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	<title>Big Blog</title>
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	<description>We talk about everything</description>
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		<title>Syphilis and Chemotherapy</title>
		<link>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/syphilis-and-chemotherapy/3444</link>
		<comments>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/syphilis-and-chemotherapy/3444#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:10:32 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[diseases-and-conditions]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/syphilis-and-chemotherapy/3444</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ ...  occurs frequently in place of some of the sulfur in the sulfides that are the principal ores of many of the <b>heavy</b> <b>metals</b>. Arsenic is sometimes used in the manufacture of such military poison gases as lewisite and adamsite. Until the introduction of  ... ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Syphilis, once responsible for devastating epidemics, is caused by the bacterium <em>Treponema pallidum</em> that is very fragile, and the infection is almost always transmitted by sexual contact with an infected person. The bacterium spreads from the initial ulcer of an infected person to the skin or mucous membranes of the genital area, mouth, or anus of an uninfected sexual partner. It also can pass through broken skin on other parts of the body. In addition, a pregnant woman with syphilis can pass the bacteria <em>T. pallidum</em> to her unborn child, who may be born with serious mental and physical problems as a result of this infection.</p>
<p><a></a>The initial infection causes an ulcer at the site of the infection. The bacteria, however, <span id="more-3444"></span> move throughout the body, damaging many organs over time. Medical experts describe the course of the disease by dividing it into four stages-primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary (late). An infected person who has not been treated may infect others during the first two stages, which usually last 1 to 2 years. In its late stages, untreated syphilis, although not contagious, can cause serious heart abnormalities, mental disorders, blindness, other neurologic problems, and death.</p>
<p>The first symptom of primary syphilis is an ulcer called a chancre (&#8221;shan-ker&#8221;). The chancre can appear within 10 days to 3 months after exposure, but it generally appears within 2 to 6 weeks. Because the chancre may be painless and may occur inside the body, the infected person might not notice it. It usually is found on the part of the body exposed to the infected partner&#8217;s ulcer. The chancre disappears within a few weeks whether or not a person is treated. If not treated during the primary stage, about one-third of people will go on to the chronic stages.</p>
<p>A skin rash, with brown sores about the size of a penny, often marks the secondary chronic stage of syphilis. The rash appears anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks after the chancre appears. While the rash may cover the whole body or appear only in a few areas, it is almost always on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Because active bacteria are present in the sores, any physical contact with the broken skin of an infected person may spread the infection at this stage. The rash usually heals within several weeks or months. Other symptoms also may occur, such as mild fever, fatigue, headache, sore throat, patchy hair loss, and swollen lymph glands throughout the body. These symptoms may be very mild and, like the chancre of primary syphilis, will disappear without treatment. The signs of secondary syphilis may come and go over the next 1 to 2 years of the disease. If untreated, syphilis may lapse into a latent stage during which the disease is no longer contagious and no symptoms are present. Many people who are not treated will suffer from no further signs and symptoms of the disease. Approximately one-third of people who have had secondary syphilis go on to develop the complications of late, or tertiary, syphilis, in which the bacteria damage the heart, eyes, brain, nervous system, bones, joints, or almost any other part of the body. This stage can last for years, or even for decades. Late syphilis can result in mental illness, blindness, other neurologic problems, heart disease, and death. <a></a>Syphilis is sometimes called &#8220;the great imitator&#8221; because its early symptoms are similar to those of many other diseases. Sexually active people should consult a doctor or other health care worker about any rash or sore in the genital area.Â  </p>
<p>The doctor usually uses all the known and tested approaches to diagnose syphilis and decide upon the stage of infection. Blood tests also provide evidence of infection, although they may give false-negative results (not show signs of an infection despite its presence) for up to 3 months after infection. False-positive tests (showing signs of an infection when it is not present) also can occur. Therefore, two blood tests are usually used. Interpretation of blood tests for syphilis can be difficult, and repeated tests are sometimes necessary to confirm the diagnosis.</p>
<p><a></a>Unfortunately, the early symptoms of syphilis can be very mild, and many people do not seek treatment when they first become infected. Doctors usually treat patients with syphilis with penicillin, given by injection. They use other antibiotics for patients allergic to penicillin. A person usually can no longer transmit syphilis 24 hours after starting treatment. Some people, however, do not respond to the usual doses of penicillin. Therefore, it is important that people being treated for syphilis have periodic blood tests to check that the infectious agent has been completely destroyed. People with neurosyphilis may need to be retested for up to 2 years after treatment. In all stages of syphilis, proper treatment will cure the disease. But in late syphilis, damage already done to body organs cannot be reversed.</p>
<p><a></a>A pregnant woman with untreated, active syphilis is likely to pass the infection to her unborn child. In addition, miscarriage may occur in as many as 25 to 50 percent of women acutely infected with syphilis during pregnancy. Between 40 to 70 percent of women with active syphilis will give birth to a syphilis-infected infant. Some infants with congenital syphilis may have symptoms at birth, but most develop symptoms between 2 weeks and 3 months later. These symptoms may include: skin ulcers, rashes, fever, weakened or hoarse crying sounds, swollen liver and spleen, yellowish skin (jaundice), anemia, various deformities etc.Â  People who care for infants with congenital syphilis must use special cautions because the moist sores are infectious. Rarely, the symptoms of syphilis go undetected in infants. As infected infants become older children and teenagers, they may develop the symptoms of late-stage syphilis, including damage to their bones, teeth, eyes, ears, and brains. </p>
