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<title>Latest Marriage Articles</title>
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<title>3 Cheap But Cool Groomsmen Gifts Ideas</title>
<link>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/3-cheap-but-cool-groomsmen-gifts-ideas.html</link>
<guid>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/3-cheap-but-cool-groomsmen-gifts-ideas.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:05:03 -0600</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A wedding is a magical time for the soon-to-be newlyweds. So many people love you and help you plan your wedding, pay for the reception, help with decisions, and provide sympathetic shoulders for you to lean on. When it comes to the wedding party, the groomsmen are crucial to the groom's sanity. They help him not get too wrapped up in every little detail. The groomsmen keep him focused on the end game: the "I do" and the start of a new life together.<br /><br />Be sure to thank these kind souls. In this day and age, budgets are tighter than ever. Many people have scaled down their weddings. Don't skimp in the wedding attendant gift department. You'll need to show your appreciation to your groomsmen. After all, these guys took time out of their busy lives to be there for you for pre-wedding events and they will certainly do what they need to do on your wedding. Get your groomsman gifts ahead of time so that you are prepared to pass them out either at the bachelor party or during the rehearsal dinner. These are the last times that all the guys will be together before the wedding day itself so be sure to take advantage of it.<br /><br />Three cheap but cool groomsmen gifts ideas that won't bust your budget are as follows:<br /><br />1. <b>Glass mugs</b>. You can give 13 oz or 25 ounce glass mugs that are personalized with a fancy wedding crest, a name, initials and/or the wedding date. Everyone can use a mug. This is a satisfying gift to give as you know that it will get good use. It's not going to be tucked away and never looked at again. A mug can be used on a daily basis.<br /><br />2. <b>Pocket knives</b>. Knives and multitools always make great gifts. Many young guys don't have a garage full of tools yet. That takes years to accumulate. Most find a pocket knife or a Leatherman multitool to be sufficient for minor projects that they come up across. Most knives and multitools range in price from $20 all the way up to $100. You'll definitely find a Leatherman tool, Buck knife, Gerber knife or Victorinox swiss army knife that will suit your budget.<br /><br />3. <b>Money clips</b>. Money clips fall into that category of traditional <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>groomsman gifts</a> that have stood the test of time. During the wedding day no one wants a big, bulky wallet to lug around. It's not going to look good bulging in your tuxedo pocket. That's why money clips are such a popular choice. And, they are easy on your wallet. A classic money clip can be purchased for as low as $10. You can get silver-plated plain models or get one with your favorite MLB or NFL team logo on it.<br /><br />Whatever you do, try to come up with how much you are willing or able to spend on each groomsman. Try to stick to that so you don't go over-budget. Check out the internet and you're bound to find some fantastic deals out there. Pick a store that has been around a while and that isn't afraid to show you a picture of their facility. You want an online store you can trust that will be around if you have any questions or concerns.<br /><br />--<br />Personalized gifts for important people are online at Gunther Gifts. Gunther Gifts has been around since 1999. They are one of the most established and trusted online stores for engraved gifts. Trust your wedding party gifts such as <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>groomsmen gifts</a> and <a href=http://gunthergifts.com/bridgif.html>bridesmaid gifts</a> to us. Your order will be handled with the utmost precision and care.<br><br>Source: <a href="http://www.articletrader.com/">http://www.articletrader.com</a> ]]></description>
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<title>Think About Groomsmen Gifts</title>
<link>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/think-about-groomsmen-gifts.html</link>
