I’m nearly 50 years old and for 30 some odd years I’ve looked, or should I say, ‘hunted’ foundation that would at the very least, calm my oily skin. Well… just about a month ago I went into Merle Norman and for the first time, somewhat opened up to the consultant on duty… Ok, I poured my heart out, begging her to help me! She was so sweet and calmly took me to the Luxiva Lasting (liquid) Foundation. We picked out a shade and even though I just couldn’t see it being any different than the thousands of other brands I’ve tried, I thought… ok… I can do this. I can take this girl’s word, take it home and since they have a money back guarantee, hey, what did I have to loose? She also talked me into their new Pure Mineral Make-up, which I liked since it was in a powder form and could sop up any oil that the liquid foundation she talked me into would create.

Well, I’m delighted, elated, over the roof excited to report that it works! For the first time in my life I have not been running to the powder room every hour to take toilet paper or the nearest tissue to remove the oil coming from my gigantic pores that I inherited! Now I live in Florida, where the humidity alone could make you think I’d been swimming in the middle of the day by the wet clothes, hair and body… But this line has saved my face! (Everything else needs a good drying down, but that’s another story)!

And oh, did I tell you, she gave me some of their clay mask and I’ve got to tell you, my blackheads are nearly gone! Yes, my skin was a mess! Anyway, I’ll be going back for that mask and I’ll be a faithful follower of Merle Norman from now on. At least until some ‘man’ comes in and changes the formula. (Don’t you just **** it when companies do that? I figure it’s just GOT to be men who don’t use the product that make all those stupid changes to your favorites!)

A great big “kudos” to Merle Norman! Thank you!

Lawyers

After watching the cartoons as a kid it feels great to go nostalgic once in a while (which let’s face it is one of the fundamental attractions of movies, to dream and take you back to that idyllic innocent and fun time as a kid where absolutely anything is possible), to see if it is the same as you remembered them.

This is a retelling of the original series, with its own twist added for a modern audience.

The Autobots’s planet has been destroyed, and Artemus Prime(voiced by Laurence Fishburne, Morpheus in the Matrix) along with a few other Autobots have come in search of a device that could give life back to their planet (the device also gives life to any electrical device it is targeted at), unfortunately, a bad Autobot has already arrived first, Megatron, but was frozen in the process, discovered by the military, and responsible for all major technological advances, mobile phones, microwaves, etc.

In their search for the device, the Autobots find the only human Sam WitWicky (Shia LeBoeuf) with a map to the whereabouts of the device, given to him by his grand father, he is discovered as a trader on eBay selling some of his grand father’s items, and being Autobots, they can transform into any electrical device they deem fit, one of them transforms into his car, as they try and find out the location of their device, which is where all the fun starts. The lovely Megan Fox is the love interest of Sam WitWicky and their chemistry is instant.

Shia LeBoeuf is one of those actors whose enthusiasm is infectious especially as he tries to explain that his car just got up and walked, absolutely classic. It is a nice fun family film, especially the scenes with the U.S. military up against the bad Autobots, and already there is talk of a sequel on the way.

Giga Flux

Unfortunately, our skin is far from the perfect barrier. It does a marvelous job of protecting the body from bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. However, evolution has not prepared us for lab-designed, synthetic chemicals. Many of these chemicals are specifically designed to be absorbed more effectively through our skin. Entering easily through our pores and mucous membranes, these chemicals pass into the bloodstream to various organs and tissues.