<p><a></a>Syphilis bacteria frequently invade the nervous system during the early stages of infection. Approximately 3 to 7 percent of persons with untreated syphilis develop neurosyphilis, a sometimes serious disorder of the nervous system. Some people with neurosyphilis never develop any symptoms. Others may have headache, stiff neck, and fever that result from an inflammation of the lining of the brain. Some people develop seizures. People whose blood vessels are affected may develop symptoms of stroke with numbness, weakness, or visual problems. Neurosyphilis may be more difficult to treat, and its course may be different, in people with HIV infection or AIDS.</p>
<p><a></a>The open sores of syphilis may be visible and infectious during the active stages of infection. Any contact with these infectious sores and other infected tissues and body fluids must be avoided to prevent spread of the disease. As with many other STDs, using latex male condoms properly during sexual intercourse may give some protection from the disease. Screening and treatment of infected individuals, or secondary prevention, is one of the few options for preventing the advanced stages of the disease. Testing and treatment early in pregnancy are the best ways to prevent syphilis in infants and should be a routine part of prenatal care.</p>
<p><a></a>Keeping in tune with your disease or condition not only makes treatment less intimidating but also increases its chance of success, and has been shown to lower a patients risk of complications. As well, as an informed patient, you are better able to discuss your condition and treatment options with your physician. </p>
<p>While we are well posted with the hard fact that Arsenic and many of its compounds are deadly toxic, it is worth mentioning that Arsenic has also been used as a life saver. In the nineteenth century, physicians had no means of combating infection and patients usually had no fate but to die. The whole nature of medicine, however, changed in 1863, when French scientists, Be champs, noticed that an arsenic compound was toxic to some micro-organisms. Paul Erhlich, a German scientist, decided to synthesize new arsenic compounds, testing each one for its organism killing ability. </p>
<p>Discharged from his Berlin hospital post in the latter half of the 19th century for opposing the primitive medical treatments prescribed by his superiors, Dr. Paul Ehrlich went on to develop a dye which delineates the tubercule bacillus<em>. </em>For his achievement, Ehrlich was awarded a position by the famous research bacteriologist Dr. Robert Koch. Ehrlich&#8217;s exposure to tuberculosis has infected him with the disease, however, and he was forced to travel to Egypt for his health. There, while treating a snake bite victim, he conceived of the idea of anti-toxins, and upon his return to Germany, Ehrlich worked with his friend, Dr. Emil von Behring, to develop a serum for diptheria. After their development of a vaccination that arrests the diptheria epidemic, Ehrlich pursued his dream of finding a &#8220;magic bullet&#8221; to destroy invading microbes. He spent fifteen years developing a theory of how nature fights disease, and for his efforts was awarded the Nobel Prize and an institute in which to work. There he launched a series of experiments which applied his theory to the task of curing disease, but his efforts were attacked by a recalcitrant medical community, led by his old friend Behring. </p>
<p>Assailed on two fronts, Ehrlich struggled to develop a cure for syphilis while fighting to keep his budget intact. When his budget was cut in half, he turned to wealthy widow Franziska Speyer for funding. Six hundred-and-six experiments later, he discovers the cure for syphilis, and in the hope of saving lives, was persuaded to release the formula before testing was completed. Finding himself under attack when a few patients died from adverse reaction, Ehrlich was finally vindicated in a court trial led by Behring. Though the struggle drained Ehrlichâ€™s health and he paid for the development of his miracle cure with the cost of his own life, through his comprehensive study of the effects of chemicals in the human body, Ehrlich fathered the fields of <strong>chemotherapy</strong> and hematology. He also made important contributions to the understanding of immunity and discovered Salvarsan, the first effective treatment for syphilis. Chemotherapy also provides one of the lines of attack against cancerous tissues. And it all started with an arsenic compound.</p>
<p>As mention of arsenic has been made, it may not be out of context to give a passing reference of the chemistry of arsenic for obvious intentions, centered on the conceptual clarity of readers. Arsenic, an extremely poisonous semimetallic element, is intermediate between metals and nonmetals. Arsenic has been known since ancient times. Arsenic occurs frequently in place of some of the sulfur in the sulfides that are the principal ores of many of the heavy metals. Arsenic is sometimes used in the manufacture of such military poison gases as lewisite and adamsite. Until the introduction of sulfa drugs arsenic was of great importance in the treatment of the dreaded disease syphilis. Though in medicinal uses, it has been displaced by sulfa drugs or antibiotics, Lead arsenate, calcium arsenate, and Paris green are used extensively as insecticides. Â Â </p>
<p>Arsenic is poisonous in doses significantly larger than 65 mg (1 grain), and the poisoning can arise from a single large dose or from repeated small doses, as, for example, inhalation of arsenical gases or dust. On the other hand, some persons, notably the so-called â€œarsenic eatersâ€ of the mountains of southern Austria, have found that arsenic has a tonic effect and have built up a tolerance for it, so that they can ingest each day an amount that would normally be a fatal dose. This tolerance, however, does not protect them against the same amount of arsenic administered hypodermically. </p>
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		<title>Band reviews: Metallica &#8211; Part 2</title>
		<link>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/band-reviews-metallica-part-2/2499</link>
