Eating and drinking vegetables is necessary for good health and for keeping your skin free from acne. Most people don't eat enough vegetables and seldom drink their juices. Here is a list of vegetables and their juices that you need to eat and drink daily to help eliminate your acne.

Vegetable juices

Vegetable juices are absorbed quickly into your bloodstream. As a result, your cells are quickly provided with nutrients that feed them and that wash away waste. Vegetable juices give you the opportunity to get quick relief from various body conditions such as acne, skin disorders, and constipation.

Eating and drinking vegetables provide you with minerals and nutrients that build your blood, tissue, bones, and cells. It is minerals that build every part of your body. It is minerals that keep your body's pH at the required level. It is minerals that keep your body alkaline by neutralizing body acids. Concentrate on putting minerals into your body by eating and drinking plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Carrot apple juice

Drink carrot juice every day. I like drinking carrot juice mixed with apple juice. My stomach can handle this combination better.

Carrot juice contains many vitamins and minerals. It is high in beta-carotene. Carrot juice will enhance your skins health and help you eliminate acne.

Carrot, spinach, and apple juice

A combination of carrot, spinach and apple juice is a powerful drink for cleaning the colon, relieving constipation and improving your skin conditions.

To make this drink, juice 3-4 carrots and a bunch of spinach. Then add juiced apples to make this drink more drinkable.

Vegetables

The word phytochemicals is used frequent here. Phytochemicals are all of the chemicals that exist in vegetables and fruits. There are so many phytochemicals that scientists have yet to investigate and learn about all of them.

Here are the vegetables that you should be eating the most of, so you can support the cleansing of your face and eliminating acne.

* Carrots - contain a rich source of vitamin A-like carotenoids. These phytochemicals have been shown to enhance the health of skin and repair it when it is damaged.

* Cabbage - helps to detoxify the body of harmful chemicals from the air and food additives.

* Celery - helps to reduce nervous tension. It contains many minerals that help to neutralize body acid waste and is high in fiber

* Cucumber - helps to reduce acne problems because it is high in silicon and sulfur. It is also a diuretic which helps flow more water through the kidney to clean out your blood

* Broccoli - is rich in beta carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which is good for the skin

* Garlic - is a natural antibiotic and will help relieve skin bacterial infections

* Green pepper - The nutrients in green peppers are good for liver health and constipation. Its minerals are good for neutralizing acid waste.

* Radishes - help to digest your food. Good digestion is necessary to avoid constipation and to keep the liver and pancreas strongSprouts - provide plenty of vitamins and minerals, which help to reduce body acids

* Watercress - helps to prevent vitamin and mineral deficiencies at the skin surface. It provides Vitamin A, B1, B2, C, iron, manganese, copper, and calcium.

Look this list of vegetable over, make a list of them, and head for your favorite store, or farmers market. Concentrate in eating and drinking these natural products and you will see results in your health and a decrease in your skin disorders.

What comes after the Nokia N96? The N97 of course. And what could Nokia possibly offer to their fans after the rich features of the N96? Definitely a touchscreen feature which the company just did as it unveils the Nokia N97 - Nokia’s official entry into the iPhone-rival Wars. Thus joining RIM, HTC/Google, Samsung and other mobile phone manufacturers who tried and are still trying to beat the iPhone for being the coolest touchscreen mobile phone ever to hit the mobile phone market.

Realizing that it has definitely a full load of features and specifications to beat with its latest entry into the touchscreen market, Nokia has peppered the N97 with possible the best features that it could ever think of putting into the N97. The phones key features is highlighted by a full QWERTY keyboard and a large touchscreen features with a tilting display. The phone’s homescreen can also be customized by using widgets plus a slew of mobile web applications which can be toggled alternately. These applications include email, IM, maps, music, videos and photos.

The N97 also boasts great features including, 3G, GPS and built-in compass, 32GB internal memory, 5 megapixel camera, N-Gage support, handwriting recognition, physical keyboard and a built-in compass to support its GPS function. It runs on the latest Symbian OS, the S60.

In addition, the Nokia N97 also boasts of Flash and Flash video support. A feature which lacks on the iPhone. Pending official press release from Nokia, other features mentioned by Engadget includes, a 3.5-inch 640 x 360 pixel screen with 16:9 aspect ratio, microSD support, 5 MP camera with Carl Zeiss glass, and DVD quality video capture at 30fps.

Of course with a specs as powerful as those, the N97 will definitely retail for such a high price. Although not as expensive as the Xperia X1 though at around $693. The N97 is slated to be available in the first half of 2009.

President Arroyo vowed to secure more jobs for skilled Filipino workers in the Middle East during her three-day visit to Qatar that started yesterday.

The President left early yesterday morning for Doha where she will meet with the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, several business groups and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in that country.

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said that Mrs. Arroyo sees this visit as an opportunity to strengthen the Philippines’ ties with Qatar at all levels and on all fronts, especially in the critical areas of energy, telecommunications, tourism, agriculture and labor.

Ermita said the booming construction sector in Qatar provides a huge opportunity for highly-skilled Filipino workers, particularly with the current global financial crisis.

“With the current requirements in Qatar’s surging construction sector, the President’s visit will underscore before key Qatari proponents the Philippines’ capacity to provide necessary resources and highly-skilled technical manpower,” Ermita said.

Qatar owns the third largest natural gas reserves in the world after Russia and Iran, and its economy is rated as the second most competitive among Middle Eastern countries aside from having one of the highest gross domestic product per capita in the world at $61,895 as of 2006.

The constitutional emirate is also pouring billions into private and foreign investments in non-energy sectors.