Should We Be Concerned?
Many top scientists and environmentalists are becoming increasingly concerned about the chemicals in personal care products, with good reason. Most of these chemical ingredients have not been tested for long-term safety. Many have been show to be harmful in scientific tests. (Dingle & Brown, 1999) Some are carcinogens, endocrine disruptors, allergens, and much more.
The concern stems from the statistics, which are alarming: According to the Environmental Working Group, since the 1970-1980s
-Autism has increased tenfold
-Incidence of male birth defects have doubled
-Incidence of childhood asthma has doubled
-62% increase in childhood leukemia
-40% increase in childhood brain cancer
-23% increase in pre-term birth
-Incidence of testicular and prostate cancer have doubled
Now:

-5-10% of couples experience infertility
-3-5% of all babies suffer from birth defects
-1 in 7 women will get ****** cancer
Are synthetic chemicals to blame? It is unknown at this point. But what is certain is that we are exposed to a multitude of synthetic chemicals each day that our bodies are not equipped to handle. A number of these chemicals have been definitively linked to harmful health effects, such as cancer or endocrine disruption. Yet this information has pretty much kept quiet by our government and the manufacturers of the products that contain them.

Does the Government Protect Us?
After the Environmental Working Group (EWG) exposed the harmful effects of the commonly used chemical Bisphenol A (contained in baby bottles, baby formula and the lining of canned food), it became particularly clear that our government has not been protecting the public health. Large corporations, with their incredible lobbying power, have been the ones protected. These companies put hazardous ingredients into their products in the name of cutting costs and increasing profits, hoping that the consumer won’t realize the dangers inherent in the use of these chemicals. Meanwhile, they earnestly deny their ingredients are harmful. (Malkin, 2007)

By far the worst offender is the cosmetics industry, which includes manufacturers of shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, shaving creams, cosmetics and baby care products. The list of toxic chemical ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products is alarming, to say the least. But the list of harmful ingredients in baby lotion, baby shampoo, bubble bath, and sunscreen is downright criminal. (EWG, 2008)

Under federal law and regulations, the FDA and the United States government cannot require companies to test cosmetic products for safety before marketing, and does not have the power to review or approve products or ingredients before they are sold. They cannot require recalls, and must go to court to remove products from store shelves. (Malkin, 2007)

Product safety is evaluated through a voluntary program called the Cosmetic Industry Review (CIR), which is run by the cosmetic companies themselves. Literally, it is asking the wolves to guard the sheep. If you analyze the ingredients in cosmetics, it is obvious that the cosmetic companies do not even follow the guidelines recommended by their own Cosmetic Industry Review panel. (Gabriel, 2008) Does this sound like adequate protection to you?
According to Environmental Working Group,

This complete absence of accountability to a responsible government agency has …created a culture of ignorance around personal care products, where far too little is known about ingredient safety. (Jane Houlihan, EWG, May 2008)

The public has been kept in the dark about the cosmetics industry and their practices for far too long, but the truth is beginning to emerge, thanks in part to the work of watchdog organizations such as the EWG. For more information and articles on this topic, visit Articles and Links at Hibiscus Naturals at: http://www.hibiscusnaturals.com/articles.html.

Bibliography
Dingle, Peter & Brown, Toni. Dangerous Beauty. ONEgroup, June 1999.

Environmental Working Group (website). Washington, DC, 2007. http://www.ewg.org/. Site referenced July-October 2008.

Environmental Working Group (website). Body Burden: The Pollution in Newborns. Washington, DC, 2005. http://archive.ewg.org/reports/bodyburden2/. Site referenced July-October 2008.
Gabriel, Julie. The Green Beauty Guide. Florida: Health Communications, 2008

Malkin, Stacy. Not Just a Pretty Face: The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry. Canada: New Society Publishers, 2007.

Images Union

Bobbi Brown Cosmetics were launched in 1991 by an American make-up artist Bobbi Brown. At that time, she was become frustrated with the lack of flattering make up in the market. Until she meet a chemist, and decided to developed her idea of creating flattering lipstick. Her products are now sold in over 400 stores and twenty countries worldwide. Aside from lipsticks, the cosmetic manufacturer also offers a range of make ups, make up brushes, foundations, skin care products and powders.

