14 Best Inexpensive Gift Ideas for Your Boyfriend

By Jennifer Knightstep

 

It’s the holiday season, and if you’re anything like me, you’re out of pocket, underfunded — broke. But that’s no reason to neglect the man in your life! He’s most deserving, isn’t he? Sure you’d like to get him a great cologne or a cool gadget. But, there are tons of great gifts you can give your boyfriend that won’t put you into debt. Here’s my list of the ten best inexpensive gifts for men. Or, more precisely, for your boyfriend, husband, or fiancé.

1. Frame it

Find a great photo of the two of you, have a copy made, and put it in a black leather or chrome frame. A nice frame can be as inexpensive as ten dollars!

2. Take a photo

If you’re not too shy, have a close friend take some tasteful boudoir photos of you. Keep it clean, but sexy. No crotch shots, no nipples! Print a few and add them to a small album. Or, burn your favorites to a CD. Either way, those photos of you are guaranteed to warm his heart (and other parts!) til spring!

3. Make a coupon book

Whether you just started dating, or you’ve been together forever, a coupon book is a great way to give a gift that actually works for you, too. Coupons can be hand-made or printed, and can be for things like “Get out of one argument free” or “Day of football” or “Good for one back massage.” Get creative!

4. Pamper him

Break out your pumice and peppermint foot scrub and treat him to an at-home pedicure. Soak his feet in very warm water for ten minutes while massaging his hands with non-girlie scented lotion (no fruits or flowers!). Then pat his feet dry, massage the pumice scrub into them, rinse well, and rub with that same non-scented lotion you used on his hands.

5. Put him on the Naughty List

Make a naughty kit for him: whipped cream, handcuffs, a blindfold, that sort of thing. Again, the more creative, the better!

6. Make him a mix CD

Make him a CD of Christmas songs. You can go traditional (“White Christmas” by Bing Crosby, “Winter Wonderland” by Louis Armstrong and “Holly Jolly Christmas” by Burl Ives) or fun and modern (“Rudolph” by Jack Johnson, “Baby please Come Home” by Death Cab for Cutie, and “The Christmas Song” by the Ravonettes). Draw your own CD cover art and be sure to include the year!

7. Treat him to a game

If he’s got a favorite sports team, you can probably find inexpensive tickets to an off-day game or event. Still too expensive? If he’s into hockey, but you can’t afford the Red Wings, then buy tickets to a non-pro team instead.

8. Treat him to a movie

Take him to the movies and buy him popcorn, a soda, and some candy. Let him choose the movie, too… I’m talking “Ninja Assassin,” not “Leap Year.” No matter how ridiculously violent or scary or plotless pretend to enjoy it. Heck, you may even enjoy it for real!

9. Get a buddy gift

If you know someone else is getting him something expensive, get a companion gift. For instance, if his parents are getting him the iPod Touch, get him an iTunes gift card or carry case or car adaptor. If he’s getting a Wii, get him the new Mario Brothers game.

10. Get him a certificate

If your man is anything like mine, he’s got a favorite pub where he hangs with his mates. Get him a gift card for the price of two or three pints, and include a note that encourages him to spend a night out with the boys.

11. Make him an ornament

That’s right: get old-school childish and make him an ornament for his tree. Get out your crafts and make him something with felt pens, glittery gems, and pom-poms.

12. Take him skating

So much fun! Take him to the ice rink for skating. If there’s no ice rink where you live, then take him roller skating. Wear your cutest hat and mittens, or if it’s inside, impress him with your backwards skating skills. Then treat him to cocoa or a milkshake.

13. Clean for him

If he lives away from home, chances are, his flat, house, or apartment can get messy. Bring your own sponges and cleaners, and get to work. If you’re feeling particularly generous, clean in lingerie.

14. Fill a stocking

If he’s got a sweet tooth, buy a stocking and fill it with his favorite sweet treats. Go for cute and embroider or glitter-pen it with his name.

See? There are so many ways to show you affection and love without spending a ton of money. I’m sure there are a lot of other great ideas out there, too! What is your best inexpensive gift idea for your boyfriend? What did your man think of it? Please let me know!

