The Sex Advisors

For the cost of a packet of seeds, you can quickly create a show stopping garden accent or a living hideaway for children, hide a rusty chain link fence or an unsightly garage wall, and turn an ordinary balcony into a private garden. Started from seeds, annual vines will scramble to heights of 20 feet or more, highlighting features you want to show off and covering eyesores.

Here are just a few of the many uses for annual vines:

- Add a little magic to your garden by planting a trellis or pole with brightly colored morning glories and moonflowers. You’ll have a burst of brightly colored flowers during the day, and luminescent white blossoms at night.

- Add shade and privacy to your balcony with annual vines. Because their root systems are limited, they can be grown in large planters on a trellis, or allowed to trail from window boxes and big hanging baskets. The vertical growing habit will make a small area seem larger.

- Annual vines are ideal for introducing your children to the magic of gardening. Build a teepee of bamboo or fallen tree branches, and plant with scarlet runner beans or tall nasturtiums. Your children will enjoy their colorful (and edible) hideaway while learning about the wonders of nature.

- Plant climbing vines along chain link fences and light poles to soften the look of your landscape.

- Annual vines will quickly blanket a problem slope or other area that is difficult to mow with colorful flowers. If your slope is difficult to plant, use a vine that will reseed itself such as morning glories or cardinal climbers.

- Plant vines along a southern wall to keep the house cooler in summer.

Annual vines are easy to grow. They like a sunny location with good quality, well drained soil. Plant your seeds according to the package directions, and keep them evenly moist until they germinate. After germination, you’ll only need to water when the weather has been extremely hot or dry. Use fertilizers sparingly. An abundance of nitrogen will encourage your vines to produce an abundance of dark green foliage and few flowers.

Have your trellises or other support in place when you plant your seeds. If you can’t plant right next to the support, insert twigs into the soil next to the seeds to lead the vines to their intended support. If the vine can’t find its support right away, it will waste time searching and reaching for something to grab on to.

Recommended Annual Vines

Black Eyed Susan Vine
Unlike many climbing vines, this one isn’t invasive so it can be incorporated into existing gardens without fear of crowding out existing plants. It’s a great choice for hanging baskets and window boxes.
Height: 5′ to 10′ trailing vine

Cardinal Climber Vine
The deep red flowers with white or yellow throats are sure to draw attention to your trellises, fences and poles.
Height: 6′ to 20′ vine

Cypress Vine
This vine can add a tropical texture to your landscape with its interesting foliage and mix of bright red, pink and white flowers. With the right conditions, it grows to 20 feet.
Height: 8′ to 10′ vine

Hyacinth Bean Vine
This striking vine will have your visitors asking if it’s real! The flowers are followed by velvety purple bean pods.
Height: 6′ - 20′ vine

Mina Lobata
‘Firecracker Vine’ or ‘Exotic Love,’ this unusual, exciting, interesting annual vine has up to 12 beautiful 2″ tubular flowers on each spike. Performs well on trellises and in hanging baskets. This is one of the few annual vines that will tolerate a little shade.
Height: 6′ to 10′

Moonflower
Plant this fast-growing vine on a porch, near an entrance, or under a window where you can enjoy the evening performance and heady fragrance. The flowers bloom only at night, and unfold in 2-3 minutes, and event worth waiting for!
Height: 10′ to 20′ vine

Morning Glories
In the summer, flowers open in the morning, and in the fall they stay open all day. Morning glories are grown as a groundcover in difficult areas.
Height: 8′ - 10′ vine

Jackie Carroll is the editor of GardenGuides.com, where you’ll find seeds for all of the vines mentioned in this article, and GardenGuidesKids.com.
http://www.gardenguides.com
http://www.gardenguideskids.com

One of the best solvents you can use to remove ink stains from carpet is also one of the cheapest: rubbing alcohol. It works better if it is 90% isopropyl alcohol, but there is no danger in trying the ones that are 70% if that’s what you have available. Whichever you use, remember that ink stain removal is always easier if you treat the stains quickly. Just follow the steps below.

1. Apply rubbing alcohol to a white cotton cloth and dab the stain carefully, so you don’t spread the ink. Don’t ever pour rubbing alcohol on your carpet!