The Department of Labor and Employment said the real estate boom in Qatar has resulted in the need for engineers, architects, interior decorators/designers, mechanical, electrical and plumbing personnel, and marble, granite and ceramic tile setters.

The President will meet representatives of the 150,000-strong Filipino community in Qatar where she will brief them on current developments in the Philippines.

The President will also meet the Philippine ambassadors in the region to assess the impact of the global financial crisis on OFWs.

Ermita said that the President would seek broader discussions on the possible flow of Qatari investments in Mindanao’s agriculture sector for the export of products from the region for the Qatari and Middle Eastern markets.

He said that the promotion of tourism would also be among the visit’s priorities, as the President envisions an increase in visitor arrivals from Qatar to the Philippines and vice versa, with the maximization of Qatar’s strategic location as a hub of civil aviation in the Middle East.

The DOLE said that due to growing population and high levels of income, the tourism industry in Qatar is progressing and the construction of hotels as well as franchised restaurants is a sign of the country’s desire to become a major force in the hospitality industry, which would mean the need for hotel personnel and service crew.

“The President will push for the success of significant trade and business prospects involving both countries, see to the signing of two agreements that bear on taxation and on economic, commercial and technical cooperation, and meet with members of the Filipino community,” Ermita said.

An overview of the two countries’ relations issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs showed that since the establishment of diplomatic relations in May 1981, the two countries have forged a total of seven bilateral agreements.

Madonna has settled her divorce with ex-husband Guy Ritchie by also parting with at least 50 million pounds ($76 million), the singer's spokeswoman said Monday.

Liz Rosenberg told The Associated Press the settlement was in the range of 50 million to 60 million pounds ($76 million to $92 million) as part of their divorce agreement, a figure she said included the value of the couple's country home, Ashcombe House in western England, which Ritchie will keep.

Rosenberg said the couple's west London pub — the Punchbowl — would also remain with Ritchie.

A representative for the British filmmaker declined comment.

The couple were reportedly worth some $525 million, the vast majority of which belonged to Madonna. Ritchie had an estimated $35 million fortune.

Their multimillion pound (dollar) settlement is about twice the size paid out in Britain's latest high-profile celebrity divorce, that of former Beatle Paul McCartney and model Heather Mills.

"I'd assume it's one of the largest payouts ever in a divorce settlement," Rosenberg said.

The biggest contested divorce settlement in English history was the 48 million pounds (about $90 million at the time) insurance tycoon John Charman was ordered to pay his ex-wife in 2006.

But U.K.-based entertainment lawyer Ambi Sitham said it made sense for Madonna to divest herself of her British property.

"She's got no interest in remaining here," Sitham said. "She's relocating and moving back to New York. It's money she's already paid out — what is she going to do, try to sell the houses in a flagging market?"

Rosenberg said that while the financial component of the settlement had been worked out, custodial arrangements for the couple's children have yet to be finalized.

Madonna and Ritchie, director of "Snatch" and "Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels," have two children, Rocco, 8, and David Banda, 3, who was adopted from Malawi in 2006. The singer has a 12-year-old daughter, Lourdes, from a previous relationship with personal trainer Carlos Leon.

The pair were married in a lavish ceremony in December 2000 at Skibo Castle in the Scottish Highlands.

But in recent years, reports began to accumulate that their relationship was on the rocks. Over the summer, Madonna was linked — unfairly, she said — to the breakup of New York Yankee Alex Rodriguez and his wife, Cynthia.

Madonna and Ritchie announced their split in October after months of tabloid speculation. They were granted a preliminary divorce decree on Nov. 21 and the split is expected to become final in January.

Madonna kicked off her latest tour — "Sticky and Sweet" — in Cardiff, Wales, on Aug. 23. Madonna, Lourdes and Rocco are currently in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil where the singer gave a concert Sunday night before 70,000 fans at the famed Maracana soccer stadium.

She has another concert in Rio later Monday, and then plays in Sao Paulo's Morumbi stadium Thursday, Saturday and Sunday nights.

As the residue of the blockbuster Dream Match slowly fades away, Freddie Roach is ready to make peace with the rival camp.

After everything that’s been said and done, all the trash-talking and finger-pointing, Manny Pacquiao’s trainer said it’s about time to put them all behind.

In the weeks leading to the “Dream Match” between Pacquiao and Oscar dela Hoya, Roach engaged the opposite camp in a running word war.

He said he regrets saying some things.

It all started when he said Dela Hoya, at 35, “can’t pull the trigger anymore” and that he had no doubt in his mind that the Golden Boy would be knocked out.

He also had some harsh words for Dela Hoya’s trainer, Nacho Beristain.

“Maybe I shouldn’t have said some things I said and hopefully he’ll forgive me and I’ll forgive him,” said Roach referring to Dela Hoya whom he once trained.

“I hope it will be okay. I have four fighters fighting for him (under Golden Boy Promotions) so I still have to work with the guy,” said Roach, normally soft-spoken.

“Who knows... we can be friends after this.”

Roach said that since Pacquiao is no trash-talker, he had to take the cudgels, adding that he was willing to do anything or everything “just to throw Oscar off.”

Then Dela Hoya countered by blaming Roach for his loss to Floyd Mayweather Jr. by saying the two-time Trainer of the Year brought in the wrong game plan.

“I like Oscar. He’s a great guy. He treated me well in camp, and when he blamed me for the Mayweather loss and something like maybe he’s just trying to get back because I said he can’t pull the trigger,” said Roach.

The first step is to adjust your mentality and recognize the situation:

• You are not ruining someone's life; they will get over you some day.

• If you don't break up quickly and honestly, it's unfair to you and the other person.

