Is it appropriate for a family member to host minor child's birthday without discussing with parent?

My husband and I received an invitation to our daughter's (his biological, my step daughter) 9th birthday party from my husband's sister. She never even called us and asked if we were doing something or if we minded her hosting a party. His sister made arrangements to spend the day with our daughter during her bio mom's weekend as to secure the time with our daughter without us knowing. Is it appropriate and how would you reply?

No, that is inappropriate. She should have discussed this with you and your husband.

Sounds like she did discuss it with the child's mother, who is, also one of the child's parents.

It's a little unusual, but I'm guessing that there are all kind of hurt feelings & past history that lead up to her decision to do it like that.

It's not on your weekend. You don't have to go. If you're not comfortable with this, just go ahead & do your own thing for her birthday, when she's with you.

Wow -- pretty nervy! On the other hand, since she is staying with the bio-mom, I suppose it could be argued that she DID discuss it with a parent -- just not both of them. Why on earth would the sister not discuss it with her brother?

There's a lot else going on here that we don't know about. I'd go to the party, just to see what all the fuss was about -- and because it was my daughter. You could really trip her up by being extraordinarily gracious and calling to ask what you can do to help . . . :-)

If it is the weekend that the child is with the other parent, then there is nothing wrong in what was done. Now if they had planned the party on a day they didn't have "Vistation" etc., then that would be out of line and inconsiderate. Be grateful that the child has loving parents that care, including you as the step parent. Don't get yourself out of sorts in this when it is the other parents allowed visit with the child & on their turf. There is nothing wrong in what have done.

It depends who has main custody and whose weekend the birthday falls on.The custodial parent should really be the one who should have been consulted.

If Bio mum has main custody and the party is arranged for the Bio mum's weekend and you have been invited then I dont see the problem. If it was arranged for one of your weekends or you have main custody then that is a different matter........

Just go and have a nice time. It is the little girls birthday and I am sure she would be very happy that all of her parents, both bio and step, were there.

This is tricky, since it appears that the child's mother agreed.

It seems to me that the aunt was trying to do a nice thing. While divorce is just a fact of life, it can make arrangements for birthdays, graduations and weddings a little more complicated. If the aunt thought she could sidestep some awkwardness by playing host, her heart was in the right place.

It does seem like your daughter's mother ought to have mentioned the party plans. She probably didn't need your permission, but it would have been thoughtful. (It must be a bit of a stunner to get an invi to your child's b-day celebration!)

But, on balance, I'd go. It sounds like you're all trying to make the best choices for a child you love very much, and it would probably mean a lot for her to have everyone together. You can mention to her mom that it was a surprise to get the invitation, and give her a chance to apologize. Maybe it really did just slip her mind?

If I'm misreading the situation, and there's more tension than your message implies, it might be better to sit down with your daughter and explain that you're celebrating separately.

thats so not right and you should confront her and let her know how you fell about what she did.

Completely inappropriate. I get the feeling there is more to this, as a normal person in a healthy family relationship would not pull this cr*p, but if it were me, I'd have to let her know that we definitely had other plans, and she'd have to cancel this event.

That's just weird behavior. How does one go about writing an invitation to someone for their own minor child's party? Creepy...

I would be miffed at first, but it IS a party for your child from a family member who loves her and wants to spend her OWN money.

Of course you should go, but let your sis-in-law know ( and not at the party!!!!) that in the future she must consult you, husband and bio-mom of events regarding your daughter.

Your sister-in-law should have discussed the party with your husband before sending him an invitation.

If your husband believes that plans for the party are appropriate for his daughter, I suggest that both of you go to the party to be supportive of your step-daughter. If you have other plans for a birthday celebration for your step-daughter then go ahead and do it also.

If he does not feel that the plans for the party are appropriate, he needs to talk to his sister and daughter's mother about it.

Good luck. Step-parenting can be so hard.

My first response would be no, it's never appropriate for anyone to make any kind of plans with your child without your permission! However, you are in a different situation. Did your step-daughter's mom know this was going on? Maybe your husband's sister talked it over with her mom and they thought they were being polite by inviting you. She obviously made sure to not intrude on your time with your step-daughter. Did she do this 'secretly' or just by talking through the mom? You say she did it 'as to secure the time with your daughter', do you not allow your daughter time with her? If she didn't okay it with anyone, then definitely handle the situation appropriately and let her know you need to be asked first next time. However, when it's the step-daughter's mom's time with her, and she's okay with this, you really don't have a say in what goes on (unless it causes harm to the child obviously). That's one of the unfortunate side dishes of divorce. Hope your family can work this out!

if it was me i would tell them you already had made birthday plans that exact same day to ask them nicely to ask ahead of time to be sure it'll work out! then be the nice one and say that they can go ahead and have the party. you'll save $ !

Is it appropriate for a family member to host minor child's birthday without discussing with parent?

My husband and I received an invitation to our daughter's (his biological, my step daughter) 9th birthday party from my husband's sister. She never even called us and asked if we were doing something or if we minded her hosting a party. His sister made arrangements to spend the day with our daughter during her bio mom's weekend as to secure the time with our daughter without us knowing. Is it appropriate and how would you reply?

No, that is inappropriate. She should have discussed this with you and your husband.

Sounds like she did discuss it with the child's mother, who is, also one of the child's parents.

It's a little unusual, but I'm guessing that there are all kind of hurt feelings & past history that lead up to her decision to do it like that.

It's not on your weekend. You don't have to go. If you're not comfortable with this, just go ahead & do your own thing for her birthday, when she's with you.

Wow -- pretty nervy! On the other hand, since she is staying with the bio-mom, I suppose it could be argued that she DID discuss it with a parent -- just not both of them. Why on earth would the sister not discuss it with her brother?

There's a lot else going on here that we don't know about. I'd go to the party, just to see what all the fuss was about -- and because it was my daughter. You could really trip her up by being extraordinarily gracious and calling to ask what you can do to help . . . :-)

If it is the weekend that the child is with the other parent, then there is nothing wrong in what was done. Now if they had planned the party on a day they didn't have "Vistation" etc., then that would be out of line and inconsiderate. Be grateful that the child has loving parents that care, including you as the step parent. Don't get yourself out of sorts in this when it is the other parents allowed visit with the child & on their turf. There is nothing wrong in what have done.

It depends who has main custody and whose weekend the birthday falls on.The custodial parent should really be the one who should have been consulted.

If Bio mum has main custody and the party is arranged for the Bio mum's weekend and you have been invited then I dont see the problem. If it was arranged for one of your weekends or you have main custody then that is a different matter........

Just go and have a nice time. It is the little girls birthday and I am sure she would be very happy that all of her parents, both bio and step, were there.

This is tricky, since it appears that the child's mother agreed.

It seems to me that the aunt was trying to do a nice thing. While divorce is just a fact of life, it can make arrangements for birthdays, graduations and weddings a little more complicated. If the aunt thought she could sidestep some awkwardness by playing host, her heart was in the right place.

It does seem like your daughter's mother ought to have mentioned the party plans. She probably didn't need your permission, but it would have been thoughtful. (It must be a bit of a stunner to get an invi to your child's b-day celebration!)

But, on balance, I'd go. It sounds like you're all trying to make the best choices for a child you love very much, and it would probably mean a lot for her to have everyone together. You can mention to her mom that it was a surprise to get the invitation, and give her a chance to apologize. Maybe it really did just slip her mind?

If I'm misreading the situation, and there's more tension than your message implies, it might be better to sit down with your daughter and explain that you're celebrating separately.

thats so not right and you should confront her and let her know how you fell about what she did.

Completely inappropriate. I get the feeling there is more to this, as a normal person in a healthy family relationship would not pull this cr*p, but if it were me, I'd have to let her know that we definitely had other plans, and she'd have to cancel this event.

That's just weird behavior. How does one go about writing an invitation to someone for their own minor child's party? Creepy...

I would be miffed at first, but it IS a party for your child from a family member who loves her and wants to spend her OWN money.

Of course you should go, but let your sis-in-law know ( and not at the party!!!!) that in the future she must consult you, husband and bio-mom of events regarding your daughter.

Your sister-in-law should have discussed the party with your husband before sending him an invitation.

If your husband believes that plans for the party are appropriate for his daughter, I suggest that both of you go to the party to be supportive of your step-daughter. If you have other plans for a birthday celebration for your step-daughter then go ahead and do it also.

If he does not feel that the plans for the party are appropriate, he needs to talk to his sister and daughter's mother about it.

Good luck. Step-parenting can be so hard.

My first response would be no, it's never appropriate for anyone to make any kind of plans with your child without your permission! However, you are in a different situation. Did your step-daughter's mom know this was going on? Maybe your husband's sister talked it over with her mom and they thought they were being polite by inviting you. She obviously made sure to not intrude on your time with your step-daughter. Did she do this 'secretly' or just by talking through the mom? You say she did it 'as to secure the time with your daughter', do you not allow your daughter time with her? If she didn't okay it with anyone, then definitely handle the situation appropriately and let her know you need to be asked first next time. However, when it's the step-daughter's mom's time with her, and she's okay with this, you really don't have a say in what goes on (unless it causes harm to the child obviously). That's one of the unfortunate side dishes of divorce. Hope your family can work this out!

if it was me i would tell them you already had made birthday plans that exact same day to ask them nicely to ask ahead of time to be sure it'll work out! then be the nice one and say that they can go ahead and have the party. you'll save $ !

Do I need a Modem to connect to a host computer?

I just ordered a Dell online, and realized that it didn't have a modem after i hit confirm order. This compter will connect to a host computer via wireless connection. Do I need the modem?