When talking about skin care products, Bobbi brown moisturizer is excellent. This combines all natural essential oils together with modern ingredients and technologies. Unlike other brands of skin care products in the market, Bobby Brown’s skin care products are designed to a healthy and glowing skin – the first step in creating a flawless make up look. Bobbi’s foundations and powders are also clicked for many individuals. These comprises of yellow based colors, which create a natural look for every skin tone. Unlike other make ups in the market, cosmetics are suitable for all ages. These do not contain any harsh element that may create damages in the skin.

Bobbi brown’s success is due to the fact that all cosmetics are suitable for all types of skin tone so everyone can make use of it. Cosmetics in the said company are in good quality yet lowered in prices. If you think these products are only for celebrities and rich personalities, then you’re definitely wrong simply because every one has the freedom to use these even average people. As long as you aim to look elegant and beautiful, you are then lucky because these products are absolutely yours. You know, you don’t have to waste money just to achieve the best results. If you know how to blend cosmetics with your complexion, it is not impossible to achieve what you are aiming right now.

These days, Bobbi Brown’s creativity continues. If you often watch fashion shows, you will truly appreciate the real essence of cosmetics in life. Bobbi brown cosmetics are available in the internet, so in the event that you have no time to have it in the counter maybe you can just turn on your browser and use this article as a simple guide.

Beauty Health Move

George Clooney plays the title character in the film, “Michael Clayton.” Clayton is a legal “fixer,” a legal kind-of janitor that cleans up people’s messes so that their attorney’s don’t have to. He’s special counsel to one of the most well known law firms in the world, and one of their star litigators requires some clean up work.

Tom Wilkinson plays Arthur, the litigator known for taking no prisoners. He’s been working for six years on a class action law suit brought against U-North, a large agrichemical company that may or may not have caused the deaths of hundreds of people due to a pesticide. Wilkinson is manic-depressive and suddenly snaps. Viewers are left to wonder whether it was because he went off his meds or he grew a conscious.

Tilda Swinton plays U-North’s chief counsel, Karen, a career-minded woman who could probably be diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. She is faced with numerous moral dilemmas, as many of the characters are, and put events into play that make for an exciting drama/thriller at the movies.

Clooney’s Clayton is like that down-on-his luck private eye. The guy makes some poor choices, but you’re still pulling for him because he’s one of the good guys. Or is he?

“Michael Clayton” has the feel of a John Grisham novel without the courtroom, crossed with a Michael Mann film. It’s a rare thing these days to find an intelligent thriller that doesn’t rely on action scenes and special effects, but this one has plenty of drama and tension thanks to the performances by all of the actors involved. Clooney shows us again why he deserves to be a movie star with this film. Tilda Swinton is so tightly wound that when she starts to unravel, she takes the audience along with her. And Sydney Pollack is just fun to watch in front of the camera instead of behind it.

Audiences looking for action and thrills won’t find them in “Michael Clayton,” but fans of the legal/political dramas of the 1970s and 80s will find lots to like.

Bottom line: Go See It.

Gifts Folder

Digital cameras are great. They have given the average person the ability to take professional looking photographs with ease. If you take a picture and don’t like it you can easily delete the picture. Up until now this was an adult only activity and children were only able to look at the photos that their parents have taken. Many children begged their parents to allow them to take their own pictures, I know mine did. But how could we in our right mind hand over our digital camera that cost hundreds of dollars so that our kids could take a picture.

Well, there is finally some good know for all of us parents out their being begged by our children to allow them to take pictures. Fisher-Price realized the need and has developed the very first digital camera just for kids called the Kid Tough Digital Camera. The digital camera is made of a rough exterior that can resist in the toughest of abuse a young child could put it through. It is no surprise that stores couldn’t keep this kid friendly digital camera on the shelf.

This holiday season Fisher-Price has out done themselves again with the next innovative digital camera just for kids that are waterproof. The new Kid Tough Waterproof Digital Camera is ideal for picture taking all year round and can withstand any abuse your child can put it through, including submerging it in water!