		<comments>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/band-reviews-metallica-part-2/2499#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 01:35:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bass Player]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Legendary Band]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Live Performances]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/band-reviews-metallica-part-2/2499</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ ...  early 80's, there was a new wave of music that was hitting the world. This was known as the New Wave of British <b>Heavy</b> <b>Metal</b>. Bands such as The Ramones and Motorhead influenced a young, impressionable Lars Ulrich (P Ward). After attending many live  ... ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A successful twenty years in the music industry is an amazing accomplishment. Bands come and go all the time. They shine brightly for a while, but eventually disappear. So how has the metal band, Metallica, stayed in the running? Metallica has been able to stay in the mainstream because of its members, music, and financial stability. This legendary band has broken new ground and continues to stay one step ahead of everyone else. </p>
<p>In the late 70&#8217;s and early 80&#8217;s, there was a new wave of music that was hitting the world. This was known as the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. Bands such as The Ramones and Motorhead influenced a young, impressionable Lars Ulrich (P Ward). After attending <span id="more-2499"></span> many live performances, Ulrich aspired to form a band of his own. In the summer of 81, Lars searched the LA area for fellow fans and musicians. After failing to find a band, Ulrich then decided to place an ad in a local magazine named Recycler (Hadland 1). </p>
<p>The Recycler fell into the hands of a die-hard fan of heavy metal. James Hetfield came across the ad and contacted Lars. On May 9th, Lars and James met in Newport Beach, CA (&#8221;Biography&#8221;). At first, James was not impressed with Lars&#8217;s drumming. His timing was a little off and one of the cymbals on his drum set fell over every time it was struck. James did not want to pursue making a band with Lars at the time. </p>
<p>Three months later, James received a phone call from Lars. &#8220;I&#8217;ve got a track saved for my band on Brian Slagel&#8217;s new Metal Blade label.&#8221; (Hadland 1). James could not refuse this enticing offer. It seemed that joining forces with Lars might end up being a rather good decision for James. On October 15, 1981, Metallica was born. Hetfield and Ulrich then recruited Lloyd Grant. The three recorded &#8220;Hit The Lights&#8221; for the album &#8220;Metal Massacre&#8221;. James provided vocals as well as rhythm guitar and bass guitar. Lars covered drums and Lloyd played lead guitar. </p>
<p>Later Ron McGoveny joins Metallica, as its bass player and Dave Mustaine replaced Grant on lead guitar. Not long after Ron was kicked out for not cooperating with the ideals of the band. James and Lars needed a new bassist. Brian Slagel recommended a remarkable Cliff Burton. Both Lars and James were impressed by Cliff&#8217;s playing and immediately offered him the job. Cliff cut a deal with Metallica and joined them shortly there after. Dave Mustaine was fired shortly after, and was replaced by Kirk Hammett. The band members would not change for another three years.</p>
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		<title>Planning a Wedding?  Relax!</title>
		<link>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/planning-a-wedding-relax-2/15268</link>
		<comments>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/planning-a-wedding-relax-2/15268#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:52:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Big Category]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wedding Magazines]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[ ... Put together a jigsaw puzzle, or solve a crossword puzzle or Sudoku.  Force yourself to take a break from <b>wedding</b> planning.  <br /><br />5.  Use Relaxation Techniques<br /><br />If you can and thereâ€™s one available, take a class in yoga, meditation ... ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Letâ€™s face it, planning a wedding has to be one of the most stressful things you can do.  Whatâ€™s the solution?  Well, for some couples, the solution is to leave town and elope. And, thatâ€™s a perfectly fine solution.  But, for others, a big wedding is important, and something not to miss.  For those people, a little stress management is in order.</p>
<p>Whatever the cause, stress and anxiety can be managed by some simple steps.</p>
<p>1.  Eat Right</p>
<p>That is, donâ€™t overload on sweets and other â€œcomfortâ€ foods.  Why is this important?  A healthy and balanced diet can reduce the effects that our bodies experience when under stress.  <br <span id="more-15268"></span> /><br />2.  Exercise</p>
<p>Again, exercise can reduce the effects of stress.  When we exercise we use energy, and this energy we expend can actually drain stress right out of our bodies.  How much exercise do we need to combat stress?  Not really that much.  In fact, a simple walk in the morning of at least 15 minutes can help reduce stress levels.  </p>
<p>3.  Breathe</p>
<p>You probably think you donâ€™t need to be reminded to breathe; after all, you need to breathe to live, right?  However, when youâ€™re stressed youâ€™re probably hyperventilating or taking quick, shallow breaths, when what you really need to do is slow down and take several slow, deep breaths.  And, by deep breaths, Iâ€™m talking expanding-your-stomach kind of breaths.  Slowly.  Letting your breath out â€“ slowly.  </p>
<p>4.  Distract Yourself</p>
<p>Take a moment to read something other than wedding magazines.  Read a novel.  Put together a jigsaw puzzle, or solve a crossword puzzle or Sudoku.  Force yourself to take a break from wedding planning.  </p>
<p>5.  Use Relaxation Techniques</p>
<p>If you can and thereâ€™s one available, take a class in yoga, meditation or self-hypnosis.  These are all excellent techniques to slow down and relax.  With self-hypnosis, which is more focused and directed than meditation, you can program yourself to be more relaxed during the day.  While in hypnosis you can use an â€œanchoringâ€ device (such as touching your finger to your thumb) combined with a word, such as â€œrelaxâ€ that you can program yourself to use in your waking hours whenever you find yourself getting stressed out.  If you find yourself getting distracted during self-hypnosis, and there are registered hypnotists or hypnotherapists available in your area, visit one who can make a personalized hypnosis CD for you so you can listen on a daily basis.  Or, purchase a mass-produced relaxation CD.  There are many fine generic ones on the market today which will help you learn to relax.</p>