• If you are even thinking about breaking up with someone, it's probably time to do it. Would you want to be with someone who was having second thoughts while you were madly in love with them?

• It's going to be ugly and there's nothing anyone can do about it.

What's the best way to break up? There is probably no best way. But there are a number of tactics that can help make it easier for both parties (even though both parties may not recognize it at the time). Here are some good tactics to use for a "clean" break:

1. Make It Fast
The longer you take to get to the point (whether it's hours or days), the less they will take you seriously. And if you make it look like you're having a hard time going through with the breakup, they will think they can change your feelings or stick around in your life.

2. Be Honest
Don't sugarcoat the situation. If you're seeing someone else, tell them you're seeing someone else. My little sister broke up with a live-in boyfriend because she kissed another guy during a business trip. She told her boyfriend the deal -- it made it more concrete. Avoid cliche's like "I love you, I'm just not in love with you." Guys don't understand this stuff. If you've lost feelings for them, just say it. They can't argue with that. And avoid covering up -- "I just can't be in a relationship right now." Sure you can -- if you were still really into him, you'd be in a relationship with him.

3. Don't Feel Sorry for Anyone
People will beg, cry, get angry, or shower you with guilt. Just keep going, try to ward off your guilt. It's just going to slow you down and prevent you from getting to your objective. And never take someone back, or cancel breaking up because you feel sorry for them. Do you really want to stay with someone you feel sorry for?

4. Set Post-Breakup Rules
Let them know the deal: you won't be answering their calls or emails. You won't be accommodating them if they show up at your apartment. Eventually, if they have any personality and independence, they will stop bothering you -- but only if you stick to these rules. If you lay these rules out at the time of breakup, then they can't say: "why are you ignoring my calls?" Don't tell them what they are allowed to do -- they can call you all they want, but if you have stated you won't be answering their calls then you are well within your rights when you don't pick up.

5. Stick With It
The more you take them back, the less seriously they'll take your breakup attempts.

6. Neutral Site
Never do it at your place. You want to be able to leave on your own time. Neutral places are the easiest locations to make a quick getaway. The longer you've been together, the more likely it is that you'll be required to do it in person.
Breaking up takes strength. I have found that people who can't break up with someone they are no longer into are somewhat weak. Do what you want to do, and don't get swayed by the situation or the other person.

The Lamborghini Reventon is an extreme super sports car without equals.

With only 20 produced (each 1 Million Euro), Lamborghini Reventon is a symbol of extreme exclusivity with extraordinary performance through the entire technical and dynamic competence of the twelve cylinder Lamborghini.

Lamborghini prides itself on being the extraordinary manufacturer of extreme super sports cars without compromise. The Reventon was inspired by the fastest airplanes and perfected to the last detail.

Acne scars can often be the final reminder of a bad time in the life of a person's skin. Though acne is one of the most common skin disorders, most former patients feel no need to display their scars like war wounds from a hard won battle, and once sufferers have achieved the clear skin they have longed for so long, they move swiftly into a new fight - how to remove, or at least lessen, their acne scars.

Just as there are different types of acne, there are also different types of acne scar. While the painful cyst type acne usually leaves scarring of some kind, some former patients find themselves with minimal damage after suffering with this type of the condition, while others who have had more superficial blemishes find that they scar badly. Scars are caused by both the build-up of excess tissue and by the loss of tissue due to acne, and the type of treatment that is appropriate will vary from patient to patient. But medical advances have led to a number of new developments, which means that there is even an effective treatment for deep acne scars available.

Most types of the skin condition leave indented acne scars, which are difficult to conceal using makeup. Thankfully, there are available treatments for these deep acne scars, which can even out the appearance of the skin. Chemical peels can be used for shallower acne scars, while dermabrasion can penetrate the skin at a deeper level. One of the most recent developments in this field is the use of laser treatment for acne scars, which uses the energy of a laser to penetrate the skin and improve its appearance. Different types of laser have different healing properties - a consultation with a dermatologist will help determine which laser treatment for acne scars will have the best effects on your skin.

Scars, particularly acne facial scars, can be a daily reminder of a time you are very glad to see the back of, but thankfully there are treatments available to help you achieve the skin you deserve. Make an appointment with a dermatologist and find out how you can say good bye to those acne scars for good.

Hugh Jackman, People's Sexiest Man Alive, is switching his hosting duties from Broadway to H'wood now that he's been tapped to host 2009's Oscars, as you've no doubt heard.

Good for H.J.—we're sure he'll be able to score a +2 since he'll be hosting the damn show. We adore Jackman and all his many talents (i.e., his abs and pecs), but does this mean Australia, his Golden Globe-dissed epic, will have to be nominated for something undeservedly?

Just imagine how awkward it'll be to have the star of a flick, one who reaches Jennifer Aniston proportions of desperation for attention by the Academy, shelling out his services for nothing in return nomination-wise.

The film's action scenes were show-offy, which the Academy drools over, but Dark Knight and Iron Man did it much better. And as far as performances go, no offense, Hugh, your sweaty chest was fab, but Nicole's forehead stole the show—and not in a good way. Let's hope the Oscars don't turn into the VMAs and just give awards away because of politics—unless you really think Britney deserved Best Everything of the Year.

··· THEY SAID WHAT? Get today's most commented stories now at www.eonline.com

Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt were all smiles at Monday's premiere of "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button." Angelina donned a gorgeous black Versace gown while Brad chose a classic tux.

Come visit Bohol, travel to the southern island paradise of the Philippines. Take in the breathtaking view of the famous Chocolate Hills in the town of Carmen. Bohol is also known to have some of the world's most beautiful dive spots. It is a sanctuary of nature's beauty all in one island.

