are some facts about the brain:
It is about 2% of body weight.
It consumes about 20-30% of the body’s energy.
There are about 100 billion neurons in the brain.
Each neuron or nerve cell is connected to other nerve cells in the brain.
There are over 1,000,000,000,000,000 connections in the brain.
Each one of these neurons is a little “learning center” capable of storing knowledge.
Needless to say, most of us have barely scratched the surface when it comes to tapping into those neurons!
There are some basic influences on the brain that shape how it functions and how far it develops. Some of these include genes, health, injury, self-talk, life experiences, stress, and study (or lack of it). Notice I said that these influence the brain, but they do not determine how far you can go or what you can learn, except perhaps in the case of severe injury or mental retardation. In other words, you have the incredible opportunity to go as far as you desire!
So with such a tremendous tool at our disposal, what keeps so many from experiencing the possibilities that this tool can bring? There are some simple barriers that many people face that can have the potential to wreak havoc on our learning if we allow them to.
Barriers to Finding Your Genius
Lack of Belief. Many people do not believe that they can learn, master knowledge, or become “smart.” These are deeply held beliefs for many, and ultimately if you do not believe it, you will not achieve it.
Lack of Knowledge. What keeps some people from learning is that they choose not to access or do not have access to knowledge. Knowledge comes from experiences, books, people and other “knowledge dispensers.” We must tap into that knowledge.
Lack of Desire. Some people simply do not have the desire to learn. They may be lazy, or they may not see the positive impact that learning would have on them. They have no passion inside that drives them to learn.
Lack of Hard Work. Gaining knowledge–learning–is hard work and takes a lifetime to master. It is an ongoing discipline that is never complete. I am getting on in years and I am still learning. I am still doing the hard work to expand my mind. It would be easy to give up and coast, but I love the challenge of continuing to learn.
So how do we overcome or break through these “barriers?” The key to breaking through these barriers is to do the opposite.
Let’s look at how to knock down those barriers:
Change Your Beliefs. It is up to you to do the work of changing your beliefs. And when you do you will be opening up new worlds - literally! This month Chris is going to talk about winning the thought battle, which will help you keep negative beliefs out and positive beliefs and thoughts in. Feed your mind with information that will change your belief. By taking part in this One-Year Plan, you are doing just that. But also ask yourself if you are doing that with belief. The truth is that you have an amazing mind with a capacity for learning that is beyond your comprehension. You must believe this. And when you do, you will be unlocking the potential of your mind!
Get the Right Knowledge. Words–if they are not true–are meaningless. I hear children say, “I read it in a book.” But is it true? Just because someone says it or writes it, doesn’t mean it is true. As learners, we want to get the right knowledge, not just information or opinions. It is our job to seek out information and knowledge and then test it and run it through our minds to see if it is true, and if it can be rightfully applied to our lives in order to make them better and help us succeed. We need to weigh and measure what we learn in order to gain the right knowledge. And when we do, we will be unlocking the potential of our mind!
Become Passionate about Learning. This will take some work, but the only way to do it is to begin learning about things that have an immediate impact in your life. When you learn about a new financial concept that helps you earn money or get out of debt, that will get you fired up. When you learn about a way to communicate that helps you sell more product, that will energize you. When you learn about how to interact with your family in a healthy way and your relationships get better, that will inspire you! Become passionate about learning. And when you do, you will be unlocking the potential of your mind!
Discipline Yourself Through the Hard Work of Study. Learning will take work. Until someone comes up with modules that can plug into your mind and give you instant access to knowledge, you are on your own, and that takes work. The process of learning is a long one. Yes, we can speed it up, but it is still a process of reading, listening, reviewing, repetition, applying the knowledge, experiencing the outcomes, readjusting, etc. Simply put, that takes time. Slowly but surely, when you discipline yourself, you gain knowledge and learn. And when you do, you will be unlocking the potential of your mind!
Learning is possible, no matter what your age. You are never too young or too old. Your mind was created to learn and has a huge capacity to do so. This week, make a commitment to unlock the potential of your mind!
Until next week, let’s do something remarkable!