<p>Planning a wedding can be a special and fun event in your life.  The key is to gain control over the stress, rather than let it control you.</p>
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		<title>Wedding Stationery Designs and Styles</title>
		<link>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/wedding-stationery-designs-and-styles/15606</link>
		<comments>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/wedding-stationery-designs-and-styles/15606#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 17:53:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[sales]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wedding Invitation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/wedding-stationery-designs-and-styles/15606</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Your <b>wedding</b> invitation is usually the first thing that your <b>wedding</b> <b>guests</b> will see that has to do with your <b>wedding</b>, so the style that you choose should reflect the things that are unique and important to you about your <b>wedding</b>. Traditionally,  ... ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Your wedding invitation is usually the first thing that your wedding guests will see that has to do with your wedding, so the style that you choose should reflect the things that are unique and important to you about your wedding. Traditionally, wedding invitations are either white or ivory paper, engraved in black with a formal font. Tradition is strong, and many brides still choose invitations and wedding stationery in white or ivory, with black or charcoal engraving, but it is no longer a hard and fast rule. In fact, there are literally thousands of wedding stationery styles from which to choose &#8211; and if you can&#8217;t find precisely what you want; many printers will now create your own custom <span id="more-15606"></span> design for your wedding invitations and stationery.</p>
<p><b>Start with the Basics</b></p>
<p>Whether you choose a traditional, formal style, pick something less formal or design your own, you should know the basics. Your wedding invitation should consist of:
<ul>
<li>The outer invitation envelope</li>
<p>
<li>An invitation</li>
<p>
<li>A reception card</li>
<p>
<li>A response card</li>
<p>
<li>Another envelope for the response card</li>
<p></ul>
<p>In addition, you might include detailed directions and addresses for the church and reception, as well as information for guests on lodging and important telephone numbers.</p>
<p>You might also consider ordering other wedding stationery at the same time, including thank you cards, place cards, matchbooks, seating cards, favor boxes and cake boxes. Ordering all of your wedding stationery at the same time from the same maker will ensure a consistent theme throughout the entire event from invitation to favor and cake boxes.</p>
<p><b>Wedding Stationery Colors</b></p>
<p>Until the 1960s, color in wedding stationery was virtually unheard of &#8211; but the Love Generation had their effect on weddings as they did on everything else. By the mid-1970s, there were hundreds of designs available that incorporated color and prints to reflect the wedding couple&#8217;s personal style. These days, no color is off limits. Some of the prettiest wedding stationery and invitations feature soft-focus photos or colored accents. </p>
<p>Even brides who choose traditional white or ivory wedding stationery can introduce a hint of color in the ink that they pick, or in envelope liners.</p>
<p><b>Keeping It All in Theme</b></p>
<p>If you have chosen a theme for your wedding, you can choose wedding stationery to introduce your theme to your guests right from the start. There&#8217;s a surprising range of themed wedding invitations and stationeries featuring motifs from butterflies to Disney princesses and castles. In many cases, wedding stationery and invitations with themed designs can be paired with reception accessories like guest books and cake boxes in matching and complementary designs. Some of the most popular wedding stationery theme designs include seashells for a beach-themed wedding, butterflies and wildflowers for garden weddings and calla lilies for elegant themes.</p>
<p><b>Unique Invitation Styles</b></p>
<p><b>1.</b> Photo Imprinted Wedding Stationery is among the newest styles of wedding invitations and announcements. Available from many printers, wedding invitations printed with formal and informal photos of the happy couple are ideal for an informal or casual wedding. They lend a personal touch and are especially appropriate when the couple is paying for or helping to pay for their own wedding.</p>
<p><b>2.</b> Bow-Tied invitations can be elegant and formal. The invitation comes complete with a complementary bow, usually in satin. A ribbon tie is an easy way to add a touch of elegance to printed invitations. They generally will require you to do the &#8220;assembly&#8221; &#8211; tying the ribbon. They&#8217;re a lovely choice for a formal wedding that&#8217;s just a touch off the traditional path.</p>
<p><b>3.</b> Gate-fold invitations and other fancy folded invitations are unusual and memorable. The simplest folds are tri-folds, where the left and right sides fold in toward the middle, often tied with a simple ribbon. More elaborate designs include accordion-pleated three and five-panel designs and beautifully elegant origami like cards that fold back and forth and are closed with a foil seal or a ribbon. Folded invitations can be a perfect choice for a wedding with an Oriental theme, or in the right style, can go along with a wedding that has a touch of whimsy to its style.</p>
<p><b>4.</b> Pocket style invitations hold the invitation inside a pocket that opens on one side. Often, the envelope is made of translucent paper in a soft floral, but it may be a solid color that matches or complements the invitation itself. Pocket invitations come in many styles and colors, and can work well for a formal but non-traditional wedding.</p>
<p><b>5.</b> Unusual shapes are another way that you can declare your personality in your wedding invitations. Die cut designs include sculptured borders, round or square shapes and many other variations on shape and style for your wedding invitations. One unique option is a two part invitation with a die cut frame border holding the invitation itself.</p>
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		<title>Wedding Traditions &#8211; Part 11</title>
		<link>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/wedding-traditions-part-11/15943</link>