<guid>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/think-about-groomsmen-gifts.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:13:29 -0500</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ For some reason the groom will realize a few months before his wedding that he is supposed to hand out thank you gifts to his wedding attendants. You know, the best man, each groomsman, and the ushers, these other tuxedo-clad fellows have gone through a lot of hassle to participate in your wedding. They have done this because they are your good friends, brothers or relatives. They want to see you have the very best wedding you can possibly have.<br /><br />An honorable groom is thankful to those around him that have made his wedding day possible. He understands that sometimes it's hard for others to put their own busy lives on hold to help a guy with his wedding. Your groomsmen have answered the call and have stepped up to the plate. For their efforts, it is only proper to thank them.<br />The best groomsmen gifts are not those that cost you the most. They are personalized gifts. You can take a modest money clip, have engraving added of your groomsman's name or initials and the money clip transcends into a cherished keepsake. When a groomsman receives an engraved gifts, he knows that you had to put forth some effort and thought about what to get him. Then, you had to make sure you found an engraver that you trusted to get the job done in a timely fashion. <br /><br />Everyone likes to feel fussed over - groomsmen included. They will appreciate the effort you put forth in thanking them. They already put forth effort for you. It's a nice gesture for you to do the same for them. Popular choices for groomsmen gifts include: flasks, beer mugs, baseball bats, pocket knives, pocket watches, multitools, lighters, cigarette cases, business card cases, wallets, travel bags, pub signs, coasters, money clips and cufflinks. Any of these traditional gifts are sure to be a hit. Or, try to come up with something outside-the-box for your groomsmen. <br /><br />Whatever you decide to give to your groomsmen, give yourself plenty of time to get your <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>groomsman gifts</a> ordered and delivered to you before the bachelor party or rehearsal dinner. Handing out gifts at either the bachelor party or the rehearsal dinner is the most convenient as all the guys are sure to be together at this time. Take advantage of it. Be sure to properly thank your wedding party with gifts. I know it sounds cliché, but it truly is the thought that counts.<br /><br /><br />--<br /><a href=http://gunthergifts.com>Personalized gifts</a> for important people. Wedding party gifts such as bridesmaid gifts, <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>groomsmen gifts</a>, ring bearer gifts, flower girl gifts and more. Wedding favors, guest books, pillows, baskets, unity candles and more.<br><br>Source: <a href="http://www.articletrader.com/">http://www.articletrader.com</a> ]]></description>
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<title>Personalized Groomsmen Gifts - Why Bother?</title>
<link>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/personalized-groomsmen-gifts-why-bother.html</link>
<guid>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/personalized-groomsmen-gifts-why-bother.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:21:27 -0500</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ A wedding is a monumentous event to pull off. The cake baker, florist, tailor, band, DJ, limo driver, and priest are just a few of the many people that have to work towards one goal: making your wedding be the very best it can be. As you have found out, this takes a lot of coordination, time, help and money from family and friends.<br /><br />A old-time tradition of weddings is to thank those that go the extra mile for you. You selected your groomsmen because these guys are trusted siblings, childhood friends of longtime acquaitenances that you know are on your side and will do anything you need from them. They are loyal and want you to be happy. They want your wedding to go without a hitch. These guys care about you.<br /><br />They have been there for you in your life at other events: graduation, parties, school, family gatherings and so forth. Your groomsmen have answered the call to serve in your wedding. They selflessly attend any of your wedding related functions. They have lives too but they put them on hold to do your bidding to make this time in your life a little more special. Thoughtful, gracious people such as this deserve some thanks. Thank them with <a href=http://GuntherGifts.com>groomsman gifts</a>.<br /><br />What better way to thank your dear male wedding attendants than with personalized groomsmen gifts? You're wondering why you should bother with the personalization or engraving of these gifts. It's very easy to spend an hour at the mall, buy five gifts that are all the same and a couple rolls of gift wrap. I suppose that is better than nothing. That would do as a thank you gift.<br /><br />Personalized gifts are greatly appreciated. When you give someone a personalized gift, it is obvious to them that you spent some time and thought on them. Everyone I know loves it when anyone else thinks about them and shows it with a special gift of thanks. That's what groomsmen gifts are. Sure you could give everyone money clips, but why not give them engraved money clips. Engraving makes the gifts ten times more classy than without it. I love seeing my name or initials engraved on an item. That makes any item fancy and more elegant. It also shows your wedding party attendants that you spent a little time out of your life on them. They've been doing it for you for your wedding. So, give back a little, show them you want to do something extra for them too. It's the least you can do to acknowledge and thank them for their participation in your important wedding.<br /><br />--<br />Gunther Gifts specializes in affordable <a href=http://GuntherGifts.com>groomsmen gifts</a>, adorable bridesmaid gifts, the cutest wedding favors, and <a href=http://url.com>personalized gifts</a> for important people like you and those in your wedding.<br><br>Source: <a href="http://www.articletrader.com/">http://www.articletrader.com</a> ]]></description>
