A Woman's Guide to Writing a Great Profile

OK…the time has come. You have joined an online dating service or two. Now you must write that all-important profile… the one that will attract attention and reel in the man of your dreams… but where to start? Maybe writing isn’t even something you think you do all that well. Even so, you can do this.

The first thing is to be absolutely honest about yourself. You are looking for that man who will like…maybe someday love…YOU….THE REAL YOU! Examine past relationships and list the things that you liked and the things you did not like. If he smoked in the house and you hated it, you won’t like it any better the next time. If you love cats and will always want to own one or more, say that you are an animal lover and want indoor pets. Someone who hates cats or is allergic to them is not the guy for you.

Accent the things that make you unique. If you play the piano well, you really want Mr. Right to appreciate it. If you run in marathons, a couch potato is not a good match. If you love art, you really don’t want a man who thinks Picasso is an ice cream flavor.

Describe the things that are vital in your life. If volunteering is the one thing that makes you feel useful and worthwhile, you want someone who would, at the very least, support you if not join you in your volunteer projects. When you get beyond superficial things, you will attract men who share your values.

Invest in your online profile by hiring a professional photographer for your first online picture. This is so important. The picture is the FIRST thing men see. The second thing is that they read what you have written about yourself. Some online dating sites even provide you with a list of photographers in your area that specialize in online dating site photos.

Dating Services – The Way to the Future

A few decades back, the traditional way to bring two people together is through a hook up. Your friend arranges a blind date between you and her friend, or her boyfriend's friend. Now we all know how tragic a blind date can be sometimes. That is why we seek help from professional matchmakers. These companies provide what we call dating services.

What are the different kinds of dating services available? The most common one is called online dating service. This works by filling out a registration form, creating a public profile, and browsing through the database for possible dates. These may also involve exchanges of messages or emails, and a few days or weeks to wait. While online dating may be fun, it is still wise to exercise caution in giving out personal data to other people. They may seem trustworthy, but we can only hope that we know them well enough for them not to use this information for bad reasons.

Another kind of dating service is through phone. Since the mobile phone has become widely available, the phone dating service has dramatically grown over the past years. It is faster, more convenient, and relatively cheaper. While websites which provide internet dating services can charge high fees, phone dating services are often free. What you would have to pay for is the standard rate per text message that you send. Because your cell phone is obviously smaller than a computer or laptop, it is easier to access your profile and check messages from prospective dates.

Still another kind of dating service is through video. These services are the ones that are often advertised on TV. Here's how it works. You go to the office of the video dating services company and make a personal ad. How you project yourself would have to depend on your preference. Your video shall then be viewed by other clients, who'd then contact you through the phone company or service provider.

There is also what is called as speed dating. Here, a group of men and women are made to interact with each one for a fixed short time. After meeting everyone, each of them shall fill out a form to indicate which ones did they connect with the most. If the answer is the same for any two people, then they are made to meet again, perhaps to talk or plan for a real date.

What are the sources of dating services? You may find these dating services companies in the yellow pages, through their ads on TV, or online. Of all the sources, it is the internet that is most important. This is because of the wide scope that it encompasses. But precisely because it is wide in scope that makes it more attractive to scam artists. Beware of people who ask for money.

The bottom line is, dating services will continue to change the dating scene radically. In the past, while most people shun the idea of asking for professional help with regard to dating, the same is not true at present. Because things are moving rather fast, we need to keep up with the times. That is why dating services and professional match making companies continue to multiply as the days pass. So what are you waiting for? Find the dating service that would best suit you.

Popular Online Dating Activities

All types of everyday activities are growing in popularity online these days like sharing photos and greeting cards. In fact, both of these even go hand in hand with online dating opportunities, one of the most popular online activities for singles today.

Before actually meeting in person, many dates get acquainted online first. Here’s how.

Photos - As a wonderful keepsake of your budding romance, create an online photo album for your new cyber-mate.  Include digital photos of favorite outdoor scenes, pets, flowers, cars, silly moments, your computer corner or laptop, etc.  Then you’ll even have more to discuss during online dates via emails and chat rooms. Search for “photo albums” to find places that store your photos.

Greeting Cards- Regardless of where the person lives, you can mail a greeting card. If privacy and security is an issue, check into renting an inexpensive P.O. Box (check the Yellow Pages). You do not have to be an artist to make something homemade and special for the new friend in your life.  Even making a special, personalized greeting card would be appreciated and show your date that you care enough to take the time needed to make something by hand.  Search your favorite search engine for online greeting cards to send, too. They range from free to low cost and can be sent in a click.

