Anyone that enjoys science fiction will have a lot of fun watching this modern day Doctor Who series DVD. Over 15 years have passed since Doctor Who fans saw the venerable science fiction series go off the air. Fans from all over the world, however, received a 21st-century revamped show with up to date editing and CGI animation. How well was it received? The Doctor Who first series DVD got a thumbs up from loyal fans as well as from people that have just seen the show for the first time.

Christopher Eccleston stars as the new Doctor. The British pop star Billie Piper plays Rose, his new traveling companion. Each time Dr. Who “regenerates”, he is inevitably played by a younger actor. This is also the case with Eccleston, but that hasn’t prevented him from bringing back the wonderful, unique sense of humor that fans enjoyed from one of the most popular previous Doctors, Tom Baker. In the 20th century, it was Tom Baker’s wit and charm that had been accredited for bridging the traditional gap between British and American audiences. Christopher Eccleston expresses an appealing, updated charm and clever wit, along with plenty of suspense for his audience.

During the first show, the Doctor meets his new sidekick in a department store in downtown London. It turns out the Doctor is pursuing an alien invader that is made of plastic. The alien plots to bring store mannequins to life and all plastic objects in order to take control of Earth. After being accidentally locked in her work place, Rose encounters several mannequins walking that end up trying to kill her. How can a mannequin, even a walking one, hurt a human being? The answer is a surprise waiting inside the show for anyone that views it.

Beyond the excellent CGI animation, this 21st century Doctor Who introduces a companion that has a boyfriend and a family life. This lets the audience have a chance to become involved with the sidekick character as well as seeing how the Doctor reacts to human relations as well as confronting and fighting off alien master minds from all around the universe and in time.

Once the Doctor and Rose foil the plans of the living plastic alien, they are on to the far distant future to see the last pure human being and the end of Earth. Fans will also see Rose and the Doctor travel back in history to meet Charles Dickens in Victorian England.

This series has the Doctor showing a side of his character that was not exposed during the milder and more gentile nature of the previous series. However, this time lord continues to live up his reputation of becoming the hero, and finding new friends and alliances with many kinds of beings.

Doctor Who is unusual from many science fiction stories of today, because while it does present more scientific possibilities, it also lets its audience see human nature at its best and worst, without profanity and blood filled violence. Families can watch this series, resting assured that all members will have a positive, fun experience.

Tom Straub is a successful author, and webmaster of the DVD Reviews web site, where you can see more of your favorite DVD releases.

FORWARD

The 188 stage Hero’s Journey (Monomyth) is the template upon which the vast majority of successful stories and Hollywood blockbusters are based upon. In fact, ALL of the hundreds of Hollywood movies we have deconstructed (see URL below) are based on this 188+ stage template.

Understanding this template is a priority for story or screenwriters. This is the template you must master if you are to succeed in the craft.

[The terminology is most often metaphoric and applies to all successful stories and screenplays, from The Godfather (1972) to Brokeback Mountain (2006) to Annie Hall (1977) to Lord of the Rings (2003) to Drugstore Cowboy (1989) to Thelma and Louise (1991) to Apocaplyse Now (1979)].

THERE IS ONLY ONE STORY

THE 188 STAGE HERO’S JOURNEY:

a) Attempts to tap into unconscious expectations the audience has regarding what a story is and how it should be told.

b) Gives the writer more structural elements than simply three or four acts, plot points, mid point and so on.

c) Gives you a tangible process for building and releasing dissonance (establishing and achieving catharses, of which there are usually four).

d) Tells you what to write. For example, at a certain stage of the story, the focus should be on the Call to Adventure and the micro elements within.

ABRIDGED TIPS, EXCERPTS AND EXAMPLES (188+ stages of the Hero’s Journey (Monomyth) you need to know about…):

(simply go to www.clickok.co.uk for full details)

*****Demonstrating the Magical Gift*****

One often missed stage of the Hero’s Journey is the demonstration of the Magical Gift. In the Bond franchise, Q also demonstrates the gadgets. In Star Wars (1977), Ben fires up Luke’s light sabre. In Bonnie and Clyde (1967), Bonnie dares Clyde to use the gun.

***Book of Law***

An Authority Figure will guard the entrance to the Great Cave of the First Threshold and dictate the rules of this New Domain. In Spartacus (1960), this is where Lentulus tells the slaves that they are to become gladiators and that, if they do well, may become free men.