2. Vaccuum it out after a few minutes using a shop-vac. Alternately, you can blot it up carefully, using a clean white cloth. Don’t rub the stain!

3. Repeat the process until you completely remove the ink stains from the carpet, or until you get no more transfer to the cloth. In the latter case it may not be possible to get all of the stain out. At this point, you can try a commercial cleaning solvent, although it is unlikely you’ll get much more of the stain.

Always Rinse And Extract Carpet Stains

When you use a solvent other than water to remove ink stains from carpet, or any stains, be sure to rinse the area with water, and then extract it. Vacuuming out the water is quicker and less likely to damage your carpet, but a clean white cloth can also be used to blot the moisture. Repeat the rinsing and extraction once or twice.

Finally, remove moisture from the area quickly. There may still be some ink hiding deep in the fibers. Quick drying prevents stains from wicking to the surface of the carpet and becoming visible again. Plain white paper towels work well to get the last of the water out, and a fan left blowing on the area will complete the process.

About the author:

Steve Gillman has worked in the carpet cleaning industry for years. For more carpet-care information, and specific stain-by-stain removal instructions, visit http://www.HowToRemoveCarpetStains.com

1. Determine if your child is ready to learn how to ride the
bicycle. It is important that your child have to master balance.
You can start by teaching your child to begin in two wheels. You
can consider three methods like the assisted two wheeling,
unassisted two wheeling and the training wheel. It is up to you
on where you think your child will learn the easy way and
consider what could be the safest.

2. The training wheel is the best and conventional way for a
child to learn how to balance. It is very advisable for
beginners especially for children. Training wheels are small and
are intended for children. Your child might not enjoy its
purpose, which is to lessen the wounds, and injuries your child
can get in accidents when learning how to bike. The training
wheel is best used in large driveways, quiet streets, and parks
where you can leave your child alone learning even not watching
him. If your child has mastered how to use it, maybe he can ride
a bike even without the training wheel or your child can try a
different bike.

3. It is important that you should also check what clothes your
child is wearing during practices with the bicycle. You must not
let him wear clothes that are long which may be caught by the
wheels. Short pants or bike shorts would be advisable to your
childs outfit in riding a bike. Another advice would be to tell
your child to wear jackets or sweatshirts for safety in the
actual teaching.

4. Always remember the safety of your child before riding the
bike. Do not forget to tell your child the safety rules he must
keep in mind before he takes his ride. Your child must know that
wearing a helmet and a safety gear is important to your childs
protection in the streets. Kneepads and bicycle gloves are also
additional protective gears. It is necessary that your child
will always make the habit of putting safety first before taking
a ride.

5. Find the perfect place for your child to practice his biking
lessons. You can go to parks or large driveways where you can
let your child bike even with less supervision. It is safer to
teach him where there are less people. Another way is to find a
pavement that is flat, without any cracks, and holes where he
can move forward without using brakes. You can make a small
obstacle for your child to maneuver and learn to go in different
directions.

6. Another approach that you can use is to run along with your
child. If there is any small bike for your child, ride with him
holding your child up. Place yourself at his back and put your
arms on your childs shoulders, and let him hold the bikes
handles so that he will know how to control the bike and he will
learn how to balance. Always be alert if your child is doing the
right thing. If your child feels the pressure because you are
riding with him, let him do the steering. Let the bike go where
it will go, as long as the area is clear and safe. This could be
the fastest way your child can learn.

7. Show your child how to use the brakes. Educate him that
brakes are used for stopping the momentum of the bike. Most
bikes intended for children have back pedal brakes. The very
objective of back pedal brakes is to use the feet in stopping
the bike because children do not have enough power in their
hands to use the brakes. Hand brakes are not that safe for
children and you have to check it regularly because hand brakes
malfunction all the time. Although it has advantages in learning
to balance easily, back pedal brakes are much safer and much
recommended for a bike than a hand brake.

8. Let your child practice and ride the bike alone once child
already knows the basics and the safety rules you taught him.
Let him enjoy and have fun with his friends riding his bike.