No.

yes

You possible do not need a Modem at all but if you are connecting through a Wireless Connection then, you will need a Wireless Adapter or a Wireless Router to connect to the Access Point or simply your Host Computer.

BYE

Modems are used to connect to computers by a telephone line.

If you are wanting to connect to computers by a wireless signal, you need a wireless card or adptor. If the computer you ordered is a laptop, it will probably have a wireless card. They are becoming standard in laptops.

If you ordered a desktop, it probably will NOT have a wireless card. Since a desktop does not normally move, there is no need to go wireless. Just run a cable to it. With a cable you get speeds up to 300mps. With wireless you get only 54mps at the best, and often far less then that.

If you need a wireless adaptor, you can get them at any electronics store or Walmart for around $40-50US. Recommend that you go with a USB adaptor that has a stand with a cable to hold it. Then you can move it around if needed for best signal. Plus move it from computer to computer if you want.

But for wireless connections, you do not need a modem.

Maybe... just joking!!!

You don't need a modem if you are connecting wirelessly.

lan card is must in both computer.

no modem required.

Do I need a Modem to connect to a host computer?

I just ordered a Dell online, and realized that it didn't have a modem after i hit confirm order. This compter will connect to a host computer via wireless connection. Do I need the modem?

No.

yes

You possible do not need a Modem at all but if you are connecting through a Wireless Connection then, you will need a Wireless Adapter or a Wireless Router to connect to the Access Point or simply your Host Computer.

BYE

Modems are used to connect to computers by a telephone line.

If you are wanting to connect to computers by a wireless signal, you need a wireless card or adptor. If the computer you ordered is a laptop, it will probably have a wireless card. They are becoming standard in laptops.

If you ordered a desktop, it probably will NOT have a wireless card. Since a desktop does not normally move, there is no need to go wireless. Just run a cable to it. With a cable you get speeds up to 300mps. With wireless you get only 54mps at the best, and often far less then that.

If you need a wireless adaptor, you can get them at any electronics store or Walmart for around $40-50US. Recommend that you go with a USB adaptor that has a stand with a cable to hold it. Then you can move it around if needed for best signal. Plus move it from computer to computer if you want.

But for wireless connections, you do not need a modem.

Maybe... just joking!!!

You don't need a modem if you are connecting wirelessly.

lan card is must in both computer.

no modem required.

What is a fun-creative way to host a cookie exchange for teenage girls?

I wanna do something very fun for the girls and I don't know what to do.

I don't just wanna layout the cookies on a table and say "Grab 2 of each". I want to make it fun and enjoyable for everyone.

Please help. :]

Thanks for your help.

Give each girl a small place on the table or counter and have them decorate a display for their cookies. You could ask them beforehand to come up with a theme for their cookies and their display (with recipe cards)

Have them decorate their own cookie tins or make them yourself and hand them out but make each one different.

What is a fun-creative way to host a cookie exchange for teenage girls?

I wanna do something very fun for the girls and I don't know what to do.

I don't just wanna layout the cookies on a table and say "Grab 2 of each". I want to make it fun and enjoyable for everyone.

Please help. :]

Thanks for your help.

Give each girl a small place on the table or counter and have them decorate a display for their cookies. You could ask them beforehand to come up with a theme for their cookies and their display (with recipe cards)

Have them decorate their own cookie tins or make them yourself and hand them out but make each one different.

What does "host" mean in the preparation of an antibody?

Antibody supplies refer to "host" as say a "mouse" for example; but then they go on to say mouse anti-goat. Please explain what the mouse and anti-goat mean.

the example to which you refer means that a protein from a goat was injected into a mouse ( the host ) and the mouse produced antibody against the goat protein. So the product would be a mouse antibody against goat protein or mouse antigoat ( protein name ). The host is the animal developing the antibody response against the antigen .In the example above the goat protein acts as an antigen for stimulating the mouse immune system to produce antibody...therfore the mouse is the host animal. It gets a lirtle confusing when the antigen is an antibody and when injected in a host animal ( the species have to be different ) the host develops an antibody against the other specie's antibody.....

"host" cells for predator microbes , you and/or mouse nothing more than a conglomeration of cells microbes ( well in your and mouse body may be in unison )

What does "host" mean in the preparation of an antibody?

Antibody supplies refer to "host" as say a "mouse" for example; but then they go on to say mouse anti-goat. Please explain what the mouse and anti-goat mean.

the example to which you refer means that a protein from a goat was injected into a mouse ( the host ) and the mouse produced antibody against the goat protein. So the product would be a mouse antibody against goat protein or mouse antigoat ( protein name ). The host is the animal developing the antibody response against the antigen .In the example above the goat protein acts as an antigen for stimulating the mouse immune system to produce antibody...therfore the mouse is the host animal. It gets a lirtle confusing when the antigen is an antibody and when injected in a host animal ( the species have to be different ) the host develops an antibody against the other specie's antibody.....

"host" cells for predator microbes , you and/or mouse nothing more than a conglomeration of cells microbes ( well in your and mouse body may be in unison )

Do you consider it rude if your host asks you to remove your shoes?

I have a new house and new rugs and carpets. Do you think it's ok to ask my guests to remove their shoes before they come in?

I get a lot of company but not more than 2 families at a time. I really don't want to go through the trouble of vacuuming everytime I get people over. Not to mention the stains shoes leave on the kitchen tiles.

What do you guys think?

I posted a friendly warm tasteful sign outside my front door, sort of to the left, lower slightly than eye level. I found it on eBay. It works really well. I also put one at my back door as well. Also you will find that with a nice new clean place people will step in and see how nice it looks and automatically say "oh, would you like me to remove my shoes?" When you answer the door in your socks or slippers they will respond appropriately. The only time I have found that it isn't appropriate, is for someone elderly. Sometimes their feet hurt, and they walk better, and hold their balance and tend not to slip with their shoes on. Oh, and remember to have a place by the door to sit to remove shoes and put them back on like a chair or something.

No, it's not rude, but you should provide some kind of slippers for them.

a lot of people do that and i'm sure they'd understand. don't worry about it. it would be a real pain in the *** to spend more time and money anyway, don't you think? not worth it in my opinion :)

is NOT rude to ask them to take their shoes off, when they first come in the door. Please have a chair or bench they can sit on to take off their shoes. And, to sit on to put them back on as they leave.

I prefer to have my shoes off in my apt-easier on the carpet, etc. I let my visitors know the shoes are to come off. I have mine in the front hall way on the floor, before the carpet, so I just mention it as people come in, if they don't realize it right away. I've also been to someone else's home and removed my shoes per their request.

Just be prepared in case there are some socks with holes in them get uncovered.

Take care.

It is definitly okay to ask! I can't imagine not taking my shoes off in someones house! Martha Stewart has a tasteful sign you can print off and frame on her website-that way you may not have to ask people as much.

No, that is not rude at all. If you are a guest, you need to abide by the house rules. On the contrary, I think it would be rude for them to not take their shoes off in your new house! Be nice about it, of course, but go ahead and ask them. Polite people will happily comply.

Its your house, they should follow a simple and courteous rule. I always remove my shoes when i enter someones house. You never know whats on the bottoms any way. Why track something in the house that your host will have to clean up later and complain about?

I alwyas ask if I should, when I enter a house. It may be more common here than elsewhere in the States; the winters are so snowy and messy it just seems right to take off one's shoes when entering a house.

Your house, your rules. They don't like, they can leave.

I hate houses like that, but I understand it. It isn't rude.

I think it's more in the way you ask. In my opinion it''s fine to ask or politely request but I wouldn't make it an absolute requirement. Most people will understand. On the other hand, my ex had really BAD foot odor. No way to you want someone like that taking their shoes off, nor do you want to embarrass them I'm sure.

I work in other people's homes. I always ask if they'd like me to remove my shoes.

I agree with someone else who suggested having slippers, or something for those who've maybe come without socks or with less than "presentable" foot wear. I've been known to wear unmatched or holey socks or stockings, so, I'd certainly be uncomfortable having to walk around like that.

ofcourse its not rude! its YOUR house! if u are that worried, offer them slippers...but really i have never NOT taken off my shoes when entering someones house

I automatically take my shoes off and bring my slippers.

no not at all. in Asia its a sign of respect to remove your shoes before stepping inside the house, so no i don't think it's rude at all.

It is customary in my country to take off our shoes and or sandals if we enter a house to honor the host... I don't know how it is in the US, but here you have to honor the host's rules...

They're not the one whose gonna clean those rug and mop those tiles now, wont they...? So, it's legit to tell your guest to do so, and they have to honor your house rules in return of you being a good host...

It isn't rude and it is fairly common among many cultures to remove your shoes before coming into someone home. I learned that from my Persian husband who always removes his shoes wherever he goes :)

Not only you have right to ask ,but also it is first step to keep home free bacteria .Carpet is most delicate and worm place to grow all kind of the bacteria.

I just had this discussion recently! We decided that in our area really rich people and really poor people wear shoes in the house. The middle class usually takes them off.

