Guru Goddess

Welcome to Guru Goddess!

Admin — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 22:31:16 +0000

Allergens in the Home

Admin — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 23:24:12 +0000

Allergens in the Home

Recent studies have demonstrated that the air inside many homes is far actually far more polluted than the air in many major cities.

Airborne allergens and pollutants that are often found in a person’s home can cause serious health consequences in both the short and long term.

Ventilation is one way to keep the air fresh in your home. Air conditioners with HEPA filters can help, as can fans, and keeping your windows open. Vacuuming regularly also helps.

Avoid heavy chemicals like air fresheners, and especially those sprinkle-on carpet air fresheners, which have actually been known to KILL pets.

Many people use humidifiers and ionizers. Humidifiers can be dangerous if they are not kept scrupulously clean inside and out. The damp atmosphere can be a haven for bacterial and mold spores. Ionizers and HEPA filters are only as good as they are kept clean.

Many people are not too fond of Clorox and other kinds of bleach, but they are noted for keeping sheets scrupulously clean.

If you suffer from indoor and outdoor allergies, rather than popping a pill, why not do a check of your house to see if it is well-ventilated, that all your filtering devices are clean, and that you regularly clean your soft furnishings, sheets and towels.

Avoid harsh chemicals and perfumes, and also look at your cleaning products and even your toiletries.

One other trick: during ragweed and pollen season, wash your face, eyebrows and eyelashes with baby soap like Johnson’s to help keep yourself free from the microscopic irritants that can collect on them. Change your pillowcases frequently as well.

With these simple measures, plus keeping your home well-ventilated, you should notice a difference in the air quality of your home, and your allergies.

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Welcome to the Beauty Area

Admin — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 21:47:36 +0000

Here you'll find news on fashion, jewelry, and more.

Skin Care Basics: Natural Skin Care that Works

Admin — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 23:27:59 +0000

Skin care should not be complicated but it should definitely be beneficial, leaving your skin in better shape than when you started.

Natural products for the skin can not only cleanse and tone, they can add radiance to your skin without harsh chemicals, preservatives or artificial ingredients.

Herbs and other natural ingredients have been used for thousands of years as effective cleansing tools for the skin. The ancient Romans and Egyptians were famed for their beauty. Only in the past two hundred years have women turned away from traditional home-made skin care to ready-made, store-bought concoctions.

Some of these over-the counter soaps and treatments can have harsh side effects due to the man-made ingredients and chemical additives and preservatives.

Some of these skin care side effects include irritation, redness, pimples, and dry skin.

For a simple, smart skin care routine without chemicals and their side effects, why not consider using natural products that won’t strip or irritate even the most sensitive of skins.

For example, gentle cleansers made from chamomile are excellent. It helps clean the skin, unclog pores, and also serves to soothe your skin and prevent redness. (Chamomile can also be used as an excellent brightener for blond hair).

Another popular choice is cucumber, which has a calming effect on the skin, and can reduce irritation. It also has a wonderful cooling effect, and can be especially good for puffiness around the eyes.

If you have oily or combination skin, choose a cleanser that incorporates tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is a natural astringent, and in this case it decreases sebum production, and also bacteria. It penetrates deep into the pores, and this in combination with its anti-bacterial properties, can help prevent acne.

It has a cooling effect upon the skin as well, so it can be used as a high powered acne treatment, but without the redness and dryness which often goes hand in hand with trying to zap those pesky zits. Comfrey and seaweed can also help keep down acne.

People with dry skin should look for rich, soothing creams that incorporate nourishing and soothing ingredients like chamomile or frankincense. They enhance skin’s moisture levels, help retain moisture and firmness, and thus prevent wrinkling.

Natural skin care has many advantages over the typical store-bought products which are packed full of artificial ingredients. Natural skin care is healthful, safe, and inexpensive. If you have sensitive skin, or are disappointed with products you have bought to try to cure your skin problems, natural skin care products you can make in the comfort of your own home in small, ultra-fresh batches, may be your best skin care option.

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Book Review: One Dark Night by Jaid Black

Admin — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 17:00:18 +0000

1.0 out of 5 stars My radiator gives off more steam!! This book was terrible. The simple sentence structures and one dimensional characters were bad enough, but for someone who has tried to make a name for herself with romantica and erotica, there were no heady erotic sexual scenes at all. They spend far more time talking about it, reading and writing emails about it, than they ever do doing it. The couple of scenes with the hero and heroine read like extremely tame, plain vanilla versions of the absolute worst of the Red Sage and Black Lace books, with a hero who does nothing but grunt and growl. Really, Susan Krinard's Werewolves are far more sexy, and have better manners! At least they say thank you after the wham-bam. The whole bondage, domination/submission thing reads more like a text book, and the only lurid details in the book that moved me were the gross descriptions of the killer carving out their hearts. Ugh. This is a really BAD romance worse than any Harlequin I have ever read, with flat characters and a couple of pistoning scenes. I will not use the word love to describe them. The ending is trite, cliche, and so dull, as the writer spends PAGES telling us what happened to every single one of the minor characters, all living happily ever after of course, that I just sat their laughing, it was so bad. Again, this author breaks the basic rule of show, don't tell. Really, if you want a spicy read, try Shannon McKenna, Susan Johnson, Thea Devine, or any of the Black Lace books if you really want to get daring-do not waste your time with an author who obviously writes a lot, but needs to learn how to tell a HOT story-four letter words, leather and handcuffs are trite and passe. And erotica and romantica have become so mainstream, well, this author is going to have to come up with a lot better to satisfy a sophisticated audience. 335 words

Book Review: Kill the Messenger by Tami Hoag

Admin — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 17:02:03 +0000

4.0 out of 5 stars Solid, but I miss Hoag's old more romantic books This was a solid book, but uninspiring in the romantic suspense genre. Perhaps they are trying to cross over to get guys to read it, but it is not well flesh out if that is the case. I really don't think the author writes about men or boys all that well, so considering the main protagonists are all supposed to be male this is a real let down. Also, at the end, when we get the usual rather dull round up of what happens to everyone, there is hardly any mention of Abby the supposed heroine of the piece. Also, it breaks the rule of show, don't tell. It could have used more action. I like Kev Parker as a hero but a lot more could have been made of him. Any other quibbles I had with his character are in the nature of spoilers, so I can't be more specific here except to say that all the women are even more flat as characters than he is. Abby had the potential to be really memorable, but that is lost in the farfetched conclusion of this book. This is an author with interesting ideas who needs to tease them out more by focusing on character instead of plot all the time. After all, we only care about what happens if we care about the characters that it happens to. 248 words

Welcome to the Entertainment Area

Admin — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 21:22:58 +0000

In this section we hope to bring you the latest information on books, movies, music, and more.

Welcome to the Health Area

Admin — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 21:50:11 +0000

Here we have the latest information on key health topics to help bring out your inner goddess. Please also visit our sister sites: Nutrition Goddess http://www.nutrition-goddess.com Weight Loss Goddess http://www.weightloss-goddess.com

Contact Us

Admin — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 20:51:01 +0000

We're always pleased to hear feedback on our material through the comments section at this website, but if you do have to get in touch with us for more a private discussion, please contact: csmailbox44@yahoo.com

About Us

Admin — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 20:55:02 +0000

Guru Goddess is run by a group of women who want to make a difference in the world. We count ourselves as truly blessed, and want to give back to those who need it. Guru Goddess is by women, about women, to empower women.

Welcome to Guru Goddess!

Admin — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 21:26:25 +0000

Guru means teacher. Here at Guru Goddess, we want to bring back the tradition of the wise woman who possesses great wisdom and insight, and teaches with love and compassion. At this site we hope to bring you information on contemporary issues of concern to both men and women, but in a spiritual and meaningful way. Please enjoy the site and feel free to comment on what you read, but please also note that comments will not post instantaneously because they are moderated for spam. Thank you and enjoy! Blessings, the GGG (Guru Goddess Gals)

Browse all articles at this site

Guru Goddess: By Women, for Women, to Empower Women

Welcome to the Fitness Area

Admin — Sat, 27 Oct 2007 21:50:49 +0000

Here you will find advice on staying fit and health using a variety of strategies, to help bring out the inner goddess in you.

Welcome to the Yoga Area

Admin — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 21:54:57 +0000

In this section you will find some useful yoga information. Nothing brings out your inner goddess more than yoga. It is a great mind and body connection, and helps keep you fit and flexible. If done correctly, it is a safe workout you can enjoy no matter what your age, at home, in a group, anywhere! Best of all, in most cases, yoga does not even need any special equipment.

Book Review: Dark Magic

Admin — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 16:57:05 +0000

Book Review: Dark Magic (The Carpathians (Dark) Series, Book 4) by Christine Feehan 1.0 out of 5 stars Gross and offensive I have read and enjoyed the Carpathian novels in the past, about 5 or 6 of them, but this one truly disgusted me. Gregori the Dark one has engineered Savannah in the womb by making his blood part of hers when he helps her mother Raven. He has also tricked her into intimacy for years as a child by posing as her beloved pet wolf. Really pervy. We are told that Carpathians cannot live without their lifemate and so he will go over to evil if he does not have her. He is so close to the edge he might as well be over it. He has waited twenty three years for her after all-though after a thousand of not turning bad we find this hard to believe. Despite Savannah's continuous protests, he takes her as his lover and partner. But there is no tender lovemaking-he nearly rips her to pieces in every sense of the word in an appalling scene which goes on for over 50 pages! I do get the blood part, really, but the gratuitous violence and rape in this book is simply not what I expect from a romance. Nor does his terrible behavior get mitigated in anyway when he uses his saliva with all of its Carpathian healing properties to 'heal' her and of course make the moves on her at the same time. Really graphic, take my word for it. There is just too much nonconsensual sexual activity in this book for any sensible modern woman reader to be comfortable with. I gave up after 100 pages, the book was so crude, violent and graphic in its portrayal of his betrayals and rape of the heroine. I will not even go into the terrible repetitive writing, with the use of hunger, need and erotic used about 4 times on every page. The shocking violence should be enough to deter any true seeker of a romantic read. 343 words

Book Review: Bait by Karen Robards

Admin — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 17:03:13 +0000

3.0 out of 5 stars Another solid but average thriller This is yet another addition to the 'shag the suspect'/victim the FBI guy is supposed to be protecting line of romantic suspense books. I think it might have been better as a dark book. Relying on the obnoxious dog with an eating disorder and diarrhea in order to get them out of various disasters is just too cutesy and ridiculous for words. The villain is motiveless, so none of the very rushed ending of the book really ties together. Sam McCabe is great, but his sidekicks Wynne and "Rambo Barbie" Gardner and her "J. Lo" posterior are just very irritiating. The book is so repetitive that this is probably why. She uses whole sentences almost verbatim for the couple of love scenes in the book. The instant love affair is also wildly improbable but this is all par for the course in this genre. They never have a real conversation once they get past the 'so what is your family like' stage. Also, does every Romantic suspense novel have to be set in New Orleans these days? It must be putting off tourism to the city like nobody's business, with people thinking they're going to be murdered at any moment! Finally, the heroine, Maddie. She swings wildly from quivering little girl afraid of the dark to another Rambo Barbie sex goddess without any consistency. An enjoyable read, but don't look for any heat or depth, just a mildly interesting way to pass the time. 260 words

Your Ideal, Healthy Weight: Taking it off and Keeping It Off

Admin — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 23:29:51 +0000

Today, many men and women (and children) around the globe, but particularly in America, are significantly overweight. As a result, a growing number of people find themselves starting different diet programs all the time, going for fad diet after fad diet hoping for some sort of miracle for them being overweight.

Unfortunately, most people who embark on a diet plan fail to lose weight. Or, even if they lose, it often not only creeps right back on, but in many cases, it rebounds back again, so that they end up even heavier than they were before they started attempting to diet. Dieting can cause you to put on weight because you are playing with your metabolism in a potentially dangerous way.

Many of the fad diets being promoted are hazardous to a person’s health. While you may lose weight at the outset on one of these diet plans or programs, many of these plans are not designed to promote a healthy and balanced eating lifestyle which you can sustain long-term in order to keep the weight off.

In the final analysis, when it comes to healthy living and reaching and maintaining an appropriate weight, the only true course of action in which you can follow is a balanced diet and exercise, and those are not things that you can get out of a pill bottle or a box.

By eating a balanced diet, you will be able to maintain the energy and nutrition levels needed to keep your body running like a well-fuelled and well-oiled machine.

For those of you who hate counting calories, the facts are sad but true. To gain a pound takes 2000 calories. To LOSE one, takes 3500, because your body stores fat to later be used for energy.

Do the math! Only regular exercise or physical activity is going to help you budge the pudge!

Regular exercise will also help you maintain a healthy, toned and trim body, and a toned body helps you burn more fat, again, because your body is operating efficiently.

Through a balanced diet and regular exercise, you can not only reach your weight goal, you can get the pounds off and keep them off.

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Exercise Without Suffering: Get Into the Move!

Admin — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 23:31:15 +0000

Many men and women are interested in getting fit, but don’t know where to start. Or, they start, but don’t keep it up because they get bored or feel like it’s a lot of hard work.

But you can get into the mood and the move in a lot of different ways that don’t involve hours on a treadmill or stairclimber, or spending a fortune on gym membership or equipment.

The most important way to stay fit and lose weight is to stay on the move. It takes 2000 calories to put on a pound, but 3500 to burn one off.

But exercise does not have to be a chore, or something you need to set aside hours for. The good news is that even 10 minutes a day can help—and new research has also shown that 4 sessions of 10 minutes a day is actually better for you than 40 minutes of sustained exercise.

Not only does it help you stay physically fit and trim, exercise also enhances your mood. Often you can even meet a lot of great like-minded people who will encourage you to stay fit.

The easiest way to exercise is the 10,000 steps a day rule. You can get an inexpensive pedometer to help keep you on track. Walking is a tremendous way of staying in shape for many men and women. You can gradually begin walking more with each passing day. In time, you can build up to the 10,000 step a day level.

You can also carry two water bottles and/orswing your arms more vigorously, to burn even more calories. Walking up hill or up stairs can also increase the impact of the workout and the number of calories burned.

Walking to the store instead of taking the car, or, not grabbing the first parking spot, but actually parking further away from the store entrance, can all help you meet your 10000 step goal.

Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, both up and down counts. Stepping from side to side while you wait for a bus or train works too, and actually exercises another set of helpful muscles. To increase your heart rate when walking, take smaller, more numerous strides per minute instead of longer, fewer ones.

A dog is also a great way to keep fit, and he is a mood booster too. Just remember, a puppy is a 15 year marriage commitment, til death do you part, usually its death. At the same time, though, there are tens of thousands of dogs looking for a home at www.petfinder.org if you feel that a canine pal will help keep you on track with your fitness goals.

Other daily activities which you can include would be golfing, especially if you carry your own clubs, and gardening.

Swimming is another huge calorie burner with low impact on your joints, something to consider if you are trying to lose weight without stress and strain to yourself or your joints. But you can’t do it literally anywhere (even in a plane!) the way you can with walking.

The worst exercise is none at all, so look at your daily schedule and try to see where you can add a few steps here and there to get your 10,000 every day. Every step counts on your path to better fitness.

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Book Review: Blind Alley

Admin — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 02:09:54 +0000

Blind Alley (An Eve Duncan Forensics Thriller) by Iris Johansen 1 out of 5 stars Far-fetched, badly written drivel After Fatal Tide I swore I would never read another of her books, but then this got such good reviews, so I decided to give it a try. It was nice to see Joe and Eve but the story was about Jane, and teens are really not that interesting, especially not her burgeoning sexuality, and attraction for a con man she lambastes at every turn. Trevor the likeable but unpredictable villain is sure to be back, as the author quite proudly tells us to look forward to the next book soon. If it is anything like this one, give it a miss. There is no hero, no villain, and the whole nonsense with Eve mourning her dead daughter and never being able to forgive Joe for wanting to give her closure is too repetitive. These characters are like robots who lurch in response to stimuli. The whole engine running on the fuel of a serial killer killing women around the world who look like Jane is just too unbelievable and really not that interesting. The whole novel was strung together episodically like a soap opera. Really dull. The ending was delivered with the sequel in mind and thus totally cheats people reading for so many pages. Get it out of the library if you must, but otherwise, save your money and time.

Proper Nutrition on the Go

Admin — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 23:34:32 +0000

Proper Nutrition on the Go

Everyone worries about getting proper nutrition, but in this hectic-paced world we live in, where fast food abounds, actually eating right can be a very challenging task.

The lifestyle of an average American is crammed with chores, which makes us cram goodness knows what in our mouths. Between juggling work, family, and outside commitments, people have come to believe that they have no time to cook.

Creating a nutritious meal for the family when you are all on the run is challenging enough. Trying to balance your daily nutrition requirements can be even harder. Add to that special diets, like vegetarian, vegan, or lactose intolerant, for example, and you can have a nightmare on your hands.

Fortunately, MyPyramid is here to help, at http://www.mypyramid.gov

The FDA has put up resources to help you calculate your daily requirements, and the best sources for each, so you can make every meal, and even every mouthful, count.

One size does not fit all when it comes to food and nutrition, which is why the have designed these interactive tools. MyPyramid Plan offers you a personal eating plan with the foods and amounts that are right for you. You can get started with the MyPyramid Plan quickly and easily at the site. MyPyramid Tracker offers a detailed assessment of your food intake and physical activity level. You can also use the advice "Inside the Pyramid" section to help you

Make smart choices from every food group.
Find your balance between food and physical activity/exercise
Get the most nutrition out of your calories.
Stay within your daily calorie needs to maintain weight or even lose weight.

There are a few limitations to the site that you need to be aware of. MyPyramid food patterns are designed for the general public ages 2 and over. They are not therapeutic diets for specific health conditions. Those with a chronic health condition should always consult with a health care provider to find a dietary plan that is right for them, particularly for conditions like diabetes.

But it is a quick easy way to start thinking a bit more about sound nutrition and educating yourself about what you can eat each day for maximum nutrition.

A lot of people turn to vitamins and supplements, but ideally you should be able to get balanced nutrition from the food you eat.

The useful sample menus should get you started with a nutritional eating lifestyle you can sustain both short and long term without driving yourself crazy or taking too long cooking and shopping. So you can have more time to sit down, eat, and savor!

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Herbs and Spices: the spice of life every day

Admin — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 23:35:39 +0000

Herbs and spices are not only tasty, they can be nutritious too. We also recommend them because people tend to think of ‘dieting’ as suffering and deprivation. Herbs and spices keep food tasty, and fresh, as well as wholesome.

Herbs and spices are a great way to add flavor without a whole bunch of artificial ingredients, and are particularly healthful if you are trying to cut down on salt for the sake of your heart health or high blood pressure.

One of the easiest ways to get better nutrition is by adding breakfast to your day. Too many people fail to eat in the mornings despite the fact that a healthy breakfast provides fuel for the rest of the day. Thanks to the joys of a microwave egg poacher, you can have a fabulous poached egg in about 30-35 seconds, depending on how runny you want it. You don’t even have to add oil, so it weighs in at a tiny 90 calories, for about 15 grams of protein, about 1/3^rd of what you need in a day.

You can also mix in some herbs for a quick scramble, like dill, parsley, chives, red pepper flakes, and best of all, you can pop it onto and English muffin or piece of bread to have on the go. It is far fewer calories to make it yourself than to by it in a fast food joint, and cheaper too.

You can also stir in a bit of low fat goat cheese or cream cheese for a real taste treat or lovely runny mini omelet. Add some salsa on top, and even put it in a low fat, low carb tortilla for a light homemade breakfast burrito with a bit of fresh coriander, parsley, and some cumin for spice.

With a glass of milk and a piece of fruit you have already covered protein, fruit and dairy in your day, with some greens as well, for a great nutritious start to your day.

You can also use fresh herbs in your home-cooked dishes. Add parsley to meat dishes for a fresh new twist and use oregano and basil to spice up spaghetti sauce, roasted vegetables, bean and pasta soup, and more.

Herbs contain valuable antioxidants to build the body’s immunity, and they add delightful flavor that enhances your meal and cuts down on food cravings. The more seasoned variety you have, the less likely you will be to munch out of control.

Cravings are typically not about being hungry, but seeking a special flavor. Some would even argue that the craving is your body telling you that an essential nutrient is missing in your diet. I think I used to crave onions a lot because of the vitamin C.

For ice cream addicts, add nuts to your dish for an extra boost of heart-healthy nutrients. Or, you can make your own fruit based topping with fruit in the microwave, plus some cinnamon, nutmeg, mint, lemon and so on. You can even make your own sorbets and add spices to them to make them more flavorful. Dress up your plain vanilla, without a whole bunch of sugary additives. You can do the same with cakes and pies. A bit of spice added makes for a more satisfying dessert.

And best of all, the more you cook for yourself, the more you will have control over the calories you take in. Plus, you’ll be able to make food exactly the way you want it. In addition, you will likely save money as well. Whenever I go to a restaurant, for example, I always order something I have never had before, and then I try to duplicate it at home.

Of course, years of cooking with herbs and seasonings has made this easy for me, but if you pay attention read labels, menus and so on, plus do the old sniff test in the spice aisle, and snap off a twig or two to taste in the fresh herb aisle, you’ll be able to start experimenting, identifying, and eating well in no time.

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Healthy weight loss tips

Admin — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 23:39:39 +0000

Look at the size of your dinner plate. Choose a smaller one and don’t pile up the food on it.
Eat small portions of a variety of foods, to eliminate cravings or feeling deprived. That way, you allow yourself more variety in what you eat
Eat lots of fresh fruit. It has a high-water to calorie ratio, plus fiber to help you feel full.
If you’re craving a sweet chewy snack, opt for a healthier alternative like prunes, apricots, or other dried fruits.
Don’t punish yourself for naughty foods. Instead, make a deal with yourself, like “I can eat whatever I want so long as I have a non-creamy soup and salad with low fat non-creamy dressing first.” Those two items will fill you up and stop you from over-indulging. (cream adds tons of calories from fat, so it’s best to avoid it!)
Remember your ratio! 2000 calories 1 pound gained 3000 calories, 1 pound lost Do the math to help you stay on track

Avoid commercial fast-food like the plague. Go for quick and easy recipes at home, and make enough for leftovers for lunch or dinner you can zap in the microwave quickly.

Always bring a healthy snack with you to avoid temptation in public.

Always eat salad and some lean protein before you go out for a party or social occasion like a dinner out in a restaurant. It will stop you binging, and the energy spikes that come with starving and then indulging.

Practice eating mindfully. Do not do anything else while eating, like checking email or talking on the phone. Chew your food slowly and savor the taste and flavor of every bit to get the most satisfaction and not be tempted to cram down a whole lot more.

Cranberry juice is a great pick-me-up by itself, or as a spritzer. It is fantastic for relieving cystitis and keeps your bladder in good working order. Just watch the high fructose corn syrup used to sweeten some brands, and juices which are not pure juice. You can get a small bottle of concentrate in health food stores.

Keep your toothbrush and mouthwash handy after every meal. Not only will it help keep your mouth fresh, in your medicine cabinet. Not only does mouthwash freshen your breath, food never tastes quite so lipsmackingly good before or after you’ve brushed your teeth!

Above all, enjoy, and be optimistic. Little changes can add up to big results! 412 words

Welcome to the Pets area!

Admin — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 12:39:50 +0000

We have fabulous articles on pets and pet ownership at our sister site http://www.pet-goddess.com

Medical Screening Scams

Admin — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 12:35:49 +0000

A letter just came in the mail from Life Line Screening Radiology LLC regarding 'life saving screenings'. The letter encourages you to pay $139 for 3 screenings to determine your risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.While some of the information in the letter is true, such as the fact that cardiovascular disease is the #1 killer of both men AND women, it makes no mention of the age at which you should consider these tests. It complains that insurance companies will only pay for these tests if there are symptoms; but it makes no mention of age, hereditary factors or risk factors being present, which would of course clearly indicate that these tests should be performed. It also mentions stroke, with 50% of victims not ever having had symptoms. But the only testimonial urging you to get these screenings to avoid stroke is written by the medical director of the company offering the screenings (talk about conflict of interest—and what, no celebrity endorsement? Amazing.). The sales pitch doesn’t even mention a test for high blood pressure, which would be one of the leading indicators of cause for concern for stroke. The full color leaflet which is also in the envelope contradicts the letter, because it mentions that you will also get an osteoporosis test, but the equipment used would not be adequate for a proper bone density test. In addition, the flyer and letter both claim that they partner with hospitals to do the screening, yet the letter invites you to, of all places, a ballet studio. On the back page of the leaflet, in very small print, it declared that no diagnosis will be given—so why go? It also says that the screenings can't detect all forms of stroke-so again, why go? At the bottom it shows which credit cards it takes and declares it is only for those who can pay: they have nothing to do with Medicare nor any insurance company. Nor do they refer you to any doctor. Finally, the letter urges you to hurry to get your appointment, as they are limited because they are in the city for one day only. If these tests are so essential, why are they not here full time. It also encourages you to tell all your friends and loved ones—if appointments are limited to one day only, and take an hour, according to the letter, how could everyone possibly be accommodated? This is the worst form of scare-mongering and can clearly do more harm than good, heightening people's fears for their health. They claim they do not give a diagnosis, but no one who goes for the test is not going to ask what they see (or supposedly see). What if they DO find something? Every test also the possibility of a 'false positive'. There is no follow up--they are moving on to the next city. So if you do feel the need for any of these medical tests, based on your personal health history, go to your own doctor. He or she will send you to an established, reputable lab. No money will change hands if you are insured, except possibly a co-pay, because all the paperwork will be handled for you, and if something IS found, you will be able to go over your results with your doctor, and work together on a strategy and plan of action. Cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure, the leading contributor to stroke, may be in your genes, but neither of them are inevitable. You can work with your doctor to diminish your risk factors. Save your money on these so-called screenings, and tell your parents and loved ones to eat right, exercise, quit smoking, and visit their doctor regularly.

Book Review: Blowout by Catherine Coulter

Admin — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 02:03:19 +0000

1 out of 5 stars A total flat tire The title of the novel refers to the strange experience familiar character Dillon Savich has on a lonely, snowy road one dark night. Alas, it is hardly developed at all in the book until the last 40 pages or so, and I really can't see, hard as the author tried, how it is linked up with the supposed hero and heroine of this book, Ben Raven and the daughter of a murdered supreme court justice. The motive for the murders as the body pile mounts up is absolutely absurd, and the twist at the end totally falls flat. I felt really cheated by this book. It was nice to see Sherlock and Dillon and their little boy, but the whole relationship between Ben and his lady love is a wet squib and the macho posturing in the living room of Savich's home is just absurd. A real let down. Neither romantic, nor suspenseful. 168 words

Book Review: Behind Closed Doors

Admin — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 02:06:13 +0000

Book Review: Behind Closed Doors (The McCloud Brothers, Book 1) by Shannon McKenna 3.0 out of 5 stars More of a Romantica than a romance The book was very uneven in a lot of respects, and as I can tell from the reviews at Amazon, a lot of shocked readers did not think they were getting Romantica. Romantica is romantic erotica, and it is one couple with lots of heated erotic situations, as opposed to a lot of characters all having a great old time with each other. I totally agree that the characters are inconsistent. I also think the villains were too. The whole romantic suspense genre seems to be predicated on the most unlikely people with nothing in common falling into bed together. Or in this case the wall, the shower, and so on. It also includes several detailed scenes of the villain having sex which were very offputting, as was his voyeurism with the various cameras dotted around his house, and the explicit nature of said activities in various multiples and gender combinations. The villain was not THAT interesting, and there should never be competing couples (triples?) in a romance novel. Stick to hero and heroine and relationship and love development, not the kitchen sink and stuff thrown in for shock value. Kensington should make it clear that the Brava line is going to contain material like this. A reader who forked out good money expecting Nora Roberts would well be peeved, not to mention goggled-eyed or even offended. Having said that, the one thing the book does having going for it is an interesting if totally Neanderthal hero, though I can' tbelieve he had not had a girl for five years since his brother was killed, he is so rampant. The drought becomes a flood, and Raine is swept away, but I would have liked to see her exercise a bit more common sense and spine. The sexual games they play are not always healthy or safe, and Seth not trusting her toward the end is pretty unforgivable even if their sex life is stupendous. The book is way too long, with lashings of detail on every movement of his body (where are HER feelings in all of this?) and even the hero says himself they are like a pair of minks. Subtlety, nuance, romance, even foreplay, vanish in a haze of power games on Seth's part. This novel could have been cut to half its length and toned down and not suffered, and still got commitment and the happily ever after. Readers who like Susan Johnson, Robin Schone and Thea Devine will enjoy these books, but anyone else should exercise caution. And you can certainly have a 'bonkbuster' of a lusty novel without grossing people out or demeaning them. 464 words

Healthy Living at the Holidays?

Admin — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 12:45:53 +0000

Healthy Living at the Holidays? It almost seems impossible, doesn't it? But if you eat well all year round, you are much less likely to feel like a locust ravening everything in sight. Sure, you can have a seasonal treat or two, but there is no need to go for seconds. The trouble with the holidays is that they seem to get longer every year, with a stretch of indulgence that extends from the candy at Halloween, through the turkey with all the fixin's at Thanksgiving, to Christmas, and right on to New Year's (and possibly even Valentine's Day if we aren't careful!!) In our offices, there are snacks and treats galore, all within easy reach, adding hundred of extra calories to our diet before we even know we've swallowed. Of course we love spending time with our friends, but food and drink become even more of a center of attention than the usual lunches, brunches and dinners. There are many ways you can control your calorie intake at the holidays. Get a hot air popper (the microwave pop corn is getting very bad press these days), pop your corn, and add a bit of butter spray to it if you are eating it then and there. You can also pop extra, don't butter it, and bring it to work with a bowl. If you feel like having hot pop corn, you can give it a few seconds in the microwave, and presto, you have a hot snack without a ton of oil, artifical flavor, or chemicals. Other good choices would be carrot and celery sticks, apple, raisins, to stop you from reaching for the cookie tin or the bowl of nachos and guacamole just waiting to be devoured. In particular, watch out for the empty calories in alcohol and desserts during the holiday season. They have NO nutritional value, and are NOT a couple of new essential food groups. Vegetables are, but beware of the hidden calories in mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes, and any veggies swimming in butter. The same can be said of seafood and fish. Also off the menu would be cream-based soups, and anything with a cream sauce on it. We are not only talking calories here, we are talking high in saturated fats. The same is true of nuts. If you are having poultry, avoid the dark meat. If you are cooking for the holidays, you will have a lot more control. Plan a menu with lots of well-seasoned dishes. A little seasoning can go a long way toward curbing cravings. Try not to taste everything in sight, and do start with soup and salad so that you will already be pretty full before you ever get to the main event. Beware of the dreaded leftovers as well, which can extend one day of indulgence into several. Send a little care package home with your guests, or freeze them into small tasty lunch sized homemade TV dinners. If you are going out for the holiday, eat before you go. Again, soup and salad are excellent choices for making you feel full and satisfied. Be polite, but don't load your plate. Also, if you are at a buffet, either take a small plate, or load it with salad or veggies first, then the more caloric foods. Make sure you load up on good lean protein if it is available, but again, no sauces or dark meat. Avoid the dreaded dessert if possible, and beware of eggnog. If you do have to indulge, you and a friend might 'buddy up' and agree to share, just to keep an eye on one another. One final check up, remember, it takes only 2000 additional calories to put on a pound, but 3000 to take one off. Do the math as you deal with your holiday meals, and that should keep you on the straight (and slim!) and narrow even with temptation coming at you from all sides. Happy Holidays!

Fitness Tips

Admin — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 23:42:21 +0000

Keep a fitness diary to stay on track with your health and fitness goals. Start small, like “I will walk 1000 steps today,” and record your successes and how you felt. Gradually boost your steps to 10000 every day.

4 short 10-minute work-out sessions can be even more effective than a 40-minute burst. The thing is to keep moving.

Cable TV has a lot of great workout shows. Find the one that’s right for you and stick to it. You can also record several on tape and play them to break up the monotony.

Netflix has a full library of workout DVDS. Again, you can view them all and keep note of the ones you like the best, then invest in them.

Try different styles of workout, from yoga to belly dancing to tai chi to kick boxing. Avoid boredom above all.

Avoid anything that makes you feel strained, and avoid high impact exercises, especially if you are overweight or have joint trouble.

Start gradually and work your way up. Don’t try to lift 50 pounds the first time you go to the gym. Start with a weight you can do 20 reps with, and gradually increase both the weight and the repetitions. When you get to a level where you feel bored, increase the weight.

Avoid toning the same part of your body over and over again. Schedule your daily workouts so that you get to work on all parts of your body at least twice a week, but never two days in a row.

Don’t punish yourself if you want to have a day off, or take an exercise break. Get back into your routine as soon as possible.

Stretch and warm up before starting any exercise.

Practice proper form in any sport or exercise for maximum exercise impact, and to avoid injury.

If you do join a gym, try out a number of different classes to keep your interest up and meet new people as fitness buddies.

Try to find a better body buddy. Exercise is more fun if you do it with other people. Do aerobics with a friend or play a sport with your family. Even doubles tennis counts as exercise!

A change in environment keeps boredom at bay. Don’t just stand on your treadmill or stairclimber, get out to the park, walk up a hill, take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Taking a nap for 15 to 20 minutes in the afternoon can sharpen your memory, improve alertness, and help reduce fatigue. If you can’t take a nap, set aside some time for lighter activities, such as checking email or answering phone calls.

Build muscle to boost metabolism. Experts estimate that an additional pound of lean muscle mass can increase resting metabolism by 30-50 calories a day. So turn that chunkiness in the middle to a six pack and you’ll be firing on all cylinders like well-oiled, well fuelled machine.

Above all, enjoy, and be optimistic. Little changes can add up to big results! 503 words

Book Review: Return To Me by Shannon McKenna

Admin — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 02:04:46 +0000

1.0 out of 5 stars Trite and dull After the stunning steaminess of Behind Closed Doors, this author has just got worse and worse. Her second novel didn't have enough sex, ditto this book. Also, like the second book, the premise of the couple already being in love means there is no heat, no tension, no development of chemistry between them. The best thing about Behind Closed Doors was the sexual tension, with the couple literally not knowing who they could trust on any level. In both of her last two books, the couples have practically grown up with each other, so there is little mystery. And who on earth marries the guy next door all that often? It is just too safe. Mildly edgy public sex on a motorcycle and at a waterfall does not make for a hot book. I liked Simon more than I liked her. McKenna can write men for sure, I will give her that, but her women are woeful. Yes, she can write men, but alas, they are usually Neanderthals, toying on the edge of S/m games of dominance, and totally challenged by any thinking woman with a bit of independence who desires the more sensual in life. Simon's moods swung so rapidly and unaccountably that Ellen ended up sounding like she had a perpetually bad case of PMS trying to keep up with his snippiness. As for the mystery to be solved, well, the author gives away so much at the start of the book there is no suspense-we know exactly how it is all going to play out. The secondary plot with Ellen's fiancee and the town laundry woman is just too unbelievable to be true, and pads out an already well padded book the author no doubt struggled to sustain for about 100 k words. The author should stick to her guns and write sexy stories if that is what she likes to do. This was dismally dull, watered-down pulp with no suspense and very little romance.

Small Changes for Big Weight Loss

Admin — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 23:37:50 +0000

Losing weight can be a challenge for even the most determined person, especially when you hit a plateau and don’t see the scale budge for weeks, or worse still, see it go up.

It is not easy, since metabolism and genetics as well as lifestyle all play a role in weight loss, but the only one you can control, or try to control, is the latter.

While the basic equation of weight loss is simple, you have to burn more calories than you consume, the trouble is that a pound gained is NOT equal to a pound lost. It is actually 2000 calories to put on a pound and 3000 to take it off.

The good news is that by adding a few new weight-conscious measures here and there every day to burn more calories, you can win the battle of the bulge and budge that pudge.

Increase your activity, and decrease your unnecessary calories. Portion size is key. If you get a bit nibbly, those 100 calorie snack packs can help.

The most successful dieters keep food journals to track exactly what they eat each day, and when. By becoming aware of your habits, you can see where you ‘lose control’ also where you can whittle down calories without losing out on nutrition. Also, the FDA is recommending a 2000 calorie a day diet, but is that really practical given how many of us lead a sedentary, inactive lifestyle? And it is 2500 for men!

Once you pinpoint your “hungry” times, you can head them off with healthy snacks like carrot and celery sticks with low fat dressing. Soup is also filling, and we often associate soup and salad with going out to dine and so we can feel really satisfied with a lot less food if we start each lunch and dinner in this way, and make sure to avoid any cream based dressings of soups due to the extra calories from fat.

Another method is to cut out all beverages other than water. Soda, juice, wine and beer add up to a lot of calories really quickly. They can also create havoc with your appetite, especially alcohol and it often giving people the munchies, or luring them into eating fattening snacks. Cutting out high-calorie beverages (including those supposed Vitamin waters that are full of sugar) and replacing them with water or seltzer, or adding seltzer to your juice or wine if you have to have it, make a refreshing spritzer, will make a major difference to your figure, while still supplying your body with the hydration it needs throughout the day.

Liquids will also make you feel fuller faster. Studies also show that milk can help you eat less and lose weight, plus help you metabolize your food better.

As for changing your activity level, you can take the stairs instead of the elevator, park further away from the stores so you will be forced to walk, and move your feet from side to side when you are waiting for a bus or train.

Gardening, yoga, golfing, can all help you boost your calorie burn, plus, anything that gets you out of the house and away from the fridge is a bonus. Also, building lean muscle can help you speed up your metabolism, because your body will run more efficiently and burn up calories faster as a result.

You can also work different parts of your body each day, for best results. Try some of the workout programs on Fit TV, yoga, weights, aerobics. Or rent the fitness DVDS from Netflix on topics like Abs, legs, and so on. Find the ones youlike and do them in a daily rotation.

If you incorporate even a few of these changes into your daily routine, you will begin to see those stubborn pounds slowly melt away, and better still, stay away. You will also have more energy and more muscle, leading to a leaner, firmer, more efficient body.

665 words

Book Review: Potent Pleasures by Eloisa James

Admin — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 02:07:28 +0000

2.0 out of 5 stars really flat and unattractive characters spoil this Alex as a hero is just too dull for words. He is self-righteous, cares for no one but himself, and his supposed love for his one-year-old daughter is so extensive he dumps her with a woman he terms a whore in Scotland, determined to never see his wife Charlotte again. The plot 'twist' hinging on his having ruined her in a garden is one thing-the twin brother supposedly having done the deed is another absurd convention for this genre of novel. He is nasty, unforgiving, and incapable of love. The panoply of secondary characters and love affairs we don't care about pad out an overly long book. Sophie York lusting after Alex (gross) and getting his twin Patrick in the next book you can see coming a mile off, though that next book is even worse, since Patrick is even more cruel to Sophie than Alex is to Charlotte, if such a thing is possible. Regencies do not all have to be light and fluffy but I expect characters of consistency and some integrity. Every misunderstanding in the book would have been cleared up had the couple ever spoken to one another, instead of indulging in their sexual obsessions. The love scenes were terribly wooden and not at all romantic, with her weeping all over the place, him nasty and accusatory, saying the most unforgiveable things which the ninny then forgives! I am tired of near rape 'love scenes' in historical romance. What message are we giving to younger women-that love 'excuses' this kind of behavior? Rubbish. I have read several of her other books, all with the same problems, in terms of the writing, and in terms of the characters' situations. Add to that the terrible editing and numerous historical errors, and I have given up on this author completely, despite the fact that she came hoghly recommended to me by a romance editor for her supposedly sumptous writing and great love scenes. Really, if this is all the are offering on the shelves these days, by all means, save your money and write your own novels! 367 words

Book Review: Weekend Warriors by Fern Michaels

Admin — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 02:08:34 +0000

1.0 out of 5 stars What editor in their right mind thought this was a good idea? This is absolutely the worst book I have ever read. The writing is like that of a two year old, the characters; motivations as well. Nothing rings true, not even the anger or desire for revenge over the sexual assault they have suffered Terrible, trite writing like this devalues the experience of every single woman who has ever been raped, and also every woman who has lost a child to a hit and run driver. This isn't entertainment on any level, and there is certainly nothing morally uplifting about this overwrought tripe. The woman in question who is raped is not only raped, she is raped and sodomized in front of her husband who is handcapped and can't help her. Talk about laying on the sensationalism with a trowel. I am appalled that this book was published, even more shocked to see that it is part of a series-apparently a seven book series all about women getting even. Really, if they are going to act even worse than the men who done them wrong, what is the point, exactly? This book was brief enough, printed in large print, I doubt it was even 50,00 words, but however many it was, it was way too many for me. It was predictable, overwrought, and just shows that publishers will do anything for sensationalism, and for new 'product', a book with a prominent writers name on it. And this author has the gall to think she has invented a new genre, 'the man in peril'. I think everyone offended by this book should complain to the publisher, and perhaps the rest of these extremely offensive series will be confined to the trash heap. Spoiler: How they can surgically castrate the three men, leave their testicles in plastic bags, and then find it FUNNY when the men turn up at a doctor's office (not the hospital?) to ask to have them put back, is just too sick for words. And the doctor's secretary selling the story to the tabloids for $50000 is even more sick. Avoid this loser of a series if you have any taste or sense. 378 words

Why You Should Eat Breakfast Every Day Part 1

Admin — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 16:32:52 +0000

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It gives us the energy to make it through the day and keeps our metabolism high as well. It’s easy to skip breakfast with everything we have going on in the morning. After all, we have to walk the dog, get the kids ready for school, feed the cat, iron the blouse we’re planning on wearing to the office and so on. Fixing a healthy and nutritious breakfast just doesn’t seem to fit in with our busy routines. But there are many options for breakfast, both cold and hot. How Am I Supposed To Find Time To Cook Breakfast? Often breakfast can be as simple as pouring a hot cup of water over some instant oatmeal and stirring. Grab a piece of fruit to go with it, or a add handful of berries. One thing I love is my microwave egg poacher. I have a nice runny egg in about 28 seconds, a hard cooked one in about 31. Then I pop on a piece of bread or toast, and depending on how runny it is, I can usually run out the door with it. I can even make my own egg breakfast sandwich at a fraction of the cost I would have to pay at a fast food place. Toast the bread or muffin lightly, then put cheese and or ham or Canadian bacon on top, give it 10 seconds in the microwave, then add your poached egg, for a real feast. Often I have leftover potatoes and veggies like onions and peppers and tomatos. Why not do your own breakfast burrito. Cut up into bite-sized pieces, stir all the ingredients together in a skillet, and then add your egg and scramble all together. Serve toast on the site with more of the heated potato, or put the whole in a large wrap, You can even add a slice of or some shredded cheese, salsa, sour cream, whatever. So it makes a great brunch too. So does leftover quiche, or french toast, also a great way to deal with any slightly stale bread you might have hanging around. You can season the french toast with cinnamon, vanilla, maple flavor, and you can have a couple of microwaved sausages or strips of bacon on the site. There are many cold breakfast options. The most obvious ones are cereal, granola, granola bars, fruit, yogurt, cottage cheese, bagels and lox, a piece of quiche. Avoid the pop tart kind of things that are too sugary and carb-y, as they can pack on the pounds and make you jittery with sugar spikes. Avoid danishes and over-large muffins for the same reason. The baked goods you get so cheaply at Costco and other food clubs are indeed a bargain, but look at the size of the things! If you must buy them, try eating half each day. Freeze them and thaw in the microwave. Or if they have been sitting a day or two, freshen them up in the microave for about 12 seconds. Continued in Why You Should Eat Breakfast Every Day Part 2 Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Why You Should Eat Breakfast Every Day Part 2

Admin — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:35:36 +0000

Continued from part 1 How Am I Supposed To Find Time To Cook Breakfast Every Morning? The solution is not to cook at all. Why not try a breakfast smoothie? The nutritious shakes blend together in a matter of minutes. Just pour your favorite breakfast smoothie in an insulated cup and you have breakfast to go. You’ll find quick and easy recipes for a variety of smoothies at this site. Just click on the Smoothie link. One thing is for sure, whatever breakfast you choose, you will feel more healthy and more in control of your energy, body, and moods, because you will be getting continuous nutrition throughout the day if you eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With good meal planning, you will also save time and money, and above all, make smarter food choices when you are not in the grip of uncontrollable ravenous hunger. Finally, protein such as is found in eggs, and fiber, found in cereals and fruit, can both make you feel full and have excellent nutritional value and few calories as compared with the convenience foods you might be grabbing, even those supposedly healthy meal replacement bars, which can be loaded with sugar, high fructose corn syrup, cheap soy, nuts to add flavor but also fat, and lots of preservatives. So try to make the time every day to make your own breakfast. Your body and family will thank you for it. Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Book Review: The Holding by Claudia Dain

Admin — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 16:44:53 +0000

1.0 out of 5 stars Wooden-let it go! I am sorry, but I have truly given up on Ms. Dain as an author. Nearly all of her supposed love scenes are nonconsensual. Please, can the romance 'industry' get away from the bodice rippers of the 70s already? Intelligent modern readers want so much more. The deflowering of women is just not an entertaining topic, and especially not when done with such graphic and down right crass mishandling. William finds out the heroine is not a virgin, and immediately blames her without ever once stoping to look around him at the ruined mansion he has got thanks to marrying a total stranger. She is just a possession to him like everything else. He just can't bear the thought of anyone sharing fun with her except him. He doesn't understand that every time he calls her Cat and falls upon her like a starving man on his dinner, that this is what her attacker used to do to her. He hardly even bothers to try to understand her point of view until it is forcibly shoved under his nose. William is not quite as Neanderthal as her other heroes but he comes pretty close. Then we have her rapist Lambert going about scot free and trying to reclaim her. He tries to kill her, and at last she fights back for about a minute. Graphic violence ensues, and that includes William being stabbed in both sides with swords and still surviving to kill the villain. PUH-LEEESE. We never see any commitment warmth or fondness in any of these books, just unremitting doom and gloom, and miserable lives for all her female characters. This was not really characteristic of the period at all and yes, invasion is not pretty, but life does go on, with love and Christian hope and forgiveness. Again, authors should always beware of imposing their modern sensibilities on their historically based characters, because they then lose a lot of the point as to why they would set the book in that time period on the first place. This is not quite as depressing as some of Ms. Dain's other books, but the characters are flat and insipid and not people I ever care about even though we are supposed to admire her as a victim. and him for 'forgivng' her for having been raped. I would rather admire my characters for being brave, noble, loving and committed to one another. As most intelligent readers of romance would. Let this one go for sure. The first thing you can teach ever author who comes to you for editing advice is, "A romance is the hero and heroine falling in love, and working toward a happily ever after ending." I wish romance writers would remember that. 472 words

Do you believe in a little magic pill for weight loss Part 1

Admin — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 20:20:29 +0000

This new article has been posted at Weight Loss Goddess

Product Review: Yogi Tea, Chai Redbush

Admin — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 20:58:04 +0000

Product Review: Yogi Tea, Chai Redbush 5 out of 5 stars As the name suggest, this is an organic caffeine-free herbal tea which mimics the tste of real chai, normally made with black tea. It also has cinnamon, cardamom, ginger root, clove bud, and stevia to make for a full-bodied drink any time on its own, or with a dash of milk, or soy milk. If you made it with all milk, it would be great as a wonderful dessert-like tea, especially after eating Indian food. If you like robust and flavorful teas, this is a great choice without any caffeine.

Do you believe in a little magic pill for weight loss Part 2

Admin — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 20:25:13 +0000

This article has been posted at: Weight-Loss Goddess

Meditation for total health

Admin — Sat, 05 Jan 2008 21:52:45 +0000

From Yogi Bhajan, Master of Kundalini Yoga Sit cross-legged on the floor with a straight back, or on a chair with spine straight and feet flat. Bend your right elbow and raise your hand as thoough taking an oath. Raise the first two fingers, and pin down the other two with your pinkie. Do the same hand position with your left hand's fingers, but place the tips of the first two fingers on the breastbone in the center of the chest. Close your eyes. Move the focus of the breath from the nose, to the center of the brow (the third eye) to the heart, and repeat. Practice this for 3-11 minutes. Inhanle, exhale and then relax at the end, and feel the sense of well-neing flood through you.

Leftover Magic Part 1

Admin — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 15:53:36 +0000

What do you do when a meal is finished? Most of us wash the dishes and wrap up the leftovers. But what happens to the leftover portions? Do they get consumed later? Or do they just sit in the refrigerator until they start to smell and either risk eating them, or you finally throw them out? If you tend to do the latter, how about saving some time and money by learning how to use those leftovers in new ways to surprise your family at dinner time. Some people like leftovers and some do not. Men really tend to hate leftovers. Many people might eat them one day later, but since we are omnivores (we eat everything!), most people will quickly get tired of eating the same thing over and over. Yet at the same time, cooking in larger quantities can save time and money too. It is just as easy to prepare dinner for 4 as it is for one if we are talking about many dishes like stews or casseroles. In addition, a lot of the shopping clubs sell meat and many other fresh foods in very large quantities. Leftover Magic for Singles So what is a single gal or guy to do? Or the budget conscious mom looking for wholesome meals? For the single person, the easiest thing is to cook a quantity for 4, and then use plastic food containers for your own TV dinners, or handy lunches to brown bag to the office to save money. A leftover stew or meatloaf can go a long way if you divide it up into portions. Label your containers and rotate your meals. You might find you can do all your cooking for a month in only a matter of hours if you are organized and plan ahead. Another way to use leftovers wisely it is to take a main part of the meal, and spin it into other meals you can then freeze, or take for lunch. For example, you can boil a large quantity of spaghetti, and use it with different pasta sauces, home-made, or jarred. You can also use it as noodles for stir fry, or eat cold as part of a pasta salad. You can even bake it with milk and egg for a custardy noodle pudding. You can do something similar with rice, making it into a stiry fry, Spanish rice with turmeric, rice and beans, stuffing with wild rice, even rice pudding. Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Leftover Magic Part 2

Admin — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 15:55:35 +0000

Continued from Part 1 Leftover Magic for Families As for large, busy families, yes, you can certainly freeze the leftovers to have another time, but with a little bit of advanced planning, you can come up with a couple of days of menus in minutes. Let's look at what is happening in your house now. You prepare a roasted pork loin and rice for dinner one night. The family wants something else for dinner the following night, so the forlorn and soon forgotten pork loin gets pushed to the back of the refrigerator. Normally, that’s where it will stay until you clean out the fridge, right? But not anymore. That is a total waste of time, money, and energy. With a bit of forward planning when you shop, and some creativity, you can spin your leftovers into something everyone will want to eat, not throw away. Eating leftovers the way they were originally served is probably what’s turning family members off from wanting it again the next night. Therefore, don't expect them to want it again exactly the same way. Instead, chop that pork loin up into bite sized cubes, and take your leftover rice as well if you have any. In a large skillet or wok, stir fry the leftover rice with a bag of frozen veggies, an egg, and some of the chopped pork loin to make pork fried rice. Add a little soy sauce and you’ve got a whole new dinner for your hungry family. This is just one way that leftovers can be turned into a new dish with a new flavor. The same can also be done using chicken, seafood, or beef. Stirfry is a great way to use a wide variety of ingredients as well, and best of all, you don't just have to use rice. You could make the same dish with left-over plain boiled spaghetti, making a great lo mein noodle dish. Let’s take a look at beef next. If you have hamburgers leftover from dinner one night, crumble or chop them up until they resemble ground beef again. The meat can be combined with chili powder and taco sauce to make beef tacos. Or, you could add some kidney beans, chopped peppers and tomatoes, and sauce to create a pot of chili. If you have the imagination, there are an unlimited number of possibilities of what you can do with meats and side dishes from a previous night’s dinner. Using a little leftover magic can make one meal last for two, three, or even four more days. But, you don’t have to eat it all in the same week. Fix a new meal with the leftovers and freeze it until you are ready to have that particular meat again. On that day, dinner will already be made and all you’ll need to do is heat it up. You will have a great meal in minutes for you and the whole family. Your family will be amazed at your ability to transform any meal into a new creation they will enjoy. Besides that, you will save money on your grocery bill. Your leftovers won't end up in the trash can as spoiled food. Try these and similar ideas to expand your family’s palate, and your time and budget. 1004 words Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Book Review: The Silver Lion by Lynn Kerstan

Admin — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 16:46:29 +0000

1.0 out of 5 stars Less than glittering third book I enjoyed the other two books in the series, having been given a recommendation in the American Library Association best romance of the year list. While the first two were well exectuted (emphasis o the executed, since they are heavily plotetd) this one really cranked it out, but with about as much romantic/erotic tension as a wooden Indian. The heroine is a bluestocking interested in social welfare and she s so virtuous, it is hard to believe she would just say, "Ok, come to my bedroom to have sex with me, I'll be ready for you in half an hour." Which she does. We get more detail of her birth control practices than we do of her passionate interest for the hero. Ugh. Our hero may be known as the Archangel and fabulously handsome and eligible, but he is thoroughly unlikable in my opinion. He is rude, patronizing, and above all, in love with another woman (another man's wife) in the book throughout nearly the whole of it, whilst still deciding to put himself on the Marriage Mart with the help of his female secretary, whom he is trying to make into his mistress. Ugh again. He also has a ex-mistress he spends more time with than the heroine, and is so patronizing towards her, it is a wonder she doesn't kill him with her bare hands! I don't see anything passionate or sensual in this book at all. The ONLY love scene in the whole book happens on page 71. Any of the usual conventional ways of getting them romantically linked again are totally forfeited. The unchaperoned trip into the countryside, old deserted inn, all of them in peril... Sound familiar? But it is all to try to discover who has tried to murder him. They never even so much as kiss!! Or hold hands or touch! The book drags on way too long. The title is based on the costume she wears in the last 10 pages of the book, when he finally sees who she really is through her startling family resemblance to all the males in her family. Silly, really. The fact that the heroine is supposed to have been in so much danger all these years that she walks around in dark glasses to hide her eyes, which only call attention to her appearance, and a terrible wig which also calls attention to her, is all the more absurd. Anyone else would have just sent her to America or India if it were that risky for her to be found. All of this absurdity might have been overlooked if there had been some heat between the couple, but anything there was in the wooden, totally in the dark love scene which lasts a page or two without any sensuality, dies totally after page 72. The so-called mystery is predictable, and not worth the time or effort to plow through the book. 504 words

Strawberry-Banana Breakfast Smoothie

Admin — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 16:37:23 +0000

Strawberry-Banana Breakfast Smoothie One Serving • 1 cup orange juice • 3 tbsp nonfat dry milk powder • 1/2 banana; cut into pieces • 10 fresh strawberries; hulled • 3 ice cubes Combine all the ingredients in your blender. Blend until thick and frothy. Nutritional Facts Per Serving: Calories 209 Total Fat 0 grams Saturated Fat 0 grams Cholesterol 0 milligrams Sodium 70 milligrams Total Carbohydrate 45 grams Dietary Fiber 1 grams Sugars 29 grams Protein 7 grams Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Product review: Meditative Time Tea

Admin — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 21:00:48 +0000

2 out of 5 stars This is a very very aromatic tea not for the faint of heart. Though it comes with natural boysenberry and lavender flavor, the sage and nettle in it can't really be avoided. Even with sugar, this is an exercise in mind over matter. I know one of Yogi Bhajan's favorite sayings was "Keep up!" but in this case it has to be "keep down!"

Sunny Start Smoothie

Admin — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 16:50:16 +0000

Sunny Start Smoothie Two Servings • 1 cup of orange juice • 2 bananas - cut • 2 Tablespoons of honey • 1 orange - peeled and cut • 1/4 cup of granola Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Nutritional Facts Per Serving: Calories 296 Total Fat 2 grams Saturated Fat 0 grams Cholesterol 0 milligrams Sodium 30 milligrams Total Carbohydrate 71 grams Dietary Fiber 6 grams Sugars 27 grams Protein 4 grams Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Fruit Bran Milk Shake

Admin — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 16:42:03 +0000

Fruit Bran Milk Shake One Serving • 2 cups Skim milk • 1/4 cup All bran cereal • 1/4 tsp Cinnamon • 1/2 tsp Vanilla • 1 Medium apple (sliced) Freeze 1 1/2 cups of the milk in a cube tray overnight. Put the bran, cinnamon, vanilla, and apple into a blender. Add the remaining 1/2 cup of milk. Blend for 20 seconds. Continue blending and slowly, one at a time; add of the frozen milk cubes. Nutritional Facts Per Serving: Calories 261 Total Fat 1 grams Saturated Fat 0 grams Cholesterol 10 milligrams Sodium 320 milligrams Total Carbohydrate 52 grams Dietary Fiber 11 grams Sugars 22 grams Protein 17 grams Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

5 Kitchen Staples to Help Stretch Your Food Budget Part 1

Admin — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 15:56:43 +0000

Ever wonder how our forefathers and foremothers always seemed to have food on the table even in lean times? When we are go to the grocery store every week and get hit up to the tune of hundreds of dollars, we long to know their secret. Actually, it isn’t a secret at all. It was merely good planning and preparation on their part, and an attitude of letting nothing go to waste. Once we adopt this mind set, and focus on the essentials of good nutriion, we too will see our grocery dollar stretch further and our meal times more stress free. The items that we have on hand are what determine what we can cook, and how far our food will go. Filling your cabinets or pantry with a few useful staples can be the difference between a trip to the grocery store each and every week for a huge load of shopping, versus once or twice a month apart from a quick trip for fresh milk, bread, and meat. Stocking up just a few choice items is all you need to create wonderful meals. Flour. Flour is a starter item for many recipes. You can add it to some water and make gravy in the pan for many meat dishes. Flour is used to make bread (biscuits, rolls, loaves) and to coat chicken. It can also be used to coat a round or square cake pan to prevent the cake from sticking. Of course, one of the favorite uses for flour is in cookie recipes that make scrumptious desserts without you spending a fortune on ready-made. Yes, there are a lot of pre-packaged convenience foods out there, but if you are also weight conscious as well as budget conscious, then take control of your health by making it yourself fresh, instead of pulling it out of a package and eating food laden with preservatives and high fructose corn syrup. Rice. My mother loves rice so much that we once bought a fifty pound bag from a grocery store. Rice is a side dish, but it doesn’t have to be plain. It can be jazzed up with veggies to accompany dinner. Spanish rice can be made with finely diced peppers, tomatoes, and a dash of turmeric. My sister-in-law is from Indonesia, and she uses leftover rice for a dessert called sweet rice. Just add evaporated milk and some sugar to a bowl of rice and warm it in the microwave. It is a tasty treat for after dinner. She has rice in the house all the time, which she cooks in an electric rice steamer. She eats it with every meal, including eggs at breakfast. It is certainly cheaper than bread! Another popular dessert is rice pudding. Rice can also be mixed with leftover meat and a cream soup to form a casserole. Rice has many uses as a thickener in soups and so you can be sure to find a few that your family will love. Continued in 5 Kitchen Staples to Help Stretch Your Food Budget Part 2 Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

5 Kitchen Staples to Help Stretch Your Food Budget Part 2

Admin — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 15:57:52 +0000

Continued from Part 1 Pasta. There are many different pasta choices and all have great uses. Manicotti can be stuffed with tomato sauce and cheeses. Macaroni can be used to make a creamy salad and also is great combined with cheese or spaghetti sauce. It can be used for noodle pudding as well for dessert. Spiral pasta is used in many different pasta salads. Spaghetti can be used in a casserole topped with cheese or in the traditional way with tomato sauce and meat. It can also be used as noodles in chinese dishes. Spices. There are other ways to season food besides salt and pepper. In fact, many spices taste better than salt, and are better for you if you are worried about high blood pressure and stroke or heart disease. Even diehard salt-a-holics won’t miss the salt in foods if other seasonings are used. Cayenne pepper, chili powder, oregano, and garlic powder are all useful tools in your flavor arsenal to give foods a fresh new taste. Nutmeg, cinnamon, and the secret pumpkin pie spice mace can be used in many desserts. Spices are also a great way of helping you lose weight—a tasty meal is more satisfying than a bland and dull one. Beans. Beans can top your salad (edamame), make an awesome dip (black beans), and go well with grilled foods (baked beans). They are terrific in chili, using kidney beans, pink beans, pintos, whatever you like. White kidney beans are terrifically versatile, hot, or cold in salad. They provide a good source of protein with very little fat. Beans are good in soups, stews, and over rice for a simple yet filling meal. Garbanzo beans, also known as chick peas, are great as a dip, or in soup with pasta, or in Indian food, as are kidney beans. They are brilliant in Mediterranean food, as are white kidney beans and pink beans. Best of all, beans are not only healthy, but they can be very cheap. You can buy them dried, in very large quantities, very inexpensively. Just make sure you follow the package instructions on how to cook them before they go into your recipes. If you are pressed for time, the canned kind are excellent these days. Do you have these staples in your kitchen? You can probably think of several more that will enhance your pantry and save money. Start with these and grow your own list of basic kitchen staples that are versatile and economical, to get the most out of your grocery budget. 959 words Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Book Review: Can You Keep a Secret? by Sophie Kinsella

Admin — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:49:25 +0000

5.0 out of 5 stars Very funny, ROTFL funny I am not normally a fan of romantic comedy but this had the perfect touch. You meet the man of your dreams on a plane, and he turns out to be your new boss when you are back at work on Monday morning. Only instead of telling a pack of lies to impress the total stranger, she blurts out the whole truth about everything and everyone in her life. There are the white lies we tell, and things we don't say at all, to avoid hurting the people we care about, and then there are huge whoppers. Emma falls into the first category. Jack is so secretive she can't get him to talk at all. When he finally does, he tells all about her, because he loves her. But with the most shocking results. The dramatic tension and romantic tension in the book is far better than any of her Shopaholic books. And I find Emma much more charming. The cast of characters who all get their comeuppance in one way or the other are priceless. One thing is for sure, you will never look at lawyers or little white lies the same way again, let alone thong underwear! I loved Jack-he actually had personality compare with Luke in her other books. Fast paced and extremely funny! Enjoy! 237 words

Orange Splash Smoothie

Admin — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 16:38:33 +0000

Orange Splash Smoothie Two Servings • 1 6-ounce can frozen orange juice concentrate • 1 cup cold water • 1 cup non-fat milk • 1/3 cup sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 10 ice cubes Combine the first five ingredients in a blender; process at high speed. Add ice cubes, a few at a time, blending until smooth. Nutritional Facts Per Serving: Calories 190 Total Fat 0 grams Saturated Fat 0 grams Cholesterol 2 milligrams Sodium 62 milligrams Total Carbohydrate 45 grams Dietary Fiber 0 grams Sugars 44 grams Protein 4 grams Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Product Review: Yogi Tea, Indian Spice Tea

Admin — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 21:01:53 +0000

1 out of 5 starts This is caffeine free, with rooibos, and a boatload of spices. In fact, this one is so spicy, one teabag makes a gallon! Not even turning it into chai and adding sugar can really get rid of the overwheming pepper and cardamom. Seriously, I would use it as a cooking base for lentils, dhal, or a rice dish like pillau rice, but as a tea it even blows my head off, and I love spices.

Mocha Java Smoothie

Admin — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:44:59 +0000

One Serving • 1 cup vanilla soymilk • 1 and 1/2 cup ice • 1/3 cup tofu firm • 3/4 cup bananas -- sliced/frozen • 1/4 cup chocolate syrup • 2 teaspoons instant coffee In a blender, combine all ingredients. Blend until smooth. Nutritional Facts Per Serving: Calories 229 Total Fat 1 grams Saturated Fat 0 grams Cholesterol 0 milligrams Sodium 85 milligrams Total Carbohydrate 52 grams Dietary Fiber 4 grams Sugars 11 grams Protein 3 grams Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Meditation for self-renewal

Admin — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 21:54:36 +0000

From Yogi Bhajan, Master of Kundalini Yoga Sit cross-legged on the floor with a straight back, or on a chair with spine straight and feet flat. Raise your arms so that the hands are in front of your chest, right over left, with your palms facing downwards, about 4 inches apart. Close your eyes and inhale deeply through your mouth, which you should form into an O. As you breathe, feel yourself expand the ribcage and diaphragm. To exhale, close your mouth and do it through the nose. Continue for 3 to 11 minutes. To conclude, inhale deeply, hold the breath, and squeeze your whole body while stretching the spine upwards, then exhale, Repeat 2 more times, and relax.

It’s not Delivery Pizza, It’s Homemade Part 1

Admin — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 15:59:41 +0000

How many times have we opted for fast food for lunch or dinner instead of planning ahead and cooking? There’s no telling how much money we’ve spent on that one meal that easily becomes a few (or more) meals a week. Instead of picking up that telephone and calling for delivery pizza, why not come up with some ways to stretch your food budget, and eat more healthy at the same time? For example, why not get the family together and make one at home? Making homemade pizza can become a great new family tradition. Choose a day of the week when everyone can get together and enjoy the experience. You can even pretend that you are in a real Italian eatery, and go all out by decorating the dining room table to resemble a pizzeria. The best thing about homemade pizza is picking the toppings. You can do one large pizza and divide it into sections, or, if you like a lot of crust like my mother, you can make individual personal pizzas. Since it is your personal pizza, you can have as many different toppings as you like. It’s a chance to raid the cabinets and the fridge to find good stuff to top your creation, and also perhaps to use up some of those leftovers you're never quite sure what to do with, like meatballs, broccoli, spinach, corn, ham, chicken, whatever you like. THE CRUST How will you prepare the crust? Now, this step can be easy or an adventure. You can use an already prepared crust from the store like Pillsbury pizza crust in the pop open can, or a Boboli pizza crust. They are not too expensive, especially if you buy them in bulk and keep them on the shelf or in the fridge or freezer until ready to use. It you want to treat the family to a fun time with flour and dough, choose to make your own crusts. With your own, the size of the pizza can be customized for each person in the family. Making your own dough crusts will also make use of those handy pantry staples we talked about in another artcile, the cheap, all purpose flour. You can find a classic pizza dough recipe on the Internet and in just about any cookbook, so find one that you like and read the instructions. You will also need yeast, and time to raise it. One other possibility is French bread or Italian bread pizza. A lot of bakeries sell loaves cheaply anyway, and even cheaper if it is day old bread, which would work fine for our purposes because it will hold up well to the sauce and toppings without getting mushy. Still other people pressed for time or who want a quick lunch time treat might for for the English muffin pizza. Again, just make sure you toast it lightly first so it doesn't get soggy once you add your sauce, toppings and cheese. If you are making your own dough, once then the dough is ready, shape it into a circle of appropriate size. Create a rim on the dough so that the sauce won’t bubble over onto the oven rack. Now comes the fun part. The dough is ready to be dressed to the nines with whatever you like. Continued in: It’s not Delivery Pizza, It’s Homemade Part 2 Meal Planning Made Simple

It’s not Delivery Pizza, It’s Homemade Part 2

Admin — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 16:01:13 +0000

On top of the crust For the sauce, you can cook it yourself. We often make larger quantities than we need, and then freeze them in little plastic containers you can thaw at room temperature, or zap for a minute in the microwave. If you are using the microwave, remember to transfer the sauce into a glass bowl so you don't get those unsightly red stains on your tupperware. If pressed for time and can't cookk the sauce from scratch, you can use the store bought kind out of a jar. Spread the sauce over the dough and be sure to cover it to the rim. Next, top the pizza sauce with your favorite cheeses. It’s more economical to purchase a block of cheese and use a grater to slice it for pizza toppings. Those already shredded bags have only two or three cups in each, which is not going to go the distance for an entire family, especially if you like it extra cheesy. Besides, fresh cheese melts better; the stuff in bags is usually pretty dry. Then top the cheese with your favorite meat and veggies. Want to have even more fun with your family pizza creations? See who can make the wildest pizza. Throw a little leftover chicken or hamburger on top. How about jalapenos? They're good for those who like it hot. Don’t forget the spices. It wouldn’t be a pizza without oregano, basil, and some thyme, perhaps some fennel if you love that italian sausage taste, or some red pepper flakes, black pepper, or a dash of sea salt. If you have at least two baking stones or pizza trays, you can make more than one at a time. Everyone can help to clean up while you wait for dinner to be ready. When the timer goes off, you have a great homemade pizza. If there are leftovers of your pizza, enjoy them tomorrow for lunch! The cost of ingredients for the pizza might add up, especially the cheese, or if you don't make the sauce and crust home-made, but again, if you are cooking it yourself, you have a lot more control over calories and the freshness of the ingredients. It can also be a great way to use up leftovers! Enjoy. 936 words Meal Planning Made Simple

Book Review: Affair Most Wicked by Julianne Maclean

Admin — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 16:50:31 +0000

3.0 out of 5 stars Much better than first one, but fizzles out at the end I loved the chemistry between the couple and the way they meet, but once they are married all of the issues they should have thrashed out before they tied the knot come to the fore and threaten to pull them apart. As do the villains. Then the emphasis swings to the villains, and we lose the sizzle and spark we had hoped for. It could have been a much better and more sexy book with a lot more focus and precision. The ending was also quite predictable, and I am not impressed with Seger's sudden change of heart after all his brooding. Still, it is a fast and fun read if you don't mind the obvious, creaking plot and a hero who has nothing to recommend him except being a rake. Not EVERY woman in the world, or in the regency period, woud want a rake willing to bonk anything that moved! 175 words

Tropical Fruit Shake

Admin — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 16:39:47 +0000

Tropical Fruit Shake One Serving • 1/2 mango • 2 Tablespoon frozen pina coloda mix (non-alcoholic) • 1/2 banana -- frozen • 4 strawberries -- frozen • 6 ice cubes • 1 and 1/4 cup cold water Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Nutritional Facts Per Serving: Calories 149 Total Fat 2 grams Saturated Fat 0 grams Cholesterol 0 milligrams Sodium 10 milligrams Total Carbohydrate 30 grams Dietary Fiber 1 grams Sugars 18 grams Protein 0 grams Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Product Review: Yogi Tea, Ginger

Admin — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:59:38 +0000

3 out of 5 stars This is a very strong warming tea, supposed to be good as an aid to digestion. I must admit though I really love ginger, it is a bit too strong on its own, and really needs some sort of sweetener. In fact, a bit of sugar or honey makes it strongly resemble a powerful ginger ale or thick ginger beer. It is caffeine free, and not something you would want to drink with milk in it.

6 Frugal Breakfast Ideas Part 1

Admin — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 16:51:20 +0000

It is the first meal we eat when we get up in the morning. After a long night of sleep, we can’t do without it if we want to get our bodies going. No, I’m not talking about coffee. I’m referring to breakfast. Here are six frugal and healthy ideas for breakfast that don’t require a drive-thru window or a mega-muffin with a millon calories. 1. Have a piece of casserole. It takes time to cook eggs and bacon for breakfast. No one wants to ruin their clothes with the mess it can create. On Sunday night, get breakfast done early. Put together a casserole using your favorite ingredients. Fewer eggs are needed in a casserole than when frying or scrambling them for breakfast each morning. Depending on the size of your family, the casserole may last two to three mornings. 2. Yogurt. Yogurt is a healthy and economical breakfast choice. When you are eating on the run, grab a container of yogurt and some dried or fresh fruit. Cutting up fruit on top of the yogurt adds carbohydrates to fuel you for the morning in addition to the calcium and protein in the yogurt itself. 3. Breakfast smoothies. This is even quicker and can be ingested while driving without taking your eyes off the road or both hands off the wheel. Put together some frozen fruit favorites, ice cubes, frozen yogurt, and unsweetened juice in a blender. Pour into Styrofoam cups to keep it cold. Everyone can grab a cup on the way out the door. The nutritional effect is about the same as yogurt, but without the spoon. We have lots of smoothie recipes here at the site to help you get started with some ideas. 4. Pigs in a blanket. This is the homemade version. Whip up a batch of pancakes and freeze them in short stacks of three. A package or two of frozen link sausage is needed to create this quick and economical meal idea. Thaw out a stack of pancakes. Heat up three sausages in the microwave. Wrap a pancake around each sausage. Voila! You’ve got an instant pig in a blanket. Eat it as you watch the last of your favorite morning show or as you walk to the bus stop. It can be eaten in the car without too much fuss or mess. For a sweeter taste and less mess, add a little maple syrup or honey to the batter when making the pancakes. You can also wrap them in bread and head out. Continued in 6 Frugal Breakfast Ideas Part 2 Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

6 Frugal Breakfast Ideas Part 2

Admin — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 17:20:38 +0000

Continued from part 1 5. Breakfast sandwiches. In the evening, while you are getting things ready for the next day, grill up a few breakfast sandwiches. Choose whatever you like: turkey slices, ham slices, cheese, tomato, bacon, etc. Cut it into bite size pieces and put it in a container. In the morning, just grab a container; pop it into the microwave for fifteen or twenty seconds and breakfast is served. 6. Quiche. Quiche is a great portable food made of eggs, milk, cheese, whatever ham or veggies you want, and is usually in some sort of crust, so you can slice it and take it away with you, eat it hot or cold, as breakfast, lunch, brunch, or dinner. Our favorite variation is a crustless souffle type quiche with made with a cup of bisquik and a cup of all the other ingredients except the milk, which need two cups. Quiche Recipe Pre-heat oven to 350 F. Grease a large, flat pan at least 12 inches in diameter and 2 inches deep. Take a cup of ham, broccoli, spinach, pepper, or whatever you want to put in your quick quiche, and a cup of grated cheese of choice. Swiss, emanthaler, even cheddar works well. Spread these ingredients evenly on the bottom of the greased pan. Next, put 2 cups of milk and 4 eggs in a blender and beat for 1 minute, then add a pinch of salt and a generous teaspoon of black pepper. Then add 1 cup of bisquick and mix til smooth. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients in your pan, and bake for 45-50 minutes in the 350 F oven. Test center to see if it has set. Can be served hot or cold. If you are going to serve hot, decide if you want it fluffy or solid. If solid, then let stand for about 20 minutes before slicing, and serve with salad. This quiche works well hot or cold and a slice on the run at breakfast is better and fewer calories than anything you might get on the road. These six frugal breakfast ideas are time saving and money-saving too, as well as being healthy for you. They make use of items you buy normally and also whatever you have around the house to create delicious fare for a morning rush. Now you have no more excuses for skipping breakfast, or swinging into the fast food restaurant every morning. You can have a healthy breakfast without being late for work. 879 words Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Quickest Quiche Recipe

Admin — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 17:25:27 +0000

Pre-heat oven to 350 F. Grease a large, flat pan at least 12 inches in diameter and 2 inches deep. Take a cup of ham, broccoli, spinach, pepper, or whatever you want to put in your quick quiche, and a cup of grated cheese of choice. Swiss, emanthaler, even cheddar works well. Spread these ingredients evenly on the bottom of the greased pan. Next, put 2 cups of milk and 4 eggs in a blender and beat for 1 minute, then add a pinch of salt and a generous teaspoon of black pepper. Then add 1 cup of bisquick and mix til smooth. Pour this mixture over the dry ingredients in your pan, and bake for 45-50 minutes in the 350 F oven. Test center to see if it has set. This can be served hot or cold. If you are going to serve hot, decide if you want it fluffy or solid. If solid, then let stand for about 20 minutes before slicing, and serve with salad. This quiche works well hot or cold and a slice on the run at breakfast is better and fewer calories than anything you might get on the road. It makes a great lunch or dinner with salad. The ingredients are inexpensive and it is healthy for you, the 4 eggs may seem like a lot, but it is stretching out into 8 or more portions of food. You can use 3 only if you are cholesterol conscious, or 4 eggs with only 2 yolks, and the 4 whites.

Chocolate Banana Soy Smoothie

Admin — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 17:32:25 +0000

One Serving • 1 cup soy milk (plain or vanilla) • 1 medium banana - quartered • 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup • 3 ice cubes Add all ingredients to the blender and blend until smooth. Nutritional Facts Per Serving: Calories 177 Total Fat 1 grams Saturated Fat 0 grams Cholesterol 0 milligrams Sodium 85 milligrams Total Carbohydrate 40 grams Dietary Fiber 3 grams Sugars 11 grams Protein 3 grams Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Oatmeal Smoothie

Admin — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 17:33:20 +0000

Oatmeal Smoothie One Serving • 1 cup apple juice • 1 frozen banana • 3 heaping tablespoons of uncooked oatmeal • 3 tablespoons of maple syrup • additional frozen fruit if desired Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Nutritional Facts Per Serving: (Without Additional Fruit) Calories 375 Total Fat 2 grams Saturated Fat 0 grams Cholesterol 0 milligrams Sodium 106 milligrams Total Carbohydrate 90 grams Dietary Fiber 4 grams Sugars 43 grams Protein 3 grams Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

Blueberry Smoothie

Admin — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 16:40:43 +0000

Blueberry Smoothie Two Servings • 1 pint fresh blueberries or 2 cups (10 oz.) frozen blueberries -- slightly thawed • 1 cup pineapple or orange juice • 1 container (8 oz.) lowfat vanilla yogurt • 2 teaspoon sugar Combine all ingredients in your blender and blend until smooth. Nutritional Facts Per Serving: Calories 175 Total Fat 2 grams Saturated Fat 1 grams Cholesterol 8 milligrams Sodium 80 milligrams Total Carbohydrate 35 grams Dietary Fiber 0 grams Sugars 32 grams Protein 6 grams Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

New Pet articles series: Dog Vaccinations

Admin — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 03:07:26 +0000

We have a new series on Dog Vaccinations, for all you dog lovers our there at http://www.pet-goddess.com

Book Review: To Marry the Duke by Julianne Maclean

Admin — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:51:30 +0000

1.0 out of 5 stars Really wooden The dialogue creaks and churns, the 'spark' between the couple flickers and dies, and the two people are really not very likeable. James is wooden, a duke who does what all day? They are supposed to be betrothed for two months, yet the supposed sizzle is contained for that long? And they hardly know each other, we never get to see his family? The whole blackmail thing is predictable and trite. James' cruelty is inexusable, as is his lack of explanaion to his wife. The whole latter half of the book is a tragedy of errors and I can't honestly say I know enough about these characters at the end to be interested in them enough to figure out why they fell in love. Or care. Her second book is a lot better, sexy and witty. This one was passable, a tried and tested formula that in this case has the emotional intensity of a log. 172 words

Product Review: Avon NATURALS Lip Balm Vanilla

Admin — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 04:49:39 +0000

Product Review: Avon NATURALS Lip Balm Vanilla Price: $0.99 5.0 out of 5 stars Quite tasty, very smooth I liked this lip balm in a stick because it goes on nice and smooth, easily, not sticky. It makes your lips feel really moist but not glued together. It is not too heavy, and kissable, and holds up pretty well with food and drink. The vanilla taste is nice too, not too cloying or artificial. I use it every day, several times a day, and the tube is still going strong. Excellent value for the money. It also comes in a really great raspberrry flavor. I bought mine through the Amazon Avon store, so prices may be different elsewhere, but it came promptly and the shipping was really reasonable as well.

Product Review: Yogi Tea, Sweet Thai Delight

Admin — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 20:57:00 +0000

Product Review: Yogi Tea, Sweet Thai Delight 5 out of 5 stars This is a great caffeine-free tea you can enjoy any time. The base is redbush (rooibos), but cinnamon, anise, and cardomom, along with stevia, make this a light and very flavorful tea. It also has a hint of coconut flavor and butterscotch, so it is almost like having tea and dessert all rolled into one. You can enjoy it with or without a dash of milk or soy milk. If you made it with all milk, it would be great as a light, refreshing chai at any time, and perfect with thai food.

Yoga for Sunny Energy

Admin — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 20:52:53 +0000

From Yogi Bhajan, Master of Kundalini Yoga Sit cross-legged on the floor with a straight back, or on a chair with spine straight and feet flat. Block your left nostril with the left hand, and take 26 long deep breaths through the right nostril only. Relax and feel the energy vibrate through you.

Avoiding Portion Distortion

Admin — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 20:26:45 +0000

This new article on Portion Distortion and what it means for healthy eating has been posted at Weight-Loss Goddess.

Meditation for longevity

Admin — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 21:55:38 +0000

Grom Yogi Bhajan Sit cross-legged on the floor with a straight back. Raise your right arm so that it is in front of you at a 60 degree angle, move your left arm behind you so that it is also at a 60 degree angle pointing downwards. Your eye focus will be looking down at your chin. Position 1 for 3 minutes: Point the index finger of each hand. Position 2 for 3 minutes Point the index finger and pinkie of each hand. Position 3 for 3 minutes Point the all the fingers of each hand. To conclude, inhale deeply, hold the breath, and squeeze your whole body while stretching the spine upwards, then exhale, Repeat 2 more times, and relax. Doing this every day for exactly 9 minutes, no more, is said to extend life considerably.

Free Preview: Heart’s Desire

Admin — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 20:36:35 +0000

Heart's Desire

Sorcha MacMurrough

Nurse Sinead Thomas rescues the hospital's handsome architect Austin Riordan from a life-threatening situation. Touched by the high-powered man's sudden vulnerability, she agrees to his proposal to become his private nurse over the Christmas holidays while he recovers his full health.

Sinead gets more than she bargained for as she gets drawn inextricably into his web of sensuality. The passionate relationship they forge is like nothing Sinead has never known, and she soon finds herself falling in love with her enigmatic new employer.

But a cunning woman from Austin's past soon sets herself up as a professional and very personal rival to Sinead at the hospital and in Austin's life.

Is Austin really all he seems? Or has he been playing her all along to further his own hidden agenda? Can Austin and Sinead fight their inner and outer demons to secure their hearts' desire?

Heart's Desire Sorcha MacMurrough 67,000 words Setting: Modern Ireland Rating: Mildly sensual &amp;lt;A href=heartsd.buy.htm target=_blank&amp;gt; No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button&amp;lt;/A&amp;gt;

Heart's Desire Chapter One

"Men drivers!" Sinead grumbled, as the gleaming Jaguar in front of her remained stationary even though the light had long since changed to green.

Irritation gave way to concern as she saw the driver slump forward onto the steering wheel. Instinctively, she hit her hazard lights and dashed out of her car.

Sinead pulled hastily at the door of the Jaguar, and carefully pushed the driver against the back of the seat. Her violet eyes searched the face anxiously. A glimmer of steel-gray peered at her briefly, and Sinead heard her name whispered before they shut again.

Sinead sniffed the man, and decided that whatever was wrong with him, it certainly wasn't drunkenness. She pulled up his eyelids, and saw the pupils dilated. She turned off the car engine and flicked on his hazard lights, and ran back to her car for her handbag. Sinead rummaged for a can of cola and a chocolate bar as she returned to the black Jaguar, and shook the handsome stranger by the shoulder.

"Try to stay awake, sir," Sinead commanded in her best nurse's tone, while she bent to loosen his tie and undo the top button of his shirt.

"Sinead," he said again.

To her horror he leaned forward and brushed her lips with his own.

Oddly enough, Sinead didn't jump. She forced the shivery feelings that had begun to course though her veins to one side as she insisted, "Come now, you must drink some of this." She opened the cola with shaking fingers before pressing it to his lips.

The man held her hand as he drank thirstily. Sinead tried to stop trembling as the contact invaded her senses. Who was he? Why did he look so familiar? And how did he know her name?

Sinead's reverie was broken by the sound of a car horn. She pressed the can into the man's hand and shut the door quickly. Both cars were blocking the road, and she had to get help for her sick patient as soon as possible.

Sinead hurried back to her red Mini, and drove it a small distance up the road to the entrance of the primary school. There she parked it, grabbed her canvas holdall, and locked the car securely.

On the way back to the Jaguar, Sinead began to shiver. Too late she realized that she'd left her coat in the back of the car, and the bitter November chill clawed at her uniform and cardigan. But there was no time to go back with the Jaguar still blocking the road and the sick man requiring full medical attention. Hugging her arms around herself, Sinead ran down the lane and onto the main road.

The gentleman now looked more awake, and she asked, "Can you move over, so I can drive?"

"I think I might need a little help," he replied in a slightly slurred voice.

The two front seats were wide, so with some pulling and a great deal of rather embarrassingly intimate chest to chest physical contact, Sinead slid him over to the passenger side, and belted him in. She was breathless by the time she finished, as though she'd run a mile in a minute.

"If you can try to finish the drink, and eat this chocolate bar, you should start feeling better. But I must take you to the Emergency Room to get someone else to look at you," Sinead said in her most professional tone.

She looked around the dashboard and gear box, and managed to start the car the car at last. She cautiously looked around, signaled, and headed down the road at last.

"Thank you, I will try," he replied, with a brief smile. He leaned his head back and took another drink.

Sinead studied him briefly once his eyes were closed. The sleek raven black hair and heavy eyebrows, long nose, thin lips, were striking in their masculine beauty. The lithe lean body suggested power and rock-hard control. Sinead finally answered the question which had been nagging her ever since he had first spoken her name.

Oh no, not Austin Riordan, she groaned inwardly. But she was actually relieved to have been the one to discover his diabetic attack. He was their important new architect for Castlemaine General Hospital, responsible for all the renovations and the new extensions which had begun about two months before.

That would explain how he might recognize her, but how had he known her name? And how dare he kiss her? Shame burned Sinead's cheeks as she remember her pleasure at the enthralling contact. She could barely concentrate on the road as she looked at him again only to find him staring at her through veiled lids.

"How are you feeling now?" she asked, attempting a light tone, but she could hear the strained edge in her voice.

"Much better. There's no need to sound so concerned," Austin said with a faint smile.

"Naturally I'm concerned. I'm a nurse at the General. You could have been in real trouble having an attack like that in the middle of a busy road," Sinead said, again trying to sound calm.

"Well, all I can say is thank you for helping me. I have to thank my lucky stars that of all the people in the world I had to collapse in front of, it was you." His eyes closed again slowly, masking his thoughts.

Sinead smiled at this, but felt uneasy, wondering if he remembered kissing her. She put the thought out of her mind as she pulled up to the ER and turned off the engine.

"I'll go get some help for you, Mr. Riordan," Sinead said, unconsciously putting a hand on his arm to comfort him and see whether her words registered or not.

Warm, hard masculine fingers enclosed her own briefly. "I'm in your hands."

Sinead disentangled herself from his caressing fingers as gently as possible. She felt so shaken she wished she could just jerk her hand away and run. She jumped out of the car and called for assistance. As soon as the gurney arrived, she opened the passenger door and unbuckled the seat belt.

Again Sinead caught the masculinely alluring scent of him as she leaned across his chest. Everywhere her body brushed against Austin, her skin seemed to go on fire. Sinead was certain that his lips brushed against her cheek.

Then she felt his strong arms go around her as he tried to get out of the car. He got onto his feet, and the male nurse came around his left side, while his right arm remained firmly around Sinead's shoulders. She shook uncontrollably, sure that his fingers were fondling her long honey-blonde hair.

"I'm sorry, am I heavy?" Austin whispered in her ear intimately.

"No, no, it's not that, Mr. Riordan," she said, taking a deep breath and trying to control her sensual delight at the sound of his deep voice and the nearness of him. "I'm not wearing my coat."

They walked him over to the gurney, and she made him sit down. While Dan the male nurse helped lift Austin's legs onto it, Austin kept hold of Sinead. She practically sprawled on his chest as he pivoted around to lay flat. Austin's warm hand stroked her back and travelled down her arm in a languid caress as she pulled away and his head made contact with the pillow.

"Thank you, my dear. I'll see you soon," Austin murmured.

Dan pushed him away into one of the examining rooms.

Sinead let out a ragged sigh, and stared after Austin as he disappeared. My goodness, that was too close for comfort in more ways than one, she thought with a bemused shake of her head.

She wasn't used to being so man-handled. Even more surprising was the fact that she had actually enjoyed it. She shuddered with a twinge of pleasure at the remembered contact with his warm, vibrant body. No matter how much she told herself it hadn't meant a thing, she couldn't stop smelling his musky fragrance.

Forcing herself to be practical, Sinead went back outside, suddenly realizing she would have to do something with Austin's Jaguar. She drove out of the ambulance bay and around the hospital into the main car park. Then she gathered up her handbag and carryall.

After checking carefully to make sure the car was tidy, and everything switched off, she locked the doors. With one last longing look at the incredible car, and a thought for the even more gorgeous man who owned it, she headed towards the main entrance.

Reviews:

Amazon Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars

A superb sensual novel Beautifully written, with stunning characters, this book is sure to please any reader looking for a thrilling romance with complex characters and a rocky road to true love.

Book Review: The Madcap Marriage

Admin — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 16:52:35 +0000

Book Review: The Madcap Marriage (Signet Regency Romance) by Allison Lane 1.0 out of 5 stars Dire and dull This couple had nothing in common except being members of the human race, though with the way they behaved toward each other that was often debatable. The author struggled hard to get Rafe to have depth, but he just seemed a shallow playboy, and the potential rape, torture, and murder was just too heavy handed, especially juxtaposed as it was with all of her absurd angst over the slimy worm who let her down. I hated the heroine, the near-love-making scenes just got to be too much after a while. By the time they did the deed, I could not have cared less about either of them. With the way the heroine behaved, it was a wonder no one put her in the madhouse before that, she was such a shrew. This is a badly written failure. And to think it was a top American Library Association recommendation. I think most readers picking this up at the library would be appalled. 179 words

Free Preview: The Mad Mistress

Admin — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 20:45:59 +0000

The Mad Mistress A Rakehell Regency Novel Sorcha MacMurrough Regency England, 1812

A Desperate Gamble ... on Love!

Wealthy heiress Vanessa Hawkesworth is offered as the stake in a card game by her half-brother Gerald in order to cover his gambling debts.

Clifford Stone, their nearest neighbor, only agrees to play for her hand in marriage in order to free her from Gerald's excesses. Clifford is fascinated by the lovely if unworldly young bluestocking.

As his attraction grows, so too does his certainty that his new-found love is in increasing danger from malevolent forces who will stop at nothing, not even murder, to seize her newly-acquired fortune.

Vanessa must learn to trust a complete stranger with her heart, and her entire life. Stunned at her new fiance's accusations against Gerald, she is sure she is going mad, torn between loyalty to her family and the wildfire passion that flares every time Clifford touches her.

As new a series of crimes in the district threatens her new-found love and happiness, Vanessa must gamble all herself in order to protect her beloved Clifford, and bring the men responsible to justice before it's too late.

The Mad Mistress A Rakehell Regency Novel Sorcha MacMurrough ISBN: 978-1-58345-099-4 Setting: Regency England, 1812 Word Count: 101,000 Rating: Mildly sensual Price: $3.99 &lt;A href=mistress.buy.htm target=_blank&gt; No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button&lt;/A&gt;

Prologue

Somerset, August 1802

It was an idyllic summer's afternoon. The cerulean sky was cloudless, the birds twittered in the trees, and a cool breeze wafted though the ornate gardens behind the lovely red brick Elizabethan manor house.

It was a perfect day for a visit to the elegant maze which had been planted at the same time the mansion had been built. The dense box hedges were now over thirty feet high, and offered a great deal of shade from the beating sun. It was also the ideal place to play hide and seek, and sit and read fairy tales on one of the many marble benches within.

The tall russet-haired woman clad in a flowing blue dress to match her eyes called cheerfully, "Come out, come out, wherever you are."

A twig snapped behind her, and she turned with a welcoming smile. The smile became a round O of dismay. She stepped backwards, clutching her rounding belly protectively. "What are you doing here?"

"Just here for a little visit."

"We thought you were in Town. To what do we owe the pleasure?" she asked, forcing herself to be polite, though she wanted to do nothing more than flee.

"I heard your news from a friend. Thought I would offer you congratulations, you trollop."

She had always been fearful of this bizarre stranger in their midst whom she had tolerated for so many years for her husband's sake. Now something especially wild in his sharply handsome face as well as his scathing words betrayed his true nature at last.

She tried to stride past him as if continuing the game. "Darling, come out now. It's my turn to hide," she called.

Rough hands grabbed her as she drew level with him. The seams of her sleeve began to give way under his violent wrenching.

"My God, what are you doing!" she gasped, staring up into his granite expression with alarm.

"Treating you like the whore you are," came the chilling reply. "Look at you, you slut. Which one of the servants has been tupping you? And if you gave him a taste, why not me?"

"Have you lost your mind?" she gasped. "I'm a decent woman. My husband-"

"Is a fool to trust you. All women are the same. Whores, the whole lot of you. You want me, you know you do. A virile man to warm your bed, not that old fool."

"No, no, you're wrong!" she panted in horror. "I love my husband. How can you say such horrid things? It's not decent. And after everything we've done for you!"

"Indeed, you've always been so kind," he sneered, making her sound like even more of a harlot. "So now you're going to render me some even more personal services. I've had enough of your lies. Your facade of virtue. I know what you are. And now I'm going to show the world your true character."

He tried to ram his mouth down over hers, but she ducked from side to side to avoid the loathsome contact, twisting her own arm desperately to try to break his crushing grip.

"Why? Why are you doing this?" She tried to wrench away with all her might, but he only dragged her closer, his hot breath on her cheeks almost making her faint with revulsion.

The very idea of being unfaithful chilled her. And with him of all people.... It was just too horrible to even contemplate.

"Don't be stupid. The brat you're carrying changes everything. I know what you're trying to do. You want to edge me out of your lives, out of my share of the family fortunes. I won't stand for it."

"No, it's not t-t-true, we all l-l-love you. And are so p-p-pleased to see yoy whenever you visit," she stammered, trying to fend off his hands.

But he seemed to have sprouted a dozen. No matter how hard she grabbed one, two more snatched at her, pinching and twisting, rending her clothes, until the tears flowed down her face in pain in pain and despair.

She began to lose all hope that she could ever escape his unwanted attentions. She prayed to the Almighty to keep the child safe, no matter what happened to her.

"You know you're always welcome here," she maintained, as a different tack came to mind. Perhaps if she pretended to be willing, she could get him to let go of her long enough to make her escape.... "As for your inheritance, my husband is the best of men and has always dealt with everyone in the family most liberally. This child would change nothing between us all, I swear."

"So you say, my dear. But every word out of your mouth is a lie. So now I'm going to gag you. Then I'm going to see what talents you possess that have turned the old coot's head so completely."

His vice-like grip around her waist pinned her to him helplessly while he began to unfasten his own clothes with his other hand. The sight of him opening the falls of his breeches made her struggle even harder to escape.

Never had she felt so sick to her stomach. The prospect of what was about to happen, the thought of such monumental sin, even if she was being taken against her will, was more than she could bear.

"Please, you can't! My daughter will be here any minute. Do you want the poor child to see?"

"She'll love it. Think it's a game. A pretty little trick. I wonder why I didn't think of that myself? We can play hide the sausage."

At this threat to her unsuspecting little girl, the desperate woman didn't even stop to think. She hauled off and slapped her assailant with every ounce of strength she possessed and broke free.

"If you harm her, so help me--"

"No matter what you say, everyone will think that you invited my attentions," he threatened, his mocking tone filling her with terror as she ran, hardly knowing which way she went in the wending maze. "I shall reluctantly confess that the child within you is mine. That you tempted me, and I just couldn't help myself. Then where will you be? I win no matter what, my dear."

His mocking laugh made her break out in a cold sweat. He was more than capable of it, she knew.

Who would believe her innocent? This was a man's world. She could be pure as the driven snow, but one whispered word of calumny could ruin her life and her daughter's forever. A tiny sliver of gossip from this vile man's lips could cast doubt on her entire marriage, and label the innocent child within her a bastard.

Her sense of outrage on behalf of her innocent babes caused her to rally once more. "And an eight-year-old girl invited them as well?" she cried over her shoulder, weeping as though her heart would break as she tore up the hedge-lined avenue. "You're disgusting!"

She kept on running through the maze, left, right, right again, praying she had the pattern memorized correctly. If she could just get back to the house...

"Come out, come out, wherever you are!" he called in sneering tones.

Her previous sense of panic was as nothing compared to the thought of him luring her daughter out of her hiding place and into his clutches.

"No, pet, stay where you are!" she screamed. "Stay. Mummy will find you in a minute, I just have to go get Nursey too. And Phipps the butler. Stay where you are, pet!"

"Here, pussy, pussy, pussy," she heard from just on the other side of the hedgerow. I

She nearly jumped out of her skin. She had been running as hard as she could, but he was so close. "Damn you, I've remained silent long enough. I'm going to tell my saintly spouse exactly who and what you are. A monster. A filthy, despicable monster!"

She ran on in terror, counting her footfalls to try to stop the black lump of panic welling in her throat from choking her. Only a bit further and-

There it was. The entrance. Thank god. Just a few more steps. Phipps would believe her, and she was sure the nurse would too. She would see how ill-used she had been and then--

She never saw it coming. Never imagined death could be so near. The arrow whistled through the air and smacked her squarely in the back.

She pitched forward face first onto the grass, tumbling out of the maze and onto the wide expanse of lawn which led up to the mansion.

"Pity, darling. Such a waste. Why could you not just have played nicely?"

"You'll hang for this," she wheezed, already feeling the blood rushing from her body, the air from her lungs.

Her last breath was so close. She screamed her husband's name, but her voice was nothing more than a feeble croak. "People are going to find out what lies beneath. God help them all if they don't."

A pair of wide violet eyes watched in horror from under the shrubbery as the man partly raised the woman's head off the grass and rammed his mouth over hers. The child could see a dark coat, the glimpse of a chin.

He looked as though he were sucking the last breath from the woman's body, almost like a vampire. As if he were reveling in the taste of the blood welling up from her punctured lung.

The child crammed her fist in her mouth to stop from crying out. One peep, and she would be next...

"Since I'm such a monster, darling, I shall take a perverse satisfaction in being the last thing you ever see, hear, smell, taste, feel. I always loathed you, do you know that? Hated your sickly sweetness. Wanted to debauch and corrupt you."

He dragged her back into the maze by one leg as though she were a side of beef, and began to rend her clothes from her.

"Silly woman. I didn't plan to kill you. But now I can see just how perfectly this will all work out. Do forgive me, my dear. But I need to be sure."

He twisted the arrow in her now bare back until she howled in agony and begged for death.

"Oh God, no, no!" she wept feebly, beseeching God to save her child as her own life ebbed away. The horror of the spearing pains tormented her in her last moments on earth.

A nearby peacock screamed, drowning out the sound of the woman's final wail of pain and horror.

The sound of running footsteps fleeing in terror.

The sound of a girl's voice weeping to be saved from the nightmare her life had suddenly become...

Free Preview: The Druid’s Woman

Admin — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 20:54:18 +0000

The Druid's Woman Shanna Murchison Fantasy Romance Setting: Ireland, 1169
In this fantasy novella of Ireland, Davnat encounters Parthalann, a mysterious druid who trains her to be his helper and consort.

But despite all the other-worldly powers Davnat is given by her mysterious new companion, and the remarkable love that blossoms between them, she can't help feel that fickle Fortune will rob her of the gift of Parthalann's love as suddenly as it was bestowed.

Parthalann loves Davnat beyond anything he ever imagined possible. He longs for a happy life with her forever, but deep in his heart, he knows that due to one act of rebellion against the gods, their Fates have already been decreed....

The Druid's Woman Shanna Murchison Fantasy Romance Novella Setting: Ireland, 1169 Word count=33,000 Rating: Moderately Sensual <A href=druid.buy.html target=_blank> No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button</A>

Excerpt from Chapter 3 of The Druid's Woman:

As Parthalann tied the end of his waterskin closed and made to rise, a twig snapped behind him.

Parthalann turned to face his enemy. He forced himself to relax as the powerful unseen force slammed him into a tree. Invisible hands and feet beat and kicked at him unmercifully. He did his best to ward off the blows, moving forward into them. A few hard cracks to his ribs winded him. But with a massive thrust of his fists, he focused his mind, and at last the invisible forces dispelled.

A mysterious grey light shimmering in front of him at last took shape.

"So you've done it then. You've set the wheel in motion," the newcomer hissed.

He was nearly as tall as Parthalann himself, with a shaven head and long grey beard plaited into two. His long nails stretched out like talons as he pointed his hand accusingly in Parthalann's face.

Parthalann took a deep breath and wheezed, "You knew I would one day. Though I have to admit, I didn't even know it was time until the other day."

"It still isn't too late to change your mind, you know. You have the woman, but you haven't joined with her yet. Or, if you do join with her here and now in this wood, you don't have to win her over to the druids' ways...."

The Druid's Woman Shanna Murchison

Reviews:
Detra Fitch of Huntress Book Reviews

An author to keep an eye on!

Set in Ireland. Davnat Ni Cinnede was to marry a Norman for peace. During her betrothal feast, however, appeared Parthalann. Their Fates had been decided long ago by the Gods. The betrothal feast blazed with fire and blood as they fled.

Parthalann had been a Druid, but decided to choose the path of a Warrior. He was to train Davnat in the Druid ways. She already knew healing from wise women and had learned to fight as a warrior all her life. Davnat and Parthalann were to have only a short time together, but their love would last forever and their sons would some day change the world!

*** A great plot.... The tale was fantastic and the author shows much talent! Shanna Murchison is an author to keep an eye on!

From Amazon and Barnes and Noble

Top #20 bestselling e book, January 2001-May 2001

#6 bestselling e book in Rocket format June 2001-October 2001

An amazing book

Excellent writing, fascinating characters, this book had me begging for more. Fantasy writing at its best.

Breathtaking

A wonderful book from beginning to end. You will love the hero and heroine, and all the mystery and fantasy elements. I never wanted it to end.

WOW!

Awesome! An excellent read, lots of suspense and mystery.

A lovely book-perfect for St. Patrick's day, or any time!

A great book-suspenseful, romantic, magical.

A beautiful book

The author creates a magical world that draws you in from the very first word. It is not the traditional fantasy romance, but that makes it better in my opinion. I was fascinated by the detail given in a short space, and am delighted to see that there is more from this extremely talented author, with these characters, who became like part of my family as I followed their adventures.

A wonderful read!

My only complaint is that I never wanted it to end. Fantastic characters, and plenty of mystery, suspense, and fantasy elements make this one to remember. I must get The Wizard Woman by the same author.

A beautiful book

This was not what I expected from a romance, since it does not have what you would call the traditional romance ending {no spoilers here, readers, sorry} but it was a lovely read for people who are looking for something that little bit different.

As a fantasy novel it was superb, pure magic. A wonderful hero to die for, and a terrific heroine make this book hard to beat. I am already part of the way through The Wizard Woman, which is linked to this novel, and it is awesome too.

Perfect for St. Patrick' s Day

If you love Ireland, you will adore this book. My only problem with the book is thatI never wanted it to end. When it did, I really cried. One thing is for sure, this author has a wonderful talent.

Awesome!

I am still shaking after reading this book-what power. It took me completely by surprise, from start to finish. I only wish it could have gone on longer!

Pure magic

A super book--great setting and characters, very mysterious, very sad in sections. Get out the tissues and indulge yourself. You won't be sorry.

Gripping

This novel really was nothing like I expected. It was so excellent, I wish there were a lot more like it. From the very first word, I was caught up in Ireland in the time of the Norman invasion, and the whole mystery of why the hero had come for the heroine.

I cried in some spots as hard as if the characters were real people. The ending was fascinating, one I did not predict. This should get ten stars! I hope this author has plenty more for us to read.

A superb novel of love and loss

It was so romantic, and so sad. I was completely swept away by the characters and the magic of the whole book. I am really relieved to see, that the author has a second novel. This was really excellent.

Fantastic!

This book had it all, a great plot, setting, characters, magic. I adored the hero, and the whole history of Ireland. I can't wait to read more from this terrific author.

Loved it, a beautiful story

This gets a ten Kleenex rating-It was so lovely, I can highly recommend this to anyone who loves fantasy, and a sensual love story.

Fantastic!

Not like anything I have read before. It was really intelligent, magical, and above all really thrilling. I won't give the ending away, except to say that I have seldom been so moved. This author has a rare talent with words.

An excellent novella

A quick read, but with lots of echoes which will leave you thinking about it long after you have read it.

I have gone back to re-read it a second time more slowly to really enjoy the fine language and characters. Anyone who loves fantasy or romance, or Ireland, will love this book. A very surprising ending--not one I expected at all, but perfect for the book.

The Druid's Woman Shanna Murchison Fantasy Romance Novella Setting: Ireland, 1169 Word count=33,000 Rating: Moderately Sensual <A href=druid.buy.html target=_blank> No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button</A>

Back to The HerStory Books Home Page

Excerpted with their kind permission.

Book Review: Fool for Love by Eloisa James

Admin — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:55:21 +0000

1.0 out of 5 stars A foolish muddle from end to end This book is a complete slapdash, with none of the verve of quality Regencies. First of all the book is riddled with errors-they are Simon's half-not his stepsisters. They are clearly related to him, though he treats the girls, and especially the eternally barfing baby, as some rare species of insect. He has as much personality as one of his fine neck cloths. I can't imagine him being a rake-he is so full of himself, leers at every pair of breasts in sight, and is so meticulously dressed all the time that one would doubt he would ever do anything so undiginfied as sweat, let alone copulate. Also, vis a vis the errors in the book, I am sure he does not go around showing his 'labels' all over the place-I am sure the author meant lapels. As for the heroine, well, what can I say-the crippled heroine left on the shelf and rescued by the rake has been done to death, and done far better elsewhere. The endless tantrums, dullness of the settings-a room with tall windows, a study, well gee, where is the sumptuous language we expect from a well-written book, are all too dull for words. The endless stream of vomit from the endlessly barfing baby is also unbearbale, not at all funny. In fact, I really wonder what people find so amusing or even romantic about adultery and the social mores that allow men to treat women as little better than chattel. Where marriages of convenience are usually only convenient for the men, who do whatever they like and treat women like doormats. Jane Austen was highly witty and amusing, but she dealt with the real world and issues too. This is just foolishness, selfishness and hypocrisy. The supposed heroine traps him into marriage to get hold of his sisters as children. He insists he wants to bed her and give her a bottle of an abortifacient just in case because he doesn't want kids and just in case the 'sheath fails'. Revolting, not romantic. As if all of this is not repellent enough, what on earth was the author thinking having THREE couples in the book if we include Rees the composer and his estranged wife. I know they are all out for trilogies and sequels these days because that's how they make money, but every single book is supposed to be a standalone romance. And if the couple haven't got enough meat to sustain us through the entire book, then the author is definitely falling down on the job. Going back to the other plots, Esme's story is more interesting than the others, including the main plot, but I was really disgusted with the way Simon actually sexually responds to her when her pregnant belly comes into contact with his body. And she is an adulteress, not matter how you tryo to dress it up as 'romance'. It is just not consistent with the time period. I also was appalled at the way that her hero lusts after all the other women quite openly-there is little focus on Henrietta apart from her pretty hair and nice smile. Really gross. I have no idea how the characters fall in love with each other, when they hardly know each other. And no woman in her right mind would wnat to know Simon. I have to admit I read the books in the wrong order, Wild Pursuit and then Fool for Love. If you have not read this one, you will not care less about Wild Pursuit's couple, and again, Rees and his wife. And the final resolution to Esme's problems is in that book, but not really a problem at all, so there is little or no dramatic tension in any of the books. All of these peoole are so selfish and care so little about Regency society with its strict dictates (yes it does seem a lot more Georgian than Regency in many respects, 18th century, as one reviewer said) that nothing is at stake for any of the couples-they thrive on scandal rather than avoid it. The author set up the next books in her series, but failed miserably to write a single book in the series which we could classify as romance. A romance is a hero and heroine falling in love. This is not a romance. Nor are the others. Romeo and Juliet is a classic tale of star crossed lovers because events outside themselves stop them from being together as they would wish. These characters ride roughshod over everything, so there is no suspense or tension, just endless bad baby jokes. 790 words

Free Preview: Star Attraction

Admin — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 21:28:56 +0000

Star Attraction
Sorcha MacMurrough

College lecturer and secret romance novelist Zaira Darcy literally bumps into the man of her dreams in an elevator. Dashing Brad Clarke, Hollywood's hottest new director, working alongside her in New York on the screenplay of her hot new bestseller, is everything she could want in a man, and more.

But the secrets from her past threaten to destroy any chance of happiness they might have. Zaira must learn to trust to love again. Just when Zaira and Brad find true love, her joy is ripped from her by a series of shocking revelations. Brad is forced to go on the run for a series of crimes he didn't commit. Can Zaira trust him? Or is someone behind this plot to ruin him?

Zaira searches her heart for the truth, and must lock horns with her ex-husband Jonathan one last time to save Brad's life, even if it means sacrificing her own...

Star Attraction by Sorcha MacMurrough 66,000 words Setting: Modern, New York and LA Some suspense elements. Rating: Fairly sensual
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CHAPTER ONE

Zaira Darcy raced across the foyer of the main university building. The first day of a new term, and she was already running around like a mad woman, she reflected ruefully. She saw one of the elevator doors about to close, and decided recklessly to sprint for it.

But Zaira hadn't calculated on another like-minded person charging for it as well. The collision knocked the wind out of her. Zaira's books and lecture notes went flying in every direction. It was only due to the presence of mind of the tall figure, who grabbed her by the elbows, that she wasn't sent sprawling herself.

"Damn, I'm sorry, look what I've done," he drawled in a West Coast accent, as he pulled her up and steadied her.

Zaira was so awestruck by the presence and physical beauty of the man that she could only gaze up at him mutely. Emerald green eyes caressed her own grey ones intimately before he eased her down onto one of the benches and went to retrieve her property.

She sat gazing at the muscular back as it rippled through the black and purple UCLA sweatshirt he wore. She took in his long virile legs encased in black jeans. His hair was dark brown with intriguing reddish flashes, and curled softly at the nape of his neck. As he reached out, she saw the hands were strong and capable-looking, with each large enough to hold both of her own at the same time. He knelt by her gathering papers, and finally looked up into her face.

Zaira grew embarrassed as her gaze lingered, but she could not take her eyes away from his twinkling green ones. The rest of his face was breath-taking as well. His lashes swept lushly over his fine deeply tanned cheekbones as he blinked, and his lips were full. Just right for smiling, or kissing, Zaira thought suddenly, and for a moment she thought her theory was about to be proven, for he moved upwards, and his mouth came within a few inches of hers.

"I think I've got everything here, and I'm really sorry. I'd heard New Yorkers were always in a hurry, but I guess I found out the hard way," he said with a grin. "And now I've probably made you late on top of everything else," he added apologetically as he tried to sort her papers into some kind of order.

"No, not really," she heard herself lie, and wondered way her voice sounded so strange. "I was just making a bet with myself that I could get on that elevator, and I probably would have if we hadn't bumped into each other."

Then she realized what she had said, and they both laughed.

"Well, you're pretty much the first person I've spoken to since I got here yesterday, so I'm sorry again, and it's been a pleasure to meet you." His voice lingered on the word "pleasure."

Zaira felt herself blush as the green eyes took her in from top to toe. She had felt very professional-looking in her grey pinstripe suit with her auburn hair tightly pinned into a demure chignon and her spectacles perched on the end of her nose, but under this alluring Californian's scrutiny she felt stark-naked.

"Don't let me keep you," Zaira asserted rather coldly, as she lifted the pile of books from the bench and held out her other hand for her papers.

"You're not," he said with a smile, as he walked towards the lift, still holding her papers.

Zaira had no choice but to follow, and as they stood in silence waiting for the elevator, she noticed him looking at the titles of some of her books.

"Political Shakespeare? Drama within Drama? Never heard of them. How could Shakespeare be political? It's only literature, isn't it?" he said, sounding mildly interested but rather condescending. "Is that what they make you students read at this university?"

"No one makes me read it, I make my students read it, and no, Shakespeare is not simply literature but an historical and a political document. All literature is solidly based on the concerns of the society in which it is produced, like male/female relationships, relationships between the classes, and other big political issues. Shakespeare would have never been successful on the stage or in print when the book of his plays was first published unless he'd been writing about things people were genuinely concerned about. All writing needs to appeal to people's concerns, or else it won't be successful except as the most light-weight of entertainments."

"Like films?" the infuriatingly handsome stranger asked her as the elevator door pinged open and they stepped inside.

"Films can address many serious concerns, and there are of course excellent adaptations of Shakespeare, but unless it speaks to the audience in a new way, it won't endure. Films too are a product of the society and culture that produce them. French films, for example, are very different from English, Russian or American films, aren't they?"

"They sure are," the stranger replied with a smile, watching her intently.

"Many of the best films are taken from novels, so obviously something appeals to the film-makers in these stories. They take it on trust that their audience will feel the same way, and therefore pay to see the film. But it isn't merely entertainment, is it? It's a huge money-making venture on the one hand, at its most basic level, but also in some cases even propaganda, making the public see the image the director and the cinematographer want us to see. It's not true to life. If it were, they'd be making documentaries. So there's another level of art added to what is already artistic, and another level of politics to something which is already political," Zaira explained patiently, warming to her subject, as well as her audience.

They reached the tenth floor, and Zaira suddenly realized she was going to be dreadfully late if she didn't get rid of him soon. "We're on ten," she said. "You aren't lost, are you?"

"I, um, no," he said, with a blink and shake of his head. "I'm going to Room 1012."

"Right, well, it's this way, the door next to mine," Zaira said, leading him down the corridor. "You must be doing that new film studies course Brad Clarke is giving this term. I must admit I've never liked any of his films, but of course it's a matter of taste."

The tall dark stranger hesitated for a moment in the corridor, and handed her back her papers abruptly. "Here you are, I'd better give you these, or your students will get even more of the nonsense you've just been talking off the top of your head," he sneered, before continuing down the corridor on his own.

Zaira was astonished by his rudeness; he'd seemed so friendly, and genuinely interested in the things she'd been saying. She followed him and saw to her dismay that several reporters and students had gathered outside Room 1012, and were now taking photos of the gorgeous stranger.

Oh no! she groaned inwardly. Of all the people in the universe she could have bumped into and insulted! Brad Clarke, Hollywood's hottest new director, famous for his pride, arrogance and temper. Brad Clarke, famous for his womanizing, flamboyant lifestyle, and vast wealth. Brad Clarke, the man who was coming to see her tomorrow to discuss the novel she had written with a view to buying the movie rights!

Reflecting that she couldn't mend any fences now, since she was already very late for class, Zaira hastily trotted into her lecture hall and began to apologize, introduce herself, and go over the book list all in one breath.

Star Attraction Sorcha MacMurrough 66,000 words Setting: Modern, New York and LA Some suspense elements. Rating: Fairly sensual <A href=star.buy.html target=_blank> No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button</A>

Reviews:

"In this contemporary thriller Zaira Darcy and new-found love interest Brad Clark undergo a comedy of errors which turns into a deadly game of cat and mouse. Zaira leads a double life: respectable academic by day, historical novelist by night. When top director Brad decides he wants to make a Hollywood blockbuster of her latest book, it's an offer she can't refuse. Left destitute by her husband, who vanished without a trace, she decides to help Brad and keep control of her own book by pretending to be Zoe, the new screenwriter for the book.

"When her ex Jonathan appears out of the blue working for Brad's father and tries to blackmail her into keeping silent about his identity, she smells a rat. But before Zaira can tell Brad the truth about her identity and the fact that she has fallen head over heels for him, Brad figures out the game she has been playing and is not sure he can trust her.

When Brad is accused of the most horrendous criminal activities, Zaira is convinced it is her ex who is to blame. She must uncover the truth and clear Brad's good name, even if it means losing him--or her very life....

"A remarkable novel which starts out in a light-hearted way, with a great number of intriguing questions, and soon becomes whirlwind of passion, mystery and intrigue. Zaira is a very capable woman, Brad the type of hero most women long for. Together they are explosive, and adding the evil Jonathan to the mix creates a situation fraught with tension. The author manages to keep you guessing until the very end. If there is any couple you want to have the fairy tale ending, it is Zaira and Brad. Hang onto you seats while you wait to see if they get there!" Annabelle Stevens, Love's Sweet Song

"Zaira Darcy is just recovering from a shocking divorce when the devastatingly handsome Brad Clark barges into her life and turns it completely around. From being homeless and penniless, she not only has a good job and place to live at the university she is teaching in, but Brad wants to film her novel, and even pay her money to write the screenplay.

"Eager to keep her privacy, and the two parts of her life separate, academic and novelist, she invents an alter ego, Zoe. Zoe dares to do things the shy and retiring Zaira would never do, including act and direct and become involved in a sizzling relationship with Brad.

"Brad feels like a fool when he discovers Zoe and Zaira are one and the same person, but loves her enough to forgive her. But any question of living happily ever after is destroyed when Brad is accused of unspeakable criminal acts. Zaira begs him to flee the country while she and some new-found friends try to clear his name.

"Zaira become convinced that her ex-husband Jonathan, now working for Clark Studios, is trying to destroy Brad and seize the company for himself. As Zaira digs further and further to prove Brad's innocence, the inevitable confrontation with Jonathan is only a heartbeat away....and so is her death.

"Ms. MacMurrough has penned an exceptional romantic suspense novel with remarkable characters and tight, clever plotting which makes for a fascinating read." Jacqui Jerome, The Picture of Bliss

"Zaira Darcy, shy, demure academic, falls head over heels for stunning Hollywood director Brad Clark, who has come to New York to teach at her university, and to meet the author of "The Dark Lady," the historical novel topping the bestsellers' list. Zaira has written the novel under a nom de plume, and doesn't dare tell Brad she is the author for fear of getting in way over her head with the incredibly wealthy and powerful man. Having just got over her divorce to the power-hungry Jonathan Waxman, she is leery of commitment, and all that Brad is offering her seems just too good to be true.

"Brad is not your typical Hollywood movie mogul: he is an intelligent and compassionate man with a conscience, and the sexiest body Zaira has ever laid eyes on. As their minds meet over work, their bodies are drawn together by sheer magnetism. Zaira isn't able to keep up the pretence of being novelist Zoe for very long, as Brad strips their relationship down to the bare essentials: they're in love, so why fight it?

But before Zaira and Brad can settle things between them, her ex tries to take over Brad's studio, resorting to criminal activities and even attempted murder to get his own way. Only Zaira is fully aware of exactly what Jonathan is capable of, and is the only person who can protect Brad and his father from Jonathan's evil schemes.

"As with all of Ms. MacMurrough's novels, the tension, passion and mystery light up the pages, making this novel impossible to put down. The author has an uncanny knack for characterization and detail, and the romance and suspense sizzle and will delight any reader." Evelyn Trimborn, Harlequin Hearts

Top 25 e book at Barnes and Noble, May 2001-November 2001, Rocket Format

Amazon and Barnes and Noble reviews:

Thrilling

As clever as Shakespeare in Love, though written long before it, this is the tale of Zaira Darcy and her bid to hold on to new-found love Brad even though she has been hurt before. Part taut mystery which will keep you guessing, part sizzling love story, this is one book you won't want to end.

Loved it!

Great sizzle between the characters! Loved the heroine and the whole plot-Shakespeare in Love has nothing on this! I'm looking forward to reading more of this author!

Terrific fun

A really clever book, with two wonderful characters who meet and fall in love. The book seems an ordinary enough contemporary romance at first, but soon dark shadows from the past return to threaten both characters. Brad was to die for! A wonderful read.

Super-a wonderful read

I thought it this would be a straight contemporary, but it turned out to be a wonderful thriller romance. I loved the characters, and Brad is definitely the man of my dreams. The author's settings in New York and Hollywood also added a touch of glamor. Boy, do the love scenes sizzle. Terrific.

Brad is the sexiest thing on two legs!

At last, I have met the man of my dreams! though sadly, only in a novel. but there has got to be someone out there like him somewhere!. I've read it twice in a row, I loved it so much! Am going to try all of her other books as well.

