Friday, September 19, 2008

BRANCHVILLE, NJ September 18 2008 == Stone Words, the Internet’s largest retailer and wholesaler of river stones, jewelry, and stone related products is proud to announce the launching of our brand new website; www.stonewords.com.

“Our new website gives us an opportunity to bring more unique stone and rock products to market as well as servicing more vertical markets. We will never lose site of the fact that polished river stones and natural river rocks are our core business. The business to business market has become extremely important to us.” Said Bill Marshall, CEO of StoneWords.com.

Stone Words’ natural and polished river rocks are available in a number of sizes colors and formats. They are perfectly suited for wedding favors, jewelry, garden accessories, and gifts for the home and office.

The Stone Words.com website will be expanding our precious and semi-precious jewelry. We are offering more styles, colors, and designs than ever before! Our bracelets and necklaces are made from semi precious stones are available in many animal shapes including a butterfly, bears, and dragonflys.

Over the past few months Stone Words has been hard at work developing a community for people interested in river stones and related collectible. In our blog you will find home décor tips and products, craft ideas, and suggestions on using our river stones in your everyday life.

The new website highlights corporate uses for collectible river stones. Companies have promoted a brand, commemorative events, trade show giveaways, and thank you gifts with polished river stones. With our new technology we can duplicate every last detail and color in your logo or brand. We will provide you with a free sample.

Just in time for the holiday season, StoneWords will launch our newsletter and email campaigns. “The goal of our email marketing campaigns is to educate our customer base on the type of merchandise we carry and how well suited they are for their holiday gift giving. Keep a sharp lookout in your inbox for our email as they will be chock full of new products, special pricing, and maybe even free shipping! You just never know”, said Randy Feldman, Internet Marketing Manager for Stone Words.com

You can visit our website by clicking here or by contacting Bill Marshall by phone at 973-948-0085.

Thursday, September 11, 2008

The New StoneWords Website has Arrived

Your One Stop Shop on the Internet for Engraved Stones, Crystals, Mini Pocket Stones, River Stones and Garden Stones

We have added tons of new products and truck loads of rocks for your enjoyment.

All of the website improvements were made to help you, our loyal friends, to navigate through our store and find what interests you faster then ever before.

In the very near future we will begin publication of a monthly newsletter. It will be chock full of exciting new products,gift and party ideas for your favorite holiday or event.

From time to time we will be offering our newsletter subscribers exclusive products, customer discounts, and free shipping.

Join the fun by subscribing to our newsletter by clicking here..

My best wishes for a fun and safe summer!

-Bill Marshall
Rock Hound Extraordinaire

Please visit our new website and tell us what you think.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Water Gardens Tranquility

By: Daniel Roshard

If you have a spacious backyard you have probably spend considerable time debating what you should do with it. For some families it becomes a play space, essentially filled with climbing equipment, a sandbox and toys. For other families they want to utilize the space by creating an oasis and a refuge from the daily stresses of life.

Water garden can be the key to that retreat. If you have the space and the inclination you can create a water garden in your back yard that will become a focal point. A water garden can be either large or small and can even include a fish or two. It has been a known fact the water and especially running water have a soothing affect, from the ancient roman fountains to the indoor Zen pools and waterfalls, people have always liked to relax by water, not a surprising fact when you remember that humans are made, in part, by water.

Finding the water garden of your dreams may prove to be a serious task, with many different things to consider, you will have to put in some time for research if you want to get the most for your money. Many garden centers have displays of water gardens for their customers to see. If you see one there that you like you can inquire if they have the water garden plans for that particular design, try and build it yourself, or get the plans and find a professional to do it for you.

If you don’t have access to a specialized garden center consider visiting your local home improvement store. In the spring and summer months most have an area that focuses on gardens and accessories. They will generally have several different water garden plans for you to look at and choose from. The internet is also a good place to look for information about water gardens and what you need for them.

Once you’ve perused the water garden plans and chosen the one for you it’s time to gather together the supplies and get to work. It may seem like a daunting task at first glance but in reality with the proper equipment, some patience and some helping hands you can build your own water garden that you and your family will enjoy for many years.

If you are especially creative why not bypass the traditional water garden plans and design one of your own. Make it a reflection of your own personal taste and style. You can incorporate some of the ideas from water gardens you’ve already seen along with the vision you have. It will become a one of a kind masterpiece.

Water gardens are a wonderful thing, pleasing to eyes and calming the soul this can be your place to relax and forget about the troubles of the world, good luck finding and building your own water garden and I wish you and your family many happy and calm moment by your new attraction – the water garden.

Bring a smile to your garden with our line of unique garden stones.

About the Author:
Modular offices and prefab offices have been enjoying a huge growth. You can have an office that fits almost anywhere and built to your demands, learn more about Modular Offices and how you can use them at http://modularoffice.zupatips.com

Want To Improve Home Decor And Reduce Stress? Try An Indoor Fountain

By: Bill Urell

There are not many things as lovely to watch or as pleasant to listen to as the soothing sounds of an indoor fountain. If selected and purchased with care, and maintained properly, an indoor fountain will continue to give pleasure for many years to come.

Naturally, one of the most important things to keep in mind when selecting an indoor fountain is whether it goes well with your home decor or clashes with it. For example, a minimalist Chinese design will look out of place in an elaborate Victorian Style room, but it may go beautifully in an elegant modern room. A fountain in a room that doesn't suit it will stand out like a sore thumb and look out of place, not the effect you want to achieve! Select your fountain with your room in mind, and you'll save a lot of hassle and the need to redecorate down the line.

It is not necessary to seek out or purchase the most expensive fountain you can find, but you should avoid very cheap ones, unless there's a good reason for them to be so cheap (a well-known brand on sale at a store going out of business, for example). You should always make sure to get an indoor fountain with at least a one year limited warranty. You don't want to have to replace your fountain every six months, and if something does go wrong in six months, you at least want to know that you don't have to pay for replacing it. An indoor fountain becomes more than just a piece of room decor; it becomes part of the fabric of your life, a little piece of stability and tranquility no matter what life throws your way. You want one that will last and be pleasing to the eye and ear.

Lastly, a word about maintaince and care. Some fountains may come with care instructions; follow these carefully, to the letter. If your indoor fountain doesn't come with instructions for proper care, there are still some things that can be done to keep it working at its peak efficiency for a long time to come. Make plans to change the water out at least once every three months. If you have pets, or your house stays fairly dusty, it should be done every month. Clean the fountain itself every six months or so with warm water and mild dish soap. Above all, keep it free of debris. Floating flowers in it may be romantic, but if even one petal clogs the filter, it can be a pain to clean and repair.

About the Author:
Start your life over with and start drug and alcohol addiction recovery.The author, Bill Urell MA.CAAP-II, is an addictions therapist at a leading drug addiction treatment center. He teaches healthy life styles and life skills. Tell your story! Visit: http://www.AddictionTreatmentResources.com


Visit Word Stone's new website for a large selection of stones to complement your new indoor fountain.

Is a Water Fountain the Solution to your Decor Issues?

By: Julien Raynal

Water has an innate quality of bringing in serenity and peace. Water fountains are interesting and nice to watch, both for the children and the grown ups. Water soothes frayed nerves by its continuous motion, with no sudden jarring movement – unlike water falls that have variations in the volume of water flowing based on the level of water in the river that feeds them.

In fact there are a number of books on Feng Shui that suggest having small water fountains inside the home or in the lawns to bring in peace, harmony, and relaxation. Water fountains serve as good humidifiers in allowing water to evaporate and provide the environment with a cooler atmosphere. Water fountains are soothing and relaxing, possibly because they bring a constant flow of water, eliminating abrupt changes in the normal flow of the water.

Water fountains come in various designs and creative patterns. There are floor fountains, wall fountains, and desktop varieties of water fountains.

Large size fountains are great fun to watch. Some of the very nice and popular fountains are present in United States. For example, the water fountains in the Bellagio Casino of Las Vegas number more than one thousand and they are part a beautiful song and dance show every day. The fountains move and throw water in special patterns, their heights rise and fall based on the pitch of the songs. Another large size water fountain that is a pleasure to the eyes is the one in Chicago, called the Buckingham water fountain, which was presented by the English and is even maintained by them.

Interior wall water fountains can fill a room with a relaxing sound. These can be as small as a paper pad or as large as to occupy one whole wall. These normally adorn executive offices, lobbies, and homes. These come in various shapes and sizes as well as in different materials like glass, marble, cement, plexi glass and metals like steel or copper. The only requirements for these fountains are a source of water, strong wall support and electricity to circulate the water back to the top. These come in straight designs or in different shapes – either straight or using shapes like leaves or sea shells to get the water from top to the bottom.