The condition known as hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not function properly. This results in the body having reduced levels of thyroid hormone in it. Dry skin, hair loss, hoarseness, excessive menstruation, fatigue, lethargy, depression, intolerance to cold, constipation and weight gain are all symptoms of hypothyroidism.

There are different causes of hypothyroidism, cretinism is a type of hypothyroidism that develops at birth and results in stunted growth and mental development. A common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis which is an autoimmune disease of the thyroid gland. Damage done during radiation treatment or surgery to the thyroid gland to treat hyperthyroidism (an over active thyroid gland) is another common cause of hypothyroidism. Also some drugs, such as phenylbutazone and lithium, sometimes also cause hypothyroidism. Some people with an enlargement of the thyroid gland which is known as goitre have hypothyroidism. This is cause by an iodine deficiency which could be the result of eating too many foods that contain goitrogens such as rapeseed, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower or by another disorder that effects the thyroid hormone production. A condition known as secondary hypothyroidism is cause by the hypothalamus or pituitary gland not stimulating the thyroid gland properly. Severe hypothyroidism is called myxedema.

Extreme iodine deficiency is another possible cause of hypothyroidism but this is rare.

Medical treatment of hypothyroidism consists of prescribing synthetic thyroid or desiccated thyroid hormone. Naturopathic practitioners like to use desiccated natural thyroid complete with all thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormone replacement is necessary in most cases of hypothyroidism.

Changing the diet will help with hypothyroidism. Eating goitrogenic foods such as rapeseed, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, maize, lima beans, soya and pearl millet should be limited. These foods contain natural goitrogens, which are chemicals that cause the enlargement of the thyroid gland by interfering with thyroid hormone synthesis. Cooking is known to make the goitrogens elements less effective but it would be wise not eat these foods raw. Foods that contain iodine such as kelp, beetroot, radish, parsley, potatoes, fish, oatmeal and bananas should be kept in the diet. In the treatment of underactive thyroid, fats, sugars, sodium chloride, red meat and egg intake should also be restricted.

The relationship between iodine and thyroid is complex, iodine is needed by the body to form thyroid hormone, and goitre and hypothyroidism can occur through iodine deficiency. Extreme and prolonged iodine deficiency can lead to serious types of hypothyroidism, such as cretinism or myxedema. On the other hand, consumption of excessive iodine intake can result in either hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. The amount of 150 mg that is usually in multi-mineral supplements should be enough to stop iodine deficiency but not enough to do harm.

The amino acid tyrosine is an essential part of the thyroid hormones and neurotransmitters; this has been found to be deficient in people with hypothyroidism. Practitioners often recommended a low dose of thyroxine such as 1000mg to correct hypothyroidism. People with depression also have low levels of tyrosine, this is why it has be linked to hypothyroidism.

Vitamin A, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin E are needed for the synthesis of thyroxine. The B vitamins and copper are vital co-factors for tyrosine metabolism. Copper, iron, selenium and zinc are essential in the production of T3 from T4.

Some herbs can help combat hypothyroidism, nettle will balance the thyroid with both under and over activity. Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) is a type of brown seaweed that contains iodine. Hypothyroidism due to small intake of iodine may possibly improve with bladderwrack supplementation; also kelp has been linked to helping with hypothyroidism. Some people with hypothyroidism have seen improvements by taking Chinese herbs.

Another aspect to look at is chemical sensitivities. Research has shown an association between hypothyroidism and multiple chemical sensitivities. It was found that people with exposure to toxic heavy metals, polybrominated biphenyls and cardon disulfides through their occupations suffered from depression, fatigue, poor memory and constipation which are all symptoms of hypothyroidism.

Another important factor in the treatment of hypothyroidism is exercise. Exercise increases tissue sensitivity to the thyroid hormone and stimulates thyroid gland secretion. This is especially true in people who are dieting; this is because when dieting the metabolic rate decreases but exercise prevents this decline. An exercise regime of between 15-20 minutes per day will be beneficial with hypothyroidism. This exercise needs to be strenuous enough to raise the heartbeat, an exercise such as walking, swimming, running and cycling.

