Laurie Jo Miller Farr
She has served as hostess for three Royal Visits to the USA and says that a highlight was sharing a gin and tonic straight up with HRH The Duke of Edinburgh onboard The Royal Yacht Britannia.
After ten years as the official tourism representative for The Big Apple, Laurie moved to London where she worked as a marketing professional in luxury hotels in Western Europe while raising two thoroughly bi-cultural children in the British educational system.
As an international relocation consultant, Laurie assisted more than 400 families with international moves, home search, schools and settling-in. She can tell you why dishwasher salt is required in England.
A recent transplant to San Francisco, catching up on a couple of decades of Americana, she wonders if it may be a mistake since the ground is prone to shake.
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After ten years as the official tourism representative for The Big Apple, Laurie moved to London where she worked as a marketing professional in luxury hotels in Western Europe while raising two thoroughly bi-cultural children in the British educational system.
As an international relocation consultant, Laurie assisted more than 400 families with international moves, home search, schools and settling-in. She can tell you why dishwasher salt is required in England.
A recent transplant to San Francisco, catching up on a couple of decades of Americana, she wonders if it may be a mistake since the ground is prone to shake.
...
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Education/Experience
Northeastern University, Boston, MA: B.A. w/ honors, New School for Social Research, NY,NY: Adjunct Faculty, London Hotel School, U.K.: Sr. Lecturer, American Hotel & Lodging Association certificateInterests
London, San Francisco, Paris, New York City, urban scene, travel, luxury hotels, historic hotels, travel writing, corporate relocation, dual nationality, raising children abroad, professional networking, marketing, PR, fashion, over 50s lifestyleMotto
Expertise + Communication = The stuff you know when you know your stuff.
Displaying Results 1 - 174 (of 174) for All Content
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Baby Boomers Remember Fathers Who Fought in WWIIBaby boomers are aging. We remember the sacrifices made by servicemen and women during World War II and how the lucky ones made it back to become our parents.
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Be Healthy, Happy and Wise After Age 50Baby boomers can benefit from the old adages about living happily after age 50. Consider new knowledge resulting from "The Longevity Project", a major study that debunks conventional wisdom about successful aging.
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Five of the Best Volunteer Jobs for People Over 50Retirement offers opportunities for volunteerism that are hugely rewarding. From the Peace Corps to the Park Service, here are five of the best volunteer jobs for people over 50.
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Ten Ways for Men Over 50 to Look FabulousFor men over 50, it's all about fit, color and grooming. There's no excuse for hanging out in ill-fitting, dirty old sweatpants, even if you've been happily married for half a lifetime.
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Obama Should Just Keep Joe Biden AroundObama is best off to stay the course with the incumbent Veep, Joe Biden. Besides, there are other things to worry about.
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Where to See Sunday's Solar Eclipse in the San Francisco Bay AreaThe solar eclipse of May 20, 2012 will be visible from Northern California and the San Francisco Bay Area in the hours before sunset. The best viewing locations and safety advice are detailed.
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Catch an English Channel Ferry to FranceOnly 26 miles separate England and France across the English Channel at the Dover to Calais crossing, a popular and accessible way to spend a short break while visiting the U.K.
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Be Clever and See Both Oxford and CambridgeTo this day, prospective students are not allowed to apply to both Oxford and Cambridge in any given university admissions round. However, clever visitors can go to both and most definitely should!
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Sea Turtles Nesting in Record Numbers Around Fort LauderdaleThe nesting season of sea turtles is here. Observers are hoping for a record number of nests this year. Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau is helping visitors to witness the annual nesting cycle on the beaches, best observed by night.
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Art Deco at Rockefeller Center in Midtown ManhattanRockefeller Center comprises a 22-acre indoor and outdoor collection of some of the finest examples of Art Deco anywhere in the world. Walk around or take a guided tour to learn more about the artwork, style, and design.
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Getting Around London for Less MoneyVisitors can easily learn how to get around London by tube and bus, avoid taxis, and save a good sum of money. An Oyster card is the most economical way to travel.
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Discover the Stairways of San FranciscoSan Francisco has long and steep stairways built into its 43 hills that delight with breathtaking vistas of the city, bay, and bridges beyond.
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Education and Entrepreneurship: This Baker is One Smart CookieKaren Trilevsky is an inspirational leader whose vision created a successful baking company with an environmentally positive approach. The icing on the cake is her scholarship fund for students who may not otherwise have been able to consider college.
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It's Not a Moment Too Soon for Facebook Organ Donor StatusFacebook's organ donor status update is a good, big idea that makes it cool for users to become organ donors and share personal stories about saving lives.
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Diamond Jubilee Pageant is Opening Event at Windsor CastleIn May 2012, the first big event of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee will take place at Windsor Castle, celebrating the Queen's 60 years on the throne. Visitors can purchase tickets to attend the 90-minute Diamond Jubilee Pageant.
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Queen Elizabeth II Reopens Historic Cutty Sark Following Major FireThe 1869 tea clipper ship, Cutty Sark, nearly destroyed by an accidental fire in 2007, has been reopened for visitors by Queen Elizabeth in a ceremony in April 2012.
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Finding Authentic England: Beyond the High StreetsThe cookie-cutter High Streets of Britain do not offer a satisfactory tourist experience, so visitors are advised to head for the smaller towns and countryside locations offering a richer cultural feel.
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Visiting Historic Cannery Row in Monterey, CaliforniaMonterey's Cannery Row is a top destination on California's coast. The rocky coastline, seals and sea lions lazing in the sunshine, and a glorious sunset make for a day well spent along the historic street near Old Fisherman's Wharf and the 17-Mile Drive.