Star Attraction Sorcha MacMurrough $3.99 (US) 66,000 words Setting: Modern, New York and LA Some suspense elements. Rating: Fairly sensual
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© HerStory Books http://www.herstorybooks.com All Rights Reserved. Excerpted with their kind permission.

Yoga for elimination

Admin — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 21:57:15 +0000

From Yogi Bhajan. Cleanse your apana with this asana. Sit on your heels. Bow to bring your forehead to the floor in front of your knees. Place your hands by yor head and rest your elbows on the floor. Bring your buttock up as high as you can. Breath long and deep through the nose for 1 to 3 minutes, then relax.

Free Preview: The Missed Match

Admin — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 22:22:49 +0000

Here is another great free fiction read specially for Valentine's Day!

The Missed Match

A Rakehell Regency Series Novel

Sorcha MacMurrough

The wrong man!

Beautiful heiress Charlotte Castlemaine is just about to elope with the man of her dreams when fate takes a hand in the form of handsome Thomas Eltham, the Duke of Ellesmere. Only a few minutes in his carriage nearly proves her undoing.

Compromised by this near-stranger in front of her father, she faces the prospect of certain ruin, until Thomas declares that they are engaged. Charlotte's passionate response to the Duke is bad enough; the fact that Thomas persists in making wedding plans even though he knows she is in love with another seems a disaster of the worse magnitude.

Thomas has admired Charlotte from afar, but little thought he would ever have an opportunity to marry her until he overhears three of Charlotte's supposed friends plotting her ruin. Determined that his long time enemy Herbert will never harm Charlotte if he can help it, Thomas warns her father that the young woman has fled, and races to the appointed meeting place before it's too late.

Thomas's single kiss in order to make their supposed elopement look genuine sparks off an inferno of passion, jealousy, suspicion and revenge which can only have one outcome: the former soldier must fight for the woman he loves and all he holds dear in a cataclysmic battle that can have only one winner.

The question is, will Charlotte prove Thomas's enemy, or ally? Can she ever come to love this stranger with kisses like fire, or will she flee from the desire that blazes within her at his merest touch, scorching all reason and commonsense. Will Charlotte return to Herbert, or learn to trust the enigmatic Duke and help him in his quest for justice against the man who once tried to kill him and all his Rakehell comrades?

The Missed Match A Rakehell Regency Series Novel Sorcha MacMurrough Setting: Regency England, 1813 Word Count=93,000 Rating: Sensual &lt;A href=missed.buy.html target=_blank&gt; No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button&lt;/A&gt;

Prologue

February 14, 1813

The tall dark-haired Duke of Ellesmere stepped into the anteroom, about to collect his cloak to depart. It had been a long evening, made even more tedious by the fact the only woman he longed to stand up with for the exquisite pleasure of even one single dance had been monopolized by every young buck in the region.

The Fates had most certainly conspired against him. But perhaps it was for the best, Thomas tried to tell himself. Perhaps the despondent ache in the region of his heart might somehow ease if he attempted to reason it away.

She might well be of age now, but that did not mean she was ready for marriage. Far better to let her spread her wings for a time, discover more of the world for herself, than lock her in a prison of his own choosing. A gilded cage was still a cage, after all.

He took up his black silk cloak and tossed it around his shoulders, before stepping out of the French doors into the orangery. It was a charming addition to the splendid old mansion, a man-made paradise in white painted wrought iron and crystal.

He could picture his lovely lady reclining on one of the low chaise longues with a book in her hand. It would no doubt be a Gothic novel. He watched her in his mind's eye as she tittered over the truly terrifying bits in the safety of the broad daylight which poured through the glass panels.

But now all was cold and dark within. He wished to avoid any awkward goodbyes and expressions of gratitude for having come, or for his humble gift. He would slip out the side door into the garden and walk around the house to the front to meet his carriage. Enjoy the biting mid-February air for a few minutes before heading home. The bleak weather would be perfectly suited to his mood.

Just as St. Valentine's Day was the perfect birth date for his lovely blue-eyed goddess, he thought with a sigh. As divine as any on Mount Olympus, and just as out of reach. He drew his cloak about him more tightly, longing for just one touch of her hand, some small gesture of affection and comfort. Then, telling himself to act his age, nearly thirty, not thirteen, he moved forward.

The Duke hadn't gone more than three steps when he froze.

The orangery was already occupied. He heard the hurried whispers, and drew back at once. He had no wish to interrupt a romantic tete a tete. Especially since he was fairly certain the white-gowned figure partly obscured by a tall potted palm was the lady of the house herself.

To his surprise, he heard the swish of a second woman's skirt.

Ah, discovery. And no doubt histrionics to follow.

But no. There was only more whispering, the third person's low-timbred voice indicating this was no gaggle of silly schoolgirls gossiping about the ball.

He pressed his back to the wall and sidled closer, and strained his ears to hear.

"It's all set. I urged her to press forward as subtly as possible. She'll be at the bottom of the bridle path leading to Millcote at midnight."

"Good work," a man's voice murmured.

"Are you sure you've done your part?"

"Never fear. All is ready. And mine will be easy enough. Tumble the wench, then see what we can squeeze out of her father. I'm counting on you to play your part to the letter."

"Haven't we done so already? The silly bitch doesn't suspect a thing," the second woman said with a gloating note of triumph which turned Thomas' blood cold. Her voice was lighter, more soprano than mezzo.

"Good. See that she doesn't," came the growled reply.

"It hardly matters now. Once she's in that coach, even if she has second thoughts, it will be too late," the deeper-voiced woman pointed out. "Just write to us as soon as you're at Gretna and the thing has been done safely. Then I shall come to you both to help manage her."

The man snorted in derision. "I'm sure I'll figure out a way to manage her once we're wed. Never met any woman I couldn't handle. It's her pa I'm concerned about."

"Never fear. Her friends will all see she wants for nothing. We just need to be patient for a short while, and then we can all have everything we've ever dreamed of."

"Aye, and then some. But you'd better go now. There's the cake to attend to, and after that she can slip away unnoticed."

"Good luck. And enjoy your wedding day."

The man let out a vulgar snigger. "It's the night I care about."

The first woman glided out of the orangery without noting the tall dark man's presence. He heard her slippers slap along the tiles of the anteroom hurriedly, leaving the other two conspirators far behind.

There was no more conversation for the moment, just the sound of clothing being fumbled with, and the moist sounds of clinging lovers. Then he heard a sigh.

"I can't wait until this is over," the woman's muffled soprano voice declared. "But I just hate the thought of you and her-"

"I'm doing it for us, love, you know that," the man wheedled.

"But what you just said about the wedding night-"

"The marriage needs to be consummated for me to get her family right where I need them. Otherwise the silly chit can go to blazes so far as I'm concerned."

The Duke heard the sound of several ever more passionate kisses, and at last the rasp of their labored breaths as they broke away.

"We'll be together again soon, I promise. A few days at most, once we're sure of the money," the all too familiar voice asserted. "Now off you go, lass. Fill the giddy Miss Castlemaine's ears with endless paeans of praise for me, and hold forth at length about all the joys of marriage that await her as soon as she's wed."

"I'm certainly an expert on that, aren't I," the woman practically purred.

"You most certainly are. Once the mad dash to Gretna is over with, I'll look forward to an even wilder ride with you, my pet. Now off you go. I need to get ready."

He gave her a lusty thwack on the buttocks which echoed around the room, and she giggled happily.

Thomas pressed back into the ornamental alcove formed by two Doric columns, his mind racing.

The girl was gone before he could even try to interfere, scurrying away to perform her nefarious part in this dreadful plot against an innocent, unsuspecting girl.

He let her go. He had a few keen suspicions as to who it might be. In some senses she didn't really matter. She was a mere pawn.

No, it was the king he needed to deal with here in this most deadly game. For he knew beyond the shadow of a doubt that Herbert Paxton betrayed women with all the skill of Judas. And that his latest intended victim was in the most deadly peril imaginable.

His head swam.

Not again.

No, not again.

He hadn't been able to do a damn thing for the last sweet, tender girl Paxton had abducted and ruined irrevocably.

He had to save Charlotte Castlemaine no matter what.

Paxton had been bloody clever. Charlotte too, come to that. She had been surrounded by so many beaux he had never even suspected that things could have progressed so far. Certainly not with Paxton of all people.

Hare and hounds, what was he to do?

His fury was such that he would quite happily have throttled his worst enemy with his bare hands and left him for dead in the garden. But he wasn't prepared to leave his family to suffer the consequences of that brutal act. However vile the beast was, Paxton wasn't worth swinging at the end of a rope for. Not when Thomas had so many people depending upon him. Two pairs of green eyes in particular haunted him every night.

Think, Thomas, think...

He searched his pockets quickly. No, he would be damned if he would give Paxton the special sapphire jewelry he had hoped to work up the courage to give to his heart's desire on this most special of nights, her eighteenth birthday.

It was just as well he hadn't dared. His secondary gift of a matching fan and reticule had elicited enough of a shocked response as it was. Not least because she could not fail to have noticed how they matched her gown so perfectly. But then he had taken such pains that it should do so, locating her modiste in Bath to be sure her ensemble would be perfect in every respect.

Damn. What was he to do? He could certainly buy the bastard off, but it was no permanent solution, of that he was sure. There was nothing to stop Paxton from pocketing the cash and coming right back to sniff around after Charlotte once more.

On the other hand, if Paxton had no chance to marry her because Thomas held his past over his head--

But no, that wouldn't work either. It would only expose many of the people he loved to certain ruin.

And a thwarted young miss was a force to be reckoned with. The Lord only knew how they could bear to cling to such scoundrels and reprobates. But many kind-hearted women did, even when it meant certain ruin, he recalled with a shudder.

And Charlotte Castlemaine would never believe him anyway. Not even if he marched into the ballroom straight away and confronted her with everything he had just heard. She wouldn't give him the least credence if she fancied herself so in love that she was willing to risk everything in the world to elope with Paxton. And she would hate him forever for exposing her lover and herself.

Thomas continued to go through his pockets while his enemy lit a cheroot and sat down on one of the stone benches to enjoy his leisurely smoke. He could just imagine the smug, satisfied smile on the blond man's florid face.

Well, he was going to wipe that look off it in a moment, he determined. That poor child...

He had to stop him. Now, and forever. Even leaving aside his own regard for Charlotte, it was the decent thing to do. And there seemed only one way to do it, though his mind rebelled at the dreadful underhandedness of the whole scheme. But needs must when the Devil drove.

The only way to ever be sure of stopping Paxton from eloping with Charlotte Castlemaine and marrying her would be to ensure she was already married.

To marry Charlotte himself.

He wished now he had not been so aloof, had wooed her more overtly. But he had had just enough vanity to desire absolute certainty with regard to her being willing to marry him for himself, not his fortune or title. And for her to be sure that she was making a mature and considered choice.

But mature and considered be damned when there was love at stake. Love, and one's very life.

He stepped out from behind the pillar before he even realized his feet had moved. "I heard you, you bastard. Heard every disgusting word."

Paxton leapt up in alarm, flinging the cigar aside, poising for a fight.

"And what do you think you're going to do about it, Eltham?" he demanded. "Kill me? You haven't the guts."

"You remember our days in the Army as well as I do. I think you'll recall that I most certainly do. But I've never resorted to murder."

"No, nor a duel neither?" he mocked.

"What purpose would be served? To expose my whole family to scandal and even further tragedy?"

"A real man--"

The raven-haired Duke flung his purse at him, almost striking him in the face with the well-stuffed leather drawstring bag.

"All guineas. And a banker's draft you can draw five hundred upon. You'll get the same amount every month for as long as you keep away from Miss Castlemaine and my family."

"Ah yes, and how is the delightful Jane these days?"

Thomas gritted his teeth, determined not to be goaded. "Take it and get out, now."

"Ah, but you see, the lady is waiting for me even as we speak-"

"And if you want to see the sun rise on the morrow you'll leave now, and not look back."

Paxton's tone took on a plaintive note that made Thomas all the more furious. "Is this any way to treat an old friend?"

"It's certainly the way to treat a bad one. Get the hell out."

"All right," he said, weighing the purse in his grasping hand. "I'll take this now, but only because I'd rather have a bird in the hand than speculate on her father being talked around into granting his approval and her money.

"But mark my words, I'll be back. And I'll make you pay for poking your nose in where it doesn't belong, Eltham. I'll make all of you pay."

"Threaten me all you like, but leave Miss Castlemaine out of it. She's done nothing to you. And if it's only money you're after-"

"You know what I'm after."

"You're not getting them!" he barked.

"Oh, I will, Your Grace, believe me, I will," Paxton threatened with a mocking laugh. "I'll bide my time, watch and wait. I'll have it all. You'll see if I don't."

"You can never prove-"

"Oh, I think I can. I'll be more than glad to give convincing testimony in front of the highest court in the land if you don't pay up. What will you look like then? The brave noble, decent soul who would lock a woman he claims he loves in a madhouse rather than-"

Thomas' fury began to claw its way upwards despite his Herculean efforts to keep it under control. "Get out, now."

Paxton raised his hands in a gesture of surrender. "I'm going. But mark my words, you'll pay. All of you. For as long as it suits me. Give Charlotte my best regards, and tell her I'll see her soon."

Thomas swung then, but Paxton had already vanished, fleeing through the garden doors and out into the black night.

Thomas pivoted around on his heel. He had bought him off cheaply, not even having to offer him the sapphires as a last resort to protect Charlotte's virtue, but he also knew that Paxton was not to be trusted.

In fact, now that Herbert knew of his interest in the girl, things would be far worse for her than the poor girl could ever imagine. Worse for them all.

At that thought, Thomas knew he hadn't a moment to lose. He dug out his pocket notebook and pencil, and scribbled a hasty missive, which he handed to the nearest footman as he charged through the anteroom and down the corridor.

"Give this to Mr. Castlemaine in ten minutes, do you understand?" he said urgently, pressing it into the young man's hand along with a bright shiny guinea.

"Aye, sir, ten minutes. But, sir, you're going the wrong way-"

Thomas knew he couldn't risk being waylaid in the foyer of the mansion. Once more he returned to the orangery. He was out the garden door in a flash, and up into his waiting carriage moments later.

"Take us around to the foot of the bridle path that runs from here to Millcote."

"Aye, sir, gladly. But-"

"Don't ask. For God's sake, just hurry. Before it's too late."

The Rakehell Regency Series: What Jane Austen would have written about if only she'd dared....

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Book Review: Guardian of the Horizon by Elizabeth Peters

Admin — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 16:53:42 +0000

3.0 out of 5 stars Another enjoyable installment but quite disappointing with regard to Ramses Especially after having recently re-read Children of the Storm, the characters in this book all seem so flat compared with their usual panache. Also, Ramses having meaningless sex with a new stranger while everyone else is in peril, including his beloved Nefret, is the height of bad taste, and not true to the character at all. Daria has no redeeming features, and the psychobabble to explain Nefret's supposed frigidity is just too terrible for words. Really, I want to see the whole family solve mysteries, have adventures, not read about their romantic troubles. And making Sethos the master criminal virtually harmless is just to silly for words, and also foreshadows the friendships between the characters which chronologically comes way later in the series. If she is going to go back in time, why not to the good old early days with Ramses as a baby/child!! Instead of making them all seem so puerile when they are in their 20s. I loved the early Amelia and Emerson. Ramses lacks the heroic stature of his father. 198 words

Free Preview: The Wizard Woman

Admin — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 21:30:33 +0000

The Wizard Woman Shanna Murchison Ireland, 1169

The great Celtic myth of the Wheel of Fate is played out against the first Norman invasion of Ireland in 1169. Dairinn is chosen by the gods to be the wife of Senan, but first she must bargain with death to save him from the dire fate that awaits him as a result of his rebellion against the druid order.

Senan has always hated his 'gift' of magical power, and chosen the path of the warrior. With Ireland on the brink of invasion by the English, only his taking Dairinn as his consort and teaching her the ways of the druids can stem the tide of violence.

Through Senan's love, Dairinn discovers her own innate powers, and the truth behind her family history. As she grows in power, she begins to suspect the awful truth about the sacrifice Senan intends to make to save his country. The passionate connection between them can never be severed, not even in death.

But Dairinn has no intention of sacrificing the love she has waited for all her life. Dairinn wages a rebellion of her own against her lover and the druid ways to save Senan and her new-found clan from extinction. She must bargain with the Morrigan, the goddess of death, if she is ever to achieve happiness with the man she loves. But how high a price will she have to pay for Senan's life?

The Wizard Woman Shanna Murchison ISBN-13: 9781583450185 Fantasy, Paranormal Romance Setting: Ireland, 1169 Word Count=118,000 words Rating: Quite sensual &lt;A href=wizard.buy.html target=_blank&gt; No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button&lt;/A&gt;

CHAPTER ONE

Southern Ireland, late July 1169

The splendid hall was filled almost to overflowing. One stranger more or less would not be noticed. The hooded figure materialized by a pillar in the far corner of the room, opposite the entrance, and sat down. He observed every female in the room with a keen eye as though searching for someone.

The main jollity in the room was focused around a tall, stunning young woman. The newcomer stared hard, watching everyone in the small family group, trying to learn more about them all.

"Congratulations to my cousin Dairinn upon this joyous occasion!" Fergus toasted in front of the assembled guests.

"Beannacht libh, a thaisce. Blessings upon you both, treasure," her cousin Conn declared.

"May you be as happy in your marriage as your uncle and I, may God rest his soul, and may you live to have a dozen sons," her aunt Mebh saluted in turn.

"This betrothal will signal even greater peace and prosperity here in Leinster. You've made an old man very happy, mo chroi," her father said, beaming as he called her by his special pet name, 'my heart.'

The stranger never took his eyes off the auburn-haired beauty they had called Dairinn. Ye gods, she was the one? They could be truly generous after all.

He watched, unobserved behind his pillar, as the lovely young girl mingled with the multitude of noble guests assembled in the great hall at Rathkeel. She graciously served them with wine and a variety of delicacies as she welcomed everyone to her betrothal feast according to tradition.

She was dressed in the finest gown the shadowy stranger had ever seen, a most breathtaking woman to behold. The dress was a rich amber velvet embroidered with elaborate gold and russet animal patterns at the neckline, wrists, and hem. The hue of the gown set off perfectly her unbound auburn hair, the color of autumn leaves, which flowed down her back to well below her waist in a mass of thick curls, and emphasized her limpid sable brown eyes. The top opening enhanced her swan-like neck, delicate shoulders, and pale flawless skin. The rich fabric molded to her shapely bosom before falling in graceful folds over her small but rounded hips, the fabric cascading down to the floor, where it swept the rushes with its long train. The lavish gold girdle which she wore as her only ornament accentuated her willowy figure, completing the elegant ensemble.

The tall dark man knew that Dairinn would have been the center of the room's attention even had the festivities not been in her honor. She was almost statuesque with her poise and elegance, a rare jewel in this predominantly male setting. She shimmered in the torchlight, radiant in her happiness and contentment with her family at her side.

As she passed nearer to him to fill another cup, he could detect the fragrance which swirled about her, an alluring combination of musk, and the floral and woodsy scents of the glorious Irish landscape with which she communed daily.

She was nothing if not tempting. And she was to be his! Senan could hardly believe his good fortune.

Not a man in the room could take his eyes off Dairinn. She was like a lodestone to which all men were drawn. But it was not simply because of her noble birth, the stranger concluded. Though she came from one of the most powerful clans in the southeast of Ireland, there was a certain warmth and lack of aristocratic reserve about her which all men found inviting.

He could hear all their thoughts as clearly as if they had spoken them aloud. They came to him in a wild whirl. He wished he could hear her mind more clearly, to be sure she was indeed the right one. But with so many people in the room, it was hard to block all of their thoughts out and focus.

As he peeped out from behind the pillar, the shadowy figure could sense a lack of mirth in certain quarters. On the part of Dairinn's family, many of the men envied the tall, haughty-looking Norman wearing the betrothed's garland of flowers. As they ate heartily of the many savory dishes which were placed before them by a bevy of servants, all praised her housewifely skills. Dairinn's knowledge of housekeeping, cooking, and herbal medicines was proclaimed second to none. Here was a wife who would make her husband proud, so long as the husband was deserving of her. But though many of the O'Ciardha sept had doubts about the bridegroom's worthiness, they kept it to themselves for the sake of peace.

The enigmatic stranger watched as the great warriors from her own clan patted her fondly on the shoulder as she moved up and down the rows of tables. He listened to their thought, memories, recollections of the woman he did not yet know, but would have to become acquainted with soon if the prophecies were to be fulfilled.

He learnt that Dairinn had been a comrade and friend to them always, through good times and bad, ever since she had been old enough to sit astride a horse. Some of the men even made so bold as to plant a smacking kiss on her lips or cheeks, earning scowls of disapproval from Hugo du Balleroi, Dairinn's intended.

The stranger could hear the tall, thin Norman's thoughts. He was perhaps the only man in the room who was unimpressed with Dairinn, more fool him.

Really, these Irish were so uncivilized, Hugo reflected to himself haughtily as he drank what he considered to be the dreadfully inferior wine, and observed his fiancée mingling with her family and their allies and foster-sons and daughters.

Who ever heard of a noblewoman waiting on her underlings hand and foot? Or a woman who strutted around in breeches hunting day and night with her male cousins, who wore kilts, showing their bare legs like savages?

He would certainly put paid to that sort of unseemly behavior, and other less savory Irish pastimes, such as hurling and peile, once they were safely wed. Even if he had to lock her up in the compound, he thought, a moue of distaste twisting his arrogant, tight-lipped mouth.

"She's beautiful and rich, but really, they're only barbarians," he remarked to his companion Francis de Beaumaine.

His companion was black-haired, swarthy, with the most hideous battle-scar running down one side of his face, cruelly marring his otherwise perfect features.

De Beaumaine laughed, wiped the grease off his mouth onto his sleeve, and then thumped a servant girl soundly on the rump, sending her flying. He helped himself to a huge leg of lamb, and then agreed with a huge belch.

"Aye, my lord, they are indeed horrible, apart from the comely wench you'll have to warm your bed at night. As for the rest, I can't wait for the chance to wipe them from the face of the earth. I saw them playing peile this morning, and it was just as you described. Imagine kicking about the severed heads of your enemies up and down a field for sport. These people are pagans. You should send a letter to the Pope. You have an uncle in Rome, do you not? I am sure he could help you get a blessing from His Holiness to engage in a crusade against these savages. I'm sure even the Moors and Turks are not as bad as these Celts."

He belched again as he fingered the hilt of his dagger gleefully.

Hugo shook his head. "You'll get your chance soon, Francis. But there's more than one way of skinning a cat, as you well know. Why risk our small band of comrades when we can pay others to do the work for us?" He smirked, his thin lips stretching to an even thinner line.

Even Dairinn sensed something amiss at the feast. She cast a worried glance at Hugo from across the great hall. Not for the first time, she wondered why he perpetually wore the expression of a man who had drunk vinegar. Didn't these Normans ever smile or laugh? They seemed to do nothing but eat, drink, quarrel and stare that she could see.

Hugo, to give him his due, had behaved towards her politely enough, even if he did look somewhat askance at her as she trotted around her estate overseeing the daily routine at Rathkeel.

She could sense his wariness, and wondered if it was because he was had misgivings about her capacities or desirability as a wife. Though she was only eighteen, she knew she appeared even younger due to her large sable brown eyes, which she had inherited from her mother. Hugo might think she was not up to the task of running a well-ordered Irish or even Norman-type household.

On the other hand, she knew she had an acute intelligence and wit which had often caused her father Peadar to wish she had been born a boy. Her sharp tongue had scared away many a faint-hearted suitor before now. Indeed, at eighteen she might have been considered by some to have been a loser in the matrimonial stakes.

But despite her father's wishful thinking, with her straight nose, high rosy cheekbones, and deep crimson lips, Senan noted, unable to keep his eyes off her, Dairinn was completely feminine. Alluringly so. Her habit of looking directly at the person to whom she was speaking with her winsome eyes only served to reinforce the impression that here was a true woman, soft, yielding, and absolutely incapable of guile.

Yet appearances could be deceptive, the tall dark stranger knew. Her iron will and strength emerged but seldom. Nevertheless, it was the match of any man's.

As Dairinn made her way around the room, chatting amiably to all, welcoming each visitor to the feast, she reflected proudly that she had succeeded at last in doing what she had always dreamt of one day. She had found a husband who was strong and kind, who would be willing to let her stay in her family home Rathkeel forever. Surrounded by friends and family, and the stunning beauty of the Vale of Avoca, her happiness would be complete.

Ever since she had been of marriageable age she had rejected every suitor, of which there had been many, on the grounds that she couldn't bear to be parted from her home. She had had no illusions as to the motives for these proposals. She was wealthy, well-born, and highly connected. But she had had no desire to be separated from all she loved at Rathkeel. Now she would never have to be, she reflected with a self-satisfied smile as she gazed around the feast hall, a warm, well-appointed pillared rectangular room with a hearth at each end.

She noted with pride that the room was well-lit with home-made torches, and every table illuminated with fine candles made from beeswax in clever holders fitted into the tables. In honor of their Norman guests and the great occasion, the ever-present hunting dogs were confined to their kennels outside, and the floor was now strewn with fresh sweet-smelling rushes. Dairinn had always tried to keep the pack outdoors, but the men were careless coming and going in their huge compound, and a good hunting dog was really a member of the family in their culture.

But Dairinn did enjoy a few luxuries, and made scented soaps, potpourri, and sachets herself in order to try to keep the often crowded, smoky stronghold fresh smelling. Servants brought around basins of warm water so that the guests could wash their hands between courses, and they also picked up the discarded bones and orts of food the celebrants frequently cast onto the floor whenever they were finished with each dish.

Again, as a concession to the more refined Norman tastes, her table boasted every delicacy imaginable, able to tempt even the most discerning palates even if her sept were usually content with unsauced dishes.

The long benches, tables, and high backed chairs on the dais were all finely carved and heavily ornamented, and had been made by her eldest brother Maolcholuim, a skilled carpenter as well as warrior, several years before. She noted with pride that several of the Norman lords sitting at the high table ran their hands over the patterns of leaves and flowers with obvious admiration.

She was right to feel pleased with herself, her aunt acknowledged, watching her graceful niece move about the room. Dairinn had done well with her home in recent years, ever since she had grown old enough to take her mother's place in the O'Ciardha household. Her mother had died over ten years before, of a strange wasting disease. For a time Rathkeel had fallen to wrack and ruin, as her father, completely grief-stricken, had lost all interest in worldly affairs.

But Dairinn and her two elder brothers had been made of sterner stuff, Aunt Mebh recalled fondly. The stranger behind the pillar listened to her thoughts intently, trying to discover exactly who Dairinn Ni Ciardha was.

It wasn't long before they had put their young heads together and developed plans for restoring their family's fortunes. Maolcholuim and Suibhne had banded together with their clever sister, who had helped organize the food, weapons and stores, the agricultural activity on the estate, and even the hunting and fishing.

As she had grown older, Dairinn had even participated in the clan's cattle raids and battles. Her father Peadar had always been overly-indulgent with the only daughter he had ever had in his house full of sons, five strong boys who had been the pride of his heart. Seeing her iron-willed determination, in the end he had allowed her to drill, train, and campaign alongside her brothers, and the six of them, along with their three closest cousins, had formed the backbone of the O'Ciardhas.

The stranger listened to Aunt Mebh's reflections on her stunning niece, and nodded, pleased. He had no doubts now. Dairinn Ni Ciardha had to be the one who had been foretold.

Aunt Mebh watched her brother as he led toast after toast to Dairinn's happiness. Peadar's fondness for his only daughter had grown even more obvious over the years as one by one, his sons had all died of accident or illness.

Mebh reflected with a sigh that Dairinn was now the only child left to her brother since the death of his eldest son Maolcholuim in a riding accident the year before.

Peadar had, however, recently adopted Fergus, Conn, and Bearach, the youngest of the three, after the death of his sister Mebh's husband Rian. But despite these new additions to the household, Peadar had given the beautiful Dairinn pride of place as chatelaine of his castle, even above Mebh herself.

He had also allowed her to decline the many marriage proposals she had received in order to allow her to cling to her childhood, her freedom, a little while longer.

Mebh didn't resent the younger woman's supremacy. She only envied her the freedom to order her own life as she saw fit. Too often the Fates decreed a different path from the one an individual wished to choose, as Mebh herself had discovered many years ago.

Perhaps the Fates were controlling her destiny again now, Mebh wondered uneasily. The O'Ciardhas had noted in recent months with increasing alarm that the Norman invaders who had arrived in Ireland that spring were becoming more and more greedy for prime farmland throughout Leinster, and more and more ambitious for power within the centuries-old Irish political system.

Because of Peadar's unease, and some slight murmurings of discontent within his own clan, he had decided that the time had come for his sept to number themselves amongst the Normans' allies, lest they run the risk of incurring their wrath.

The O'Ciardha had been a peaceful clan, strong, well-equipped, prepared to defend itself if the need arose, but never indulging in internecine warfare simply for the sake of the succession. Many young men from other clans had blinded, injured or killed one another for the chance to become tanaist of their sept one day, even to the point of maiming or murdering nearly everyone eligible the succession.

Not so with Dairinn's family. As a lesser southerly branch of the powerful Ui Neill dynasty, they had a modicum of protection from their northern cousins, and thus many powerful allies. Peadar was known to be a fair and trustworthy man. Many were willing to entrust their sons to him for fosterage, an essential component in training the young men to be warriors and forging powerful alliances.

Peadar's five sons had been strong warriors, but not given to unnecessary displays of power. They had defended their territory and cattle as required, and honored their alliances, but never had never gone on the offensive themselves.

Above all, Mebh acknowledged without a trace of rancor, the O'Ciardha clan had remained powerful because of its determination to remain united, a stance which Dairinn in particular, with her enormous strength of character and quick-witted resourcefulness, had persuaded all of the men in the family to agree to.

Maolcholuim, as Peadar's eldest son, had had the greatest claim to become tanaist of the sept once Peadar eventually died. Dairinn and her younger brothers and cousins had all sworn loyalty to Maolcholuim as the acknowledged leader. Though he had been a bright young man and brilliant fighter, it had been his sister who had won them all around to the idea.

Over the years she had earned her clan's loyalty through her intelligence and bravery, for in addition to being a superb homemaker and estate steward for her father, she could fight, hunt, and even kill as skilfully as any man in the great hall the whenever the need arose.

Senan knew all he needed to know from the connection he had forged with Aunt Mebh's mind. He began to inch forward slowly. He had much to do, and little time. He could sense the political intrigue all around Dairinn, and now a palpable evil emanating from behind another pillar which was so terrifying that he felt his knees go weak.

It vanished as soon as he sensed it, leaving him quivering and breathless. Had it been real? Or just him sensing the Normans' evil intentions to harm these innocent, unsuspecting people as soon as the supposed marriage alliance was complete?

Fergus, Mebh's eldest son, nudged his mother gently in the side, disturbing her pensive mood.

"Conn's doing it again!" he whispered.

The stranger saw Dairinn blush now as her cousin recounted her deeds of daring as a young woman when she had campaigned side by side with her clan against a mighty invasion force from Denmark.

She scolded, "Conn, please, leave some work for the bards to do tonight! Regaling the company with these old tales is only stealing their thunder, and putting everyone to sleep."

"I tell you, she fought like a hundred men with the Vikings that day," Conn continued to boast to all who would listen. "She killed more than Maolcholuim and Suibhne put together. Many's the head we brought back, though the little miss here doesn't like peile."

Dairinn rolled her eyes heavenward, and remarked to Fergus, "It's good thing the Normans can't understand a word of what Conn's saying. They already look disapprovingly enough at me without him giving them any further cause to do so."

"There is nothing to disapprove." Fergus grinned up at her, his green eyes glowing. "You're lovely beyond measure. If they don't admire you, a thaisce, they're damned fools who don't know what a real woman is!"

"They might have some serious doubts about my gender if Conn doesn't stop boasting!"

"Impossible," he growled, pulling her to him for an affectionate kiss.

She slapped Fergus playfully as he tickled her waist, and smiled down at her aunt, who sipped her wine and said nothing.

Dairinn wondered from her aunt's expression if Mebh were disappointed that she and Fergus had never married. They were great friends, and she was terribly fond of him. But the one or two times they had ever flirted with the idea of engaging in a romance with one another, Dairinn had resisted. They were too similar. They could never be happy with one another in that way, she was sure.

Aunt Mebh looked up at her candidly then, her odd dark eyes shimmering in the candle light. "Fergus is right, child. There's no point in marrying a man who won't appreciate you."

Fergus tickled her again, and with a last kiss went over to thump his brother on the back. "If you don't stop rattling on, Conn, I shall get Tadhg the bard to make up a satire about your dull story-telling!"

The table went silent then, for here was a serious threat indeed. Tadhg was known to have the sharpest tongue in Leinster. One of his scurrilous verses was enough to make most people's hair turn gray.

Dairinn winked at her handsome young cousin to show her gratitude for his support, and sat by her aunt, who looked downcast.

"Aunt Mebh, both you and I know the main thing any man appreciates is my dowry. And the powerful allies I bring with me as my marriage portion. I'm sorry if you're disappointed with my choice, but it's Father's dearest wish that we make peace here in Leinster. To try to create a bridge between the Normans and the clans hereabouts.

"Perhaps there is someone out there in the wide world who might love me for myself alone. But I'm old enough to be married now. Just think how much this will help our sept. If the boys were all still alive, it would be different. We wouldn't have to fear anyone, least of all the Normans, or try to consolidate our position in this region. But my brothers are gone now, God rest them, and so it's just the four of us, with me as heir."

Aunt Mebh nodded and sighed.

"All of you here at Rathkeel rely upon me to look after things. I know you do your best to help, Aunt, truly. But there are certain things you can't help with. Besides, at your age you should be looking after yourself, not a whole passel of wild men." She grinned, and ruffled Conn's hair as he came over to give her a big bear hug and challenge her to an arm wrestle.

"Not now, Conn," she said in exasperation. "The guests!"

"I forgot. Sorry," Conn apologized. The huge bear of a man placed a smacking kiss on her lips, and shuffled away to search for some ale.

Dairinn turned back to Aunt Mebh. "I can see you're unhappy about this match. He is no doubt a fortune-hunter, as all Normans are. But since Hugo is willing to live here at Rathkeel always, I consider that I've made the best bargain possible. Even if he doesn't care for me truly, I shall be mistress here in my own home, and that is enough."

Mebh looked at her speculatively for a moment. "Pray God your words come true, my dear. For once you are wed to Hugo du Balleroi, you'll have no chance to change your mind."

"This is my home. You're my family. Rathkeel means everything to me. Why would I ever alter my inclination?" Dairinn laughed with the glib assurance of a young woman who seldom changed her mind about anything.

"You mentioned it just now, Dairinn. True love. For that you should be willing to surrender everything, even that which you hold most dear," her aunt stated firmly, her dark eyes glittering.

Dairinn was about to laugh again at her aunt's uncharacteristic sentimentality, when suddenly the hairs on the back of her neck prickled. As she stood up from the wooden bench, the stone floor seemed to give way beneath her feet.

Reviews:

Thoroughly fascinating, Four stars

Kathy Boswell, Romantic Times

This thoroughly fascinating Druid fantasy was rich in detail as it told the story of Dairinn and Senan. I found myself reading this book more slowly than I normally read in order to capture every detail. The story opens with Dairinn being betrothed to a Norman in order to try to cultivate peace between her Irish clan and the Normans who have invaded their lands. Little does she know that a stranger has arrived, a Druid, there to fulfill her destiny.

Senan, a Druid Wizard comes to claim Dairinn for his own, but he has no way of knowing how hard a road they both must travel in order to find true love and peace. Dairinn's heritage is hidden from her for years. When she finds out who and what she is, can she handle it? Can she leave her family behind for a stranger? Can they fight the evil that threatens to overtake their land?

Shanna Murchison created two very strong characters in the hero and heroine. They held onto their love and their beliefs even through the worst adversities, making them a force to be reckoned with.

Five Stars: A stunning talent

Ed, Connecticut, software programmer

This writer has it all, from fantastic heroes and villains, to sparkling love scenes, to vivid action. Add to that the historical element all based on the history of the invasion of Ireland, and this well-researched historical fantasy novel shows that truth has to be stranger than fiction. It is one hell of a great book. Both men and women will LOVE it.

Five Stars: An incredible book

A moving saga of love and loss, and also redemption. The heroine is a memorable one as she is called upon by cosmic forces to rebalance the universe. She and her love must make hard choices in an Ireland being torn apart by foreign invasion. This is one book you will never forget.

Five Stars: Fantastic

A wonderful gripping fantasy romance set in Ireland, with wonderful heroes and villains. This will keep you on the edge of your seat. And just when you think you know what is going to happen, the author manages to surprise you! Terrific! Enjoy it!

Yoga to trust your intuition

Admin — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 20:53:52 +0000

From Yogi Bhajan, Master of Kundalini Yoga Sit cross-legged on the floor with a straight back, or on a chair with spine straight and feet flat. Rest your left hand in your lap with the palm up, or in gian mudra, palm up, index finger- and thumb-tips slightly touching. Raise the right index finger to about shoulder height and having it pointing upwards. Hold it comfortably in this position by bending your arm at the elbow, so the elbow is about level with your waist. While the index finger is pointing upwards, make a relaxed fist with the rest of the remaining fingers. Breathe deeply for 1 to 3 minutes. To conclude, stretch your right arm straight up in the air high as you exhale slowly and completely. Then try to feel more in tune with your sixth sense.

Product Review: Chef Jays Double chocolate decadence flavor protein brownie

Admin — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 20:46:20 +0000

Product Review: Chef Jays Double chocolate decadence flavor Chef Jays Double chocolate decadence flavor protein brownie Tri-o-plex 18 gram of protein brownie I have to say, the product really tastes great, but the package labelling is misleading. Yes, it does have 18 grams of protein, but the first ingredient is sugar. It also does not specify the protein source. The whole brownie weighs in at a whopping 350 calories with 38 grams of sugar. Could it not be sweetened with honey to keep it moist, and a bit mor protein content to sugar ratio? Plus, what exactly is in the "chocolate compound coating"? Sounds like something you use to plug a hole in your wall. I have to say, it is an awesome product, not bad at the price too, considering what you would have to pay for a bakery brownie. So it is great for those who don't mind the calories and want a good yummy brownie with far more protein than you would ever get otherwise. But for those of us who are carb sensitive, well, we are a bit out of luck!. And I made the mistake and ate the whole thing because I looked at the legt hand side of the label, which has the nutritional content for HALF the package. Really, do you honestly expect any self-respecting chocoholic brownie eater to have the will power to eat only HALF of it? Impossible. 3 stars out of 5 for a dieter 5 out of 5 for a chocoholic Supplies-you can get them at Vitamin Shoppe, or online at www.chefjays.com

Castles in the Air

Admin — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 22:38:32 +0000

Castles in the Air Evelyn Trimborn

Beautiful but poverty-stricken Irish aristocrat Alanna Lacy is facing foreclosure on her magnificent home Castle Lacy. Powerful and charismatic property developer Bran Ryan offers her a way out of her desperate financial situation: marry him!

Faced with her father's disapproval, Bran's spiteful ex-fiancee, and their own insecurities about love and relationships, can they save Castle Lacy from destruction and build a future together, or will all their dreams become nothing more than fantasy castles in the air?

Castles in the Air Evelyn Trimborn ISBN: 978-1-58345-026-0 Word Count: 75,000 Order Now: $3.99 &lt;A href=castles.buy.html target=_blank&gt; No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button&lt;/A&gt;

CHAPTER ONE

Wintry November sunlight flooded the gray-blue Irish sky. Noticing a taxi pulling up to the marble stairs at the front of the Castle, Alanna Lacy peered out of the elegant bay window.

"Oh dear, visitors," she sighed aloud.

Alanna felt rather weary, and wondered if she could get her maid Alice to lead this conducted tour. But something about the appearance of the tall, raven-haired man dressed in a thick dark shearling jacket over an expensively elegant black business suit intrigued her.

Alanna removed her apron and tidied her gown and hair briefly before going to meet the new arrival in the foyer.

Much to her surprise, she saw he was carrying two suitcases. She indicated for him to set them down beside her desk so that they would be safely out of the way.

"And where is Mr. Lacy, Mr. Marcus Lacy?" the man inquired briskly in a strong American accent. "I need to speak to him right away."

Alanna went white with shock and fear. She stalled for time as she stammered, "H-he isn't here at the moment. I handle all the Castle business. May I ask what you wish to see him about?"

"I'm not in the habit of discussing my business affairs with servants and underlings," the man declared in a deep voice as he shrugged out of his shearling coat.

Alanna fumed at his curt dismissal. "I'm Alanna Lacy, owner of this castle, and Marcus' wife. I am not a servant."

The stranger looked her over again with renewed interest, but also with bemusement in his deep blue eyes, which seemed to assess her from head to toe with one all-encompassing glance.

Finally he said, "You'll forgive me, Ma'am, but I believe it was an honest mistake. I thought your dress was a sort of uniform for working around Castle Lacy, to give the place an authentic feel. I didn't mean to insult you."

Alanna looked up into the deep blue depths of his eyes as he moved closer to her to shake her hand. She said with a haughty lift of her chin, "It's not a uniform, these are my clothes. You'll find us very traditional and set in our ways around here. And the Victorians did have a point. These skirts and petticoats are heavy, but very warm, especially with our Irish winters."

"Well, enough of the idle chatter about the weather, Mrs. Lacy. I need to speak to your husband regarding a business matter."

She bristled even more at his abrupt manner. "Forgive me, but I don't even know your name. Besides, I suspect that if my husband did have any business arrangements with you, it must have been quite some time ago, for he certainly hasn't mentioned anything like that to me recently, and as I've said, I'm the owner of this castle," Alanna said smoothly.

She led the way into the drawing room where there was a fire burning briskly in the grate, her mind whirring in panic. It must have been ages ago, for Marcus had been dead for over two years. Why was this man here? And now, of all times?

She decided to deal with this unexpected turn of events very cautiously indeed, and tried to assess the stranger by inviting him to stay to tea.

He accepted gratefully, and followed her into the drawing room.

"I'm sorry, I'm behaving rather impetuously, I know. Let me start again by introducing myself. I'm Bran Ryan, of the Ryan Corporation."

He offered his hand, which she took tentatively. She almost yanked hers away again as the crackling power of the huge man in front of her seemed to shoot right up her arm, peaking her breasts and setting sparks running up and down her spine.

He stared at her for a moment as he clung onto her hand, then dropped it abruptly and cleared his throat. He tugged at his starched collar for a moment, squared his shoulders, and visibly tried to regain his composure as he stood staring down at her.

"As I was saying, er," he stammered for a moment, "I own the Ryan Corporation in New York. I know I really should have telephoned, either from New York, or at least from Shannon Airport, but I had business over here, on the Continent actually, and I really wanted to come see Castle Lacy for myself first, before saying anything to you or your husband."

"Saying anything?" she echoed blankly.

"Well, one look up the long drive told me it was like a fairy tale come true. If you don't mind putting up with me for a couple of days, Mrs. Lacy, I think we can come to some sort of business arrangement."

"And just what sort of business are you in?" Alanna asked him politely.

"Tourism, the same as yourself, only on a much larger scale. We have safari parks, resorts, amusement parks, all sorts of sites where people go to be entertained. Your husband approached us to see if we would be willing to develop Castle Lacy."

Her heart lurched in her chest. This could be the answer to all her prayers, or her worst nightmare. "Develop it in what way, exactly?" she dared to ask, just managing to keep her tone even.

"I'm not quite sure yet," he admitted, looking around him admiringly. "You've got a vast and historically important house here, but also a huge amount of land. Maybe a safari park, like Longleat in England. There would even be enough land left over for a small amusement park as well. I have all the figures here in my briefcase. But I need to take a look at the place for myself in person before I come to any definite conclusions," Bran said in a very business-like manner which told her this was a man accustomed to always getting exactly what he wanted.

"I've seen the deed to the estate, the extent of the property, but I would need to see the landscape for myself first before committing to such a huge project."

Alanna's feelings swirled inside of her, so that she could hardly think clearly. This man was here to buy Castle Lacy. To set her free of all the problems she had had ever since the family fortune had dwindled, and Marcus had died.

She didn't like the sound of the safari park one bit, but she couldn't afford to chase him away just yet. Not without allowing him to consider its possibilities, and maybe make an offer.

But Alanna didn't want to appear to be too enthusiastic or eager either, in case he took advantage of her desperate position, which was why she also decided for the present not to tell him that Marcus was actually dead.

"Well, Mr. Ryan, I must say that you've come a long way, and at a great deal of expense to see us. But I'm afraid my husband is very busy running the estate at the moment, and as I said, he leaves all the business decisions to me.

"May I just say though, that he never mentioned you to me, but a Mr. Cheevers in New York, I believe, with whom he had gone to school. Do you represent this Mr. Cheevers?"

"In a manner of speaking, yes. I bought his smaller company from him about three months ago. I found the correspondence between Cheevers and your husband in the files. Admittedly the letter was dated from some time back. You may have changed your minds since, or had other offers, but you'll forgive me if I observe that it must be quite a place to manage and keep up, especially for a girl as young as yourself." He smiled then, rendering himself even more devastatingly handsome to look at.

Alanna wondered if he thought flattery would help him, for she was twenty-five, and felt anything but young. Indeed, she felt washed out and plain in her old-fashioned black homemade dress, and often longed to wear something more fashionable and cheerful. But her father had insisted she remain in mourning for Marcus, as though he had been some saint. Or as if he had been the one and only love of her life and she would never marry again.

As the maid brought the tea things in, Alanna heard herself say, "Alice, can you prepare the blue room for Mr. Ryan? He'll be staying with us for a few days."

She knew she was letting herself in for all sorts of problems, not least financially, for they were always so poor that scrimping and saving was a full-time job. But the temptation of selling the house, of escaping from this mausoleum, filled her with renewed hope.

Alanna became quite animated over tea, and more than once she and Bran laughed together like old friends as they chatted about Bran's journey from New York. He told her all about the Big Apple, and she described the countryside around her home enthusiastically.

"We have a number of stately homes in the area, and a great deal of woodland. It's excellent country for riding, farming, and rearing sheep and cattle."

"I imagine it must be, but I detect a hint of bias in your voice, Mrs. Lacy. Were you born around here, or did you marry into the area, so to speak?"

She blushed under the intense scrutiny of his dark blue eyes. "I was born here. Apart from studying in London for a time, I've lived here all my life."

"My ancestors are from Ireland, as you can no doubt guess from the name. I've lived in New York all my life. But now that I'm getting older and wiser, I find myself longing for a change of pace," he said candidly.

Then he looked away from her to stare out of the window moodily, almost as though he feared he had given away something too personal.

Seeing his hard, wary look, Alanna simply sipped her tea in silence, and waited for him to finish his cake and cheese sandwiches. She noted that he had stopped eating so heartily as he had been a moment before. No doubt a powerful businessman like him must have many worries, she reflected, curious about his life despite her fears.

It was not simply her concern over him discovering the truth about Marcus being dead. She wondered why she was continuing to maintain the pretence of her husband still being alive.

In the end, she had to admit that Bran Ryan frightened her. He seemed to exude a raw masculine power which filled the whole room, almost suffocating her. He was so tall, broad, well-dressed, sophisticated, so, so, physicalâ€¦ The one touch of his hand had been seismic in its impact on her whole body. Her only consolation was that he seemed to have felt something unusual too.

"Whenever you're finished, Mrs. Lacy, I should like a tour of the house."

Bran's voice broke into her reverie, and she stared at him absent-mindedly for a moment.

"Oh, yes of course, the house. If you're ready?"

Bran nodded and rose from the sofa.

She hurried from the room before his nearness grew too overwhelming. Show him what he wants, settle on a price, then get away from him as fast as you can, she counseled herself inwardly as she led him to the grand staircase. He's far too dangerous, handsome...

Reviews:

A brilliantly moving romance. The couple are obviously made for each other, but doubts about themselves and their motives for being together keep them apart until it's almost too late for them to find happiness. Ms. Trimborn certainly has a knack for character; very strong and dramatic, without being too over the top. I loved Ms. Trimborn's elegant style, and will certainly be reading more of her books in the future. - Annabelle Stevens

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Free Preview: The Sea Of Love

Admin — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 22:29:27 +0000

The Sea of Love

Sorcha MacMurrough

Wrongfully accused of murder, Aidanna O'Flaherty's only ally against her evil brother-in-law Donal is the dashing English-bred aristocrat Declan Burke. Saving him from certain death, they fall in love, only to be separated when Declan is falsely accused of treason. Languishing in the Tower, Declan is powerless to assist his beloved Aidanna as she undertakes an epic struggle to expose her enemy and save her family and friends. She must race against time to prevent all she loves from being swept aside in a thunderous tide of foreign invasion.

The Sea Of Love Sorcha MacMurrough Word Count: 80,000 Setting: Tudor Ireland Rating: Quite sensual. ORDER NOW: $3.99 (US)

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The West Coast of Ireland, Summer 1546

CHAPTER ONE

The oaken door splintered inwards with a mighty crash. Aidanna lurched upwards from the bed, and gasped as her brother-in-law Donal caught hold of her wrist and jerked her to her feet.

"What's wrong? Is Malachi ill again?" Aidanna gaped, as she trembled with fear and cold.

She looked from one face to the other in the dim torch light, and suddenly realised she was standing before them completely naked. Donal threw her arm away from him as though he had been burnt, and barked at the serving girl, "Get her a gown!"

One man, a stranger, tall and dark, stood staring at her unabashedly. Aidanna flicked her long auburn tresses over her shoulders to fall forward over her breasts as Rosa scurried about for her smock.

She shivered again, but her anger welled up as she demanded, "What is happening? Are we under attack? You have no right to come barging in here like this, with the entire clan at your heels!"

Rosa pulled the smock over Aidanna's head from behind. She thrust her arms into the sleeves, and then squared up to the portly man standing in front of her. "I've only just got to bed after nursing my step-son for the past fortnight, so if this is some sort of game, Donal Mor, you're going to regret it!"

She had always mistrusted her brother-in-law, and the dislike certainly seemed mutual as he lifted his huge fist and smashed her in the face. Her jaw throbbed, but she was only temporarily dazed, and would have fought him with her bare hands had her arms not been wrestled roughly behind her and tightly bound.

"We're arresting you for the murder of Malachi Burke, and don't pretend your innocence, you witch!"

Aidanna ceased her frantic struggles, as her aching jaw dropped open.

"Dead! What do you mean, he's dead! He can't be! The fever had turned! He was well. He was going to come to the ceremony tomorrow," Aidanna trailed off in a whisper, as she realised with a pang that not only was her stepson dead, but she herself was now in grave danger.

She looked from one face to the other, and read nothing but hatred. Except for the stranger carrying the torch, they all avoided her gaze. Only he seemed to listen to her, his light brown eyes almost golden in the flickering light. But before she could say another word, Donal ordered her to be taken to the dungeon.

As her feet dragged over the rushes, Aidanna's patience snapped.

"I'm innocent! For God's sake, he was my stepson! I saved his life, nursed him! He was well! Ask the servants, they'll tell you!" She struggled furiously, wriggling out of the two clansmen's grip like an eel desperate for survival.

"They'll tell us naught with their throats cut, as you well know," Donal snarled.

She landed on the floor with a thud, and stared once more. Donal certainly had worked it all out, down the the smallest detail...

She kicked out at the bench nearby, ramming it hard into the legs of the men trying to drag her to her feet once more. They grunted in pain, and she flashed up onto her feet to dodge them. Think, Aidanna, think....

"Rosa, a warm woollen gown, and my cloak!" she called out in the confusion.

"Take the little bitch already, will you!" Donal barked.

"All right, I'll go," she said firmly. "But only to prove my innocence and that I have nothing to hide. But there's no need to be so rough."

They gripped her a bit less tightly, but still dragged her toward the battered down door. As the room began to empty, she took advantage of the clattering and hubbub to whisper urgently to her maid in Spanish, "Diarmuid, get him to safety, before they kill him too!"

Donal Mor hadn't noticed the exchange, but the stranger had, and he stood there frozen to the spot.

Aidanna met his odd golden gaze, and pleaded desperately, "Whoever you are, surely you can see this has to stop? That I'm innocent."

Another violent backhander from Donal's gauntlet prevented her from saying anything further, and her head lolled backwards as her knees crumpled and she began to lose consciousness.

Strong arms caught her up behind her shoulders and knees, and she felt herself carried, almost tenderly, down the twisting spiral stairs of the castle.

"No one is to see or speak to the prisoner, and I want all her household executed for their part in this conspiracy," she heard Donal command.

"No!" she shrieked. "You can't do that! It's monstrous. They've done nothing. I'm innocent!"

The last words she heard were a softly whispered, "I know. I won't let them kill you," before the cold darkness enveloped her completely.

The Sea Of Love Sorcha MacMurrough Word Count: 80,000 Setting: Tudor Ireland Rating: Quite sensual. ORDER NOW: $3.99 (US)

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Reviews:

"Aidanna O'Flaherty's world is pitched into chaos when she is wrongfully accused of murdering her stepson. Her only ray of hope lies in the dashing, English-bred aristocrat Declan Burke. They are drawn together against the threat of Aidanna's evil brother-in-law, and soon fall in love.

"Their love is threatened when Declan is falsely accused of treason and thrown into the dreaded Tower. Aidanna must expose her enemy to save all she holds dear.

"The Sea of Love is a captivating tale woven with rich settings and vivid characters. Aidann's and Declan's attraction is magnetic, and the suspenseful drama keeps a reader turning the pages." -Romantic Times, 4 stars

"A marvelous romp back in time. It hooked me from the first sentence. Aidanna is a feisty heroine with a mind of her own, able to outwit most of the men around her, but with a heart of gold. She takes risks for those she loves, and most of the time she wins. But like all true seafarers, she sometimes sails too close to the wind.

"Declan, the oh-so-sexy hero of the novel, is in way over his head when he first meets Aidanna. He has his own life back in England, and the last thing he wants is to be embroiled in Irish power politics. But his growing love for Aidanna makes him realize that he too has to stand up for justice.

"Pacy, suspenseful, and always fascinating, this is one for your keeper pile." Evelyn Trimborn, Castles in the Air

"Fascinating. The characters, the time periods, the intrigue, all make for a heady brew. Right from the start, you know Aidanna and Declan are made for each other, but the intrigues between rival clan members and the evil Duke of Norfolk, plotting with the Spanish for the overthrow of Henry VIII, make the lovers' lives uncertain. Aidanna braves everything fate can throw at her to be with the man she loves. Totrally gripping from start to finish, this is definitely one to be read in one sitting." Jacinta Carey, The Wildest Heart

A selection of 5 star reviews from Amazon and Barnes and Noble

Barnes and Noble Top 25 e book, June 2001-November 2001

What a thrill!

Non-stop action and romance that will have your heart pounding from fear and delight. Mystery, suspense, and a whole lot more, in a winning combination from this talented and prolific author.

A superb read!

At last, a sizzling romance about Ireland in a different period of time, and an author who does not talk down to their reader. Excellent research, sizzling romance, and more murder, mystery and intrigue than an Agatha Christie novel! Great stuff! Enjoy every word of it, just like I did!

A rousing read; I loved it.

Well-researched, with spellbinding characters and sizzling love scenes, it has all you could want in an historical novel and more. It was an action-packed novel from start to finish. I can't wait to read more of Ms. MacMurrough's books on Ireland and its tumultuous history.

Fantastic!

I loved it! A great period of history which has not been explored yet. The author certainly knows their stuff! And the romance and suspense-better than any thrillers I read recently. Definitely one to watch out for in the future!

The Sea Of Love Sorcha MacMurrough Word Count: 80,000 Setting: Tudor Ireland Rating: Quite sensual. ORDER NOW: $3.99 (US)

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Investing Basics: What Are Your Investment Goals? Part 1

Admin — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 22:11:40 +0000

When it comes to investing, many first time investors want to jump right in with both feet. After all, time is money, right? Unfortunately, very few first-time investors are successful. Think about it for a minute. This is only common sense. Doing anything for the first time rarely results in instant success. Therefore, investing for the first time requires some degree of knowledge and skill. It is important to remember that few investments are a sure thing--there is almost always a risk of losing your money. Often the great the risk, the greater the rewards. First-time investors tend to get so dazzled by the potential rewards, that they ignore the risks-until it's too late. Before you jump right in, it is true that you need to do your research. However, before you even take that step, it might be better to start with a more fundamental question: What do you hope to achieve with your investments? For instance: Will you be funding a college education? Buying a home? Retiring? Saving for your wedding and honeymoon? Buying an investment property? Opening your own business? Before you invest a single penny, really think about what you hope to achieve with that investment. Knowing what your goal is will help you make smarter investment decisions along the way. By knowing what your goals are, you can then look in a more focused way on the kinds of investments which will help you attain those goals.

The Great Girl’s Guide to Online Dating Part 1

Admin — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:04:41 +0000

The Great Girl's Guide to Online Dating ONLINE DATING THEN AND NOW When online dating sites first started, they soon gained the reputation of being populated by perverts, predators, and the emotionally damaged who couldn't start a relationship in the real world. But over the past few years, it's become the hip, cool thing to do. Online dating has gone mainstream and has lost most of the social stigma it once suffered. Single people of all ages, races, religions, orientations, and both sexes (fortunately!) have turned to online dating to try to find that special soulmate, from people in their own city, to ones living half way around the world. People from all walks of life and body types, people from every developed country in the world, do it. Great girls do it, too. So why not you? WHY DO IT? The reasons people join online dating sites are as varied as the people who join, but mostly they join for three reasons: Time Money Success in finding what they want See Part 2 of The Great Girl's Guide to Online Dating for details on each.

The Great Girl’s Guide to Online Dating Part 2

Admin — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:05:17 +0000

The Great Girl's Guide to Online Dating Part 2 Why do people go for online dating? TIME Because of the great matching technology, online dating can be a real time saver. You can scan hundreds of online profiles and look at hundreds of pictures in the same length of time only one real world date takes. Best of all, the results you're viewing have already been screened for you on the basis of your interests and other compatability factors. Most of the time, you can tell a lot from a guy's profile. The main thing is, do you feel safe with this guy, that he is going to have your best interests at heart, not just his own, and bring something great into your life? You can usually tell right away from the profile if a guy is a player or not. Be really careful of the ones who say they have no preference for body type. Huh. No such animal, unless he's a sex addict. Sure, there are a lot of insincere guys out there, on line and in real life. Make sure that you are sincere (without giving any personal information away) and you should attract like-minded people. If you're only out for casual dating, be honest about it. If you're looking to settle down with the right guy, be honest about that too without sounding desperate. If you're both honest, then at least you know you won't be wasting your precious free time on a guy who isn't on the same page as you romantically. MONEY For less than the price of one evening out on the town, you can enjoy an entire month of meeting men and getting to know some good guys from the safety of your own home. You can online date any time, anywhere, day or night, even at the office (just make sure you don't overdo it! And watch for network security filters and spyware that shows what sites you've been too!) One of the great things about online dating is you can put your best foot forward without even have to get dressed up for it! Some women will choose men within their geographical area in order to leave open the possibility of real world dating. Others choose to correspond with men from all over the world. On the whole, though, long distance romances tend to add up in cost, so do be practical. One final word: a lot of sites are now offering money-back guarantees that you will meet someone and hit it off, or your membership, or an extension of your membership, will be free. So you really have nothing to lose except some time and effort. The risks are few for online dating if you take the right precautions, but the rewards can be many. See Part 3 for other reasons why great girls go for online dating.

Investing Basics: What Are Your Investment Goals? Part 2

Admin — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 22:15:15 +0000

Investing Basics: What Are Your Investment Goals? Part 2 GET RICH QUICK-OR POORER QUICKER? Too often, people invest money with dreams of becoming rich overnight. This is possible with some types of investments--but it is also rare. As we said above, the greater the reward, the greater the risk. Also, most of the time, as in the examples above, we are really looking at much more long term goals, which require a different set of strategies. For instance, Sure, we all know we want to retire some day. And that we want to have a good lifestyle, and not be concerned about the cost of health care, and even our basic daily needs. The question is, at what age do we plan to retire, and at what level of income and lifestyle. What sort of financial cushion will we have under us for emergencies? Most people in this day and age do not even have a 6 month 'emergency fund' in case they lose their job, let alone money on which to live for the next 20, 30, 40 years. It is safer to invest your money in such a way that it will grow slowly over time, and be used for retirement or a child's education. The dollar you save now will yield many more over a 20-year period. The trouble for many of us is saving, let alone finding the money to invest. You will also have to ask yourself: What sacrifices are you (and your family) prepared to make in order to reach your investment goals? For example, it seems ridiculous to be worrying about getting 5-10% in a 401k when you're paying 18-30% on credit card and store card balances, isn't it. Investing is about more than trying to get rich quick, it is about getting out of debt and staying out of it, and having enough savings not only for emergencies, but long terms goals. This may not be a fashionable notion in our get rich quick, want it now society, but with foreclosures at an all time high and America in the throes of a recession, fashion in all its forms be damned. If you have not yet taken the time to sit down and worked out your budget, that should be your first step. The America's Debt Diet website at http://www.oprah.com/money/debtdiet/money_debtdiet_main.jhtml has a lot of free tools and worksheets to help you first work out a realistic budget, and how to get out of debt, and stay out of debt. For more hints and tips, go to Investing Basics: What Are Your Investment Goals? Part 3.

The Great Girl’s Guide to Online Dating Part 3

Admin — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 22:05:48 +0000

SUCCESS We've seen all the ads on TV. We've heard the stories from friends. They can't ALL be lying. Online dating really does work if you are willing to commit to it and take all the right steps in your quest for Mr. Right, or Mr. Right Now. Yes, it might take some time to get started in a way that will put your best foot forward, but remember, you are saving time and money in the long run by filtering out the people you don't have much in common with, and getting to know the ones you do on a deeper level. Successful relationships are all about communication, and shared goals. Online dating may seem a bit like posting a shopping list online and hoping to end up with a full basket of all the yummy things in life. And also hoping that you will match their list. You should think seriously about which items are on your MUST HAVE list. These are the things you are not willing to compromise on. Above all, you need to be honest with yourself. If looks or income or job are really deal-breakers, well, here is your chance to not waste anyone's time, including your own. In particular, with so many divorces these days, you need to think in advance about how you are going to deal with issues like second marriage (yours or theirs!), step-children, and even long-distance relationships. There are two sides to every story in a divorce, for instance, no matter what anyone says. At the same time, no one is perfect, not even you. In the beginning stages, you may be surprised, even a little hurt, to find that they guy who look terrific on paper and in his photo does not think you are IT. Often times, when this happens, it's actually because they've either been looking for a while online, and have started to become attached to someone already, or they have been looking for a while and want to take a break, or are even feeling disillusioned because they've tried online dating but not had much success. Again, success is very much in the mind of the beholder. Be realistic about your expectations, and above all, have fun. Don't feel obliged to invest time and effort in every single match you're given, but don't be rude or string people along either. Sure, they may have a few things missing from your shopping list, but what else have they got going for them? If you are not the most picky shopper in the world, you can easily end up with a bountiful basket of goodies, all by keeping an open and optimistic mind. For tips on how to get started with Online Dating, go to The Great Girl's Guide to Online Dating Part 4

Investing Basics: What Are Your Investment Goals? Part 3

Admin — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 22:18:12 +0000

Investing Basics: What Are Your Investment Goals? Part 3 Where can you find money to invest? It will be what you manage to save left over once you have got out of debt and curbed any bad spending habits you might have identified in part 2 of this article. So what next? YOUR BUDGET, AND BEYOND If after you have worked out your budget and your strategy for getting out of debt, you feel you have money to not only save, but invest, then you can start learning more about the various options open to you. If your investment goal is to get money quickly, you should focus your attention on high-yield, short term investing as you possibly can before you invest. Consider Treasury bills, for example, which guarantee a yield and can be taken out in a variety of sums, for relatively small increments. Consider also any broker's fees, transaction fees, and any penalties for early withdrawal, for example, from a CD. With stocks and shares, you need to consider the volatility of the market, and again, all those hidden or not so hidden fees involved. Trading in FOREX, or foreign exchange, has become very popular recently because there are far fewer trading options between foreign currencies like the American dollar and the Euro, but you need to study what you are doing carefully before you invest. You should strongly consider talking to a financial planner before making any investments. Your financial planner can help you determine what type of investing you must do to reach the financial goals that you have set. He or she can give you realistic information as to what kind of returns you can expect from each option, and how long it will take to reach your specific goals. Again, remember that investing requires more than calling a broker and telling them that you want to buy stocks or bonds. It takes a good amount of research and knowledge about the market if you hope to invest successfully, and on-going effort every day to make sure you are on target, and are winning the investment game, not losing your shirt. Goal-setting before you invest can save a great deal of time and money in the long run. So get out your pen and paper, and start doing the math! 3 parts, 983 words

The Great Girl’s Guide to Online Dating Part 4

Admin — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 22:05:56 +0000

The Great Girl's Guide to Online Dating Part 4 So, after reading the first three parts of this article, are you getting more eager for online dating? Here's a brief thumbnail guide for you so you can dip a toe in the water safely and easily. HOW TO GET STARTED Write a profile that grabs attention, to show what a great girl you are. Remember, guys are very visual, so you'll need to post recent pictures of yourself. If you're at all self conscious about your figure, go for the head shots. Make sure that you don't post any group photos either. It may tell people who you are, and what you care about, but like I said, guys are very visual, and you want them to focus on YOU. When you do put up your profile, try to be fun and interesting and uniquely memorable, without seeming like a nut job. While communicating with the men you meet on line, try not to be too quirky, personal, or rude. We recommend setting up a special email account from one of the free services like yahoo or hotmail so nothing personal can be gleaned about you from,say, your work email address (pretty much a bad idea to ever use your business email for personal stuff anyway). Online courtesy means answering your emails promptly. If you're going to be out of town, or away from a computer for any length of time, there should a vacation setting that will put your matches on hold. Try to be open-minded about what you see in terms of photos, and what they write. Sure, you might wish for a man with the writing eloquence of an Ernest Hemingway, but just remember he was gay and preferred the company of grizzly bears to people. Keep all your communications light and friendly. Never convey anything online that you wouldn't be happy for everyone in the world to know. If the man or men you are communicating with express an interest in talking on the phone, decide for yourself, but don't stay on for too long--save something for the next time. If you do take it all the way to the level of actually meeting in real life, make sure you take all the correct safety precautions. We suggest starting out with coffee, a lunch, rather than a dinner date. Whatever plans you have, no game playing--common courtesy means being on time for a pre-arranged meeting. You should know what each other looks like from the online photos, but it's good to confirm on the day and say something about what you think you'll be wearing. Don't just not turn up. It is extremely rude and hurtful-they are probably just as nervous as you are, if not more so. If you get there, and the person turns out to be someone you really don't want to see again, that's fine too. Be honest without being hurtful. The whole point of dating is to explore your options, not jump in with both feet no matter what warning signs you might have cautioning you that this guy is not the one. Finally, is there really such a thing as 'the one'? Well, we don't just have ONE friend, do we? So be open to the possibility that there are a lot of great guys out there that you could have a really nice time dating and getting to know, without adding the stress of some sort of standard of imaginary perfection to live up to. Above all, when you are online dating, be yourself, the great girl you are, and your great guy should be just a click away. 4 parts, 1665 words

What to Do About Wedding Favors? Part 1

Admin — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 10:17:26 +0000

The question of whether or not you have to give a wedding favor to your guests at your reception is one of the main questions you have to consider early on in your wedding planning and budget for accordingly. There is no easy way to answer this question except to say that it is YOUR budget and YOUR day. However, while it is true that you technically are not required to give your guests any type of wedding favor at your wedding, it is also true that your guests will likely be expecting a favor as a small token of thanks and a memento that in some cases they will value long after the day itself. Wedding favors are becoming more and more common, so while you are not obligated to give out wedding favors, it may leave a bad impression if you don't, and some of your guests may even be offended if you decide not to do so. This article will take a look at the question of whether or not you have to give wedding favors to your guests, and will provide some tips for giving out wedding favors on even the tightest budget. As we discussed in the second paragraph, wedding favors are in no way obligatory, but that does not mean that guests still do not expect to receive a wedding favor when they attend a wedding. There are a couple of reasons for this. One of the most obvious reasons why guests expect to receive a wedding favor is that it is such a common practice now, that the majority of the weddings they have attended recently have included a wedding favor or favors at the table, some of them very lavish. The other reason why guests expect to receive a wedding favor lies with the whole purpose of the wedding favor. The wedding favor is designed to help the couple express their gratitude to each guest for attending the wedding and reception. Although the couple will still send out thank you cards to all of the guests after the wedding, giving a small wedding favor is another way the couple can thank their guests for their support immediately, without waiting until after the honeymoon and catching up on all the daily chores that stop them from writing the thank you letters as promptly as they might like. What to Do About Wedding Favors? Part 2 will discuss wedding favors as part of your overall wedding budget.

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MyWeddingFavors.com

Wedding Planner Introduction

Admin — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 12:27:39 +0000

Your wedding will hopefully be one of the most memorable days of your life, for lots of GOOD reasons, with any luck. This section will try to help you get organized for your big day. From Wedding Favors to Flowers, to Helpful Honeymoon ideas, look here for handy wedding tips you can put in your wedding planner.

Learn how to Plan An Unforgettable Wedding And Saving Thousands Of Dollars. Quickly Discover How You Can Have An Unforgettable Wedding... And Save Thousands Of $$ - Guaranteed!

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Stabilize Your Current Financial Situation First Before You Invest Part 1

Admin — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 22:21:01 +0000

Before you consider investing in any type of market, you should really take a long, hard, realistic look at your current financial situation. Investing in the future is a good thing, but clearing up bad--or potentially bad--situations first is actually far more important. Pull your credit report. You should do this once each year. It is important to know what is on your report, and to clear up any negative items on your credit report as soon as possible. If you've set aside $25,000 to invest (you wish!), but you have $25,000 worth of bad credit, you are better off cleaning up the credit first! YOUR BUDGET Budget? Huh? What's that, you ask? Well, if you haven't already got one, GET ONE. Write done all your essential monthly expenses: rent, electic, phone, car payment, gas, transportation, and so on. Look at what you are paying out each month realistically, and get rid of expenses that are not necessary. If you are not sure where all your money is going, try writing down everything you spend in a week, cash AND credit/debit cards. There is nothing worse than impulse spending when you are trying to plan for your future. In the America's Debt Diet program, at: http://www.oprah.com/money/debtdiet/money_debtdiet_main.jhtml talks about the "Latte Factor": how much are you spending every day on things that you could easily sacrifice for the sake of your financial future, and that of your family? Take the Latte Factor quiz; it is amazing how a whole bunch of 'little things' can really add up to one big chunk of cash, which you can use to either pay off debt, or invest. THE DEBT DIET: STARVED FOR CASH? How much of your money every month is going on the interest and financing on car loan payments, credit card payments, department store cards, and so on. If you buy $100 of items, how much are you REALLY paying for them on a store card? Some credit cards have interests rates as high as 50%! Do you even know your interest rates? Take the time to study your statements? If not, you need to do it now. You're going to be in for some surprises. Do you always pay only the minimums? Is that all you can afford? Or do you think that you'll get away with that and invest the money in order to be able to get rich quick? WRONG. Take care of the credit card debt FIRST. This article is continued in Stabilize Your Current Financial Situation First Before You Invest Part 2.

New Pet articles series: Puppies

Admin — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 14:28:05 +0000

We have a new series on Puppies for all you dog lovers our there at http://www.pet-goddess.com

There is No Prince Charming or Mr. Right, Part 1

Admin — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 22:08:34 +0000

The sooner you realize this sad but true fact, the sooner you can get on with finding Mr. Prince Among Men or Mr. Close-Enough-To-Right, or at least, Mr. Not Wrong All The Time. Prince Charming, riding on a white stallion, lost his way or found his princess and got married long before he ever found his way to your castle. And think of Charming in Shrek. Could you stand to be with HIM for the rest of your life? Geez, I'd rather have Donkey! Get over it the girlish fantasies, and get on with it. You are going to have to actively seek the man of your dreams, and you won't find him scaling the walls of your ivory tower. You've already pretty much come to the conclusion that he isn't among the men that you're already acquainted with, so now what should you do? WHY NOT TRY ONLINE DATING? Online dating has become the main tool of the single person in every developed country in the world for finding people worth getting to know. Forty million people and counting can't all be wrong. Ask your girl friends if they have ever used online dating or are using it now. If they're honest with you, most of them have been, or are now members of at least one online dating site, maybe more than one. Some of them may have even been fortunate enough to meet some really nice guys, for dating, or even for friendship. After all, a girl can never have too many good solid guy friends, if only to learn how the other half of the species thinks. Especially if you've never been blessed (or cursed!) with brothers. Online dating is one of the easiest ways you'll ever find to locate the kind of eligible men who really do want to meet a girl like you. Or similar to you. And vice versa. Your profile gets matched to theirs, and the personal information they put down is matched to your preferences. So you are pretty much pre-screened from the word go, which can save a lot of time, effort, small talk, and beer money. Online dating is the great equalizer too. It doesn't matter what any of your numbers are like, for example, age, height, weight or income. You don't have to be a perfect 10, and neither do they. The main thing is that your likes, dislikes and values are being filtered from the moment you join, and these, along with communication, are seen to be the 'deal makers or deal breakers' in any relationship. Compatability and then chemistry are prioritized--not the other way around! To read more, visit: There is No Prince Charming or Mr. Right, Part 2.

Spring Wedding Themes

Admin — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 18:47:31 +0000

There are lots of different ways to incorporate Spring into your Wedding. Here is a list of ideas: St Patrick's Day Easter: Easter eggs, easter bunnies, chicks, chocolate, lambs Greek Orthodox Easter colors like yellow, cream, gold, as well as white May Day-green and gold, natural settings, carpets of flowers, ribbons, the May pole, braiding, the May Queen, or Queen of the May Floral Designs: daisies, tulips, crocuses, daffodils, narcissi Pastel Colors, pink, pale green, pale blue, pale yellow Natural backgrounds and settings Back to nature destination weddings and/or honeymoons Bridemaid's dresses in pastels, not too neon! Men's accents to their suits in spring colors Decorating the Church or wedding location in spring colors Flower petals for confetti Spring themed wedding favors

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.
Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:
MyWeddingFavors.com

There is No Prince Charming or Mr. Right, Part 2

Admin — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 22:10:52 +0000

There is No Prince Charming or Mr. Right, Part 2 So now that you know there is no perfect prince charming for you, your reality colored glasses can help you find a fabulous guy if you're prepared to put in the effort. FIRST STEPS FOR ONLINE DATING If you decide to try online dating, try to keep an open mind. Mr. Right and Mr. Right Now are of course two different people, but to mix my metaphors, sometimes it's not the destination that's important, its the journey. Even if you don't meet any fantastic guys for romance, you might end up with some good times and new friends along the way. But you'll never know if you don't put yourself out there and try. Find an online dating site that fits your needs, that has the kind of people you think you're going to be interested in. Some sites are religious in orientation, some are organized along racial lines. the main sites competing for your attention on the TV ads have a larger number of people to choose from, and also more carefully developed rules and support, so when you are trying to decide, look around the site to see how professional it looks. Don't just post personal things on any old site. Once you've found a site you like, you will need to answer some basic questions, and write a great profile. You will also have to post a flattering picture. Soon your matches will start coming in, and you can start contacting eligible men on the site, and they will begin contacting you. Enjoy meeting them online, and take it slowly. Get to really know them before you decide to talk on the phone or meet, and even then, make sure it's only for something stress-free like coffee rather than a nerve-wracking 'date'. And make sure to take every precaution for your own personal and internet safety--never post anything you would be embarrassed for friends or other people who know you to ever see. ONLINE DATING DOS So to recap what you will need to do to start off on a successful trip into the world of online dating: Do your research to finding a good site/s to join Fill out their questionnaire/s Write a great profile Post a fab picture Be honest about who you are and what you are looking for Be respectful of people's time and feelings when you communicate Be safe and sensible both online and offline Following these few simple could pay off big dividends in the online dating worlds. Mr. Prince Among Men, or Mr. Close-Enough-to-Right could be a few clicks away. 846 words

What to Do About Wedding Favors? Part 2

Admin — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 10:19:48 +0000

WEDDING FAVORS AND YOUR BUDGET You may wonder why a couple would consider not giving wedding favors at their wedding. In most cases, the simple and obvious answer to this question is that the couple is working within a very tight budget and is afraid that purchasing wedding favors for each of the guests will put them over-budget. This is a very valid concern, but the good news is that there is a wide variety of wedding favor price ranges now, to help cater to all budgets and sizes of parties. However, before you start shopping and thinking the item is 'just' $2, remember that you will have to buy one each for every guest on your list. You also need to consider whether or not your favor will have to be wrapped, decorated, stuffed with candy, and so forth. So while the wedding favors may be fairly inexpensive, this unit price must be multiplied by the number of guests in attendance. So, using our example above, you may select a favor which costs only $2 per favor, but you may be expecting 400 guests at your wedding. This means the costs of the favors alone will be $800. And as we said, may not even include the costs associated with boxing, wrapping and decorating the wedding favors. Plus possible shipping to people who could not make it to the actual wedding or reception, but whom you might feel you definitely want to give a gift to. Then there is the additional question of customization. Many places now offer wedding favors with names, dates and so forth on the gift itself to mark the special day, but the number of words, colors, fonts, and so on, can all start to add up if you are not careful. Budgets are of course a key aspect of any wedding (sorry, all you romance lovers out there, but it is TRUE!), so you need to start thinking right now about the question of wedding favors to make sure the cost is incorporated in your budget now. We all know that everyone wants a memorable wedding day, but remember that it is also only ONE DAY in the rest of your lives, so getting up to your neck in debt over 'trinkets' is not the best way to start that new life. But for those of you who feel they really want to give a wedding favor as a token of gratitude, it is important to remember that wedding favors do not need to be expensive or extravagant. What to Do About Wedding Favors? Part 3 will talk about affordable wedding favors.

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.
Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:
MyWeddingFavors.com

Book Review: A Wild Pursuit by Eloisa James

Admin — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 16:58:21 +0000

1.0 out of 5 stars A hopeless muddle This author was recommended to me by a romance editor for a big publishing house as an example of how to write a good romance. I will give you all the same reply I gave her as to why it is such a mediocre book. The manuscipt is littered with errors right from the first page. There is no excuse for this with a spelling and grammar checker on most computers these days. The first chapter is nothing more than pages and pages of exposition and background information dressed up as dialogue, with no sign of the main characters except as people to be gossiped about in the vaguest way. Hero-male of species, Heroine-scandalous woman-but then they ALL are in this book so why do they care? They don't. They flout convention, so there is nothing at stake. When the hero and heroine meet, there is no heat, just a rather crude leering on the hero's part. Then he decides to seduce secondary character Helene to play it safe, because she is married. Complete hypocrisy and lechery are not very worthy character traits in a hero. We get reams of tedious info about Helene's failed marriage, husband, husband's mistress, her music, her husband's career. In fact, we get the entire past sexual histories of all of the characters within the first 30 pages or so. Not subtle at all. There is way too much internalization, especially for people who are not the main characters. The internal monologue is not delineated with italics, so we get long paragraphs that look hashed together. We are not really interested in what they are supposed to be thinking and feeing because we are trying to find out about the main protagonists and how they meet and supposedly fall in love. Someone should remind the author of this. Even worse, Stephen suddenly wakes up at the age of 43 and decides to be married, wonders where the last ten years have gone, and decides he needs sex? Ludicrous. The author can't write about men at all. Why have such a panoply of characters and affairs? THREE! It only waters down the romance between the hero and heroine. We want heat and passion, not a costume drama which is about as memorable as one of Rees' White Elephant Operas. This is also an absurd way of the author setting herself up for the next book with Rees and Helene-we need to care about the characters enough to see them through to the end, and while they are trying very hard to be witty and charming, I see nothing of interest in any of them. Helene deciding an affair is a great idea after years of chastity is also absurd. Once again, these characters have nothing at stake, they just do as they will. They are financially independent, can do as they like. This was not the norm for the period at all, and destroys any tension she might have created. Where is the heroine in all of this? Lady Bea is a mere cipher. Stephen is one note-Reform. The Tories were not interested in reform, so if he is Castlereagh's most trusted man, this is utterly ridiculous. The little research that has been done is literally on the pages-an historical novelist should never show her corsets! One should introduce the historical detail as seamlessly as possible. Everything lurches, with jarringly discordant and jerky notes like Helene's waltz. I won't even go into the whole age of the waltz debate which readers love to argue about, except to say that it is not some newfangled thing as they all make it out to be. Stephen as someone with little social life and experience of dancing is absurd for this time, period, especially given his single state and title. He would have been expected to make a decent show of the social season, not act like a wallflower. There is little setting woven into the book at all. I get the dressing room and the Rose Salon, the goat pasture, but no specifics, furniture, size of room, curtains upholstery, even a fireplace would be nice. Their dialogue is jarringly modern in places. I hardly even get any details about what any of them are wearing, usually a bit interesting to at least take us out of endless plot and narrative. The setting is NOT integrated into the book in any meaningful way. The action, such as it is, could literally be taking place anywhere. This pseudo-comedy of manners could take place at any period of time because the characters don't give a fig about mores and they have no basis in society. They just live in their own little world apart from Stephen and his misplaced Radical sensibilities if he is a Tory. The romance part of it: well, what can I say. When they finally do 'it' there is so much mention of the goat I thought I was going to get a bestial menage a trois. There was no heat or heart to the encounters between them, and there was no sequel to the scenes-they have sex, and then we get another domestic drama chapter. He creeps into the room, douses her with water, and it just drones on to a very unexciting chapter end, with no follow up there either. I would have liked to see warmth, commitment, their affair advancing, their plans for the future. Them actually speaking to each other about something other than sex. They are like wind up toys jerking to their conclusion. Instead of a real conversation, we get Bea proposing via Romeo and Juliet and the second 'heroine' via the Song of Solomon. Very unoriginal, it has all been done before, far better elsewhere, and the characters have so little to say for themselves they can't even use their own words to woo each other? Or the supposedly brazen hussy is suddenly coyly shy? We expect growth and development from really good characters, and consistency as well. They are consistently dull, but not much else. The two epilogues are ridiculous as well. These people are not firmly fixed in their society or they would never so blithely court scandal. None of them ever learn their lessons, they are just wilful, capricious and obey the dictates of their loins. I dread to think what will happen to Stephen and Bea when he starts to go impotent. At best this is a mildly diverting book one can waste a few hours at the beach with, but in terms of capturing the Regency period, it is average to poor, and in terms of romance, it is poor. 1121 words

Stabilize Your Current Financial Situation First Before You Invest Part 2

Admin — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 22:27:03 +0000

Stabilize Your Current Financial Situation First Before You Invest Part 2 Now that we have looked at our budget, we should be able to see where our money is going, and find some ways of stretching it to find extra cash to either pay off existing debt, or invest. If you are like most American households, you're probably carrying a fair amount of consumer debt, spread out in so many ways you probably think that it is either no big deal, a little bit here, a little bit there, or you've started to realize from your budget that all those little minimums are starting to add up to one big debt burden you'll never get out from under. So, what can you do? DEALING WITH CREDIT CARDS High interest credit cards drain any discretionary income you have coming in. Cut them up and pay them off. If you have high interest outstanding loans, pay them off as well. Try to be savvy with the credit card companies. See if you can exchange the high interest credit card for one with lower interest. You can even approach your credit card company and tell them you have had a better offer. Ask if they are willing to match the APR, or at least lower your existing one substantially. Otherwise, transfer your balances to the new card and cut up the old one once you know the transaction has gone through. Just be sure to keep up your payment/s with the existing credit card until you are sure that the balance transfer has gone through. Do be careful, however, about cards with a low introductory rate. Make sure that you know when it is, and make a concerted effort to pay it off before that time, so you are not hit with an APR which in some case might be greater than the original. Refinance high interest loans with loans that are lower interest. You may have to use some of your investment funds to take care of these matters, but in the long run, you will see that this is the wisest course of action. Paying off the credit cards Once again, look at all your monthly credit card statements. Make a list of the APRs, and balances, and then start paying them off one at a time, starting with the biggest APR and the biggest balance. Yes, you have a whole bunch of bills every month, but no, they are NOT all equal. the big APR and balance will cost you a lot more in the long run if you don't nip it in the bud now. And nip your impulsive spending habits as well. If you do need a credit card for emergencies, carry the one with the lowest APR around with you, and again, write down everything you spend. Also be very strict and careful with what you define as an 'emergency': trust me, that new pair of jeans in the window on the corner is NOT it. To continue reading this article, visit Stabilize Your Current Financial Situation First Before You Invest Part 3.

What to Do About Wedding Favors? Part 3

Admin — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 10:21:23 +0000

AFFORDABLE WEDDING FAVORS One simple way to make wedding favors more affordable is to give a wedding favor of a single real or silk flower to each guest. If you are already planning to have floral centerpieces you can discuss your options with your florist beforehand. You will likely be able to negotiate an affordable price for this favor because you are already purchasing your centerpieces from the florist. Selecting one flower used in the centerpiece and having your florist supply enough of these to give as favors is a really nice way to tie the centerpieces and the favors together. Alternately you might want to give each of your guests an artificial version of one of the flowers used in your centerpiece. These can be rather inexpensive and can also serve as a lasting reminder of your wedding. You can add to this by getting ribbon printed with your special day's details on it, again in the matching colors of the floral arrangement or your wedding's chosen colors, and have the ribbon printed by the yard for the flower favors, and for any special gifts you might want to give to your bridesmaids and groomsmen. Another way to keep wedding favors more affordable is to discuss your options with a wedding favor distributors. Many of them likely have closeout items available as well as discount items. Closeout items are items which have been discontinued, but the distributor may have enough in stock for all of the guests at your wedding. Wedding favor distributors might be willing to offer you a discount if you are purchasing a large number of favors. For the moment, you just need to make up your mind. If no, no problem. If you have decided to go with a wedding favor, pencil in a notional amount in your budget to cover all costs, unit price plus extras per person (say $5) and start setting that aside. (You might also want to add the price of the thank you cards and postage to your budget sheet while you are at it.) In our further articles, we will be giving you more specifics on the kinds of wedding favors available, and how to choose the one that is right for you and your quests. What to Do About Wedding Favors? 3 parts, 1180 words

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.
Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:
MyWeddingFavors.com

The Seven Deadly Sins That Lead to Debt

Admin — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 01:21:21 +0000

The Seven Deadly Sins That Lead to Debt is an interesting article by Sheyna Steiner that was published on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 at bankrate.com and referenced in the Yahoo Finance section.

The premise is that the 7 Deadly sins lead us into debt, and create a hell for us not just in the afterlife, but in this life. Only my avoiding temptation can we get ourselves out of debt and direct our discretionary cash in the direction of worthwhile financial goals.

So, just to remind you, the 7 deadly sins are:

Envy

Pride

Sloth/laziness

Anger/Wrath

Greed

Gluttony

Lust

You can kind of catch the drift, can’t you. These motives provoke you into going over budget, running up credit card debt, and staying in that debt.

My favorite part of the article is a truly giggle-worthy moment in which they point out that Americans spend an estimated $10 billion to $13 billion on adult entertainment, mainly thanks to the internet, and that money could be better spent on retirement accounts! They do have a point, but in our immediate gratification based society, I doubt they are going to want to interrupt their cycle of porn consumption or addiction to worry about their retirement!

Still, it is very useful article that should help you take a look at your own spending in a whole new way!

http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/104501/The-Seven-Deadly-Sins-That-Lead-to-Debt

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New research seems to show why winter is flu season

Admin — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 01:23:49 +0000

Here is some good news! Researchers in the United States believe they have discovered why flu and other respiratory viruses are more prevalent in winter. Flu can actually cause death, especially in children and the elderly, and of course, it can mutate into even more deadly strains. But apparently the researchers from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) say influenza viruses coat themselves in a fatty protein called HEMAGGLUTININ, that hardens and protects them in colder temperatures. They suggest that this may be the reason why winter is the flu season. It seems the fatty coating around the virus melts in the respiratory tract, allowing the virus to infect cells. Apparently it is this special fatty insulator which gives them an advantage in the cold temperatures of the winter. When the influenza viruses are in a warm environment such in summer, they die quickly and are usually less able to infect more than one person. The head of the research, Joshua Zimmerberg, says it is only in this liquid phase that the flu virus is capable of entering a cell to infect it. It will be interesting to see how this affects the way we fight the flu now, whether the vaccines really are effective, or if some other way can be found to fight flu. To read the full article on the flu, go here: http://www.news-medical.net/?id=35829

Stabilize Your Current Financial Situation First Before You Invest Part 3

Admin — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:32:14 +0000

Stabilize Your Current Financial Situation First Before You Invest Part 3 Now that you have looked at the consumer credit burden that you've been carrying, you have a plan for paying down that debt, and being able to then use the money saved as an investment. TAKE STOCK OF THE PRESENT, INVEST IN THE FUTURE It doesn't make sense to start investing funds if your bank balance is always running on empty, or you are struggling to pay your monthly bills. Your investment dollars will be better spent to rectify the adverse financial issues that affect you each day, like credit card debt, for a better tomorrow. Get yourself into good financial shape with a sound budget, and no debt or low debt, and THEN you will be able to enhance your financial situation with sound investments. As we said in our article on investing basics, know where you are at present, and where you want to be in the future with your investing goals, so you can start mapping how you are going to get there. While you are in the process of clearing up your present financial situation, start educating yourself about the various types of investments currently available, and their respective rates of return. This way, once you are in a financially sound situation, you'll be armed with the knowledge that you need to make equally sound investments in your future. 3 parts, 1065 words

Setting Your Budget for Your Wedding Favors- Part 1

Admin — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 10:23:18 +0000

Setting your budget for your wedding favors is a very important part of planning a wedding. Many couples make the mistake of underestimating the cost of the wedding favors, and not allotting a part of the budget specifically for this purpose. As we said in our introductory article, you first need to decide if you are going to give wedding favors to your guests, and you need to decide it early on in the wedding planning process. Not budgeting for your wedding favors can be a real headache down the line, especially if you wait until the last minute to shop for favors. And particularly if you are going to need wedding favors for a large number of guests at the wedding reception. This article will deal with the importance of setting a budget for your wedding favors, and will provide some hints and tips for making wedding favors more affordable without seeming cheap. WEDDING FAVORS AND YOUR BUDGET So let's do the math, shall we? By now you have already started pricing what things are going to cost for your dream wedding. The cost of renting a catering hall and paying for food for your wedding reception are going to be amongst the most expensive items to consider when planning a wedding. Back in the day, a lot of people assumed they would 'make it up in gifts'. Weddings have changed a lot since then, as has gift giving. In addition to the catering hall, your clothes and those of your wedding part, gratuities and other incidental expenses, flowers and transportation can also contribute to the high price of weddings. However, these are not the only factors to consider. The cost of wedding favors should also be carefully itemized in your budget once you have made up your mind whether you want to give wedding favors at your reception. You should realize that whatever wedding favor you choose, it is going to be a cost per guest item. This means you will have to pay a unit price per wedding favor, then multiplying this price by the number of guests at the wedding. This means even if you select a favor which costs $2, you will still wind up paying $1000 for wedding favors if you are planning a wedding with 500 guests. You can see how this price can quickly add up and wreak havoc on a couple's wedding budget. Setting Your Budget for Your Wedding Favors- Part 2 will help you with your budget calculations.

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.
Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:
MyWeddingFavors.com

Rethinking Use of Cough Medications for Common Colds

Admin — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 23:59:49 +0000

It's March already, but some of us are still struggling with cold weather. Others of us have coughs and colds all year round.

Some of us even have chronic bronchitis. In the recent artcile Rethinking Use of Cough Medications for Common Colds: New Cough Care Guidelines Reported by Johns Hopkins Health Alerts, I was amazed to read that most of the supposed cures for a cough due to a cold were actually NOT effective at all. Wow, just think how much money we spend on over the counter cough medicine and cough drops every year. The supposed active ingredients really only help in certain cases, like if you have chronic bronchitis. Interestingly, Advil (naproxen) is supposed to help also. So, read all about it here, and save your money on all those cough and cold remedies! Here is the press release.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/3/prweb741914.htm

There is also a free special report on COPD you might want to pick up from the site if you do suffer from chronic bronchitis (a component of COPD). the Johns Hopkins Guide to New Treatments for COPD.

http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/ppc/lung_disorders/copdr_reg_landing.html

Setting Your Budget for Your Wedding Favors- Part 2

Admin — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 10:26:58 +0000

YOUR WEDDING FAVOR BUDGET CALCULATIONS So the first thing to consider when setting a budget for your wedding favors is how many guests you plan on having at your wedding. Please note that this is not to be confused with the number of guests you are inviting to the wedding. For example, if you have a large extended family with many out of town relatives, and you are planning a large wedding, you will probably feel obligated to invite all of them even if you are quite sure they will not come to the wedding. If you are fairly sure these guests will not be able to come to your wedding, then make an estimate of the number of guests you are realistically expecting to show up at the wedding. This will also be a crucial piece of information for the caterers, especially closer to the time. Keep track of all your invitations, and the RSVP responses carefully. Then decide how many favors you would like, and add 10% to 15% more for 'just in case' and also for anyone you might want to send one in the mail to even if they are not able to attend the wedding, for example, someone who gets ill at the last minute, who gives you a particularly nice present you want to acknowledge with more than just a thank you card, one each for the wedding party, in addition to any individual gifts you might want to give them, and so on. THE POSSIBLE HIDDEN COSTS OF WEDDING FAVORS Once you establish this notional number of how many wedding favors you will need, you can set a budget in a couple of different ways. One way to do it is to determine an amount you can afford and are willing to spend on favors, and then divide this number by the number of guests you are expecting. This will let you know how much you can afford to spend on each favor. It is important to include tax, shipping, gift wrapping, perhaps even ribbons and candy as decoration or fillers, and all other incidentals in this per favor price. Another way to set a budget for the favors is to begin searching around for favors and get some estimates on the wedding favors which you find most appealing. There is a huge variety available now, suited to all budgets, but it is also easy to be dazzled and lose perspective. By setting your budget and sticking to it, you will be much less likely to overspend. The second consideration is what seems appropriate. The gifts can reflect your taste, the theme of the wedding, and should hopefully be nice enough to be used or displayed, not thrown away, the third key consideration in selecting a wedding favor. Setting Your Budget for Your Wedding Favors- Part 3 will deal with hunting for the right wedding favor at the right price.

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.
Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:
MyWeddingFavors.com

Pancreatic Cancer: What You Need to Know

Admin — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 11:53:29 +0000

Since we all heard the sad news about Patrick Swayze being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, there has been a lot of attention on this disease, virtually a silent killer until the tumor grows so large you start to show symptoms. Pancreatic cancer affects mainly men, and definitely smokers and people with liver damage from too much alcohol. This timely press release from Johns Hopkins tells you how to prevent and treat pancreatic cancer. http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/3/prweb752394.htm We wish anyone who suffers from this dreadful disease all best wishes to you and your loved ones.

Some Reasons Why You Should Consider Investing for Retirement Now

Admin — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 22:34:37 +0000

Investing for the future has become increasingly important in recent years, as the future of social security benefits becomes increasingly unknown. It has also become much more of a burden on the individual, as corporate investment schemes have either fallen prey to unscrupulous executives, or have become just another perk to vanish from the workplace in all but the most robust corporations. It is logical to want to protect your futures given the many examples we can see daily of people who thought they had done everything they could to provide for their retirement, only to find that they had fallen short in some way. We also need to consider the fact that the average life expectancy is 81 years for men, and 84 years for women. With people living longer than ever before, this puts a strain on social security. With health care costs soaring as never before, we not only have to consider our living expense, but ongoing health, housing, long-term care, and even death expenses. Many people might believe that they have set aside enough to be well off, only to be faced with rising inflation and unexpected events like soaring gas costs. Retirement calculators tell you that when you retire, you'll only need about a third of what you were earning. But is that realistic? Many retirees are actually carrying credit card debt to try to make ends meet, and social security is actually taxable. Investing now is the best answer to the unknown questions of the future. You may have been saving money in a low interest savings account over the years. Now, you want to see that money grow at a faster pace. Perhaps you've inherited some money or realized some other type of windfall, and you'd like to find a way to make that money grow. Again, investing can be part of the answer. Investing is also a way of attaining the things that you want, such as a new home, a college education for your children, or luxury items such as a new car, second home, or boat. Of course, your financial goals will determine what type of investing you do, which is why we recommend in this series of articles that before you invest in anything, you sit down and make a list of your investment goals. Once you are clear on your investing goals, then you can decide on the kind of investment strategy that will help you meet those goals. For instance, if you want or need to make a lot of money fast, you would be more interested in higher risk investing, which will give you a larger return in a shorter amount of time. Greater risks bring greater rewards. If you are saving for something in the far off future, such as retirement, you would want to make safer investments that grow over a longer period of time. The overall purpose in investing is to create wealth and security by having your money earn interest, and that interest snowballing to create still more wealth. It is important to remember that you will not always be able to or wish to earn an income--you will eventually want to retire. It's also important to consider that there a lots of different ways to pay for a college education, for example, such as scholarships, but little or no financial assistance of that or any other sort when we retire. Therefore, in terms of goal setting, your retirement, rather than your kids' college education, should always be at the top of your list. In these precarious financial times, it is no longer a safe bet to count on the social security system to be there for you and meet all your needs in the future. Even if it were working well, the amount per month is not exactly conducive to a luxurious lifestyle. As we have seen with Enron, you also cannot necessarily depend on your company's retirement plan either. So, again, investing is the key to insuring your own financial future, but you must make smart investments. That means educating yourself with your goals firmly in mind, and carefully setting out a road map which will help you reach your intended destination, without getting lost. With so much free information now available, and investing easier than ever before thanks to online tools, you might be tempted to just launch in. But just as no one expects you to ride a bike successfully your first try, so too with investing. Study, gain knowledge, look at what you can realistically afford to invest—or lose! Investing can bring great rewards, but you always need to balance it with possible risks. However, these risks can pay off if you are prepared to put in the work to achieve your financial goals. 764 words

Setting Your Budget for Your Wedding Favors- Part 3

Admin — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 10:37:58 +0000

THE HUNT FOR THE PERFECT WEDDING FAVOR—AT THE BEST PRICE Once you feel you have your budget set, you can start looking for appropriate gifts. There is a dazzling array of websites, on this topic, so you are sure to find several wedding favors you really like. The key thing is to work out your budget and stick to it, so that your research will not be wasted time and effort. If you start to second-guess yourself, you will have to start all over again with your wedding favor budget and research. Many websites which feature wedding favors will offer a number of search parameters to help you narrow down your search for the right wedding favor. Sort by unit price, by keyword, and possibly also by color. Print out the ones you really like; often they will have manufacturer's details and a unique identifier number. Once you have narrowed it down to 2 or three wedding favors, dig a bit deeper again. What is included in the price at each site you have found the favor at: gift box, free wrapping, and so on. Comparison shop at different sites and even start a spreadsheet noting down these differences so you can compare side by side. There are other ways to make your wedding favors even more affordable. Ask the site if they reduced pricing for bulk orders. Or, if they are just a middleman, not the distributor, see if you can contact the distributor directly to ask about any cost breaks. You might even consider contacting the manufacturer to see if it is possible to place a bulk order with them directly. Available discounts may not always be advertised on wedding favor websites or in their advertisements. There is no harm in asking for a discount, especially if it is a large order. And in this day and age, when every penny counts, they might be more than glad to shave a few cents off or give free shipping if the value of the order is high enough. The world of wedding favors changes rapidly too according to fashion, and seasons. You may be able to get a closeout or discontinued line of wedding favors for a fraction of the price. If you are planning ahead well in advance for, say, a Valentine's Wedding, you might start looking the year before to see what bargains you can pick up (then you just have to worry aout storage!) As for customization, on the whole, try to avoid it unless you are getting a really good deal, since it can all add up. If you must go for that something a little bit special, try ribbon printed with your names and dates, which can be used for wrapping any gift, for flowers and bouquets, balloons, whatever. Go for your wedding colors, and look at the price by the yard or roll, and make sure you check how many yards are on each roll. Again, comparison shop for everything and stick to your budget. Now that we have setting your budget for your wedding favors, we can get to the fun part-selecting your wedding favors! Setting Your Budget for Your Wedding Favors, 3 parts, 1397 words

Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 1

Admin — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 12:07:20 +0000

Keeping the romance in your relationship is really all about staying connected with one another. How do you stay connected? By spending time with each other, sharing with each other, and yes, through the connection of sex. COUPLES COUPLE! Sex is the ultimate connection and reason why a couple is together as a couple—to couple! Otherwise, you could just go to dinner or the movies with anyone, and get a baby via the sperm bank! Clearly, humans feel a natural sexual desire and passion, and seek a healthy outlet for it.

If intercourse gives you thrombosis And continence causes neurosis, I'd rather expire Fulfilling desire Than live in a state of psychosis.

So why does sex in the 21st century seem so problematic that advice about it is screamed at us from every magazine headline? If we are living in much more liberated times than ever before, just what IS the trouble with sex?

Sexual intercourse began In nineteen sixty-three (Which was rather late for me)— Between the end of the Chatterley ban And the Beatles’ first LP. --Philip Larkin (June 16, 1967)

THE KEY TO IT ALL: A FOUR-LETTER WORK ENDING IN -K Oddly enough, in an age where we are on email and cell phones 24/7, our communication skills seem to have broken down completely. There may be a lot of TALK, but not a lot of listening. The best mobile network or WiFi connection, but no communion. What passes for busi-ness is really just BUSY-ness, and writing the To Do List, is a substitute for actually doing the things on the list. Which means the list will NEVER get done. There will always be a new list. So why not add intercourse to you list? Have you ever thought about the word intercourse? It means TALK as well! To be strictly accurate, the word intercourse is defined as:

The exchange of ideas by writing, speech, or signals: communication, communion, intercommunication (Roget s II: The New Thesaurus, Third Edition. 1995)

Isn't THAT the kind of romantic relationship you would like? Real intercommuncation and communion? IS THERE REALLY ANY SUCH THING AS 'HAVING IT ALL'? Often the couples who want to 'have it all' end up having the least amount of sex and romance. It's like everything else on the to do list is more important. Or, as some psychologists have suggested, that people get married/settle down so they can stop having sex/looking for sex. They want to focus on other things, career, house, nesting, children. Sex is sacrificed in favor of 'getting ahead'-but many partners wake up one day and wonder how on earth they got HERE? How the romance may hve started out so blissfully, and ended up relegated to a furtive fumble every few weeks if you're lucky.

Intercourse with a woman is sometimes a satisfactory substitute for masturbation. But it takes a lot of imagination to make it work. Karl Kraus

Focusing on long term goals is fine, so long as BOTH couples are on board with that agenda. And not BORED with it. If you ARE wondering how you got HERE, and ARE Bored with the lack of romantic spark in your relationship, read on… See more at Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 2

Selecting Your Wedding Favors: The Gift that Keeps on Giving Part 1

Admin — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 10:29:53 +0000

When selecting your wedding favors, there are a number of factors you should consider before making your final decision. Some couples do not give enough careful thought to the price and type of wedding favors they opt for, and end up with everyone unhappy. So, what exactly is the wedding favor? The wedding favor is the one part of the wedding which your guests will take home as a reminder of your wonderful wedding. It is a little thank you gift to them for attending and sharing your special day. A well-chosen wedding favor can result in your friends and family members remembering your wedding day more fondly than they remember other weddings they have attended simply because they see or use your wedding favor often. You do not want to end up choosing a wedding favor that is going to just get stuck in a closet, or worse still, the trash. This article will discuss some of the factors to be considered when selecting your wedding favors. These factors should include price, usefulness of the wedding favor, and appropriateness of the wedding favor. Considering each of these elements carefully will help you and your spouse to be make a wise choice when selecting wedding favors. Selecting Your Wedding Favors: The Gift that Keeps on Giving Part 2 will talk about your budget and price.

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.
Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:
MyWeddingFavors.com

A Scottish Honeymoon: romance, mystery, castles and ghosts Part 1

Admin — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 06:31:42 +0000

A Scottish honeymoon is your chance to experience a wildly romantic and varied landscape. If you love cities and the countryside, and don't mind the rain, Scotland is a great honeymoon destination. From its historic and vibrant cities, to its stunning landscapes and enchanting islands in the north and west, Scotland is unforgettable once you've visited. Scotland's three main cities are Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen. Although Glasgow is the capital, it is Edinburgh in the south east, not too far over the border with England, that attracts the most international and local visitors. The annual International Festival every August is the only time you will find accommodation difficult, so if you plan to go that month, make sure you make your arrangements well in advance. Edinburgh Edinburgh has a rich variety of architecture and Edinburgh Castle is a must-see. The former home to the Scottish Royal Family, it is full of many of the great treasures of Scotland. The whole of the city is steeped in history. There is nothing quite like walking the Royal Mile. The city has many medieval and Georgian buildings, and is a vibrant, lively center with much to interest the tourist trying to cram in as much food, drink and culture as possible in a short space of time. Glasgow, once very run down and poverty-stricken, has enjoyed a exciting revival over the last two decades. It is a fun and lively city, with a great amount to see and do. Alongside the many museums, art galleries, monuments and shops is Glasgow cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. It is also not far from the border with England, but is situated in the south-west. The port city of Aberdeen in the north-east is built almost exclusively of silvery granite, which glistens the in sun or rain. Hence the name, the Granite City. There is a wonderful maritime museum alongside a prestigious art gallery, and impressive universities. It has a distinct feel to it due to it being a transport hub for many of the oil rigs on the North Sea. For more suggestions, see: A Scottish Honeymoon: romance, mystery, castles and ghosts Part 2

Selecting Your Wedding Favors: The Gift that Keeps on Giving Part 2

Admin — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 10:31:51 +0000

The Price of Wedding Favors Price is one of the most important factors a couple must consider when selecting wedding favors. This is crucial because the price will often dictate the quality of the favors. While you can purchase some great favors inexpensively, you will likely have to plan your budget carefully and then follow through with a fair amount of comparison shopping to find the best deal on the wedding favor of your choice. The first key part of this whole process is the research, and the second is being realistic. For example you may have an idea of what you want to give, for example, a little picture frame, which will eventually hold a snapshot of your big day once they are ready and you have the chance to mail them (along with your thank you card, but make sure you don't leave your thank yous too long after the wedding, or you will be considered rude. A picture frame is a great gift idea, but it does not always hold up in the mail if you have to send wedding favors to people. More importantly, it might out of your budget range. But you may find other great items such as a fridge magnet picture frame, often in durable plastic, perhaps even customized with your names and special date, are well within your budget. You may also be pleasantly surprised to find out that picture frames available from one distributor are too expensive, but another distributor has enough picture frames in their closeout stock for you to purchase favors just right for your wedding. It is easy to be dazzled by the array of wedding favors, but try not to get your heart set on any one thing, in case they are out of stock or discontinued. Try to plan well in advance, to avoid disappointment. It will also help you cut the best deal for your wedding favors. Often a wholesaler will be willing to give you a better deal on closeouts, discontinued items, or a large bulk order. Make sure you set your budget and stick to it, and try not to be too disappointed about the items you cannot afford. Instead focus on finding the best favor you can afford, for the best price. Selecting Your Wedding Favors: The Gift that Keeps on Giving Part 2 talks about some things to consider in finding a useful wedding favor.

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.
Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:
MyWeddingFavors.com

Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 2

Admin — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 01:09:12 +0000

YOU'VE LOST THAT LOVIN' FEELING? If you have been together for some time with your partner, and feel that passion had gone onto the back burner, or worse still, in the freezer with the ready meals, why not consider a romance agreement? It might help you spark things anew, or at least put your needs as man and woman back out on the table, and possibly even defrost them too. We will give an exampe of one later in this series. PASSION IS FOR PARENTS TOO! Yes, you might be parents, but what were all the things you loved most about each other that brought you together in the first place. And as someone once said to me, "You most important job as a parent is loving your partner, because no matter what, you will always be connected through that child." What kind of connection, or dis-connection, are you creating in your house? As your children are growing up, you will constantly be giving them messages about how to express love, and what makes a good marriage. Obviously, the sexual side of your relationship should always remain private around small children and other members of you family and friends, but an atmosphere of appreciation, romance and connection, love and affection, is something you can cultivate with your partner all the time. THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE ARE FREE Best of all, the best things in life really are free, or inexpensive. It doesn't take much to leave a love note, send a 'Thinking of You' text message or email, or bring up a cup of coffee to your partner before you head off it work. There are so many different ways to show you are thinking of your partner, it is just a case of knowing his or her likes and needs. LOVE THEM THEY WAY THEY WISH TO BE LOVED, NOT THE WAY YOU WISH TO LOVE THEM—OR BE LOVED YOURSELF We might think that we ARE trying to cultivate romance, and our partner is the 'unromantic one'. This perspective can cause hositlity and resentment. But remember, everyone has their own point of view. Most of the time, we are in our own head; often, we can even get stuck there and become convinced that ours is not only the RIGHT point of view, but IS actually the ONLY point of view. We tend to love the way WE wish to be loved. We probably don't give our guy a box of chocolates for Valentine's Day, just like they don't give us a socket wrench set for our birthday. But are there expectations in your relationship on his part, or yours, which are equally out of synch with their likes and dislikes? THE BEST OF TIMES, THE WORST OF TIMES Can you name three of the best times you ever had with your partner—do they have a common theme? Can they do the same? Can you come up with the three WORST times you spent together as well? BEST and WORST are also very subjective notions, but chances are if you and your partner cultivate more times like the ones on your top 3 lists, your connections will continue and grow even closer. Again, LISTEN to your partner, taking the trouble to learn THEIR likes and dislikes. Try not to hear what they are saying with a 'filter' of your own tastes, or some preconceived notion of what romance 'is supposed to be like'. Really listening with your heart and mind will help you discover the way THEY actually wish to be loved. Read more in: Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 3

Setting Your Budget for Your Wedding Favors- Part 3

Admin — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 01:28:28 +0000

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.
Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:
MyWeddingFavors.com

Spitzer Sex Scandal

Admin — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 09:04:36 +0000

I’m sorry, but are we the only ones here NOT surprised by the revelations of the Spitzer sex scandal?

His self-righteous bullying and hunger for power were always signs of an unbalanced mind and addiction to power. Sexual addiction is just another form of that same addiction, the need for affirmation, the need to be right, to be in control.

Did he think that somehow he was above the law? Clearly, yes. He thinks is IS the law. Witness the way he hounded Martha Stewart. Was what SHE did WORSE than what he’s done? In which case, there will be NO DEAL. HE should get whatever he has coming to him, and THEN some.

As for the wife, well, the hell with ‘stand by your man’—we are sick of seeing these pathetic losers being bolstered by their strong, supportive, sacrificing wives.Take the slime for every penny he is worth, honey!

What is even more astounding is that he saw the whole unraveling of the New Jersey Governor over his ‘falling for his intern’, and of course what Bill Clinton went through. Personally, those situations are FAR more understandable and forgivable—you meet, work together, spark, an office flirtation becomes a bit unacceptable, but there are FEELINGS involved, mutual feelings. $80,000 for "paid companionship"?

The guy is a desperately sad loser by comparison with Clinton and McGreevey, and even more so because McGreevey ‘outed’ himself, literally, because he was ‘in love.’ Not because he was caught on a Federal wire tap and was about to be indicted. Confession to save your own ass and try to salvage your political career is even lower than what he was already getting up to!

And then tried to hang on as Governor to ‘try to cut a deal’-more like worm his way out of prison, AND, if Publisher’s Weekly is to be believed, to cut a book deal about his fall from grace. We are sure this sad story will only become more deplorable over time.

However, every cloud has a silver lining. The people of New York State are now being freed from this megalomaniac who would make a Jesuit Grand Inquistor look like a liberal, to David Paterson, a man whom no one has a bad word to say against. Which, for a man who has been in Harlem politics and State senate politics for over 2 decades, is a rare thing indeed.

And I have to say, it makes a compelling argument for more women to get involved in the political process. We may have "attitude" and wear macho pant suits, but at least we don’t spend a small fortune of what look to be campaign contributions on “banging whores” as David Letterman puts it.

Congratulations to the FBI and New York State for exposing Spitzer for the pathetic fraud and criminal he really is. Let him see how he likes being someone’s bitch at Sing Sing.

An outraged group of native New Yorkers

Tax Time Tips

Admin — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 05:17:06 +0000

Tax Time Tips

I’ve been learning more about taxes since I started running my own small business recently. The whole point of running a successful business or having a good lifestyle even if you work for someone else is not how much you earn, but how much you get to keep.

So why is it that Bill Gates and Warren Buffet pay single-digit taxes? Because they know about all the deductions they are eligible for.

To help get you started on your taxes, here is a useful article from Yahoo Finance: 10 Must-Know Tax Terms

http://finance.yahoo.com/taxes/article/101896/must_know_tax_terms Here is a helpful article on getting organized so taxes do not have to be so painful, http://finance.yahoo.com/taxes/article/104173/Working-on-Your-Taxes-Get-Organized and this is a useful database of information on how to avoid the 10 most common tax filing errors. http://www.bankrate.com/yho/news/financial_literacy/dec07_tax_mistakes_a1.asp 134 words

Selecting Your Wedding Favors: The Gift that Keeps on Giving Part 3

Admin — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 10:33:05 +0000

Useful Wedding Favors Another factor to consider when selecting wedding favors is whether or not the favor will be useful to your guests. This is very important because favors which are useful leave a much better impression than useless trinkets. For example, picture frames and candles are very useful and always welcome, but a little figurine of a bride and groom, probably not. Many people do not display items such as these, especially if they are breakable, and they have probably gotten something similar in the past at another wedding. As a result your wedding favors you spent your hard earned money on may wind up in a box in the attic or may be thrown out shortly after the wedding, hundreds of them decorating nothing but the local landfill. Men and women do of course have different notions of usefulness, so try to select something which is not too 'girly'. Selecting Your Wedding Favors: The Gift that Keeps on Giving Part 4 will talk about appropriate wedding favors you might want to consider for your special day.

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.
Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:
MyWeddingFavors.com

Obama’s End–Just In Time, Too

Admin — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 22:28:32 +0000

It is ludicrous that any presidential candidate in the age of media could be given so much adulation, only to fall so very far down the slippery slope as to not get any traction even when he is trying his hardest not to get wrong-footed again. Obama and Oprah would make a hell of a winning ticket. But the media darlings are not made of the same stuff, and boy, is it starting to show. Just listen to what everyone has said about Obama who has had to work closely with him in Illinois. NONE of them have anything 100% positive to say about him. They interview loads of them on ABC and CBS. NONE of them. In fact, he was so arrogant, that he told the head of the democratic party in that state, that "he was the most powerful man in the world," because he was about to make Barack Obama the first black president of the US. The fact that this congressman was also African American, and 20 years his senior, didn't faze him--don't you think THAT Rep wanted to be the first AA president himself? Audicity of Hope? Jumped up little toad, more like. Do you seriously think, if Oprah had kept her mouth shut, that Obama would have won Iowa? Or any other state? No. And now, less than 3 months into an electoral campaign that Hillary Clinton has been basically running for 3 years, since Bush got his second term (God knows how), Obama can't stand up to media scrutiny. He has no policies, he has stolen his speeches from other people, he screams racism every time anyone DARES criticize him, or things don't go his way and he want to blow smoke. What Ferraro said is NOT wrong or racist, and to claim it is, is just another example of his lack of trustworthiness and willingness to do or say anything to get where he wants to be (note all the sarcastic barbs about Bill's sex life he's spewed out, THEN talk to me about him running a 'positive campaign' and her a negative one!) Edwards, Richardson, have paid their political dues for MANY years and are damned fine men, but they are not in the race any more, now are they? Kucinich and the others, ALL experienced politicians, all out of the race. So how is it Obama is where his is now, and Edwards, of all people, is out? THAT is what Ferraro meant, and that is why Clinton did not call for her resignation. Because once again, what she said was FACTUAL, not pointlessly negative, as, for example, when she was called a monster. Yes, Obama was compared to Starr. Starr hounded the Clintons for YEARS, and came up with NOTHING to pin on them. Just because they said it, does not mean it is true, but crap does have an unfortunate tendency to stick. The Clintons are not, and never have been racist, yet every time they open their mouth, he shouts foul, without even bothering to address his sexism-'claws out,' for example. She's a 'personable woman' but "prone to tears." Clinton used the phrase fairy tale to describe Obama's nonsense, a re-writing of history that never happened. What did Obama say-that B Clinton was REALLY saying that a black president in this country was a fairy tale. NOT true, and he knows it. H Clinton tried to explain that politicians worked together to bring about real change--she is historically correct, but who listened. They only heard Obama's lies and half-truths and the word racism. IF any one is DIVISIVE in the party or the country, it has been him. They were all complaining she HAD no emotions, so she shows them, and is accused of using them for political capital! Obama couldn't be more of a Republican patsy if he tried. He is serving to split Clinton's solid historic base, when everyone in that party has umpteen polls showing that if he were to run against McCain tomorrow, he would LOSE. Above all, I am stunned at his hypocrisy, and even more stunned H. Clinton does not slap him right back on his audicious ass. He DARES to say that HE would have protested the war back in 2002. Speaking as a pacificist who spoke my mind back then, that we were ALL getting SNOWED by Bush, I was viciously attacked by everyone as 'unpatriotic' even liberally minded people, such was the convincing job that Bush pulled on the American people. Wouldn't have voted in favor, my butt. Far more talented and intelligent people than Obama were hounded out of politics 6 years ago for daring to say anything even remotely anti-war. Yes, H. Clinton DID vote in favor of the war, nearly ALL of them did. Why? She was lied to! We ALL were. Telling us that she should have seen through the extent of the lies is like saying we should have all known how Bush stole the White House from Gore in 2000 and Kerry in 2004 thanks to Florida and Ohio. They have repeated again in the news this week the fact that there was NO connection between Iraq and Al Qaeda, which the 9/11 commission published in 2004. And as early as 2003. Google it if you don't believe me. NO connection. NONE. The Bush admininstration has demonstrably been proven to have lied about all of this time and time again, and yet anyone who mentions a troop withdrawal timetable is seen as naïve. Since there was no need for the troops to be in there in the first place, why keep them there?? Why the hell aren't we all baying for Bush's blood? No one died when Bill Clinton lied. It was a sexual peccadillo, not a war that is costing us $12 billion a month!! Do the math! There are only about 370 million Americans in the USA. How much would we all be better off without a war. What could that money be used for? The only people profitting from the war are the arms manufacturers and dealers. Why are we not impeaching Bush/why didn't we in 2004? Hindsight is always 20/20 of course, but it is just one more reason to make sure that we have a strong president in the White House, and Obama is NOT it. He should take his marbles to some other playground because he is so outclassed he might as well try to play his game somewhere else. Anyone with half a brain not carried away by the buzzword 'change' will see he is not only more of the same, he is an inferior version of it. Really, Obama, scaring people with 'monsters' under the bed thanks to your foreign policy advisor? Off the record, pal, you are still living in your 'heir to Kennedy's Camelot' fairy tale, but the rest of us have to live in the real world. And there be dragons all right, but the worst one sure isn't Hillary! Maybe he can try to grow up and fight head to head on REAL issues, not make up what was or wasn't said, done, or meant by his colleague in the Democratic party, which he claims to be a member of. But we are running out of time to fight the McCain dragon, and Obama is running out of momentum, especially now that we can all see just what he is really made of. One puff had blown his house down. Look at the sleazy revelations about his campaign funding today he is finally getting around to disclosing. The guy is gong to jail, he disavows any knowledge. Then he has the gall to say no one ever asks him for personal favors, or vice versa? He gets into the senate, his wife gets a huge salary increase at her hospital job and he tried to earmark money for it. He may be only a junior senator but he sure does have the wheeling and dealing down pat. His pastor rants about 9/11, he knows nothing, or he was not in Church that day. Plausible deniability when he isn't even near the White House yet? It's despicable. Please, for the sake of this country, let's all stop wasting time on this guy and let Hillary Clinton start running hell for leather for the White House. Because once she gets there, she will keep on pushing forward to make this country a better place for us all, not just with words and audacity and mere hope, but real action. And in case you are wondering, NO, I am NOT a long time Clinton supporter, and I never have been. I would have wanted Edwards for president. But we need someone who is going to hit the ground running on day one, not spend all their time fending off attacks as we get to dig deeper once the dazzling is gone, and discover we've been sold a pack of lies that naive first time young voters are swallowing hook, line and sinker.