With its rolling hills and plateaus, crystal springs and beaches, Bohol is a picturesque island-province replete with ancestral homes and centuries old churches. Bohol is situated at the heart of Visayas, to its West is Cebu and to the East is Leyte. Along its coastline are the numerous isles of Panglao, Pamilacan, Cabilao, Jao, Mahanay and Lapinin, which are also excellent dive spots. Beneath the rustic charms of Bohol lies a numerous adventures waiting to be unfolded. It is the site of the 1565 blood compact between Boholano chieftain Rajah Sikatuna and Spanish explorer Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. Bohol's historicity is evident in the province's relaxed, laid-back pace. Excavation in ancient burial grounds reveal artifacts dating back to China's Tang Dynasy. It is evident that the province already had strong trading ties with the Chinese long before the Spaniards set foot in the country. Every year, the compact between the Muslim chief and the Spanish conqueror is celebrated through the Sandugo Festival in July. All year-round, the museums and churches attest to the province's rich heritage and culture. The Chocolate Hills in Carmen is the most famous natural attraction. The province is home to the world's smallest monkey, the Tarsier. Other equally exotic flora and fauna can be found amongst the forests of Bohol. Bohol's various mountains and water formations also serve as a natural playground for the adventurous tourist. One can cruise the rivers, hike up the hills, swim the deep waters or just stroll down the avenues. Bohol is just waiting to surprise you.


Getting There
You will most likely be approaching Bohol from Cebu but there are direct flights to Tagbilaran from Manila that probably depart at least once a day. Check with Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific Air for flight rates and schedules.

From Cebu, Bohol is easily visible from any vantage point that provides view across the 20-mile wide Bohol Strait. You can fly the short distance on Asian Spirit or Cebu Pacific Air. If you do fly, remember to confirm your return trip as soon as you arrive at the Tagbilaran Airport.

If you choose to go by sea, there are many ferries and fast crafts that ply the Cebu-Bohol route throughout the day. Besides saving a few pesos, there's nothing like an inter-island ferry for catching the beautiful vistas that the archipelago has to offer.

Getting Around
Bohol's moderate weather allows long walks under friendly skies. As in most parts of the country, buses, jeepneys and tricycles are the main source of transportation. It's advisable to wear light clothing. And always, when you're hopping about, wear a smile.

Staying In
Bohol has a number of moderately-sized hotels and resorts to suit any tourist's needs.

The City of Tagbilaran
Tagbilaran City, the capital of Bohol is hidden from the open sea by the island of Panglao. It is bounded on its Western and Southwestern sides by 12.2 km. of coastline, on its North by the town of Cortes, on its Northeast side by the town of Corella and to its Eastern side by the town of Baclayon.

For more information please visit - Bohol

The Hulk is gonna get green with envy. Well, greener.

Iron Man and The Dark Knight were both named Sunday to the American Film Institute's Movies of the Year Top 10 list.

On the television side, the AFI Awards' honorees included The Office, Lost and Mad Men, but not the Emmy-winning 30 Rock.

For Iron Man, the kudos is its first major honor of awards season. For The Dark Knight, it's its umpteenth honor. For superhero movies—the passed-over Incredible Hulk excepted—it's another step in their march toward world domination.

Brad Pitt, Michelle Williams and Clint Eastwood, meanwhile, helped represent for people who can't fly.

Pitt's The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Williams' Wendy and Lucy and Eastwood's Gran Torino all made AFI's movie Top 10.

Rounding out the list: Frost/Nixon, the low-budget indie Frozen River, Milk, WALL-E, and The Wrestler.

Revolutionary Road, The Reader and Slumdog Millionaire, all of which are up for Best Drama at the Golden Globes, along with Frost/Nixon and Benjamin Button, were not AFI selections. The group's awards honor American-made films; those three movies are European productions or coproductions.

As with film, the AFI's Programs of the Year list heavily favored drama over comedy. In addition to Lost and Mad Men, Breaking Bad, In Treatment, cult-favorite Life, the miniseries John Adams, the TV movie Recount, and the late The Wire and The Shield all made the cut.

The Steve Carell-managed The Office was the only half-hour comedy honored.

Don't ever expect to find the love of your life after a one-night stand or random make-out. These events are phenomena where everything seems magical and then suddenly shuts off — much like Cinderella loses her game at midnight.

But it happens to the best of us. So here are some do's and don'ts for not only keeping the morning-after awkwardness to a minimum, but also keeping it as smooth and as painless as possible:

Do not linger in bed hungover. I'm foul when I'm hungover, so I am sure others are too. You can't contaminate someone's bed with that. Do everything you can to get home and fester in your own bed. People have things to do over the weekend. I've had friends actually complain about their serious girlfriends staying in their bed hungover too long!

Do pay attention to when the magic is over. The strangest thing about the random encounter is that point somewhere in the wee hours of the morning where the magic wears off. Maybe it's when those first birds start chirping and the reality of the event has set in. Or maybe it's when you're lying next to random make-out person with morning breath. When the magic's over, it's time to go.

Do not call/text your friends in bed. Not only does this log more hours for you in the bed, but it's rude to just start contacting others while you're both lying there. Talk about my terrible lovemaking skills when I'm not next to you!

Do make a fast getaway. I've never heard a guy or girl complain that someone left too fast, but I have heard both guys and girls complain that someone stuck around too long.

Do not look around the room too much. You might find a picture of a girlfriend ... or something worse.

Do turn on the TV, immediately upon waking up. If you're too hungover or stunned to get up, pray that they have a TV in the bedroom and — if your prayers are answered — turn that sucker on. It provides a distraction, and may just spark up conversation in an otherwise awkward environment.