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Visit Clint Eastwood's Carmel-by-the-Sea, CaliforniaFashionable and splendidly sunny Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is picture-postcard perfect, with a manicured downtown leading to one of the prettiest public beaches in America, smack on the Pacific Ocean.
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From San Diego to San Francisco on AmtrakTake Amtrak from San Diego to San Francisco to enjoy a leisurely trip with world-class views of the Pacific Ocean and California countryside.
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Olympics 2012 in London's Royal ParksSeveral of London's Royal Parks will be transformed as venues for the 2012 Summer Olympics, including Hyde Park, St. James's Park, Green Park, Richmond Park, Bushy Park, and Greenwich Park.
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Summer 2012 Outdoor Movie Events in San FranciscoFree outdoor movie screenings in the San Francisco Bay Area are popular from Marin County to Oakland in the East Bay. The summer of 2012 schedule includes a tribute to the 75th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge.
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Top 10 Tourist Attractions in BarcelonaFun and fantasy are the hallmarks of a visitor's look at Barcelona, a sunny, temperate city on the Iberian Peninsula, located on the Mediterranean Sea.
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Hiking Trails for Families in San FranciscoFor families with babies and young children, there are plenty of hikes available in and around San Francisco, including stroller tours in Golden Gate Park.
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Tsunami Warning: Safety Advice for TravelersPlanning ahead helps people to know what to do if a tsunami warning is issued while traveling on vacation or business and when one should not wait for the warning sirens and announcements.
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Top 10 Tourist Attractions in RomeRome is a glorious city adored by historians, art-lovers, food and wine connaisseurs and by those who appreciate strolling with an ice cream in hand, simply enjoying 'la dolce vita'.
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10 Celeb Dining Hotspots Across the UKCelebrities are often seen at fabulous restaurants in London and throughout the U.K. A telltale sign are the paparazzi who wait on the doorstep for their exit. Here are a few dining hotpots where celebrities have been spotted recently.
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Must-Try Cocktails at Scotland's Hot BarsIntroducing six of Scotland's hottest cocktail bars up and down the country, from big cities to smaller ones and into the countryside where the finest distillers of single Scotch malt whisky and brewers of Guinness are found.
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Celeb-Favorite Getaways Across the UKNo matter where they are based, these British celebrities get back to the U.K. whenever they can for a proper family break.
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5 Honeymoons Off the Beaten TrackUnique honeymoon destinations and volunteerism are options for newlyweds looking for something different. European river cruises, Yosemite plus Napa and Sonoma Valley, a thatched cottage in Wales, or Nantucket Island are five ideas off the beaten track.
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The Authenticity of London's Portobello Road Market Is at RiskThe international reputation of Portobello Road Market in London is due to its very special, highly unique character and atmosphere. The vendors of antiques, vintage items, curiosities, ethnic food, fruit, and vegetables who assemble here are at risk.
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5 Restaurants With Superb Ocean Views in San Diego, CaliforniaSunset on the Pacific, whales swimming by, live music, a chilled glass of wine, and a seafood dinner served fresh from the kitchen. Restaurants with an ocean view in San Diego can offer this every evening.
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Best Restaurants in the Yosemite ValleyPlan ahead for five of the best landmark restaurants in and around Yosemite National Park and in Yosemite Valley, where visitors can relax with good food and astonishing views in historic settings.
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5 Cruise Lines to Make Family Holidays a BreezeFamily cruises have risen in popularity in recent years. Cruise lines are catering to the family market. The activities on board cruise ships have become as much of a draw as the destinations themselves.
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A 100-Year-Old Great-Grandmother Will Carry Olympic Flame Through LondonThe 2012 Olympic Games torchbearers will enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience this summer. Dinah Gould, a centenarian great-grandmother, will be among them.
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Luxury Golf Resorts in Arizona: A Golfer's HeavenHeaven on earth for golfers with 5,400 golf holes at 300 courses, Arizona offers some of the most spectacular scenery the U.S. has to offer, as well as some of the world's top-rated golf courses at luxury resorts situated in remarkable desert landscapes.
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Brain Games Keep Your Memory Sharper Than EverThe brain has great capacity for stretching through learning and for staying healthy through mental exercise. Even ten minutes a day of fun, stimulating games will help to keep the mind sharp and help with simple tasks as one grows older.
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Top 10 Tips for Great Skin in Your 50sAs any baby boomer knows, skin is part of the natural aging process. There are a few suggestions for slowing down the process and having the best possible skincare routines for prevention.
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Top 10 Florida Public Golf CoursesWarm and sunny year-round, Florida must be the unofficial golf capital of the world. For visitors, the 1,000-plus public golf courses in Florida offer quality and variety throughout the different regions of the state.
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Top 5 U.S. Public Beaches That Feel Like Private BeachesFrom the Atlantic to the Pacific, discover public beaches with a private feel where you can enjoy the sun, sand, sunsets, surfing, and swimming without the crowds. From Massachusetts to California, these are five of the best public beaches.
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Yale University's Splendid Art Museums Are FreeAlthough Yale University is among the most difficult institutions of higher learning to gain admission to, that's not so if you're heading for its top-class museums, which are free and open to the public.
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Manhattan's Grand Central Terminal: More Than a Train StationGrand Central Terminal in Manhattan is one of the busiest, biggest, and most beautiful train stations in the world and now has its own self-guided audio tour.