A Scottish Honeymoon: romance, mystery, castles and ghosts Part 2

Admin — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 12:35:06 +0000

OTHER IMPORTANT SCOTTISH SITES TO VISIT ON YOUR HONEYMOON St. Andrews is a beautiful town and home to the most famous golf course in the world! Plus there are some fascinating medieval ruins. I was amazed to see the sheep all grazing on the golf course, plus the fact that it is right off the main street of the town, situated between it and the sea. St Andrews is easy travelling distance from Edinburgh, heading east. You can also make a stop on the way at Glamis Castle, the famed castle of MacBeth, and reputed to be the most haunted castle in Scotland. They have a wonderful herd of Highland cows (the ones with the long shaggy hair and huge horns). I saw a baby one once, it was like an auburn teddy bear. The Cairngorm Mountains are in the middle of the country, and though not very high, they are spectacular. They are surrounded by rivers, lochs, forests and are home to rare wildlife. Of course everyone had heard of Loch Ness, but that is just one of the many outstanding lakes you can visit. The Loch Ness Museum is terrific though, and is set in a small town amid some of the most incredible scenery you will ever see in your life. This beautiful region is popular for skiing, hiking and water sports,and best of all, it is an easy drive from Edinburgh or Glasgow. Stirling is in the center of the country, a lovely town with a spectacular castle and a wonderful focus on William Wallace, who won a great victory against the English at Stirling Bridge over seven centuries ago. For more suggestions, see A Scottish Honeymoon: romance, mystery, castles and ghosts Part 3

Selecting Your Wedding Favors: The Gift that Keeps on Giving Part 4

Admin — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 10:34:53 +0000

Appropriate Wedding Favors A couple should carefully consider the appropriateness of a wedding favor when making their final decision. Candles, photo frames, potpourri, post-its, you name it, just about anything is appropriate for the wedding as long as it reflects the theme of the wedding and in some cases, the color scheme of the wedding. Above all, the whole goal of the wedding favor is to reflect the underlying theme of love and sharing. It is even better if it can do that and also be something your guests can use and appreciate. For example you can certainly give out dictionaries as wedding favors, but they are not particularly romantic or appropriate unless the two of you are literary lions, or met over the New York Times crossword at the local Starbuck's. A copy of a book of love poems will be less unusual, but it might not be useful for everyone. The best way to determine whether or not a wedding favor is appropriate is to think about what you would feel if you were given that same item as a favor at another wedding. And indeed, what you are going to do with any leftover favors you might have. Certainly send one to any person who is not able to attend the reception whom you are close to, or whom you think deserves more than just a thank you note. But if the favor is nice enough, and useful enough, certainly do keep a few for yourself and your spouse! Selecting Wedding Favors Following the three rules for selecting wedding favors, price, usefulness of the wedding favor, and appropriateness of the wedding favor, will help you make the right choice for your perfect day. Selecting Your Wedding Favors: The Gift that Keeps on Giving 4 parts, 1033 words

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Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 3

Admin — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 12:11:36 +0000

THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES In Gary Chapman's wonderful 5 Love Languages series of books, at http://www.fivelovelanguages.com, Chapman presents the theory that each person has their own main way of communicating his or her love from amongst these 5 methods: Words Of Affirmation (praising, thanking) Quality Time Receiving Gifts Acts of Service (errands, laundry) Physical Touch Each of us has a primary love language, and a secondary one. Chapman accounts for the 'loss of love' after we marry (or move in together) as due to couples failing to speak each other's love language, or, in some cases, mis-communicating within the love language, because, let's face it, not all of us are the greatest orators. We learned lessons about love from family, friends, past relationships, romantic and otherwise, as witnesses to our parents' and friends' relationships, marriages and even divorces. All of these can affect how we 'speak our love language.' With divorce running at 50%, it makes sense to wonder what conscious and unconscious messages we are communicating in our relationships? And are we getting married with "Until death do us part," very firmly in mind, or "Until I decide it just isn't working/meet someone else"? THE WINTER OF OUR DISCONTENT What are the common reasons for divorce? Money and infidelity. We live in the most prosperous country in the world, in dwelling FULL of material goods, hot and cold running water, indoor plumbing, refrigerators full of food. How much is enough? And is is so important that it's worth damaging your primary love relationship? Only 4% of affairs ever result in a long-term relationship, with long-term defined as two years or more. (Yikes-that's LONG TERM?) Over 70% of those who had the affair wish they had never been unfaithful, and wish they could go back to the way things were with their spouse. Clearly, something is amiss here. So let's break it down: What needs is each spouse trying to get fulfilled in each case? HOW MUCH IS ENOUGH? We ALL want to be successful, happy, free from suffering and want. Feeling loved is a very real need. But how much is enough? Your own mind defines 'enough'. Plus, a lot of people are not clear about what they are looking for in a relationship, so how can they feel romantic with someone they believe is not giving them what they want? We are not arguing that people should settle for less, but there are ways of communicating your needs without seeming selfish, putting your partner on the defensive, or making them feel that no matter what they do, it is never good enough. If your partner tries to give you a gift or arrange a 'special' time together, give them credit for a good, loving intention, even if it isn't exactly what you wanted. Nothing in life is perfect. Not even you! The most wonderful thing about relationships, though, is that they can be a wonderful garden for personal growth. But like all gardens, it needs to be tended, and weeded. Read on in Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 4.

Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 4

Admin — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 12:14:02 +0000

HEARTFELT COMMITMENT The subtitle of Dr Chapman's book, How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate, is also a valuable lesson in romance, which should be felt in the heart. If you are constantly discontent and always thinking that the grass is greener elsewhere in another garden, you are not expressing heartfelt connection and commitment with your partner. You are also causing your own unhappiness, because it is your mind creating the discontent by constantly comparing and contracsting what you have, with what you wish for--or think you wish for. I always thought I wanted a Westie terrier-I ended up with an abandoned 14 year old with sharp teeth, jaws of steel, and kidney failure. I always thought I wanted a cocker spaniel, but $10,000 in vet's bills later… You get the idea. AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE Yes, I got my Westie, and she was hard work, especially toward the end, having to give her an IV every day when she wanted nothing more than to rip my arm off and eat it! But the joy she felt when we gave her a bath, or when she hunted squirrels in the park with my 4 year old dog, was wonderful to see. I got the cocker spaniel I always wanted, but she came with a host of health problems, but each day she improves and grows in confidence, and knows she is loved and adored for the first time in her life. I am grateful every day for the unconditional love she gives not just to me, but the whole family. PERFECT IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER Neither of my dogs is perfect—tbut then, perfect is in the mind of the beholder. The same is true of your partner. And yes, he might have seemed perfect at first, and then he changed. Is it really that he changed, or, is it that your point of view or opinion changed? That once you were out of the infatuation phase of the relationship (which usually lasts 5- 8 months) and once you are married and past the honeymoon, the things you thought once thought were adorably quirky end up being as annoying as fingernails on a blackboard. But by being grateful for the little things every day, you'll stop looking for greener grass. You'll be happy with the grass itself. You will also be thankful for the challenges that your partner brings to your life, such as helping you learn to be more patient and how to try to live in peace and harmony. This article is continued in Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 5.

A Scottish Honeymoon: romance, mystery, castles and ghosts Part 3

Admin — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 12:37:20 +0000

OUT WEST: THE HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS OF SCOTLAND The Cairngorms (Blue Mountains) are lovely, but for more breath-taking natural beauty, the wild and lonely Hebrides, (HEB-red-dees) off the west coast, are centers of Scottish whisky production. They offer wonderful views as you explore their coastal walks - windswept cliffs, mountains and bays will take your breath away. There is a lively association with Bonnie Prince Charlie on many of the islands as he tried to restore the Stuart line to the throne in defiance of the English in about 1745. The Hebrides are divided into the Inner and Outer Hebrides. Whisky, bagpipes, tartan and kilts are all inextricably linked with Scotland. You can visit the bagpipe museum on the Isle of Skye, part of the inner hebrides. The Celtic language college Sabhal Mor Ostan (The Big Barn) is also on the Isle of Skye. Whisky can be found on all the islands, and some of them are well worth tasting, especially the turf-y tasting ones like Laphraoig and Lagavullen. If you've ever smelled a turf, or peat fire, you will get that warm rich flavor from may of the whiskys made out west. In the outer islands, Lewis, Harris, the Uists (YOU-ists) and Barra, you can still hear Scots Gaelic being spoken. You will need to take a ferry out to either Barra or Lewis, and can drive between most of the islands in a straight line, and then get little ferries in between and back to the mainland. I recommend starting at Lewis in the north, and heading south. The Uists are a dream come true for anyone who paints watercolors. The constant quality of the changing light is breathtaking. In the summer, they also get a great deal of daylight, almost like the land of the midnight sun, because Scotland is so far north. Just beware of midges in the highlands, they come out only in the summer and will eat you alive. If you are planning to go out to the Outer Hebrides, make sure you book the ferry portion of your trip well in advance, and allow plenty of time to get from point A to point B. The distances are further than they look, over not very good road, and even one-track roads, with few passing places. Fort William is a lovely town, and the gateway to the ferries that will take you on and off the islands. There is a wonderful sense of spaciousness in that part of the world--not surprising, since Scotland only has about 10 million people, and most of them live in the cities. The holy island of Iona is part of the Inner Hebrides, and well worth a visit. You might also consider Bamburgh castle in the south east, or the county of Dunfries in the south west. There you can walk Hadrian's wall in certain segments, and visit fascinating museums and a Roman villa. In the far, far north, is spectacular Dunrobin Castle, and from there on to John O Groats, the northernost tip of the mainland. It is also the ferry terminal for the Shetlands and Orkneys, which were actually part of Norway for many centuries. On the Orkneys, the buildings and places to visit are very distinctive and it is a delightful place in the summer due to the midnight sun-just make sure you close your black curtains if you want to get any sleep! The ancient castles, churches, and architecture of every style imaginable make Scotland an ideal honeymoon destination for anyone who enjoys romance, wildness, touring by car, the big city, history, gorgeous seascapes, and ancient castles. If you enjoy whisky, music, dancing, and ghosts, quaint bed and breakfasts and great food, then a Scottish honeymoon will be perfect for you and your partner. 3 parts, 1165 words

Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 5

Admin — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 12:15:46 +0000

COMMUNICATE FROM THE HEART You can foster a loving atmosphere with heartfelt communication. Thank your partner for the little things. Say well done. Commiserate, but don't try to blame or 'fix' if they have a hard day at work. Be respectful, of their time, effort, attention. Sure, it may not be the best breakfast you've ever had, but if they tried to be romantic by serving it to you in bed, great. Don't take things for granted either. Of course we all love to get presents for birthdays or Christmas, but don't get so fixated on that new pair or earrings of great pair or sneakers that you totally miss the fact that your partner made breakfast in bed, or detailed your car until it was showroom new. Remember than any gift you give, is a conscious choice to be loving, to think of you, and to put you first instead of spending the money on themselves. It is not owed to you and is not as important as a loving atmosphere between you and your partner. Christmas or your birthday is only one day. You need to be loving for all 365 in the year. And for all the days of your marriage if you get married, not just your wedding day in front of all your friends and family. There is a particularly awful cereal commercial on the TV lately, in which a hapless guy who strongly resembles the human equivalent of an Old English Sheepdog, tries to engage his wife in a conversation about the new cereal she is eating. She looks more like she is drinking vinegar, tunred down mouth, narrowed eyes, because he seems to be implying she needs to lose weight, when all he is doing is reading from the box. Of course, the more he reasds from the box, the more pissy she gets, until the pooint where communication breaks down totally. To her demand, "What else does the box say." The guy sheepishly gives up. "Shut up, Steve." To which the guy gets a smug satsfied sarcastic smile and no doubt crawls away to lick his wounds, while she goes back to chewing the cereal with such tight-lipped miserable fury you would think she was eating overcooked liver, not a delightful new health cereal. This woman is clearly not communicating from the heart. In fact, she is acting like she has no heart, no compassion for her supposed love one at all. ROMANCE AND SARCASM ARE NOT REALLY COMPATABLE Are you going around in your life treating your partner in that manner? Think of the origin of the word sarcasm. It means to rend or tear flesh. Are you ripping your partner to pieces if he opens his mouth over the least little thing? He's a guy, for Heaven's sake. He is never going to be as eloquent as your favorite movie or TV stars on screen. Those guys are scripted. This is real life. You can all relate to the miserable feeling you had if you ever said something unskillful or embarrassing in public. Why put your partner through that tortuous feeling when you could be fostering romance instead. Maybe the woman in the ad was a bad morning person, but really, if your spouse or partner is willing to take an interest in anything new that you do, go with it! And vice versa. I know a lot of women who hate golf, but go because they get to spend time with their man, and get to go out into some fairly pretty natural settings. And to the 19th hole afterwards. All of this can be time for communicating and keeping your energy in tune and in synch with one another. To stifle communication like the woman in the ad is to stifle the free interplay and flow of love. UNCONDITIONAL LOVE All of us would like to be loved unconditionally. But are we willing to offer unconditional love to others? REALLY? I will love you even if: You forget my birthday You don't take me out to dinner You forget to take out the trash You leave the toilet seat up You squeeze the toothpaste in the middle fo the tube You run up huge credit card debts You are unfaithful to our relationship Until you can say "I will love you no matter what you do or say," it is not unconditional love. Think about three situations where you could have expressed your love for your partner better. Then think of three instances where they could have been more loving towards you. Do they have anything in common? If so, what can you do to choose love instead of anger? LOVE IS AN ACTIVE CHOICE Staying in a relationship is an active choice we make every day. We may have many different reasons for staying in the relationship, but the primary reason for being a couple is to love and cherish each other. So, we can choose. Do we act in a positive and loving manner, praising, being warm and affectionate? Or are we negative, critical, always finding fault, freezing out our partner if they displease us? Do we hold a grudge, or come up with a worse-case scenario? Are we expecting our partner to be a mind-reader and punishing them when they aren't? Are we offering them the same unconditional love that we crave, that we wish for ourselves? Or are we always judging them and finding them lacking in some spoken or unspoken way: if only he would… Or yes, he's good but not good enough… Again, this is all in the eye of the beholder. But wouldn't you rather be happy and wrong, than right and alone? If you cling you your wants, needs and beliefs as RIGHT, you'll most likely be left with them and only them. The love in your relationship will evaporate if you don't work to keep the romance between you alive. Read more in: Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 6

Kundalini Yoga at Kundalini Yoga East in New York City

Admin — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 00:09:13 +0000

There aren't many tranquil havens in New York you can visit every day of the week, but Kundalini Yoga East is that rare exception. From the moment you walk into the lovely reception room, so open and sunny and cool, with a flowing fountain, you know you've come to the right place to relax and renew. But lest you think this is lightweight yoga, or a spa, let me tell you, if you want to transform your body and mind in only a few short weeks, this is the place for you to challenge yourself to grow, with the help of all of the supportive, nurturing teachers. The studio is run by a remarkable husband and wife couple who literally have lived the yogic lifestyle for over 37 years, but who would be the first to tell you they were average Americans before they had the good fortune to discover the amazing technology of Kundalini Yoga. Kundalini Yoga makes you very strong, very fast. Part of the reason is the Breath of Fire, which as the name suggests, gets your trapped energy moving fromyour lower three chakras into your upper ones where you can use them more, especially for your intelligence and intuition. Breath of fire is like panting through your nostrils, with you pumping your abdomen like an old-fashioned bellows to start up the fire, and keep the fire burning. The abs are actually three layers of muscles, so if you do breath of fire on a regular basis, you will get a six pack in no time, without a single crunch! Seriously! They say also that in terms of a work out, 3 minutes of breath of fire are the equivalent of 15 minutes of jogging. I was able to drop 50 pounds in less than 3 months, going 3 x per week, and not even changing what I ate. Losing weight is not even the intention, but it is a welcome side effect of this blissful yoga. There are other kinds of pranayama (breath work) in Kundalini, some more challenging than others. Then there is chanting, and vibrational energy from the sacred gong. There are no levels in Kundalini yoga, so everyone should feel welcome to go to whatever class they wish. There are no levels because each kriya, or set of exercises and mantras to chant are all designed for a specific task. That task can be anything from cleaning out your immune system, to attracting prosperity, to improving your intuition. The mantras are fun; they can be both chanted or sung, and you will find yourself getting a wonderful collection of Cds by Snatam Kaur or Sada Sat Kaur, to name but a few. (Kaur means princess, so all Sikh women have Kaur as part of their name). In some sets we even use lively music, such as Bhangra music, which comes from the Punjab in northern India and is no doubt familiar to you if you have ever seen a Bollywood film. The center is conveniently located right in the heart of Chelsea/the Flatiron district in New York City, just a stone's throw from Union Square West, and accessible via the rear of the Union Square train station, with the train lines the 4, 5 6, N R W and Q all stopping there. Or the 14th st and 6th avenue station, where the V and F stop. If you want to lose weight, gain muscle, improve your concentration, and have energy to burn, and enjoy a musical and spiritually uplifiting experience all at the same time, this is the place for you. And don't you dare leave without tasting a cup of caffeine free Yogi Tea-yes, the Master of Kundalini yoga was THAT Yogi, Yogi Bhajan, and this studio is a testament to the legacy he built over nearly 60 years of teaching this incredible technology, a union of mind, body, spirit and energy. Above all, have fun, meet new friends, and de-stress and rejuvenate yourself in this beautiful space. Visit http://www.kundaliniyogaeast.com for their current class schedule, and all their terrific bodywork, holistic healing, and other special events. 691 words

Wedding Favors

Admin — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 16:55:49 +0000

Welcome to the Wedding Favors Information Page Wedding Favors are one of those items becoming more and more essential to a really wonderful wedding. Here you will find lots of great free information on how to find and buy great wedding favors for your special day. We also have gorgeous Kate Aspen wedding favors. Here is a selection below. Click on the item you are interested in, or click through to the My Wedding Favors site for over 240 Kate Aspen Wedding Favors. Wedding Favors Articles MyWeddingFavors.com Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 6

Admin — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 12:17:05 +0000

LOVE MEANS SOMETIMES HAVING TO SAY YOUR SORRY-SOMETIMES IN DIFFERENT WAYS Dr. Chapman also puts forward the idea of five Apology Languages in another of his book's, titled: Five Languages of Apology in the Workplace. These 5 are: Expressing Regret: I am sorry Accepting Responsibility: I was wrong Making Restitution: What Can I do to make it right? Genuinely repenting: I'll try not to do it again Requesting forgiveness: Will you please forgive me? While the book mainly deals with the topic of business relationships, all of our relationshops at the end of the day are human ones with an underliying need for being liked, connection, and our needs being served and met as fully as we feel we need to them to be. In the Five Languages of Apology, Dr Chapman puts forward the idea that disputes can often get out of control because we speak different apology languages, just like we speak different love languages. So, his argument runs, if the person does not hear what they want to hear in terms of a seemingly genuine expression of true contrition, they will continue to feel aggrieved no matter what apology is offered. It is also a question of perspective. Sometimes an offence which may seem slight to one person is a huge dealbreaker for the other person. We also have to try not to blow things out of proportion. Ask yourself: Am I still going to be worried about this issue 6 months from now? If not, then let it go. ROMANCE AND RESOLUTION Thus, in the same way that we can mis-communicate with our partner in terms of love, we may also do that in terms of dispute resolution, apologizing, learning from the incident, and making sure both parties don’t have any cause for lingering resentment. Resentment and grudges are total passion-killers in a relationship. So is talking a mistake to death. Offering forgiveness doesn't necessarily make the issue go away, but it does give you more freedom, because you have less to hold onto and begrudge. You also need to look at intention-was it deliberate? Yes, you were hurt, but if you were in the kitchen with your partner, and a pot fell on your foot, would you assume they dropped it on your foot on purpose to cause you pain? For the most part, if a person is in a relationship with us, they do actually WANT to see us happy, not hurt. Read more in: Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 7

Knitting Book Review: Men in Knits

Admin — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 00:10:13 +0000

Men in Knits: Sweaters to Knit That He Will Wear (Paperback) by Tara Jon Manning

5 stars A great book, almost foolproof, and really fun, with gorgeous results

I have not knit for 25 years, and certainly never did anything like arans in my whole life, but have been able to make the most fantastic pullovers and cardigans for my boyfriend as a result, ones he not only wears, but proudly brags about (and so he should, the Debbie Bliss Cashmerino I use does NOT come cheap!!) At the same time, though, if you are going to take the trouble to do these lovely designs, go for the best yet most practical yarn you can afford. The patterns like the one on the front of the book knit up really well and swiftly if you use your markers and good wool, and don't go for anything too fussy that a guy will balk at-the texture and pattern really does all the work for you to make it gorgeous. I have made sweaters in black, navy, mid blue, charcoal gray, regular gray, and the traditional Irish oatmeal since I bought the book last year. The cardigans and pullovers also are very similar in patterns, strategy, like the diamonds, so once you get the pattern into your head, don't stop, go for another sweater. The fit is perfect, the instructions clear, for the most part, if you make sure you read the whole thing through before you start the pattern, and make notes to yourself as you go. Also, I strongly recommend photocopying the pattern several times per panel of the sweater or sleeve, to use as scratch paper, because they are repeating patterns based over like 30 rows or so. With the copies, you can just cross off one row so you don't get lost in the pattern. For the more complicated aran and color work ones, you can even cross them off one stitch at a time if need be. I have even made an excel spreadsheet of my pattern, so instead of the dots, I have K for Knit and P for purl, and then special instructions for my cable, for example, 2 IF, KKkk would be a cable where you slipped the first two stitches, held them in front, knit two two, and then knit the other 2 being twisted into the cable. If you take the time to do the excel spreadsheet, these sweaters will really knit up in a snap. One other recommendation, if you are going to invest this kind of time and money to create a fabulous sweater like the ones in this book, if you can find a knit store that will help you finish off the garment professionally, by all means do so. It is really the difference between handmade and exquisite, or homemade and kind of silly. I live in New York City, and go to Gotta Knit on 12th st and 6th Avenue, on the second floor just near the adorable puppy shop downstairs. They often have classes that will teach you as well. I did one awesome three hour class with Shirley Palden, who designs a lot of the patterns for vogue, and so between the patterns you get in the book, and a professional finish, everyone will be asking your guy where he got his sweater. The chart at the front, what is your guy's style, and match it to the pattern, is really the best part of the book! It really helps you not only with picking a pattern, but generally with getting him clothes as gifts. Now I have to knit for my step-dad and brother, they have been so wowed by the sweaters they've seen me making! Enjoy! 623 words

Spring Wedding Favors Part I

Admin — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 01:55:02 +0000

Spring is a fabulous time of year for weddings. Many couples choose to have a wedding in the spring because it's such a wonderful time of year, when the flowers start to bloom after a long cold winter. With the combination of a variety of flowers in bloom and the moderate temperatures and weather, many couples feel as though spring is the ideal time for a wedding. These couples will usually go for seasonal colors and flowers, and also be interested in giving their guests wedding favors closely linked to the spring season. This article will offer you a few ideas for spring-themed wedding favors. Flowers Flowers are one of the most obvious choices for wedding favors for a spring wedding. There are a wide variety of bright and fragrant flowers which are available in the spring. Couples who get married at this time of year may have trouble choosing flowers for centerpieces and bouquets because there are so many options available to them. Again, stick to your wedding and wedding favor budget, and see what deals you can find. Because flowers are so plentiful this time of year, giving flowers as wedding favors is also a very common practice at spring weddings. The couple may choose to give fresh flowers because they are so bright and fragrant or silk flowers because they will serve as a lasting memento of the wedding for the guests. Bouquets and nosegays With either option you may choose to give either a single flower, or a bouquet of flowers tied with a ribbon matching the other colors used at the wedding. Or, you can have special ribbon made with your wedding details and colors, for a lasting memento. Spring Ornaments Knick knacks such as ceramic umbrellas or ceramic rain boots for April showers, rabbits and chicks for Easter, baskets, egg hshaped items, can also be very cute wedding favors for a springtime wedding, and many of them can can double as a bud-vase. (Check to make sure the ceramic is glazed if you intend to put water in them.) These favors can also often be personalized to include the name of the bride and the groom as well as the wedding date. By personalizing the favor, the couple makes the gift more appropriate for the wedding, but by keeping the favor related to the season the couple makes the favor a really unique gift for the guests. Just keep in mind that customization takes time and can be expensive, so again, the trusty customized ribbon is a handy standby.

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Spring Wedding Favors

Admin — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 22:05:19 +0000

Spring Wedding Ideas and Favors Visit our Spring Wedding articles archive Spring Wedding Theme Ideas It's not too late to get your spring wedding favors! Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Wine Wedding Favors

Admin — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 22:45:10 +0000

Here is our store for wine and wine-themed wedding favors. In the event our automatic product catalog feed is not working, please click here to visit our store: Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Beach Wedding Favors

Admin — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 22:58:57 +0000

Click on any of the products below to learn more about these unique beach wedding favors, direct from My Wedding Favors, the #1 Wedding Favors store on the Internet. Great prices, personalization available on many items, fast shipping, your complete satisfaction all 100% guaranteed. Make your special day even more memorable for your guests with a fabulous wedding favor. In the event our automatic product catalog feed is not working, please click here to visit our store: Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Summer Wedding Favors

Admin — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 22:59:46 +0000

It's still not too late to get your hot summer wedding favors! In the event our automatic product catalog feed is not working, please click below to visit our store: Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Obama is NOT a Democrat

Admin — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 23:09:44 +0000

if he chooses to disenfranchise the voters of Michigan and Florida simply because he knows he would not have a mandate if those states' delegates were counted. They VOTED. They deserved to be heard. It is their Democratic right which they have exercised. Please, we have already seen the White House stolen from Al Gore in 2000 and Kerry in 2004. We don't need the Democrats doing it to each other. Let the votes be counted, and let the chips fall where they may. If you really think you are the people's choice, Mr. Obama, there is no need to be so bitter about it.

Spring Wedding Favors Part II

Admin — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:56:00 +0000

(Continued from Spring Wedding Favors Part I) Umbrellas Real umbrellas can also be used as favors for a springtime wedding. In many locales, spring is typically a rainy time of year. An umbrella in the color of the wedding is a really practical idea because the guests are likely to be able to use the favor for years to come. One way to personalize this type of favor is to include a small tag on the handle with the name of the bride and the groom as well as the wedding date. Or our favorite ribbon again. The umbrellas can also be made more appropriate for the season by seeking out umbrellas in bright pastel colors. Just make sure you get some plain black or clear ones for the men! Easter Themes A final idea for springtime wedding favors is are little see through Easter eggs with candy inside. There are candies available in a variety of vibrant colors which will help continue the spring theme. You can buy Hershey's Kisses, for example, in bulk, with the pastel Easter wrappers. Chocolates Some people go for customized chocolate in the form of M and Ms or Dove bars. They have a lot of different colors of M and Ms to choose from, in different containers, and the Dove bars have a variety or wrappers. just keep in mind your budget-they are great ideas, but they don't come cheap! Other Candies While chocolate bars with personalize wrappers may be popular wedding favors year round, couples having a spring wedding may wish to select more colorful candies such as jelly beans or hard candies which come in a variety of colors. These candies can be distributed in see through containers such as votive candle holders, or clear bags tied with wedding ribbon, so the colors will be prominently displayed at the place settings. This type of wedding favor is not only a great deal of fun but it also relates very well to the season of the wedding and it is a favor which is likely to be greatly appreciated by the guests. Then there are the ever popular pastel-colored Jordan Almonds in a little white or colored net bag with a ribbon and a silk flower--what wedding is complete without them?! While candy isn't a favor which will serve as a lasting memento of the wedding, it is a favor your guests will enjoy while they are eating these yummy treats. Go for color Finally, white and cream gowns lend themselves to to spring colors of every hue, particularly, white, which can be embellished with pale green, yellow, pink and sky blue. Choose your color scheme and try to find favors to match, for example, pink and white for the cherry blossom festival, and some cherry blossom toiletries, candles, or handsoap from Bath and Body works, or rose, or sweet pea. 881 words

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Obama Unconvincing on Wright’s Anti-Americanisms

Admin — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 12:48:38 +0000

Here is a great article by Ed Koch as to why we should not believe one word of what Obama says about Wright. Ed Koch Article on Obama You can't know someone for 20 years, who has released video after video of the kind of anti-American, hate-filled, racist, bigoted talk that Wright has spouted, and NOT know who he is and what he stands for. Sure, Obama can stand in front of a whole bunch of American flags all he likes in his speeches, but that is one day amid the 20 he has know his pastor. Even if he was sleeping through all Wright's sermons, the fact is, he has such close ties with Wright that he equates him with family! We are ALL judged by the company we keep, and Obama's errors in judgment as a young man, and also now, his continual errors in judgment, are becoming all too plain for the American people to see, and are far too glaring to ignore. Again, we are not rabid Hillary Clinton supporters out to be negative and roast Obama at every opportunity, but we can spot a cold, calculating, cynical hypocrite when we see one. He calls HER racist? B Clinton guilty of "MacCarthyism". Ludicrous. Following on from Obama fighting tooth and nail to make sure that the voters in Michigan and Florida don't get a say, it is clear this man will do or say anything to get power, and keep it. HE is the MacCarthyist, defining himself as the 'correct American' and denouncing and literally witch-hunting anything that HE deems unAmerican, including allowing the Michigan and Florida delegates to be seated on behalf of Clinton, whom the people DEMOCRATICALLY voted for! Indeed, he wants to denounce everyone who disagrees with him as unAmerican, EXCEPT his pastor!

Avon BEYOND COLOR Plumping Lip Conditioner Review

Admin — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 14:01:00 +0000

Avon BEYOND COLOR Plumping Lip Conditioner SPF 15 with Double the Retinol Price: $8.00 4 1/2 out of 5 stars It worked pretty well, after about a week I started using it as soon as it arrived, but did not really notice much of a difference untill about a week later. Then my lips started to plump quite well. The good thing about this product is that it is not too tingly when you put it on. You look natural, not like you have trout pout or are drooling! It also looks nice on, very pale and sheer, with a tiny bit of sparkle. Another advantage is that works well under other colors, and I have to admit, you sort of miss it if you don't use it. It holds up well when you eat too. It is also really good because it is not at all slimy or sticky. Considering how well it plumps, the taste is not bad at all, you hardly notice it yourself, so your man won't really notice except to want to kiss you more :) Very good value considering the price! And the non-allergic properties. So, you can use it as plumper, lipstick/lip glosser, or both. I bought mine through the Amazon Avon store, so prices may be different elsewhere, but it came promptly and the shipping was really reasonable as well.

Wine Wedding Favors

Admin — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:39:03 +0000

Why not consider classy wine-related wedding favors? Wine Wedding Favors Wine Bottle Wedding Favors Wine Bottle Stopper Wedding Favors All make great keepsakes. You can get the label of the bottle printed with your names and special day. The only down-side of this favor is wine can be fragile to ship, and also, you might not be able to ship wine to your state. Also, the price of a bottle can vary widely depending on type of wine. But a wine bottle stopper is a great gift idea people will use all year round.

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.
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Product Review: Winnie The Pooh Teether Blanket

Admin — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 14:03:42 +0000

Winnie The Pooh Teether Blanket 5.0 out of 5 stars My nephew can't live without it! The greatest thing about this baby blanket is that it not only keeps him warm and snuggly, it has a lot of things going on, not just teething part. he teeth part is one corner, which has texturized rubber for baby to gum on. The little plastic nubbly bits massage the gums and helpp the teeth break through. But the other corners are different. There is the Pooh toy on one corner, and a rattle on the other. There is also a crinkling kind of fabric that makes a noice to keep baby entertained and give him an idea of different fabrics and textures and feels, so it is even education as well. The teething part is terrific. He is only 3 months but already has one tooth coming through. He puts in it his mouth and gums away happily, and as my brother says, this is his buddy! He never goes anywhere without it. Great value, durable, washable, safe, not too expensive, cute canary yellow color, goes with your other Pooh decor, and my brother and his wife were so thrilled with theirs, they give them as gifts to everyone now. 175 words

Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 7

Admin — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:19:19 +0000

KEEPING THE ROMANCE IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP: WHY NOT TRY A ROMANCE AGREEMENT? So, how can you keep on track with keeping the romance in your relationship? Why not try a romance agreement? You and your partner can easily draw up a romance agreement togther that will help keep you focused on romance between you, fostering a deep connection that in turn will help you weather life's little storms. Your romance agreement is not a long list of demands, but rather things that you both agree you enjoy which, when shared on a regular basis, will help you feel close to each other and help create the overall atmosphere of romance which we have been talking about cultivating in this article. These shared activities can spur you to feel desire for your partner, and/or desirable yourself. This is just one outline, with examples. Use the ideas to expand upon what you would most like from your romance agreement. Just try not to be too set in your way. Your partner's suggestions could very much surprise you. And make you more than eager for your next pre-arranged romantic session! For a Sample Romance Contract, see: Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 8

Obama Attempts to Address Economic Woes

Admin — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 15:03:15 +0000

This is woeful. Give us a break. He finally notices today, on the day that Hillary Clinton is about to make her big announced speech, that something should be done about the US economic crisis? http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080327/ap_on_el_pr/democrats_economy This is what it looks like, him trying to steal headlines, and posing in front of the US flag again to try to look loyal and patriotic, which he has been doing ever since the whole crisis with his pastor has cast doubts on his American loyalties. He also did it on Wall Street, Hillary's own back yard-if anyone know about Wall Street, it is HER. He also posed with Mike Bloomberg, who did NOT endorse him. However, Obama has tried to add to supposed prestige as a candidate by again appearing with someone who has a lot more political credentials than he could ever have. This is too little, too late, and makes him look lame. His 'policies' are just a copied version of Hillary's and no, it is not because they are all Democrats, it is because he has NO policies. Just good speeches and a lot of media attention. Let's have someone intelligent discuss what should be done. My money is on the Senator who had successfully managed to win 67% of their earmarks for worthy causes to help people, such as to fund programs for children's insurance, subsidized housing, and so on. THAT is Clinton, NOT Obama.

Excess weight boosts chance of developing Alzheimer’s

Admin — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 20:26:05 +0000

Here is an interesting article posted today in Yahoo about the link between belly fat and the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's is a form of dementia, and a great deal of research recently has linked it to inflammation in the body, particularly inflammation related to heart disease. Also, recent research suggests that fat is not just a bunch of excess weight on your body that sits there and looks unattractive. It is actually releasing various toxic substances into the body which then add to the inflammation. For more information on the latest findings on the link between belly fat and Alzheimer's disease, see: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080327/ap_on_he_me/belly_dementia;_ylt=AtHYNmW1_OBWh.1_R1agdI0_cbYF For more news and information on Alzheimer's disease, and good nutrition and weight control, you might also be interested in: Johns Hopkins Memory Topic Page Johns Hopkins Nutrition Topic Page Johns Hopkins Weight Control Topic Page Johns Hopkins Nutrition and Weight Control White Paper

Don’t believe every presidential election poll you read

Admin — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 20:36:31 +0000

This latest nonsense from Yahoo is clear only in who it is supporting for the presidency these days: http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080327/ts_nm/usa_politics_poll_dc Obama tries to talk about the economy this morning to head Clinton off at the pass, they gave him more coverage than her. Now all that has vanished in favor of this tripe, which admits they 'oversampled' African Americans, in which case, Obama only being a couple of points ahead of Clinton show just how much HE has slipped, and how risible it is that they need to TRY to make headlines out of her 'low' when in fact she is doing extremely well. If the worst thing that can be said is she mis-spoke, compared with Obama's 20 year association with the hate-mongering Wright, well, that might make him at an all time high with the people who were polled, but does that make him a good presidential candidate? NO. And all the posturing in front of an American flag and talking about being mixed race is not going to either. He needs brains and substance. He has neither. And no, it is true, Pastor Wright, she may not have been called the N word in her life, and may not know how it feels. But nor does ANY other presidential candidate other than Hillary Clinton know what it is like to be called a B at every opportunity from the moment a woman dares to stand up to a man, to show she is educated, to show she wants to make a difference in the world. And the L word as well, because of course any woman ambitious enough to want to run for president has to be 'mannish'. Remarks about the pant suits, remarks about too much cleavage, not enough cleavage, any cleavage, puh-leese! Can we have a genuine and honest election campaign here, not this sexist, sensationalist garbage? My best friend is a male African American of a mixed race background. HE is voting for Clinton! Why? Because she is the most experienced and able candidate, the most clued in to all the issues facing this country after her many, many years of public service. No intelligent man should care about sex scandals, pant suits, or cleavage in their president, but whether or not that person is a genuine leader. Therefore all intelligent men, regardless of race, who want to see change in this country, and the kind of fiscal responsibility the Clinton administration of the 1990s was famous for, should have the sense to vote for Clinton for the Democratic party's representative, so we can get back America on the road to economic recovery as soon as possible, and really help those suffering most in the USA.

Wedding Favors Your Guests Will Love and Appreciate Part 1

Admin — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:58:34 +0000

The purpose of wedding favors is to thank your guests for coming to your wedding and ultimately showing their support for your special day and commitment to each other. As a result, you should really try to find wedding favors which your guest will love, and which will be an appropriate thank you and keepsake. In some cases this may mean you have to give your guests a wedding favor which may not appeal to you, but you know the majority of your guests will like and/or find useful. However, in most cases, the wedding favor you select for your guests will be something you know they will love, as well as a favor which you would like to receive yourself. This article will provide a few wedding favor ideas which your guests are most likely to enjoy, and find useful and appropriate. FOOD Tasty edible wedding favors are one type of favor which the majority of your guests will love. There are a lot of options available for couples who wish to give their guests some type of edible favor. CANDY Candy is one of the most popular options available. Many couples like to give their guests a candy bar with a personalized wrapper which includes the names of the bride and the groom and the wedding date. Other candies such as mints or hard candies nicely presented are also very popular. These candies can often be distributed in unique or personalized containers such as tins or glass containers. Mints are very popular, as are M and Ms with different colors and slogans, and Dove candy, with different colored wrappers and slogans, which you can order online. Remember, though, the more personalization, the more you will have to spend. The humble tin of mints is always extremely useful-after all, they can have fresh breath, and keep the tin as a memento. COOKIES Cookies are another type of edible wedding favor which is very popular. The cookies can include a photo of the couple, or may be a fortune cookie with a quote from a love song or poem inside. CAKE Miniature wedding cakes are another type of edible wedding favor your guests will appreciate. These are not as popular as other types of wedding favors because they can be rather expensive, but if they fit within your budget, your guests are sure to be delighted with them. Just make sure they come in their own individual small boxes so your guests can take them home easily. Wedding Favors Your Guests Will Love and Appreciate Part II

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The Tide of Destiny-Druids of Destiny Book 1

Admin — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 22:43:39 +0000

The Tide of Destiny by Sorcha Mac Murrough

The Tide of Destiny

Shanna Murchison

Book One of The Druids of Destiny Series

Northern Wales, 1145

Angharad of Meriel seeks to escape from an enforced marriage to a vicious neighboring landlord. Instead of gaining her freedom, she is taken captive by Rhys, the Silver Wolf, a powerful Welsh warrior determined to revenge his family and end the rebellion which has broken out against Owain, the prince of Merionedd, led by the prince's own brother Cadwalader.

Angharad had assumed fate would take her to a convent to spend her days in peace. But with war raging throughout the countryside she loves, she can see that the tide of her destiny has turned. Angharad forsakes the way of the saints and determines to live by her sword with Rhys' rapidly dwindling band of increasingly desperate warriors.

When Cadwalader takes the ultimate gamble and invites Danish mercenaries from Dublin to invade Wales, Angharad and Rhys discover the latent druidic powers they have always possessed but tried to suppress. Only their daring to trust to love and these remarkable supernatural abilities can prevent their whole world from being destroyed. As Cadwalader's Viking band bring nothing but death and destruction, all Rhys and Angharad have to cling to is their tempestuous love. Will it too prove to be another casualty of war?

The Tide Of Destiny by Sorcha MacMurrough Word Count: 115,000 Setting: Northern Wales, 1145 Rating: Sensual. ORDER NOW: $3.99 (US)

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In the years of trial When life was inconceivable From the bottom of the sea the tide of destiny Washed her up to him. Boris Pasternak, Dr. Zhivago (1958)

Chapter One Meriel, Merionedd North Wales, mid-June 1144

Angharad's head swam at the enormity of what she had discovered. What she'd done. Every instinct she possessed screamed for her to flee as fast as she could. But the dense summer foliage flanking either side of the forest track was so thick it hindered her black stallion's every step.

She tried not to cringe as the branches plucked the flaming red cloak she had been forced to wear for her supposed pending nuptials. Tried not to cry out in terror at every rustle of a leaf or snap of a twig.

Angharad thanked the Lord for the tenth time since she had escaped from her escort that she'd stumbled across her step-mother Maelona's real plans for her before she had fallen into the vile hands of blond, treacherous, Emlyn Ap Hugh. But what was she to do now?

The thought of being touched by Emlyn made her stomach churn, but that was the least of Angharad's worries. This was a matter of life and death now. Not just for her, but her entire homeland. She had to stay alive, if only to warn Prince Owain he was in grave danger. But how to reach him before it was too late? And even if she did find him, would he ever believe her?

Angharad scarcely believed the extent of the treachery and betrayal herself, though she had seen the proof with her own eyes. Had heard Maelona and Emlyn conspiring against their lawful prince and plotting her death as well. She'd found the incriminating letter, with the usurping bastard Prince Cadwalder's own seal of the Black Boar, secreted in her stepmother's jewel casket. She'd read every scheming word twice just to be sure. Everyone knew Cadwalader was a man full of ambitions and violent passions. But to plot to overthrow his own half-brother Owain? It was unthinkable.

Terror and fury warred in her breast as Angharad heeled her horse hard down the forest path. She had given her makeshift wedding retinue the slip and taken the road east as fast as Bran could carry her, hoping her pursuers would think she was heading for England, before doubling back to head north-west. She knew she had to warn Owain, but at the same time, she was torn. Owain was certainly in danger, but her own home Meriel was in the most dire peril as well....

Angharad shoved a stray strand of auburn hair out of her emerald eyes impatiently to scan the wooded path once more for any sign of enemies. She was damned if she went back, and damned if she went forward. She longed to take out her sword and fight for her home, but certain death awaited her now that Cadwalader was using her beloved llys as the headquarters for his uprising. Yet she knew even if she found Owain, her reputation as the Mad Mistress of Meriel made it unlikely anyone would believe a single word she said. If only she had dared take the letter as proof before she had fled....

Hurry, hurry, lass, she goaded herself sternly. Worry about proof if and when you get that far. The sweat rolled down her shivering spine in rivulets, terror saturating her palms and the soles of her feet. She urged Bran forward even more urgently, well aware that even if Emlyn's men didn't find her, Cadwalader's troops were amassing in the verdant valleys all around her. Even at the best of times, the mountain passes were full of lawless brigands committing all manner of depredations. This was no place for a lone female, even one who could wield a sword.

Cadwalader had already ravaged several prime estates in the south, leaving dozens dead, or homeless and desperate by all accounts. Angharad shuddered as she recalled the grim tales. Most horrid of all had been the stories regarding The Silver Wolf, whom Cadwalader painted as the Devil incarnate if anyone dared mention him in the Bastard Prince's hearing. It was said that the Silver Wolf perfected every cruelty, the better to practice it upon those who fell under his nefarious power. Some even said he was a shape-shifter, a lycanthrope. A spawn of the devil, in league with the forces of darkness to make Cadwalader's life a living hell. Angharad crossed herself fervently and prayed she would never cross paths with such a foul demon.

Angharad dragged her thoughts back to her own enemies. Her heart filled with dread at the prospect of what would happen to her beloved home. With her stepmother in command at Meriel, and Emlyn's estate at Nairne, Cadwalader could split Owain's kingdom in two. Then he would finish his conquest of the south of Merionedd, and finally thrust northwards from Meriel to Owain's very own stronghold at Aber. If he won, it would truly be the end for the land she loved so well.

Unless she could reach Owain first, she reminded herself, clinging onto this tiny shred of hope amid the maelstrom of grim thoughts which tormented her as she galloped northwards on her mission. Perhaps I could get help from one of the local lords? But who was loyal to Owain? Think, for pity's sake, think...

She swallowed hard and fought back the wave of nausea that threatened to engulf her. No matter how she looked at it, she was surrounded by danger. Her life wasn't worth a brass farthing if she couldn't find Owain or his allies soon.

Emlyn's men were waiting in the forest for her, she was sure of it. Where better to do so dark a deed than murder her in the dense woods which separated Meriel from Nairne, and then blame her death on bandits? Though she had never cared before if Angharad was clad in naught but rags, Maelona had insisted upon dressing her richly in the flaming red velvet cloak to make sure Angharad was easily seen. The cunning woman had even ostentatiously 'gifted' her with a few baubles now in Bran's saddlebags as plausible reasons for her eventual death. Angharad's only escort for the short distance to her supposed wedding had been three of the oldest and most decrepit warriors at Meriel.

Her stepmother had been clever, Angharad had to grant her that. Maelona and Emlyn had wanted to make sure she died under neither roof, so that neither guardian nor bridegroom would be blamed. Then they could enslave Angharad's already oppressed people and bring Meriel to ruin with their selfishness and greed.

If only Ifor were still alive, Angharad wished, finally allowing a single tear to flow.

But her half-brother was dead, she recollected bitterly, and with him Ieuan, their master at arms, who had protected her, and taught her everything she knew about warfare. Who had been a kindly father figure to her when her remaining parent had died, and who had concealed her intelligence under guise of 'madness' from all save Ifor and a couple of select men.

Now all her allies were gone, dead or fled once Ifor had been killed by a ravening wolf the summer before. She was all alone. There was no sense wishing for help at Meriel with Maelona there ruling with an iron hand. Far better to take her chances upon the road, amongst strangers even, than to be slaughtered like a sacrificial lamb upon the altar of Maelona's ambitions.

If only I were the Master of Meriel, instead of the Mad Mistress of Meriel, Angharad thought with a bitter pang, thinking of the great leader the local legends spoke of. The heroic Master of Meriel would turn back the tide of war and bring peace and prosperity in his wake. But as good as she was with her sword, she was a mere woman, no leader of men. Her birthright had been stolen from her by Maelona from the moment the sly woman had married Angharad's father. Angharad knew she would never get her people to rally around her. Even if she asked them to help her save Owain, they would never believe her. Even if she showed the letter as proof, they would never forgive her for her years of deception and lack of courage.

I should have stood up to Maelona when I had the chance. But Ifor's death was just too cruel a blow. Now it's too late. Cadwalader and his men will cut me to pieces if I even try to tell the truth.

She steadied her trembling hands on the reins and scanned the shadowy woods once more for any sign of movement. The sun was dipping lower, the forest cooling already with the approach of night. She inhaled the pine fragrance of the forest, the salt tang of the nearby sea. She peered up the gloomy path and bit her lip pensively. All seemed peaceful and silent, but still....

She slowed the stallion now and inched forward, straining to listen. She told herself she was being silly. There was nothing, not even the chirping of a bird.

Angharad stiffened in the saddle. That telling silence prickled the length of her spine. Too late did she reach back for the sword she had concealed under her cloak. But the huge mail-clad warrior on a black stallion even more vast than her own had already loomed in front of her, and grabbed her right arm before she could even touch the hilt.

"Who are you? What's your business here?" he demanded, the words spitting from full lips thinned to a feral snarl.

"I'm going to the convent but am lost, sir," she replied, both astonished and thankful that her terror had not made her stammer like a serving girl.

He looked mildly surprised at her reply, why, she could not say. "Nay, you're not lost. I saw you ride out of the llys at Meriel and rid yourself of your companions, then come this way. You were acting like a woman wandering in your wits, and terrified those old fools in order to get them to let you go. And you carry some goodly weapons," he said with a pointed look at the embossed gold and enamel sword and shield hanging over her horse's flanks under her cloak, which he had flicked up over the beast's back with one deft tug. "So I ask you again, who are you, and what is your business here?"

Angharad stopped herself just in time from blurting out the whole truth about her terror of Cadwalader. Yet the fearsome-looking man was glaring at her in such a penetrating manner, she had to say something, and quickly too. She felt compelled to obey-he was so handsome despite his menacing air that she couldn't help but feel under some sort of spell as she gazed back at him. "I'm escaping from an enforced marriage, heading for the convent at Awen to secure protection."

His grim frown relaxed slightly. "Ah, that sounds a bit more likely. Who are you?"

"Angharad of Meriel."

His ebony brows drew down over his piercing blue eyes once more. "Impossible."

"Why?" she asked, bristling at his dismissive tone.

"That lady is said to be a mad woman. You're evidently coherent, though you do look like a rag bag."

She cringed inwardly at the mention of the dreadful cast-off green gown and crimson cloak her stepmother had given her as wedding 'finery'. She lifted her chin and held her breath to stop the tears. What did it matter what she wore? Or what this ill-mannered man thought?

"And you, sir, look like a brigand. Now let me pass." She jerked her arm out of the manacle of his warm hard grip, and nudged her stallion forward.

"Not until you tell me who you are," he insisted, leaning forward to grasp a fistful of Bran's thick jet mane.

"For pity's sake, night is coming!" She pointed to the darkening sky overhead. "I must get to the convent, to safety. The woods are full of Emlyn ap Hugh's men-"

His silvery eyes narrowed now. "Emlyn's? Why?"

"Because they'll be seeking me, his escaped bride!"

Now the stranger's dark brows lofted skyward. "Damnation. Emlyn's bride, you say? Who are you?"

"Stop gaping at me like that. I've already told you who I am, and time's passing. I must be away at once." She tried to inch her horse past him, to no avail.

"That lady is said to be mad. Who are you?" he demanded again, shaking her slightly.

"I've been naught but feigning being mad, to protect myself until I came of age," she blurted out.

Her dark companion glowered even more darkly at that news. "It was quite a show. I imagine most fools would believe your performance. But even if you're telling me the truth about who you are, Emlyn isn't that foolish. And why would he ever wish to wed a half-wit?"

Angharad cast him a withering look, as if he were the witless one. "I'm sole heiress to my poor father Lord Aled's estate of Meriel. I'm supposed to inherit as soon as I reach the eighteenth anniversary of my birth in a few days' time."

The warrior pressed closer, inching her toward the left side of the narrow track. "What's Emlyn up to now? Trying to trap me?"

She opened her mouth to utter a stinging retort, only to clamp it shut again as a twig snapped nearby. She jumped a foot out of the saddle and glanced right and left in terror. "Please, Sir, we haven't time! The woods are crawling with Emlyn's warriors and robbers and-"

"Aye, the brigand called The Silver Wolf," he said with a sneer, his strange cold eyes never leaving her face. "Was that rambling piece of lunacy the best tale you could come up with? I've never heard such a parcel of nonsense."

Angharad took in his less than immaculate dark clothing, and decided to keep the man talking in the hope that she could give him the slip. He wasn't one of Emlyn's men, nor a Black Boar, but that didn't mean he was any less of a threat. She couldn't afford any delay on her urgent quest to help Prince Owain. And didn't dare risk testing his loyalty as a potential ally by telling him the whole truth. Yet still, he seemed intelligent, not completely lawless...

"I assure you, every word of those stories was recounted to me by Prince Cadwalader himself at dinner last night," she said, her eyes never leaving his handsome face as she gauged his response to her name-dropping.

Angharad never saw a man change so rapidly. He grabbed her shoulder hard, fury etched in every line of his finely boned cheeks and broad jaw. "Cadwalader's here?" he growled, the words coming from deep in his belly causing her own to quiver. "Where?"

Angharad had tried to keep command of the situation with the raven-haired man through bluster and bravado, but the sudden shift in his emotions truly terrified her. She stared up into his odd blue eyes, so like quicksilver, changing from one strange hue to the next in the span of a blink.

Silver.

"Oh my God," she gasped, staring up into his face.

His lips thinned to a bitter smile. "Not quite. But I'm said to be the very Devil when crossed." He grabbed her bridle and shoved his stallion closer, trapping her against a tree trunk with his mount and own huge body. "So if you value your soul, Madam, tell me who you are and why you're spying on me, or not even the good Lord will be able to save you."

The Tide Of Destiny by Sorcha MacMurrough Word Count: 115,000 Setting: Northern Wales, 1145 Rating: Sensual. ORDER NOW: $3.99 (US)

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Reviews:

I must say, I simply love your stories. This is the type of book I would buy. Had I not been asked to edit this book and had I seen it on the bookshelf instead, I very likely would have picked it up and purchased it. It was a joy to read. The story is gripping. Angharad is a heroine we women can sink our teeth into, and the romance is a delight. Your style is delicious. Your love scenes are breath-taking. You provide a real sense of time and place by using dialogue that seems reminiscent of that time period. Your novel has a wonderful flow that is scintillating. Carol Craig, former Kensington Editor

The Tide Of Destiny by Sorcha MacMurrough Word Count: 115,000 Setting: Northern Wales, 1145 Rating: Sensual. ORDER NOW: $3.99 (US)

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Excerpted with their kind permission.

Clinton won’t quit; she is a true democrat

Admin — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 23:41:16 +0000

We strongly object to the coverage today on Obama's supposedly huge endorsements-one junior senator from Pennsylvania, whoopie. And one other disgruntled rep from Vermont, asking her to quit. Well, excuse us, but if she were going to do that, she would have given up a long time ago, not kept on fighting for the nomination, fundraising, and above all, pulling head of Obama in the polls last week. They think SHE had a bad week because of a slip of the tongue? The Obama Wright link is never going to go away-why? Because Obama told us that himself-he refuses to give him up as pastor, even willingly knowing all Wright has said and done in the cause of hate-mongering. Why is she staying in it? Because she is a true democrat. She wants everyone to have a chance to vote again in Florida and Michigan. She wants the people of PA to have their say on April 22nd. Obama has blocked EVERY effort by the states' and national party to get those delegates counted fair and square. If she wins all the super states, which it looks very likely she will, where is his mandate then? Every time she does well, they say quit. And they are ALL men. We don't care about Leahy's opinion. Vermont voted, yay for them. They got their say. Now let the rest of the country have its say! http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080328/ap_on_el_pr/obama_endorsement

Harlequin Hearts

Admin — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 00:01:37 +0000

Inexperienced housekeeper Megan gets more than she bargains for when she takes a job at the house of architect Bryan Fitzmaurice in order to support her family. Sparks fly from the moment they meet. Through the comedy of errors that their meeting triggers, they grow closer with every passing minute.

Despite their many misunderstanding, Megan's new life with her handsome, enigmatic employer is everything she could ever have hoped for except for one thing: Bryan is engaged to another.

Megan's head tells her all the reasons her new boss is out of bounds romantically. Her heart whispers a different story, one that dares dream of a happily ever after. Can she and Bryan ever build a future together, or is her harlequin heart making her a fool for love?

Bryan has never met anyone like Megan, but he's already engaged to a woman everyone says is perfect for him. Why then does he feel like such a fool for ever having agreed to marry the glamorous Amanda?

Only through his daring to risk all and open his heart and mind to love, to share the gift of joy and laughter with the beautiful woman Fate has presented him with, can Bryan find the courage to live a life of passion.

Does Bryan dare risk all on his harlequin heart, which whispers to him that it's not yet too late to find real happiness with his one true love? Or will he try to do the honorable thing and keep his word to Amanda despite all he has learned about her, and let Megan walk out of his life forever?

HARLEQUIN HEARTS

Evelyn Trimborn

Rating: Sensual

Word Count: 75,000

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Chapter One

Megan flitted from room to room, assessing everything with her calm emerald eyes. She couldn't believe it. Talk about bad luck. She had been dying to meet her new employer ever since she had taken this job at Fitzmaurice Manor outside Dublin a month ago. She certainly hadn't thought it would be under these circumstances.

Bryan Fitzmaurice had not only returned from overseas at last, but his brother David had told her to prepare a meal for seven top VIPs only a few hours before.

Curiosity over the elusive Bryan whom she had heard so much about had immediately given way to the urgency of making sure that everything was ready and as perfect as it could be given such short notice.

"Hey, there's no need to look so nervous," Geoffrey said with a reassuring smile.

She gave her tall blond cousin her best attempt at a grin. "I know, it'll be a piece of cake," she said with false bravado. "It's just, well, we want to make a good impression, don't we?"

"We will. The house looks fabulous."

"Considering whoever decorated it either had no taste or the worst sense of humor imaginable," she said, grimacing at an overdone gilt cupid leering down at her from a corner of the ornate but chill marble foyer.

"And the food will be superb. If Mr. Fitzmaurice has any complaints, it's his own fault for leaving his brother David to hire us. And for us to see to all his unpacking."

"At least his fiancée isn't here. Women are so much more critical of household arrangements."

"I imagine that Mr. Fitzmaurice will be as well, but the furniture can be rearranged easily enough. As for the rest, well, I'm sure he can't fail but be delighted by your cooking." He gave her another warm smile, but she was still as pale as a swan's wing.

"Oh, I've got butterflies in my tummy."

"Don't be silly. You're a season campaigner. I know it's short notice, but you've done it plenty of times in the past. Do you remember how Uncle Oliver used to just take a notion and invite twelve people to dinner on the spur of the moment?"

She nodded, and then blew an ebony curl out of her eye. "Yes, but he raised us. We were all family. And cantankerous though the old buzzard was, he would never have fired us. This man can, any time he likes, him or his soon to be wife, and we all need these jobs and this new home desperately now that Uncle is gone."

"Stop worrying so much. It'll be fine. If Bryan Fitzmaurice is anything like his brother, he's bound to be a reasonable man, even if I do think David is a bit too fond of the ladies for my tastes," Geoff said with a pointed look at his attractive raven-haired cousin.

"He's behaved like an absolute gentleman to me," she replied, speaking no less than the truth. "I don't think you need have any fears on that score."

"All the same, a young woman can't be too careful these days. Especially one brought up so sheltered as you've been."

"Point taken. But I think you're making a huge fuss over nothing. We're only the hired help. Bryan Fitzmaurice won't even notice me," she said with an airy wave.

"Now that would be a pretty tall order in that ridiculous uniform," Geoffrey laughed.

"Please, don't remind me," she said, her mouth turning down into a moue of distaste at the Victorian parlormaid's outfit which the future mistress of the house had left for the housekeeper to wear.

"Besides, I don't know what you're so smug about, Geoff. You look like something out of an Edwardian melodrama."

Her cousin flashed her a brief smile. "I won't tease if you don't. Just remember, no matter what goes wrong tonight, and there's bound to be something, try to keep hold of that feisty little Irish temper of yours."

"It's hard not to lose your temper in this thing. The petticoats and underthings are so starched I can barely bend over," she complained, giving the apron a wrathful tug.

Then she smoothed it over her dress, and yanked the gown down all over. She adjusted the floppy mob cap for the hundredth time, trying to tuck all of her unruly ebony hair under it to keep it away from the food.

"How do I look?"

Geoffrey gave her an appraising glance. "You look fine, if you like that sort of thing. No, really, it's not that bad. Don't worry. Just remember, however fussy he is, he couldn't be as bad as our uncle. Old Oliver was continuously going around picking up individual specs of dust."

Megan laughed at the shared childhood memory and patted her cousin on the shoulder. "Thanks, that's exactly what I needed to hear. You always do have a great knack for putting things into perspective."

"Besides, David has paid us in full for the next four months, us and the children, to make sure we stay during this big transition in Bryan's life, with him getting married and them having to merge two very different households into one. Plus tending to the place while they're on their round the world honeymoon. Even if we make a total mess of things tonight, we really have nothing to lose."

Megan shook her head. "You're only saying that to make me feel better. We both know the chidlren and their mother are counting on our help. We can't let them down."

He took both her hands in his own for a brief moment. "You've never let us down in your life, and you're not about to start. Tonight is going to be the beginning of something incredible for us all, I just know it."

"That's what I've been feeling all day too. But you're right, I'm letting my nerves get the better of me for no reason." She took a deep breath, squared her shoulders, and swallowed hard to steady her nerves.

Her fears put to rest for the moment, she headed to the reception room to introduce herself to Mr. Fitzmaurice and see if wanted her to pour the drinks or get him anything special.

Geoffrey as butler would answer the door and take the guests' coats. The children would stay in the kitchen for the most part, helping with arranging all the different courses onto the expensive if gaudy china which was as overdone as the rest of the house, not to mention her much-hated uniform.

Megan was relieved she wouldn't have to spend much time with the guests, since she was always so painfully shy amongst strangers, as were the Haugheys. She hoped they wouldn't be too overwhelmed by the grand occasion, especially poor Patricia.

She had known the girl for a decade, ever since she'd been eight, and still Megan couldn't help but wonder what it was like for the girl to be deaf in a hearing world. She only prayed Bryan Fitzmaurice would be tolerant if he discovered her disability.

But then, Megan reminded herself as she crossed the large hall and foyer, they were just the hired help. They were most likely invisible to a man of Bryan Fitzmaurice's wealth and power.

She paused outside the thick oak door to the drawing room, as Geoffrey had insisted she call it. She listened for a moment and heard the tinkle of ice in a crystal glass, and some liquid being poured. She smoothed the gown down over her shapely hips once more, and took a deep breath.

Megan tapped on the portal softly. She entered as soon as she heard a voice call, "Come in."

She stepped into the room briskly and gave her brightest smile, though inwardly she was trembling with fear. She had hears so much about Bryan Fitzmaurice from his brother David, she was sure he walked on water. And with everything for her family riding on keeping this job and home, she was desperate to make a good first impression.

"Yes?" the tall dark man demanded. He stared at her, his icy blue eyes, as a pale as a wolf's, boring into her own emerald green ones.

Then he began to laugh. "Oh no, not now of all times..."

She stared at him, not sure how to respond to this odd reaction. "I'm sorry to disturb you, sir. I thought I might just see if there was anything I could get you."

"My brother does seem to have the most ridiculous sense of timing for his absurd jokes. Though I suppose under the circumstances, I can't blame him. It is tradition, after all. But I have some very important guests arriving within the next half hour. Please spare me the display of your, er, talents, and go."

"But sir, I only came in here to ask if you had any specific instructions. Whether you had anything you particularly wanted. I am here to please you, after all."

He gaped at her for a moment, then cleared his throat and shook his head. "Yes, er, thank you, but really, this is too much. Though I must admit, you are a rather lovely little thing."

His frigid glance thawed slightly as he gazed down at her. He resisted the temptation to toy with the ebony curl which had sprung out of her flouncy mob cap, and was resting upon her delicate porcelain brow and rosy cheek.

Megan stared up at Mr. Fitzmaurice's stunningly handsome face shyly as he towered over her. She was easily five foot ten, so his remark about her being little struck her as amusing. She had never felt dainty before. But then anyone would seem small from his commanding six foot six height.

"Mr. Fitzmaurice, there seems to be some sort of misunderstanding. Maybe we should start again. I'm Megan. I need to know if there's anything special you want me to do for you or your guests tonight."

He stared at her in what she could only describe to herself inwardly as horror.

"You mean they're all in on it? Oh no, I'm not giving them the satisfaction of taunting me about this for the rest of my life."

She blushed to the roots of her hair, sure he was referring to the absurd housekeeper's uniform. Talk about Upstairs, Downstairsâ€¦

His next words seemed to confirm her thoughts.

"I must admit, though, I'm a bit curious to see what you have on under that ridiculous outfit. So, all right, I have a few minutes, and nothing important to do. So do it."

She stared up at him, a blank expression on her lovely face. "Do what?"

He sat down on the sofa and crossed one leg over the other. "All right. I'm ready."

"Mr. Fitzmaurice, I really have no idea what you'd like..."

He frowned, his black brows lowering threateningly over his incredible piercing eyes. "I guess coy is part of the act, but I haven't got all night. So just strip them off, and then leave, preferably by the back door."

"What did you say?" Megan gasped, suddenly going cold all over.

He folded his hands with exaggerated patience. "I said, strip for me, show me your stuff, whatever you'd like to call it, then go."

Megan was convinced her whole world had come crashing down around her ears. She had had such high hopes for this new job. They all had.

She sucked in a shaky breath, and then let fly. "I've never been so insulted in all my life! Geoff warned me the world was full of perverts. I thought I could handle it. Well, if that's the way you want to me to behave in ordered to keep this position, you can go to hell! Stuff your bloody job. I'll pack and be out of here in five minutes. Dinner is in the kitchen. Serve your sleazy guests yourself."

She whirled on her heel and would have stormed out.

But Bryan had jumped off the sofa at her words, and grabbed her arm to stay her.

Megan didn't even stop to think. Her right hand shot up automatically, delivering a cracking blow to his cheek. She could see the red welt raise at once on his lightly tanned cheek as he tugged her more tightly to him.

"Now hang on a minute."

"Let me go, you bastard!" She somehow managed to jerk her arm free of his vice-like hold and yanked at the door handle desperately. She fled through the opening before he could stop her again.

Megan heard him calling out to her to wait, but she ran to the attic of the house and bolted her door.

Grabbing her suitcases from the top of the wardrobe, she threw them down on the bed and began to hurl all her clothes into them willy-nilly. The tears began to stream down her cheeks unheeded.

Damn it, just when they had all been starting to feel like Fitzmaurice Manor was really home....

HARLEQUIN HEARTS

Evelyn Trimborn

Rating: Sensual

Word Count: 75,000

Buy Now: $3.99

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Fun Ideas For Unity Candles

Admin — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 00:21:45 +0000

If you are planning a wedding and plan to have a unity candle as part of the ceremony, you might want to think outside the box and do something a bit different with your unity candle. Traditionally, the unity candle involves three candles. The bride has one, the groom the other, and their two lighted candles light the third candle. This is done to represent the coming together of the two people to make one unit. In some alternate ideas on how to use the unity candle, family members can be asked to to participate in the unity candle lighting. The mothers of the bride and groom, the mothers and fathers, or other close members of the family might be invited. Each family then lights a candle, and together they light the unity candle to symbolize of the coming together of the families. There are a few twists you can add to this fairly conventional aspect of a wedding ceremony. You can provide each guest with an unlit candle when they arrive at the ceremony. After the couple lights the unity candle, they can ask the guests to move to the front of the church (or wherever the ceremony is being held) and light their candles with the lighted unity candle. This can take a bit of time and might be best with a smaller guest list. But it is a meaningful way to not only get your guests involved in the ceremony itself, but also to symbolize the union of family and friends which comes with the marriage. If there is a large guest list and it would be a prohibitive amount of time to do a candle lighting involving everyone at the ceremony, some brides and grooms like to bring the unity candle to the reception. Light the candle again and provide each guest with a small votive candle (the candle holder will be on the tables at individual table settings). As guests come into the reception area or hall, they can light their votive and take it to their table to place into the votive holder. This small votive candle can double as a wedding favor, particularly if you decorate or enhance a plain votive candleholder in some way to coordinate with your wedding. Of course, you can forget having a unity candle at the ceremony altogether. Many brides these days are trying to reduce the length of the ceremony and spend more time planning the reception. Because of this, some choose to do away with a unity candle altogether. You can certainly do this, or you can cut it out of the ceremony and make it part of the reception. To do this, you can use the votive candle option suggested above, or you can simply incorporate the unity candle lighting into the reception activities themselves. For example, you might choose a quiet moment in the reception to have a lighting of the unity candle. It might be during a short prayer prior to the serving of the meal, or right before the cake is cut. In this example, the unity candle can then be used as decoration on the cake table. As the bride and groom cut the cake and pieces are served to guests, the candle can also serve as a reminder of the couple's new bond and that the bond is shared with all the guests as well. Although having a unity candle at the wedding or reception isn't necessary, it is certainly an option that many brides and grooms decide to include. But it's important to remember that as with so much surrounding wedding planning, there are ways to make it unique and interesting and special to the couple getting married, to help make the wedding a memorable one.

Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 8

Admin — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 12:20:51 +0000

Here is a sample romance agreement to help give you some ideas about how to keep the romance in your relationship. ROMANCE AGREEMENT For ________and__________ Date ______________ The purpose of this agreement is to identify and plan actions and activities we can take with each other or for each other that nurture our feelings of love for one another. We agree to have a “date night” once a week. The date night can/willl include the following: 1. Some private down time when we get home from work 2. A meal at a different restaurant, 3. Or a take out meal with paper plates and plastic cutlery so no one is stuck with the dishes 4. A movie or video together/mututal choice, or we can take turns choosing 5. A romantic bath, shower, massage, and lovemaking We agree to have a “date day” at least once a month. The date day will include the following: 1. A walk somewhere in nature, 2. a picnic 3. Romantic foreplay, massage and sex, 4. A meal at a new restaurant we've never tried before 5. A movie or video together 6. A mutually agreed upon activity, such as horseriding rollerblading 7. a trip to a day spa 8. a lazy morning with breakfast in bed and lovemaking 9. a lazy day in bed with a shower together 10. a fun bruch 11. a trip to a museum or sporting event We agree that, if possible, it is desirable for sex to take place early enough in the night/day so that our energy levels are good. At least once a week we agree to put on soft music and light candles while we read from a couple-affirming book or spiritual materials together. We agree that quickie sex is just great if the mood srikes us, so long as we don't scare the horses or children. At least once a day we connect as a couple with touching, holding, kissing, or even just looking into each other's eyes. At least once a month we agree to give our partner a love note and/or gift. At least once a day, we will take it in turns to consciously llisten to each other interrupting or trying to "fix things'. At least once a day, we will take turns to cultivate an 'attitidue of gratitude' and express appreciation for the positive things we share, and thank each other for what your partner adds to out life. At least once a year, we agree to have a 'vacation' together, even if we don't have a lot of money. We can take time off work to spend together, go to a hotel for a change of scenery and to get away from housethold chores, can find a nice B and B for a weekend getaway, or any other mutually agreed upon activity. We agree to review this agreement together during the first week of each month to set a date for our “date day”, and weekly to help us stay focused on our progress toward our commitment. We will also know that as much as we look forward to our date night or date day, that circumstances might oblige us to reschedule from time to time. On the event of having to postpone, we will be understanding and try to re-schedule as soon as possible thereafter. This agreement is entered into willingly and lovingly by _______________________ _____________________ on ______ Partner #1 Partner #2 Date To read more, see: Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 9

Video Review: Discover Bellydance - Beyond Basic Dance

Admin — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 00:19:56 +0000

Discover Bellydance - Beyond Basic Dance 4.0 out of 5 stars Very clear, a bit basic in some places, hard in others The video is gorgeous to look at, and it starts out well with some good stretches. The moves they introduce in order for you to be able to put it all together for the choreography are for the most part building on what a beginner would do, but with more movement across or around the floor. Once you master the steps in isolation, then you have to try to put it all together into a belly dance routine. I have to say that this tape is not entirely for total beginners. I have been dancing for a while now, and am still trying to master some of the moves which they show on this video--and my teacher considers me an excellent student. The three quarter shimmy traveling step you see on the tape is a killer. Some of the camera work focuses only on their lovely faces, so it is hard to see what the hips are supposed to be doing. And sometimes they spend so much time on a really simple move like a hip bump, when they could be spending more time breaking down some of the more difficult moves, like the traveling steps. But on the whole it is invaluable for practicing at home-no matter how many times you go to class it is good to practice on your own. You get a lot of strength and balance, and can practice moving with graceful power as well. It is no substitute for a live teacher, but it will definitely help you progress to a higher level fairly quickly. It is fun and a good workout, and the music is excellent, the costumes lovely. 300 words

Review: The Wellness Letter

Admin — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 04:10:36 +0000

The Wellness Letter 5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent newsletter, great for supplements and general wellness information, and the website is really useful too. UC Berkeley Wellness Letter was the first (in 1984) and is still the best health-related newsletter out there. There is a lot of health news circulating these days, and it seems like you can't even turn on the TV without someone offering you either diet advice, or some health horror story or other. Their website is at http://www.wellnessletter.com The newsletter helps you sort fact from fiction in a non-sensational way. There is always something of interest in every issue, and I got my first year's subscription for $10. This newsletter is a bargain even at the full price of $28 per year, compared to some of the stuff being published out there! When you subscribe to the newsletter, you also get in-depth access to the website. The site is packed full of free information, recipes, supplements, a health library, plus an archive of many of the past articles. Even if you are not a subscriber, there is a ton of free content there on general health and wellness guidelines. I visit often and have still not read/downloaded everything I am interested in. Best of all is the information on supplements and herbs. Is Vitamin E really any good for heart health. Should I be taking glucosamine and chondroitin for my arthritis. Or should I just save my money. Let's face it, these days we need to all worry about our health and saving money! The site is for the general public, not health professionals, so you can you can use everything you read right away. If I were a doctor, I would definitely recommend this site to my patients. I would also highly recommend the website to site to teachers, because it would be great for high school and college students to use as an invaluable resource, as there is no objectionable content, just useful current information from the School of Public Health on health and wellness. It covers nutrition, weight control, exercise and fitness, mental health, heart health, and more. So, again, the site is at http://www.wellnessletter.com. We hope you find it as useful as we have. 372 words

Keeping the Romance in Your Relationship Part 9

Admin — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 12:23:01 +0000

KEEPING YOUR ROMANCE AGREEMENT One of the things we love so much about dating is the spark, sizzle, spontaneity, and the chance to learn new things about each other. With any luck, your romance agreement will help you foster that sense of wonder and excitement through the shared activities you plan and the atmosphere of love you create. Relationships are all about relating. As my yoga teacher once said, you are relaying information. It will last only as long as the other person chooses to continute communicating with you, that is, listening to what you have to say, and saying what he feels. Love, communication, sex, are all ACTIVE choices. No one can make that choice for you. No one can or should force you to. You choose positive or negative, you can choose loving or harsh. You can choose to keep your romance agreement, or not. You can't force a garden to grow any faster by tugging at the shoots. But by patiently focusing on creating an atmosphere of love each day and night, and by scheduling regular times for lovemaking and sharing, you will be actively planting the seeds that will help your relationship flourish like a garden in spring. 4525 words total REFERENCES IN ARTICLE All quotes are taken from: The Columbia World of Quotations, 1996. Anonymous Limerick Philip Larkin (June 16, 1967). Annus Mirabilis, st. 1, High Windows (1974). Karl Kraus (1874–1936), Austrian satirist. repr. In Anti-Freud: Karl Kraus’s Criticism of Psychoanalysis and Psychiatry, ch. 8, by Thomas Szasz (1976). Die Fackel, no. 229 (Vienna, July 2, 1907). BIOGRAPHY: Columbia Encyclopedia.

The Fastest Way To Build An Effective Website: Get a Mini-Site!

Admin — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 03:41:29 +0000

Dan Kelly has just released an awesome series of videos that can teach ANYONE how to quickly and easily set up their very own order-taking, money-making mini-sites. Dan actually shows you the entire process of setting up three different types of mini-sites using proven direct marketing techniques. His step-by-step videos are like nothing you've ever seen before, quick and easy to follow. He shows you how to design your very own sales pages, order pages, and even download pages, how to secure your download pages from hackers and thieves, how to get 2 free tools for creating and uploading your new websites, how you can accept credit cards without a merchant account... And much, much more! In fact, he even gives you 2 free mini-site templates so you can get started with your own sites right away. ==> http://www.minisitesecretsrevealed.com/offer-code/27205 DID I MENTION IT'S FREE? Best of all, this marketing tutorial is completely free. Dan's not going to charge you a single penny to discover the secrets in all 14 of the videos in his basic course. Get your FREE copy of Dan's new 14-video course right here... ==> http://www.minisitesecretsrevealed.com/offer-code/27205 DAN IS THE "REAL DEAL" There are so many so-called "marketing gurus" out there who claim they know the "secrets" of effective Internet marketing that it can be next to impossible to figure out who's the "real deal" and who's just out to steal your heard earned money. That's why Dan has decided to GIVE AWAY his course. He wants to take you "behind the curtain" and SHOW YOU the whole truth about building an online business step by step. Because seeing really is believing, and experience is the best teacher. You can follow along at your own pace, completely free of charge. If you've dreamed of starting your own online internet business, but have no idea where to start, this is the course for you. Get your FREE copy right now... ==> http://www.minisitesecretsrevealed.com/offer-code/27205 Every day that you wait to get an effective website online is another day lost on the way to reaching your goals. Today is the day to take action and get started building your Internet empire. All it takes is the willingness to follow this course. ==> http://www.minisitesecretsrevealed.com/offer-code/27205

FREE INTERNET MARKETING COURSE: DOWNLOAD NOW

Get your hands on Dan Kelly's "Mini-Site Secrets Revealed" absolutely free!!This awesome package includes 14 step-by-step videos where Dan walks you through everything you need to know to setup your very own order taking, money making websites. NOTE: Dan has also included several bonuses, worth hundreds of dollars by themselves. THEY'RE ALL YOURS FREE RIGHT NOW THANKS TO THIS SPECIAL OFFER FOR OUR READERS DOWNLOAD YOUR COPY OF THESE 14 INVALUABLE TRAINING VIDEOS TODAY http://www.minisitesecretsrevealed.com/offer-code/27205

Love, Romance And Long, Lingering Looks… Seeing, Focus, And Believing In Romantic Relationships Part 1

Admin — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 12:24:28 +0000

Love, romance and long, lingering looks… That's the stuff of what romance is made of, right? Well, yes. In part. LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT There is nothing more exciting than meeting someone for the first time and feeling that spark. Or, with any luck, that bolt of lightning. However, it doesn't always strike, and yes, sometimes it can strike twice—or more. And sometimes it can also be a disaster. There is nothing better than that rush of electricity and energy when you first meet a new romantic interest. But it can also fizzle out very quickly without additional energy being put into the relationship, hopefully on both sides. TAKING A SECOND LOOK Yet let's face facts—how many guys really want to WORK on a relationship? They work from 9 to 5, sometimes longer, so for most guys, the high maintenance relationship is not something they are going to be interested in long-term. For both genders, there is often the naïve assumption that relationships are just totally natural and happen all by themselves. Then there is the other end of the spectrum—"I do all the work in this relationship." Let's go back to that spark for a minute. What if you were able to re-capture that sensation over and over again? Eye contact, flirtiness, light touches and caresses, without being too suffocating, can all maintain that feeling of when you first met. It is all a question of focus. It doesn't sound like too much hard work, does it? You don't have to cook gourmet meals, follow the Cosmo sex articles to the letter, or make sure his socks are ironed, for your man to think you are awesome, perfect even, so long as you keep that spark alive. Read on in: Love, Romance And Long, Lingering Looks... Seeing, Focus, And Believing In Romantic Relationships Part 2

Product Review: Earth Source Multi-Nutrient Tablets By Solgar

Admin — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 17:59:21 +0000

Earth Source Multi-Nutrient Tablets Providing Whole Food Concentrates By Solgar - 180 Count Price Range $55- $85 5.0 out of 5 stars The best vitamins out there for overall health, great value I recommend these vitamins because the price may seem steep, but it is a 180 count and they are an extremely complete formula. They are great for keeping you nutritionally balanced, and are especially good for heart health and circulation. They are tablets, not capsules, so some people may find their large-ish size a bit difficult to swallow. They are also green in color, and have a strong taste of rutin, which is a buckwheat derivative which is supposed to help with your circulation. The Vitamin E combined with the bee pollen and rutin definitely helps your immune system, as well. Plus, speaking from personal experience of myself and my hubby, also perks up your sex life due to the circulation benefits. Nothing like being happy as well as healthy! ;) I usually buy mine at Amazon; it is well worth comparison shopping for these vitamins, as the price can vary widely. The 180 count is excellent value, but you might want to buy a smaller size at first just to see if you get on with the taste and the size of the tablet. 223 words

Preventing Foreclosure: It IS Possible

Admin — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 02:15:40 +0000

Foreclosure is a word that has come to strike terror into the hearts of many these days, with the economy taking a rapid downward turn and recession on everyone's lips. Foreclosure may sound like the worst thing in the world to have happen to you, but there ARE steps you can take to prevent foreclosure. The first steps is to educate yourself, so you know your rights. Read your documentation from the bank that should stipulate what happens in the event of missed payment/s. Never ever ignore letters or calls from the bank. In fact, if you think you might be late with a payment for ANY reason, even if it is just a day or two, be responsible and tell them rather than have them set in motion a whole chain of events which might snowball into something much worse. Everyone is going through some very difficult financial times at the minute. But the bank really does NOT want to render you homeless, not if there is any hope of you being able to keep up some sort of regular payments. Preventing foreclosure is not easy, but it is possible if you're prepared to work at it. Dealing with your mortgage company or bank will be easy if you are reasonable, responsible, and pro-active. You know there is a problem, and you want to work together with them to find a solution. It is never too late, even if you have received a foreclosure notice, if you keep calm and are willing to stick to a plan to get you through the lean times. One thing that you should definitely consider doing is consulting with a HUD counselor, who will give you all sorts of free information. DO NOT use any of the paid services on line. They are a waste of money that you don't have. http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm has a map so you can start locating a counselor in your area. Here a this website you might also want to read the information in the money section on why you need a budget, and how to create one. Do you really need all those cable channels every month? How much can you save if you brown bag lunch every day and give up takeaway? A credit counselor will also help-there is a lot of free advice on the internet which you can learn to apply to your own situation without spending a small fortune. Once you look at your foreclosure situation and general financial situation, you should be able to draw up a workable plan to get yourself out of financial trouble with the bank so you will no longer be in danger of foreclosure. Again, the bank does not want to see you out on the street, and if you were a terrible customer or risk, they would never have given you the mortgage in the first place. The bank's job is to make sure that if a customer is having difficulty keeping up with their monthly mortgage payments, to make all attempts to try and help that customer resolve the matter at hand. The HUD counselor should be able to explain the most important aspects of your situation to you, in such a way that your bank will be happy to work with you on whatever plan you've come up with to get out of arrears and all of your payments back on track to prevent foreclosure. For more information, visit: http://www.hud.gov/foreclosure/index.cfm for step by step practical advice and resources.

What is Estate Planning?

Admin — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 02:42:15 +0000

Estate Planning is Estate planning is a process to consider alternatives for, to think through, and to set up legally effective arrangements that would meet your specific wishes if something happens to you or those you care about. Good estate planning is more than just a simple will. Good estate planning also typically minimizes potential taxes and fees, and sets up contingency planning to make sure your wishes regarding health care treatment are followed. On the financial side, a good estate plan coordinates what would happen with your home, your investments, your business, your life insurance, your employee benefits (such as a 401K plan), and other property in the event you became disabled or if you die. On the personal side, a good estate plan should include directions to carry out your wishes regarding health care matters. Thus, in the event that you ever are unable to give direction yourself, the person you select as your legal representative would do that for you. You would give them the authority to act upon your previously determined instructions, such as when you would want them to authorize heroic measures, and when you would prefer they act on a Do Not Resuscitate order. You should have an estate plan if: (1) you are the parent of minor children (2) you have property that you care about (3) you care about your health care treatment. If you do not have minor children, do not care about your property, and have no concerns about your health care treatment, then you do not need an estate plan. But if you meet any of these categories above, you really should have an estate plan. There are many websites and books available on effective estate planning.

Love, Romance And Long, Lingering Looks… Seeing, Focus, And Believing In Romantic Relationships Part 2

Admin — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 06:26:52 +0000

AVOIDING THE ROSE COLORED GLASSES Keeping that spark alive is also a question of clear vision, and not viewing everything through rose-colored glasses. The person you have sparked with may be great as a date, but as a person you want to share a long-term future with? He might be Mr Right Now, not Mr Right. Again, this is fine if you're both clear and honest about your desires and expectations. If you don't see eye to eye, and each have a different focus, and a different vision of the future, however, there will be a lot of resentment, anger, and frustration, which will eventually suffocate even the best relationships. A CHANGE OF FOCUS? Romance can also involve looking at a person you already know in a whole new way. In other words, a change of focus. For instance, there's the 'person next door': guy or girl you have tons in common with, and spend so much time with, that you get to the point where you would rather be with them than anyone else. Does shifting your focus from the platonic to the romantic involve a slow burn, major sparkage, or idle curiosity, or convenience? Or an avoidance of loneliness? DIFFERING POINTS OF VIEW There's nothing wrong with any of these reasons, but it is best to be honest about it. Otherwise, from that person's point of view he or she might be turning you into 'the one' and you're just looking for a friend with benefits. Again, it is a question of focus. LOOK WITHIN CLEARLY It's best to take a long look at yourself first, before engaging in a relationship of this sort. Even worse, if you live in close proximity, it could be the romantic equivalent of dumping garbage or even toxic waste on your own doorstep. Not a good idea! Read more.... Love, Romance And Long, Lingering Looks... Seeing, Focus, And Believing In Romantic Relationships Part 3

What is Probate?

Admin — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:05:26 +0000

The word "probate" is taken from the Latin word, "probere," which means "to prove." Probate is the legal process whereby a will is proven valid or invalid, and the total assets of the deceased person are counted, appraised, and inventoried. Probate court also makes sure that all taxes and debts against the estate are paid, and then the remaining assets are divided among the heirs and beneficiaries. If a person has all of his property is his or her name, these are known as his or her "assets." Assets include real estate, tangible property, such as jewelry, cars, etc, and intangible property, such as bank accounts, and stocks or bonds. Most of the time, a person's spouse and children would inherit his or her assets after he or she dies. However, first they must prove that they are legal heirs by submitting marriage and birth or adoption records. Before the heirs can take control of the assets, the assets must be authenticated by the courts. To accomplish this, the heirs must submit the person's death certificate and documentation that all of the assets belong to the deceased. The probate court will then appoint a personal representative to administer the probate case. He or she will inventory, appraise, and authenticate the assets. There are special situations that arise that are exceptions to this process. For example, certain assets belonging to the deceased may not go through the probate court. For instance, if the deceased appointed someone as beneficiary when opening a bank account, the funds from the bank account would be transfered to the beneficiary into the beneficiary's account directly upon the bank holder's death, without going through the probate court. The process is different if the deceased prepared a document where he or she clearly spelled out how much and too whom the assets should be given. The deceased may have named a personal representative, but if he or she did not, the court would then appoint and "executor" and a guardian for any children involved who may need help managing any assets. This document is called a "will" and should have been notarized and signed by two or more witnesses. If a person dies after writing a valid will, then he or she is considered to have died "testate," which means "to make a will." The person writing the will is known as the "testator." Conversely, if someone dies without leaving a will, then he or she is known to have died "intestate," and the beneficiaries would have to be determined appropriately. Because the law requires that the heirs or beneficiaries prove the validity of the will, the will has to go through the probate court process. Only then will the probate court begin the process of paying any outstanding debts and taxes against the estate, and then divide the remaining assets to the heirs and beneficiaries, according to the directions of the will. The court issues a formal order to transfer the property directly to the heirs and beneficiaries according to existing inheritance laws. How long does the probate process take, you might wonder. The completion of the process depends upon a number of things, such as the size of the estate, worth of the assets, validity of the will, the appointment of the executor or personal representative in case there is no will, and locating and notifying all of the beneficiaries. If the paperwork is not too complex, then the process will generally take less than a year. However, if the will is contested or anything untoward happens in the process, probate can take many years to complete.

Foreclosure: How to be more Pro-active to Save your Home

Admin — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:21:23 +0000

Stopping foreclosure might not always be possible, but if you do nothing at all, you will definitely not be able to stop it. If it is the difference between keeping hope alive, and keeping your home, or just giving up and hiding, choose to be more pro-active if you think you are in danger of foreclosure. There are many different things that you should consider when attempting to stop a foreclosure. First of all, remember that it has happened to many other people besides yourself. It does not make you stupid, or a bad person, it just means that you need help. You need a reality check, and you need a plan on how to deal with foreclosure. If you are at least three months behind on your monthly mortgage payments then you are definitely at higher risk of losing your home and there probably will not be anything you can do if you choose to wait until then before ever attempting to be proactive in any way. If some extra bills have come up and you are already thinking that you might possibly have to put off paying your monthly mortgage payment, go ahead and give the mortgage company a phone call. By taking action before something happens, just when you suspect that it may, you are being proactive. People who end up in financial trouble for whatever reason who are on their toes are typically the ones that can and will prevent foreclosure on their home. You must be assertive in trying to make arrangements with your mortgage company because if all you do is sit around and cry about being behind on those monthly payments, they are not ever going to want to speak with you about anything. Trust me, as unbelievable as it may sound, the mortgage company truly does NOT want you to lose your home due to foreclosure. They really don't want an empty house that they can't sell, or will have to sell cheaply. They want regular monthly payments coming in, especially all the lovely interest you are paying them! Maybe they should have possibly used better judgment whenever they were approving you for any type of mortgage loan and letting you purchase a home through their lending company. They are normally very willing to speak with you to try to work out some sort of solution. There is no reason at all for you to just wait around for them to call. You can and should make the first move. That will look really responsible to them and they will absolutely take note of that responsible behavior and pro-active attitude, and will more than likely allow you to tell them the entire story as to why you were late on your monthly mortgage payments. Once you have discussed your difficult circumstances with them, and hopefully some sort of plan for what to do to make up the arrears, and how soon you think you can do this realistically, story with them, chances are they will take your suggested payment plan seriously. If you suggest you will get a second job, or your wife will go back to work part-time, or you show them a well-thought out household budget that you will stick to, then changes are they will be willing to work out some type of payment arrangement with you, often right on the spot so you can avoid foreclosure. It does not always work out, but being pro-active is going to get you much closer towards preventing foreclosure than just giving up. Remember, whenever you are planning a budget, make sure you take care of the most important aspects first--housing, utilities, food, car if you really have no other means of getting to work and tending to your shopping and so on. Everything else is OPTIONAL, including credit card payments. Can you get some wiggle room there? Get a lower APR on the cards you do have? A good sound budget may mean tightening your belt for a number of months, but it is better to do whatever you can NOW to possibly stop foreclosure, so that you won't lose all the equity you have in the home, and lose everything you have worked so hard for throughout the years just because you have hit a bad patch. For more information on foreclosure and what you can do to be more proactive about stopping foreclosure, visit: http://www.hud.gov/foreclosure/index.cfm

Home Builder Bail-Out Will Not Stop Foreclosure Crisis

Admin — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 01:45:39 +0000

According to this article on Yahoo, the government is offering tax breaks to home builders, but surely with the housing market in such a crisis, there are many properties laying empty, so why build more? The essential problem is how many people they employ, in which case, they would not be able to keep their jobs. The losses would be large, and the government is concerned that some of the smaller ones might go under. The only thing is, not one penny of the $6 billion voted is going to stop foreclosures. One has to ask the question-where IS all this bail out money coming from? You guessed it, from other taxpayers. Where are the rebates coming from—we overpaid on taxes? The trouble is, wasn't there some sort of government budget? In which case, where WAS the money going to go? Now it is being used to bolster the housing market, but at what cost to every taxpayer in the country, including those who don't own a home. And the lowest income people in society, who could argue that they don't get the kind of rent relief homeowners and landlords appear to be getting. Isn't it the banks fault for handing out mortgages like they were giving some sort of generous gift. Didn't people read the bottom line? If the population is only increasing at a certain rate, how did anyone in their right mind ever think the housing boom was just going to keep on booming? The only thing certain in today's housing market and economy is that things are going to get a lot worse before they get better for all of us. If you are facing foreclosure, go to the HUD website for step by step practical advice on how to deal with this situation. Yahoo Article: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080403/ap_on_bi_ge/homebuilders_congress

A Probate Glossary

Admin — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 12:56:43 +0000

There are many confusing terms and commonly used phrases that are related to the probate process and estate planning in general. Here are some definitions to help the layperson understand the sometimes complex process of probate. AB Trust- This is a trust designed to take advantage of the personal estate tax exemption. It also allows the surviving spouse use of the assets, no matter what, for the remainder of his or her life. Administrator- This person is appointed by the court to manage and oversee the court process for the estate of a deceased person or "decedent" who has died without leaving a will. Attorney-in-Fact- This person is designated to act as an agent for the executor of the will. Basic Will- The basic will is designed to give everything to the spouse, if living, or the children who are 18 or above. Beneficiary- The beneficiary is the person who receives property or other assets from a will, insurance policy, or contract. Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care- This is a written document that gives someone the power to make medical decisions for another person in case that person becomes incapacitated in some way. Durable Power of Attorney for Property- This is a written document that gives someone the power to make property and financial related decisions for a person who has become incapacitated in some way. Estate- The property and assets of an individual, including all real estate, bank accounts, life insurance policies, stocks and bonds and personal property. Executor- The person or persons named in the will who will manage the estate of the decedent. He or she will inventory all properties, pay of debts and taxes, then distribute any remaining assets to the beneficiaries and heirs. Fiduciary- The trustee who is identified in a trust, or an institution or person who is legally responsible for the distribution, management, or investment of funds. Grantor- The person who gives assets to another, usually by way of a trust. Inter Vivos Trust- A trust created while a person is still living that holds property in trust for the benefit of someone. Intestate- When someone dies without a will. Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship- This term refers to co-owning property. When one owner dies, the other owner is legally entitled to take possession of the property, no matter what the will says. Living Trust- This is a trust that is established during a person's lifetime that is used to place property. Because the basic living trust does not effectively use the personal estate tax exemption if the estate is large, then it is often recommended for married couple to set up AB Trusts. Living Will- The document that outlines a person's wished in regards to life-sustaining treatment should he or she become terminally ill or in a vegetative state. Marital Deduction- A deduction set up by the government that allows one spouse to leave his or her estate directly to his or her spouse upon death without having to pay gift or estate taxes. Pour-Over Will- Everything is distributed into a trust by this type of will. Power of Appointment- A "general" power of appointment gives a person the unlimited power to distribute a decedent's property. A "limited" power of appointment gives restrictions to the person on who may receive the property. Probate- The process in court of reviewing, legitimizing, and processing claims against a will, or in the case of no will, settling the estate according to inheritance laws. QTIP Trust- A trust that is set up that allows a person to leave his or her assets to his or her spouse for their use during their lifetimes, but still be able to control where the assets go upon the spouse's death. Trust- A written document that provides for property being held by someone for someone else. Trustee- The person named in a trust who manages and distributes the property for and to the beneficiary. Will- A legal document that states how property and assets will be distributed upon a person's death.

DVD Review: Planet Earth - The Complete BBC Series

Admin — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 18:02:06 +0000

Planet Earth - The Complete BBC Series DVD ~ David Attenborough Price: $54.99 5.0 out of 5 stars Totally wonderful, one of a kind. The BBC edition is terrific. I first saw the series on the TV in the USA, and was so stunned by the photography, that I instantly wanted to own the DVDs. Even my parents stopped talking and sat there staring with their mouths open, it was so gorgeous. So, once I had decide to by the DVD, I went to Amazon, read the reviews, and was thrilled when I found out that the BBC had its own edition, with world-famous British naturalist David Attenborough's as the commentator, rather than Sigourney Weaver for the American Tv edition. Well the difference is like night and day. I love Attenborough's excellent, engaging commentary, his enthusiasm and passion for his subject, compared to Weaver's flat monotone. I know Attenborough can seem to get a bit carried away, but there is nothing like an expert who really knows what he is talking about versus someone reading from a script Or even worse, trying to make jokes about what she sees, and totally misses the point of what is happening on screen. Some of the comements were crass, tasteless, and diffeintely not educational. The BBC edition is a real keeper, but if you any reason you can't find it, get the DVD no matter what. This will be a great gift for children so they can have a record of animals and habitats that might not be around for much longer! The DVDs are a real visual feast, totally fascinating. The shows are organized by habit, to help us understand the kinds of creatures that can live in each. The footage of the Himalayas and the snow leopards is the only film of its kind in the world and was totally incredible. The birds in Papua New Guinea performing their ritual mating dances is a show stopper. I wanted to show one of my friends that one segment. He not only played it back 10 times, he insisted on watching the whole episode even though he had to run to work! The ocean episode is totally fascinating, and I believe are the deepest photos ever taken, using a robotic submersible. It makes you realize that man has gone to the moon, but still doesn't know much about the things living on the sea floor. The vampire octopus really has to be seen to be believed. This is one of those landmark TV programs from the BBC that anyone will be hard put to surpass. Own a bit of history, and get it now before global warming renders our polar bears and other arctic creatures extinct. 453 words

Edible Wedding Favors

Admin — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 22:07:14 +0000

Are a yummy way to thank all your guests for sharing your special day. Here is a small selection. Click on them below to view, or see a wider selection of similar products: In the event our automatic product catalog feed is not working, please click below to visit our store: Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Men Create More Housework for Women - It’s Official!

Admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 02:29:26 +0000

Tell we women something we didn't already know! Having a husband creates an extra seven hours of housework each week for women, according to a new study. For men, tying the knot saves an hour of weekly chores. Having kids boosts house chores even further. With more than three kids, for instance, wives took on more of the extra work, clocking about 28 hours a week compared with husbands' 10 hours. You can read the whole study here! http://news.yahoo.com/s/livescience/20080404/sc_livescience/mencreatemorehouseworkforwomen

Why Probate is Better Than Foreclosure

Admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 02:55:00 +0000

If you are trying to make a profit in the business of foreclosures, you have probably found out how hard it is. It seems as if the market is flooded with people who are working to get a piece of that market. In many areas, this task is almost impossible, even for the most hard-working. When you work in foreclosures, you often have to deal with sellers who are desperately unhappy. They do not really want to sell to you, and may view you as a vulture, preying upon their misery in a time when they are losing property they may still want. The people in foreclosure are often losing their homes, the very roof over their heads. Can we blame them if they sometimes get irritated or downright nasty during the proceedings? In probate, the situation is very different. The sellers in probate are usually eager to sell, and the house in question is probably not their primary residence. You are dealing with people who are motivated to sell and to be cooperative, not highly stressed people just trying to "get through" a bad time in their lives. It makes a huge difference in the way they will deal with you. Many heirs are actually very eager to sell to you so they can quickly settle the estate. A friend of mine recently lost his mother and he inherited her house. During the next few weeks, he was required to travel back and forth, about 50 miles each way, to deal with the various legalities and hassles of property ownership. My friend confided in me that if someone would just offer him a reasonable price for the house, he would probably take it. He even said that he would not dicker too much over the offer, because he would just want to complete the deal quickly and easily and liquidate the asset. When someone you love dies, you not only inherit all of their property, but also all of their problems too. No one who is going through the grieving process for a loved one wants to take on a very large project at the same time. If you can offer these people a simple and fast solution of "What to do with Mother's house," they will take it, so probate is ideal. Also, often after the estate goes through probate, several siblings or relatives will inherit jointly, which can cause all types of problems. Maybe the siblings live in different places or do not get along. Getting rid of property you own but do not live close to is sometimes difficult. In most of these types of cases, none of the parties involved want the property, so they don't want to buy each other out. Instead, they just want to split the money from the sale of the property. This fact is especially true if there are outstanding debts against the property, and also if they are going to have to pay a lot of inheritance tax on it, but can't actually get at any cash. This is where you can step in to supply the heirs with a solution to what can be a difficult problem. Another factor can come into play with this situation. Many senior citizens, 65 years or older, defer their property taxes until after their death in what is called a "senior deferral." Once the senior citizen passes away, these taxes come due. If the heirs to the estate inherit the property, they also inherit the past due taxes. Most people just want to get these taxes paid as quickly as possible, so that they can pay them and any other outstanding debts to the estate, and then see what is left over. They are eager to sell and resolve the matter, and pay off the hefty tax bill. In conclusion, probate is better that foreclosure. The market is easier to work in because fewer people are buying in the probate market, and the sellers are more eager to sell to you. It's much better to buy from people who are looking at you as a hero rather than a vulture swooping down to pick over their carcass and rob them of their home.

Love, Romance And Long, Lingering Looks… Seeing, Focus, And Believing In Romantic Relationships Part 3

Admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 12:28:33 +0000

A VIEW FROM THE OFFICE Then there is the office romance—not as taboo as it once was, but definitely another 'delicate' romantic issue that has to be dealt with carefully for the same reason. You don't want to dumpt garbage or toxic waste on your desk. You also don't want to be a source of gossip and distraction in the work place, or get distracted. Another reason for avoiding the office romance is to ensure you don't make people uncomfortable, especially if there is too much 'chemistry' going on between you. Trying to 'get a room' in the supply closet is never a good idea, yet somehow we think we will get away with it, or that no one will know! Believe me, everyone will know. I've seen far too many people, especially women, lose their jobs over office romances, for me to recommend them. WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU WANT There is nothling quite like romance and longing looks, the way your heart flutters when that special person enters a room. If you are missing that sensation, then you are missing out. It is great to have someone to share life’s experiences with, good and bad, but if you would rather bake cookies or finish your excel spreadsheet than spend time with your loved one, you need a romance reality check. WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET One of the most fun times in a relationship is when you are first 'seeing each other'. Curious phrase, that—you are only now noticing each other. Hopefully noticing, and picking up clues about the other person and what you can share in a meaningful way. One of the great things about dating is exploring all your options. If there is something you see that you think is a character trait or habit you can't live with long-term, well, better to know it now than later. IS SEEING REALLY BELIEVING? Having said that, there is always the honeymoon period in any relationship, which usually lasts about 5 to 8 months before things start to pop up. I always think of Renee Zellweger and Kenny Chesney-whirlwind courtship, 5 month marriage, and whatever she SAW in him at first was not only gone, but the new aspects she SAW were so horrifying, she didn't even just get a divorce, she got an annulment. The marriage never happened? It must have been pretty awful indeed. But again, that was HER mind. However, do use common sense. On the other hand, their character may unfold before you more gradually. They might surprise you in a crisis, or conversely, let you down. Read on: Love, Romance And Long, Lingering Looks... Seeing, Focus, And Believing In Romantic Relationships Part4

Huge job losses set off recession alarms

Admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 13:56:22 +0000

Here is an interesting and grim article posted by the AP today in Yahoo news: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080405/ap_on_bi_go_ec_fi/economy Recession is a decline in a country's real gross domestic product (GDP), or negative real economic growth, for two or more successive quarters of a year. In plain English, what goes up must come down: Periodic recessions are a natural part of any nation's economic cycle. The trouble is, we had one already this decade, in 2001, and this recession is affecting so many sectors of the economy all at once that none of them can help offset the losses and offer a bright spot. A recession may involve simultaneous declines in coincident measures of overall economic activity such as employment, investment, and corporate profits. Recessions may be associated with falling prices (deflation), or, alternatively, sharply rising prices (inflation) in a process known as stagflation. A severe or long recession is referred to as an economic depression. I think things are getting so panick-y because they are not just talking ordinary recession, but a depression, especially with the housing market in such turmoil, and so many banks and financial institutions posting huge losses, and even going under. All we can do is wait and see, and look to our own jobs and start planning some worst case scenarios if we think we might be at risk. 200 words

What is a Recession? Part 1

Admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 13:59:41 +0000

Recession is a decline in a country's real gross domestic product (GDP), or negative real economic growth, for two or more successive quarters of a year. In plain English, what goes up must come down: Periodic recessions are a natural part of any nation's economic cycle. It is also commonly referred to as a boom and bust economy, or, on Wall Street, a Bull versus a Bear market. (one charges ahead, the other is grumpy and hibernates.) We are in a very volatile bear market by the look of things—it is sluggish, but every so often takes a really nasty swipe with its claws. In other words, it has been not only dropping, but plunging at times. The trouble with this recession is that it usually cycles about every decade or so, so there was one in the early 80s, the early 90s, and yes, we have already one already this decade, in 2001, with the dot com boom and bust, and then 9/11/01. So, having not only recovered from that recession, but completely going way over the top in terms of consumer lending and spending, that huge expansion is going to have a cost—a rapid shrinkage. This recession is affecting so many sectors of the economy all at once that none of them can help offset the losses and offer a bright spot. A recession may involve simultaneous declines in the key measures of overall economic activity such as employment, investment, and corporate profits. Recessions may be associated with falling prices (deflation), or, alternatively, sharply rising prices (inflation) in a process known as stagflation. A severe or long recession is referred to as an economic depression. I think things are getting so panick-y because they are not just talking ordinary recession, but a depression, especially with the housing market in such turmoil, and so many banks and financial institutions posting huge losses, and even going under. The dollar is struggling against all the major global currencies, affecting our balance of trade. The only plus side is we can get cheap imported goods, but that does not create American jobs at the end of the day. The job losses have been huge for the past few months, and can no longer be disguised by the government's 'seasonal' adjustments, plus the plain fact that over 30% of people are small business owners now because there were no jobs for them to go to otherwise and they needed to work to live. In What is a Recession? Part 2 we will talk about what we can do about the recession.

Foreclosure aid program struggling

Admin — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:45:39 +0000

Washington- Last October, the Bush administration jump-started a plan to aid troubled borrowers and bolster the deteriorating housing market. Its Hope Now initiative has been playing catch-up ever since, at a pace that may never match the fast clip of the foreclosure crisis, which means many more people are lining up every day, with no end in sight. http://www.cleveland.com/business/plaindealer/index.ssf?/base/business-5/1207211418124580.xml&coll=2

The Probate Process

Admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 01:52:51 +0000

Probate is the process of handling the estate and assets of a person who passes away. The probate courts make sure that all the outstanding debts of the deceased are paid, and that the beneficiaries of the estate get what is left. The important documents relating to the probate court case are known as the probate records. The first and most important document relating to the probate case is the will. The will should list the assets of the estate, who will be the beneficiaries, who will act a a personal representative for the estate, and who will be the guardian for any minor children. The will has to be legally drawn up with properly witnessed and notarized signatures. There are many ways to draw up a legal will. Courts and law firms give away forms for will writing, and today, there are books, CDs, computer software, websites and e-books dealing with writing wills. Whichever method you choose to use to write your will, it is a good idea to get a lawyer specializing in wills to look over the final draft. Another important document in the probate process is the proof of assets. The proof of assets is basically a list of the estate assets, which can include bank accounts, IRAs, stocks, securities, life insurance benefits, property, Social Security benefits, Tax Refunds, and any other item of value owned by the deceased. There are other important administrative papers that are also necessary in the probate process. One of these is the petition for letters of administration, which is filed with the death certificate. A judge conducts the probate court proceedings. With a letter of appointment, he appoints a person as executor of the will who administers the assets and handles the general proceedings. Sometimes the judge will hold probate hearings and answer questions that are raised about the probate case by issuing written directions or "orders." For example, the judge will issue an order to pay the deceased's debts and taxes, then divide what is left among the beneficiaries. The next step in the process is to post a Notice of Administration. This document is also known as the Notice to Creditors. The personal representative will give this notice after identifying, appraising, and safeguarding the probate assets, to the local newspaper. This document is published in the newspaper so that anyone, creditors included, can learn of the current status of the estate. This will allow the creditors to take action if there is a claim to be filed against the account. The creditor would then file a "Creditor's Claim," which would allow them to get back any money owed by the deceased. In some states, like Washington, the Notice to the Creditor is optional. After the creditors have been paid, the personal representative will distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries and heirs, who will then sign a document, the "Receipt and Waiver," which says that the beneficiaries received their fair shares of the estate. The last step for the personal representative is to submit all of the Receipts and Waivers and a document known as the "Declaration of the Completion of Probate" to the court for final processing. Finally, the probate court will declare an order for the transfer of assets and property to the beneficiaries and heirs. With this declaration, the probate process is completed. Probate is an essential part of estate management. The rules differ from state to state so be sure to look up the most recent information on probate in your state. NOLO Publishers also has a useful website with Probate FAQs and a place to make your own will online. Go into your local library as well; chances are they will have some of the NOLO books right there for you to consult.

What is a Recession? Part 2

Admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 04:19:25 +0000

Continued from part 1 What can WE do about the recession? What can we do in worrying economic times? Look to our own personal finances. Get out your budget, look at how your 401k is doing, take a fresh look at how you're managing your assets, see if you can get a better APR on your credit cards, shop even more carefully than usual. If you are a home owner, look at the terms of your mortgage and plan through a worse case scenario if you were ever to face foreclosure. The recession has happened not just because the financial institutions have over-extended themselves. We ALL have too, with too much borrowing and not enough savings for a rainy day. What are your personal finance goals? Retirement with a nice nest egg? A college fund for the kids? A home of your own? A business of your own? What if you were unemployed tomorrow? What saleable skills do you or your partner possess that could help set up a home-based small business?

Just as a side note: If you are thinking of setting up your own home-based business make sure you set it up as a proper corporation to take advantage of all the tax benefits companies get, plus avoiding the error of linking your personal finances with you business ones. Go for a Wyoming corporation. You can set them up easily online, and even buy a matured one so you can start getting access to a business line of credit that much sooner—try to get one over 2 years of age if you want to be eligible for credit. You might have to pay more, but it can help with your rapid growth strategy.And by credit we mean one corporate credit card so you can keep track of all your business expenses rather than sorting through handfuls of receipts come tax time. Or being able to open accounts with defered payment terms, like 30, 60, or 90 days, til you start making money and can then easily pay them what you own. It does NOT mean running up all sorts of bills and getting into more debt. You can research more on Wyoming Corporations and setting up your own business online, and we will be blogging on these and other career and money topics soon.

Your budget, and the way you manage whatever money you have left at the end of each month after your ESSENTIALS are paid: home, utilities, enough high-quality nutritional food to eat, transport. These are ESSENTIALS. Everything else is just a luxury that you can't afford until you pay down debt and are debt free, and then can start thinking about how to invest wisely any surplus cash you have. So don't panic every time you hear the word recession. Instead, let it be a positive mental trigger. Every time you hear or see the word, start to think about what you can do personally, so that even when things do start to improve, or even when you get your tax rebate from the government, you don't rush out to spend it, but use it to pay down debt, or invest it. Once you take a realistic look at where all your money is going each month, you can plug up the holes, get out of debt, and then will be able to work on your long term financial goals even more rapidly. 984 words

Foreclosure relief plan to help millions getting closer

Admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 15:47:32 +0000

According to Time Magazine, the Senate is moving towards a foreclosure relief plan designed to keep thousands of families in their homes. The question is, why didn't they do something sooner. And what do they intend to do about the $12 billion a month they are spending on the war in Iraq? Just think how much relief that could have brought, or can bring, to the countless poor in this country. http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1727461,00.html?xid=rss-topstories

Book Review: Porn for Women

Admin — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 18:03:44 +0000

Book Review: Porn for Women (Paperback) by Cambridge Women's Pornography Cooperative (Author), Susan Anderson (Photographer) Chronicle Books $12.95 Books Description Prepare to enter a fantasy world. A world where clothes get folded just so, delicious dinners await, and flatulence is just not that funny. Give the fairer sex what they really want beautiful PG photos of hunky men cooking, listening, asking for directions, accompanied by steamy captions: "I love a clean house!" or "As long as I have two legs to walk on, you'll never take out the trash." Now this is porn that will leave women begging for more! About the Author The Cambridge Women's Pornography Cooperative asked women, young, old, rich, and poor, "What really, really gets you hot?" Armed with their findings, they worked day and night to create Porn for Women. Susan Anderson is a Los Angeles-based photographer who believes the future of porn shouldn't be in the hands of men alone. Review: This has offended a lot of people at Amazon, most likely because the title is misleading. Chronicle had gone for the SEX SELLS formula of marketing for this book and its spin offs, including calendars, postcards, and other books in the series, including one for new moms. The book is comprised of PG-rated photos of our supposed hottest fantasies getting fulfilled, mainly of guys doing the housework for us for a change, and saying the perfect thing, like, "I'm so interested in what you're saying..please tell me more!" The whole point of porn is that it is just a fantasy. In this book, you'll get some cute guys, and some sense of "If only my man did that." Yes, for many women, it would be super to get a fantastic meal at the end of the day that you didn't cook yourself! I was very blessed with a hubby who WAS able to cook that well, and do the vacuuming plus the ironing too! There ARE men like that out there! For those who object to it being sexist, old-fashioned, or just plain silly, well, it is supposed to be a joke. Everyone I have shown my gift copy too thoought it was funny. Yes, a guy who puts down the toilet seat, or thinks you are too thin, now THAT is HOT! This is not EXACTLY my total fantasy, I have to admit, mainly because I don't fixate on finding fault with my partner. I do just want to say though, that perhaps women should not take the little things like the toilet seat so seriously, and do we really have to worry so much about ironing? Not to mention the fact that the only reason we should worry about our weight is for health reasons, not because of body image. We are far too self-conscious about the weight issue, for the wrong reasons. Worry more about being healthy, than HOT. Finally, every woman knows what a man finds hot—a woman with a good sense of humor, lot of self-confidence and sexiness. How do you get sexy? By not sweating so much of the small stuff around the house, and focusing on romance instead. So if you have a good sense of humor, you will probably enjoy this book. It will definitely get a good giggle as a bachelorette party gift. 550 words

An Introduction to Probate

Admin — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 04:58:13 +0000

Probate is the legal process of processing and transferring property and assets upon one's death. Although the customs and laws of probate have changed somewhat over the years, the purpose of probate has remained the same. People itemize their intentions about the transfer of their property at the time of their death, usually in the form of a will. The property concerned is then inventoried, outstanding debts are paid from the estate, taxes are paid and the remaining property, and assets are distributed among the heirs and beneficiaries. Today's probate courts are endowed with the task of sorting out the legalities of the transfer of property when someone dies. The property we are talking about is any property owned by the deceased or "decedent" at the time of death, which does not directly pass to another person by ownership or designation, for example a bank account set up as "payable on death," or a life insurance policy. One common expression that is heard is "probating a will." The process of probate is concerned with proving to the court that the decedent had a legal will when he died. What is normally taught about probate nowadays is how to avoid it. The reason so many people are concerned with avoiding probate is to avoid the sometimes expensive probate fees. In fact, it is quite possible to avoid the probate process completely, with a little advanced planning. There are three common ways that people avoid probate: joint ownership of property with the right of survivorship, gifts, and revocable living trusts. However, the probate system exists for a reason and can protect all parties involved. What exactly happens in probate? The probate process can be contested or uncontested. Many probate cases are contested because a disgruntled heir is seeking more that his or her share of the decedent's property and thus has to prove why he or she deserves more. The complainant will often argue that the decedent was not in his or her right mind when making the will (insufficient mental capacity), or that he or she was unduly influenced by someone else while deciding who gets what. The complainant will often challenge the validity of the will by finding ways to prove that the decedent did not follow proper legal procedures when writing the will. The majority of probate cases, however, are uncontested and follow the same basic procedure. First, the probate court will appoint an executor or personal representative to oversee the court proceedings. The properties are collected and inventoried. Then, all debts, claims, and taxes against the estate are paid. After that step, anything owed to the estate such as income, interest or dividends are collected. Next, any disputes are settled and the remaining assets and properties are distributed to the heirs and beneficiaries. In this country, people may leave their property to whomever they wish and may make such provisions in their wills. There are occasions where the wishes of the decedent have been overridden by the courts. The larger and more complex a case is, the longer and more expensive the probate process can be. These are the basics of probate. To learn more, do your research online or the library-there are plenty of good estate planning and estate management resources available.