In conclusion, to combat hypothyroidism, it is best not to consume foods high in goitrogens especially raw but to increase foods high in iodine in the diet, to exercise daily for 20 minutes, to supplement the diet with multiminerals and multivitamins, B complex, vitamin C, manganese, tyrosine, kelp and iodine and to check whether sensitivity to chemicals are causing hypothyroidism. Some Chinese herbs may also help.

The following supplements may help if you are suffering from Hypothyroidism.

B vitamins complex

Manganese

Multivitamin and multiminerals

Vitamin C

Tyrosine

Kelp

Iodine

Stewart Hare C.H.Ed Dip NutTh

Advice for a healthier natural life

website: http://www.newbeingnutrition.com

Cats chew, lick, or eat non-food objects for medical and
behavioral reasons. Out of curiosity, a cat will try to chew on
most things. Easy to swallow items will need to be put up out of
reach of your cat.

Cats chewing and eating items, which are not food, thought to be
a lack of certain nutrients in the diet. Vitamin imbalance could
be some of the cause. Making sure, you are purchasing healthy
well balance food for your cat. Healthy eating for a cat means
healthy bones, muscles, and brain functions. If you are not sure
which brand to buy contact your vet for information and
recommendation for a healthy cat food. You will also want to
make sure that your cat has been up-to-date on the shots.

Chewing and sucking on clothing especially wool could mean a
sign of weaning to early. Cats or kitten sucking on wool finds
the smell similar to that of the mother’s fur around the nipple.
In turn, this could become a security blanket for the cat, as
long as the fabric is not chewed and swallowed. Your cat may
eventually stop the sucking or not. Your cat still can be a
wonderful companion.

One sign of danger is a cat that is playing or sucking on an
electrical cord. Use Tabasco sauce, cover the cord in duct tape,
bitter products that are for cats (they do not like the taste).
If the cord is not electrical and the cat continues to play with
the cord, search at a local do it yourself centers, for molding
to hide cords.

Household plants are also poisonous to cat. One of the worst one
is the Easter Lilly. That beautiful fresh of spring at Easter
will kill your cat if eaten. Place the plant in an area that the
cat will not be able to reach or there are plants that are not
poisonous at Easter time. Learn and research more about the
plants in your home to make sure that the kinds you have are not
poisonous. Some of the side effects a cat can experience with
eating poisonous plants are welling of the tongue, and throat,
paralysis of the throat. If you see your cat with any of these
signs, please call the vet right away. The cat will need
treatment fast.

Use a couple of leaves on the plant to place or rub bitters or
tobacco sauce, pop a balloon near the cat if you catch them
around the plant. Grow plants that the cat can eat. Catnip is a
great way to start all cats love catnip. Wheat and parsley grows
good indoors and is cat safe.

Remember to praise your cat when the behavior is good. Rewards
as small treats are also a great way to show your cat that you
care. With rewards, it tells them that you approve of the
behavior.

When they are eating a plant, electric cord, the drape cords, or
any small object that has come in the cat’s site, a firm “NO”
can do the trick. Drop a heavy book, hissing sounds, some type
of loud noise that will distract the cat from the chewing. Have
spray bottles with water handy. Cats do not like the spray of
water.

Never hit a cat for any reason, never tap the nose, or throw the
cat. Any physical harm you do to a cat they will fear you. The
training for your cat not to fear you after you have done
physical harm to them will never work Always remember you are
the human in the training and your cat is the cat. You can only
train a cat if you know how to do it the proper way. Training a
cat and not following thou will be disaster when the time comes
to retrain.

As a cat gets older, they are set in their ways and this is very
difficult to train. Start with the trainings early, as it is the
easiest. Do not wait until the worse happens and it may be too
late.

Your cat is your friend, we take care of friends are friends
take care of us.

We’ve all heard about Tibetan rugs, but are Tibetan rugs
popular in our North American culture? The popularity of Tibetan
rugs waxes and wanes from month to month. One minute there is
interest in the North American market, the next there is none.

Tibetan rugs are a tribal tradition and their designs are
pictorial and generally focus on the Buddhist element. There
rugs will also include geometric patterns. Collectors can’t seem
to decide if these unique rugs are worth their investment
dollars or not.