Do not create a morning clothing hunt. This is tough to do in the heat of the moment, but just remember that when you fling your bra into the rafters and other articles of clothing become entwined in the bed sheets, you will have to spend several agonizing minutes gathering everything up in the morning.

Do not go on a breakfast date. It's a shame that these random encounters should end quickly, with no fanfare. But if you do go to breakfast, you both better be sure you're kind of into each other. The majority of these things don't end with breakfast, so that one that does might unfairly set expectations for a follow-up date when there are no intentions.

Do make fun of your now shabby outfit. So your sequined dress, six-inch stilettos, and runny mascara may cause a stir when you walk out of his house and past the neighborhood church at 9 a.m. on Sunday, but what else can you do but laugh at yourself and ease the pain with some self-deprecation? It's much more endearing if you laugh it off instead of trying to take yourself seriously.

Do not take my shirts. I've washed and worn these shirts to perfect softness, and they all have some meaning to me. And how do girls have a knack for stealing my favorite clothes anyway?

Do try to find some closure. Be realistic. You can exchange numbers, but don't try to set times for when you guys will speak again. Does anything really grow out of random nights spent with random people? Give each other a hug, wish each other well, and don't say anything about calling, and don't believe him when he mutters that he will call you. If one of you calls the other later, then cross that bridge when you come to it.

Do expect him to get you at least to the door. He should take you all the way out of the bed, out of the apartment/house, and to the vehicle you are taking to get home. It's just common courtesy. If he doesn't, wait until you are out of his bed and then get on your cell and bitch about him to your friends.


The main thing about random hookups is managing expectations. If you can do it with a sense of humor, high efficiency, and low expectations, you can usually emerge unscathed.

Do you agree or disagree with these rules? What rules would you add to this list?

Each of us has got a dream to have beautiful white teeth and wants to know how to whiten them. Not all of us feel a sudden urge to visit the dentist immediately. There are some rules for whitening your teeth that can be followed at home and condition of your teeth will improve.

Although the color of our teeth is genetically-induced the stains may appear as a result of several factors, smoking, drinking tea or coffee. The best option is to visit the specialist but there are also several ideas you can implement at home.

1. Whitening toothpaste - they manage to remove the outer layer of your discoloration, they won’t help for permanent stains.

2. Whitening straps - they are used for around a week, the results last for around a month. All you have to do is to apply the straps with a gel into your teeth.

3. Or the cheapest method - strawberries combined with baking soda manage to whiten stains from coffee, red wine, smoking or dark drinks.

1. People have taken year-end inventories.

The end of the year is a time to reflect. You reflect back on what has happened in your life. You reflect back on the people you've dated during the past year, or the lack of dates you had. You might think back on some of your dating "near misses" or the people with whom you just didn't connect.

During this time of year, many people are more vulnerable than usual because they do not want to spend the holidays alone. Due to this vulnerability, people will open up more if you try to engage them in conversation. As it gets closer to winter, and especially during the holidays, people tend to be more willing to date people they otherwise wouldn't during the rest of the year. You have so many more potential connections right next to you every day of the holiday season. So keep this in mind about how people are feeling this time of year, and start being a little more friendly.

2. Christmas shopping.

The holiday shopping season seems to begin before we've even taken our pumpkins off the porch, which means that there are a lot of days to go out Christmas shopping. You can go Christmas shopping every single day (whether you are actually looking for presents or not) during the holiday season. This is really the one time of year when you can wander around in stores in which you would normally not feel comfortable.

One of my favorite things to do to meet someone during the holidays is to go Christmas shopping and ask for opinions. If you are a man, you can head into the women's department and bop around getting opinions on a present for your sister. If you are a woman, go to the men's department and ask for opinions on a gift for your brother. You can start a conversation with virtually anyone by pointing out an item and saying, "Excuse me, I am shopping for my boss (or brother, sister, or mother). What is your opinion on this?" It is a natural and easy way to talk to someone new.

3. No one wants to spend New Year's Eve alone.

We have all been to New Year's Eve parties where we've had to endure the 5-4-3-2-1 countdown without someone to kiss at midnight. It's not fun.

“No one likes to spend New Year's Eve alone. For this reason, there are a lot of people looking to connect with someone in time for New Year's. For this reason, there are a lot of people looking to connect with someone in time for New Year's. So how can you meet all these people? Well, the holiday season offers a number of really fun (and easy) ways to approach someone -- and to make yourself very approachable.

You can walk around wearing a little Santa cap to spread some holiday cheer. Or walk your dog with reindeer antlers on its head. One fun thing I had the guys do at one of my boot camps was to play the "naughty or nice" game with women. This entailed them wearing Santa caps and carrying around stockings filled with candy canes. They would walk up to women (and women could do this with men) and say, "I'll give you a candy cane if you tell me whether you've been naughty or nice and why." There are a million fun little ways to use holiday props to meet people, and with all the holiday hustle and bustle people often appreciate a little bit of fun.

4. Unlimited holiday events.

Going to holiday-related public events is another way to have fun and possibly meet your potential soul mate. Shops often will stay open late on a Friday night, and towns will have things like Christmas walks and open houses on store-filled streets. It's amazing how many people you can engage just by wishing them a merry Christmas or Happy Holidays -- and end up in a great conversation.

5. Plan your own events.

The holiday season is also the perfect time to create your own fun activities. For example, throw a Secret Santa party where you invite singles and tell them to bring a gift for someone else who is single. Or have a holiday party where you ask your guests to bring someone to the party whom no one else has met.

The peso broke yesterday into the 47 to $1 territory, fueled largely by heavy dollar inflows from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and optimism brought about by the approval of a huge bailout package for the ailing US auto industry.

