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What Outlet Malls Don't Want You to Know

by m$$y_ te on January 24, 2012

What Outlet Malls Don't Want You to know

By DivineCaroline | Financially Fit

What Outlet Malls Don't Want You to know

Outlet malls have exploded in popularity in recent years, becoming one of the fastest-growing segments of American retail. For many shoppers, this siren song of bargains and high-quality designer merchandise at a low price is too irresistible to avoid, and they simply must stop to shop. But beneath all the fancy sparkle and fresh spackle of the countless outlets popping up all over the country, do they really deliver all they promise? It turns out that outlets have a few sneaky ways of tricking us into thinking we're getting a much better deal than we actually are. 

The Merchandise Isn't What You Think 
The original outlet and factory stores sold overstocked, discontinued items, and imperfect merchandise unfit for retail sale; that's what made the prices so cheap. But nowadays, the majority of common outlet stores supplement their stock with merchandise created especially for outlet-store sale. These lines carry the brand name, but they're made with lower-quality fabrics and cheaper construction techniques. The companies depend on customers' inability to tell the difference between the quality of real designer merchandise and the lower-quality knockoffs carrying the same label. The knockoffs may be cheap, but that cheapness comes at the expense of quality. 


It's All About the Marketing 
Merchandise at outlet stores usually comes with a price tag that prominently displays both the retail and the outlet price: "Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price $100, Our Price $25." The tags lead customers to believe that they're getting a huge discount. But the truth is that the listed MSRP is whatever the store wants it to be-there's no guarantee that the item is really worth that much, or that it was ever listed for that price at a retail store. This trick, called "reference pricing," is widely used to assuage shoppers' anxieties and loosen their purse strings by convincing them that they're saving more money than they've spent.


The Location is Remote So You Never Leave Empty-Handed

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Shopping and Zodiac Signs

by m$$y_ te on December 05, 2011

Shopping and Zodiac Signs


Shopping and Zodiac Signs

Aries:
When looking forward to a great shopping experience, trust an Aries friend. They are the people to be with if you wish to bag the best bargains, shop at the trendiest places and have fun in the process. They will make your shopping experience memorable and worthwhile with their valuable advice. Always the ones to remain updated about the latest fashions and stores, Aries can guide you to buy a perfect-fit. To top that, they themselves are so extravagant that they will not remind you to curb your desire for that super-expensive dress. Just ensure keeping pace with the over-enthusiastic Aries. Plus, be ready to ignore if they goof up slightly in haste – won't harm you much anyway.
 

Taurus:
A Taurus native is headstrong, and does not really care about what others think of him/ her. Thus, he will not mind being labelled as eccentric or bizarre. Taureans love being in their skin, and prefer to remain different from the crowd. They are bold and daring when it comes to their choice of colour pallet, styles, prints or patterns. Not the ones to blindly follow the fads, trust a 'Bull' gal when planning to buy a style statement. She will not let you down! Taurus men, contradictory to their female counterparts, are not interested in shopping. One may not even find them inclined towards discounts and sales. Don't worry, though, as a Taurus female absolutely loves to devour the 'Sale season'.

Gemini: 
Geminis love to boast, and when it comes to shopping they are no different. They will first demand that one listens to them; it is them who will decide which is the best place and time to go shopping. Be ready to haggle and bargain with the shopkeepers when you take along a true-blue Gemini. Thus, if heading to a flea market, a pavement bazaar, a great bargain place or a local market, remember to take along this flirtatious yet practical sign with you. In fact, you may actually be discouraged from shopping at malls or boutiques by these people. Strikingly, Gemini men are calmer and cooler than the females of this sign. They would patiently enjoy holding bags of their fellow shopper, and shall let you shop more independently.

Cancer:
Cancer men usually make for excellent shopping partners. Patient and generous, they rarely remind their fellow shoppers about their credit-card limits, even if the fellow partner happens to be their wife or girlfriend. And this limitless shopping would imply deep holes in their pocket. Cancerians do not like to to lend free advice or to interfere in other person's shopping extravaganza. Cancer women may, at times, give their valuable inputs, but most often they too enjoy being silent spectators, as their loved one goes on piling the goodies. When it comes to their personal shopping, Crabs like to do it in their own sacred company. They do not mind waiting in the wings for their turn, and will rarely shop while their sweetheart is at it.