I would consider it rude if they didn't remove their shoes

No!, that's not rude. If they don't like it tough ****, if they don't comply tell them to leave! I had a house guest that was a family member and I didn't stand up to her now im out of a mattress, sheets, pillows, rags , towels. What had happen was she brought an old woman with her that she has to take care of all the time and I thought it was ok until the old woman need to sleep in MY BED!!!! I said ok because she was old and couldn't sleep on inflatable mattress, well the next morning I found out she PEES on her self and POO POOS on herself, which I was not informed about. Well to make a long story short I do not share my sheets, towels, pillows or rags with anyone and I asked my aunt to only use what I give her to use for the woman that she takes care of and she refused and said she will use what she likes. I wanted to punch her in the face!!!! But it's hard for me to stand up to my family because sometimes they like to gang up on me and try to tear me down. Now in out of hundreds of dollars worth of stuff, I went and bought cheap rags and towel tell I can save up to replace all the stuff she peeed on and wiped her butt with. It was horrible I have never experienced that and nor will I ever again. That ***** will never stay with me again and I hate her now and will not speak to her anymore until she replaces my stuff!! I can stand up for myself better now but it too late for my stuff it's gone!!! I still morning my stuff and my money. lol DO NOT let people try to control you with your on things! If someone ever tried to do that to again I would literally SHOOT them, that's how much stress I was under for 3 WEEKS and still because im trying to replace those things!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!... !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!...

Sorry I guess I was venting because im still fuming over this!!!! lol loc

Do you consider it rude if your host asks you to remove your shoes?

I have a new house and new rugs and carpets. Do you think it's ok to ask my guests to remove their shoes before they come in?

I get a lot of company but not more than 2 families at a time. I really don't want to go through the trouble of vacuuming everytime I get people over. Not to mention the stains shoes leave on the kitchen tiles.

What do you guys think?

I posted a friendly warm tasteful sign outside my front door, sort of to the left, lower slightly than eye level. I found it on eBay. It works really well. I also put one at my back door as well. Also you will find that with a nice new clean place people will step in and see how nice it looks and automatically say "oh, would you like me to remove my shoes?" When you answer the door in your socks or slippers they will respond appropriately. The only time I have found that it isn't appropriate, is for someone elderly. Sometimes their feet hurt, and they walk better, and hold their balance and tend not to slip with their shoes on. Oh, and remember to have a place by the door to sit to remove shoes and put them back on like a chair or something.

No, it's not rude, but you should provide some kind of slippers for them.

a lot of people do that and i'm sure they'd understand. don't worry about it. it would be a real pain in the *** to spend more time and money anyway, don't you think? not worth it in my opinion :)

is NOT rude to ask them to take their shoes off, when they first come in the door. Please have a chair or bench they can sit on to take off their shoes. And, to sit on to put them back on as they leave.

I prefer to have my shoes off in my apt-easier on the carpet, etc. I let my visitors know the shoes are to come off. I have mine in the front hall way on the floor, before the carpet, so I just mention it as people come in, if they don't realize it right away. I've also been to someone else's home and removed my shoes per their request.

Just be prepared in case there are some socks with holes in them get uncovered.

Take care.

It is definitly okay to ask! I can't imagine not taking my shoes off in someones house! Martha Stewart has a tasteful sign you can print off and frame on her website-that way you may not have to ask people as much.

No, that is not rude at all. If you are a guest, you need to abide by the house rules. On the contrary, I think it would be rude for them to not take their shoes off in your new house! Be nice about it, of course, but go ahead and ask them. Polite people will happily comply.

Its your house, they should follow a simple and courteous rule. I always remove my shoes when i enter someones house. You never know whats on the bottoms any way. Why track something in the house that your host will have to clean up later and complain about?

I alwyas ask if I should, when I enter a house. It may be more common here than elsewhere in the States; the winters are so snowy and messy it just seems right to take off one's shoes when entering a house.

Your house, your rules. They don't like, they can leave.

I hate houses like that, but I understand it. It isn't rude.

I think it's more in the way you ask. In my opinion it''s fine to ask or politely request but I wouldn't make it an absolute requirement. Most people will understand. On the other hand, my ex had really BAD foot odor. No way to you want someone like that taking their shoes off, nor do you want to embarrass them I'm sure.

I work in other people's homes. I always ask if they'd like me to remove my shoes.

I agree with someone else who suggested having slippers, or something for those who've maybe come without socks or with less than "presentable" foot wear. I've been known to wear unmatched or holey socks or stockings, so, I'd certainly be uncomfortable having to walk around like that.

ofcourse its not rude! its YOUR house! if u are that worried, offer them slippers...but really i have never NOT taken off my shoes when entering someones house

I automatically take my shoes off and bring my slippers.

no not at all. in Asia its a sign of respect to remove your shoes before stepping inside the house, so no i don't think it's rude at all.

It is customary in my country to take off our shoes and or sandals if we enter a house to honor the host... I don't know how it is in the US, but here you have to honor the host's rules...

They're not the one whose gonna clean those rug and mop those tiles now, wont they...? So, it's legit to tell your guest to do so, and they have to honor your house rules in return of you being a good host...

It isn't rude and it is fairly common among many cultures to remove your shoes before coming into someone home. I learned that from my Persian husband who always removes his shoes wherever he goes :)

Not only you have right to ask ,but also it is first step to keep home free bacteria .Carpet is most delicate and worm place to grow all kind of the bacteria.

I just had this discussion recently! We decided that in our area really rich people and really poor people wear shoes in the house. The middle class usually takes them off.

I would consider it rude if they didn't remove their shoes

No!, that's not rude. If they don't like it tough ****, if they don't comply tell them to leave! I had a house guest that was a family member and I didn't stand up to her now im out of a mattress, sheets, pillows, rags , towels. What had happen was she brought an old woman with her that she has to take care of all the time and I thought it was ok until the old woman need to sleep in MY BED!!!! I said ok because she was old and couldn't sleep on inflatable mattress, well the next morning I found out she PEES on her self and POO POOS on herself, which I was not informed about. Well to make a long story short I do not share my sheets, towels, pillows or rags with anyone and I asked my aunt to only use what I give her to use for the woman that she takes care of and she refused and said she will use what she likes. I wanted to punch her in the face!!!! But it's hard for me to stand up to my family because sometimes they like to gang up on me and try to tear me down. Now in out of hundreds of dollars worth of stuff, I went and bought cheap rags and towel tell I can save up to replace all the stuff she peeed on and wiped her butt with. It was horrible I have never experienced that and nor will I ever again. That ***** will never stay with me again and I hate her now and will not speak to her anymore until she replaces my stuff!! I can stand up for myself better now but it too late for my stuff it's gone!!! I still morning my stuff and my money. lol DO NOT let people try to control you with your on things! If someone ever tried to do that to again I would literally SHOOT them, that's how much stress I was under for 3 WEEKS and still because im trying to replace those things!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!... !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!...

Sorry I guess I was venting because im still fuming over this!!!! lol loc

How to host the BEST halloween show at my riding stables???

Hi, ive decided to host a halloween show at my riding stables. And i don't know how to start! All i know is we are doing jumping, games, best turnout and more. Please tell me because i really need advice on what to do. THANKS!!!

Halloween is all about witches and thinks that go bump in the night so I would suggest you have free pumpkin soup for starters, best dressed witch or warlock rider and apple dunking (getting an apple out of a barrel of water with your teeth) on horseback. Finish off with copious quantities of Elderflower wine.!!

*try having everyone dress up and parade around the farm....have the trainers, parents, friends, whatev watch and judge for several costume winners ex... most creative, funniest, all around best..etc

* have the horses bob for apples its really funny

good luck

How to host the BEST halloween show at my riding stables???

Hi, ive decided to host a halloween show at my riding stables. And i don't know how to start! All i know is we are doing jumping, games, best turnout and more. Please tell me because i really need advice on what to do. THANKS!!!

Halloween is all about witches and thinks that go bump in the night so I would suggest you have free pumpkin soup for starters, best dressed witch or warlock rider and apple dunking (getting an apple out of a barrel of water with your teeth) on horseback. Finish off with copious quantities of Elderflower wine.!!

*try having everyone dress up and parade around the farm....have the trainers, parents, friends, whatev watch and judge for several costume winners ex... most creative, funniest, all around best..etc

* have the horses bob for apples its really funny

good luck

What's the BEST web host for a new and upcoming clothing site?

I found an external website to deal with carts, so no need for that. I just need a reliable host with a lot of features at the BEST cost...

HOSTS I'VE LOOKED AT:

Blue Host

Host Monster

One and One

GoDaddy

If you have any further inside knowledge on any of those (good or bad) then please fill me in. Or if you know a great host that isn't on that list then please let me know too!

Hi,

When choosing a web host it's of course important to consider the cost (some hosting can be very expensive) but here are some other important things you should take into consideration too:

Web Hosting Space: Some web hosts will only give you 500MB or so of space. This could be a concern if you are looking at creating large websites.

Bandwidth: Some web hosts will severely limit the bandwidth you can use before you incur extra charges.

Uptime: There's no point in having a website if people can't see it. Does your web host offer at least a 99% uptime guarantee?

Number of websites allowed: If you're looking to host more than one website on your account, will your web host charge you more to do this?

Support: If you have any problems you need to be able to contact your web host quickly and easily to get the problem sorted.

I have used Hostgator as my web host for over two years now and have been very very impressed with them. Firstly they're very cheap but still give me more web hosting space and bandwidth than I'll ever need, the ability to host unlimited websites, a 99.9% uptime guarantee and great customer support. You can find them at http://www.webhostgator.info

You need a web hosting service which supports online payments like, Master Card, Visa & PayPal. It is very important that your service be uptime. It means that you can access your account whenever you want to update your web pages, and your visitors can view your website whenever they type your website address. If your hosting service is not uptime it is real hell!

If you want to run a successful e-commerce you must choose a reliable web hosting service. The security of your business directly depends on the security of your hosting service. (Hacker safe)

You can take a look at: http://www.threehosts.com/business

There you can reach the three reputable companies that are leaders in the E-commerce web hosting industry. They fulfill all your requirements to sell online. By using each of them, everything you need for your business website is provided in one eCommerce Hosting Package.

