Welcome to Michael's Article Collection

The Trouble With Moissanite

Natural mined diamonds have been coming under a lot of heat recently. Award-winning journalist Cecil Adams sums it up the best in a recent article: “diamonds are a scam, pure and simple.” Most people in the new millennium understand that between the DeBeers diamond cartel, the issue of child labor in Third World diamond processing operations, and “blood diamonds” used to finance oppression an. . .

The Power of Beauty

Have you ever wondered why women are so concerned about how they look? Why they aim to look like the beautiful women they see on the television and in magazines? That’s because beauty is power!Even way back into ancient times women were concerned about their looks. Think of Cleopatra or Nefertiti who were beautiful women of their times. The cosmetic industy is well aware of this and that wo. . .

A Wedding That Works For Every Season

In ancient times many a future bride and groom would consult the Tarot cards to see which month the stars said was perfect for their wedding. When the sun or moon sign were inline with Venus who us the Goddess of love, it was believed to be the perfect time to wed.Although some may still consult the tarot cards, most couples decide together which season is for them. Each season has its own fl. . .

5 Heart Healthy Exercises You Can Do During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of celebration, love, and unwanted but necessary weight gain. However, being pregnant doesn’t mean that your health and figure has to suffer permanent damage. You can gain weight in a healthy fashion while doing some very easy and safe heart healthy pregnancy exercise routines.One of the simplest and most effective pregnancy exercises you can do is walking. Not only is walki. . .

Dating: You'll Attract the Right Man When You Believe You...

What do you believe about relationships?Your beliefs are important because they determine the relationship (or lack of relationship) you end up with.For example, if you believe that all men cheat, you'll attract cheaters. If you believe that men resist commitment, you'll probably end up with a guy who's in no hurry to sit for an engagement photo.If you believe you don't have what it takes to me. . .

Velvet - The Fabric Of Fall

The history of velvet is somewhat fuzzy, but the first English reference to it was in 1278, when a king's tailor purchased the fabric in Paris for the kings bed. More than 700 years later you don't have to be a king to afford to wear velvet.You're seeing it everywhere, in every shade. Carefully created into dazzling jackets, dresses, handbags, boots, pumps and flats. You will find velvet this f. . .

Makeup Bag Secrets of the Celebrities

Have you ever wondered why celebrities seem to look gorgeous no matter where they are and no matter what the moment? Are they prettier than the rest of us so it’s easy for them? Not at all – they are just smarter about what their makeup bag holds. Read on for makeup bag secrets of the celebrities.Celebrities will tell you having their makeup at their fingertips is their number one priority a. . .

Hair Removal Solutions: Laser Hair Removal And Others

Fear no longer the ignominy of unwanted body hair. If you have been willing to walk should somebody show you the way, you have come to the right place for hair removal solutions. Here we present some of the popular hair removal solutions like laser hair removal among others which can offer you the flight of fantasy that you have been seeking for so long to become truly beautiful.Laser hair remo. . .

Are You A Mostly-Sane WAHM, Too?

I have a confession.I’m a mostly-sane WAHM. I’m far from the ‘got it together’ work at home mom that I’d like to be.I believe that there are a lot of women out there like me – clutching onto your sanity while juggling family, daily work requirements, basketball practice, ballet recitals, PTA meetings, and the many other responsibilities we carry on our shoulders.If you’ve been a WAHM for more t. . .

How Modern Hair Restoration Can Be Successful

Before seeking the services of a hair replacement center, it is important to understand some basic information about hair loss and what can do about it.Hair Loss BackgroundApproximately 95% of the estimated 60 million men and women in the United States who experience abnormal hair loss suffer from a hereditary condition called androgentic alopecia. This is the gradual loss of hair that usually . . .

Bridal Shower Planning Tips

Historically, brides have been showered with love and gifts on their bridal shower party. Although the maid of honor normally organizes the bridal shower, showers can be organized by anyone close to the bride. To be more politically correct, couples may decide to opt for a couple shower. It is the same concept as a bridal shower, but it is not exclusive to female friends and family. A couple sh. . .

Choosing Tanning Products Wisely

Why is it that people look so good and healthy with a little colour, yet tanning can be so harmful to your skin? Recent studies and the news report that there are more cases than ever of melanoma and we all know that extensive exposure to the sun will cause your skin to age more quickly.There are solutions to the problem of harmful UV sunlight that allow you to have all of the aesthetic benefit. . .

The Latest Birth Control Devices and Methods

Without a doubt, even as we speak, there are many different types of birth control devices and methods being developed today. Birth control is a very important part of family planning and with the rate of unwanted pregnancies and occurrence of teenage sex, the many different types of birth control devices and methods should be introduced as early on to teens as possible. For example, there’s th. . .