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Top 9 Skin Friendly Deodorants

By Lisa Washington 

 

If you’re looking for a deodorant that’s not only effective in reducing odor but is also natural, you need to check out these skin-friendly deodorants ASAP! We depend on our deodorant to help us stay fresh, clean and dry, but we never think about how it affects our skin. These 9 skin-friendly deodorants contain natural and good-for-you ingredients that are just as good for you as they are at fighting odor and sweat!

1. Lavanila Laboratories The Healthy Deodorant

Let’s start this list of skin-friendly deodorants with Lavanila’s healthy deodorant. What makes this deodorant unique is that it’s perfectly safe for skin, it’s natural and it’s also clinically proven to be effective in keeping you dry. Choose from five different vanilla fragrances that will soothe and condition delicate underarms.

2. Dr. Hauschka Floral Deodorant

Dr. Hauschka’s floral deodorant is one of the best deodorants for ladies looking for a non-clogging deodorant that balances and refreshes skin. This antiperspirant-free deodorant is made with essentials oils and herb extracts to reduce odor and provide a sheer flower fragrance.

3. Derma Doctor Total Nonscents Ultra–Gentle Brightening Antiperspirant

This next product is solely an antiperspirant, but it’s still a very gentle yet effective product. Heavy duty antiperspirants can be very drying and harsh on the skin but this baby is gentle enough to use right after shaving! Other benefits of this antiperspirant are that it dries quickly and diminishes dark underarms!

4. Fresh Sugar Deodorant Antiperspirant

If you’re looking for the perfect combination of odor and wetness protection paired with natural ingredients, you’re in luck! Fresh’s deodorant and antiperspirant is made without sulfates, synthetic dyes or GMOs. It is also formulated to soothe skin and prevent bacteria to keep you cool and dry!

5. Kiss My Face Liquid Rock Roll-on Deodorant

This deodorant is perfect for ladies who are pregnant or just looking for a safe and natural yet hard-working deodorant that keeps you feeling fresh and dry all day. The clear formula won’t leave any residue behind and the cucumber and green tea scent will leave you feeling and smelling clean.

6. JASON Aloe Vera Deodorant Stick

This is one of the best deodorants for ladies with sensitive skin. The fresh fragrance is great for ladies or gents and it works just as hard as deodorants with aluminum. Aloe vera soothes and softens even the most sensitive skin while keeping underarms dry and fresh for hours.

6. JASON Aloe Vera Deodorant Stick

This is one of the best deodorants for ladies with sensitive skin. The fresh fragrance is great for ladies or gents and it works just as hard as deodorants with aluminum. Aloe vera soothes and softens even the most sensitive skin while keeping underarms dry and fresh for hours.

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9 Changes to Make You Happier.. …

By Melissa Diem 

 

You deserve a joyful life and if you aren’t living one, then it is time to make some changes to make you happier. It’s a little obscure to think that if you keep doing the same things, being around the same people, or moving at the same pace that you will see different results. That is not how life works. Anyone can have more joy and glee from making a few changes. So are you up for learning about 9 changes to make you happier? I hope so…

1. Evaluate Your Values

What do you believe? What are your values and virtues? Look at your current life and honestly answer for yourself whether you are living out those values. If not, you probably feel a lot of guilt and displeasure every time you act against your set values. Your behavior is taking away your happiness and this has got to be one of your first changes to make you happier.

2. Give

How much time do you spend giving and serving others? It’s been scientifically proven that helping others is a great way to fight depression. If you are feeling in a funk, find a way to give back. There are so many opportunities to volunteer and serve your community. If that is too big for you, consider doing a sweet favor for a friend or family member. You could even do something special and never let anyone know it was you.

3. Set Goals

Goals aren’t meant to make you feel like a failure. If your goals are letting you down, you may be going about them all wrong or need to set mini-goals to help you reach your main goal. Each time you make a stride towards achieving your goals, you have to celebrate and share your success with others.

4. Count Your Blessings

No matter who you are, how little or how much you have, you have many blessings. Instead of focusing on the things you are lacking, take a moment and look over what you do have. Move beyond material things and think about the people that love and care about you and all the positive opportunities you have in your life.

5. Work for Happiness

The truth is we all need to work to get by in life. As we all know the light bill doesn’t pay itself and neither will the rent. But work shouldn’t feel dreadful. Think about the things you love and jobs that relate. As an example, my close friend loves movies. Ultimately he would love to work in movies, in the meantime he got a job at the local movie theater. He loves his job and gets to see every movie.