Desktop water fountains are those that can adorn office desks, and create a pleasant environment compensating for the pressures of work life. Water fountains come with decorations that can enhance the surroundings, providing an interesting and sophisticated look using colored lights or angels. Staggered leaves allow a gradual flow of water. Pebbles allow water to seep through and sometimes can even glow in the dark. Such desktop or counter top water fountains can also be used for homes in kitchens, living rooms or bedrooms where they provide a good continuous flow of water and soothing sounds to enhance the peaceful environment of the house.

Desktop varieties of water fountains are relatively easy to maintain and clean. Basically the water level comes down, as it continuously evaporates and needs to be replenished. It would be good practice to clean the adornments like pebbles, copper containers, and small items placed for decoration purposes. If not well attended to for a long time, water fountains can form a green curtain of moss.

Wordstones' garden rocks will compliment your new watergarden. Be sure to check out our river stones.

About the Author:
We are dedicated to promoting and helping our visitors learn more about camping and hiking. Hiking and camping are some of the best ways to connect with nature and present an affordable way to enjoy what nature has to offer.

Achieving A Peaceful And Relaxed Home With Do-It-Yourself Indoor Fountains

By: John Morris

Water fountains in indoor settings have become quite a buzzword among home decorators and owners like you in the last few years. This is not surprising, since indoor fountains give you a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, as the water quietly runs in the fountain. Stores can attest to the popularity of indoor fountains. A look at stores in malls and on the Internet results in a lot of indoor fountains being sold. But what happens if you can’t find your indoor fountain of your dreams in the malls or in the various websites? Do not fret. Actually, there are many of you that do not seem to find what they think are the right indoor fountains for them.

Having a beautiful and elegant indoor water fountain does not always have to be the same with what other people have just because you bought yours from a store or in the Internet. And, no, you don’t want to pay for a fountain with an extremely steep price just to avoid having a commonly owned fountain. Try doing it on your own. The sound of the trickling water from a fountain you did might prove to be more peaceful and relaxing than the mass-produced ones.

I. Build Your Own Indoor Fountain

If you can’t find an indoor fountain in the market that could match your personal taste, lifestyle, and uses, why not make your own? Making your own indoor fountain is cheaper than buying it in a store or online. Generally, making one would cost you around $40. There are a number of variations available in making your own water fountain, but the instructions in making one are very basic.

II. Materials

- for base, you could use a waterproof container
- aquarium pump that is submersible; easily available in garden centers or at fish stores
- copper pipe with diameter of half an inch
- easy-to-use pipe cutter that costs around $2.50 only
- silicone glue - when this dries up, the glue becomes clear
- two pieces of elbow joints
- reducer that goes on top of your pump
- t-bar
- a copper piece
- beautiful and appealing rocks which you will be using for your foundation to stabilize the fountain and make the foundation more sturdy

III. Building Steps:

1. Put the pump into your container

Since the pump hole is relatively smaller compared with copper fittings, you must add the reducer. By this time, you are prepared in putting the first arm of your copper foundation.

On the pipe’s outer edge, put some silicone. Then put together the pieces one by one. Before putting the top pipe over it, you must have some holes pre-drilled. You can pre-drill using a drill bit with a one-eighth-inch size. This will make your fountain have the perfect flow. You must remember all the time that the copper frame size should fit snugly into your container, allowing the water to freely circulate.

2. Check if its top part is aligned

The top part is aligned if the water perfectly flows right into your container. Expect that the final arm will be longer since the pump will elevate it. Place the joint first, as this will make the arm secured. Measure then the pipe. Cut down the excess part.

3. Keep it stabilized

Adding a number of beautiful and large stones should make the weight heavier. After putting the large stones, put some small river pebbles. And then add water.

4. Go From There

Now you have the basic foundation for your indoor fountain! From there, you can design it based on your imagination, for the look of your fountain is limitless and depends on how imaginative and creative you can get. For just starters, you could improve your fountain look by putting dried flowers and grasses. Arrange them. If you plan on installing a fountain right inside your kitchen, you might want this example. You could create your base foundation using a used or old copper pan. Flatten it using a hammer. Then suspend the flatware using copper wire.


Bring a smile to your garden with our line of unique garden stones.

About the Author:
For more great advice to help you have a fun, safe and enjoyable pregnancy, visit http://www.mommy-mommy.com. The place to find fun baby names, and new baby advice.

Now You Can Discover the Best Kept Secret to Beautiful Gardens

By: John Savage

Garden ponds and fountains were once mainly for the very rich. Today, anyone can have a garden pond. A fountain or waterfall can be included almost anyplace--even if your "yard" is limited to a patio or balcony.

Adding water to your patio can be as simple as setting out a shallow dish of water for use as a birdbath. Any shallow container at least 6 inches wide and a half-inch deep will work. Pie pans, garbage can lids, or flowerpot bases work well in small spaces. Fill the container with clean water and wash it every day or two. The wildlife attracted to the water will depend on where you place the container. Containers set on the ground usually attract the greatest number of wildlife species, from birds and butterflies to squirrels and toads. Hanging birdbaths or ones on pedestals will be restricted to those creatures that can fly or jump high enough to reach the water, and give birds a chance to escape from neighborhood cats and other predators.

If you want to grow water plants--and perhaps add a fish or two--you can add a tub garden to your patio or yard. Many products are on the market today. Frequently, half whiskey kegs with plastic liners are used. Numerous plastic tub gardens are available in a variety of sizes and have the advantage of being lightweight and inexpensive. Small pumps can be added to any of these containers to allow for fountains or cascades of water. Moving water is pleasant to listen to and attractive to wildlife.

Here are some considerations before adding a small tub pond to your patio or yard.

If you want to grow water plants, choose a container that is at least a foot deep. While some water plants do well in shallow water, other species--including some water lilies--require deeper water.
Consider adding a variety of plant species. Depending on the depth of your tub, place pots of plants either on the bottom or on bricks to achieve the proper depth. Floating plants such as duckweed also can be added. Floating plants reduce the amount of sunlight that enters the water, which helps reduce the growth of algae. When adding potted plants, place a layer of stones on top of the soil before setting the pots in the water. This will help hold the soil in place and help prevent any fish from "digging" into the pots.
If you live in a cold climate, consider what you will do with the tub garden in the winter. Small tubs can be moved inside if a suitable location is available. Other tubs may need to be drained to prevent damage from freezing.
Caution: Use caution and take security measures if small children have access to your pond. Even small tub gardens can be hazardous. If you intend to have a fountain or waterfall, be sure a grounded electrical outlet is available.

Above all, have fun. Water gardens provide habitat for wildlife, but also can be an enjoyable hobby for you and your family.

Bring a smile to your garden with our line of unique garden stones.

About the Author:
john savage is director of the Bible Network and more info is available by Clicking Here

PacificOutdoorLivingPro.com: Pondless Waterfalls

By: Terry Morrill

Waterfalls are one of the most beautiful and spectacular sights in nature. People travel hundreds or thousands of miles to see the awesome sight of one of the world’s mighty waterfalls. But even smaller waterfalls are relaxing and give one a feeling of tranquility and connection with nature. The sights and sounds of running water are like nothing else in nature.

There are many homeowners that would love to be able to enjoy the relaxing sights and sound of a backyard waterfall, but don’t currently have the space or budget to install a full-sized pond. Others are concerned about the safety of their young children wandering into the pond.

For such homeowners, the pondless waterfall is a great solution, and is one of the fastest growing sectors of the water feature installation industry. For the landscape contractor, a pondless waterfall is another option he can offer to clients. Or, if a landscape contractor is looking to newly get into building water features, pondless waterfalls are a great way to start.

The way a pondless waterfall works is: water flows down the stream and waterfall and then falls into a layer of gravel. Below the gravel is a hole lined with watertight liner and filled with layers of porous material. The water falls through these layers and collects at the bottom, where a pump sends the water back up to the top of the waterfall. The hole is deep enough so that when the waterfall pump is turned off, the water just collects down in the hole without spreading across your yard.

Aquascape, the leading manufacturer of pond products and pond equipment, has recently come out with a new product called an AquaBasin, for use with pondless waterfalls, fountains and “disappearing” fountains. One simply digs a hold and then places the 4-foot wide basin into it. The basin collects the water and a pump placed inside pumps it back up again. The AquaBasin greatly simplifies the installation of a pondless waterfall, disappearing fountain or other type of fountain.

A pondless waterfall can be designed and installed for a fraction of the cost of a full pond. Ease of installation makes the pondless waterfall the ideal water feature for a contractor looking to get into the highly profitable business of installing water features.

