If you randomly stopped people on the street and asked them to assess their lives, most would wonder, "Am I happy?" A Victorian would wonder, "Am I a good person?" National pride, self-respect, hard work, self-reliance, family, neighborliness -- these ideals were the embodiment of Victorian living. At a time when the national spotlight is cast on the demise of cultural decency and the disintegration of family, Victorian scholar Linda Lichter presents an invaluable guide that demonstrates how the ideals of character and civility that formed the bedrock of community during this bygone age can breathe new life and dignity into the troubled '90s. Illustrated with period black-and-white drawings, this engaging, enlightening text explores the fascinating underpinnings of Victorian mores and values; from courtship, child rearing, dress codes and manners to attitudes toward death, religion and sex. Celebrating a time when family was revered, children were raised in a mannerly and moral fashion, and love spoke of a transcendent state between the sexes, Simple Social Graces reminds readers of the traditional ideals that can help heal and strengthen American society today.

For more than 150 years, Town & Country has stood for quality and refinement. So who better to offer sound guidance on leading a civilized life in a world of eroding social graces? Here, some of the keenest and wittiest observers of our changing culture put forward their incisive—and thoroughly modern—views on sidestepping today’s most prevalent, perilous social landmines. From such topics as cell phone and E-mail etiquette to guilt-free apologies, these timely essays offer astuteness without stuffiness.

First impressions only happen once. Don't waste your moment. In Etiquettes and Manners Plain and Simple, Dr. Jackie F. Whitehead helps you prepare to be the best you can be with a look at etiquettes and manners and how they can be powerful tools for advancement in all areas of life. Her tips cover a wealth of occasions, situations, and goals: everyday life phones and texting dining and eating academic and business success invitations and RSVPs travel shopping being a house guest staying at a hotel being part of a group social success Etiquettes and manners are well worth learning, and the basics never change. Once learned in youth, these principles will guide you into an adulthood built on respect for others, personal confidence, and the respect of your peers. Dr. Whitehead's advice can help you stand out in the crowd. Etiquettes and Manners Plain and Simple is a lifelong reference for gaining and refreshing social skills that lead to success now and in the future.

Christian etiquette expert June Hines Moore will improve the quality of life in homes everywhere with Manners Made Easy for the Family. This quintessential page-per-day guide to good manners presents 365 rules–just one or two sentences each–followed by a family application or practice point and example or instruction from the Bible. Parents and children can read and discuss each manner at breakfast or dinner for an entire year, learning about everything from table manners and telephone etiquette to proper church behavior and online “netiquette.” There’s even a helpful index for quick reference and for whenever questions about specific situations arise.

John MacBride would do anything to keep his stepbrother from being thrown into jail for a crime he didn't commit. Which is how he ended up in the Outer Banks, posing as a handyman for the young socialite who could clear his stepbrother's name. As a marine archaeologist, Mac was used to digging deep for clues, but nothing had prepared him for the gorgeous woman he suspected of wrongdoing. Only Val Bonnard wasn't the spoiled heiress he'd been expecting. She seemed gentle and caring--and one look at the dazzling beauty had Mac regretting his promise to play detective, especially when it involved being her live-in Mr. Fix It! Because one way or another he'd get what he wanted--until he realized that what he wanted more than anything was the woman herself....

Want to know a secret? Regardless of what classroom challenges, standards or initiatives you’re faced with from year to year, there are seven keys to great teaching that never change—and that are often overlooked! In this bestselling book, internationally-acclaimed authors Annette Breaux and Todd Whitaker reveal the seven simple secrets of effective teaching that can be applied in any classroom. Whether you’re a new or experienced teacher, you’ll gain valuable insights on improving instruction, classroom management, discipline, student motivation, and much, much more! This updated Second Edition contains timely topics such as incorporating technology to enhance your lessons and using social media appropriately. Special Features: Easy-to-use format: The book is divided into seven secrets shared by highly effective teachers. Each secret is then divided into seven parts filled with practical information on why the secret matters and how to implement it effectively. Reflection questions: At the end of each section, there are seven questions to help you determine whether you have mastered each secret. Bonus lists: This special new section contains lists on the qualities of effective teaching and why these qualities matter. These lists can be copied and used during book studies, PLC meetings, or staff meetings to provoke thoughtful discussions and enhance teaching and learning. Study guide: A study guide is available to help you extend your learning independently or with colleagues. www.routledge.com/books/details/9781138783621 Companion website: For more inspiring, informative books from Todd and Annette, check out our special site, www.routledge.com/cw/breaux, going live this summer. Throughout the book, you’ll find practical examples and heartfelt advice to encourage you as you implement the seven secrets. As you improve your teaching, you profoundly influence the lives of those who matter most—your students!

Best-selling author Dr. Steve Stephens offers concrete yet simple ways to build marriages today, even when life speeds by at a frantic pace. Along with a prayer to ask for God's help, each chapter offers ideas and tools that make following rules like "Accept Differences," "Listen Carefully," and "Compliment Daily" easy. Readers will be surprised at how applying these simple rules can make a good marriage even better . . . or keep a struggling marriage from falling apart.