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Liverpool Marks the 50th Anniversary of The BeatlesJohn, Paul, George, and Ringo formed The Beatles in their native Liverpool in 1962. Fifty years later, that city invites the world to salute the Fab Four.
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Best Known Chefs in WalesLondon may be the capital and the home counties have some fabulous restaurants, but Wales is coming into its own with its top chefs looking to be close to the source of the best locally produced food, meat, fish, cheese and produce.
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10 Activities During the Queen's Diamond Jubilee WeekendGreat Britain knows how to throw a great party. With the Royal Wedding behind us, Buckingham Palace is gearing up for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
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London on a Shoestring: Spend Next to Nothing for a Day OutWhen in London, you can pack plenty of activity into a sunny spring day in Hyde Park for under £10. Here's what to do on a shoestring budget.
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Marin: A Hop, Skip, and a Jump Away from San FranciscoTake a short ride from San Francisco across the Golden Gate Bridge to Marin County and find yourself with your toes in the sand on the beach, eyes raised to the sky among giant redwoods, and enjoying traditional English hospitality at Pelican Inn.
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First Person: The Bay Area Housing Market Is Still Well About AverageThe 2010 U.S. Census Bureau indicated that $248,000 was the average price for a home in the U.S. Let's take a current snapshot of prices in San Francisco to determine what that might buy in the Golden City by the Bay.
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Food: Top 10 Places to Try Fish & Chips in EnglandFish and chips have been a British staple since 1860. It can be quite delicious and filling, especially on those raw wintry days. Here are ten of the best places to try fish and chips in he UK.
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Food: London's Best Food Markets"Food, glorious food!" as Oliver sang out in the famous Dickens novel. London has it all, in every imaginable type of world cuisine, but you must know when and where to look in the markets that dot the city's neighborhoods.
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Options for Traveling into London from Heathrow AirportLondon Heathrow is 14 miles from Central London and offers a number of ways to transfer into the city. The choices represent a wide range of budget considerations.
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California's Oldest Restaurant Still Going StrongTadich's Grill is California's oldest restaurant and one of the oldest in the United States. Located in San Francisco's Financial District, what gives it that staying power?
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San Francisco Still Packs Them in at Jazz Dinner VenuesTop of the Mark and Yoshi's are quite different venues but are two of San Francisco's legendary supper clubs for a special night out of live jazz and dancing.
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Whimsical Sculptures by Claes Oldenburg Produce SmilesSwedish-born Claes Oldenburg, age 83, and his late wife, Coosje van Brugge, of Holland, have created some of the world's most amusing urban art, some of it is found in sculpture gardens in the U.S.
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Combining a Vacation with Elective Surgery AbroadIn response to the high cost of private insurance, some Americans are electing to take up surgery overseas in selected, vetted and highly ranked hospitals via a concierge-style service which makes it simple to arrange.
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Consider a Destination Wedding: Marry Me in MiamiA wedding away from home is called a destination wedding, and often works perfectly as a solution for couples who must choose a location that suits far-flung friends and families of both the bride and the groom.
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London Underground to Get Wifi Access in Time for the OlympicsTransport for London expects to have wifi service operating in all tube stations and on platforms, although not in trains, in time for the 2012 Summer Olympics.
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It's Mardi Gras in New Orleans - Let the Good Times RollNew Orleans is party central for Mardi Gras, which culminates on Fat Tuesday, February 21, 2012.
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Go Gluten-Free with Marzetti Simply Dressed Balsamic Salad Dressing in Salads and SandwichesWheat intolerance and celiac disease means elimination diets and careful shopping for ingredients that will not harm one's health. T. Marzetti brand Simply Dressed Salad Dressing and many more products in the range are gluten-free.
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Explore Kensington, London During the Queen's 2012 Diamond JubileeWhat to see and what to do in Kensington, one half of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. It is home to Kensington Palace, which classifies it as "royal", top museums and landmarks, especially significant for the 2012 Diamond Jubilee.
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The Plight of San Francisco's Landmark Coit Tower Is Receiving National AttentionCoit Tower, an icon of the San Francisco skyline, contains historic murals depicting northern California life in the 1930s which are currently in need of preservation.
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Rovinj, Croatia: A Seaside Town Well Worth a Visit is Easy to ReachRovinj, Croatia is one of Europe's prettiest and liveliest Mediterranean seaside towns. Often overlooked by international visitors, it is most easily reached by ferry boat from Venice in under three hours.
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Winters, California, is Ideal as a Spring DestinationWinters, California is a charming historic town offering a Napa experience as it used to be. Spring in Winters is chock-filled with events including an outdoor quilt show and an artist's festival. Local wineries are always an important part of the mix.
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Sharing the Love in U.S. Towns Named Valentine or LovelandWith names that place them on a map for national recognition at least once a year, Valentine, Texas and Valentine, Nebraska get more cards than visitors each February and Loveland, Colorado has a busy post office as well as a Valentine's Day program.
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Renting Private Accommodations for the London OlympicsAs the Summer Olympics in London approach, demand for visitor accommodation is running high, hotel room prices have soared and limited availability remains. Renting a private home is a viable alternative.
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Dining in London: An Insider's Guide to Unique RestaurantsAn insider's guide to special restaurants in London which include world-famous museums, palaces in royal parks, cafés in historic churches, funky jazz clubs from the 50s and even at the rooftop of a trendy department store.
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Calling All Citizen Scientists: Porpoise Sightings in San Francisco BayThat harbor porpoises are now returning to San Francisco Bay after 65 years' absence is good news. Sightings are occurring daily and hundreds of porpoises have been identified.