Pondless waterfalls are also far easier to maintain for homeowners. There is no pond; therefore there are no fish to care for. There is no concern about algae. The only real maintenance is to occasionally clean the filter, and add water occasionally to make up for evaporation. Another benefit of not having a pond with fish is that the pump does not need to run constantly to provide aeration. You can switch it on at certain times of the day or only when desired. The pump will then last much longer and cost less to use than it would with a pond.

The joy of the pondless waterfall is that it gives the sound and beauty of a waterfall without the many problems associated with the pond. As this option is becoming more common, more water feature installation companies are offering this option to the public.

Enhance the beauty of your new pond with our newly expanded line of garden rocks and stones. We can also personalize your stone to make it your very own!


Terry Morrill is the CEO of Pacific Outdoor Living Pro Division (http://www.pacificoutdoorlivingpro.com), which is a distributor of Aquascape pond installation products. The company is located in Sun Valley, CA. Pacific Pavingstone, also owned by Terry Morrill, has twice been listed on the Inc. 500 list of the fastest growing companies in America, and this year is listed on the Inc. 5000 list.

Tips For Picking Perfect Wedding Jewelry

By: Lee Dobbins

Your wedding day is one of the most memorable believes of your life and you want everything to be perfect from the ceremony to the gown to the jewelry. Selecting the perfect wedding jewelry can not only make your wedding day more memorable something that you can treasure for the rest of your life and also has an annual to pass down to your children for their wedding day.

If you are lucky enough to have heirloom jewelry to wear on your wedding day and the choices are simple. You can wear what you were given however if you haven't been given an entire set of jewelry you will need to find matches to complete the set. Since you're heirloom jewelry is most likely antique the best place to look for matches is in an antique store. You can find antique stores most anywhere and also online. When looking at vintage orientate jewelry be sure to check the jewelry over to make sure there is no missing stones or excessive wear.

If you don't have any heirloom jewelry then it's up to you by jewelry and create heirlooms for your children. One thing you want to consider is the quality of the tools and how long they'll last over time. Wedding jewelry doesn't need to be expensive but if you want handed down to future generations you'll need to buy something that will last.

Here's some tips on how to choose the perfect wedding jewelry:

One thing to consider when buying jewelry is the shape of your face. If you have a wide jaw and you want to choose jewelry that doesn't call attention to this. In this case she would want to choose long looking jewelry such as necklaces with long pendant lariat and long earrings.

It's your hairstyle is another consideration if you're wearing a long do you want to be sure that you earrings can be seen if you're wearing your hair out then small earrings might be consideration. However if you want to accentuate your knack then you probably want to wear some great chandelier earrings or long Drippy shoulder duster's.

You want to keep your jewelry elegant and simple. You want to jewelry to accentuate the moment but not overshadow the beautiful glow of the bride.

Many brides have a preference whether they like silver or gold if you want to spend a lot of money you can opt for sterling silver which is certainly a shiny and beautiful as gold. Diamonds, of course, are always a good choice if you can use many other gemstones to add some color to the day. Just be sure that the jewelry does not draw attention away from the beautiful bridal dress.

Pearls are a traditional bridal jewelry choice. They look great and enhance almost any complexion and always match perfect with the bridal dress. Even if the brightest choosing off-white you can choose cream-colored pearls for your wedding jewelry and still have an elegant look.

No matter what you choose for wedding jewelry you want to be sure to care for them properly so that they last for years to come. While diamonds are hard and aren't easily damaged pearls and other gemstones are softer and you will need to handle them with care. Be sure to store them in a protected area where they can't rub up against other jewelry and get scratched. Always be careful when cleaning any kind of pearls or gemstones that you do not use harsh chemicals that might damage the stone. Periodic cleaning using the proper methods can go one way to making your jewels last a lifetime.

Choosing your wedding jewelry should be one of the fun tasks of your wedding planning. Be sure to pick jewelry that you can wear on other occasions and your wedding jewels will always be a reminder of your beautiful day.

Our wedding jewelry will keep your blessed event in the minds of your friends and family for many years to come.

About the Author:
Learn more about decorating small bedrooms at http://www.decorate411.com where you can learn how to put big style in small rooms.

Choosing Gifts for Your Bridal Party

By: Natasha Young

Standing with you at your wedding are those most close to you. What gift do you give to a person who's meant so much to you in your life? It's always best to make it personal. The customary thing to do is to give the people who will be standing with you a unique and personal gift to show them how much you've appreciated the time and attention they've spent to make your special day. The wedding day will be focused on the bride and groom. The gifts are meant as a 'thank you'.

Traditionally, gifts are given to the bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girl, ring bearer and parents of the bride and groom. There are a few traditional gifts for each individual wedding helper. You must remember that the best gift is going to be personal. You don't have to break the bank to let someone understand that you appreciate their attention and friendship.

Bridesmaids are traditionally given jewelery to wear with their dresses as part of their gift. A personalized message could make it extra special with their name, the date or their initials. A bracelet, necklace, anklet, ring or earrings are fine gifts, and will give your loved ones a sense of status at your wedding. A gift they can wear for years to come, again and again, will remind them of just how important they are in your life.

Groomsmen are also given gifts. These gifts aren't as flashy as the gifts generally given to bridesmaids, but they will show them you care just the same. The traditional gift for a groomsmen is something they can keep in their pocket. Personalized cuff-links, a pocket watch or an engraved money clip are all special gifts that will show them that they're appreciated.

It's perfectly acceptable to give your flower girl child sized jewelery as their gift to wear at the wedding. A pearl bracelet, a necklace or an engraved jewelery box. The ring bearer might be intrigued with his own set of engraved cuff-links, or a bracelet with his name and date to remind him of the special day. Indeed these two special people in your life will cherish the gifts for a long time to come.

Your mother(s) deserve a special gift that acknowledges the new person in the family. A necklace or bracelet with her name or initials would be exceptional. A wonderful gift would be a piece of jewelery with birthstones of all of her kids, including the new one. Give your mother(s) a gift that she can touch and reminisce on the special day.

Give your father(s) a personalized gift as well. This can be a men's watch, cuff-links, or a money clip. As long as it's personalized with some kind of engraving or unique style of your choosing, it will be loved.

The said gifts are simply suggestions of more traditional gifts. By all means, find something that will be unique to each of the individuals standing with you.

Our wedding favors will keep your blessed event in the minds of your friends and family for many years to come.

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About the Author:
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Pet Memorials Help Owners Deal With Loss

By: Mitch Endick

The loss of a family pet is a source of grief and sadness. For many of us, pets are very much a part of the family. Over the years, our pets become our loyal friends, companions, guardians and even confidants. Even though the lifespan of a pet does vary on the species, they are with us long enough to establish bonds that are hard to break.

Those of us who feel a spiritual connection with our pets believe that the day will come when we all reunited at the fabled Rainbow Bridge. Even for people who do not share spiritual bond with their pet, the loss can be no less devastating. As with any death, different people deal with the loss in different ways. Grief comes in many forms from a fond memory to more debilitating emotional responses.

Many of us look for ways to memorialize the loss of our friend in some appropriate way. Picture albums and other memorabilia allow us to go back in time, reminding us of happier times. Owners may keep a collection of favorite toys and other reminders of the pets daily life. This is not unlike the process many of us go through when we lose a beloved human.

A growing trend in pet memorials is to create a long lasting symbol of our late pet. This can take the form of statuary, headstones and others types of monuments to honor our lost companion. The strong connection between pets and humans is undeniable, leading many of us to follow rituals that are quite similar, if not exactly like those followed for deceased humans.

Just like cemeteries for humans, pet cemeteries cater to the bereaved, often with the same compassion and level of service. Pet cemeteries offer a menu of services, from simple burials to cremations. Pet owners can select from caskets, urns and burial services. It is not uncommon that the deceased pet will be buried at home, using a casket purchased for that purpose. Larger pet cemeteries may feature a mausoleum for those people who prefer above ground interment.

Cremation is a common option with some owners choosing to inter the urn at a traditional pet cemetery or take the ashes home. The mobile nature of our modern society can make interment in a cemetery or backyard impractical. Cremation could be an appropriate option for those pet owners since the ashes are portable.

Cremation offers another interesting, though expensive way to memorialize your pet. A popular option among people of means is to have a portion of the ashes turned into a gem quality keepsake. Certified as diamonds, the cost of this process is beyond the means of most folks. The same process is used to turn human remains into unique and valuable keepsakes.

More and more pet owners are choosing to create memory boxes and baskets, designed to hold memorabilia of their pet. The baskets can hold identification tags, toys, and other artifacts of the animals life among humans.

Other popular ways to honor our past pets can include garden stones and other types of enduring memorials. Again, for those people of means, there is no end to the ways that pets can be remembered. Though not one of my first choices, some people will turn to freeze drying their beloved pet. In essence, the process will keep the pet around for many years.