So get online and get active! No need to risk meeting in person until you get more familiar with each other online first. So take the online plunge!

Music Download Sites

Finding the right music download websites used to be somewhat of a challenge. You see, traditionally there are two kinds of music download sites – the good ones and the legal ones. The big record labels, you see, have not wanted you to download music online. As a matter of fact, historically anytime they find any of their artists on a music download site, they will try to get it shut down. They are trying to protect their interests, preventing music piracy which can cut into business. The problem is that the Internet goes on anyway. People want to go to music sites and share music files, and one way or another they will be able to do this.

In the meantime, however, independent music download sites have flourished. The great thing about the Internet is that it has really shifted things away from commercial music. The big radio stations, it is true, are still controlled by a few large media corporations who put profits ahead of art or honesty, but it really matters less and less nowadays. People can go onto the web and listen to almost anything they want to. Among the music download sites available nowadays are places like MySpace where bands can share their music with their fans, getting a taste of the songs for free. Music downloading, apparently, is only bad news for the extremely big musicians. For the rest of us playing the music game, It is the best thing that has happened in years, and that is no lie.

All the sites for free music downloads have really showed the industry that it has to keep up with the times or face financial ruination. Up until this point, the music industry has used digital rights management or DRM, as well as extremely expensive litigation, to keep people from file trading online. Nowadays, however, they realize that if they want to keep the youth market, they have to make their songs available on music download sites. Music downloading sites are getting easier and easier to use, including more and more music, and costing less and less to subscribe to nowadays. It is amazing how much the available technology changes the culture around it. We are witnessing  the single biggest revolution since Gutenberg invented The printing press. I don't think that anyone knows where it will go from here, but its effects on phenomena like music download sites and news reporting has already been substantial.

5 Ways to Ask a Girl on a Date

Do you want to ask a girl out on a date?  If so, you may be curious as to what your options are.  How can you ask?  Better yet, how should you ask?  Continue reading on for five ways to ask a girl for a date and information on which approach is the best.

1 – In Person

By far, the best way to ask a girl on a date is to do so in person.  Whether you are a teenage boy asking a teen girl or an adult asking a woman on a date, do it in person.  This increases your chance of getting a yes.  Why?  Because it is personal.

Asking a girl for a date in person is the best way to get a yes, but it can be hard.  If you are new to dating or just ended a long-term relationship, flirting and dating may be weird.  It can be difficult to jump right in.  The best way to get over your fear is to just do it.  Ask a girl on a date.  It is simple as that.  However, if you are nervous try striking up a casual conversation first.  If you see a good opportunity to ask for a date, like if movies or restaurants come up, ask.

2 – Over-the-Phone

If you are unable to work up the courage to ask a girl on a date in person, the phone is the next best approach to take.  Do you have her phone number?  If so, make the call.  When doing so, it is best to get right to the point.  If this is a woman you just met, she may be puzzled if you just call her to strike up a conversation.  If she gave you her phone number, she was hoping you would call to ask for a date, so do it!

With today’s technology, many guys use cell phones to communicate.  If you use yours, stick to a traditional call.  Sending a text message takes a lot of pressure off, but it is very impersonal.  If you do opt for a text message, avoid popular acronyms.  Instead of U, actually type out you.  This simple step will go a long way and help to make a good impression.

3 – By Email

As previously stated, you should avoid text messages at all costs.  The same with email messages.  Email messages are quick and convenient, but they aren’t very personal.  A girl wants to know you are interested in her, not that you have ulterior motives.  She can’t determine this by reading a date invitation by email.  As with text messages, if you do send an email, be sure to avoid acronyms.  Type each word out fully and greet your recipient by name.

As an important note, how did you get the girl’s email?  If you just met a woman at a bar, did you ask for her email address or first try to get her phone number?  If you asked for a phone number and got an email address instead, it may be best to move on.  There is a reason why she only provided you with her email.  It is easier to ask for a date through the computer, but it is easier to reject one too.

4 – By Instant Messaging

Even with the popularity of text messaging, many teens and adults still use instant messaging programs, like AOL Instant Messenger.  In most cases, you should avoid asking a girl on a date through these programs.  Yes, the are convenient, but they are impersonal and will make you seem lazy.

The only exceptions to the no dates through instant messaging programs are online dating services and those who you rarely see.  Is there a girl you met from another school?  Since you may not see her everyday, but talk to her online, it is okay to ask for a date through an instant messaging program.  Nonetheless, first try placing a phone call.  If you are an adult who uses an online dating service, you may encounter some women who are cautious about giving their phone numbers.  In these cases, offer to make contact through an instant messaging program first.