The peso opened strong at 47.980 to the dollar after closing at 48.250 to $1 Wednesday and continued to appreciate during the day to finally close at the intra-day high of 47.780 to the dollar. Yesterday’s close was the strongest since the peso last touched the 47.610 level on Oct. 15, 2008.

Total transaction volume amounted to $747 million on an average rate of 47.918 to $1.

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo told reporters yesterday that sentiments were improved, with greater optimism spurred by the bailout package for the automotive industry and US financial institutions as well.

“They’re talking of a big bailout package and that is meant to shore up confidence,” he said. “This has also affected sentiments in a positive way in the Philippine market.”

Guinigundo added that the decline in the national average inflation rate also added to the market optimism, as the rate dropped to 9.9 percent in October, hitting single-digit levels much earlier than projected by the BSP.

“The market is now more confident that indeed inflation has peaked in August, much earlier compared to what we expected that single-digit inflation will be achieved sometime in the first quarter of 2009,” he said.

Foreign exchange, however, were still bleeding out of the market, reversing last year’s record net inflows of $3.7 billion and ending the January to November transactions into a net outflow of $1.3 billion.

The steady outflow of foreign exchange, combined with weaker export earnings and foreign direct investments, are expected to keep the peso from surging as it did in 2008.

But Guinigundo said remittances from overseas Filipinos would provide some cushion to the peso as well as the decline in global oil prices which would make imports significantly cheaper than last year.

You don't have to spend a fortune on supplements when food provides all the nutrients you need to have clear skin. Herbs and supplements that provide support for clean skin typically offer the following benefits:

Boost the immune system
Enhance stress management
Cleanse the blood and liver, and
Aid in skin repair

A well-chosen diet can prove just as advantageous as supplements and herbs.

*Foods that boost the immune system

-Vitamin C
Oranges, grapefruits, papaya, green peppers, tomatoes, strawberries, broccoli

-Vitamin E
Almonds, sunflowers seeds

-Zinc
Wheat germ, black-eyed peas, lean beef, crab, oysters

*Foods that enhance stress management

-Vitamin B6
Legumes, whole grains, chicken, pork, bananas

*Foods that cleanse the blood and liver

-Garlic, onions, turmeric, cayenne pepper, aloe vera juice, watermelon

-Bulk-producing foods
Oatmeal, apples, oranges, bran cereals

*Foods that aid in skin repair

-Protein
Nonfat dairy, beans, meat, poultry, fish, nuts

-Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Sardines, herring, salmon, tuna, walnuts

-Selenium
Onion, garlic

Although herbs and dietary supplements offer a broad spectrum of benefits to the skin, it's no fun looking fabulous if you can't afford to go anywhere. So, save some cash and eat you way to clear skin.

Hugh Jackman has "the most boring job in the world" according to his son. The "Australia" actor took his children Oscar, eight and Ava Eliot, three, to live on set while making the film.

Although his son was initially keen to follow in his father's acting footsteps, he soon grew tired of the lengthy shooting sequences.

Hugh said: "There was this one scene Oscar was in, where it took four days to shoot and it was perfect because after four days he came up to me and said, 'Dad, you have the most boring job in the world. I never want to do it again.'"

The 40-year-old star was initially reluctant for Oscar to appear in the movie, but soon agreed to his son's demands.

He revealed: "We shot for eight months, and I gave in after about six months because it was hard for him. All the aboriginal kids he was hanging out with were all in the movie, and he couldn't understand why he wasn't."

Hugh adds that despite his best efforts, Oscar hasn't naturally taken to sports either, and a recent trip to a Los Angeles Lakers' play-off game produced disastrous results.

He added in an interview on U.S. TV talk show "Jimmy Kimmel Live!": "It was an unbelievable match. We were sitting next to David Arquette and Sacha Baron Cohen. Three minutes into the first quarter, Oscar says, 'I want to go home, this is so boring.'"

"Then I had the stupid idea of giving him some candy. He grabbed the bag, and spilled them. Thank God it was a time-out. Literally we're - me and Sacha Baron Cohen on hands and knees, picking up candy from the court!"

The Shelby Supercars Ultimate Aero Twin Turbo set the new World’s Fastest Production Car record with an average top speed of 255.83 mph.

On a temporarily-closed 2 lane public highway in Washington State, the SSC Ultimate Aero posted a top speed of 257.11 mph (413.83 kph) on its first pass and 254.55 mph (409.71 kph) on its return pass, achieving a new top speed record: a staggering 255.83 mph (411.76 kph).

SSC used a turbo V8 outputting 1183 HP and 1094 lbs. of torque. The use of lightweight carbon fiber materials allows for a low dry weight of 2750 lbs. giving the Aero TT the production record for lbs/hp ratio at 2.33.

The Ultimate Aero achieved 0-60 mph in 2.78 seconds and 1/4 Mile in 9.90 seconds at 144 mph.
The Aero TT is not completely stripped either, it features air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a navigation system, and a 10 speaker Audio/CD/DVD. Base price is expected to be around $585,000.

Good communication is often the key to a successful relationship. But both partners must be willing to work at it. Good communication is not something that is mastered overnight; it is a skill that needs to be maintained. Here are some guidelines.

1. Most problems in a relationship are caused when one partner does not want to hear or understand what the other says. Sit down with your partner and talk about the communication problem you feel you're having.

2. Communication problems can occur with both the receiver and the sender. Try this exercise: Each partner should say something to the other. Then each of you should write down a few sentences describing your feelings about the other's statement. Compare what each of you wrote and discuss.

3. Read a reputable self-help book on communication within relationships. Browse bookstores or online, or ask friends for recommendations.