So whether you plan to meet your deceased pets at Rainbow Bridge or just want to memorialize your companion, there are resources available that can help you cope with the loss of a friend and keep their memory alive.


At WordStones we offer a complete line of memorials that will forever express your affection for your beloved pet.

A New Trend: Watergardening

By: Sandra Stammberger

There are many new trends surfacing in gardening, and water gardening is one of the main new interests. Water gardening can be in the form of waterfalls, ponds, fountains, all of which can be enhanced by rock work combinations and lighting, plants, and fish. Water gardening doesn’t have to be a pond or natural water source either, it can consist of just a plastic tub, basically anything that can hold water.

The most important thing to consider in water gardening is probably the spot chosen. Since plants and fish both need plenty of sunlight, places in direct light away from trees and bushes is the best place. This will also help prevent leaves and debris from collecting in the water.

When planning for a water garden first decide the size you want. This will depend on how much money you are willing to spend because water gardening can get expensive if you opt for a large garden full of plants, rocks, fish, and lights. Also consider the size of our property, and the amount of time you want to spend with maintaining your water garden.

When you choose what type of aquatic plants you wish to have, remember that the plants should only cover about half of the water. Plants can be free floating, submerged, or marginal. Which you choose is all a matter of personal preference. Some plants are good for their scent, some provide more oxygen than others and will keep the pool health, and some are just beautiful. Fish are not only nice to look at but they are also very beneficial. Fish help keep debris at a minimum and help in controlling larva and other insects.

One of the main difficulties in water gardening is keeping water clear of algae. Algae problems are usually caused from too many nutrients in the water from feeding fish too often or from over fertilizing plants. If ponds are made correctly and are maintained properly algae problems and control will be kept at a minimum.

All garden pools regardless of size will need maintenance throughout the year. With proper planning you can ensure a healthy balance between living and decorative features of a water garden that can almost care for itself with simple maintenance inputs from you.
You can get rid of algae by reducing on the nutrients that cause the algae by cutting back on feeding and fertilizing, planting more plants, installing a filter system, or replacing existing water with fresh water. There are some chemicals that can be used, like copper compounds, but overuse can kill plant life and fish.

Water gardening doesn’t take anymore time than regular gardening, but obviously isn’t near the same thing. You may be the type person who couldn’t grow a flower if you tried but would be excellent at water gardening. If you are looking for a way to occupy some time or to beautify your yard, water gardening is an excellent way.

Wordstones' garden rocks will compliment your new watergarden. Be sure to check out or river stones.

About the Author:
Sandra Stammberger is the editor of Consumer Control. Don't waste any more time searching for a flat fee ipod music download site! Download millions of iPod movies, games, and music for one flat lifetime fee. http://ipodmusic.consumercontrol.org

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Cheap Wedding Reception Ideas

By: Bradley 23 Abert32

Practical Wedding Favors

Wedding is an occasion that demands favors from others and you also have to shower wedding favors. Wedding favors are given as an appreciation for your guest’s participation to make your event a great eve. Wedding favors are a way of expressing your gratitude towards your guest and this also shows how much you care for their presence on your D-day. Wedding favors are a part of your budget with other wedding expenses. You can buy wedding favors at economical prices. This can be done by buying practical wedding favors that will be appreciated by the guests and will suit your pocket.

Practical Wedding Favors does not indicate cheap products. You can buy products suiting the theme. You should keep the taste of your guests in mind as this will help you come up with fantastic ideas. Your practical wedding favor need not be romantic, but should be memorable and expressive. Searching for practical wedding favors indicates quality products at affordable prices. This can be home made also with little creativity. You can always consider few items that are evergreen items as wedding gifts.

The first practical wedding favor can be considered is a key chain. Mere flip flop key chains with a just married sign are fun and practical. Even key chains with heart shape, rocking horse or angel make appropriate practical wedding favors. The only thing you have to consider is the sturdy quality and design that will jog their memory of your wedding day for years.

Coasters are practical wedding favor that can match your wedding theme. Heart shaped coasters are ideal as they are romantic and are of immense use after the wedding as well. Coasters can be on any beach theme or your wedding picture or even your names on it is a remarkable and memorable wedding favor.

Anything in heart shape is highly appreciated. So even wine charms in heart shape are romantic and a practical thought. If the wine charms are shaped like wedding bells and one wine charm is placed in each wine glass it looks fantastic and unique. Your guests can pursue their glass even if the wedding party goes until night.
Candles are one of the most appreciated and practical wedding favor. You can also select tea light candles, taper candles and candles of various styles. Candles are considered an appropriate choice as it is always useful in the future. You can use when there is some power cut or for a romantic session or even to enhance lighting.
Besides all these you can give key pouches as wedding favor. These pouches are useful for men and women. This wedding favor is always handy and is of practical use. You can print your initials on the pouch and make it a memorable and unforgettable favor.

Giving wedding favor though is seen as a necessity recently, it does not demand heavy investment. You can always give a simple article festooned with creativity. The personal touch of you will enhance the weight of the gift and mark your thought as an excellent presence of mind to be memorable.

Bradley Abert is author of this article on Practical wedding favors. Find more information about Weddingstar favors here.

Our wedding favors will keep your blessed event in the minds of your friends and family for many years to come.

Planning For A Successful Reception

By: Margene Petersen

The key to a well-executed reception is in the planning. Plan in advance, enlist the right help. Employing adequate staffing to execute your plans is vital to a successful, low-stress event. Your catering staff should work almost invisibly at the reception to make sure the evening runs smoothly.

For plated meals, plan on one server for every twenty to twenty-four guests. If you do not have this server-to-guest ratio, the service will be slow and inefficient and guests may feel neglected or impatient. When scheduling a reception center, plan on at least five servers for the reception. For receptions with over four hundred guests, add one additional server per each one hundred additional guests. You should assign either a server or wedding hostess to handle the specific needs of the bridal party, from bringing water to those in the receiving line to managing the details of cutting the cake.

Another element of a well-organized reception is the comfortable flow of space. Organize tables so people can move comfortably between them. Tables with too much distance from each other feel isolated, while tables placed too close together feel cramped. Place the receiving line in a well-chosen spot that doesn't cause a bottle-neck in the entranceway. Guests should be able to enter the reception area, sign the guest book, drop off their gift, move through the wedding line, and be seated for refreshments, all without feeling crowded or being forced to zigzag back and forth.

For wedding breakfasts, luncheons, or dinners, guests should be able to find their assigned seats easily, either by place cards or with the direction of a hostess assigned to this task.

At a formal wedding dinner it is important to have assigned seating because guests will spend a large portion of the reception at their tables. A good hostess should make an effort to determine compatible dinner partners. This can be a challenging task, but it is an important one. Think of the common interests or shared experiences of your guests. For example, you might put all your single friends together, friends from college together, or co-workers from the same company together. Seat guests together whenever a possible connection might be made. Use a pencil for preliminary sketching of the seating arrangements until all RSVPs are in and you have a definite guest list. Have everything ready ahead of time but be prepared for the possibility of last minute changes.

Place cards are an essential part of formal seating arrangements, directing guests to their assigned seats. There are many ways to create place cards that match your wedding theme. A place card can be printed or handwritten on cardstock, which is folded into a small tent and placed at the head of the plate. They can also be combined with favors in a number of creative ways.

At a formal wedding meal, the bride, groom, and their parents often will sit together at a head table. This table can be either at the center or at one end of the room. The bride usually sits on the right side of the groom. The bride's parents are placed next to her, with the groom's parents at his side, alternating men and women. This seating arrangement can be tricky, as divorces and remarriages often come into play. Organize the seating in the best possible way to accommodate the different needs of your guests and yourself. If either you or your fiance have children from a previous marriage, be sure to include them in your wedding breakfasts, luncheons, and dinners, and all your celebrations. After all, they will be some of the people most affected by your marriage.


My Chocolate Favors offers a large selection of unique, elegant and personalized edible favors, gifts and treats. Our website has a wonderful selection of wedding and party favors to reflect your own personality. We specialize in personalized chocolate photo favors ~ your favorite photo printed right on the surface of delicious chocolate.


Our polished or natural river stones make a great reception place card. We have many versions for you to chose from. What, you can't find one that you like? No problem! Shoot us and email and we'll have our expert rock guys get back to you!

Add a Trellis to Your Garden without Overwhelming the Space

By: Kristin Kronstain

People invest a lot of money in the things they love. From cars to shoes to art, there are people who are constantly looking for the next interesting piece to add to their collection. Landscaping has become an art form in itself and people like to invest in its cultivation and continued improvement. There are even professionals who create this type of art: landscape architects. Just like traditional architects design structures that will be built with combinations of materials, landscape architects design gardens that are pieced together using beautiful combinations of style and color.