Leo:
The mighty lions are too proud and restless to be taken along for shopping, especially when the activity is not directed towards them. Hence, tag along a Leo companion if you have plans of hanging out, parties or fun activities – the fun is guaranteed. But, it is not a great idea to bore them with your personal shopping bit. Yet, if you still want to take them along, do not make a mistake of going to a shabby shop/ market. The place has to be in tune with the elegant and regal tastes of a Lion. Usually egocentric and impatient, Leos may act a bit selfish. If they do not approve of the shopping-place, they may even act grumpy. Remember, it is unlikely that you will be invited when they themselves wish to scour the market. 

Virgo:
Virgins are more than happy to accompany their loved ones for an impromptu shopping trip. This makes them a shopper's delight, as they will not mind ambling through the dusty lanes of a busy marketplace scouring for a perfect dress. But, the cautious Virgins can turn out to be a shopkeeper's nightmare. Given their overcautious, sceptical nature, they may make you check out different places, compare prices, and only then allow you to finally buy the stuff. And, this may include detailed comparisons from e-bay and other shopping websites too! So, if you are not one of those over-analysing, penny counting shoppers, chances are that you may feel dragged by this Virgo streak. When looking to buy a reliable consumer durable, do not forget to seek their well-researched advice, though.

Libra:
Librans may not really be passionate about shopping, yet their elegant style and a fine eye for all things classy, expensive and exquisite more than makes up for their lack of zeal. They are, beyond doubt, brand conscious, and may even direct you to uber chic designer haunts. However, you'll rarely find them shopping with a lot of fuss and detail. They do not take a lot of time in picking up what is most suitable, even if it is their own bridal attire. They often pick up their stuff randomly, and are usually happy to let someone else do the honours. However, their good taste and helpful attitude can definitely make others' shopping easy and interesting. So, if you are planning to buy a chic and classy evening gown or an 'it' bag, you know whom to rely on.

Scorpio:
Scorpio husbands make good shopping partners and same applies to the women too. Yet, do not expect them to be as passionate in this department as they are in other arenas of life. It is just another task in the already long list of their routine work. When it comes to shopping, they tend to be laid back, especially the men. They prefer to sit back and look around while others shop. Although, Scorpios are least likely to be whiners, they are glad to get over with these shopping sprees. Once their partner confirms that they have shopped enough, they hurriedly pay the bill and head to their abode. Additionally, expect them to head for an elaborate luncheon or at least a gooey-choco treat once your bags are full. 

Sagittarius:
Coolest dressers as per their own diktat, Sagittarius women are usually updated, and love to indulge in the season's hottest trends and the best bargains. Although, they themselves are avid shoppers, they may not make equally great shopping partners. The 'archers' tend to be quite self-immersed, and you will need to adjust your shopping time as per their 'super-important' schedules. But, a smart friend can always use this egocentric trait to their advantage. Praise their style, follow their time-line and they will give you the most valuable advice. For some unusual stuff, always count them in. Men in this zodiac sign are relatively less self-concerned, and can be patient, while their partner shops at her own pace. Archers, on their own, would rather shop for books and CDs than clothes.

Capricorn:
Not the ones to respond positively to your sudden or bizarre shopping plans, hard working Goats, otherwise, love to shop. They can also be quite-patient shopping partners.  Although impulsive shopping is not their cup of tea, they are more than willing to accompany anyone for window-shopping. And, if you let them know about your shopping plans in advance, they tend to be extremely reliable and prove to be a good helping hand. Class conscious Goats, however, do not enjoy shopping in smaller or down-market places – good quality, classy and elegant are the buzz-words for them. They love scouring designer boutiques or slightly off-beat stores. Chain-stores with their tried and tested labels also allure them. While, Capricorn men do not mind spending hours searching for even a small thing, Capricorn women love to shop for others than for themselves.

Aquarius:
The intellectual water sign of Aquarius is always brimming with ideas, and thus may always have ample ideas as to what or where one should shop. With their slightly detached personalities, initially they may come across as too self immersed to be invited for amiable, fun-filled retail therapy. But, on the contrary, this Universal water bearer can be a pretty enthusiastic and helpful shopping-mate. With their eclectic sense they are capable of guiding their friends or partners into buying things that are 'different' yet appealing and classy. They have a huge friend circle, and are avid net-surfers, because of which they are updated and well-informed people, and often possess the perfect knowledge about the sale season, exchange offers et al. Trust them to fetch you the best bargains. They do not like to spend money, and thus you may not see them buying much for themselves, though.