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<title>The Proposal and the Engagement Rings</title>
<link>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/the-proposal-and-the-engagement-rings.html</link>
<guid>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/the-proposal-and-the-engagement-rings.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 27 Sep 2009 08:55:54 -0500</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ <img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-341" title="engagement rings orange county" src="http://www.articleloverblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Picture-1.png" alt="engagement rings orange county" width="109" height="112" /><br /><br /><strong>The Engagement Ring</strong><br />The time has come to propose but how are you going to do it?  Well, first you need to get the ring and you can find the best <a href="http://www.simoneandson.com/aboutus.asp" target="_blank">engagement rings orange county</a> has to offer right online.  In my experience with jewelry I have found that the best selections and prices are when you get them online from those reputable jewelry stores.  You may even want to feel the situation out and see if she would rather pick her own engagement ring when the time comes.<br /><br /><strong>Talk About Marriage…Not Too Soon In A Relationship</strong><br />You want to make sure that you are going to have a successful outcome.  Make sure that you both have talked about the possibilities of getting married and that she will actually say yes.  Sure, you want the element of surprise but you do not want a "shock and awe" effect.<br /><br /><strong>Be Respectful Of Your New In-Laws</strong><br />Always talk to the parents.  It is just very respectful and is the right way to go about something like this.  Sure it is old fashioned but this is something that needs to be done whether you like the parents or not.<br /><br /><strong>Be Romantic and Charming Not Corny</strong><br />Make the proposal unique to what you like.  Propose to her in a setting that you will both like and enjoy.  If you enjoy the park together then perhaps a romantic picnic is in order.  And when the actually moment arrives get down on that knee…it is just very charming and romantic.   Be sure to say something special and romantic before you say the magical words, "will you marry me".  Let her know that she is the only one and how much you care for her.  You do not want this to be corny but rather memorable.<br /><br /><strong>Don't Propose In Public Or In Front Of People</strong><br />Now, personally, I find it in poor taste to make something as intimate and special as this to make is public.  In my opinion, I think it is a bit tacky to propose at a ballgame on the mega screen…but that is just me.  Unless she is a showy sort of person this is something you may want to avoid.  I also would not put the ring in food.  I had a friend that almost choked on her because it was in a cupcake.  Also, I would not propose in front of friends or family because it could be a little awkward for her.   Remember, it are what you say and the proposal itself…the presentation is just the packaging.<br /><br /><br /><br />--<br />Author Kim Green's husband just did a search for <a href="http://www.simoneandson.com/aboutus.asp">engagement rings orange county</a> and found the best place to shop for her!<br><br>Source: <a href="http://www.articletrader.com/">http://www.articletrader.com</a> ]]></description>
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<title>Groomsmen Gifts are Gifts of Appreciation</title>
<link>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/groomsmen-gifts-are-gifts-of-appreciation.html</link>