Good Luck!

I will recommend you to go for highly reputable and reliable, well-known "GODADDY" web hosting. Their web hosting plans start from $3.99 per month and it is affordable especially if you are starting your web business.

They offer affordable, reliable web hosting to host your web sites - with a 99.9% network uptime commitment, 24/7 support.

Visit following

http://superbesthost.com/godaddy/

You may compare web hosting services at following site.

http://www.tenbestwebhosting.com

If you like to create websites (usually you will end up more than 1 website, I got more than 100 websites in about 6 months' time), go for multiple web hosting services where you could host all your websites in one account.

I would like to suggest following webhosting which I use, they are excellent.

Hostmonster http://www.hostmonster.com/track/ryukenden/

They offer hosting of "unlimited domains" and you will get massive webspace of 1500000 MB (1500 GB ). They only charge $5.95/month and they offer "a free Domain Name" and installing service called "Fantastico". By using Fantastico, you could create own forum, photo gallery, shopping cart (e-commerce),your own auction site and your own blogs within few seconds. They also offer "Free Website Builder" as well.

Visit the site to check details.

Hostmonster http://www.hostmonster.com/track/ryukenden/

More the list of BEST WEB HOSTING sites visit

http://www.nicewebhosts.com

i found this website very usefull

http://www.web-host-finder.net

it has compared top 10 web hosting companies in a chart and will show the most reliable and affordable web hosting company

it has reviews for each web hosting company that will really help you to find the best web host provider company

• Contact Email: Chris@one9host.net

• Website: http://one9host.net/v2/

Order this package here:

http://one9host.net/order/cart.php

Description:

All web hosting plans have PHP 5.2.5 and MySQL 5

5gb Space, 40gb Bandwidth, cPanel/Fantastico, Unlimited Features, and 24/7 Support - $.99/m or $9.99 a year

I've been using BlueHost for nearly a year now to host two different websites and I couldn't be happier. They have great prices, tons of great tools and features, and top-notch customer service.

Trust me, you won't regret choosing Blue Host.

The best one is bluehost webhosting since they offer unlimited bandwidth and free domain with their webhosting package.I also like the fact that on every signup they give you $100 credits to advertise your website with the google & yahoo search engines for free.

http://www.bluehost.com/track/bluehostwebhosting/

freehostia.com

i've used them in the past. they are very reliable, offer great & fast customer support, & best of all the actual hosting is free. you only pay for a domain name.

Best web host that is free is http://www.myownfreeweb.com/ reliable uptime, cluster servers, plenty of space and bandwidth, and 29 preinstalled scripts to make your life easier.

i recommend Dion Hosting http://www.dionhosting.com

go with one of their shared plans and as your site grows simply upgrade it

you might want to check this URL out it might have what you are looking for Good luck http://www.networksolutions.com/

There are many web hosting providers and you might become confused to choose which one. I would like to tell you the web hosting I like to recommend. It is bluehost.

Visit here

http://www.webaite.com

Why blue host? There are many reasons.

1) It is reputable and reliable web hosting

2) Their Customer Support is excellent

3) You will get FREE DOMAIN ever

4) You will get big webspace which is 1500 GB

5) A lot of bandwidth or data transfer - 15000 GB

6) They are AFFORDABLE and cheap

7) Host unlimited domains, you create unlimited websites under one account

8) Automatic installation script, Fantastico , install blogs or forums in seconds.

9) Latest php, mysql, python, free shopping cart script AND MORE

10) FREE SITE BUILDER with which you create your very first websites quickly

http://www.webaite.com

What's the BEST web host for a new and upcoming clothing site?

I found an external website to deal with carts, so no need for that. I just need a reliable host with a lot of features at the BEST cost...

HOSTS I'VE LOOKED AT:

Blue Host

Host Monster

One and One

GoDaddy

If you have any further inside knowledge on any of those (good or bad) then please fill me in. Or if you know a great host that isn't on that list then please let me know too!

Hi,

When choosing a web host it's of course important to consider the cost (some hosting can be very expensive) but here are some other important things you should take into consideration too:

Web Hosting Space: Some web hosts will only give you 500MB or so of space. This could be a concern if you are looking at creating large websites.

Bandwidth: Some web hosts will severely limit the bandwidth you can use before you incur extra charges.

Uptime: There's no point in having a website if people can't see it. Does your web host offer at least a 99% uptime guarantee?

Number of websites allowed: If you're looking to host more than one website on your account, will your web host charge you more to do this?

Support: If you have any problems you need to be able to contact your web host quickly and easily to get the problem sorted.

I have used Hostgator as my web host for over two years now and have been very very impressed with them. Firstly they're very cheap but still give me more web hosting space and bandwidth than I'll ever need, the ability to host unlimited websites, a 99.9% uptime guarantee and great customer support. You can find them at http://www.webhostgator.info

You need a web hosting service which supports online payments like, Master Card, Visa & PayPal. It is very important that your service be uptime. It means that you can access your account whenever you want to update your web pages, and your visitors can view your website whenever they type your website address. If your hosting service is not uptime it is real hell!

If you want to run a successful e-commerce you must choose a reliable web hosting service. The security of your business directly depends on the security of your hosting service. (Hacker safe)

You can take a look at: http://www.threehosts.com/business

There you can reach the three reputable companies that are leaders in the E-commerce web hosting industry. They fulfill all your requirements to sell online. By using each of them, everything you need for your business website is provided in one eCommerce Hosting Package.

Good Luck!

I will recommend you to go for highly reputable and reliable, well-known "GODADDY" web hosting. Their web hosting plans start from $3.99 per month and it is affordable especially if you are starting your web business.

They offer affordable, reliable web hosting to host your web sites - with a 99.9% network uptime commitment, 24/7 support.

Visit following

http://superbesthost.com/godaddy/

You may compare web hosting services at following site.

http://www.tenbestwebhosting.com

If you like to create websites (usually you will end up more than 1 website, I got more than 100 websites in about 6 months' time), go for multiple web hosting services where you could host all your websites in one account.

I would like to suggest following webhosting which I use, they are excellent.

Hostmonster http://www.hostmonster.com/track/ryukenden/

They offer hosting of "unlimited domains" and you will get massive webspace of 1500000 MB (1500 GB ). They only charge $5.95/month and they offer "a free Domain Name" and installing service called "Fantastico". By using Fantastico, you could create own forum, photo gallery, shopping cart (e-commerce),your own auction site and your own blogs within few seconds. They also offer "Free Website Builder" as well.

Visit the site to check details.

Hostmonster http://www.hostmonster.com/track/ryukenden/

More the list of BEST WEB HOSTING sites visit

http://www.nicewebhosts.com

i found this website very usefull

http://www.web-host-finder.net

it has compared top 10 web hosting companies in a chart and will show the most reliable and affordable web hosting company

it has reviews for each web hosting company that will really help you to find the best web host provider company

• Contact Email: Chris@one9host.net

• Website: http://one9host.net/v2/

Order this package here:

http://one9host.net/order/cart.php

Description:

All web hosting plans have PHP 5.2.5 and MySQL 5

5gb Space, 40gb Bandwidth, cPanel/Fantastico, Unlimited Features, and 24/7 Support - $.99/m or $9.99 a year

I've been using BlueHost for nearly a year now to host two different websites and I couldn't be happier. They have great prices, tons of great tools and features, and top-notch customer service.

Trust me, you won't regret choosing Blue Host.

The best one is bluehost webhosting since they offer unlimited bandwidth and free domain with their webhosting package.I also like the fact that on every signup they give you $100 credits to advertise your website with the google & yahoo search engines for free.

http://www.bluehost.com/track/bluehostwebhosting/

freehostia.com

i've used them in the past. they are very reliable, offer great & fast customer support, & best of all the actual hosting is free. you only pay for a domain name.

Best web host that is free is http://www.myownfreeweb.com/ reliable uptime, cluster servers, plenty of space and bandwidth, and 29 preinstalled scripts to make your life easier.

i recommend Dion Hosting http://www.dionhosting.com

go with one of their shared plans and as your site grows simply upgrade it

you might want to check this URL out it might have what you are looking for Good luck http://www.networksolutions.com/

There are many web hosting providers and you might become confused to choose which one. I would like to tell you the web hosting I like to recommend. It is bluehost.

Visit here

http://www.webaite.com

Why blue host? There are many reasons.

1) It is reputable and reliable web hosting

2) Their Customer Support is excellent

3) You will get FREE DOMAIN ever

4) You will get big webspace which is 1500 GB

5) A lot of bandwidth or data transfer - 15000 GB

6) They are AFFORDABLE and cheap

7) Host unlimited domains, you create unlimited websites under one account

8) Automatic installation script, Fantastico , install blogs or forums in seconds.

9) Latest php, mysql, python, free shopping cart script AND MORE

10) FREE SITE BUILDER with which you create your very first websites quickly

http://www.webaite.com

What is the best way to host a Murder Mystery party?

We got one of those Murder Mysteries for Christmas, but have never thrown a party for one. Any tips/advice or precautions you could give would be wonderful.

There is a big nightclub a few blocks away from where I live. They open at 8pm. We were having a murder mystery party for about 40 people, and we asked the owner to open up early. He did, and he let us bring in our grills to cook for everyone in his beer garden.

What are the most popular Chinese blogging (blog host) sites?

I know some of the popular blog host sites in Japan, but what are some Chinese ones?