Fashion, Is It Still Fashionable?

What’s the skinny on fashion these days? And anyway, what really is fashion? Is it what happens to be in style this season? Is it the short skirts, the hip boots, or the funny little hats? Let’s take off the fake, and look at what fashion really means to most people. Fashion is as judgmental as our list of desired characteristics in a mate. What one person purports to be the most necessary . . .

Finding Great Deals on Designer Purses Online

The first thing you can do if you want to find great deals in designer purses online is to go to many of the different Yahoo shopping directories available through Yahoo ecommerce sites. These sites are mainly operated by independent purse sellers who make designer purses available online through their websites. The only way they can make money out of selling designer purses is by buying wholes. . .

Latin Dating - Beauty and Romance

Like any other society, Latin culture is one that is embedded with traditions, values and celebrations. Of all the different attributes that are associated with Latino's, there is no question that passion and romance are considered to be two of the most intriguing. If you are of Latin descent and are interested in seeking a relationship with another Latin man or woman, there are many ways you c. . .

The Truth About Plus Size Beauty

Some of the sexiest women in the world are considered on the heavy side. Can a woman who wears a size 12 dress and lifts weights to keep fit considered sexy?Marilyn Monroe wore a size 12 dress. She actually lifted weights regularly to keep fit. Yet men found her incredibly sexy, a favourite pin up girl then, a sex symbol now, years after her tragic death.When Jennifer Lopez first started out, h. . .

Body Hair Removal: Solutions For Today

As we as a race become increasingly conscious of the way others look at us and not just the way, we look at ourselves, personal grooming has never been more important. And top of the list for many men and women today is to gain a superior attractive quality by getting rid of unwanted body hair. Be it facial hair removal for women, or back hair removal for men, quick hair removal treatments have. . .

Fall Fashion Trend - Take Your Jacket To The Shrink

Fall and winter may have brought out long peacoats and trenches before, but not this year. One of the most sought-after pieces for the upcoming season will be the shrunken jacket, in a variety of styles. The difference between these new, tinier versions of your traditional autumn and winter favorites is their length; cuts are the same as traditional coats, but they hit slightly above the waist . . .

Choosing The Perfect Wedding Dress

The perfect wedding dress is the centerpiece of any wedding celebration. A wedding dress is much more than just another dress – it is a tangible symbol of your love and your hopes for the future. ==Finding The Right Wedding Dress==Finding just the right wedding dress can take quite some time, so it is important to shop around, and to start shopping early.Wedding dresses are available from a w. . .

Menopause Hormone Bounce

Women who are experiencing irregular periods, night sweats and all the other lovely symptoms that go along with menopause may feel they're doing a crazy dance called the menopause hormone bounce. Their moods may bounce up and down like a rubber ball due to the menopause hormone changes. While some fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone hormone levels does occur during menopause and makes a w. . .

Pregnancy Exercise And Diet Tips - Sensible Advice For Ex...

Mothers-to-be have many questions about pregnancy nutrition and exercise. The tips and advice below will help you get started on a healthy pregnancy. A diet containing the essential nutrients and vitamins are vital to the development of both mother and child. Vitamins are imperative to the health of a developing baby and the well being of the mother. Choosing foods that are rich in vitamins and. . .

Skin Diseases And Their Cure

THE perfect skin goes far to make a woman look beautiful. The hygiene of the skin reflects the general hygiene of the body. But even when there are skin diseases like black heads, blotches, pimples, a sallow, mothy or greasy skin, there is a cure. Health comes first as a good skin requisite, health born of exercise, wholesome food, plenty of soap and water. Take care of the skin locally. Avoid . . .

The Benefits of Waterbirthing

Considerng a waterbirth? Think about it this way.....Wouldn't a peacful and serene birth, with a relaxed and focused mother be a wonderful way to bring a baby into this world? Having a waterbirth is an option for Mom's who want to give birth naturally. Childbirth is such a powerful experience for a woman. But, too often, women totally give up their power and gift of childbirth over to other peo. . .

New Handbag Designs from Gucci

Well, it’s that time of the year again. All of the big design houses are releasing their new designs to the hungry masses, and Gucci is no exception. Unless you have been stranded on a desert isle for the last thirty years, you have undoubtedly heard of Gucci. They have been reigning over the fashion world for a great many years, and not totally without warrant. Gucci makes top quality, sty. . .

Use Estate Earrings For A Classy Fashion Finish!