<guid>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/groomsmen-gifts-are-gifts-of-appreciation.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:22:08 -0500</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ It started off romantically enough. You got down on bended knee, proposed to your sweetheart, she accepted and now you're in for months of planning and shopping. The whirlwind has begun! A wedding requires the help of many people: your parents, siblings, friends, vendors, clergy, etc. It is not something that can be thrown together. A wedding is an event that has to be coordinated. You need your friends so that you don't get overwhelmed.<br /><br />Depending on the size of your wedding, you can have anywhere from 1 to 12 groomsmen. Many of those getting married for the second time opt for a modest ceremony or a quick trip to the justice of the peace. Smaller, more intimate, weddings usually have a few groomsmen.  A large 300+ wedding can have 8-12 groomsmen. The need for several of these groomsmen to be ushers arises just to get everyone seated in a timely and organized fashion.<br /><br />It is an honor to be selected as a groomsman. Most grooms pick brothers, college roommates or lifelong friends to stand by their side at the wedding.  You want these guys to be your most loyal, trusted friends. They have to have a definite drive to make sure you have the best wedding possible because they care for you and value your friendship. You wouldn't want to pick a new friend or acquaintance for a groomsman because he really won't care enough about your special day. He will most likely view the whole thing as a hassle. But your true friends, and brothers if you have any, will put your happiness as their number one priority.<br /><br />These special friends deserve a little thanks for their time and effort in your nuptials. They have busy lives too. They will spend many hours offering their advice, tips on staying sane while looking at china patterns, and attending and throwing pre-wedding festivities. Hey, these guys are going to throw your bachelor party, go to tuxedo fittings, go to the rehearsal dinner and fuss over whatever you need them to do for your wedding.<br /><br />This is where groomsmen gifts come in. Most grooms will spend anywhere from $20 to $100 on groomsman gifts. If you are having a small wedding, you'd spend around $20-40. If you're having a big wedding (200+), you would tend to lean towards the $50+ side for the gifts. It all depends on your budget.<br /><br />What do you pick for these gifts? Pick something you think your guys are into and you'll be fine. For instance, if your guys love the great outdoors, get them pocket knives. If they are indoor people, they probably won't appreciate a tool or knife. Best to stick with glass mugs or tankards that they can use all the time while at home. Suggestions for gifts include: flasks, money clips, wallets, baseball bats, pub signs, coasters, Leatherman tools, Gerber pocket knives, pocket watches, cufflinks, cigarette cases, Zippo lighters and swiss army knives. All these are cool guy gifts that work as <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>groomsman gifts</a> and any occasion such as birthdays and holidays. Whatever you do, give something to show your friends that you are thankful for their friendship and support during your wedding.<br /><br /><br />--<br /><a href=http://gunthergifts.com>Affordable groomsmen gifts</a> are available online at Gunther Gifts, an established <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>personalized gifts</a> and wedding accessories retailer that has been serving brides and grooms since 1999. Trust your personalized gifts order to the experts. Your order will be handled with the utmost care, precision and speed at Gunther Gifts. No sales tax to orders shipping outside of California. Order today and save.<br><br>Source: <a href="http://www.articletrader.com/">http://www.articletrader.com</a> ]]></description>
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<title>Prepare for Groomsmen Gifts and Bridesmaid Gifts</title>
<link>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/prepare-for-groomsmen-gifts-and-bridesmaid-gifts.html</link>
<guid>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/prepare-for-groomsmen-gifts-and-bridesmaid-gifts.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2009 11:57:09 -0500</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ The wedding party, the groomsmen and bridesmaids, do a lot for the bride and the groom in preparation for the wedding. Not only do they help in many pre-wedding functions such as shopping, offering their trusted opinions, attending events, and just trying to keep the bride and groom sane during this whole process, but they participate in the wedding itself.<br /><br />It really is a lot to ask someone to be a part of your wedding. It takes a big time commitment on their part and they have to put some things in their life on hold so that they can do what you need done for your special day.<br /><br />Be sure to thank these special friends and relatives. Most brides and grooms do this by giving a modest gift sometime before the wedding. The rehearsal dinner is the most convenient time since everyone is together that is in the wedding. And it is the last time before the wedding that everyone will be together in a relaxed setting. You all get your dinners on order. Then, as you're waiting for dinner or during dessert, the bride and groom can hand out the groomsmen gifts and bridesmaids gifts and say a few words of gratitude to their groomsmen and bridesmaids.