By gardens, this is not to imply a few carrots planted alongside of a rhododendron. Gardens have come to include porches, patios, gazebos, decks, courtyards, fireplaces, ponds, fountains, bridges, and waterfalls. Beauty is not simply in the flower arrangement, but in entire layout of the space. People want to spend time in their yards relaxing, so enclosed porches and patios are a must. These outdoor structures used to be simply ornamental, a nice place to sit, but now many are equipped with electricity and even heat to enjoy being outside all year round.

These outdoor enhancements can add to the value of your home. Actually, they can add to your home if they are tastefully orchestrated. It can be quite easy, especially if your yard is on the smaller side, to go overboard with garnishes trying to create an outdoor paradise. Like jewelry or garlic, too much can look gaudy or overwhelm people, driving them away. Your landscaping should suit the space and conditions it utilizes. You don’t need to put everything you like into one small corner of the yard. Choose what will add to the style of the space, just as you would your living room.

You don’t need to spend a lot of money or buy many pieces to create a beautiful, welcoming garden. You simply need to choose a tasteful trellis or an artful pergola to give the space definition and appeal. Enhance your project with elegant colors and contemporary designs. You can choose from trellises with benches, multiple panels, or planters. Planters built into your trellis can provide a vivacious accent, giving life and continuity to your yard. If you worry about air circulation in your yard so you avoid putting up a fence or wall, a trellis can be a welcoming change for you. The combination of structure and plants can give you beauty and privacy simultaneously while still allowing for air movement.

You choice of color in your yard can give purpose and consistency to your designs. If you want your backyard to be an extension from a room in your houses, you can choose flowers or patterns that match the designs inside. Your guests will move outside and still feel like they are in your home. You can even match the wood you use outside in a trellis to the wood you have used inside the house for a table or chair.

Though there are landscape architects available to you, you can design your outdoor space yourself. If you are someone who enjoys decorating a room, you can find similar enjoyment outdoors as well without spending a fortune. Just keep in mind that a few pieces can go a long way. You don’t need to overwhelm your yard with large structures to make it look stylish and inviting.

The Cedar Store can assist you in designing the backyard of your dreams. They can help you choose colors and structures that will fit best in your space. If you are interested in coordinating the space yourself, The Cedar Store can provide you with beautiful pieces, such as arbors and trellises, to enhance your design. From garden benches to patio dining sets and everything in between, The Cedar Store has a variety of materials to turn your plain backyard into a stunning outdoor living room.

http://www.stonewords.com/scripts/41-Patio-and-Garden.html">Join the fun with our new line of garden river stones.

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Need Groomsmen Gift Ideas Right Now?

So you are getting hitched huh? Congratulations! No doubt that you are ready for the big day to be over with, meaning no more wedding decisions to dwell on. Well, you do have one important decision to take care of and that is making your mind up on some groomsmen gift ideas. Remember, these guys are your best buds. They have been with you in good times and bad. They deserve a little thank-you for standing by your side at the altar in a stifling monkey suit. Do you have any groomsmen gift ideas? If not, read on!

Groomsmen Gift Ideas Take One - A "one size fits all" kind of gift could be appropriate in the right circumstances. Perhaps your budget for the groomsmen gift ideas are limited and by buying several of the same things will get you a discount. Think of something that would appeal to all of the guys.

Do all of you enjoy fishing, camping or other great outdoor adventures? Some great groomsmen gift ideas about fishing include a special tackle box with a few choice lures in it. How about some customized coolers to keep drinks and food cold on that next trip? More groomsmen gift ideas include an engraved compass for those trips into the woods while camping or personalized folding camp chairs. Your buddies will think of you every time they rest their weary rumps in those chairs!

If your buddies enjoy beer, great groomsmen gift ideas include pilsner glasses or beer mugs. You can have them engraved with the wedding date or a short special message. Other groomsmen gift ideas along the same lines include shot glasses, beer steins, flasks or personalized engraved beer bottle openers.

Groomsmen Gift Ideas Take Two - Consider a gift that is personal, suited to their individual personalities. Is one of your buddies a sports lover? Think about some groomsmen gift ideas like a personalized engraved baseball bat or a special edition football. How about a guy's day out with your buddies at the batting cages? Take a few pictures then present them in a personalized engraved sports picture frame.

Take into account any of your buddies' interests or hobbies. If any of them like to travel, there are a few groomsmen gift ideas to consider. How about a personalized traveling grooming kit? Maybe a traveling bag with engraved identification tags is an option. Are there any game lovers? Some groomsmen gift ideas for the game player include a poker set with a leather carrying case or a special edition of his favorite board game like Monopoly or Risk.

Groomsmen Gift Ideas Take Three - Go with tradition. Consider some groomsmen gift ideas like cuff links or pocket watches that can be worn for the wedding ceremony and other special occasions. These can be personalized with your groomsmen's initials. Maybe engraved key chains, lighters or koozies are better groomsmen gift ideas.

Just remember that your buddies are going to like any of the groomsmen gift ideas that you come up with. After all, you all have shared a lot of life together! By choosing something personal however, would mean the world to them and they would remember your special day for many years to come.

Our selection of unique bridal and wedding party gifts are second to none! .
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Imagination Spurs Landscaping Material's Growth

With all the imaginations and thoughts about what looks best for a person's house, it's not surprising there are so many different types of landscaping materials on the market. From brinks, stones and wood, a person can find the material and colors to meet their needs.

It wasn't long ago that choices were limited to regular red bricks or larger cement blocks with which to design outdoor landscape themes. As time and demands marched on, so did the number and types of materials available. Used railroad ties at one time were the landscaping materials of choice for everything but the smallest of projects. Since they were already soaked with creosote, there was little danger of rotting or being consumed by termites. Bees were also reluctant to build nests in them.

When people starting to build decks and outdoor patios, they didn't want the accompanying odor of used ties and smaller landscape timbers came into popular use. Usually, three inches by five inches the landscaping materials were easily cut to fit whatever design the landscaper wanted. They could also be stacked to add height to a project. They were mostly used for retaining flowerbeds, and for lining driveways and sidewalks.

Stones Popular Due To Durability

People then started looking at alternatives to brick and found stones would be a good alternative for landscaping materials. Hours may have been spent wading through creek beds looking for the perfect stones, and soon companies dealing with landscaping materials found a new market. Stones could be cut, engraved and made to fit just about any need and provided more flexibility than long, straight boards. They also have a longer life as wood started rotting after a few years use.

Other advancements came when block manufacturers found they could make bricks and blocks out of cement and have them look like natural stone. From there the landscaping materials business flourished with unimagined designs of stones moving into the back yard mainstream. With the newer designs of landscaping materials even the average homeowner could have professional-looking landscaping and still perform the project on their own.

Retaining walls, flagstones and sidewalk blocks in squares, circles and rectangle are all available today in a wide assortment of color and design. Even cement lined with color pebbles are some of the landscaping materials available to most home improvement stores for those who like to do it themselves. Whatever your pleasure, you can find landscaping materials to work with.

Bring a smile to your garden with our line of unique garden stones.

Thursday, June 5, 2008

We're Movin' Uptown!

In a few weeks we will be launching a brand new website stocked with more products then ever before.

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Wednesday, May 28, 2008

The History of the Pet Rock

(ed note: I found this article online and thought that I would share it with you. If you are old enough to remember the "Pet Rock" enjoy the nostalgic walk back to a simpler time. If you are a member of the younger generation have a peek into the past and find out what occupided the minds of the pre-iPod Baby Boomer generation.)

In 1975, Gary Dahl, an advertising executive, launched the sale of a fad that would make him a millionaire. This great profit is even more impressive when one takes into account the short time in which the rocks were sold, only six months, and also the low cost of the product, about four dollars. Dahl's ingenious marketing involved commonplace gray pebbles, bought from a construction supplier, which were then sold as live pets. The idea was inspired by the hassle, mess, and money that pets such as cats or dogs or fish required. And so, Dahl began the productio,n and sale of the Pet Rock, which did not need to be walked, wouldn't cost hundreds in vet bills, and would not poop on the floor.

Specifics of Production

Dahl named the company "Rock Bottom Productions," and sold the rocks for $3.95 a piece. The pebbles were imported from Rosarito Beach in Baja California, Mexico, and then packaged in a small cardboard box, designed like a pet carrier. Dahl also created a "Pet Rock Training Manual," containing instructions on how to properly care for one's pet, including how to house train one's pet: "Place it on some old newspapers. The rock will never know what the paper is for and will require no further instruction." The instruction manual included such commands as sit, stay, roll over, play dead, and come.