Estate Earrings add the finishing touch to any outfit – from your jeans to your wedding dress. They complete your look and polish your image. There are earrings for all occasions and esate jewelry earrings add just a little extra flavor. You can buy your favorite earrings from the 1950’s or you can purchase earrings that were once owned by celebrities. You can stand out from the rest with y. . .

How to Read a Fashion Magazine

When I recently advised a client to study a few fashion magazines to glean some ideas for the upcoming season, she flatly refused. "I HATE those things!" she told me vehemently. "Skinny girls, expensive clothes - what does that have to do with my life? Nothing!" Now since this isn't the first time I've heard this argument, I realized that she was missing the point of the exercise - much like th. . .

Choosing The Ideal Wedding Dress

The most important thing when searching for the ideal wedding dress is to begin looking at least six months before your wedding date. Finding the ideal dress will most likely take quite some time and once you find the dress, it could take up to four months for the dress to be ordered and shipped to the store. Once the dress arrives in the store you most likely will require several fittings to e. . .

The Curly Haired Girl Buys A Sedu

If you're a curly haired girl like me, you are probably always looking for a product to straighten your hair and allow you to achieve stick-straight hair like that of Jennifer Aniston and Jennifer Lopez (J Lo). Well, there are now products available that allow you to do that and with awesome results. Hair straighteners (a.k.a. flat irons) have been around for a while now, but now there's a ne. . .

The Dating Box

Weather you are actively dating or just getting back into dating, it is a world full of possibilities. However, most of us are creatures of habit and our patterns keep us in a dating box, searching for and dating the same types over and over. Making contact online, you first have to find people that interest you by searching the dating website’s membership. Online the dating box is literal, . . .

Pearls: Natural Or Man Made?

The fact that such beauty can occur naturally is what makes pearls so valuable. It's hard to put a price on something so singular. Real pearls fall into two categories: natural and cultured. Natural pearls are formed by oysters completely without interference from the human world. Real pearls are nature's miracle. Cultured pearls are also formed by oysters, but they are prompted to grow by pear. . .

Affordable Apparel

TheMall123 - it's a name synonymous with customer-friendly prices and service. We at TheMall123 take pride in our super-saver system of rebates and discounts, and we have succeeded in ensuring that the consumer benefits in every way by shopping with us. All our affiliated online stores are affordable, but we like to give our customers more than just what's good…we like to give you the best. So . . .

Different Types of Hats to Hide Your Bad Hair Day

Stylish Hats For Bad Hair Days Do not worry if you have a bad hair day. Just hide it with a stylish hat and carry on with your routine. But be sure not to remove your hat as it could expose your bad hair. Many hats are available in different style which can suit your taste. You can also choose from the many styles that suits you and your attire for that particular day. In the cold winter months. . .

Purse Envy Syndrome (PES)

A dictionary meaning of envy is “a feeling of discontent and resentment aroused by and in conjunction with desire for the possessions or qualities of another.” People have feelings of envy for many reasons. A new emerging form of envy is what I call Purse Envy Syndrome (PES). PES has taken on different facets for different people and taken on various meanings over the last several years. PES ha. . .

Seeing The Groom Prior To The Wedding

Here is part of a new book in the works by Wedding Photographer Mark Stagi, designed to help brides plan thier day.One thing that can greatly help the schedule for the day to go quickly is to schedule some of your formal portraits prior to the ceromony. This will save you a great deal of time and also make for a much more relaxing photo shoot. Some brides out of tradition don't want to see the . . .

Wearing Jewelry LIke a Pro - New Fun Ways to Wear Your Je...

As with everything else in life, sometimes we fall into habits in how we wear our jewelry.We put the brooch on out left shoulder, we wear the same necklace with the same dress and the same earrings.This article will help stimulate your thinking about how you wear jewelry. It's not exhaustive -- if you have other ideas of better ways to use jewelry, let me know.Pins are perhaps the most versatil. . .

Color Theory for Fashionistias - Three Easy Steps to Perf...

Color is everywhere, in your clothes, in your jewelry. Color is life. Fashion and color coordination can make or break your carefuly planned outfit. Here's a bit of color theory with a fashionista bent. Primary colors These are red, blue and yellow. In theory, you can make any color from these three primaries (except white, which is really an absence of color). In practice, it depends on what r. . .

Build Up Your Self Confidence by using Simple Fashion & B...

You are feeling good about yourself and you want to show the world that you have something to offer. You feel that way inside but you look says something totally different. How to get the outside to match how you feel on the inside? Well you have got to ‘Dress for Success’.But how do you accomplish this? Number one you have got the dress the part and by dressing for the part I mean that you hav. . .