<br /><br />These gifts do not need to be overly expensive. Usually if you spend $20 to $50 each, you're right in the zone and can give out nice gifts that you'll be proud of. For the girls, popular gifts are cosmetic cases, slippers, spa robes, pink liquor flasks, jewelry boxes, earrings, bracelets, necklaces or small purses. For the guys, sports mugs, lighters, flasks, cufflinks, pocket knives, pocket watches, wallets or electronics will do the trick. Most of the time, the bride and groom will select personalized gifts. This allows you to put a little more fuss and care into the gifts. Everyone loves to feel special and <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>personalized gifts</a> will do the trick.<br /><br />Be sure that you allow yourself at least two months before the wedding to get these gifts ordered online. That way you'll have plenty of time for the engraving or personalization to occur. You'll also allow plenty of time for your order to arrive via UPS or FEDEX. Be sure to have a list of names ready of those groomsmen and bridesmaids. You want to make sure that you have everyone's formal name. A lot of times someone will go by a nickname for their first name, but that's really not even their name. Make sure you have that list together and find out any preferences of what people go by for their names. You want to have the right first name customized on their gift.<br /><br />--<br />Lisa Gunther is owner of Gunther Gifts Inc., a personalized gifts superstore that has been serving brides and grooms online since 1999. Trust your <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>groomsmen gifts</a> and <a href=http://gunthergifts.com/bridgif.html>bridesmaids gifts</a> to the professionals. Beautiful engraving, nice gifts and fast shipping are the norm. We handle every order with extreme care and precision.<br><br>Source: <a href="http://www.articletrader.com/">http://www.articletrader.com</a> ]]></description>
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<title>Groomsmen Gifts  - Tips Before You Buy</title>
<link>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/groomsmen-gifts-tips-before-you-buy.html</link>
<guid>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/groomsmen-gifts-tips-before-you-buy.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:20:59 -0500</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Many grooms realize very late in the wedding planning process that they need to purchase groomsmen gifts. Groomsmen gifts are thank you gifts to the other guys wearing tuxedos (best man, each groomsman, ushers) that are participating in your wedding. These guys are typically your best friends and/or relatives and it is common courtesy for the groom to give a personalized gift to each guy as a thank you for their efforts and friendship.<br /><br />Here are a few things to consider before you buy your groomsmen gifts:<br /><br />1.	What is your gift budget? Can you spend $20 per guy? $30? $50? Pick a number and only look at gifts at that price. If you decide on $30 per guy, it is a waste of time to look at $50 gifts. You'll probably see something really cool in the $50 price range and then blow your budget. If you are patient, you'll definitely be able to nail something down right at the price you were thinking about in the first place.<br /><br />2.	Will you guys use their gifts? Are your guys fancy? Are they plain? Are they manly men that like to get dirty? Think about the kind of friends you have. Some guys might love those engraved cufflinks you got them whereas others might have preferred a pocket knife. You want to feel like the gift you give is going to see some use.<br /><br />3.	Will you personalize the gifts? Wedding gifts to groomsmen and bridesmaids are usually personalized or customized in some way. The person's name or initials are usually engraved, embroidered or marked on the gift. For instance, if you're going for flasks for the groomsmen, you'll want to have these flasks engraved with names or initials. Engraving makes gifts even more special. Everyone loves to see their own name on something. Indulge them with <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>personalized gifts</a> and you'll create instant keepsakes that they will cherish for years.<br /><br />4.	Has the online store been around? Many internet sites can be run out of someone's home. You'll want to shop at a site that shows a picture of their facility. It's nice to know that you're dealing with professionals and not with part time mom and pop stores.<br /><br />5.	Is there a toll free number and physical address shown on the website? A website should definitely have a toll free number. This is good customer service. Websites that hide their phone number and do not list a physical address should be avoided. What do you do if you need to contact them? You'll be frustrated immediately once you realize they don't post a phone number.<br /><br />Weddings are a special time in the lives of the bride and groom. Your wedding attendants will do everything they can for you to ensure that you have a great day. Be sure to thank them.<br /><br /><br />--<br />Lisa Gunther is owner of Gunther Gifts Inc., an engraved gifts superstore located in Carlsbad, CA. Gunther ships quickly anywhere within the U.S. No sales tax to destinations outside CA. Specializes in <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>groomsmen gifts</a>, wedding favors and bridesmaid gifts. <a href=http://gunthergifts.com/leatmul.html>Leatherman tools</a>, Gerber knives, lighters, money clips and flasks are very popular engraved gifts for men.<br><br>Source: <a href="http://www.articletrader.com/">http://www.articletrader.com</a> ]]></description>