		<comments>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/wedding-traditions-part-11/15943#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 16:03:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Big Category]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blue Garter]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/wedding-traditions-part-11/15943</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ ... it is traditional that the groom not be allowed to see the bride in her <b>wedding</b> gown before the <b>wedding</b>. Other <b>countries</b> have different variations of this tradition. For instance, in Ireland the bride is not to see her entire reflection while wearing ... ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The dreamed about wedding is soon to take place. Have you ever thought about all the traditions that are involved in most weddings? Do you know where those traditions come from? Here are a few that we know about.</p>
<p>Have you ever heard of the old saying: â€œSomething old, something borrowed, something new, something blue, and a penny in her shoeâ€</p>
<p>This is an old rhyme that comes fro the Victorian age, and was used then as it is now for most traditional weddings and brides.</p>
<p>Although many of todayâ€™s brides still use this old tradition, many of us donâ€™t know why we use it.</p>
<p>What Does this Old Rhyme Mean?</p>
<p>When the rhyme refers <span id="more-15943"></span> to something old, it means that the couples friends will remain true throughout the marriage. Traditionally the brides wear their mothers pearls, or some other form of jewelry. Sometimes she will use a prayer book, veil or handkerchief.</p>
<p>â€˜Something newâ€ means the future health, success and happiness and is usually carried out by the bride with the use of her bouquet, dress or some other form of dress.</p>
<p>Using â€œsomething borrowedâ€ signifies good luck and must be returned to the lender. â€œSomething Blueâ€ means fidelity and constancy in your marriage and also brings luck. This tradition comes from Ancient Israel. Brides used to wear a blue ribbon in their hair, which meant commitment. Brides usually wear a blue garter, or even pin a blue ribbon on the inside of the dress.</p>
<p>The penny was a six pence in Victorian times and it signifies good luck and wealth within the marriage. Many brides even save the coin after their marriage to pass on to their daughters.</p>
<p>Now lets get to the most traditional part of the brides attire, the wedding dress. Why are wedding dresses white? After all that is not a traditional color. In fact, in ancient times women just wore their best dress, which was usually red or even yellow. Later during biblical times, women would wear blue, which signified virginity and purity. The first white dress was not worn until the sixteenth century. Today the white wedding dress signifies to us, and to most of the world virginity and purity, and represents a joyful event. The traditional veil is a very romantic accessory of today, but in ancient times it was a way a woman showed her sexual modesty. Today it is a beautifully romantic and very feminine gesture and accessory.</p>
<p>Lets not forget the traditional rings. Engagement rings were an invention of the medieval times and symbolized the intentions of a couple to marry. Diamonds are the traditional stones, because in ancient Greece the diamonds fire, reflected the love a man had for a woman. They also believed that the diamonds were small pieces that fell from the stars. The wedding band represents unending love and comes from beliefs of the ancient Egyptians. Wearing it on the third finger began because of an ancient belief that states that the vein in that finger leads to the heart.</p>
<p>Different Traditions in Different Parts of the World</p>
<p>In Japan women traditionally wear white because it is the color of mourning, and believe that it is appropriate because the bride is leaving one family to join another.</p>
<p>In other parts of the world women are given a small chest of coins as a symbol that she will never lack for anything.</p>
<p>Although in most countries it is traditional that the groom not be allowed to see the bride in her wedding gown before the wedding. Other countries have different variations of this tradition. For instance, in Ireland the bride is not to see her entire reflection while wearing the gown because it is supposed to bring bad luck.</p>
<p>Even the day you get married on is said to be traditional. It is said that if you get married on a rainy day, you will have lots of children. Ancient tradition would make a bride wake in the morning and face the sun, the intention was to bring happiness into her future life. Traditions are just that, customs and family traditions, they are nice to include, but not required, and if you do not feel comfortable with any of the normal traditions, then leave them out.</p>
<p>There are many different wedding traditions all over the world. Some are similar to those of other countries, and some are totally different. The most important thing to remember whichever traditions you decide to keep, and whichever ones you decide to toss out the window, is that you are starting a new life with someone, and it is a time to celebrate that joining of two lives that are forming into one family.</p>
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		<title>Wedding Favours That Go Down A Treat</title>
		<link>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/wedding-favours-that-go-down-a-treat/13485</link>
		<comments>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/wedding-favours-that-go-down-a-treat/13485#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:05:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Big Category]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[August Wedding]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/wedding-favours-that-go-down-a-treat/13485</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ ... , gold and silver sugared almonds, Smeraldina sugared almonds and chocolate covered sugared almonds. <br /><br />Yet, as trends change, <b>wedding</b> <b>favours</b> are brought kicking and screaming into the twenty-first century to keep up with current fashions.  ... ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Long gone are the days of brides only offering her guests sugared almonds as wedding favours! </p>
<p>Now, with the wide selection of sweets available, you can choose edible favours that are as individual as you are. Whether you want chocolate buttons, sugared balls, Fruitini jellies, foiled chocolate hearts or mini heart dragees, the world is your candy store! </p>