5 – Through Your Friends

If you are nervous about asking a girl on a date, you may turn to your friends.  It sounds like a good approach, but avoid it.  You will seem like a chicken.  The only instance in which your friends should get involved is with blind dates.

The Dangers of Adult Dating Services

Have you visited a website offering adult dating services? More often than not, these sites have really enticing advertisements. They boast of millions of members and post success stories and testimonials. But while adult dating can be fun and exciting, there are dangers that these internet sites do not include. Before you decide to engage their services, here are some things to note.

When we speak of this kind of internet or online dating service, we do not mean the ordinary dating service. The word "adult" indicates that you want to pursue a more mature, even sexual, relationship with somebody. This makes it different from the ordinary dating service that we know. That is why when you decide to meet someone from this site, do not expect a friendly casual date. More often than not, the person from the other end expects something more.

That is why it is important to be careful in giving out personal details about you, your work or residence. Only when you have developed trust between each other can you exchange details. Never give details to someone you barely know. Also, do not give out information if you see that the other person seems to avoid answering personal questions.

Should you decide to meet face to face, do so in a safe public place. Never invite him home for dinner during the first meeting. While you may trust the person to a certain degree, it is still unwise for you to bring him to your place that soon. For all you know, he may be an ex-convict, a rapist, or a serial killer. Inform a friend of your plans beforehand – where and when you'll meet, your date's name, and others.

Be careful of dates who ask for money. He or she may come up with stories about some financial difficulty. Because you've somehow developed a more intimate relationship with the person, you believe everything that he or she says, and end up giving him or her some money. Or she can reside in another state, and asks that you send her some money for a plane or bus ticket. Because you start to have some feelings for the person and would want to see her badly, you send her money for the tickets. Only that she never comes.

Another warning sign is when the person displays some erratic behavior. He may seem quiet and sincere at one time. The next moment, he shouts at you and behaves rather violently. After that, he apologizes and promises not to behave that way again. Mood swings or erratic behavior could be indicative of some serious mental disorder that he may have.

These are only some of the dangers that you may encounter should you join these websites. But these should not deter you from joining just the same. If you want to have some adult fun, then adult dating services is the thing for you. There are many sites available for you to choose from. But before joining any of these sites or deciding to meet anyone from it, exercise caution at all times. Check for reviews or feedback from former members. Visit websites which actually list down some well-recommended dating services websites. Adult dating can actually be fun, if you know how to play the game. Enjoy!

Cheap Hobbies

It is important to have a hobby, and important to pick the right one. Finding something that requires just the right level of dedication, addresses one of your interests, and doesn't cost too much money can be difficult, but it is important. Unfortunately, many of the more popular low cost hobbies are not universally appealing. Hobbies like knitting, writing, and painting are relatively inexpensive, but they only cater to a certain type of personality. Many people like something more action-packed. Nonetheless, even if your hobby appears to be expensive you don't have to spend a fortune on it. Finding cheap hobbies is all in your approach.

Many people stay away from radio controlled cars and planes because they assume it will be expensive. If you approach it in the right way, however, it doesn't really have to be. There are low cost radio control kits that are perfect for beginners. They are slower, more forgiving, and easier to use than the more advanced models. You will still have a lot of fun with them, and they will let you discover whether you picked the right hobby for you.

Of course, as you get better you will want to buy models that are better too. Nonetheless, there are still ways to make sure that this will remain a cheap hobby. Basically, the more you are willing to do yourself, the less money it will cost. If you buy a fully completed kit which you just have to snap together, it will be more expensive than if you do the work yourself. Even better, you can buy plans and build the thing from scratch. If you are willing to put in the work, radio controlled kits can be one of the best cheap hobbies. You will still end up with an excellent racer, flyer, or whatever, and you will save money in doing it.

With most cheap hobbies, you probably should know someone who knows what they're doing before you get into it. This can save you a lot of hassle in the long run. Go in to your local hobby shop and see if there is an organization for people who are into what you're doing. You would be surprised by how many groups like this there are. Whether you're into model trains, radio controlled vehicles, tabletop role-playing, or something else altogether, you will be able to find people nearby who share your interests and can make cheap hobbies out of otherwise expensive pursuits.

Growing Online Dating Relationships

Just like regular real-world relationships, online relationships need tending, to grow over time. Here are some quick growing tips.