Older Tibetan rugs in good condition are hard to find. Most
never left Tibet and thus the only ones available in the North
American market are the more current rugs. Few rug dealers
provide an opportunity to purchase beautiful old Tibetan rugs.
More often than not the rugs that have found their way to the
western world are the checkerboard rugs which are a variety of
the tsuktruk weavings. They are generally a single color pile
weave made from narrow strips that are sewn together. These rugs
do not have designs.

The Wangen rugs come from a village called Wangden in the
village of Tsang. Wangden was always one of the traditional
weaving centers were the warped face rugs originated from.

Variations in color and structure have emerged but from where
no one is certain. Most have been assigned the Bokhara name
which is given to all Tekke Turkmen rugs but there is suspicion
that these rugs actually originated from the Wangden area which
has emerged as a modern weaving center.

Tiger rugs wear also quite trendy for a period which has now
waned. The interesting thing about Tibetan rugs is that there
popularity is not dictated by availably. The tiger rugs have
many of the expected Tibetan characteristics and they are sold
as meditation rugs or mats. The older ones where a solid color
of brown, black, or deep blue, while the modern ones have
developed a wider color palette.

Any mat that is made in the shape of a square is considered a
mediation mat in Tibet. But realistically if that was the case
every Tibetan would be committed to dharma and meditation and no
one would be doing anything else.

The checkerboard rugs appear to be the most popular rug from
Tibet. It’s apparent that when it comes to Tibetan rugs an
understanding of the pictographs is not appreciated in their
rugs, unlike with other cultures. There appeal as a home decor
piece is very understandable as they are distinct and unique but
as a collectors rug it’s hard to comprehend what drives the
market.

The market for Tibetan rugs is more of a decor market and less
of a collectors market and even still the Tibetan rugs seem to
have a difficult time penetrating the market with any strength.
When it comes to interest in Tibetan rugs it appears to be tied
to an understanding of dharma and Buddhism.

You are probably well aware that the Tibetan culture is seldom
discussed and few people understand Buddhism or the Tibetan
people including those in the Pamir Mountains which are located
in north Pakistan. Perhaps the lacks of understanding of the
Tibetan people is the reason that the Tibetan rugs can’t seem to
grab a continuously comfortable market share.

The Tibetan rugs are unique, intriguing, and an excellent
conversational piece. If you are looking for a rug you should
certainly consider Tibetan rugs.

———————–

John Murray makes it easy to go through the carpet buying
process and provides tips to keep your carpet lasting long. To
learn more and receive your free mini-course visit the carpet
rugs website

When most of us think about taking piano lessons, the last thing we think about is turning on our computer. But now, thanks to the Internet, you can take piano lessons online and learn from an online instructor. Let’s see how this might work.

First, you need a computer with speakers. Most computers today either come with speakers or have them built in. If you need them, they are relatively inexpensive and can be purchased at any electronics store. It’s important that your online lessons include audio samples. These will help you immensely as you get to hear your online teacher perform the example for you.

Second, you want to be able to communicate with the instructor. You’re going to have questions so make sure there is a message board or forum available for questions and comments. Also, make sure your instructor actually exists! There are some websites that say they provide feedback to students but this just may be an interactive forum with no instructor present.

Third, make sure the lessons you take are easy to understand. Do you want to learn classical piano? Then make sure the lessons you’ll be taking aren’t over your head. Do you want to learn how to improvise? Take a look around and see if you can actually do it from the examples provided.

Taking online piano lessons is a good choice for you if you like to work on your own and take your time. There’s usually no pressure to perform or complete tasks, so you can relax and work at your own pace.

Edward Weiss is a pianist/composer and webmaster of Quiescence Music’s online piano lessons. He has been helping students learn how to play piano in the New Age style for over 14 years and works with students in private, in groups, and now over the internet. Stop by now at http://www.quiescencemusic.com/piano_lessons.html for a FREE piano lesson!

Have you ever wondered why there are so many foreign students at your school, college or university? Have you considered the possibility of you studying abroad as part of you studies?

Many full time overseas students are studying for a full degree at your college and stay for the 3 or 4 years it takes to complete the course.

There are however, thousands of foreign students studying on a short term basis, usually for the second or third year of their course. These are exchange students and as these exchange programs are generally reciprocal you may be able, as part of your study program, to study at an overseas university for a year.