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Sausalito Dream House for Superb America's Cup ViewsIn time for the 34th America's Cup in San Francisco, a Sausalito house with spectacular views of San Francisco Bay comes on the market.
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San Clemente Pier in California is Picture PerfectSan Clemente Pier provides a 10 minute stroll out past the sand and surf above the waves on a pretty wooden beam pier complete with signage to inform about the wildlife, nearby islands and headlands.
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London Winter Sales Throughout January Attract Crowds of ShoppersLondon retailers hold their sales twice a year, typically in January and in July. Sale racks are uncommon during the remainder of the year. The Harrods and Selfridges January Sales attract crowds of shoppers from London, the U.K. and all over the world.
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It's Official: You Can Attend the Theatre in London for Half-PriceSay London, and people think of the West End's Theatreland. Attending one or more shows at nearly 50 theatres is one of London's main sightseeing activities for over 14 million visitors every year.
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Plan a Destination Wedding in Sunny La Jolla, CaliforniaA destination wedding in sunny Southern California is a wonderful way to combine a vacation and a ceremony in one. One of La Jolla's hotels can help you plan a successful, low-stress wedding.
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Ocean Views from Sunny Downtown La Jolla in Southern CaliforniaA stroll in downtown La Jolla offers peaks of the Pacific Ocean between the storefronts. Three out of four days year-round are sunny. Average high temperatures run between 67 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit with lows between 44 and 62.
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Resolution: Go for Skinny Jeans and a Blazer at 50-Plus, Why Not?Make a New Year's Resolution to be fashionable after fifty by losing the old fashioned rule book. Yes, we looked great in the 70s, 80s and 90s but those fashion statements from the past are just not a good look for today's mature women.
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Where to Get a Good New York Style Bagel in San FranciscoWe New Yorkers transplanted to San Francisco are forever on the prowl for a New York style bagel and cream cheese. House of Bagels is my favorite this side of the Mississippi.
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My interior decorating disaster: Measure, measure, measure!One of the most important decorating tips of all is to carefully measure for clear access of furniture into your place of residence. Doorways, hallways, windows, and remember the tricky angles, too. And make friends with people who have air mattresses.
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Christmas storefronts in San Francisco's Union SquareUnion Square is the hub when it comes to Christmas shopping and window displays in San Francisco. Mix in a few palm trees wrapped in fairy lights, a passing cable car, one ice skating rink and a great big Christmas tree right in the middle of the square.
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Free Guided Walking Tours in San Francisco - Just Show Up!San Francisco is one of America's most popular visitor destinations. Although sometimes called expensive, San Francisco actually has free guided walking tours on offer every day throughout the year. No reservations are needed.
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Six of the Best Authentic London Pubs for Winter AtmosphereLondon life circles around friendly neighborhood pubs. In winter, seek out the pubs in Hammersmith, Kensington and Fulham where you can sink into a cozy corner sofa by the fire, enjoy great food and drink while soaking up the atmosphere with the locals.
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San Francisco restaurants decorated for the holidaysSan Francisco restaurants start gearing up for the Christmas holidays early. There are giant gingerbread houses, Union Street lights, views, special menus, and events. Cafe Flore has a wild and crazy Santa on the roof.
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Traditional and affordable holiday pies in the Bay AreaOver the meadows and through the woods to Grandmother's house we go with the very best, affordable holiday pie for dessert. Hear the bells ring ting-a-ling-ding, hurray for Thanksgiving Day...and watch the wallet!
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U.S. And U.K. Dominate as the World's Highest Ranked Universities 2011-12The world's top 15 universities are all in the U.S. and in the U.K. What are the strengths and weaknesses, what are the similarities and differences for prospective students and how can qualified students prepare for the choice?
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A Traditional Christmas in England's Finest Country Houses in the CotswoldsNothing feels quite like Christmas like an English country manor house in the Cotswolds, decked out in evergreen garlands, doorways hung with mistletoe, and sitting beside a roaring fire with chestnuts roasting and a brandy in hand.
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The Real Thing: Visit a Small American Town Named ChristmasThere are American towns named Christmas, Noel, Nazareth, Bethlehem and even Rudolph. While some are now just ghost towns, other small towns with holiday names are popular with visitors who want to have their greeting cards postmarked there.
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Thanksgiving Getaways in America that Will Get You Out of the KitchenWhether you head for sunny Miami or to sizzling, show-stopping Vegas or off to the green hills of North Carolina, you can always opt to run from the relatives at Thanksgiving and indulge in a holiday get-away for Thanksgiving.
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Visiting Turkey at Thanksgiving: An Appetizing DestinationFor those wishing to explore historical sites of the Turkish Aegean Coast, November offers sunny days and mild temperatures. This is an ideal time of year in Western Turkey for taking in Ephesus and other ancient ruins without sweltering along the way.
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Banks and You: A New Approach to Consumer Loyalty that Benefits Your WalletTransaction-driven marketing is an innovative approach to customer loyalty and rewards. Banks and retailers are partnering and, happily, the consumer is the beneficiary.
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Attend a Classical Concert at the Magnificent La Sainte-Chapelle in ParisDating from the mid-13th century, the glorious La Sainte-Chapelle houses a collection of the world's finest stained glass windows. It is often overlooked by visitors to Paris and is home to 100 classical concerts per year open to the public.
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Wine-Tasting and More in Historic Sonoma, CaliforniaSonoma is the historic center of Sonoma Valley, California, the heart of Jack London's wine country. Under an hour's drive from San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge where festivals, historic sites, antique shops, biking, fine dining, resort spas abound.