Wretch aka 無名小站 is a really popular blog site in taiwan..

http://www.wretch.cc/

My mom is elderly & has a host of different health problems. What is the best type of doctor for her to visit?

We need a doctor who can look at all of her problems and current medications. She is hospitalized and they've had a kidney specialist, urologist, heart specialist, neurologist and house doctor all look at her. It feels like the right hand doesn't know what the left is doing. I am interested in hearing from any one who has gone through something similar and found a solution.

http://gero.sdsu.edu/whatis.php

this link might not be the best one you can do a search for gerontologist & I would take this question & ask in the senior section here so you can get a network of people who have experience with this.

This might sound crazy, but i'd take her to a nutritionist first, then an endocrinologist, then a holistic medical doctor.

Between those 3 specialists you can increase the quality of life fro your mom.

Most doctors don't know a thing about nutrition, AT ALL. An expert nutritionist might discover things that the doctors haven't even though about.

Endo specialist can discover chemical imbalances that also create symptoms that regular doctors don't have a clue about. He may alleviate symptoms that are being caused purely by hormonal imbalances.

Lastly a holistic medical doctor would be more in tune with the nutritionist and endo than the other specialist you listed.

I went through this, along with my mother, with my grandmother about 10 years ago. The best thing you can do is to get a PCP who specializes in geriatrics and work closely with him or her. You're going to have to be your mother's champion; making certain to know what medications she's on, what side effects she experiences, and what declines she is exhibiting in her physical health. The sad thing is, as we age, we find ourselves becoming parents again, for our parents. Good luck!

You need to find an internist who specializes in geriatric medicine (also know as a geriatrician.) That doctor will oversee her treatment from all the other specialists. To find a geriatric internist you might try going to this link http://webapps.ama-assn.org/doctorfinder/html/patient.html and using the doctor finder link to find a doctor by specialty (geriatrics) in your area (if you are in the United States.) Also, check with her insurance carrier, a local medical college or teaching hospital or even United Way to see if they can suggest geriatric practitioners in your area. Good luck!

I agree with Jan, in that your mother should seek the help of an internal medicine doctor. They may or may not specialize farther into geriatrics, but I.M. doctors do have more experience with complicated cases (than a general practitioner). The I.M. doctor would work as the the main doctor who's overseeing the case, to lessen chances of complications.

The best bet is to have a pharmacologist where you are getting your prescriptions filled check for drug interactions, since he'll know everything she's on. Have a general practictioner as her personal doctor to coordinate all of the specialists.

Talk to a doctor and see what a doctor recommends. If she is hospitalized the hospital should be able to recommend doctors for her if not be her doctor themselves.

she needs to be seen by a Geriantologist - a specialist that works with all kinds of diseases of the elderly.

see a geriatric specialist. they are trained for care of the elderly.

i would have toi know more of the problems specifically

only you can answer that. we dont know of her... sorry

My mom is elderly & has a host of different health problems. What is the best type of doctor for her to visit?

We need a doctor who can look at all of her problems and current medications. She is hospitalized and they've had a kidney specialist, urologist, heart specialist, neurologist and house doctor all look at her. It feels like the right hand doesn't know what the left is doing. I am interested in hearing from any one who has gone through something similar and found a solution.

http://gero.sdsu.edu/whatis.php

this link might not be the best one you can do a search for gerontologist & I would take this question & ask in the senior section here so you can get a network of people who have experience with this.

This might sound crazy, but i'd take her to a nutritionist first, then an endocrinologist, then a holistic medical doctor.

Between those 3 specialists you can increase the quality of life fro your mom.

Most doctors don't know a thing about nutrition, AT ALL. An expert nutritionist might discover things that the doctors haven't even though about.

Endo specialist can discover chemical imbalances that also create symptoms that regular doctors don't have a clue about. He may alleviate symptoms that are being caused purely by hormonal imbalances.

Lastly a holistic medical doctor would be more in tune with the nutritionist and endo than the other specialist you listed.

I went through this, along with my mother, with my grandmother about 10 years ago. The best thing you can do is to get a PCP who specializes in geriatrics and work closely with him or her. You're going to have to be your mother's champion; making certain to know what medications she's on, what side effects she experiences, and what declines she is exhibiting in her physical health. The sad thing is, as we age, we find ourselves becoming parents again, for our parents. Good luck!

You need to find an internist who specializes in geriatric medicine (also know as a geriatrician.) That doctor will oversee her treatment from all the other specialists. To find a geriatric internist you might try going to this link http://webapps.ama-assn.org/doctorfinder/html/patient.html and using the doctor finder link to find a doctor by specialty (geriatrics) in your area (if you are in the United States.) Also, check with her insurance carrier, a local medical college or teaching hospital or even United Way to see if they can suggest geriatric practitioners in your area. Good luck!

I agree with Jan, in that your mother should seek the help of an internal medicine doctor. They may or may not specialize farther into geriatrics, but I.M. doctors do have more experience with complicated cases (than a general practitioner). The I.M. doctor would work as the the main doctor who's overseeing the case, to lessen chances of complications.

The best bet is to have a pharmacologist where you are getting your prescriptions filled check for drug interactions, since he'll know everything she's on. Have a general practictioner as her personal doctor to coordinate all of the specialists.

Talk to a doctor and see what a doctor recommends. If she is hospitalized the hospital should be able to recommend doctors for her if not be her doctor themselves.

she needs to be seen by a Geriantologist - a specialist that works with all kinds of diseases of the elderly.

see a geriatric specialist. they are trained for care of the elderly.

i would have toi know more of the problems specifically

only you can answer that. we dont know of her... sorry

Any good teen romance novels? Like Twilight, The Host, Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants, Truth About Forever?

I have read and LOVED Twilight and The Host by Stephenie Meyer, Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants by Anne Brashares and The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen.

You won't get best answer unless you tell me a little bit about the book, pretend you had to write the blurb for it.

I think you'll like the following books, I've read and loved the books you stated above also and these are some of my other favourites...

The A List (series of 10) - Zoey Dean

About the goings on of the teenage children of the rich and famous, contains a wide variety of material - love, hate, jealousy etc. Loved it!

Girl Meets Boy, Guy Next Door, All American Girl, Avalon High, etc. - Meg Cabot

I absoloutly love Meg Cabot's books! I would especially recommend the Girl Meets Boy & Guy Next Door as well as the third in that series, I immensly enjoyed them! Some are intended for adults but most for youth and I love them all!

Lioness Quartet, Wild Magic Quartet, Trickster, etc. - Tamora Pierce

Tamora Pierce's books are mainly set in the land of Tortall in medieval times, they use the same characters just at different stages of their lives and different books/series' focus on different people. They consist of fighting, magic, love, etc.

The diaries of kelly ann (2 books) & Jumping to Confusions - by Liz Rettig

These recount the goings on of an older teenager as she strugles to make decisions and learn to trust in others. The second one, Now or Never is about her relationship with a boy and is funny but romantic and suspencful at the same time.

It's A Mall World After All - Not sure who wrote it though...

Comedy of a girl and how she falls in love with her best friend's boyfriend's bestfriend while stalking her friend's boyfriend in an attempt to prove he is a lying cheating scumbag. A very good read & lovey but funny at the same time.

I'd Tell You I Love You But I'd Have to Kill You - Ally Carter

About a girl brought up as a spy and enrolled in a leading spy school who falls in love with an ordinary boy and can’t tell him who she actually is. Funny. There is a second in the series called To Spy or Not to Spy, it’s just as good.

Possibly the S.A.S.S. series - Numerous Authors

About the travels of students and what happens to them on their stay - love etc. Not brill but an ok read

Inheritance Cycle - Christopher Paloini

Love them, you have to read them, Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr!

Sweet Valley High Books - ???

I can’t remember who wrote these but they’re a pretty good read even if they are kind of old. If you’re into series’s these are good as their’s over 100 books

The Last Summer (Of You and Me) - Ann Brashares

A good book but immensly sad, it is probably better for older teens or adults.

I have more suggestions if you want to hear them, just contact me or check out my website, http://www.freewebs.com/greatteennovels/

Hope you find something you like here!

I've read all of those too, and here are some other books that i really liked:

Just Listen (also by Sarah Dessen)- A model has family issues and is outcasted in school for supposedly cheating on her exbestfriend with her boyfriend...but could something else have happened at the party last year and the truth never came out? now she is befriended by the schools "bad boy outcast who has anger management issues but no friends." What will happen next?

The Private Series by Kate Brian~ Reed, a poor teenage girl from PA, attends an elite boarding school and wants to become one of the "Billings Gils" (aka the most popular girls on campus). She falls in love with "bad boy" Thomas Pearson... but when Tomas goes missing who knows what wil happen..... (a series filled with romance/murder/teenage girl problems)

Megan Meade's guide to the McGowan Boys by Kate Brian~ Megan's parents move to Korea but Megan decides she doesn't want to go... her options? To move half way across the world or live with the McGowans... a family with SEVEN boys and zero girls... How will Megan fair with the "greek god" "artist-type" "bad boy" "annoying brats" and "ghost brother"?

Some other books ou might want to try are How to Be Popular by Meg Cabot, the It girls series, Sisterhood of the Traveling pants series, and the Gallager Girls series by Ally Carter.

Okay so I love:

Just Listen, by Sarah Dessen- a girl who has problems meets a boy who helps.

This Lullaby, by Sarah Dessen- another girl (a slut, if I may) meets a nice boy who she doesn't dump like she dumps all the other boys she dates.

City of Bones, by Cassandra Clare- shadowhunters, werewolves, vampires, evil fairies, with a little bit of romance mixed in. probably my favorite book ever.