The Kid Tough Waterproof Digital Camera has all of the same kid friendly and fun features of the previous model, including:

• Easy-to-use buttons
• 1.5 inch LCD view screen
• Auto flash
• 64MB of flash memory with the ability to save 500 photos
• USB cable
• Unique two-eye view screen that allows children to take photos quickly and easily.

This ones sure to be just as big of a hit as its predecessor so be sure to pick up the camera for your kids this holiday season before its too late. Not only will your kids have fun taking their own pictures the camera helps with their educational growth. For instance, the camera helps your child to develop coordination. After all, pictures cannot take themselves; your child will have to learn to maneuver the buttons, which will help aid in their cognitive development. Your kids will have a blast by being able to take photos of fun events such as holidays, vacations, pets and their friends. Don’t you wish you could have done that when you were I child?

So pick up a Kid Tough Waterproof Digital Camera for your child this holiday season and give them a gift they will be able to cherish for a lifetime. Plus they’ll finally leave your digital camera alone!

Photos Union

Watching the continuing adventures of FBI agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) was a thoroughly engrossing and fun experience from the 90’s as the two intrepid detectives went in search for and prove unexplained phenomena such as ghosts, monsters and a conspiracy involving the major powers of the world and an evil alien race intent on colonising the planet. The latter had become a somewhat frustrating experience in the television series as only hints were ever dropped about what was going on between the government and the aliens; it was thought that the feature film coming hot on the heels of Season 5 of the television show would offer some big explanations but unfortunately, this film is just as elusive as the show, which I’m sure disappointed many fans out there.

This DVD presents a slightly edited film which includes a couple of more scenes which actually provide some definitive answers which were left out of the theatrical release and one has to wonder why they were left out in the first place. Those few minutes would have probably sold more tickets, but that’s the benefit of hindsight. Aside from that, “The X-Files Movie” is just as entertaining as the television series, more so in a number of instances as it takes advantage of the big widescreen format available for cinema.

The film opens 37,000 years ago with two prehistoric men discovering an underground cave which houses an alien virus which has the ability to infect a human host, turn that host into an incubator, create a new alien, and then discard the host when the alien is ready to jump out and start living. No, this is not a re-run of “Alien”, as this is part of a larger framework dealing with a government conspiracy in which a shadow government is assisting these same aliens to colonise the planet. When we first see Mulder and Scully, they’re searching a couple of buildings pertaining to a bomb threat; they’re off the X-Files and bored because of it. Mulder eventually finds the bomb, but the FBI agent in charge orders them all out under the pretense that he will defuse the bomb, but instead, he allows it to blow up. Mulder and Scully are framed for the accident; at this time, Mulder is contacted by a paranoid director Alvin Kurtzweil (Martin Landau) who points him in the direction of a virus outbreak in suburban Texas. As Mulder and Scully begin to investigate, they slowly peel back clue after clue leading to the shadow government, why they blew up that building, and what their grander plans are for all of us on this planet.

The movie hits all the marks that made the television show work so well, and then some. It’s a major highlight to see these characters on the big screen, and there’s no sense that the characters or the situations they are in have been lost in translation to the big screen. The film gets you intrigued right from the beginning with its unusual extended prologue, beginning in the Ice Age and then coming forward to the present day with the shadow government clamping down at the site where the alien virus outbreak commences. This setup gives you the feeling that quite a bit will be revealed, especially as the aliens’ plans change, forcing the shadow government to change theirs. Unfortunately, the more the running time passes, the more you realise they’re running out of time to drop some bombshells about the story, and it’s only in the one scene where Mulder crosses-path with the Well Manicured Man that we finally get some clarity to what’s happening. As a film that had the tag line, “The Truth Is Coming…”, the final execution leaves a lot to be desired.