7 Must Haves For A Beach Vacation Wardrobe

When you go for a beach vacation, the last thing you would want is to lug around tonnes of clothes. You can travel light when you go for a beach holiday, or anywhere warm. A capsule wardrobe of just 7 lightweight items are all you need, to stay chic throughout your holiday. Bring some detergent so you can wash each day's clothes after wearing it, and you should have enough to last through a lon. . .

Female Hair Loss: Once A Mystery

During some time, people used to believe that female hair loss was related to heredity. Since this condition has been a nightmare for many women, the Medicine started to study this case and the revelations are amazing.In spite of what people used to think, female hair loss is not ONLY related to heredity. In fact, this is a secondary factor. The causes of female hair loss are a little bit more . . .

What Exactly Is Jojoba Oil And Why Is It Used So Much In ...

Back in 1822, a small shrub was discovered in the desert near Baja California by a botanist named H. F. Link. Mr. Link named this new plant after a fellow botanist from the U.K. named T. W. Simmonds. The proper named of the Jojoba plant is Simmondsia chinensis. It wasn't until after the U.S. banned whale hunting that this plant started to be cultivated. Up until then, the oil of whales was used. . .

Handbag Size, We Definitely Know What We Want And Lifesty...

Handbags are very hot these days. They’re everywhere with so many different styles, shapes, colors and embellishments. They’ve seem to become an accessory item like jewelry. You can’t have enough of them and we need them to match the outfit like our jewelry. They have become so much a part of the outfit ensemble. Our lifestyles are forever changing, and with this, so do our handbags. In . . .

7 Designer Fashion Investments For A Gorgeous Look All Ye...

What are the 7 fashion essentials that are worth while investing in? 7 must haves that would take you through spring, summer, autumn and winter without a hitch?#1 A Chiffon Dress In summer, a chiffon dress can be worn on its own. In autumn and winter, that dress is still in vogue. Just layer it with your winter wardrone. Wear your dress with a knit turtleneck and you look both warm and trendy.. . .

Top Tips for Fantastic Skin - Keep Young and Healthy from...

Top Tips for Fantastic SkinKeep Young and Healthy from the Inside OutWhen you meet people, what do they see? Your face, your skin, that’s what. Your skin condition can say a lot about your health and your lifestyle. Did you know that your skin is the largest organ of your body? An adult human skin weighs around 5kg (11lbs) and has a surface area of 2 sq. metres (22 sq. feet), which is appro. . .

8 Tips For Picking The Perfect Wedding Dress

When little girls spend their math classes daydreaming of weddings (instead of winning the World Series -- not to say you can't do both), what do they dream of first? The perfect wedding dress, of course: a gown in white satin with a bustle and sweeping train, the perfect embellishments, and the perfect shoes.There are few occasions in our modern world where a woman finds herself in a position . . .

Symptoms Of Hormone Imbalance In Women

Symptoms of hormone imbalance in women may begin as early as the late twenties to the forties. Symptoms of hormone imbalance in women tend to increase as a woman ages, especially if ignored in the earlier years. Hormone imbalance symptoms can be any one or more of the following: Allergy symptoms Depression, fatigue and anxiety Endometriosis Fibrocystic breasts Hair loss and facial hair growth H. . .

A Visit To A Jewelry Store

I think that one of the most exciting times in a little girl’s life is her first visit to a jewelry store. Then again, I think that a lot of women never grow out of that feeling of excitement either! There is something magical about looking at all of the sparkling pieces glittering in the jewelry store window, even if you cannot afford to buy everything that you see.My youngest daughter’s face . . .

Inside Secrets of a Beauty Consultant - Painless Hair Rem...

If you have been shaving for a number of years you may be amazed when you hear claims that there is such a thing as painless hair removal that lasts. You will have tried everything for silky soft skin - shaving doesn't last, electrolysis and laser hair removal are too painful. What you need to try is the new breed of epilators which gently pulls the hair while holiding the skin firmly to ensure. . .

Fragrance – Is It Natural?

95% of chemicals used in fragrances are synthetic compounds derived from petroleum. It has been estimated that more than 3000 different chemmcials are used in fragrance production. Do these figures shock you? Yes, manufacturers are very clever – we see the packaging and the adverts showing flowers and nature, and we assume (as the manufacturer intends us to assume) that the fragrance in the pro. . .

Sensitive Areas Hair Free for Weeks? A Beauty Consultant ...

Epilady epilators are made with the woman in mind. Their wonderful epilators were created for the contours and curves of your body that will leave even those sensitive areas hair free for four to six weeks and remove the small ugly hairs that all women hate.Epilady's most popular new design is the New Discrette Compact. This is the smallest and most efficient epilator on the market today in my . . .