How to meet that special someone

Chances are unless you are very lucky you will go thru many different relationships before you find your special someone. Finding your sole mate is like gambling. In poker and blackjack you may have to play dozens of hands until you get a winning hand, and it is the same with relationships. During your life you will probably meet some people who seem like they may be the one, or that they are close, but still have the feeling that something else is missing. My advice is that if you are not happy, because something seems like it is missing, then it usually is not right. Before I found my special someone, I was in a relationship for over 10 years, and I thought everything was great, until I started to seriously consider getting married. Then I noticed that we had so little in common and in reality wanted so many different things out of life and one day we both realized there was much about each of us that we both wanted from someone, but it was not us that we wanted. Then one day I decided I had enough of trying to go to clubs and bars to meet people. I was sick and tired of trying to find someone in the time it takes to finish a drink. It always seemed the ladies I would meet were all wrong for me, or they seemed great after talking to them for 5 minutes but they seemed to have no interest in me. Then one day I had an idea, it was not an original idea but I decided to use the internet to try to find the right person for me. So I proceeded to make a myspace profile. On this page I tried to put the real me and not the funny guy trying to be charming that was looking for love at the bar. And as I would at the poker rooms I went all in, I poured my heart and sole into this. I wrote what I wanted and wrote down who I truly think I am and not who I want to be, and I was rewarded by 1 email responding to my site. It was amazing; the response I got was like a dream. Imagine you are sitting in a Las Vegas casino playing poker. You are down to your last few dollars, you go all in and you wind up being dealt a Royal Flush, and suddenly the sky is bluer, the grass is greener, and all your worries seem to just fade away. At first things were a little awkward for the both of us. We decided to hold of on actually meeting until we got to know each other first. We spent a month just talking everyday on the internet. You can really open up to someone and show them the real you and not have to worry about rejection on the internet, after all you are just a faceless ghost, and if things don’t work out you could be sitting next to her on the bus one day without ever knowing it. The key to finding happiness is realizing you are going to bust more then you are going to get blackjack, but you must keep trying, trying to remember you only need to find the real thing once.

Abstract art and the spirit 1

It has been a long and raging arguement that the abstract expressionists of the 50's, 60's and 70's were very busy contemplating their own navels and trying to find the "zen" in everything they did. I would argue that they were in fact just one very important example of the hungry sleep-drugged soul seeking a way to be heard. However, many artsists of those times, and indeed today, would flatly deny anything remotely to do with spiritual things - or worse still - religious things. Take, for instance, one of my favourites - Mark Rothko. This tragic artist committed himself to the task of producing massive canvases with many vaguely resembling the outline of a window - especially an after image once the eye has closed. His vast expanses of colour seemed to hunt out a corner or edge in a desperate attempt to complete, or conclude, the picture. Not satisfied with that he went on to give up titling his work saying that he did not want to influence the onlooker in any way. Ironically he failed ... and sadly took his own life. For me his works speak of wonderful tantilizing clues visually demonstrating the struggling spirit seeking (and succeeding!) in revealing herself - now that is real influence! Let me explain by an apparently unrelated route: I seek to assist my own spirit in attempting to make manifest even the tiniest, most pathetic, weakest fact that the spirit in us all is not only just trying to communicate with us - but is in fact actively seeking to set the whole human balance right ... which is the spirit leading the mind and body back to her source - not the other way round - the mind and body leading the blinded soul to ... well, eventually death. Not so long ago I came across the writings of Meister Eckhart, a fourteenth century Christian mystic. His words amazed me. He described in his many sermons what he believed to be the truth as to why we are here. He also revealed many tantilizing "images" of the spirit from the least angelic being right up to God Himself. His descriptions were ... how can I put it simply? ... abstract! In one of his sermons he described God as ... "unknowable" ... "not able to be understood" ... "undefinable". In another he made a statement (one of many which may have contributed to him being accused of heresy!) "People say God exists ... God does not exist ... " left out of context that would be a truly blasphemous assertion. But he went on to say that "... God is far greater ... God is beyond existance". These and many other controversial sayings have impressed me so much that I have come to "see" God as an abstract entity - not, I hasten to add, an anarchic abstract form - but rather a God far more powerful, far more greater - than I can imagine ... in other words totally undefinable. Rather than this putting a distance between me and God, it has done exactly the opposite. And when Eckhart began to describe the life of Christ in an almost completely abstract way - Eckhart said that Christs life was the greatest example of the seeking and finding the uncreated source of the pure soul - my imagination began to run like a film of frenzied obscure visuals. Eckhart has become, to me, the patron saint of abstract artists. The beauty of Eckharts enigmatic words are intensely inspiring. What better way to illustrate his poetic writings than to describe Gods "isness" in the very basic form of a gigantic flat area of one saturated colour untainted by anythingelse. Strangely enough this could be part of an exact description from one of Rothko's immense, sometimes almost monochromatic, paintings. But this is by no means the whole story ... one of Eckhart's contradictions said that on the one hand God is totally unapproachable, yet at the same time God is actually very, very approachable ... However, that is another article.