Having said this however, the story is still quite entertaining. If you’d never watched “The X-Files” before, this film works very well as a stand-alone story and will likely get you interested in watching the television show. Duchovny and Anderson are as likeable as ever in the main leads, and the film continues the relationship tension between them without ever consummating it. The stellar supporting cast from the show including Mitch Pileggi as Skinner, William B. Davis as the Cancer Man, and John Neville as the Well Manicured Man all hit the spot as they usually do. The filmmakers have assembled a great guest cast as well, headlined by a perfect Martin Landau who really sells the paranoid doctor role, Armin Mueller-Stahl as the mysterious leader of the shadow government and Blythe Danner as an FBI investigator who casts a disbelieving eye on Mulder and Scully’s activities.

The film looks extraordinarily good. Director Rob Bowman really takes advantage of the big screen and composes some fabulous images. The cutting of the opening prologue is perhaps the most interesting in the film, particularly the way it draws you in to the mystery of the film. The effects are well done; the black oil virus running behind people’s eyes is creepy, and the final sequence in Antarctica where an alien spaceship blasts its way out from under the ice is an eye-opening visual, particularly the crater it leaves behind in its wake. The film also manages to throw in some of the show’s trademark scares and creepy, dark atmosphere.

The X-Files Movie is a solid entry for the franchise, but is likely to disappoint fans who expected more answers from the story.

Aid List

For those women who’s always on the go, a bag is probably the most ideal companion they can bring. Purchasing cool bags a year is one smart thing to keep you ready for an instant travel. Bags have lots of kinds according to their purpose and usage. There are bags that are made basically for a certain purpose such as for traveling, weekend at the beach, for office stuff, and others. But what about cosmetic bags? Cosmetics bag is a helpful item where you can securely keep your cosmetic items such as makeup, brush or comb, lipstick, compact mirror, and other stuff intended for beauty touch-ups.

There’s a plethora of cosmetic bags that are available out there. Different local retailers and online stores offer a wide variety of these items that most women are craving to have. This helpful stuff is one of the many things that women can never have enough of, and it is not a surprise that there is a high increase of demand for this item each year, where most women are tempted to purchase even just one for them to use. Cosmetic bags can be made of different kinds of materials like silk, cloth, leather, and many more. They also have different price range depending on the quality of the materials, style and design. Another good thing is, there are now personalized cosmetics bags that are available for monogramming or embroidering different initial names. The idea of personalized bags are beginning to make its own fashion line.

To shop for different kinds of personalized cosmetics bag, you might consider an elegant personalized one that you’ll sure love to be the model of it while on travel. For instance, the Personalized Crystal Quilted Jewelry Roll that is designed perfectly for women who’s always on the go. This is a compact jewelry case that safely and securely transports all your knick knacks while traveling around with style. This can add a classy and elegant look to your outfit as well. Or perhaps you might consider a Personalized Crystal Silk Cosmetic Bag that has a good versatility for any usage. This can even make a perfect gift for ladies during birthdays, weddings, anniversaries and the like. This is available in different vibrant hues that coordinates well with any event. And because this item is personalized, it means that it truly belongs to you, how great is it to feel that this is such a wonderful special item intended for your use.

Now you know why women need not just an ordinary bag to put and carry all her heavy and fragile stuff with secure and comfort, they need cosmetic bags and personalized toiletry bags in particular. Bags are almost always a necessity when women go out because almost everything she needs can be kept in them. So it’s absolutely worth every cent when she buys cool personalized cosmetic cases and bags like this! This not just a typical bag, but rather a special one that leads you on your way to experience fun and stylish travel!

Debt loans

GAS PRICES GETTING YOU DOWN? SHOP ONLINE FOR YOUR KIDS CLOTHES AND SAVE!

Summer is upon us and that means the children are out of school. Your kids could use a few more pairs of shorts or cool tanks, but there’s one slight catch. To get to the shopping center, you’ll have to drive. With gas prices so high and no end in sight of relief at the pump, going to the mall isn’t the best option. But what if you could get the same girls clothing or boys clothes for less money and receive free shipping at the same time?