Why would anyone ever buy a pet rock?

"If there were more fads, there would probably be a lot fewer psychiatrists." -Ben Hakuta, creator of Wacky Wall Walkers

Indeed, pet rocks give us more pleasure than we know. These pets support this argument through their very existence, showing us that it is not an actual item that brings joy to the child in the human mind, but merely the idea of the item. The pet sits in a niche in the mind, created by the power of the owners' imaginations. It is in the actual exercise of the mind that such pleasure is found. It is quite a valid point that finding such productive and effective uses of recreation time can be more preventative and beneficial to the health of our minds that even the most advanced psychological treatments.

People who purchased these unusual "pets" often gave them names, talked to them, petted them, and taught them to perform simple "tricks".

Pet rocks still live on

Like most fads, it never totally died out. There are memorial pages, spin-offs, and one can still purchase such a pet, though new manufacturers have given their rocks new features and looks. For instance, not many plain gray pebbles are sold any more. One can buy rocks that are inscribed, painted, and decorated in many a manner, lending the rock much more personality than afforded Dahl's creation. One can purchase a rock with an agenda, or one can buy a rock that is individually painted in memory of any dearly loved pet, or one can still purchase that rock that is completely void of previous perception, and let its idea grow in the mind.

Our line of polished and unpolished river stones are today's Pet Rock! Personalize your rock and make it special. We have hundreds of styles, shapes, and etchings available for your pleasure.

Stop by today and check out our extensive line of of river stones!

The Secret To Cheap Landscaping

Spring is in the air! Families can be seen leaving their homes and making their way to their yards. And who wants to spend time in a poorly groomed yard? No one! Make sure that this year's yard season is spent in the most beautiful surroundings possible with the help of a landscaping contractor.

There is only one no fail tip to cheap landscaping, and that is to use what you already have. Improvising is a key skill in life that can help you to save money on just about everything, especially landscaping. Very few yards are truly bare; they have natural dips and hollows, trees and maybe even some rocks. These can all be used to make your home beautiful and for a fraction of what it would cost to get a landscaper to come in with all his fancy flowers!

No matter what kinds of trees that you have in your home, they can be used to add splendor to the entire look and feel of your home. If they are small fluffy looking trees then use them as others use flowers. Their color can be a great selling point for your yard. If they are tall and majestic, that too can work for you. Trees are the most natural beauty in the world. By simply planting some flowers around them you can bring them to life! Another great idea is to build a simple bench under them. This bench is going to make it look like your home is a glorious park. What a great place to sit and read your favorite book!

Rocks, they are something that many people complain about but if used the right way they are great for the looks of your yard. Did you know that there are people who go out of their way to spend big bucks on rocks for their hardscape? It is true, and they are paying for the same kinds of rocks that you already have in your yard! Use what you have and you are looking at real cheap landscaping costs.

The best way to plant a rock so that it looks natural is to dig a couple of inches down. I know that sounds funny the looking natural part. I mean, if they are already in your yard, they are natural right? Wrong, they may be natural but that does not mean they look it. Good landscapes have rocks that are planted into the ground a bit. This way they do not look like they are sitting uncomfortably on the soil, they look like they are snuggled right in there. It makes a huge difference on the overall effect they are going to give.

Our engraved stones make for a beautiful addition to any backyard garden. Give a look

Who Else Wants To Learn How Landscaping With Rocks Can Make Your Garden Look Wonderful!

More people are becoming interested in the ways that the use of landscaping and rocks can improve open spaces. Landscape gardening is a catch all term that can be applied just as well to your back yard as it can to extensive parks and estates.

If you plan to start landscape gardening, then there are a few basics that you should be aware of first. Location is all important and swampy land should be avoided if possible. The best ground for landscaping is rising land that has good drainage which sloughs off the surface water. Landscaped gardens do better where there is a breeze circulating the site, there should also be exposure to plenty of sunlight.

If you do plan on getting involved with landscaping and rocks, then once you`ve established what type of land you have, you need to assess its size and shape. It`s no good coming up with some great landscaping ideas and then finding they`re too ambitious for the size of the land you are working on. Use rocks wherever the land is not good for plants and shrubs. There are plants that survive in rock gardens but they must be in a sunny space.

If the rocky part of your garden is on a slope and shady then there are numbers of woodland perennials and ferns that would be great. You can be quite clever in using landscaping and rocks because if you put your rocks on a slope then you won`t have to mow it.

Landscaping and rocks is a lot more successful when you take care over choosing your rocks and stones, as well as your plants. The stone that is native to your area may look the best because that is its natural habitat it will also be inexpensive and easy to obtain. Look for rocks and stones in different shapes and sizes, use a combination of shiny, matte, and pitted surfaces.

Start with the larger rocks in a variety of shapes, look for some that have natural dips or depressions in them, as you will be able to fill them with soil and plant moss or sedum (a ground cover plant with pink or yellow flowers). Whenever you go to get new stone and rocks, take a photograph of what`s already been done, that way you will know the type of rock or stone that will fit in your landscape and what won`t.

When you landscape a garden, you must let the natural conditions of the land guide you. It is no use putting sun loving plants in a shady spot and your rocks and fern in the sunshine. Take care when arranging your stones. If you have stones that are covered in moss then make sure that they are all facing the same way. Whatever characteristics your stones may have make sure that they are all together and facing the same direction. This gives your garden the look of the surrounding landscape it looks as though it belongs there, rather than it looking like a piece of ground where someone has dumped a load of rocks and stones.

If your garden is on a slope, fill in behind each rock as you work your way up the slope. Make sure that the pockets of soil are deeper round the larger stones. Then you can put small shrubs in between. After all the rocks are in place, then let them settle for a few days. Then stand back and take a look around just to make sure that you are happy with the layout before adding any plants. Above all, have fun with landscaping and rocks.


If you love landscaping as much as we do you have to check out our latest arrivals of river stones for your garden.

Look to the Ocean for Landscaping Rocks

There are many reasons why homeowners might want to incorporate landscaping rocks into their home. Some choose pebble-sized rocks to augment paths or gardens. Others choose larger rocks and use them as the centerpieces for certain areas of their yards. Regardless of their choice, homeowners who have access to an ocean should make use of it, as it provides lovely landscaping rocks.

Bringing a Bit of Nature Home

The best yard is the yard that makes use of natural elements in its design. While there are endless uses for landscaping rocks, the thing that matters the most is how those landscaping rocks complement the yard, and that is why rocks from the ocean are a wonderful choice.

When one thinks of ocean rocks, it is typical to think of the jagged rocks that result in sore feet while walking along the shoreline. However, while these jagged rocks can make for great landscaping rocks for a more modern style, it is the rocks often found beneath the sand that make for the real landscaping rock treasures.

The most beautiful ocean rocks are generally found just off the shoreline and beneath the sand because they have been smoothed by the tides. These rocks are thus often surprisingly ovular and come in many different sizes for any yard design one might wish to accomplish. In fact, their versatility as a landscape decoration can often be seen in the yards of homes that are near the ocean.

Beach rocks are often preferable to other types of landscaping rocks, because one disadvantage to the smaller types of landscaping rocks is that they tend to travel. Beach rocks meanwhile are preferable because of their unique shapes, which thus require only several of them for decoration at any one time.

Popular uses for these rocks are usually in the form of liners for front walkways, under trees, or as decoration for gardens. While these rocks come in natural white, beige, and blue colors, sometimes people choose to paint the rocks as added decoration.

It is important to note that while it is generally alright to take several rocks from a public beach, there are some beaches that do not allow people to take rocks from it, so it is important to obey the environmental rules above anything else. However, for those that live near a beach that has no strict rules, then take advantage of these wonderful natural landscaping rocks.


Spruce up your garden with our custom made landscaping rocks.

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

50th Wedding Anniversary Gifts

By: Jen Carter


The 50th wedding anniversary has been labeled the
"golden year" for a reason. Traditionally, the gift given to a
couple who have been married for fifty years, is gold. There's a
lot of history behind a couple that has been married for fifty
years. A ton of laughter, tears, and memories. Couples that have
been married this long deserve the best. Every spouse should see
that their significant other receives the best too.

As a tradition, gold is the ultimate choice for this
anniversary. But what should you purchase? A ring, earrings, a
pendant, bracelet? It can be a very difficult choice.
Nevertheless, a very popular choice is a ring. If your spouse
doesn't have a "mother's ring," a 50th anniversary provides an
excellent time to receive one. The birthstones of all the
children will be set into the ring. She'll absolutely cherish it.