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San Francisco's best ice cream uses special processEverybody loves ice cream. For Robyn Sue Goldman, making the world's best ice cream is her entrepreneurial passion. Lucky residents and visitors to San Francisco can sample Smitten Ice Cream in Hayes Valley, where the brand's first shop is now open.
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Nantucket Noel: An Old-Fashioned Christmas StrollThroughout December, the island of Nantucket, Massachusetts celebrates the 38th annual Nantucket Noel. A weekend Christmas stroll along cobblestoned streets lined with gas lanterns, festively decorated trees, carolers and warmly lit welcoming shops.
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Quintessential London: Discover the Delights of MaryleboneMarylebone is a delightful and essentially London neighborhood, overlooked by many visitors. Sir Paul has chosen the Marylebone Old Town Hall for his wedding vows. Discover what else this corner of quintessential corner of London has to offer.
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Historic New England Cities Are Alive in AutumnBoston, Concord and Lexington, Massachusetts and Newport, Rhode Island are classic, historic New England cities where visitors can experience an unforgettable autumn display of colors both in the city and along the countryside roads in the region.
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When Visiting San Francisco, Stop in at the Buena Vista Cafe for an Irish CoffeeThe Buena Vista Cafe, historic San Francisco establishment, has been serving its famous Irish Coffee since 1952. The spectacular view and ideal location in front of the cable car turnaround is another reason visitors and locals alike adore it.
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Alphabet and Numbers Soup: Sorting Out the Confusing Postal Codes of LondonThe postal codes of London are a mix of confusing letters, numbers and spaces. What do the numbers and letters stand for and how can a visitor make any sense of it?
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Spectacular Bay Area house has views and private natural habitatThis house for sale has remarkable expansive veiws from San Francisco to the Golden Gate Bridge and Sausalito as well as its own natural habitat, a tide pool teeming with wildlife, including a great horned owl.
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Me, Myself and I in Miami: My Solo Weekend of Self-IndulgenceA weekend at the legendary Biltmore Hotel in Miami means pampering in the spa, lounging in a private cabana by the stunning pool, a yoga class at the fitness center, dinner at top-rated Palme d'Or, the famous Sunday brunch at Fontana and golf, too.
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Visit Bath, England and Enjoy a Rooftop Swim in the Thermal WatersWhen visiting London, many tourists make a visit to easily accessible Bath, one of the UK's oldest and best-loved destinations. However, few visitors include a rooftop swim in the thermal waters once enjoyed by Celts, Romans, Saxons and Georgians.
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Suggestions for Planning for Your First Visit to LondonLondon! Your first visit will probably not be your last visit. Making a list of what you want to see in London is a good way to plan your stay and use your time in England's fabulous capital city wisely, for it's a big city and will be crowded in 2012.
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10 Simple Reasons Why My Favorite Recipe Blogs Beat CookbooksRecipe bloggers are posting fabulous content on the internet, so you have an alternative to buying cookbooks. Here are ten reasons why books for cooks may be purchased as gifts but you can save time and money sourcing recipes online.
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Best Sunday Brunches in the Best Hotels in Miami, New York City and San FranciscoSunday Brunch is an American tradition. The best brunch in historic hotels are found in three cities famous for their culinary scene and local flavors: Miami, New York City and San Francisco. Biltmore Hotel, Waldorf=Astoria and Palace Hotel are excellent.
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One Year to Go...The London Olympics Opens 07/27/2012Debt ceiling crisis aside, the Summer Olympics in London will open exactly one year from now, July 27, 2012. While it may have seemed like a good idea at the time, San Francisco may be pleased to have lost the bid for 2012 and 2016.
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Explore downtown San Francisco in the steps of Mark TwainHere's a look at downtown San Francisco in the footsteps of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, aka Mark Twain.
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I (Heart) Teddy Bears @SanFrancisco Zoo!July 17-23, 2011 is National Zoo Keepers Week and the San Francisco Zoo is among the many nationwide that is saluting these men and women for all they do every day. The Teddy Bears are going to lend a hand as well.
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Invite the Girls to Dress Simply for a Summery "Simply Dressed" Marzetti Salad LuncheonIt's hot outside and a lunch with the girls in the back garden calls for a simple watermelon salad with gluten-free, all natural Marzetti dressing, lots of fresh strawberries, a plate of homemade, gluten-free blueberry muffins, a pitcher of cold ice tea.
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"It's Hell on Two Wheels" - Book & Author at Green Apple BooksAmy Snyder, author, talks about her new book, "It's Hell on Two Wheels". Green Apple Books calls it "awe-inspiring".
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Five of the Best: Silicon Valley Startups with a ConsciencePresenting five of the most promising social ventures with a conscience emerging from Stanford University Graduate School in Palo Alto, California.
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Will You "Like" Me? Facebook Conference on August 9, 2011The early bird registration is now through July 15, 2011 for the Facebook Conference in Sn Francisco on August 9, 2011. Folks have been tweeting about it for months.
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Enjoy a Glass of Wine in a Jasmine-Filled Summer Garden in Downtown Palo AltoLocal Food, Art and WIne is the theme at this Victorian house with courtyard garden turned into a wine bar in downtown Palo Alto.
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Questioning the High Cost of a Master's Degree in Today's Job MarketAs thousands of postgraduates matriculate with higher degrees from university, we wonder if the economy can and will produce the professional opportunities they seek for their skill sets.
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A Win-Win for Independent Business: Green Apple Books Hosts a "Technology Petting Zoo" on June 8, 2011Supporting local businesses is important to our neighborhoods and Green Apple Books in Inner Richmond will keep ahead of shifting consumer preferences by hosting a technology interactive event on June 8, 2011 to explain more.