Pisces:
The emotional, laid-back Fish will love the idea of bunking the office and going for shopping. Romantics at heart and in action, they are in love with the concept of gifting. They enjoy buying small and cute knick-knacks, though usually for their near and dear ones, and if you are headed to any place similar, they will love to accompany you. Being accompanied by a Pisces shopper implies that he/ she will end up buying more than you. There is nothing to be surprised though, as most Picsces are impulsive shoppers. They make great leisure shopping mates, as they are least likely to remind you of the clock ticking-by. And, given their tolerant streak, you can be assured of a stress-free retail therapy session. However, these people tend to be quite confused themselves, so do not go to them seeking any shopping advice.
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S*XYTIME: 10 TIPS TO SAFE SELF-PLEASURING

by m$$y_ te on November 02, 2011

Sexytime: 10 Tips to Safe Self-Pleasuring

Masturbation is nothing to be ashamed of. Here are some tips to keep the experience safe, fun, and fabulous. By Ana Santos
safe masturbation smile bed woman

Photo source: sxc.hu; photo used for illustrative purposes only.

Contrary to the warnings you may have been told when you were young, masturbation is actually good for you. It is the safest kind of sex; it won’t get you pregnant, and because there are no bodily fluids exchanged, there is no danger of sexually transmitted infections. 

According to this comprehensive article on Fox News, there are numerous benefits of masturbation for women, including:
 

 

  • Building a resistance to yeast infections.
  • Combating pre-menstrual tension and other physical conditions associated with their menstrual cycles, like cramps.
  • Relieving painful menstruation by increasing blood flow to the pelvic region; reducing pelvic cramping and related backaches.
  • Relieving chronic back pain and increasing threshold for pain.


For couples who masturbate on occasion or regularly, sex with yourself can:

  • Be empowering, especially by helping you to feel better about your body, genitals and sexual response.
  • Deliver some of your most intense orgasms ever, which you’ll now know how to recreate with that special someone!
  • Increase your sexual awareness, giving you the opportunity to discover what turns you on--the sensations and movements that work best to give you the greatest of sexual gratification.
  • Have the potential to enhance your sex life in general, boosting your sexual confidence and turning you into a better lover.
  • Get you or your partner off the hook if neither is available or not in the mood.


So if solo lovin’ is so good for you, what could actually be wrong about it? Well, doing it wrong or unsafely. So before you take some time out to be with yourself, here are some useful things to remember.  

 

1. BE CAREFUL ABOUT WHAT YOU USE.

Do not use sharp metal or steel objects, so lay off the pens or other items with small balls or beads. Avoid objects with parts that can snap off. Just remember, unless it is attached to a living, breathing human, nothing long and pointy, please.

 

2. DO NOT RUB TOO HARD. 



According to sexologist Dr. Jagdip Shah, when you masturbate and are in heightened sense of arousal, you may not feel that you are actually hurting yourself. Don’t rub too hard on your vagina or clitoris. If it suddenly starts to hurt, stop. Self-stimulation should feel good, not hurtful. If you find blood and it is not your period, see your OB-Gyn.

 

3. DO IT IN MODERATION IF YOU ARE PREGNANT.

Most doctors will say that it is okay to masturbate even when you’re pregnant, which is a good thing since pregnancy, they say, kicks your hormones into overdrive. But you may want to put it off during the last few months of your pregnancy as orgasms may cause contractions and premature labor. If yours is a delicate pregnancy, check in with your doctor. If you’re too shy to ask your doctor, abstaining might be your best option.
 

 

 

4. KEEP IT CLEAN, NEAT, AND TRIMMED.

No, we’re not talking about the hair down there, we’re talking about your fingernails. If your preferred method of self-exploration is digital stimulation, make sure you wash your hands before touching yourself to avoid infections. You should also keep your nails neatly trimmed so you don’t accidentally cut or scrape yourself with ragged nails or those pesky hangnails.

 

5. GET LUBED.

When it comes to going solo, lube is your best friend. Use lubricant that is made for condom use because it mimics the vagina’s natural lubrication. Avoid lotion, petroleum jelly, or baby oil which may harm the ph balance of your vagina.


6. BRING IN THE TOYS.

If you prefer sex toys, make sure you keep them clean. You can also use condoms on them as you would with an actual penis. Just don’t reuse any and remember to use them with lubricant that is specially made for condoms so that they don’t break. Clean them after each use, and remember that the last word on sex toys is no sharing! 



