Robert on February 1st, 2010

IAC, the parent company of Life123.com has closed the Life123 Writers Community and offices.   Life123.com, the Web site, will continue to be operated by Ask.com, whose offices are in Oakland, CA.

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Maria on January 22nd, 2010

fall in loveFirst dates often get a bad reputation for being nerve wracking and awkward, but they can also be the most exciting time in a relationship. If you and your date hit it off you might be reminiscing about this day for years to come, so make sure that you do something fun. The best first date ideas are the ones that give you and your date something to do so that the conversation keeps flowing, such as billiards, bowling or miniature golf.

Another way to avoid awkward pauses during your date is to prepare a few conversations topics beforehand. Start off by asking your date general questions, such as where she grew up and where she works. You can also get an idea of whether or not you two are compatible by asking about her interests and hobbies.

If your dating skills are a little rusty you may want to brush up on some flirting tips before your date. Be sure to listen to what your date says and make eye contact. Just be sure not to hold their gaze for too long or they will think you have a serious staring problem.

The best way to avoid becoming another bad date story is to just relax, be yourself and have fun. That way, even if the sparks don’t fly, you can at least gain a new friend.

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Maria on January 22nd, 2010

Crossword puzzle & penWhen the weather outside turns frightful, spending an evening at home playing games can be a great way to spend time with your family. From dice games to board games there are tons of different activities to choose from.

Yahtzee is an exciting game of chance that anyone in the family can learn how to play. You can buy the game or make your own with a set of five dice and a cup. If you’re in the mood to be more physically active then break out the Twister board. This classic favorite will have everyone rolling on the floor with laughter.

Word puzzles are a fun way to challenge your mind. If you’re good at math then you will love learning how to solve Sudoku puzzles, which are similar to crossword puzzles but with numbers instead of words. There are even more educational benefits to logic puzzles for kids, which show them how fun learning can be. Brain-stimulating games such as hangman and crossword puzzles will sharpen the whole family’s logic and reasoning skills.

You can even make your own games. Make a crossword puzzle or  word search puzzle that your children will love by tailoring it to their interests, such as animals or sports. Making a jigsaw puzzle is another activity that you and your children can enjoy.

Get the whole family together and let the games begin!

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Maria on January 22nd, 2010

choosing-a-car-gps-navigation-system-2_car-gps1Throughout its brief history, GPS has gone from a military tool to a device so common that it is now included in some cell phones. The newest GPS units come in all shapes and sizes, from handheld devices to larger screens that can be installed in the dashboard of your car. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, you only need directions occasionally or you just plain hate asking for directions, there is a GPS to suit your needs.

If you travel often, you may want to have a GPS system installed in your car. If you only travel once in a while or you often find yourself in rental cars, a portable GPS system may be the best GPS system for your auto navigational needs. These devices can cost anywhere from $100-$400 depending on how many extra features you require.

GPS systems aren’t just for cars; they can also be used for hiking and walking. A handheld GPS device is a great tool for the avid hiker and some models even include extra features like a compass. Many cell phones also have GPS capabilities so that you can get quick directions on foot. GPS has many other uses such as mapping, planning and tracking someone’s movements.

Consult a GPS buyer’s guide to choose the right GPS system for your needs and you may never get lost again.

 

 

 

 

 

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Maria on January 22nd, 2010

slots3

If you’re tired of going to the same old parties, throwing a casino-themed soiree can be a great way to spice things up. There is a casino theme party idea to suit every occasion and personality. A Las Vegas party can be a wild and fun way to celebrate a birthday. If you’re going for glam, make it a black tie event with a Monte Carlo theme. You can also take your party guests back to ancient Greece with a Toga party or the wild saloons of the 1840’s with a California Gold Rush theme, complete with cowboys and bawdy showgirls.

Make sure that you send out invitations well in advance so that guests have time to prepare their costumes. You can make creative casino themed party invitations using glitter, poker chips or playing cards. Elaborate invitations will help get your guests excited for the big night and ready to party.

Depending on the size of your event, you may want to contact companies that rent gambling equipment, such as roulette tables. If you’re keeping the guest list small you can stick to card games, such as blackjack and poker. Learn the basic blackjack table layout beforehand so that you can provide simple blackjack instructions for beginners.

Handing out creative casino party favors will give your guests something to remember the evening by. Chocolate poker chips or mini gumball machines are tasty treats to send your guests home with. If your party has a Las Vegas theme, Elvis Presley refrigerator magnets will be sure to get a chuckle out of your guests.

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Maria on January 21st, 2010

Receiving Bad NewsBreaking up is never easy, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the world. When it comes to ending a relationship, the longer you put it off the worse the break will be, so it’s important to recognize the signs that it’s time to break up. If you find yourself thinking about being with other people or wanting more time to yourself, consider that a sign that you should take some time apart.

Admitting that a relationship is over can be difficult, especially if you’ve invested a lot of time and emotion into it. As hard as it can be, the sooner you say good bye the sooner you can start getting over a break up. The best way to break up with someone is to make a clean break and end the relationship as amicably as possible.

Once you’ve ended the relationship, take some time to deal with the emotional effects. Watch sad movies, cry to your heart’s content and eat as much ice cream as you can to numb the pain. Let yourself mourn for about a week and then start thinking about how to move on.

The question that plagues many women after a breakup is what if I see my ex? If this dreaded scenario occurs the most important thing to keep in mind is that you broke up for a reason. Be friendly, remain composed and keep the interaction short and sweet. If you find yourself feeling lonely after the encounter, resist the urge to call him. Go out with a friend, head to the gym to clear your mind or concentrate on making new friends.

 

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