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5 Bonus Reasons Why Slow Food is Better Than Fast FoodIn addition to better health, there are five bonus reasons why slow food is better than fast food. It does not need to cost more to buy organic food at the farmers' market. Cambridge Naturals expert, Michael Kanter, explains the local community aspect.Also published on:
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Been to the Zoo Lately? San Francisco Zoo's Grand Summer Opening is June 11-12, 2011Meet Spider-Man at the San Francisco Zoo's Grand Summer Opening is June 11-12, 2011.
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Spotlight on Mexico: A Lecture by Jorge G. Castenada, Former Foreign Minister and NYU ProfessorMexico expert, author, diplomat and professor, Jorge G Castenada will be presenting a talk on Mexico at the Commonwealth Club on June 1, 2011.
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San Francisco is Everybody's Favorite City: Voted Best for VisitorsSan Francisco, host to nearly 16 million visitors a year, has been voted the number one visitor city in the USA for the 18th year in a row by readers of Conde Nast Traveler. U.S. News & World Report also gives San Francisco the top ranking.
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"Yoko", Cooking from the Heart Series: Cook and Book Japanese Style for Kids Who Bring a GrownupClass is on Saturday, May 14 but plan ahead, for participants are asked to read "Yoko" by Rosemary Wells before the Japanese cooking class.Also published on:
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President Obama's State Visit to U.K. Is Scheduled for May 24-26The Obamas will go to London on an official State Visit on May 24-26, 2011 as guests of HRH Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Just thinking about what they might pack this time.
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Student Interns in Buckingham Palace Kitchens See Chance of a LifetimeA few selected British culinary students from U.K. colleges have been given work placement assignments for the Royal Wedding reception to be held at Buckingham Palace on April 29, 2011.
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Wild Family Overnight at the San Francisco ZooWIldNights is the family sleepover at San Francisco Zoo, offered four times per year. Next opportunity is June 4-5, 2011.
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How to get inside Buckingham Palace the easy waySince 1983, Buckingham Palace is open eight weeks a year for visits by members of the public. Tickets can be booked online and are likely to be highly sought after, following the royal wedding and the re-launch of "Brand Britain".Also published on:
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First stop on the royal wedding procession: Insider's look at Westminster AbbeyWestminster Abbey is just part of the normal everyday backdrop of life in London but every once in a while, it's best to stop and pay tribute to an extraordinary 1,000 years of history contained in a single building.
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The Top Ten: Visiting Paris for the First TimeParis, the City of Lights, the world's most beautiful city. If you are making your first visit to Paris, consider these suggestions on where to go and what to see. Comfortable shoes are a must and leave the calorie counter at home.
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Perhaps Kate and William Should Have a Prenuptial AgreementWhile prenuptial agreements are fairly uncommon in England, a history of divorces in the Royal Family has experts advising that it would be a sensible precaution in the marriage of Prince William and Catherine Middleton.
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The 10 Best Natural Lakes in the USAAmerica's natural lakes were formed by ancient melting Ice Age glaciers or volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. These ten natural lakes are among the nation's most picturesque and chosen as film and television locations.
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The World is Watching England for the Royal Wedding or Winston Churchill was RightThe Royal Wedding on April 29th will attract over two billion viewers, more than a quarter of the world's population. Only a fraction of these viewers speak English as a native or second language. What exactly are they talking about in London?
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Saint Mary's College of California Has Two Local Information Sessions for Graduate MS on April 20 and 26, 2011An MS in Financial Analysis & Investment Management offered by Saint Mary's College of California leading to an MBA is the information session in San Francisco on April 20 and 26, 2011.
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Back to Basics: Why Having a Good Business Card is Still so ImportantTake a fresh look at your business card as though you had never seen it before. Social media and smart phones aside, you should still be paying careful attention to your business cards. You'll need plenty of them if you are networking effectively.
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Five Mistakes to Avoid in a Job Interview to Boost Your Chance of SuccessJob interview pointers are the five P's: promptness, preparation, practice, poise, posture and one Q: your questions. Refresh on your basic interview skills now to avoid mistakes that can de-rail your prospects.
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'Live With Regis and Kathie Lee'; Flew Me from London to New York City to Surprise My Mother Live: Named Mother of the Year for "Mom's Dreams Come True" On WABC-TVEvery year in May, "Live with Regis and Kelly" surprises five deserving mothers for "Mom's Dream Come True" Mother's Day special show. Winning Mother of the Year was a highlight in my own mother's life, but we had to keep it a secret from her.
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10 Things You Should Always Ask Before Renting in Today's Tricky Real Estate MarketRenting a new home is exciting, but can often present a set of headaches, so be aware of the important questions. Property management, application fees, security deposit, pet policy, insurance keys and utilities are all questions you will have to ask.
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How to Save Money on College Graduation Expenses by Planning AheadThere are many costs associated with college Graduation Day that can be substantially reduced by planning ahead. Here are ten important suggestions for proud parents of the graduate to save money now.
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Painters Are Coming to This Yolo County 4th Annual Festival, March 25 - April 2, 2011Winters, California is a rural community blessed with sunshine and rolling hills dotted with oaks, vineyards, citrus groves, Putah Creek. Once a year, artists gather outdoors to paint the landscapes and exhibit their finished works.