Each year there are also thousands of school children who also attend school in another country for periods up to a year. Again it is not because their families have moved during the summer but it’s because they are foreign exchange students and their experience abroad is as much a part of their education as their regular classroom studies.

Foreign exchange students can be found in many different countries all over the world. They generally have an avid interest in the culture of the area they have traveled to and usually have to have at least a basic grasp of the language.

By living abroad they gain an insider’s knowledge that they could never aquire from a text book back in their homeland thousands of miles away. In addition they learn the language, often becoming fluent during their time abroad

Foreign exchange students embark on an adventure that includes living in the home of virtual strangers for months at a time. The program involves recruiting host families who provide a place to stay as well as the essentials for the foreign exchange students.

Host families are carefully screened and chosen based on certain criteria. When a host family applies to the program they are asked if they have a preference regarding the gender of the foreign exchange students or the age. The majority of foreign exchange students are in the mid to late teens.

Once the host family is chosen they are given more information on the student that will be living with them. This helps them prepare for their arrival.

The foreign exchange students in the program have usually studied the language and the culture of the country they are visiting and therefore have the ability to communicate, at least at a basic level, with their host family. Sometimes host families are surprised by the level of comprehension that the foreign exchange students have.

Foreign exchange students also have to go through a series of steps to enroll and participate in the program. Being away from their homes and familiar surroundings can be difficult and therefore they are normally expected to undergo several psychological tests including speaking with a professional. It is important for the foreign exchange students, their parents and the host family that the children are able to handle and embrace the experience.

Many foreign exchange students become an honorary member of the family they visit. When their visit has ended and it’s time for them to return home it can be a bittersweet experience. It can also be difficult for the host family as they have to say goodbye to the young person who lived with them for months.

Frequently the host family and student become lifelong friends and visit each other regularly.

If your school or college participate in a student exchange program (and most do) and you are studying a course where you will benefit from the overseas experience (e.g. a foreign language) then enquire and see whether you could be spending the next academic year abroad. Whether you are one of the foreign exchange students or part of the host family the experience can be one of the most enriching and rewarding things you will ever do.

John is 51 and recently completed a degree in Creative Writing and now writes on education at In Education where there is a large selection of articles on education for all ages. For more information on course selection go to Online College Courses.

Osso Bucco

3 to 4 lbs veal shanks ( I serve one shank per person. If the cost is high you can cook down the meat and separate it from the bone.)
Cup all-purpose flour
2 Tbs olive oil
2 oz diced salt pork
Cup butter, melted
lb diced and peeled onions
1 large clove garlic, mashed
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 tsp salt
1 tsp fresh ground pepper
2 bay leaves, remove before serving
Cup dry white wine
2 Tbs finely chopped carrot
stalk celery minced
8 to 10 sprigs fresh parsley, chopped fine
1 Cup canned chopped tomatoes (I have used fresh tomatoes, but I find that the canned are constantly good in taste and the liquid is always welcomed in the sauce)
1 Tbs tomato paste
Cup warm water

Dredge the veal in flour and shake off any excess. Heat olive oil, salt pork and butter in a heavy-bottomed skillet. Add the onion and brown. When the onions are browned add the veal and garlic. Brown on all sides for about 8 to 10 minutes. Add, rosemary, salt and pepper. Stir and brown for about for about 10 minutes longer. Add bay leaves, wine, carrot, celery, parsley, and tomatoes. Stir tomato paste with the warm water until well blended and then add that to the mixture. Stir and simmer covered for about 40 minutes. ( I tend to let this simmer longer on my stove. This serves two purposes, one makes the meat extremely tender and two fills the house with wonderful aromas.)

Serve over Ravioli ( I use fresh over sized store bought ravioli. I have made my own, but I find that the store bought is good quality and much simpler. If you would like a recipe for homemade ravioli please send a request to recipes@gourmayeats.com )

Shauna Hanus is a gourmet cook who specializes in creating gourmet recipes. She has extensive experience cooking with easy to find grocery items to create delightful gourmet meals. She is also the publisher of a no cost bi-monthly gourmet newsletter. Her newsletter is always fun and informational packed with tips and trivia you can use everyday. http://www.gourmayeats.com

On the World Wide Web your domain name is your own unique identity. No two parties can ever hold the same domain name simultaneously; therefore your Internet identity is totally unique. If you have a business site on the Internet your domain name is your own online brand and in a sense you can use your domain name as your online business card. With your own domain name your web site, and e-mail addresses for example will have that professional look, being unique to your business. Many people often miss the importance of having and then keeping their domain name until they lose it. Once this happens they soon realize that they have lost their whole online identity.