Love, Romance And Long, Lingering Looks.. Seeing, Focus, And Believing In Romantic Relationships Part 4

Admin — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 12:30:32 +0000

CAN YOU SEE THE REAL ME? We are very visual as human beings. So yes, it is true, that guy may have a great personality, but if you don't even get to the longing looks in their direction stage, you are probably missing out. You know what I'm talking about too, girls, if you have ever wondered why some girls get all the attention, and you feel you are invisible. Again, chemistry and compatibility are two essential ingredients in any relationship. I've been really interested to watch the interplay between Hillary Clinton and Bill Clinton when they have appeared on the campaign trail recently. Whatever issues they may have had in the past, it is pretty clear that they enjoy being with each other, joke and tease, intellectually stimulate one another, and respect and admire each other as people. There's still a spark and twinkle for both of them, quite an achievement after so many years. My grandparents were married 55 years, and it was the same with them. They were best friends and prefered to be with each other to anyone else. Which was not to say they didn't have hundred of friends, but that spark never died. Romantic love can endure, if you choose to focus your energy and attention on it. It can all start with that one longing look, or a second and third look. One thing's for sure, everyone adores the idea of love at first sight, but even more important is love at last look. If you are open to the idea that relationships are all about relating, communication, those longing looks can be the perfect start to a lifetime of deep, abiding connection. Love, Romance And Long, Lingering Looks... Seeing, Focus, And Believing In Romantic Relationships 1350 words 4 parts

The Threat Of Foreclosure Is On The Rise Part 1

Admin — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 12:58:25 +0000

Even though interests rates are not really that high at the moment, the purchasing of homes all around has definitely taken a downward slide. There are so many people that never have had the opportunity to experience the great joy of getting to purchase their own home, while still others have seen their dream become a nightmare in recent months. Paying rent on homes throughout the years seems like a huge waste of money, when it could be going toward building equity in a home. Investing in a home in the hopes that the value will go up. But since our economy has gotten so bad lately, it is difficult enough to even keep food on the table, let alone make those large monthly payments. The government has brought the interest rates down, but if you were on a fixed rate mortgage, chances are that has not really helped you. The threat of foreclosure is extremely stressful, but don't get paralyzed like a deer in the headlights. It is really important to talk to someone about your foreclosure situation before it gets out of hand. In this article we will talk about the threat of foreclosure that has definitely been rising throughout the country. While it is absolutely unbelievable just how difficult these times have gotten for many, it IS possible to do something about it if you are willing to take action. With our lives being so full of stress as it is, thinking about the possibilities of possibly losing your home through foreclosure can seem overwhelming. If you find that you are struggling just to make ends meet then perhaps you need to think about making some changes in your life that might make it possible for you to cut down on expenses and make your mortgage payments more manageable. The Threat Of Foreclosure Is On The Rise Part 2

The Threat Of Foreclosure Is On The Rise Part 2

Admin — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:59:40 +0000

Continued from Part 1 Foreclosure notices are being sent out left and right at the moment, and many families are being faced with the stark reality check of knowing that they just can not afford their home any longer--or won't be able to if they don't start acting now to get themselves out of the red hole of debt. The important thing is to educate yourself, and realize there is no quick fix for the problems which have probably been accumulating over time. The other thing you should realize is the sacrifices will be worth it in the long run if you are just patient. The first thing you need to do is make sure that you do not render yourself homeless. You must also have enough to meet your utility bills and foods. Those are the basics. Anything else is totally optional, and only if it is within some sort of sensible budget. A car may be essential for getting to and from work, or if you live in an area where there really is no public transportation. The high price of gas and home heating oil has really hit us hard in the past couple of years, so you are not alone in your struggles, and there are plans from various oil companies that can help. Don't be afraid to ask for help, or too proud. If your financial woes have come about as a result of illness, what payment plan options do you have for your medical bills, medications, and so on. Many of the big pharmaceutical companies have assistance programs, and many chain stores carry generics, some of which are prices at only $4. They are buying in bulk, and pass the savings along to you. You can go to the library and look up all sorts of information for free in books, magazines, and on the internet. There are lots of non-profits that help with issues to do with money management and coping with financial problems. It may be hard to know where to start, but often just looking for the answer to one question will open you up to all sorts of possibilities so you can get yourself back on track financial and avoid foreclosure. Start thinking of different things that you could do as a family to try to save yourselves a little bit of money here and there, because it not only all adds up in the short term, at the end of 6 months or a year, you will be very surprised to see just how much money you were actually able to save, or to use to pay down debt. If you have far too many credit cards, consider talking to the lender yourself to explain your situation and ask if you can have a lower APR. You have probably seen loads of offers for 0% APR. So it is in their interests to keep you rather than let you go off to the other lender, so there is room for compromise. If things are looking so bad that you can barely make the minimum payments on your cards each month, consider a non-profit debt management service. They negotiate for the best APR and basically give you a pay down plan. Let's face it, it is ridiculous to save for your kid's college education if you are swimming in debt. So get your budget in order, and above all, draw up a plan to prevent foreclosure which you can show to the bank or mortgage company. Look at all the real life examples at America's Debt Diet of how people who looked as though they might lose everything, house, equity and investment in the house, and good credit rating, were able to haul themselves back from the brink by making financial management their second or even third full time job. You do have the ability to make things better for yourself and for your family if you educate yourself, but it is a tough economy and things might just get worse before they get better. The only sure thing is that nothing is going to improve without some hard work and determination. Even if you don't think you are at risk of foreclosure at the moment, educate yourself now. Draw up contingency plans as to what you would do if you were ever to lose your job, or become ill, and not be able to make your mortgage payments on time. The Threat Of Foreclosure Is On The Rise Part 3

The Outsource Compendium

Admin — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 21:37:45 +0000

Just spotted this really hany free e-book which is packed full of ideas on how to outsource certain aspects of your business which might be bogging you down, so you can focus on the parts of your business that you really excel at. Grab your free copy here: The Outsource Compendium

Common Questions About Probate

Admin — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 03:02:26 +0000

What is probate? Probate is the process by which an estate left by a loved one who dies or "decedent" is administered, process and ultimately transfered to the heirs and beneficiaries of the estate. The estate is first inventoried, then any debts against the estate are paid, any moneys due to the estate are collected, and then the remaining assets are distributed to the beneficiaries and heirs. What property is excluded from the probate process? Any property that is held by the decedent and someone else jointly or as "joint tenants with right of survivorship," any property in a trust account that are "payable on death (POD) or "transfer on death TOD)" to a named person or persons, and any insurance or retirement benefits that have a named beneficiary will not go through the probate process. Why does the property have to go through probate? The probate process exists to protect all parties involved. Probate endows the executor or personal representative for the estate to handle the assets legally. Then, probate allows creditors the opportunity to make claims against and collect debts from the estate before the property ownership is transfered to the heirs and beneficiaries. What are the normal steps to the probate process? The probate court will appoint an executor in the case of a will, or a personal representative or administrator in the case of no will involved. The executor or administrator will accomplish the following tasks: care for the property, receive payments due to the estate, pay all legitimate debts against the estate, gather name, addresses, and other pertinent information of interested parties, pay all outstanding taxes against the property, and finally, distribute the remaining assets to the heirs and beneficiaries. What are the costs of probate? Each type of document that is filed in probate has a separate cost associated with it, typically around $200 per document. There can be attorneys fees charged for handling each part of the process, but these fees mostly must be approved by the probate court. The executor or administrator can also be paid a percentage of the estate for handling the case. How long can probate take? The length of probate cases vary from case to case. If the estate is relatively small, does not require filing state income tax, and has no complex creditor issues, the case can be settled in as little as six months. However, several factors can stretch out the process. If the estate must go through a tax audit, or if someone contests the will for any reason, the process can be delayed up to several years. Most probate cases are resolved anywhere from nine months to one year. What about a will? It is always a good idea to have a will properly drawn up. A will will make sure that your assets and property end up with the person or persons you intend. You can also name your own executor and settle any matters of dependent children in the will. It is always a good idea to review your will with an attorney to make sure that it meets your current needs. If you do not make out a will, your property will be distributed according to the inheritance laws of the state where you live. Will or not, your property will go through the probate process; a will just gives you more control in the outcome.

The Threat Of Foreclosure Is On The Rise Part 3

Admin — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 12:00:36 +0000

Continued from Part 2 Foreclosures are definitely going to keep on rising, even with attempts by the government to bail out this situation. The biggest disaster would be if banks failed as a result of this foreclosure fiasco. Bear Stearns already collapsed under the weight of bad debt from houses that had to go through foreclosure proceedings. Most banks profits are at a standstill, or a 90% drop since last year. Foreclosure is happening all over the United States and that is why it is so vital that you try to learn more about ways to prevent foreclosure from happening to you and your family. You should never take the loss of your home and major investment lightly. If you are buying a home in this rock-bottom market, make sure you factor foreclosure into your equation. Careful forward planning will remove a lot of your financial worries and anxiety over owning a home, and given the economy going into recession, we should all definitely be trying to come up with some plans to help manage our bills each month and possibly even save ourselves some extra money. Put the plastic away, brown bag it for lunch every day, cut down on takeaway, or lattes. Your home is the most important thing you own, but you don't own it until you've paid every last cent on it. So you need to protect your investment in that home and avoid foreclosure. Stick to your budget and pay down debt, then remain debt free. Check your terms on your mortgage and find out if there are any penalties for early repayment (this might seem silly to you, but that is how the banks make their money, from all the interest you pay on the loan!) If there is no penalty, then go for it. Even an extra $10 a month will help if it is the difference between being in debt for ages (think those minimum payments on your credit cards-again, they are making all their money from the interest you pay!) and getting out of debt as rapidly as possible. If there is a penalty, once you are debt free, save that money in an interest bearing account, and start looking at safe short term investment opportunities, such as treasury bills, to keep growing your nest egg. You might find that using these strategies, you can not only avoid foreclosure, you will be on the road to better asset management and true financial freedom. 1460 words

Are You In Constant Fear Of Foreclosure?

Admin — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:02:14 +0000

Worry over foreclosure creates an enormous amount of fear for so many people, particularly in the present economy. It is crucial for everyone facing foreclosure to start thinking on a more positive note, by gathering all the information you can about preventing foreclosure. Living in fear that you could possibly lose your home is a very stressful situation, and it can literally stop you from thinking about anything else or functioning. Money problems are the number one reason for divorce in the US. So just think how much the strain of facing foreclosure can damage a relationship. The first step in dealing with foreclosure is that everyone in the family should pull together to learn all that they can about foreclosure, and what steps you can take to avoid it. First off, do not make the mistake of avoiding important phone calls from your mortgage company or bank. Don't go a long time without contacting them to make some sort of payment arrangements. If you try to dodge the situation, you will only make it worse, and could definitely could lose your home if your lender does not think you are a responsible, reasonable person who is willing to do what it takes to keep their home and avoid foreclosure. Foreclosure does not make you stupid, or a failure. It is just a house at the end of the day; however, everyone does need a place to live. You also want to do what you can to prevent foreclosure because it would mean losing all the money you have already put into the home. Foreclosure would also mean a black mark on your credit score which can make life a great deal harder in the future. So do whatever you can within your means to avoid foreclosure if at all possible. People faced with the threat of foreclosure feel as if they are the only person in the world this has ever happened to. One look at the nightly news will tell you this is NOT the case. There ARE ways of finding out more, and people willing to help you. So put your pride aside, and ask for help. Chances are you were struggling financially long before foreclosure reared its ugly head. So part of the trouble is that a great number of us are uneducated about foreclosure, while still others of us think we 'know' about foreclosure but have actually received wrong information. For example, unscrupulous companies might tell you that they can make your foreclosure go away, but what you are really doing is signing over the deed to your house and ending up a renter. It is not the worst thing in the world to happen, since you still have a roof over your head, but it is unfair if you have been tricked into it. And as we said above, you will have lost every bit of equity you might have put into the home, and any chance of using it as a sound investment. Because of being uneducated about what foreclosure is all about, and the many different things that could be done to avoid foreclosure, too many people really are losing their homes to foreclosure. There is a lot you can do to avoid foreclosure, and the first thing is to make sure that you really are financially stable enough to afford the home that you have bought. If every penny is going towards keeping it, you have overextended yourself and need to look at either bringing your payments down somehow, or bringing extra income in. We never know what is coming around the corner in life, so far too many people over-extend themselves on credit cards, car lease agreements and so on. Then they are unemployed, the cost of gas goes through the roof, they become ill and can't work, and so. What should you do if any of this happens to you? The first thing you should do is look at your budget. If you have not got one, look in the Money section of this website for lessons on how to make one. The next thing you should do it tell your bank. It is better to let them know of a potential situation which might arise, and then never happens, than to hope it will go away and not take steps to deal with it. If anything unfortunate occurs that would cause you to fall behind on your monthly mortgage payments, don't dodge the bank, phone and ask for an appointment. Let them know what has happened, when you think you can pay, what steps you are taking to solve the problem. Discussing your financial issues with a professional can put you on the right path, not the path to foreclosure. Planning for this sort of eventuality is something far too few people do. No one wants to think about foreclosure when they buy a house, but as we are advised by the experts with regard to asset management, know your budget, and have an emergency fund set by for a rainy day which should cover at least 6 months of your day to day expenses, Knowing what to do in a time of crisis can truly be a lifesaver for many people. Understanding that foreclosure does not mean that you're a loser can hopefully remove the fear and angst, and help you deal with foreclosure in a much more pro-active way. With your budget in hand, get your priorities straight: roof over your head, utilities, food. Then try to determine if there are any changes that could be made that will save you some money each month to help you make up for the missed mortgage payment or the emergency situation you are dealing with which has caused you to fall behind. Having a positive attitude toward your budget and asset management will also help you stay in the black and out of the red and avoid foreclosure. For more information from the government on the steps you can take to avoid foreclosure, you can visit: http://www.hud.gov/foreclosure/index.cfm

April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month

Admin — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 19:32:48 +0000

Learn more about Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Visit here for more information: http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts_index/digestive_health/1102-1.html http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts/digestive_health/JohnsHopkinsDigestiveDisordersHealthAlert_1880-1.html http://www.revolutionhealth.com/conditions/digestive/ibs-irritable-bowel-syndrome/dr-chey-ibs?msc=a62593 You are what you eat, so learn more about diet and how to combat IBS.

How to Survive Spring Allergies

Admin — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 00:34:16 +0000

Yes, it is that time of year again, when pollen and other environmental outdoor allergens rear their ugly heads and become an eye-watering ordeal. For 10 great tips on how to deal with spring allergies, have a look at this article. http://www.webmd.com/allergies/features/how-to-survive-spring-allergies?ecd=wnl_day_040808

How to Reduce Cholesterol

Admin — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 01:33:15 +0000

A new article has been posted recently: Coping With Cholesterol at our sister site on Nutrition. Learn more about Cholesterol, its effects on your body, and how to reduce cholesterol.

Designer Cookie Wedding Favors

Admin — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 22:09:31 +0000

Click on any of the products below to learn more about these fabulous designer cookie wedding favors, direct from My Wedding Favors, the #1 Wedding Favors store on the Internet. Great prices, personalization, fast shipping, all guaranteed. Make your special day even more memorable for your guests with a fabulous wedding favor. In the event our automatic product catalog feed is not working, please click below to visit our store: Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Cookies and Chocolates Wedding Favors

Admin — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 22:11:31 +0000

For more information on these great wedding favors, just click on the links below. In the event our automatic product catalog feed is not working, please click below to visit our store: Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Time for Spring Cleaning?

Admin — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 22:59:49 +0000

Winter has kept your family bundled up indoors for several long months, and now that the weather is finally getting warmed and spring is finally coming around the corner, it is time to breathe new life and energy into your home! De-cluttering your home and giving it a thorough spring cleaning is the first step to welcome spring. Not only can clutter build up during the winter, but so can bacteria and other harmful things, like pests. To stay healthy and happy, it's important to perform a thorough cleaning at least once per year. Spring is the perfect time to take on such a task. Spring Cleaning Is A Huge Job - How Can You Make It Easier? You want your home to be organized, clean and fresh - and ready for a new season! You want to get rid of the winter doldrums! You want your family to live in a space that is relaxed and free of stress. Is this possible? Can you really get everything organized, cleaned, and freshened in a weekend or less? The fact is, a cleaner, more organized home will lead to less stress and a happier family!! Consider the Following: * When we live in a home where things are cluttered and unorganized, our WHOLE LIVES lives tend to be that way: chaotic! * When we live in a home that is clean and organized, we're able to "beat the morning rush" - and relax and unwind in the evening, not be stressed out from sun-up to sun-down * Your home is your castle, your sanctuary, your escape from the world! Isn't it time you treated it that way? It is NOT supposed to be a large rubbish bin or goodwill store! And do you know what the best news is of all? Spring Cleaning Does NOT Have To Be A Pain Not if you know what you are doing. You can easily clean and organize your entire home in one weekend (or less!). You just need to know the secrets of successful cleaning and organizing. So, we will be covering some of the essentials here, but in case you want to get a real head start, why not order the ebook now from Susanne Myers - The Hillbilly Housewife? For only $6.95 you can get her great Spring Cleaning Guide as an ebook you can instantly download and start using right away in your quest for a better home. I Need the Spring Cleaning Guide Now You can order now, download in minutes, and get started today! Make spring cleaning easier and faster with a hands-on guide that will walk you through the entire process. * Specific cleaning tips for each room of your home * Cleaning tips for "often" forgotten areas - such as your medicine cabinet, cosmetics bag, and more * It's time to get organized! Learn the secrets to get clutter out of your home! * Strategies for establishing a daily routine to keep everything clean and organized * A "cleaning checklist" to make sure you have everything you'll need to get started

Order the Spring Cleaning Guide Now

Book Review: Dear Lover: A Woman’s Guide To Men…

Admin — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 02:13:11 +0000

Book Review: Dear Lover: A Woman's Guide To Men, Sex, And Love's Deepest Bliss by David Deida 5.0 out of 5 stars A superb book for any couple who wants to live in true harmony and love The author's previous book 'Superior Man' is for men, and an excellent guide, but this is the companion volume for women, and gives deep insights into how a true man of integrity is able to and really wants to love the woman in his life. One woman, for this lifetime and even into the next. He writes beautifully and candidly, and each time I read it, I see more and more what I am able to share Tantrically with my partner. We have created bliss on a daily basis through skill, determination, discipline, and above all, love, and this from a man who is by no means easy to live with or love! And one who never even thought he knew how to love, because all his other relationships had failed so miserably. Deida's advice about loving each other open to the divine even when 'stuff' gets in the way is one we would all do to remember. After all, what is more sublime than living and being in love-having that 24/7, 365 days a year, always, at every moment, is well worth it. So take the advice offered to heart in this moving book. And read his other books, like Wild nights and Blue Truth, and definitely get Superior Man for your guy. If you train and practice love, and Tantra, and be happy, you really will experience deepst bliss. It really does work! And as good as it sounds in the book, it is even better in real life. 286 words

How To Potentially Help Save Your Home From Foreclosure

Admin — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 12:55:14 +0000

It is unfortunate that so many families out there are having to worry about not being able to pay their monthly mortgages and are at very high risk of having to deal with foreclosure. Foreclosure is definitely something that none of us ever anticipate but there are times that it does happen, and just when you least expect it. The thought of losing your home is very terrifying for many, so it is very important for all homeowners out there to realize just how important it is to make sure you take whatever steps you can to not end up homeless. There are many different websites on the internet to get free information, and by talking to a professional, such as a Hud counselor, you can gather up all of the information necessary to try to stop foreclosure by being proactive. Foreclosure can be quite devastating not only for your family life but your credit score. So it is very important that you try and do everything in your power to talk with your loan company or bank so that you can look at all your options. If you avoid phone calls letters and just stop dealing with your lender, this ostrich attitude will only make things worse, and increase your chances of your home being foreclosed. You might be surprised to know that many times if you just contact the mortgage company, they are happy to talk with you about your current situation and figure out what to do from given your new situation. No one expects that your whole life is going to stay exactly the same for the next 25 years, the duration of your mortgage, now do they. Often the lending officers have the ability to work out some type of payment arrangement for you, or they could even allow for you to skip a couple more monthly payments, in hopes of you being able to get back on your feet again and get caught up on those monthly mortgage payments that have been putting so much stress on you and putting you on the brink of foreclosure. Foreclosure does not mean that you are a horrible person, irresponsible or non trustworthy, or a failure. Sometimes money issues are just unavoidable. Knowing that you do have other options will help take the stress out of an already stressful situation. Choose education, not avoidance. Nothing is going to ever get fixed if you just hide out, not wanting to talk to the bank because your pride has been dented. They are not parents scolding a naughty child. Everyone just wants to protect their investment, and you want to have a roof over your head, so step up and take charge and allow them the opportunity to inform you of the different things that you could do to avoid foreclosure. Do not continue letting your mortgage payment to go unpaid, and avoiding all of those phone calls. Do your research, come up with a payment plan you can suggest based on your own personal situation, and hopefully you should be able to work something out with them. Get help from your local HUD Counselor, so the stress and strain of foreclosure won't haunt you and your family. Gather all your relevant paperwork, and go online to find a HUD Counselor near you. http://www.hud.gov/foreclosure/index.cfm

Disappointed in Obama?

Admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 03:00:24 +0000

I am amazed by the latest fund-raising gambit from the Obama campaign. In it he asks people to PROVE he is not out of touch with mainstream America by donating even more money to his campaign. If he knew anything about ordinary working people, he would know that money is tight at the moment for everyone, PLUS a lot of us have had to file a little old thing called our taxes, and some of us owe money and don't have the spare cash laying around to 'prove' he knows what he is talking about. Even more ridiculous, is how 'disappointed' he is in Hillary for trying to use his appalling insensitivity. Really, as if he would not have jumped on this own had she ever been so naive and gauche? Oh, yes, the man is a saint and choir boy-in his own mind. So let's get at the real truth, however unpalatable: A lot of Americans are disappointed in YOU, Mr. Obama. Because while you are undoubtedly a powerful speaker, you have failed to listen to ordinary Americans, and really HEAR them. All you hear is your own rhetoric and ambition. We need a leader who is willing to learn from his or her own mistakes. You keep making the same ones over and over. And you have not even got anywhere near the Presidency yet. You are also so divisive, you have basically threatened that if you are not on the ticket in November, 'your' people will not go out to vote. No wonder people accuse you of arrogance. You have done everything you can to stop the voters of Michigan and Florida from seating their delegates, or reaching any sort of amicable solution about them, and then have the nerve to claim you are a Democrat? The people of Pennsylvania are the next to vote. For the sake of this country, if you lose that primary by a substantial margin, do this whole country a favor, and step aside. Because if you can't even take the heat within your own party over your dismissive and crass remarks, you will be fried to a cinder by the Republicans long before Election Day. And don't you dare ask for even more money to place even more ads to try to dupe people into thinking anything is going to change under your presidency, when you can't even address the issues of this country in a serious and meaningful way. Let alone use your own errors as an opportunity to attack your opponents, or to try to scare people into donating by claiming it is the only way to avoid getting 'more of the same.' Bill Clinton was an exceptionally popular and excellent president. 75% of people polled said they would have elected him to a third term if it had been possible. People do NOT want anything to do with the Bush administration, and rightly so. But you are not the only game in town. And yes, there is a lot wrong with this country at the minute. But don't blame others for YOUR own errors and failings.

Tassimo Hot Beverage System

Admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 21:05:29 +0000

4 1/2 out of 5 stars The Tassimo hot beverage system is really outstanding. I have one at work, and one at home, and they have put up with a lot of heavy wear and tear for over 15 months now. In the office, we have about 25 people making multiple cups per day and the best of all, here is no wastage. People get exactly the cup they want without getting thrown away because too strong or weak the way they used to do before we got the Tassimo. Or thrown away because it has been sitting anf stewing for hours I like the fact that we city dwellers, so concerned about tap water, get a water filter built right into the design, and how easy it is to change. And how easy the machine is to use. We just show our guests to the office where the t dics are, and let them go at it! I am a bit concerned environmentally with all the little plastic empty discs not being recyclable, and the unit price might be consideres a bit high for some people. These are the only reasons I have not given it 5 out of 5 stars. But there are a number of inexpensive on line places you can buy from to keep up a regular coffee supply. The hot chocolate is my favorite, but the cappucino and latte are awesome. In addition, the teas are very good alternatives, especially the green and the chamomile. There is literally somehting for every one in the office no matter what they are in the mood for. They have even introduced a Starbuck's line recently which is not much more epensive that the regular disks. Certainly all the beverages are hot tasty, and best of all, cheap by comparison, plus you don't have to wait on an endless line for to get your drink—except maybe at 9 am by our water cooler! For anyone with a serious coffee habit I definitely recommend the Tassimo, and I recommend it above the Keurig which is huge and bulky by comparison and does not have a nice water well with a good capacity like the stylish Tassimo. Make sure you comparison shop on line. The average list price appears to be about $169, but I managed to get both my machines for under $100, with a rebate as well! The best money I have ever spent, and it has really helped us save on the hot drinks bills. Enjoy

What Does Probate Involve?

Admin — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 03:05:34 +0000

Probate is the legal process of administering the property and assets left by someone when they die (the decedent). The probate process also oversees the payment of claims, debts, taxes and other related expense against the estate are all paid according to the law. Probate property is defined as property in the decedent's name alone and is distributed by the directions of the will or according to the law. The probate proceedings take place in the county where the decedent lived and owned the property. If the decedent also owned property in another state, additional probate court proceedings may be required in that state. Some property owned by the decedent may not be considered in the probate process and is not known as probate property. Any property held by the decedent and another person jointly, any property held in a trust, any bank or other accounts that are "payable on death," or "transfer on death" to a named beneficiary, and any insurance and retirement benefits that have a named beneficiary are not considered probate property. However, all property is considered estate property and is still subject to federal or state taxes, whether or not it is probate property. The probate process is necessary to legally give the executor or personal representative of the estate the right to handle the decedent's probate assets. The process gives the executor the duty of safeguarding the assets and property of the estate for the benefit of the heirs and beneficiaries. Probate then allows for the creditors against the estate to be able to collect any debts owed by the decedents before the remaining assets are distributed to the heirs. There are costs in the administration of this sometimes lengthy process that must be paid from the estate also. What are the duties required by probate? The first task of the probate court is to appoint a person to administer the estate. This person is called the personal representative or administrator, or if so named in a will, the executor. The executor or administrator can be a single person, a trust company, or a bank. The executor or administrator has many tasks to complete in the probate process. He or she must care for all of the property and assets of the decedent. He or she must receive any payments due to the estate from interest, income, or dividends of any sort and then collect and legitimize any debts due to the estate. Then, all names, addresses, and pertinent information about the heirs and beneficiaries must be gathered. The executor or administrator must then collect and validate any debts against the estate and pay the outstanding debts, which includes filing state and estate tax returns and paying the taxes for same. The last task of the administrator is to distribute the remaining assets to the heirs and beneficiaries according to the will and the laws of the court. The probate court judge and the probate court task supervises the entire process. Each separate action requires that the appropriate paperwork and numerous documents be filed in a timely and lawful way. Each step of the process can be tricky and time consuming. As an executor or personal administrator, he or she may want to consult an attorney specializing in probate matters and a certified public accountant to handle the tax issues.

Obama Debate, or Obama Debacle

Admin — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 21:44:25 +0000

He is now complaining about the format of the debate that he clearly lost with his lackluster performance last night: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080417/ap_on_el_pr/obama_debate Well, sorry, but do you seriously think, Mr. Obama, that the Republicans are going to go easy on you? Plus, the American people have a right to know who has the nerve to be trying to win the Democratic Party nomination, yet can't even hold up to a bit of media scrutiny for the last couple of months compared to the resilience of Hillary Clinton, who has been in the public eye for 2 decades. Your inexperience and inability to make a single unrehearsed point at this stage is patently showing, which is why the Democratic Party needs to give serious pause before awarding you the nomination. And there are still key states who have not had their say, and key questions to be answered about Florida and Michigan delegates being seated and getting their say as part of the democratic process. You complaining about the format of the debate is ridiculous--you had the floor for the first 45 minutes--you could have talked about anything you wanted. how can you be commander in chief if you can't even have a commanding presence at a political debate?

What Really Works for Back Pain?

Admin — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:44:16 +0000

Here is a really good article from Forbes, which outlines what really works, and how surgery for back pain, and procedures like spinal fusion, are not as effective for back pain as you might think.

http://www.forbes.com/forbes/2008/0421/088.html

And here is another interesting article on the negative effects of a tight back pack on adult health.

http://www.everydayhealth.com/publicsite/ShowArticle.aspx?IsP=news/614/news614220.xml&dp=2008/04/07&q1=&cen=&xid=nl_EverydayHealthHealthyLiving_20080408

Why is the Dalai Lama suppressing religious freedom?

Admin — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:56:10 +0000

http://www.wisdombuddhadorjeshugden.org In Buddhism, all Buddhas are deemed to be the same nature. And all objects are mere appearance to our minds. http://westernshugdensociety.org has eyewitness accounts. This is the equivalent of nuns and priests being ejected from their homes for worshipping one particular saint who was no longer 'in favor', despite centuries of being told how essential he was. The human right situation in Tibet is deplorable enough without more suffering being caused unduly through a point of doctrine which is coming from one person's own mind. The Dalai Lama is not infallible. And one should not look for Buddhahood except within one's own mind, by perfecting all one's best qualities. Buddhists are supposed to practice compassion; even if we disagree with others, we do not try to force them to see our point of view. Another central tenet of Buddhism is ahimsa, to do no harm. Clearly these people have been harmed. Again, the situation in Tibet is dire enough without a Buddhist schism being started by HH the Dalai Lama. We don't like hypocrisy. We hope you don't either. Let's exercise some wisdom, and stop denying these devout practitioners their homes and their rights.

Edible Wedding Favors Store

Admin — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 17:13:22 +0000

Are a yummy way to thank all your guests for sharing your special day. Here is a small selection.

Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.
Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:
MyWeddingFavors.com

Edible Wedding Favors Store

Admin — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 17:16:38 +0000

Cookie Wedding Favors Store

Admin — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 17:20:48 +0000

These are our top selling cookie wedding favors. These yummy cookie wedding favors come direct from My Wedding Favors, the #1 Wedding Favors store on the Internet. Great prices, personalization, fast shipping, all guaranteed. Make your special day even more memorable for your guests with a fabulous wedding favor. Cookie wedding favors make a great gift, especially for a themed wedding. In the event our automatic product catalog feed is not working, please click below to visit our store: Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Lifestyle Changes for Weight Loss

Admin — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 17:35:41 +0000

A new article has been published at our sister site Nutrition Goddess on the topic of Lifestyle Changes for Weight Loss It also comes with a link to a great new special report on this topic. So if anyone is struggling with this issue, this report and its further resources should help.

Hints and tips for your Tassimo

Admin — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 21:39:04 +0000

The Tassimo is a great little machine, but to get the most out of it, you might find the following hints and tips helpful. The water filter needs to be changes about every three months—set the dial on it so you will remember when you last changed it. If it floats for any reason, then the little waterproof red rubber ring around the part that fits into the machine is missing. I have had some faulty ones from the factory—just send it back for a replacement. It is part NP1. The disk piercer. It can get stuck/completely wedged sometimes in one of the disks, especially the hot milk ones, which tend to use hotter water/steam and seem to make the plastic piercer expand and get jammed. So do look at your disks before you throw them away! You can get replacements on line, it is PART NP8, but you really don't want to do without hot drinks while you wait for it to come in the mail. Consider keeping a spare of it and the water filter on hand just in case! Tassimo membership We joined the monthly Tassimo club at club so we get autodelivery with free shipping on the disks every month, and so you can set your monthly budget and needs and let the clud to the rest. You can also get the parts mentioned above quickly and easily. They showcase the newest discs here first, so you can phone any time and add to your order. www.tassimo.com The Tassimo club standards are made by Gevalia, via Kraft Foods, and I have to say, while the Cappucino and latte seem very fattening, the Cap is made with 2% and the latte with skim. There are many different flavors now, and European brands like Jacobs and Carte Noir. They have just introudced Swiss Hazlenut and a macchiato as well, so the site is great for seeing what's new. The Twinings tea, including the chamomile with orange flower, and Earl Grey, and the Tazo black, are real winners. Really fast shipping: I use the monthly service, but for emergency orders I use www.cybercucina.com, a great online gourmet store where you can get fast service, a discount on the t-disks, and collect points which add up to a discount every time you get past the 250 point level. They are prompt, fast, courteous, and usually have everything in stock I need. If you order over $100 at a time, it is free shipping, and the order flow smoothness and customer service are really the best I have ever seen. It is a great site too because as the name suggests, they have great kitchen stuff, and they also have some very yummy european style treats. Often have really good sales on luxury food stuffs. So if you are looking for any unusal gifts for people, and want free shipping, this is the place to go!

A Budget: Your Ultimate Financial Management Tool Part I

Admin — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:05:50 +0000

A Budget: Your Ultimate Financial Management Tool Part I A builder uses a set of house plans, or blueprints, whenever he builds a house or office building. Rocket scientists would never begin construction on a new booster rocket without a detailed set of design specifications. Yet most of us go blindly out into the world without an inkling about finances, and without any plan at all as to how we're going to achieve our lifestyle goals in the short term and long term. A BLUEPRINT FOR FINANCIAL SUCCESS The most financially successful people have a blueprint or plan, called a money plan is called a budget, to help keep them on track in both the short and long term when it comes to achieving their financial goals. Without a plan, they would spend whatever they wanted, whenever, and basically end up living hand to mouth. Worse still, they might end up running up a great deal of debt, spending more than they earned, until they couldn't even meet their credit card minimums any more. THE CURRENT ECONOMIC CLIMATE: CREDIT CARDS ARE NOT YOUR FRIENDS Credit has been easy to come by for the past few years, but in this current economic climate, a lot of credit card companies are pulling the plug on consumer credit. They might also be inflicting much heavier penalties on anyone who misses a payment, or increasing the interest rate, or, in some cases, even changing the payment date in the hope that you WILL make an error. They are also making a great deal of money preying on people's fears of credit card fraud, rather than taking the sensible steps of trying to cut back on credit card fraud in whatever way they can. So credit cards are not your friend, and yes, it may be tough to get along without them, but your budget will be a lot better for it in the long run. Your budget is the one way to try to make sure you don't end up on the rocks of a financial disaster. Or, if you think you're already in danger of running aground, it can be the action plan that helps get you out of danger with persistent effort. A Budget: Your Ultimate Financial Management Tool Part II

Foreclosure Assistance to Help Save Your Home

Admin — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 12:01:33 +0000

For anyone who is undergoing a great deal of stress thinking that they might possibly lose their home due to falling behind on their mortgage payments, there ARE many options that could potentially save your home from foreclosure. It is very important to seek foreclosure assistance available as soon as you think you are going to have a problem meeting a mortgage payment. Leaving it too late will remove many of your options. One resource that you could utilize would be the many different online resources, where there is 24 hour foreclosure assistance available for people who are in need. The online resources are government or nonprofit organizations which are available to everyone who is in need of assistance. They might even possibly be able to contact some of your creditors to discuss with them some type of payment plan, which could help you to manage your finances more appropriately. The internet is truly the greatest place to locate all sorts of information about foreclosure, to educate yourself and know your rights. Here at this site, we talk about foreclosure, and also the importance of having a budget which can help you formulate a plan for getting out of trouble with the mortgage company or bank. In addition to looking up foreclosure information on the internet, Try going to the yellow pages on the internet or even in your home telephone book. Throughout the yellow pages you should be able to find more information about finding foreclosure assistance in the area which you reside in. Another great resource for locating information about getting assistance with your foreclosure is right at your local library. Visiting the library regularly is a really good idea anyway because it is a good way to get access to new reading material, books and information, plus the internet, inexpensively. Let's face it, everyone has to tighten their belts nowadays. In the library you will have the opportunity to find many different resources about foreclosure assistance that could be very helpful to you. There will be advice in the self help section on budgeting, better money management, asset management, and even investing, which could be very beneficial for anyone in need of better financial advice. But your first priority should always be to make sure you don't end up homeless. No one wants that, certainly not the bank. They want the nice tidy income from the interest you keep paying them every month, which over 25 years adds up to a fair amount of money! So, if you are in need of foreclosure assistance, put aside your pride and ask for help. Better to do it at the first sign of trouble and be prepared, than to hope things will get better and in the process make your situation worse. Learning how to manage your money more efficiently will definitely be your first step in order to see how you can avoid foreclosure and make sure that you don't ever get behind on your important monthly bills. A good budget can also help you if you want to go to the bank with a plan on how you are going to make up the missed payment/s. It does not matter which resources you choose to gather your information from on foreclosure as long as it is current, reliable and trustworthy. Take the time to do the research you need on foreclosure and how to prevent it. Take time to write out your budget. Above all, come up with a realistic financial plan you can live with. You might not have the glamorous lifestyle you once had, but a few sacrifices here and there will be worth it if you get to keep the home you have invested time and money in, and can stop foreclosure before it ever happens. 639 words

A Budget: Your Ultimate Financial Management Tool Part II

Admin — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:06:36 +0000

PLANNING YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE BUDGET FIRST The first thing you should do is work out your budget. That means looking at the reality of your situation here and now. There are a number of free online tools and sample worksheets you can use, including at the America's Debt Diet website. There are also templates in the Microsoft suite as well. Then get out your most recent pay stub, and all your rent/mortgage, utility bills, and start filling in the blanks. Look at the receipts for all the things you've bought in the previous week. Work out in round figures how much you spend on items like gas, electric, cell phone, regular phone, food, clothes, and entertainment. EASING YOUR CREDIT CRUNCH Then look at your credit card statements, and the minimums you are paying each month. Is there anything left at the end of your calculations? If yes, great. If no, not so great. But take heart. Now look again. Is there anything you can cut back on, any 'luxuries' you could do without, or do with less of? How much would you save each month. Look at your credit card statements, at the balances, but also at the APRs, the annual percentage rates for the money you are basically borrowing for that new sweater or great pair of jeans you 'just had to have'. PAYING DOWN DEBT If you took the money you saved from the luxuries, how soon could you pay down that debt? If there is any left over, pay down the ones with the highest APR first, then the second, then the third, and so on. You will improve your credit score very rapidly too if you don't always pay at the last minute, but rather pay as soon as the bill comes. In a lot of cases you can even pay quickly and easily online, free of charge. SPREADING OUT YOUR BILLS Once you have filled in your budget, make a calendar for yourself of when all the bills are due. It is easy to lose track of one and then end up with big problems on your hands. Look at whether your pay cycle is weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Then you can space out the payments over X number of checks you are getting. A Budget: Your Ultimate Financial Management Tool Part III is next.

Wedding Favors: Bargains for Less Than $1 Part I

Admin — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 01:56:54 +0000

When most people think of wedding favors they don't stop to think that they will be a substantial part of the wedding budget. This is largely because the unit price of each wedding favor is often quite low. However, it is important to remember that this price must be multiplied by the number of guests in attendance at the wedding, and this can really add up if you've invited a large number of guests who attend the wedding. It can also add up quickly if the unit price is quite high. As example consider wedding favors with unit prices of $2 and $10. If you plan to have 500 guests at your wedding and give each one a $2 favor your budget for wedding favors will be the same as it would be if you plan to have a small wedding of only 100 people and give each of them a favor which costs $10. In both cases you would need to have a budget of $1000 for wedding favors. From this example you can see why it is very important to consider both the unit price, as well as the number of guests. (see our article on how to budget for your wedding favors). Fortunately, whether you're having a large or a small wedding, there are many wedding favors available for less than $1 which can help keep your wedding favor budget low. This article will provide some ideas for wedding favors which typically cost less than $1. You can go for a bargain, and still provide your guests with a thoughtful wedding favor as a memento of sharing your special day. Place card holders Pretty place card holders are one type of wedding favor which is typically available for less than $1 per place card holder, and is an often overlooked wedding favor idea. There are certainly some place card holders which will cost much more than $1 per unit but you are likely to also find many which are priced under $1 depending on what they are made of, and how popular versus unusual they are. Place card holders make great wedding favors because they not only serve a purpose at the wedding but they can also be used as small picture frames by the guests after the wedding. Tins of Mints/Candies Tins containing mints or other kinds of candy are another option for wedding favors which are often priced at under $1 per unit. These tins come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, with various designs and in different colors. The tins which are priced at less than $1 are likely to be quite small, but you might find some which match your theme perfectly, for example, a spring one with a shamrock or easter chick on it. There are also a wide variety of typical wedding designs available. You can purchase ones which feature a tuxedo design, or a wedding dress. You can also find tins with wedding bells or flowers embossed on the top. Comparison shop, and see if you can price the tins with and without the mints inside. Also see if you can get a discount for bulk pricing, or for discontinued lines. Read on: Wedding Favors: Bargains for Less Than $1 Part II

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The Hart and the Harp-Medieval Romance novel

Admin — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 20:44:35 +0000

THE HART AND THE HARP

Sorcha MacMurrough

Ireland, 1146

Shive MacDermot and Tiernan O'Hara agree to wed to end a five-year feud between their clans which had been provoked by the murder of her brother.

Though an unlikely alliance at first, Shive begins to fall in love with her new husband. She soon realises her brother's killer was never Tiernan, but a member of her own clan. How can she win Tiernan's love and prove to him she is not the enemy?

Shive undertakes an epic struggle to save her lands and Tiernan's from the ambitious Muireadach O'Rourke, determined to kill anyone who opposes his bid to become high-king of all Ireland.

Will she prove worthy of Tiernan? Or will he believe that she has betrayed him, and become her enemy himself?

THE HART AND THE HARP Sorcha MacMurrough Ireland, 1146 ISBN 13: 978-1-58345-030-7 Word Count= 127,000 Rating: Mild to moderate sensuality Price $4.99
<A target=_blank href=hart.buy>No Frames: Click here for "Buy Now" button</A>

PROLOGUE

"Since my young days of passion-joy or pain

Perchance my heart and harp have lost a string-

And both may jar."

Lord Byron, Childe Harold, III.

The West of Ireland, 1140

The wild boar thundered through the undergrowth, heading straight for the tall lanky young man. He blinked in disbelief. He had been so sure his first arrow had killed it. But he could see now that it had merely struck the beast a glancing blow. Blood ran down its shoulder in small rivulets. It was squealing so loudly the sound was almost deafening.

Infuriated by its pain, the boar rushed forward, so close that the hunter could feel its hot breath on his face. Bringing up his dagger, he managed to slash open the boar's throat and windpipe with a desperate thrust and twist of the knife. The dead animal collapsed upon him, pinning him down with its huge weight, which threatened to crush the very air from his lungs.

He drew as deep a breath as he could manage in order to call for help. A twig snapping nearby heralded the arrival of his companion, who now stood surveying the blood-bespattered young man with a glint of amusement in his narrow eyes.

"Don't just stand there, get this carcass off me!" the hunter wheezed.

"'Tis a fine beast. A pity it didn't kill you. On the other hand, it wouldn't have suited my purposes at all if it had."

The second man towered over the hunter menacingly now. Tugging an unusually ornate jeweled dagger out of its scabbard, he raised both hands, and brought it down with a violent stabbing motion.

The young man struggled desperately to get out of the way, or at least ward off the blow. His eyes widened with terror and astonishment as the dagger descended inexorably. He shrieked in agony as it cleft his heart in twain.

He gasped, "Why! In the name of God, how could you!" as his own blood began to well up through his mouth and gushed all over his chest in a crimson fountain.

"I'm sorry, lad, truly. You're simply in my way. The wheels have been set in motion. We shall just have to see where they take me, once you're no longer an obstacle."

As his life's blood emptied out of him, the young hunter declared with his last breath, "You'll pay for this one day. I swear on my own grave."

"No doubt I shan't be going to Heaven, Fiachra. But not to worry. I always did imagine living for all eternity with choirs of angels singing would be rather dull," his murderer drawled. "I have no doubts that you shall go there though. That should delight you. You've always declared the afterlife to be a better place than this world. You always were a bit too fanatical. You've become a stumbling block, lad. A danger to me which I simply have to be rid of."

Fiachra struggled futilely against death for a few more seconds. But at last his head fell back, and with his last dying breath he cursed the man who had brought him to such an end.

When he was certain the young man was dead, his assailant dragged the boar's corpse off him, and tugged it a small distance away, further into the woods. Then he smoothed over the dirt trail which he had left from dragging the heavy swine. He checked to make certain he had left no trace of his presence behind. He surveyed the scene once more with an expert eye.

Aye, his scheme would work, he thought with great satisfaction. It had all been so easy. The lad had gone to his death like a lamb to the slaughter. And while he himself knew that appearances were often deceptive, this looked convincing enough for his purposes.

Once the young hunter's corpse was found, he would effectively have killed two birds with one dagger. He chuckled to himself at the apt simile as he circled the area one last time, then headed for home quickly. He had slipped out of his room through his secret passage, but there was no telling when someone might come looking for him on important business, and a trip to the privy only took so long.

He ran back home through the woods, almost skipping in his delight. He had set the wheel of fortune in motion now. Even as poor Fiachra and his friends would spin downwards towards their own ruin, so he would rise to the very top of the wheel. And once at the top, he would do anything, anything, to stay there.

<

THE HART AND THE HARP

Sorcha MacMurrough

Ireland, 1146

ISBN 13: 978-1-58345-030-7

Word Count= 127,000

Rating: Mild to moderate sensuality

Price $4.99
<A target=_blank href=hart.buy>No Frames: Click here for "Buy Now" button</A>
CHAPTER ONE

"Marry Tiernan O'Hara," Shive MacDermot gasped. "Ruairi, you can't be in earnest! Even if I were to agree to your proposal for the sake of the clan, Father would never allow it. How could he sit by and sanction the marriage of his only daughter to his son's murderer?"

Ruairi sighed deeply, and pulled one of the wooden chairs closer to the roaring fire to sit beside his lovely auburn-haired young cousin. "Shive, the case against Tiernan was never proven. At any rate, surely you can see the wisdom of the match. This feud between your father and Tiernan has gone on for five years now, at the loss of countless lives. The cost has been too high for both families."

"I know, but-"

Ruairi ignored the interruption. "Since I find I'm being forced more and more into a position where I shall have to choose between your clans one day for the sake of attaining peace in this region at last, I would rather settle this right now. I have no wish to be maneuvered into destroying one clan for the benefit of the opposing one. This feud must end before both clans end up decimating one another, and I'm left with no one loyal to support me in my bid for the high kingship of Ireland."

Shive rose to pace up and down her workchamber in her castle for a few moments, stroking the soft sheepskin of the jerkin she wore for warmth over her dark blue woolen gown as she moved about the room restlessly. A new fall of snow just starting outside the horn-covered window caught her eye. She sat down heavily on a settle within the window embrasure, and gestured for her dashing cousin, tall and agile, with brown hair and bright green eyes, to join her there.

She opened the window wide in a futile attempt to ease the suddenly stifling atmosphere of her chamber. They gazed out at the blinding whiteness in silence for several moments.

Finally Shive asked, "But why should I be the one who pays the price of that peace? I understand your longing to be ard ri, and would support you tomorrow if I could, but surely there must be other ways of securing the title of high king for yourself without giving me to Tiernan O'Hara in marriage.

"I see the need for dynastic unions, even if I don't necessarily approve of the custom. I'm not so naive as to think that everyone in the world can wed for love. Certainly not people of our social standing. But how can you honestly expect me to marry a man who has every reason to hate me and all I represent? As I should hate him? It would be a disaster for both clans."

Ruairi shook his head. "I've spoken to Tiernan already about the match, and--"

Shive's violet eyes widened, and she stood abruptly, once more resuming her frantic pacing. "You asked him without even consulting with me to see whether I would indeed be amenable?" she raged, tossing her long mane of lush burgundy hair over her shoulder.

"Shive, please, calm yourself and hear my side of things before you condemn me out of hand for my arrogant ways," Ruairi commanded, pulling his cousin back down to sit beside him.

"I'm listening, Ruairi." Her eyes flashed a challenge to the brown-clad warrior. "Persuade me. After all, you'll have to be prepared to face down my father if you're really intent upon this match. He will be a far harder nut to crack than I could ever be."

"You always were susceptible to my masculine charms, little coz," Ruairi teased, before stroking gently the wrist he still held.

Sobering, he began to spell out his arguments for her clearly and succinctly. "Shive, you know as well as I that no one could ever have damaged the friendship Tiernan and your brother had for one another until that fatal day five years ago when Tiernan's dagger was found buried in Fiachra's heart. You cannot remember it as clearly as I do. You were but thirteen--"

"I remember it as though it were yesterday," Shive said, her eyes glimmering with unshed tears as she stared unseeingly out of the window.

"Of course you do," Ruairi corrected himself hastily before pressing on. "A clever man like Tiernan would never have allowed his dagger to be left behind as a sign of his guilt, not even if he had really killed your brother in a fit of passion over some imagined insult as many have suggested. Moreover, Fiachra was always the more impetuous of the two. Hotheaded, always taking sudden fancies. I can recall that just before he died he did nothing but talk of entering a monastery."

Shive toyed with a stray dark blue thread on the sleeve of her thick woolen gown. "Are you saying that Fiachra might have picked a quarrel with Tiernan, and Tiernan was merely defending himself?"

"I'm saying that I truly believe that Tiernan had nothing to do with Fiachra's death. If it were an accident he would have just admitted it. He's not the type of man to lie or cover up his errors. In all my dealings with him he's always been honest and open. Has always spoken his mind candidly.

"Therefore, if Fiachra's death wasn't an accident, it brings us back to the original charge, that of murder. But think about it, Shive. What could Tiernan have possibly hoped to gain from Fiachra's death? He couldn't inherit your lands, become tanaist of your sept, gain money or power in any obvious way. In fact, he's come off the worst in all the hostilities with your father, not least because he's often simply refused to fight him.

"If it wasn't for money, then what could Tiernan have ever hoped to gain? And before you ask, I can tell you now that I'm certain it wasn't a love rivalry between them either."

Shive ignored the telltale lurching of her heart. She had no reason to be jealous of Tiernan. She had every reason to loathe the man! She looked at her cousin defiantly. "Fiachra's death has served to destabilize the entire region. Tiernan could have hoped to make his family stronger at the expense of ours."

"It was your father who attacked him in revenge. Your father who has carried out all the raids every summer for the past five years. Tiernan has defended himself, but done nothing more than that even when the atrocities have got to such a point that his own men have threatened to overthrow him as tanaist if he doesn't do something to stop these incessant hostilities.

"Tiernan has risked losing everything, even his life, to avoid harming your family. He's never gone on the offensive to raid your territory, or inflicted the dreadful damage upon your clan that he could easily do if he fully mustered his whole clan. I truly believe he's innocent. Tiernan didn't murder Fiachra with his own hands. Nor did he suborn anyone to do it."

Shive didn't necessarily disagree. But if not Tiernan O'Hara, then who? Her mind swam with all her cousin was saying, all he was hinting at.

"No, I'm afraid if you wish to find your brother's murderer, you must look closer to home. Judge for yourself who has most benefited from Fiachra's murder."

Shive stared at her cousin, horrified realization slowly dawning on her lovely features.

Ruairi said urgently, "Shive, I know it's painful to dredge up the past like this after so many years, but we can't afford to ignore the truth for much longer. Every single one of your four cousins has gained from Fiachra's death. Now they're all pressing you to marry them. Can you be sure you are marrying an innocent man who loves you for yourself alone? Or is it all part of a plan to consolidate their gains, by marrying the only living direct descendant of the current leader of the clan? And one who, if I may say so, is a powerful force in her own right?"

Shive shook her head vehemently. "No! It's unthinkable. We were all raised together here at Skeard after my mother died. We've always been so close. I can't even begin to imagine any of them committing such a heinous crime."

"You've avoided answering the second part of my question, Shive," Ruairi observed. "I know you well enough to see that you have doubts the same as myself. Parthalan, Fergus, Ernin and Mahon have all been paying you court ever since your aunt died. Your uncle even tried to encourage a match between yourself and Parthalan as the eldest heir. But your uncle died in August, and so no more has come of those arrangements, at least not for the time being.

"You're an intelligent woman, Shive. Surely you can see that what I say is true. I know you aren't in love with any of the lads, worthy though most of them are. If you stay here at Skeard any longer, your position will be compromised with one or the other of them. Then you'll be forced to marry whether you will or no. If that happens, well, even if it isn't outright rape, even if you seem to settle down as a couple together well enough, you know that deep in your heart, you'll always wonder. You'll never be certain if your marriage is based upon true love, or simply one man's insatiable lust for power. And where he's killed once, with an innocent face, he can easily do it again, even to his own wife."

She jolted in shock and leaned out the window, gasping for breath. The sting of his words, and the tears behind her eyes, were almost more than she could bear. He was right. Every word was true. The bile bubbled in the back of her throat to think that any one of her cousins could be capable of such treachery. Yet there was no one else. No one except...

Before she could follow the trail of the odd glimmer of an idea in her head, she noted her cousin was speaking once more.

"If you do have to marry for dynastic considerations, Shive, why not marry Tiernan? I'm sure he's innocent, and he's suffered long enough. He loved Fiachra like a brother. He'd never allow you to be harmed in any way. Surely you must realize that."

"So you're saying that one of my cousins killed Fiachra in order to marry me to get the title of tanaist, and to consolidate their claims to land and titles?" Shive asked, feeling as trapped and restless as a caged tiger. "Does it never occur to you that Mahon and Ernin might really love me for myself?"

"As a friend and companion, aye. As a sister. But as a woman deserves to be loved? No, I don't think so." Ruairi shook his head sadly, sorry to hurt his lovely cousin in this way, but determined to protect her no matter what the cost.

"But perhaps this is just what Tiernan has been looking for? A chance to get the lands through me," Shive argued, though without conviction.

Ruairi ran the fingers of one hand through his thick brown locks impatiently. "Your father is still very much alive, and Parthalan has been named as his successor. While not everyone is happy with that choice, they'll respect your father's wishes on the matter. I assure you, Tiernan is not playing a trick. I'm the one who suggested the marriage, not him."

"You did?" she gasped, stunned. "But why?"

"Tiernan wants to marry you to end the enmity between your families once and for all, and to try to make restitution for what you all think he's done to your family. He's a fair man, thoughtful, intelligent. I've never known him to lie to me, or be anything other than a loyal and faithful ally. You could do a great deal worse in a husband and life partner."

"But I might have other choices in mind for my life beside marriage. The convent, perhaps?"

Ruairi patted her hand affectionately. "With the way you go strutting around in your tunic and hose, out hunting every day, you'd never last more than a week in a convent. You're a thinker, a planner, with agile hands and more skill in the manly arts of war than I've ever seen in one so young.

"No, don't make a face, it's true. I'm not just flattering you for your accomplishments. I must say, too, it was well Aunt Afric taught you some womanly skills as well as what you learnt from the men hereabouts. The convent is not for you. You will make some great warlord an ideal wife, even if your feminine decorum does lapse from time to time. It's what you were born and bred for, Shive, despite the fact that you had a brother and cousins. You're a born leader."

Shive smiled at her cousin's teasing. "I live in a man's world, and so must compete as an equal. It would never do for me to be seen to be weak. You know how much work I've done keeping the castle here at Skeard running smoothly. My cousins haven't got a head for such things, just hunting and campaigning. But you're right. Perhaps it's about time I began to think about changing my home.

"I had thought about going to Father's castle at Rathnamagh to see if I could put my talents and skills to good use there all the time, instead of just on occasional visits, but you know he and I have never got on. We're too different, he and I. He's too ambitious. As for myself, well, I fight if I have to, but I deplore the loss of all life, and would rather seek peace."

Ruairi sighed. "I wouldn't be too hasty about leaving Skeard just yet. The truth is, Shive, I think the time may come soon when you'll have to fight tooth and nail to keep your family together and safe. I've heard rumblings of discontent against Parthalan as tanaist of the sept. It's your right to challenge him for the succession, if you so wish it. Then this castle could be yours. Or if not this one, then one of the other three."

Shive gazed at Ruairi in horror. "I couldn't possibly challenge Parthalan! What would Father say?"

"Uistean would have to accept it if it were for the good of the clan."

Shive rose from her seat abruptly, pulling her hand away from Ruairi's affectionate grasp.

"I won't challenge Parthalan! It would be the ultimate betrayal of our friendship for one another. At any rate, this is an absurd conversation. Father is still alive, so the question of the succession won't arise for many years to come."

Ruairi decided to be completely honest with his cousin. Rising from the settle to stand before her, he grasped Shive by both shoulders and gazed deeply into her violet eyes. . "My dear, don't you see, the truth is I need a strong ally in the MacDermot clan. You're the only person who can bring them all together to achieve that for me. Not your father, not your cousin. You."

For a moment Shive was convinced Ruairi would kiss her. She almost wished he would. She had always wondered.... But at the last minute, he pushed her away firmly, and pounded his fist against the wall.

"Damn it, Shive, you are just too lovely for your own good. You look at me like that, and I forget all my good resolutions, and the very reason I've come there. You must wed, and soon. But if you choose one of your cousins here at Skeard, you'll be making the biggest mistake of your life. I can't force you to marry Tiernan O'Hara. But it would be helping me in my quest for the high kingship if you did," he told her candidly.

"You're my cousin as well, Ruairi, on my mother's side. We could marry, could we not?" Shive asked, feeling a small glimmer of girlish hope kindle again in her for the first time in years.

Ruairi sighed and fingered the hilt of his short sword in frustration. Then he shoook his head, his warm, passionate expression chilling to a mask of distant regret. "I'm selfish, Shive, I admit, but not that selfish. I need what's best for me, but I won't gain it at your expense if I can possibly help it.

"Don't you think I wish I could marry you? There have been some days and nights since you came of age when I've wanted to say the hell with duty and power, that I want to be with you every moment for the rest of our lives. But I know no matter how hard you would try to be a good wife and companion to me in every way, that our destinies will force us to separate. I'm know we've been tender with one another, affectionate, but that isn't the same as love. I'm sure you don't love me as a woman loves a man. You deserve better than me, even if I am to be high king. You deserve more than a safe, comfortable marriage to a man already wed to his country, and to his own overweening ambitions.

"Ever since I was old enough to sit astride a horse, I've known deep in my heart that my destiny is to become ard ri, high king of all Ireland. I shall unite the five great provinces, starting with Connaught and Ulster, then Munster, and finally Meath and Leinster in the east. I shall be the stuff of legend, greater even than Brian Boru. I shall defy nature itself, Shive. I shall make the sun rise in the west. It shall be the dawning of a glorious new age in our land, and I shall achieve it for all our people, not just myself, no matter what the cost."

Shive stared at her cousin, whose emerald green eyes now glowed fanatically. "Some things carry a very high price indeed, Ruairi. Are you sure that it will be a price you're willing to pay?"

"I am willing," he said, fingering his sword hilt as though it were his dearest possession. "Even if it means my life, I'll sacrifice it gladly to bring about my new vision of the future. It's a future that I want you and Tiernan to share with me as my closest friends and allies. My only regret is that I shall have to renounce you, my dear." He took her hand to kiss it lingeringly.

"I do love you, Shive, as a man loves the fresh air, the sunshine. But I'd never want you to change, make you unhappy because I tried to turn you into something you weren't. I know I could never make you happy, much as I've longed to try these past few years since you've matured into a woman grown. And if my plans are to succeed, I shall have to marry well, very well indeed. A dynastic marriage, with no room for love. And no room for a mistress. No matter how passionate I might feel about any woman, my greatest love is Erin, my homeland." He indicated the rolling, snow-covered landscape with a sweep of his hand, before closing the casement against the swirl of dancing flakes wafting in.

"I would never be suitable as the future king's consort. Is that what you're telling me?" Shive challenged boldly, looking directly into Ruairi's emerald eyes.

He shook his head in dejection. "No, you most certainly wouldn't. You already cause fights amongst half of my nobleman vying for your attentions every time you come to visit me at Lissatava. It certainly wouldn't be politic to marry a Helen of Troy, now would it, my girl?" Ruairi admitted with obvious resignation, his face revealing the deep regret he felt at the loss of the only woman he had ever loved unreservedly.

Ruairi stroked Shive's cheek gently, and tried moved away to a safe distance. But his strong impulses got the better of him, and unthinkingly he pulled Shive into his arms and kissed her until he was breathless.

Shive remained passive under the kiss, neither feeling repelled by it, nor drawn irresistibly to her cousin and constant childhood companion. Ruairi could sense her mere acceptance of his kiss, and released her.

"You see, you don't love me. And I'm afraid I love my land and power more than you, Shive. It's a sad admission to make, but it's true. So please, at least give me the satisfaction of seeing you well settled with another. A man who would respect and protect you. Marrying Tiernan O'Hara would not only solve your problems, but save countless lives in one stroke."

"But why Tiernan, of all people? Would not one of the younger O'Hara brothers do as well? He is, after all, a good ten years older than myself. And as I've said, if he's really as innocent as you claim, he would surely resent me for being Uistean MacDermot's daughter."

"You need him for protection, and you're the sort of woman he needs behind him. Intelligent, able, good with her hands. Moreover, he's the sort of man I need to support me. He's honest to a fault, brave, and utterly loyal to those he casts his lot in with. You deserve the best of the O'Haras, their leader. Tiernan is that man."

"It's curious that he's never married in all these years," Shive wondered aloud, then blushed as she realized she sounded far too interested in Tiernan as a man.

Ruairi relaxed in his seat, at ease now that Shive did not seem so indignant at his suggested alliance as she had only a moment before. "There was someone about three years ago, but on the eve of their wedding she eloped with Muireadach O'Rourke, Tiernan's neighbor to the north. She died soon after. Tiernan is bitter about women generally, especially now that..."

"Go on," Shive prompted when she saw her cousin clamp his mouth shut and blush to the roots of his hair.

"Well, you'll no doubt hear of it, since it's the talk of the region. Orla, Muireadach's sister, has decided to try to improve relations between the two clans after the slight to Tiernan three years ago. While she had originally set her sights on the second brother, Lasaran, she's now in full pursuit of Tiernan. I tell you frankly, so there will be no misunderstanding or evasion between us, that it is not a marriage I could countenance as the future high king."

Shive stiffened. Ruairi's ambitions were really coming to the fore now. It was curious that she had never noticed this ruthless streak in him before. But then he had never revealed his innermost thoughts, nor ever needed her as an ally before.

She followed his thought processes to their logical conclusion. Now she sat down, her back stiff with anger. "If they married, the O'Rourkes might also get ideas that with Tiernan's clan as his allies, Muireadach could press his own claim as high king at your expense. But surely Tiernan and Muireadach wouldn't forgive each other so easily even if Orla did succeed in marrying one of the three O'Hara brothers. The political map around here does seem to be changing quite rapidly all of a sudden."

"You're sharp, coz, I give you that. Be careful you don't cut yourself one day," Ruairi warned quietly.

"So you think to solve all these problems for yourself by marrying me to Tiernan, even though you yourself are in love with me?"

Ruairi reached for her then, but she leapt up and backed away. She put the huge oak table between them as she quickly moved to the other side of the room, angry, and determined not to let him near her ever again. She was no man's plaything, not even this great warrior's.

"No, Ruairi, you started all this, so you can't play it both ways now. I will finish it. I will help you, because I have always loved you as a cousin and my best friend. I'll marry Tiernan O'Hara for the sake of my clan, and because I have nowhere else to go now that my other cousins are all proposing to me every time I find myself alone with one of them.

"In case you have any doubts about your important political alliances, I promise you, I shall look for my inheritance from my father when the time comes, and shall make Tiernan a good wife. But in exchange, you will promise never again speak to me of love. Nor will you ever see me again, except on important business, and never, ever alone."

"But Shive, I don't want to lose you completely! That would be sheer torture!" Ruairi pleaded, sounding truly desperate.

She shook her head, her rare eyes glittering with steely determination. "No, Ruairi, it cannot be. If I marry Tiernan, that will be the death of my old life, and the beginning of a new. I will never do anything to disgrace my husband or be unfaithful to him in thought or deed. I want to put the past five years of suspicion and hatred behind me, and enter Tiernan's home at Castlegarren as a hopeful bride. He was Fiachra's best friend for many years. That must testify to a good solid character."

"Yes, it does. They were closer than brothers. I can never recall a cross word between them."

She nodded. "Certainly from what I remember of him, he never seemed as bad as Father likes to paint him. But he's certainly not the kind of man who could tolerate another man making a fool of him over his wife. Nor would I wish to see your alliance with him and his clan break up because of me."

"True."

"You love me, I can see it. Or at least you think you do," she said with a sad smile. "When you meet the right woman, find real love, then you'll see all this has been youthful folly. I only hope you find love in whatever marriage you decide to make for the sake of your political ambitions. But until such time as you are safely wed, I wish you to keep your distance."

"Are you saying you don't trust me?" Ruairi asked, hurt.

"Aye, I am," she declared bluntly. "You are a man of strong passions, Ruairi. Though you've held them in check for quite some time, who's to say you could do so indefinitely? I refuse to be a Helen of Troy, as you called me before. After my marriage to Tiernan, we will be cordial friends and cousins, but no more.

"However, before we can make any further plans as to where I am to live, and what I am to do, you must go to my father, and get him to agree to your scheme. That may take a long time, and may indeed never happen at all. I must abide by his decision regarding my marriage, as you well know."

"Indeed."

She twisted her fingers together, suddenly struck by the enormity of what she was about to do by agreeing to her cousin's scheme. "This marriage also affects the entire clan. There will no doubt be many others opposed to it once the word gets out, not least of all my four cousins. There will have to be consultations, and that will take time."

"Very well, I shall go to Uistean now at Rathnamagh, and send a messenger to let you know how he received the suggestion," he said, already heading for the door.

She watched him go with regret, relief, and a new sense of her own power and purpose. She was no man's plaything. And though it was certainly a man's world, she was sure she could make a difference to her homeland if she kept her head. "Ruairi, one other thing?" Shive asked as he reached for the door latch.

"What's that, my dear?"

"If you do by some miracle get my father to agree, then the sooner the marriage takes place, the better. As I've said, the consultations will take time. Moreover, it will be Christmas soon, and the spring will be here before we know it. I would have the marriage sealed before the summer campaigning season starts. I couldn't bear it if any more lives were lost over Fiachra's death. It's not what my brother would have wanted."

Ruairi admired her for her clear thinking and selfless devotion to duty, and came over to ruffle her burgundy hair affectionately.

"You're right, Shive. The bloodshed has gone on long enough. I'll keep your sensible reasons in mind when I put my argument in front of Uistean. But the good Lord only knows how long it will take your father and the sept to consent."

"I pray it's soon, before more homes are destroyed and people left to starve or killed outright," Shive said with a barely suppressed shuddered.

Ruairi pulled her into his arms. She resisted slightly this time, but his lips were already covering hers. She allowed herself the small luxury of curiosity as his hands stroked down her back and his kiss deepened. But though she could sense his excitement, she was wooden in his arms, and merely felt relief when he finally released her.

Ruairi stroked her cheek tenderly, and vowed, "This is goodbye then, Cousin. But remember, if you ever need me for anything, you have only to ask."

"And you, Ruairi. Whatever it is, I shall try to grant it as your loyal kinsman, so long as it doesn't conflict with my duties to my own clan, or to my new husband, whoever he might be," Shive promised. She patted his hand and watched him disappear out the door of her workroom.

Shive exhaled a huge sigh once Ruairi had gone, and sat down in the window seat once again to gaze out at the heavy fall of snow. She knew in her heart that her father would never agree to Ruairi's proposal.

Once again she was forced to ponder her fate. The convent? Other cousins further abroad? A more suitable marriage? Going to live on her own in one of the clan's other castles?

She reflected once more on her marriage predicament. She was well aware that her own notions of suitability and her father's might be very different. She might end up with goodness only knew who for the sake of a political alliance.

For example, she had only ever met Muireadach O'Rourke once, but a more repellent individual she had never come across in all of her life. Oh, he was handsome, tall, broad, a great warrior with the scars to prove it, but his black eyes had glimmered with sinister intensity, almost like an eagle about to devour its prey. She had been only thirteen when he had come to Skeard to pay his respects to her family, just before Fiachra had been slain. Muireadach had tried to touch her... She had fought...

She pushed the terrible memory from her mind forcefully. Not all men were like Muireadach, she reminded herself. Though it was true that she did inhabit a largely male world, she had never been treated with such brutality before or since. She was able to hold her own in battle, and in the great hall where they all gathered together for harp-playing, story-telling and other forms of entertainment. Never once had anyone treated her with such disrespect apart from him.

But she knew she could not be content being married to just anyone. She had to have a husband whom she could admire and esteem.

Shive acknowledged to herself now, albeit reluctantly, that she had never met any man who had impressed her as much as Tiernan O'Hara. And though she still strongly suspected him of being her brother's murderer despite Ruairi's arguments to the contrary, her doubts were mainly due to the fact that no other suspects had presented themselves in the past five years since her poor brother had been killed.

But Shive was also willing to admit that Tiernan's entire clan had suffered great losses at the hands of her own sept, the MacDermots. If her father Uistean were, by some wild stretch of the imagination, to agree to the match, she was determined that she would do her utmost to restore their family fortunes. She would help the two clans to live side by side, if not amicably, then at least peacefully.

One final point which she considered to be in Tiernan's favor was that though he might well resent her, he was by far the strongest warlord in the area next to her own father. He would serve as an admirable protector.

In addition, as a great warrior, he would be away much of the time. She would have to be a wife, possibly even a mother, but her freedom would not be completely curtailed.

She was encouraged by Ruairi's information that Tiernan had had no use for women since he had been jilted three years before. Lots of men took concubines, having no interest in their wives except as political allies. If Tiernan was fond of the O'Rourke girl, he would leave Shive herself alone.

It wasn't that Tiernan wasn't handsome. In fact he was stunning in every way. But just because she might have to give her hand to him in marriage didn't mean she had to give herself to him body and soul, now did it? There was more to a marriage than love, romance and passion. There was companionship, understanding, compassion, friendship too.

This was, after all, a dynastic marriage. Surely a man like Tiernan would never fall in love with a hoyden like herself. She could do her best to modify her behavior so as not to cause anyone offense in her new home, if wed him she did. But she was so unworldly, unsophisticated compared to someone like Orla O'Rourke. It was ridiculous to even imagine that she could try to compete for his attentions.

But perhaps he was a man worth competing for, she suddenly thought with a mischievous grin. Shive recalled the way Tiernan had looked when she had last seen him five years before. She had always admired his raven black hair, which had fallen to his shoulders in shimmering ebony waves, and his deeply tanned skin, the result of so many years out campaigning every summer.

Tiernan had finely molded features, and unlike most Irishmen of her day, his beard and mustache were closely and neatly trimmed, and served to enhance his manly features. He had fine lips, and even teeth, which glinted pearly white the rare times he had ever smiled in her presence.

But it was Tiernan's eyes that were most arresting. They were an unusually dark blue, like the stormy sea, or a dark winter's night, Shive mused fancifully.

Shive recalled that Tiernan had always held her at distance as Fiachra's much younger sister, though he had always been kind to her. He could not have changed that much in the past five years, could he? Surely Ruairi would never have suggested the match had he any doubts that she would be treated well in her new home.

Shive also recollected with some embarrassment that she had had a childish amour for Tiernan many years before. But at the tender age of twelve or thirteen, what girl wouldn't have fantasized about him? He had towered over her own tall lanky frame by at least a foot, was built of solid rippling muscle, and had bested her brother in every mock fight they had ever engaged in.

But then, she had often beaten Fiachra too, she remember with a small smile as she recalled the secret training sessions her brother, and her youngest cousins Mahon and Ernin had allowed her to participate in behind her father's back.

"Learn how to fight for what you want," Fiachra had always advised. "If it's worth having, it's worth fighting for."

Shive admitted to herself that compared to Ruairi or her cousins, Tiernan O'Hara was the most handsome and powerful man in the region by a long way.

But Shive shuddered as she recollected those eyes, so dark, so all-seeing, so perceptive that they seemed to stare into her very soul the few times he had ever paid any close attention to her. For the most part though, when she had been growing up, he had looked her with casual indifference. How much more terrifying those remarkable eyes would be glaring at her with hatred as a result of all that had happened between their families since they'd last met.

Shaking herself out of her reverie, Shive moved over to her loom to weave a few more rows, and tried to push such ridiculous fancies from her mind. For one thing, her father would never agree to the marriage anyway, so there was no point in worrying about something that would never occur. There was the cloth bolt to finish, dinner to be seen to, and several books of household accounts to go over before they could start getting things organized for their Christmas celebrations.

Shive tugged off her thick sheepskin jerkin and left it on the back of her chair as she ventured down into the cozier kitchen. Rolling up her sleeves, she joined her cousins' servants in helping to prepare the meal for the rest of the family.

Normally an aristocratic Irishwoman would never have soiled her hands with manual labor, but Shive was a firm believer in leading by example. Anything she expected the servants to do, she ought to be able to do herself. Actively running the kitchens also ensured that there was no waste or peculation of the household moneys, which she had kept a watchful eye on ever since she had been old enough to add and subtract.

Shive tried to keep her mind off her conversation with Ruairi as she stirred the venison stew and added more seasonings. She reminded herself that the wedding would never take place if her father could help it.

All the same, she couldn't help wondering as she chopped vegetables and sliced bread, what it would be like to see the handsome and enigmatic Tiernan O'Hara again.

THE HART AND THE HARP

Sorcha MacMurrough

Ireland, 1146

ISBN 13: 978-1-58345-030-7

Word Count= 127,000

Rating: Mild to moderate sensuality

Price $4.99
<A target=_blank href=hart.buy>No Frames: Click here for "Buy Now" button</A>
Reviews:

Shive MacDermot knows that marriage to Tiernan O'Hara could end the five-year feud her father has waged on the O'Hara clan, but she is equally sure her father would never agree to such a match, especially since he claims Tiernan murdered Shive's brother. When Uistean gives the go-ahead, Shive is surprised and relieved at the thought of ending the bloody feud. Not likely, as it turns out. Uistean still wants to exact revenge on Tiernan and the O'Haras, even at the expense of his daughter, for whom he cares very little.

Tiernan and Shive marry, and she sets out to win her new husband's respect, and hopefully his affection. She begins to organize his home and lands, and earns the admiration of all those in the O'Hara clan, but her husband's trust remains elusive.

Shive soon realizes her new husband could never have murdered his best friend, and with dawning horror, also realizes the murderer must have been someone from her own clan.

Guilt and a sense of responsibility overtake her, and in an effort to right the wrongs done to Tiernan for the past five years, she embarks on a campaign to save him from her crazed father.

More dangerous to Tiernan and the O'Hara clan, however, is the menacing Muireadach O'Rourke, who will stop at nothing in his quest to become the ruler of Ireland. Tiernan and his clan are standing in his way, and Shive is determined to save Tiernan, even if it means losing his love forever.

THE HART AND THE HARP is an action packed, plot-driven novel filled with adventure and danger. Although Shive and Tiernan are the main characters, Shive is clearly at the forefront -- a brave, intelligent woman with a fierce heart and loads of courage.

Tiernan is the weaker of the two and at times I found myself wondering why Tiernan was her "ideal" mate. There is almost a role reversal in this story line, which I find both intriguing and refreshing. With such intensity in its plot lines, there is little need to focus on other characters, although the development of the secondary characters is well done.

THE HART AND THE HARP is not for the faint of heart -- but it will please those looking for a rollicking adventure and a bigger than life heroine.

Astrid Kinn

Romance Reviews Today

Enormously Entertaining

This is another fantastically clever romantic suspense novel from this prolific and talented writer. From the first sentence we are plunged into the world of twelfth-century Irish power politics in which nothing is as it seems. The marriage of convenience has been done before, but never quite as sensually as this.

I admire the hero enormously for his courage, fortitude and obvious love for the heroine despite all the difficulties they must face in learning to trust one another. His stubborn pride does keep them apart, but Shive the heroine too has reasons of her own for avoiding admitting she loves Tiernan body and soul. This novel shows that where there is true love, it will find a way. Exuberant and joyous, it is a thoroughly enjoyable read. - Evelyn Trimborn

THE HART AND THE HARP Sorcha MacMurrough Ireland, 1146 ISBN 13: 978-1-58345-030-7 Word Count= 127,000 Rating: Mild to moderate sensuality Price $4.99

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Summer Wedding Favors Part I

Admin — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:10:20 +0000

The summer is a very popular time for weddings. In fact June is one of the most popular times of the year for couples to get married. It is a tradition dating back centuries, along with the honeymoon, and couples married in June are thought to have better luck than those wed at other times of the year. The nice weather is one of the primary reasons that many couples opt for this time of year for their wedding. (Also, vacation time, just like the olden days!) There is less of a chance that bad weather will affect plans, and couples can consider outdoor weddings. Other couples simply enjoy the summertime and opt to have their wedding at this time of year for that reason alone. Whatever the reason the couple opts for a summer wedding, they are likely to want to incorporate the idea of summer into their color scheme, and the wedding favors they give to their guests. Traditional hues related to nature are one way to go, but if you are a more hip, contemporary couple, there are a number of fun themes you can consider. Beach themed wedding favors Beach themed weddings are very popular in the summertime. The couple may be having the ceremony and reception on the beach, or they may simply be incorporating a beach theme into an indoor wedding. In both cases, however, the couple will likely opt to give the guests some type of favor related to the beach. Magnets shaped like sandals, palm trees, coconuts, and other 'beach party' type items are a very popular option for weddings this time of year or for wedding featuring a beach theme. You can have a luau inside or outside, with colorful plastic glasses, silk or paper leis, beach blanket magnets, the only limit is your imagination and budget. Candles Another great idea for a favor for a summertime wedding is a candle designed to reflect the season. Candles in the shape of seashells or even votive candles in holders designed to look like sand pails are both great ideas. There are even candles in the shape of turtles, dolphins and whales available. These may be more expensive, but depending on your budget for wedding favors, they might be a viable option. For more ideas, see Summer Wedding Favors Part II

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A Clinton win IS still possible

Admin — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 10:46:04 +0000

I am so tired of hearing this bull about how H. Clinton's defeat is inevitable. Excuse me, but up until recently, there was a field of 5 candidates, and she looked the strongest by far, and indeed, unstoppable. If she is as awful as everyone is now all trying to make her out to be, why was she not stopped dead in her tracks YEARS ago, not at the 11th hour of the Democratic campaign. And she still has not been stopped. Seat the delegates of Michigan and Florida, and THEN tell us who is winning. If Obama really is a Democrat, he should be 100% in favor of those voters NOT being disenfranchised. There is nothing inevitable about any of this except that if the Democrats don't stop bickering, we will have an even more doddering Republican in the White House carrying on a war that has caused more suffering globally, and in our own country, than we have EVER suffered before, with no end in sight. Any true patriot should vote for whoever wins the Democratic party nomination. End of story. Anything else truly IS bias.

The Miss Matched -A Regency Romance Novel

Admin — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 20:45:55 +0000

The Miss Matched The Rakehell Regency Series Book 3 Sorcha MacMurrough Off the shelf, into the fire!
The Miss Matched Book Three of The Rakehell Regency Series Sorcha MacMurrough

Too Many Men?

Pamela Ashton finds herself driven to distraction by the number of suitors beating a path to her door now that she has come of age. From the handsome but reticent Earl of Ferncliffe to the dashing but impecunious Captain Breedon, she is confronted with a bewildering array of men all determined to make her their own.

But does she want to be a mere ornament or possession of a greedy fortune-hunter? A breeder of children and the queen of knitting and tatting? Or is she destined for something more?

Only the debonair local vicar Jonathan Deveril seems to see Pamela as something other than a curvaceous but empty-headed socialite with a huge fortune. Is it possible that Jonathan holds the key to her future, and her heart?

But as Pamela and Jonathan grow ever closer, the dark forces from his past begin to swarm all around the couple, threatening scandal and ruin which will pull them apart forever. Jonathan is accused of betraying Pamela in the worst possible way. Pamela must trust her heart and love to seek the truth, and ally herself with Jonathan despite the censure of Regency society if they are ever to defeat their enemies and secure their hearts' desire.

The Miss Matched Book Three of The Rakehell Regency Series Sorcha MacMurrough Rating: Moderately sensual Word count=93,000 <a href=miss.buy.htm target=_blank>View Buy Now button</a>

An Excerpt from The Miss Matched:
The Earl of Ferncliffe came up just then, and was about to offer Pamela the last dance. Jonathan took her hand before the other man could utter a word. "Sorry, old chap, she's mine."

He led her onto the floor for the final quadrille, ignoring her stunned look.

Once they were in their correct places in the set, she asked, "What was that all about? You and Sarah were leaving. Now you've forced her to stand up with the Earl. Not that she'll mind, but you didn't even ask me."

He raised his brows. "Did I not? How remiss of me. I meant to."

Pamela stared at him, resplendent in a dark evening with a russet embroidered waistcoat and russet cravat. "Just what game are you playing, Mr. Deveril?"

Jonathan smiled at her as if he had not got a care in the world. "Game? No game. Am I not allowed to dance with the liveliest young girl in the room?"

"I suppose," she said doubtfully.

"Unless of course you really did want to stand up with the Earl?"

She shook her head, setting her blond ringlets dancing. "I did not have any strong preference one way or the other. I just wondered at your abrupt decision to join in the ball at last, and the manner in which you took me over."

A small smile played upon his lips. "I am sorry, I shan't do it again. Obviously you would rather dance with any other man in the room than an elderly, paternal chap like myself."

"Oh, please, don't start another quarrel. I never meant to say you were--"

"I know. I was teasing. I do apologise."

Her blue gaze met his grey one, and she could see a jovial twinkle.

"I'm sorry, Pamela. I should never have brought it up again. I know you were not being critical and I should not tease you so." He bowed. "I ask your pardon. And for the dance as well. In future, I shall most certainly give you advance notice before I drag you on the dance floor and step all over your feet."

She smiled back at him now. "You know full well that I find you the best dancer in the County, of all the men I have ever had the privilege to stand up with, of course."

"Why thank you." He inclined his head once more. "You have never spoken so warmly to me before. If I may, I would like to return the compliment. You are the best dancer of all the women in my acquaintance. Now, if you can only recognise that there is more to your life and character than endless seeking of balls and other entertainments, we shall all be very happy."

The Miss Matched Book Three of The Rakehell Regency Series Sorcha MacMurrough Rating: Moderately sensual Word count=93,000 <a href=miss.buy.htm target=_blank>View Buy Now button</a>

Reviews:

Five stars, Gorgeous love story, vivid Regency romance

This excellent series of novels continues with the love story of Jonathan Deveril, the third of the Rakehells in the series we have met so far. Jonathan has led a colorful life in the past, but thanks to the Peninsular War, has found God, and devoted himself to the Church, duty, and honor.

All of his good intentions are nearly undone when he meets Pamela Ashton, the most glamorous of the local Brimley beauties. He sees vast potential within her, if only she will use her head for more than just holding up her stylish hair-do.

Pamela starts falling in love with Jonathan almost before she realises it. Included in his Rakehell set, and on a trip to Bath to stay at the Duke of Ellesmere's townhouse, Pamela grows more in love with Jonathan every day. She works hard against worldly temptation and social injustice as she aspires to be a better woman and good wife to the young vicar. The joy and wildfire passion she experiences from their almost daily contact is like nothing she ever imagined possible even in her wildest dreams.

But Pamela soon begins to wonder why, just as they seem to get so close she is sure he will propose, he backs away from their growing intimacy.

Soon news reaches her ears of the most appalling scandal touching Jonathan. In view of how he has treated her, the nightmarish tale seems to make sense. That he has betrayed her in every way possible, the better to get his hands on her considerable fortune.

But Pamela's heart tells her a different tale, to trust to love. With the help of the Duke of Ellesmere, Pamela uncovers the dark secrets of Jonathan's past that have prevented him from sweeping Pamela off her feet as he longs to. Only through her love and the vanquishing of his enemies can Jonathan ever move from his darkness into the light of love, hope and joy at last.

This is an excellent novel, a true love story as we share all the delight and turmoil of this wonderful couple falling in love. Pamela grows up wonderfully thanks to Jonathan, his sister Sarah, and the Rakehells, and surprises us as well as herself with all she is capable of.

Jonathan is a delight, his marvelous character taking center stage amid his beguiling Rakehell companions.

The Rakehells, as usual, are excellent secondary characters that support but do not intrude upon the flow of this compelling love story.

The Gothic elements of the book are spine-tingling. The sensual elements are just perfect, promising an explosive passion which does not disappoint. The book is fast-paced, and the interaction between the couple is enthralling. Jonathan is an enigma, and really keeps us guessing as to whether he will choose duty, or love. The suspense elements are great. I was really on the edge of my seat seeing what would happen next.

Readers of traditional Regency romance novels will be captivated by the author's command of the Regency period, the wonderful but tasteful love scenes, and her sumptuous attention to detail.

This is what historical fiction, and historical romance novels, should be: Great characters, fantastic meaty plot, and gorgeous love scenes with a couple who well and truly fall in love and get their happily ever after, despite all the trials and tribulations they endure. The Miss Matched is definitely a keeper!

Evelyn Trimborn

The Miss Matched Book Three of The Rakehell Regency Series Sorcha MacMurrough Rating: Moderately sensual Word count=93,000 <a href=miss.buy.htm target=_blank>View Buy Now button</a>

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Summer Wedding Favors Part II

Admin — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 00:11:54 +0000

(Continued from Summer Wedding Favors Part I) Flowers We've already mentioned paper leis. Other kinds of artificial flowers can also be appropriate as wedding favors for a summer wedding. If you're planning to have flowers as your centerpieces on the tables you might want to give each of your guests a single flower like the ones used in your centerpieces as a favor. This is a great idea because when you do this your favors will also serve to enhance the decor at your reception by closely matching the centerpieces and color theme of your wedding. Giving a fresh flower or nosegay as a favor is appropriate but not a lasting memento, so you might also opt to give an artificial flower. Some of your guests may dry or press the fresh flowers, but the majority of them will simply discard the flower once it wilts. Picture Frames Picture frames are also very popular as wedding favors for summertime weddings. This is because picture frames come in so many different styles. You're definitely likely to find a picture frame which has a definite summer feel to it. There are picture frames which feature beach scenes, picture frames adorned with seashells, or flamingos, or a wide variety of other fun beach-y or summery ideas. Picture frames can not only be found in a wide variety of styles and sizes, but are also very practical gifts, and don't cost too much. Many wedding guests enjoy receiving picture frames as wedding favors because they will now have a place to store a photo of your wedding once you get around to mailing them. c Still other wedding guests enjoy receiving picture frames as wedding favors simply because they always have use for another picture frame and can use this frame to store pictures of friends or family members. They can also 're-gift' them if they are really not the picture frame type. But something classy and tasteful won't be an unwelcome gift that will end up in the trash. Other Summer Wedding Favors You might also match your theme to your honeymoon, especially if you are heading off for a popular and beach-y destination like Florida, Hawaii, or the Caribbean. You could even stretch the sunshine theme to a safari if you like strong contrasting colors and dramatic prints. One thing is for sure. Summer is a popular time of year to get married. So make your wedding, and your wedding favor, stand out, with something fun, practical, and memorable. 792 words

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Surviving Spring Allergies

Admin — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 10:59:35 +0000

It's that time of year again, when pollen and other environmental outdoor allergens rear their ugly heads and become an eye-watering ordeal. For 10 great tips on how to deal with spring allergies, have a look at this article. http://www.webmd.com/allergies/features/how-to-survive-spring-allergies?ecd=wnl_day_040808 It will help you make the most of the brighter, sunnier weather!

The Art of Love -Modern Romance Novel

Admin — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 20:46:56 +0000

The Art of Love

Evelyn Trimborn <A href=art.buy.htm target=_blank> No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button</A>

Struggling Dublin artist Shannon Butler is in the middle of a hugely successful show at her gallery when estranged family member Marius Winters appears, hell-bent on revenge. After years away from Ireland, he turns up to accuse her of robbing him of his rightful inheritance.

Shannon is able to convince him that though appearances are against her, she's innocent. Marius is forced to look at his scheming new wife Maggie as the culprit, and begins to see Shannon in a whole new light. He files for divorce, and tried to get his life back on track.

Shannon takes pity on his situation, and soon they become friends and business partners. Thrown together by circumstances, they try to make up for the mistakes of the past. They grow ever closer, and Shannon finally has to admit to herself that she's falling hopelessly in love with the magnetic Marius Winters.

But just when Shannon thinks their way is clear for them to build a future together, Marius' lying ex-wife comes to her with a story so shocking, Shannon knows that even if it isn't true, it could well destroy any chance of happiness she and Marius might have. How can Shannon find the truth, and prevent her new-found love Marius from sacrificing their love for the sake of principle, and leaving her forever?

Shannon began to push in through her front door of the cottage when it was yanked open. Marius stood towering over her in the doorway.

"You're home early. What's the matter, your boyfriend Tim not up to an all-night session?" he sneered as he pulled her inside roughly by the elbow.

"I wasn't with Tim!" she protested, shaking him off.

In fact, she had forgotten all about her unpleasant dinner with the other man. She wondered if she should explain about the packet of letters tim had purloined from Marius' soon-to-be-ex-wife Maggie, but restrained herself. He was obviously in no mood to deal with any aggravation at the moment.

"Oh please, spare me the innocent act. I've seen it before, remember! I saw you with him. I was inside the gallery. Now you come home at nine in the morning, looking like something the cat would turn its nose up at, and have the gall to tell me you were alone last night?" Marius roared, shaking her.

"Marius, you have no right. You're...."

"What am I?" he shouted in agony. "I don't know any more! I've lost myself somewhere. Just when I thought I'd found the real me again, when happiness was within my grasp if I had the courage to stretch out my hand and reach for it, it's all been swept away. All of this has been like an earthquake, shaking the foundations of my life and leaving nothing but devastation behind. And it seems I was wrong anyway, with you acting like a whore."

The word stung Shannon into losing control at last.

Before she even realized her hand had moved, her hand made blistering contact with his lean hard cheek.

"Damn you, Marius, I was at Rosie's! Pick up the phone and ring if you don't believe me! And I don't care if you do or not! I'm a grown woman, who makes my own decisions. Give me credit for some common sense, not to mention taste. Do you seriously believe I could sleep with a user like Tim? And even if I had, what the hell gives you the right--"

Something in his eyes told her that he was about to make it his right. God, he was going to kiss her...

She stepped back out of his reach before he did the unthinkable, and before she made it worse still, and melted in his arms, giving in to her aching desires at last...

Reviews

"This novel has everything you could want from a contemporary romance: a lovely heroine we can identify with; a sexy hero who exudes testosterone from every pore, but can be a "new man" when he lets himself go; and an almost insurmountable obstacle to their happiness.

There is also mystery and intrigue, and some gorgeous descriptive language. I was moved to tears by the couple's plight, and exultant at the end. Fast-paced, suspenseful, I was hooked from the moment the incredible Marius Winters walked into Shannon's gallery raising hell. Enjoy!"

From Amazon: Five star reviews:

A reader from Dublin, Ireland It sizzles! Nothing like forbidden love and high tension to make a book move! A real ripper from start to finish! What a hunky man! And a cracking good heroine too! More like this one, please! A reader from Manchester, England A great read, sexy!! Sizzling from start to finish. I really enjoyed every word of it, and couldn't wait to find out what happened next. Great characters-can't wait to see more from this author.
The editor, S McNally A great new talent in the world of contemporary romance The trouble with genre romances is that they can be very predictable. The formula might sell, but do we really all want to read the same books? Or be censored? Confess! How many of you out there have submitted manuscripts to certain romance lines which shall remain nameless, only to be told that you have broken some of their official or unofficial taboos?
But brilliant romance writing speaks for itself, and as an editor I was not about to stifle this hot new talent's creativity. Look no further for real heroes and heroines, suspense and the thrill of falling in love, even in the face of the most overwhelming obstacles.

The Art of Love by Evelyn Trimborn Word Count: 75,000 Setting: Modern Ireland Rating: Mildly sensual <A href=art.buy.htm target=_blank> No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button</A>

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Reply to recent Op Ed piece on Bill Clinton

Admin — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 20:47:30 +0000

TO Sonya Ross, AP I read your op ed piece today with interest, and while I think you believe you are being clever, you are actually being racist yourself, and unfairly judgmental. The frustration we have all sensed and seen in Bill Clinton has nothing to do with race. As you point out, he did more for the African Americans of this country than any president before. His frustration stems from his being a powerful personality, accustomed to power, and a husband taking a very very personal, perhaps too personal, interest in his wife's campaign. No one cares about Michele Obama's unskillful remarks, or if they do, it is not getting one fraction of the media attention that his every move does. His frustration stems from the fact that H Clinton was clearly the front-runner going in, with 30 years under her belt, and then a new candidate with barely two, basically appears to be running away with the whole election. Except that if Obama were unstoppable, she would not have been able to stop him, as she has. He has not won a single large state, and is not so far in the delegate count than anyone can ever say this is a foregone conclusion. Obama may have had some high profile endorsements early on, but he has not sewn this up yet, and according the rules he continues to tout, he would be short on delegates too. On the other hand, if he were a true Democrat, he would want to see the Michigan and Florida delegates seated. He has stopped that from happening at every turn. Why not seat them? Because they broke the rules? Why not have another primary? Decide it once and for all, fairly? This is the source of B. Clinton's frustration-because the quicksand shifted, and now the rules are out the window and bogging down not only his wife's campaign, but the whole effort to win the White House. He wants to see he getting on with the business of helping this country, not running the gauntlet of her critics over and over again, let alone Obama, with his rude sexist digs at her at every turn. (And ask yourself this: you don't want to betray your race, Ms. Ross, but you are prepared to set back the cause of equal rights for women how many decades as you try to yank the rug out from under Hillary Clinton?) Obama has shown what he is made of since he first came to our attention. A meteoric rise is usually followed by an equally meteoric fall. She has stayed the course with guts and resilience, putting herself through what NO presidential candidate has EVER had to put up with before, or ever will in the future. And believe me, I am NO fan-she is as flawed as the rest of the political candidates this country seems to be so super at churning out. I was rooting for Edwards myself. I am not voting for Obama because he is so inexperienced, and because, as YOUR most recent AP poll showed, those of us who do actually know who he is now see him to be inexperienced, unethical, and dishonest. Clinton's admiration for H. Clinton's determination, for the sacrifices she has made for years, her energy, her efforts. He does not want to just sit back and see it all count for nothing in the end. Yes, she can still be a Senator, but everything she has done for years has been leading up to her becoming the kind of commander in chief that he was. So it makes him impatient, true, but it does NOT make him racist. And as we have seen, and your article indicates, racism works both ways, and when combined with sexism, is particularly ugly. He is impatient, as we all are, for her to win fair and square, as she will, and deservedly so, and then beat the stuffing out of McCain and get to the White House. Why deservedly so? Because all the other horses in the field were not able to keep up with her, or catch up with her, and her victory is going to be in the face of the most outright sexism any reasonably intelligent, prosperous country, should completely reject in the same way that it should reject racism, ageism, discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, and so forth. And because the alternative is 4 more years of Republican misrule, and more of the suffering the Bush administration has not only inflicted on the world with this war, but has resulted in the American people all now being plunged into the worst recession this country has seen in 20 years. Any true Democrat will want ALL the delegates to be seated, and any true PATRIOT will vote for the Democrat who wins, regardless of personal feeling, opinion, or any other hidden agenda, because the alternative of McCain is just to horrific to even contemplate. The more everyone keeps producing devisive columns like yours, the less likely that is to happen. We ALL have our opinions--you using your position to inflame the race issue even further than you already claim it is, is completely irresponsible. And only makes all Obama supporters seem even more polarized and naive than they already do, especially after last week's debate (or was it a debacle for Obama?) It makes many people ask: are all Obama supporters all just strikingly fanatical-or racist and/or sexist themselves?

The Matchless Miss - A Regency Romance Novel

Admin — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:47:52 +0000

The Matchless Miss The Rakehell Regency Series Book 4 Sorcha MacMurrough Off the shelf, into the fire! England, 1814

Spinster Sarah Deveril is content to live quietly with her brother and his wife in the rolling English countryside, tending house at the vicarage, and working for the benefit of the poor. Though wealthy and beautiful, she has never met any man who stirred her heart, until a mysterious visitor with the same name as her brother appears on her doorstep.

The man she re-christens "Alexander" is blind and wounded as a result of the Peninsular War, with no recollection of who he really is. Taking pity on the desperate, and exceptionally handsome gentleman, Sarah nurses him back to health, and sets him on the path to discover his past, and how he came to be so terribly injured.

The more Alexander discovers about his true identity, the more he simply wants to linger with the rare woman who has come to mean more to him than life itself. But ignorance is a luxury he and Sarah cannot afford, as the enemies from his past make various attempts upon his life.

Only Sarah stands between Alexander and certain death as the men who betrayed their country for the sake of Napoleon scheme to kill Alexander before he can expose their treason. Can she save her one true love, or will their love become just another casualty of the long, terrible war?
The Matchless Miss The Rakehell Regency Series Book 4 Sorcha MacMurrough Rating: Sensual Word Count=97,000 &lt;A href=matchless.buy.htm target=_blank&gt; No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button&lt;/A&gt;

Chapter One

Late April 1814

As her horse trotted briskly along the road toward the Brimley vicarage, Sarah Deveril sat back in her carriage seat with the reins firmly in her hands and went over her mental list of important chores.

Her schedule had been severely disrupted and wildly hectic this past month. Now that her brother Jonathan was safely married to his lovely blond wife Pamela, things would finally get back to normal.

Or as normal as they ever could be in a large, busy parish. She only hoped that none of the several local women due to give birth any day had come looking for her whilst she had been over at Eltham Castle enjoying the wedding festivities and then helping with the newlyweds' send-off.

She hurried home in their small gig, her spirits bubbling. She was delighted the ceremony and reception had gone so well. The happy couple were even now heading north for their honeymoon.

Their closest friends the Elthams and Stones had also just departed, going to Ireland for the summer, so she would have few social distractions for the next few weeks and could catch up on her many chores. She could perhaps even have a bit of a holiday of her own once she did.

This happy thought was interrupted by a low growl reminiscent of an animal in pain. She looked up at the sky quickly. The odd rumbles of thunder she had heard as she had set off for home from Eltham Castle continued even though the sun was shining. Except they sounded much closer now.

Sarah whipped up the horse smartly, and pulled into the drive next to the gray stone vicarage a few minutes later. She called to her manservant Caleb to put the gelding and gig in the stable, and hurried into the house through the covered front portico.

A small elderly woman with silver hair greeted her in the long narrow hall. "Glad you got home before the storm, Miss Sarah."

She flicked a few stray drops from her shoulders and midnight-black hair. "Yes, indeed, Jenny. How is everything?"

"Just fine. Beautiful wedding, so it was."

Sarah smiled and nodded enthusiastically. "It was indeed." Sarah shed her pale blue cloak and bonnet and hung them on the hook in the hall.

"Did the Elthams get away all right?"

She slid off her shoes and scuffed into a comfortable pair of black slippers which she kept underneath the clothes pegs. "Yes, thanks, and the Stones. Plus the Ashtons' house is all closed up now too."

"You're a wonder, Miss. Don't know what everyone would do without you to keep them straight."

Sarah smiled. "Thank you, Jenny. I don't know what my brother and I would do without you keeping both of us sorted. No emergencies?"

"Not a peep."

"Remarkable. Well, it certainly will be quiet around here with all of the Rakehells away."

"It will indeed, Miss. But I daresay you'll find something to keep you busy. Not a waif nor stray comes past this house that you don't help."

She shook her head. "I do little enough. You make me sound like a saint."

The older woman smiled at her fondly. "You do a great deal more than most. It was a wonderful day when the Duke gave your brother this parish."

Sarah smoothed down the skirts of her dark blue day gown and inspected her ebony hair in the small pier glass. "Thank you. We do both love it here and count ourselves very fortunate indeed."

She strode into the chamber she used as a small study. "Well, there might not have been many callers, but I'm sure there's a mountain of correspondence to sort though."

"Aye, right enough, a fair few letters."

"Can you please fetch me a pot of tea?"

The older woman beamed. "Gladly, Miss. Supper at the usual time?"

Sarah had already begun flicking through the letters on the tray, sorting them into hers and Jonathan's. "Oh, yes, thank you."

Another rumble of thunder shook the house.

Jenny looked up in mild alarm. "My, that sounds close."

"Never fear. Let's just be grateful none of us is out on such a wild evening, though one does have to feel sorry for the poor beasts in the fields."

"Aye, but I am glad you hurried back smartish. Caleb says he heard tell that the Almanac gives wild storms indeed. I'll just fetch that tea."

Sarah could feel the wind howling all around the house, circling like a wild animal stalking its prey. She put the letters to one side for a moment to run through the house shutting all the windows against the furious gusts tearing at the lace curtains.

She was shaken in its wind's cold jaws as she struggled against the spring gale's might and power to slam the last casement closed.

Sarah pushed her heavy fall of dark hair out of her eyes and crammed her hairpins in more tightly to try to tidy the wind-swept bun. She only hoped everything outside was secure.

"Caleb, are the horses and milkers all safe in the outbuildings, and everything battened down?" she called to the back of the house.

"I'll go back out just to make sure, Miss," Jenny's husband said.

"Thank you, Caleb. Do be careful."

"Aye, Miss. No need to worry about an old reprobate like me." He waved and stepped out of the kitchen door.

Sarah was just about to settle herself by the roaring fire in her small study to read her letters when she heard a rap at the front portal.

She hurried out into the hall and reached to open the latch herself without standing on ceremony and waiting for Jenny to answer it.

A huge flash of lightning lit up the sky behind the towering figure, throwing him into shadow. For a moment she thought the ground was shaking under her feet. Then she realized the strength of the wind was actually tugging at the woven mat she was standing upon, snatching at the hem of her skirts.

"Yes, can I help you?" she said, raising her voice above the whistling wind.

"Is this the home of Jonathan Deveril?" the tall, shabbily-dressed man asked.

Sarah struggled to keep the door from being torn out of her grasp and nodded and smiled. "Yes, that's right."

He stepped up into the small porch. "Major Jonathan Deveril?"

"Yes, he did hold that rank not so long ago. Can I help you?" she asked again.

The dark-haired stranger, who looked to be in his late twenties, fumbled with his hat and stared at her.

"He isn't at home. Is there something I can help you with?"

"It's just that, well- Do you not recognize me?" He held out his hand in mute appeal.

She realized with a start that he was blind.

Sarah stared at the handsome face, with a high brow, elegant nose, and the most piercing pair of pale golden eyes she had ever seen. An aquiline nose, generous lips, and a finely hewn chin with a cleft completed his god-like appearance.

The only mar to his absolute perfection was a scar which ran from the corner of his left eye back into his hairline, giving him a Devil-may-care look which was both stirring and disturbing.

"No. I've never seen you before. Should I know you?" she asked in confusion.

"Yes, of course, if I have the right house. My name is Jonathan Deveril."

Sarah stared at him. This had to be some sort of prank.

Yet he didn't look like a rogue or rattle. The man had a most dignified bearing, tall and straight, aristocratic even despite his badly mended poor-quality brown homespun garments.

She guessed he had to be one of the other Rakehells, her brother Jonathan's group of Radical friends who had gone to school and then served in the Army together. He must have been delayed and thus missed the wedding.

Normally it would be another round of backslapping and tattoo-showing all around, except that they were all away on their various travels.

Still, he had obviously come a long way, the weather was growing more and more inclement, and the poor man was weary-looking and blind.

Sarah took one last look, and decided quickly that she had better get a guestroom prepared. She firmly ignored the voice of propriety reminding her it was completely unsuitable to do so now that she was living alone in the vicarage for the summer.

"Please come in, sir. My name is Sarah. I wasn't expecting anyone to stay. But if you're willing to take me as you find me, you're more than welcome, Mr. er-"

"Deveril. I've told you. Jonathan Deveril."

She was not going to argue with him when lightning was already streaking the almost black sky, and the smell of sulfur choked the air.

She clutched his arm and led him over the threshold carefully. "Please, sir, do hurry. The rain will be here any moment."

She heaved the door shut against the wind, and just in time too. A telltale patter against the portal as he removed his greatcoat told him the fierce storm which had menaced him on the road had arrived at last.

"Thank you so much. It's so difficult not being able to see. Often people try to take advantage, cheat you. I've found that out the hard way."

"I'm so sorry to hear that," she said sincerely. "A man like yourself, who's obviously fought for his country, shouldn't be treated with such rudeness and contempt."

She led him into their fine Wedgwood drawing room and over to a simple wooden settle by the fire which Jenny often used when she was sitting with her shelling peas or peeling potatoes.

"You'll forgive the lack of comfort, but you're rather mired from your travels. I'll ask the servants to prepare a bath, if I may."

"A bath!" He sounded flabbergasted.

"You're not one of those people who think it's a dangerous thing, are you?" she asked with a small frown.

The man smiled for the first time, and his handsome face became even more breathtaking. "Not at all. I was just thinking I can't recall the last time I had one. What luxury. It's been well, weeks, months, I suppose."

"You've had a long journey, but you're welcome here," she reassured him, trying not to stare at his incredible face and physique.

"Anything I can do for your comfort, you have only to ask."

"A bath would be remarkable, but I would not wish to put anyone to such troubleÃ¢â‚¬â€"

"Nay, no trouble at all," she hastened to reassure him. "The bathing chamber is here on the first floor, so no one has to run up and down, and in fact, we have hot and cold running water thanks to a fresh stream on the property, and a large copper boiler. "

"Do you indeed." She could seeing him digesting this information, assessing anew his situation.

Obviously what he concluded about her and her hospitality was favorable, for he visibly relaxed and stretched out his hands and feet to soak up the warmth of the fire.

"I'll just go tell the servants to fill the boiler. I shall bring you a basin to wash your hands, and a light repast to tide you over until supper. If I'm not mistaken, it will be roast beef and Yorkshire pudding."

"It sounds wonderful," he said with a sigh. "I will place myself in your hands. Thank you so much."

She smiled back at him, then recollected that he could not see her. She ventured to touch his shoulder. "You're very welcome."

She studied his remarkable face once more, hoping for a clue as to his identity, but was sure they had never met.

She went into the kitchen at the back of the house, where Jenny was just starting to prepare the Yorkshire pudding batter.

"I was just letting the tea steep."

"Oh, thank you. But that's not why I'm here. How long until everything is ready, Jenny?"

"You said regular time, so about another hour, Miss."

She took two cups from the Welsh dresser and poured out a drop of the tea, sipped, and put the other cup on the table. She added milk and sugar to the other. "You and Caleb can have the rest of the pot."

"Why, thank you, Miss," she said with a smile. "You're far too good-hearted."

"Speaking of, can you tell Caleb there will be another person for dinner, one of Mr. Jonathan's friends. He looks like he's had a very hard time in the war."

"Oh, dear. Not another one with an arm or leg off, is he? Dratted waste."

Sarah shook her head. "No, but he's blind, and appears quite poor. People have taken advantage of his handicap."

"What a dashed shame," she declared, looking most indignant on the stranger's behalf. "What can I do to help?"

"He'll need to spend the night, what with this awful weather and the fact that he looks so thin and exhausted. If you could make up a guestroom for him that would most kind. The blue one will be fine."

"Very good, Miss. Glad to."

If Jenny were surprised or worried at this turn of events, she did not show it. So far as she and her husband were concerned, a less flighty woman than Sarah Deveril had never breathed.

"And he'll need a hot bath, and to borrow some of my brother's things."

"I'll put the fire under the boiler now. I'll have Caleb keep an eye on supper while I get the chamber ready."

"Thank you, Jenny. You're an angel."

"Hardly that," the older woman said gruffly, but she looked pleased all the same. "Is there anything else, Miss?"

"An ewer of warm water and a basin, a towel and soap, and some bread and cheese to tide him over until the meal is ready."

The elderly housekeeper poured the hot water from a kettle always kept boiling on the back of the stove, and added some cold, while Sarah fetched a towel, a stiff nail-brush, and some fine-milled lavender soap.

"I'll be back for the food in a minute."

"It will be ready, Miss. The poor man." The sharp-featured woman sniffed and beat the batter harder to vent her feelings.

Sarah certainly knew how she felt. The war had been nothing but waste. If she ever had the chance to give one in the eye to Bonaparte, she would take it gladly.

Then she laughed at the fanciful notion. She was only a woman. She certainly couldn't fight, could she? Not with fists or weapons, at any rate. But with her hands as she worked...

She re-entered the sitting room, and handed him the tea cup and saucer. "Here you are. That will warm you up."

He put his hands around it cautiously and sniffed. "Ah, tea. Splendid. I can't recall the last time I had a cup."

Sarah returned a moment later with a basin, which she placed on the table, and filled with the hot water. She slipped in the soap and brush, and hung the towel on the back of the chair.

"I've brought the hot water and so on. Can you manage?"

"If you speak to me, and there are no obstacles in the way."

"Oh, wait. Footstool." She cleared a path, took his sleeve gently and led him to the table. She placed his hand in the water, but soon realized that she should have made him take his jacket off first.

"Here, let me roll up your cuffs," she offered, wondering why her normal levelheaded commonsense seemed to have deserted her, and she felt as though she were all thumbs.

"Thank you."

She was startled at the intimacy of having to assist him, undoing his buttons and rolling back the cheap cotton fabric to reveal strong brown wrists covered with a smattering of silky dark hair.

"Here's the soap," she said, placing it in his huge hands.

He accepted it with thanks, and proceeded to do the best he could washing, considering he was so very dirty and couldn't see. After a time he held them out for her inspection.

"What do you think?"

"You need more of the nail brush on the right one."

He applied it vigorously. "Better?" he asked after a time.

"Good, but still dirty. Do you mind if I touch you?"

"Not at all," he said almost primly.

She took his hand and scrubbed the offending soil away, then looked carefully at the other.

He held still, retaining the deep breath he had taken into his lungs when she had first touched him. He couldn't remember the last time a woman had done anything so intimate. The warmth and slipperiness was a sensual caress which sent shivers up his spine and made his skin sizzle.

But of course, he reminded himself, he couldn't remember anything at all, which was why he was here with a complete stranger taking pity on him and helping him do something as childishly simple as wash his hands.

He tried not to let that thought anger him, but he detested feeling so helpless. Especially in front of this obviously genteel woman. He had felt the fine linen of her gown, smelt her delicate perfume, like roses and honey, noted her fine accent. It was too shaming to be thus in front of anyone, let alone a lady of her quality.

But at least she seemed kind, and not terrified of him or his appearance, despite the fact that it must have been exceedingly disreputable.

And at least he was under a safe roof, out of the rain, and assured of a decent bed and a good meal for a change. It was a miracle after all he had suffered since he had been declared fit enough to travel and had left Spain.

As Sarah worked, she noticed that his hands were callused and scarred, clear evidence of hard labor in recent years, though they did not have the often misshapen form that she saw with men who had toiled manually all their lives.

The contact with his wet soapy fingers was more thrilling that she ever could have imagined. She was glad he could not see her blushing to the roots of her hair, and only hoped he didn't notice her fingers trembling.

"There, all done," she said in a falsely hearty tone. She handed him the towel, and he dried himself off.

"You might as well take off that dusty jacket while you're at it, and give your hands another rinse."

She helped him off with the garment, and put his hands back in the basin. She was astonished at her lack of shyness around this complete stranger. She was undressing him as though he were, well, a close relative. A husband, even.

She had nursed ill people in the past, even if never a blind person before. The physical contact was simply unsettling because he was so handsome, she admitted to herself.

But she couldn't allow herself to be skittish. It was important to make the stranger welcome without suffocating him, and to get him comfortable and settled as soon as she could. He had evidently traveled a long way, and had to be exhausted.

As soon as he was washed, he could eat. As soon as he had eaten, he could have a bath and some clean clothes and a proper shave. He had evidently tried to do it himself, judging from various nicks on his face, and was lucky he had not done himself a permanent injury.

She seated him on the settle once more, and went back to the kitchen for the cheese and bread. She noted that Jenny had also put some beer and wine on the tray.

She decided it would not do any harm to permit him some. It would also tell her a lot about the character of the man who had come to see her brother. Soldiers were reputed to be hard drinkers, and very prone to wenching.

If he were to stay, she would need to know precisely what sort of chap he was. People could fib in response to overt questioning, but habits and mannerisms never lied.

"Here you are. Bread and cheese. Beer, or wine?"

"I adore wine, from my time on the Continent. But some good homemade English beer would be most welcome."

She handed him a glass, and he took a thirsty but by no means eager sip, and then set the beaker back down.

"Forgive me for asking, but I was wondering at the fact that you don't have any luggage."

He shook his head. "I had some when I left Spain, but by the time I got to London, I had been pretty much cleaned out."

"Cleaned out?" she repeated blankly.

"Thieves stole most of my things. Not that they were very valuable or anything. I mean, I had enough sense to keep my most important possessions about my person. I have some money, which I sewed into the lining of this jacket, and my papers in my breeches, and so on, but the rest of it went."

Sarah sighed and rested her hand on his shoulder again. "I'm so sorry to hear that."

He shrugged one shoulder in its ill-fitting frayed dark brown woolen suit. "I don't mind if the things go to poor people who really need them. I'm not so sure that was always the case. Still, I'm well enough off. I have more than many people. And is it not a sin to provoke envy in others?"

She replied gently, "I'm sure you didn't do it on purpose. And envy is usually the fault of the covetous one, not the one whose possessions are coveted. Moreover, if you don't mind me saying so, it's evident you've suffered a great deal. I'm not sure how you think it is that people would envy a blind man."

He laughed shortly, a mirthless sound. "If you'd met some of the men I have, you would know. At least I have all of my arms and legs. And am still alive. It's more than I can say for a lot of other poor buggers. Excuse my language, but-"

Sarah patted his shoulder. "No, it's quite all right, I understand. My brother and most of his close friends served in the war. I know exactly what you mean."

She suppressed a shudder as she recalled the events which had set her brother on his current path, now serving as a vicar in his friend's parish.

"If you don't mind," her companion said when he had finished swallowing a mouthful of cheese, "for one night I should like not to have to talk about the war, or my blindness, or anything unpleasant."

"I'll do my best." She looked around the room for inspiration, and then asked, "Do you like music?"

"I love it."

"Then I'll play the pianoforte for you whilst you eat, so you won't be obliged to have any conversation at all for the moment."

He named readily enough the Beethoven piece she chose, Fur Elise, and sat back and closed his eyes, letting the glorious music wash over him. She knew she did not play very well technically, the way her sister-in-law Pamela did, for example. She did play with passion and verve. At the end of her performance, he applauded.

"That was wonderful."

"Thank you. You're too kind. And now, I think our meal will be just about ready to serve."

"It smells delicious," he said, his mouth watering at the prospect of a hot meal, let alone one with meat. Beef, no less.

"Jenny is an excellent cook. She and Caleb are very kind people too. Anything you need, please don't be shy about asking. My home is your home," she reassured him.

She felt an unexpected tingle of warmth and blush of delight at the words. Only a few short hours ago, she had been facing the prospect of being all alone and lonely while her friends were all away. Now she had the most remarkable man staying with her, sharing her home with her like...

Like a husband.

She tried to quash the thought again. Like a friend. Her brother's friend, she told herself firmly.

"Come this way, Sir."

He held out his arm. "You'll need to guide me."

She took his hand in her own once more, and white hot sparks flew up and down her arm.

Another shocked look at his handsome face was enough to give her the elusive clue she had been missing all along whenever she thought of her poor friend Jane Eltham, who had once been engaged to her brother Jonathan, but had eloped with a most unsuitable man instead. She thought she could understand it now. For surely this had to be romantic attraction. Desire. She touched his hand, and all her limbs trembled, while molten pools of heat flooded her belly.

Desire. Strong enough to make a woman throw all caution to the winds for the bliss it could confer. The dreams dangling just out of reach. But near enough if she chose to reach out to grasp it.

His fingers interlaced with hers, notching up her heartbeat, setting her panting. Good Lord, it was worse than a hunger for food!

She snapped out of her sensual spell with a jolt. "This way. You must be famished."

"Just glad to be with you safe and sound," he replied.

He was perfectly polite, not the least bit flirtatious, but Sarah shivered at his nearness all the same. If she wasn't mistaken, the tight grip on her fingers hinted that he too might be starving for a completely different banquet of delights as well.

The Matchless Miss The Rakehell Regency Series Book 4 Sorcha MacMurrough Rating: Sensual Word Count=97,000 &lt;A href=matchless.buy.htm target=_blank&gt; No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button&lt;/A&gt;

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A Budget: Your Ultimate Financial Management Tool Part III

Admin — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 02:07:53 +0000

THE FAMILY BUDGET If you have a spouse or a significant other, you should make this budget together. Sit down and figure out what you are spending money on both collectively and together to run your household. If there is a lot of fat that needs to be trimmed, try to take it a step at a time. Remember, there is no blame involved, it is just looking at the cold hard facts. Often just looking at them is to see a problem, and once you see it, you can start to work together to come up with a solution. SHORT TERM AND LONG TERM FINANCIAL GOALS The next step is to discuss joint financial goals are in both the short and long term. Car, vacation, house, kids, college, retirement, these are pretty standard goals for most people. You may have other personal goals too, like going to grad school, having to pay off student loans, and so on. Whatever the goals are, the first step is to identify them. That way you can plan your route to get to those goals. Every journey begins with a single step, so the first step to attaining your goals is to make a realistic budget that you, or you and your partner, can live with. NO STARVATION RATIONS A budget should never be a financial starvation diet. That won't work for the long term any more than living on lettuce for three months to trim the fat would work. All you will do is get sick of it, and binge. So, be honest, and realistic. The rate of inflation is about 5%, so make reasonable allocations for food, clothing, shelter, utilities and insurance and then add on 5% for a bit of wiggle room. Set aside a reasonable amount for entertainment and the occasional treat. If you want a vacation, set aside a certain amount each month, but be clear it will have to come out of your budget, and not from a credit card or at the expense of other crucial items. A Budget: Your Ultimate Financial Management Tool Part IV

A Budget: Your Ultimate Financial Management Tool Part IV

Admin — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:09:15 +0000

SAVINGS, INVESTING, AND PAYING OFF DEBT Savings should always come first before any spending or investing, except if you are carrying a fair amount of consumer debt or student loans. If you are, make it a point to pay if off first, as we have discussed above. But do also make sure that there is no penalty actually involved in paying it off quickly. Seriously, they WILL do that. WHY? Because they make more money out of you paying interest, than in paying back the principal (the money owed. Once you are in the clear on debt, then it makes sense to save. If an APR is at 15%-29%, then the 4-5% savings you would get from the average online savings account would be meaningless. Look at your savings options, and choose something with relatively easy access so you don't run the risk of penalties if you have to withdraw it in an emergency (such as if you had it in a 1 year CD). If you are thinking of investing it to get a higher return on your money, decide what you can afford to invest and thus risk. Even a small amount saved will help you reach your short term and long term financial goals. BUDGETS: A LIVING DOCUMENT Above all, keep in mind that your budget is a living entity, as the cost of living goes up or down, and your situation changes. If you are living on your own, make sure you hold yourself accountable, by realizing that short-term sacrifices can lead to long term gains. If you are in partnership, both of you will need to be happy with the final budget, and feel like it's something you can stick to. Remember, you're working together towards a brighter and better future, not playing the blame game. Once you have your budget, you can look at your overall financial health, and work on the areas that need improvement. At least with your budget, you will have a workable map toward your destination, so while you may not always steer the straightest course, at least if you follow your budget, you won't sail onto the rocks. 1476 words

Avoid Impulse Spending Part I

Admin — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 02:11:58 +0000

Avoid Impulse Spending Part I Is your weakness impulse spending? Answer these questions truthfully: 1.) Does your spouse or partner complain that you spend too much money? 2.) Are you surprised each month when your credit card bill arrives and you see how much more you charged than you thought you had? 3.) Do you have more shoes and clothes in your closet than you could ever possibly wear? 4.) Do you own every new gadget before it has time to collect dust on a retailer's shelf? 5.) Do you buy things you didn't know you wanted until you saw them on display in a store? 6.) Do you often wonder what happened to the money you had in your purse or wallet? If you answered YES to any two of the above questions, chances are you're an impulse spender and indulge yourself in retail therapy. THE DANGERS OF IMPULSE SPENDING Impulse spending is not a good thing. It will prevent you from saving for the important long term goals you really want, like a house, a new car, a vacation, or retirement. YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS Once you define your adult financial goals, you will have to set a budget and stick to it. Impulse spending is an enemy of any budget. It is pointless to sacrifice your long term goals for a bunch of short term 'hits'. Your retail therapy doesn't cure anything, you just end up spending money on items that really don't matter in the overall scheme of things. THE DANGERS OF IMPULSE SPENDING Impulse spending will not only put a strain on your finances, but your relationships as well. Arguments over money is touted as the number one reason for divorce in this country. Avoid Impulse Spending Part II

Wedding Favors Your Guests Will Love and Appreciate Part II

Admin — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:01:44 +0000

(Continued from Wedding Favors Your Guests Will Love and Appreciate Part 1) CANDLES The sky is the limit when it comes to candles, and fortunately, the budget doesn't have to be astronomical. They come in many shapes, sizes and colors, and often come in handy little travel tins or votive holders with different themes. I got the most outstanding 'Christmas' ones in tins in the after Christmas sales at Pier One for 90% off retail. I would have balked at paying $4 each, but they were a steal at 40 cents! Some of the little silver tins had reindeer and Christmas balls, but the others just had a plain pink gift box on top of them. Best of all, they came in fragrances that ranges from chocolate mint to macadamia nut to orange truffle. Yum. So do shop around and keep your eye open for bargains. PICTURE FRAMES Picture frames are another example of wedding favors that many guests love to receive because they are so practical. They can use the frame to hold the wedding photo when they get their copy, or for any other purpose they wish. Giving picture frames as a wedding favor is also a great idea because they come in such a wide variety of styles and themes, so finding a suitable one which will match your wedding or most people's decor and taste should be simple. Picture frames can be purchased to reflect the theme or color scheme of of the wedding, or can be romantic in nature, like with a heart-shaped picture area, to reflect the underlying theme of love appropriate to a wedding. Picture frames selected as wedding favors can range from the ornate to the rather plain. The simple ones tend to be the least expensive, and are worth looking at if you're on a tight budget. A clear glass or lucite one, for example, helps to ensure the pictures frames will be used by the guests because they will work well with any decor in the guests' homes. OTHER IDEAS Another example of wedding favors guests love is basically anything which they can use and which will help them to remember the wedding fondly. Placecard holders, napkin rings, a special lace doily, a small pocket notebook and pen, these are all useful and inexpensive. Remember our rules for wedding favors shopping: unit cost, practicality, and appropriateness. If you can meet all three criteria, and also find a wedding favor close to the theme of the wedding, you will be on to a sure winner. Wedding favors which incorporate the theme of the wedding are much more likely to trigger the guests to remember the wedding each time they see or use the favor. Fridge magnets, little notecard holders with a pen or pencil to put on the fridge are always handy. Picture-frame fridge magnets with a themed design combine the best of both worlds. Remember, there are thousands of wedding favors to choose from. so stick to your budget, comparison shop, and think about what most of your guests will be happy to receive as a thank you for their gift and for supporting you on your special day. Happy Shopping! 946 words total

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Obama vs. Wright: Obama’s hypocrisy makes him unelectable

Admin — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 13:22:03 +0000

After months of dodging the question of his association with the Reverend Jeremiah Wright, finally Obama disavowed him and disowned him yesterday. Why? Not because he disagrees with any of Wright's inflammatory sermons. No, it is because Wright made a comment about the fact that as a politician, Obama will do or say anything to be considered electable. Obama claims that this is untrue, and that Wright does not know him after 20 years. Quite the contrary, Mr. Obama. He knows you only TOO well. After all, he married you to your wife, baptized your daughters, and as your pastor, has probably had some very private conversations with you about you and your life which few others would ever have been privy too. And you did, after all, attend these inflammatory sermons yourself for how many years? Can I hear an Amen?t The headline in the New York Daily News today says it all--BARACK STABBER You have stabbed your friend and mentor in the back on a national, if not global scale and shown your true colors even to those who were once dazzled by you. You are a hypocrite, and THAT is what makes you unelectable. You've managed, in a few short months in front of the media, to go from meteoric rise, to spectacular fall, all on your own. It was your election to win or lose, and you are losing, because you were arrogant enough to think you could weather the storm or controversy, and now hypocritical enough to try to dump the very person you described as a fatherly figure only a few short weeks ago. There is no room for this level of dishonesty in Democratic Party when we need every vote we can muster to beat the Republicans and end the insanity of 8 years of mismanagement. There is no room for this level of open dishonesty before you ever even get anywhere near the White House. And there is no room in the hearts of the American people for someone who has shown himself to be as UnAmerican as you are by association, despite all your trappings of flags behind you every time you make a speech these days, as if you are already president. You have gone from media darling, to media sham—and slam, in only a few short weeks. You will go down in history as the most promising president that never was, and you have only yourself to blame for it at the end of the day. Amen! 401 words

Good Homeschooling Resources

Admin — Thu, 01 May 2008 00:16:46 +0000

If your looking for extra ideas and inspiration for homeschooling your teen in English Language and Literature, or helping them with their reports, have a look at My English Study Buddy.