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Five of the World's Most Futuristic Cities: They Are Not in the USAYou may be surprised to learn that no United States city is on the list of the world's most futuristic cities. Once boasting the marvels of the modern world, New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles do not hold a place anywhere on the list today.Also published on:
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Presidio Golf Course Announces 2011 Summer Camp Program for JuniorsThe Presidio Golf Course has now opened registration for summer weekly programs for ages 7-14 including a new advanced afternoon session for more experienced juniors age 12 and up. Early registration discounts are available.
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Before the Royal Wedding, the Secret Bachelor and Bachelorette PartiesIn England, as in America, these parties are planned by the best man and the maid of honor. Due to the attention of the media, these parties in advance of the Royal Wedding will need to be kept a secret. But, what are some insiders saying?
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Gary Vaynerchuck, Author, Presents "The Thank You Economy" Followed by a Wine TastingHow can businesses harness the changes and challenges inherent in social media and turn them into opportunities for profit and growth? Join entrepreneur/author of "The Thank You Economy", hear more about keeping apace with our fast-paced business world.
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Maggie Lemere and Zoe West Discuss "Nowhere to Be Home: Narratives from Survivors of Burma's Military Regime"On April 5, 2011, Maggie Lemere and Zee West, editors, discuss, "Nowhere to be Home: Narratives from Survivors of Burma's Military Regime", an eye-opening collection of oral histories exposing life under the military rule.
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Discovery Summer Camp at the Walt Disney Family Museum in the Presidio for Aspiring AnimatorsExplore and learn about Animation, Acting, Storyboarding, Character Design, Filmmaking and Editing, Special Effects and more. The Walt Disney Family Museum has released their classes and camps for kids, June-July 2011, at the Presidio.
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Sipsmith, the First London Distillery in Two Centuries, Creates Own-Label Gin and VodkaThree friends found a rare handmade copper still in Bavaria, they use homegrown English Barley and water from a farmer's field at a source of the Thames in the Cotswolds to create widely-acclaimed spirits.
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Hear Dr. Michio Kaku Presenting "Physics of the Future" at the ExploratoriumPhysicist Michio Kaku will discuss his new book, "Physics of the Future", informing what the world will look like in the year 2100 and how new technology will shape people's daily lives. The talk is followed by a Q&A session and a book signing.
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Invitation to Luna Boutique's Trunk Show of Igor Chapurin, Russia's Hottest Fashion DesignerLuna Boutique is a stylish boutique in Sacramento Street where shoppers will discover Russian designer Igor Chapurin's latest fashions while enjoying vodka and caviar on Saturday, March 26th from 1:00 - 5:00pm.
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The Exploratorium is Moving to Pier 15 on the Embarcadero in 2013San Francisco's famous Exploratorium will have a new location in 2013. Located at the Palace of Fine Arts since 1969, the new home will boast city and bay views.
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Visit the Exploratorium Offering Free Day Admission on the First Wednesday of Every MonthTake advantage of free admission to San Francisco's Exploratorium, an interactive museum of science, art and human perception on Wednesday, April 6, 2011 from 10am to 5pm.
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75 Years Ago in San Francisco: The History of Laurel Heights and Laurel Hills CemeteryIn 1937, Golden Gate Bridge, "the bridge that couldn't be built", opened. Across town, planners were involved in a very different project concerning cemetery closings and removing 110,000 bodies, not yet laid in their final resting place.
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Mature Women Can Look Great on the Tennis Courts at Any AgeThere's nothing more distracting to your game than feeling uncomfortable about sports fashion on the tennis courts if you are 40-plus. My closet is stuffed with cute little tennis outfits from my younger days, so I got some good advice.
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Kids Can Meet the Author, Mac Barnett, at Books Inc. At Chestnut StreetMac Barnett is a children's author of picture books for ages 3-8 and he will be talking about his latest "Oh No" book at a Just for Kids morning on April 4th.
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David Kirp, Author of "Kids First: Five Big Ideas for Transforming Children's Lives and America's Future" at Books Inc. In Laurel VillageDavid L. Kirp's book "Kids First: Five Big Ideas for Transforming Children's Lives and America's Future" was published in January 2011. He will appear to discuss the book on April 6th at Books Inc in Laurel Heights.
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Wine Enthusiasts Seminar at the Presidio CafeLearn what to look for in the wines of Spain with advice from an expert sommelier at the Presidio Golf Course and Clubhouse.
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SCRAP Accepts Unwanted Material Donations for Re-Use: Paper, Wood, Metal, Plastics and MoreFounded in 1976, SCRAP is a non-profit creative re-use center, materials donation depot and a workshop space. Waste not, want not turns trash into treasure. Keep SCRAP in mind for your own Earth Day recycling plans.
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Earth Day and Composting from Standard 5n10 Ace Hardware, Laurel HeightsComposting is just one idea for making an individual contribution to the ecology that will give lasting benefits beyond Earth Day on April 22nd.
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Thos. Moser Cabinetmakers, Traditional American Craftsmanship in Solid Wood FurnitureThos. Moser Cabinetmakers has been in this San Francisco location for nearly twenty years. The handmade furniture on display is museum-quality and is complemented by changing, local artists' exhibitions. This month, see Susan Sarback's oils.
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An Authentic Taste of Italy from A.G. FerrariA.G. Ferrari sells savory aged cheese, imported regional wines, Ligurian olives, regional virgin olive oils, salami, fresh pasta, espresso, honey, chocolate, biscotti for the family table or for festive gatherings. Or, eat-in and enjoy!
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Mariposa, Artisan-Crafted Bakery, Introduces New Gluten-Free BaguetteMariposa's new rustic long baguette is both vegan and gluten-free. The owners, artisans, taste-testers at this Oakland-based bakery worked very long and hard to produce the fantastic taste and texture of a classic French baguette.