Anniversary rings make an excellent gift to give or exchange
with your loved one. You can purchase a single ring, or a
ring-set to commemorate your vows to one another. The circle,
which is an infinite symbol, is a spectacular way to confirm
"forever." There are many different styles of anniversary rings
to choose from. Some are plain gold, others are fancy with
stones set into the ring. Shop around a bit before you commit to
a specific ring style.

The contemporary craze seems to be white-gold. Men and women
alike have been seen sporting white-gold wedding bands for the
last ten years. Sometimes the rings employ traditional yellow
gold in their design as well. The combination can be very
exquisite. Especially if it's simple and subtle. If the ring
looks tie-dye it's completely over done. A ring should be
detailed yet elegant. Consider that when shopping.

They say that diamonds are a girl's best friend. While it may be
true that women love diamonds, there are a lot of gorgeous
stones out there to choose from. Sapphire rings are very
elegant, as are Emerald and Ruby. Onyx, as bold and dramatic as
it is, just doesn't seem appropriate for an anniversary ring. An
additional choice which is light and subtle is an Amethyst
stone. Amethyst looks great with a combination of white-gold and
small diamonds.

Before choosing a stone for your spouse's ring, look through
their personal jewelry when they're not around. What type of
stones do they like? What type of gold? Most importantly, what's
their ring size? Once you've compiled these answers, shopping
should be a breeze.

But if rings aren't your fortified cup of tea, you may opt for
another form of jewelry. What about a personalized charm? Did
you know that they can actually take a picture and scan the
image into the gold? Because the image is actually etched into
the gold, you won't have to worry about the image fading, like
you might with a locket. The image can be current, or it can be
an older image. Many couples decide to go for a "remember when"
type of image. The photograph displays them at a much younger
stage. Although the idea is very modern, it has a beautiful
presentation.

About the author:
Jen Carter is owner of My Wedding Blog, free wedding planner.

Our etched river stones make great bridal party gifts as well as personalized place cards for the reception. The riverstones can be engraved with your guest's name on one side and the happy couple's name and date of the wedding on the reverse side; making it a unique keepsake for many. many years to come.

Landscaping Ideas For California Modern Homes

By: Jason Sisilli

Joseph Eichler has made history, re-defining the American dream
home and pioneering the California modern design. Today, there
are countless ideas and approaches to landscaping, and the warm
California climate provides limitless possibilities for your
California modern home. But, to compliment the distinct
architecture of Eichler and other modern homes, there are some
landscaping guidelines that, if followed, will bring a beautiful
balance of nostalgia and modernism to your dwelling's outside
area.

Mid-century modern architecture owes an obvious debt to Asian
design principles. This influence is observed in the rectilinear
geometries, open floor plans, multi functional rooms, and the
all-important direct connections between the interior of the
house and the adjacent garden. By following these three key
principles of an authentic Japanese garden, we can begin to
create an outside space that perfectly suits the mid century
modern design: simplicity in material selection and detailing,
appropriate plant choices, and design restraint.

Some examples of landscaping ideas that follow the above
principles:

- Allow the geometry of the home to guide the overall plan.
Resist the temptation to add elements that will distract or
cover the key architectural design elements of your home.

- Consider a mix of materials that provide an interesting
textural contrast inherent in the indoor-outdoor element of
Eichler design- think rock, stone, pavement, metal, mixed in
with lush grass grasses, moss, plants and trees.

- Play with simple, but striking geometric patterns and
contrast- think rectangular paving stones next to linear stalks
of bamboo.

- Balance the interplay between all elements. Repetition of
patterns is often signature. For this effect, first narrow the
scope of elements you wish to work with. You can then use these
well chosen elements in distinct ways. Good artists can create
masterpieces, using only a few colors.

- Select water-wise plants that maintain their foliage
year-round.

- Consider a water feature, like a fountain.

The following is a list of possible plants, shrubs and trees to
consider using as accents and ground cover.

Accent Plants, Trees and Shrubs:

- Horsetail reed, Cape Rush, Papyrus and Feathergrasses

- Sedge, New Zealand Flax, Cordyline, Fountain Grass and Blue
Oat Grass

- Bamboo, Japanese Maples, Weeping Atlas Cedar, Smoke Trees,
Weeping Cherry, Purple Hop Bush

Ground cover: Grasses, Moss and Stones:

- Irish Moss, Baby's Tears, Dead Nettle, Black Mondo Grass

- Mexican Pebbles, River Rock, Pea Gravel, Decomposed Granite

About the author:

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Stop by today and check out our extensive line of garden river stones!

Garden Stones Personalized

For thousands of years, humans have etched messages into stone. Whether it's symbols or artwork depicting history, or the modern equivalent of graffiti, stone art remains a popular form of expression today. One favorite use of natural stones is to mark and decorate gardens. At wordestones.com, you can decorate your garden with your name, your family name, names of flowers or plants, or any other word or symbol you'd like. Choose from our standard phrases or we'll engrave your own personal idea into a stone.

Because stones will stand the test of time, so will any message you engrave into them. For example, a bride and groom might use stones as wedding favors with the date of their wedding on them. Or, you could use it to propose to somebody or as a birthday gift during a milestone birthday year.

They make meaningful gifts and are a unique way to communicate messages. For instance, some churches like to hand out pocket-sized stones to their congregations. The stones are engraved with inspirational words like "love," "truth," and "wisdom." People can carry them around as a reminder whenever they need inspiration.

If you have a special request or a customized image you would like engraved onto a stone, please contact us. We will gladly give you a price quote for your specialized custom order. Celebrate your special occasion or give your customers a memento for visiting your city, state, casino, or hotel.

Welcome Spring with our personalized garden stone.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Rose Quartz Bracelets

Rose quartz is a form of quartz that is known for its pink color and comes in varying shades. It is widely available commercially, and is popular in jewelry such as bracelets. Those who believe in the powers associated with different types of stones believe rose quartz can attract love. That also includes self-love, so wearing such a bracelet can enhance self esteem. Rose quartz is associated with the heart chakra, and its cool, calming energy is used to release negativity.

Rose quartz bracelets from wordestones.com are some of the most affordable bracelets you will find anywhere. They are highly polished and come in sets with matching necklaces. Our bracelets are usually made of hematite, with coordinating stones such as rose quartz to accent them.

The combination of magnetic hematite and rose quartz just might attract love to your life. If not, it will at least work to bring magnetic healing to the areas where you wear the jewelry. There is a shade of pink for every complexion, so rose quartz bracelets naturally look good on everyone. If you're looking for an anniversary gift, rose quartz is appropriate for the second anniversary. Or buy a rose quartz bracelet for yourself because it is as beautiful as you are.

Our bracelets are suitable gifts for many occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, and winter holidays. You will also find a large selection of pocket stones, decorative stones, and garden markers that can be engraved with your own message or symbol. Browse our online catalog to see what we have to offer. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us by phone or email.

Click here to browse our collection of fine jewelry.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Company And Corporate Logo Engraving


At wordestones.com, company and corporate logo engraving on natural stones is a large part of our business. Why go to the ASI when you can have truly unique advertising products made right here, for a wholesale price? We offer the most customization--both sides of the stones--at the cheapest price in the nation. As well, you can buy large lots of engraved stones for a wholesale price, or buy one single stone. The choice is yours!

Many of our business clients like to engrave their corporate logos on natural stones. While we have several approximate sizes to choose from, many business executives choose our polished earth-tone, desert-colored stones. These measure approximately 2 to 3 inches wide. Put your company's name, slogan, or event message on them and give all of your clients, event attendees, and employees a gift to remind them of your business.

Another way to use these stones in business is to choose our larger size as a corporate gift for garden or home decor. Garden stones or large river stones are natural-colored and unpolished. We choose stones that are flat and can easily be picked up. They vary in size from 5 to 7 inches, 8 to 10 inches, and 12 to 14 inches wide. Use them as corporate gifts, adding your logo or design to your engraved word choice for an extra fee.

Large stones are also popular for personal use. Many of our customers use them as pet memorials, engraving the name of a deceased beloved pet. Others use them as personalized garden stones, such as "Jill's Garden," or as family name markers. You could also place your house number and street on a stone and put it near your driveway. You are only limited by your imagination, so place your order today.

Click here to browse our collection of company and corporate logo engraving.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Semi-Precious Earrings

Gemstones have been used to embellish the human body for thousands of years. Semi precious stones are popular in jewelry for exactly that reason. They offer the allure of many different colors and can be carved into just about any shape you can think of. Bracelets, necklaces, and earrings are all enhanced by the addition of semi precious stones.

At wordestones.com, we, too, are awed by the beauty and magnificence of natural stones. Our stones are the centerpieces of our jewelry, and we have hundreds of different styles to choose from. We are well aware that the abundance of colors, types, and shapes of natural stones makes them the perfect artistic medium for jewelry creations. That is why we offer so many styles. Everybody has their own unique style and your jewelry choices should reflect that.