The latest articles on Weight Loss

Admin — Thu, 01 May 2008 12:18:09 +0000

Visit the Weight Loss Goddess for the latest hints, tips, and recipes. Weight Loss Goddess

Avoid Impulse Spending Part II

Admin — Fri, 02 May 2008 00:01:35 +0000

NEEDS VERSUS WANTS To overcome impulse spending, the first thing to do is learn to separate your NEEDS from your WANTS. Your budget will help you do this. Rent, electric, phone, paying your taxes, all of these are essential needs. Food, a modest amount on clothing and shoes which will help you hold down your job and keep money coming in, also NEEDS. That designer handbag, great shoes, amazing jeans, well, sorry, those are NOT life's essentials. WE DESIRE WHAT WE SEE, AND SEE WHAT WE DESIRE You are NOT entirely to blame. The whole of the ad industry is based on turning WANTS into perceived NEEDS. Advertisers blitz us with their products at us 24/7. Perhaps you really DO need a new computer, for example. But don't just say yes to the first as you see or the first salesman who comes along and tells you that you really NEED the model with the most expensive bells and whistles. Or that you have to act now before the sale is over. Most of the time if there is a sale, it means it's a slow month and they are trying to keep their numbers up! SUCCESSFUL SHOPPING TIPS The trick with shopping, even in a 'sale', is to give yourself a cooling-off period before you buy anything that you haven't planned for or budgeted for. Especially if you have a credit card. When you go shopping, make a list and stick to it. In particular, never go shopping in a supermarket when you are hungry. At the holidays, make your list, check it twice, and do not go overboard at the holidays and then have to keep on paying for it via your credit cards months after the fact. When you do go shopping, take only enough cash to pay for what you have planned to buy, or use a debit card linked to your checking account. Leave your credit cards at home. In fact, try to get rid of all your credit cards by paying them down, and then keep the one with the lowest APR for emergencies. EMERGENCY, OR IMPULSE? And be very strict about what qualifies as an emergency. For Carrie in Sex in the City it was the Manolo Blahnik Mary Janes. For me, it would be my dog's surgery in January. If you see something you think you really need, give yourself two weeks to decide if it is really something you need or something you can easily do without. By following this simple solution, you will curb your impulse spending. Then you will mend your financial fences and your relationships, and be able to move forward toward your short and long terms goals aligned with your budget, and not constantly busting it. 745 WORDS

Different Types of Investments: An Overview Part I

Admin — Sat, 03 May 2008 00:13:58 +0000

Different Types of Investments: An Overview Part I There are three different main kinds of investments, stocks, bonds, and cash. Sounds simple, right? Well, unfortunately, it can get very complicated from there. You see, each type of investment has numerous types of investments that fall under those three categories. There is quite a bit to learn about each different investment type. The stock market can be a big scary place for those who know little or nothing about investing, and often the first time investor is disappointed, and perhaps even so badly burnt that they never have the confidence to try again. In the same way that you have to practice in order to learn how to swim, and swim well on your own, you can easily learn the basics of investing and then decide to dip your toe in to test the water. Jumping in without checking, diving, or doing a belly flop, is not recommended. Fortunately, the amount you have to learn is usually in proportion to the type of investor that you are. THREE TYPES OF INVESTOR, TWO LEVELS OF RISK There are also three types of investors: conservative, moderate, and aggressive. The different types of investments also cater to the two levels of risk tolerance: high risk and low risk. CONSERVATIVE Conservative investors often invest in cash. This means that they put their money in interest-bearing savings accounts, money market accounts, mutual funds, US Treasury bills (T-Bills), and Certificates of Deposit. These are very safe investments that grow over varying periods of time, usually a longer period of time. These are also low-risk investments, and don't require a great deal of time each week in follow-up and decision-making. For example, if you go to the government website to buy T-Bills, you can set up your account in minutes, buy one for the sum you want, and the duration of time before it accrues its value. So as an example, for a $1000 T-bill, you would pay $970, and in 4 weeks time, it would be worth $1000. This is a simple but fool-proof strategy, and while the returns might not seem that high, in a volatile economy, it is an investment with no risk. Plus, this is just one example. There are t- bills and t-notes, and auctions online that might secure you that same $1000 T-bill for, say, $930 or even less. MODERATE INVESTORS Moderate investors often invest in cash and bonds, and may dabble in the stock market. Moderate investing may be low or moderate risk investment. Moderate investors often also invest in real estate, providing that it is low-risk real estate. For example, in your 401k portfolio, you may see a US Property Fund account, with a 6 to 8% return. Again, it may not be a huge return, but there is not much risk.

Obama tainted by his own racism

Admin — Sat, 03 May 2008 13:15:09 +0000

Here is a good article on Obama vs Wright situation. As the writer from the Washington Post says in this op-ed piece, we can see his 'true colors' at last, and his so-called important race speech everyone touted as being the greatest thing since Lincoln, has been exposed as the empty sham of a few good speech writers. Obama, you were so close to Wright that to disown him would be to disown your WHITE grandmother? Why not ANY of your grandmothers? You are as tainted by racism as the people you've attacked for being racist! http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050102900.html

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part I

Admin — Sun, 04 May 2008 00:20:22 +0000

Why not spend your honeymoon exploring the Emerald Isle – Ireland! Ireland is a beautiful, unspoilt country for the most part, with miles of vibrant landscapes and seascapes just waiting to be explored. Ireland never fails to charm every visitor, and the Irish people are easily the friendliest in Europe, if not the world. Best of all, they speak English! Ireland embodies romance, with its unspoilt beauty, relaxed pace, terrific food and accommodation to suit every budget, and of course, rainbows! DUBLIN The colorful Irish capital, Dublin, is divided in two by the River Liffey. The only problem knows where to begin exploring! There is so much to see and do in the city, especially if you like culture, history, and good food, music and entertainment. The wide avenues and lush green parks like St. Stephen's Green of greenery are ideal vantage points to admire the countless Georgian buildings that dominate the capiral. Dublin also has many magnificent structures from earlier times, particulart the cathedrals of St. Patrick's and Christ Church, and castles. Trinity College, the Bank of Ireland, and the Post Office are a few other examples of Dublin's unique architecture. Visit the college to see one of the oldest manuscripts in existence, the illuminated Book of Kells, which dates from 800AD. Dublin Castle is 13th century. Christ Church is even older, from the time the Vikings first invaded and then settled Ireland, about 900 AD. The interpretive history center Dubliana, in a building adjoining Christ church, is a must see trip back in time so you can learn all about the history of the city. Dublin also boasts a wide range of fine museums, restaurants and pubs, plus a great zoo and some excellent live theatre, including the historic Abbey, Peacock, Gate and Gaiety. The best thing about Dublin is that everything is in easy walking distance, so get a map and don't be shy about asking for directions. Also don't be shy about going into pubs, and into any of the Bewley's around Ireland, great coffee houses with full menus. Any Starbuck's fan is sure to adore Bewley's. Dublin is also a major transport hub to get to the 4 corners of Ireland. The main Irish airport is Shannon in the west if you are coming from America, but you can get flights from Dublin to pretty much any place in Ireland or the world now. Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part II

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Product Review: Johns Hopkins Medical Letter Health After 50

Admin — Mon, 05 May 2008 02:14:17 +0000

5 stars Fantastic health advice for aging well, and a great website to use as a resource. If you are looking for a fabulous newsletter for the over 50s for your parents, or even yourself, you will not want to miss Johns Hopkins Health After 50. Each issue is crammed with the kind of news you need to know about your health. They deal with about dozne main topics every month, from arthritis to memory to vision. The editors who work on the newsletter all teach at the medical school, so the information is cutting-edge, but you can understand it easily when you read it. My parents wouldn't miss an issue, and I always find things I never knew about my health. Since 50 is the new 20, you won't want to miss all this great information. They also have free Special Reports and free email health alerts you can sign up for into your email box every time they put up a new article. So if you're interested in weight loss or diabetes, for example, they will email the article direct to you. The site is totally free and they add a new article almost every day. It's great if you're a caregiver for older parents too, so you can learn more about your loved one's health conditions, and effective prevention strategies. This is especially important if you have, for example, heart disease in the family, and want to take steps to avoid a heart attack. http://www.healthafter50.com 274 words

New articles posted at Nutrition Goddess

Admin — Mon, 05 May 2008 12:19:55 +0000

For information on nutrition, visit their handy site: Nutrition Goddess

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part II

Admin — Tue, 06 May 2008 02:22:15 +0000

Continued from Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part I OUTSIDE DUBLIN: CORK Ireland's second city, Cork is a magnet for lovers of history and culture. It has its own opera house, museum, art gallery, cathedral and an eerie 19th century jail! Cork also has a lively night scene and many pubs where traditional Irish folk music is often performed. A popular day trip from the city is a visit to Blarney Castle, or to the lovely sailing town of Baltimore. Cork is in relatively easy driving distance of Dublin, but with rental cars so cheap these days (even if the gas isn't!) you might want to drive from Dublin, stoppping at some other interesting places on the way. And you might also consider starting your romantic honeymoon in Ireland landing at Dublin, but going home via Shannon Airport in the west, not that far from Cork. FROM DUBLIN: Southwest to Cork So, what can you see on your way to Cork from Dublin? If you start heading south west straight away, you can visit the great hill fort of Tara, where the high kings of Ireland were inaugurated for centuries. The views for miles and collections of historic artefacts are fascinating. The center of the country is horse country, and there are many fine loughs and stud farms. SOUTH FROM DUBLIN If you have more time to tour, you can head south past powerscourt mansion and some remarkable waterfalls, though the lovely town of Glendalough, made famous through the BBC filming so many TV series there, such as Ballykissangel. The Vale of Avoca is a lovely unspoilt glen only a short drive from the big city. In the southeast of the country stands the ancient city of Waterford which is enclosed by medieval city walls. The city hall and the Bishop's Palace both date back to the Georgian era. Many of the narrow alleyways which wind through Waterford has existed since early medieval times, when it was a great Viking settlement, along with nearby Wexford. There are lovely churches in Waterford, including the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Also nearby is the John F Kennedy Memorial Park, a lovely area and moving tribute to the unbreakable ties Ireland and America have. Moving around the coast from Wexford and Waterford are the fascinating seaside towns of Dungarvan and Youghal. Anyone who has ever read The Irish RM books or seen the shows on TV will love this picturesque area.

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Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part III

Different Types of Investments: An Overview Part II

Admin — Wed, 07 May 2008 00:15:39 +0000

(continued from) Different Types of Investments: An Overview Part I AGGRESSIVE INVESTORS Aggressive investors commonly do most of their investing in the stock market, which is higher risk, especially in a volatile economic climate. As we write this, for example the Dow went up 400 points on Tuesday and has pretty much last all those gains when it plunged about 175 points again on Thursday and on Friday. Aggressive investors also tend to invest in business ventures as well as higher-risk real estate. For instance, if an aggressive investor puts his or her money into an older apartment building, then invests more money renovating the property, they are running a risk. They expect to be able to rent the apartments out for more money than the apartments are currently worth, or to sell the entire property for a profit on their initial investments. KNOW YOUR MARKET In some cases, this is a worthwhile gamble, but given the current property market, especially in certain areas, it might not be the most sensible place to put your money at the moment. RISKS AND REWARDS Before you start investing, it is very important that you learn about the different types of investments, and what those investments can do for you. Understand the risks involved, and pay attention to past trends as well. History does indeed repeat itself, and investors know this first hand. 401Ks All of the funds you have the chance to invest in for your 401k retirement fund, for example, should have a full record of past history, both recently, in the past year, the past 5 years, and even the past 10. 529s For those of us interested in saving for college, a 529 also offers similar investment choices, with different portfolios. Since we are based in New York State, we have certain options administered by Vanguard Funds. OTHER HANDY WAYS TO INVEST We could have opted for their choice, but with a little more time, effort, and research at the Vanguard site we are making that much more money, and with a credit card from Upromise which gives you money on all the purchases you use on the card, plus extra percentages for things you buy regularly, like household products, it makes it easy to save money and invest it even if you don't think you can afford it with your present budget. STABILIZE YOUR CURRENT FINANCIAL SITUATION BEFORE YOU INVEST As we said in a previous article, make sure that you stabilize your current financial situation before you start thinking of investing, and remember how credit card companies make their money. But investing in a 401k if the money is taken out as pre-tax dollars, and especially if your company gives you a match, is very worthwhile and easy. So is a 529, and you can get started with as little as $25. KNOWLEDGE EQUALS SUCCESS WHEN IT COMES TO INVESTING Educating yourself by looking at these options is the best way of dipping your toe in the water, and if you start making money, well, stick to your formula and do a bit more. Above all, though, know your investing style and how much you can afford to invest, because it really means, how much time can you spend building your portfolio, and how much can you afford to risk on different types of investments. 1019 Words

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part III

Admin — Thu, 08 May 2008 00:01:55 +0000

continued from Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part II WEST FROM WATERFORD Lismore Castle near Dungarvan is a must-see. It's owned by the same family who own Chatsworth in Derbyshire in England, which was the model for Darcy's great house Pemberley in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. The Castle grounds alone are worth looking at, but the whole countryside is remarkable. Another amazing town slightly inland as you are heading west from Waterford is the medieval one of Kilkenny, containing one of the best-preserved medieval castles in all of Ireland, if not Europe. The town has a great atmosphere, and many fine pubs and restaurants. You could easily spend a whole day in the castle and still not think it was enough. CORK Once you arrive in Cork, you will want to take in all the local attractions of this bustling city. It is a lively town, smaller than Dublin, with an atmosphere of its very own. (see Part II for more details) You could head from Cork back to Dublin via whichever route you didn't take to get south, so, either through the Midland, or via Waterford. Or, you can easily head up to Shannon from Cork to get the plane home to America. Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part IV

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Wedding Weekend Activities

Admin — Thu, 08 May 2008 02:24:54 +0000

Weekend weddings are becoming more popular, particularly as families are spread further apart. They usually begin on Friday night, continue with the wedding Saturday and conclude with a post-wedding breakfast on Sunday before everyone returns home. Planning activities for these weekend-long celebrations doesn't have to be difficult; in fact, it can be quite a bit of fun if you keep everyone's needs in mind. First, consider the wedding. Will this be a formal wedding with a sit-down dinner at its center? If so, you might want to avoid a formal rehearsal dinner and replace it instead with an informal barbecue or picnic. How will you keep people occupied during the long weekend? There are many activities to consider. Will the wedding be near a lake? How about planning a day at the lake on Saturday, filled with pre-wedding activities like swimming races and beach volleyball? One popular pre-wedding activity is a scavenger hunt. Prior to the wedding weekend, a list of items can be gathered, and guests placed in two teams. The list should include things like "get a brochure from the jewelry store where (groom) bought (bride)'s ring" or "take a picture of the group at the location where the couple got engaged". You will have to tailor the scavenger hunt list to the location of the wedding and the age and energy of the guests who will be participating. You can even offer lavish prizes for the team that wins the scavenger hunt, such as gift certificates or gourmet food and wine baskets. It might seem an obvious choice to divide the teams into groups who know or are related to the bride and teams who know or are related to the groom, but it might be a little more fun to mix it up a bit. You can create teams of friends versus family, or men versus women (always a popular choice). Another activity that's popular during wedding weekends is a competitive sport activity, such as soccer, baseball, softball, or tag football. Again, you can add a special twist to your game. Offer prizes for performance (first home run gets a kiss from the bride). Or you can make silly rules, like members of the bridal party have to wear tiaras while running bases or members of the groom's family should always have their shirts on backwards. It's important that during the wedding weekend, planners keep in mind that the weekend itself might be expensive for some guests, particularly those who had to fly in for the occasion, and do many of the activities should be free, or inexpensive. If they are more expensive, and planned for the entire group, they should be paid for by either the bride and groom, or by their families. There are plenty of activities that don't have to be expensive, but can provide big bang for a little money, such as the scavenger hunt suggested above. If the wedding weekend guests will mostly be family, you can schedule a home movie-viewing event, including home movies from both the bride and groom's families. For even more fun, consider an activity where the movies are mixed up and the guests have to guess which family's videos they are watching. This might sound easy, but depending on the contents, it could be hard, particularly if the bride and groom are babies in the photos. You can also plan video rentals, a hike in the woods, a board games evening, anything to make sure people are not just sitting in their hotel rooms or guest rooms just waiting for the big day to arrive and be over.

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Determining Where To Invest Your Money Part I

Admin — Fri, 09 May 2008 00:17:00 +0000

There are several different types of investments, and there are many factors in determining where you should invest your money. Of course, determining where you will invest begins with researching the various available types of investments, determining your risk tolerance, and determining your investment style once you have determined your financial goals. KNOW YOUR INVESTMENT GOALS Remember, without a financial goal, you will lack the clear vision to know what you want to achieve by investing. It would be a bit like starting to run a race, but not having any idea where the finish line was supposed to be. SHORT-TERM VERSUS LONG-TERM INVESTMENT GOALS So, what is your financial goal? Do you have a list of short-, medium-, and long-term ones? A new house will probably be more short to medium term than say, a college fund if your children are in diapers, or a retirement fund if you've just got your first job. If you were going to purchase a new car, you would do quite a bit of research before making a final decision and a purchase. You would never consider purchasing a car that you had not fully researched, examined, determined if it was suitable for your overall lifestyle (eg, a two-seater sports car is not practical if you have 4 children and a Great Dane. Or even just the Great Dane!) You will examine the details, look at the performance history of the car, and take for a test drive. You might even get recommendations from friends and review sites online. The good news is, investing works much the same way. RESEARCH THE MARKET You will of course want to learn as much about the investment as possible before plunking down your hard-earned cash, and you would want to see how past investors have done as well. STOCKS AND SHARES Learning about the stock market and investments can take a fair amount of time depending on the kinds of investments you are interested in, and there can be all sorts of applicable fees, or even hidden fees you might not be aware of until you are actually investing online. So any research you do before you risk one penny will be time well spent. There are numerous websites to help first-time investors, and you can even take courses online or at your local college. Determining Where To Invest Your Money Part II

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part IV

Admin — Sat, 10 May 2008 00:25:25 +0000

continues from Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part III WEST FROM CORK THE RING OF KERRY But if you have time once you reach Cork why not press on to the far southwest, to the famous Ring of Kerry. It is a ring of roads going around the lovely lakes of Killarney. It is an exceptionally unspoilt blue-green landscape in an already amazingly mon-modernized country. As you go from Cork to Kerry, you can take a quick stop at the lovely sailing center of Baltimore. Or, you can get a boat to take you out to the Blasket Islands, made famous by the book The Islandman, where the Irish-speaking community kept to the old ways long after the rest of Ireland had started to become modernized. The Gap of Dunloe is a famous tourist spot in the Ring of Kerry area. As the name suggests, it is a gap between the mountains.The views are incredible, and it has also been made famous, or infamous, for the Irish jaunting car rides you can take there. I say infamous because they cost a small fortune, and they don't actually go through the pass, just up to the small bridge where you ford the river, and back again to the pub where you can hire them. But you CAN drive through the Gap of Dunloe yourself, if you have a good rental car and don't mind taking your time on a leisurely 10 mile an hour view of the sights. The gap has very unusual pale white soil, so be warned, and it will muck up your car big time and you might want to head to a car wash before you return it to the rental place if you have time. The road is steep both going up and coming down, but the view is breathtaking, mountains, lakes, sea and sky. Just take it slowly, and remember which side of the road you are meant to be driving on :) –you would be amazed at how many people forget. Driving through the Gap of Dunloe brings you back down around onto the flat plains and lake area again, which also has many little forests. If you look carefully enough, you will be able to see small sitka deer, European red deer, and the native Irish gray deer, about the size of a small moose with impressive antlers. So going through the Gap is a great drive if you want to see the sights and don't have any set plans except to wander and see where you end up. There are no really large towns in this area part from Kenmare, but there are numerous places to stay throughout the area. You never have to worry about chancing your luck with a B and B. They are always inspected and so of a very high standard. There is so much accommodation around the Ring of Kerry, all pretty much at a set price depending on double, single, with or wthout shared bathroom, that you can't really go very far wrong if you just want to drive around and see what you find. Even people who are not running an official B and B often take tourists in for a bit of extra money. For more information on this popular tourist spot with foreigners and Irish alike, visit: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gap_of_Dunloe http://www.killarney.ac/gdtour.html Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part V

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Determining Where To Invest Your Money Part II

Admin — Sun, 11 May 2008 00:19:10 +0000

(continued from Determining Where To Invest Your Money Part 1) PRACTICE INVESTING ON THE STOCK MARKET With access to the Internet, you can actually play the stock market with fake money to start with at some sites, in order to get a feel for how it works. Then when you feel confident, you can move on to the real thing. To start with make-believe investments, do a search with any search engine for Stock Market Games or Stock Market Simulations, and start studying. FOREIGN EXCHANGE Other types of investments outside of the stock market, such as foreign exchange, also known as FOREX, also have make-believe accounts and simulations. The great thing about FOREX is you don't have to worry about which stocks to buy. Currency is traded in pairs, and the main pairs you really want to look at all have to do with the American Dollar. So for example, the American Dollar trading against the Canadian, or against the Euro, or the British pound. You can look at only 6 pairs every day, day after day, and make money, IF you are patient and learn how to spot and ride a trend. And unlike the stockmarket, you can also make money in FOREX whether your pairs are going up or down. ll you have to do is predict the trend. As a potential investor, you should read anything you can get your hands on about investing, but start with the beginning investment websites first, and go through them methodically so you don't get lost or confused. It can certainly be a maze, so if you want to keep it simple, but have some moderate risk tolerance, go for FOREX. CONSULT A FINANCIAL PLANNER? Finally, you might want to speak with a financial planner. Tell them your goals, and ask them for their suggestions--this is what they get paid for! A good financial planner can easily help you determine where to invest your money, and help you set up a workable plan to reach all of your financial goals. Many will even teach you about investing along the way--make sure you pay attention to what they are telling you, rather than thinking you know best. Resist the temptation to try to get rich quick as well. And always make sure you are not risking more than you can afford. Knowing your investment goals, and where you want to invest, are two of the cornerstones to successful investing. 794 words

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part V

Admin — Mon, 12 May 2008 00:26:49 +0000

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part IV NORTH FROM THE RING OF KERRY Driving back towards Shannon airport is the bustling town of Limerick. Frank McCourt did not write the most flattering things about it in Angela's Ashes, but he's a bit of a northern Irishman in temperament, and it has changed a great deal. It has all of the modern conveniences of any Irish city, and some historical sites as well. Everyone in the world has heard of the Blarney Stone, but there is an amazing castle that goes with it! Nearby is another magnificent castle, Bunratty, with a folk park attached. In both castles you can experience a medieval banquet several nights a week, and the mead, a sort of honey wine, is to die for. At Bunratty, the folk park recaptures what traditional Irish life would have been like in a series of cottages complete with animals. There are some great pubs nearby with terrific menus. Even though you are so close to the city of Limerick, you'll really feel like you've stepped right back in time. THE SHANNON AREA As we’ve said, you can always opt to go back to America when your honeymoon is over via Shannon Airport, rather than have to return to Dublin. Just make sure they know you are planning a one-way rental. This trip around the southern part of Ireland from Dublin to Cork, and from Cork on to Shannon Airport which we have been describing should take you anywhere from a week to two weeks depending on how much stopping you do. The Shannon river itself is a mighty sight, and now, thanks to some engineering first started in the 1840s during the Irish Potato Famine, and completed in the late 1990s, you can rent a cruiser and go all the way up the river to Northern Ireland, to the lake districts of Upper and Lower Lough Erne. There are many historic and sacred sites to visit along the way. Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part VI

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The Basics Of Asset Management Part I

Admin — Tue, 13 May 2008 00:02:50 +0000

Asset management is all about being more consistent and efficient about managing all of your assets, and improving all areas of your financial portfolio which need to be improved. Many people make the mistake of not managing their different types of accounts properly. The most common mistake being made is in reference to people's bank accounts. BALANCING THE BOOKS These types of mistakes could be prevented if people would take a bit more time to regularly record all their financial transactions, every day, or every week, and make sure to balance out their check books. The whole point of your little check register is to have a little jotter where you can note down everything going in and out of your account quckly and easily, so you can then reconcile it all when your statement comes at the end of each month. But you can also be more proactive about it. If you think you might have missed a few items, go into your bank and ask them to give you a print out of the week's transactions, and see if you've made a mistake, or can't recall the purchase made. Keeping a record of all transactions being made at all times is an essential part of good asset management. If you make a cash withdraw, put it in the records. If you're busy and can't do this every day, always request a paper record from the machine and keep the slip with your checkbook register. Every check being written has to be put into your check book record so that you do not miscalculate, which could lead to being put into the red and being stuck having to pay service charges and other fees that your bank may apply. These fees are getting more and more steep depending on the bank, so don't make a bad situation worse through carelessness. I don't know about you but I can think of far nicer ways of spending $39 than paying it to my bank for an overdraft fee. Good asset management will prevent things like this from occurring. Continues in The Basics Of Asset Management Part II

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part VI

Admin — Wed, 14 May 2008 00:28:07 +0000

Continued from Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part V INTO THE WEST Around the Shannon area, in addition to Limerick and the two castles, there is also the techology town of Ennis, now booming thanks to Ireland being such a huge part of the computer age thanks to Mac computer factories and a very literate, English speaking workforce. County Clare Going west out of Ennis, you will visit the unique lunar landscape of the Burren, which is pretty much more granite boulder than grass going all the way to the coast and the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. When the English began to push into Ireland, they made Catholics leave their land-they were said to be sending them to "Hell or Connaught" (Connaught is the western region of Ireland) because the land was so poor compared to the fertile soil they were being evicted from, that it was considered to be a death sentence. Anyone who has seen the film The Field will have a good idea of what it looks like. Also famous in County Clare is the town of Ballyvaughan, a sleepy little hamlet with a wonderful international Irish music festival every February and seafood to die for. Then there is the town of Lisdoonvarna, where bachelors and unmwarried women go to be matched. COUNTY GALWAY Heading north on the main road from Limerick to you will come to Galway, on the west coast nearly directly opposite the country from Dublin. Galway is a very vibrant town, a great tourist hub for the more wild parts of Galway County and for the ferries which will take you out to the Aran Islands, where many people still speak Irish and live in a traditional way. All year round, you'll find festivals which celebrate the various aspects of Irish culture. The medieval parish church in Galway is the biggest in Ireland, and many medieval stone buildings are still standing throughout the city. County Galway is full of abbeys, castles, ruins, and the most outstanding seafood and pubs. Oughterard is a lovely town about 8 miles outside of the city if you want to sample the best of earth, sea, river and sky. The area around Lenane was where they filmed many parts of The Quiet Man, and it is an amazing lough like a fjord, which was why the Vikings decided to settle in this area. There are many Irish speakers in the Gaeltacht to the far west. Clifton is the last point of civilisation, a bustling town full of music, pubs, and fabulous food, before you head still further west to the wilds of Galway. Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part VII

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Summer Wedding Favors Store

Admin — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:14:50 +0000

It's still not too late to get your hot summer wedding favors! In the event our automatic product catalog feed is not working, please click below to visit our store: Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Beach Wedding Favors Store

Admin — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:17:26 +0000

Cool wedding favors, hot beach theme! Click on any of the products below to learn more about these elegant and unique beach theme wedding favors, direct from My Wedding Favors, the #1 Wedding Favors store on the Internet. Great prices, personalization available in many cases, fast shipping, and your complete satisfaction all 100% guaranteed. Make your special day even more memorable for your guests with a fabulous wedding favor. In the event our automatic product catalog feed is not working, please click below to visit our store: Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs.Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

Engagement Party Games

Admin — Thu, 15 May 2008 02:33:09 +0000

The engagement party is a time when the families of the couple will be together to get to know one another. In some cases, this might be the first meeting between the two families or groups of friends, and any icebreaker activity will be a welcome event. In that light, whoever plans the engagement party (likely the bride's family, but it can be the engaged couple or anyone else who wants to plan the party) should plan a few games and activities designed to help everyone get to know everyone else. First up is a trivia game. Create a "Trivial Pursuit" type game with questions about the bride and groom's lives. You might contain the questions to just facts and events relating to both the bride and groom (such as how long did it take her to say "yes" when he asked, where did he propose, where did they meet, etc). Or you can include questions pertaining to their lives outside of each other and before they met each other. Not only can this be fun, but also it's an entertaining way for people to get to know each other and the engaged couple better. One popular icebreaker that's used at corporate functions and company parties can also work really well at engagement parties. Tape a large lined card to each person's back and encourage him or her to work the room, mingle with everyone and particularly try to get to know someone they have never met before. Before moving on to someone else, be sure to make a comment about the person on the card on his or her back. The engagement party guest can write a polite impression of that person, such as "she seems sweet" or "he knows a lot about the weather". This icebreaker ends when the mingling session is over. The cards are then read by the owner of the card, sharing it with the people around them, who have to untape it from their back! People not only get to know each other better, but enjoy hearing all the comments people made about them. It is also a little keepsake of the special day. Try to ensure that comments are complimentary or somehow presented in a positive light. Hurtful comments, obviously, are not appropriate. Not unless you want a war between the families, that is! If this is truly the first time many of the guests have met, then another fun game involving the wearing of cards might be in order. In this game, each guest wears a card on their front that has their name on the front and a number on the back. They don't share with anyone what their number is. Guests mingle and chat and get to know each other over the course of the evening. Toward the end of the evening, the cards are flipped over and the number side is shown. Everyone gets a piece of paper and writes the numbers on the paper, then tries to correspond the name of someone with their number. This fun game can be hard for people who are bad with names, but it's fun nonetheless. For an activity that doesn't put people on the spot quite so much, consider letting the already marrieds help out the to-be marrieds. Place two pieces of posterboard on the wall and mark them "advice from women" and "advice from men". Now is the time to offer advice about wedding planning, not about being married. That advice can come later. There will certainly be plenty of it! Encourage guests to offer their own wedding planning advice. The advice from older people at the party could be decidedly different from the younger couples in the group, making for an enlightening group of comments which can also be useful for the couple and help them plan for their big day. 600 words

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Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part VII

Admin — Fri, 16 May 2008 00:33:46 +0000

continued from Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part VI NORTH FROM GALWAY COUNTY MAYO Heading further north is the lovely down of Castlebar, Co. Mayo, quite sophisticated, with fine manor houses and good eating and shopping. It has brilliant seascapes as well, and a great zoo. Croagh (pronounced CrOHg) Patrick, a mountain associated with St Patrick, is a popular site for religious pilgrims, and about the only place gold has ever been discovered and mined in Ireland. Like County Galway, the more west you go, the more untouched the countyside. There is a small Irish speaking community around Erris, also great for anyone interested in birdwatching. COUNTY SLIGO Further north still on our circuit around Ireland is the glorious sea meets sky scenery of County Sligo. The small city of Sligo, with its many associations wth Irish history and the poet W B Yeats, is a small, charming town with an excellent theatre, The Hawk's Well. The mountains on either side and the pass to the east of Ireland are full of fabluous Irish legends. The castles around the area are of the small manor house variety rather than huge Norman type, but still well worth looking at, and there is also the spectacular "Horse's tail waterfall" not too far out of town. HEADING EAST FROM SLIGO You could start heading east from here over into Northern Ireland through the towns of Manorhamilton, Blacklion, and then across the border into Enniskillen, or come through via Belleek as well to get to Enniskillen. This area is the lake district of Ireland, similar to the one in England. Upper and Lower Lough Erne are 35 square miles and 50 respectively, and dotted with many islands you can explore on day trips or in a rented cruiser. There are a number of really lovely manor house type castles throughout the region, and an excellent castle and museum at Enniskillen. The fishing and golf here are second to none, and there is a third lake, Lough Melvin, which has some breeds of fish not found anywhere else in Ireland, and thought to be prehistoric. There are 17 forests or forest parks in the area, plus 2 incredible 18th century manor houses with vast grounds for you to tour. Continuing on east would eventually take you through Enniskillen, an island in between the two lakes. With its impressive castle and cathedral, museum and manor house, it is well worth a stay. Then you would continue on through Augher, Clogher and Fivemiletown, eventtually hitting the main road that would take you back down to Dublin. You could certainly stop at the Hill of Tara on your way back, or Armagh, an ancient town which we mention in the northern route from Sligo section. This a very rural part of Ireland, but still full of fabulous churches and buildings, and friendly people who make fabulous food. Enniskillen is about 3 hours drive from Dublin, heading northwest, so you could easily spend a few days on the lakes and in the forests if you're interested in a real romantic chance to completely get away from it all. Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part VIII

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The Basics Of Asset Management Part II

Admin — Sat, 17 May 2008 03:03:57 +0000

WHY NOT USE SOFTWARE? I know we have not mentioned all the really handy accounting programs out there that can help you with asset management. This is because you don't usually carry your computer around with you, while a check book register or a small notebook are portable, so you can note down your expenditures any time, anywhere. As the old saying goes, the dullest pencil is better than the sharpest memory. We would also advise you to make note of what you do with that cash you take out of the ATM. All too often, it can vanish into thin air without you even noticing. You can write the amount you spend right on the slip of paper, and note down what it was for. Was it an essential, like milk, or was it a luxury like beer? Again, part of asset management is sticking to your budget and trying to cut down on your impulse spending, so writing these things down will help you spot your areas of impulsiveness. A notebook for all finances is an even better idea than the checkbook register because you can also note down any items you might be putting on your credit card/s. THE GOALS OF ASSET MANAGEMENT The whole goal of asset management is to make the most of the money you do have. Credit cards, with their fees and interest and other potential penalties, are not the best way to make the most of your money. Accounting comes in a couple of different forms, including, accrual accounting and cash bases accounting. Accrual accounting will help you keep track of what you owe if you've exceeded your income. This should then let you know that you are spending entirely too much money and that you had better begin cutting back here and there where possible, in order to manage your assets more efficiently. It is a rare person these days who doesn't have some form of debt, and a credit card CAN be a good thing if you are making your payments on time and more than the minimum on a regular basis. This is how you can boost your credit score. It is also a way to decrease it though, if you are not careful! It is not always intentional either—we are all also very busy. And yes, mistakes do happen. Your checkbook register may have a different amount written in it, compared to the amount of money that you have spent. That's why we recommend duplicate checks, and pressing down hard when you fill them out. All too often we write a check and can't recall who it was to, what for, and what amount. Keeping these kind of detailed records and making a habit of keeping all your little bank slips and receipts will also be handy at tax time. Especially if you start thinking about running your own small home based business, you will need to keep track of everything you spend, supplies, corporate hospitality (which you can deduct at 50%), and so on. In another article we will talk about the risks as well as rewards of tying your personal finances to your own business, but for now, the main thing to remember is that effective asset management is all about keeping track, and staying within budget and on target for your short term and long term financial goals. The Basics Of Asset Management Part III

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part VIII

Admin — Sun, 18 May 2008 00:35:42 +0000

Continues from Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part VII NORTHERN ROUTE FROM SLIGO BACK TO DUBLIN (THE LONG WAY!) If you were to head north from Sligo, you would end up at Letterkenny, the main town of the very large County Donegal, a fairly bustling city, and your last chance for any kind of shopping if you decide to head further north. From Letterkenny you could begin your tour of wild and rugged Donegal country, with its mountains and remarkable sea coasts. All the way in the very very far north is Tory Island, so far off the coast, especially in bad weather, that the natives there say "I'm going to Ireland" when they get on the ferry. Donegal is one of the last native Irish speaking areas in Ireland, and is home to Clannad and Enya. You can visit their family pub where it all started, Teach Leo, (Teach is pronounced like tchack) and it means Leo's house. Leo the proud papa will often let you talk to the kids if you happen to be there--they frequently phone home! From Letterkenny, you could start heading southeast back to Dublin via the busy market town of Omagh. The whole drive would take you about 4 hours to get back. Just remember that Irish 'highways' are a lot smaller than ours! And a lot more bumpy! HEADING EAST FROM LETTERKENNY Letterkenny is also one of the gateways to Northern Ireland via the city of Derry (or Londonderry to the British). Derry is an historic city with a castle which also still has some of its walls intact. It is a young, vibrant city with a lot of college students. It is also the gateway to the famous Giant's Causeway, a basalt rock formation caused by volcanic activity in the region many thousands of years ago. Legend has it that you could walk to Scotland via its step-like formations. You can also walk along the coast, taking in the dramatic scenery. For those of you not afraid of heights, there is also the Carrickarede swining rope bridge, which the local men use to go from the mainland to the small island to empty their lobster pots. Just remember, if you go across, you have to go back the same way, not an easy feat with other people on the bridge and a bit of wind! From here you can head back to Derry, and via the main roads back down to Dublin. Give yourself about five hours, more if you want to stop in some of the places we mention on the eastern side of this route. Continues in Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part IX

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Spring Wedding Themes

Admin — Sun, 18 May 2008 12:20:14 +0000

There are lots of different ways to incorporate Spring into your Wedding. St Patrick's Day Easter: Easter eggs, easter bunnies, chicks, chocolate Greek Orthodox Easter colors like yellow, cream, gold, as well as white May Day-green and gold, natural settings, carpets of flowers, ribbons, the May pole, braiding, the May Queen, or Queen of the May Floral Designs daisies, tulips, crocuses, daffodils, narcissi Pastel Colors, pink, pale green, pale blue, pale yellow Natural backgrounds and settings Back to nature holidays and honeymoons Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs. Great prices, personalization, fast shipping: MyWeddingFavors.com

The Basics Of Asset Management Part III

Admin — Mon, 19 May 2008 03:05:19 +0000

TYPES OF ACCOUNTING Cash bases accounting is the management of your current transactions. This way you keep track of any money being taken out of your account or any money that might be deposited, and whether or not it was deposited from you or from someone else. When any types of transactions take place on your checking account, that is when this type of accounting will come into play. When someone is talking about assets, they are also talking about the cash that you have acquired. WHAT ARE ASSETS? Of course there are many types of assets but your cash is really the most basic one there is. Any other form of investment that you may have, including, stocks, bonds, Cds, 401ks, 529s and so forth are also a type of asset, and your house and car are as well, but are usually only a real asset if you own them outright. Otherwise your mortgage holder and car finance company own them! Assets come in all different forms. Start simple, by making sure you keep track of all your transactions, and trying to stick to your budget, so that you gradually pay down any debt you might have. Once you've done this, you'll be in a position to save, and even to invest. Once you know what all your assets are and what they are worth then you will be able to begin with your asset management methods. Once you have started figuring out a record-keeping system that works for you, and savings and investment strategies that start paying dividends, then you will have the ability to earn more money from multiple streams of revenue, and you will be able to watch that money grow and help you achieve your financial goals. YOUR FUTURE FINANCIAL GOALS It's never too early to start saving for the future. Once you are in a position to start thinking about saving and investing, also consider consulting with a financial planner. Be realistic about your goals, do your research, learn about what things cost. If you want to buy a house worth $500k, what is it REALLY going to cost. What will the difference be in that financial scenario if you were able to put down $150k of it in cash? And is this a worthwhile investment, if all of your capital and income are 'feeding the beast' and leaving you cash poor with no chance to save for retirement? Unfortunately, in our get credit quick, get the American Dream society, people don't stop to ask these questions. Owning a home is a noble aspiration, but is it a false security blanket at the end of the day? Looking at the current crisis in the housing market, one could argue yes. The essential problem goes beyond that though, to being constantly encouraged to impulse spend on everything in sight on the TV. And let's face it, how much are we ever taught about asset management at school? But a little knowledge can go a long way. Even if you think things are so bad than nothing can make a difference, you'd be surprised at how $5 saved here and there can add up. It's like the humble dime. It's small, light-weight, but you get 10 of them together and it makes a dollar. And once you learn more about asset management, you can encourage your partner, if you have one, and even your children too. That way you can all be actively planning and participating in reaching your financial goals, not being hostages to fortune. Asset management means just that, YOU manage your assets, for a brighter financial future. 1500 words

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part IX

Admin — Tue, 20 May 2008 00:36:53 +0000

continued from Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part VIII HEADING EAST FROM THE GIANT'S CAUSEWAY Going east around the coast of Northern Ireland to the town of Ballycastle, you will see some of the astounding scenery of County Antrim. The glens of Antrim are known for their spectacular beauty, particularly around Cushendall, Cushendun, and Glenarm. From the charming town of Ballycastle on the coast, you can take a short boat trip out to Rathlin Island, a rare place of wild beauty and of extraordinary ecological value and historical interest. This island lies 6 miles off the coast of Northeastern Ireland, and only 16 miles from the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland. It's eight miles long and less than one mile wide, and shaped like a boot. It is comprised of layers of basalt on limestone on the higher parts. It is surrounded by limestone and basalt sea cliffs reaching 470 ft in places. Three lighthouses stand as monument to its wild coast, where over 40 recorded shipwrecks lie in the depths nearby. There are underwater cliffs, caves and a marine botanical paradise here. Robert the Bruce, who won Scotland's freedom from England in the early 12th century, (the Robert who betrays William Wallace in Braveheart, then changes his mind at the end of the movie and offers battle instead of a truce), spent some time in exile in the caves on Rathlin. When Robert saw how a spider in the cave with him kept weaving its web over and over again every day no matter how many times Robert destroyed it, Robert decided if the spider could do it, so could he! Rathlin Island is also a paradise for birds all year round, but becomes a haven for puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes every summer from about May to July when these migratory birds come down from the Arctic to feed, mate, nest, rear their young, teach them to fly, and then head off on their travels. The male puffin's beak is only highly colored when he is looking for a girlfriend. They use the beak to burrow into the cliff face to form their nest, where they reat their chicks. A Royal Society for the Preservation of Birds warden is usually on hand to give you a great view of a nest through his high powered telescope at this time of the year. Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part X

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Unique Wedding Favors for Each Table? Part 1

Admin — Wed, 21 May 2008 03:08:34 +0000

Although it is not very common, some couples may opt to provide unique wedding favors for each table at their wedding. The more standard practice is to give each guest the same wedding favor, but if the centerpieces will vary from table to table, the couple may want to vary the favors as well. This is a great idea for a couple who cannot settle on one overall theme for the wedding, or who want to match both colors. They may also choose to have a different theme for each table to reflect the tastes of those guests sitting at that table, and as a result may also prefer to have a different wedding favor for each table. This article will take a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of offering unique wedding favors for each table at your reception. One of the most obvious advantages to offering unique favors at each table is it prevents the couple from having to select just one wedding favor. There is a huge variety of affordable wedding favors available nowadays, especially online, and many couples have a great deal of trouble selecting just one favor. This may be because they have a hard time agreeing on which favor would be the most appropriate, or because they each have several different favors which they really like and are having difficulty narrowing down their options. They might also opt for one cheaper, and one more expensive favor. Or, favors for the men, and favors for the women guests. For any of these cases, the idea of giving different wedding favors at each table, unique to the people at that table, is a great idea. Another advantage to giving unique wedding favors for each table is that the couple can branch out and either choose several different themes or one overall theme which they vary slightly from table to table. This can make the process of shopping for wedding favors a lot more fun for couples who enjoy doing this. It can also be cheaper—you can get huge discounts on closeout lines which the wedding favor distributor wants to clear ouf od his warehouse and so is willing to sell at a huge discount. Unique Wedding Favors for Each Table? Part 11

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Fun Activities Before the Wedding

Admin — Thu, 22 May 2008 02:34:10 +0000

Planning pre-wedding activities are a little something extra that's not required, but certainly fun and entertaining for the guests. If the bride and groom keep in mind the distance some guests have traveled and keep activities relevant to that level of fatigue, they're sure to hit on some winning activities. As you go about planning activities for the wedding, keep in mind other factors as well. Do many people have children with them? Will you provide childcare or will the children be participants in the activities? If you have several guests who are older, or have a disability, perhaps activities can be tailored in a way so that they can participate as well. Some of the more popular pre-wedding activities include things like a group manicure. All the women in the wedding party or who are close to the bride (and certainly this could include men if they like manicures and want to hang out with the ladies) can head to a nail salon and get their nails done. This can be relaxing for many women and provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the wedding weekend. If the men don't want to go, they might choose to golf or play a game of tennis. Many brides and grooms choose to provide structured activities for their guests prior to the wedding. If the wedding is on a Saturday night, for example, they might choose to provide a Friday activity, especially if most guests are local to the wedding. You might have a wedding luau. Many times pre-wedding activities center around bachelor and bachelorette parties, but what about a stag party that includes all the members of the brides and grooms families? You could plan some fun (and appropriate) games and head out to a restaurant for a night of fun and games. Be sure to limit the drinking and carousing as this might not sit well with some family members, and everyone will be way too tired (and hungover?) to really enjoy the wedding the next day. Here is a fun activity that can be done right before the wedding. Have someone begin a gift basket. The theme of the basket is "advice for the couple" and could be started by the best man or maid of honor. They take the basket to someone else's house, perhaps an aunt or cousin and leave it on the doorstep. That person adds an item (a book on how to end spousal arguments? Or a CD of romantic music?) and brings the basket to someone else's house. This activity can begin a week or two before the wedding and everyone should know it is coming around. The basket can also be circulated the weekend of the wedding, but this will only work if everyone is local and if they know the basket is coming. In this case, it also might be helpful to have someone bring the basket to a house, collect the item and the take the basket to the next location, reducing the need to have each person take the basket to its next location. Once it's full, someone can be in charge of putting the basket items together, wrapping it all up to make it look nice and bringing it to the bride and groom. It can be delivered right to the wedding as a gift in and of itself. You can also have an evening of share home movies, a trivia quiz in which all of the teams are mixed between the two families, or a board game evening. Whatever activities you choose, be sure to keep in mind the needs of your guests and the limitations of those guests. If some have travelled far, or don't have a lot of money, you will need to pace yourselves and pay for your guests. If you want to plan an activity that includes everyone, and you choose golf, but a relative is in a wheelchair or uses a walker, that might not be the best activity to plan.

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Unique Wedding Favors for Each Table? Part 11

Admin — Fri, 23 May 2008 00:09:15 +0000

Unique Wedding Favors for Each Table? Part 1 However, couples who feel stressed out by the process of selecting wedding favors would be wise to simply stick to one wedding favor for the tables at their wedding, because the process of selecting several different favors can make the planning exponentially more stressful. And possibly more expensive too, unless they are getting really good closeout prices. One of the major disadvantages of offering unique favors at each table is the couple will not likely be eligible for bulk order discounts. Again, they might get good closeout prices, though, which will help them stick to the wedding favor budget. Most weddings have approximately 8-12 people at each table. This means the couple will not be ordering many of each favor and will most likely have to pay full price for each one if they are not careful. If you have a large humber of guests, though, and divide them into 2 groups of 4 groups, you might still end up with a substantial number for each of the required favors. Another disadvantage to providing unique wedding favors for each table is it can make setting the tables more complicated. If each table will also have a unique centerpiece and the wedding favors are designed to match the centerpiece, special care must be taken to ensure the correct favors are placed at the correct table. This may be obvious if the favors are unwrapped, but if they are already packaged or wrapped, it can be incredibly difficult. Someone familiar with the favors and how they were wrapped should oversee the process of setting the tables to ensure the correct favors are placed at each table. Or, if they are coming packaged or pre-wrapped from the wedding favor distributor, make sure you ask them to label them separately, or even spend a bit more and have them shipped separately to be certain to avoid confusion. Another disadvantage to giving unique wedding favors to each table is it may create discontent among the guests. For example some guests may feel as though the favors given to one table are nicer than the ones given to the table at which they are seated. This is not a major concern as most guests will not make these types of comparisons, especially if the favors are packaged or already wrapped, but there will always be curious guests wanting to know what's inside. If you are concerned with 'favor envy' then just keep it simple and have your wedding favors the same for each table. After all, with so much to do before your wedding, and time and cost savings are a big help! You have a lot better things to worry about than wedding favors! 820 words

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Great Halloween Activities Store

Admin — Fri, 23 May 2008 13:08:57 +0000

Welcome! Here are our DVD and Book Recommendations for great Halloween Activities the whole family can enjoy. This is the DVD Store. You can Browse by Category by clicking on the link for Books. If the whole page does not appear in your browser, just scroll a little way further down to the end of the white background and use the sideways scroll bar.

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part X

Admin — Sat, 24 May 2008 00:38:50 +0000

Continued from Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part IX BELFAST Heading south once more down the great glens of Antrim, you will reach Belfast, rich in history and museums. In Belfast near the University is the Ulster Museum, which has a wonderful collection of artefacts and art, and an excellent if small restaurant which overlooks an intriguing little ancient graveyard. The folk museum at Cultra, about 7 miles away, is also well worth visiting, and the adorable town of Crawfordsburn with its sandy beaches, windmill and waterfall. Also worth visiting in Belfast are the zoo, Cavehill, and Queen's University, Belfast and the Belfast City Hall. You can also walk along the great River Lagan, to visit quaint villages and ancient monuments just a stone's throw away from the city center. Once again, for so large a city, pretty much everything is in walking distance, or a short bus or cab ride away. Belfast has water on the east side, the Belfast lough, and mountains to the west. On the lough are the Harland and Wolff shipyards, where the great Titanic and its two other ill-fated sister ships were built. It has a museum and is located very near the small but busy Belfast City Airport. (The international airport is about 20 miles away to the west near the town of Antrim). Belfast also has many fine Georgian buildings in the city center, and the Crown Saloon, an old pub which still retains its Victorian charm. There is also a opera house, fine theatres and dining, a good city center for shopping, and a very sophisticated area around the university. Every autumn there is a fine arts festival which features top ballet, opera, and the Royal Shakespeare Company, as well as classical musical ensembles from all over the world. Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part XI

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Outdoor Wedding Reception Activities

Admin — Sun, 25 May 2008 02:15:44 +0000

If you are having your wedding reception outdoors, that opens the door for many activities that would be hard to accomplish indoors. You can plan games and activities based on the outdoor theme and carry that theme indoors if part of the reception is inside as well. Depending on where the reception will be held, you can plan many activities based on the setting. Whether it is the park or on a farm, in your backyard or by the beach, your outdoor wedding reception activities are limited only by your imagination, and the seasons and weather, of course! Let's start with some basics based on popular wedding locations. One fun game for a winery wedding is a blindfolded wine tasting game. If the bride and groom are wine drinkers, this might not be a game the bride and groom should participate in, but rather the guests and wedding party members. Blindfold perhaps a half dozen volunteers and have them do a blind taste test (provide something to clean the palate between sips). The volunteers should guess which wine is the pinot noir, which is the Cabernet, and so on. A bottle of wine is the obvious prize for the winner of this game. If you are having a reception at a country club on a golf course, in addition to having a green theme, and a golf theme, it would be only natural to include golf in some reception activities or games. You certainly could head to the golf course for a "hole in one" contest, or have a driving contest to see which guest has the best stroke. As a simple, "who gets the centerpiece game", you could have people guess how many golf balls there are in the vase game, using brightly colored golf balls. A silly game could be made on the dance floor by asking everyone to include their best golf swing into their dancing for one particular song. Now, if your reception and ceremony are both to be held outdoors and guests will be looking for something to do outdoors if they don't dance and have already eaten, you might consider setting up some fun activities such as a treasure hunt for wedding prizes. If the reception is being held at a park, perhaps guests might enjoy a "walk down memory lane". Prior to the reception, someone can use potted plants or arbors to create a little private lane, which guests can walk through. Along the path, guests will find pictures of the bride and groom at various stages in their lives. There should be a place for guests to record their thoughts and memories along the way as well, such as in the guestbook. Of course, it depends on how private the park is, or the outdoor setting. If your wedding and reception are fairly casual, you can always tell guests ahead of time to prepare for a ball game or some other fun outdoor activity. Women can bring a pair of sneakers. Just imagine the fun photos you'll get out of a rousing game of football or baseball played by women in fancy dresses and men in their fancy suits. You could have games on how far people can throw the ball, balloon games, and more. You can provide a challenge activity involving barefoot dancing in the grass or a Frisbee toss in the backyard. Is there a pool in the yard where the reception will be held? Why not have a swimming activity after the whole of the reception is done? Outdoor wedding receptions can be a challenge if everyone is all spread out, so having outdoor activities everyone can engage in will help keep things unified and running smoothly. Just remember to plan for the weather as well. Especially these days never assume that the weather report is going to be right!

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The Faithful Heart

Admin — Sun, 25 May 2008 12:45:55 +0000

The Faithful Heart

Sorcha MacMurrough

Tudor Ireland, 1537

Who has murdered Morgana Maguire's brother, poisoned her father, and stolen most of her clan's ships? There are just a few of the pressing questions the novice nun must find answers to if she and her one true love Ruairc MacMahon are ever to find happiness in each other's arms.

Morgana broke off her engagement to the only man she ever loved when her brother was murdered, convinced that her fiance had had betrayed them all. Now, two years later, Ruairc returns to Donegal at the request of Morgana's father, who wants to make peace with them both before he dies.

In the time that's passed since the murder, Ruairc is the only one who does not appear to have profited from the young man's death in any way. In fact, his life has been a living hell.

Ruairc has never loved anyone but the fiery woman with hair like living flame. Forced to earn a living after being banished from his clan for a murder he did not commit, Ruairc has had to dance attendance upon the powerful and ambitious English courtiers in Dublin.

Ruairc is overjoyed to be summoned back to the Maguire lands to be with Morgana again, despite the nest of murdeous interigue he is walking right back into. He would brave the gate of Hell itself if it meant winning Morgana for his wife. If only he could convince her he loves her for herself alone, not her title, lands or wealth.

Despite her suspicions, Morgana bonds with Ruairc, as her most trusted ally and lover too, the only anchor in her swirling world. As their enemies surround him and brother fights brother for clan supremacy, the sensual couple can barely keep their heads above water as the shifting quicksands of loyalty and allegiance threaten to drag them under.

Only Morgana's greatest ship, The Faithful Heart, stands between the Maguire and MacMahon clans and the destruction of their entire region at the hands of the fanatical, power hungry traitors in their midsts.

Set against the backdrop of Tudor power politics and Reformation during the reign of Henry VIII, and the rebellion of the great Irish leader Silken Thomas, Morgana and Ruairc must fight not only to win each other's love, but to protect all of Ireland from civil war and foreign invasion.

Rating: Moderately sensual.

The Faithful Heart by Sorcha MacMurrough Word Count: 90,000 Setting: Tudor Ireland; Rating: Moderately sensual. (US)
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CHAPTER ONE

As novice Sister Attracta, formerly Morgana Maguire, laboured on her knees digging in the still partly frozen soil, a shadow fell over her prostrate form. The new scent she breathed in had naught to do with the garden.

Morgana shuddered with cold and fear, and slowly rose to face her visitor. She hoped her face would appear a mask of indifference, though inside her heart hammered against her ribs painfully.

"Well, Ruairc MacMahon, state your business, and leave. I have work to do here, as you can see," Morgana declared flatly.

As the silence stretched, Morgana's violet eyes finally rose to met Ruairc's emerald green ones. She blushed furiously at the openly speculative appraisal that she saw there. Like he's trying to strip me naked, she thought resentfully, seeing the painfully familiar flame of passion in his eyes.

The passage of time hadn't diminished him in any way that she could see. Certainly not in height. Ruairc towered over her, so with a proud lift of her chin, Morgana met his gaze head-on, refusing to be cowed by him as she had once been, long ago, in her other life.

"No word of welcome for me then, my dear? After all, I am one of your oldest friends, and the man you were once betrothed to."

"You and I have nothing to say to one another, Ruairc, especially not after all this time. So if you are trying to cause trouble, or make me change my mind about taking my vows soon..."

"As if I could ever make you change your mind about anything!" Ruairc snapped. Then he took a deep, steadying breath, shook his head, and tried once more.

"No, Morgana, I'm not here to beg and plead with you to see my way, to trust me, for the words would only fall on deaf ears as they did two years ago, and I have a strong objection to making a fool of myself twice."

Morgana turned her back on him, and started to gather up her tools. "Really, I have no intention of standing here listening to this...."

"Morgana, for pity's sake, just stop a minute, and hear what I have to say," Ruairc insisted, as he wrestled with her for possession of the spade.

She raised her hands, surrendering the tool to him rather than become any further embroiled. He was just too near.... "All right, I'll give you one minute, and then I'm going inside. What can your aunt be thinking of, allowing you to come here like this!"

"Morgana, I've come here to give you a choice, to come home with me now, or remain here forever locked inside this cloister."

"Why should I go home, Ruairc?" Morgana argued as she bent to resume her work, this time with her hoe. "There is much to do here, and this is the fate I chose for myself. How dare you question me?"

She caught sight of one of the older nuns eyeing her with a frown. Morgana knew that with the late spring they were well behind on their planting already, without her wasting her time going over ancient history with her worst enemy.

"This is the life I've chosen. I'll thank you to leave me be so I can get on with my work." She began to hoe as though her life depended on it. Which it did, since almost everything they had they got for themselves.

"Why shouldn't you come to see your family and friends? I'd be happy to act as your escort." "I wouldn't set foot outside--" "You're still only a novice. You can come home any time you like. All the people from the castle and village send their love, and ..."

She threw down the hoe. "Stop it! Don't you dare say another word. I know what you're trying to do, and it won't work, do you hear!" Morgana hissed, trying to avoid making a scene.

"I've left my old life behind through my own free will, and there's no point in looking back. It can't change anything that happened. I want to leave it all behind, don't you see? I don't want to be cursed with remembering!"

"My dear, I know it was painful at the end, but was it really such a curse?" he asked gently. "I remember so much joy too."

She shook her head. "It's all past. This avails you nothing, my lord. My future is as a nun, here at this convent. In less than a fortnight I am to take my final vows. So your trick hasn't worked, Ruairc. Nothing you can say will seduce me back into your arms, so spare yourself the time and breath, and just leave now."

Morgana looked at Ruairc again squarely as she finished her impassioned speech, but even as she was demanding that he go, she inhaled the musky maleness of him, and her stomach began to turn somersaults. She struggled frantically to subdue the longing she felt every time he was near. Despite her brave words, she ached for one of his masterful kisses to overpower her more rational self.

Almost as if sensing her inner thoughts, Ruairc moved closer to her. Morgana stepped back hastily to avoid any physical contact. She tripped over her rake and would have been sent sprawling had Ruairc not caught her.

He pulled her close, and then smoothed down the white novice's habit in a soothing gesture.

"Morgana, my love, I have not come here to fight with you, or trick you in any way. I've come to tell you that your father isn't at all well, and will not rest until you come to see him."

Morgana sagged against Ruairc, taking comfort from his strength and the warmth which emanated from his huge frame. But suspicions still lurked in the back of her mind. She also suddenly realised she was in full view of the entire convent as they headed out of the cloister and into the church for prayers.

"I c-c-can't," she stammered, pulling away. "My duty, my vows. I must...."

"I've spoken to my aunt already. She has released you for as long as you need to be away. I know you are to take your vows in a fortnight's time. She's explained all that. But she pointed out that even if you miss the bishop this time, there will be other times for him to accept you into the Church. But there may not ever be another chance to see your father again," Ruairc added.

He saw Morgana stiffen visibly, and she digested the import of his words in sullen silence.

He knew Morgana so well, and yet she could be such a stranger, Ruairc reflected, as he gazed at her lovely face under its coif, and longed to see the vibrant auburn hair concealed underneath.

A stray curl peeped out, and he tucked it behind her ear, and said in a softer tone, "Morgana, I know how difficult this is for you, especially since you and your father have had so many differences in the past. But the truth is, he has been ill for some time. Though he has done his best to rally, I fear the worst. The whole family has been sent for, and I have been charged to bring you home safely to Lisleavan with all possible haste."

Morgana gasped as his warm fingers caressed her cheek. She slapped his hand away and gave an arrogant toss of her head. "And why, if this were true, would he send you of all people to fetch me, Ruairc? My father must know you're the last person I would ever trust, or would ever wish to see again, even if he could bring himself to trust you again, which I very much doubt."

Ruairc's emerald green eyes glittered coldly, and his mouth tightened into a thin line. "I don't know the exact circumstances of the illness, for I have been in service in Dublin these past two years. I was only summoned to Lisleavan a week ago," he temporised, not sure how much of the truth he ought to reveal to her at this point.

"Your father sent for me to make amends. We have made our peace with one another, Morgana. He has sent me because he trusts me, and he knows that no matter what you think may have happened in the past, I would never let any harm come to you," Ruairc asserted. "Please, my sweet, no matter what you think I may or may not have done, surely you know in your heart I would never willilngly cause you harm."

Morgana stood with her back to Ruairc, weighing his words.

He came up softly behind her, and pleaded quietly, "Morgana, I give you my word, if all is well at Lisleavan, you can stick my head up on a pole with your own two hands. I pray your father will be well again soon, and then I assure you, you can come back here as soon as you like. But if he really is dying, I think you owe it to him and the rest of the clan to be by his side, patch up your differences, and ease his troubled mind.

"I'm only his foster son. You're the eldest of his daughters. He trusts us both to do what needs to be done, for the good of all the clan. The harvests have been poor, and there has been trouble with neighbouring landholders," Ruairc added reluctantly.

"With your brothers, you mean!" Morgana spat, spinning around to face him, her eye blazing with furious loyalty to her clan.

Ruairc almost laughed aloud with relief. For a few moments he had almost feared she would retreat back into the cloister. Her true nature was now showing itself once more, as she gathered her tools and then hitched up her skirts.

"If the clan needs me, summons me, I must obey. I hope you're wrong about my father, but if the Mother Superior has given me permission to leave, I might as well take advantage of her generosity and go," she reasoned as she strode purposely toward the main building of the convent, a low stone edifice with mullioned windows.

With a sweep of her skirts she flew up the stairs into the entryway. Ruairc had to run to catch up to her.

"I'll be right with you, my lord Ruairc."

"At your service. I'll be waiting, my lady Morgana." He gave her a deep bow.

Then he stepped down the corridor a short distance, and tapped on the door and re-entered his aunt's private study.

He entered when he was commanded, and sat down by the fire to partake of the Mother Superior's hospitality. As he sat sipping a small glass of wine, he mused on how predictable Morgana was after all. Her clan. Her home, meant everything to her. It was this overwhelming love which had made her take to the convent two years ago, and though he knew from his aunt that she struggled desperately to be a good nun and devote her life to God, the wildness inside her had refused to be tamed. There had been no mistaking the light that glowed in her violet eyes at the prospect of seeing her family and friends again, even though her attitude towards him had been less than friendly.

Ruairc felt a pang of conscience prick him sorely. Was he doing the right thing by insisting she come back with him? He wanted to spend every waking moment of the rest of his life with her, of that he was sure. He knew he was being selfish by jumping at the chance of coming to see her, and of having such a good excuse as her father's illness to spend some time with her. Morgana's father had really sent for her, but Ruairc had volunteered to fetch her himself, if only to catch a glimpse of her, and reassure himself she was all right.

And yes, she was completely correct about his intentions. He had waited for months, years, and probably would have invented some excuse to come up from Dublin to see her, had it not been for her father's timely summons. But damn it, he couldn't just sit by idly and have her ruin both their lives by locking herself up in the convent forever over something they were both innocent of.

But to take her back to Lisleavan would be to expose Morgana to danger. For Ruairc he had neglected to tell Morgana what he and her father both knew with absolute certainty: Someone in the household was poisoning the old man.

The Faithful Heart by Sorcha MacMurrough Word Count: 90,000 Setting: Tudor Ireland; Rating: Mildly sensual.
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I was amazed at the pace, speed, and yet the elegance of the language. The characters jump off the page at you as you become embroiled in the world of suspsense and mystery which the author creates so deftly. Morgana can be a bit too resisting of Ruairc for my tastes, but they have a lot of reasons to stay apart, both personally, and due to the mores of the period. The author excels at capturing the period in a way that makes me feel as though we are right there with the characters. When they do finally get together, it is incredibly moving, and we know it will be for keeps. That is, if the dangerous world of power politics they've become involved in unwittingly doesn't tear them apart forever.

Ruairc is a noble and courageous hero who is not afraid to admit he loves Morgana, even when she is doing her best to tell him their love has no future. Together they overcome the most overwhelming odds, and all the loose ends are tied up neatly and skilfully. I shall be reading a lot more of this author's books in the future! Erin Kennedy

The Faithful Heart by Sorcha MacMurrough Word Count: 90,000 Setting: Tudor Ireland; Rating: Mildly sensual. ORDER NOW: $4.99 (US)
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Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part XI

Admin — Mon, 26 May 2008 00:40:32 +0000

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part X HEADING SOUTH FROM BELFAST Heading south from Belfast is the relatively modern town of Portadown, where the residents can describe the coming of Cromwell's men in the 1650s as as though it were yesterday. Going further south from Belfast about 40 miles, Armagh is an ancient cathedral town, with fascinating museums and ruins. It dates from around the 6th century and has a very special, almost mystical atmosphere. It has a local interpretive center now very like the one at Dublin, Dubliana, and wonderful winding streets, and a great terraced effect to the town as you have to climb to get up to the Cathedral. There is a great legend associated with Armagh, and it is said that St. Patrick founded the college here, as he moved from east to west from the down of Downpatrick. HEADING SOUTH FROM ARMAGH As you are heading back south toward Dublin you could also vist the site of Newgrange, the huge monolithic tomb experts think is even older than Stonehenge, and built in alignment so the sunshine from the winter solstice on the shortest day of the year comes straight up the long passage to illuminate the burial chamber within. Experts estimate that it was built in 7000 BC. Nearby are similar excavated burial mounds Howth and Knowth, and in fact the whole area, known as the Boyne valley, is an achaeologist's dream, it is so full of artefacts. All three places are pretty unforgetable, and like nothing you will ever see in America, or even most of Europe. Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part XII

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Bridal Bouquet Activities

Admin — Tue, 27 May 2008 02:20:22 +0000

When a bride orders her wedding bouquet, it might not seem that any "activities" will come from it other than as a thing for the bride to hold so she can look pretty and traditional. But the bridal bouquet can be the source of many interesting activities to help make the wedding memorable. During there ceremony there are all kinds of possibilities for the bridal bouquet. Certainly you can go traditional and have flowers for both the mother of the bride and mother of the groom. But what if you turned that traditional gesture on its head and supplied flowers for both the mothers and the fathers? If the bride supplies flowers to both the men and women, there are a couple of ways to do this. Dad's flower could be enclosed in a verse that he will then get up and read at the ceremony? What if the flower is used as a symbol to recognize the members of the family who have passed, and it gives dad an opportunity to recognize those family members? If the bride chooses not to have a unity candle, but wants to have a similar gesture, she can have her bridal bouquet designed by having several small bouquets put together. At an appropriate time during the ceremony, the bridal bouquet can be "broken up" and various people might receive a share, such as the mothers and fathers of the bride and groom. Now, if the bride wants to hang onto her bridal bouquet during the wedding ceremony, but is willing to have some fun with it at the reception, there are a few options there as well. How about a dance involving the bridal bouquet? This is silly, but fun. The bridal bouquet is on display somewhere near the dance floor and guests must guess a flower that's in the bouquet before they can enter the dance floor. The first few guests might not have a problem as some flowers are obvious, like roses and tulips, but others might give people pause. Of course, this won't work if the bridal bouquet is all roses or some other single and obvious flower but for a traditional mixed bouquet, it can work well. For a naughty touch, the bride can hide her garter in the bridal bouquet and actually put it on her leg before the groom takes it off. Or she can have a couple of breakaway bouquets that are wrapped in garter belts, so hers doesn't get thrown, but instead the tiny bouquets with garter belts attached are thrown. When it comes time for the bride to throw her bouquet, there are several options. Some brides choose not to keep their bouquet and simply pluck one flower out of it before chucking the whole thing during the bridal bouquet toss. This is an alternative to having a special bouquet set aside for throwing, and there are others as well. Are there are a lot of single women coming to the wedding? Maybe one thrown bouquet won't be enough. Many brides these days are opting for something a little more fun. One popular option is to have the florist create several small bouquets and then bundle them to look like one bouquet. They are tied lightly with a ribbon. When it comes time for the bouquet toss, the bride unties the ribbon, and throws the "bouquet" which is actually several little bouquets. Several women will catch the bouquet, rather than just one. Other brides are opting for silk bouquets, so that they will have a lasting keepsake. You can have more than one bouquet like this, one to keep, and one that is thrown. Whatever you decide, the bridal bouquet is an integral traditional part of a wedding ceremony. To help make your wedding memorable, try a bridal bouquet activity.

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Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part XII

Admin — Wed, 28 May 2008 00:41:40 +0000

Continued from Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part XI HEADING EAST FROM BELFAST Traveling along Belfast Lough's southern shore and down the long arm of Northern Ireland, County Down, you would get to the very tip of the peninsula, which is full of ancient abbey and castle ruins, and then catch a ferry across Strangford Lough to get back to the mainland. The short ferry trip is lovely, as is the town of Strangford, with its many small alley and lovingly preserved old Georgian homes (and some are even older!) Once back on the mainland you would head to Carrickfergus, which has two castles from the 12th century. It is a lovely old medieval town, and is an antique hunter's and foodies' paradise. From there you would head south along the coast back to Dublin, where suburban sprawl hasn't quite ruined the village type atmosphere of the north Dublin County coast. TRAVELLING NORTH FROM DUBLIN-JUST REVERSE THIS ROUTE! The great thing about the places I have mentioned in the north of Ireland are that they are all within easy driving distance of Dublin, simply by heading north rather than south. Leave yourself plenty of time if you are driving to stop and eat and just soak up the atmosphere. You will not regret a trip to Tara or Newgrange, I promise. FROM DUBLIN WEST TO GALWAY The middle of the country is very lush and fertile, though it has few towns of huge interest compared with the ones we've already mentioned on our circular clockwise tour of Ireland. Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part XIII

Bridal Shower Games

Admin — Thu, 29 May 2008 02:31:04 +0000

If you're hosting a bridal shower, there are literally hundreds of games to choose from. Some are silly, some are serious, but all are about having some fun with the bride before she's married. Here's a sampling of ideas for bridal shower games. One fun game really puts the bride on the spot with regard to her knowledge of her husband-to-be's life. Prior to the party, have someone ask the groom a series of questions, such as where he was born, what his favorite food is, or similar personal questions. Then at the bridal shower, put the bride on the spot by asking her the answers to the questions. See how many she can get right (hopefully at least half!). If she does well, give the girl a prize; she deserves one. If she doesn't, she may want to brush up on her groom, quick! One all-time favorite game is the toilet paper wedding dress. This game involves separating the guests into teams consisting of at least 2 people and no more than 5. Give each team a roll or toilet paper (or 2) and have them fashion a wedding dress out of the toilet paper. One of the team members will volunteer as the model. Provide them with a "dress up trunk" filled with jewelry and shoes. They must make the dress out of the toilet paper, but they can accessorize with the provided jewelry, shoes, gloves and hats. Place a time limit on this (5 minutes is adequate) and have the bride vote on the best dress. Be sure to provide prizes for the winning team! Another fun game that's always a hit is making the bride get dressed while blindfolded. Tell the bride she is to pretend she's on her honeymoon and the power has gone off. She must prepare for her wedding night in complete darkness. Provide her with a suitcase filled with items and then blindfold her. She must get dressed in a certain period of time (2 minutes is adequate) while completely blindfolded and with no help from the guests. Include some silly items like oversized sunglasses, garden gloves or a flannel nightgown just to make it fun. This is a photo opportunity, so be sure someone is waiting to record the end result! Another fun game which puts th bridal shower guests more on the spot than the bride is the handbag game. Everyone puts their purses in the center of the room. Create a list of items commonly found in a purse and assign a point value. Then create a list of less common items and give them a higher point value. So you might give lipstick 2 points, a tampon 3 points, and sunglasses 5 points. But a granola bar could be 10 points and a staple remover 15 points. Then go through the purses awarding points and give the person with the highest number of points (and therefore, the most items and probably highest number of unusual items) a prize. Before the bridal shower, create bingo cards for this shower bingo game. In the squares, put pictures of items you think the bride will receive at the shower. So, boxes might include things like lingerie, towels and the like. As the bride opens gifts, have people mark off that item on their bingo card. If nobody gets a "bingo", give a prize to the person who marked off the most number of items. Another bridal shower game is a derivation of a popular game often played at bachelorette parties involving a stripper. This is the clean version. About 30 minutes into the party, have the bride leave the room and pass out pieces of paper. Have everyone write on the paper everything they can remember about the bride's outfit, hair, etc. How many rings is she wearing? What color is her blouse? Is she wearing open or closed toed shoes? Once everyone is done recording their observations, the bride comes back into the room and a prize is awarded to the person with the best observation skills. One thing is for sure, there are lots of game you can play at your bridal shower which will keep all of your guests engaged and involved, so it is not just all about opening presents and making small talk.

Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part XIII

Admin — Fri, 30 May 2008 00:42:58 +0000

continued from Planning Your Irish Honeymoon Part XII HINTS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR HONEYMOON TO IRELAND Know before you go: Get as much information as you can online, then once you arrive, stop in at the Bord Failte (pronounced Fall-cha), the tourist board. There is one in every city and large town that will give you details on all the local attractions and special events. You can even do a book a bed ahead on the spur of the moment if you have no fixed plans and just want to drive and see where you end up. The Bord Failte also has a guide to every county, with more detailed maps, planned out as driving routes, so you will not miss a thing. Know how many days you have, and give yourself a realistic timetable to make the most of it. Weather-YES, it rains a lot in Ireland. Bring along appropriate rain fear and footwear. You will want to do a lot of walking and sightseeing. But there is always a pub or restaurant nearby if you get tired of both. Weather all year round-rare snow, rarely so cold it gets below 32 degrees, which for them is zero celsius. Most of the time it is better than April in Paris! Brr. There is NOTHING romantic about April in Paris unless you are wearing thermals. Definitely bring your thermals if you have them. Summer is great; it is so far north, especially the northern counties, that you are almost in the land of the midnight sun. The western counties are the most rainy due to quick, sudden squalls from the Atlantic. But it is rare to have a day without sun except in the dead of winter. Money-The Euro-About a $1.50 of our money at the moment. So you are bound to find things price-y, and remember, they add value added tax to all your purchases, so you might want to keep the receipts and claim back the money at the airport when you depart the country. For a handy world currency calculator, visit www.xe.com Accommodation-everything imaginable, every price range. Clothing-see note above re weather. Dress in layers! Remember also that there is not much central heating! But there are a lot of lovely open fireplaces. Food, awesome, especially on the sea coasts, but keep the taxes in mind and save all your receipts. Beer/alcohol-ditto. Shopping; great. Woolen and linen aren't the great bargains they once were in the city center stores, but you can often find collectively run craft centers with hand made or unique gifts. Keep all your receipts so you can claim back the VAT. Driving: right hand drive, left side of the road. Roads are generally well paved, not greatly signposted. Gas-expensive. Sports: golf, fishing, leisure centers for swimming and a variety of sporting activities, bicycling, walking, hiking, and boating are available in and around all major cities in Ireland. Birdwatching, photography, art holidays=paradise. Tracing your family tree? A lot of people ask about this, but unfortunately, at the end of the Irish civil war in 1922, the rebels burned the public record office because it was a symbol to the of colonial opression. So it is not impossible (unless you are an O'Brien or Murphy, there are so many branches of the family), but the records there are have mainly been derived from parish records. Romance: 10 out of 10-for a relaxing place to get away from it all, from city to country, Ireland is ideal. Fine dining, great hotels and B and Bs, breathtaking scenery and a wealth of shared activities, go at your own pace and do as little or as much as you like. A country of both overwhelming natural beauty and fascinating towns and cities Ireland is a stunning honeymoon destination, suited to all budgets and interests, and one trip you will never forget. Every picture will be like a Kodak moment. Here's wishing you plenty of rainbows when you are there, and a pot of gold at the end of every one of them! 5279 words

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Obama’s laundy list of lies

Admin — Fri, 30 May 2008 03:34:39 +0000

The American love affair with Obama is OVER. It was pretty short-lived, like a lot of relationships. Wild adulation for the first few weeks, then gradually, familiarity began to breed contempt. And then his true character. Look at this laundry list of lies.

http://obama-arama.services.officelive.com/default.aspx

Do NOT allow ths person to become the Democratic nominee because you can be sure all of this and MORE will be dredged up and he will be unelectable by November. We simply cannot afford another 4 years of Republican misrule. Clinton will hit the ground running, and keep on going. After all, they have tried to stop her in her tracks for how many YEARS now, let alone months, and FAILED.

Nice Bachelorette Party Games Part 1

Admin — Sat, 31 May 2008 00:01:55 +0000

Planning a bachelorette party is one of the easiest parts of a wedding to plan. There are literally hundreds of ideas for things to do, and a myriad of options for games. Many of those ideas are a bit on the racy side, but there are plenty that that are just plain clean fun which you can use if you are not sure of your guests, or if you don't want to be too embarrassed in front of friends and work colleagues. For example, one popular bachelorette game involves asking the guests to become poets. Ahead of the party, take 50 index cards and on half, write romantic things, like "roses", "cuddly", etc. On the other 25 cards, write very non-romantic words or phrases, like "nose hairs" or "ironing". Then have each guest draw one card from each pile. They should then create a silly poem based on the two very different words or phrases they have chosen, for example, "Roses are red, your nose hairs are ewwwww." One fun game that is sure to engender at least a few laughs is "name that item". Take a paper bag (a fabric bag is better if you have one) and fill the bag with typical "male items". The items might include a razor, a money clip, a tie, shoe polish, etc. Seal the bag, or fold it over really well. Then have each guest feel the bag and try to guess the contents. Have them write their guesses on a piece of paper. After everyone has had a chance to feel the bag, the contents are shown and the person with the most number of correct guesses gets the bag of male-oriented items. Here's a fun idea. This game might take the whole of the bachelorette party, but it's a fun one that involves all the guests, helps them get to know one another and provides video proof you all had a good time. You need video cameras for this game, so if the host only has one camera, be sure to ask guests to bring more video cameras. Make sure you also have enough blank tapes for this game. Depending on the number of guests at the party, you'll divide the party into two or more groups. It's best to divide the group into teams small enough so that the whole team can get into one car. So you'll have maybe five women on each team. You'll give each team a video camera, blank videotapes and a list of "scavenger hunt" type activities they must perform and tape. Some video scavenger hunt ideas include having a complete stranger sing the national anthem, having a member of the team sing "I wish I were an Oscar Meyer weiner" in the meat section of the grocery store, or taping a stranger who can do a good impersonation of John Wayne. The teams should be given a specific amount of time in which to complete their assigned tasks, and then return to the party location (ideally, a home, in this case). The videos are viewed and the teams vote on the team that did the best. Bonus points are given for the team that creates their own stunts. Nice Bachelorette Party Games Part 2

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Nice Bachelorette Party Games Part 2

Admin — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 00:14:49 +0000

continued from part 1 Bachelorette party games are not only designed to bring fun to the party, but sometimes to help people get to know one another. This might be a good opportunity for the bride's best friend to get to know the sister of the groom, or for the bride to get close to the groom's cousin or niece. So an icebreaker game isn't a bad idea. This isn't perhaps the most intellectual icebreaker game, but it will likely help thaw things out early in the evening before you head off to other events. Play a game called "I never..." and see who takes the most drinks. So the first woman says, "I never..." and completes the sentence. The women who have done the thing the first woman says she's never done take a drink, or get a point. Then the next woman claims to have "never" done something. Some suggestions for this game are: "I never ..." *Lied about my age *Lied about my weight *Shoplifted *Got a speeding ticket *Ran naked through my house The one with the most points at the end of the game is the winner. If you are playing for drinks, then the one who has the most points will definitely need a designated driver! Or the bathroom. Always be sensible about drinking at your bachelorette party, and make sure if it is taking place the evening before your wedding, that no one gets too exhausted and that it does not spoil the festivities for anyone the following day. Word count 722

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New articles posted at Weight Loss Goddess

Admin — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 12:17:38 +0000
Visit the Weight Loss Goddess site for the latest hints, tips, and recipes. Weight Loss Goddess

Wedding Reception Dance Floor Activities Part 1

Admin — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 02:17:13 +0000
Dancing is an essential part of most wedding receptions, but often one that people dread as well. We look forward to the couple's "first dance" and the bride's special dance with her father, but for those of us who are bad dancers, it can be a nightmare. So you might want to consider to adding some fun and surprise to the dance floor. This doesn't mean a rousing version of the "Bunny Hop" or the chicken dance which, while sort of traditional, is hardly unique. There are many fun games and activities you can add to your dance floor activities that are sure to be a hit. Try a fun game of the "chicken dance". Ok, so that doesn't sound too original. But if most of your guests are just sitting at their tables, watching a few brave couples dancing, or just finishing their meals, you might want to get everyone up and having fun. Try this game. The DJ announces a number. Everyone looks under his or her chair, where there is a number. Depending on the number of guests at the wedding, there might be only numbers "1" and "2" or more, up to 5. So, say the DJ announces number "4". Each person checks under their chair to see what their number is. These numbers can be written simply on a piece of masking tape and affixed to the underside of the chairs when the reception is being set up. Each "4" in this scenario will head to the dance floor to do the chicken dance with the other "4s". Not only does this get people out of their chairs and on to the dance floor, they get to know other wedding reception guests they might not otherwise know. Continues in Wedding Reception Dance Floor Activities Part 2
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The latest articles on Travel

Admin — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 12:26:37 +0000
New articles have been posted on Travel Goddess. Why not go visit?

Fall Wedding Favors Store

Admin — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 01:34:16 +0000
Click on any of the small sample of products below to learn more about these lovely fall wedding favors, direct from My Wedding Favors, the #1 Wedding Favors store on the Internet, with whom we are affiliated. My Wedding Favors offers great prices, personalization, fast shipping, and all their products come with a 100% money-back guarantee. Make your special day even more memorable for your guests with a fabulous wedding favor.

Autumn Wedding Favors

Admin — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 01:49:31 +0000
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Wedding Reception Dance Floor Activities Part 2

Admin — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 02:19:38 +0000
Continued from part 1 One dance floor activity that's gaining popularity is to bring in a dance teacher for the wedding reception. As a kind of pre-dance activity, the teacher will quickly walk people through their paces on the dance floor, perhaps teaching a bit of the waltz or, for something completely different, a little bit of the tango, before the music officially begins and dancing commences. Having a dance teacher do a bit of teaching not only livens up the reception right from the start, but it gets people out on the dance floor who might otherwise be too self-conscious normally to get out there and let it all hang out. And practically speaking, it will likely make the wedding guests feel more confident in their skills before the "official" dancing begins. It is also a good ice breaker to pair up people, again, you can call all the 3s and the 7s or whatever number has been assigned to get them out of their chairs. It can make for some interesting and fun pairings as well. Another fun activity to get everyone on the dance floor, including even the most reticent, is something you can refer to as the "snowball" dance. This is a good way to jumpstart the dancing at the beginning of the evening. The wedding party, bride and groom included, will head to the dance floor for a fun dance. The music for this dance should be fast, something with a disco beat or a fast song that most people have at least a passing familiarity with. After a bit of wedding party dancing, the music stops. The female members of the wedding party move into the crowd and bring back one male each. The male members of the wedding party do the same, but they bring in female guests. The dancing then begins again. This is repeated until all the guests are dancing. It's truly a snowball effect! Wedding reception dance floor activities can help make all your quests feel welcome, and make for a memorable wedding. All you need is a little bit of planning.
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Winter Wedding Favors

Admin — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 02:37:33 +0000
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More Articles posted at Nutrition Goddess

Admin — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 03:23:14 +0000
Please visit http://nutrition-goddess.com/?m=200805 for the latest articles.

What you need to know about sunscreen

Admin — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 12:52:08 +0000
Here is an excellent overview on sunscreen, to help ward off melanoma. http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts/healthy_living/JohnsHopkinsHealthyLivingHealthAlert_425-1.html

Wedding Toast Activities

Admin — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 02:27:53 +0000
Giving a wedding toast is a responsibility that strikes fear in the hearts of most members of a wedding party. While it's not usually something that is particularly long or involved, it is speaking in public, which can make some people very nervous. If you're planning a wedding and know that most members of this wedding party are hams who won't mind the "public speaking" aspect of being involved in a wedding, then by all means keep the toasts traditional with dad, the best man, and others taking their expected turns at the microphone. But if you're looking for something different, either because you want to save putting people on the spot, or you simply want to do something different and fun, read on. First, you can certainly take the whole toast thing off the agenda if you wish. There are no rules requiring a toast at any wedding. Weddings should be unique events and reflect the personalities of the bride and groom. A simple raising of the glasses to wish the couple well will do just fine. But if you want to do something a little different, there are a number of different options. You can go the video route, which asks people to essentially make a toast on camera, and then the video is given to the bride and groom later. This isn't a particularly unique idea, but it does solve the issue of not wanting to put people on the spot in front of the whole roo, and also gives everyone a chance to say something special to the bride and groom. The video will also be a terrific additional memento of the special day. If your guest list includes many extrovert people, then consider "pass the microphone". This can work in several ways. You can either be silly with it, or deadly serious. Most people like silly. you can go around the room, or make it more of a game. So for example, your dad takes the microphone first. His last name ends with H (so, let's say dad's last name is Smith). He must find someone whose first name begins with an G (Howard? Henry??) and pass the microphone to that person, who then gives a toast, and passes it along, and so on. This method of giving toasts does put people on the spot (certainly before the fun begins you can warn them so if they are really uncomfortable, they can escape to the restroom or bar) but it can also be a lot of fun. Getting people when they least expect it and then asking them to remember something funny or meaningful about the bride and groom can result in interesting, funny and truthful results. You might also decide that one person at each table be required to give a toast. Number the tables and at various intervals, have the MC or DJ call a number, which will require guests at that table to decide amongst themselves who will give the toast at that table. Certainly, more than one person can if they like, but there will likely be at least one ham at each table who will enjoy standing up and toasting the newlyweds. If have plenty of public speakers in the group, finding willing toast participants won't be a problem. But if you think the subject matter might be, then there's an easy solution to this problem. You can provide open-ended topics for the toast speakers. Along the lines of "Whose Line is Ut Anyway," you can ask people to do their toast in a particular style. You can also have an "open mike" toast arrangement, where anyone can request the microphone and offer a toast. The DJ, MC or someone else in the wedding party (perhaps the maid of honor or best man) can offer the speaker a surprise topic, which might be pulled from a champagne flute or drawn out of the floral arrangement on the head table. There might be slips of paper to choose, or just one sheet of paper with several ideas. The speaker might choose to finish this sentence, "I remember when (groom's name here) was a little boy, he always ..." or answer this question, "When was (insert bride's name here) at her silliest? Tell us the story". You might have to give each speaker a minute or two to collect their thoughts, but you're sure to have some interesting stories, some unique anecdotes and some different perspectives on the bride and groom. Again, if you are videotaping them, you should have a wonderful keepsake of your special day at the end. Just remind everyone that they should keep their humor PG at worst, and that they are being recorded.
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More new articles posted at Nutrition Goddess

Admin — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 12:21:15 +0000
For information on nutrition, visit this handy website: Nutrition Goddess

Things You Should Never Say to Your Boss

Admin — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:24:43 +0000
Found this useful list of things to NEVER say to your boss. Luckily, impossible is not in our vocabulary. ;0 http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-4_things_you_should_never_say_to_the_ceo-309

The Isle of Destiny

Admin — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 12:44:04 +0000

The Isle of Destiny

Book Two of The Druids of Destiny Series Shanna Murchison
Northern Wales, Ireland, 1146
Caradoc the Black Hawk rescues novice nun Morgaine from a murderous band of cutthroats. He tries to return the beautiful young woman safely to her convent, but her enemies have burnt it to the ground.
Demanding answers from the lovely but mysterious woman who sets him on fire, Caradoc is shocked to discover his companion is none other than the legendary Morgaine of Yns Draiocht, said to be descended from both King Arthur and the great wizard Merlin.

Morgaine is now a pawn in her neighboring lord Yestin's bid for power over the magical island of Yns Draiocht, the most sacred of all druid strongholds. Her father Gawain is being held to ransom by Vikings in Dublin in exchange for Morgaine. Caradoc knows they will keep Morgaine a prisoner forever, and destroy all that she as a druid is sworn to protect. He undertakes to rescue her father and remove Yestin's threat.

Morgaine is stunned at the depth of her feelings for the handsome but badly scarred Caradoc. She determines to trust him and teaches him how to use the power she can sense within him to control the four elements. Their growing love gives both the strength and confidence to do battle with the forces of darkness. But the mystical forces underlying Yns Draiocht are nothing if not seductive. Will Caradoc uses his new found magics for good or evil? And can he ever believe that he is worthy of the love of so powerful a princess?
The Isle of Destiny
Shanna Murchison Setting: North Wales, June 1145 Word Count=118,000 Rating: Sensual <A href=isle.buy.htm target=_blank> No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button</A>

The Isle of Destiny
Merionedd

North Wales, June 1145
Chapter One

Morgaine bit her trembling lower lip and told herself not to be such a goose. She gathered her reins more firmly in her hands and tried to keep her eyes on the road. There was no need to feel so restless and uneasy. There was nothing sinful in feeling glad to be going home.
Nor would anything happen to her on the journey there. She had several stout male companions, and three of the good sisters to accompany her. Anglesey wasn't that far away. She would see her beloved sea again, and her father--

She heard a hiss through the air and felt a sharp thump and vibration under her. Her horse trembled and screamed. The dusty earth hurtled up to meet her. Morgaine fell hard on both her elbows and lay winded as the dreadful swishing sounds continued.

Arrows.

The clash of steel on steel joined the deadly susurration.

Sister Arwenna cried out sharply. Father Rhodri gave one surprised grunt before the blood began to cascade down the front of his black robe.

Panic froze Morgaine for an instant as she watched the horrifying tableau unfold before her:

Sister Winifred, stabbed in the side, her final breath a long groan. Sister Elyn, kicking at the man trying to drag her out of the saddle while her horse neighed and reared.

"No!" Morgaine mouthed, still struggling for breath.

But no one could hear her.

Elyn's body was already tumbling onto the hard-packed road. Father Edgar was lying on his back staring sightlessly at the blue sky. The two yeomen who had accompanied them were now being surrounded by the leather-clad warriors.

The tall figure clad in brown standing so commandingly in the midst of the fray made a chopping motion with his hand.

Morgaine heard the smack of the blades and turned away, weak with nausea, shivering with fear.

At last she made an attempt to save herself, crawling on her hands and knees into the tall ferns which draped the forest floor. She pulled the black cowl of her traveling cloak up over her white wimple and lay perfectly still while she tried to gather her wits and some air.

"Where is she?" a tenor voice rasped nearby, making her heart leap like a trapped, frantic bird against the cage of her ribs.

"She was just here a moment ago," came the gruff reply.

"Well, find her!"

"Aye, sir."

She heard the sound of a slap against leather. "And don't even think about it. I know that smile. She must remain virgin just a little while longer, until we get to--"

A rustling in the bushes caught their attention.

Morgaine froze.

"She's over there," the gravely voiced man said, moving off to the left.

Morgaine made quick use of the lucky diversion to crawl deeper into the forest. She knew they would thrash the undergrowth for her soon. If she could get far enough away and find a likely tree. Or maybe a cave...

Morgaine wished she knew the region better. The convent lay five miles back, and their nearest town two miles to the east. West was St. Asaph, north the Menai Straits. Across them was Anglesey, and home. All of those destinations seemed incredibly far away with no horse, let alone a boat, and a dozen armed men searching for her.

She inched further forward, every crackle of the crisp leaf marl stiffening her with fright. The sounds must have been soft enough, but in her terror she was sure they were each a clarion call announcing her presence.

She crept forward and stopped by a broad trunk to catch her breath. It had come back to her eventually, but her lungs still felt as though they were bursting. Then she realized that she had been holding her breath.

Morgaine shoved the cowl and some stray wisps of ebony hair out of her deep blue eyes and dared sit up against the oak. She peeped around the tree and spotted several men in the distance.

Once again she saw the tall man who had led the warrior band.

Betrayed her.

He had called himself Yestin. Had said he was a messenger from her father. That he and his two men had come to escort her back safely to her llys. Her Mother Superior had insisted on sending an appropriate entourage as befitting her virtue and station in life. Now they had all been ambushed, killed because of her.

Was Yestin going to kill her too? Or try to force himself upon her? Try to force her to marry, as her enemies had done once before?

She shuddered. Was that why? Was this a last desperate attempt to get her under their power before she took her vows?

But no, there had to be more to it than that. Men like Yestin certainly wouldn't respect any holy vows of chastity.

She clamped her hand over her mouth to subdue the roiling in her stomach. She would rather die than marry Arwel, their only neighboring lord back home on her island. He was young enough, and quite good-looking by most women's reckoning. But he was debauched and dissolute. Many of his serving men and women fled to her family's estate for help, recounting horrendous tales of woe. It was Arwel's last attack upon her which had caused Morgaine to flee to the safety of a convent on the mainland.

Was every man she came across only interested in the power she was supposed to convey?

Who was that man Yestin? She had never seen him before. She would have remembered him. He was tall and thin, with a nose like a bird's beak and the oddest gold eyes. When he had looked at her, she had felt as though he had been the hunter and she the prey. She should have known not to trust him. His red hair, a furious flame atop his head like the fires of Hell, should have warned her that he was a god of war, bringing nothing but death and destruction to her peaceful little world.

Yestin began to prod the foliage near where her horse had been brought down by the crossbow bolt. If he found her, she her fate would be dire indeed.

The fact that he did not intend to kill her outright only worried her more. Morgaine was horrified by the many possible grim fates that awaited her. Rape, slavery... She was sorely tempted to break cover and flee for her life.

She offered up a quick prayer and was just steeling herself to jump up and run like the wind when a huge hand clamped over her mouth, pinning her back against a broad chest as solid as the oak she had just been leaning upon.

She went rigid with terror.

"Don't scream," he whispered hurriedly. "I'm a friend. How many of them are there?"

He eased his hand away slightly. "Th-th-thirteen, I th-th-think," she stammered. It must be one of the yeomen, she reasoned. He had managed to escape from Yestin and had doubled back for her. She was so relieved she almost turned into his arms to fling hers own around his neck. But would he not have known from his own observations in the clearing just how many of the enemy there were?

"Stay here. And whatever you do, don't run," he warned as he edged forward to peer through the concealing ferns, drawing level with her, his arm still wrapped protectively around her shoulder.

She turned her head to look at her new companion and nearly fainted. The other man had been tall, but this one was as vast as the great mountain of Moel Wnion itself. Long ebony hair flowed down his broad shoulders and chest. His enormous upper arms were as thick as her thighs.

His face was extraordinary, so handsome as she viewed his right profile that she wondered how many women had fallen in love with him at first sight. His eye was a strange hazel, as dappled as the forest floor they lay upon.

She felt oddly comforted by the stranger's touch. They were intertwined so intimately that she could feel his rapid heartbeat and his every breath.

She had never been so close to a man before, not in a soothing, comforting way at any rate. His hand rubbed up and down her shoulder, steadying her as though she were a fractious mare. The feelings his touch engendered were almost more terrifying that the pursuit by Yestin.

He rubbed her back reassuringly for some time as he peered out at her attackers. She admired his straight nose, firm chin, the strong ivory column of his throat arching from the open neck of his black tunic. She noted the simple wooden cross which nestled in hollow between his collarbones, fixed by a leather band.

Unconsciously, his fingers sought the small piece of tough yew.

Her whole body trembled. She steadied herself by touching her own crucifix, carved from birch. Then she leaned up against the shielding oak tree.

"Thank you for helping me. You are most kind, sir. Do you think we can creep away unnoticed?"

He shook his head. "I'm Caradoc. Caradoc Ap Gruffydd, Owain Gwynedd's man. Why are they pursuing you?"

"I'm Morgaine," she said without thinking.

Blast. She should never have given her real name. But it was too late now to take it back. "I'm to be Sister Brigid when I take my vows. As to what they want, I don't know, truly. One minute we were riding along sedately, the next, well--" She gestured with a sweep of her tiny white hand.

She was glad he was not looking straight at her, for she was sure something of her innermost thoughts had to be reflected in her expression. True, she didn't know the reason for the attack, but she was starting to have some awful suspicions.

He glanced around him quickly while she continued to gape at his stunning profile.

"I'm not sure we can get away, Lady Morgaine. Or fight. I was only out on a simple hunting expedition. The hart chanced to take me too far east. I'm not fully armed. Even if I were to call to my other companions, they might not get here in time. Can you climb a tree?"

"Yes. I can also fire a crossbow if you'll let me," she said, looking down at the weapon he had left upon the ground, sitting next to his gleaming sword.

He looked surprised at her offer. "It takes a vast amount of draw."

She nodded. "I pluck geese and do a lot of the hard labor at the convent. I can manage. I've done it before. Unless you think I stand a better chance with the sword."

He tucked some of the errant raven hair back into her wimple. The right side of his mouth turned up into a tight smile. "I believe you can manage both, child. Though aren't there injunctions about nuns killing?"

"I'm only a novice, and they just slaughtered my companions for no reason," she said angrily. "Give me the crossbow."

"Sush." His warm fingers stroked over her lips lightly for a brief second.

Caradoc picked up a stone and threw it hard, far into the dense thicket to the right about sixty feet. Yestin's men immediately began to search that area.

"If I kill the leader, the others might just give up," he speculated quietly, fingering the hilt of his sword. "Are you ready to try?"

"Yes," she said, eagerly putting out both hands for the weapon and the open bag of bolts.

"If you can't draw back the mechanism a second time, just bash the man in the jewels with the bow and run."

"Jewels?"

"In the fork."

"Fork?" she repeated blankly.

"Between his legs," he said with a touch of impatience. "Lord save me from all nuns."

"A rather irreverent prayer, sir, but I shall offer up a better one to God for us both."

He patted her shoulder once more. "Whatever happens, don't run. Hide in the ferns or up a tree, but don't run. I'll find you, never fear."

"I promise," she said, wondering at his odd insistence.

"Good." He nodded, seeming satisfied. "Let's go."

Morgaine raised herself off the ground timidly and inched forward, while Caradoc moved around to the right, where Yestin was still poking through the shrubbery.

She watched the dark warrior go, admiring his wide back, which tapered to a narrow waist and lean hips before his body bulged briefly once more with iron-thewed thighs. He was clad from head to toe in black, and moved with all of the lithe grace of a panther she had once seen in a cage when some traveling mummers had come to her family's home.

He began to imitate bird song and animal cries.

Morgaine crouched down, keeping in a tight ball, certain the sounds would the alert the men to her approach.

Several of them gathered in the road. She felt her stomach rebel again. They preferred to loot the bodies rather than look for her.

Damn them all, she thought furiously, but instantly repented. Caradoc was right. These were not the type of feelings a nun should be harboring.

Three more steps, and she was in range. Morgaine checked the release on her weapon. It was a simple catch which she could press with her thumb. Heaving the cord back and fitting another bolt from the bag Caradoc had given her would be the hard part. It would be a two-handed job as she pinned one end to the ground with her feet and rammed the butt of the weapon into her belly to tug the bow into place.

She slung the leather strap of the sack across her body so that the opening was hip-height, and then she was ready.

She looked over at the prowling black figure and once again saw a panther, deadly, dangerous. Divine to look at.

And to touch? she wondered, seeing his glossy blue-black hair waft in the wind. He was magnificent, there was no denying it. And he was helping her, though Heaven only knew why.

He was a warrior, a killer. She knew she shouldn't admire him. Neither what he did, nor the fact that he was such an impressive man. She was supposed to be a good Christian now. She had to leave her pagan and clannish ways behind.

Still, she couldn't help the fluttering of her maidenly heart, for surely the handsome man was the stuff of legend like King Arthur, Gawain, Percival. He was her brave knight who had come to her rescue. A black knight who was furtively approaching Yestin and his men, and who was relying upon her to do her part.

Morgaine crept closer to the cluster of men in the road, took aim and fired. Not pausing to see if she had hit her target, she rammed the wooden butt into her belly and was already drawing the cord back. As soon as it locked into place she slid the next bolt into its cradle. She heard the solid thunk a moment later which told her she had indeed been accurate.

She ran to the next tree to use it as cover and fired again. Another hit. Morgaine ran back into the woods, letting the third man pursue her while she readied her weapon once more. All of her muscles straining, she heaved the bow back, loaded and let fly. A third solid crash of metal into bone echoed in the cavernous woods.

That was three, but where was Caradoc? she wondered nervously as she yanked the cord back yet again.

The clash of swords in the distance told her he was as good as his word regarding Yestin. There was no sign of the other men. She stepped backward with a start, right into two of the brutes.

"Got her!" one of them crowed in triumph, trying to pin her against his chest.

She took Caradoc's advice and brought the edge of the heavy D right up between his legs like a mallet. Then she grabbed a steel-tipped bolt out of the bag and daggered it into the other man's neck. He tried to clutch her hood as she fled, then moved his hands to his stabbed throat.

Pure raw fear at her near-capture made her run straight into the road for a nearby horse, where she found herself surrounded.

"I'll take that, lass," the man with the gravely voice commanded, grabbing for the crossbow.

Morgaine swung it in a wide arc, but as soon as she pressed forward, one of the other men tried to approach her from behind.

"Caradoc!" she shouted as they closed in like a pack of hunting hounds taunting a timid hare.

He let out a piercing whistle which filled the forest.

The clearing sprang to life.

Or rather death.

For a pair of hawks came swooping down to claw at the men's eyes. A low rumble from deep in the belly of the forest became a feral snarl as a pair of ebony wolves sprang out at two more men.

Morgaine's eyes widened as a pack of huge dogs and two other warriors dressed in black came from behind her now and launched themselves against into Yestin's forces.

She recovered from her shock and heaved the bow back, but fumbled for a bolt as she watched the melee of man and beast with horrified fascination.

Yestin, who had been fighting his way toward Morgaine, grunted in pain as Caradoc slashed him in the upper arm, trying to get him to drop his weapon. Seeing all was lost with his men, he ran for one of the horses at the edge of the road, sprang up, and galloped straight for Morgaine.

She scrambled backwards, turned, and began to run for the cover of the trees. Suddenly she fell flat on her face, arms sprawled out above her waist as she hit the ground hard. Her crossbow flew several yards, far out of reach.

In an agony of suspense, she waited for the thud of hooves to come crashing down upon her back or skull, but all she felt was a tugging at the skirts of her black habit.

She heard a sharp shout of alarm from Caradoc. Smelled the scent of blood, felt hot breath upon the nape of her neck.

The anguished whinnying of a horse in its death throes echoed through the trees. She spun around onto her back and looked up into Yestin's eyes as he sprawled on the ground a foot away. The light of life was already dimming rapidly from his odd eyes as blood gushed out of his shredded throat.

The larger of the two wolves licked its lips languidly. Morgaine shivered at the sight of its red-flecked maw.

The second red-muzzled wolf shook its head at her as if scolding, blinked his pale blue eyes, then got up off the skirts of her habit and cloak.

Morgaine's head began to swim. She could feel the perspiration bead her entire body from the back of her neck to the soles of her feet. She began shivering deep inside with a profound chill so penetrating it felt as though it was invading her soul.

But worse was in store for her. Caradoc was coming toward her now, his jet hair flowing in the light evening breeze. He looked every inch the conquering knight she had fancied him only a few moments before. For the first time, she saw his full face, and lurched in shock, one hand flying up to cover her open mouth.

The left side of his visage was hideous to behold, a mockery of the masculine beauty on his right. A deep furrow ran from his hairline straight down through his ebony brow, what was left of his eye and lid, down his elegant cheekbone and lightly bristled cheek through his sensual lips, to the edge of his lean jaw. The scar was a perfect slash.

Too perfect to have been an accident.

Her mouth went as sere as sand. The weight on her chest was crushing. The poor man...

She saw it all in a flash, the cruel knife, his horrendous struggles. And they had not stopped there. She saw a flash of bare male torso and long legs.

No.

Her chill grew sharply more acute. There were even worse scars upon this man than what she could see. Her foggy vision swirled and cleared, but she had witnessed enough to find herself weak with pity and horror.

He was staring at her, his single hazel eye daring her to recoil from him. He tensed, waiting for her horrified response.

Morgaine knew she was staring. She couldn't help it. The hawks, the wolves, the whole shock of all that had happened to her, made her feel like a gaping idiot.

She rubbed her eyes and blinked, looking right and left. "Is it over?"

He relaxed slightly. "Are you hurt?" he asked with a worried frown, kneeling down to examine her.

Morgaine couldn't have stopped herself if she wanted to. No sooner was the thought in her head than her hands were on his shoulders, her lips on his mouth.

She kissed Caradoc with all the passion born of youth, desire, pity and grief. Then, mercifully, she fainted.
The Isle of Destiny
Shanna Murchison

Setting: North Wales, June 1145

Word Count=118,000

Rating: Sensual <A href=isle.buy.htm target=_blank> No frames: Click here for the Buy Now button</A>

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Buffet Table Activities for Your Wedding

Admin — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:37:08 +0000
Most wedding receptions include a buffet-style meal where everyone stands in an enormous line waiting for ages while those at the food table decide if they want Italian or Ranch dressing on their salad. There has to be a more unusual way to get people to their food, and a faster one at that, right? There are several fun options you can employ to feed your guests quickly, and with a minimum amount of impatience, or groans of hunger. Here are some fun options. One of the most popular is the number system. Each table is assigned a number and the MC or DJ calls numbers at various intervals. The people at that numbered table then find the buffet and begin their feast. You can place the numbers in a variety of locations. For the most utilitarian version, just place the number in the flower arrangement on the table. Some brides don't like this look of numbered table as if at a convention. In that case, you can put the numbers under the flower arrangements, or under the chairs. If you have place cards at the tables, you can write a small number somewhere on the card so people know which table they're sitting at. For a fun variation, you can have the florist play around with the table floral arrangements. If the arrangements are going to have a dozen flowers, you could have the florist add one extra flower to table "one", two extra flowers for table "two" and so on and make the guests figure out which number table they are based on how many extra flowers they have in their arrangement. The flower method could be cost-prohibitive, of course, if you have a large guest list and many tables. Now, if the number system doesn't thrill you or make you think "unique", there are other options. Each table can have a color and the DJ simply calls out the color name. Depending, again, on how many tables you have at your reception, you could coordinate the tablecloths with the color of the table. So you might have white, pink, lavender, beige, and yellow tablecloths, and the guests sitting at that table simply move to the buffet table when the color of their tablecloth is called. Another popular option for moving people easily to the buffet table involves having a little fun with your guests. You provide each table with a buzzer, either a bell like you might find at a store, or a small silver bell. Just something they can buzz or ring. The DJ or MC asks a trivia question, or a question about the bride and groom. The tables buzz in with their answers. The guests at the table with the first correct buzzed answer move to the buffet table. You repeat the process until everyone is finally on their way to getting some food. Just make sure you know the correct answers to the trivia questions yourselves! The trivia method is an especially fun way to help guests to get to know one another, as they might have to work together to come up with an answer. If your guests are hungry, you're sure to hear muffled groans and sighs of exasperation. But even with the small complaints, this is always a crowd pleaser because it's fun and gets everyone involved. Now, this next option is fun but can engender a bit of jealousy sometimes. When people get their place card, whether it's placed on the table, or they pick it up when they look at the seating chart, you can put a number on it. But not everyone at the same table will have the same number. If you have 100 guests, for example, you might choose to have 10 people at the buffet table at a time. So each person would be assigned a number 1 through 10. This works best with small groups. In the same scenario as above, the DJ or MC will call a number and those numbers will head for the buffet table. There are sure to be more than one person from each table heading for the buffet table, but the guests at each table won't get their food at the same time. This staggered feeding can be fun or a nuisance, depending. It solves the problem of half the room being finished with their meal while waiting for the "later" table to finish theirs before the festivities start, but it can also mean that one or two guests might be long done with their food (or wanting to head back for seconds) when others at the table haven't even eaten yet. You might also want to start the buffet with the people at the rear of the room, so they don't have to climb over people milling around on their way back to the table, and risk spillage. You also need to consider people who love to go back for seconds. Make sure everyone is served first before allowing people to go back for more. Also make sure that not all the food is put away when the cake is served, in the event you have latecomers or people who eat slowly or don't like dessert. Cheese and crackers, salad and so forth are ideal for this. Whatever you decide, buffet table activities at a wedding can be fun and memorable.
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How to Select Clothes That Provide a Slimming Effect

Admin — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 00:49:03 +0000

Many people in the 21st century find themselves struggling with their weight. Over the long run, a healthy diet and regular exercise is vital to obtaining of maintaining an ideal weight.

However, as a person works to reach a reasonable weight, he or she may be looking for ways to look thinner or slimmer. Your clothing choices and fashion decisions can assist you in appearing slimmer.

When it comes to selecting clothing items that will assist in giving you a slimmer appearance, consider adding monochromatic or single color outfits to your wardrobe. It does not separate you from top to bottom and thus call attention to either. That’s why the little back dress is so successful-any woman, any shape and size, can look god in it. For men, you can never go wrong with a dark suit, so long as it is the right weight and fabric for the season.

In addition to black, as you go about selecting monochromatic outfits for their slimming effects, other dark colors work nearly as well, such as blue, dark brown, or charcoal gray. Darker colors assist you in presenting your body -- even it if is a bit out of shape.

You do not need to rule out all lighter shades and hues when it comes to choosing monochromatic outfits. However, when it comes to using lighter colors -- particularly pastels -- you need to pay close attention to how a particular color actually makes you appear. In addition, lighter colors tend to make you look larger and more noticeable.

A dark suit with a pinstripe will make you look thin, but beware the double breasted jacket. Any vertical stripe will also make you look thinner, but avoid wide panels of color, and definitely avoid horizontal stripes, whether top or bottom. They will make you look very wide.

Always match your shoes to your outfit to give yourself a longer legged look.

If you are a lady who is a bit heavy on the bottom, instead of wearing tight bright pants, try something dark with a bit of give in the fabric, or with a nice drape to it. Just make sure it is not so large that you look like you are wearing clown pants. A good yoga pant can go long way forward fashion and comfort.

By coordinating your wardrobe and by using monochromatic colors in your outfits, and avoiding stripes. you will be able to maintain a slender, slimmer appearance. You will feel better about your look and about yourself.

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Ten Months to a Million Dollars In Real Estate Deals

Admin — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 22:37:04 +0000

There's Never Been A Better Time To Invest In Real Estate Than Right Now. With Today's Volatile Economy, The Timing Is Perfect To Exploit The Marketplace And Make Big Returns On Your Investments.

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Obama on Iraq

Admin — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 22:47:23 +0000
A good discussion going on here at 1MyLive's Blog: Obama and Iraq discussion

Wedding Cake Activities

Admin — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 02:26:49 +0000
Upon arrival at the wedding reception, many guests head for the cake table so they can admire the wedding cake. Some time later, the bride and groom come along for a picture opportunity and the grand ceremonial cutting of the wedding cake. Then everyone enjoys cake, and it's just about gone. Believe it or not, there are many more activities that can make the wedding cake more about fun and less about tradition. Of course, watching the bride and groom push cake into each other's mouths is a long-enjoyed tradition, but there are many more fun - and less messy - activities to consider as well. One new option that's gaining popularity is to have cupcakes instead of a wedding cake. This is a method that is usually more affordable than having a many-tiered cake and it can be a lot of fun, and give your guests a lot of choices. The little fancy cupcake holders can also double as wedding favors they can take home with them. Cupcakes, like the wedding cake, can be decorated to match the wedding theme, but the cupcakes are instead arranged on tiered cake plates and displayed on a cake table until it's time to eat them. The cupcakes can be simply handed out on plates to each wedding guest, or they can be sitting on the table to serve as wedding decoration, and, as we said above, as a wedding favor as well if it is in a cupcake holder. Cupcakes instead of a whole wedding cake can save you a fair amount of money, since many reception halls and caterers charge a per slice fee to cut and serve the wedding cake. You can also build activities into the cupcake presentation. For example, the cupcakes that are for the bride and groom can have a different decoration than the ones for the guests. As an extra touch, you can have the baker include a special prize in one or several cupcakes. A small charm or tiny toy can be baked into the cupcake. Whoever gets the charm wins a special prize. These prizes can range from a gift basket or gift certificate to a restaurant, to a dance with the bride or groom. Some brides like to use the Southern tradition and have charms baked into the wedding cake. Similar to the idea above for cupcakes, this involves baking small charms or tiny toys into the cake. The people who get one of the charms are said to have good luck. You might even consider having charm bracelet charms baked into the cupcake, which can then be made into a charm bracelet for the bride. Not everyone enjoys cake. How about an activity for those who won't be eating cake? They can be required to do the "Macarena" or the chicken dance during the time when everyone else is eating cake. If they manage to do the dance continuously while the other guests enjoy cake, they win a prize. Or they simply get to sit down, as now they are tired! In keeping with the dance during cake theme, how about a requirement that in order to get a cake, a guest must perform an impromptu dance first? O There could be trivia questions about the bride and groom or about pop culture. Guests must correctly answer the questions before getting their cake. There could be competitions among tables or individuals for the most questions answered correctly while the wedding is going on and the cupcakes or cake is being served. Many people believe that once the cake is cut, they are free to leave if they wish. Since cake cutting usually comes after the meal and after dancing and other traditional celebration activities, many people take the opportunity to leave the party after the cake is cut and enjoyed. If the bride and groom want their guests to stay after the cake is eaten, it is worth some extra effort to build some activities into the cake-cutting event so people will stick around longer. This can be as simple as telling people not to leave, or can be more subtle and fun. For example, each person could receive a slip of paper with his or her cake. These slips of paper could be prepared ahead of time and provided to the catering company with instructions that one folded strip of paper be placed on each plate with the cake. The paper might give an agenda for the rest of the evening or might ask its recipient to perform a little dance, to head over to give the groom or bride a kiss, or might ask them to take the flower girl out on the dance floor for a spin. Everyone has to do their task before they leave, otherwise they don't get their wedding favor. By incorporating games into your wedding reception, particularly the cake cutting part, you will make your wedding memorable and keep guests of every age entertained. The unknown will keep all the guests guessing and provide some fun and excitement throughout the reception.
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Tips for Smart Shopping

Admin — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 00:50:37 +0000
We’ve all seen the headlines. These days, more and more people are living on a tight budget. While men and women alike enjoy shopping and appreciate having a nice wardrobe, they also want to be able to maintain some semblance of a budget in the process.
If you’re one of them, there are some tips that you should keep in mind when you head off shopping to expand and broaden your wardrobe.

Before purchasing a piece of clothing, try to think of at least two pieces that you already own that you can wear with it.

Don’t be haphazard with your purchases. You might see something on a shelf or rack and find it appealing, but if you don’t have anything that goes with it, it will just sit in your wardrobe. Avoid impulse purchases at all costs.

You might also consider shopping online to get some ideas as to how to mix and match your current wardrobe, with one or two all purpose pieces.

There is nothing worse than the impulse buy you regret, or the purchase that a salesperson talked you into.

While a particular item may be attractive, some items really do not enhance your wardrobe, or your appearance. Those skinny jeams may look great on someone who is skinny, but be realistic—it may be the fashion, but if rolls of flab are sticking out from under your belly top you might want to go from something a bit more classic. Or at least do a few more sit ups.

When it comes to developing a wardrobe that is full of good value clothing you will be able to wear over and over again, it is important that the pieces that you select to include in your wardrobe compliment one another.

As you go about shopping and as you eye a piece of clothing on a store rack or shelf, don’t run off and purchase that piece unless you can be sure you have several things to match it, plus, it really is the bargain you think it is.

By shopping in a careful manner, you will be able to develop and create a truly fantastic and versatile wardrobe.

In addition to allowing you the ability to expand your wardrobe with compatible matching pieces, this manner of shopping also assists you saving money along the way. You end up avoiding impulse buying, and thus spending money on items that you will not be able to wear with any frequency because you do not have other items that match or compliment it. Or items that are so trendy they will be outdated soon, or so obvious that people will notice how often you wear it.

Remember, you can never go wrong with basic black, and a whole number of colors to go with it. But the more simple your wardrobe, the better. It will also save you time in trying to decide what to wear every morning!