6. Pray And Meditate

Research shows that prayer and meditation both have a positive effect on the brain. They also encourage happiness. Spending time each day in prayer and meditation will lighten your mood and relieve stress.

7. Journal

Journaling works similar to prayer and meditation, but I feel it needs to be done along with them, not instead of them. I find that journaling, especially when I am going through a difficult time, helps me put my feelings into words and start to understand my situation better. Keeping a journal is also a reference to have so you can look back and see how you came out from bad times before.

8. Socialize

No, that does not mean cyber stalking your friends on Facebook and Twitter. You really need to get out and spend time with people in real life. Call up your friends and plan a girls’ night out. Go to a game or school event. If no one is available, don’t despair. Find something going on in your community that will allow you to meet new people. Be bold, say hi and start a conversation

 

9. Smile

Sometimes we just have to fake happiness until it becomes genuine. The general act of smiling does signal the brain to feel happy. Smiling also makes you more approachable by other people.
This is only a small list of changes to make you happy. I’m sure you all have your own suggestions on ways to bring more happiness and joy into each of our lives. Share your happiness secrets with us and other readers in the comments.

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9 Ways to Relieve Menstrual Pain …

By Jordin Keim 

 

Ways to relieve menstrual pain can be easy, time consuming, difficult, or therapeutic but whatever they are, we need them! The time of month that all women dread is the time of month that causes severe pain for over half of the women in the world. And I don’t mean your average run-of-the-mill menstrual pain. I’m talking menstrual pain that is severe enough to keep you home from work. Yes, there are women who deal with that! Are you one of them? Then you need to read this article with ways to relieve menstrual pain. Menstrual pain does not have to be something that controls your life. Instead, it can be something that you deal with and go on with your activities as normal. If you have to deal with severe menstrual pain, be assured that there are ways to relieve menstrual pain. Keep on reading this article if you would like to know 9 ways to relieve menstrual!

1. Heat

Heat is one very effective method for relieving menstrual pain. There are many different ways to use heat on your lower abdomen! Try taking a hot shower. If that doesn’t work, you can buy a heating pad that plugs into an outlet if you have a day to spend at home on the couch during your period. Or you can try disposable ones if you are stuck at work. They work much like the disposable ice packs. Just shake to activate, then stick under your clothes. They are quite discreet! If you find yourself stuck without a heating pad, toss a bag of rice into the microwave for a few minutes. Works like a charm!

2. Pain Killers

Pain killers are an obvious way to relieve menstrual pain. I like Advil the best, but some women find that aspirin, Tylenol, Midol or Ibuprofen works better for them. Take as directed on the bottle. Take the max amount for severe pain. Go ahead and pop them as soon as you feel the pain coming on. That way you can stop it in its tracks! You don’t need to wait until the pain is so severe you can’t stand anymore.

3. Natural Remedies

There are a few natural remedies that are very helpful for relieving menstrual pain, and even bloating or PMS! Among my favorite tried-and-true ones are Evening Primrose, German Chamomile Flower, St. John’s Wort, Kava Kava Root, Milk Thistle Seed and Black Cohesh Root. Try a few of these herbs and see if they make a difference! Take them daily for the few days leading up to your period, and every day while you are on your period for the best results.

4. Laying in the Fetal Position

This may sound a little crazy, but laying in the fetal position is one way to relieve menstrual pain! Do you ever notice how a small baby will draw his legs up to his stomach when he has a tummy ache? That’s because the body automatically knows that this position helps relax tummy muscles and relieve the pain a bit. This may not be effective on its own, but I guarantee you if you double it up with a heating pad, or Advil, or both, you will get great results!

5. Having Sex

All right, I can see the eyes rolling out there. This idea may be far fetched, but it’s been proven that having sex while you are on your period helps to relieve menstrual pain. Having orgasms helps release some of the pressure and allows your uterus walls to relax! Try doing it in the shower for less mess. Keep some towels and wipes handy for cleanup. And obviously, this tip is for married ladies only as I would never want to encourage pre-marital sex-but there are other ways to achieve orgasm!

6. Taking Vitamins

Surprisingly, taking vitamins is one way to relieve menstrual pain! I suppose it shouldn’t come as a surprise since it makes sense that what you eat makes a difference! While on your period, take supplements of zinc, calcium, and vitamin B. These are the vitamins that have been associated with reducing cramps and bloating. Also, try incorporating more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables into your diet. Decrease your salt consumption and see if that makes a difference.