Jim Rohn
This week’s article by Jim Rohn, “You are a Genius - Unlocking the Power of the Mind”, is excerpted from Week 44 of the Jim Rohn One-Year Success Plan. Sign-up this week for The Jim Rohn One-Year Success Plan and receive all your books, CD’s and DVD’s prior to the March launch of a new session. See #5 below “Would You Like to be One of the Top 1% in Your Marketplace?” for more details or go to the website address below.
Reproduced with permission from Jim Rohn’s Weekly E-zine.
Copyright 2005 Jim Rohn International. All rights reserved
worldwide. To subscribe to Jim Rohn’s Weekly E-zine, go to
http://Jim-Rohn.InspiresYOU.com
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May 22, 2009
Has it ever happened to you? Have you ever had the experience of liking a woman, being a perfect gentleman, and treating her like a queen, only to have her reject you in favor of someone else (possibly very handsome) who doesn’t treat her right, or doesn’t seem to care about her much at all? These kinds of men have been called “bad boys,” “charm boys,” or “players.” When you are interested in women, do they tend to see you as a friend or “brother” rather than a romantic interest? Do women tell you you’re “too nice”? If so, you are not alone. This article will give you, the nice guy, some tips on how to use charm-boy traits to your advantage, while retaining your nice-guy values.
Let’s brainstorm for a minute. What makes charm boys or players attractive? They are fun, spontaneous, unpredictable, mysterious, and act as if they don’t care what others think of them (also known as confidence). They follow their own rules and don’t let others (including their dates) walk all over them. And they often look good.
So what can you do? You don’t have to engage in risk-taking behaviors in order to succeed with women. Suggest some “safe” ideas on the spur of the moment; for example, “Let’s go get some sushi/ice cream/a Margarita,” or, “Let’s go for a drive and see where we end up.” If this is not the usual “you,” you may enjoy your new-found spontaneity. You can be mysterious/unpredictable without violating your principles. Don’t call her the day after getting her phone number or the day after a date. Give her time to wonder whether you’ll call; keep her guessing. People often want what isn’t easy to get, and women like a little challenge.
You’re the man. Many women are looking for men who are confident and decisive, who can be relied on to get things done. On a date, take command but don’t be pushy. Always have a Plan A and a Plan B, so you don’t miss the concert just in case the restaurant loses your reservation and there’s a 1-1/2-hour wait. But always be flexible, in case your date hates Chinese food, for example, or she just told you her favorite musical group is in town, tonight only. Low-cost dates conducive to getting to know each other include the zoo, a museum, or miniature golf. In addition to saving you money, these low-cost dates also minimize the feeling that you have to “spoil” her or “buy” her affection with an extravagant wining-and-dining evening. And if she likes you, she won’t mind a “cheap” date; she just wants to be with you.
Keep it light and upbeat. Don’t be needy or act nervous. You might be a bit anxious while on a date, but she doesn’t need to know that. Keep things light and humorous, and pay attention to her. That in itself will help you take the focus off you and help you feel more confident. And be a gentleman (you’re already good at this). For example, always offer to pick up the tab unless she insists on paying, open doors for her, etc. But don’t overdo the gifts, lest you appear desperate.
Let her talk. This is where nice guys have an advantage. Most women like to communicate verbally and welcome the chance to be heard. (But make sure you listen; don’t just let your mind wander.) She will be impressed if you remember details about things that are important to her, such as her pet’s name or her favorite book. If you met her online, review her profile for questions you can ask her about her interests.
Neatness counts. Take another hint from the charm boys. You don’t have to be a Brad Pitt look-alike, but make the most of what you have. Review your grooming, clothes, and accessories with an objective eye. If you want feedback, ask a friend–possibly a female friend–for honest input. Or tune into one of the new TV shows which focus on wardrobe/grooming tips for men.
Have a life (and a backbone). Just because you are dating a woman doesn’t mean you drop everything else (including your own friends, hobbies, and interests). After all, relationships can come and go. Keep being yourself. You are not always at her beck and call. When you really don’t want to do something (for example, if she wants you to cancel your ballgame or night out with your friends to go shoe shopping with her), it’s okay to decline. Telling her no may be difficult for nice guys, but if she’s worth keeping, she will respect you for this and value her time with you more. To soften the blow, you might offer her an alternative get-together. For example, “Sorry I can’t make it on Saturday. How about I take you to that new play you’ve been wanting to see on Sunday instead?”