*****First Trial Inner Cave - Inner Challenge*****

A number of things happen in the Inner Cave of the First Trial. One element is the expression of the Inner Challenge. In Bonnie and Clyde (1967), Bonnie complains about Clyde’s lovemaking.

*****Inner Challenge / Inner Cave*****

It is in the Inner Cave of the First Threshold that the Inner Challenges is most often made explicit. In Bonnie and Clyde (1967), Clyde pretends to snore in bed; Bonnie wants sex.

*****Push to the Inner Cave*****

Pushes and Pulls are underestimated, even symbolically. In Brokeback Mountain (2005), Jack doesn’t mind switching, “…We both ought to be in this camp….”

Learn more…

WRITE THAT SCREENPLAY!

The Complete 188 stage Hero’s Journey and other story structure templates can be found at http://www.clickok.co.uk/

The Managing Creativity and Innovation MBA dissertation, DIY creativity Audit, Powerpoint presentation and Good Idea generator software can be found at http://www.managing-creativity.com/

You can also receive a regular, free newsletter by entering your email address at this site.

Kal Bishop, MBA

You are free to reproduce this article as long as no changes are made, the author’s name is retained and the link to our site URL remains active.

Having a GPS Navigation System is one of the many ways that as you drive your car, you can see the computer telling you exactly where you are and also where you are going. Not only that, the GPS Navigation System can give you much added information.

You could be wondering where the next gas station is or where can I eat. It will give you many gas stations or tell you what places there are to eat. It will even tell you the ethnic foods and approximately the dollars that each will cost. As you travel along the GPS Navigation System will tell you the exact mileage to each place.

Often times if you are traveling a great distance, you can see where to lodge. You will be given a choice of places to sleep (and from your wallet size) you can find a place that you can afford.

One thing is while you are traveling along the highway on a trip you can find out what are some of the attractions which you may have overlooked. There is always a chance that you might not go that way again and these may be beneficial to you or your family. Some of these attractions will give your mind a new point of view and your weary body a chance to get out and stretch.

Some GPS Navigation Systems give you the shortest way or the most convenient way to go to your destination. Especially when you are going through big cities, the shortest way is not the best if it is during rush hour times at morning or night. But, also, you can take the direct route through town if it is not rush hour and save yourself half and hour or more. Some even give you by-passes if there is a traffic problem ahead and they know about it.

You should not be sorry for buying a GPS Navigation System

The Egyptians created a unique and captivating style of jewelry. In these modern times, it can be difficult to find quality pieces. So, where to purchase Egyptian jewelry of quality is something you have to consider.

Ancient Egyptian culture has fascinated the Western world for many thousands of years. The time of the pharaohs has left a large mark on today’s society, with many people choosing to associate themselves with and wear symbols of ancient Egypt and its gods. Although Egyptian style jewelry is sought after, the question of where to purchase Egyptian jewelry is not always easy to answer.

Of course, one of the best answers as to where to purchase Egyptian jewelry is Egypt itself. This land of deserts and pyramids, located in the Middle East, is a popular tourist destination for travelers from all over the world. Many people travel here to see the ancient burial places of the pharaohs, in spots like the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings. Others come to see the magnificent Nile River and monuments like the Sphinx. While you visit Egypt, you can easily find jewelry that is made to be similar to that of the ancient Egyptians. Places like Cairo, as well as the areas around the pyramids, are home to many people selling souvenirs of Egypt, including jewelry.

If you can’t make it to Egypt, then where to purchase Egyptian jewelry? Many Internet sites offer Egyptian jewelry, or Egyptian inspired jewelry. Some sites allow you to send in your own name, which will then be translated into hieroglyphics and inscribed onto gold or silver necklaces and bracelets. Other online stores sell copies of jewelry that was found with ancient kings and queens, rings and necklaces that are like those worn by Ramses and Nefertiti. Still other sites sell jewelry with important Egyptian images, like the ankh and the eye of Ra.

For those who prefer to shop for their Egyptian jewelry in person (but can’t make it across the ocean), there is another great source of Egyptian wares: museum shops. One place in particular that is devoted to Egyptian artifacts is the Metropolitan Museum of Art, in New York City. This museum houses many different works from different Egyptian periods - from sarcophagi to sculpture. The museum shop here is home to items inspired by the different exhibits, including Egyptian jewelry.

The question of where to purchase Egyptian jewelry can be answered any number of ways, and there are types of jewelry available to suit any taste or budget. This type of jewelry can help many people feel one step closer to the experience of ancient Egypt.

Find jewelry stores near you.