7. SKIP YOUR FRUITS AND VEGGIES.

Don’t laugh. Some people want to experiment with something innocuous or something that’s just readily there. Hey, the guy in American Pie helped himself to apple pie in quite a figurative fashion. So if those eggplants and bananas are making you curious, just move on and be aware of insects and other chemicals that may be in them--even after they have been washed.


8. THE ELECTRIC TOOTHBRUSH IS NOT A POCKET VIBRATOR.

For some, the vibrating hum of an electric toothbrush provides a pleasant, tingling sensation. Think twice about using it as a sex toy, though. The bristles may get caught in your nether regions and that will not be pleasant. It might be better to invest in another toy that is actually made for personal stimulation and pleasure.

 

9. SOAP AND SHAMPOO.

If you like staying in the shower and letting that jet shower spray spread over to other parts if your body, remember not to use soap or shampoo for added slippery wetness. These may sting rather than stimulate you.

 

10. BEWARE OF GETTING ADDICTED.

There are people who get hooked on self-pleasure and may prefer their toys to an actual relationship. According to this article from MedicineNet.com, masturbation can be considered a problem “when it inhibits sexual activity with a partner, is done in public, or causes significant distress to the person.” Like Charlotte in that episode of Sex and the City, be careful that the toy or the act don't take over your life.

 

 

source: femalenetwork.com

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WHAT YOU SHOULD DO IF ROB IN AN ATM BOOTH

by m$$y_ te on October 04, 2011

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO IF ROB IN AN ATM BOOTH

When a thief forced you to take money from the ATM, do not argue or resist, you might not know what he or she might do to you. What you should do is to punch your PIN in the reverse...

Eg: If your PIN is 1234, you punch 4321.

The moment you punch in the reverse, the money will come out, but will be stuck into the machine half way out and it will alert the police without the notice of the thief.

Every

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How to get tested for a s**ually transmitted infec

by m$$y_ te on September 11, 2011

How to get tested for a sexually transmitted infection

Are you worried you may have a sexually transmitted infection or STI, but don’t know how to get tested for it? Check out these simplified steps to make the process a little less scary. By Ana Santos

 

sti_testing_main.jpg

 

No one really enjoys going to see the doctor—especially if you suspect you have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and need to get tested for it. Ignorance may be bliss, but suffering through a STI certainly is not.

If left untreated, STIs can lead to serious and painful long-term consequences like infertility and cancer.

Regular testing (every six months) for STIs is recommended if you have had unprotected sex with a partner who engages in high-risk behavior such as using injected drug or having unprotected sex with other (perhaps even multiple) partners.

Female Network visited different health clinics and talked to their staffs to give you a realistic idea of what to expect when getting checked for a sexually transmitted disease (STD).


STEP 1: GETTING CHECKED

You may choose to walk into a clinic and simply ask to for a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or HIV test even without a consultation.  However, it may be more prudent to consult a gynecologist or your family doctor, who may in turn refer you to an infectious diseases doctor, depending on your concern.


STEP 2: FILLING OUT FORMS

You will need to fill out forms with standard personal information such as your name, address, age, and birthday.

HIV testing, however, has an additional requirement since mandatory testing for HIV is unlawful in the Philippines. Alma Moral, the medical laboratory manager of Healthway Clinic, says, “The patient will be asked to sign a consent form certifying that they are voluntarily undergoing this (HIV) test.”

“In addition, the patient will undergo a counseling session with the lab staff assigned to HIV testing. The HIV antibody test, the benefits of taking it, as well as the confidentiality of the test results are also explained,” says Moral.


STEP 3: THE INTERVIEW

Expect to be asked questions about your lifestyle and your sexual history. Don’t worry—most doctors treat STI consultation and testing as a delicate matter and will exercise sensitivity when asking questions.

Dr. Bernadette Seludo, a doctor who speciales in infectious diseases at the Mega Clinic and serves as secretary of the Philippine Hospital Infection Control Society, says that she always tries to establish a rapport and gain the trust of her patients before asking questions. “This is a difficult topic that requires empathy on our part,” says Seludo.

Remember to think about when you first started experiencing symptoms that prompted you to visit the doctor. It is important to tell the truth so that you will be diagnosed properly.

STEP 4: TAKING THE TEST

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