How does she rate? Remember: You have the right to evaluate her, not just the other way around. Does she deserve a second date? Is she relationship material (if that’s what you’re looking for)? Just because she’s attractive/smart/classy doesn’t necessarily mean she’s right for you. Does she treat you well? Is she kind? Does she have decent self-esteem? Is she giving? If you’re looking for a long-term relationship, can you see yourself still with her in 20 years, when some of the supermodel looks may have begun to fade?
The good news for nice guys is that as women get older, perhaps having survived a bad-boy heartbreak or two, they are more likely to appreciate nice guys. Make a list of your good points, the qualities you have to offer. Keep at it. And start believing that you are a catch (or at least act like it)!
For more information, visit the author’s website http://www.therapy-conscious.com
Copyright 2004, Ann L. Palik
Ann L. Palik is a licensed marriage and family therapist in Los Angeles, California, specializing in helping single people create healthy relationships.
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May 21, 2009
It is no surprise that professional tax software programs such as Turbo Tax and TaxACT have been utilized in recent years for easier online tax preparation for a low cost. In fact, professional tax software has seen a rise in recent years and has become a near invaluable addition to the tax payer’s repertoire come early spring every year.
Subsequently, just as professional tax software has seen a surge in the last few years, more and more people have also found themselves in debt during that time. For many people in debt, primarily residents of New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, nonprofit debt consolidation programs are one of the only places they can turn to. Operating under government funding, nonprofit debt consolidation programs are able to provide services to those in need at a lower cost than regular debt consolidation programs.
The aim of these organizations is to act on the debtor’s behalf by calling lenders and banks to renegotiate the terms of defaulted loans, overdue credit card bills and other late payments or similar debt accrued. These professionals use their expertise to consolidate the client’s bills into one lower payment with a decreased interest rate and more manageable terms to increase their likelihood of paying off the debt and to prevent it from happening it again.
While programs such as these are a lifesaver for many in dire need, their popularity in recent years has precipitated an increase in scam sites claiming to provide the same services. However, many of these sites, which operate much like a professional online tax software program, promise results for a fee and then don’t deliver. Not only does the scam artist get away with your money, but also your personal and financial information, making it possible for them to steal your identity.
New Orleans, in particular, has been plagued by such shady Web sites and thieves claiming to provide help, but victimizing innocent people instead. To avoid being a victim of these scammers, it’s important to thoroughly research consumer guides as well as the Better Business Bureau for more information on the credibility of the nonprofit debt consolidation program you may choose.
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May 15, 2009
A large number of gamblers should have spotted the term “offshore sports betting”, though a few aren’t completely in the know what that conveys. A foreign gambling web site basically runs outside of the territory of any distinct state or else it can also mean an internet betting website which has the bulk of their main servers inside a nation where computer accessible wagering isn’t currently prohibited. Concisely therefore, it’s best described as a wagering business doing business outside the country of the gamer. On-line sports betting sites are directly governed with the assistance of three organizations. They are OSGA (the Offshore Gaming Association), IGC (Interactive Gaming Council) and finally the Fidelity Trust Gaming Association (the FTGA).
united state sports betting online
The Offshore Gaming Association is a self regulating bureau that presently monitors the thriving offshore betting industry, they are trying to supply sports gamblers an avenue to locate respectable sites to play gambling games on, without concern. The Offshore Gaming Association labors to defend the rights of consumers, and in addition they charge no joining fees. The OSGA are a well qualified and unbiased third party association who express objective conclusions, advised by your evaluations, nonpartisan examination, phone chats, inside prompts and also imparts inside news.
The Interactive Gaming Council are a non-profit-making organization. The organisation has been established to furnish a forum for curious participants to address questions and in addition to move forward shared concerns in the global web-based gambling business, in an effort to establish upright and also sensible professional protocols and habits which enhance consumer faith in interactive gaming merchandise and functions, also to serve as the sports gaming trade’s global procedure adviser and in addition the Interactive Gaming Council functions as an information clearinghouse.
The IGC have made a distinction for dependability, candor and also believability due to the uncompromising standards it exhibits, and also its appeal to concerns of responsible practise. The IGC regulates offshore sports betting through implementing a unique ten-point code of conduct furthermore bills gambling websites license fees for using their logo. Discontented betters can, should they require, air their disagreements to the IGC.