Purchasing a diamond engagement ring is a tricky affair because you want to maximize the ring, but maintain a budget. Here is one way to go about getting the best diamond engagement ring you can afford.

It’s time to do some diamond shopping. You have decided to pop the question to your girlfriend (or maybe you already have) and there is only one thing missing: the ring. While this is definitely a joyous occasion, purchasing diamond engagement ring can also be a stressful time. With a few advance tips and some practical knowledge, you can make sure that your ring purchasing experience goes smoothly.

As of last year, the average amount spent on a diamond engagement ring was $3,500 to $4,000 in the United States. Many people still fall back on the guidelines that an engagement ring should cost in the neighborhood of twice the man’s monthly salary, although this is not such a hard and fast rule anymore. While many people choose to spend as much money as they possibly can on their ring, remember that purchasing diamond engagement ring should not send you into debt or cause too much stress. It is far better to buy a less expensive ring than it is to end up regretting your purchase later on.

When you buy your engagement ring, it is a good idea to have the style in mind before entering the jeweler’s shop. If you are picking out the ring as a surprise for your girlfriend, try to figure out the style of ring she likes to wear before purchasing a diamond. Some women prefer the simple look of a diamond solitaire, while others would prefer a more ornate ring. To avoid any problems, it is best to at least subtly discuss ring styles beforehand. Also, don’t worry about getting the ring size wrong - jewelers can easily resize an engagement ring.

Another thing to consider purchasing diamond engagement ring is that you are not being scammed or overcharged. Be sure to ask about the four “C’s”, and have your jeweler show you an appraisal from a reputable gemological firm. Make sure that the jeweler writes down all the important information about the ring for you, such as the carat weight, cut, clarity and color, as well as the ring style. That way, there is less of a chance that your ring can be switched for a less expensive one down the road.

Finally, remember that purchasing diamond engagement ring is supposed to be a happy occasion, so don’t let it stress you too much. If you are completely unsure about which ring to buy or what style is right for your girlfriend, think about popping the question and then bringing her along with to pick out her own ring. That way, you can be sure that she will be happy.

Find jewelry stores near you at JewelryStoresforyou.com.

It has been said that we are a product of the five people that we hang out with the most. Who are these heroes? Taken one step further, this means that we each are a product of those influences that have the greatest and most consistent access to us.

In our current world, those influencers that sell us include people both living and dead, music, TV, movies, internet, books, magazines, school, parents, talk-radio, the news and every other form of media communications. We now live in the new media marketplace where the rules have changed. Regarding the above statement, I believe the word product was chosen carefully instead of the word sum because all of these influencers tend to converge in constantly changing, unlimited permutations. The manner in which we are impacted is far greater than a simple summary of each influencer.

Today, the relevance and potential impact of these influencers is far greater than at any other time in history. The internet is the key. The world is at our doorstep and every segment of it is vying for our attention. A wide body of information, until just recently, was relatively inaccessible. Now, this same information is at our fingertips. The experiences and opinions of other people, even in distant lands, are instantly available. Research material, white papers, statistics, facts and figures and general information relating to even the smallest detail are all available from web sites, blogs, RSS feeds and other media outlets. Audio and video have been transformed as people are now moving from the fixed location of their living rooms to anywhere their mobility affords, enjoying content of all types via the web on a wide range of devices. Today, it is easy to be influenced by virtually limitless sources, all competing for our attention.

Accordingly, our self-talk and subconscious minds are constantly being bombarded by influencers, competing for that steering wheel directing our path. That fact is not necessarily negative. Combined with purposefully-chosen, written goals, these influencers offer a tremendous aid in realizing rapid achievement of our goals, consistently providing course corrections on our chosen direction and destination. In the absence of clear, well-defined and written goals however, these same influencers can combine to create a state of chaos. It may even become dangerous. If we do not choose our path, someone or something else certainly will. We must learn the value of self-determination.

Who are we? What makes us? What drives us? Our values and beliefs shape us at our very core. As a result, we will act in accordance with our internal compass. To do otherwise, to violate our conscience, will certainly cause great stress and distress in our life. These same values and beliefs will help us to focus on those influencers that will direct and guide us on our life journey, while rejecting those influencers that are contrary or hostile to us. We also have the gift of choice which affords us the ability to say no to certain influencers that we know are not congruent with our values. Fortunately, much of this decision -making occurs at a subconscious level, quietly driving us in the direction of our chosen destination and goals.