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<title>AnOverview Of Divorce Law</title>
<link>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/anoverview-of-divorce-law.html</link>
<guid>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/anoverview-of-divorce-law.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2009 09:47:01 -0500</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Divorce law still is the single most complex and difficult arenas confronting any American citizen. A divorce is much more than merely two people separating; it is the unraveling of a many years of mutual finances, living space, and relationships that continue far beyond the pair who are divorcing. Additionally, because marriages are sanctioned by the states and not the federal government, divorce laws have fifty different types of regulations, and occasionally the same divorce will be haggling with two or more of these sets. <br /><br />In a divorce situation, each spouse has very specific rights laid forth by each state. Most states support a no-fault divorce, in which one partner may divorce the other for the frequently quoted "irreconcilable differences" reason. Every state permits divorce in certain other conditions: infidelity, criminal behavior, any sort of abuse, where abuse includes both physical abuse as well as emotional or mental abuse. <br /><br />Although a divorce is often easily obtained, the smaller details may not be so easy. A basic no-fault divorce - one in which neither spouse is held liable for the failure of the marriage - when the partners have no children and no property owned in common can be completed very promptly. As soon as both have names on a deed or even a vehicle title, children are born, or one spouse makes large income during the marriage, this simplicity changes.<br /><br />The state in which divorce is first filed is ordinarily the state whose divorce law will govern the resulting processes. If both partners file at the identical time in different states, arbitration may be required to determine which state is the proper governing body. Why is this important? Because in California, partners are supposed to make a 50-50 division of community property, while in Nevada partners have an "equitable division" of property, which has more potential to result in the partner who earned more money taking more with him or her after the marriage is dissolved. Only California, Arizona, Idaho, Louisiana, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin have community property division beginning with a 50/50 proportion. All other states use equitable distribution regulations. <br /><br />Children are the other popular bug in the ointment. In the first half of the 20th century, the husband virtually always got them; after that, the female almost always got them. Today, it's becoming more standard for either the husband or wife to get primary custody of the children. But that deviates from state to state, and case to case. If there are children involved in the divorce, and both partners want to keep primary custody, it is utterly necessary to get a lawyer. Both your hearts and the future of your money are involved in this critical issue.<br /><br />Pensions and 401K's are another area of controversy. Military members, up until last year, often held their entire pensions even when the wife had been there for 18 of 20 military years (this law has since been changed.) In most cases, pensions are divided up under a "qualified domestic relations order" (QDRO), and given out to the two partners after the pension matures by the pension plan administrator. You may expect the identical division rules that applied to your community property to apply to pensions.<br /><br />You can see where divorce law can become very complex very fast. In cases where your lives are not tightly involved and you are both ok with the divorce, you're generally ok using a quickie no-fault divorce, even one where you fill out your own paperwork. In any other case, you really need a lawyer to guide you through the minefield.<br /><br />--<br />For more insights and additional information about <a href="http://www.my-divorce-guide.com">Divorce Law</a> as well as finding a wealth of resources to help you determine if divorce is right and where to turn for help, please visit our web site at http://www.my-divorce-guide.com<br><br>Source: <a href="http://www.articletrader.com/">http://www.articletrader.com</a> ]]></description>