4. Seek professional help. This is often the best strategy when encountering relationship problems beyond your expertise. Counselors offer non-biased opinions, and can help resolve issues quickly.

5. Consult your health insurance policy to determine if counseling is covered. Usually a counselor has to be certified for insurance purposes.

Thousands braved the rain to catch a glimpse of and cheer boxing hero Manny Pacquiao in a victory motorcade with a convoy of over 50 vehicles that brought traffic to a crawl in Quezon City, Manila, Makati and Pasay City yesterday.

Pacquiao, who cemented his status as the world’s best pound-for-pound fighter in his masterful eight-round conquest of Oscar de la Hoya in their Dream Match in Las Vegas Sunday, drew waves of screaming adulation from people lining the streets along the route of the caravan.

The Filipino ring idol, in a white shirt, was atop a mini-truck carrying 19 other people including Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Lito Atienza.

The motorcade started at a little past 10 a.m. from the DENR office in Quezon City where Pacquiao had breakfast after paying Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr. a visit at nearby City Hall.

Pacquiao was mobbed by officials and employees of City Hall and DENR.

In the motorcade, Pacquiao gamely acknowledged the cheers of his fans, opting not to take shelter even as members of the convoy began taking out umbrellas to shield themselves from the rain.

A radio report said that in some schools where Pacquiao’s convoy passed, students stormed out of their classrooms, unfurling banners to greet him.

Atienza, who organized the event, said the atmosphere was a lot more festive than the previous Pacquiao motorcades.

The fighter was feted with a sumptuous breakfast of fried rice, beef tapa, adobo, scrambled eggs, danggit (dried fish) and fruits by Atienza.

Afterwards, Pacquiao announced a donation of P100,000 to efforts to save the Philippine eagle while also reiterating his support to save the environment.

“There is no other bird like the Philippine eagle in the world. So we must do our best to take care of it and the environment and make sure they flourish,” said Pacquiao in Filipino.

Atienza said it was Pacquiao’s fourth donation to the effort to save the endangered bird of prey.

“Manny is our perfect defender of the environment because he is the number one natural resource that we have,” Atienza said.

Meantime, Pacquiao said he is also open to brokering peace in Mindanao, which has been battered by a protracted “war” that has killed scores and displaced millions of people.

Pacquiao, who has managed to unite the entire nation every time he goes into the ring, said he would always support any effort to achieve peace not only in Mindanao, but in the whole country.

Pacquiao was reacting to a proposal of a group advocating lasting peace in Mindanao to include him in the peace negotiations between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The People’s Coalition for Peace believes Pacquiao, who hails from General Santos City, should now move to “a new level” outside the ring – as broker for peace to end the long-standing armed conflict in Mindanao.

“I have no problem with that. I am open to help and give my support to the achievement of peace for our country,” said Pacquiao.

He then appealed to both the military and MILF to keep their cool and focus on finding a peaceful solution to the problem.

Fighting in the southern part of the Philippines has resumed since the collapse of the latest round of peace talks, specifically due to the failure of a draft deal on ancestral domain between the GRP and MILF peace panels four months ago.

Maintaining romance in a long-term relationship takes planning and creativity. It’s not just enough to say “I love you” every so often. You and your partner need to work at keeping the romance alive. If you both make the commitment to maintain the romance, it will lead to a more satisfying, loving relationship for both of you.

1. Talk to your partner about your relationship. If you have trouble getting started, there are many self-help books available or you could go to a counselor. No matter how you get started, having an open conversation with your partner about your relationship is key.

2. Create a list of what you each want in your relationship, such as more sex, time away from the kids, and more affection. Then determine how you can achieve those goals. If you or your partner want some time away from the kids, figure out together how to make it happen, such as arranging for the kids to stay overnight at a relative’s house. If you or your partner want more sex, look at the week and schedule it in. This may not sound very romantic but you can lead up to the night with flowers, love notes, and the anticipation of being together. You may need to rearrange things on the calendar to fit in your night together but if it is important to you and your partner, you will make the time.

3. Create another list of things you would enjoy doing together, such as a candlelight dinner, sitting in the hot tub, watching a romantic movie, taking a walk at night or going dancing. Choose something from the list to start with and do it.

4. Remember that romance is ongoing, but be realistic. No one can be romantic all the time, but a little can go a long way.

1. Cleaning

Wash your face and hands even eight times a day, use a gentle soap. That will remove bacteria from your skin and prevent skin pores from being blocked. Keep your hands far from your face and don’t try to squeeze the pimples, dirty nails will worsen the situation.

2. Exercising

Take some cotton gym equipment and go for some sweating. Lycra clothes tend to keep bacteria close to your skin so loose clothes will certainly be better. Exercising improves blood circulation, your skin will look brighter and healthier.

3. Healthy diet

Drink plenty of water, all the stars do it. Tom Cruise claims he drinks 5 liters of water every day, and it isn’t dictated by his scientology religion, believe me. Your skin will look fresh and smooth for sure. Nourishment is essential, too. Make sure you eat good food, reduce fats and sweets from your diet. Vitamins are responsible for your skin condition, so eat foods full of vitamin A, E, C and B complex. Zinc and L-Carnitine are proven to enhance your skin condition.

4. Cosmetics

Use oil-free, alcohol-free delicate lotions and creams. Exfoliate your face to remove dead cells and clean skin pores. There are plenty of cosmetics on the market that are supposed to combat acne. Remember that cosmetics are only one part of acne treatment, healthy lifestyle is important as well. If you go to the dermatologist he can prescribe salicylic acid, antibiotics or oral contraceptives.