7. Exercise

Kind of odd to think of it this way, but exercise is one method to relieve menstrual pain. Getting active helps your muscles to relax a little bit and releases feel good endorphins in your brain. Of course, you don’t want to get out there pumping iron and jogging 10 miles on your heaviest day, but in the few days leading up to your period and as much as you are able during your period, you should work exercise or at least walking into your daily routine.

8. Aromatherapy

It’s no secret that aromatherapy is calming, soothing, and exhilarating all at once. So it would make sense that breathing in these aromas while on your period is one way to relieve menstrual pain! Draw yourself a nice hot bath, light a few candles, and put some aromatherapy oils in your bath water. The direct contact of them onto your tummy, plus the fact that you are breathing them in combined with the heat of your bath water will have marvelous results!

9. Massage

One of my favorite techniques to relieve menstrual pain is by massage. Yes! Massaging your stomach helps relieve menstrual pain! You can do it yourself, or have your sweetheart help you out. Gentle strokes and circular motions with light pressure on your abdomen area will help relax your muscles and relieve some of the pain and tension you are experiencing.
You see? There are many ways to relieve menstrual pain! periods don’t mean your life has to stop. Just take some action to make sure it doesn’t take over your life for a few days and you will be amazed at the results you get. Have you ever tried any of these methods and ways to relieve menstrual pain? Different women suffer in different ways and have many different ways to relieve menstrual pain, so I’d love to know yours!

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18 Facts about Stress …

By Melissa Diem

Are you looking for facts about stress? Stress can be a tricky thing. Sometimes we are under stress and don’t even realize it until it’s taken over. Since so many things can cause stress in our lives, and there are so many ways to handle stress, I thought it would be helpful to everyone if I put together a list of 18 Facts about Stress. This list will cover everything from what causes stress, ways to relieve it, how the body reacts to stress, and how it affects us at different ages.

1. Silent Killer

Some people refer to stress as a silent killer. Why? Because stress can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, chest pain and irregular heartbeat. All of these things are horrible for your heart and can lead to serious complications like heart attack and stroke. Isn’t it insane how stress can sneak up on you and cause all these health concerns?

2. Stressful Cities

Here is an interesting fact about stress. Where you live can play a part on your stress level. New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago are the top 3 most stressful cities in the US. It’s no surprise that these are very large busy cities with people constantly on the go. How stressful do you find your city to be?

3. Alcohol And Smoking

Drinking and smoking worsen the effects of stress on the body. While you may think you are calming your nerves and soothing stress for the moment you are actually putting more stress on your body.

4. Acne

If you suffer from acne, stress may be the culprit. Of course acne may be the cause of your stress. I know acne is definitely one thing that causes me unnecessary stress. Stress causes a rise in inflammation which can lead to acne. How do you handle stress related acne?

5. Laugh More

I love this fact about stress. If you want to lower your stress try laughing. Spend time with your most hilarious friends, watch a funny movie, or just watch some awesome videos on YouTube. The reason laughter works to reduce stress is because laughing releases beneficial hormones. I’m glad I have funny people in my life to help reduce my stress.

6. Makes You Fat

I bet that’s a fact about stress you wish wasn’t true. Why can’t stress make us skinny? I’d be up for all kinds of stress if it did! Stress causes the body to release the hormone cortisol that is known to cause stomach fat and makes fat cells larger.

7. Necessary for Survival

Stress is necessary for survival. All animals experience stress, it is what causes animals to go into fight or flight mode. Are you going to stay and fight your predator or run like mad? In humans, stress causes us to have an increase in awareness and physical performance. Perhaps this is why some people work better under pressure.

8. Decreased Libido

As if anyone really wanted to do it anyway having stressed induced acne and fat, stress also plays with the hormones that control your sex drive and how fast you reach climax. However, sex is also a great way to relieve stress. How is that for an evil little twist?

9. Chocolate

Did you need another reason to eat chocolate? I’m guessing not, but I’ll give you one anyway. If you love chocolate then you are going to love this fact about stress. Dark chocolate is known to reduce stress hormones. So eat-up girlfriend, that dark chocolate is doing you a huge favor!