<p>Of course, if it&#8217;s sugared almonds you are after, then your choice needn&#8217;t be limited. You can still purchase the original peach, blue, white, pink and ivory almonds, but in addition you can buy pearlised sugared almonds, gold and silver sugared almonds, Smeraldina sugared almonds and chocolate covered sugared almonds. </p>
<p>Yet, as trends change, wedding favours <span id="more-13485"></span> are brought kicking and screaming into the twenty-first century to keep up with current fashions. And, although many brides wish to maintain a traditional feel to their big day opting for bomboniere nets, many are looking for alternative ideas to really give their guests something to talk about. </p>
<p>There are so many nut allergy sufferers about too, that couples are heading towards other yummy treats! </p>
<p>The foiled chocolate heart is always a fantastic choice as it suggests the idea of romance. Originally given as Valentine&#8217;s Day gifts, foiled chocolate hearts are a tasty alternative to sugared almonds. They can be purchased in a range of metallic foils from lilac to red, pink to silver so that they can tie in with any colour theme you may choose. Foiled chocolate hearts look great if placed singularly at place settings, presented in a co-ordinating organza bag or favour box or maybe used as a table scatter. </p>
<p>Consider of course, the time of year that you wish to tie the knot. No guest will be impressed with melted foiled chocolate hearts at an hot summer August wedding! </p>
<p>Equally, chocolate buttons go down a storm at weddings. They really give the feel of &#8216;being young again.&#8217; These too come in a huge range of different colours to complement your theme and look great used as a table scatter. Alternatively, chocolate buttons could be presented in tall ice cream glasses or large glass vases and presented as a centrepiece or table decoration. </p>
<p>These could create the idea of indulgence yet maintain a light-hearted fun theme at the same time. </p>
<p>If you are not a major chocolate fan, or you are concerned about the heat melting your chocolate favours, you could go for sugared balls or Fruitini jellies. </p>
<p>Again, these look fantastic when presented in tall vases or ice cream glasses. If you want to create a gentle fairytale effect, go for Fruitini jellies in pastel shades. Fruitini jellies finish off any table beautifully, especially if it&#8217;s a garden party wedding with bundles of baby pink flowers &#8211; how sweet! </p>
<p>The sugared balls give a wedding a more modern feel with their metallic finish. These look great on tables for an evening reception, perhaps with lots of candles to reflect their stunning colours. </p>
<p>Whether it&#8217;s Fruitini jellies, sugared balls, foiled chocolate hearts or chocolate buttons, there really is a sweet out there that is as individual as you are. Go on, be daring and try something different for your wedding day! </p>
<p>This article is brought to you by &#8220;World of Wedding Favours&#8221; &#8211; Offering brides high quality wedding favours and bomboniere at low-cost prices. To view our vast range of wedding favours to suit your special occasion please visit: <a target="_new" target="_blank" href="http://www.World-of-Wedding-Favours.com/chocolate-wedding-favours.html">Chocolate Wedding Favours</a></p>
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		<title>Stranglehold Review</title>
		<link>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/stranglehold-review/466</link>
		<comments>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/stranglehold-review/466#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:45:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Firefight]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[John Woo Stranglehold]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nintendo Wii]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/stranglehold-review/466</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ ...  have its flaws which are its short length, and the plot is a disaster. If anyone is intrigued to get their next <b>Max</b> Payne fix, then answer is Stranglehold. The comparisons between <b>Max</b> Payne and Stranglehold are uncanny. From the slow motion bullet  ... ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Stranglehold is a video game sequel to John Wooâ€™s blockbuster hit movie Hard Boiled. The game transpires after the events of Hard Boiled and has everything you would expect from John Woo. Stranglehold is a PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and PC exclusive (sucks if you bought an abysmal Nintendo Wii). Gamers will be in control of protagonist inspector Tequila, and Chow Yun Fat reprises his role as the stylish hero. The plot in Stranglehold is about a little girl being used as ransom; consequently, Tequila is sent to rescue her. The storyline seems impertinent and takes a backseat to the slow motion and fast action. The gameplay is a swift action packed adventure from start to finish. Players will be <span id="more-466"></span> immersed in a world that entails bullets flying, cinematic deaths, and plenty of weapons. Virtually the entire environment can be utilized to a certain extent. If you cannot destroy a pillar, you can probably use it as cover or various other ways during a firefight. In a nutshell, the paramount goal in Stranglehold is to eradicate anything and everything that moves. Players will have a usual arsenal of weapons that include handguns, assault rifles, shotguns, a rocket launcher, and machine guns. In addition, inspector Tequila will be able to utilize four abilities known as Tequila Bombs. These abilities are mapped to the D-pad for easy access, and they all fit the game nicely. In Stranglehold, a visible meter will be at the top of the screen.</p>