We can aid this process considerably by proactively deciding upon what we will allow to influence us. We can place ourselves in the path of the influencers that we choose, ignoring those we deem undesirable. Long ago, I made a conscious decision to avoid people with negative attitudes, to fill my head with positive, uplifting and motivating self-talk and to associate with people that are like-minded. That decision, which pushed me in a desirable direction, encouraging and fostering positive growth, has led me to my later choices of friends, work, books, TV, movies, magazines, etc… and has overall impacted me in a positive manner. My choices produce and become my consequences.

Though we cannot avoid the relentless bombardment of our senses, we can dynamically filter and choose those influences which will allow us to reach our maximum potential while rejecting the remainder. It is our choice to determine the five people that we hang out with the most.

How will you spend your time? Who and what is spending it with you? What is happening to you in the process?

Daniel Sitter, author of both the popular personal development book, Learning For Profit, and the highly anticipated business book, Superior Selling Skills Mastery, has garnered extensive experience in sales, training, marketing and personal development over a successful twenty-five year career. http://www.learningforprofit.com/ Read his blog http://ideaseller.typepad.com/

Is it possible to stop panic and anxiety attacks forever? Is it possible to keep your mind under control?

It depends. Most people who experience panic and anxiety attacks can lead perfectly normal lives. In fact, research shows that certain treatments can reduce or prevent the attacks in seventy percent to ninety percent of sufferers. But it varies case by case, and what works for one person may not work for you. However, that shouldn’t stop you from seeking help.

When you seek professional help for panic and anxiety attacks, you work closely with your doctor or therapist. It’s a relationship that won’t work unless both of you work together. The goal is to figure out what’s at the root of your problem, and then find the best way to treat it. You may feel extremely better after just one session. Or if you’re put on medication, it may work immediately. But for other people, the treatment effects may take longer to materialize. Don’t get discouraged. Also remember that if you do decide to try the self help route, which is successful for many people, always make sure that you are diagnosed by your doctor first, and confirmation is given that it is indeed panic and anxiety attacks that you are suffering.

If you’re not ready to seek professional help, you may want to take small steps towards the self help goal. You can do this by researching self help techniques. Activities such as meditation and yoga teach you to calm your mind, and control your breathing. Self-help groups also help people by providing support groups and emotional help. However, if your case is extreme, self-help may not be the best first step. In any case, it wouldn’t hurt you to consider all your options. A little research into panic and anxiety attacks can help you decide the best course of action. There are many books and videos that will help with your research. You can also visit any local support groups in your area.

With determination, and the support of family and friends, you’ll be well on your way to living a life free of panic and anxiety attacks.

It’s worth taking the time out to be checked by your doctor and to pursue some research on the topic, as they say, knowledge is power.

Bobby Jones (Ba Hons Psychology) has researched panic and anxiety for over 20 years. He has an in depth knowledge of what works and what doesn’t. Bobby will provide you with a free report on panic and anxiety attacks, along with a review of methods available for treatment. You can access the report at http://www.panicattacksko.com

Diamond rings are extremely popular. They also often represent the first diamond purchasing experience for people. This diamond ring purchasing guide is designed to let you know how to go about the process.

Diamond rings are most often thought about when it is time to propose, as an engagement ring. These important rings, worn on the left ring finger, are a symbol of a promise of marriage and a sign of dedication to a future together. While these may be the most important and famous types of diamond rings, there are many other types of diamond rings that can be given and worn just as thankfully.

A good idea before purchasing any diamond jewelry is to look at a guide. A diamond ring purchasing guide can help you to decide on what sort of ring is right for your occasion, as well as allow you to browse the different types of rings available. Aside from engagement rings, there are many other important occasions that may warrant a diamond. A promise ring is also usually a diamond ring, although one of a much smaller carat size. Some younger couples use promise rings as a sort of “pre” engagement ring - a promise to get engaged with a bigger diamond ring at a later date. Others use the promise ring just as a promise of staying together, with no further commitment implied.

Another occasion where looking at a diamond ring purchasing guide may be helpful is for the wedding ring itself. Today, many couples are opting to purchase wedding rings that are different from the standard plain gold or platinum bands. Some couples choose to get a diamond ring that matches the engagement ring for the bride (as in a bridal set) and still others choose to get a groom’s ring with diamonds on it as well. Diamonds, being a symbol of love and longevity, are no longer just worn by women - men are also wowed by these sparkly stones.