Deauville la magnifique

: Les grands hфtels de Las Vegas, Macao et Monte Carlo font tout pour obtenir le privilиge de les faire jouer. Ils sont la source assurй de gros profits car statistiquement, ils vont perdre. Les hфtels n'hйsitent pas а mettre а leur disposition un avion privй pour les faire venir ainsi que leurs meilleures suites. Quant on est en mesure de perdre des centaines de milliers de dollars, tout le reste peut иtre offert. On peut dire en franзais "un flambeur". Mais pour nous, simple debutant ou joueur non encore confirmes, je vous propose de decouvrir le casino a la francaise: DEAUVILLE. Le Casino de Deauville est l’un des premiers casinos du groupe qui comprend entre autre les casinos Barriиre de : Besanзon, Ribeauvillй, le Palais Casino du Touquet, Carnac, Dinard, Enghien-les-Bains, l’unique de la rйgion parisienne, Chamonix, Cannes, Sainte-Maxime, Biarritz et bien d’autres rйpartis entre la France, la Suisse, la Belgique et Malte. Depuis 1990, le capital de l’empire est rйpartit entre Barriиre-Desseigne, le Groupe Accor (34%) et Colony Capital (15%). Le chiffre d’affaire du casino de Deauville s’йlиve а lui seul а :215,3 millions d’euros en 2004. . Dйcouvrez а la fois le luxe et la sobriйtй du Casino Deauville! Son immense palais blanc vous ouvre ses portes sous ses prestigieux tapis moelleux et une architecture incomparable, pour mieux vous faire vibrer au son des cliquetis rythmй des jackpots, les tables rutilantes, ses bars et ses restaurants toujours avenants… Dans cette ambiance festive et chaleureuse, venez retrouvez au Casino Barriиre de Deauville tous vos jeux favoris. Casino Deauville c’est 325 machines а sous rйparties en 3 salons, 6 tables de Boule, sans oublier ses Machines а Rouleaux et Vidйo Poker de 0,10 а 20 euros Entrez dans la salle de la Boule. Vous y retrouverez 6 tables avec mise minimale de 2 euros. Le Casino Barriиre de Deauville porte l'hйritage de la splendeur du passй. Dans ce dйcor somptueux, vous pouvez varier les plaisirs а chaque instant. Vous y retrouverez les jeux а mise minimale d’un euro : 2 tables de Roulette Franзaise (mise minimale de 5 euros), 1 table de flash roulette Franзaise (mise minimale de 10 euros), 4 tables de Roulette Anglaise, 10 tables Black Jack, 4 tables de Stud Poker, 1 table de Punto Banco, 1 table de Craps. Mais Casino Deauville, c’est aussi ses spectacles tels le festival swing et ses loisirs tels le Golf. Celui-ci, situй sur le Mont Canisy, а quelques minutes du centre de Deauville, offre une vue exceptionnelle а la fois sur la mer et toute la campagne environnante, dans une tranquillitй absolue. Vous y retrouverez les parcours а 9 ou 18 trous. Des compйtitions y sont aussi organisйes. Alors pourquoi attendre plus longtemps ! Rejoignez vite le Groupe Casino Lucien Barriиre а Deauville ! Le seul Casino а vous offrir en plein cњur de la Normandie le plaisir des jeux mйlйs au plaisir du sport !