<p>You have to fill this meter in order to execute a Tequila bomb maneuver. Killing foes is the only way to charge up your meter, so do not be afraid to pull the trigger. The first Tequila Bomb is a rudimentary health increase. The second Tequila Bomb is precision aiming. Precision aiming gives you a chance to slow down time and accurately target your adversaries. Firing at a particular body part will cause your opponents to act accordingly. For instance, shooting at his head will cause him to die. Likewise, shooting him in the groin will coerce him to grab his private part and die (my personal favorite place to shoot). The camera will actually zoom in on the bullet in precision aiming mode. The third Tequila Bomb enable you to enter barrage mode. This is very similar to Scarface which gives you a â€œballsâ€ mode rampage of destruction. It works the same way. You have a limited amount of time where your attributes are enhanced, and you are invincible. The fourth and final Tequila Bomb is a smart bomb. When used, it cause you to pulverize all opponents on screen instantaneously via a cinematic scene. The inspector will spin, (ala Max Payne 2) and only he will remain standing. Another gameplay aspect that will appease Max Payne fans is the aforementioned slow motion bullet time. There is a separate meter for this, and it fills up in the same manner as the Tequila Bomb meter. Slow motion can be initiated when running, walking, diving, and interacting with the environment. Some of the things you will be able to do are running up and down railings and slide across counters while spraying your rivals with bullets (ala Hard Boiled movie). There is no doubt that many players will enjoy the standoffs in Stranglehold, but I found it to be rather arduous. The standoffs play drastically differently from the actual gameplay. Your objective is to evade and fire simultaneously, but this part of the game is cumbersome. The audio is amazing as you will hear gunfire and people soaring through the air. The graphics are somewhat hit or miss. Chow Yun Fat looks exactly like his real life counterpart, and the setting does look like Hong Kong. However, a good chunk of the enemies appear insipid. There is multiplayer in Stranglehold, but it is not as engrossing as the single player campaign. Stranglehold does have its flaws which are its short length, and the plot is a disaster. If anyone is intrigued to get their next Max Payne fix, then answer is Stranglehold. The comparisons between Max Payne and Stranglehold are uncanny. From the slow motion bullet time effects to the surprisingly short game, Stranglehold is about as close to Max Payne as you can get. Even though avid gamers will cruise through Stranglehold in one day, that should not deter anyone from playing the game.</p>
<p>http://wwwfunnyman.blogspot.com/</p>
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		<title>How to feel blessed in the storms of life</title>
		<link>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/how-to-feel-blessed-in-the-storms-of-life/3323</link>
		<comments>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/how-to-feel-blessed-in-the-storms-of-life/3323#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 07:41:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Religion & Spirituality]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/how-to-feel-blessed-in-the-storms-of-life/3323</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ ...  it, we are stressed out, and can't sleep. Which affects are daily lifes and we become overwhelmed and the <b>storm</b> just becomes so <b>heavy</b> on us.</p>

<p>The key of being blessed in the <b>storm</b> is having faith in God, trusting in him with everything, and  ... ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>How many people have been in a storm? The answer is simple, majority of people, it may be on different levels but to each individual it is very important to them. It is how we handle the storms that makes the difference. When we put are trust in God and know he is going to work it out we don&#8217;t spend are time and energy stressing about the situation. On the other hand, when we aren&#8217;t trusting God like we should we are not sure how we are going to make it, we are stressed out, and can&#8217;t sleep. Which affects are daily lifes and we become overwhelmed and the storm just becomes so heavy on us.</p>
<p>The key of being <span id="more-3323"></span> blessed in the storm is having faith in God, trusting in him with everything, and knowing that he is going to work everything out.Psalms 57:1 Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until [these] calamities be overpast. God is our safe place when we experience great loss or misfortune when we are in a storm. For God will give you peace in the storm. You have that peace because you know it&#8217;s in God&#8217;s hands and he&#8217;s going to fix it. Sometimes we get caught up with the world and the things of the world, and it brings us all kinds of problems, and we lose sight of the ultimate goal. Why we are here in the first place. Which is to worship God, and be pleasing to his sight.</p>
<p>I have experience so many storms in my life and on the most part I lost sight of God, and was just stressed out and didn&#8217;t think I was going to make it. God brought me through it and even though I had a negative attitude during my storm because of God&#8217;s grace I made it. I&#8217;m currently going through a storm right now, but now my outlook is totally different. Yes it&#8217;s hard, but when you know that God is right there with you and he is going to get you through it becomes alot easier and that&#8217;s when you have that peace. I might not know how I am going to make it, but I know I am going to make it because God is in control blessing me. I am blessed in the storm.</p>
<p>When you are in a storm keep your mind on Christ. When negativity comes into your mind don&#8217;t let it over take you, replace it with something positive. Always pray daily and read the word, for God will give you what you need to hear. Put God first and he will work everything out for He is in control. God will make your storm calm so the waves are still. Remember that your tribulations bring patience, and just humble yourself to God. Learning from your storms is a blessing in itself. So be blessed in the storm and don&#8217;t let it over take you.</p>
<p>Live, Love, Learn</p>
<p>Live, Love, Learn</p>
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		<title>Downloadable game review: Rotoadventures Momos, by Happy Nutz Studio &#8211; Part 1</title>
		<link>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/downloadable-game-review-rotoadventures-momos-by-happy-nutz-studio-part-1/1424</link>
		<comments>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/downloadable-game-review-rotoadventures-momos-by-happy-nutz-studio-part-1/1424#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 02:37:19 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hobbies & Games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Broken Necklace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chases]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Forest Backgrounds]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/downloadable-game-review-rotoadventures-momos-by-happy-nutz-studio-part-1/1424</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ ... and fancy through power ups and in game items. This is also true of this game however in Rotoadventures