5. De-stressing

Stress triggers chemical reactions of your body that may result in pimples and spots, so try to relax and calm yourself down. Read books, listen to music, take a walk or go to the gym. You’ll regain your self-esteem and fight acne with much more vigour.

The new 2010 Ferrari California is the first hard-top convertible ever produced by Ferrari and the first to feature a mid-front positioned engine.

Ferrari California features a new 4.3 liter V8 with direct injection and a flat crankshaft that will put out 460HP. The result is a 0-60mph of under 4 seconds.

The 2010 Ferrari California is a true super sports car!

British troops will begin withdrawing from Iraq in March and will mostly be gone by June, the Ministry of Defense said Wednesday.

Britain has about 4,000 troops in southern Iraq. It expects to begin withdrawing them after regional elections planned for next month, the ministry said, confirming reports in British media.

The number of troops will fall to 300-400 by midyear, the reports said.

A U.S. brigade will replace the British force at Basra airport, ministry officials told reporters from British media in a briefing Tuesday. The ministry confirmed reports of the briefing to The Associated Press.

A new U.S.-Iraqi security pact calls for 150,000 American troops to be withdrawn from Iraq in two stages by the end of 2011. Iraq's Parliament has yet to ratify a new status of forces status of forces agreement with Britain to allow British troops to stay into next year.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown said after a visit to Iraq in July that he "would expect a further fundamental change of mission in the first months of 2009, as we make the transition to a long term bilateral partnership with Iraq."

Brown has not announced a timetable.

The Times reported that the exact timing of the first troop withdrawal will depend on the arrival of an American two-star military headquarters at the airport base northwest of Basra City.

"Our whole country will breathe a sigh of relief that an end to this illegal war is now in sight," said Nick Clegg, leader of the Liberal Democrats, the third-largest party in Parliament.

Britain had about 40,000 troops in Iraq at the height of the U.S.-led invasion in 2003, and 177 members of the armed forces and civilian defense workers have died on duty.

The most recent death was on Dec. 4, when Lance Cpl. David Wilson was killed by gunfire. It was the first combat death suffered by British forces in Iraq since March 2.

Military commanders have warned that British troops are overstretched from commitments in Iraq and Afghanistan. Air Chief Marshal Jock Stirrup, the chief of the Defense Staff, said last month that a major withdrawal of Britain's 4,000 troops in Iraq in 2009 won't mean additional forces can immediately be sent to Afghanistan.

Stalking Paula Abdul for 17 years wasn't easy. Nor for Abdul.

After 17 years, Abdul’s obsessed fan-cum-stalker died outside the star’s Sherman Oaks home.

The American Idol judge told the women of The View that Paula Goodspeed’s suspected drug overdose ended the many years of the fan’s fearful obsession that started innocently with her fan club and led to the woman’s Idol audition and more.

"She has been a stalker/fan for about 17 years now. It wasn't until American Idol that she ever knew how she could get to me. Prior to that it was all through a fan club, because of American Idol, I've been an open target to be followed home. So the last five years have been a little tough for me."

She later confirmed to People magazine that she is too traumatized to sleep in her own home, which she plans to sell.

"I've been staying in different homes and hotels, and I have security with me," she told the magazine.

Sony is slashing 8,000 electronics jobs around the world, or 5 percent of its global work force in that sector, as the Japanese company tries to boost the profitability of its core business amid a global downturn.

Sony Corp. says it will cut the jobs from its electronics operations, which employ about 160,000 workers, by the end of March, 2010. It did not give a country breakdown for the planned reductions.

Sony has been trying to adjust production and lower inventories to cope with the global economic downturn but more efforts are needed, it says.

MySpace.com is teaming up with Internet search leader Google Inc. in a campaign to extend MySpace's reach and counter the expansion of their common rival Facebook Inc.

The alliance, unveiled late Monday in Paris, builds upon MySpace's seven-month-old effort to make it easier for the 127 million worldwide users of its online hangout to connect with their social circles while they're at other Internet destinations.

MySpace is trying to pull it off by making its login system, called "MySpaceID," compatible with any Web site that wants to embrace it.

By working with a similar service offered by Google, MySpace is betting more sites will welcome its audience. Blogs and other small sites with limited technical help probably will find it easier to use Google's system, known as "Friend Connect," said Max Engel, who oversees MySpaceID.

The collaboration between News Corp.'s MySpace and Google represents their latest shot across Facebook's bow. MySpace and Google previously joined forces a year ago to promote a service, called "OpenSocial," that competes against Facebook's warehouse of online software programs.

Facebook also is peddling its own universal login service to create more ways for its roughly 130 million worldwide users to share their personal profiles and favorite applications wherever and whenever they want on the Web. The privately held company expanded "Facebook Connect" last week after seven months of testing.

By loosening their grip on the personal information stored on their owns sites, both MySpace and Facebook are vying to shape and steer even more social interaction than they already do.

In the process, they hope to become the command centers of their users' online activities. By extending their networks on to other sites, Facebook and MySpace also could emerge as more alluring marketing vehicles, particularly as they glean more information about the interests of individual users.

Google is keenly interested in tapping into the advertising potential of social networks, but the Mountain View-based company has had little success with its own online hangout, called Orkut.

MySpace already relies on Google to sell some of its ads, so the companies are natural allies.

Palo Alto-based Facebook, in contrast, has aligned itself with Microsoft, perhaps Google's biggest antagonist. Besides relying on Microsoft to sell some of its ads, Facebook also sold a 1.6 percent stake to the software maker for $240 million last year.

Facebook also has rankled Google by hiring some of its top employees. The defectors include Facebook's current chief operating officer, Sheryl Sandberg, who oversaw global online sales.