The Fidelity Trust Gaming Association was set up in an attempt to present a standard to reform the actions of on-line sports gaming commercial enterprises. The authority suggest that by carrying on trade only with respectable enterprises, they can shape an alliance of the fairest and professional offshore betting operations multinationally. Thus, there are agencies that guide the transactions of networked gambling and which should through time function to allay any insecurities held by some gambling buffs. On-line sports gambling web sites are completely safe, in as much as personal data are no longer required and the recompense and the gaming odds are consistently equivalent to a common Vegas-style stake. They lower traveling costs, but nevertheless keep of a casino, only nowadays you may play in the comfort of your beloved surroundings.
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May 14, 2009
The outlook for 2009 and 2010 is a bit gloomy if you’re a home owner - diminishing house prices are causing a great worry for numerous individuals. Some property owners will actually experience negative equity shortly, if not already. All the same, there are methods to fend off this problem. Namely, to add value to your home. How to do that? By making home improvements. DIY / home improvements can bring far greater value to your home than the actual cost of those improvements.
So where to start? A good place to begin is to think about the rooms in your house that you use the least. Perhaps it is an adjoining garage, or spare bedroom. Knocking down a wall can transform such a rarely used area into an extended area for a kitchen or living room. Think also about your plumbing and lighting. A dimmer switch can change a bright, garish room into a warm, inviting living space - simply light transforming the room! Perhaps your property doesn’t have a downstairs toilet? Then get one put in where your utility room is - again this can add much value to your property.
Maybe your 4 bedroomed house could be changed to 3 bedroom by ripping a wall down, and making a much larger room. This may sound a tad odd, but in reality bigger rooms will make you a better sale value, and rather often people use a 4th bedroom strictly as a storage room (a sign of a room that isn’t really used or needed).
Then look into your garden. Do you have a shed? If this answer is no, think about installing one in the garden. Why? Well, here is one place where you can stock all your gear that’s clogging up your garage / utility room / spare bedroom. Sheds encourage gardening also, and enthusiastic gardeners (read: your future home buyer) like a shed in their garden. And perhaps, well - you could into gardening yourself! If your garden’s been overlooked, then mow the lawn, plant flowers, trim the garden edges. Also consider installing decking. Just offering a drink to a future buyer out in your lovely garden can really make the place sell itself - viewers feel comfortable in such surroundings - so it turns out that your garden can help sell your home, and add value to your property!
So where to look for some help? Take a look online. A DIY directory like homeandgardenlistings.co.uk has all kinds of home and garden websites listed there : including a directory of bathroom fitters, directory of builders, directory of plumbers, electricians, directory of general furniture suppliers, directory of bedroom furniture and beds suppliers etc.
These are just some introductory tips on increasing the cost of your property in these tough times, but hopefully this will get you thinking!
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May 10, 2009
From standing on your head for 15 minutes a day to clipping some hair to make it increase it back lusher, there is never been a scarcity of speculations looking for a phenomenal remedy to baldness. Hence here is the fact, significantly of it surprising, on what can really assist those looking for the answer to hair loss.
Does standing around on one’s head do make hair grow?
Myth. All this is a fantasy presented around the basis that improved blood flow would fight hair loss. If only it was that easy.
Smoking discourages your hair growth.
Fact! Yes, this one is TRUE as smoking destroys hair follicles, interferes with blood and hormone flow in the scalp and amplifies production of hair shrinking oestregen. Though another reason to give up!
Eating bread crusts puts hairs on one’s chest. For the best results in hair regrowth, visit Advanced Hair Studio.
Truth! Yes, & not primarily one’s chest. The reason being that bread crusts enjoy eight times more antioxidants than the rest of the loaf. Research shows that antioxidants are a vital part of cultivating scalp circulation & creating melanin, the hormone that makes one’s hair thicker.
Baldness unveils how smart you are.
Fact! All that is not a myth hyped by balding scientists in white coats, but nevertheless, is in fact true. The better your levels of brain growth protein, the more potential it is for one’s hair to fall out. More on this when those scientists truly get their brain cells firing.
A short hair cut allows one’s hair grow back thicker.