10. Hair Loss

Have you ever heard someone say that their stress is causing them to go grey? This is kind of a missed guided truth. Stress doesn’t turn your hair grey, that comes with age, however stress can cause you to lose your hair. Personally, I’d rather go grey from stress than lose any hair. What about you?

11. Stressful Job

Is your career causing you stress? According to one study the most stressful jobs are in the medical field, airlines, journalism advertising, and real estate, whereas, people in computer technology and astronomy are far less stressed. Do you have a stressful job? Can you think of any ways to make it less stressful?

12. Fertility

Not only does stress affect your sexual desire it can also damage fertility. Women under stress may have trouble releasing mature eggs or complication with implantation. In men, stress can affect sperm count and mobility. If you are experiencing infertility you may want to try stress reduction for you and your partner along with other suggestions from your doctor.

13. Children

Even children are affected by stress. Children experiencing chronic stress may have developmental growth problems because stress can lower the production of growth hormone in the pituitary gland. Obviously it is important to create a low stress environment for children to properly grow and develop.

14. Bleeding

Here is an interesting fact about stress. Stress can also save your life. The body’s response to stress during an injury like being cut, causes blood capillaries to restrict and slows down bleeding. Stress also makes the blood stickier to aid in clotting. All these things together help stop the body from bleeding out.

15. Money

Did you know that money is the number one cause of stress? It is true, and probably not really that much of a surprise considering the struggles with the economy. Many people are worried about money, which leads to a large amount of stress.

16. Teens

According to the American Psychological Association, stress is a top health concern for high school teenagers. Many experts worry that if teenagers don’t learn to manage stress better they will have long term-health problems.

17. Exercise

If you are looking for facts about reducing stress consider exercise. Studies show that exercise is a great way to relieve stress. Find an activity you enjoy and get busy. Not only will you lower stress, you may even lose a few pounds.

18. Sleep

Sleep is another great stress reliever. Your body repairs itself during sleep and not getting sufficient sleep each night can cause more stress. If you are stressed be sure to get plenty of sleep each night.
Stress is a large subject to cover. There are many things to discuss about stress. I was only able to break through the surface with this post, but I hope you learned something new about stress. Did any one of these facts about stress surprise you? Which ones did you already know? Which ones are new to you? Feel free to share your own facts about stress too.

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8 Ways to Stop Worrying …

By Jennifer Knightstep

 

With as many things as there are to worry about in this world – money, grades at school, stress at work, your boyfriend’s quirks – there are just as many ways to stop worrying about these things. Sometimes, all you need is a little perspective, or a little cup of tea. But sometimes, you need a short list of ways to stop worrying that are a little more hard-core. If this is one of those times, keep reading, my dear. Brew that cup of tea, and get ready to un-worry.

1. Write It down

Even the most complicated, convoluted problems seem less… problematic… when they’re written down in black and white. Sometimes, they even seem a little silly, and completely manageable. Try writing your worries in a journal, or simply jot them down on a sticky note. For extra perspective, tear that little sticky into bits once you’ve realized how ridiculous it is… this is one of my own favorite ways to stop worrying, and start smiling!

2. Talk It Out

We all have that friend, the one who listens without interrupting or judging. If you’re worried about a particular thing, call your friend for a chat, or better yet, get together for an in-person tête-à-tête. Verbalizing your troubles is much more effective than posting passive-aggressive status updates on Facebook, and will, in some cases, even help you come up with a solution you hadn’t thought of inside your head. If not, your friend, the sounding board, may be able to help you find a solution, too.

3. Put It in Perspective

Worrying about whether or not you’ll get that promotion at work, or whether you can afford that new pair of boots you splurged on last week, may seem silly if you put it into perspective, against the bigger backdrop of your life. Don’t compare your life to someone else’s – that’s just going to make you feel guilty or bad – but rather look at your current worries in terms of five years out.

4. Exercise

Aside from helping you get rid of muffin top or flabby upper arms, a little exercise can also go a long way toward settling your mind. Go for a run, or a long walk in the woods, or hit the gym for a yoga class or high-energy Zumba. For me, the rhythm of running clears my mind of worry, and even helps me relax.

5. Tune Out

If you’re worried, the worst thing you can do is stew on it, or feed it, by watching the news, or fanning the flames of a feud on Facebook. Turn off the TV, shut down the computer, and try doing something constructive (like exercise!) instead.