1.    Take time and make time. Does your online date get in touch with you regularly? Do you do the same? Neglecting virtual meetings can be considered abuse or neglect, so treat each other’s time with respect. If it’s lacking, might mean time to move on.

2.    Communication needs to “feel” right for both of you. If one of you is too pushy about meeting, for instance, that can give off bad vibes. So don’t rush. Take time to learn more about each other and develop trust.

3.    Respect each others privacy. Don’t share personal email addresses or digital photos online, for example, if your online date sent you the information in confidence. 

4.    Share special online and offline fun times. Online – send greeting cards, links to favorite places to upload digital photos of your favorite pet, download music and video clips, post on favorite forums of interest. Offline- if you’re exchanging addresses or post office boxes, send print greeting cards and postcards, small items from your area (like a key chain with your state bird).

Tend your online relationship. Water it with care and over time it can sprout and grow.

Innovative Tribal Designs

In the world of tattoo designs there are thousands of potential tattoos to choose from.  Each and every day, there are new designs added to studios and online tattoo websites.  Tattoos are becoming more and more popular these days, making the designs all the more important.  Although flowers and other designs are popular, tribal designs seem to be among the most common.

The one thing that sticks out with tribal tattoos is the innovation. Tribal tattoos feature unique artwork, with most being more or less solid black with no other colors.  Tribal can have several different meanings as well, as it all depends on the image that the artist is trying to bring to life.  Tribal can either be a design that the artist already had or the artist can take your feedback and do the entire tattoo freehand as he goes along.  Experienced tattoo artists can normally do great work freehand – as it gives you the ability to make changes as he goes along.

Some of the most popular designs with tribal tattoos include skulls and letters.  Unique designs are also very popular, especially those that wrap around the arms or the back.  Tribal can be put virtually anywhere on the body, just like any other tattoo.  Depending on the tattoo design you have in mind, it may take quite a few hours before the artist has finished.  With the larger tattoos, you may need to come back to have the work finished.

Before you decide to get a tribal tattoo, you’ll first need to decide on the design.  If you don’t have an idea in mind, this can take you quite a bit of time.  You can look online for some ideas, or look at some of the already made designs at your local tattoo studio.  If you see something that you like but you want to be a bit more creative, you can always add to the design.  For example if you see a tribal skull design that you like, you can make it bigger or change just about anything in the tattoo design that would make it unique for you.

If you want the entire tattoo to be unique and creative, you can always have your tattoo artist draw the entire tattoo from scratch.  You can give input as well if you want, to ensure that the design matches what you have in mind.  Drawing a custom tattoo can take anywhere from an hour to several hours, depending on the size and detail of the tattoo.  Tribal tattoos that have a lot of detail can be a bit complex, both to draw and to tattoo.  No matter what you have in mind for your design – you can rest assured that it can be accomplished with tribal design tattoos.

Cheap Gucci Handbags

Many of us love Gucci purses beyond comprehension. However, not many of us are willing to fork out the cash required to purchase an authentic purse by this well known and well loved designer. Cheap Gucci handbags are out there, honestly. I’m going to share some quick ideas to help you land one for yourself.

First of all, skip the trendy boutique in the nearest big city. It is very unlikely that you will find a cheap Gucci handbag there at all. If you do, you may find that someone is already purchasing it. They don’t stay on the shelves very long when they’re on sale. Competition from other buyers can be pretty fierce so unless you know the store manager you aren’t likely to get your hands on cheap Gucci handbags there.

Online shopping is a whole other animal. If you are willing to spend some quality time shopping with your PC then you will find a new shopping world filled with items like cheap Gucci handbags. I know it sounds too good to be true but it is. Online shopping is a lot less competitive. The shops are in competition, not the buyer.

The reason for the big switch is pretty simple. There are so many online shops to choose. When you enter a store, it’s you, other customers and maybe, maybe one or two cheap Gucci handbags on the shelves. When you shop online, there are a plethora of stores with more products options available.

The online stores will be more likely to try to keep prices as low as possible because with a click of a mouse, you can be on another site that may have a better deal on cheap Gucci handbags. Of course, these items are not always at rock bottom prices but there are some strategies that will get you affordable designer purses at discount prices.

First of all, try to look for last season’s styles. The older the purse is, the cheaper it will be in many cases. The latest releases are going to be more expensive. If you can get your hands on cheap Gucci handbags from last year or the year before you will be less likely to pay a large sum for them.

Replica designer purses are another great option for penny pinchers. If you’re willing to tote around a knock off purse, then you can find plenty of cheap Gucci handbags that are just as beautiful as the authentic designer purses.