American-made lipstick contains "surprisingly high levels of lead," according to new product test results released yesterday by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics.

The lead tests were conducted by an independent laboratory last month on red lipsticks bought in Minneapolis, Boston, Hartford and San Francisco.

Its findings include, Sixty-one percent of the 33 brand-name lipsticks tested contained detectable levels of lead, with levels ranging from 0.03 to 0.65 parts per million (ppm). None of these lipsticks listed lead as an ingredient.

One-third exceeded the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's 0.1 ppm limit for lead in candy. Thirty-nine percent of the lipsticks tested had no detectable levels of lead.

A traditional Thai way of eating is to use one's fingers as an eating utensil. In an authentic Thai household occupied by the elder generation, this method of eating is usually practiced. This method is also known as "Peep Mu".

Before starting to eat, one should wash his/her hands thoroughly. Then a piece of clean cloth will be laid on the floor. Food will be placed in the middle of the cloth, where all members of the household will gather around. Each one gets a bowl of rice.

Common spoons will be used when topping rice with curry or other dishes. One then uses the gingers of the right hand to grasp food in a small portion suitable for one's mouth and slowly push it with a thumb into the mouth.

Ever heard that staying in is the new going out? It might seem hard to believe, but it's true if you create your very own cocktail lounge. Simply slip on a beaded dress, put some lounge music on the stereo and recline on a leather sofa as you wait for your guests to arrive.

Make sure you prepare your friends beforehand so they arrive dressed for the occasion and be prepared to dazzle them with the finest cocktail around: the White Nile Martini.

If they were ever in two minds about cocktails, they will be converted after the first sip. Rich and luxurious, the White Nile Martini is an exquisite cocktail. An intoxicating blend of Amarula Cream, Triple Sec and Crème de Cacao Brown, you'll have everyone begging for the ingredients at the next party.