How does a domain name work?
To understand why you need a domain name you first need to know how a domain name works.

A domain name is an addressing construct, used for finding and identifying computers on the Internet. Computers use Internet Protocol (IP) Addresses, which are a series of numbers used to identify each other on the Internet; however, many people find it hard to remember IP Addresses. Because of this, domain names were developed so that easily remembered names and phrases could be used to identify entities in the Internet instead of using an IP Address.

For example, the domain name M6.net identifies the company M6.net. When a user types the domain name M6.net in their browser or sends an email to M6.net, the Domain Name System (DNS) will translate the domain name into IP numbers. These are then used by the Internet to connect the user to M6.net’s web presence.

What should I use as a domain name?
You can use a word or phrase as a domain name. When thinking of a domain name, think of catchy words or phrases that are easy to remember and that will bring more traffic to your site. Try to use a domain name that is relevant to your web site. If your web site is a business site, it is a good idea to use the companies name as the domain name or if your site is a personal site try to think of a domain name that is related to the topic of your web site.

Also try to keep your domain name as short as possible, around 5 to 20 characters is fine. The shorter the domain name the easier it will be to remember.

One thing to keep in mind is assumed spelling issues; if you think up a ‘clever’ domain name such as 1luv4u.com - One Love For You (dating service), people may type in oneloveforyou.com believing this is the domain name; or oneluv4u.com, or 1love4you.com etc. This leads to brand problems. In this case the “oneloveforyou.com” name would be best. Another unfortunate example: Flo Office Supplies - flooffice.com?

How do I acquire a domain name?
There are two main ways you can get a domain name. You can either register your domain name yourself or you can get your web host or ISP (Internet Service Provider) to register it for you.

To register a domain name yourself you will need to choose a Registrar. A Registrar is an ICANN accredited domain registration company. There are hundreds of Registrars on the Internet nowadays. The market is becoming increasingly competitive; which means that you can purchase domains names for a low yearly fee.

Most web hosting companies will offer domain registration services to their clients. When you register a domain name through a web host they will register your domain name for you through their own approved registrar. An advantage to having your web host register your domain name for you is that, they have probably done this process many times before; they have all the necessary information ready at hand. This process will save you time and, as long as you give the ‘correct’ domain name desired, there will be no unfamiliar dealings with Registrars.

Why should I keep my domain name registered?
If you loose your domain name you can loose your whole online identity.

Because you can only register a domain name for a year or so, you will need to make sure that you renew it before the expiry date. Once your domain name expires you will no longer own that domain name. Your Registrar will then own it and be able to sell your domain name to the highest bidder. To make sure you don’t loose your domain name you will need to make sure you renew your domain name at least two weeks before it expires.

Also make sure that your information is registered properly, especially if you didn’t register your domain name yourself. Ensure that your information is displayed as the registrant, administrative and billing contacts; most importantly make sure that the email addresses for these contacts are ACTIVE. When you receive any information about your domain name, such as renewals, price changes, etc… an email will be sent to this email address. If you can’t receive any mail from the email addresses listed under the domain names contact then you are at risk of not receiving important notifications about your domain names, which could result in loosing your domain name.

People often miss the importance of having their own unique domain name for their web sites. A domain name represents you, your company and your online presence; as does a ‘business card’. If you don’t have your own domain name you won’t be able to promote your own online identity and web site on the World Wide Web.

By Candice Humbley
Fast, reliable Windows 2000 web farm hosting.
http://www.m6.net

M6.net is your No.1 provider of website web hosting on Windows 2000. The
lowest priced web hosting accounts with multiple websites and multiple
SQL Server databases per web account makes M6.net unbeatable value for
your web hosting needs - save $100’s of per month.