Myth! All hair above skin level is actually dead, so trimming it short comes with no affect on the thickness & strength of hair growing back. The motivation for this fantasy is that short, bristly hair will have the apperance of being lusher, but once it grows the true. state of affairs is exposed.
In the end, if you really want a full head of hair it?s perhaps best to see a professional. The company that has made a name for itself by using sports stars and celebrities to develop the fact that being bald is not cool is Advanced Hair Studio. With a long list of celebrity endorsements stretching back over 20 years Advanced Hair Studio 5 become The of the best known hair restoration companies 1 the world.
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May 8, 2009
Here are some common sense safety tips for meeting your online date in person. Your instincts will play a strong role in keeping you safe too, so listen to them and take action if you feel uncomfortable or alarmed at any time. Remember, there’s also a good chance that your date is perfectly genuine. Tread a sensible line between optimism and caution and your date will be safe and enjoyable.
Meet when you’re ready:
Don’t be pressured into meeting your online date. One of the big attractions of online dating is that you can find out the important stuff - be sure there’s a real possibility for a relationship - up front, so take your time and make the most of it. Your offline date should confirm and enhance your feelings, not lead to disappointment, or nasty surprises!
Meet in a public place:
Hopefully most of you are yawning at this. However, when you’ve built up some trust online, and happen to share an interest in lonely country walks, say, a lonely country walk might seem like a great idea for a first date. Give yourself a severe reality check when arranging a first date. First dates should always be in well-populated, public places.
Meet in a familiar or well-known area:
You need to be able to find your way home, or back to your hotel room, quickly and easily. Don’t travel into unfamiliar neighborhoods and if you’ve traveled to an unfamiliar city to meet your date, choose a hotel in a central area that’s well known to taxi drivers and locals.
Meet in a place where you’re not well known:
For first dates, avoid favorite hangouts where everyone knows you and your business. Your date can return to pry information out of your favorite bartender or friends, or turn up uninvited - bad news if you decide not to pursue the relationship.
Travel independently:
Revealing where you live, where you’re staying or getting into a strange vehicle puts you at risk. Be sure to make your own way to and from your date, and don’t be persuaded otherwise. If you make your travel arrangements ahead of time, you’ll have a good excuse for refusing any offers to pick you up or drop you home, and if your date’s half the person you think they are, they’ll respect your independence and caution.
Make your own arrangements:
Don’t let your date take over and make all the decisions about where you go, what you do, and, if you’re traveling from another city, where you stay. Make your own travel arrangements (I’ve said this already, but it’s important), book your own hotel, and make sure you and your common sense get to play a big role in deciding when and where your date takes place.
Tell a friend or relative about your date:
Make sure someone knows who you’re meeting (their full name and phone number), when, where and at what time you expect to be back.
Take your cell phone:
If you don’t have a cell phone, borrow one. Arrange for someone to call you at a certain time to check up on how your date is going, and how you’re feeling about it. Agree beforehand on some phrases that will let them know, without giving the game away to your date, whether it’s going well or whether you need to put a pre-arranged escape plan into action.
Don’t drink too much:
Sure, a drink can calm your nerves but be careful not to overdo it and lose your ability to make safe and sensible decisions.
Leave if you feel uncomfortable:
You’re excited about your date, you want it to go well, to give it every chance of success but (and it’s a big but) don’t let this tempt you into ignoring or excusing the fact that something doesn’t feel right. If it doesn’t feel right it probably isn’t. Trust your instincts, admit it and get out of there. If necessary, enlist the help of a waiter or manager or some other person that can help you make a get away, perhaps feigning a call from home or showing you an alternative way out of the building. Remember though, it’s not necessary to explain yourself to your date. Simply leave.
Watch for strange behavior:
When you meet offline, dating should fall into a natural, comfortable pattern. Stop dating if it doesn’t. For instance, if your date always wants to meet some distance from where they live or work, is reluctant to introduce you to friends or family, or has strange rules about how and when you call each other, something’s very wrong.
Copyright 2004 Caroline Mackenzie
Caroline Mackenzie is Co-Owner/Webmaster of The Dating Muse, a guide to online dating services and personals featuring reviews of the top online dating sites plus tips and ideas for finding friends, dates, soulmates and sexual adventure online. You can visit her site at http://DatingMuse.com and subscribe to her newsletter at http://datingmuse.com/subscribe.htm
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