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Wedding Reception Centerpiece Activities

Admin — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 02:39:13 +0000
The question of who will get to take home the centerpiece can sometimes be a real bone of contention with guests, particularly if the centerpiece is particularly pretty or original. Making a game of who gets the centerpiece, then, can be an amusing diversion and one many guests will enjoy participating in. It will also take out the envy element, the bossy one and the sense of entitlement issue. Here are some ideas for giving away that reception table centerpiece. How about a game of 20 questions? Give each guest a piece of paper and a pen or pencil. The MC or DJ asks a series of 20 questions, but first gives the guests the basic background information, that is, that the answer is place, person or thing. Once that's taken care of, people can shout out questions and the MC or DJ will answer yes or no, and whoever figures out the answer first gets the first centerpiece, and that particular table is done playing. The game is repeated until one person at each table has won the centerpiece. Obviously, this will work with small receptions. One of the most popular ways brides give away the table centerpieces is to put a number on the bottom of the centerpiece and give each guest a number. At some point in the evening, a number is called, each guest checks his or her number and whoever has the called number gets the centerpiece. There are many ways to put a twist on this traditional activity. For example, you might provide each table with a number, but make it a lower number (ie. between 1 and 10) and the DJ or MC could move from table to table and have each guest do something a certain number of times. So, at the first table, for example, the guests might need to do "head, shoulders, knees and toes" six times and whoever does it first gets the centerpiece. Or, at the second table, the guests might be required to sing the alphabet 3 times or sing "twinkle, twinkle, little star" three times and whoever does that first get the centerpiece. Another fun activity for divvying up the centerpieces is to require guests to produce a certain item. The DJ or MC moves from table to table, announcing what guests at that table will be required to produce in order to get the centerpiece. Maybe it's a Georgia quarter or a mint, or a doctor's appointment card. Whatever it is, the guest at each table who produces the requested item will get the centerpiece. You can always make it easy and offer the centerpiece to the oldest person at the table, or the one who took the least or most number of years to finish college. Perhaps you could create an activity where the person who has the strangest talent (as voted on by the tablemates) wins the centerpiece. Then, if possible, that person might show off the talent for the entire reception party. If you like musical chairs, you can play a game of musical salt shaker in order to give the centerpiece away. The music begins playing, and everyone at the table passes the salt shaker. When the music stops, whoever is left holding the bill gets the centerpiece. Or this game can be played a bit more traditionally with the person with the salt shaker being eliminated, and the game continuing until only one person is holding the shaker. That person can then be awarded with the centerpiece. Or, for a fun twist, the shaker can be passed around and when the music stops, the person holding the shaker is told to return it to the person who first gave it to them. That is the person who gets the centerpiece. Some fun, and fairly traditional, ideas include the birthday person getting the centerpiece. At each table, the person who has a birthday closest to the wedding date gets the centerpiece. Or if there are married couples at the table, the couple who have been together the longest can get the centerpiece, or the couple who were married most recently. Perhaps the centerpiece should go to the person with the longest hair, or the strangest shoes (again, this would be voted on by tablemates). The wedding reception centerpiece is an integral part of the wedding but it can cause a bit of turmoil if people set their eyes on the same flowers and won't take no for an answer, so having wedding reception centerpiece activities can solve that problem and make sure there are no hard feelings.
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Admin — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 17:45:57 +0000

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5 Ways to Manage a Bad Boss

Admin — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 03:27:09 +0000
Here is a useful outline on how to handle a bad boss. If your boss is all five, wow, that is NOT good! But it DOES happen! http://www.usnews.com/articles/business/careers/2007/09/21/five-ways-to-manage-a-lousy-boss.html?s_cid=yf:30ceo

Yoga for Clarity of Mind

Admin — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 01:04:23 +0000
From Yogi Bhajan, Master of Kundalini Yoga Sit cross-legged on the floor with a straight back, or on a chair with spine straight and feet flat. Close your eyes and block left nostril with left hand. Continue breathing through the right nostril for one to three minutes with a focus on your breath. A clear mind opens the window to happiness.

Seated Wedding Reception Games Part 1

Admin — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 02:40:09 +0000
Nothing is worse than having a wedding reception filled with seated guests who look tired and maybe a little bit bored. Maybe this wedding doesn't feature a DJ and rockin' music. Or maybe the crowd isn't into that whole dancing thing. There are a myriad of activities you can plan that will not only engage and entertain the guests, but also help them get to know each other and - most importantly - the bride and groom just a little bit better. Here's one that's fun and might remind you just a little bit of a football game. Make a placard for each guest. On one side, letter "Bride" and on the other, "Groom". Someone, and if you have a DJ it can be him or her, or the best man or maid of honor, asks a series of questions. They might be simple, like "who was born in New York City"? Or they might be more complicated, such as "who, at 6, broke their leg when they were playing with their German shepherd puppy"? Guests don't yell their answer, but rather show their placard, turning it to the "bride" side of they think the question pertains to the bride or to the "groom" side if it's the opposite. The guests' guesses can be revealing, but even more revealing are the true answers. It's a great, fun way for everyone to get to know a little more about the bride and groom. One word of caution about the above activity: Keep ex-boyfriends and ex-girlfriends out of the questions and don't ask anything that might be a little too revealing or too risque. Remember, grandmothers and grandfathers and young children will likely be present! If it's too much work to create signs for each person, you can create just two and create two teams - a team of men and a team of women. Grouped together, the teams can work together to decide on the answer and answer as a group. This "men versus women" concept is always popular and sure to be fun for everyone. Continues in Seated Wedding Reception Games Part 2 Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs. Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:

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Fun Game: #1 Poetry Consequences

Admin — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 01:19:06 +0000
We will give a line of poetry, in the comments section, add two lines, one which rhymes with the line we gave, and one of your own. The second commenter will add one line that rhymes with the last line of person #1, and add one of his/her own. The third commenter will add one line that rhymes with the last line of person #2, and add one of his/her own, and so on. Remember, team, only 2 lines of your own at a time, though you can come back again and add to it again and again. Let's see how lovely/humorous or witty we can make this! Your starting line is: The boy stood on the burning deck,

Seated Wedding Reception Games Part 2

Admin — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 02:41:48 +0000
Continued from part 1 One silly game that's always a hit really puts the groom in the spotlight. How well does he know the feel and touch of his new wife? In this game, everyone finds out. You can do this several ways. You can enlist just the wedding party in this game, or as many of the wedding guests that want to participate. Line each participant up and blindfold the groom. Put the bride somewhere in the mix, and send the groom on a hunt for his bride. The participants can either shake the groom's hand or give him a kiss on the cheek. In some versions, he might feel their hair or their leg. The details are up to you. Depending on how far you want to take this game, you can add a fun element to it that is sometimes popular. You have the groom feel the leg of each participant. The best man, or other male member of the wedding party, rolls up his pant leg, puts on a garter and has the groom feel that. The groom has to kiss whoever he thinks is his bride, while still blindfolded. Often, he ends up kissing a man. For an activity that allows the guests to be audience members instead of participants, consider the game of "feed me". In this game, the bride is seated and the groom is (again) blindfolded. He's given a piece of food and then spun around a few times so he's a little bit dizzy. Guided only by the helpful words of his new bride, he has to find her and get the piece of food into her mouth. Be sure to have the wedding party shadowing him so there are no serious accidents. Once the groom has fed his new wife, the tables are turned and she is blindfolded and must find him. A few notes about this activity: when feeding the bride, don't use wedding cake or a piece of bread with dip. In other words, don't use anything too messy. If the groom has a hard time finding her mouth, he might likely smear the food on the bride's face and that is something that won't make a bride - prettily made up just hours before - too happy. And you especially don't want to ruin your wedding finery. There are many ideas for keeping your guests entertained at a seated wedding reception. The only limit is your imagination. Word count 770 Shop now at the #1 Wedding Favors website for all your wedding and shower favor needs. Great prices, personalization, fast shipping:

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Small Fashion Changes, Big Bang For Your Buck

Admin — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:51:08 +0000

Everyone wants to look fashionable and wear stylish clothes, but that can be a challenging task, especially when you’re on a budget.

For the cost-conscious, major overhauls to your wardrobe are out of the question, but there are simple changes you can make that can subtly change the effect of your clothes and outfits, and give your wardrobe a fresh new look.

Add a few unique accessories that emphasize color and shape, and you may be surprised at the change that slowly becomes apparent. Great accessories don’t have to be expensive and sometimes can be found in the most surprising locations. The best place to start is within your own closet and drawers – there may be the perfect accessory waiting to be discovered! A fast way to change the feel of an outfit is to turn your collar up. This accentuates your face and creates a nice line down the throat and the center of the body. To give it a slightly retro flair, turn the collar up and force the tips down a bit.

A tremendously useful accessory that doesn’t cost much is the humble scarf. Buy several in different colors and patterns as well as sizes, and you can use them as belts, headbands, accessories for bags, or just to wind around your neck. Scarves with mixes of unusual colors look especially stylish against black outfits. Use a long one to wrap around your neck and leave the ends free with one in the front and the other in the back. Shorter scarves can be used to tie around ponytails for a stylish yet cute touch or tied around the handle of your bag for a flash of color. Longer ones can be tied around your waist.

Earrings are another fabulous way to change up your look without spending a lot of money, and are one of the single best ways to create a mood for yourself. Choose a sparkly, dangly pair for a night out, and smaller, but color-coordinated ones for work.

Gold or silver accessories add a touch of elegance to any outfits.

Handbags and shoes are another way to dress an outfit up or down, and add a bit of stylish flair.

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Making the Decision to Work at Home Part 1

Admin — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:40:05 +0000
Mothers who work at home (or Wahms) are a growing population of working America. Increasingly, more and more women want to spend time with their children and need to bring in an income, thus there has been a boom in the work at home industry. Making the decision to work at home is not always an easy one. Before you decide that being a Work at home mom (Wahm) is right for you, you need to take a few things into account. First of all, you'll need to decide if being a Wahm is right for you AND your family. There are many benefits to working at home as compared with outside the home. You can set your own hours, you don't have to commute to work, and you can be there for your kids when they need you. However, there are some downsides as well. The isolation of working at home can be an issue for some women. There are also challenges related to juggling work time and family time, and clearly drawing the line between both. Youíll also have to look at the impact that working from home will have on your family's financial situation. If you are moving from a high-paying full-time job, to working part-time from home while you care for your child or children, there will definitely be some financial adjustments that will have to be made. However, whatever your cut in pay will be, you have to weigh that versus the costs going to work commuting and so forth, for example, and above all, of putting your child into daycare full-time, which can certainly be price-y these days. Although it may seem like your work at home pay will be much smaller compared to your full-time outside of the home job, you need to consider that your housekeeping chores are of value, and keep in mind the high cost of daycare. If you can make an equal amount of money or more by working part-time from home and taking care of your child yourself, it is well worth it financially to stay at home. If you also see that you will save money on your commute, lunches, work clothes, and so forth, then being a WAHM would seem to be right for you. In fact, many women see that raising their child without the use of daycare, whether or not they make a significant income, is the real benefit of being a Wahm. The perks of raising your own child, while still bringing in money for the family, are many. Children are only young once, and being able to stay at home with them is one of the top reasons that women choose a Wahm career. Continued in Making the Decision to Work at Home Part 2

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Admin — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 20:18:56 +0000
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Making the Decision to Work at Home Part 2

Admin — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 00:40:36 +0000
Continued from Part 1 The qualities of a successful WAHM There are also several qualities that make a Wahm successful. Before you start working at home, evaluate whether you have these qualities, or can develop them with time and effort. Working at home normally fits into two different categories. You can either work as an independent contractor for a company, or you can work for yourself. Either way, you are going to be in charge of your own schedule. Therefore, you will need to be extremely organized, self-motivated, and will have to work well without having a supervisory presence in your working life. Even those who choose to work for a company are responsible for scheduling their own time and meeting deadlines without a lot of input from supervisors. Another important skill to have as a Wahm is time management. When you work out of the home, you're going to be confronted with two sets of challenges each day. You'll be faced with the work you need to get done, but you'll also be in the midst of your household, where there are always going to be things that need to be done. If you focus too much on your work, your household chores will get out of control, and vice versa. Having good time management skills and being able to set clear priorities will help you tackle the diverse challenges of being a Wahm. Making the decision to become a Wahm requires a lot of thought and consideration. If you are thinking about working from home because you are having a baby, or because you are tired of sending your children to daycare, take some time to write down the pros and cons of becoming a Wahm. Above all, talk things over with your family to ensure that you are making the right decision for the family unit. You will be doing two full-time jobs from the same space, your own home, and will need support from your partner, friends, and family. Just because your time might be more flexible, it does not mean it is 'free'. There are plenty of resources online for moms who are looking to find out more about the realities of working at home. Once you've considered your position and done the necessary research, you'll be better equipped to make the right decision for you and your family. 840 words

How to Be the Best Boss

Admin — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 03:29:40 +0000
Here is a super list of the main traits possessed by people considered to be the best boss. How many of these desirable leadership traits do you possess? http://hotjobs.promotions.yahoo.com/careercheckin/article_2.html

Day Care Business for Work At Home Moms Part 1

Admin — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 00:25:24 +0000
Many potential work at home moms (WAHMs) think that starting an in-home daycare business might be an easy way to make extra money and stay at home with their children at the same time. Owning a childcare business can be rewarding and does have many perks. However, the realities of this type of business are far from the expectations of most people considering childcare. It is not the easiest way in the world to make money, and does not give you the freedom, and relative freedom from responsibility, of other work at home opportunities. If you have experience in child care or a degree related to the child care field, then opening your own daycare as a work at home mom is a natural extension of your out of the home job, in which case, it would not be such a huge leap to take on daycare in your own home as a business. However, there are a few important distinctions between working for someone else taking care of children, and running your own in-home facility.   We will deal with these distinctions in Part 2.

Day Care Business for Work At Home Moms Part 2

Admin — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:26:18 +0000
There are a few important distinctions between working for someone else taking care of children, and running your own in-home facility. The first is money. At home childcare businesses can be profitable, but it normally takes six to eighteen months for Wahms to see any substantial income coming in. This may not be a problem for you, and if you are committed to building the quality and size of your business, the start of your profitability can be on the low end of that scale. Also, if you are getting to look after your own children, you may decide that even if you are not that profitable, you are saving money on your own child care by being at home full time, plus saving on things like commuting to work, gas, work clothes and lunches, and so on. It can take several months to a year to turn a daycare into a profitable daycare business for many reasons. First of all, each state has its own licensed childcare requirements. Getting licensed to have a home daycare means attending classes, passing certification and having your home inspected. While you are going through this process, you can look into doing some unlicensed childcare for a few children to start building your business. Babysitting for a couple of hours each day can help bring extra income in, and give you a feel for the scale of the project you are setting yourself by looking after more than just your own child or children at home. Each state has its own rules for unlicensed childcare. You should take the steps, however, to get licensed because it will increase your employability, in the eyes of parents and make it easier to get funding for your daycare facility. It can also take a while to become a profitable daycare facility because of the start up costs involved. While you do have some baby and child items from your own children, there are many things that you’ll need to buy in order to make your home functional as a safe and stimulating daycare facility. You’ll want to buy tables and chairs, art supplies, music CDs, games and other activities that the children can use while they are in your home. You will also need to cater to children of various ages up to pre-school. You can write off most of these on your taxes, but you need to keep receipts and excellent records. Day Care Business for Work At Home Moms Part 3 deals with other important differences between working for other people, and setting up your own daycare business.

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Day Care Business for Work At Home Moms Part 3

Admin — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:26:58 +0000
Another important difference between looking after other people's children as a nanny or teacher or daycare worker, and going into business for yourself, is that it takes time to build up a list of children who will attend your daycare. There are many home daycare centers to choose from in every town. Once parents find a good center they normally stay there long term. Finding new clients can be difficult, especially if you don’t take care of infants or babies. However, there is often a reason why day care facilities refuse to take children under six months, usually to do with safety issues, and whether or not the child has had its vaccinations. So you might find a niche specializing in small babies for those women who really need to go back to work but can't find a daycare facillity willing to take a child under 6 months. It can be more demanding work in some senses, but then so can chasing around toddlers, and multiple kids in the terrible Twos stage. Getting clients can be easier when you are licensed, but to begin with you need to rely on networking with parenting groups, people at your church, people in your community and friends in order to build your business. Now that we have got the negative aspects out of the way, it's time to consider the benefits of owning your own daycare business. Continued in Day Care Business for Work At Home Moms Part 4

Day Care Business for Work At Home Moms Part 4

Admin — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:27:56 +0000
The benefits of an at-home daycare business Despite the long start up time, many Work At Home Moms find that owning their own in-home childcare center is a great solution to their work at home problem. There are many benefits to taking care of other people’s children. Your children will never be without playmates to entertain them. You’ll have access to many fun and exciting programs made especially for daycare business owners, including discounts on supplies, and of course, many of your expenses can be written off on your taxes if you set up your company correctly. Remember to keeep receipts for everything you buy and note if it was personal, or for your at home business. You may even be eligible for federal subsidies for food and diapers for the children you take care of. Research your topic To find out if owning a home daycare is right for you, research the subject. Visit other home daycares and ask how those Wahms are enjoying their business. Find out what your state and local regulations are regarding licensed and unlicensed daycare. Do a trial run with multiple children by volunteering to look after your friends' children for an hour or two at a time, say on a Saturday morning so they can go shopping unhindered but not leave you alone with them all day. Work out what hours your facility is going to be open. My sister in law drops off her son at 7 every morning and picks him up at 6 every night. That is a pretty long workday for some people. You need to work out your fees so that they are competitive with other daycare facilities in the area, and also need to decide what to do if one of the parents is running late. It is important to keep the client happy, but you also need to balance your work and family time as well so that everyone is pleased with the arrangement. Also keep in mind that you will basically be stuck at home if you take on this job. What are your contingency plans if you run out of milk, or in the event of an unexpected emergency? Working at home affects the entire family, especially your own children having to interact with other children, and share your time with them. What will your support system be? Once you've done your homework, and are able to answer all these key questions and discuss them with your husband, friends and family, you’ll know if childcare as a work at home opportunity is right for you. 1339 words

Fashion Comfort and Style

Admin — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:51:45 +0000

Though style and comfort may appear to be a contradiction, it is possible to dress stylishly and still be comfortable! Thanks to innovations from designers like Stella McCartney and Donna Karan, women no longer have to force their bodies into stiff and tight clothes with unnatural shapes.

By using new fabrics and unique lines of construction, designers are now creating magnificent garments that fit and flatter the body without any of the sharp uncomfortable lines of the past that made a woman feel more like a mannequin than a person.

Some of the most stunning designs from recent runway shows are ones that incorporate fluid fabrics with distinctive draping techniques to create beautiful garments that incorporate comfort and style. Out with the corsets and girdles – comfortable style is finally available for every woman!

Look for the latest styles that are made in easy, fluid fabrics that flow over the body. The stiff fabrics of yesterday are typically uncomfortable and difficult to adjust to the body’s movements. Rather walking around in uncomfortable – sometimes scratchy – clothes, opt for softer fabrics that glide around the body and adapt to your motions, draping your figure rather than squashing it.

New styles and lines of construction mean that clothing is fashionable and up to the moment, and with the variety of choices available for styles and fabrics these day, where pretty much anything goes, there is no reason to be uncomfortable in your clothes ever again.

Even tailored clothing is being made in softer, more attractive fabrics that fit into busy lifestyles flawlessly. Many of these fabrics are wrinkle-resistant and require practically no ironing. Stylish, comfortable, and easy to care for…what more could a woman want? Women should never sacrifice comfort for style and with the current advances in fabrics, design and clothing construction; it is not even a problem.

Flip through your favorite fashion magazine or visit the ladies’ section at a department store and you will find examples of stylish clothes that actually feel good to wear. Forget about squeezing into tight, scratchy clothes – now you can look stylish and feel stress-free at the same time.

A humble black yoga pant for less than $20, combined with black shoes, flats or heels, can help you look stylish and comfortable at the same time, and can be dressed up or down with a longish lack tunic top as well. Just add accessories, attitude and flair, and enjoy. Now that is a recipe for comfort and style.

415 words

Book Review: How to Solve Our Human Problems

Admin — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:05:24 +0000
How to Solve Our Human Problems: The Four Noble Truths by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Edition: Paperback 5.0 out of 5 stars If you have problems with anger, this is the book for you The book is really divided into two sections, one which illustrates the central points of Buddha's teachings, highlighting that the source of all human suffering is really all in our minds. That it is our perspective on a person or event or thing, the 'broken car', the 'enemy' at work, that often stops us from being happy. The second part of the book contains advice on anger, and how to cultivate patience. The central argument he puts forward is that anger is a destructive mind, which causes pain to ourselves and to others. And that in the grip of anger, people behave in the most unskillful and even dangerous ways. In the West we feel anger is a good thing, active, 'getting things out in the open' as it were, instead of 'repressing.' What it most often does, however, is makes the whole situation worse, because we are letting our often deluded mind, clouded by anger and disappointment, call the shots. Think of Basil Fawlty in Fawlty Towers-his constant anger drove people away, and only made his daily life more and more complicated! I kept thinking of the scene where he gets so angry at his car he says, "Right, I'll show you," and begins to beat it with a huge tree branch while he tells it all the things that he has always hated about it. It doesn't benefit him at all-he is still stuck right where he is, beating the same thing up over and over again. We may not use the tree branch with our loved ones, but verbal lashing out can be even more damaging-we can easily get a new car, but can we easily get a new friend, partner, child? As Geshe Kelsang Gyatso says, a patient mind is able to step back from the situation to see how best to deal with it without flying off the handle and causing one to do or say something they will definitely regret. Arguments with loved ones, for example, are supposed to restore harmony and peace, but how often do they really? A whole chapter on reasons not to retaliate is excellent as well. This is a very clear and concise book for people interested in learning more about Buddhism, based on Buddha's first teaching, the 4 Noble Truth, which tell us that if we know where suffering comes from, its true causes, we can take steps to end it. The ideas for managing anger and cultivating patience in order to keep control of even the most difficult situations is one which any reader can benefit from. Geshe Kelsang is a Tibetan teacher of Mahayana Buddhism (Sutra and Tantra) who lives in England and has spent his career making these teachings clear and applicable to Westerners. 475 words

Summer Slimming Special

Admin — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 20:20:20 +0000
Here's another good deal from Diet Classics: Buy 2 and Get $5 OFF any DietClassics Products - Start Losing Weight Today - Coupon Code: DC08014

Obama shows just how clueless he is once more

Admin — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 00:50:41 +0000
Obama has once again tried to convince people that all is rosy now that he is a presidential candidate. He is telling the American people we are going through short-term economic pain. And that another round of stimulus checks will solve it. Dude, what ARE you smoking? Cos the rest of us are looking at the real world: Oil at over $140 a barrel and climbing, with production cut in Nigeria and now in Libya, food prices up over 10% just since the beginning of the year, so that it actually makes more sense to stock up on groceries than put cash in a savings account, the stock market plunging hundreds of points every day last week. Once again, you have proven you are out of touch with reality, and your smugness is detestable, because you are offering no real solutions to the millions of Americans you are trying to con. And the more you feed people this bull, the less change will come about. We need an experienced politician with the ability to balance the books-you are right, we DO need the Clintons. FAST. Yahoo news

How Yoga Can Combat Metabolic Syndrome

Admin — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:38:58 +0000
This new article was posted at our sister site, Nutrition Goddess: http://nutrition-goddess.com/?p=31

New information posted at Weight Loss Goddess

Admin — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 12:15:53 +0000
Visit the Weight Loss Goddess for the latest hints, tips, and recipes. Weight Loss Goddess

Farmer Wants a Wife Finale

Admin — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 22:59:30 +0000
This has been one of my guilty pleasures, given how awful most of the women were on the show, and also the two that he picked in the end. Josie and Ashley have got to go down in history as having even LESS class than the tarty blonde who handed the British Bachelor her panties within an hour of meeting (the fact that they were large enough to hang on a flag pole did not escape anyone's notice except the blonde's apparently.) I have to admit I was not dying about Christa, but she was a darn sight better than all the other princesses that got sent home. I hate to say this, but you could see it coming a mile off in the end, though I fail to see how Matt could have acted the way he did, leading on Christa, and I think he made a mistake. Why he picked Brooke: A-virgin b-britney spears lookalike c-she went out of her way to charm the whole town d-Christa blew any chance she might have ever had when they did the pair date in the hot tub and she jumped all over Brooke, and made Brooke look like the innocent puppy victim. She also blew the date because guys can't stand conflict, they just want to have a good time, so he had yet another blown date and it was HER fault. e-Guys don't like a woman who challenges them all the time, but supports them. Christa was too sarcastic all the time, and too flirty. f-Christa is a bartender, Brooke a nanny-which one is going to be the best fit for a wife for a guy with strong family values and who wants kids and marriage right away? He had his timetable, and Amanda blew it when she said that she was not ready to get married within three months. What was he trying to do, fit it all in before the next planting season? g-Amanda was a really great personality fit, but she sort of dropped herself out of the running –I think she might have changed her mind about life on the farm, if not him, the more she got to know him. I think the cow's butt was the last straw for her! You could see after that, in the edits, she was hardly ever seen and she and Matt never hugged, which considering what they had been like before, gazing deeply into each other's eyes, was a big contrast. He said he did not feel as connected with her, but they started out well. She clearly ended up not having feelings for him, while with Brooke, she was determined to get him and she did. Christa clearly DID have feelings, not just the competitive streak. So IMHO, it is a bit unfair of matt to have been indulging in all that romantic stuff with Christa and taking her to his own house and building up artificial expectations of forever in her, and then dumping her in front of the whole town. Like Brooke said, she got the ATVS, and Christa got the fairytale carriage and the home visit? It made no sense. So Matt got what he wanted, but he ended up looking like a prick in the end. The farmer's wife chores at the end, which Brooke totally blew, was like the final torture. And the cow's butt was totally unnecessary. KJ was a better fit than anyone there, IMHO, because she really wanted to be, and really liked him, and she was also not a schemer like Brooke showed herself to be. Everyone warned Matt, but did he listen? He will have only himself to blame when the reality show ends and the reality sets in. Maybe it is me, but EVERY time I watch one of these kind of shows, the Bachelor, whatever, I always get it wrong. I can't understand the male mind and criteria--you would think they would pick the gal who is totally into them, not the standoffish one who could not even say 2 words about her own feelings. So it is clear, ladies, string them along, be dishonest, don't put your feelings out there, and you will get a guy! As for men, well, keep them dangling, say you want someone to share your life with in a meaningful way, then go for the bimbo every time. I doubt it will be back for another season, but it was a lightweight bit of fluff to cheer us after the dire writer's strike.

Summer Software Savings for the Whole Family

Admin — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 23:40:39 +0000
Save big on educational software this summer at Britannica Online.

Super 4th of July Specials grom Travelocity-Bahamas and more

Admin — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:40:39 +0000
Plan A Getaway This Independence Day! Book a Flight + 4-Night Hotel Package to The Bahamas from $305! (CODE: GBSUMMER200) Tons of last-minute deals: BOOK NOW.

New Travel Articles

Admin — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 12:31:50 +0000
New articles have been posted on Travel Goddess.

Special Apple Computer Savings, and free Ipod

Admin — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:17:15 +0000

What is Sleep Apnea?

Admin — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 12:11:13 +0000
Sleep Apnea is temporary, recurrent breathing interruptions during sleep. Often characterized as "snoring," we now know that it can be much more serious than simply an annoying noise. It has been linked to many serious health disorders. Learn more about sleep apnea from Johns Hopkins here: http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts_index/lung_disorders/1082-1.html and then see if you should go to a sleep specialist who will assess you for sleep apnea and suggest appropriate treatment.

Obama is the KING of flip-flop

Admin — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 21:31:42 +0000
I have to say that this article on Obama already getting ready to reverse his Iraq policy (such as it ever was!) with which he conned the American people
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080703/ap_on_el_pr/obama_iraq

has really made me see red.

In The New Republic’s article earlier than the yahoo one, “The Flip-Flop Fallacy”

http://www.tnr.com/booksarts/story.html?id=19697b01-fe09-413f-b0e8-7d4c8cf0d098

it talks about how McCain has a good chance of winning because Obama is flopping around like a landed fish gasping for air.

Obama is the King of flip-flop on ‘policy’ and he isn’t even anywhere near getting to be president.

And perhaps is NOT cynical manipulation, as many of us suspect from this most smug and self-righteous of politicians.

But it most certainly IS evidence of his total inexperience, and his pronouncement on Iraq a total betrayal of the people who believed him when he said he was for change and ending the war.

It makes it all the more reprehensible that he attacked Hillary for ever voting for the war (remember that we were ALL lied to at the time), AND it just shows that Bill Clinton was right--he WAS selling people a fairytale!!!

B. Clinton was painted the bad buy for doing no more than calling the guy's bluff! What he was saying was nonsense, and now he is admitting it.

Obama then distracted everyone when he claimed that B. Clinton was racist, that he was saying an African-American could ever be president was a fairytale, and then he was on a roll in the primaries and seemed almost unstoppable.

Except that those of us who were paying attention and did not believe the rhetoric-he knew he was lying, and those of us savvy enough KNEW he knew he was lying!

About ALL of it.

It is just a pity that we are stuck with this media darling, made of smoke and mirrors, because he is a terrible Democratic candidate who undermines himself every time he opens his mouth and tries to talk about the issues, which he knows so little about.

Every public pronouncement reveals his hypocrisy, and ignorance. Don't be fooled by the smoke and mirrors, and hey, anyone who thinks he does not NEED Hillary for VP is drinking the same Koolaid as the ones who helped him steal the nomination from Hillary (she should have been given ALL the delegates in Florida and Michigan, in which case she would be the candidate!)

Look at the whole Pastor Wright fiasco-he told people that to disavow him was like expecting him to disown his WHITE grandmother--why not just say Grandmother and have done with it--who is the racist here?

By all means vote Democrat to end the current disasterous policies, but never be naive enough to think this guy will ever make good, or be able to make good, on his promises. And let's look forward to the next Democratic primary season in 2011-12!! And get it RIGHT next time.

www.guru-goddess.com

Book Review: Star of the Sea by Joseph O’Connor

Admin — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 01:47:27 +0000
4.0 out of 5 stars Creaks a bit, but still afloat The start of the novel was splendid, but his obsession with Lord Kingscourt's sex life definitely detracts from the book. At the center of the story are also love stories, loves which are thwarted, perverted, destroyed by the Kingscourt men. Unfortunately, they all therefore lack depth in a novel of this scope. The famine aspect is covered in blistering detail, then forgotten. Kingscourt's character is by far the most compelling in the novel, yet we learn little about him apart from the surface material until very near the end, by which time it is nearly too late. Mary is a cipher for the most part, as is Laura, his wife. Pius Mulvey becomes increasingly monstrous as the book goes on, to the point of him not even being human any more. His willingness to do anything to survive which is commented upon by the author in the context of Kingscourt and the doctor Mangan's conversation in the latter half of the book, does not excuse what he's done. He blights the woman he claims to love his whole life and still expects her to come back to him. The book becomes so Dickensian it loses its humanity and appeal. Even the name Pius is used with heavy handed irony. Still, for its descriptions of Connemara, and the Famine, almost all accurate and very well researched, it is well worth reading. (even if it has been done better elsewhere). For some grear books on Ireland and the famine, read Sorcha MacMurrough's novels of the period. 274 words

Apple Computer Envy?

Admin — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 00:19:48 +0000
Would you LOVE to own an Apple computer, but it just seems too pricey? Now is your chance to fall prey to temptation! Did you know you can get a refurbished Apple direct from them at a huge discount? Same great computers, much lower prices. Treat yourself, or your recent grad. Also perfect for back to school! Covet an Apple no more!

New information posted at Nutrition Goddess

Admin — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 12:22:07 +0000
For information on nutrition, visit their handy site: Nutrition Goddess

Suffering from Back Pain?

Admin — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 12:07:59 +0000
Here is a really good article from Forbes, which outlines what really works, and how surgery for back pain, and procedures like spinal fusion, are not as effective for back pain as you might think. http://www.forbes.com/forbes/2008/0421/088.html And here is another interesting article on the negative effects of a tight back pack on adult health. It's not just our kids who are carrying around bags that are too heavy. This is a handy reminder to stay safe on vacation/when traveling. http://www.everydayhealth.com/publicsite/ShowArticle.aspx?IsP=news/614/news614220.xml&dp=2008/04/07&q1=&cen=&xid=nl_EverydayHealthHealthyLiving_20080408

The Bachelorette Finale

Admin — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:00:10 +0000
Deanna and Jesse-huh? Now do NOT get me wrong, I LOVE Jesse, but he is the kind of guy you DATE, not marry. In the After the Final Rose, at least she was honest and said that what she wanted, her shopping list, had changed by the time she got to the end of the process, but really, I have to say, she has come off as an unholy bitch to a lot of people. I mean, she KNEW Jeremy's feelings, and Jason's. It's like, once she had sex with them, athletic Jesse won the day. In fact, it's like the more the guy played hard to get, the more she wanted him, like Brad, like Graham, like Jesse, who did not even kiss her for weeks, and then told her at first he would not go to the fantasy suite with her. I think Jeremy and Jason were two AWESOME guys and she really should have told them long before that they were not the one. She said it was an 11th hour decision where she wrote all the pros and cons down on paper, yet she bent over backwards to smooth Jesse's way with the family. Her sister in law described her as a free spirit? I don't think so. Spoiled brat more like. She kicked the guys like footballs if they didn't 'open up to her' but what's the point when she would then whack them in the nuts? And was she open and honest? I mean, Jason was decent, with a son. If she had had any doubts, (and what about her timetable of 3 kids before she is 30, she is 26 already??) she should have let the guy down gently. I felt so sorry for the poor bugger, and can only hope that he gets to be The Bachelor himself after a decent interval, though I can honestly say he will probably not want to leave his son, and he is so deserving of a great gal he will have every woman in the country after him. Jeremy is a bit too dull to be the next Bachelor, but we wish him well, and it took guts to try to 'make it right' with her, even though he should have seen that she was clearly on a roll (literally) with Jesse after they spent the night together. Her saying she can't live without him in her life, well, it's a bit hard to believe, really, considering what awesome things she shared with Jason. I only hope she doesn't live to regret it, and that Jesse steps up to the plate for her, because I can tell you from her personality, and her big fat Greek family, there will be hell to pay if he doesn't! As her dad said (and Jason must have totally cringed at this) she had already made up her mind at the family visit. She was just going around desperately trying to justify her emotional and illogical decision. Can you imagine what Brad must be thinking now—or Graham? All having a good laugh at her expense, I shouldn't wonder. I mean, Jesse is a great guy, but for me, he has all the sex appeal of a golden retriever puppy. So congratulations, I think, to the happy couple, and let's hope they are happier together than Shayne the drama queen and Matt the British bachelor, who were so lame on the show it is hard to imagine them ever setting a date. "Monkey, will you marry me," has easily got to be the worse proposal line EVER. Chelsea the runner up (as horsey a looking woman as Prince Charles' wife) must spit every time she thinks of what she went through!

Is it your time to quit smoking?

Admin — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 12:33:14 +0000
Here is a handy article if you are thinking of quitting smoking. http://www.clevelandclinic.org/health/health-info/docs/4400/4434.asp?&Source=FathomSEO&email+marketing&campaigned=Health_Extra&index=14132&src=news&ref=4400/4432.asp Here are some other excellent articles on why there is no such thing as a safe cigarette, and the INSTANT benefits you will gain if you quit smoking. http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts_index/lung_disorders/1085-1.html

Healthy Weight Calculator

Admin — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:33:46 +0000
Here is a handy online tool to help you calculate your Body Mass index, (BMI) so you can determine your optimal healthy weight and start working towards your goals. http://www.everydayhealth.com/toolkit/weightcalculator/index.aspx?xid=nl_EverydayHealthHealthyAging_20080408

How many calories did you burn today?

Admin — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 12:35:06 +0000
How many calories did you burn today? Here is a handy little interactive calculator for common daily activities: http://www.clevelandclinic.org/health/interactive/burned.asp?&Source=FathomSEO&email+marketing&campaigned=Health_Extra Remember, one lost pound = 3,500 burned calories

Book Review: Call Home The Heart by Sorcha MacMurrough

Admin — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:41:25 +0000
5.0 out of 5 stars Romantic Times Review Widowed by a shooting accident on her honeymoon, Muireann Caldwell discovers that her wastrel husband has left her penniless, and almost homeless. She now faces returning to a smothering family or charting her own course with the crumbling Caldwell estate. Deciding to tackle Barnakilla and its mountain of debt, Muireann turns to the handsome, capable Lochlainn Roche, her late husband's estate manager, for support. Lochlainn worries that with Augustine dead, his lifelong home will be forfeited, especially if the young widow decides to run home to Scotland. But he's surprised by the strength Muireann displays and grows to admire her courage and determination. She grows to love Barnakilla as much as he does. Dare he hope she returns the love he has found for her? Ms. MacMurrough weaves a wonderful tale of survival and love that defeats seemingly insurmountable odds. It is refreshing to see a heroine with such strength and common sense, and a strong hero who actually believes she can have it! CALL HOME THE HEART is a story you won't want to put down. 196 words This book is available as a PDF download from HerStory Books http://www.herstorybooks.com

Private: Thank You

Admin — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 20:03:53 +0000
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Posts Page

Admin — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 21:38:57 +0000

Politics of Appeasement

Admin — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 00:54:33 +0000
It is interesting that George Bush mentioned appeasement the other week in the context of what is going on in the Middle East. The British tried to appease Hitler, and got completely overwhelmed-it gave Hitler that much more time to build up his technical superiority and then wage his phoney 'defensive war.' The British government knew of concentration camps as early as 1936, and did nothing. We KNOW this because British novelists at the time were writing about it and protesting it, and their books were suppressed and are only now coming back into print through women's presses like Virago. The American government was still trading with Nazis until 1943. In fact, George Bush's grandfather laundered money for Hitler's chief finance minister. So forgive me if I don't listen to his opinion about 'appeasement' when the word in this instance is 'collaboration'. These are all historical facts, not opinions. So let's look at the facts now. We KNOW this administration has lied time and time again to justify the present war. We have had independent confirmation that there is NO nuclear weapons program in Iran. Therefore, there is nothing to appease. The Iranian people themselves despise their leader and protest against him regularly. Iran is not the problem. Instability and scaremongering in an election year is the problem. We cannot appease, but nor can we be hypocrites and violate the sovereign rights of other nations. All the fighting in this war, and clearly throughout human history, rarely produces benefit. But this is a phony war--we were LIED to. And no one dared speak out against it because they were afraid of their careers being shredded if they did, since anyone who dared was labelled 'unpatriotic' at the time. Obama was not even in office then-it was all very well for him to claim he would not have voted in favor of the war, but he has funded it ever since. And are politicians meant to represent their own views, or those of their constituents? Clearly WE are at fault if we are not sending a clear message to our leaders as to what should happen. The fact that Obama is now doing an about-face on his 16 month timetable shows a-he was just saying what people wanted to hear; b-he is naïve and inexperienced; C-he is a hypocrite; D-all of the above. Do we really want him to be president? After the initial media honeymoon was over, he has managed to stumble and look like a boob at every turn. He has contradicted himself so often, McCain doesn't even have to attack him, he can just watch him self-destruct. His reversal on his supposed Iraq policy is just one in a long line of about faces, or is it just that he is two-faced. One thing is for sure, you might not have like the Clintons, but what you saw and what they stood for was what you got. She has fought for education, health care, equal opportunities, for three DECADES, not three years. She deserved to be the candidate, and she is now the only thing standing between Obama and defeat in November. Ever since he 'won' the nomination (by which read that they refused to give her all the delegates she won in Michigan and Florida, so that he seemingly went over the required total first) have all the party swarmed around him? NO. Have huge donations poured in? NO. Great press coverage? Meaningful debates with McCain? A real drive for the White House with a powerful majority behind him? NO. NO. NO. He wil go down in history as the greatest president that never was if he does not get his act together. And by the way, Mr. Media Darling,, since you STILL don't seem to have learned your lesson yet, just remember, the higher up you climb, the further you fall. And watching you land on your butt all the time sure makes for great headlines, doesn't it?

Varicose Veins: unslightly problem, or something more serious?

Admin — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 12:41:24 +0000
Varicose veins are unsightly, but they can also be a circulatory problem you need to pay attention to. http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts/healthy_living/JohnsHopkinsHealthyLivingHealthAlert_191-1.html

Do It Yourself Xbox 360 Repairs

Admin — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 00:08:08 +0000
This guide is perfect for:
Guys desperate to get on with their gaming Gals eager to get their Xbox fixed without having to pay an arm and a leg Desperate housewives whose kids and spouse would be climbing the wall without their Xbox 360 and driving them nuts. My dad and his friends, all avid gamers, but retired, with not a lot of cash to throw away on Microsoft holding their box for $150 ransom for 2 whole months!
Free Xbox 360 Red Lights of Death Guide

Weight Training for Seniors

Admin — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 12:42:37 +0000
Here is a useful article that talks about how older people are able to best manage a weight-training program to help stay fit. http://www.everydayhealth.com/publicsite/ShowArticle.aspx?IsP=news/614/news614291.xml&dp=2008/04/06&q1=&cen=&xid=nl_EverydayHealthHealthyAging_20080408

Another Obama flip-flop

Admin — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 23:35:00 +0000
Now it is him supporting the government's surveillance bill despite the fact that he said he would oppose it. http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/07/11/obama.netroots/index.html?eref=rss_topstories Every day we have nore and more evidence of his inability to stick to any sort of policy or principle. But best of all, rather than declarifying or even defending his position, he then attacks the conservatives on THEIR record, even though he is voting with them, and saying "No, you'e misunderstood. You're the ones who have got it all wrong." I hate to say it, but the Democratic Party got it all wrong. Instead of listening to the will of the people in Florida and Michigan, they abandoned their democratic principles and refused to give Hillary Clinton her full delegate count, which would have easily put her over the number of delegates required to secure the nomination. How is this any different from what the Republicans did to Gore in 2000? And look at the price we have been paying for it ever since. What price are we going to pay for riding roughshod over democratic principles once again, when here is a man who has not even got anywhere near the Presidency yet, and is doing more about-faces than a platoon of soldiers on drill. Hillary, you should have taken it to the party, because as anyone could have told you, his inexperience and hypocrisy and lack of brains compared with you are plain for all to see.

New novels from HerStory Books

Admin — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:46:47 +0000
Just to let you know that the latest new novels at HerStory Books are now available.

Still more flip flops for Obama

Admin — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 23:35:41 +0000
More on the Obama flip flopping I agree with some of this article, http://www.newyorker.com/talk/comment/2008/07/21/080721taco_talk_hertzberg except for his last point. I don't expect a president to be so inflexible that he seems to be wearing cement overshoes, but I DO expect him to have a backbone!

The many benefits of Vitamin D

Admin — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:46:06 +0000
Here is a great article from Johns Hopkins on the many benefits of Vitamin D for helping ward off osteopenia and osteoporosis, and for overall health. http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/reports/back_pain_osteoporosis/466-1.html

Morning Sickness During Pregnancy Part 1

Admin — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 12:52:55 +0000
Morning sickness can be one or the first signs that you're pregnant. Unfortunately, despite the name, this doesn't always mean that you'll get sick only in the morning. It can happen, morning, noon or night. It will normally occur in the first trimester of your pregnancy, and end by the second. This isn't the case in all pregnancies, though. Some women will continue with it until the very end of term. Nausea can happen immediately, or you may get lucky and have no morning sickness at all. No one is certain what causes morning sickness. It is no doubt just one of the many changes in the body that happens during pregnancy. Many women seem to get sick after taking the pre-natal vitamin, so try taking it later in the day. Your doctor may even advise you to take some other form of vitamin instead of the usual pre-natal ones. Always check first with your doctor before taking anything new or taking yourself off medication, even pre-natal vitamin. There are a few ways to minimize the sickness, but they don't work for everyone. Try keeping crackers on hand, most people prefer saltines. Try drinking some ginger ale to calm the stomach, especially flat ginger ale. Dry cereal is another good thing to eat. Your stomach may just be a little bit hungry and trying to tell you, but you mistake it for nausea. Remember to eat only small portions, that way you will not make the nausea and any vomiting worse than it has to be. Resting and sleeping is another good way to avoid it; however, it can wake you up. Keep yourself hydrated. Not only can this make your sickness settle down a bit, but it can help you avoid becoming dehydrated, which would require a trip to the emergency room to get intravenous fluids and antinausea medication. Continues in Morning Sickness During Pregnancy Part 2

When Prescription Drugs and Herbal Supplements don’t mix

Admin — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:49:53 +0000
Here is a handy list of herbs you should avoid with certain prescription drugs: http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/reports/prescription_drugs/1933-1.html?ET=johnshopkins:e4852:219a:&st=email&st=email&s=RKH_080408_005

Morning Sickness During Pregnancy Part 2

Admin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 12:53:38 +0000
Different smells tend to be another reason for morning sickness. Imagine walking into a restaurant and the first thing you smell is something greasy like bacon or sausage. This can easily set it off. Bad smells and even certain tastes can often trigger morning sickness. It will take a bit of time for your body to adjust, and for you to discover just what triggers your nausea. Knowing how to avoid it can make a world of difference to how frequently you get sick during your pregnancy. A few reasons you should go to your doctor would be if you begin losing weight because you are constantly sick. If you become dehydrated, faint, look pale, feel mentally confused, or throw up more than four times in a day, your doctor may be able to prescribe something that will stop it. In addition to eating small meals and avoiding bad smells, you might also try slowing down a bit. Sometimes your body is just exhausted from all the chores you are doing, and it is trying to give you a break. Listen to your body, take a nap, relax and watch a television show. Take some time off. Far too many woman try to work a full schedule despite their pregnancy, and work right through to the very end of it. If you are looking for remedies for your morning sickness, you may try buying some pregnancy pops. Or if you'd prefer to stay away from the sweets you can wear a bracelet designed to stop morning sickness. They are just like the motion sickness bracelets. They don't work for everyone but they could work for you. Acupressure also seems to help some women, but check with your doctor first before trying any alternative remedies. Once you are pregnant, you will be bombarded with well-meaning advice, but just remember, your body and circumstances are unique. So listen to your body, and do you best to cope with your morning sickness in your own way, for a happy, healthy pregnancy. word count=654

Regular exercise boosts ‘good’ cholesterol levels

Admin — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 12:50:57 +0000
Studies have shown that daily exercise is a cornerstone for lowering cholesterol to acceptable heart-healthy levels, for heart attack prevention. And here is more good news: a lot of the activities that you might not necessarily have thought would count as exercise do actually keep you fit: Read more here: http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts/nutrition_weight_control/JohnsHopkinsHealthAlertsNutritionWeightControl_1892-1.html

New novels from HerStory Books

Admin — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 12:45:04 +0000
Just to let you know that the latest new novels at HerStory Books are now available.

Statins: Is there a best cholesterol drug?

Admin — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 12:56:56 +0000
Statins drugs, like Crestor, Lipitor and Zocor, are a family of drugs prescribed to lower blood cholesterol by blocking its very production. Research suggests statins do additional long-term good. Learn more about statin drugs here. http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/reports/heart_health/267-1.html

Health Concerns During Pregnancy Part 1

Admin — Sun, 27 Jul 2008 12:54:24 +0000
There is nothing more stressful than to have something go wrong during pregnancy. It doesn't matter if it is your first time being pregnant or your fourth. There are many things to be concerned about during your pregnancy, but it is easier to cope with them when you know what they are and what to expect. Here is a discussion of the most common ones to watch out for. Stomach pain or cramping During the pregnancy it may be hard to decipher the difference between a baby-related pain and an actual stomach pain/cramping. However, if you do get a pain of any sort, the best thing to do is rest. After a few minutes, if it still hasn't subsided, call your doctor and describe the pain to him. Don't worry about it if you find out you only had gas, or were having Braxton hicks contractions. At least you know everything is okay with pregnancy. It's better to be safe than sorry. Vaginal bleeding This may also known as spotting. But there is a difference between actively bleeding and spotting. Spotting is a light kind of bleeding, kind of like the early part or tail end of your period. The blood can be red, pink or even brown. If you are bleeding actively like during your full period, or bleeding with any pain, call your doctor. If you can't get a hold of your doctor, go immediately to the emergency room. Bleeding can be caused by a number of things, ranging from ectopic pregnancy, labor, infection or even miscarriage. Always let your doctor know, so everything can be ruled out, you'll feel better too. Continues in Health Concerns During Pregnancy Part 2

How not to have a heart attack

Admin — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:58:07 +0000
Here are the ABCs to remind yourself to stay heart healthy! http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/reports/heart_health/63-1.html

Health Concerns During Pregnancy Part 2

Admin — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:55:38 +0000
Gush of liquid This could mean you are in labor and that your water broke. However, if it isn't close to the time of birth it can be something else. Call your doctor immediately and head for the emergency room. Dehydration While you are pregnant it is easy to become dehydrated, especially if you have morning sickness or just don't drink your 8 glasses of water per day that are recommended. If you find yourself pale, with a dry mouth, or dizzy, you could be dehydrated and should be seen by a doctor. Dehydration can cause premature labor and/or distress on the pregnancy. Painful urination This could be caused by a urinary tract infection, also known as UTI. This can be easily treated with medication or by drinking lots of fluids and cranberry juice. A urinary tract infection isn't something to be embarrassed about. It is very common amongst pregnant women. The growing belly pushes against your ureters, the tubes from your bladder, and makes it harder for urine to flow through. Incomplete emptying of the bladder can lead to a persistent feeling of having to go. Imcomplete emptying can cause infection. If you have a foul odor when you urinate, or have a stinging or persistent sensation of having to go, you most like have a UTI. Pregnancy can be worrying enough, without adding to your fears by being reluctant to talk to your doctor because you think you are being a nuisance. By all means read up and stay well-informed, but also stay in touch with your doctor. Don't stress over every little change in your body, but you know your own body well enough to be able to tell the difference between something that has become typical because you are pregnant, and something very unusual which need to be looked into further for a safe, healthy pregnancy. word count=590

Dealing with insomnia

Admin — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 12:59:18 +0000
Here are some handy patient/doctor Q and As on this topic, which afflicts millions every night. http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts/depression_anxiety/JohnsHopkinsDepressionAnxietyHealthAlert_799-1.html

Tips On Understanding Company Asset Management

Admin — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 11:43:17 +0000
Before you can understand asset management you have to understand what an asset actually is. Assets include, stocks, bonds, mutual funds and real estate. Stocks are fractional ownership shares of a company. Bonds are basically IOU's that pay an interest rate. Mutual funds span different classes of investments, between stocks and bonds. Real estate is usually income generating property, be it privately or commercially owned. Asset management is basically managing a person's or corporation's money by putting it in certain stocks, bonds, or other investments. Asset management and investing is intended to improve your assets, using some of the money and maintaining the wealth of the assets as best you can at the same time. There are many different strategies used when it comes to asset management and it will all depend on the investment strategies used to try to use the assets to their best advantage. With many investment portfolios, or types of assets, there can be hidden costs, for example, maintenance, brokerage fees, or different types of insurance. By being flexible with your asset management strategies, you can add value to your personal portfolio or business, and potentially be able to cut costs in their business. There are many investment services available now on the internet, so you should research what is available and find three that look right for you. Then you should compare costs, performance, and customer satisfaction. These aspects are key, because your asset management company will be mainly responsible for your portfolio's or your business's growth and productivity. They will invest your money into many different areas, and will have to keep track of these diversified investments. Asset management services have a variety of investment objectives, so make sure you know what your own is before you engage their services. There are many companies that offer similar services, and many which offer different types of investment opportunities; you must make sure you understand that they are before risking any of your money. Remember, no matter what the strategy, the overall goal of these companies is to produce better investment returns for their clients. Asset management companies do have risks, but if you look before you leap, the can be the best way to go in order to get rid of all of those expensive individual costs which typically occur within regular business operations to do with investing on your own. Not only will an asset management company benefit you by reducing the costs of the business, it will also improve the business's overall profits. Study the companies and the opportunities they offer, and if you choose well, it should be only a short period of time before you will start seeing good results from using your asset management company in your business. 464 words

The latest articles on Weight Loss available now

Admin — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 12:25:52 +0000
Visit the Weight Loss Goddess for the latest hints, tips, support, and recipes. Weight Loss Goddess

The newest articles on Travel

Admin — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 12:28:40 +0000
New articles have been posted on Travel Goddess.

Great new relationship site

Admin — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 00:11:16 +0000
Seismic Sex is a great site for guys and gals looking to learn more about how to have a really intimate relationship.

New novels from HerStory Books

Admin — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 12:49:47 +0000
Just to let you know that the latest new novels at HerStory Books are now available.

The latest articles posted at Nutrition Goddess

Admin — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 12:23:28 +0000
For more great information on nutrition, visit this handy website: Nutrition Goddess

More great articles at Pet Goddess

Admin — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 00:53:16 +0000
Visit Pet Goddess for the latest articles

What you need to know about the newest sleeping pills

Admin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 13:01:12 +0000
Possibly less addictive, but they are definitely more expensive, the newest sleep aids offer hope to those of us who suffer with insomnia. But should you take them, or are there more natural ways to get a good night's sleep? http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/reports/prescription_drugs/1782-1.html

Heart Attack and Depression — What’s the Connection?

Admin — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:03:38 +0000
Does depression trigger heart attack? Or does heart attack trigger depression? A really interesting article about the link between them. http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts/heart_health/JohnsHopkinsHeartHealthAlert_884-1.html

Good Home Security on a Budget Part 1

Admin — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 00:36:41 +0000
Many people want their own private surveillance equipment for better home security. Besides the surveillance systems that are run through various VCR or DVR systems, there is computer software that can be used to control the security cameras around your home and property. Most of the large companies and businesses purchase surveillance equipment with the software it uses already installed. Most of these systems are far too expensive for the regular business owner or private home owner to use. So how can you get good value without breaking the bank when it comes to home or small business surveillance? Your personal computer can now be used as a valuable surveillance tool. By connecting a webcam to the computer and installing the correct software, your PC can become a powerful security device. This is a fairly inexpensive method for home security or small business security compared to the systems that some people purchase that require a whole installation crew just to hook up the wiring alone. As a matter of fact, with current technology upgrades, up to 16 different webcams can now be displayed through the same PC, and improvements are being made all the time. This is like having a whole home security system installed at the touch of a button. All you have to do is set up the software and cameras, and check them to see that they are in the right places and giving off the right signal, and then you can monitor everything from your PC. You have a number of different options when setting up your surveillance system. For example, if you don't want to record everything that goes on in the room even when someone is not in it, these cameras can be set to detect when there is motion present within the room. Once motion is detected, the camera and software will start recording at that instance. Continued in: Good Home Security on a Budget Part 2

Great article on 401ks

Admin — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 00:39:22 +0000
If you have not diversified yet, pop over to read this article! My 401 K is melting

Good Home Security on a Budget Part 2

Admin — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 21:37:47 +0000
Some Considerations when Choosing and Setting up your Home Security System Since the video that is picked up by these webcams is being stored on the hard-drive of your computer, which takes up valuable computer space, you can invest in an external back up hard-drive so you can back up your computer, and also have more storage space. But it can be more cost efficient to use this technology instead of buying a surveillance system that relies on video tapes, an added expense, and very cumbersome to use, especially if you want to look at films quickly. No one wants to watch hours of a dead room when trying to find a missing wallet. To store the video it takes a lot of hard-drive space. To record for a 24 hour period with one camera, it can take up to 1GB of hard drive space per day. This number will also depend on the kind of image quality chosen. The lower the quality the video feed chosen, the less bandwidth required to save the video within your hard drive. Another good trick to keep the storage issue to a minimum is to set the FPS (frames per second) to a lower level. By doing this you'll be saving even more space. If for some reason your computer comes equipped with a large hard drive with lots of space, then you have nothing to worry about apart from just wanting to get into the habit to back up your hard drive so if anything ever does happen to it, you are covered. Remember, webcam software combined with a few inexpensive webcams can be used to watch over loved ones or precious items within the home. There is no need to spend tons of money on a surveillance system when one can be made using your own home PC. One of the best features about doing so is that if your PC has internet access, you can also watch the webcam feeds from anywhere just by logging in. This is great for parents who want to keep an eye on their child and home via a nanny cam, and for anyone who travels a lot. With features and convenience like this, it's a wonder that everyone doesn't have a surveillance system to help watch over their prized items. So set your budget for your home surveillance system, comparison shop on the software and features, and best prices, and soon you will have the comfort and safety of knowing you have a good in-home security system watching over you and your family. 735 words

Finances: The Importance of Creating a Budget for Yourself Part 1

Admin — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 21:38:31 +0000
Are you a debt-ridden woman? Even if debt may not be an issue for you now, there is a good chance that it will become one in the future if you don't keep an eye on your income and expenditures with a workable budget. Whether you are in debt now, or if you are looking to prevent yourself from falling victim to it, you need to put a sound budget in place as soon as possible to start planning better for your financial future. Before examining how you can go about creating a budget for yourself, it is important to understand why you need a budget. As previously stated, budgets are a tool that can be used to make sure that debt does not become or remain an issue for you. By creating a budget, you can track your spending, and make sure that your make it a priority to ensure that all needed expenses, like your car, insurance, rent or your mortgage, all get paid. A budget also gives you the opportunity to examine how much extra money you have each month, money that you could put towards paying down your debt, or putting into a savings account to start working toward your long-term financial goals. When it comes to creating a budget for yourself, you should be able to find a number of budget templates online. There are a couple of suggested ones here at the site as well. While these free resources are nice, you may only want to use them as starting points. You can get great ideas from them, but you may want to create your own budget. This is important because not all individuals lead the same lives or have the same expenses to take care of. For instance, a budget template for those in New York City may not necessarily call for car payments or auto insurance, but if you had a vehicle, you will need these sections displayed on your budget. It is also advised that you take the time to create a budget for each month of the year. As previously stated, a budget allows you to account for what you spend on a weekly and monthly basis, but not all months are created equal. For example, you may have a ton of family birthdays in August, or have to go see your family for Thanksgiving every year, which will mean budgeting for travel expenses. Christmas is always a very expensive time of year, and can get really out of hand if you don't budget for it. Creating individual budgets for each month of the year may seem like a complicated process, but it doesn’t have to be. It may take a few extra minutes, but those few minutes are more than worth it. Continues in Finances: The Importance of Creating a Budget for Yourself Part 2

Finances: The Importance of Creating a Budget for Yourself Part 2

Admin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 21:40:13 +0000
To get you started with saving your money, to help relieve the stress and other issues often associated with debt, you will want to start by outlining all expenses that you must pay for on a monthly basis. These expenses are ones in which you cannot go without paying, like rent, mortgage, homeowners insurance, auto insurance, auto loan payments,your utility bills, and finally, groceries. These are the expenses that must be paid, no matter what. If you have any money left over after all these obligations are met, you are fortunate. Once you have a detailed list of important expenses, the next items are luxuries you have to decide upon. There is no right or wrong answer. You just need to remember that everything involves a sacrifice. So try to keep your long-term financial goals in mind when deciding on whether or not to spend money on these luxury items. Such items include internet access or cable television. If you are just looking to save money, possibly to put into a savings account, you should be able to continue paying these expenses without any problems. On the other hand, if you are looking to dig yourself out of all of the unpaid debt that you have accumulated, it may be a good idea to go without internet access or cable television, if at all possible, even if it is just for a short period of time, to pay down that debt, so the interest doesn't keep accumulating. Some credit cards can carry an interest rate as high as 30% and some sort cards, almost 50%. There is no point in putting money into a savings account at 4-5% if you are paying 30% for debts. You can also use your budget to determine how much extra money you will have each month. You can do this if you regularly work the same hours or if your pay is salary-based. Once you have totaled up all of the aforementioned expenses, you can subtract that from the amount of the money that you bring home each week. Any extra is money that you may want to consider putting towards your debt or savings. Once you are free of debt, then you can start to save. We have other articles at the site on budgeting and on asset management and investing. The important thing to remember is to get out of debt as fast as possible, or never get into it. Then, once you are debt-free, you can start saving towards your long-term financial goals. A budget is not meant to be a straight-jacket, but it will help serve as your road-map to a more successful financial future. 921 words

Worried about better gas mileage?

Admin — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 00:54:57 +0000
Here are some handy ideas that really work: http://1mylive.com/blog/how-to-really-save-gas-1

Yet another Obama Flip-Flop

Admin — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:59:47 +0000
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080804/ap_on_el_pr/obama What does this say about him that on the one hand he acts so smugly self-confident, and on the other he is literally doing or saying whatever he wants in order to get elected. Obama's new 'proposal' includes two significant reversals of positions he has taken in the past: He had steadfastly fought the idea of limited new offshore drilling and was against tapping the nation's emergency oil stockpile to relieve pump prices that have stubbornly hovered around $4 a gallon. Not only did Obama push for drawing from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, he also reiterated his changing position on offshore drilling — first revealed last Friday — suggesting that he could live with it if done in an environmentally sound way and as part of a bipartisan energy compromise. Once the got the nomination, he completely changed his tune and while I would not go so far as to say not to vote for him, since anything has to be better than yet another Republican, just keep in mind we need to hold him accountable so we do not end up with an even worse president than Bush.

Book Review: At Risk by Patricia Cornwell

Admin — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 02:16:05 +0000
2 out of 5 stars The trouble with a successful author's work being treated like a publisher's 'product' This 'novel' should have stayed a short serial, because it is so thin on plot, there was really no point in trying to blow it up into a full book just for the sake of the with a hefty pricetag, let alone as a hardcover, when it would at best merit a slim paperback. Winn the main character stars out fantastic, and we love his gran, though it is pretty silly to have her 'solve' the crime in some sense. But then Winn goes on the wild goose chase, and the whole book goes to hell in a handbasket. Every detail the author gave to provide characterisation at the start of the book as they all lurch into action, and manage to go to it with all of the liveliness of cardboard. Once again, the author is thin on motive, and the whole thing smacks of "Phew, glad I got that out of the way!" All of her most recent books have felt like that--I know her topics are seldom cheerful, but where is the fun, the wisecracks, of the early Kay, Marino and so forth? It is a shame that Cornwell has descended into the dark realms of despair with her most recent books, but it is not surprising if she is expected to churn and grind out her next book like a hack writer meeting a deadline. Definitely give this a miss, and her ones where the serial criminal is a werewolf-I mean, I ask you. Just like sex is supposed to sell, sensationalism is supposed to as well, but this is a real waste of everyone's money, time and effort. 294 words

Don’t ruin your credit score by accident

Admin — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:59:30 +0000
Here is a useful article on the unexpected ways you might be ruining your credit score

How to avoid hip fracture

Admin — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 12:44:16 +0000
Hip fracture is a leading cause of disability amongst seniors, and can lead to other complications as well, such as the bad effects of a sedentary lifestyle on overall health, pneumonia, and permanent lack of independent mobility. http://www.everydayhealth.com/PublicSite/index.aspx?puid=3DA46228-905A-47BB-BB1C-A8478D57422B&ContentID=263205&ContentTypeID=57&contentPage=5&searchTerm=&xid=nl_EverydayHealthHealthyAging_20080408 If you suffer from hip pain due to arthritis, here is an interesting article about how going to hip school can help improve pain and mobility. http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts/arthritis/JohnsHopkinsArthritisHealthAlert_1184-1.html

Learn more about Internet Marketing

Admin — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 00:13:54 +0000
The Insider Secrets Corp. website has loads of free information if you want to learn more about Internet Marketing: Insider Secrets Corp If you dream of being able to earn money online, get started today.

Banana Coffee Smoothie

Admin — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:43:42 +0000
Banana Coffee Smoothie Two Servings • 2 small frozen bananas • 1 and 1/2 cups low fat milk • 1 (8oz.) container low-fat coffee yogurt • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon • Dash nutmeg Combine frozen bananas, milk, yogurt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a blender and blend till smooth. Nutritional Facts Per Serving: Calories 275 Total Fat 2 grams Saturated Fat 1 grams Cholesterol 11 milligrams Sodium 174 milligrams Total Carbohydrate 52 grams Dietary Fiber 3 grams Sugars 25 grams Protein 12 grams Save Time And Money By Planning Your Meals

How little things can become budget busters

Admin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:01:57 +0000
You may think you are keeping a tight rein on your spending in these tough economic times. But you might be surprised to learn that the little things are often the ones that all add up to blow your budget. Budget Busters

Age-Related Eye Disease on the Increase

Admin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:47:27 +0000
Americans are living longer than ever before, which means that age-related eye disorders are on the rise as well. Here is a good article to help remind you to take care of your eyes. http://www.everydayhealth.com/publicsite/ShowArticle.aspx?IsP=news/613/news613926.xml&dp=2008/04/05&q1=&cen=&xid=nl_EverydayHealthWomensHealth_20080408

Coping with Stress

Admin — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:04:10 +0000
You may not be able to escape daily stress, but you can learn to deal with it effectively: Coping with Stress

Great new books at HerStory Books

Admin — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 00:29:27 +0000
Check out the great romances at HerStory Books

Facing Foreclosure

Admin — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 00:06:53 +0000
Here's a great article on how doing your research may help you to avoid foreclosure.

Great Technology site

Admin — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:19:47 +0000
Learn more about hardware, software, and internet related questions here: Technology Leadership

Great New Zealand travel articles

Admin — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 00:15:49 +0000
Travel Goddess has been posting some terrific articles on travel to New Zealand. Why not have a look! New Zealand: Travel Goddess

Feed your Wii with great new stuff for free!

Admin — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 00:41:57 +0000
If your family adores your Wii, visit here now for some fabulous new free stuff! Feed your Wii

Book Review: A Dark Champion

Admin — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 02:11:46 +0000
A Dark Champion (Brotherhood of the Sword, Book 1) by Kinley Macgregor 1.0 out of 5 stars hopelessly confused muddle This is supposed to be the first of the Brotherhood of the Sword books, but first of all, she mentions characters from her other books, from some novella or other that she wrote as part of a book with other authors, and secondly, she says she covered the first part of the story in a book that does not exist so far as I can find it. So the whole thing is confusing from the outset. The trouble is that there is then so much of this back story- of the 'he is friends with Simon, also known as Sin,' and 'hates Damien because...' variety that it is confusing, tedious, and waters down the little romance there is in the book. The hero, as a result, never really gets moving in the book, and becomes so much more dull as a hero compared to the villains of the piece. The whole Brotherhood of the Sword, presumably to help each other, seems to be pointless in a lot of respects when we find out that the villains are amongst them and the so-called Brotherhood are actually all killing each other off. All of the hero's duties mentioned so that he has no time for a wife, are what, exactly? He never leaves the castle! The whole issue of his brother and his sexual preferences is done to death, and never once is the fact that he is a murderer addressed! He just says, that's okay, you are my brother and I love you. Sodomy was totally sinful in those days, though since there is never once any mention of these people having any religion, it too is lost as a conflict point upon which the action could hinge, or be escalated, meaningful. This was supposed to be the Middle Ages. All the opportunities for really deep conflict and characterization are compltely lost. The whole issue of the heroine falling in love with a warrior is over almost before it's begun, again because there is no believeable context. These people break all ten commandments with gleeful abandon, which is kind of odd for Crusaders, supposed Christians, to want to do. The book is weighed down with secondary characters or mentions of them for so short a novel, but when we really need them they are not there!! The Heir to Jerusalem vanishes from the book completely with little logic, and then we are supposed to find out what happens to him in the next book in the series, (first chapter included at the back of the book) when he has made hardly any impression. This is just plain bad writing and planning. The couple's love-making in the jail whilst being spied on by the voyueristic Damien is just gross. This book has no medieval content-they are all 'electrified,' 'mesmerized,' and they talk like teens down at the mall. There are no sumptuous or relevant details of medieval life, and there is a decidely digusting hidden patriotic message that seemingly tries to justify the current war in America which most readers would find repellent. If you are going to write medievals with a message, keep to facts and truth, not melodrama, and certainly not this propaganda with offensively modern outlooks which devalue both time periods. I certainly am not going to waste my time on this sensationalist bodice ripper of a series. The blurb at the back of the book was completely misleading. This may well be trying to set up a series, but as a romance it fails completely. Very disappointing.

Halloween Activities

Admin — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 13:55:07 +0000
Welcome to the Halloween Activities Section There are lots of things you can do to make Halloween special for the kids without spending a fortune. In this section we will make suggests as to how to have a boo-tiful Halloween! Here are a couple of simple ideas to get you in the mood! Costumes EZ Face Painting This ebook contains over 50 designs for cheek art in a step-by-step fashion. It’s so easy that even kids can do it. Would you like to be the life of the party? EZ Face Painting Halloween arts and crafts Decorating for Halloween Painting Pumpkins is an easy and fun way to decorate, and even toddlers can enjoy this activity. Plus, the pumpkins last much longer than carved ones. Learn How Here: Pumpkin Painting

The depths of supposed democratic politics

Admin — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 14:24:39 +0000
Alan Colmes has dared to attack Sarah Palin less than 48 hours after she was named McCain's Veep choice. Article here. The basis of the attack? For supposedly not taking adequate pre-natal care. His post is about as low as anyone can go, and the fact that he is trying to defend it actually makes it that much worse. Of the same ilk is the post claiming it is not her child at all, but her grandchild by her eldest teen daughter. Original article here. It is about time this sick and depraved sexism stops. Dozens of other countries all over the world, England, India, Israel, Pakistan, Jamaica, have had women excutives, some DECADES ago. GET OVER IT, you American men. And since we all know women can multitask better than men, they will probably do a damned sight better at the job. You may have sidelined Hillary Clinton this time around, but she will be back, and Obama, in the meantime, is going to have to live up to an nearly impossible set of expectations, and disappoint anyone not already disillusioned by his huge about-faces (hypocrisy in order to get elected?) that everyone has already witnessed.

Family Activities for Halloween 1

Admin — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:57:13 +0000
Autumn and the Halloween season offer so many options for families to spend quality time together. Here are just a few ideas. Visit A Local Pumpkin Farm. During the month of October, pumpkin farms usually have attractions like live music, hayrides, and crafts, not to mention the opportunity to hand select your very own pumpkin right off the vine. Write A Halloween Story Together. This is a great activity to make an annual family tradition. The entire family gets to choose the characters, sometimes making inanimate objects like pumpkins and candy corn come alive. Once you create the characters, the setting and the story line, you’ll be surprised how much each family member wants to contribute to the story. Save each year’s story in a scrapbook and read the stories from past seasons. It’s a great memory maker. Watch Halloween Movies Together.   Share an annual movie night together by renting “It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” “Bednobs & Broomsticks,” “Monsters Inc.,” or “Nightmare Before Christmas.” Make some popcorn with orange popcorn salt. Serve it with an orange drink. You could even put orange or black light bulbs in the lamps just for the special occasion. Halloween Party Favors and Accessories. Go to your local Party City or other party shop. You can get plastic bowls, drinking goblets and more in a variety of themes and autumn colors. Go On A Nature Walk. Take a walk together through a hiking trail or park. As you walk, collect leaves, rocks, pinecones and other bits of nature to bring home and display in a large glass bowl. It makes a gorgeous and memorable centerpiece. The pine cones willl also be great for Christmas, with some holly, holly berries, and other wintry items, so be sure to get lots.

Unfair attacks on Sarah Palin

Admin — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:24:39 +0000
The original scurrilous attacks were reported here. I am appalled. This woman showed up at work 3 DAYS after giving birth to show she had no intention of neglecting her child, or hiding it away because it is less than perfect. Now we have men attacking her for supposed future neglect, or even for having the child in the first place? Cherie Blair, Tony Blair's wife, went through the same issue shortly after he was elected Prime Minister of the UK; no one attacked her as irresponsible. We know that more downs syndrome babies are born to older moms, but I had a 21 and 23 year old friend who ended up in the same situation. As for neglect, who the hell is any man to talk? If the child is sick and has to stay home from school, who usually does it. Who is generally earning 70% less wages than a man? Who is often the first to suggest abortion as a way to get rid of an unwanted 'problem'? She is a Christian who stuck to her principles. She didn't ditch them just because it was easy. And she certainly has not neglected her son. Rumor mongering about her and her family is as low as anyone has gone here, and let's just call it what it is , the same blatant SEXISM that pervaded the media and caused Hillary Clinton to lose what was REALLY the historic bid here, the first woman to make a run for the White House. Jesse Jackson ran for president 24 years ago. Old news, Obama. Sorry. Lyndon Johnson was the one who worked for civil rights legislation and had it put into effect in 1964, long before the 'movement'. H Clinton pointed that out, you screamed racism. It was acutally a simple fact. Sarah Palin for VEEP. Old news, sorry, even if on a Republican ticket is a change. But a woman for president? THAT is what has all these guys panicking—John McCain is quite senior, will he last 4 years? THAT is what this is REALLY all about. I don't see anyone attacking Obama's decision to sire 2 kids and potentially pass along any genetic health issues to THEM! Or attacking Palin's husband for impregnating her! They are upset at her choice—these are the very people who claim they stand for a woman's right to choose. Hypocrites, the whole lot of them. It is NO man's place to criticise any woman for being a mother or even grandmother unless he can be sure he has 100% unimpeachable credentials as a father. To paraphrase Obama, much as I disagree with him about most other things, any fool can impregnate a woman. It's what the man is prepared to face by way of responsibility after that fact that makes him a father, or simply a sperm donor. And attacking a teenager is pointless. Even if it WERE true, she would not be the first grannie who ever had to raise a child as their own. It is no one's business except her family's, and does not bear in any way upon her ability to do her job, since she has clearly been doing it effectively in Alaska, unlike Obama, who turned up for only 130 votes in 3 YEARS. It is time to get this campaign out of the gutter.

Family Activities for Halloween 2

Admin — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 13:59:38 +0000
Have A Monster Mash Dance Party. There are many Halloween-themed CDs available during this time of year. Have an all-family Halloween Dance Party and dance to all the popular Halloween songs. Your kids will watch you dance and think they have crazy parents, but maybe without admitting it, they’ll also have the time of their lives. Play “Clue”. Since Halloween is all about mystery, playing the game of Clue will reinforce the season and provide a lot of family fun at the same time. Paint Pumpkins. Pumpkin Painting is the newest range in Halloween crafts. Carving jack-o-lanterns is a Halloween tradition, but the process is messy, dangerous and the jack-o-lanterns only last a few days after Halloween night. Painting Pumpkins is an activity everyone in the family can enjoy, even the littlest goblins. By having each family member paint their own pumpkin, you will have a fun and memorable family of pumpkins to proudly display in your home or on your front porch. www.EZPumpkinPainting.com – Painting Pumpkins is an easy and fun way to decorate, and even toddlers can enjoy this activity. Plus, the pumpkins last much longer than carved ones. You can even make them last til Thanksgiving. Learn How Here: Pumpkin Painting Dressing Up. Costumes are always great fun, and don't have to cost a lot. Especially if you plan ahead and buy early, before the rush really begins. Believe me, these days, you definitely do not want to wait til the last minute and then they are out of stock. I was in my local Party City at 11 PM the night before Halloween last year, and I swear to you, it was worse than Christmas, with panicked adults fighting over the last Snow White or Pirate outfit in their kids' size! EZ Face Painting – This ebook contains over 50 designs for cheek art in a step-by-step fashion. It’s so easy that even kids can do it. You can even get a costume for your pet! Ricky's has a nice selection for different sized pets. Needless to say, smaller is easier. Drs. Foster and Sith also has a nice collection. This website has all sorts of ideas for Cheap and Easy Costumes, 1920s flapper dress you can make in an hour, and more. Great costume ideas

More Articles posted at Weight Loss Goddess

Admin — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:07:08 +0000
Visit the Weight Loss Goddess for the latest hints, tips, advice, support, and recipes. Weight Loss Goddess

Oprah shuns Sarah Palin

Admin — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 00:17:44 +0000
According to the Blog MommyLife: http://mommylife.net/ Oprah shuns Sarah Palin "There has been absolutely no discussion about having Sarah Palin on my show. At the beginning of this Presidential campaign when I decided that I was going to take my first public stance in support of a candidate, I made the decision not to use my show as a platform for any of the candidates. I agree that Sarah Palin would be a fantastic interview, and I would love to have her on after the campaign is over." Oprah, who has endorsed Obama wholeheartedly, has hosted Obama twice -- in January, 2005 and again in October, 2006." This is complete hypocrisy. I lost my respect for Oprah when she publicly endorsed him before anyone even knew who he was and made him a media rock star. It is ironic that they are now scrambling to hog as much media air time as they can to make sure she does not get any airplay. Even more amusing is the fact that his own advisors have said they can't let Sarah Palin 'steal his story' of humble origins to meteoric rise. She has been on the national stage for 4 days. Obama for months. He never would have got where he did without Oprah and he knows it. So to have Sarah Palin on would be to risk undoing all the damage to the little darling. As Sarah Palin said, this is a man who has written two memoirs, but never AUTHORED a single piece of important legislation. As John McCain said, Obama is a person who is running for president because a-he wants to WIN; b-he thinks it is HIS time and place in history, not that he wants to govern and lead and serve this country. Power corrupts. Absolute power corrupts absolutely. Obama has proven he will say or do anything to get elected. His supposedly magnificent speech was everying HILLARY CLINTON argued for when she was running, education, health care. In fact, she has spent her whole life working for those things. Not just paying lip service to them. No, it is not enough to say that it just shows they are both Democrats. It shows that SHE was the one who would have been able to lead from day one. Obama may well have 300 foreign policy advisors. Perhaps they flip, he flops? Or is he just cynically manipulating the American people to get what HE wants? He changes position so often watching him is like watching a tennis match. Oprah said it was not about race, that she was not that small and petty. Well, honey, it sure seems like you ARE small now by not welcoming Sarah Palin on your show to tell her story. Or John McCain. Or Cindy McCain. Or Hillary Clinton.They are certainly a lot more interesting that Obama. Why? Because it is all about HIM. With H. Clinton, Palin and the two McCains, it is all about helping OTHERS. You talk about giving back? How about just giving fairly?

The latest Travel articles

Admin — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 00:29:21 +0000
All new articles have been posted on Travel Goddess.

Calculating Your Body Mass Index

Admin — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 00:33:31 +0000
Do you know your number? Most people don’t. And that’s a shame, since your number can offer a peek at your health. By your number, we mean your body mass index (BMI), which indicates whether your weight falls within a desirable range for your height. Depending on your classification, you may or may not wish to think about losing weight. It is a useful tool to determine whether or not you need to lose weight because it takes into account all body types. Here is a really handy Body Mass Index Calculator http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/

Gibson’s interview of Palin appalling

Admin — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 01:27:24 +0000
As a lifelong Democrat, I found Gibson's actions last night interviewing Sarah Palin totally deplorable, and your edit of the interview not much better. The Bush doctrine has been defined in several ways since Charles Krauthammer first used in in 2001, and by your own journalists. It was a trick question. She gave the right answer the first time. Exact words--nope. We saw the actual video. Your edits--why keep the same Israel question 3 times--you asked, she answered. Trying to make her seem like she is being evasive, were you—you just came off as rude and so determined not to listen to a word she said that all you heard was yourself pontificating. Combine that with tone, body language and facial expression, and I have never seen a worse performance from a supposed media professional. Hats off to Palin for not uncrossing her legs and 'accidentally' kicking him! I have given up on any hope of any rationality in this election and you should all be ashamed of yourselves. Give us REAL issues, not what YOU or Gibson think they should be. You may have won the ratings war, because people genuinely want to see what she has to say, but you have lost viewers!

Halloween For Toddlers 1

Admin — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 14:00:28 +0000
Halloween night, although exciting and fun, can be stressful and traumatic on toddlers who don’t yet understand the concept of the holiday. Here are a few tips to help you keep Halloween simple and stress-free for the little guys. Borrow A Costume – These kiddos are so little and chances are they have no idea what they are being dressed as or why. Save the money and borrow a costume from another family whose toddler has outgrown the costume. Another idea is to have the costume work double duty. One mom purchased a winter coat for her one-year-old that was designed like “Blue” from “Blue’s Clue’s.” The coat was furry and the hood had two ears. The father who trick-or-treated with the toddler was dressed as Blue’s sidekick, “Steve.” To make the “Steve” costume, the mom purchased scrap fabric in two shades of green. She cut the fabric in strips and safety pinned the stripes onto one of her husband’s golf shirts. He wore a khaki jacket over it and the only thing that showed were the “Steve” stripes. The toddlers coat doubled as a warm winter coat AND a Halloween costume. No Masks – They don’t stay on. They are not safe as they block the child’s peripheral vision, which is, of course, unsafe when walking from house to house, and they are uncomfortable. Consider light face painting instead. EZ Face Painting – This ebook contains over 50 designs for cheek art in a step-by-step fashion. It’s so easy that even kids can do it. Consider The Weather – If you live in a climate where on Halloween night the temperature could range from 40-degress F on up to 80-degrees F, take that into consideration when selecting your child’s costume. Don’t use the Blue’s Clue’s idea above if you live in a year-round warm weather climate, and don’t make your child a belly dancer if there’s a chance that the weather will be cold and rainy. Consider the weather in advance to avoid disappointment.

Halloween For Toddlers 2

Admin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:01:50 +0000
Don’t Force Them To Tell Jokes – In some areas, telling a joke or riddle before being given a treat is customary. Don’t force a two or three year old to tell a joke. A simple “Trick Or Treat” will do. And if they won’t talk, simply ask them to smile. Do encourage them to say “Thank you” at every house, but don’t stress out a shy toddler over this. Don’t Take A Toddler To Houses Where They Are Unfamiliar With Those Who Live There – A toddler doesn’t need a bucket full of treats. It can be confusing to tell your toddler “Don’t talk to Strangers” but then to send him door to door asking him to do just that. Take the child to a handful of houses where he/she is familiar with the residents. Or better yet, take the child to relative’s houses like grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. They will love to see the child dressed up and the child will experience no fear. Find A Local Mall Or Community Center – In many cities, malls or community centers will hold ‘in house’ trick-or-treating activities. These are great places for the little ones to get their feet wet to learning what Halloween is all about.

Where were you on 9/11/01?

Admin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:53:54 +0000
Someone just asked us this: Where were you on 9/11/01? My reply: I was just about at the foot of the first one when the first plane hit, coming out of the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel on my bus. All the traffic came to a total halt, and after several minutes the bus was able to pull over and let us out. I started walking down toward Bowling Green to get a train uptown, in the opposite direction from the chaos on the ground and praying for my friends who worked there, who always complained that they worked a 45 min. lunch hour, and never had enough time to get down the elevators or stairs because it always took so long. I also had an uneasy feeling it was a terrorist incident, I had lived in Belfast for years and survived 7 bombings and something felt 'off'. As I was walking, the second plane came from the south, screaming over my head, banked to the left, and crashed into the second tower. Everyone freaked and it was like a hollywood film, people steeplechasing over park benches to run away from the debris. By that time, the people in the first tower had already started to jump. A man grabbed me and said "My god, my sister works in there," and started to run down the street toward the towers. I got to the train station, and the policemen herded us on the southbound train, telling us not to go to work, that Manhattan would have to be shut down. I got on the train back to brooklyn changed trains at pacific st and found a pay phone that worked. I phoned my stepdad to tell him i was all right, and to tell my mother. He was like, "What the hell are you talking about, are you crazy?" I told him what I had seen, that I had just come from there, and he ran to the TV and turned it on and said oh my god Meanwhile everyone behind me trying to use the phone because they had stpped them running into the city overheard what I had said, and it was pandamonium. The transit dept announcement service was telling lies about repairs in the tunnel from brooklyn to Manhattan, which of course did not explain why the trains were not going over the bridge. I just told everyone to go home, that it was too dangerous to go into the city. I told them all I had seen, then continued to head home. I got to my station, and called my boss. He was trapped on 125th st in the metro north train, i told him what had happened, same thing, "what are you, crazy?" all the people on the train heard him and he put me on speaker phone, then someone got an internet radio signal, and then thier train got turned around and headed north back out of the city. I was walking home when a woman ran out of her front door screaming 'he's all right, he's all right!" apparently her husband worked in the twin towers, and had been in the first attack years before and never thought to call her. so i congratulated her and told her i had just been there and seen it. We were talking when all of a sudden she looked over my shoulder and said 'Oh my god," as we watched Tower 2 crumple and fall. It is not anything I will ever forget, and the sound of a jet engine still sets me off after what I saw that day. It was a terrible loss for all the families, the city, the world. The only thing I tell peopleis as bad as it WAS, it could have been SO much worse a-local elections that morning, a lot of people not at their desks because they had gone to vote b-first day of school, a lot of people not at their desks because they had gone to take their kids Thank god for that!

Debbie Ford is a hypocrite

Admin — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:24:05 +0000
I just got this in my email box this morning. http://www.debbiefordnewsletter.com/message.asp?msgid=222 I was so offended by it, I wrote a reply and unsubscribed. Here is my reply: I am writing about today's newsletter entry here because your mailbox there is full, no doubt with other fairminded men and women equally appalled at your post. Your post is not written with love,as you claim, but nasty accusations of Palin being self-serving, when eldest her son is going to Iraq to serve TODAY, hence the reason for the interview now, she has been spending time with him and getting her governor affairs in order. I am an H. Clinton Democrat and can't abide women attacking other women. She has REFUSED to do so on the campaign trail, and Women Count is actually supporting her to try to remove the disgusting sexism from this campaign. As for her 'riding roughshod' over us, polticians need to have a mandate from us and the House and Senate offer checks and balances, so all this talk about abortion is just obscuring the REAL issues and suffering in this country, when there is so much WORK to do, not endless whining and attacking. You say "use what we see not to beat them up but to find a bigger voice, a voice for true change, a voice for moving forward instead of backward, a voice that respects women, all women, and all their choices." and yet in this post you beat her up for being a self-serving beauty queen, and worse still, you beat HER up for her choices, even having a Down's syndrome child, just like all the MEN in the media who have been attacking her. What, you think having a disabled child is a media ploy? You have the nerve to say her daughter's pregnancy is a sign Sarah Palin is a bad mother, rather than that the daughter TOO is FREE TO CHOOSE, the very topic of your message? What a hypocrite you are. You think OBAMA is that respectful VOICE you speak of? He sure is a voice, all right, but with no substance behind it, so little in fact that all of his best stump speeches these days are ones that H Clinton already gave about the things that REALLLY count, health, education, social welfare and so forth. No one asks Obama if HE can manage to be a good parent and political leader at the same time. Your hypocrisy in this entire email is breathtaking, and nauseating. I will be unsubscribing and leave you to deal with your own obvious knee jerk shadows. --And I have to say it is irresponsible of all these media people with TV shows, lists and so on to be ramming their own personal political opinions down our throats. So much for OUR right to choose! We have the right to choose to agree with them, or else.

How Women can deal with excessive sweating

Admin — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 00:51:44 +0000
Here is an interesting article on the topic of women and excessive sweating. Heavy suty antiperspirants and botox can help nip your problem in the bud at last.

More on the Gibson and Palin interview

Admin — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 01:28:07 +0000
As they said on ABC's Good Morning America, if you asked 500 current white house staffers the Bush doctrine point that Sarah Palin was asked in her interview that she is now being mocked for, most would not know the answer. And most Americans would disagree with it, if they knew what it was and seriously thought he believed it. There is a difference between tough talk, and tough action. As for the Google media coverage and headlines, When I went to Google News to look, I saw a whole slew of articles. Charles Krauthammer: Palin steals Obama's fading spotlight http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_10444672?source%253Dmost_viewed.20F88DA3D7D369F5BB70F372987EAE1F.html ABC's Gibson grilled Palin hard, but it may backfire http://www.upi.com/news/issueoftheday/2008/09/12/ABCs_Gibson_grilled_Palin_hard_but_it_may_backfire/UPI-81241221234472/ Palin and Gibson re-enact 'High Noon' in Alaska and others with more or less opinionated comments Many of the articles listed are written by men, by the way, but several of the men ALSO complained about Gibson's attitude, sexism, and 'grilling' behavior, and they are certainly NOT all Republican periodicals. And NOT women! I thought she was pretty clear--why he kept asking the same question over and over again just seemed an attempt to trip her up, not elucidate anything. Then he said she gave him a 'blizzard of words' which meant he clearly was NOT listening to what she had said. Having tried to be fair to what she was saying, I do have to say that I am concerned about unsanctioned incursions into Pakistan. The Israel question was clearly out of line on Gibson's part, 3 times, 3 same responses, why show it in the edit, and not some other question? However, I have to say here that any talk of war with Iran makes me nervous--nuclear power plants are the issue here, not nuclear weapons. If we are REALLY so concerned with them enriching uranium, to the point where we think they might stumble upon weapons grade plutonium ( a huge stumble!!) , why not do what other countries have done successfully, GIVE them the technology and technicians to run it, so it is under the West's control. We do not need another war, this time with Iran. And we can see why Pakistan would be nervous, not to say peeved. We bolstered the military regime of Musharraf for how long? Nearly a decade--what about THEIR freedoms? What about Benazir Bhutto--Musharraf assassinated her before she could win the election, and the USA did NOTHING. Now her widower has won. What happens next? Do we have the right to just go into any country that we don't agree with? Iraq had no weapons of mass destruction, Iran does not either. Do we cross borders under the guise of looking for Bin Laden and Al Qaeda? I am also worried about the idea 'if we have "legitimate and enough intelligence" given how much we know now about how much of his supposed legitimate and enough intelligence was manufactured in recent years. Finally, Georgia--S Ossetia and one of their provinces want to become part of Russia. Georgia does not want them to breakaway. Both sides are therefore interfering with the autonomy of the people of the region, Russia in Chechnya, Georgia in S Ossetia. According to Wikipedia, "Virtually the only significant economic asset that South Ossetia possesses is control of the Roki Tunnel that used to link Russia and Georgia, from which the South Ossetian government reportedly obtains as much as a third of its budget by levying customs duties on freight traffic. "In late 2006, a large international counterfeiting operation stretching from South Ossetia was revealed by U.S. Secret Service and Georgian police." I am going to therefore guess that it is an important transport hub and whoever controls it has the ability to move around a lot more at will-traffic goods, drugs, weapons, whatever. North Ossetia is in Russia, BTW. So one could say the regions want to be united. Also Wikip-The tunnel, completed by the Soviet authorities in 1985, is one of only a handful of routes that cross the North Caucasus Range. Clearly it is strategically important to both sides; the lives lost are deplorable, and I have to say, I WOULD like to see us live in a world where war is NOT the first solution, but the last resort. Good luck getting Putin to see that side of things, but I am glad Palin said it. Gibson just dismissed her point to make one of his own. My point-she did well all things considered, but she clearly needs to study faster and harder. On the other hand, no one except a rare few people ever want to be Pres or VP when they grow up and start planning it from the moment they can talk. I think Obama IS one of those people, so he is pretty upset that, in the words of quite a few commentators, Palin is now 'eating Obama's lunch' The ABC ratings are soaring, but in summarizing all i have read, Gibson actually seems to have come off the worse of the two despite her obvious missteps (which might not have been so obvious, or looked like such missteps, had the editing been different?) I did not see the domestic policy interview, but they said she did a lot better there. I also saw several headlines about ABC 'planning what to do' about the tapes--which means they are all being edited--whatever way it suits them to edit it. I used to make films and can tell you I could splice tape to a hair's breadth. With digital media, you can make a person look or sound like they are literally saying anything. I am not being paranoid, I am just saying, if the edits last night were anything to go by, we are definitely being given what they want us to see. I want to hear about the issues, not what journalists think I should be allowed to hear about the issues.

Barbara Walters interview a debacle

Admin — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 00:27:59 +0000
Barbara Walters interview on The View with the McCains. So on Friday, hard on the heels of the Gibson debacle we were treated to yet another remarkable biased piece of journalisms thanks to Barbara Walters and the View. Every fair minded person is complaining about this 'interview' now as well. Taking with the Gibson and Palin interview, WHAT was ABC thinking? We don't need journalists as opinionated attack dogs, we need them to listen to both sides. Even the debates are going to be tainted at this point unless someone reins them in to stick to issues, not personal slurs. MSNBC removed two of their people due to their extreme bias. It is looking more and more like ABC is going to have to look seriously at their team as well. Many people are saying it's getting like Dan Rather and the fake papers against Bush at the 11th hour in the 2004 election to try to dent his chances. That would be the last thing we need, because it is just swinging opinion just as extremely in the opposite direction from what they intend. After all, we want to weigh the issues ourselves, not be told what to think, or who to take the 'high ground against'. If we are supposed to believe that a political candidate can go beyond their own PERSONAL opinions and self-interest to work for the benefit of EVERYONE in the country, regardless of political affiliation, or even whether they can vote (eg, those under 18), we can and should be able to expect no less from news-related journalists, who are supposed to present us with FACTS, regardless of which way they have decided to vote.

Great new travel articles and discounts

Admin — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 00:30:06 +0000
new postings at Travel Goddess

Media versus politics

Admin — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:28:54 +0000
I have been wondering why I am so galled and appalled and really deeply disgusted about the recent events regarding Sarah Palin, when I am a democrat. I think I finally hit the root of my deep perturbation. And yes, I am a woman, and loathe the way her family life has been paraded all over the place, but it goes way beyond sexism. If we are supposed to believe that a political candidate can go beyond their own PERSONAL opinions and self-interest to work for the benefit of EVERYONE in the country, regardless of political affiliation, or even whether they can vote (eg, those under 18), we can and should be able to expect no less from news-related journalists. They are supposed to present us with FACTS, regardless of which way they have decided to vote. This election has shown that we need to hold BOTH up to high standards from, now on, and make them accountable for all their words and actions. And that includes the internet bloggers and email writers who have produced wholesale FICTION on both sides. Which was then reported as FACT by no less than the New York Times. Why? Because it was what that journalist WANTED to believe. Because the "FACTS" were filtered through their biased lenses based on their own PERSONAL point of view. Gibson snapping EXACT WORDS was the last straw for me. They were NOT her exact words that he was quoting, nor was his definition of 'the Bush Doctrine' accurate. The media are actually making themselves MORE powerful than the people meant to govern this country. The Geraldo Rivera fake war reports in 2002, Dan Rather letters in 2004 and the coverage of this campaign all proves they can build a person or issue up, and equally easily tear it right back down--after all, it makes for great headlines, and viewers, and readership. Obama was up 14 points in the polls, he is now down 4. Up, down, up, down. Who benefits from these 'lies, scandals, and poorly edited videotape'? The media moguls benefit. They sell ads, they get more and more money. They win no matter what. We are still left wondering when someone is going to talk about REAL issues, real suffering by real people all over this country, like homeless women living in San Francisco in organized, patrolled car parks to try to stop them from being raped or worse, being homeless because they have been foreclosed upon. Kids who can't afford to go to school if they lose their free bus pass, unless they choose not to eat. REAL people, real suffering. But the media (and some of the candidates) would rather rant about pantsuits, lipstick, pitbulls, who can or can't use a computer, and scrappy kids from Scranton. On Monday, one harmless, inexperienced journalist, with the help of Google, a 6 years old news article, and his own lack of checking of the facts, nearly brought down United Airlines on the stock market in less than an hour from the time his story hit the Bloomberg newswire. He was NOT badly intentioned. Just think if he had been intent on mischief, though. Which demonstrates that the media TOO MUCH power. Freedom of speech is a positive value, but not if it is being used against the American people to manipulate in order to achieve their own agendas, be they those of the left, right, green etc. And not when a personal attack becomes indistinguishable from a political one, and vice versa.

New Novels at HerStory Books

Admin — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:50:24 +0000
HerStory Books

Tar and feather all politicians and public figures?

Admin — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:35:23 +0000
It appears that nothing has really changed in the USA in the over 400 years since it was first founded. It is clear from the media treatment of Sarah Palin and her daughter, that many of you want the same treatment for people you disagree with. It's just that depending on what you label yourself as, democrat, republican, white, black, latino, feminist or chavinist, you want your 'opposite' to be attacked, reviled, and punished. So, since this is an equal opportunity country, I have the PERFECT solution: Let's TAR and FEATHER ALL of them! Clearly this is the only thing that will make all of you bloggers and media people happy on the internet. So let's look at them all in turn to see what they are 'guilty' of: Joe Biden-a Catholic-unthinkable to have one in office til JFK paved the way-tar and feather Sarah Palin and Hillary Clinton Women? They have only had the vote for 80 years in the USA. How DARE they try to win public office! Tar and feather! Hillary Clinton for clearly being a "closet lesbian" because of the pantssuits, tar and feather Bristol Palin, pregnant teen daughter of 'bad' mother Sarah Palin, tar, feather, and stone her too while you are at it. Well done, all of you. Sarah Palin and her down's syndrome afflicted son Trig,: a second helping for her for having him, according to Alan Colmes, Trig for being 'different', disabled, tar and feather Barack Obama-African american—there are STILL counties in this country where he could not own a home, or marry the woman of his choice if she happened to be white-skinned. Tar and feather. John McCain—according to Letterman's constant jibes, for being elderly! Tar and feather John McCain for being a military man, Tar and feather John Edwards, adulterous liar, tar and feather Bill Clinton- semi-adulterous liar, tar and feather! him AND the cigar! Mike Huckabee—a Baptist, tar and feather! Mitt Romney, a Mormon, tar and feather! Ron Paul, just for being boring, tar and feather Governor Bill Richardson for being Latino, tar and feather Ralph Nader, multiple time presidential campaign loser, tar and feather! Rudy Guiliani, dumped by his first wife when he had cancer, remarried, but it smacked of adultery, and comes from New York, tar and feather. Joe Lieberman, Independent and Jewish, tar and feather!! Elliot Spitzer, for reasons too numerous to count, plus the obvious one, tar and feather! Him and his knee-high socks! The media, for their lies, bias, sexual orientation, and anything else we like or dislike, tar and feather!! And for keeping us so distracted with 'fluff' stories about Sarah Palin that we are losing sight of the economy, the war, the housing crisis, the high food and gas prices, the unemployment crisis (after 18 months, they drop off the listing, and all the others who also dropped off-- over 30% of people are self employed now, because their jobs all vanished) TAR and feather the homeless, the tax man, and Arnold Schwarzenegger just because he is German and such a bad actor! There, does that make you ALL happy? Hope I haven't left anyone out to hate, tar and feather? So now you can all tar and feather yourselves for being 'different' according to the others' point of view. Newsflash-we all suffer, and all wish to be happy and fulfilled and protect our families. Choose the party that you think will help bring that about for everyone in the USA, not just yourselves. Choose a leader you are willing to follow, not the media hyped personalities that some want to award sainthood to, while others want to tar and feather. And then get involved. Nothing will change if you all do nothing except sit complaining, and stirring your pots of tar. Create a country you can be proud of one day at a time. Not one so bogged down in negativity that we might as well all be tarred and feathered.

Barbara Walters interview on The View with the McCains

Admin — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:51:53 +0000
So on Friday, hard on the heels of the Gibson debacle, we were treated to yet another remarkable biased piece of journalisms thanks to Barbara Walters and the View. Every fair minded person is complaining about this 'interview' now as well. Taking with the Gibson and Palin interview, WHAT was ABC thinking? We don't need journalists as opinionated attack dogs, we need them to listen to both sides. Even the debates are going to be tainted at this point unless someone reins them in to stick to issues, not personal slurs. MSNBC removed two of their people due to their extreme bias. It is looking more and more like ABC is going to have to look seriously at their team as well. Many people are saying it's getting like Dan Rather and the fake papers against Bush at the 11th hour in the 2004 election to try to dent his chances. That would be the last thing we need, because it is just swinging opinion just as extremely in the opposite direction from what they intend. After all, we want to weigh the issues ourselves, not be told what to think, or who to take the 'high ground against'. If we are supposed to believe that a political candidate can go beyond their own PERSONAL opinions and self-interest to work for the benefit of EVERYONE in the country, regardless of political affiliation, or even whether they can vote (eg, those under 18), we can and should be able to expect no less from news-related journalists, who are supposed to present us with FACTS, regardless of which way they have decided to vote.

Another Petfood recall

Admin — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 11:19:53 +0000
Another petfood recall http://www.petcare.mars.com./

Frugal Halloween 1

Admin — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:02:28 +0000
How do you celebrate Halloween when there is little cash in your wallet? The frugal Halloween way, of course! Even though Halloween is the second highest spending season in the US these days, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to give your family a fun and memorable Halloween. Here are a few frugal tips from frugal moms. Trade Costumes – Organize a costume swap party with friends and neighbors. Most certainly, they all have costumes that their children have either outgrown or aren’t interested in any longer. Make a pact to yourself that you are not going to spend money on costumes this year. Make Your Costume At Home – Look around your house for old clothes, hats, accessories and craft supplies and make your own homemade Halloween costumes. This website has all sorts of ideas for Cheap and Easy Costumes, 1920s flapper dress you can make in an hour, and more. Great costume ideas EZ Face Painting Transform your child into a tiger or whatever else they desire, quickly and easily. Plan Ahead! – Halloween candy and treats start appearing on store shelves around the first of September. By keeping an eye out for sales during the months of September and October, you’ll avoid that last minute panic of not having Halloween treats, and paying full price. Just make sure you store them in a cool place if it is Indian summer, and make sure they have not been sitting around all summer getting melted and resoldified.

The Bush Doctrine?

Admin — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 02:52:31 +0000
The Bush Doctrine from the horse's mouth, not the horse's behind The Bush Doctrine from the horse's mouth, not the horse's behind. Gibson acted like an overbearing ass. I am one disgusted Democrat. Charlie Gibson's Gaffe By Charles Krauthammer Saturday, September 13, 2008; Page A17 "At times visibly nervous . . . Ms. Palin most visibly stumbled when she was asked by Mr. Gibson if she agreed with the Bush doctrine. Ms. Palin did not seem to know what he was talking about. Mr. Gibson, sounding like an impatient teacher, informed her that it meant the right of 'anticipatory self-defense.' " -- New York Times, Sept. 12 Informed her? Rubbish. The New York Times got it wrong. And Charlie Gibson got it wrong. There is no single meaning of the Bush doctrine. In fact, there have been four distinct meanings, each one succeeding another over the eight years of this administration -- and the one Charlie Gibson cited is not the one in common usage today. It is utterly different. The rest is here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/12/AR2008091202457.html?hpid=opinionsbox1

Performance related pay for all CEOs

Admin — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:02:12 +0000
In light of the numerous financial debacles in the past year, and the total Wall Street meltdown this week, I would argue that CEOs should no longer get huge salaries and 'golden parachutes' in case they screw up. Instead, they should get a regular salary like everyone else, and performance related, commission based extras. If the company does well, they do well. If not, well, they know where the door is. It is a disgrace that the Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae executives' golden parachute is supposed to total $24 million dollars, and it would be a scandal to give it to them, when the taxpayer is the one footing the bill at the end of the day. Similarly, sports stars should get performance related pay, a base salary, and a share of the profits. Again, it is the ordinary person paying through the nose for season tickets and the food at the concession stands. Why? Because the wage bills are so huge. We understand that injury can mar a season, and would protect them with a base salary in line with what most other Americans have to make do with. But millions a year for just sitting on the bench is unacceptable. Finally, we need to reward better the jobs that really do count, teaching, nursing, emergency services. They benefit thousands of people every year, yet are paid less than CEOs. The greed in this country has led us to this financial carnage, and it has to not only stop, it has to be seen to be stopped in a significant way.

Obama tried to interfere with Iraq troop withdrawal

Admin — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 11:51:10 +0000
I have been doing a bit of digging about the recent article on Obama having tried to interfere with troop withdrawal in Iraq in order to make it look like the old Iraq policy has failed, and once he got into power, his supposedly new one would have succeeded. I trying to get some sense If it is another complete pack of lies like they have been doing to Palin, or if there is some truth in it. There seems to be a fair amount of truth in it from the fact that officials are willing to put their names to it. This is the original editorial in his usual Op-Ed column:. OBAMA TRIED TO STALL GIS' IRAQ WITHDRAWAL http://www.nypost.com/seven/09152008/postopinion/opedcolumnists/obama_tried_to_stall_gis_iraq_withdrawal_129150.htm?&page=0 So it is an opinion piece by Amir Taheri, not a news article. Some argue that Tahiri is noted for his lies, http://irancoverage.com/2007/11/21/the-lies-of-amir-taheri/ And I have to say I was very worried when I saw one of the items: http://www.thenation.com/doc/20060703/cohleresses Elena Benador, PR agent for Taheri (as well as Victor Davis Hanson, Charles Krauthammer, Michael Ledeen, Laurie Mylroie, Richard Perle, and James Woolsey) defended Taheri. Benador explained that, when it comes to Iran, accuracy is “a luxury…As much as being accurate is important, in the end it’s important to side with what’s right. What’s wrong is siding with the terrorists.” Translation="It is okay to lie about Iran." I am sorry, but TRUTH and ACCURACY are important and essential, not a luxury. The post is a right-wing paper by comparison with the others in New York City. Having said that, in his op-ed article he states: According to Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari, Obama made his demand for delay a key theme of his discussions with Iraqi leaders in Baghdad in July. So at the same time that the source is suspect, Zebari is actually willling to put his name to the story, not siphon it through the usual 'anonymous source' cloak. Journalists need to interview Zebari in more depth. Pajamas Media is trying to sniff out more information: http://pajamasmedia.com/blog/obamas-questionable-diplomacy-in-iraq/2/ and has a response from McCain's camp. As of their writing, Obama's camp refused to comment. Which could be telling in itself—lack of outrage, much? Here is the other coverage: Wake up America http://wwwwakeupamericans-spree.blogspot.com/2008/09/obama-tried-to-interfere-with-iraq.html and hot air links http://hotair.com/archives/2008/09/15/did-obama-try-to-scotch-an-iraqi-us-agreement-on-military-forces/ als wizbang http://wizbangblog.com/content/2008/09/15/during-his-july-tour-of-iraq-obama-tried-to-undermine-negotiations-between-the-us-and-iraq-for-troop-drawdown.php They are all pretty similar but the first one is the most detailed to date. One has to be worried on the one hand, because it was the left bloggers who started the whole stream of lies about Palin. They would just be returning the favor. But if we look at a reliable source on Obama's trip in July, Reuters, this is the original Reuters coverage: http://www.reuters.com/article/GCA-GCA-iraq/idUSL0236543520080721?sp=true It says that Bush had already agreed to troop withdrawal the week prior, and the Iraqis were trying to pin down a more firm date. It is fully possible, in the effort to paint Iraq a failure, that Obama might have tried to interfere with that on the grounds of gaining more power. But as the Iraqis had said to him at the time, it would have to be on THEIR timetable more than the US's for the sake of all concerned. That is, the Iraqis would have to be ready. Obama met with Petraeus while he was over there, but Petraeus has now gone, so one has to wonder what diplomatic and intellligence connections Obama has had in the past, and has at present in the region. McCain has been there 8 times, Obama only once previously, in Jan 2006. Where has Obama been getting his intel from? Who his sources and contacts are? We should be hearing more about this if people start to winkle out the truth more one way or the other. On the other hand, why is it not causing a feeding frenzy? I am getting 'the politics of fashion' on how Michelle Obama, Sarah Palin and H Clinton are affecting women's fashions, for pity's sake. I also looked at the timeline-- New Yorker Magazine published this: Obama’s Iraq Problem http://www.newyorker.com/talk/comment/2008/07/07/080707taco_talk_packer A week later: Obama: My Plan for Iraq http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/14/opinion/14obama.html?_r=1&oref=slogin and of course he went to Iraq as soon as McCain poked at his experience. Even if the op ed piece in the Post is not true at all, the article by Obama and trip to Iraq speaks to his motives in what he is doing—literally anything to get elected. = "I'm not flip flopping, you're the ones who got it wrong." I'm afraid it is looking more and more like the DNC got it wrong. They refused to seat all the Florida and Michigan delegates, which would have put H Clinton over the required number. And Obama got it wrong, ignoring 18 million people who voted for H Clinton, and choosing Biden as VP. As a follow up, Taheri stands by his assertions, and is now getting death threats: http://www.nypost.com/seven/09172008/postopinion/opedcolumnists/obama_objects_129453.htm

Frugal Halloween 2

Admin — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:03:27 +0000
Buy In Bulk - …. But be realistic about the quantity of treats you really need. If you only have ten or twenty kids ringing your doorbell every year, consider splitting a large, bulk package of goodies with a friend or neighbor. Never buy anything you would not normally feed to your own children, and that way you will have guilt free leftovers. Think Outside The Candy Box – There is no law that says you have to give candy to the trick-or-treaters on Halloween. In fact, many kids love to see something different in their bags when they get home. Plastic spider rings, pencils, mini microwave popcorn packs, mini pretzel bags, sticks of gum are all great, economical and healthy treats to give away. You can also buy them in bulk, and use whatever leftovers in yours and the kids' lunchboxes. Try Pennies And Stickers – Kids love stickers and stickers are a terrific popular, but frugal, treat to give away. Tattoos can also be a huge hit! It sounds strange, but a bowl full of pennies will make any kid’s eyes light up. Decide what you can afford to give to each child before your doorbell rings for the first time. Make The Decision Now – Decide right now that you’re not going to spend a lot of money this year during Halloween. Keep your resolve as you walk through the discount stores and see the multitude of Halloween decorations beaming at you. By keeping it simple, you will provide a memorable and cost-effective Halloween for your family.

Huge Sale at Costume Craze

Admin — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 00:14:57 +0000
Start getting ready for Halloween now:

Russia on our own doorstep?

Admin — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 11:16:16 +0000
Russia is setting up military manuevers, in Venzuela, no less. Their military aircraft are on there way, though I have seen reports of 2 'super planes' already there. http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080908/ap_on_re_eu/russia_venezuela_naval_maneuvers And they will do naval training too: http://www.nysun.com/foreign/russia-sets-war-games-in-caribbean/85365/ Bolivia expelled our ambassador on the 11th http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/southamerica/bolivia/2801579/Bolivia-expels-US-ambassador-Philip-Goldberg.html chavez expelled our ambassador on the 12th http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/Venezuela-President-Hugo-Chavez-Expels-US-Ambassador-Giving-Him-72-Hours-To-Get-Out/Article/200809215097944?f=rss We returned the favor on the same day, accusing him of being heavily involved with the drug trade in Columbia. http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-expel12-2008sep12,0,1330385.story It is indeed a mess, and it is right on our own doorstep close to an area already plagued by disasters. So why aren't either of our presidential candidates talking about this? It happened prior to the Wall Street Crisis!

Great new books at HerStory Books

Admin — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 00:30:40 +0000
Check out the great romances at HerStory Books

Banking Crisis

Admin — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 01:32:56 +0000
Here is an interesting article on the banking crisis http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080918/ap_on_bi_ge/banking_turmoil

10 Ways to Protect Your Finances From the Crisis

Admin — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:14:23 +0000
Spotted this on Yahoo, from the Wall Street Journal, and thought it might be helpful in these troubled and troubling times. Protect your Finances

17 ways to shrink your daily expenses 1

Admin — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:39:38 +0000
In these challenging economic times, everyone is looking for even more ways to cut back financially. Here are some ideas to help you pinch your pennies until they scream. 1-Be your own barista. Going to your favorite coffee shop is an expensive detour on your way to work, with a lot of calories as well in most cases. So why not brew the coffee yourself? Many popular coffee shops sell their house blends in bulk at their coffee bars and in local supermarkets. Find the brand you like, get some low-fat cream or whipped cream and flavored syrups, powedered cinnamon and nutmeg, if you really can't live without these treats, and enjoy home made hot drinks for pennies compared to the $6 cups down the street! 2-Use a water filter. For just a few dollars, you can buy a reusable filtered-water pitcher, or even choose a more elaborate filtered water system. These are investments that will pay for themselves when weighed against the cost of continually buying (and lugging home!) bottled water. Also, now that we know about the dangers of BPA in plastic bottles, you will be glad to avoid drinking out of bottles from now on. 3-Watch sodas. Sodas cost money, especially when purchased at convenience stores or in vending machines. Consider switching to water, or buy your soft drinks from the grocery or discount store. You can also get a soda system to make your own carbonated drinks for pennies compared to what it would cost, and save calories too. 4-Limit your alcohol. We don't even want to think about how much local hang out places charge for a beer or wine these days, let alone hard liquor. If you enjoy a drink or two, why not take turns hosting at your friends' houses. Shop at factory outlet stores and look for bargains in unlikely places, like drug store chains. Better still, try to cut back on drinking—and put the money you save in a coffee can for something else, like a vacation or staycation for a treat for you and the whole family/your friends. Even if you don’t quit totally, cutting back on your drinking is good for your budget, and your diet! 5-Cigarettes. Don't even go there on the loooong list of reasons why you should quit. If you haven't, at least cut back, and look to buying them online at a discount. Never pay full price in supermarkets or convenience stores. If you are quitting, once again, put the saved cash aside in a coffee can for an emergency fund or special treat to look forward to, and see how fast it all starts adding up.

Recession, or Depression

Admin — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 02:47:51 +0000
Some have been arguing since March that we are in a recession. A recession is 2 straight quarters in a row of rising unemployment, prices, and several other factors. http://www.boston.com/business/articles/2008/03/15/recession_is_here_economist_declares/ In which case, this is now actually a depression, more than 2 fiscal quarters of recession, and also because the stock market and banks have been failing since January of this year, which was the first of the government interventions. Don't be fooled by the 'rally' toward the end of the week-the market is still down 3,000 points since March, that is, 25% of its value.

Interesting facts about the stock market turmoil

Admin — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 13:24:20 +0000
An interesting article from Market Watch 10 interesting facts about the markets this past rollercoaster week.

Coverage of Palin 2

Admin — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 13:49:51 +0000
I am a lifelong Democrat, but the continuous attacks on Palin ever since she was named John McCain's running mate have really appalled me. No matter what Palin he clearly can't win with the carping media. If people don't support her point of view, she is described as 'writing them off'. But if she continued being nice to them, even if they didn't support her, they would call her a hypocrite. Or is it just possible that they wanted 'favors' once she was in power and she refused. Or that once you are in power, things and your life DO change, whether you want them to or not. And some people can't or aren't willing to accept that. Few of us have the same set of friends now as we did at 5, 10, 15, 20 years old. It is like Obama. He first said disowning Wright would be like disowning his WHITE grandmother. Then he rejected Wright, and all the headlines said, "look who just threw Granny under the bus." Only in BO's case, he had tried to defend him a looooong time. He threw him under the bus when he said what many, many people had been thinking--that Obama would do or say anything to get elected, that a lot of what he had said was NOT true at all, but merely political expediency. All of the Palin headlines are fluff, gossip, trying to dig up scandal. Who are 'they'-in other words, who are her friends, advisors, as opposed to these people who claim to 'know' her. All the fake emails and blog gossip circulating, well, the people who wrote the fiction even admitted they had done it, and yet people still persist in believing in banned books and Trig is her grand-child. It is all fluff, distraction from the real issues that are facing this country, and the democrats look like they are lining us up for more of the same trash talk. There are 30 Obama 'fact finders' in Alaska--you think they are going to turn around and say, thanks for the expense account, but sorry, there is nothing to report? Of course not. Like they said on Meet the Press a couple of weeks ago, with the hints they are dropping about 'a big surprise in October', well, if they can't come up with something, I am sure they will invent it. It is all a question of timing. And damage control. NOT the issues at this point. This election is really going to stop any average person from ever aspiring to public office. Who wants to go through the microscopic scrutiny of every thing you've ever said or done, and what 'it all means'. The election was Obama's to lose; at this point, the polls are not looking good. The more they attack her, the more sympathy she gets. Maybe if they backed off the feeding frenzy, things would settled down. Instead, they are throwing chum on the water, most of it rotten. http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/14/us/politics/14palin.html?_r=1&hp=&adxnnl=1&adxnnlx=1221343324-tGxa66AkDRYq1tsNYpjoIw&pagewanted=all&oref=slogin http://www.newsweek.com/id/158738 http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/13/AR2008091302596.html?hpid=topnews And now with the Wall St crisis, it looks like just what it was, all fluff, distracting from the real issues. The important issues facing us all, like how to get through this crisis the best way we can, without partisan dog fighting.

Halloween Movies 1

Admin — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 14:04:11 +0000
Having an annual Halloween Movie Night for your family is a great way to celebrate the season together and to create memories that will last for years to come. Although it would seem that blood and gore should be the central theme of a Halloween movie, try some of these all-family favorite flicks instead. “It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” – Not much needs to be said about this movie. It’s a family classic and will be for years and years to come. Purchase the DVD and keep it in your family’s special movie collection. “Pooh’s Heffalump Halloween Movie” – Rated G - Perfect for the younger set, Winnie The Pooh and his engaging set of comrades will get even the youngest goblin in the mood for the big night. “E.T.” – Rated PG - The whimsy and imagination of this timeless classic remind us that the impossible truly is possible when we believe. (Remember this can be emotional and a bit scary for the younger kiddos.) “Monsters Inc.” – Rated G - This movie provides a funny and non-threatening take on the relationship between “monsters” and humans. “Casper” – Rated PG - In this Steven Spielberg live action movie, human actors and a special effects “Casper” shows everyone’s favorite ghost in some funny and compromising moments. “Bednobs & Broomsticks” – Rated G -This timeless Disney movie, has music and mayhem and lots to keep the little ones engaged. Visit our Great Halloween Store for these and other DVDS and Halloween ideas

Obama and the sex education in schools debate

Admin — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 02:50:01 +0000
Everyone is getting het up at the idea of age appropriate sex education for younger children in order to for 'sexual predators', I hate to say this, but the lion's share of children who are abused suffer at the hands of people whom they know and should be able to trust=90% of children under 12 who are raped know their attacker, according to Child Help. 3 million cases of child abuse in all its forms are reported each year, out of a total US population of approx 400 million people, and they say that they believe abuse is underreported and might actually be as much as 3x greater, or 9 million cases. About 9% of all cases relate to sexual abuse as of the 2006 statistics. When I was living in the UK and Ireland, in conjunction with the police, doing outreach in schools and communities, I taught 'stranger danger' to a variety of younger children, which focused on inappropriate requests and touching. It is only by a child developing a sense of self and personal likes and dislikes that they can stand up to an adult who might try to take advantage of them. Asking for 'respect for one's space' and listening to their instincts if they feel something is 'wrong' does not need to be sexually explicit. It also included not just strangers, but other people in their lives that they might have felt uncomfortable around. The parents were taught along with the children to help reinforce the message. In the UK, there are less than 35,000 abuse cases reported, out of a total population of approx 60 million. In terms of sexual abuse, versus neglect or physical abuse such as hitting, there are only about 2,000 sexual abuse cases reported. So clearly there are some serious problems in the US that need to be addressed. It is more important to protect the children, than the sensibilities of squeamish adults. It is certainly not a subject that anyone should be trying to make political capital out of.

Halloween Movies 2

Admin — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 14:07:27 +0000
“Scooby Doo” – Not Rated – Scooby and his friends were always solving greepy mysteries. This will keep them entertained for hours. There are 3 seasons' worth on DVD, plus Scooby specials. “Wallace & Gromit, The Curse Of The Were Rabbit” – Rated G - The cool part about this movie is that these characters, even though they seen completely real, are made out of clay. Kids will love to see the inventions that Wallace comes up with and may even want to talk about what inventions that can create. “Nightmare Before Christmas” – Rated PG – Although there is so much going on in this film that is great to bridge Halloween and Christmas, younger kids may find this one a tiny bit creepy. Stay close to them and the whole family can enjoy this one that has music and great-looking scenes. The Water Horse-a new, charming film, based on the legend of the Loch Ness Monster in Scotland. The scenery alone is woth watching the movie, but the special effects are great. Pirates of the Caribbean-Dead Man's Chest-for older audiences. All of the Pirates movies are really just one big Halloween romp, with Johnny Depp having spawned a whole new generation of kids who want to dress up as a pirate for Halloween! Enjoy! And of course, anything from magical Harry Potter will be a family favorite. Visit the Great Halloween Store for these and other DVDs and Halloween ideas

17 ways to shrink your daily expenses 2

Admin — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:40:38 +0000
6-Always make a grocery list before heading out. Do this before you go into the store and then do your best to stick to it. You’d be surprised by how much you buy on impulse. Having one master list of all your most important items listed in the order in which they appear in the store and then copying and circling what you need will help keep your expenditure down, and alos stop you from straying into aisle full of unnecessary and often expensive temptations. 7-Eat food that’s in season. This may seem like a no-brainer, but in these days of world markets and produce shipped from such faraway places as Costa Rica, buying in-season is more important than ever. Apples, pears, even strawberries are all much cheaper when they are in season. If you have a large quantity, share it out with friends and family, or preserve it. If you still want to buy produce that’s out of season, consider frozen fruits and veggies—sometimes they’re more reasonably priced. 8-Shop at local markets or farm trucks. Because they don’t have to deal with shipping costs, chances are you’ll find better prices on produce—and fresher food! If you buy in bulk, share it out with friends and family,or preserve it. 9-Avoid last-minute stops at mini-markets. While these places are convenient, the prices for most items there are also higher than at larger stores. 10-Buy store brands. Store brands can often save you 30 to 40% over name brands. And often, they are produced by the same factory anyway. 11-Don’t go grocery shopping when you’re hungry. Everything looks good then, and your budget goes completely out the window.