6. Think “worst Case”

Okay, so what’s the worst thing that can happen? Your boyfriend, who’s been acting distant lately, may break up with you – and you’ll be better off without a man who doesn’t adore you. You may get passed over for that promotion – but you’ll still have a job. You might indeed have kidney stones – but they’ll pass. Whatever’s worrying you, try to think of the worst case scenario, and imagine coping with that. See? Not so insurmountable… and that’s the unlikely WORST case, which still may not actually happen.

7. Don’t Drink

While you might be tempted to drown your worries, resist the urge. Alcohol is a depressant, which will actually mean you’ll be making your worry worse… plus, alcohol has the nasty tendency to lessen our inhibitions, which makes us more inclined to compound our worries, not lessen them. Did you really get lit and send a pleading, pathetic text to your boss about that promotion?

8. Take Action!

Perhaps the most effective way to stop worrying is to stand up and take action. Solving the problem will often – surprise! – make the problem go away, so you can quit worrying and move on! Even thinking about taking action can help, so imagine what actually taking action can do!
See? Nothing to worry about, at least not for long! Which of these anti-worrying tips do you think will help most the next time you’re at your wit’s end? Or do you have any other ideas to share? Please do, and thank you!

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7 Things Your Skin Needs Daily …

By Lisa Washington 

Photo Credit

 

We all want to have clear, healthy skin, and in order to achieve that there are some things your skin needs every day to look its best. Just like you need certain beauty products and tools to properly apply your makeup, there are specific things your skin desires in order to be healthy and happy. Think about it, if you never exfoliated, your skin would look dull and beg you to give it a scrub! Let’s take a look at some of the things your skin needs every day so we can take the best care of it!

1. Rest And Relaxation

One of the most important things your skin needs every day is for you to have some relaxation time. Constantly being stressed out and overworked can wreak havoc on your skin. You might not be able to treat yourself to a spa day every day but there are plenty of little things you can do to help de-stress. Taking a nap, talking to a friend or taking a relaxing bath can help you unwind and forget the day’s troubles.

2. Exercise

You might not think exercising has anything to do with skin care, but staying in shape and being healthy is reflected through your skin! When we exercise we get our blood flowing, which gives your skin a healthy, radiant glow. Don’t stress if you can’t commit to working out every day of the week, aim to exercise every other day or work out in small blocks of time more frequently.

3. Water

If you haven’t heard already, water is a skin care essential! We need to keep ourselves hydrated in order to have supple and smooth skin. You don’t have to drink truckloads of water every day, but if you frequently consume coffee or alcohol, they can be drying to skin. Remind yourself to drink water throughout the day so you stay hydrated and replenish skin cells and tissues.

4. Cleansing

I’m willing to bet that cleansing your skin is part of your skin care routine and it’s certainly something that our skin requires on a daily basis. Most skin types will benefit from twice daily cleansing, once in the morning and once in the evening. Even if you don’t wear makeup, it’s important to wash off any dirt or grime from the day and open up your pores.

5. Antioxidants

Antioxidants are another skin care essential. We’re often encouraged to use skin care products and eat foods that contain antioxidants in order to protect our skin from free radicals, help repair skin and decelerate the aging process. Look for skin products that contain antioxidants, like Clinique’s Super Rescue Antioxidant Moisturizer, or eat foods like berries, broccoli or carrots.

6. Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is vital for a healthy mind and body and the things we eat can directly affect our skin. Aside from eating antioxidants, you also want to fill up foods that are high in vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. These nutrients help our skin retain moisture and prevent skin cell damage. Some tasty skin-friendly foods include fatty fish, nuts and green, leafy vegetables.

7. Limit Sun

Even if we’re in the winter season, our skin is still exposed to the damaging UV rays of the sun. Always keep your skin protected with a good sunscreen and limit your time in the sun. You don’t want to spend the entire day indoors and hide from the sun but you don’t want to spend too much time in it either. Our bodies naturally convert sunlight to produce vitamin D, so be sure to get in some sun time!
As you can see, our skin requires a few things daily to keep it in tip-top shape. These skin care essentials aren’t just good for your skin but maintaining these good habits are good for your health and well-being also! What do you do every day to take care of your skin?

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Top 20 Dangerous Places to Go to for a Vacation …

By shannon 

 

Planning a vacation is always exciting. After all, going to someplace you have never been before is just brimming with new fun and adventure for you to explore. At the same time, there are several vacation destinations that just might be a little more dangerous that you signed on for. Here is a look at the top 20 vacation destinations that just might be a little more exciting than you had planned.