<br />Momos your <b>character</b>'s abilities are determined by the items in the stage you chose. You control the main <b>character</b> by allowing him to chase ... ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In Rotoadventures Momos you are Momos the squirrel who is trying to find his kidnapped girlfriend following the trail beads from her broken necklace. You must travel through the forest jumping from tree to tree and into the city hopping from building to building in search of clues and friend that will help you find your girlfriend.</p>
<p>In this side scrolling adventure game you must run, jump and pick up items in order to track down your missing girlfriend with the help of friends you meet along the way. In addition you to collecting items you get to choose between light chapters and dark chapters which grant you special abilities in the stages.</p>
<p>Generally side scrolling adventure games start off with simple <span id="more-1424"></span> movements such as running or jumping that become more complicated and fancy through power ups and in game items. This is also true of this game however in Rotoadventures<br />
<br />Momos your character&#8217;s abilities are determined by the items in the stage you chose. You control the main character by allowing him to chase your cursor which acts as an on screen acorn, in other words the squirrel chases the acorn.</p>
<p>The light side stages are forest backgrounds that you run and frolic through collecting beads and looking for friends that give you advice you along the way. In the dark side stages the main character takes on an entirely different persona from his fun loving forest alter ego. He gets dressed in loose fitting clothes and large gold necklaces running through the city avoiding the police and spraying graffiti on billboards, walls and white picket fences all the while still looking for his long lost girlfriend.</p>
<p>Controlling the squirrel by making him follow the acorn seems like a simple enough idea but many times the character does not respond in time to sudden changes in direction which becomes very annoying in a short amount of time.</p>
<p>The side scrolling graphics appear from the background into the foreground trying to give the illusion of a three dimensional world when in actuality the graphics just look as is they were squeezed together at the ends.</p>
<p>Every time you jump the main character makes a &#8220;wee&#8221; noise that quickly becomes irritating along with the other sound effects and music in this game.</p>
<p>While the initial story of boy squirrel meets girl squirrel and then girl squirrel gets kidnapped starts off grabbing your interest you quickly become distracted with the simplistic and hard to control game play and lose interest in completing the quest.</p>
<p>The side scrolling adventure game Rotoadventures Momos by Happy Nutz Studios receives an overall rating of 1/5.</p>
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		<title>Downloadable game reviews: Coyotes Tail &#8211; Part 1</title>
		<link>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/downloadable-game-reviews-coyotes-tail-part-1/172</link>
		<comments>http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/downloadable-game-reviews-coyotes-tail-part-1/172#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Mar 2010 01:58:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Hobbies & Games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Coyote]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Narrator]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Puzzle Games]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.bigpoz.com/2010/03/downloadable-game-reviews-coyotes-tail-part-1/172</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[ ...  graphics and audio to be very stable, artistic and creative.</p>

<p><b>Game</b> Play:</p>

<p>I felt the <b>game</b> was very easy and straightforward thanks to <b>Max</b> and Coyote helping me along the various challenges.  There are two different modes the <b>game</b> can  ... ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Overview:</p>
<p>Coyote&#8217;s Tail: Fire and Water is a story based on two sisters who embark on a journey where they encounter different Aztec Gods who try to make their journey difficult.  Over the course of their trip the gods will test their skill and they will have to complete various challenges and collect hidden items to complete their journey.</p>
<p>Installation:</p>
<p>Installation was a breeze and within a few clicks of the mouse Coyote&#8217;s Tail was downloading and installing on my PC.  Big Fish simplified the process with their easy to use interface and game manager.</p>
<p>Graphics and Audio:</p>
<p>At first glance i was taken in by the artistic visuals that were presented in the game.  It took me a few rounds to <span id="more-172"></span> get used to the narrator&#8217;s jokes, but after playing the game for thirty or so minutes I finally warmed up.  I found most of the humor at the start of the game was rather goofy, or maybe just geared toward the juvenile mind.  The Gods presented throughout the game have a great personality and add a little piece of light to the game.  Overall I found the graphics and audio to be very stable, artistic and creative.</p>
<p>Game Play:</p>
<p>I felt the game was very easy and straightforward thanks to Max and Coyote helping me along the various challenges.  There are two different modes the game can be played in, relaxed and timed mode.  I personally took a liking to the timed mode, but I never felt I was over challenged.  The hidden items were fairly easy to find, but they did increase in difficulty as time progressed.  If you like a game that you cannot get stuck on for hours then this game is for you, as there is a hint system that automatically helps you if you get stuck.  I felt there is a good variety of different challenges throughout the game, such as puzzles and modern day Where&#8217;s Waldo like games where you find hidden items.  I enjoy playing different kinds of puzzle games, so this game fit my taste just fine.</p>
<p>Overview:</p>
<p>Overall I won&#8217;t be adding this game to the pile of junk in the back of my closet, just for the plain fact that I want to see what comes after the 60 min trial period.  There are some minor improvements I would like to see made, such as a button that would allow the user to fast forward through the dialog instead of just skipping it all together.  I recommend downloading the free 60 minute trial and checking this game out for yourself, you never know you might just like it.</p>
<p>Rating:</p>
<p>I give this game a 4/5 rating overall because there are still some minor improvements that need to be made with the dialog.</p>
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