Are soy candles better than your average candle

Everyone loves candles and they are a great way to add warmth and comfort to your home. You even have a few choices of candles such as regular wax candles and soy candles. Candles are affordable and they can last for a very long time. The best part about candles is that they look good both lit and unlit. Oddly enough most people, me included, own candles that they never intend to light for fear of ruining their beauty. Candles are both practical and gorgeous and of all the candles on the market soy candles are the most sought after these days. Everyone is wanting to get themselves some fantastic soy candles. Only soy candles are healthier. Did you know that candles can be dangerous to your health, the health of your children and even your pets? Some candles have been known to kill pet birds! Paraffin is not good for people to be inhaling and some candles are even made with lead wicks in them. Can you image how much harm could be done with a lead wick? If you were to purchase soy candles you would not have these types of worries. These soy candles were created to combat the growing problem of inferior cheap candles. Now you can have all the glory of good candles and candle light without the dangerous components. You can even get wonderfully scented soy candles. There are so many reasons for you to choose soy candles over regular run of the mill candles. For instance, did you know that soy candles can last twice as long as other candles? They are so affordable when you look at them this way. You will be able to get twice as much use out of your candles when they are soy candles. And since they burn slower and longer the smell will be even better. Have you ever noticed that some scented candles get overpowering in their smells? That is because the candles burn so hot and fast. When you are using soy candles this is not a problem. Since the candle is burning at a lower temperature the scent will be dispersed at a much better rate, one that will keep your home smelling fresh and clean all day long. The biggest complaint that most people have about regular candles is the soot factor. How many times have you had to try and scrub off soot after lighting a candle? Well, the good news is that you will never have to do this again when you switch over to soy candles. Soy candles have no soot production and they will never stain anything at all. Soy is also a renewable resource. It grows in the USA with ease and there is a plentiful amount to it. You will never have to worry about hurting the environment when you are using soy candles. You will be giving people new and better jobs and helping the world at the same time. Soy candles are really the best way to go and if you have not checked them out yet, what are you waiting for?

Chinese ancient traditions revived in global new year shows

Two years ago some Chinese friends of mine took me to NTDTV’s (New Tang Dynasty TV) live Chinese New Year Spectacular. It was a thrilling and enchanting music and dance performance, with traditional Chinese instruments and costumes faithfully recreated from old manuscripts, paintings and pottery. The dragons, drums and dancers all evoked the grandeur of China’s great dynasties and legends of remote history. Ancient Chinese traditions speak of harmony between heaven and earth. They say that humans were created by Gods. Culture as well as moral and spiritual guidance were also imparted to humans by divine beings during different times in history. When humans respect the Tao, the “Divine Law or Way” and follow Heaven’s order, society will be prosperous and peaceful. Like most Westerners I knew next to nothing about the Chinese New Year. So I asked my friends to tell me more and share their favorite New Year’s memories. I learned that Chinese New Year is actually celebrated by almost a quarter of the world’s population in several Asian countries where it is the most important holiday of the year. It follows the Lunar calendar, and the date varies each year, depending on the moon’s cycle. Several friends shared about fire works and favorite foods–dumplings were often mentioned–and various traditions. One is to write poems or lucky phrases on red paper to be pasted around every family’s door. After breakfast there would be a round of visits. The first stop would be at a local temple to burn incense and honor the gods. Next came visits to relatives and friends. In many towns musicians paraded through streets to announce the arrival of spring. The Lantern Festival marks the end of the New Year season. It evolved from the ancient belief of celestial spirits flying about in the light of the first full moon. Lanterns of many colors and shapes were lit during the night. Maquiong, who grew up in a town near the Yangzi River, said, “Some communities would organize a lantern market. Usually, my mom would take us to watch the activities. Later she’d cook another good dinner which included dumplings filled with syrup, which symbolizes harmony in the family and sweetness of life.” She said that in recent years traditions like these have been changing in China. In big cities fireworks were forbidden, and people have New Year’s dinner at restaurants. Also, many people exchange new year greetings by phone and don’t visit each other so much anymore. “But in my memories,” Maquiong said, “Chinese New Year always means having a good time.” "Traditional Chinese culture and spiritual traditions were destroyed and outlawed by the Chinese Communist Party,” said Jason, a medical doctor. He said that the CCP smashed almost all the temples and burned the ancient manuscripts. Since coming to power in the late 40s, they have changed history books and brainwashed generations of Chinese with party culture, class struggle and Marxist ideology. “Young people know nothing about true Chinese history or the deeper values of our ancient traditions,” Jason said. “NTDTV and its annual global Chinese New Year Shows are instrumental in promoting a rebirth of traditional Chinese culture. The performances are magnificent and full of nobility.” The 2007 NTDTV New Year Spectacular will be touring Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Washington, DC, plus major cities in Canada, Europe and Asia. shows. ntdtv/