20. New Zealand

New Zealand is not inherently dangerous, but visitors routinely engage in activities that put them in harms way. More than one third of the country is considered a nature conservation land, which means thrill-seekers from around the world flock to the country in order to participate in extreme sports. Unfortunately, the result is a very high number of tourists deaths in the country each year.

19. Taiwan

 

Taiwan offers the beautiful city of Taipei as well as access to the largest collection of Chinese artifacts in the world. Despite its cultural sites, the country is plagued with natural disasters. In fact, more than 70% of the island is prone to experiencing at least three different types of natural disasters, including: floods, earthquakes, typhoons, windstorms, and landslides. 

 

18. Australia

The land down under may have clean water and happy residents, but it is also home to some of the deadliest animals in the world. When you visit Australia, you may find yourself facing one of the ten most poisonous snakes in the world, one of many different types of deadly spiders or even deadly sea creatures. In fact, most consider Australia to be the place where you are most likely to get attacked by wildlife in one way or another.

17. Dominican Republic

Petty crimes have long been considered common in the Dominican Republic, but violent crimes against foreigners are becoming increasingly common. In fact, buses and taxis are known for allowing criminals to rob tourists while in their small, enclosed spaces.

16. Venezuela

Venezuela as the third biggest murder rate in all of Latin America, with much of that violence being related to drug trafficking and resulting from the fact that the country is located between Colombia and the United States.

15. Cote d’Ivoire

Despite the fact that the airport is now open, the violent killings of and American civilian and several French troops in 2004 has continued to plague this country.

14. Georgia

American citizens are forbidden from traveling the overland passing that spans between Russia and Georgia, but this isn’t the only problem you might face in this country. The country remains divided after its civil war, which took place in the 80s and 90s, and the group in northwest Georgia still refuses to recognize the country’s government. This has results in a great deal of violence in the area, including beatings and destruction of property.

13. Zimbabwe

Despite the beauty that Victoria Falls offers in Zimbabwe, tourists are routinely harassed in the country. Violent crime, which is often spurred by food and fuel shortages, are also common.

12. Democratic Republic of the Congo

If you plan to go to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, be prepared to have to bribe your way in and out of the country. Despite the presences of the U.N. observer forces throughout the country, car-jackings, kidnapping, and rapes routinely occur at the hands of troops as well as armed groups.

11. Liberia

Despite the 1,100 police advisors and 15,000 U.N. peacekeepers, crime remains a major problem in Liberia. Murder, theft, and sexual assaults are all common – particularly at night.

10. Haiti

Despite the governmental changes that took place in 2004, Haiti still regularly sees violent outbreaks and demonstrations. With no real police force in the country, keeping the violence under control has been impossible and several towns in the country are literally controlled by criminals. Furthermore, water and electricity are in low supply and travelers do not receive protection from the U.N. representatives while in the country.

9. Russia

The Caucasus region of Russia is highly unstable, making certain areas of the country best to avoid. In areas such as Degestan and North Ossetia, open guerilla warfare is still a regular occurrence. Travelers are often kidnapped for ransom and terrorists regularly attack government buildings, hotels, and even schools.

8. Burundi

Burundi has been dealing with an ongoing civil war since 1993, with fighting between government forces and rebel fractions being a common occurrence. Groups of criminals regularly engage in car-jackings and muggings and mortar attacks are a regular part of life in the country, despite a cease-fire agreement among six o the rebel groups.

7. Sudan

Sudan, which is located in Northeast Africa, is simply brimming with a variety of exotic diseases, and, yet, there are only 3 hospitals for the 6 million people in the country. Some of the diseases found in Sudan are so rare that they are not found anywhere else in the world. Others are more common, yet equally as deadly. Ebola and Malaria are common in Sudan, as well as the interesting Guinea Worm that grow inside your body and then digs its way back out when it becomes an adult.

Islamic military regimes have also been in power in Sudan ever since the country gained its independence in 1956. Despite the signing of a peace agreement in 2005, violence rages on in Sudan. Terrorists attacks occur on occasion while militant fighting remains a constant.