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<title>Lord, I'm Ready to be a Wife</title>
<link>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/lord-im-ready-to-be-a-wife.html</link>
<guid>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/lord-im-ready-to-be-a-wife.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 30 Jul 2009 09:49:12 -0500</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Most people don't believe in "‘till death do us part," anymore.  <br /><br />Christine Pembleton believes she knows the secret to making your marriage last. In her book, Lord, I'm Ready to be a Wife (<a href="http://www.christinepembleton.com">www.christinepembleton.com</a>) (Josephine Communications); she shares her views of how to become a good Christian wife and the importance of finding the right man to marry. <br /><br />There are 3 types of unmarried women, according to Pembleton. The single woman who is living her life for herself, the "married" unmarried woman who gives her boyfriends all the benefits of marriage without the commitment, and the "wife-in-waiting" who is ready to be a wife, but waiting until the actual marriage to act like one.<br /><br />The single, unmarried woman lives her life the way she wants to. Any man she meets must fit himself into her life.<br /><br />"This mindset preserves her life as a single woman and it works to keep her life where it should be - a life that fulfills her God-given destiny," she said.<br /><br />The unmarried "married" woman acts as though she is married, but without the commitment. She washes his clothes, cooks his meals and may even engage in pre-marital sex because she loves him and wants to give him everything he "needs."<br /><br />"She bases her life choices on what's important to him and his goals," she said. <br /><br />The "wife-in-waiting" has a life of her own, but is flexible enough to meet her future husband partway in order to build a life together. She is willing to make huge adjustments in her life, but only for the benefit of a marriage license. It is the "wife-in-waiting" that a woman looking for a good Christian marriage should strive to be.<br /><br />"A wife-in-waiting may wait a little longer for her husband and be frustrated with how<br />many men will try to challenge her standards," she said. "But when she meets a man who wants to be a husband to her, she'll have the best chance of having a happy marriage. And enjoying being a wife to one man, the man she'll prayerfully share the rest of her life with."<br /><br />Pembleton believes that it is not enough to have the right mind-set to have a happy marriage; you must also make sure you choose a man who is ready to do the work of being a husband.  It is important to identify the qualities we are looking for in a husband, not just discount men because of the negative aspects we find in them.<br /><br />"Being able to identify the Godly character in a man is your strongest tool for recognizing the man the Lord has sent you," she said. <br /><br />It is important, according to Pembleton, to trust in the Lord that he will bring the right person into your life. It is then up to you to recognize him.<br /><br />"You have to trust that God will bring you the man who will love you and add value to your life," she said. "Every choice you make should be weighed by God's standards."<br /><br />Things to look for in a good husband:<br /><br />• He is willing to rise to the occasion of being a husband to you.<br />• He shares a common destiny with you.<br />• He's interested in you<br />• He's a man you can respect<br /><br />Once you have found the right man and become a wife, it is time to change from being "a wife" to being "his wife". This means tailoring your thoughts to what your husband truly needs.<br /><br />"It will take some time, but since marriage is a life-long commitment, you'll have more than enough time to learn about your husband and how you can help him best," she said.<br /><br />--<br />Christine Pembleton is a wife, mother, teacher, author and talk show host. She has a degree in Business Administration from Temple University and is pursuing an MBA in Business Management. She is a licensed Elder from Temple Elim Prophetic Truth Ministries. She desires to empower women to create happy marriages. She lives in Philadelphia, PA with her husband and two daughters.<br /><br />Visit <a href="http://www.christinepembleton.com">www.christinepembleton.com</a> for more information.<br><br>Source: <a href="http://www.articletrader.com/">http://www.articletrader.com</a> ]]></description>
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<title>The Wedding Ceremony Kiss</title>
<link>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/the-wedding-ceremony-kiss.html</link>