Exercise and Fitness for Busy Women 1

Admin — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:54:58 +0000
Everyone and their granny seems to have a gym membershp these days, but the question is, do they really use it? Or is it just yet another failed New Year's Resolution along with 'being more neat'. More than 60 percent of women don't get the recommended amount of physical activity daily, currently set at 30 minutes a day. One in four women aren't physically active at all Exercise produces many health benefits, such as reducing the risk of developing diabetes. Eight million people have adult-onset, non-insulin-dependent diabetes in the US at the moment, and that number is rising. In fact, diabetes is up in the US by almost 100% in the past decade. Exercise lowers blood pressure, reduces levels of "bad" cholesterol while raising levels of good" cholesterol, and slows your resting heart rate, enabling it to work more efficiently. Physically active women experience less intense and fewer symptoms of menopause. In addition, weight-bearing exercise, like walking or lifting light weights, and resistance training using bands, helps increase bone density and prevent osteoporosis. Exercise can also improve your quality of sleep and elevate your energy level and mood. Exercise releases endorphins to improve your feeling of well-being, and can even help treat depression naturally without the need for antidepressants, which can carry many unwanted side effects. Aerobic exercise delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues to strengthen your heart and lungs and improve your circulation.

17 ways to shrink your daily expenses 3

Admin — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 00:41:17 +0000
12-Clip coupons. Even some of the discount, bulk stores accept coupons, so make sure you take advantage of all the Sunday coupons and neighborhood flyers. Pay attention to stores’ double-coupon days and save twice as much. Even better, use a coupon when items are on sale. Try to file your coupons alphabetically in a small coupon clipper file to save time and effort. Also try not to get tempted by new items that you would not normally buy. 13-Buy in bulk. If a non-perishable item is on sale, consider buying several. But make sure you also check the unit price on some items. Just beeause it is a larger size, does not always mean it is a savings. You might do better with waiting til the smaller items are on sale. 14-Check the store circulars. This is where stores list their weekly specials. Read carefully, though, because stores sometimes intersperse regularly-priced items with sale merchandise. Know your prices on your list, so you can see if it is a real deal, or just a lure. 15. Do the work yourself—avoid store-prepared food. Sure, it saves time to have everything cut up for you, but the time it takes you to prepare a salad or put together a side dish can definitely save you money over buying prepared items from the store. Plus, the food you prepare yourself is usually fresher and tastier anyway. 16. Join a food club or shop at a warehouse store. Often the savings can more than cover the cost of the membership. If you are buying in bulk, share the large quantities out with friends and family. 17. Always double-check your receipt before you leave the store. Sometimes, items get miscounted, rung up twice, or charged in full even if they’re listed on sale. Or, it is easy to miss a coupon. If there is an error, it’s easier to go to customer service and get a refund if you haven’t left the premises with your bags.

Exercise and Fitness for Busy Women 2

Admin — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 00:56:43 +0000
Regular exercise helps to prevent back pain by increasing muscle strength in your abdominal or 'core' area. A solid core means a strong back, and this kind of lean strength helps with all your daily tasks that involve lifting and climbing. In addition, it helps ward off the kind of frailty that one sees in the elderly. And the best news is, in a lot of cases, you don't even have to break a sweat to get the benefits. Great exercise options for women include: -- yoga -- pilates -- walking -- swimming -- water aerobics For those who don't mind breaking a sweat, there is: -- jazzercise -- jogging or running -- volleyball -- rollerblading -- dancing of all kinds Exercise doesn't have to be complicated or even planned. For instance, you can: - do housework quickly and to music - take the stairs instead of the elevator, both up, and down, to use different muscle groups - do yardwork, such as raking leaves, mowing the lawn Even the busiest business person has time to exercise, though, so now you have no excuse.   Get off one stop before or after your usual stop on the way to work or on the way home, and walk the rest of the way. Then make it 2 stops and so on. Walk to the corner store instead of taking the car, and save gas at the same time. The biggest enemy of exercise is supposedly not having time, but if you are spontaneous and creative in your exercise choices, you should be able to work these and other fitness activities you enjoy into your daily life. 523 words

Another prediction of the end of the book business

Admin — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:47:01 +0000
Here is another article that suggests books are going the way of the dinosaur:
End of the book business?

Hybrid Cars 1

Admin — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:49:48 +0000
For some interesting articles on whether or not you should consider a new hybrid car, visit the great social networking site 1MyLive.com

Hybrid Cars 2

Admin — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:53:50 +0000
For some interesting articles on whether or not you should consider a new hybrid car, visit the great social networking site 1MyLive.com

Pumpkin Activities for Kids Part 2

arika — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:25:05 +0000
Pumpkin activities don’t have to involve the actual pumpkin fruit, but its image. Create pumpkins using orange and green felt. Use them to decorate hallways or homemade costumes for Halloween. At school, kids can give each classmate a pumpkin invitation for a seasonal or Halloween party. Kids love to cook. For older kids that have been taught how to use the oven and microwave, hold a pumpkin cook-off. Give each kid a can of pumpkin or fresh pureed pumpkin and see what they create with it. As the official taste tester, you will choose the winning dish and reward the prizes. Kids are more into community service these days. One activity can involve giving away pumpkin art to neighbors and friends. Pumpkins can be lacquered to be used in centerpieces, wreaths, as candleholders, and paperweights. Empty milk jugs can be cut and painted orange to resemble carved pumpkins. With a little sand and votive candles, pumpkin luminaries can be placed throughout the neighborhood on October 31st for costumed trick-or-treaters or as walkway lights at a fall festival. Pumpkins aren’t just for adults to carve and enjoy. Kids want to have their shot at the orange ball, too. Given half a chance, kids can create food dishes, decorations, community projects, and carved creations that can be enjoyed by everyone during the fall season.

Halloween Food 1

Admin — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 14:08:47 +0000
When it comes to Halloween-themed Party Foods, the world is your oyster. It’s relatively simple to turn anything you might serve into a creepy, crawly Halloween treat. Here are a few simple ideas: Rice Cereal Halloween Treats The regular, run of the mill rice cereal treat can be turned into a sweet and unique Halloween treat by adding a few drops of orange food coloring (or a combination of red and yellow) into the marshmallow/butter mixture as it melts. When you cut the treats into squares, add one candy corn to the top of each square. Marshmallow Haystacks Here’s a great variation to the rice cereal treat recipe. Replace the rice cereal with corn flake cereal. Follow the instructions combining the cereal, melted marshmallow and butter mixture. Mold the cereal mixture into the shape of haystacks. Add an orange candy corn pumpkin to the top of each haystack. Candy Corn Ice Cream Sundae Into one cup of partially thawed vanilla ice cream, mix in one tablespoon of candy corn (coarsely chopped) and one tablespoon of dry roasted peanuts (coarsely chopped). Scoop into ice cream bowl. Freeze until firm. When ready to serve, drizzle caramel ice cream topping over the ice cream mixture, a dollop of whipped cream and some additional candy corn and peanuts.

Halloween Food 2

Admin — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:09:59 +0000
Halloween Napoleons Thaw one sheet of frozen puffed pastry. Divide the puff pastry into three equal sections and bake according to package directions. Crush enough Oreo cookies to make 1- 1/2cups. Set aside. Prepare one package of vanilla pudding only add a few drops of orange (or combination of red and yellow) food coloring. Set pudding aside. Whip one small carton of whipping cream until stiff. While whipping, add two teaspoons vanilla and one teaspoon sugar. To build the napoleon, lay one sheet of baked puff pastry on serving tray. Spread _ of the pudding mixture on the puff pastry. Sprinkle 1/3 of the crushed cookies on top of the pudding. Spoon dollops of whipped cream on top of the cookies and follow by a second layer of puff pastry. Continue layering pudding, cookies and whipped cream. Once the third and last layer of puff pastry is set on top, spoon three small dollops of whipped cream (do not spread) and top with some additional crushed Oreos. Slice and serve. A Fun Halloween Breakfast Breakfast is many times an overlooked meal when celebrating the holidays. The simple addition of orange food coloring (or a combination of red and yellow) into a glass of milk will give your kids a surprise on Halloween morning. For some spooktacular Halloween pancakes, melt _ cup of chocolate chips in a microwave safe container. When melting chocolate, melt at 30-second intervals and stir each time. Pour or spoon melted chocolate into a heavy-duty plastic zip top bag. Press all the chocolate into one corner of the bag and with a scissor, cut a tiny corner off the edge of the bag. Make pancakes and with the melted chocolate, pipe a jack-o-lantern face on the pancakes.

Halloween Crafts 1

Admin — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:10:52 +0000
The only bad Halloween craft project is the Halloween craft project that takes too long. You know the ones. The craft projects that have so many steps that you’ve lost the attention of your kids before step 2. Give these easy Halloween craft ideas a try. They’re short; they’re sweet; they’re fun and the end results are spooktacular. Antenna Characters These adorable characters look great at the top of your automobile antenna. Hey, if your house is dressed up for Halloween, why shouldn’t your car? With various Halloween-themed colors of flat fun foam (orange, black, white, green), draw a light outline of a pumpkin, ghost, spider or Frankenstein head, approximately 4-inches tall and 3-inches wide. Cut out the shapes and with a single hole punch, punch two holes in each shape, one approximately one inch from the top of the shape and another hole approximately one inch from the bottom of the shape. With glitter glue or permanent markers, decorate the shape with facial features, an outline or anything you’d like. Allow to dry thoroughly. Once dried, you can attach to your automobile antenna by placing the antenna through the bottom hole from the back of the shape to the front. Then place the antenna through the top hole, front to back. The Antenna Character should be secure and should withstand normal driving conditions.

Halloween Crafts 2

Admin — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 14:11:51 +0000
Halloween Mosaics Mosaic art using tiles is very popular nowadays. Kids can duplicate this popular craft using construction paper instead of tiles or glass. Prior to gathering the children around the table, cut small squares of various colors of paper, orange, red, blue, yellow, white, black, green, etc. On a piece of heavy stock, white paper, draw the outline of a pumpkin, Frankenstein or other Halloween character. With a small dab of all-purpose glue on the back of each square, kids can mosaic their way to a uniquely creative masterpiece that can be framed and hung on the wall for many Halloween seasons to come.

Halloween Crafts 3

Admin — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 14:12:29 +0000
Pumpkin Painting In less than one hour, you and your child can create the most adorable pumpkin craft ready to proudly display in your home. Pumpkin Painting is the perfect activity for little goblins who aren’t old enough to handle the jack-o-lantern carving duties. With simple supplies like acrylic paints, markers, newspaper and sealer, kids can paint whimsical, silly faces on their pumpkins. Or they can paint their favorite cartoon character, Halloween motif or harvest design. Painted pumpkins do not rot near as quickly as carved pumpkins so it is much more economical to paint pumpkins rather than carving them and it’s also much safer and more hands-on for toddlers since there is no knife involved. Learn How Here: Pumpkin Painting

Halloween Decorations 1

Admin — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 14:13:09 +0000
With over 37 million trick-or-treaters visiting homes in 2007, it comes as no surprise that we all want our homes to look as “Halloweenish” as possible for the big night. Here are some simple Halloween decorating ideas that will make your home look festive but won’t break the bank. Orange Lights Change the light bulbs in your outdoor lanterns or house lights to orange lights. If you can’t find orange light bulbs, you can purchase inexpensive Halloween themed string lights (like Christmas lights) and hang them around your front door.

Halloween Decorations 2

Admin — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 14:15:09 +0000
Make Your Own Luminaries Place homemade Halloween luminaries alongside the sidewalk or walkway up to your front door. You can make easy and inexpensive luminaries with paper lunch sacks. You can either leave them the original brown or spray paint them orange. On each bag, lightly draw in pencil a rough outline of a pumpkin, ghost or spider. With a sharpened pencil or nail, poke holes about every inch along the outline of the design. Fill each bag with approximately 1 _-2 cups of sand. Place a votive candle in a glass votive holder and securely place the votive in the sand (or use glow sticks if you’re leaving your home unattended). Light the votives at dusk on Halloween night and your home will have a beautiful Halloween glow.

Halloween Decorations 3

Admin — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 14:15:54 +0000
Make Your Own Scarecrow Using old slacks, an old flannel shirt, some hay and a straw hat, you can make your home come alive with a friendly scarecrow welcoming your trick-or-treaters. The other supplies you’ll need are twine, permanent marker, an old pillowcase and an outdoor chair. Stuff the pants and shirt firmly with hay, leaving some of the hay sticking out from the bottom of the legs and bottom of the sleeves. Position the scarecrow’s pants in the chair and shift the hay so he “sits” comfortably in the chair. Tie the arms and legs off with twine. Stuff the old pillowcase with hay. Tie off with twine and position the pillowcase inside the shirt collar to appear as the “head” of the scarecrow. Secure the pillowcase to the shirt by tying off with twine. With the permanent marker, draw a scarecrow face and place the hat on top.

Halloween Decorations 4

Admin — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 14:16:36 +0000
Make Your Own Pumpkin Family By painting silly and whimsical faces on pumpkins, you can create an entire pumpkin family that can be proudly displayed on bales of hay on and around your front door. On paper, sketch your ideas of what kind of face you’d like to put on your pumpkin. Transfer that design to a cleaned and dried pumpkin using a non-permanent marker. Paint the design using craft paints. Seal with a spray glaze or sealer. If each member of your family (even the little ones) paints their own pumpkin design, you’ll have a memorable collection of painted pumpkin decorations for your home. Learn How Here: Pumpkin Painting

Great Apple Recipes

Admin — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:12:52 +0000
Here are some great apple recipes just in time for autumn, from Nutrition Goddess

Book Review: Ghost from the Past: A Romantic Thriller by Sorcha Macmurrough

Admin — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 01:31:01 +0000
5.0 out of 5 stars Vulnerable and Betrayed I really loved the dark, scarred, brooding hero in this gripping book. The hero's major issues with the heroine make him oscillate between him being made to believe, by the agents pulling his strings, that his former fiancee had betrayed him and tried to murder him, versus trusting to love amid the most dire situation they have suddenly found themselves in. Surrounded by double agents, and convinced she isn't telling him the whole story, he is constantly being forced to choose between love of country and duty, and the woman he has never forgotten, or never stopped loving, even after all those years, and all the things she's been accused of. In the end, the bad guys are exposed for who they really are, but it is certainly a game of cat and mouse. As for the writing, the characters are strong enough to keep the pages turning, and the plot, based on chemical weapons, is a topical one, though it was written long before 9/11. This is far better than the absurd puerile Plum novels, which are wooden and one note, or some of the top names on the bestseller's lists-that one about the killer dolphins a couple of years ago was so bad, Fatal Tide, it was laughable were it not for the hefty price tag attached to any of these books. The setting, the Pacific Northwest, Portland, Oregon, in fact, is depicted so clearly I feel like I am right in the middle of the action. For an author who specializes in British historical fiction, (which I have read, and LOVED!!!) this is an excellent effort at the popular US romantic suspense genre. Enjoy! 297 words This book is available in PDF from HerStoryBooks: http://www.herstorybooks.com

Economic Woes Boosting Stress across the country

Admin — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 11:33:54 +0000
Here is an interesting article on the side effects of the economic crisis in terms of our stress levels, and what we can do to cope with it and ride out the storm. Economic Crisis and Stress

Tough times coming despite the Wall Street bailout

Admin — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 12:06:14 +0000
Here is an interesting article on the Wall Street bailout, and how it has had little impact on the situation because the crisis is so deep. It gives a succinct history of the crisis, and what the meltdown really means. http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081006/ap_on_bi_ge/financial_meltdown

Avoiding Parking Lot Accidents 1

Admin — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:04:31 +0000
Did you know that 20% of all car accidents happen in parking lots? According to the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers Association, one out of every five auto accidents occurs in a parking lot. And that total does not even include all the small nicks, dents, scratches and dings that usually go unreported. Parking lot crashes often occur at low speeds, but they still can lead to expensive repairs, and higher insurance premiums, not to mention hassle. Even worse, sometimes drivers and pedestrians can be injured in the car park if they are not vigilant Here are some hints and tips to minimize your parking lot risks and stay safer in the car park, whehther you are a driver or pedestrian.

Growing job markets

Admin — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:07:22 +0000
Let's face it, there is a lot of bad news in the job and financial world these days. But here is a list of the 5 fast growing job sectors: http://hotjobs.yahoo.com/career-articles-fastest_growing_industries-529

Avoiding Parking Lot Accidents 2

Admin — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:06:34 +0000
Drivers Beware Park away from the busy areas. Most drivers crowd into the spaces closest to store entrances, leaving other sections of parking lots virtually empty. Parking can be really tight, leading to damage just from opening the door, damage to your car, or theirs. And let's face it, it is pretty tough to see around two huge SUVs, or hard to back up when there is a very long car behind you. Your vehicle is much less likely to be knicked or dinged, and you will have better visibility all around if you take a spot in a little-used section. Parking away from other vehicles is particularly important in post office, convenience store and dry cleaner parking lots. Vehicle turnover is very rapid in these lots, with people in a hurrry, and all that extra activity increases the odds of an accident. Always concentrate on your driving, not on your list of chores, and look where you are going. Distracted driving is responsible for many parking lot accidents. In looking for an open spot in the next row, we lose focus. Or someone is walking by, and in an effort to avoid them, we might hit a car or shopping trolley. Any momentary distraction is all it takes for someone to step or pull in front of us in a crowded parking lot. If your car is moving forward, your eyes must be looking forward, not from side to side. Again, parking in the least crowded area of the car park will help. If you don't have a choice, park further away from the stores, and use your peripheral vision to locate open parking spaces. Beware of rain or cold weather. Completely clear fogged or snow-covered windows and windshields are a hazard. There is a tendency to rush out of parking lots, but driving with partially blocked windows and/or windshields greatly increases the odds of having a crash. Always carry water with you in the car in the winter, keep your windscreen wash well full, and make sure you put a little drop of antifreeze in it in the winter. Even spray up from the road can be blinding, especially in sunlight. Keep that windscreen clear at all times.

10 tips for the suddenly unemployed

Admin — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 12:09:33 +0000
Hey, we are all human! It is pretty hard to feel optimistic these days when there is so much doom and gloom in the economy, and many people are losing their jobs due to the economic downturn. So here is some sound advice about what to do if you are suddenly part of your company's down-sizing. 10 Tips for the Suddenly unemployed

Avoiding Parking Lot Accidents 3

Admin — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:08:06 +0000
Drivers Beware continued Use common sense in the car park. Put on your seat belt BEFORE pulling out, not while driving. Drivers often think they are "safe" in parking lots, so they delay putting on seat belts. Or they leave it off so they can look around and crane their neck better. That's a mistake for two reasons. You could get into an accident with no seat belt on before you leave the parking lot. Plus, fumbling with a seat belt while you are driving makes it more likely that you will have an accident. Be vigilant at all times. Also, complete any cell-phone calls, put on your sunglasses if you need them, adjust your CD player or radio, and enter data into your navigation system BEFORE you pull out of your parking spot. I know we live in a multitasking world, but your only job behind the wheel should be to drive the car safely and responsible. No call or song is worth a life, yours or anyone elses. In a busy car park, do NOT trust your mirrors. Things can change in a split second. Rearview mirrors do not provide a full picture of what's happening behind your car. Today's high-tech backup sensors and rear-mounted cameras do not spot all obstacles, either. To back out of a parking spot safely, rotate your body to the right, looking over your shoulder so that you face backward, leaving your left hand on the wheel. In fact, when deciding to park, not only take a place in a less busy area of the car park, look for two empty parking spaces, one behind the other, and pull through to the one in front so that you do not have to back up when it is time to pull out. Just make sure nobody is pulling into the front spot from the other end. Avoid danger zones where you will have obstructed vision, near lights, shopping trolley parks and next to big vans or SUVs if you are in a smaller vehicle. You will have a hard time seeing past these objects or vehicles when it is time to pull out. Also, try to avoid the spots next to cart-collection areas -- the odds of dings and dents and distractions are greatest here. Turn on your headlights, even in daylight. Headlights warn pedestrians and other drivers that your vehicle will soon pull out. Don't feel hurried by other drivers. Hurrying leads to accidents. The driver eager to have your space can wait a few more seconds as you take the time to pull out carefully. Again, look around on all sides for other cars and pedestrians. If they are too close up your tail, signal with your hand for them to push back.

Halloween Costume Contact Lenses

Admin — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:28:12 +0000
Have you thought of making costume contact lenses part of your Halloween costume this year? Theatrical costume designers have called on the use of contact lenses to transform the appearance of actors on stage and in movies for many years. The eyes are where most of us look first when we meet someone, and simply changing the appearance of the eyes can make an actor seem more handsome, beautiful, dangerous, magical, inhuman, or whatever the designer wishes. Until recently most of us have not been able to afford or obtain designer contact lenses with these amazing transformational powers. Now we can. How would you like to look at your Halloween party this year? You could become almost anyone or anything you want by just inserting tiny and perfectly safe contact lenses in your eyes. There are two main types of designer contact lenses. The lowest cost, most common and easiest to use are small round discs that sit over the center of your eyes. You can still see through a clear center in almost all cases - one exception is an opaque lens you could wear over one eye to look blind in that eye. All the area around that clear center is available to designers to create all manner of colors and effects. The second main type of contact lens is the sclero lens, that fits over the whole eye. With these lenses you can change the color and appearance of even the whites of your eyes. Eyes that are red or green all over, for example, can be a very scary and unnatural look, and perhaps exactly what you need for your Halloween party look this year. The striking impact of a designer sclero contact lens can blow you away with the design possibilities when you have such a large area to work with. However, these sclero lenses are more expensive and more difficult to fit, and much less widely used. Of course, this means if you do use them, you will stand out even more in the Halloween crowd. Costume contact lenses are usually made plano, or ready and safe to be used by anybody whatever their eyesight. If you need prescription lenses, you can usually arrange for this to be done especially for you, but you should expect that there may be additional costs. If you are only wearing them for a few hours at a Halloween party it may not be worth the trouble unless your eyes need a lot of correction for you to see well enough. Some contact lenses come as soft disposables, and some of these offer cosmetic color changes. However the kind of high visual impact costume contact lenses you will be looking for as part of a Halloween costume are more likely to be hard lenses, which give more scope for designers to add their variations. There are also expensive unique hand painted special effects designer lenses available. Hard contact lenses have a longer lifetime than disposables, at least a year if cared for properly as your optometrist will advise. Just make sure you don't drop them or step on them! 525 words)

Avoiding Parking Lot Accidents 4

Admin — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 00:09:12 +0000
PEDESTRIAN SAFETY When you are walking in any parking plaza, look for any signs of movement in the car park. Before you step out into the parking lot, pause for a moment and check for signs that a car may be pulling out of a parking space. Cars are so quiet nowadays, that you may not even hear the engine starting. Look and listen for... A puff of exhaust. Reverse lights coming on. A car door being closed, which could signal that a driver has entered the car and will soon back out. Movement in the driver's seat. Examples: The driver reaching for his seat belt, or turning around to back out of a spot. A person jumping into their car. It usually means they are in a hurry and most likely distracted. Headlights turning on. Don't get distracted yourself. Stay alert at all times. Don't make cell-phone calls, use an iPod or rummage through your purse or wallet to find your coupons. Be aware of what's going on behind you by quickly checking over both shoulders from time to time as you walk through the lot. Watch out for big vehicles. Parked SUVs and vans can block your view of cars backing out. As you pass by a big vehicle, pause a moment to check that a car isn't coming. Be extra cautious at night. It's extremely difficult for drivers to see pedestrians at night, especially if you are wearing dark clothing. Assume that even though you can see the driver, the driver cannot see you, and steer clear.

Halloween Group Activities – Part 1

Admin — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 00:16:51 +0000
The month of October brings class parties, Boy and Girl Scout get-togethers, community gatherings, hayrides, Fall Festivals, harvest celebrations, and Halloween parties. Where kids gather to celebrate Halloween, parents and leaders frantically search for unique, fun and creative activities that can be done in a group setting. The following articles contain various ideas for Halloween Group Activities to get your creative juices flowing. They include Games, crafts, and quiet activities.

Halloween Group Activities – Part 2

Admin — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:19:04 +0000
Games “Pin The Face On The Great Pumpkin” – Cut a large pumpkin shape from orange poster board. Cut three triangle shapes from black construction paper as well as a jack-o-lantern type mouth from the black construction paper. Place on piece of double sided tape on each triangle and mouth shape. Blindfold the child, spin them around three times and allow them to place the facial features on the great pumpkin. An alternative to this for younger kids is to simply cut a stem shape from green construction paper and allow the children to “Pin The Stem On The Great Pumpkin.” For this game, tape the facial features to the pumpkin before the game begins.

When Is a Good Time To Go for a Mammogram? Part 1

shett — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 06:00:39 +0000
We all know that mammograms are an essential part of the early detection of breast cancer, but many of us still don't get them as often as we should. It is important for all women, especially over the age of 40, to know what a mammogram is, and when and how often they should have a scan. A mammogram is simply an x-ray designed specifically to look for abnormalities in the breast. They show lumps and abnormalities that may not be detected by simply looking at or feeling the breast. While they often detect benign lumps as well, they are fairly reliable at detecting cancerous growths. While most doctors agree that women should get mammograms regularly after a certain age, they tend to disagree on what that age is. You may think the earlier the better, but not only do early mammograms use time and money, they have a high rate of false positives that could lead to unneeded invasive procedures. This false positive rate is higher the younger the patient. This not only wastes time and resources, but causes an immense amount of stress on the women who undergo these unneeded procedures. Naturally, you should do breast self-exams every month. Most doctors recommend you get your first mammogram between the age of 40 and 50, and then continue to get them every one to two years after that. Almost all doctors recommend getting at least one mammogram before the age of 50. This is not necessarily to detect a problem, but to give the doctor something to compare later scans to. By being able to see changes in the breast, your doctor is better able to detect a problem early. In particular, if you have a family history, you should get one done earlier, in your 30s. The age of a first mammogram shouldn't be the same for everyone though; there are a few factors that make getting them early more important. The first is family history.

Halloween Group Activities – Part 3

Admin — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:19:41 +0000
Games, continued “Guess The Ghost” – This is a great activity for a classroom party where there are many activities happening at the same time. Using one white sheet, a parent or teacher randomly (and discreetly) selects one student and takes them to the hallway to put the sheet over him or her. The parent brings the student back into the room and the remaining children must guess who the ghost is. To really stump the children, occasionally place the sheet over the principal, school nurse, librarian or other fun loving individual.

When Is a Good Time To Go for a Mammogram? Part 2

shett — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 06:00:24 +0000
If your mom or grandmother had breast cancer, you're more likely to get it as well, so your doctor will probably want to give you a more thorough screening. Also, your doctor may want to perform a mammogram earlier if you or they find a suspicious lump they want to investigate. Lately, there has been a lot of talk about digital mammograms. This is a great technology that can help save lives, but that doesn't really mean you need to get a digital mammogram instead of a normal one. These two machines produce the same picture, but a digital mammogram can do it faster because it doesn't require films to be developed. This new technology allows doctors to take a picture of an abnormality while they're performing surgery, making their cuts more exact, but it makes little difference when getting a routine scan. While mammograms are important, they shouldn't be your only defense against breast cancer. It is also important to perform a monthly breast self-exam to help with early detection of problems, and to have yearly exams by your doctor to detect breast and reproductive issues. In addition, eating right, watching your weight, and being vigilant about any unexplained changes in your breasts will also go along way toward prevention of breast cancer, or early detection, when the likelihood of fighting the cancer is greatest.

Halloween Group Activities – Part 4

Admin — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:21:37 +0000
Games, continued “Bobbing For Apples” – Cut a large apple shape from red construction paper. Place it on the floor. Place a paperclip on a number of stickers, “no homework” coupons or other lightweight objects. Scatter the paper clipped items all around the apple. Tie a string to a stick and at the end of the string tie a small magnet. The object of the game is to “bob for apples,” or touch the magnet to a paperclip. Whatever the child picks up with the magnet is theirs to keep.

Halloween Group Activities – Part 5

Admin — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:22:21 +0000
Games, continued “Halloween Treat Ring Toss” - Again, cut a large pumpkin shape from orange poster board. Place it on the ground and scatter candies and small items (i.e. eight pack of crayons, play-doh, fruit snacks, etc.) all around the pumpkin. Using diving rings or another type of ring (even doughnuts if you really want to be silly), the child tosses the rings and gets to keep the items that are inside of the ring.

Breast Self-Exams Can Save Your Life 1

shett — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 06:00:25 +0000
Breast self-exams are one of the most important tools around for detecting breast cancer, and they are still how most breast lumps are detected. While annual exams and mammograms are important, doing a monthly self-exam can help find less obvious problems or spot changes sooner when they are more easily treated. That's why it's important for every woman to know how and when to do them. While most people think self-exams are all about feeling for lumps, the first step is to simply look at your breasts. Do this by looking in a mirror, first with your arms down, then with them raised. There are several different things you need to look for: * Changes in shape or size. While it is common for breasts to be two different sizes, watch to make sure one isn't growing faster than the other. This could be a sign of a problem. Also look for visibly lumpy or uneven breasts. Though recent research says that women who have lumpy breasts are not necessarily prone to cancer, any changes in the breast should be reported to your doctor. * Changes in color. Look for general color changes as well as rashes on the skin. * Texture changes. Examine each breast for rippling, dimpling, or bulging. You should also note the shape and direction of the nipples. * Discharge. Check to see if there is any liquid or gooey discharge coming from the nipples. The next step is to feel for lumps in your breasts. This needs to be done twice, once while standing up, and once while laying flat on your back. Many women prefer to feel for lumps while in the shower because it's easier to move soapy fingers across the skin. Put one arm behind your head as you examine the breast on that side. Slowly move your fingers in a circular motion applying soft, medium, and firm pressure to each spot to ensure you examine deep and shallow tissues. While different women use different patterns around the breast, the key is to make sure you cover every spot.

Halloween Group Activities – Part 6

Admin — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:23:06 +0000
Whether it’s a class party, Girl Scout meeting, youth group gathering or just with friends, finding activities that will engage the entire group without long wait times can be a challenge. Try some of these activities at your next group Halloween celebration. Crafts Pumpkin Painting – By using the tiny, little mini-pumpkins (gourds), newspaper and a little craft paint, kids can create their own Halloween masterpiece. Cover the table with newspaper. Wash and dry each mini-pumpkin. Using a marker or pen, have each child draw a simple face or design on the pumpkin (or use a stencil or pumpkin painting pattern). With small paintbrushes, the child can then paint their pumpkin design. After allowing the pumpkins to dry, a light coating of spray sealer will seal the design and keep the paint from peeling off. Painting Pumpkins is an easy and fun way to decorate, and even toddlers can enjoy this activity. Plus, the pumpkins last much longer than carved ones. Learn How Here: Pumpkin Painting Make sure you snap a few pictures with your digital camera to record the results.

Breast Self-Exams Can Save your Life 2

shett — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 06:00:49 +0000
Remember, most breast lumps are not cancer. Pay attention for lumps that persist more than a month, or that grow or change shape with time. Again, new research says that just because you might be prone to lumps does not mean that you will inevitably get cancer. You doctor can perform tests to determine if a bump is cancerous or benign; so you should see them with any concerns. It is important to perform breast self-exams regularly, not just once or twice. This is because a breast exam is looking more for changes rather than problems that are noticed with one exam. You need to know how your breasts look and feel normally to determine if something has changed or is changing. This means keeping it up regularly to find problem. If you have breasts with a more lumpy consistency, or if you're just not good at remembering your breast texture enough to notice changes, you might want to start keeping a journal. This way, you can make notes or even draw a quick sketch to help yourself remember. If you do notice changes, you can simply take the journal to your doctor to help find the problem. You can also note down your dates on a calendar to remind yourself to do the exam, and check your health diary to make sure you are keeping up. Because your breasts change somewhat during your cycle, perform exams at the same time every cycle. While some people pick a day every month, this will gradually move to different times in your menstrual cycle. A better time would be to perform is right after the end of your period every month. While mammograms and annual exams are also essential, the self-exam is your most powerful tool in detecting breast cancer early, and therefore having a better chance of treating it successfully.

Halloween Group Activities – Part 7

Admin — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 00:24:33 +0000
Face Painting – Face Painting is always a big hit with children of all ages. And it’s not as difficult as it sounds. You don’t have to be an artist to face paint. There are two ways to conduct a face painting activity at a youth gathering. One is to have an adult who is prepared with a few popular face painting designs to paint a unique design on each child. The other way is to allow the children to paint each other. There is no telling what kinds of creations kids will come up with when they are given a paintbrush and face paints. The key with Face Painting is to use the authentic face paints. Do not attempt to use craft paints as face paints. It’s not safe for use on skin. Popular Halloween cheek art designs include pumpkins (obviously!), ghosts, candy corn, goblins, cats and witches. Make sure you have a digital camera handy to record the results! EZ Face Painting This ebook contains over 50 designs for cheek art in a step-by-step fashion. It’s so easy that even kids can do it. Would you like to be the life of the party? EZ Face Painting

Breast Cancer Does Not Need to Ruin Your Life 1

shett — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 06:00:38 +0000
When you're diagnosed with breast cancer, it may suddenly feel like the only thing that matters to you. While it is important for you to spend time thinking about your treatment options and other arrangements, your cancer diagnosis doesn't have to become your whole life. With a bit of effort you can help take the focus off your cancer and continue thinking about the things that really matter to you. The most important part of getting through breast cancer treatment is having people around to support you. Whether it be friends, family, a support group, or another group of people, that support can actually be the difference between a failed and successful treatment. Talking to survivors and learning as much as you can about the disease is a great way to stay positive and pro-active about your health. If you let it, breast cancer can easily take over you life, from what you do to how you think. This can leave you more stressed out and make your body less able to fight the disease. Instead of stressing about what to do next, focus on relieving your stress. A great way to do this is through yoga. It calms your mind and body, helps you feel better mentally, and has even been shown to relieve the physical symptoms of breast cancer and cancer treatments. Many people get their diagnosis and decide immediately that they must be strong and not let it get to them. While this seems like a great philosophy, it's not necessarily realistic. You need to take time to express what you're feeling instead of simply suppressing it and letting it get to you. Yes, it's good to keep a positive outlook, but you also need to take time to cry and vent your frustrations and fears to a friend or family member. This will help you feel better and get through each day.

Breast Cancer Does Not Need to Ruin Your Life 2

shett — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 06:00:19 +0000
In a normal life, there are a lot of things to get done in a day and not enough hours to do them. This is even more true when you have treatments to go to and are left feeling zapped of energy. Don't be afraid to ask for help, or simply accept it when it's offered. Many people want to fight on and not take charity from others, but this can leave you stressed, tired, and make your body less prepared to fight your illness. Accepting the occasional dinner or offer to baby-sit can help you catch up or relax and leave you better able to cope. While it may be a challenge to do, exercise is a great way to cope with the stress of breast cancer. Not only will it lift your spirits, it can also help maintain a positive body image which can be affected by a breast cancer diagnosis, especially if you have to undergo a mastectomy. Plus, once you get over the initial drain, exercise actually helps give you more energy which can get you through your treatment and the rest of the day. While it is possible to cope and live with cancer, you have to remember that this will change your life in many ways,both mentally and physically. Along with the anger and 'why me', will come a new appreciation for life, and less focus on the small stuff, with more on the big picture and leading a meaningful life for however long we are blessed to be here. While it is true that your life won't be the same, you can still continue to live positively and not let breast cancer define you or beat you.

History of the Jack o’ Lantern Part 1

arika — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 12:11:25 +0000
One of the biggest destinations for pumpkins is Halloween venues. They appear on doorsteps especially for October 31st celebrations. They also find their way on haunted hayrides and haunted houses. But, pumpkins weren’t always carved. The carved pumpkin is often called a Jack o’ Lantern. It seems like a strange name for a pumpkin especially one with a friendly face, but there’s a story there. The history of the Jack o’ Lantern dates back hundreds of years and across the Atlantic Ocean to Europe and Britain. The story originates somewhere in Ireland. The beginnings of Halloween are rooted in Celtic pagan celebrations. During these celebrations, Irish folk would carve large turnips which were plentiful in the area. Candles were set inside and they were used as lanterns on the night of All Hallows Eve to light the way so as not to run into any naughty spirits. Once Irish immigrants reached the shores of America, turnips were still the vegetable of choice until they encountered the pumpkin. It was larger than the turnip and easier to carve. The followers of these pagan festivities chucked their turnips in favor of the orange squash.

Healthy Halloween Treats 1

shett — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 22:12:34 +0000
It used to be that the healthy houses were the ones all the kids avoided at Halloween. You knew which houses had the Snickers bars so you would hit them twice, and the ones that were handing out apples you could definitely skip. Well nowadays, there are all kinds of healthy treats you can hand out while still enticing the kids to change costumes and make a second stop. Here are just a few great ideas that will keep the moms and the kids happy on Halloween.* Try handing out snack foods like mini bags of pretzels, cracker packs, trail mix, chex mix, or even lowfat, low sugar hot cocoa. Even if it's not the healthiest option, it's going to offset all the sugar they will be getting. Many companies now make 'snack size' bags and 100-calorie packs of all kinds of goodies that are easy and convenient. Plus they make parents feel safe, since the bags are sealed, so there is no chance of the bags being tampered with. If you're going to a party where everyone knows each other, or having a get-together yourself, you can save money by making your own snack-size baggies. You can get some snack sacks with holiday motif very cheaply too, or use baggies and colored ribbons. * Why not hand out coupons for snacks instead of actual candy? This way parents can decide when the kids gets their Halloween treat and it controls portions a bit better. Many restaurants and other stores are starting to catch on and sell coupon booklets for small treats. Just pick up a few booklets and you'll be set for the night. Some companies even donate the proceeds to charity.

Halloween Group Activities – Part 8

Admin — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:25:40 +0000
Quiet Activities Sometimes during a Halloween party with large groups, it is necessary for the children to do an activity that requires them to be seated and relatively quiet. Some simple ideas for the children to do while the snacks are being prepared, for example, include Halloween crossword puzzles, Halloween seek-and-finds or Halloween word maker (writing as many words as you can using the letters in “Halloween” or “Jack-O-Lantern”). There are many inexpensive themed coloring and activity books you can find online. Dover has the best selection I can think of, complete with coloring books, sticker books, tattoos, stencils you can reuse, Halloween cards you can make and send, and more, all less than $2 in most cases. Amazon Halloween store

Dealing with Breast Cancer

shett — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 06:00:56 +0000
If you've been diagnosed with breast cancer, you're likely feeling overwhelmed right about now. You've been given all kinds of tests, information and treatment options. But don't let what you've learned bog you down. There is hope and you do have options. Here are some things to consider that will help you cope with breast cancer. One of the most important factors in dealing with breast cancer, or any disease, is education. When you first get your diagnosis, you'll likely get caught up in all the statistics and treatment options you doctor will present you with. If you take the time to read the literature provided and do research on your own, you'll be better able to make decisions and feel more confident and in control of your fate. It is also important to remember that the sooner you're treated, the better your chances of recovery. So make sure you're not researching so much that you delay treatment. You need to strike a balance. While following your doctor's treatment orders are vitally important, there are other options you can try on your own, like dietary changes and alternative therapies. Along with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids, there are many supplements that are said to help with breast cancer. Just remember to fully research the type and brand of any supplement to ensure the quality and effectiveness of ingredients before you take them. They are not regulated by the FDA and there is little evidence to support their claims, so buyer beware. Other alternative treatments include yoga, relaxation therapy, and other alternative options like reiki, acpuncture, and tai chi. While it is still debatable whether these treatments actually help fight cancer, they can definitely decrease the physical symptoms and reduce stress and emotional symptoms. This will leave you feeling better and will make your body better able to fight the cancer. Plus, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing that you are taking control and doing something to help your body fight back. As with any serious illness, having strong social and emotional support can drastically increase your chances of a full recovery. It is important to focus on your family, friends, activities, and other things you have to live for rather than the bad things that can happen to you. These people will also be there to help support you through your treatment and recovery and help you through the hard times. Online and community forums and groups can be great sources of information and ideas on how to cope. It is a good idea to not only surround yourself with family and friends, but also to find people like you who are going through the same thing as you. Ask your doctor about cancer support groups in your area. These people will not only be a friend and shoulder to lean on, they can also provide insight that your friends and family can't, because they've been through, or are going through, the same thing you are. Plus, these groups are often led by a trained professional who knows how to help as well. Through it all, one of the most important things to remember is to keep a positive attitude. While breast cancer is a serious disease, there are millions of women out there who have beaten it, and so can you, if you get the best information and work with your doctor to make the best choices for you.

History of the Jack o’ Lantern Part 2

arika — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:17:51 +0000
But, what is the reason that gruesome faces were carved in the first place? Here’s the story of one named Stingy Jack. It could be a lesson to children who think that stinginess is a badge of honor. The story has many variations but they all center on the same theme. There was once a man named Stingy Jack. As you can imagine, he was not good at playing well with others. As the story goes, Stingy Jack asked the devil to sit down for a drink. Being himself, Stingy Jack refused to pay for the drink. He asked the devil to turn himself into a coin so he could pay for the drink. Jack didn’t pay for the drink but put it in his pocket next to a metal cross. On another occasion, Stingy Jack traps the devil in a tree by carving the image of the cross in the bark. In order to be freed, the devil had to promise Stingy Jack that he wouldn’t take his soul when he died. When Jack did die, Heaven wouldn’t have him and Hell couldn’t because of a promise. As a consequence, he was doomed to walk the Earth carrying a burning ember of Hell inside a turnip to light his way. The story has evolved over the years, but the name Jack o’ Lantern has stuck. We still carve them from pumpkins and they are a Halloween favorite.

Healthy Halloween Treats 2

shett — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 06:00:01 +0000
* Some of the best Halloween treats don't have to be treats at all. There are tons of non-food items that you can give out that will put a smile on kids' faces. Just take a trip to your local party store or look in a party favor catalogue and you can find tons of fun ideas that will provide way more joy than a simple piece of candy. You can use everything from small toys and games to little books and crossword puzzles. Stickers are very popular with kids of all ages. Most towns have a place where you can buy these in bulk if you are going to a large party or live in a high-traffic area. Just be sure to provide age-appropriate toys for smaller children that may stop by. * If you believe that it's just not Halloween without the candy, there are still ways to be healthier. In addition to the sugar-free candy you find at your local grocery store, there are also plenty of great finds at your local health food store or organic bakery. While it may still contain sugar, it's generally natural, less processed, and better for you. If you go to one of the larger chains, they have plenty of great options including organic chocolate. Just be careful of the protein bars, as they can be high in fat, and pricey too. A trip to Costco can get you large family size boxes of granola and other kinds of snack bars at big savings. With a little extra thought and effort, you can keep Halloween healthier for your kids and everyone else in the neighborhood and save money too.

Halloween Group Activities – Part 9

Admin — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:27:08 +0000
Movement One of the most fun activities that a group can participate in at a Halloween party is Freeze Dancing. An adult operates a portable CD player containing a Halloween song CD. The children dance to the music until the music stops. At that point, each child has to freeze in the position they were in when the music stopped. Anyone who moves even a little is eliminated from the next round. The last child standing wins. Using these ideas for Group Halloween Parties, your party is sure to be a success.

Are your money attitudes holding you back?

Admin — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:24:41 +0000
Everyone is worried about money these days, so now might be a good time to take a look at the psychology of money. It is actually a very fraught emotional issue, based on attitudes you may have picked up from your family, and might not even know you have. From hoarding to happy go lucky, we all have a complex relationship with money. This article helps you examine your money attitudes, so that with a little adjustment, you will be able to ride out this bumpy economic rollercoaster without too much stress, and leave yourself even stronger financially.
Money attitudes

Breast Cancer Awareness

shett — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 06:00:35 +0000
In October, you often see a lot of orange and black as people begin to decorate for Halloween, but more and more, you're starting to see pink. That's because October has taken on a whole new and more important meaning. October is breast cancer awareness month. Breast cancer is the most common cancer amongst women, and affects thousands of women every year. The good news is that it is only the 8th killer of women #1 is heart attack) and it is treatable. In fact, there are millions of breast cancer survivors out there. The key is early detection and treatment. That's why October is dedicated to educating people about breast cancer and how to prevent and treat it. Like many cancers, the earlier it is detected and treated, the more likely it is to go into remission. There are several steps you can take to increase your chances of detecting a problem early. * Get yearly or bi-yearly mammograms. You may need to get a mammogram more often if your doctor thinks there might be a problem, or if you have a history of breast cancer in your family. * Do a monthly breast self-exam. This is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your own breast health, and it's also how most breast lumps are discovered. Learn to look at and feel your breast for any changes in color, shape, size, texture, and any lumps. * Get a yearly exam. See a doctor for a yearly breast and reproductive exam. They can help detect early problems and address any questions of concerns you might have. * Don't ignore problems. Many women are embarrassed to talk to their doctor about their breast or reproductive health, but what might be a small issue now could turn into a big problem later. No question is silly and no problem is too small; never be afraid to talk to your doctor. Protecting yourself is just the first step in fighting breast cancer. The second step is informing others of the dangers and precautions as well. Every woman, including your mother, sisters, daughters, friends, co-workers, and any other women you know, should be aware of the dangers of breast cancer and how to protect herself. That's why it's important to talk to the women in your life. You can even start a group with your friends and family to remind each other to do monthly breast exams and to get your yearly mammograms. In addition to prevention and education, another key part of getting rid of breast cancer is treatment. While you may not be cut out to be a cancer researcher, you can donate your time and money to organizations fighting to eliminate breast cancer. Not only can you donate money directly to them, you can also buy products that support the cause as well. Just look for the pink ribbon on labels at your local grocery store. While breast cancer can be devastating for many women and their families, this October you can start helping to prevent and treat breast cancer in your neighborhood and around the world, as we all work together to find a cure. An then think about wearing a red ribbon in February for women's heart health month!!

Reminder, Daylight Savings Ends in US this weekend

Admin — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 11:54:47 +0000
On Saturday night before you head to bed, turn those clocks back for an extra 1 hour of sleep Sunday morning, yay! For more details: http://buzz.yahoo.com/buzzlog/91966/

Great Pumpkin Recipes

Admin — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:52:19 +0000
Nothing says autumn quite like the pumpkin. For great pumpkin recipes, please visit Nutrition Goddess.

Four reasons we cling to clutter, and how we can learn to let go

Admin — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 00:58:46 +0000
Here is a good article for any of you getting ready for the holiday season and trying to tidy up and settle in for the long winter ahead. There is nothing worse than living in a cluttered, crowded environment. So if you want to free yourself from the burden of 'stuff', read on here: Clinging to Clutter

New books available at HerStory Books

Admin — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 00:48:02 +0000
Check out the great romances at HerStory Books

Saving energy this winter in your home

Admin — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 11:40:45 +0000
Even though oil prices seem to be dropping at the moment, why pay more than you have to? And, you might also want to consider global warming. There are a lot of myths about being energy efficient in the home. Here are a few myths versus facts. The more you learn, the more you can save. So stay warm this winter with these handy hints and tips. Myth Furnace filters work no matter how long they're in use. Fact Replacing or cleaning old filters can reduce dust and save 5% in heating costs. Myth Keeping drapes and blinds closed keeps in heat. Fact Opening up drapes and blinds on windows facing the sun lets the sun in, heating your home for free. Southern exposures will catch the sun pretty much all day. Myth Fireplaces are great sources of warmth in the winter. Fact Fireplaces pull heated air out of the house, so use it sparingly and be sure the damper is closed when it’s not in use. Myth Humidifiers add moisture to the air, making it feel cold. Fact Moister air feels warmer, so by adding a humidifier, you can set your thermostat lower, to help you save money. Myth Only experts can tell if your outer doors have air leaks. Fact Place a piece of paper between the door and frame and shut the door. If you can pull the paper out without tearing it, you should weather-strip around the door to keep the heat in and the cold out this winter.

Positive Parenting without Suffocating

Admin — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:33:20 +0000
Here is some good advice to avoid becoming a 'helicopter parent' who constantly hovers over your child: Positive Parenting without Suffocating

Free Positive Parenting Advice

Admin — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:35:17 +0000
In need of positive parenting advice? Here is a wonderful site full of useful free advice from the Nemours Foundation

Thanksgiving Content Area

Admin — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:19:44 +0000
Thanksgiving is a great way to celebrate with family and friends, and take time to be thankful for all we have. No matter what is going on in the world, we in the US are still fortunate to have so much bounty from nature to enjoy. So in these area, you will get recipes, hints and tips to help you have a Happy Thanksgiving.

Great Thanksgiving Recipe series

Admin — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 14:45:56 +0000
Here is a complete Thanksgiving menu of recipes from our friends at 1MyLive: Thanksgiving Recipes

Spiced Pumpkin Flapjacks

arika — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 12:45:37 +0000
What You Need: 2 C all-purpose flour 2 TBSP brown sugar 1 TBSP baking powder 1 1/4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 1 tsp. salt 1 3/4 C milk 1/2 C pumpkin puree 1 lg. egg 2 TBSP canola oil How to Make It: Place the flour in a large mixing bowl. Add the brown sugar and baking powder and toss to combine. Sprinkle in the pumpkin spice and salt and toss again making sure all the ingredients are incorporated together. Pour the milk in a separate bowl. Add the puree, egg and canola oil and mix with a rubber spatula until combined well. Place the puree mixture into the flour mixture and continue to mix until completely moist. Batter will be slightly lumpy. Place just enough canola oil in a large skillet to cover just the bottom. Allow the oil to heat up. Pour 1/4 C of the batter into the skillet. Cook 2 minutes or until bubbles begin to appear around the edges. Flip and continue cooking 1 minute or until a golden brown. Continue until all the batter has been used. 8 Servings These flapjacks make a great starter for a cold fall morning. Serve with syrup or jelly or sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar.

How to cook the perfect turkey

Admin — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:41:53 +0000
Some helpful and timely advice from our friends at 1MyLive http://1mylive.com/blog/how-to-cook-the-perfect-turkey

Thanksgiving Pumpkin Yeast Rolls

arika — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 00:58:25 +0000
What You Need: 1 (1/4oz.) pkg. active dry yeast 1/3 C sugar, divided 3/4 C milk, lukewarm 7 C all-purpose flour 1 tsp. fresh nutmeg, grated 1 tsp. salt 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces 1 lg. egg, slightly beaten 2 C pumpkin puree 1 lg. egg yolk only 1 TBSP water How to Make It: Pour the yeast and 1 tsp. of sugar into the lukewarm milk. Cover and allow to rest 5 minutes or until the mixture becomes foamy. Place the flour in a large mixing bowl and add the remaining sugar, nutmeg and salt. Add the butter pieces and mix with an electric mixer on low speed until the mixture becomes coarse. Break the egg into the mixture and fold in the pumpkin puree. Add the yeast mixture and work with your hands until a soft dough forms. Place the dough on a flat and lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 8 minutes or until it has an elastic but smooth texture. Add flour a little at a time if necessary to keep the dough from sticking to the surface. Butter a large bowl on the bottom and up the sides. Form the dough into a ball and place in the bowl and coat dough completely with butter. Cover the bowl and allow the dough to rise to twice its size, about 1 hour. Divide the dough into 12 pieces. Butter a spring form pan well. Place the dough pieces in the pan, cover and place in a warm area and allow them to rise for 45 minutes. Heat the oven temperature to 350 degrees. Place the egg yolk in a bowl and add the water and whisk until combined. Brush the dough pieces all over with the egg wash. Bake the rolls 35 minutes or until a light golden brown. 12 Servings These can be made a week ahead of time, wrapped well and frozen until ready to use. To reheat, wrap in foil and place in a 325 degree oven for 20 minutes.

Pumpkin Cake Custard

arika — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 12:50:42 +0000
What You Need: 1 1/2 C cake flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. baking powder 1/2 TBSP cinnamon 1/2 tsp. allspice 1/4 tsp. ginger 1/8 tsp. cloves 1/8 tsp. nutmeg 1 tsp. salt, divided 1/2 C dark brown sugar, packed firm 1/2 C white sugar 1/2 C + 2 TBSP grape seed oil 1 3/4 C pumpkin puree, divided 2 lg. eggs + 8 lg. egg yolks 1 1/4 C whole milk 1/2 C maple syrup How to Make It: Place the oven temperature on 350 degrees and allow the oven to heat while preparing the cake. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Place the flour into a large mixing bowl. Add the baking soda and baking powder and toss to combine. Sprinkle in the cinnamon, allspice, ginger, cloves, nutmeg and 1/2 tsp. salt. Toss to make sure all the dry ingredients are combined together well. Place the both sugars together in a separate bowl. Add the oil and 1 C of the pumpkin puree to the sugar. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed 2 minutes. Continue beating on low speed while adding the flour mixture. Continue beating until the flour mixture is completely moistened. Add one whole egg and beat well to combine. Add the second egg and continue beating until thoroughly combined. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake 27 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove and cool completely. Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees. Whisk together the remaining 3/4 C puree and the milk in a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining salt, maple syrup and egg yolks to the mixture. Continue to whisk the ingredients together until all the ingredients are incorporated together. Break the cooled cake into small pieces and place the pieces into 8 oven safe custard cups. Pour the custard mixture over the top of the cake pieces. Cover and place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or until the cake has completely absorbed the liquid. Place the custard cups in a large baking pan. Fill the baking pan with very hot water to where it reaches half way up the custard cups. Cover the pan with foil making sure the foil fits tightly over the pan. Bake 32 minutes or until set. 8 Servings These custard cups remind you of old fashion bread pudding with a pumpkin twist. Fix them instead of the tradition bread pudding as a dessert with your Thanksgiving feast.

Rich and Creamy Pumpkin Bisque

arika — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 00:04:18 +0000
What You Need: 1/2 C canola oil 2 C white onions, chopped fine 2 green onions, chopped fine 1/2 C celery, chopped fine 1 green chili pepper, chopped fine 3 (14.5 oz.) cans chicken broth 2 C pumpkin puree 1 bay leaf 1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin 1 C evaporated skim milk, don’t dilute Salt to taste Pepper to taste How to Make It: Pour the oil into a large saucepan and place the pan over medium heat. Stir in both types of onion, the celery and the chili pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the onions become transparent. Pour in the chicken broth and stir slightly. Fold in the pumpkin puree. Add the bay leaf and cumin and stir until combined. Allow the mixture to come to a steady boil. Reduce the stove burner heat to low. Simmer 30 minutes being sure to stir often. Remove the bay leaf from the pan and discard. Pour in the evaporated milk and stir gently. Continue to cook 5 minutes being sure the bisque does not boil again. Add salt and pepper to taste and stir to incorporate before placing the bisque in serving bowls. 6 Servings Sprinkle the top of the bisque with a little Parmesan cheese before serving.

Decorating For Thanksgiving 1

shett — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 06:00:25 +0000
Decorating for Thanksgiving adds an element of warmth and fun to your home. The best thing is that you don’t have to go overboard, or put a lot of time or effort into decorating in order to make your house or apartment look festive. Below you will find some suggestions as to how to quickly and easily turn your house festive for fall.
Yard Display
Decorate the front yard with a wooden scarecrow, turkey, or Happy Thanksgiving sign. For a little color, plant a few mums, either in the ground, or in pots and planters. You can get a lot of decorating ideas at your local nursery.
In the home
Add some fall colored throw pillows or blankets to your couch, light a pumpkin scented candle, and your whole house will have that special Thanksgiving feel to it.
Mantelpiece Display
The mantle over your fireplace is the perfect place to decorate for Thanksgiving . For a simple display, arrange some pumpkins or decorative gourds and/or Indian corn on the mantelpiece, along with a few candles. A fall garland or wreath is a nice touch above the mantelpiece, as well as on your front door. You can find a wide variety of gourds and Indian corn at your local farmer's market.
Fall Flower Arrangement
Stop by your local florist for some flowers in yellow or orange or brown, like mums. Arrange them in a vase along with some greenery. If you want to be practical and budget-conscious, silk flowers will last for many years.

Cut Your Budget in These Tough Times

Admin — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 13:10:53 +0000
A handy article for all of us watching those pennies: Trim Your Budget

Decorating For Thanksgiving 2

shett — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 06:00:52 +0000

Pumpkins and Corn
You can make a beautiful fall arrangement by setting out some miniature pumpkins and ears of corn on your table or sideboard. Look for yellow, red, multicolored and purple varieties of corn for an authentic Thanksgiving feel. Scatter them across your dining table, or arrange them in a bowl for a nice centerpiece.
Thanksgiving Wreath
Purchase or make a simple grapevine wreath and decorate it with fall leaves and miniature pumpkins. You can use silk leaves as well to make a wreath that will last for years. Add a nice bow in yellow and/or orange, and hang it on the front door. A Thanksgiving wreath is a great way to welcome your guests for the holiday season.
Display Your Kids' Artwork
Not only will your home be beautifully decorated, but you’ll be building your children’s self-esteem at the same time. Buy a few inexpensive frames and set them out or hang them on the wall. This is of course also a great way to display your child’s artwork year round. Everyone knows how to make a Thanksgiving turkey picture, by tracing their own hand with the fingers outstretched, then making it look like a turkey. Help your child with the details and coloring, and you will have some great art.
The First Thanksgiving
There are quite a few ways to incorporate the first Thanksgiving in your decorations. Create a small scale version of this special occasion by setting out a few figurines of pilgrims and Native Americans. Complete the scene with a small table, some turkeys and miniature trees to show that the first Thanksgiving took place outside. You can also find coloring books on the topic, photocopy the pages, and then color them and cut them out, then mount them on little cardboard stands, to make your own Thanksgiving diorama. With some cheap but attractive Thanksgiving decorations, you can quickly and easily turn your home into a lovely welcoming haven for the holidays.

Setting the Table for Thanksgiving 1

shett — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 06:00:11 +0000
When hosting Thanksgiving dinner for friends and family, the food is of utmost importance. However, if you serve the most decadent meal on paper plates, your delicious meal will seem a bit less than spectacular. It works both ways. If you invest some time and effort into decorating your Thanksgiving table –your overcooked turkey, and undercooked potatoes will be less noticeable as well. While we certainly advocate making your life easier, and not running the risk of smashing the family china, there are ways to make your holiday table festive. The following are just a few suggestions.
Tablecloth
Bring out the good linens for your guests. If you don’t have a Thanksgiving tablecloth, you can use some Thanksgiving or fall themed fabric. There are even some very nice looking fall and Thanksgiving themed disposable table cloths available. Just check your local party store, or a good linen store, or look online. Or, if you want something more versatile and practical, get a tablecloth in brown, gold, or orange, and get a Table Cloth Runner with a Thanksgiving theme. A runner with a Halloween theme will mean you can use the table cloths over and over again, and just vary the runners according to the occasion. Plastic or crepe paper table cloths will also work if you just want a quick clean-up.
Napkins
Buy some orange, gold, or green cloth napkins. You can find these reasonably-priced at most discount stores. They will add a nice “holiday” touch to any table. Paper is also perfectly fine, just make sure you have a variety of sizes, from dinner to cocktail napkins.

Setting the Table for Thanksgiving 2

shett — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 06:00:14 +0000

Thanksgiving Themed Centerpiece
If you don’t plan on putting all the food on the table, and you have the room, create a Thanksgiving themed centerpiece.   This can be something as simple as a bowl of miniature pumpkins, gourds and Indian corn, or a fall flower arrangement.   If you have a cornucopia, or a wicker basket, fill it and lay it on the table, allowing some of the corn and pumpkins to roll out of it.
Other Festive Table Setting Touches

Little touches make a big difference. You could scoop out a pumpkin and serve dip in it. Use mini pumpkins with names written on them as place cards.
Turn an apple, some toothpicks and a few miniature marshmallows into a turkey. Start by setting the apple on a flat surface. Insert a toothpick with a large marshmallow on one side. Add some raisins as eyes. For the turkey’s tail, add four toothpicks with a miniature marshmallow on each end to the other side of the apple. Voila – a turkey for each guest that also makes for a fun and healthy snack. Set the table the night before to free up time during the big day.
Serving Dishes
If you set a nice table, arrange for most of the food to be set out on a separate table, buffet-style. Consider getting hotplates, crock pots, or chafing dishes to keep food warm while it is sitting out. Use attractive serving dishes for all of the food, for a more festive occasion. Again, you can find the decorative bowls and platters, and chafing dish items, in a good party store. Just make sure you never allow children to go near chafing dishes, and beware of how hot the little heat cans can get.

Setting the Table for Thanksgiving 3

shett — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 06:00:31 +0000

The Dishes
The type of dishes you use is up to you. If you are mostly entertaining adults and this is a fairly small get together, it may be a good idea to use your fine china. On the other hand, if you are entertaining a large crowd and have lots of kids in the mix, opt for disposable dishes, cups and cutlery. Clean up will be much easier and you don’t have to worry about dishes breaking. Paper plates are okay if they are the coated ones like Chinet, but you might want to consider plastic ones too. They are not as good for the environment, it is true, but many of them are recycleable once rinsed. They come in a variety of colors, so you can go for orange and gold or brown, with matching napkins, and plastic cutlery, plus table cloths too. I have found the plastic knives don't always hold up that well to cutting/pressure, so you might want to buy extra, or have sharper knives on hand for the adults. If you are having a sit down meal, obviously you will set the table, If you are having a buffet, make sure the plates, cutlery and napkins are all in a logical place at the start of the serving area.

Setting the Table for Thanksgiving 4

shett — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 06:00:15 +0000

Glasses And Cups
If you are serving wine, you will need the appropriate glasses, either real, or plastic. Have a variety of sizes of cups and glasses for juice, soda and so on if you are entertaining little ones as well. Make sure you have enough cups and mugs on hand for coffee and tea after the meal.
Other Advanced Preparations
Try to organize the coffeemaker to be switched on easily, and desserts baked and ready to serve before the guests comes. The desserts can be a decoration themselves depending on how fancy they are. You can get decorative cake tins which will shape your cakes-turkeys, a cornucopia, pumpkins and so on.
Changing Courses
If you are having a sit down meal and doing appetizers and salad or maybe even soup first, and then will have to change plates for the main entrée, make sure you have the right number of small plates and bowls, forks and spoons. If you are using the smaller plates in your dish set for the salads, you can either have someone wash them to use them for dessert, or make life easier and just designate either plain glass dessert plates or paper plates so there is less frenetic activity in the kitchen and everyone can enjoy their meal. Make sure you also have enough forks and napkins on hand for the dessert course. Hopefully all these hints and tips will help make your Thanksgiving a happy and relatively stress free holiday.

Thanksgiving Crafts to Do With Kids

shett — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 06:00:27 +0000
Spending time creating Thanksgiving crafts with your kids can turn a holiday that isn’t quite as exciting as getting Halloween candy, Easter Chocolate, or Christmas gifts into a fun kids' day!
Turkey Apple
Turkey apples are a fun craft to make with the kids as well as a healthy snack. You will need an apple, 6 toothpicks, 1 large and 5 miniature marshmallows as well as some raisins and one piece of candy corn for each turkey. Set the apple stem up on a flat surface. Stick a toothpick in the top part of one side of the apple. Add the large marshmallow to the top of the toothpick. Decorate the face of the turkey with two raisins as eyes and stick the candy corn in upside down into the marshmallow to make the beak. Thread each of the remaining toothpicks with 3 raisins, and then top it off with one of the miniature marshmallows. These will be the tail feathers of your turkey. Stick the 4 toothpicks evenly spaced on the opposite side of the top of the apple.
Corn Collage
Cut a basic corn shape out of yellow construction paper. Tear little pieces of yellow and purple tissue paper and crumble them into little balls. Glue them on the corn shape to represent kernels of corn. Cut leaf shapes out of green construction paper and glue them behind your ear of corn.
Pilgrim Hat
You need a large paper grocery bag and some construction paper in black and yellow for each child. Fold the rim of the bag over to make a brim for the hat. Then cut a large strip of black construction paper and tape or glue it around the hat. Cut a belt buckle shape out of the yellow construction paper and glue it to the belt in the front of the hat.
Turkey Handprint crafts
This craft is a family tradition in many homes. First, outline your child’s foot once on a piece of brown construction paper. Then, outline her hands twice on red or yellow construction paper. Cut a beak out of orange construction paper.
Of course, if you visit craft stores or online craft supply stores, you’ll find thousands of craft ideas for your kids. They offer items like foam leaves, felt Pilgrim hats, quilts in fall colors, foam turkeys, stickers, craft kits and more.

Making a Unique Thanksgiving Centerpiece

shett — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 06:00:12 +0000
Your centerpiece is going to be the the main decoration on your Thanksgiving table. Here are some ideas as to how to make it more special. Best of all, these decorations will also look stunning if you set them on a counter, or the mantelpiece over the fireplace.

Fall Vegetables
Begin with a pumpkin and gourds and Indian corn. Loosely arrange them on the table or mantelpiece. Set a fall-colored candle on each side of your display. Finish your free form art center piece by sprinkling colorful fall leaves all over and around your center pieces. Make sure they are not too close to the candles.
Fall Leaves

Simply find a large glass bowl and fill it with beautiful fall leaves. Set a candle on each side of the bowl to showcase the leaves. Then, cut leaf shapes out of construction paper and use them as place cards. You could also press small leaves, and glue them to a plain white place card. Silk leaves are ideal.
Floral Display of Abundance
Make a dried floral arrangement from fall flowers. Gather some of the plastic sticks that the florists use to hold notecards. Stick them into the floral display, but put photos of the things you are thankful for in them instead. Or, if you don’t have photos, just write words on notecards and display them in the floral arrangement. Some words you may start with are “family”, “friends”, “food”, “laughter”.
Carve A Pumpkin
Yes, you heard right, carve a pumpkin. Of course you don’t want to go with the traditional jack-o-lantern design here. Instead carve some geometrical designs, or some flowers, leaf-shapes etc. on your hollowed out pumpkin. Add a candle inside the carved pumpkin and light it just before your guests arrive.
Pumpkin Candle Holders
Get some small pumpkins and hollow out enough room on the top of the pumpkin to stick a candle in it. Group of few of these candle holders together for a festive center piece. Finish your candle arrangement with a few pieces of native corn placed around your pumpkin candle holders. Give the arrangement more dimension by using different size pumpkins and candles. Use some scented candles to give your room that warm, homey holiday fragrance.Are you feeling inspired yet by all these ideas? Dig through your Thanksgiving supplies or take a stroll through your local craft store, and you will come up with your own versions of these suggestions. Above all, enjoy the holidays, and get the kids involved in making the displays as well.

Planning the Perfect Thanksgiving Party 1

shett — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 06:00:11 +0000
If you are planning a Thanksgiving party this year, here is a handy checklist of things to do to help it go off without a hitch. Start Planning Early Nothing can spoil a Thanksgiving party more than a burned-out hostess. So, be sure to start planning your party well in advance. Make a master list of what needs to be done and when, and start cleaning and preparing ahead of time. Purchase non-perishable items at least a week before your event. Don’t forget to buy the turkey early as well. You wil want to have the right-sized one without compromising, and remember also, that it will take several days to thaw in the fridge. If you have room in your freezer, you can purchase the turkey and other frozen items like pies and veggies weeks ahead of time. Delegate the Turkey A great way to entertain the men is to put them in charge of the turkey. This may be untraditional to some, but in many areas of the country, the men are in charge of deep-frying the turkey. There’s nothing quite as entertaining as watching a group of men standing around a vat of boiling peanut oil, discussing the turkey. Plus, it gives you more freedom to enjoy the party. Otherwise, get a good turkey recipe and all the fixings for stuffing together, and let them have at it. Plan activities Board games are always fun for kids and adults. Get everyone laughing with the newest game. Or buy a DVD-style game like Scene-It and gather around the TV for some trivia. Of course, old family favorites would be a bit hit as well. Dust off that old edition of Trivial Pursuit or Monopoly, and get everyone playing. Just for the Kids Set up a craft table for the kids. Set out coloring pages (if you can get some Thanksgiving ones, that would be great). You can find lots of free coloring pages online. Just print a few of them for each child, and lots of crayons. That should keep them busy while you prepare the rest of the food. Lay out pieces of orange, brown, and yellow construction paper and show the kids how to make a turkey by tracing their hand. Or have the kids make pilgrim hats out of black and white construction paper. For the Adults One of the staples of Thanksgiving is football. Traditionally, the men gather in the living room to watch the game. One way to keep the party lively is to give them a football and send them outside to toss it around during commercial breaks. This can really get the men talking and having a great time. And, ladies – don’t be shy. Jump right in there with them. Just make sure the guys are keeping an eye on that cooking turkey… Party Games Charades, hide and seek, pass the parcel, can all be played in company, with adults and kids alike. The important thing is to be together, and be thankful.

Teaching your Kids to be Thankful

shett — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 06:00:19 +0000
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to teach your kids about being thankful. Here are some ideas to teach your children how to appreciate the blessings in their lives, not just on Thanksgiving, but all year round. Saying Grace A good chance to list all the important people in our livves, and give thanks and special blessings to them. Giving Thanks Placemats The goal of this craft is to create a collage filled with drawings and pictures of all the things your children are thankful for. Cut photos from magazines, or print some photos from your computer. Older children can write captions under the photos or draw their own. Be sure to put the child’s name and the year on it. If you make this collage from two standard letter size pieces of construction paper taped side-by-side, you can take the completed collage to a copy shop when you’re done and have it laminated. It then becomes a placemat that you can use every Thanksgiving for years to come. Thankful Paper Chain Another way to remind your children of their blessings is to create a paper chain. This is similar to a regular paper chain – where you cut strips of paper and connect them together as loops, but there’s one difference. You write on the strips of paper before you connect them. Write the things you are thankful for with your children. For instance, “Grandma plays games with me” or “My teacher is nice.” The fun part of this activity is to make the chain as long as possible – showing all your blessings. If you’d like to keep this up during Christmas, just use green and white paper and gold paper. Thanksgiving Tree This is another take on the idea above and works really well if you have several kids in the family. Get each child to trace their hand on yellow, red, or brown construction paper. Cut out the hand shapes and write (or have the child write) what they are thankful for on the hand shape. Cut a tree trunk shape out of brown construction paper. Glue it on a large piece of poster board. Let the kids add their hand shapes as leaves above the tree trunk, turning it into a beautiful fall colored tree. Thankful Book This idea is similar to the others, except it’s more of a keepsake. Purchase a photo album or scrapbook kit and make a “blessings” theme. Add photos of loved ones, including stories about why they are special to you. Also, include pages of your favorite foods, favorite stories, favorite movies and all the other things that make you happy and thankful. Any time you or your kids feel down, you can open your blessing book to see all the reasons you have to be happy, and thankful for the blessings in your life.

Creative Ways to Eliminate Holiday Debt

shett — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 06:00:28 +0000
Do you find yourself worrying about holiday debt when it's not even the holidays any more? Do you worry how you are going to afford Christmas this year? Worse still, do you live on starvation rations through January and even February because you overspent and are struggling to cope with the bills? Creative Ways to Eliminate Holiday Debt is a surefire way of starting off on the right step with the holiday season this year. The holidays are to be filled with joy, not anxiety. The feeling of overwhelming stress over money can actually give you panic attacks, depression and even upset your relationships. Doctors are reporting an increase of over 25% in the number of patients reporting stress and insomnia as a result of the current economic crisis. This book will not only help you with getting out and staying out of holiday debt, but it can help you have the stress-free, peaceful life that you deserve to have, freed from constant anxiety about money. Creative Ways to Eliminate Holiday Debt will help you face the hard facts of just how much debt you are in, how much you truly owe, and how to start working towards paying it off. With the easy step-by-step guide that Kris Roop gives you in this book, you'll be paying off your debt and keeping it at bay in no time. In this guide you will discover: * How do we get into holiday debt in the first place? * How to create a budget * Tips on saving money and finding new money * Strategies for dealing with the credit card companies, such as finding the best interest rate * Creative ways to keep holiday debt from coming back * Much, much more! Studies show that about 19% of American homeowners owe more than $100,000 and about 43% of American families spend more than they earn. Start facing your debts, find a plan, and take action with The Creative Ways to Eliminate Holiday Debt guide. You won't just use it this holiday season, but all year round to stay on the right track financially. –Creative Ways to Eliminate Holiday Debt

Personal Finance for Dummies

shett — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 06:00:37 +0000
If you are stuck trying to figure out your personal finances, or even how to create a budget, then consider getting a copy of Personal Finance for Dummies. This book offers sound and practical advice for those who want to get control over their financial lives. The author, Eric Tyson, lays out a solid framework for anyone interested in getting and maintaining control of their own financial situation. Tyson breaks down into layman's terms the most complex concepts of finance and investing, allowing the average person to get control of their financial lives. Here is a little of what you will find in the book: * Assessing your financial fitness and setting goals * Ways to reduce your spending * Building wealth and wise investing * Protecting what you've got with insurance * Working with financial planners * Survival guide for ten major life changes that will have a big impact on your finances With Personal Finance for Dummies, a reader will not only be able to educate him/herself concerning money, but will also have instilled in them the confidence that a financial situation can be corrected or controlled personally. This book provides excellent advice on how to save money and how to set your saving and spending priorities. It has an extensive view of tax advantages and disadvantages through various approaches to finance. Tyson gives the reader detailed examples which helps provide an easy to implement way to maximize the tax benefits that the government allows. He also encourages wise financial decisions in all areas of personal finance. Personal Finance for Dummies is a great resource for anyone who needs help getting off on the right financial foot, or the one who has lost their footing and needs some help getting back up on their feet once more. Personal Finance for Dummies

Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom

shett — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 06:00:18 +0000
Do you lose sleep over your credit card debt? If so, then Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom is the book to help you get back to your debt-free life. This book, which Dr. Phil himself has mentioned on his show, is one of the best books for clear, practical advice, and a proven plan that you can put into action right away. In Zero Debt, you will discover: * How to get annoying creditors off your back * Insider secrets to reducing interest rates or eliminating credit card late fees * Your legal rights, and what bill collectors can and can't do under the law * The best strategies to clean up your credit report or fix errors in your credit file * How to make lifestyle changes that will save you money for decades to come What makes Lynnette Khalfani the perfect candidate for writing this book is that she was over $100,000 in credit card debt herself and got herself out of it in only three years. Khalfani has written valuable step-by-step instructions on how to get out of a financial pothole, even if it seems far too deep to ever get out of. You will not only dig yourself out with the help of this book, you will be able to start laying a foundation for future financial security, and even wealth. The instructions are simple and easy to follow, an important thing when we are so busy, and the financial crisis is so pressing. These reasons alone makes Zero Debt a book you'll really want to have in your library. Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom focuses on not only how to get out of debt, but on how to have money for the future, especially for retirement. With the state of the economy is today, this book is timely for anyone who is in any amount of debt, and needs to start planning fast on how to get out of it. Zero Debt: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Freedom

Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons

Admin — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 02:45:02 +0000
Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons: Celebrate the Holidays with Elegance and Simplicity--on Any Income In author, Tracey McBride's first book, Frugal Luxuries, she elevated thrifty but elegant living to an art form. Now in this companion volume, she shares more new ways to beautify your life around the holidays, in order to make the most of what you have, even if it isn't much because of these tough economic times. With Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons you can create wonderful holiday celebrations all year round for friends and family without breaking your budget. Working together with friends and family, and taking time, and making a bit of effort, can make an ordinary holiday into a luxury one without a lot of money being spent. In Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons you will learn to enjoy: * Symbols of spring: Irish linen sachets, warm scones drenched in jam and butter, and mysterious bunny tracks you can make for your children * Charmed summers: floral wreaths you can use as party favors, an Italian feast with homemade pasta, and plentiful gifts from the garden * Autumnal gifts: scented cinnamon pinecones as fire starters, fresh challah for Rosh Hashana, and a house warmed with fall bouquets and cozy paisley throws * Winter marvels: mood-enhancing music, and a Christmas gift pantry that is started in January of the previous year, to create stress-free giving, and be able to stretch out the financial commitment over 12 months, instead of one or two. If you are into elegance without the price, then this is a great book to reference all year around. There are many ways you can make your home a more welcoming space on a frugal budget in Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons. Make every season a joyful one, without breaking the bank, with this handy book. Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons: Celebrate the Holidays with Elegance and Simplicity--on Any Income

Debt Proof Your Holidays

shett — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 06:00:59 +0000
Each year, more people go into debt with their holiday spending. It isn't just the gifts, but the decorations and meals as well. Everyone wants to have a memorable holiday and make it special for all involved, but you don't have to spend a lot to do so. There are many ways to have a wonderful holiday without breaking the bank. In Mary Hunt's Debt Proof Your Holidays, she shares great tips for not only saving money, but having a delightful holiday with your family and friends as well. Gifts: When it comes to gift giving, people tend to go overboard thinking they have to spend more to prove they care more. This simply isn't the case. Make changes as a family, and it will help everyone spend less. Make gifts instead of buying them--A handmade gift or card always means more. Shop early and look for bargains--and don't fall prey to 'last minute' requests from family and friends. Do NOT use credit cards - There are ways to purchase larger gifts and still avoiding the credit card trap. Creative gift wrapping - Instead of store bought paper and ribbons, make your own. Decorating: There are many simple things that can be done to create a festive mood around the house. Making your own decorations, or finding a good sale, are only the beginning. Use things you already have around the house. Don't buy all new decorations each year. If you have to have 'new' things, buy them at the after holiday sales, and wait til next year to enjoy them. Meals: Holidays and meals seem to go hand in hand with most families. In addition to overeating, we tend to overspend, so create simple recipes and show within your budget. Don't overdo it on booze either. It costs a lot, and piles on the calories. Mary Hunt's sense of humor, combined with her money saving tips, make this book a sure winner and a big help to those wanting to save money and still enjoy their holiday season. Debt Proof Your Holidays

Mystery of the Counterfeit Money: A Review

shett — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 06:00:11 +0000
Mystery of the Counterfeit Money is the third mystery that crime-solving team Jack and Jenny Carlton embark on in this fictional mystery book by Anthony Bollback. This exciting story takes place in mysterious Hong Kong at the time of the Chinese New Year. If you are interested in mysteries, or counterfeit money, this is a fun book for you and your kids. The Carlton family have been invited by their friends, Ruth and Tim Chen, to come and celebrate with them, but much to Jack and Jenny's surprise, another mystery turns up in Hong Kong, and they land right in the middle of the Mystery of Counterfeit Money. Anthony Bollbackís talent for weaving a tale of intrigue captures young reader's imagination from the very first page, which makes this book one of his most exciting mysteries yet. As in the first two mysteries, Bollback skillfully includes the Carlton's strong Christian beliefs along with the exciting exploits of the twins, which leads to a very important decision in the third book. Strong Christian principles make this wholesome read suitable for any child aged 9 to 14. Mystery of the Counterfeit Money is filled with excitement, great escapes, some bad news, and of course, mystery. This book and the other mysteries in the series are suggested for ages 9-14, but even some adults may find it intriguing and it would be great to share as a family with children in the younger end of that age range. The previous Jack and Jenny Mystery books by Anthony Bollback are, Smugglers in Hong Kong and Capture of the Twin Dragon. You can find them at Amazon: Mystery of the Counterfeit Money

Online Shopper’s Survival Guide

shett — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 06:00:40 +0000
Does the fear of fraud or identity theft keep you from shopping online? The Online Shopper's Survival Guide will safely take you through shopping on the Internet. Or, even if you are already a savvy shopper on the Internet, maybe you would like to start purchasing the higher-end priced products at bargain prices, for example: cars, boats, computers, and so on. This book will give you tips on how to do this in a safe and secure way. Author Jacquelyn Lynn, having been a victim of identity theft herself, is exceptionally concerned for the shopper, and gives a lot of sound, practical advice. In this book you will find: * Online Shopping Basics * From Teenagers to Seniors: Generational Issues * Online Auctions * The Good, the Bad, and the Bargains of Online Auctions * Finding What You Want Online * What You Can't (Or Shouldn't) Buy Online * Buying From Foreign Countries * Consumer Protection Issues * Frauds and Scams * Buying High-Priced Merchandise Online * Finding Friends, Dates, and Jobs Online * And Much More. Online Shopper's Survival Guide will make you a pro at purchasing online safely and securely. Lynn shares many tricks and tips, like finding sites and locating items with the lowest prices, recognizing scams, and steering clear of devious e-commerce sites. She also gives you advice on how to win online auctions on eBay or other sites for less than you think. This guide is easy to understand very informative, and a worthwhile read. Every person who has wanted to shop (or has been shopping) on the Internet can effortlessly learn how to do it with confidence and pleasure, without worrying so much about fraud or scams. Online Shopper's Survival Guide

Soy Candles 1

shett — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 06:00:54 +0000
One of the mainstays of aromatherapy is candles. Candles put us in a good mood, and are commonly associated with romance. The flicker of the flame mesmerizes and relaxes our mind, and removes us from the glare of electric light. But, most candles are made of paraffin wax, from fossil fuels.   There is another alternative-all natural soy candles. Soy candles are made using the ever versatile soy plant. Soy candles have many advantages over paraffin candles. Paraffin is the wax that comprises most of the candles on the market. It is made from vegetable, animal, and petroleum waste products. Most people don't read the labels on candles to discover just how bad they can be for the environment. When you burn these substances, toxic fumes can be given off in the flame. Have you ever seen black smoke coming from a candle flame? This occurs when the candle is getting close to being burned out because there is no more wax to burn. These are chemicals being released into the air. Decorative candles of this type do not burn cleanly. When the wax re-hardens, you will see the black residue in the wax. The wax creates a pitting phenomenon in the center of the candle too, and the wax also drips down the side and ruins the look of the candle. The more the candle gutters, the more toxins you are releasing into the air. A little known fact is that candles which are not all natural have wicks that contain lead in them. The metal button at the very bottom of the candle that holds the wick can also be full of dangerous chemicals. When burning the wick, the lead can be released into the air as well. As we burn candles, we are actually polluting the air around us. People with allergies or respiratory problems should never burn paraffin candles. The alternative is soy candles, not as readily available and a bit more expensive, but also more green and environmentally friendly. Many people pass them over as a fad. They cost more, so why buy them? But the cheaper the candle, the more full of toxins it is likely to be.

Soy Candles 2

shett — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 06:00:23 +0000
Soy candles are environmentally safe. They burn cleanly, with no toxic fumes. That means no pollutants are released into the air. The air is actually cleaner because the soy actually works to eliminate odors and other pollutants from the air. For people who like the way that their candles look, soy candles do not pit when the wax is burned. In fact, the wax burns out towards the end of the candle. It doesn't drip over and look ugly or make a mess all over the place. Soy candles continue to burn until there is nothing left, and in fact often have a much longer burning time than the paraffin ones. Soy candles are not scented artificially. They do give off a smell fresh smell, and some can be fragranced with flowers or essential oils. The color of the candle is the natural color of the soy. Try to avoid colored ones, which can also be the result of chemicals. While fragrances are nice, the recent research which suggests that people who burn a lot of incense are more prone to lung cancer, we suggest avoiding scented candles because of the potential allergens and even toxins released into the air in your home. Soy candles burn longer than paraffin wax candles. For about ten dollars, you will get about 50 hours of candle burning pleasure. We love the Pacifica candles, but keep in mind what we said about fragrance, and color. So, it is great to use candles for aromatherapy and setting the mood, but clean the air and freshen your home in the process with soy candles, not paraffin based ones which are so harmful to the environment.

Beeswax Candles 1

shett — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 06:00:55 +0000
One of the mainstays of aromatherapy is candles. Candles put us in a good mood. The flicker of the flame mesmerizes and relaxes our mind.    But, most candles are made of paraffin wax, from fossil fuels.   There is another alternative-all natural beeswax candles. Beeswax candles are made by, you guessed it, bees. Bees work to make the honey for the wax. Beeswax candles have many advantages over paraffin candles. Paraffin is the wax that comprises most of the candles on the market. It is made from vegetable, animal, and petroleum wastes. Most people don't read the labels on candles to discover just how bad they can be for the environment. When you burn these substances, toxic substances can be given off in the flame. Have you ever seen black smoke coming from a candle flame? It occurs when the candle is getting close to being burned out because there is no more wax to burn. These are chemicals being released into the air. Decorative candles of this type do not burn cleanly. When the wax re-hardens, you will see the black residue in the wax. The wax creates a pitting phenomenon in the center of the candle, and the wax also drips down the side and ruins the look of the candle. The more the candle gutters, the more toxins you release into the air. A little known fact is that candles which are not all natural have wicks that contain lead. The metal button that holds the wick can also be dangerous. When burning the wick, the lead can be released into the air as well. As we burn candles, we are actually polluting the air around us.   People with respiratory problems should never burn paraffin candles. The alternative is beeswax candles.   However, many people pass them over as a fad. They cost more, so why buy them when there are cheaper better smelling candles on the market? But the cheaper the candle, the more full of toxins it is likely to be. Beeswax candles are environmentally safe. They burn cleanly, with no toxic fumes. That means no pollutants are released into the air. The air is actually cleaner because the beeswax actually works to eliminate odors and other pollutants from the air. You are also supporting the environment by supporting the bees and the beekeeper. With the rapid and alarming, and unexplained disappearance of a huge percentage of the once robust bee population of the world, bees could well become a protected species soon, and so the more we keep an eye on them and help them to thrive, the better. For people who like the way that their candles look, beeswax candles do not pit when the wax is burned. In fact, the wax burns out towards the end of the candle. It doesn't drip over and look ugly or make a mess all over the place. Beeswax candles continue to burn until there is nothing left. Beeswax candles are not scented artificially. They do give off a smell of sweet honey. The color of the candle is the natural color of the wax. We suggest avoiding scented candles because of the potential allergens and even toxins released into the air in your home. Beeswax candles burn longer than paraffin wax candles. For about twenty dollars, you will get over 100 hours of candle burning pleasure. So, it is great to use candles for aromatherapy and setting the mood, but clean the air and freshen your home in the process with beeswax candles, not paraffin based ones. As always, keep all burning candles well out of the reach of children and pets, and burn only in a safe place without any draft. Never leave a candle burning unattended.

Make Your Own Beeswax Candles 1

shett — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 06:00:31 +0000
Candle making is a tradition that stretched back centuries. Hanging wicks and dipping them in wax until the candle is the correct consistency was something we also did in art class when we were young. This year, why not get the family together and teach the kids how to make beeswax candles. Beeswax candles can be made with beeswax sheets. True beeswax candle makers don't use these sheets, but for homemade candles, beeswax sheets are easy and safe for children to use. The wax is pressed into sheets for use in making different shapes of candles. Beeswax is a clean-burning candle wax. It cleans the air and removes odors as it burns. Beeswax also melts away until almost gone. Any that is left can be molded with more beeswax to create new candles to burn. Before making beeswax candles, prepare by getting all of your supplies together and setting up an area to work undisturbed. To make these candles you will need: beeswax sheets, scissors or a knife, candle wicks, and a cutting board or other hard surface for cutting. When purchasing the supplies in a craft store or online, check to see that the wicks do not contain any lead or other chemicals. Beeswax usually comes in a light pale color which is the color of the wax. Adding color introduces chemicals into the wax that can be burned off in the flame. You can get beeswax candles in different colors, but they may not burn as cleanly, and are not good if you wish to have a toxin free home. If your children are helping, make sure that you do any cutting that needs to be done and keep the knife pointed away from the body. Work on the kitchen table with them high up enough so the kids can lean as they work.

Make Your Own Beeswax Candles 2

shett — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 06:00:44 +0000

Instructions on How to Make Your Own Beeswax Candles
1. Lay out a sheet of beeswax. If using colored wax in combinations, cut the sheet and add other colored pieces. Lay them close together so they overlap. 2. Take the wick and place it near the beginning of the wax sheet. Let an inch or so of the wick hang out of the bottom of the candle and two inches out of the top of the beeswax sheet. 3. Press the wick gently into the beeswax sheet. The wick needs to be secured so that it will not be displaced during rolling. You are going to roll it like a swiss roll with cream inside, only in this case it will be the wick. After the wick is firmly in place, it is time to create the candle. 4. Slowly, roll the beeswax sheet over itself. Keep the rolls tight so no gaps are present in the wax. 5. Continue rolling until the entire sheet is finished, or the candle is as fat as you would like it. 6. Larger candles like pillars usually have one, two, or three wicks depending on width. So as you are working rolling the sheets, you might want to add a second or third wick, spacing them evenly. 7. When your candle has reached its desired thickness, cut the wick/s at the bottom even with the bottom of the candle. Trim the wick at the top of the candle until it is about half an inch long. Using this method, you can create beautiful candles in various sizes and shapes. Kids can use their creations as homemade gifts, or to decorate the house for the Christmas holiday. Always make sure that you keep burning candles out of the reach of children and pets. In addition, always burn in a non-drafty, non-cluttered area, and never leave a candle burning unattended.

Fruited Holiday Rib Roast

arika — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:00:08 +0000
Fruited Holiday Rib Roast
What You Need:

1 (6 lb) beef rib roast

1 T anise seed, crushed

3 garlic cloves, minced

3 T olive oil

2 T Dijon mustard

1/2 t salt

1/4 t pepper

3 C dried apricots

12 red boiling onions, halved

1/3 C orange juice

3 fresh pears, wedged

How to Make It:

Set the oven temperature to 325 degrees and allow the oven to heat up.

Trim all the fat from the rib roast and discard.

Place the anise seed and garlic in a mixing bowl.

Pour in the oil and the mustard.

Sprinkle in the salt and pepper and whisk together to combine well.

Remove 3 T of the oil mixture and place in a separate bowl for later use.

Place the roast on a rack in a shallow baking pan.

Brush the roast with the remaining oil being sure to completely cover.

Place the roast in the oven and bake for 1 1/2 hours.

Place the dried apricots and the onions into a mixing bowl.

Pour in the orange juice and the reserved oil.

Toss to coat the fruit and onions well.

Place a piece of aluminum foil that is large enough to hold the fruit mixture.

Fold the foil over the mixture being sure to leave room for steam.

Place the foil wrap in the oven next to the roast for 30 minutes.

Place the pears in a oven proof bowl or pan.

Place them in the oven with the meat and fruit mixture for 30 minutes.

Transfer the roast to a serving platter and garnish the platter with the pears.

Add the apricots and onions to the platter, cover and allow standing for 15 minutes before serving.

Serving Size: 12

Beef rib roasts make a great centerpiece for that Christmas dinner. With the added fruits and onion this Christmas meat makes everyone's mouth water in anticipation.

Planning a Family Christmas Dinner Part 1

arika — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 09:00:56 +0000
It is one of the two times a year that families are guaranteed to get together for a meal. Christmas dinner with family is a big deal in most households. But, this year, plan ahead so that more time is actually spent with the family and not slaving over a hot stove.

Planning saves not only time but money when it comes to having a family gathering. At Christmas, most families are filled with good cheer and a longing to reconnect. Let the family Christmas dinner be the culmination of that celebration.

Here are a few tips to help that dinner turn out to be a delight instead of a disaster.

1. Find out who is coming. We are talking about family so most people will probably attend. But, there will be the person who has to work or is out of town and can’t make it because of the weather (it does snow in a few places around Christmas!).

2. Ask everyone to bring something. Obviously if they are traveling by plane that will be difficult, but for family members who are driving in or live nearby, it is okay to ask them to bring a vegetable dish or a dessert to the Christmas dinner. The others can pitch in on the preparations when they arrive.

Planning a Family Christmas Dinner Part 2

arika — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 09:00:37 +0000
1. Make side dishes in advance of the Christmas dinner. We all like to sit and smell the delightful flavors wafting from the kitchen but that’s impractical when serving dinner to a sizable group. Before you know it, the entire house would be overheated and there would be dishes piled up in the sink for someone to wash. Fix and freeze as many side dishes as you can. A few hours before the meal, take them out and warm them up.

2. Cook the turkey early. Turkey is the main course at most traditional Christmas dinners. Roasting the turkey early leaves plenty of room in the stove to fix smaller dishes together. It takes several hours for a turkey to cool completely, so by dinnertime, it will still be warm enough to serve without reheating the entire bird.

3. Serve dinner buffet style. Let everyone serve themselves. Have a communal blessing over the food and then whoever is hungry can eat. It is not the sit down at the table dinner we all envision from our youth, but it is more practical. Some people like to eat early and some will be watching sports on television.

Planning a Christmas dinner for the family is about the fellowship as much as it is about the meal. Use the above tips to share the cooking and spend more time reminiscing with family and friends.

Planning a Christmas Dinner Party Part 1

arika — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 09:00:53 +0000
Christmas is about spending time with family and friends to share the blessings of the season. One way to do that is hosting a Christmas dinner party for your friends. Here are a few tips when it comes to planning the perfect party for the holidays.

A Christmas dinner party is an elegant affair. People get a chance to dress up and mingle with coworkers and other friends in an adult setting. It is as much fun as it is formal.

1. Invite guests at least three weeks in advance. The Christmas engagement calendar fills up fast and you want to get your dinner party on the roster. Host a Christmas dinner party for your office department. For a dinner party that is purely personal, invite friends and their dates or spouses. Specify on the invitation that it is for adults only. This gives everyone time to find a sitter for their children.

2. Plan the menu. On the invitation ask if anyone has any special dietary concerns. There could be vegetarians in the group but here we are more concerned with food allergies or conditions such as diabetes. Plan the food courses accordingly so no one feels left out.

Planning a Christmas Dinner Party Part 2

arika — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 09:00:08 +0000

1. If everyone hasn’t responded a week out from the Christmas dinner party, contact them with a quick message just in case they forgot. For sit down formal dinners having an accurate head count is necessary to be sure there is enough food for everyone. As a standard rule of thumb, allot at least two pounds of food per person attending the dinner party.

2. Decide on cooking or catering. There is nothing wrong with catering a dinner party. Cooking can be an all day affair and no one wants to be stuck in the kitchen during their own dinner party. The host or hostess wants to mingle with the rest of the guests. If you decide to cook, keep the menu simple and opt for a buffet presentation instead of table service.

3. Set up the table and decorate a day in advance. This way, if anything is missing, there is time to go out and find it. Leave glasses until the last minute so they don’t gather lint and dust particles overnight. After setting the table, go ahead and clean up a bit especially in the common areas where guests will be mingling.

4. Lay out the food a half hour before guests arrive. If a caterer is handling the affair there are no worries there. For a home cooked buffet style dinner party, light the liquid fuel under the food pans half an hour before guest arrive so the food will be warm.

An elegant dinner party is a nice way to get to know coworkers away from the office or to relax with friends you don’t see much of during the year. Everyone has a chance to show off their best holiday clothes and share a few laughs.

Southern Pecan Ecstasy

arika — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 09:00:02 +0000

What You Need:

1 (9 in) unbaked pie crust

3 eggs

2/3 C sugar

1/2 t salt

1/2 C butter, softened

1 C light corn syrup

1 C pecan halves

How to Make It:

Place the oven setting on 375 degrees and allow the oven to preheat.

Place the eggs in large mixing bowl.

Use an electric mixer and beat in the sugar, salt, butter and corn syrup until well combined.

Gently fold the pecans into the mixutre with a rubber spatula.

Spread the mixture evenly in the pie crust.

Bake 45 minutes or until the pie filling is set.

Serving Size: 8

What better way to end that Christmas dinner than with a piece of that wonderful pecan pie. With this simple recipe you can have one in no time and everyone will be in ecstasy.   If the crust on the pie begins to over brown cover it with aluminum foil until the last 5 minutes of baking.

Berry Pineapple Gelatin

arika — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 09:00:01 +0000

What You Need:

3 C boiling water

2 (3 oz) pkgs. raspberry gelatin

1 (16 oz) can whole berry cranberry sauce

2 T lemon juice

1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, in its own juice and drained well

How to Make It:

Pour the boiling water into a large mixing bowl.

Add the dry gelatin and whisk until the gelatin has completely dissolved.

Add the can of cranberry sauce and stir to combine.

Pour the lemon juice into the mixture and stir to combine.

Place the mixture in the refrigerator for about 1 hour until the gelatin is partially set.

Gently fold the pineaple into the gelatin.

Return to the refrigerator for about 3 hours and allow the gelatin to firm.

Serving Size: 10

This makes a very festive gelatin. For a more attractive dish spray a 6 cup ring gelatin mold with a non stick cooking spray. After adding the pineapple, pour the gelatin into the mold. Place it into the refrigerator and allow the gelatin to firm. Unmold the ring onto a serving platter before placing on the Christmas table.

Jolly Sippers

arika — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:00:19 +0000

What You Need:

2 pints pomegranate juice

1 1/2 C sugar

12 fresh sage leaves, crushed

2 lemon peel strips

1 C lemon juice

1 (750 ml) bottle club soda, chilled

How to Make It:

Place the juice into a large saucepan and place the pan over medium heat.

Stir in the sugar, sage and lemon peel.

Bring the mixture to a brisk boil.

Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.

Remove the pan from the stove and stir in the lemon juice.

Pour the mixture into a glass pitcher and chill 4 hours.

Before serving remove the lemon peel and strain out the sage.

Fill 6 oz. glasses with a little ice, half full of the juice mixture and top with the club soda and stir.

Serving Size: 12

Jolly sippers can be made and kept in the refrigerator for up to 1 week before using. Replace the club soda with a dry sparkling wine if you prefer.

Holiday Cherry Glitz

arika — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 09:00:48 +0000

What You Need:

1 1/4 C butter, softened

2 1/4 C powdered sugar

1 t baking powder

1/2 t salt

1 tsp peppermint extract

1 t vanilla extract

1 egg

2 1/2 C flour

1/2 C round peppermint candies, finely crushed

48 red maraschino cherries with stems, drained well

How to Make It:

Place the butter in a large mixing bowl and beat on medium speed with an electric mixer for 30 seconds.

Slowly beat in 1 1/2 C of the powdered sugar.

Continue beating while adding the baking powder and salt.

Pour in the peppermint extract and vanilla and beat just long enough to incorporate.

Add the egg and continue beating until well combined.

Add the flour slowly and beat until the mixture become to thick to use the mixer.

Continue adding the flour and mix with a wooden spoon until all the flour is mixed in well.

Fold in the crushed candy.

Set the oven temperature to 350 degrees and allow the oven to heat.

Pour the remaining powdered sugar into a shallow pan.

Roll the dough into 1 inch balls and roll the balls in the powered sugar.

Press the balls into the bottom and up the sides of a mini muffin tin cup.

Place a cherry, stem up, into each of the dough cups.

Bake 8 minutes or until brown.

Cool 5 minutes in the pan then remove and place on a wire rack to finish cooling.

Serving Size: 48

When storing the leftovers place them in a single layer in an airtight container. These will stay fresh for 24 hours at room temperature and 3 days in the refrigerator. To add a little color to your Cherry Glitz use both red and green maraschino cherries.

The Sink or Swim Money Program: The 6 Step Plan for Teaching your Teens Financial Responsibility

shett — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 06:00:36 +0000
With increasingly high debt becoming a bigger problems in families every year, it is more important than ever that parents teach their children to be financially responsible. Given the current economic crisis, with no end in sight at the moment, you can't start acting too soon to tackle your family's debt, and actually not only get out of debt, but start building wealth for the future. While every child is different, and some can learn to be responsible with money at a younger age, parents should definitely make sure to teach their teens how to handle money before they are in college or out on their own. In The Sink or Swim Money Program, John E. Whitcomb takes parents through a 6 step plan for teaching teens how to be financially responsible. In Mr. Whitcomb's book, he takes a humorous look at teaching kids the value of money and making them responsible for their own money and purchases. Here are a few of the ideas his book focuses on: * Calculating a budget * Work out a contract between you and your teen * How to plan ahead With this system, the main point is that the teens are given a set amount of money that is to cover their basic needs, that you would normally pay, such as food, clothing and other necessities. It is a trial and error method, where the kids are given free rein on their money, and will quickly learn what they can and cannot do with it. In addition to the lessons on spending, the book deals with planning for larger expenses, such as college, cars and insurance. It also includes sections on checking accounts, credit cards and tips on saving and earning extra money, with lesson plans and sample contracts. If you're concerned about your own finances, you will benefit from this book as well. If your in good shape but concerned about the current economic crisis, this book will be a good tune up for your situation. If you are in good shape but want to do better in the future for you and your whole family, you and your teen can go over the book together to help work toward that goal. And best of all, you will also be working toward you teen achieving financial independence, and a secure future for him or herself, and succeeding generations. The Sink or Swim Money Program: The 6 Step Plan for Teaching your Teens Financial Responsibility

New Titles now available at HerStory Books

Admin — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 16:52:47 +0000
Just to remind you that the latest great romance novels are available at HerStory Books

Easy Valentine’s Day Recipes Part 1

arika — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 06:00:14 +0000
When it comes to Valentine’s Day, most people go out for dinner. If you have a family, this can get expensive, even if you don't take them all out to eat-after all, getting a babysitter, or trying to, will cost as well! This year, why not try a few easy recipes to prepare a nice dinner for your loving family in no time?

Crock Pot

Get those slow cookers working. We often use it when we know we’ll be late getting home so dinner will be ready. The slow cooker is an asset on Valentine’s Day also. Most of the crock pots on the market today have a removable inner pot that is fashionable enough to serve at the table.

Cooking with a crock pot will free you up to do other fun Valentine’s Day things instead of standing in the kitchen. Some meal ideas for the slow cooker: beef roast with vegetables, chicken cacciatore, roasted chicken with vegetables, Swedish meatballs. The crock pot can be set to cook slowly (ten hours) or a bit faster (4 hours).

Cook-ahead meals

Dinner can be harried even on Valentine’s Day. Watching boiling pots and hot skillets not to mention something in the oven can absolutely fry your brain. Free your mind to enjoy this day of love by trying a dish that is easy to prepare ahead of time and just needs to be baked on Valentine’s Day.

Casseroles are the easiest make-ahead dishes. They can feature beef, chicken, or pork. Even fish like salmon or tilapia can be marinated and dressed the day before and wrapped in foil to bake on Valentine’s Day. Avoid adding milk or eggs before you are ready to cook the meal. If the dish calls for cooked meat, cook and cube the meat the day before and combine all ingredients in the casserole dish when you are ready to pop it in the oven.

Easy Valentine’s Day Recipes Part 2

arika — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 06:00:09 +0000

Cook-ahead meals

Dinner can be harried even on Valentine’s Day. Watching boiling pots and hot skillets not to mention something in the oven can absolutely fry your brain. Free your mind to enjoy this day of love by trying a dish that is easy to prepare ahead of time and just needs to be baked on Valentine’s Day.

Casseroles are the easiest make-ahead dishes. They can feature beef, chicken, or pork. Even fish like salmon or tilapia can be marinated and dressed the day before and wrapped in foil to bake on Valentine’s Day. Avoid adding milk or eggs before you are ready to cook the meal. If the dish calls for cooked meat, cook and cube the meat the day before and combine all ingredients in the casserole dish when you are ready to pop it in the oven.

Five or Fewer Ingredients

Another alternative to the slow cooker or cooking ahead is using a recipe that has five or fewer ingredients. When you have fewer ingredients, prep time is cut dramatically. While the food is baking you can occupy yourself with spending time with the family.

With so few ingredients, kids can even help with dinner. To further cut preparation time, if anything such as vegetables need to be cubed, diced, or sliced so that the day before and refrigerate them.

Pasta dishes fall into this category. Besides the pasta, you usually have sauce and some sort of meat or seafood. The pasta, sauce, and meat can all cook at the same time which saves time.

On Valentine’s Day, you want to be occupied with family and/or your sweetie. Slaving in the kitchen is not in the game plan. With a little pre-planning, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time having fun

Homemade Chocolate Desserts for Valentine’s Day Part 1

arika — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 06:00:07 +0000

Chocolate is one of our favorite treats. On Valentine’s Day, we are surrounded by chocolate. Instead of buying that box of chocolates, create some chocolate treats at home.

Chocolate is actually good for us. Let me rephrase that before you make a run on the store. Dark chocolate is actually full of good things like antioxidants that help to keep our bodies healthy. Consuming a little dark chocolate each day has a beneficial effect.

Remind your sweetie of that on Valentine’s Day. As long as you purchase dark chocolate, they don’t have to feel guilty about eating sweets. Use some dark chocolate to create homemade chocolate desserts to enjoy on Valentine’s Day.

A favorite chocolate dessert is lava cakes. Just like the name implies, once you cut into the cake, the gooey chocolate runs out of the center. Use a stencil to create a powdered sugar heart on top of each one.

When making chocolate desserts that call for melted chocolate it is important to do it right. We have all had those boo-boo’s in the kitchen with chocolate that we’d rather not mention. For instance, turning the burner on high will not melt the chocolate any faster—neither will adding water to the pan and swirling the chocolate around. All you’ll end up with is a very expensive mess.

Chocolate bricks are not cheap so use them sparingly and wisely. If you need to melt chocolate, do so in a non-stick saucepan. Chocolate melts best over low heat.

You don’t need to stir the chocolate for it to melt. Once the chocolate takes on a glassy appearance, it has melted. The chocolate can be removed from the heat and stirred into the recipe.

Homemade Chocolate Desserts for Valentine’s Day Part 2

arika — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 06:00:47 +0000
Even a hint of chocolate in the dessert can be tasted by we chocolate lovers. If you are making a cake, add a bit of melted chocolate to turn it into a chocolate pound cake or a chocolate cheesecake.

For a sinful dessert create icing to top your chocolate creations. A chocolate cake, cupcake, or pie covered in chocolate icing or chocolate sauce makes it heavenly. Only those with a really sweet tooth can handle such a chocolate dessert. It is not for newbies.

There are tons of chocolate desserts you can create for Valentine’s Day to surprise your gal or guy. Try out some chocolate truffles or a chocolate trifle bowl dessert. Chocolate is also an aphrodisiac so watch out if you eat too much!

Cherish You Strawberry Delight

arika — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 06:00:36 +0000
A delightful taste treat for the holidays.
What You Need:

1/2 C semisweet chocolate chips

1/2 C heavy whipping cream

2 T orange juice

2 C fresh strawberries, sliced

4 slices pound cake, cubed

How to Make It:

Place the chocolate chips into a small saucepan.

Pour the whipping cream over the chips.

Place the pan on low heat and stirring constantly melt the chips until they are smooth.

Remove the pan from heat and blend in the orange juice.

Cool the mixture about 30 or until room temperature.

Place the sliced strawberries in the bottom of dessert cups.

Layer the pound cake on top of the strawberries.

Spoon the chocolate mixture over the top.

Serving Size: 4

What better way to tell your loved ones how much you cherish them. Serve this dessert and they will have no doubts. Not fond of strawberries then use raspberries, orange slices or your favorite fruit instead.

Valentine’s Day Desserts for Kids Part 1

arika — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 06:00:36 +0000

Kids love to cook. They especially love to cook sweet treats that they can gobble down later. Here are some ideas for Valentine’s Day desserts kids will enjoy making and eating.

Everybody loves chocolate or at least they should. Recent research shows that eating a little chocolate is good for you. Don’t tell your kids though, or they’ll never let you forget it.

Valentine’s Day was made for chocolate. Let the kids make some chocolate cupcakes. For most cake and cupcake recipes, it is easy to throw in a bit of melted chocolate for an extra sweet tasting dessert. Top them with icing fit for the occasion—red or pink.

Jell-O has been a kid favorite since it was introduced to the world. Turn the popular treat into a Valentine’s Day treat with some cookie cutters. Cookie cutters shaped like hearts, kissing lips, cupid, or letters create holiday cut-outs for the kids. Let the kids cut the shapes after the gelatin has set.

Kids love to decorate with icing and sprinkles and candy. If you make cupcakes, brownies, or cake for them this Valentine’s Day, let them decide how the finished confections will look. Put the icing in a bag designed for that purpose so the kids can pipe the icing through to create words or pictures on the dessert. A plastic storage bag with a small hole cut into the corner works just as well as a cake decorating bag.

Valentine’s Day Desserts for Kids Part 2

arika — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 06:00:00 +0000

Cookies go well with any holiday. For Valentine’s Day, use sugar cookies. With sugar cookies, they can be topped with icing, sugar, and sprinkles. Try to get sprinkles shaped like hearts. Our tried and true cookie cutters can be used again to cut the chilled dough into the same shapes as the gelatin treats.

How about a dessert pizza? Using cookie dough, roll it out to the shape and diameter of a large pizza. Follow package instructions for baking the cookie. Once it’s done and cooled, top with icing. White or vanilla icing can be tinted pink or darker with some red food coloring. Then, let the kids top the dessert pizza with their favorite candies. Plain M&M’s, candy sprinkles, and other chewy sweets can top the pizza.

Try a new twist on some dessert favorites. Add large candy hearts to the top of cupcakes. Create a cake shaped like cupid. Use heart-shaped foil cups to bake brownies. All of these ideas are easy enough for your kids to help you create them.

Feed that sweet tooth with some great treat ideas this year. Your kids might have a few ideas of their own to add to the pot for more Valentine’s Day fun.

The Style Section

Admin — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 00:52:49 +0000
Welcome. Here you will find hints and tips for staying stylish even on a budget, or if pressed for time.

Quick Style Tips

Admin — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:25:15 +0000
Here are some super fast style tips for busy gals on the go, to look great no matter what. Super Style Tips

Reverse Mortgages

Admin — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:20:05 +0000
Except for seniors who require long-term care, most are fiercely independent. Many seniors who feel they might be a burden to their family are opting for a reverse mortgage. With seniors living longer than ever before, and baby boomers dealing with their own financial and senior issues, and possibly having to take on the added responsibility of caring for their older parent if they become ill, many older people would rather take out a reverse mortgage than submit their children to this fate. According to statistics, approximately 40% of long-term care is paid for by seniors. If there are those who cannot afford to do so, the children are forced to pay for these services. This poses a problem for a senior who wishes to live out his or her life independent of their children. It also raises issues among the children such as who will care for mom or dad, and other sibling issues. One woman writes, “My parents are 86 and 87 respectively, and both living alone now. If either one or both became ill and needed financial assistance, it seems to me that a reverse mortgage is a viable alternative in these difficult economic times. My sister and I agree that we would never put them into a nursing home. Their independence is crucial to their mindset and way of life. To deny them that independence would be cruel. At the same time, though, we need to worry about our own families, college, and making ends meet. A reverse mortgage, when done correctly, can make all that possible.” Reverse mortgages alleviate the burden felt by seniors and their children. Imagine living in a home most of your adult life, and then suddenly becoming ill and discovering that you cannot afford to pay the bills or other expenses associated with home ownership any longer. One of the things some of us fear, and seniors in particular, is change. Our parents usually have a schedule they live by. They receive their monthly social security and pension checks and try to stick to their budgets. They treasure every moment of life in ways only they can appreciate. But any bump in the road financially can threaten all that. They ask for nothing other than being allowed to live out their lives in comfort and financial stability. However, if they become ill and cannot afford medical expenses or prescription drugs, their world can turn topsy-turvy. A reverse mortgage can free their minds from worry, since it will help them secure day to day living expense. However, it is good to check out the latest options first before pinning your hopes on a reverse mortgage as the solution to your difficult problems. Given the current economic climate, the credit crunch is affecting even this area of the market. However, if your parents or grandparents are struggling to make ends meet, it is an alternative that is well worth investigating.

Weight loss hint-add on, don’t take away

Admin — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:47:51 +0000
One of the reasons why it is so hard to stick to our diet is that we feel so deprived. Like we have a looong list of things we can't eat, and a short and shorter one of things that we can. So instead of deprivation, why not cultivation? Add a new food every day that you might not otherwise try, like a star fruit or a parsnip or a cloudberry. They are yummy, sweet, and healthy for you, and you will feel like you are having a real treat even though all fruits and veg are light in calories if eaten in moderation, and have lots of healthful fiber.

Beware of Reverse Mortgage Scams

Admin — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:20:41 +0000
With the current recession in full swing and unemployment rising, the quest by unscrupulous predatory lenders to take advantage of seniors is on the rise. One of the areas in which they are particularly insidious is in selling reverse mortgages. There are a host of reverse mortgage scams that are plaguing our senior citizens, and steps are being taken to stop it.   In this article, we will try to highlight the main things you need to watch out for when it comes to reverse mortgages. According to HUD, deceptive practices and allegations of high-pressure sales tactics are being more frequently encountered as senior citizens are being taken advantage of under the guise of a helpful and legitimate reverse mortgage. Borrowers also run the risk of being steered into inappropriate loans and annuities by sales agents and insurance brokers who could be working together without disclosing that relationship to the borrower. They are all in it for their percentage, and since greed is what got America into the current credit crisis, it will certainly not get us out. Common sense will. A reverse mortgage can be of real benefit to people who truly need it, since it frees up equity in your home. Unfortunately, reverse mortgage scams were on the rise even before the current economic crisis hit. A case in point is California: According to the Oakland Tribune dated Sept. 6, 2006, “Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a bill into law that adds protections against scam artists offering reverse mortgages." The new law requires that before getting a reverse mortgage, people must receive independent advice about the pluses and minuses from a certified counseling agency that does not have any profit motive. This shows you how profitable reverse mortgages can be, so buyer beware. The law also requires that mortgage documents be translated into the language in which the loan was negotiated, ensuring that a borrower who doesn't speak English has full access to the complex financial information. This reverse mortgage law also blocks the questionable practice of requiring people to buy annuities they may not need. For more information on reverse mortgages, visit HUD at: http://www.consumerlaw.org/initiatives/seniors_initiative/tips.shtml. Our seniors are particularly vulnerable these days to the scams that pervade our society. They have seen their retirement funds asvested in 401ks virtually vanish, and greed run rampant. They have seen higher taxes, and their children lose their homes to foreclosure. They have lost jobs, or are now reluctant or unable to retire. Given the fact that so many seniors may be in financial trouble now, and are feeling more and more desperate, they become victims of relentless individuals and companies that seek to prey on their immediate financial concerns by offering seeming good advice and a quick fix to their problems. But remember, buyer beware, and if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If your parents or grandparents are considering a reverse mortgage, make sure you get involved as a back up person. By all means accompany them when they seek advice from a counseling agency so that you can assist them with any and all questions relating to reverse mortgages. Take notes, read the fine print, and get independent advice from a non-profit source. Look up reverse mortgage scams online. Stay informed, and stay safe. Again, a reverse mortgage might be a great idea for some seniors depending on their situation, but beware of reverse mortgage scams now, to avoid disaster later.

Liven Up Your Salad with Fixings Part 1

arika — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:05:27 +0000

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you want to fix a salad? You're probably thinking lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, cheese and dressing right?

Boring! Salads don't have to be dull these days, with so many choices in terms of produce and protein. Liven up your salad by adding all different kinds of scrumptious fixings. Wondering what those fixings might be? Let's explore and get creative to find your favorites.
Close your eyes and picture your favorite salad bar. What do you see? Chances are the first thing is lettuce. Many salad bars have more than one type of lettuce. Is there one you really like? Mix up your lettuce or stick with your favorite. The choice is all up to you.

Now what's next? All those bright colorful vegetables are probably making their presence in your mind by now? Broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, peppers and mushrooms are all great additions to any salad.

Zucchini, squash, radishes and even those baby ears of corn can be added to a salad. Many people don't think about the corn, because they are used to seeing them in stir fry meals only, yet they make the perfect addition to a salad.

Just about any vegetable will work on a salad. You can get more vegetables into your daily diet with a salad than most people could ever imagine. Think of the nutritional value your salad will have with these vegetables included.

Family Meal Planning To Save Money

Admin — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 21:29:20 +0000
There are several ways in which meal planning can save money. Whether you purchase groceries on sale or at a warehouse, always buy in bulk. Buy those items that you can prepare in one meal which you can then make last several means. For example, whole chickens are reasonably priced. You can purchase two and make a pot of chicken stew, a pot pie, a roast chicken, a stir fry, a chicken salad, and so on. Vegetables on sale or from the local farmers market can be added to the meal as well as well. Whatever you don't eat, freeze. (And if you have ANY spare room in your house, I suggest you invest in a small to medium sized chest freezer for the same reason, to save money.) Any type of home-made soup or stew can be easily frozen for lunches or dinners, and helps meat stretch much further. There are a myriad of recipes online that offer tips and suggestions on how to prepare meals for up to a month in advance. Do your research based on a main ingredient, book up the dishes, and then eat or freeze into meal sized portions for the family. With the current recession, more and more families are utilizing coupons, Sunday circulars, and store circulars to purchase items on sale. This is a great idea that can help you save bit, especially if you get double coupons. In addition, stock up on store brand items. They are often just as good as brand-name items, and are sometimes manufactured by the very same company that makes the premium brands. If you budget accordingly, you can prepare meals that are affordable and easy to prepare. Here’s another example on how you can save money. Instead of ordering a pizza (the price and delivery are quite expensive), buy English muffins on sale, or a large loaf of French bread, a jar of pasta sauce (or use your own homemade sauce), and a small mozzarella cheese package (low fat is best to save money and calories too). With the muffins, or bread slices, you can make mini pizzas for your family! They are even more delicious than regular pizza and cost half the price. Utilizing the items in your home can assist you in preparing creative meals. One-pot stew is always a favorite, for which you can purchase inexpensive pieces of meat. Just add vegetables from your garden or farmer’s market. You can also freeze this, so why not make enough for several servings. It even makes a great pet food; all you have to do is run it in the blender to desired consistency, and you can get very high quality but inexpensive dog vitamins as chewables or ones you can throw into the food before you blend it, for a cheap, nutritious meal that will save a ton on pet food bills. Meal planning done well in advance, in conjunction with whatever is on sale, is an affordable way to save money over the long term.

Liven Up Your Salad with Fixings Part 2

arika — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 00:08:03 +0000

How about some fruit in your salad? Most salad bars contain fruits like strawberries, pineapple, bananas and other types of berries. You can do this quickly and easily yourself at home, and save a ton of time and money.

Raisins and dried fruits are also a great addition to your salad. Fruits give your salad a sweet taste and they mix well with many vegetables. Fruits add more vitamins and minerals to your salad and up the nutritional value just like vegetables.

Ok what about all those toppers you see at the end of the salad bar? There are bacon bits, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds and various kinds of nuts. You can also add bean sprouts, water chestnuts or red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor, and give your salads that extra bit of crispness and bite. Just be careful with the nuts, because while they have protein and fat, and can help you feel full, they can also pack on the calories.

When it comes to the fixings you place on your salad the sky is the limit. Try new things that you might have never imagined eating on a salad. Add different fruits or vegetables with each salad. Give all those fixings a chance.