To Catch a Pirate, by Jade Parker- romance with a girl who is very antipirates meets a pirate whom she falls in love with.

Vampire Academy series, by Richelle Mead- girl named Rose who falls in love with her tutor in the vamp academy, which, obviously, is filled with vamps.

Save the Date, by Tamara Summers- romance about a girl with a wedding curse who falls in love with this guy...

Hope I helped!!! ; )

The Guardians of Time Trilogy. The books have to deal with two forces that can travel back in time. One is trying to destroy history while the other has to stop them. There is a prophecy about a group called The Named, they all have special powers and will eventually destroy the evil forces in the world. Has tons of romance incorporated in it but also tons of adventure. One of the most amazing books ever, and it is not sci-fi like it might sound because of the going back in time thing.

I suggest Looking for Alaska.

This is an amazing book.

It isn't so much of a Love Story but, nonetheless a great read.

Here's an excerpt.

"So do you really memorize last words?"

She ran up beside me and grabbed my shoulder and pushed me back onto the porch swing.

"Yeah," I said. And then hesitantly, I added, "You want to quiz me?"

"JFK," she said.

"That's obvious," I answered.

"Oh, is it now?" she asked.

"No. Those were his last words. Someone said, 'Mr. President, you can't say Dallas doesn't love you,' and then he said, 'That's obvious,' and then he got shot."

She laughed. "God, that's awful. I shouldn't laugh. But I will," and then she laughed again. "Okay, Mr. Famous Last Words Boy. I have one for you." She reached into her overstuffed backpack and pulled out a book. "Gabriel García Márquez. The General in His Labyrinth. Absolutely one of my favorites. It's about Simón Bolívar." I didn't know who Simón Bolívar was, but she didn't give me time to ask. "It's a historical novel, so I don't know if this is true, but in the book, do you know what his last words are? No, you don't. But I am about to tell you, Señor Parting Remarks."

And then she lit a cigarette and sucked on it so hard for so long that I thought the entire thing might burn off in one drag. She exhaled and read to me:

" 'He' -- that's Simón Bolívar -- 'was shaken by the overwhelming revelation that the headlong race between his misfortunes and his dreams was at that moment reaching the finish line. The rest was darkness. "Damn it," he sighed. "How will I ever get out of this labyrinth!" ' " I knew great last words when I heard them, and I made a mental note to get ahold of a biography of this Simón Bolívar fellow. Beautiful last words, but I didn't quite understand. "So what's the labyrinth?" I asked her.

And now is as good a time as any to say that she was beautiful. In the dark beside me, she smelled of sweat and sunshine and vanilla, and on that thin-mooned night I could see little more than her silhouette except for when she smoked, when the burning cherry of the cigarette washed her face in pale red light. But even in the dark, I could see her eyes -- fierce emeralds. She had the kind of eyes that predisposed you to supporting her every endeavor. And not just beautiful, but hot, too, with her breasts straining against her tight tank top, her curved legs swinging back and forth beneath the swing, flip-flops dangling from her electric-blue-painted toes. It was right then, between when I asked about the labyrinth and when she answered me, that I realized the importance of curves, of the thousand places where girls' bodies ease from one place to another, from arc of the foot to ankle to calf, from calf to hip to waist to breast to neck to ski-slope nose to forehead to shoulder to the concave arch of the back to the butt to the etc. I'd noticed curves before, of course, but I had never quite apprehended their significance.

Her mouth close enough to me that I could feel her breath warmer than the air, she said, "That's the mystery, isn't it? Is the labyrinth living or dying? Which is he trying to escape -- the world or the end of it?" I waited for her to keep talking, but after a while it became obvious she wanted an answer.

"Uh, I don't know," I said finally. "Have you really read all those books in your room?"

She laughed. "Oh God no. I've maybe read a third of 'em. But I'm going to read them all. I call it my Life's Library. Every summer since I was little, I've gone to garage sales and bought all the books that looked interesting. So I always have something to read. But there is so much to do: cigarettes to smoke, sex to have, swings to swing on. I'll have more time for reading when I'm old and boring."

She told me that I reminded her of the Colonel when he came to Culver Creek. They were freshmen together, she said, both scholarship kids with, as she put it, "a shared interest in booze and mischief." The phrase booze and mischief left me worrying I'd stumbled into what my mother referred to as "the wrong crowd," but for the wrong crowd, they both seemed awfully smart. As she lit a new cigarette off the butt of her previous one, she told me that the Colonel was smart but hadn't done much living when he got to the Creek.

"I got rid of that problem quickly." She smiled. "By November, I'd gotten him his first girlfriend, a perfectly nice non-Weekday Warrior named Janice. He dumped her after a month because she was too rich for his poverty-soaked blood, but whatever. We pulled our first prank that year -- we filled Classroom Four with a thin layer of marbles. We've progressed some since then, of course." She laughed. So Chip became the Colonel -- the military-style planner of their pranks, and Alaska was ever Alaska, the larger-than-life creative force behind them.

"You're smart like him," she said. "Quieter, though. And cuter, but I didn't even just say that, because I love my boyfriend."

What is the best site to host a fantasy football league?

I am starting up a fantasy football league (my first as commish). What site should I use? Are the pay sites worth it?

I've used all the following:

Yahoo

ESPN

CBS Sportsline

NFL.com

AOL Fleaflicker

Sandbox, NBC

Of those the only one I really don't like is CBS Sportsline. They have a clumsy draft interface, cheesy roster limitations, and it's just cumbersome to use.

Sandbox was my favorite before they were acquired, followed by Yahoo.

ESPN's is easy, but we found it suffers from server traffic and is locked up more frequently.

In short, none is perfect, but Yahoo, Fleaflicker and Sandbox (in that order) each are just fine.

Pay sites really aren't worth it unless you want to go for a cash prize as in CBSSportsline.

A $12.95 upgrade in Yahoo gets you a decent draft kit and Stat Tracker which I really enjoy. Yahoo's free leagues are adequate for most people.

There is a new site that is completely free called ecouchcoach.com and it has live scoring and is very customizable. I would suggest checking it out for the serious fantasy football players. It allows redraft leagues, keeper leagues, and dynasty leagues. It gives alot of power to administrators also so you can really customize your league. Best of all its all free. I used to pay the fees on Yahoo and ESPN but i tried ecouchcoach for one year and I am very pleased about it.

No the pay sites aren't worth it. Personally I think the best sites around... in order:

1. fleaflicker.com

2. Yahoo (if you pay the 10 dollars for live scoring)

3. CBS Sportsline

I really like the Yahoo fantasy football setup.

It is easy to use, fast, and has a lot of extras.

The $10 is well worth it.

I have used Sportsline for 7 years and could not be happier. Flexible scoring (waaay better than ESPN), solid information, great feedback from owners. Nothing compares.

i'd say yahoo and espn for beginners

myfantasyleague.com, fleaflicker, for more established leagues...

I signed up for fantasy football on Nfl.com and it's extremely easy.

ESPN is my favorite

What type of gift should I get for host?

I've been invited to a Gold Canyon candle party...what type of gift should I get the host of the party?

You are being invited to spend money, not just as a guest in her home, so the obligation to bring a hostess gift is not in this equation. I think she just wants you to bring your checkbook so you can buy a rather expensive candle or two!

the host is getting a commission on anything you buy, so you have no obligation to bring a gift. the best gift you can give her is to buy a lot of merchandise.

Just Bring yourself!!! If you buy product from her party, then she is receiving credit off your order. That is the main reasons why she is having her party, to receive free product. But, you can always do a bottle of wine!!! I am a GC Demonstrator, if you like the party, contact me. There are a lot of great incentives right now. My website is http://mygccandle.com/julienobriga or you can email me anytime at julienobriga@comcast.net

It never hurts to try!!!

Have a great day!!!

how about a pass for a day spa, or a voucher for a good massage. after hosting a big party the best gift for them is relaxation!

I agree with the first answer. When I attend one of those parties or Tupperware, jewelry, whatever.. I always purchase at least one item so they get some money from it toward whatever merchandise they choose at the end.

Gifts are not required at these kind of parties. The best thing that you can do for your friend is buy some candles, or book your own party. Just sit back and enjoy smelling some great candles!!!!

How can i Block the Disney website using host or something else?

I Know how to block other websites by using host and using

127.0.0.1 but the Disney website doesn't work i don't get. and i already blocked cartoonnetwork.com. I could really use some help. can anyone help me?

1st Depends are you on Windows Xp or On Vista

if your on vista then parental controls has that feature to block out certain unwanted websites....

but if you dont have parental controls and have windows xp then you will need to purchase something like for exmple Webroots Parental Controls and you can filter block out alot of web content as you wish your local best buy should have the software if u dont want to purchase online

Much luck to you

http://www.webroot.com/En_US/consumer-products-parentalcontrols.html

My volleyball team wants to host a messy wrestling charity event to raise money. What should we wrestling in?

Mud

Cooking oil

Jello

Pudding

Coleslaw

We are all going to wear t-shirts and shorts to keep it legit.

Please help me in deciding what my team should do. Thanks!

Mud or Pudding.

Jello.

what town u in what school u go to tell me i wanna come watch

puddind or mud

When I first saw the question, I was gonna say a ring before I saw the options. Cooking Oil would probably be nasty. Same with cole slaw. Mud is okay, but chocolate pudding is better. I would say either pudding or jello.

Pudding yum

poontang pie

Jello

Pudding

I would do it in coleslaw, it's the only one I've never heard of someone wrestling in.