Online shopping is a great alternative to shopping in traditional stores. Why? Because you can do it any time of day or night and don’t have to worry about the hassles of traffic and having your gas tank depleted. Below are a few examples of the benefits of shopping online.

Point, click and ship! When you’re searching for that perfect pair of blue jeans for your son, sometimes it’s hard for him to remain still when you’re at the store. He might become distracted and fidgety and you end your search before you find what you’re looking for. With online shopping, all you have to do is search for the type of clothing you need, find the size and purchase it. Usually within a few days, your package is delivered right to your front door. Your son is happy he didn’t have to trudge to the mall and you’re thrilled because you didn’t even have to leave your house!

Selection, selection, selection. A lot of times when you’re at the store, you see something perfect for your child, but then get disappointed when their size is sold out. You ask the salesperson if they have any more in the back or if they’re going to get any more in, but they can’t tell you for certain. Online stores have a much larger inventory of products. You’ll never be disappointed when you see the exact capris for your daughter you’ve been searching for and know for certain if her size is available.

Shop more, save more! There are a lot of online retailers that offer incentives to purchase from their stores. Many offer huge discounts on name brands, such as First Impressions. When you add free shipping to the mix, it affords you to purchase an additional dress for your little girl or that Disney shirt your son can’t live without. You won’t feel guilty using any gas to drive to the store because you’ll remain comfortably in your own home. Money back guarantees are almost always available to give you additional security for purchasing items online.

Take a look online and see what possibilities are out there. You’ll be amazed how fun it can be to shop from home, in your pajamas if you’d like, and save money at the same time. Happy shopping!

Marketing Unit

THE VIKINGS

This is what entertainment’s all about! Directed by (and starring) Kirk Douglas, this movie released in 1958. Ernest Borgnine is a Viking king, compelling in this rude/crude role, and Kirk is his son. A viking’s life is active, raping and pillaging, and partying at night. I read somewhere that this film was tops in the box office for the 1950’s, and I’d believe it. Tony Curtis believes he’s a slave. Can’t imagine a better lookin’ slave, rivaled only by his other slave role in Spartacus! Tony and Kirk vie for the affections of Janet Leigh (who married Tony in real life), Tony in a more endearing manner and Kirk with the grace of a wild boar in the woods. The battles are great, the ship maneuverings fascinating, the scene with the hawk still haunts me. I’ve never forgotten the music either. Definitely one to add to a must-be-viewed list.

EXCALIBER

This version of King Arthur’s story was released in 1981. Has anyone not heard the words “the sword in the stone” at some point in life, even if simply due to an animated or book version during childhood? Bring on the myth, Wagner and more-more-Merlin. It’s definitely a fave from younger days and fantasizing about the myth-perfection of Camelot. Lancelot to Guenivere: “As long as you live, I will love no other.” That’s gotta be top ranking in the ultimate most romantic things to say. The scene near the end with King Arthur riding out to reclaim his kingdom, Wagner at fever pitch and the scenery changing is forever etched in my memory.

DANGEROUS BEAUTY

First viewing of this 1998 release for me. I’m aghast that this treasure escaped my radar. Starring Catherine McCormack, Rufus Sewell, Oliver Platt, Fred Ward, Jacqueline Bisset, and Moira Kelly, to name a few, this lush, true story captures our attention and holds it until the end. The setting is 16th century Venice. What’s a girl going to do when born of a rank lower than a good marriage match deems. Why, become a courtesan, of course, trained by her very own mother. Catherine plays Veronica Franco, whose innocent heart belongs to Marco. He is, regretfully, not allowed to marry her. It seems her building courtesan skills attract him and she then spurns him, albeit skillfully. He simply burns for her more. The story moves along parallel to a plague ravaged Europe, political unrest, war and The Inquisition. Guess who will get accused of witchcraft. The music is nicely compelling and the entire production is lavish. This movie was a pleasure to experience.

Wow My News