With St. Patrick's Day just around the corner I am seeing a lot of green! In all shades, on just about everything, and there seems to be no such thing as too much. With that said, I had to wonder what kind of effect all this green has on us. And it turns out that it is good.

Obviously, green is the universal symbol of nature, but it also represents health, tranquility, and just for fun, good luck. The natural greens, from forest to lime, are both tranquil and refreshing. There is a natural balance of cool and warm (blue and yellow) that has a calmness to it.

It is easy to see why green is so popular; it is thought to relieve stress and help heal. Those who have a green work environment experience fewer stomachaches. It also helps alleviate depression, nervousness, and anxiety. It can even improve your reading speed and comprehension.

Green is often used in decorating, and for good reason. It is an ideal backdrop in interior design. After all, we are so used to seeing it everywhere and its soothing effect is very desirable. Let's not forget that guests waiting to appear on television programs often wait in a “green room” to relax.

And we all know about the four leaf clover, but for the fashionistas out there I pose a question. Green is not only a symbol of good luck. Did you know that seamstresses often refuse to use green thread on the eve of a fashion show for fear it will bring bad luck? Note to self, do not mend with green.

The simple truth is cameras are everywhere. And just because we live in a day and age of camera phones does not mean that we are all experts at being photoed. Even the celebrities need tips on how to put their best foot forward.

Tip number one? Put a big mirror on the wall. Then find your pose. This can be fun if you let it be and then you are not winging it when the next photo op arises. To take it a step further, have someone who loves you spend about an hour just taking pictures of you. Then you can see what is hot and what isn't.

Still need help? Practice your smile. Using that same mirror, or the one in the bathroom if you are a little shy, to test out smiles and head positions. And remember that if you look slightly up it is a very flattering angle, especially for women. Now keep practicing until it feel natural.

Now, what to wear? Quite simply get rid of anything that is not your hue, no matter how trendy, you never know when you will end up on Facebook. In other word dress to impress and you are in the clear. You do not have to pull out all the stops all the time; just make an effort, always.

With these three very simple things you should be able to take a fabulous picture anywhere and anytime. You can't always have your hair and make-up perfect or have on your best dress, but you can position your body, break out that radiant smile, and dress to flatter yourself. Say, “Cheese!”

Whether you've been together ten days or ten years Valentine's day is too frequently a huge pull on all your creativity and your resources. The stress created in the name of love is unbelievable! And no matter where you look, everything is the same. The perfect gift can seem so elusive.

But fortunately, celebrating your love can not be done simply by giving a present. The thought behind the gift is just as important, if not more. I know, pressure! But don't worry, here are a few suggestions that are sure to get you going in the right direction.

Listen to your significant other. They may be dropping hints about what they really want; all you have to do is be listening. For example, he or she may like the cologne or perfume but the tickets to the game or concert are perfect. So, stay off the promotional isle and put some thought into it.

For some of us chocolate is a must. And in this case the cliched gift is okay, just do not buy the cheap ones at the drugstore. But even better, go for something special.. Personally, there is no better choice than a Sprinkles cupcake. Find your sprinkles; visit a chocolatier.

If the traditional choice of jewelry is in the cards, then make it romantic and sweet. One of the best ways to do this is with an engraving. Maybe a pet name or an inside joke that makes you both smile. The point here is to be sincere and memorable.

This one may be touchy, but lingerie does not have to be just sexy. It can be comfortable, too. Men and women alike should consider what it is like to wear the garment... then choose. This doesn't mean that sex appeal is out, just follow the golden rule. Hint: cottons are good.

If you have been together a little longer it may be time for a makeover. Not you; the bedroom. Perhaps a new set of sheets, the more luxurious the better, or some fresh flowers with an intoxicating aroma. Your imagination is the limit here.

Regardless of what you choose be thoughtful and imaginative, plan ahead, and go with you instincts. As long as you use your partner as a gauge, not mass marketing, you will do just fine. After all, the best gifts are the ones that keep you thinking of the one who gave them to you.