MUD AND JELLO

This kinda sounds perverted how about doing your fundraising in a more formal way so people will take you seriously?

Krispy Kreme sells donuts &everyone loves donuts.

Mudd or Pudding

Find a more appropriate fundraiser. You are bassically eliminating any large donations from men or companies. How would it look for a male adult or a company to give signifigant sums of money in connection with underage girls mud/jello wrestling

My volleyball team wants to host a messy wrestling charity event to raise money. What should we wrestling in?

Mud

Cooking oil

Jello

Pudding

Coleslaw

We are all going to wear t-shirts and shorts to keep it legit.

Please help me in deciding what my team should do. Thanks!

Mud or Pudding.

Jello.

what town u in what school u go to tell me i wanna come watch

puddind or mud

When I first saw the question, I was gonna say a ring before I saw the options. Cooking Oil would probably be nasty. Same with cole slaw. Mud is okay, but chocolate pudding is better. I would say either pudding or jello.

Pudding yum

poontang pie

Jello

Pudding

I would do it in coleslaw, it's the only one I've never heard of someone wrestling in.

MUD AND JELLO

This kinda sounds perverted how about doing your fundraising in a more formal way so people will take you seriously?

Krispy Kreme sells donuts &everyone loves donuts.

Mudd or Pudding

Find a more appropriate fundraiser. You are bassically eliminating any large donations from men or companies. How would it look for a male adult or a company to give signifigant sums of money in connection with underage girls mud/jello wrestling

Is there any program were I can host an online radio?

I want to host an online radio with the songs in my pc, and so anyone with web acces can listen to.

well yes and no... you can make pod casts or you can set up a ftp server... but no to anything like live streaming... that's all server side and a PC just cant handle that kind of load.

your upload speed would have to be really fast! well above the 200kbs or people would just get tired of waiting...

BulletProof FTP Client was always kind of the standard go take a look at how that's done...

http://www.bpftp.com/

How much does it cost to host an event at Madison Square Garden?

I would like to find out the approximate cost of hosting an event at Madison Square Garden - like a concert. I went to the appropriate MSG website and requested information and have received no reply to date. Can someone help me get an answer?

I suggest you give them a call to show how serious you are, if in fact you are serious at all. Your email inquiry was likely dismissed because you failed to include any details about the event you are considering hosting. Their phone number is on their website.

Well, I personally did not find THIS answer to be the best...Oh but I am sure the three people who voted did so out of pure honesty and they had nothing at all to do with Linkus86...LOL http://answers.yahoo.com/question/accuse_write?qid=20071005144014AAaJeQy&kid=NbUvWjW_VjMa58Ie2V8A&s=comm&date=2007-10-12+05%3A39%3A25&.crumb=

What websites allow you to host an image and set a certain color to transparent?

what websites do this? i work from ms paint to give a more retro feel, and i havent purchased the correct software, nor do i want to download anything.

Use http://www.gifworks.com/image_editor.html for editing or http://www.blibs.com/editor/. For image hosting, any are good: imageshack, photobucket, flickr, etc..

Ron

Why does the host country always seem to have more advantage?

i've noticed that everytime a country hosts the olympics or pan america they usually get the most medals....is it because of the cheering audience? is it because the host atletes are more faimiliar?

the crowd cheering versus booing is definetly a plus. also some people compete better in their home country because they feel comfortable, or they don't want to disipoint the home crowd

The adrenaline of playing at home, ESPECIALLY for an event that involves other countries like the Olympics or Pan-Am games intensify it even more.

Who wants to lose a home in front of friends and family?

All these image hosting sites are so slow and messy. Where can i host my image online easily?

Everytime i go to host an image online the sites i try to use are always so fussy and/or slow. All i want is a simple form, a simple result, the ability to look at my image and a variety of forms to link at it. Where is this site i need???

I use imageshack.us and I did sign up for free. By singing up you can get to all of your images later.

They recently did make it a little harder to get the link easy but all you have to do is select the second link. The whole link has one in there with php in it but right after that is the show link.

use http://www.urimages.com

free unlimited bandwidth image hosting with option to make images private http://answers.yahoo.com/question/accuse_write?qid=20090119031436AA4l8da&kid=AoxbU1PtDGshIQXbdQpO&s=comm&date=2009-03-31+01%3A01%3A16&.crumb=

I use addmypics.com. They are the fastest and easiest place I found to host my images. No registration required and you can upload your images using a simple form. They give you like 5 different codes you would need to host your images in forums, auctions, emails, or whatever. Try them out.

imageshack.us

You don't even need to signup to use.

It gives you thumbnail/forum/direct link/download versions of any pic you want.

To see everything your IP has hosted you can easily sign up.

It is a little Commerical heavy though.

I use http://www.zwixy.com for that. They haven't let me down yet! They're fast and just a simple form unlike the other slow and heavy loaded crap sites.

try this one photobucket..you can organize your photos and you can also edit photos there..

If you are not looking at a free site then go with the provider called Incredos.com, they have photo album feature that can be setup with your site.

http://incredos.com

My favorite http://picasa.google.com it is easy and fast.

What information about the client is transmitted to the host of an SSL connection?

I know the IP address and browser information of visitors is recorded in the server logs of Web hosts, but what is additional information, if any, results from an SSL connection? If I visit an https site, what information is or can be recorded by the server hosting the secure connection?

It depends. If the site is using a cookie, then it can get pretty much any info it wants...

In typical end-user/browser usage, TLS authentication is unilateral: only the server is authenticated (the client knows the server's identity), but not vice versa (the client remains unauthenticated or anonynmous).

P.S - SSL is now TLS.

What present should I get my Chinese host family?

I am going to China (the city of Xi'an) with my school this April, and I need to get a present for my Chinese host family. It obviously needs to be something appropriate, but also needs to be VERY american. I already thought of American pottery, but do you guys know of any VERY american things I could get them? thanks! :)

First, make sure whatever you get is NOT made in China! :) I go through this dilemma every time I go to the States and try to bring back gifts for Chinese friends.

Red, white and blue American candy. I buy these in specialty candy shops. (Jelly Belly, toffees, salt water candy, etc.)

State quarters. These are a HUGE hit over here! These are best when in a coin book.

Since 2008 was such a big year in China (Olympics), a coin set all dated 2008. Quarter, nickel, dime, penny. You can check things like this out at

http://www.usmint.gov/

Nice, American hand lotions (or British) are always appreciated.

I hope this gives you some good ideas!

Enjoy your trip!

Some Sunkist oranges would be appropriate, but you might not be able to get those past customs. Otherwise, some assorted cookies and candies would be good. These would be traditional types of gifts in which you can put an American twist to them.

I am an American who has been in China six years. If you are going to Xi'an, get them a terra cota solider. Just kidding! Nothing more American than the flag!

Maybe one of those signs that people put on their lawns? Or a specific picture like Mona Lisa? Sorry, I'm not good with these things, lol.

how about an america flag on one side and a chinese flag on the other.

boobs of your daugther!

just kidding!

Whatever you give, NEVER EVER EVER give a clock to a chinese people or family.

DO NOT.

"giving clock" in chinese sounds like a phrase in chinese which is used when a person is dead.

so trust me DON'T give clocks.

Perhaps you can try something cute but cheap? If your host family have children, maybe you can try buying them some candies so they can all eat together. Maybe candies like nougat, toffee, something American like See's Candies but of course some cheaper things would do :) I don't think people in Xi'an have candies like these, but maybe they would think nougat are too hard and toffee too sticky! :D Well just make sure that your candies won't melt. If they opened it and it turned out to be a puddle of gooey things, that would look so good, wouldn't it? Maybe jelly beans, I don't know, but I think jelly beans are really American.

also most chinese people in mainland won't celebrate easter like we do, so easter eggs won't really be a meaning to them.

american pottery sounds pretty good! I'm sure they will enjoy it. I mean I would definitely like it if someone gave me pottery.

have fun when buying your present and enjoy your trip to Xi'an!!

What present should I get my Chinese host family?

I am going to China (the city of Xi'an) with my school this April, and I need to get a present for my Chinese host family. It obviously needs to be something appropriate, but also needs to be VERY american. I already thought of American pottery, but do you guys know of any VERY american things I could get them? thanks! :)

First, make sure whatever you get is NOT made in China! :) I go through this dilemma every time I go to the States and try to bring back gifts for Chinese friends.

Red, white and blue American candy. I buy these in specialty candy shops. (Jelly Belly, toffees, salt water candy, etc.)

State quarters. These are a HUGE hit over here! These are best when in a coin book.

Since 2008 was such a big year in China (Olympics), a coin set all dated 2008. Quarter, nickel, dime, penny. You can check things like this out at

http://www.usmint.gov/

Nice, American hand lotions (or British) are always appreciated.

I hope this gives you some good ideas!

Enjoy your trip!

Some Sunkist oranges would be appropriate, but you might not be able to get those past customs. Otherwise, some assorted cookies and candies would be good. These would be traditional types of gifts in which you can put an American twist to them.

I am an American who has been in China six years. If you are going to Xi'an, get them a terra cota solider. Just kidding! Nothing more American than the flag!

Maybe one of those signs that people put on their lawns? Or a specific picture like Mona Lisa? Sorry, I'm not good with these things, lol.

how about an america flag on one side and a chinese flag on the other.

boobs of your daugther!

just kidding!

Whatever you give, NEVER EVER EVER give a clock to a chinese people or family.

DO NOT.

"giving clock" in chinese sounds like a phrase in chinese which is used when a person is dead.

so trust me DON'T give clocks.