Collecting mexican folk art 101

I love Mexican folk art! Whenever possible, I try to buy it directly from the artisans who create it. The pieces that speak to me, I keep and add to my own collection. The others, I share with family and friends as gifts, or sell to other collectors and home decor aficionados. Many people collect museum quality artwork by world renowned Mexican artists. Others choose practical items such as talavera dishes, hand-woven textiles or silver jewelry. Some prefer items of a ceremonial or religious nature such as beaded masks, prayer bowls or retablos. Still others are attracted to the bright colors and whimsical design of Oaxacan wood carvings known as alebrije, painted tin ornaments, and Day of the Dead miniatures. Each of these items, and many more not mentioned, contribute to the diversity and charm of Mexican folk art. The history of Mexico is depicted in Mexican folk art. Each piece tells a story or provides a symbolic representation of the Mexican people and their culture. Some folk art reflects the indigenous cultures of the past, many lost to the colonization by the Spaniards. Spanish influences are also present in some works, as are Christian, pagan and folkloric themes. A true collector must study Mexican beliefs and cultural values in depth to fully understand Mexican folk art. As a new collector, you’ll want to know what to look for to be sure your Mexican folk art is authentic. One key element is the use of indigenous materials from each region of Mexico. For example: alebrije are made from the wood of the copal tree. This tree grows only in the Oaxacan valley. Craftsmanship is another telltale clue. Skill and style will vary between artisans and the price and quality will reflect their ability. However, authentic work is always aesthetically pleasing, well made, and is typically labeled in some manner, whether signed by the artist, with his or her village noted, or at least labeled Hecho en Mexico. If you’re able to visit Mexico, buy folk art directly from the artisans or purchase from local shops in the region where it is made. Do not buy from vendors in tourist areas unless you wish to pay inflated prices for items that may be of an inferior quality. If your purchases are limited to specialty shops, galleries or online stores in the U. S., make sure you are dealing with a reputable seller and always check out their return policies before buying. For additional help, there are numerous resources available at your local bookstore. The best, though pricey, is Great Masters of Mexican Folk Art by Fernandez De Calderon Candida. Several others are good hands-on guides pertaining to a specific type of folk art or region of Mexico. One last thing and the most important in my opinion. When you buy and collect Mexican folk art, you are helping artisans earn a living wage through fair trade which enables them to support their families. You’re also supporting the continuation of ancient traditions and generations old craftsmanship, rather than endorsing mass-produced cheaply made copies of the real thing. Now, let’s go shopping!

Tips to use myspace layouts

The popularity of the site Myspace is growing with each day. It is already considered the most popular site on the Internet, because it offers various good features. These features are not seen on any other social networking sites. There are many users who are joining every day, and they will want different layouts for their profiles. Myspace layouts are very popular and so there are plenty available on many sites, all free of cost. But how safe are they to use. Sometimes dealing with the Internet can be challenging. There will be many links on one site, and they will lead to other sites. One always needs to avoid advertising. There are many users who are not too sure about how to create the layouts. Since the popularity of the site has increased so much, there are so many sites that have been designed for Myspace layouts alone. Those who are not familiar with how this is used, will instantly go to Google and start searching. What they are not aware of, is that there will be a lot of advertisements to avoid, as there will be a lot of links that are posted on several sites. Some users may even look at certain profile layouts and will want to customize theirs too the same way. By wanting to do so, they will immediately want to search for the same layouts. Thus a little effort should be taken when hunting for good Myspace layouts. One must make sure that there will be no spamming involved, as this might lead to a lot of time being wasted. While looking for good layouts it is better for one to keep in mind what they need exactly. If at all there are sites that involve many links as well as advertisements they can be avoided. It is good to find a very simple site, which has good designs, and not any back links from these layout designers. By using good layouts, you will have to make sure it hacks the profile of Myspace profile. By doing so, you will be able to customize all aspects of the profile one by one. Thus the results will be better too. This is far better than just getting an all-new layout, which will not allow you to make changes as you please. You must also know how to change the codes when applying the layouts, as there will be many to choose from. If you are not familiar with what you need, or how to use these layouts, then you must be able to get help from someone. Those who are familiar with this will also give some inputs about this. Many users are likely to get bored with looking through so many sites, to choose from so many layouts. This can be narrowed down to a few by doing a little research.