6. Colombia

Colombia boasts beautiful Caribbean coastlines and excellent surfing opportunities, but the country also has one of the highest violent crime rates in the world. The country also reports 2,300 kidnappings of tourists each year and drug cartel assassinations are a regular occurrence. On the average day, the country sees 8 highway robberies, 2 bank robberies, 87 murders, and 204 muggings or assaults.

5. Papua New Guinea

One of the world’s highest murder rates are found in Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea. Armed robberies, car-jackings, and stonings are common in certain areas and violent crimes are rampant throughout the country. Even public transportation is dangerous for visitors, making car rental the safest way to get around the country.

4. Somalia

American travelers in Somalia have no backing or assistance available to them, as there are no diplomatic outposts or United States embassies in the country. Relief workers and journalists are attacked on a regular basis. In addition, vessels are held ransom by pirates while inter-clan fighting is a daily event.

3. Pakistan

Ever since it was founded in 1947, Pakistan has been embroiled with conflict. Militant extremist groups abound in the area, with Americans being the biggest target of their rage.

2. Afghanistan

Kidnapping and assassination are regular threats for visitors to Afghanistan. According to the State Department, the number of vehicular bombing continue to grow and several areas of the country are actually banned for many members of the U.S. Embassy.

1. Iraq

The warzone of Iraq is not save for any visitor, regardless of where they visit. Even the International Zone is a dangerous place to be. The Ba’ath regime is still enjoying a great deal of power in the area and international criminals and terrorists remain a daily threat. Every day, civilians are killed from suicide bombings and car bombings. In addition, given the fact that U.S. citizens are particularly despised in the region, it is an even more dangerous place for people from the United States to visit.

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8 College Relationship Tips to Follow …

By Heather Jensen 

 

When you’re in a relationship in college, it’s so difficult to maintain it and your schoolwork – that’s exactly where college relationship tips come into play! I know that a lot of you graduated last year or are graduating this year and you’ll be heading off to college. Will your high school boyfriend still be there? Who knows, but when you’re in a college relationship, the rules change a little. So girls, take a look at my college relationship tips and see what will work for your college relationship!

1. Create a Balanced Visiting Schedule

If you are going to different colleges, that’s okay! You just want to make sure that you have balanced visiting schedules. It should never be you going to see him all of the time – or vice versa. It should be a balance and blend between both of you. This is one of the many college relationship tips that a lot of couples take for granted. It shouldn’t always be on the guy to come see you, girls!

2. Prioritize Schoolwork

Even though you are in a relationship, that doesn’t mean that you need to start neglecting your schoolwork, in fact, you want to make sure that you are prioritizing your schoolwork! After all, that is why you’re in college, right? If your boyfriend is heading to a party the night before a big test? It might be better for you to stay in a study … and if he’s a good guy, he will stay with you.

3. Open & Honest

Girls, always be open and honest with your guy. If your college relationship isn’t working, you need to tell him. You can’t be in a relationship and be completely taken if you really want to experience college as someone single. Just because you are apart, going to different colleges doesn’t mean that you aren’t in a relationship.

4. Don’t over-Share

While you need to be open and honest in your relationship, there are some things that you don’t want to share – typically things you do with your roommates if you have them. So your roommate had a party with a lot of hot guys in your apartment? Why tell him about that – unless you went to the party.

5. Think before Texting

In college, it can be extremely stressful for anyone. You are dealing with schoolwork, being away from home for the first time, a job – if you have one – as well as your relationship. That’s a lot to deal with! So before you start to text your boyfriend all about your stress and put it on him, think about the stress that he’s under too.

6. Manage Your Expectations

While it’s okay to have some expectations in a relationship, you can’t expect the world, especially when you are in college. You can’t expect your boyfriend to give you a call after every class or to have every single weekend free. You’ve got to be able to manage your expectations so that you don’t get hurt.

7. Don’t Force a Relationship

Remember when I said that you need to be open and honest? Well girls, if you feel like your relationship is just an obligation instead of a real relationship, you’ve got to break it off. Forcing a relationship with a guy that you aren’t in love with or maybe don’t even like is never, ever going to work.

8. Don’t Compare

Finally girls, don’t ever compare your boyfriend to an ex or even to a BFF guy friend. It won’t work for your guy and it will end up badly all around. I’ve done this in the past and it always ends badly!
So girls, these are all of my college relationship tips – remember, you are in college, have fun with it! What other tips do you have for those girls in college? Give it up!

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