Perhaps you can try something cute but cheap? If your host family have children, maybe you can try buying them some candies so they can all eat together. Maybe candies like nougat, toffee, something American like See's Candies but of course some cheaper things would do :) I don't think people in Xi'an have candies like these, but maybe they would think nougat are too hard and toffee too sticky! :D Well just make sure that your candies won't melt. If they opened it and it turned out to be a puddle of gooey things, that would look so good, wouldn't it? Maybe jelly beans, I don't know, but I think jelly beans are really American.

also most chinese people in mainland won't celebrate easter like we do, so easter eggs won't really be a meaning to them.

american pottery sounds pretty good! I'm sure they will enjoy it. I mean I would definitely like it if someone gave me pottery.

have fun when buying your present and enjoy your trip to Xi'an!!

How does comcast host internet? Like what does someone need to do to host internet?

I have always wondered this I mean they sell internet for so much but how do they get it? How would someone be able to get a direct connection to the internet without having to go through say comcast? I mean comcast has a direct link to the internet some how right?

Internet Service Providers use the telephone and cable lines on the poles to give people internet. You are paying them a fee for them allowing you to use their lines.

What do people want from a web host?

When choosing who to host your website what exactly are you looking for from them. Is it price, support or something else.

I recommend one of these: http://www.hosttell.com/

Powweb has the best offer right now. It's on a 50% sale - $3.88/month ($46.56/year), and you get a free domain from them. (like www.yourwebsite.com)

Their hosting plan includes web builder, so you can create your site just by drag and drop (without any programming), or you could install Wordpress (easy, one click install from their control panel), choose a theme that you like, and start adding content.

Price for the hosting plan offered.

Of course support is a major quality, I mean, reliability is also a major trait looked for.

If the price is cheap and the plan is great, but the hosting goes down often, there would be no point in ordering such a package.

The control panel is also something that the common user would look at. If it is straight forward (like CPANEL), then the user would be content, for the most part. If it is a custom control panel that is loaded with bugs or is difficult to use, the customer might be repelled.

Overall, all of these traits do greatly impact a typical buyers view on the purchase.

Best of luck!

You shouldn't go for professionalism and looks as that can easily be just first impression and later on they will a bad service.

You need to do a lot of research before choosing.

Check their forum (if they have one) for any complaints, errors, etc.

Ask someone about their hosting or check out reviews for their hosting service.

Things to look for:

Space - don't be fooled by high numbers such as 2,000,000KB as that is just 2GB or 5,000MB as that is just 5GB. Of course that may be plenty of space, but you may want more later and not have the money to upgrade.

Bandwidth - This is crucial, if you use up to much, then your site can't be viewed until next month starts again. So, the more the better.

Uptime - How much your website will be up.

Note:

Remember that KB is smallest, average is MB, most common is GB, and TB is largest. Don't be fooled. Google for a converter to see actual space number in another unit.

I can suggest you a nice web host that seems to just started. Nice staff, fast support, uptime is very good, lots of space and bandwidth (worth your money), and also it comes with a nice script called installatron that lets you install scripts very easily.

Link: http://pyloth.com/

It is very important that your service be uptime. It means that you can access your account whenever you want to update your web pages, and your visitors can view your website whenever they input your website address. If your hosting service is not uptime it can be real hell!

As an experienced webmaster I recommend BlueHost service which I’m sure it would work for you and fulfill all your requirements. They have a really great offer for hosting & I have used them for over 3 yrs now, and have never had a single problem with them.

They offer a Full-featured service only $6.95 a month. You can see their Plan Details accompanied with reliable reviews regarding their service at:

http://www.threehosts.com/reviews/1st

Here I have copied and pasted its features from their website to view:

- Free Domain Forever

- Unlimited Space

- Unlimited Transfer

- Host UNLIMITED Domains (Support All Domain Names)

- 2,500 POP/Imap Email Accounts

- SSH (Secure Shell), SSL, FTP, Stats

- CGI, Ruby (RoR), Perl, PHP, MySQL

- Front Page Extensions

- Free Site Builder

- 24/7 Superb/Responsive Sales/Support

- Free Search Engine Submission

They also offer "Free Site Builder" that helps you build your web pages without difficulty if you are not skilled in using any website creating program (WYSIWYG: What You See Is What You Get). You can use this service optionally.

******IMPORTANT*******

* This service was awarded “The Best Web Host OF The Year”.

* If you sign up for this service you will have $75 credits to advertise your website with the google & yahoo search engines for free!

* You Can Register A Free Domain or Use Your Existing Domains. They Support All Domain Names.

****************************

Good Luck!

Price is almost always first on people's list. I found good cheap ones at http://bestcheapwebhosting.org

But it also depends on what you are looking for to do with the web hosting account. Some people want a reseller plan. Some wants good support. Some people want all-in-one e-commerce solution. You can find good list of all categories at http://hostingsthatsuck.com/best-webhosting/

Good luck

Having a decent uptime is important, tat's to say 99.9% uptime. Then come support for your customer. If you are able to do both well consistently, I am sure your web host will grow very very fast. I speak from experience.

For me its the whole package. I need it to be free but easy to use and with good support. It's also good to have lots of options or things that i can add to my web page:youtube videos, pictures, audio, and things like that.

Top 4 important aspects to choose a web host

1. Support

2. Reliability

3. Speed

4. Price

Hostgator is a quality host.

Read the whole review here:http://www.hostgator-review-coupon.org/

My daughter would like to host a charity fashion show as part of her volunteer project. How do we start this?

Her project is centered around women's healthcare - more specifically, women and bleeding disorders. I'm sure I can get the models, but where do I start other than that. We would like this to be large-scale with donations going to the National Hemophlia Foundation and the Region 6 Women's Retreat. Please respond or email me with info.

I would recommend contacting your local chapter of the National Heophilia Foundation and/or the Region 6 Women's Retreat before you rush out and get a lot of other things started. They may have something very similar in the works, or they may have wanted someone to do this and may have the resources you need already lined up. There's no use reinventing the wheel. Also, if you don't contact them first, whatever you're doing may interfere with something they're already trying to do. They may know some other people who want to do this and they may be able to help you. Also, most organizations have volunteer coordinators just to help people like your daughter to make the most of whatever project they want to start.

Well start by finding someplace to hold the program, then get your models and your clothes and at the same time start advertising on the radio, televison, fliers, myspace, etc. (I hope you don't mind spending some money) Sell tickets and if you can maybe do something like they did on American Idol where people called in and donated money (but I don't know how you can go about doing that) and you might want to give people proof of the foundations so they know it is legite.

i would say find a very large church i am sure that if the church is fulkly equipped. (like mine) they would be more than willing to assist you with a cause as important as this one, you should not have to pay for things like fliers,building cost or just about anything. it all should be provided and at the church.this is something that god wants us to do. this is will be a very successful event good luck and my prayers are with you.

let us all know how it turned out. i will put this on the prayer list at church.(remember if god is for it who can be againist it DO IT!!!

My daughter would like to host a charity fashion show as part of her volunteer project. How do we start this?

Her project is centered around women's healthcare - more specifically, women and bleeding disorders. I'm sure I can get the models, but where do I start other than that. We would like this to be large-scale with donations going to the National Hemophlia Foundation and the Region 6 Women's Retreat. Please respond or email me with info.

I would recommend contacting your local chapter of the National Heophilia Foundation and/or the Region 6 Women's Retreat before you rush out and get a lot of other things started. They may have something very similar in the works, or they may have wanted someone to do this and may have the resources you need already lined up. There's no use reinventing the wheel. Also, if you don't contact them first, whatever you're doing may interfere with something they're already trying to do. They may know some other people who want to do this and they may be able to help you. Also, most organizations have volunteer coordinators just to help people like your daughter to make the most of whatever project they want to start.

Well start by finding someplace to hold the program, then get your models and your clothes and at the same time start advertising on the radio, televison, fliers, myspace, etc. (I hope you don't mind spending some money) Sell tickets and if you can maybe do something like they did on American Idol where people called in and donated money (but I don't know how you can go about doing that) and you might want to give people proof of the foundations so they know it is legite.

i would say find a very large church i am sure that if the church is fulkly equipped. (like mine) they would be more than willing to assist you with a cause as important as this one, you should not have to pay for things like fliers,building cost or just about anything. it all should be provided and at the church.this is something that god wants us to do. this is will be a very successful event good luck and my prayers are with you.

let us all know how it turned out. i will put this on the prayer list at church.(remember if god is for it who can be againist it DO IT!!!

How do I apply to host a foreign exchange student?

I live in the USA. I'm 17, and as much as I'd like to be a foreign exchange student, I know I wouldn't be able to because of scheduling, school sports, etc. But I'm interested in my family hosting a student from abroad. What is the best way to go about doing this?

i would suggest:

http://afs.org/afs_or/focus_on/hosting

i have no real sources or personal experiences to back up AFS, but i'm currently applying to be an exchange student myself, and AFS seems promising to me :)

I keep losing what I post here .. I meant to recommend to you that a good book, that could possibly help you with adding some insight into "men and things" ... have you heard of the series of several books, that begin with "Clan of the Cave Bear". I recommend it highly.

I'm afraid Yahoo keeps acting up on me, so this is maybe unrelated to this question, as I tried to relocate the question about teh books you sought some rec's for ... I recommended Michener, regards history, and the life of Judy Garland is also interesting, having read "Over the Rainbow" ... that's a biography of her. But highly recommended which I think would be quite enjoyable for an independent and high spirited girl as you seem, should be great reading. Don't compare with movie -- the movie was "nada".