Whether your preference is for semi precious earrings, bracelets, or necklaces and pendants, you'll find what you are looking for here at stonewords.com. If you are interested in placing a wholesale order, please contact us for custom pricing. Our jewelry is popular with souvenir shops, gift stores, wedding planners, casinos and hotels, as well as the individuals who shop at such establishments.

In addition to our earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, we also offer engraved river stones and garden stones. Personalize a message and decorate your home, office, or garden with our engraved stones. They are a favorite gift to give and receive and are equally suitable for personal or corporate use.

As always...your satisfaction is guaranteed.

Friday, March 28, 2008

StoneWords Wholesale Engraved Stones

Do you have a retail, mail order, or Internet business and want to carry our line of top quality stones? Look no further!

Engraved stones are the perfect addition to your souvenir shop, gift store, fair or festival booth, museum, camp store, office supply, or Christian book store. These beautiful, hand-crafted gifts are bestsellers in all retail environments across the nation.

Here are some of the benefits of doing business with stonewords.com:

Each stone from nature.
Each rock 100% unique.
All stones are lovingly hand-engraved.
Wholesale prices as low as $2.25 per piece. Low Minimums!
Suggested retail price for stones $5.00 and up.

Why don't you check us out right now?

Thursday, March 27, 2008

Polished Earthtone Desert Colored Stones

Engraved natural, polished river stones in desert, earthtone colors show your appreciation or love for the special people in your life. Carefully etched in stone by artisans with expressions of gratitude, love and inspiration, our personalized stones are perfect for any holiday or event such as: Mother's Day, Father's Day, Valentine's Day, promotional events, school award ceremonies, Boy Scout, corporate meetings, baby & bridal gifts, party & wedding favors.

Choose from our own stock items which can be shipped same or next day or customized with your personal word, logo, phrase or name.

Natural Colored Stones


Colored natural stones enhance the natural look in home decor, are used for hand painting special messages,and look great in fishtanks or potted plants.

Assorted colors of Gray, White, Black, Rust, Yellow and Brown. 2" - 3" wide. 50 pieces per bag.

We have a complete line of Natural Colored Stones

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Get Out the GPS - ROADTRIP

If you find yourself in northwestern New Jersey please give us a call. Gemstones Jewelry is located at 22 Wantage Avenue in beautiful downtown Branchville.

Call (973) 948-0085 for an appoinment and directions.


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Diamond Crystal Paperweights


Dazzling Diamond Crystal Paperweights reflect a full spectrum of colors through multi-faceted prisms.

Diamond Crystal Paperweights are perfect favors for bridal showers, weddings, baby showers, parties, holidays and place settings.

Use Diamond Crystal Paperweights anywhere you want light and joy.

Monday, March 24, 2008

Semi Precious Stone Design Jewelry


You know WordeStones.com as the premier dealer of polished river stones. Did you know that we also carry a large selection of natural stone jewelry?

At WordeStones we offer a complete line of beautiful gifts and souvenirs made of semi-precious stones.

Experience our collection of animal shaped jewelry.

offer over 20 necklaces in animal shapes like dogs, chicken,and monkeys. They are carved from semi-precious stones and come on adjustable cords. We use popular gemstones in all of our jewelry, so you'll find that our selection is quite colorful and unique.

Some of the minerals that we custom cut and polish include:


  • Jade

  • Jasper

  • Pyrite

  • Zircon

  • Agate

  • Quartz

  • Citrine

  • Amethyst

These naturally occurring minerals are mined, cut and polished, then sent to you for you to enjoy as jewelry. Organic materials that are used as gems include Coral, Mother of Pearl, Bone, Ivory, Pearl, and Tortoiseshell.

We also carry a complete line of pendants or key chains made of Serpentine Jade, a unique and hauntingly beautiful gem, carved into unique shapes and sizes.

All come with a hole pre-drilled so you can slip them onto your favorite chain for use as necklaces or key chains.

Click here to browse our collection of stone jewelry.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

Magnetic Hematite Necklaces




Across the globe, millions of people wear magnets to manage pain such as backaches, joint pains, headaches, and menstrual pain. They are also used in sports for repetitive strain injuries. Some people believe that magnets influence general health and wellness, relieving stress and everyday fatigue.

As an alternative therapy, people swear by magnets as a cure for a variety of afflictions. There are many reasons to try this unique approach to maintaining health and general well-being.

One reason why magnetic jewelry is so effective is because it is worn next to the skin. The closer a magnet is to the affected area, the better it works. In addition, jewelry is often worn near pulse and pressure points, such as those around the wrist, making it even more effective than other methods of magnet therapy.

Wearing magnetic hematite necklaces or bracelets is not addictive and does not have side effects, unlike many prescription drugs. On top of that, the jewelry looks beautiful! You can adorn yourself with these unique fashion statements and allow your body to heal itself all at the same time.

Hematite is a naturally occurring mineral that is also magnetic. Our necklaces come in varying lengths, and use hematite alone or mix it with other gemstones. We sell magnetic or non-magnetic stone chip necklaces that are 36" wide, and magnetic or non-magnetic 8mm round bead necklaces 20" or 30" wide. You'll also find matching bracelets and earrings on our site to complete your outfit.

Come preview our line of Hematite necklaces and bracelets.
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Honor Your Pets Memory


Pet Memorials Markers Names -- Have you lost a beloved pet recently and chosen to bury him or her? Remember your family pet in a special way. Have their names engraved along with the years of their lives.

We have simple pet memorial stones in stock, or we can custom engrave a stone for you.

Whether your pet is buried at home or in a pet cemetery, you can mark their graves with a memorial stone from WordStones

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

The Story of Engraved Stones


Stones are an ancient and immortal presence. Encased within them, we have found fossils from the very beginning of life on Earth. With stones, we have built monuments that have lasted hundreds of generations--monuments that will be here long after we are gone.


Humans have found a way to make their mark on stones for thousands of years. The earliest humans used to chip at stone to make sharp points for hunting. For centuries, the time-and-labor intensive hammer-and-chisel process reigned. But with modern technology, we have begun to carve stones more beautifully and more deftly than before.

Our stones are hand-engraved in a careful, delicate process. Stone engraving is a craft that has been developed over centuries, the secrets being passed on from father to son and from master to apprentice.

We treat all of our stones with care and respect, for we see them as ancient and everlasting tokens of love and friendship. These stones are not temporary knickknacks that will break or wear away, they are keepsakes that can be passed down and cherished for generations.

The process of engraving stones is a blend of artistry, craftsmanship, imagination, and technology. Through the process, we feel we add to the natural magic of the ancient mineral.

First, we select only the strongest, most beautifully colored and nicely shaped stones to be engraved. Our engravers are skilled artists, technicians, and stone experts. Their trained eyes match the right stone with just the right engraved image to create an end result that is fun and meaningful.

When it comes to engraving a stone, the image or words are just as important as the stone itself. We are always brainstorming, creating memorable designs and coming up with clever and heartfelt words that will capture and express just the sentiment or memory you are seeking.

All of our products must be hand-prepared for engraving. We wash them carefully to make sure they are smooth and without any imperfections. All of the larger stones are hand engraved. We apply a rubber stencil over the stone, carefully beating at it with a rubber mallet to remove air bubbles from beneath the stencil. Next, we gently remove the rubber in the parts we want to engrave in a process we call “weeding”. The stone is ready to be sandblasted.

Sandblasting was patented in 1870, and since then, it has become the most popular way to engrave stones. In the process, a machine uses air pressure or water pressure mixed with abrasives to shoot sand out of a nozzle at such amazingly high speed that it will wear away at the stone quickly and cleanly.

An expert engraver holds the stone within a sandblasting cabinet and uses the sandblasting hose to carefully aim at the parts of the stone that are exposed. The nozzle is like their paintbrush, and the stone, their easel. The engraver blasts the stone until it is engraved at the correct depth and is suitably carved. Then the carved picture in the stone is spray-painted to bring out the image more vividly.

Next, the carver gently removes the rubber covering the stone. The stone is carefully hand washed to remove all of the rubber adhesive. The engraved stone is then cleaned and ready to be enjoyed for years to come.

Some of our smaller stones are engraved in a machine process that ensures their quality, since their designs are smaller and more difficult to achieve. In this process, 12 to 18 stones are covered with a rubber stencil held by a metal frame and sent through a sandblasting machine.

These stones are also given the careful hand washing and polishing that all of our stones receive.

Whether hand-prepared and hand-carved or hand-prepared and machine-carved, each of our stones is a work of art that will last forever. Any message carved in stone, is a message that will last for eternity.

Tell your loved ones you will love them forever.