<guid>http://www.articletrader.com/society/marriage/the-wedding-ceremony-kiss.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 23 Jul 2009 11:15:28 -0500</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ In the course of your wedding day there are several possible awkward moments. The cutting of the cake, the garter toss, walking up the aisle, and, of course, the wedding ceremony kiss.<br /><br />Traditionally, once you are pronounced husband and wife, the new husband lifts his bride's wedding veil and then goes in for the kiss. Don't mess this part up. Here are some tips to help with this potentially embarrassing moment:<br /><br />1.	Watch out for that veil. When lifting the veil, take your time so that it does not mess up the bride's hair, get caught on any beads or decorations on her dress, get tangled in her earrings, or smudge her makeup. Take both of your hands and hold them out towards your bride with your elbows initially at your sides. Slowly and deliberately move both hands up and grab the lower edge of her veil. Make sure each hand has a hold on the veil. Now this part is key. Slowly start lifting that veil so that you can put it over her head. You want to do this almost in slow motion so that it is dramatic for your guests and so that you can easily tell if it is getting caught on something and make adjustments in your movements. As you get to the top of her head make sure you clear the top of her head and hair! Don't get that veil tangled up in her hairdo. You need to go up and over. Once you clear the top, you're pretty much home free.<br /><br />2.	Practice the approach. You should do some practice runs of the "kiss approach" prior to the wedding. Some people tilt their heads to the right, some to the left. You don't want an awkward, mixed tilt where one of you zigs when he should have zagged. Most right handed people will naturally tilt their heads to the right when going in for a kiss. Make sure you're on the same page on this so you don't bump noses.<br /><br />3.	Open or closed mouth kiss? I know you're both in love but please remember that there are children in the room. Do you really want to play tonsil hockey up in front of all your family and friends? Save it for the honeymoon. You want to go for a closed mouth kiss of a reasonable time duration. Don't do a little peck like you're kissing your grandma. You want everyone to see the kiss and have the whole crowd have time to let out a collective "ahhhhh". Press your lips together and count to ten or however many seconds you feel is right. Err on the longer duration instead of going short. Time has a funny way of seeming like it is going slow or too fast when you're up on that altar. If you get a little flustered, hold the kiss a bit longer. Then you'll be sure to give a nice kiss that doesn't seem too brief. If for some reason your bride starts to pull back, you need to do the same. Maybe her neck is getting stiff or she feels like the kiss is done. Just go with it. That way it won't look like she didn't want to kiss anymore. It will look like a mutually timed ending to the kiss.<br /><br />4.	Go easy on the lipstick. Ask your bride to lightly apply her lipstick. She'll have plenty of photo opportunities to put on full lipstick. You don't want to end up with bright red lips right after the kiss and look like a clown. You certainly don't want to have to wipe your mouth up there at the altar. Talk about it with your bride beforehand so that she knows you don't want to slip and slide all over her lips on a thick coat of lipstick. She'll want to go light on the lipstick because she won't want it to be smeared and smudgy right after the kiss. She needs to keep her face perfect and not get messy. The best way to do this is to go with light lipstick or perhaps just a little clear lip gloss.<br /><br />5.	Take a mint! Please be sure that you both have brushed your teeth with minty toothpaste the day of your wedding. If you've been snacking before your wedding so that you don't get lightheaded in the church, be sure to have a mint before your walk down the aisle. You don't want any bad breath going on during the wedding kiss. This is also an argument in favor of the closed mouth kiss. <br /><br />Anyhow, I hope this article offers some suggestions on how to pull off that perfect wedding day kiss. It will be a memorable and wonderful kiss. Just like anything else in life, practice makes perfect. Do some practice runs at the rehearsal dinner after you pass out the <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>groomsmen gifts</a> and have dinner. You'll get it and your day will be picture perfect.<br /><br /><br />--<br />Gunther Gifts Inc. is your perfect source for wedding favors, groomsmen gifts, bridesmaid gifts, flasks, guest books, unity candles, toasting flutes, pillows, baskets and other bridal accessories. Online since 1999, Gunther Gifts has been serving brides and grooms in all their <a href=http://gunthergifts.com>personalized groomsmen gifts</a> and embroidered <a href=http://gunthergifts.com/bridgif.html>bridesmaid gifts</a> needs.<br><br>Source: <a href="http://www.articletrader.com/">http://www.articletrader.com</a> ]]></description>
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