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How to Survive a Long-Distance Move from London to CaliforniaI moved from London to San Francisco with assistance from an international relocation realtor at no extra cost. Stepping off the flight, the key to my newly purchased condo was waiting. Inside, a snack and cat food for Frisky, who had relocated with me.
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Buckingham Palace is Quiet About Kate Middleton's Choice of Dress DesignerThings are busy in the world of weddings, royal and otherwise. What about the Kate Middleton's secret choice of designer? There is a lot of pressure to chose a British designer. So, let's have another look at the contenders.
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Circle & Square is in the Running for the Best in Women's AccessoriesIf you visit during spring break, it means 20% - 70% off everything in store at Circle & Square, a San Francisco hot and uber-trendy boutique, located in Presidio Heights.
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Is Your Clutter Killing You?Your clutter is actually aging you, so time to dig out. Learn more about what is preventing you from clearing the stuff that surrounds you, how to tackle it and get help if you need it. We all know we can get better organized and be more productive.
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The Walt Disney Family Museum is an Absolute Hidden Gem in Our Own BackyardThousand of artifacts are contained in the Walt Disney Family Museum right in The Presidio by the Main Post Office on Franklin Avenue. Open since October 2009, it is a real hidden gem.
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Standard 5 and 10 Ace Hardware is the Local One Stop Variety StoreAt 3545 California Street in the heart of Laurel Village, this traditional hardware and variety store is likely to have whatever you need and provides friendly service to help you find it. Handy two hour free parking with validation behind the store.
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Three Healthy Eating Websites for Special Diets: Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Allergies and Food SensitivitiesHealthy eating involves fresh, nutritious food in the right quantities food as well as strict avoidance for those with special medical and dietary requirements. If you are avoiding certain substances, good advice and nutritious, careful recipes are key.
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St. Patrick's Day is Here! Ireland Offers Some Unusual Ways to Celebrate Any Time of YearHere are ten unusual things I've done in Ireland that I'd recommend you try, even if you are not going until after St Patrick's Day. Meet the wonderful Irish people and experience the real Ireland.
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Two of the Best Independent Laurel Heights Coffee ShopsLaurel Heights/Presidio Heights has a dozen coffee shops. Rigolo Cafe and Dolce & Salato are two very special independent ones which are really proud of their food as well as their coffee and tea.
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Free Tax Workshops in Downtown San Francisco for Small Business OwnersThe Small Business Administration is offering a series of educational seminars for tax planning and other useful advice aimed at small business owners and entrepreneurs. Courses are free of charge and held in Market Street, downtown San Francisco.
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Top Ten Places Where Celebrities Stay in EuropeCelebrities and royals are frequently seen in these top European hotels and resorts. Trendy places come and go, but there are classy deluxe properties and destinations that never lose their star appeal.
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Charlotte Bronte's Classic Romance, "Jane Eyre" is Re-Released in March 2011The 83rd Annual Academy Awards are over but we have a whole year of movies coming up. Among the first new adaptations of a timeless classic is "Jane Eyre", my favorite Bronte story and one of the most enduring romances of nineteenth-century literature.
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Plan Ahead and Prepare for a First Visit to the Grand CanyonWinter is a beautiful time to visit the Grand Canyon, no crowds. But if heading for the Grand Canyon off-season, a bit of planning is extremely wise.
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My Doctors Got it Wrong: Wheat Intolerance and Celiac DiseaseDo not let the doctors tell you that your illness is imaginary. There is no cure but a strict lifelong diet is the managed solution. It can be tricky, as wheat and gluten are contained in a huge variety of foods which must be avoided.
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Shop Year-Round in "New Chinatown" for Fresh Ingredients to Prepare a Chinese Meal at HomeThe Year of the Rabbit is underway and 2012 will be the Year of the Dragon. San Francisco's "New Chinatown" is the place to go for all your Asian cooking ingredients year-round. Ensure good health and happiness every day.
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The Best Local Bookstore in Laurel Heights is Books IncReadings, storytimes for children, book signings, author discussions, shopping nights, book events and book clubs. With 12 locations in California and a history dating back to 1851, a visit to Books Inc. feels as good as it sounds.
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Six Hats of Alcatraz: Guided Tour at the Island Brings History to Life"Six Hats of Alcatraz" is a free guided tour with a park ranger at Alcatraz that you won't soon forget. Learn how it was that this maximum security prison is less than 1.5 miles from San Francisco and yet no one escaped alive?
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Visit Muir Woods and the Giant RedwoodsIf you are looking for a wonderful day trip from San Francisco but don't have enough time to explore Sequoia National Park, Muir Woods is a short drive over the Golden Gate Bridge and the giant redwoods are simply magestic.
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Five Tips to Put San Francisco Residents on the Road Without Owning a CarCar loans, insurance, gas, maintenance, tolls, parking. Car ownership is expensive. If you live in San Francisco, consider the financial benefits of giving up your car and focus on how much you will save with really very little sacrifice.
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Sausalito and San Francisco...Maybe The Second Best Ferry Ride in the World?Some say the Star Ferry in Hong Kong is the best ferry ride in the world, but most agree the San Francisco to Sausalito trip could be number two. Either way, enjoy world-famous sights coming and going, at an affordable price.
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Women in England Scramble to Get the Kate Middleton LookPrince William's college sweetheart and future princess, Kate Middleton, is an extremely pretty, stylish woman of 5'10" who looks absolutely smashing in her official engagement photographs. What exactly did she choose to wear for the special occasion?