A final reason to look at purchasing a diamond ring may actually be for no reason at all! Women are beginning to see the advantages of purchasing themselves a diamond ring - whether or not they are married. These rings are typically more stylish and fanciful than a traditional engagement ring, and are usually not worn on the left hand. Known as right hand rings, these diamond rings are a symbol of a woman’s independence, or maybe even just a way to show how much they love diamonds.

No matter the reason, knowing the type of diamond ring you are searching for, and the reason you are purchasing the ring, can be very helpful when you set out to visit a jeweler.

Find jewelry stores near you.

The process of purchasing a diamond is a multi-step one. They factors are known as the four C’s of purchasing a diamond. Here is a discussion of each.

There are many different pieces of advice that you can follow when looking at purchasing a diamond, but there is no set of advice as valuable as the four C’s. The four C’s of purchasing a diamond stand for the diamond’s cut, clarity, color and carat weight - and knowing the basics of these parts of the diamond can make your shopping experience a lot smoother.

Experts agree that by far the most important of the four C’s is “cut”. While some jewelers may lead you to believe that the color or clarity is more important than the cut of a diamond, it is really this aspect of a stone that makes a diamond valuable. Cut has the ability to change a diamond’s brilliance, shine and reflectiveness - all of which can change the way a diamond sparkles. It can also affect the durability of a diamond. Diamonds that are cut too thinly or too shallow can be prone to chipping or cracking. The cut of a diamond can make a stone that started out beautiful look far less lovely.

Of course, there are still three other aspects to the four C’s of purchasing a diamond, and none of them should be taken lightly. Among some women, the fourth C, carat (or carat weight) is the most important. Many people want the largest diamond they can afford, and because of this, they are more likely to overlook flaws in the color, clarity or cut of a diamond. It is important to remember that size is not everything. A large, flawed and yellowish two carat diamond will not look as nice as a one carat that is near to being colorless and has no flaws in its cut or clarity.

Color and clarity are the final points of the four C’s of purchasing a diamond. Color refers to the shade (or lack of) that a diamond has. The best quality diamonds are considered to be colorless or near colorless. Those that have a yellow or brown tinge are considered to be of the lowest quality. Fancy colored diamonds, such as pink and canary yellow, follow a different scale. Clarity does not have the meaning that many assign to it; it simply refers to the amount of flaws or inclusions in the stone itself, and not the amount of sparkle or fire.

Being prepared by knowing the four C’s means you will have a much better chance of getting the diamond you want. Be sure to look at all aspects of a diamond before making the purchase, and remember that bigger is not always better.

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You have decided to buy a diamond for yourself or someone special. Now what? Knowledge is the key to getting the right diamond, which means you need advice for purchasing a diamond.

There are many different things to consider when purchasing a diamond. Besides the most important issues, like the type of jewelry and the size of the diamond you can afford, there are many nuances that are important to consider when making that jewelry purchase. If you follow a few simple pieces of advice for purchasing a diamond, you can easily make a purchase that will make you happy for a lifetime.

Some of the most important advice for purchasing a diamond comes from common sense: do your research. Don’t purchase a diamond sight unseen (purchasing online can be ok, but most jewelers recommend that you purchase in person) or from a dealer that you haven’t heard of before. Never pay cash unless a receipt is provided, including a complete description of the diamond with cut, color, clarity and size clearly indicated. Don’t allow a middle man to do the purchasing for you, unless it is a trusted jeweler who will be helping you with your purchase.

There are a lot of things you should not do when purchasing a diamond, but there are even more pieces of advice for purchasing a diamond that have to do with what you SHOULD do. It is important that you make an effort to educate yourself about diamonds before making a purchase. This includes learning about the four “C’s” - cut, clarity, color and carat weight of diamonds. You should also do some research about the cost of the particular type of diamond you want. This research can be done over the Internet, at least partially, but it is also a good idea to shop around different jewelry stores to get an idea of a fair price for the type of diamond you are going to buy.

Remember to go into the jeweler’s knowing what you want - and what you can afford. If you decide on a budget for your diamond, as well as a carat weight and shape, it will be much easier to navigate the display cases and find your perfect piece. It may also make it easier to avoid being pushed or nudged into purchasing a more expensive diamond than you can afford.

Finally, the best advice for purchasing a diamond is to remember that you can always keep looking. Try not to feel pressured to purchase a diamond at the first place you visit, or even on the first day you go looking at jewelry. A large purchase like a diamond should be a calculated and thought out shopping experience.

Find jewelry stores near you at JewelryStoresforyou.com.