Still picturing that salad bar? Open those eyes and get in the kitchen. Create your own salad and make those fixings count.

Comparing Reverse Mortgage Offers

Admin — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:37:54 +0000
If your parents or grandparents are considering a reverse mortgage, it pays to do your research in order to know exactly what they are getting into, in order to stay safe, and avoid scams. Currently there is only one type of reverse mortgage available. It is called the HECM, or Home Equity Conversion Mortgage. This mortgage is insured by FHA. You can obtain this type of mortgage from a HUD lender. Since the credit crunch, there are new rules and regulations these lenders must abide by. The fees are specific, and set by law. There are some HUD lenders, however, who may offer some type of discount. The maximum amount a lender can offer for a reverse mortgage is $417,000. In addition, the origination fees will be charged as follows: 2% on the first $200,000 and 1% on any amount above $200,000. What are the fees associated with a reverse mortgage? As an example, let’s assume a house is valued at $200,000. The origination fee would amount to $2500; the Mortgage Insurance Cost would be $4,000; the Closing cost is estimated at $2,200; and the Service Fee is approximately $5,345. The origination fee is charged by the lender to implement the loan. Again, it is 2% of the first $200,000 and 1% thereafter. The mortgage insurance cost is a requirement of HUD and is based on 2% of the home’s value up to $417,000. There is an additional .05% of the loan balance attached. The closing costs encompass services that are performed prior to the reverse mortgage’s finalization, for example, the appropriate surveys, inspections, title searches, taxes, and credit checks. The service fee is used to cover the costs of any future service fees, and they can range from $20 to $35. You can compare a reverse mortgage to home equity loans, second mortgages, or a home equity line of credit. However, while a home equity loan may incur lower interest rates, since it is a variable rate, it is also possible that the monthly payments will be significantly higher. Considering a reverse mortgage requires a great deal of research. Before the credit crunch, there were three types of Reverse Mortgage loans: HUD, Fannie Mae, and the Jumbo Reverse Mortgage. Due to decreases in home values at present, a result of the economic crisis, the only reverse mortgage now available is through HUD. Do your research, and if you really think a reverse mortgage is right for your family, move forward with caution only through HUD. Avoid scammers or anything that sounds too good to be true. A reverse mortgage can help many seniors, but only if they don't fall prey to reverse mortgage scammers.

Popular Salad Dressings Part 1

arika — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:08:52 +0000

It's salad time! We've got the lettuce, the vegetables, the cheese, the egg, the bacon bits and croutons. Now what?

The dressing, of course.

Can't decide which dressing to have? There are so many choices, how do you know which one to choose? Let's delve into the world of dressings in these articles, to help you know what goes with what, and how to choose.

We all know that no salad is complete without the salad dressing. Many of us go to extremes when it comes to dressing and think the more the merrier. That’s perfectly fine if health or weight is not something you’re worried with. However, bear in mind that many dressings contain tons of calories so you might want to pay close attention if you are. Let’s talk about the different salad dressings to help you decide which is best for you.

You can walk into any salad section of a grocery store and see shelves lined with salad dressings. The brands are numerous and the flavors out number the brands. Kraft, Wishbone, Hidden Valley and even a few named after some celebrities top the list. It's a little overwhelming sometimes trying to find just the perfect flavor. The sky is the limit, unless of course you are talking about a specific type of salad. Sometimes only one flavor will do.

A Caesar salad for instance, works best with a Caesar style dressing, though it can have a fair amount of calories, and not everyone likes the salty tang of anchovy.

Cobb salad is enhanced with the ever tasteful Green Goddess dressing. Often it's easy to find the right dressing to recreate that perfect restaurant taste just by determining which type of salad you’ll be eating.

Bottled dressings are also getting more and more sophisticated, so chances are your favorite restaurant dressing is actually something you can enjoy easily at home if you spot the seasonings and do some taste testing.

Don’t Fall for 0% APR offers

Admin — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:43:08 +0000
Despite the economic crisis, many people have recently received a mortgage application in the mail offering 0% APR for a specific time, usually phrased as a limited time offer you need to act on now. While this offer may seem attractive, and one you would be a fool to miss out on, it is merely a gimmick the credit card companies and mortgage lenders utilize to entice people by offering an apple when, in fact, the real deal turns out to be a lemon. According to the Federal Reserve, any initial information you receive about mortgages probably will come from advertisements, mail, phone, and door-to-door solicitations from builders, real estate brokers, mortgage brokers, and lenders. Although this information can be helpful, keep in mind that these are merely marketing materials. The ads and mailings are designed to make the mortgage look as attractive as possible, without you ever looking at the fine print. These advertisements may play up low initial interest rates and monthly payments, without emphasizing that those rates and payments could increase substantially later. Indeed, that they would be much more substantial as soon as they check your credit history! So if you are looking to get a mortgage even in these turbulent times, make sure you get all the facts of the offer being put in front of you, and make sure any offers you consider meet your financial needs. Any ad for a loan or financing of any type that shows a 0% APR introductory interest rate should also show how long the rate is in effect. If the APR is much higher than the initial rate after the grace period, any money you have borrowed will incur finance charges at a much higher rate, even if market interest rates stay the same. An interesting article by Carolyn Noel Warren of Mortgage Helper tells about her experience attending a seminar hosted by one of the leading lenders in the U.S. In discussing how they compete for customers who are seeking loans and refinancing, the speaker stated: “Give them apples and oranges to compare, so that won’t know which loan is best.” These are the tactics lenders utilize to steer you towards their company for your financial needs, even though it might not be right for you. If you are considering refinancing and happen to receive an offer where the APR is 0%, yet when it is time to sign the contract you find that the APR is not 0% but a much higher number, you will want to reconsider. Any credit card offer in the mail that is similar, and offers you a balance transfer, might also be tempting, BUT look at the length of the grace period, and the APR if you are deemed to default, and any fees associated with the balance transfer (often 3 to 6%, in which case it is NOT 0% APR, now is it?) I know of people who have had TERRIBLE experiences with Discover card precisely through that kind of misleading advertising, with their APR up to 22% now, even though landing is at 1/2%! The sub-prime mortgage crisis has made homeowners more aware of the problems associated with mortgages and refinancing when dealing with unscrupulous lenders. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is. The same is true of credit card companies. If you must have a credit card in case of emergencies, know which one you have has the least percentage rate. Make sure you also pay off more than the minimums each month, and go out of your way to pay them down NOW, as fast as possible, so you are not getting zapped with a lot of monthly finance charges. Research your lender thoroughly, ask questions, and don’t fall for 0% APR. Be smart with your money, and reap the rewards.

Popular Salad Dressings Part 2

arika — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:10:07 +0000
If you're trying to create your own unique taste on your salad at home, the dressing decision might be a little trickier. Often when it comes to store bought dressings, your own preferences will do the trick. Find the dressing that makes your taste buds tingle, or one that you crave. You can’t go wrong when you choose a salad dressing you already know you like. And you can also always dress it up to make it more to your taste, for example, with a bit of added extra virgin olive oil, or more vinegar (and here's a hint-avoid the light dressings-go for one with full flavor, and you can always lighten it with more vinegar yourself!)

Salads are meant to be a healthy way of eating. When it comes to the dressings though, we forget that some are just not as healthy as others. We pour that dressing over the top of our salad until the fixings are hardly visible. All the while we’re thinking of the taste instead of the health factor.

It is important to read the labels on salad dressing bottles. When it comes to measuring dressing one serving usually means 2 tablespoons. Most regular dressings contain up to 11 grams of fat in 2 tablespoons. That's not a real healthy choice for many of us.

How can we find healthier dressings? Look no further than the same grocery store shelf. Many companies are now adding low fat, low calorie dressings to their product lines. For many the taste is not that much different and the price is about the same, making them worth the difference for your health.

You can also try making your own version of your favorite dressings at home. Olive oil or canola oil along with flavored vinegar can be the base of a really great tasting dressing. Add some lemon or lime juice, pepper, poppy seeds or other spices to find just the right one for your salad.

Things to Watch Out For With Mortgage Insurance

Admin — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:54:33 +0000
When the sub-prime mortgage crisis occurred, the reason why many homeowners went into foreclosure was because they could not pay their inflated mortgages. Since there may have been no insurance offered at the time, both the lenders and the homeowners suffered a loss. Private Mortgage Insurance is primarily utilized for homeowners who are considered at high risk for payment. It does not count toward a home’s equity, or provide any other benefit than ensuring that if a homeowner goes into default, both the lender and the homeowner are protected. Private Mortgage Insurance or PMI is being widely demanded by lenders today, especially if new homeowners cannot put up a down-payment of 20% or more, or if they are borrowing more than 8% of the market value of the home. Keep in mind, however, that you are protected as a homeowner under the Homeowners Protection Act, or HPA. It is important to know your rights as it pertains to PMIs. According to the Federal Reserve, under the Homeowners Protection Act, you have the right to request cancellation of PMI when you pay down your mortgage to the point that it equals 80 percent of the original purchase price or appraised value of your home at the time the loan was obtained, whichever is less. You also need a good payment history, meaning that you have not been 30 days late with your mortgage payment within a year of your request, or 60 days late within two years. Your lender may require evidence that the value of the property has not declined below its original value, and that the property does not have a second mortgage, such as a home equity loan, taken out against the value of the property. The Homeowners Protection Act also requires that: “For loans obtained on or after July 29, 1999, the HPA establishes three different times when a lender or servicer must notify a consumer of his or her rights. Those times are at loan closing, annually, and upon cancellation or termination of PMI. "The content of these disclosures varies depending on whether: (1) PMI is "borrower-paid PMI" or "lender-paid PMI," (2) the loan is classified as a "fixed rate mortgage" or "adjustable rate mortgage," or (3) the loan is designated as "high risk" or not. At loan closing, lenders are required to disclose all of the following to borrowers: * The right to request cancellation of PMI and the date on which this request may be made. * The requirement that PMI be automatically terminated and the date on which this will occur. * Any exemptions to the right to cancellation or automatic termination. * A written initial amortization schedule (fixed-rate loans only). Annually, your mortgage loan servicer must send borrowers a written statement that discloses: * The right to cancel or terminate PMI. * An address and telephone number to contact the loan servicer to determine when PMI may be canceled. When the PMI coverage is cancelled or terminated, a notification must be sent to the consumer stating that: * PMI has been terminated, and the borrower no longer has PMI coverage. * No further PMI premiums are due. The obligation for providing notice of cancellation or termination is with the servicer of the mortgage.” PMI can be a significant amount of money every month, so know your rights and the rules on PMI, and keep track of your dollars and cents in these tough times.

Strawberry Snowball Supreme Salad

arika — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 00:26:58 +0000
Here is a fun, cheery salad to brighten the winter months. What You Need:

1 C boiling water

1 (3 oz.) pkg. strawberry gelatin

1/2 C cranberry juice

1/4 C cold water

1 (3 oz.) pkg. low fat cream cheese, softened

1/3 C nuts, chopped fine

1 T sugar

2 C fresh strawberries, or frozen, thawed

How to Make It:

Pour the boiling water into a mixing bowl.

Sprinkle the gelatin powder into the water and whisk until combined.

Pour the juice and the cold water into the mixture.

Whisk again to combine.

Chill until just beginning to thicken but not set.

Shape the cream cheese with your hands or a melon scoop into 18 small balls.

Place the nuts in a small shallow bowl.

Roll the cream cheese balls through to nuts to cover well.

Place the strawberries into a glass bowl.

Sprinkle the sugar over the strawberries and stir gently to coat.

Pour half of the gelatin mixture into a 9X13 pan.

Arrange the cream cheese balls in evenly in the gelatin.

Spoon the strawberries into the gelatin.

Pour the remaining gelatin over the top.

Cover and chill for at least 4 hours or until the gelatin is firm.

Serves: 8

Raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and grapes all work in this salad. Just be sure to use a gelatin that matches with the taste of the fruit you choose. Then watch your whole family dig in.

Should You Consider Refinance on Your Home?

Admin — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 00:59:08 +0000
Generally speaking, it may be a good time to consider refinancing your home when you can obtain an interest rate that is at least 2% lower than your current mortgage interest rate. However, there are other considerations that come into play. With the current economic recession brought about by the sub-prime mortgage crisis, home values have declined. If you decide to refinance based upon the immediate need to pay off high interest rate loans or credit cards, or if you plan on making improvements to your home to increase its value, it may be necessary to wait until the home values increase before taking this step. You may be better off bootstraping now, in order to avoid a whole lot of pain later on. Better to pay down those credit cards in a disciplined way, than tap into the equity in your home which you've worked so hard to build. You will also have to take into consideration the cost of refinancing a mortgage. Several questions need to be answered, such as: How much will I save if I refinance now? Can I afford to pay the fees associated with refinancing such as PMI (prepaid mortgage insurance), inspections, title search, and points, without having to add these to the initial refinance cost? Research will be required to determine if it is feasible to refinance your home. This may include visiting your lender and discussing the pros and cons of refinancing at this time. You may also wish to compare the difference between refinancing and the cost of your current mortgage to determine if refinancing will yield a significant saving. There are many online mortgage calculators that can help you in this endeavor, so make sure you do your research in order to look before you leap. Another consideration is the length of time you will remain in your home. Re-fi for the whole of the house's equity pretty much wipes you all you've put into it. If you are not careful, you could end up in worse shape than before, and without a safety net any longer. Therefore, whether you revisit your current lender or research other mortgage lenders, having accurate accounting of your monthly mortgage versus how much it would cost to refinance (including the aforementioned fees) and whether or not there is an actual savings will be the deciding factor. Most experts advise that if, within seven years, the cost of refinancing does not yield a substantial savings to the homeowner specifically as relates to paying off all the fees incurred during the process, it is not worth the time or the money to refinance. Make sure you look at your financial situation realistically. Have a budget, and stick to it. If you are just trying to re-fi in order to pay off credit card debt, don't. The sacrifices you will make now will be worth it in the long run, without adding all sorts of fees and paperwork into the mix.

More new novels available at HerStory Books

Admin — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:21:57 +0000
Visit today to see what's new: HerStory Books

Using Leftovers to Create Great Salads Part 1

arika — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:15:34 +0000

How many times have you heard someone in your family say this? “I don't want that for dinner. We just had the same thing last night.”

More often than not when it comes to making use of leftovers this is a common problem in most households.

With everyone needing to live more frugally these days, we can't afford to waste good food or money.

There's a way to use those leftovers that's quick, saves money and will keep the whining and complaining to a minimum. You can create a great salad. That's right, a salad.

How? It's pretty simple when you think about it. Here are a few salad ideas made with leftovers you can try so that you can plan your meals better, and save time and money.

Take a look at the meat you have from previous meals. That roast beef can be sliced and added to a salad for a hearty lunch. What about pork? Add it to a salad with some sesame seeds and coleslaw for an Asian side salad, or a main meal of its own.

Left over hamburger can be crumbled and added to a bit of lettuce to make a taco salad. Add tomatoes, cheese, black olives and onion with a little dab of sour cream. Toss in some tortilla chips, or use the ingredients to fill a taco salad bowl and you have the perfect taco salad to delight the whole family.

Using Leftovers to Create Great Salads Part 2

arika — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:16:43 +0000

What about chicken or turkey leftovers? Don't throw that carcass in the trash just yet. Remove the meat from the bones. Add some mayonnaise, celery, hard boiled eggs and pickles, and you have the perfect lunchtime salad or after school snack. The kids will never even know they were eating leftovers.

Leftover vegetables always seem to be pushed to the back of the fridge. Nobody wants to re-heat broccoli, cauliflower, carrots or peas again. But just place these items in a salad with a really good dressing, and watch your family dive right in.

Leftover fruit can also be made into a yummy fruit salad. Add a few marshmallows, some nuts, and a dab of whipped topping and you have the makings of a perfect dessert as well.

Leftovers can be more of a love than hate relationship with the entire family. By using leftovers to make delicious salads, you can save time, money, and can get even the pickiest leftover eater to praise your cooking.

By being creative, and planning ahead, you can save time, money, and food, and make your budget stretch even further, but without compromising on nutrition for your family. Which is far better than your leftovers ending up in the trash.

Sweet Toasted Pecan Apple Salad

arika — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 00:17:46 +0000
A yummy favorite you can enjoy all year round. It goes great with pork or poultry.
What You Need:

3 T brown sugar, packed

3 T pecans, finely chopped

3 small sweet apples, cored and halved

1 T butter, melted

1/3 C canola oil

1/4 C apple cider

1/4 C cider vinegar

1 T honey

1/4 t salt

1/4 t pepper

6 C mixed salad greens

1/4 C toasted pecans, coarsely chopped

How to Make It:

Place the oven temperature on 425 and allow the oven to heat while preparing the apples.

Line a baking sheet with heavy duty aluminum foil being sure to cover completely.

Place the brown sugar in a bowl.

Add the finely chopped pecans and toss to coat.

Place the apples, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet.

Bruch the apple halves with the melted butter.

Sprinkle the brown sugar pecan mixture over the apples.

Bake 15 minutes or until the apples are just beginning to tender.

Place the oil in a shaker or a jar with a tight fitting lid.

Add the apple cider, vinegar and honey to the shaker or jar.

Sprinkle in the salt and pepper.

Shake until all the ingredients are incorporated together well.

Place 1 C of greens onto 6 serving plates.

Top each plate with a half of an apple.

Shake the dressing again then pour over all 6 salads.

Sprinkle the salads with the toasted pecans.

Serves: 6

The dressing may be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Use sweet apples that are firm, well colored and have bright smooth skins. Apples should be fragrant but have no musty smell to them. Always use apples within 2 to 3 days of purchase.

Apple Butterscotch Delight Dessert

arika — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:18:53 +0000

What You Need:

1 (4 oz.) pkg. instant butterscotch pudding

1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple in juice

1 C dry roasted peanuts

2 sweet apples, chopped

1 (8 oz.) container whipped topping, thawed

How to Make It:

Place the pudding into a mixing bowl.

Add the can of pineapple with the juice and stir until completely combined.

Stir the nuts into the pudding mixture.

Blend the apples into the mixture until well combined.

Fold the whip topping in until combined and smooth.

Serves: 4

Grapes and marshmallows can be added to this recipe for a special treat. If butterscotch pudding isn’t your favorite; try vanilla, chocolate, lemon or any flavor that’s at the top of your list for a sweet treat the whole family will love. In which case, swap out the pineapple for the fruit of your choice:
oranges lemons pears strawberries would all work depending on the flavor of pudding you choose.

Cheese Topped Apricot Salad

arika — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:20:04 +0000
A fun treat for the kids. If you don't fancy multicolored marshmallows, add nuts for more bite.
What You Need:

2 (4 oz.) pkgs. orange gelatin

2 C boiling water

1 (15 oz.) can apricots, reserve 1 C juice

1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple, reserve 1 C juice

3/4 C of colored mini marshmallows

1/2 C sugar

2 T butter

3 T flour

1 egg

1 C whipping cream

3/4 C Cheddar cheese, grated

How to Make It:

Place the gelatin powder into the boiling water and whisk until dissolved.

Add the 1 C of apricot juice to the mixture and stir to combine.

Place the mixture into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until just beginning to set.

Fold the fruit and marshmallows into the mixture.

Pour the mixture into a 13X9 size pan, cover and refrigerate until firm about 4 hours.

Place the sugar, butter and flour into a saucepan.

Break the egg into the mixture.

Pour the 1 C of pineapple juice into the pan and stir to combine.

Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a slight boil.

Stirring constantly stir the mixture until the sauce thickens.

Remove the sauce from the heat and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes.

Stir the whipping cream into the sauce thoroughly.

Spread the mixture over the top of the salad.

Sprinkle the grated cheese over the entire top of salad.

Serves: 12

The colored marshmallows make this dessert a pretty picture. If you can't find colored marshmallows regular white marshmallows will work. Try making this with lime or lemon gelatin for something a little different.

Sweet Cherry Pineapple Salad

arika — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 00:21:08 +0000
The sweetness and tartness combine for an interesting salad you can enjoy any time.
What You Need:

1 pineapple, peeled and cut into chunks

1/3 C sugar

1/2 lb. dark sweet cherries, pitted

1 (5 oz.) pkg. mixed salad greens

! C French dressing

1 C blue cheese, crumbled

How to Make It:

Place the pineapple chunks in the bottom of shallow baking dish.

Sprinkle the pineapple with the sugar.

Cover the dish and place in the refrigerator for 1 hour to chill.

Place the cherries into the pan with the pineapple and stir to combine.

Place the salad greens into a salad bowl.

Place the cherry and pineapple mixture over the greens.

Pour the French dressing over the entire salad.

Top with the crumbled blue cheese just before serving.

Serves: 6

This sweet festive salad goes well with pork or chicken. Placing the pineapple in the refrigerator to chill gives the sugar time to soak into the pineapple giving it a sweet taste. Be sure to mix the pineapple and cherries together in the shallow pan so that both types of fruit are covered with little of the sweet juice.

Mixed Fruit a la Crème

arika — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:22:08 +0000

What You Need:

1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, softened

1/2 t ground ginger

1/4 t ground nutmeg

1 (21 oz.) can peach pie filling, with 3 tablespoons set aside.

1 (15 oz.) can fruit cocktail, drained

1 (11 oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained

1/4 C crushed pineapple

1 (8 oz.) container whipped topping, thawed

1 C miniature marshmallows

1/2 C pecan pieces

How to Make It:

Beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth.

Add the 3 tbsp of peach pie filling and mix until blended in well.

Sprinkle in the ginger and nutmeg and stir to combine.

With a rubber spatula fold in the rest of the pie filling.

Pour the fruit cocktail, mandarin oranges and pineapple into the mixture.

Stir until the ingredients are mixed together well.

Fold the whipped topping in the salad.

Sprinkle in the marshmallows and the pecan pieces.

Stir with the spatula until all the ingredients are incorporated together well.

Cover and refrigerate no less than 4 hours or overnight.

Serves: 12

This luscious fruit salad can be eaten as a side dish, dessert or a snack. Garnish the top with a dollop of whipped topping and a peach half, kiwi slices or a maraschino cherry for extra color and zing.

Orange Berry Gelatin Salad

arika — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:23:02 +0000
A pretty little salad for special occasions, great with poultry, and around the holidays.
What You Need:

1 (3 oz.) pkg. orange gelatin

3/4 C boiling water

3/4 C whole berry cranberry sauce

1 navel orange, peeled and chopped fine

4 lettuce leaves

How to Make It:

Dissolve the gelatin powder in the boiling water.

Stir the cranberry sauce into the gelatin.

Add the chopped orange and stir to combine.

Spray four 1/2 C molds with a non stick cooking spray.

Pour the gelatin into the prepared molds.

Refrigerate at least 4 hours or until the gelatin has firmed.

Lay a lettuce leaf on four salad plates.

Unmold the gelatin on the lettuce leaves just before serving.

Serves: 4

These pretty little molds are a great way of serving fruit at the dinner table. Garnish with orange, lemon or lime slices on the side.

Stand Up Pear Salad

arika — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:24:09 +0000
A sophisticated lunch time salad as a main course, or as a side dish with pork or poultry.
What You Need:

4 large pears

2 C watercress

2 T pecan halves, toasted

1/2 C blue cheese, crumbled

1 C raspberry vinaigrette dressing

2 T lemon juice

How to Make It:

From the bottom of the pears remove the cores, keeping the pears with the stems intact.

Place the watercress into a mixing bowl.

Add the pecans and blue cheese.

Pour the vinaigrette into the mixture and toss to coat.

Slice the pears into 4 horizontal pieces.

Brush the cut side of each piece with the lemon juice.

Place the bottom piece of each pear onto a serving plate or salad bowl.

Place 1/4 of the salad mixture over the bottom slices.

Place the next slice of pear on top of that.

Then add more of the salad mixture.

Continue in this manner with each pear finishing with the stemmed top on each one.

Serves: 4

Use your favorite vinaigrette dressing in this recipe. Honey can also be drizzled over each pear after it has been assembled.

Pineapple Blueberry Salad with a Creamy Top

arika — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 00:25:07 +0000
A great treat with poultry.
What You Need:

2 (3 oz.) pkgs. grape gelatin

2 C boiling water

1 (21 oz.) can blueberry pie filling

1 (20 oz.) can crushed pineapple, unsweetened

1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, room temperature

1 C sour cream

1/2 C sugar

1 t vanilla extract

1/2 C walnuts, chopped

How to Make It:

Place the gelatin powder in a large mixing bowl.

Pour the boiling water of the powder and whisk until completely dissolved.

Allow the gelatin to cool about 15 minutes.

Fold the pie filling into the gelatin.

Pour the pineapple along with the pineapple juice into the gelatin and stir to combine.

Place the gelatin into a 13X9 in. pan.

Cover the pan and refrigerate 1 hour or until just beginning to set.

Place the cream cheese into a mixing bowl.

Add the sour cream to the bowl.

Pour the sugar and vanilla into the mixture.

Use an electric mixer on medium speed and beat the mixture until combined well.

Remove the gelatin from the refrigerator and spread the mixture carefully over the top.

Sprinkle the walnuts over the topping.

Cover again and refrigerate until firm about 3 hours.

Serves: 12

This salad can also be made in a gelatin mold. Wait to spread the topping over the mold until it is firm. Invert the mold onto a plate the spread the topping over the gelatin. Sprinkle the walnuts on just before serving.

Old Fashioned Pineapple Cheese Salad

arika — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:26:07 +0000
This is one salad the kids will love. If you have less of a sweet tooth, omit the marshmallows and add almonds and/or walnuts for a more sophisticated salad.
What You Need:

1 (20 oz.) can pineapple chunks in juice

1 (8 oz.) pkg. processed American cheese, cubed

2 C miniature marshmallows

1/2 C sugar

1 egg, slightly beaten

3 T flour

How to Make It:

Drain the pineapple juice into a saucepan and set aside.

Place the pineapple chunks into a mixing bowl.

Add the cheese cubes.

Dump the marshmallows into the bowl.

Place the saucepan of pineapple juice on the stove over low heat.

Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.

Place the egg into the pan.

Add the flour and stirring continuously, cook the mixture 5 minutes or until thickened to your liking.

Remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.

Pour the mixture over the pineapple mixture and blend it in well.

Serves: 8

This is an old fashioned favorite. It's easy and quick to make and tastes like you've been cooking all day. Add a few diced maraschino cherries for a special addition.

Frozen Fruit Soda

arika — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 08:00:23 +0000

What You Need:

1 C of fresh blueberries

1 C of fresh strawberries

1 1/4 C orange juice

1 1/4 C grape juice

4 ice cream scoops blueberry flavored frozen yogurt

How to Make It:

Divide the fruit into 4 tall glasses.

Pour the orange juice into a pitcher.

Add the grape juice to the pitcher and stir until combined.

Pour the juice over the fruit in the glasses.

Top each glass with one scoop of frozen yogurt.

Serves: 4

These are great drinks to serve to kids at your Easter dinner. They are easy to make and the kids will go crazy over them. Use different fruits and juices such as strawberries and sliced nectarines with apple juice and peach juice then top with strawberry yogurt. The possibilities are endless so try a few of your own ideas.

What’s In Your Easter Basket? All Time Favorite Candies Part 1

arika — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 08:00:25 +0000

Every candy lover has a favorite. It could be a yummy chocolate anything or maybe even a fruit flavored something but one thing is for sure: If you are giving an Easter basket this year then you probably have an idea of what favorite candies you will be searching for up and down the aisles at your local store.

However, if you haven’t yet thought about what to put in your Easter baskets (and even if you have) then we’ve compiled a list of 10 all time favorites for your consideration.

Jelly Beans – Whether or not you actually eat them, with approximately 14 billion sold each year, you probably expect them in your Easter basket. An Easter candy staple since the 1930’s, these fruit flavored sugary beans now come in almost any flavor imaginable thanks to the Jelly Belly Company.

Chocolate Bunnies – If you love chocolate, then you love your chocolate bunnies. Solid, hollow, milk or dark – ears or feet first – all that matters to you is there is one located somewhere in your Easter basket. A chocolate bunny is chocolate –‘nough said.

Peeps – A marshmallow confection in a rainbow of pastel colors for spring, Peeps is an Easter basket mainstay. Take your pick – yellow, pink, lavender, blue & green ; bunnies, chicks, tulips, eggs in orange cream or you can decorate your own and a personal favorite –a yellow chick inside a chocolate egg (yep, I said chocolate).

Chocolate Candy Bars – Your favorite every day candy bar just became your favorite Easter candy bar all dressed up for the holiday. Virtually anything the Nestle, Mars or Cadbury companies make is put on offer for Easter. Kit Kat does bunny ears while Snickers, Almond Joy & Milky Way all offer egg shaped confections.

Cadbury Crème Eggs – Hershey’s manufactures & sells Cadbury in the US but reserves sales of the Crème & Caramel Eggs only for the Easter season. If you’re not familiar with the crème eggs, they are a yummy concoction of a thick milk chocolate shell with white & yellow fondant cream inside mimicking the egg white & yolk. They are a sticky sweet treat for the season.

What’s In Your Easter Basket? All Time Favorite Candies Part 2

arika — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 08:00:01 +0000

Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg – What more do you have to say. There’s peanut butter in the chocolate and chocolate in the peanut butter – like the old advertisement says. Made by the Hershey company and slightly larger than a regular peanut butter cup the Reese’s peanut butter egg never fails to impress. Make sure to put in more than one.

Robin Eggs –Tasty, egg shaped, malted milk candy in a pastel colored candy coating Robin Eggs are a nifty treat for your taste buds. Several companies make similar candies and some even have great flavors like strawberry milkshake. They are sometimes packed in tiny egg cartons to add to the Easter theme.

Pez – Each year Pez comes out with a new Easter themed dispenser for their timeless candy. This would be a perfect addition the your favorite collector’s Easter basket.

M & Ms – Along with themed dispensers, M & M candies put on their Easter best for the season. They even offer personalized candy if you order from their website so put on your favorite bunny suit and upload that photo to create your Easter candy surprise.

SweeTart Eggs – Shaped like chicks, ducks, bunnies & eggs, SweeTarts are just like you remember from your childhood. Slightly sweet – a little tart and if you eat too many you just might get sick. They haven’t forgotten chocolate lovers either. If you look really hard you just might be able to find a hollow chocolate egg with SweeTart candy inside.

Now that you have a few ideas of what to put inside your Easter basket you just have to decide what shape your basket will take and if you’ll use plastic or edible Easter grass. Yep, there is such a thing.

Down Home Farmer’s Biscuits

arika — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 08:00:06 +0000

What You Need:

1 stick of unsalted butter, melted and divided

2 C of flour

3 t baking powder

1/2 t baking soda

1/2 t salt

1/2 t sugar

4 T of cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces

3/4 C buttermilk

How to Make It:

Allow the oven to preheat to 450 degrees.

Brush 2 T of the melted butter over the entire bottom of a baking sheet.

Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and sugar together into a large mixing bowl.

Cut in the cold butter pieces with a pastry blender until the lumps are the size of small peas.

Slowly begin to add the buttermilk while tossing with a fork.

Add only enough buttermilk so that the dough begins to hold together for a few seconds.

Add an additional 1/2 T of buttermilk so that the dough holds together as a soft dough.

Flour your hands and knead the dough 6 times in the bowl.

Sprinkle a little flour onto a flat surface and turn the dough onto the surface.

Pat out the dough to form a rectangle about 1/2 in. thick.

Cut out the biscuits with a round cutter.

Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake 10 minute or until a nice golden brown.

Use the remaining melted butter to brush the tops of the biscuits after removing them from the oven.

Serves: 12 biscuits depending on the size

Always remember when making buttermilk biscuits to handle the dough as lightly as possible. This will keep the biscuits from becoming tough during the baking time. If there is too much dough to knead it in the bowl lightly flour a flat surface along with your hands. Place the dough on the floured surface and knead as directed above.

Farmer’s Country Loaf

arika — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 08:00:12 +0000

What You Need:

1 C warm water (110 degrees)

2 1/2 t active dry yeast

1 1/2 t salt

1 1/2 C + 2 T bread flour

How to Make It:

Pour the warm water into a mixing bowl.

Sprinkle the yeast over the top of the water.

Allow the mixture to stand 5 minutes or until it begins to bubble.

Once the mixture begins to bubble, stir in the salt and the flour until well blended.

Use a flexible rubber spatula and knead the dough by folding it over and pushing it into the bottom of the bowl.

Knead the dough 4 times.

Sprinkle the remaining flour over the dough and continue to knead the dough as directed above for 5 minutes or until the dough is spongy.

Scrape down the sides of the bowl and push the dough into a ball shape.

Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel, place in a warm area and allow the dough to rise 1 hour.

Use the rubber spatula and stir the dough. Cover again and allow the dough to rise for another hour.

Sprinkle a flat surface lightly with flour.

Place the dough onto the floured surface and form a loaf.

Use additional flour on the board if the dough becomes too sticky.

Sprinkle a baking sheet with flour in an area about double the size of the loaf.

Place the loaf on the floured area, cover loosely with plastic wrap and let the dough rise 1 hour or until it is double in size.

Set the oven temperature to 375 and allow the oven to preheat.

Remove the plastic wrap from the loaf.

Fill a spray bottle with water and spray the inside of the oven with the water.

Bake the bread 5 minutes then spray the oven again being careful not to spray the bread.

Bake the bread 12 minutes then spray the oven again.

Continue baking the bread 12 more minutes or until the bread is browned and crusty on top.

Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack 1 hour before slicing.

Serves: 1 loaf

This is a wonderful bread to serve with that Easter dinner. Be sure to have plenty of butter or better yet apple butter to smother each slice with.

Traditional Easter Foods and Their Origins Part 1

arika — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 08:00:57 +0000

Nothing says Easter like a fabulous Easter dinner with friends and family. What do you serve for Easter dinner with your family? Every year there are a few traditional Easter dishes that make their way onto dinner tables across America and many of them have interesting symbolism behind them that you may not even be aware of.

Hot Cross Buns

These currant or raisin filled yeast bun is a traditional favorite in England. Usually eaten on Good Friday they also have a “cross” on top of the bun. Mostly thought of as a Christian symbol it the hot cross bun finds its roots in pagan tradition. There is some disagreement with the symbolism of the cross from the pagan custom. Some thoughts are that the cross represents the sun wheel while others believe the cross might symbolized the four quarters of the moon.
When the Christian Church attempted to ban the buns the people balked so the church did the next best thing and "Christianized" the bread. Queen Elizabeth I passed a law that only allowed the bun to be eaten during Christmas, Easter or funerals.
Pretzels

Originally created by monks with leftover scraps of dough and given to students as rewards, pretzels became a popular part of Lent celebration during the Middle Ages. Pretzels do not contain eggs, milk, butter or lard, ingredients which are avoided during lent. Pretzels are said to represent praying arms and the three holes represent the trinity. In some countries, pretzels used to hidden together with eggs at Easter as well.

Greek Easter Bread

Greek Easter bread, or tsoureki, is a sweet dessert bread traditionally served as part of the Greek Orthodox Easter feast. Tsoureki was also traditionally given as an Easter gift from children to their godparents. Different versions many include a citrus flavor, topped with nuts. A red egg is traditionally cooked with the bread as well.

This Easter treat is traditional shaped into a braid with a red egg tucked into the braids of dough. The bread is said to represent the light given to us by Christ’s resurrection and the red egg represents Christ’s blood. Another version of Greek Easter bread is cooked as a circle with red eggs forming a cross across the top of the bread.

Traditional Easter Foods and Their Origins Part 2

arika — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 08:00:51 +0000

Ham

Ham is a traditional part of the Easter feast in many American homes, and it’s origin is more practical rather then symbolic. In early years, before refrigeration, fresh pork slaughtered in the fall that hadn’t been consumed before Lent had to be cured for preservation. Curing was a slow process and the first hams were generally ready around Easter time, making it a common choice for Easter feasting. Today, many American families still serve ham as part of their Easter celebrations.

Lamb

Another meat commonly served at Easter time is Lamb. This tradition is actually a combination of two symbolisms. The original use of lamb dates back before Easter as part of the Jewish Passover where a sacrificial lamb is roasted and eaten as a reminder of the angel of God passing over their homes in Egypt.

Later, Jesus was often referred to by Christians as The Lamb of God. As Christianity grew, Hebrews converting to Christianity brought their traditions with and the combination resulted in the use of lamb as part of many Easter dinners.

As you plan your Easter meal think about incorporating some of these traditional foods. When you gather around your table this Easter season you’ll be able to share good food and interesting information. Your guests will be impressed by your cooking skills and your smarts.

The Ultimate Easter Craft Kit Part 1

arika — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 08:00:58 +0000

In many households, crafts are part of holiday celebrations. They are a great way to teach children about the holiday and keep them occupied as well. Putting together an Easter themed craft kit will keep you prepared for those moments where something is needed to keep small hands busy.

Here are some items your craft kit should include:

Crayons or Markers

Easter stickers

Glue sticks

Cardstock and construction paper

Regular white paper

Craft scissors

Easter stencils

Easter stamps and ink

Foam shapes, small pompoms, googly eyes, etc.

Ribbon or yarn scraps

The craft kit is generally fairly easy to put together and can be done very affordably using times from your local dollar store and discount outlets. It helps to have a good idea of the age group that will be using the kit. Younger children will prefer crayons and stickers while older children may prefer glitter glue, markers and fancy edge scissors. Older children will be able to come up with dozens of craft ideas from this selection of craft times, but here are a few ideas to get you started.

The Ultimate Easter Craft Kit Part 2

arika — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 08:00:19 +0000

Easter Bookmarks - Cut cardstock into 6x2” strips and use a hole punch to put a hole at the top of each bookmark. Your child can decorate their bookmarks using items from the kit and a ribbon or yarn scrap can be added through the hole at the top to finish it off. Help your child pick an appropriate verse to include on their bookmark in keeping with the Easter theme. These bookmarks can be for their own use, or given as gifts to friends or grandparents.

Easter Cards - Cards are another simple craft idea that can also be used to create gifts for grandparents or other family members. Younger children may need help cutting and folding the cardstock which can then be decorated using the items in the kit. For an extra touch, try other shapes: egg shaped cards, cross shaped cards, etc.

If your child is going to be giving their cards to friends and family, envelopes offer additional craft options. You may want to provide basic envelopes for younger children to decorate, or print out templates for older children to make their own envelopes. You can find envelope templates from many online scrapbook and craft sites.

Easter Journals - An Easter journal is really a craft within a craft. Children will enjoy creating their journals, and can later use them for entertainment as well. To start off, create a cover using folded cardstock and inside pages using regular white paper. Help your child staples the pages together. Your child can then decorate the cover of their journal using the items in the kit.

These journals can be used as coloring pages to keep your child busy during family gatherings or on long drives between gatherings. They can also serve as a place for your child to write about their Easter celebrations, making a great keepsake to look back at in years to come. Older teens may want to use their journals as a special place to journal during their devotional time over the Easter holiday.

The Art of the Easter Egg Hunt Part 1

arika — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 08:00:54 +0000

Do you know there are many different ways to conduct an Easter Egg hunt? As a young child growing up, my parents used to add fun new twists to our Easter Egg hunt each year and some of them have become fond memories. Today, we often do the same with our children as well. If you’re looking for a fun twist for your Easter Egg hunt this year, here are a four great versions we have tried in the past.

The Easter Bible Verse Hunt:

This version works best with older children and teens who can read and decipher clues well. The year that we did this, the older teens were paired up with one of the smaller children. Then, each “team” was given an envelope with a Bible verse in it. The verse was a clue to the location of the first treat and the next clue. After 4-5 clues, the last clue took us to the biggest treat: a large Easter basket for each of us.

Putting together the clues may seem like a lot of work at first, but it’s actually fairly simple. A verse about rocks told us to look in the rock garden. A verse about sleeping would mean to look in your bedroom. If your children are a little younger, you could help by highlighting the portions of the verse that are most important to finding the location.

An Easter Treasure Trail:

This version is perfect for very small children/toddlers. When our eldest was 18 months old, we greeted her on Easter morning at her crib with a basket. Leading from her crib was a trail of mini Easter eggs. She took the basket and followed the trail, putting the eggs in her basket as she went. The trail led through the house and ended behind the couch where a bigger treat was waiting.

When laying out your treasure trail, keep your child’s attention span in mind. Some children will follow the trail for quite a while before getting bored, others may need something shorter or more broken up. Perhaps a series of smaller prizes along the path where they can stop and enjoy if they wish?

The Art of the Easter Egg Hunt Part 2

arika — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 08:00:05 +0000

An Easter Scavenger Hunt:

A scavenger hunt is another fun variation and it can be modified to suit any age. For older children, a written list of items to collect will work. For younger children, a sheet with pictures of the different treats they need to find may be a better choice. A very simple version would have children look for specific colors: 1 red egg, 3 blue eggs, etc.

For those who, like us, add other items besides chocolate eggs, your list might include a chocolate Easter bunny, a skipping rope, a chocolate bar, a crème egg, a small toy, etc. Items are hidden at random throughout the specified area and make sure children understand not to remove items that are not on their own list.

The Easter Challenge:

The Easter challenge is a fun party game version of an Easter egg hunt that older children and adults will love. Instead of hiding candy eggs, you would hide small plastic eggs. Inside each egg would be a task that has to be completed. Sing a song, recite a verse from memory, jump on one foot for 10 seconds, draw a picture, etc. After each task is completed, the child receives another treat for their basket. Make sure to keep a camera on hand to capture all of the fun.

So, as you’re dyeing your Easter eggs and planning your egg hunt, take one of these suggestions – use as is or improve upon it – and make it a wonderful Easter egg hunt.

Grape and Gum Drop Salad

arika — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 08:00:35 +0000
What You Need:

1 lb. gum drop candies

1 lb. seedless grapes, halved

1 C mini marshmallow

2 C crushed pineapple, drained

1 C pecans, chopped

2 t lemon juice

2 t water

3/4 C pineapple juice

2/3 C sugar

1 t vinegar

1/4 C flour

How to Make It:

Place the gum drops and grapes together in a mixing bowl.

Add the marshmallows and toss to combine with the other ingredients.

Fold in the pineapple until well combined.

Add the pecans and stir until all the ingredients are mixed together well.

Place the lemon juice and water together in a saucepan.

Pour the pineapple juice into the pan with the other ingredients.

Add the sugar and the vinegar and stir until well combined.

Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.

Slow stir in the flour and continue stirring until the sauce is thick about 5 minutes.

Remove the sauce from the heat and allow it to cool to almost room temperature.

Pour the sauce over the mixture in the mixing bowl.

Stir to cover the ingredients well with the sauce.

Serves: 6

You must allow the sauce to cool before adding it to the salad. If the sauce doesn't cool enough the gum drops and marshmallows will melt. To test the sauce to see if it's cool enough tough the sauce lightly with your fingertip. The sauce should not feel hot or cold to the touch when it is ready to be mixed into the salad.

Pineapple Papaya Tenderloin

arika — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:00:22 +0000

What You Need:

1 (4 lb.) pork tenderloin

1 C papaya, diced

2/3 C soy sauce

1/2 C pineapple juice

6 scallions cut into pieces

1/2 fresh cilantro leaves, packed loosely

3 garlic cloves, peeled

3 T ginger

4 T honey

4 T of rice vinegar

2 T sesame oil

2 T red pepper flakes

3 T canola oil

How to Make It:

Rinse the tenderloin and pat dry with paper towel.

Trim away any fat and iridescent silver skin.

Tuck the thin tail under the pork to from a cylinder and tie the tail with kitchen string or with toothpicks.

Place the papaya into the blender.

Add the soy sauce and pineapple juice to the papaya.

Place scallions, cilantro, garlic and ginger into the blender.

Pour the honey and vinegar into the mixture.

Add the sesame oil and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.

Cover the blender and puree until very smooth.

Pour the mixture into a large covered container or a large sealable bag.

Place the meat into the mixture.

Close and turn the container to cover the meat with the marinade.

Marinate for at least 1 hour at room temperature or for up to 8 hours in the refrigerator being sure to turn occasionally to keep the meat coated.

Place the oven temperature on 425 degrees.

Line a large roasting pan with aluminum foil.

Place the canola oil into a large skillet over medium heat and allow the oil to heat.

Sear the tenderloin on all sides for 3 minutes or until browned.

Place the tenderloin into the prepared roasting pan.

Roast for 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees.

Allow the tenderloin to rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Serves: 8

Fruit in a Cloud Salad

arika — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 08:00:43 +0000

What You Need:

1 (21 oz.) can cherry pie filling

1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling

2 C crushed pineapple, drained

1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk

1 (12 oz.) container whipped topping, thawed

3/4 C pecans, chopped

How to Make It:

Place the both cans of pie filling into a large mixing bowl.

Fold in the crushed pineapple until well combined.

Pour the milk into the mixture and stir until all the ingredients are incorporated together well.

Fold the whipped topping into the mixture until the topping is smooth.

Sprinkle in the pecans and stir until well combined.

Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours being sure the salad is chilled completely through before serving.

Serves: 8

This salad is easy to make and delicious to eat. Spice it up with some seedless grapes cut in half and a few colored mini marshmallows. Fresh fruit can be substituted for the pie filling if you prefer.

Easter Dumpling Dinner

arika — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 08:00:33 +0000
A delicious Easter dinner idea, a departure from the usual leg of lamb.
What You Need:

3 lbs. ham, cooked

1 t salt

4 C dried tart apples

3 T of brown sugar

1 onion, chopped fine

2 C of flour

4 t baking powder

1/2 t salt

1/2 t pepper

1 large egg, beaten

3 T unsalted butter, melted

1/2 C milk

How to Make It:

Lay the ham into the bottom of a large cooking pot.

Sprinkle the salt over the ham then cover completely with water.

Place the cooking pot over high heat and bring the water to a steady boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer the ham for 2 hours or until tender.

Place the apples into a large mixing bowl.

Cover completely with water and allow the apples to soak for 2 hours.

After 2 hours add the apples and the water they soaked in to the pot with the ham.

Sprinkle the brown sugar into the water.

Add the onions and up the heat to high.

Bring the mixture back to a rapid boil.

Reduce the heat again to low, cover and allow the mixture to simmer 1 1/2 hours.

Sift the flour into a large bowl.

Sift in the baking powder, salt and pepper.

Add in the egg and butter.

Slowly add in the milk but only enough of the milk to moisten the dry ingredients with, being sure to continuously stir as you add it in, and the batter should be stiff.

Uncover the cooking pot and turn the heat to medium.

Allow the mixture to come to a brisk steady boil.

Drop the batter by spoonfuls into the boiling liquid.

When all the batter has been added, cover the pot and cook 15 minutes.

Serves: 8

Crock Pot Cheese Corn

arika — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 08:00:11 +0000

What You Need:

3 (16 oz.) pkgs. frozen corn

1 (8 oz.) and 1 (3 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, cubed

1/4 C butter, cubed

3 T water

3 T milk

2 T sugar

6 slices processed American cheese, broken into small pieces

How to Make It:

Place the corn into the crock pot.

Add in the cubed cream cheese and the butter.

Pour the water then the milk over the top.

Sprinkle in the sugar into the crock pot.

Add the pieces of cheese to the top of the ingredients.

Use a wooden spoon and mix the ingredients together well.

Cover the crock pot and cook the low temperature for 4 hours.

Remove the lid and stir making sure the cheese has completely melted.

If the cheese has not melted recover and continue at 15 minutes intervals, stirring after each cooking time, until the cheese has melted completely.

Serves: 12

This recipe makes a creamy corn casserole just like the one grandma used to make. The only difference is it frees up the oven for other foods.

Free Irish Historical Romance

Admin — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 17:02:14 +0000
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Edible Easter Egg Baskets

arika — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:00:26 +0000

What You Need:

12 frozen puffed pastry shells

12 medium eggs

12 slices of ham, fully cooked

1 C of butter

6 egg yolks

1/4 C lemon juice

1/4 t cayenne pepper

How to Make It:

Bake the pastry shells according to the package directions but not for the full amount of time.

Undercook the shells just slightly they need to be a very light brown when you remove them from the oven.

Set the oven temperature to 325 degrees if that is different from the temperature used to bake the shells.

Allow the shells to cool enough to handle then cut off the tops and remove the pastry dough inside being careful not break or make any holes in the shells.

Place the shells on a rimmed cookie sheet.

Crack the eggs and place the contents of each into each shell.

Bake 18 minutes or until the eggs are set.

Remove and set aside

Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat.

When completely melted remove the pan from the stove and allow it to cool for 5 minutes.

Place the egg yolks and lemon juice into the blender.

Sprinkle the cayenne pepper into the blender.

With the blender on high speed carefully pour the cooled butter into the mixture.

Allow the mixture to blend for 30 seconds after all the butter has been added making sure the mixture is thickened before removing.

Pour the mixture into a double boiler pan over low heat until ready to serve.

Place a piece of ham on a plate.

Place the shell with the egg onto the ham.

Pour the sauce over the top just before serving.

Serves: 12

These are perfect served at an Easter brunch. Try Canadian bacon instead of ham for something a little different.

Escalloped Pineapple and Cheese

arika — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 08:00:24 +0000
A yummy Easter treat, also great any time.
What You Need:

1/2 C sugar

3 T self rising flour

1 (20 oz.) can pineapple tidbits, reserve juice

1 C sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1/2 C crackers, crushed

1/4 C butter, melted

How to Make It:

Place the oven temperature on 300 degrees and allow the oven to preheat.

Pour the sugar into a large mixing bowl.

Add the flour to the sugar and toss gently to combine.

Dump the pineapple, juice and all into the bowl.

Add the cheese and stir the mixture together until completely combined.

Spray a 2 qt casserole dish with a non stick cooking spray.

Spread the pineapple mixture evenly into the prepared dish.

Spread the cracker crumbs over the top being sure to go completely to the edges of the dish.

Pour the melted butter evenly over the cracker crumbs.

Bake 20 minutes or until bubbly.

Serves: 6    Mini marshmallows can be added to this casserole. This dish is great as a fruit side dish or as a sweet and tasty dessert any time.

Free Historical romance novel

Admin — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:02:14 +0000
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Mother’s Day Planning Checklist Part 1

arika — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 10:30:04 +0000

Too often Mother’s Day sneaks up on us and instead of gifting your mother with a well planned day we hastily throw something together, grab the last card on the shelf and give her toast with peanut butter and coffee to her for breakfast. You an avoid that this Mother’s Day with a little advanced planning.

Buy or Make your Mother’s Day card

Write your mother a poem. Don’t wait until the last minute for this. You want it to sound well thought out and sincere. Not thrown together at the last minute.

Get the signature of everyone that needs to sign the card

If you’ll be giving her flowers make sure you have picked them out or have ordered them to be delivered.

Choose an appropriate gift and then purchase it. If you are ordering online, make sure that you allow enough time for shipping and delivery.

Choose a wrapping paper or pretty gift box and get your package ready for giving

Strawberry Topped Cinnamon Rolls

arika — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 09:00:22 +0000

What You Need:

1 (16 oz.) pkg. hot roll mix

4 T of sugar, divided

1 C warm water (120-130 degrees)

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 T + 1/2 C butter, softened and divided

2 C frozen strawberries, sliced

1/2 C brown sugar, packed

1/2 C light corn syrup

2 t ground cinnamon

How to Make It:

Set the oven temperature to 375 degrees allowing the oven to heat.

Place the hot roll mix including the yeast packet into a mixing bowl.

Add in 2 T of the sugar.

Pour the warm water into the bowl.

Add the egg and 2 T of the softened butter.

Blend the ingredients together well until it forms a soft dough.

Flour a flat surface lightly.

Turn the dough onto the flour and knead for 5 minutes or until smooth.

Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and allow it to stand for 5 minutes.

Place the strawberries, brown sugar, corn syrup and remaining butter into a saucepan.

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a steady boil.

Stirring continuously, cook the mixture for 3 minutes.

Pour the mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 13x9 baking dish.

Lightly flour the flat surface again and roll the dough out into a rectangle.

Place the remaining sugar into a small mixing bowl.

Sprinkle in the cinnamon and toss to combine well.

Sprinkle the mixture over the entire piece of dough.

Starting with the long side, roll the dough up into a jelly roll.

Pinch the seam to seal then cut into 12 slices.

Place cut side down over the top of the strawberry sauce in the prepared pan.

Bake 22 minutes or until the rolls are a golden brown.

Invert onto a serving platter.

Makes 1 dozen rolls

It's a guarantee that Mom will be surprised when you serve her one of these little treats. Add a cup of coffee or tea and it will be a breakfast she will always remember. Fresh strawberries or fresh or frozen rhubarb can also be used.

Mother’s Day Planning Checklist Part 2

arika — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 09:00:31 +0000

If you are cooking a meal, make sure you get the ingredients from the grocery store so you aren’t caught without a key ingredient.

If you are making a coupon book for mom to redeem throughout the year make sure to get it done and printed early.

Taking mom to a movie, play or concert? Make sure you buy the tickets in advance

Make sure anyone you have invited to share this Mother’s Day with you has been notified of your plans and is able to attend

Get your camera ready and have extra batteries ready – just in case

Pampering mom at the salon or spa? Don’t forget to make the appointments

Need a babysitter for evening plans? So do your neighbors. Don’t wait until the last minute or you might just be out of luck.

Make any reservations that need to be made. Here are a few reminders:

Restaurant – if you will be eating out

Airplane – if you will be traveling

Hotel – if you need one while traveling

Car – again, if it is needed.

The important thing to remember is to plan, plan, plan ahead. Put reminders on your calendar, your cell phone or anything that will trigger your mind to remember that you have some important planning to do. Make this Mother’s Day the best planned, least stressful one every and be sure to do it again next year.

Hickory Smoked Double Grilled Cheese

arika — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 09:00:10 +0000

What You Need:

2 t butter

2 pieces of Texas toast

1 slice of Cheddar cheese

3 slices hickory smoked bacon, cooked crisp

2 slices of sweet red bell pepper

1 slice of Swiss cheese

How to Make It:

Spread the butter on one side of each piece of Texas toast.

Place one slice of toast in a small skillet over medium heat.

Add the slice of Cheddar cheese.

Place the bacon on top of the Cheddar cheese.

Lay the bell pepper slices over the bacon.

Add the slice of Swiss cheese over the pepper slices.

Place the second piece of Texas toast, butter side up on the top.

Grill for 3 minutes, turn and continue grilling an additional 3 minutes or until browned and the cheese has begun to melt.

Makes 1 serving

This is a special twist to an old favorite. It's easy enough that you can even help a child prepare it for Mom. Add a dish of cottage cheese or applesauce and give Mom a lunch she won't soon forget.

7 Great Mother’s Day Cooking Gifts Part 1

arika — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 09:00:48 +0000

Mother’s Day is a day to show your mother your love and appreciation. One way you can show your mother how much you care about her is by presenting her with a thoughtful gift. Think of the things your mom has talked about over the past year and take steps to make her cooking thoughts become culinary reality.

If your mom is a gourmet cook then perhaps you could select an item that she has been dying to get her hands on. Chances are you have heard about this item over and over but if you do not have any idea where to begin looking rest assured there are many, many choices to be found for the cooking connoisseur. Some ideas might be: a gourmet knife set; those new pots and pans she has had her eye on; a new set of spices or unusual spices she has in mind for a special recipe; a gift certificate for companies like Pampered Chef, Taste of Home or other direct sales food company fan so she can get her favorite new product

You say your mom doesn’t cook or she has been wanting to learn something new? Well, then the perfect gift might just cooking lessons and that is something you could even take together. There are all sorts of cooking lessons from learning the most basic to more advanced or specific culinary techniques. Choose something she would love and you are sure to make your mom happy this Mother’s Day.

Steak Salad with Asian Chili Sauce

arika — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 09:00:13 +0000

What You Need:

1 lb. beef flank stead

1 T soy sauce

8 oz. rice noodles

1 cucumber

1/2 C Asian sweet chili sauce

1/2 C of water

1 C fresh julienned carrot

Fresh cilantro

How to Make It:

Allow the broiler to preheat.

Brush the steak on both sides with the soy sauce.

Place he steak on the broiler pan rack.

Broil 5 inches from the heat for 18 minutes or until a meat thermometer reaches 160 degrees for medium done, turning once during cooking time.

Remove the steak to a platter and slice in thin strips across the grain.

Cook the rice noodles according to package directions.

Drain the noodles well and rinse under cool water.

Slice the cucumbers crosswise into three sections.

With a vegetable peeler cut ribbons lengthwise from each piece.

Place the chili sauce into a mixing bowl.

Whisk the water into the chili sauce until well combined.

Divide the steak, noodles, cucumber ribbons and carrots into four serving bowls.

Pour 1/4 of the sauce over each salad.

Sprinkle the cilantro over the top of each salad just before serving.

Makes 4 servings

Preparation time: approximately 13 minutes

Cooking time: approximately 18 minutes

Total time: approximately 25 minutes

Moms love a salad and this one can't be beat. If you can't find Asian sweet chili sauce in your local supermarket Mom's favorite Italian style dressing works just as well.

7 Great Mother’s Day Cooking Gifts Part 2

arika — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 09:00:26 +0000

Is your mom a fanatic for a Italian, German, or French food? Perhaps a cook book with mom’s favorite cuisine or by her favorite chef would be an ideal gift.

How about an evening of mother-daughter cooking? Put together the ingredients for your mother’s favorite meal and spend time together making memories.

A basket filled with kitchen gadgets is a useful idea for any mom. Think of things that your mom does over and over in the kitchen. Is there a doodad that would help her save some time in meal preparation? What about a tool that she might only use a few times a year but she would love to have for those special recipes.

Mom’s favorite desert is always the right way to go. You can make it for her and deliver it in a nicely decorated box or have her favorite local bakery make her favorite confection and surprise her.

If your mom’s sweet tooth bends more toward chocolate or candy then get a bunch of her favorites and give it to her in a multi-purpose container. Every time she takes a bite she will think of you and your kindheartedness.

The trick to finding the perfect Mother’s Day gift for the cooking enthusiast is to pay attention. Watch her when you are shopping together, listen to her when she is talking with you and then take that information and create the perfect gift for your mother this year.

Pizzazz Pepperoni Salad

arika — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 09:00:26 +0000

What You Need:

1 (8 oz.) pkg. lettuce greens

4 C cherry tomatoes

1/2 sweet red onion, sliced

1/2 sweet red pepper, sliced

1 (6 oz.) pkg. sliced pepperoni

1 (4 oz.) pkg. mozzarella cheese, shredded

1/2 C extra virgin olive oil

1/3 C white balsamic vinegar

1 t parsley

1/8 t dried basil

1 t garlic, minced

3/4 t salt

1/2 t pepper

1 (5.5 oz.) box Italian seasoned croutons

How to Make It:

Place the lettuce into a large salad bowl.

Add the tomatoes, onions and red pepper and toss to combine.

Add in the pepperoni slices and toss again.

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top.

Cover the salad and chill at least 4 hours.

In a jar with a tight fitting lid place the olive oil and vinegar.

Add in the parsley, basil, garlic, salt and pepper.

Tighten the lid and shake until all the ingredients are combined together well.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat the salad well.

Sprinkle the top with the croutons just before serving.

Makes 6 servings

If Mom is a pepperoni pizza lover but hasn't indulged in one of her favorites for awhile fix her this salad. Sliced mushrooms or sliced green olives can also be added.

The Food of Mother’s Day Part 1

arika — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 09:00:07 +0000

Unlike Turkey at Thanksgiving, Ham at Christmas or even Turkey or Ham at Easter, there is no specific food that says “Mother’s Day.” Depending upon your outlook not having a “go-to” meal for Mother’s Day can be a curse or a blessing.

If you know the favorite food or meal of the mom in your life is then your job is simple. Make a menu of those items, create your grocery list, shop for the items, find the recipes and cook. However, if you have no clue what you would like to prepare for her this Mother’s Day read on.

Breakfast

Breakfast in bed might sound like a wonderful idea but mom might just be sitting in bed worrying about the mess you are making. A better idea might be to just get the kids ready and let mom shower and dress in peace and then take everyone out to breakfast at her favorite restaurant or diner. However, if you would like to make a breakfast for mom then make her favorite dishes and don’t forget to clear the table, wash the dishes and put them away.

Bacon and Onion Topped Rib Roast

arika — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 09:00:29 +0000

What You Need:

1 (4 to 5 lb.) bone in rib roast

1 garlic clove, minced

1 t salt

1/2 t pepper

1 onion, sliced

8 strips of bacon

How to Make It:

Set the oven temperature to 325 degrees and allow the oven to preheat.

Lay the roast, fat side up, on a rack placed into a shallow baking dish.

Rub the roast with garlic on all sides.

Sprinkle the salt and pepper over the entire roast.

Cover the top of the roast with the onions.

Add the bacon strips over the onion slices.

Bake, uncovered, 3 hours or until a meat thermometer reaches 160 degrees for medium or 170 degrees for well done.

Transfer the meat to a platter and allow it to stand undisturbed for 15 minutes.

Makes 10 servings

Preparation time: approximately 15 minutes

Cooking time: approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes

Total time: approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes

What a simple but elegant meat to serve Mom on her special day. It doesn't take a lot of effort to put together and the best part is that while it cooks you can pamper Mom in other ways too.

The Food of Mother’s Day Part 2

arika — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 09:00:24 +0000

Brunch / Lunch

If you let mom sleep in a little – that means watching any little ones that might be around – then you can serve her a brunch or lunch. You can prepare the meal while she is waking up and getting ready for the day and then surprise her when she walks into the kitchen with a sumptuous meal. Once again, it is your responsibility to clean up so try to plan a relaxing activity for her to do while she is waiting for you to finish the dishes. A well rested mother with food in her belly is a happy mother.

Dinner

A full day – remember Mother’s Day is on a Sunday – might mean you need to wait until the evening meal to shower your mom with her edible treats. If you are not able to prepare the meal yourself it is still possible to have a delicious meal with a little advanced preparation or even perhaps by ordering a meal from your local grocery store, Honey Baked Ham store or some other food delivery service. Don’t forget to include the paper good! That way everyone can enjoy a “home cooked meal” without the dirty dishes that come along with preparing dinner.

Food is just another way to express your love and appreciation to your mom and she will truly appreciate any effort your put forth into making her day special.

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms Topped with Cheese

arika — Fri, 01 May 2009 09:00:32 +0000

What You Need:

2 (5 oz) Portobello mushrooms

2 T of olive oil

1 garlic clove, minced

1 (6 oz.) can crabmeat, drained and flaked

5 t mayonnaise

1 sweet red pepper, halved and roasted

2 provolone cheese slices

How to Make It:

Remove the stems from the mushrooms and discard.

Heat the broiler while preparing the stuffed mushrooms.

Spray a baking sheet with a non stick cooking spray.

Pour the oil into a small mixing bowl.

Whisk the garlic into the oil.

Brush the mushroom caps well with the oil mixture.

Place the prepared mushrooms on to the baking sheet.

Broil 6 inches from the heat for 5 minutes or until tender.

Remove the mushrooms from the broiler.

Place the crabmeat into a bowl.

Fold the mayonnaise into the crabmeat until well combined.

Place a red pepper half into each mushroom half.

Divide the crab mixture between the two mushrooms.

Lay a slice of cheese on top of each mushroom half.

Return to the broiler for 1 minutes or until the cheese has begun to melt.

Makes 2 servings

Preparation time: approximately 20 minutes

Broiling time: approximately 6 minutes

Total time: approximately 26 minutes

Dads if you want to pamper Mom on her day try this wonderful dish. If crab is not on the top of her list of favorite foods fill the mushroom with shredded pork or beef instead. To roast your pepper halves place them on a cookie sheet that has been greased with a little olive oil. Place them in a 400 degree oven for 15 minutes or until tender.

6 Mother’s Day Gifts of Gourmet Food Part 1

arika — Sat, 02 May 2009 09:00:36 +0000

If your mother is an absolute foodie then giving her a gift of food will both warm her heart and fill her stomach with yummy goodness this Mother’s Day. Here is a short list of ideas to get your imagination flowing.

For The Chocolate Lover – If your mother has a sweet tooth and completely adores chocolate or other types of candy then a basket (or other useful container) full of her favorite chocolates or candy from when she was a little girl – you know the one she gushes about every time she sees it? – should hit the spot. You could do a chocolate around the world themed basket with bars of chocolate, hot chocolate or cocoa from different regions or places famous for their chocolate. Places that come to mind include Mexico, Switzerland, England, Belgium, France as well as the United States.

For The Wine Lover – Is mom a wine aficionado? A thoughtful gift for the mom who loves her wine might be to give her a gift of wine tasting at a local winery. You could also take a trip to a local wine shop and purchase a selection of wines so she could have a private tasting at home. Perhaps you could choose some artisanal cheeses and an assortment of crackers to go along with the wines you have picked for her. Package it all up in a basket with appropriate accoutrements and you have a lovely gift.

For The Regional Cuisine Lover – If your mom is a lover of a specific cuisine such as Italian, French, Mexican, etc. Then head off to the store and put together the ingredients for a delicious meal from appetizers to desert and then include the recipes. Using Italian as an example your menu could include a bread salad, her favorite pasta & sauce, complementary wine, and tiramisu for desert. Include some Italian themed items like napkins and you are set.

Easy Skillet Fries

arika — Sun, 03 May 2009 09:00:35 +0000

What You Need:

2 T of olive oil

2 C refrigerated sliced potatoes

1/2 t salt

1/4 t pepper

How to Make It:

Place the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Stir the potatoes into the oil.

Sprinkle the potatoes with the salt and pepper being sure to turn the potatoes to cover all sides.

Cook 6 minutes then turn the potatoes over.

Continue cooking an additional 6 minutes or until the potatoes is browned and crispy.

Makes 4 servings

Preparation time: approximately 5 minutes

Cooking time: approximately 12 minutes

Total time: approximately 17 minutes

These potatoes are so easy to do even a child can help fix them. They go great with bacon and eggs for breakfast or as a side dish with lunch or dinner. One half cup of chopped onions and a half cup of chopped peppers can also be added for a special treat.

6 Mother’s Day Gifts of Gourmet Food Part 2

arika — Mon, 04 May 2009 09:00:00 +0000

For The Tea/Coffee Lover – A thoughtful yet easy gift for your mother might include a pretty tea cup and saucer or a coffee mug with meaningful images or inspirational words. Add an assortment of tea bags or one pot coffee bags of different verities, flavored creamers or special sugars along with a new tea or coffee pot and maybe even a tea strainer for loose leaves or a special coffee scoop. A favorite book included in the package will make your gift extra special.

For The Fresh Fruit Lover – Does your mom love Georgia peaches but you live in where Washington apples grow? Does she crave Florida or California citrus but you live in Michigan where cherries are plentiful but citrus is sparse? If your bank account isn’t rich enough to send her where her favorite fruit grows then think about “ordering in.” You could have her favorite fruit shipped to her (within agricultural guidelines) or even make a gift of fruit trees or plants for her ongoing pleasure.

For The Food Lover – Another great idea is gifting a membership to a food of the month club. There are as many clubs as there are foods. Deserts, soups, steaks, cheese, hot sauce, salsas, barbeque sauce, pasta and pizza. Why, there’s even a bacon of the month club. Would you rather send a full meal instead of just one type of food? Then a dinner of the month club might be your answer.

So, give your mother the gift of food this Mother’s Day and she will think of you fondly all year long.

Braised Carrots in Maple Sauce

arika — Tue, 05 May 2009 09:00:42 +0000

What You Need:

1 1/2 T of butter

1/2 C chicken broth

3 T of maple syrup

2 t lemon juice

1 lb. baby cut carrots

1/4 t salt

1/4 t pepper

How to Make It:

Place the butter in a medium skillet positioned over medium heat.

When the butter has completely melted stir in the chicken broth, maple syrup and lemon juice.

Add the carrots and stir to coat them well with the maple sauce.

Set a lid slightly ajar over the skillet and cook the carrots for 7 minutes or until the carrots are fork tender and most of the sauce has been absorbed into the carrots.

Sprinkle with the salt and pepper just before serving.

Makes 4 servings

These carrots make a great side dish to serve with pork. You can even add a little crunch to them by stirring in 1/4 C of chopped pecans just before serving.

Berry Bliss for Mom

arika — Thu, 07 May 2009 09:00:50 +0000

What You Need:

3/4 C cold milk

1 (4 serving size) box vanilla flavor instant pudding and pie filling

1 1/2 C whipped topping, thawed and divided

1 (10.75 oz.) prepared pound cake

1/4 C of orange juice

1 C of fresh raspberries

1 C of fresh strawberries, sliced

1/4 C fresh black berries

How to Make It:

Place the milk into a mixing bowl.

Sprinkle the pudding mix into the milk.

With an electric mixer, beat the mixture for 2 minutes or until well blended.

Fold in 1 C of the whipped topping until well combined.

Cut the pound cake into 3 layers lengthwise.

Place the first layer on a serving plate.

Brush the layer with orange juice.

Spread 1/2 of the pudding mixture on the cake layer.

Sprinkle 1/3 of the raspberries over the pudding.

Sprinkle 1/3 of the strawberries over the raspberries.

Add the next layer of cake and brush with orange juice.

Sprinkle on 1/3 of the raspberries and 1/3 of the strawberries.

Add the last layer of cake and brush with remaining orange juice.

Spread the last cake layer with the remaining whipped topping.

Sprinkle the remaining raspberries and strawberries over the top.

Finish by sprinkling the black berries over the top of the cake.

Cover loosely with foil and chill for at least 4 hours but no longer than 24 hours.

Makes 8 servings

Preparation time: approximately 20 minutes

Refrigeration time: approximately 4 hours

Total cooking time: approximately 4 hours 20 minutes

Mom will think you worked all day making this cake. French vanilla instant pudding and pie filling will also work. If Mom is more into citrus fruit such as oranges, lemons and limes use those and use lemon pudding instead.

Mom’s Mocha Pudding Delight

arika — Sat, 09 May 2009 09:00:45 +0000

What You Need:

1 1/2 C of cold milk

1/2 C brewed coffee, cooled

1 (4 serving size) chocolate instant pudding and pie filling

12 chocolate sandwich cookies, divided

1 1/2 C frozen whipped topping, thawed

How to Make It:

Pour the milk into a large mixing bowl.

Add the coffee and stir slightly to combine.

Sprinkle in the pudding and pie filling.

Whisk for 2 minutes or until blended together well.

Transfer half of the pudding mixture into 4 dessert cups.

Crumble 2 cookies into each dessert cup.

Fold the whipped topping into the remaining pudding mixture.

Transfer the mixture equally into the 4 dessert cups.

Top each dessert with a cookie.

Makes 4 servings

If you're Mom likes chocolate and coffee this dessert is right up her alley. Chocolate chip cookies can be used in place of the sandwich cookies. Instead of topping this dessert off with another cookie add a red or green maraschino cherry.

Book Review: In from the Cold: A Romantic Thriller of Chechnya

Admin — Fri, 22 May 2009 01:32:16 +0000
Book Review: In from the Cold: A Romantic Thriller of Chechnya by Carolyn Stone 5.0 out of 5 stars Suspenseful, definitely romantic I enjoyed this box, which was fast-paced and sexy. The book was written long before 9/11, (I think the first edition was copyright 1997, actually, 12 years ago! is how long that war has been going on) and even long before most people had heard of Chechnya. It is realistic and gritty; the author being a freelance journalis, the whole novel has a breathless, on-deadline quality about it, which actually lends itself to the subject matter totally. For a fast, fun read, I don't really expect great literature! So, I definitely recommend it to romance readers, and anyone who enjoys really strong characters. It's not a fluffy beach read, but it isn't depressing or too violent either. I really enjoy the fact that the author doesn't just put characters into the book to kill them off for shock effect the way so many writers do. We really come to care about all the characters (and who are the good guys, and who the bad One man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter.) She grasps the complexities of the situation, though this is certainly only intended to be an entertaining read. The hero is dark, brooding, inwardly scarred. He gets to come to terms with his past, in a most surprising way, and is then free to be open to the possibility of a normal life after so many years as a spy. The heroine is a breath of fresh air--an academic recruited as an agent, she is the last person who ever imagines she'll become a spy, until her father is kidnapped. She turns out to be tough, resourceful, and really goes through hell to win the man she loves. I love the settings in Cambridge and Oxford, very accurate, and the excellent visual detail. If you want get caught up in a book with a real epic feel to it and some interesting twists and turns, you'll enjoy this novel for sure. 346 words The PDF edition is available from http://www.herstorybooks.com

Hurricane preparedness

Admin — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:13:07 +0000
Yes, it is that time again, getting ready for hurricane season. Here is a list of useful websites, so you can get together your go bags for you and your family and pets now. hurricane and disaster preparedness for families for businesses www.semo.state.ny.us www.ready.gov www.floodsmart.com nyredcross.org nhc.noaa,gov national hurricane center www.weather.gov national weather service www.fema.gov

Cool Off with a Summer Salad Part 1

arika — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 16:11:12 +0000

With summer days come hot, humid weather and everyone trying to find a way to stay cool. Summer also means light meals that are cool and refreshing. One of the better ways to accomplish this is to have a salad. Not just any salad but a summer salad.

Summer salads made with fruits and vegetables are cool and refreshing. They aren't heavy and can be quite nutritional. These salads are also easy to throw together, which is great on those days when running here and there can take its toll.

What works best in a summer salad? Lettuce of course tops the list. It’s cool and refreshing and even the crisp sound gives us a little relief. There are many other foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables that also work well in a summer salad.

Fruits and vegetables are plentiful in the summer months. Farmer’s markets, fruit and vegetable stands and even the grocery stores are filled with the wonderful smells and colors of these fresh little wonders.

Cool Off with a Summer Salad Part 2

arika — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:12:58 +0000

Let's start with vegetable salads. What vegetables make the best types of salad? Just about any will work.

Tomatoes and cucumbers are some favorite vegetables and they are starting to become seasonal at this time of year. Tomatoes comes in all shapes and colors in the summer months. Everyone knows about red tomatoes, but yellow and orange are also quite popular. From cherry tomatoes to large beefy tomatoes, there's quite a variety to choose from.

Peppers are also a great veggie addition to your salads. Bell peppers can add color and taste to a summer salad. Green, red, yellow, purple and orange peppers not only look pretty, but they taste great too. Don't forget the squash and zucchini. These give your salad a little crunch and a lot of flavor.

What about fruit? Fruit is also in abundance during the summer months. Strawberries, raspberries, apples, peaches and pears along with fruits of the citrus family can be found very easily.

Try a citrus salad. Mix oranges, lemons and limes together. Add some yogurt for a little sweetness and sprinkle on the nuts. Citrus fruits not your thing? Try strawberries, bananas and grapes. Mix in marshmallows and some whipped topping. Add a cherry or two and you have a fruit salad that will satisfy even the pickiest eater.

Any number of fruits and vegetables can be tossed together to form a great summer salad. Use your imagination and concoct a different salad each day of the week. Using fresh ingredients and keeping them cool will allow you to experience the awesome taste of these salads, without sweating to death in the process.

Bubbling Cauldron Recipes: Dip and Witch Brew Fit for Halloween Parties Part 1

arika — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 06:00:08 +0000

Throwing or attending a Halloween party this year and wondering what to make? Bubbling cauldrons are the dish of choice for the ghosts and witches of the night. Here are two recipes everyone in attendance is sure to enjoy.

Goblin Dip

Ingredients:
Ø      1 pkg (16 oz.) Velveeta processed cheese, cubed
Ø      16 oz shredded Swiss cheese
Ø      1 can(10 ½ oz.) cheddar cheese soup
Ø      2 cans (15 oz.) black beans (drain well)
Ø      1 jar medium or hot salsa
Ø      1 can (4 oz) diced jalapeno peppers, (drain well)
Ø      1 round loaf of pumpernickel or round marble rye bread, unsliced
Ø      2 loaves (18 ounces each) round marble rye bread, unsliced
Ø      Pretzel rods

Preparation:
Put canned soup into saucepan. Add the processed and swiss cheese into the pan. Melt cheeses over low heat, stirring often. Remove from heat. Stir in beans, salsa and jalapeño peppers, if desired. Carefully cut center out of bread, leaving 1-1/2-inch shell. Cut or tear bread center into pieces for dipping.
Fill your emptied bread bowl (cauldron) with the cheese. Take your cut or tore bread pieces that you took from your bowl and place on a serving plate. For an added extra touch, you could “assemble a campfire” of pretzel rods around the bowl. Put 1 full pretzel rod into the cheese dip and serve immediately.

Alternate Ideas for Goblin Dip
If you want more of a Mexican taste to your cheesy dip, add a package of taco seasoning into the saucepan when cooking and a can of Ro-tel tomatoes with green chilis.

Using Halloween cookie cutters (you can purchase them) and cocktail bread, cut out some decorative pieces of bread for dipping.

Bubbling Cauldron Recipes: Dip and Witch Brew Fit for Halloween Parties Part 2

arika — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:43:48 +0000

Witch’s Brew Recipe

Ingredients:

Ø      2 packages lime Jell-O
Ø      Ice (if needed)
Ø      Lime Kool-Aid
Ø      1 Gallon Green Punch Kool-Aid or Green Punch (any brand)
Ø      Cauldron or Punch Bowl
Ø      Ladle

Directions:

The night before, using the lime Kool-Aid prepare ice cubes. You’ll need to use the flavored ice cubes as this particular witch’s brew does not do well watered down with plain water ice cubes. It will water it down too much.

In enough time for the Jell-O to set before serving, prepare both packages of lime Jell-O. Place in fridge to set. Make one gallon of Green Punch Kool-Aid or you can purchase a gallon of any brand green punch. Chill.

When ready to serve, using a fork, mash up the set Jell-O into globs. Pour the punch into punch bowl or cauldron. Add Jell-O globs and Kool-Aid ice cubes.

Tips for serving: Because this is a Jell-O punch, do not use a pitcher to serve. The Jell-O will try and sit on the bottom. Make certain you stir the punch well and ladle it into your guests’ cups.

Flying Broomstick Ghosts

arika — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 06:00:27 +0000

What You Need:

Ø      1 (3 ft.) roll of chewy fruit snack
Ø      14 (3 inch long) pretzel sticks
Ø      2/3 C white baking chips
Ø      1 t miniature semisweet chocolate chips

How to Make It:

Cover a cookie sheet completely with wax paper.
Unroll the fruit snack and cut the long end of the snack from end to end into 1/2 inch fringe.
Cut the roll into 2 inch segments.
Wrap a piece of the fringed fruit snack around one end of each pretzel stick.
Use your fingers to press the fruit snack onto the pretzel to make it stick well.
Place the pretzel sticks onto the prepared cookie sheet.
Place the white baking ships into a saucepan placed over low heat.
Stirring almost constantly with a wooden spoon heat the chips for 5 minutes or until completely melted.
Remove the pan from the stove.
Measure out 1/2 t of the melted chips and pour into a ghost shape over the middle of a pretzel stick to form a ghost.
Continue until you have made all 14 ghosts.
Press 3 of the chocolate chips onto each ghost head for the eyes and a nose.
Allow the ghosts to set at room temperature for 45 minutes or until they have hardened.

If you are strapped for time you can melt the white baking chips in the microwave instead of on the stove. Place the chips into small microwaveable dish and microwave on high for 30 seconds then stir until the chips have completely melted. Place the completed ghosts in the freezer for 5 minutes to harden.

Makes 14 candies

Preparation Time: approximately 20 minutes
Cooking Time: approximately 5 minutes
Hardening Time: approximately 45 minutes
Total Time: approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information (approximate values per candy)
Calories 50; fat 3g; sodium 20 mg; carbohydrates 7g; sugar 6g; protein 0g

Wacky Halloween Lollipops

arika — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 06:00:16 +0000

What You Need:

Ø      1 1/2 C of sugar
Ø      3/4 C of water
Ø      2/3 C of light corn syrup
Ø      1/2 t cream of tartar
Ø      1/2 t peppermint oil
Ø      Black and orange paste food coloring
Ø      10 lollipop sticks

How to Make It:

Butter 10 assorted size round cookie cutters and place them on a parchment lined baking sheet.
Place the sugar, water and corn syrup into a saucepan and place the pan over medium heat.
Stir in the cream of tartar and cook the mixture, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved.
Stop stirring and bring the mixture to a boil.
Continue cooking without stirring until a candy thermometer reaches 300 degrees.
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the peppermint oil.
Be careful to keep your face away from the pan when stirring in the oil as the aroma is very strong.
Spoon 1/4 C of the mixture into two separate custard cups and tint one cup orange and one cup black.
Pour the remaining mixture into the prepared cookie cutters.
Drizzle the black and orange sugar mixtures over the cookie cutters and use a toothpick to swirl the mixture through each lollipop.
Remove the cutters just before the lollipops completely harden and place a lollipop stick into each lollipop.

These lollipops can be made with size or shape of cookie cutter. Once they have hardened wrap them in plastic wrap and tie them with a Halloween bow. They make great hand out treats for all those scary trick-or-treaters.

Makes 10 lollipops

Pumpkin Carving Made Easy Part 1

arika — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:19:18 +0000
Fall is fast approaching and that means pumpkins. As far as the eye can see, fields will be filled with the orange colored delights. Thousands of pumpkins will be carved this year for contests and the front porch. Here are some ideas to make pumpkin carving less of a mess and more fun. For the novice, it is enough to be able to cut out a design that others can recognize. Most people take any old pumpkin and a kitchen knife that could slice off their nose to practice their pumpkin carving skills. This is a mistake many of us make. First, deciding on the size and scope of the design for the pumpkin determines the size and shape of the pumpkin used. Elaborate scenes (usually out of the expertise of an amateur) may require a fat squat looking pumpkin. Witches on brooms do well with tall thinner pumpkins. Draw the design on a piece of tracing paper. Using tracing paper makes it easier to see through to the pumpkin when it comes time to transfer the design. Using an X-acto blade or a sharp knife, score the pumpkin through the design on the paper. Scoring makes carving a lot simpler. And, simple is what we are going for.

Pumpkin Carving Made Easy Part 2

arika — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:22:18 +0000
The majority of the work is done. Kids also like to come up with their own designs for pumpkin carvings and they can use the same method. With kids and most adults, the better choice for carving would be a pumpkin carving kit. Pumpkin carving kits take into account the fact that we are clumsy people. No one wants to end up with body parts inside the pumpkin. The tools are great for slicing through the soft flesh of a pumpkin but friendly to our fingers and hands. As always, when using any sort of cutting tool, cut away from the body to avoid accidents. Electric carving tools are available on the market. This simplifies the process even more. Just turn in on and let it do all the work. Don’t let the tool get away from you or it will shred your pumpkin before you can say, “Boo!” Pumpkin carving is a time honored tradition for fall. Towns that hold fall festivals award major prizes for the best carving in each of several categories. Just because you are not the Rembrandt of pumpkin carving doesn’t mean the prize for Funniest Looking or Most Original won’t go to you. Pumpkin carving doesn’t have to be a hard task. The purpose is to have fun and create something new and exciting. Following a few safety precautions means a safer autumn activity for all involved.

Pumpkin Activities for Kids Part 1

arika — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:23:42 +0000
Kids can do wonders with pumpkins if they are given the chance. When fall finally arrives, let them see what they can do with pumpkins and pumpkin images. Small pumpkins are so cute. They sit over in the produce section looking like holiday decorations. They look more like gourds than a form of squash/gourd. Buy a few of these tiny pumpkins and bring them home to your kids. They are too small for carving but each one of those pumpkins can have a unique face. Using non-toxic paint, allow the kids to decorate those pumpkins. Besides paint, kids can use squiggly eyes, pipe cleaners, glue, construction paper, and other accessories to turn those pumpkins into great table centerpieces or household decorations for fall. Using non-toxic pain allows you to skin the pumpkins and cut them up later to be used in food dishes. These tiny pumpkins resist bruising and dents. Use them for outdoor fall games instead of the bigger pumpkins. Try a pumpkin toss or pumpkin bowling. Be sure to conduct any pumpkin games on grass or other soft surfaces to avoid damage to your pumpkins.

Make Your House Smell Delightful with this Pumpkin Roll Recipe Part 1

arika — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 06:00:54 +0000

This is my favorite Halloween treat and one of the reasons is because it makes the house smell yummy. This pinwheel design comes from spreading cream cheese filling onto a flat pumpkin square and rolling it up. I double the recipe and freeze a loaf for later when I need something absolutely delicious to serve up. It takes a little work if you’re not used to handling your cakes, but once you’ve figured out the little tricks and how to mend your mistakes (if you make them) you’ll become an expert.

Some recipes you find call for making pumpkin puree. I have done this, but found that buying pure pumpkin is by far, easier, less messy and just as tasty. You’re going to add your own spices, so don’t buy the kind with them already added.

Make Your House Smell Delightful with this Pumpkin Roll Recipe Part 2

arika — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 06:00:12 +0000

Let’s start! You will need to preheat your oven to 375 degrees and get your pan ready. Using a 15 x 10 inch pan (Texas sheet pan is what I call it) spray it with butter spray. You can use regular but I prefer the butter spray. I lightly flour this as well.

Now for the Pumpkin Roll:

Ø      3/4 c. flour
Ø      1/2 t. baking powder
Ø      1/2 t. baking soda
Ø      3/4 t. cinnamon
Ø      1/4 t. allspice
Ø      1/4 t. salt
Ø      3 large eggs
Ø      1 c. sugar
Ø      1/2 t. vanilla
Ø      2/3 c. pumpkin puree

Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice and salt into a large mixing bowl. Set aside.

Beat your eggs and sugar together on high until fluffy (about 5 minutes). You will know when it is enough; the mixture is thick and forms a ribbon pattern off your beaters when turned off and lifted slowly out of the bowl. Next, beat in the vanilla extract and pumpkin. Slowly add in sifted flour mixture you set aside earlier. Gently mix thoroughly. Pour batter into pan, evenly spreading the batter.

Bake for 13 - 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Don’t overcook. You want the cake to “spring back” when lightly touched with your finger.

While pumpkin is baking, take a piece of wax paper and lay it on a flat work area. Sprinkle this with powdered sugar and finely chopped walnuts.

Immediately, after cake is done, turn this carefully onto the dish towel that you have prepared. Sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar and roll up the pumpkin roll, with the towel. You want to do this while the cake is hot. Set aside and wait to cool.
Filling:

Ø       8 oz. Softened cream cheese
Ø      2 T. softened butter
Ø      1 c. powdered sugar
Ø       1/2 t. vanilla

Beat cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Add sugar and beat until smooth. Once the pumpkin roll has cooled, you can carefully unroll it. If you have breakage, you can use your filling to fix the cracks. You will have fewer cracks if you roll the cake immediately out of the oven and wait until it is totally cool before filling. Now spread your filling over the roll. Keep in mind that you may have some squeeze out so you will probably want to put less filling on the outside 1/2 inch of your roll. Once filled, re-roll your pumpkin roll. Lightly sprinkle with powdered sugar. Wrap in foil and freeze. When ready to serve, slice thin and enjoy.

If you’re like me, all that yummy smelling earlier from baking will make you want to eat these tasty treats right away.

Edible Halloween Jack-O-Lanterns

arika — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 00:31:03 +0000
What You Need: 4 3/4 C all-purpose flour 2 TBSP baking soda 3/4 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. baking powder 2 tsp. cinnamon 1 1/2 tsp. ginger, ground 3 sticks unsalted butter, softened 1 3/4 C sugar 2 lg. eggs 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1/2 C pumpkin puree How to Make It: Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt and baking powder. Sprinkle in the cinnamon and ginger and toss to combine well. In a separate bowl beat together with an electric mixer the butter and sugar until smooth and creamy. Place one egg into the bowl and mix until combined. Add the second egg and the vanilla and continue to mix on medium speed until all the ingredients are incorporated together. Place the pumpkin puree into the mixture and continue to beat just until the pumpkin is mixed in. Turn the mixer on low and beat the mixture for 45 seconds increasing the speed from low to medium as you mix. Place the cookie dough on a clean flat surface Roll the dough into 2 in. logs and wrap each log in plastic wrap. Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for 1 1/2hours. Set the oven temperature to 350 degrees and allow heating up. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper. Cut the logs into 1 in. slices and place the slices on the prepared cookie sheets. Bake 13 minutes or until the cookies just begin to crack. Makes 4 doz. cookies These can be decorated to look just like a jack o lantern with a little white icing colored with a few drops of food coloring. Use gel icing to make the eyes and mouth. Replace the pumpkin puree with molasses for a different treat.

Hay Bale Candy Drops

arika — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 06:00:30 +0000

What You Need:

Ø      1 (11 oz.) pkg. butterscotch chips
Ø      2 T of creamy peanut butter
Ø      1 (12 oz.) jar dry roasted peanuts
Ø      1 (4 oz.) can potato sticks

How to Make It:

Place the chips into a large heavy saucepan.
Add the peanut butter to the pan and place the pan over low heat.
Stirring constantly, heat the mixture for 5 minutes or until very smooth.
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the peanuts until well coated.
Add the potato sticks and carefully stir to coat them well.
Line a pan with wax paper and drop the mixture by teaspoonfuls onto the paper.
Chill the hay bales until firm.

These sweet salty drops will have them coming back again and again. They make great trick or treat candies when wrapped tightly in plastic and tied with a Halloween bow. Semisweet chocolate chips may be used in place of the butterscotch chips if you prefer. The nuts are optional.

Makes 5 dozen drops

Green Monster Toes

arika — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 06:00:50 +0000

What You Need:

Ø      12 oz. white candy coating, chopped
Ø      Green paste food coloring
Ø      22 peanut butter filled oblong sandwich cookies
Ø      11 miniature Tootsie rolls, cut in half lengthwise

How to Make It:

Place the candy coating into a microwave save bowl.
Heat the candy on high for 1 minute.
Remove and stir.
If the candy is not completely melted and smooth continue heating at 30 second intervals, stirring after each time until melted and smooth.
Add enough green paste food coloring to reach the desired color.
Dip each cooking into the green frosting until completely coated, letting any excess drip back into the bowl.
Place the coated cookies on wax paper.
Press half of a Tootsie roll into the top of each cookie to form a nail.
Let the cookies stand for 15 minutes or until the coating has hardened.

These no bake simple cookies take very little time to make and even less time to eat. The kids will love them and so will the adults. There so simple to make even the kids can join in the cooking fun.

Makes 22 cookies

Preparation Time: approximately 10 minutes
Cooking Time: approximately 1 minute
Cooling Time: approximately 15 minutes
Total Time: approximately 26 minutes

Jammin’ Pumpkin Spread

arika — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 12:47:30 +0000
What You Need: 1 (5 lb.) pumpkin 1 C dried apricots, chopped fine 2 lbs. sugar How to Make It: Cut the pumpkin into quarters using a very sharp knife. Remove the seeds with a large spoon. Use a spoon and remove the pulp. Place the pulp into a large mixing bowl. Add the sugar and toss to cover the pulp. Cover and allow standing at least 4 hours or overnight. Add the chopped apricots and stir to combine. Place the mixture into a large saucepan over low heat. Cook 1 1/2 hour, stirring often, until the pumpkin is tender and becomes a clear color. Remove from the heat and allow the spread to cool to about room temperature. Place the spread in a jar, seal tightly and place in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. 12 Servings This spread is great on toast, bagels and even used in place of syrup on pancakes. For a little tarter taste add 4 thinly sliced pieces of lemon to mixture while cooking.

The Great Pumpkin: Fact or Fiction? Part 1

arika — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:26:41 +0000
We have heard of the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny, and Santa Claus, but what about the Great Pumpkin? The only one rumored to have seen him has no corroborating witness to validate the claim. Does he really exist? This issue needs to be resolved once and for all. It started with Charles Schultz and a little boy named Linus, but it has taken on a life of its own. Now, all kids want to know the origins of the Great Pumpkin. According to Linus, the Great Pumpkin visits all of the pumpkin patches around the world. He appears to the one who has the best pumpkin patch in his opinion. The kids waiting for him will receive candy and treats for their efforts. First of all, kids don’t grow pumpkins. They may have started off by planting the seeds, but most of the day to day work is done by the adults. So, why do the kids get all the fun?

The Great Pumpkin: Fact or Fiction? Part 2

arika — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:29:06 +0000
The Great Pumpkin was thought up by Peanuts creator Charles Schultz. One of his most memorable characters, Linus Van Pelt, tries to convince all of his friends that they should wait in a creepy old pumpkin patch instead of going door to door for their treats. Of course, they ignore him except for Charlie Brown’s sister, Sally. She is so love-struck that she can’t see the pumpkin poo for the starts in her eyes. But, even she has her limits. Year after year, she is left with no candy and itchy arms from spending the night in the pumpkin patch. I wonder if her parents knew where she was. Many parents have endeavored to solve their kid’s curiosity with a little Great Pumpkin action of their own. Instead of waking up to the horror that their kids have snuck off to sit in a pumpkin patch all night, they have used the Great Pumpkin idea to start their own holiday traditions. Kids who donate part of their candy haul for a good cause will get a visit from the Great Pumpkin. He will take the donated candy and leave a toy or some cash in its place. Hey, no one can eat all that candy and they get good stuff out of the deal. There are other ways for the Great Pumpkin to manifest himself during the fall months. Maybe the Great Pumpkin actually takes over for the Tooth Fairy so she can go on vacation for a few months. Who knows? I guess we’ll all find out this fall if Linus was right.

Spooky Graveyard Squares

arika — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 06:00:31 +0000

What You Need:

4 C miniature marshmallows
1/4 C of butter, cubed
6 C crispy rice cereal
12 oval shaped chocolate cream filled cookies
1 tube white decorating gel
1 (16 oz.) can ready to spread chocolate frosting
Halloween sprinkles

How to Make It:

Place the marshmallows and butter into a large saucepan.
Place the pan over medium low heat and stirring continuously cook the mixture for 5 minutes or until completely melted.
Remove the pan from the heat and fold in the cereal until well coated.
Grease a 13 X 9 inch baking pan.
Press the cereal mixture evenly into the pan.
Allow the cereal mixture to cool then cut into 12 squares.
Cut about 1/2 inch off the bottom of each of the cookies and place into a bowl.
Use the white decorating gel to write RIP onto each of the cookies.
Place 2 T of the frosting in a circle in the middle of each of the cereal squares.
Place 1 decorated cookie into each frosting circle.
Crush the reserved cookies and sprinkle over the top of each square.
Sprinkle each square with the Halloween sprinkles.

This is one graveyard you won’t be able to keep the trick or treaters out of. In fact they may ask for more. Make more by doubling the ingredients in this recipe.

Makes 12 servings

Preparation Time: approximately 30 minutes
Cooking Time: approximately 5 minutes + cooling
Total Time: approximately 35 minutes + cooling

Spiced Pumpkin Yogurt Shake

arika — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 12:54:26 +0000
What You Need: 1/2 C pumpkin puree 3/4 C vanilla yogurt 2 tsp. brown sugar 1/4 tsp. cinnamon 1/8 tsp. nutmeg 4 ice cubes How to Make It: Place the pumpkin puree and yogurt into the blender. Add the brown sugar and pulse to just combine. Sprinkle the cinnamon and nutmeg into the mixture. Add the ice cubes and blend until the mixture is smooth but still thick. Pour the mixture into 2 milk shake style glasses. 2 Servings Place a small dollop of whip topping with a generous portion of sprinkles on the top and watch the kids slurp up this thick and delicious yogurt shake. 1 C of whole milk can be substituted for the yogurt if you prefer.

Fall Pumpkin Pudding

arika — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 12:53:13 +0000
What You Need: 4 eggs 2 C pumpkin puree 1/2 C light molasses 1 C milk 1 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. ginger How to Make It: Place the oven temperature on 350 degrees and allow the oven to heat while preparing the pudding. Spray a square glass baking dish with a non stick cooking spray. Break the eggs into a mixing bowl. Whip with a fork until light and fluffy. Stir the pumpkin puree in with beaten eggs making sure they are combined wel. Pour in the molasses and then the milk. Continue stirring until completely mixed together. Sprinkle in the cinnamon and ginger and mix until just combined through. Place the pudding in the prepared baking dish. Bake 55 minutes or until firm. 6 Servings This pudding is great right out of the oven or it can be covered and placed in the refrigerator to cool before serving. Sprinkle a little nutmeg over the top before serving.

A Touch of Coffee Pumpkin Truffles

arika — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:55:48 +0000
What You Need: 2 1/2 C vanilla wafer cookies, crushed 1 C toasted almonds, ground 1/2 C powdered sugar, sifted 2 tsp. cinnamon 1 (6 oz.) pkg. semi sweet chocolate chips 1 C pumpkin puree 1/3 C coffee liqueur How to Make It: Place the crushed cookies and the ground almonds into a large mixing bowl. Sift the powdered sugar over the top of the cookies and almonds. Sprinkle in the cinnamon and toss the ingredients to cover well. Add the chocolate chips to the mixture and toss again to make sure the chips are completely mixed in. Fold in the pumpkin puree and pour the liqueur over the top. Mix with your hands until combined together well. Roll mixture with your hands into 1 in. balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with wax paper about 2 in apart. Place in the refrigerator at least 2 hours or until the truffles are firm. 48 Truffles Apple juice may be substituted for the coffee liqueur if you prefer. Roll the balls in sifted powered sugar, coconut or ground almonds or dip them in melted semi sweet chocolate. If dipping in chocolate return them to the refrigerator to chill until the chocolate is set.

Halloween Oatmeal Cookie Triangles

arika — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 06:00:04 +0000

What You Need:

1/2 C butter, softened to room temperature
3/4 C brown sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 t vanilla extract
1 C of flour
1 C quick cooking oats
1/2 t baking powder
1/2 t baking soda
1/4 t salt
1 (12.6 oz.) bag of Halloween M&M’s
1/2 C chopped pecans
1/4 C sweet coconut, flaked

How to Make It:

Preset the oven temperature to 350 degrees.
Generously spray a 12 inch pizza pan with a non stick cooking spray.
Place the softened butter in a small mixing bowl.
Add the brown sugar and beat on low speed until creamy.
Bread the egg in the bowl and add the vanilla.
Beat on medium speed until well combined.
Stir in the oats, baking powder, baking soda and salt until blended in well.
Stir in 1 C of the M&M candies.
Press the batter onto the prepared pizza pan.
Sprinkle the top of the batter with the pecans and coconut.
Press the remaining M&M's into the batter.
Bake 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool on a wire rack then cut into triangles.

This quick and simple cookie pizza will brighten any child's Halloween. If you can't find Halloween M&M's in your local store go www.mms.com and order your own customized candies or you can buy regular M&M's and use only the orange and brown colored ones in this cookie. The rest of the M&M's can be placed in a bowl for everyone to munch on during the party.

Makes 12 cookie triangles

Vegetables and More Stuffed Pumpkin Shells

arika — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:00:18 +0000
What You Need: 2 small whole pumpkins 4 TBSP sugar 6 TBSP Tamari sauce, divided 1 C water 1/4 C raisins 1/4 C apricots, chopped 1 tart apple, chopped 1/2 C walnuts, chopped 1 celery stalk, chopped 1 white onion, chopped 1 red onion, chopped 1 (15 oz.) can corn, drained 1 green pepper, chopped 1 red pepper, chopped 1 small yellow squash, chopped 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced 2 C brown rice, cooked 1/4 tsp. mace 1/4 tsp. turmeric 1/2 tsp. cinnamon How to Make It: Wash, cut out the top and clean out the seeds of both pumpkins. In a mixing bowl combine the sugar and 2 TBSP Tamari sauce. Coat the inside of the pumpkins with the mixture. Turn the oven heat to 350 degrees and allow the oven to reach that temperature. Place the water in the bottom of a large baking pan. Place the pumpkins in the pan and replace the tops. Cover completely with foil. Bake 18 minutes or until the inside of the pumpkin begins to tender when pricked with a fork. Place the raisins, apricots, apples and walnuts together in a large mixing bowl and toss to combine. Add the celery, both onions, corn, all 3 peppers, the squash, the mace and turmeric and mix well. Carefully fold in the cooked rice. Place the remaining 4 TBSP of Tamari sauce into the mixture and mix until all the ingredients are incorporated together. Sprinkle the cinnamon inside the two pumpkins being sure to cover them well. Divide the vegetable mixture between the two pumpkins and replace the tops on the pumpkins. Place more water in the baking pan if necessary to ensure the bottom is completely covered. Continue baking uncovered for 50 minutes. Stir to incorporate the pumpkin pulp into the stuffing mixture before serving. 8 Servings Be very careful when removing the pumpkins from the pan. The bottoms become very soft during baking. Place a piece of foil in the bottom of the pan and over the sides before placing the water and pumpkins in the pan. When ready to remove fold the foil over the pumpkins and lift the pumpkin out to keep the bottom together. Any leftover should be stored in a container in the refrigerator and not left in the pumpkin shells.

Savory Pork Chops in a Snap

arika — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 06:00:48 +0000

What You Need:

1 t cumin

1 t chili powder

4 boneless pork chops

1 T canola oil

1 1/4 C mild salsa

1 t baking cocoa

1/8 t cinnamon

2 T cilantro, minced

1 green onion, chopped

How to Make It:

Place the cumin and chili powder together in a small bowl and whisk to combine.

Rub the pork chops with the mixture on both sides.

Place the canola oil into a large skillet over medium heat and allow it to heat up.

Place the pork chops into the hot oil and brown 4 minutes.

Turn and continue browning 3 minutes.

Place the salsa, cocoa and cinnamon into another small bowl and whisk to combine.

Pour over the chops in the skillet and bring the mixture to a brisk boil.

Reduce the heat to low and cook 10 minutes or until the meat is fork tender.

Be sure to turn the chops once and stir the mixture a couple of times during cooking.

Remove the chops to a serving plate and sprinkle the cilantro and green onion over the tops.

Serving Size: 4

This recipe works for a fast Valentine's Day dinner. They only take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. They are also a spicy touch to your Valentine's Day dinner. Leave off the rub if you believe they are too spicy.

Cherry and Rice Stuffed Pumpkin

arika — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:02:42 +0000
What You Need: 1 (4 lb.) pumpkin 3 qt. water 1/4 tsp. salt 1 1/2 C long grain rice 2 tart apples, cored, peeled and diced 1/2 C dried cherries 1 stick unsalted butter, melted 1 TBSP sugar 3/4 tsp. Cinnamon 1/4 C hot water How to Make It: Wash, cut out the top and remove the seeds from the pumpkin. Use a melon baller to scoop as much of the pumpkin pulp as possible out of the pumpkin. Chop the pulp and place in large mixing bowl. Place the water in a saucepan and add the salt. Stir in the rice. Place the pan over medium high heat, cover and cook the rice 15 minutes or just until starting to soften. Drain the rice well through a colander. Heat the oven up to 325 degrees. In the bowl with the pumpkin pulp place the rice, apples and cherries. Add the melted butter and mix well to combine. Sprinkle in the sugar and cinnamon and continue to stir until all the ingredients are completely covered. Stuff the pumpkin shell with the mixture and sprinkle the hot water over the top of the stuffing. Place the lid back on the pumpkin. Place the pumpkin on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake 1 hour and 45 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender. Allow to cool slightly before cutting into 8 wedges. 8 Servings This tastes great and makes a great centerpiece for any Thanksgiving dinner table.

Mystery Halloween Cookie Pops

arika — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 06:00:00 +0000

What You Need:

1 (12 oz.) pkg. vanilla baking chips
2 T solid shortening, divided
Orange food coloring
1 (16 oz.) pkg. cream filled chocolate cookies
32 Popsicle sticks
1 (6 oz.) pkg. semisweet chocolate chips

How to Make It:

Place the vanilla baking chips and 1 T of shortening together in a microwave safe bowl.
Place in the microwave on high for 1 minute.
Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir until smooth.
If the chips haven't melted enough return the bowl to the microwave for 30 seconds then stir again until smooth.
Add the food coloring and stir until you reach the desired color of orange.
Remove the tops off all the cookies.
Dip each Popsicle stick in the melted chip mixture and place one on each cookie half.
Return the tops to the cookies and place them on a sheet of waxed paper.
Place the cookies in the freezer for 15 minutes.
Reheat the chip mixture for 15 seconds in the microwave if it has hardened.
Dip each of the cookie pops into the melted chocolate covering the cooking well and allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl.
Return the cookies to the wax paper and freeze for 30 minutes or until set.
Place the chocolate chips and remaining shortening into a microwave safe bowl.
Microwave on high for 1 minute then stir until smooth.
Drizzle the mixture over each of the cookie pops.

These lollipops are a little different than the norm but the kids will love them. Wrap individual cookies and hand out to all your trick or treaters or give each party guest their own special Halloween treat.

Makes 32 lollipops

Munchable Scarecrows

arika — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 06:00:08 +0000

What You Need:

1 (18 oz.) pkg. refrigerated sugar cookie dough
1 C of flaked coconut
Yellow, orange, red and blue food coloring
18 gum drop fruit slices
1 C of powdered sugar, divided
1 T of milk, divided
Mini chocolate chips

How to Make It:

Roll out the cookie dough on a flat surface.
Use gingerbread men cutters and cut out 18 shapes.
Place the cutouts onto a baking sheet and bake according the directions on the package.
Remove the cookies and cool to room temperature on a wire rack.
Place the coconut into a bowl.
Add enough yellow food coloring to color the coconut to resemble the color of straw.
To make the scarecrow hats place the gum drops on a lightly sugared surface and roll them out flat.
Cut hat shapes out of each gum drop.
Divide the powdered sugar into 3 mixing bowls.
Place 2 to 3 drops of the orange, red and blue food coloring into each separate bowl.
Add the milk to each bowl and stir to form a paste, adding more milk if necessary to reach the desired consistency.
When the cookies have cooled, frost the heads, hand and feet of each cookie with the orange frosting.
Press the tinted coconut into the frosting on the head, hands and feet area.
Use the blue and red frosting to frost on the scarecrows shirt.
Place the hat onto the scarecrows head by placing a little orange frosting on the back of the hat and pressing it onto the scarecrow.
Place 2 to 3 of mini chocolate chips down the front of the scarecrows shirt for buttons.

Scarecrows are a favorite sight around Halloween. These scarecrow cookies won't last long so make a second batch to be sure you have enough to go around. Use any shade of food coloring you like to make the shirts.

Makes 18 cookies

What bad daily habits do you have when it comes to money?

Admin — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:36:14 +0000
Here is a handy article on what we can all do every day to stay on top of our finances, and our health!http://finance.yahoo.com/expert/article/moneyhappy/196161

Creamy Bread Crumb Potatoes

arika — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 09:00:57 +0000
A great hearty side dish.
What You Need:

5 lbs. potatoes

1/2 C + 1 1/2 T butter, divided

1/2 C flour

2 1/2 C chicken broth

2 1/2 C half and half

4 egg yolks

1/2 C fresh parsley, minced

1 1/2 t salt

1/2 t pepper

1/8 t cayenne pepper

1/2 C seasoned bread crumbs

How to Make It:

Place the unpeeled potatoes into a large kettle and cover with water.

Place the kettle over high heat and bring the water to a brisk boil.

Reduce the heat to medium, cover the kettle and cook the potatoes for 15 minutes or until they are just beginning to tender.

Drain the potatoes in a colander and rinse under cold water.

Allow the potatoes to cool enough to handle.

Remove the skins and cut the potatoes into slices.

In a saucepan over low heat melt the 1/2 C of butter.

Once the butter has melted stir in the flour until smooth.

Add the chicken broth and cream.

Adjust the heat to medium and allow the mixture to come to a brisk boil.

Stirring continuously boil the mixture for 2 minutes or until it begins to thicken.

Take the pan off the heat.

Place the egg yolks in a small bowl and beat slightly with a fork.

Pour 1 C of the hot sauce into the egg yolks and stir to combine.

Place the egg mixture into the pan with the remaining sauce.

Place the pan over medium heat and stirring continuously add in the parsley, salt, pepper and cayenne pepper.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and stirring continuously cook for 2 minutes.

Set the oven temperature to 375 degrees.

Spread 1 C of the sauce into the bottom of an ungreased 3 qt baking dish.

Top the sauce in the baking dish with 1/3 of the potatoes.

Continue with 2 more layers of the sauce then potatoes.

Melt the remaining butter then toss with the bread crumbs.

Spread the bread crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.

Bake 35 minutes or until bubbly.

Serving Size: 12

Fend Off Tooth Decay and Treat a Soldier This Halloween Part 1

arika — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:01:06 +0000

While our U.S. soldiers are overseas serving our country, dentists all over America are participating in a buyback program that treats our soldiers while trying to prevent cavities in our little ones.

Children trample all over the neighborhoods, visit their friends and family on Halloween all in hopes of coming hope with the lots of yum-yum gooey sugar. They dump the candy out on the floor or table and begin to go through the candy piece by piece. They pick out what they really like and for the most part, the rest goes into a bowl and sits there for several months until mom finally dumps it into the garbage.

This magnificent mound of candy is not seen as glorious by any dentist. Dentists see tooth decay and unnecessary trips to their office for children instead. Of course brushing and flossing is the biggest prevention of tooth decay but the less sweets you eat the less chance you have of developing tooth decay. This nightmarish vision sparked within dentists everywhere to come up with the candy buyback program.

I became aware of this program last October when I got a notice from our dentist’s office. They would buy back any candy that we didn’t want from our Halloween take-home at a dollar a pound. The intent was not to rob the children of their childhood Halloween memory but to let them have a choice of what they wanted to sell back. What a deal! They explained that they would then send the goodies we sold them overseas to our soldiers.

Pepperoni Pizza Bites

arika — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 06:00:41 +0000

What You Need:

1 (4 oz) pkg. pepperoni slices

1 green pepper, diced

1 onion, diced

1 C cherry tomatoes, halved

1/4 C Italian dressing

1 C Mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 (13.4 oz) pkg. refrigerated pizza dough

How to Make It:

Place the oven on 400 degrees and allow the oven to heat while preparing the pizza bites.

Spray a large baking pan with a non stick cooking spray.

Place the pepperoni in a mixing bowl.

Add the green pepper, onion and tomatoes to the bowl and toss to combine.

Pour the dressing into the bowl and toss again to make sure all the ingredients are covered well.

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Sprinkle the cheese over the top of the entire mixture.

Unroll the pizza dough and cut it into 2 inch pieces with a sharp knife.

Lay the dough pieces over the top of the pepperoni mixture.

Bake 10 minutes or until the top is a golden brown and the mixture is heated through.

Let stand 5 minutes then invert on a large serving plate.

Serving Size: 6

This is a fun and easy appetizers for children's parties.

Serve it with warm pizza sauce as a dip and watch them gobble it right up.

Squirmy Crawler Cupcakes

arika — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 06:00:32 +0000

What You Need:

1 1/4 C of water
1/3 C of canola oil
3 eggs
1 (18.25 oz.) box yellow cake mix with pudding
3/4 C ready to spread chocolate frosting
24 gummy worms

How to Make It:

Preset the oven temperature to 350 degrees allowing the oven to preheat.
Place paper cupcake liners into the cups on a muffin tin.
Spray the lines lightly with a non stick cooking spray.
Pour the water into a mixing bowl.
Whisk the canola oil into the water.
Add the eggs and whisk until well combined.
Add the cake mix powder and stir until blended in well.
Fill the paper lines 2/3 full of the batter.
Bake for 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cupcakes comes out clean.
Remove the cupcakes to a wire rack and cool for 20 minutes.
Using a wooden spoon handle make a hole in the center of each cupcake about as wide as a penny.
Place the frosting into a baggie and snip one corner off the bag.
Squeeze the frosting into the holes on the cupcakes allowing a small amount to top the cupcake.
Press a gummy worm into the frosting hole of each cupcake leaving a portion of the worm over the edge of the cupcakes.

Kids will love these cupcakes. Wrap them in decorative plastic wrap to give as treats or place them on your Halloween party table for the kids to enjoy.

Makes 24 cupcakes

Preparation Time: approximately 20 minutes
Baking Time: approximately 22 minutes
Cooling Time: approximately 20 minutes
Total Time: approximately 1 hour 02 minutes

Nutritional Information (approximate value per cupcake):
Calories 200; fat 8 g; sodium 160 mg; carbohydrates 30 g; sugar 24 g; protein 2 g

More reasons to quit smoking

Admin — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:47:48 +0000
We all know that smoking is bad for us. So why is it so hard to quit?If you find yourself lacking in motivation to even try, or are struggling to give up, here is a timely article that can help motivate you to quit once and for all.Reasons to Quit Smoking

Fend Off Tooth Decay and Treat a Soldier This Halloween Part 2

arika — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:48:17 +0000

Trying to convince young ones of how great it is to send their candy to someone else is no easy task. However, if you let them know the dentist is offering to pay them for their goods, they may be more compromising. Personally, I thought of giving the money back to the dentist in order to help with the shipping cost. My seven year old was not so agreeable.
After my son went through his candy for a couple of days, on November 2^nd we went down to our dentist’s office for our first buy back. It felt good knowing that the troops were being treated; my son was making a little cash and we were doing more to help prevent cavities as well.
Operation Gratitude, a nonprofit organization out of California, distributes the candy to soldiers and I attempted to talk my son into splitting the amount of money he received for his candy. After a bit of coercing and explaining to him why this was such as good idea, he finally agreed.
If you’re interested in participating in the candy buy back for soldiers, ask your dentist or look for a dentist in your area that takes part in this program. Eat up soldiers and thank you!

New FTC guidelines for bloggers-truth in advertising

Admin — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:58:38 +0000
Here is the latest explanation about the new FTC guidelines regarding truth in advertising when it comes to blogging: Truth in Advertising Frankly, we would never endorse a product that we had not tried, or did not use regularly!

Totally Batty Cupcakes

arika — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 06:00:46 +0000

What You Need:

1 (18.25 oz.) pkg. chocolate cake mix
1 (16 oz.) can chocolate ready to spread frosting
24 fudge stripped cookies, halved
24 chocolate kisses
Red decorating gel

How to Make It:

Prepare the cake and bake as directed on the package for 24 cupcakes.
Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack
Frost the cupcakes with the frosting.
Place 2 halves of the cookies into each cupcake to represent the bat wings being sure the stripes are to the backside of the cupcake.
Carefully press a chocolate kiss into the front of the cupcake to represent the bats head.
Place two small drops of the red decorating gel onto the kiss to form the eyes.

If you want your cupcakes to look really batty scallop the edges of the cookies before adding them to the cupcakes.

Makes 24 cupcakes

Preparation Time: approximately 25 minutes
Baking Time: approximately 20 minutes + cooling
Total Time: approximately 45 minutes + cooling

Sinfully Fabulous Pumpkin Fudge

arika — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:57:16 +0000
What You Need: 4 C sugar 1 C milk 3 TBSP light corn syrup 1 C pumpkin puree 3 TBSP unsalted butter, broken up 1 tsp. vanilla 2 C walnuts, coarsely chopped How to Make It: Butter a 9 in square pan well on the bottom and up the sides and set aside. Place the sugar into a large heavy saucepan. Pour in the milk and the corn syrup. Fold in the pumpkin puree and mix all the ingredients together well. Turn the stove burner to medium low and place the saucepan over the heat. Stir continuously cook until the sugar has completely dissolved. Stop stirring once the sugars has dissolved and continue to cook until a candy thermometer reaches 238 degrees. Remove the pan from the stove. Add the butter but do not stir the mixture. Allow the mixture to set until the candy thermometer reaches 140 degrees. Add the vanilla and stir to combine. Add the walnuts and using a wooden spoon briskly stir the mixture for 45 seconds. Pour the mixture immediately into the prepared square pan. Once the fudge begins to harden cut it into small squares. Allow the fudge to cool completely before removing the squares to an air tight container. 2 lb. Serving The walnuts can be replaced with pecans or can be left out completely if you prefer. The fudge can be stored in a cool place for up to 10 days.

Snackable Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

arika — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:05:40 +0000
What You Need: 1 qt. water 2 TBSP salt 2 C pumpkin seeds 1 TBSP unsalted butter, melted How to Make It: Place the oven temperature on 250 degrees Place the water in a large saucepan over medium high heat. Sprinkle in the salt and bring the water to a steady boil. Add the seeds and continue boiling for 12 minutes. Drain the seeds well using a colander. Lay the seeds in a single layer on a piece of paper towel and pat them dry. Place the melted butter in a mixing bowl. Add the seeds and toss to coat evenly. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake 35 minutes being sure to stir every 12 minutes or so during the baking. Seeds should be a light golden brown and crispy when toasted. Allow the seeds to cool before shelling and eating. Makes 2 C of toasted seeds These can be added to any trail mix or snack mix or eaten just as they are.

Puffed Pumpkin Rolls

arika — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 00:42:32 +0000
What You Need: 2 TBSP solid shortening 1 1/4 C sugar 2 lg. eggs, beaten 1 C pumpkin puree 1 tsp. vanilla 3 C all purpose flour 3 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. nutmeg 1 C milk How to Make It: Place the shortening and sugar into a large mixing bowl. Cream the two together with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Add the eggs and mix until they are just incorporated into the batter. Place the pumpkin puree and vanilla into the mixture and continue mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl sift together the flour, baking powder and salt. Sprinkle in the cinnamon and nutmeg and toss to combine. Alternating back and forth between the flour mixture and the milk add each a little at a time being sure to mix slightly after each addition. Place the dough, covered, in the refrigerator for 1 hour to chill. Once chilled, roll the dough on a flat, lightly floured surface to 1/4 in. thickness. Use a cookie cutter, dusted with flour, to cut out the puffs. Bring the oil in a deep fryer to 365 degrees. Drop the puffs a couple at a time into the hot oil and fry until a light golden brown. Place on paper to drain. 12 Servings Replace the pumpkin puree with squash puree for something a little different. Puffs can also be glazed by using a little confectioners’ sugar dissolved in milk and spread over the puffs while still slightly warm.

Pressure Cooking Basics Part I

arika — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 07:00:53 +0000

If you don’t own a pressure cooker, once you learn how easy it is to use and how awesome your food turns out, you will want to get one and start using it right away! Cooking your foods in a pressure cooker is faster than traditional baking or cooking and your meals come out oh so delicious.

How a Pressure Cooker Works

Pressure cooking is a method of cooking where steam is sealed in a special airtight pot. The vapor from the liquid (such as stock, broth, water, wine or brandy) rises and is captured in the pressure cooker when it is sealed. This then raises the pressure in the pressure cooker as well as the temperature of the liquid to its maximum. The increased temperature and pressure significantly speeds up the cooking time by infusing hot steam into the food.

Pressure cooking can speed up cooking times over 1/3 or more and is often 10 times faster than traditional cooking. Compared to microwave cooking, foods taste considerably better and compared to a slow cooker, foods cook in a significantly shorter amount of time.

Pressure Cooking Basics Part II

arika — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 07:00:43 +0000

Higher Pressure = Shorter Cooking Time

Pressure cookers come in a variety of pressures, so be sure to use the right amount of cooking time for the amount of pressure for your cooker. The highest pressure is 15psi, so if your cooker’s pressure is lower than that, you may have to increase the cooking time by 12 or 15 percent, depending on the recipe. Most recipes for pressure cookers indicate the amount of cooking time at 15 psi.

When the pressure selector dial on a modern pressure cooker is set to high (15psi) it is safely under a pressure of 15 pounds per square inch. 15 pounds of pressure is less than half of the pressure in a normal car tire, so it’s not very much, but it’s enough to greatly reduce the cooking time of food. The temperature inside the pressure cooker is increased above what is possible in a normal stovetop cooking pot.

The steam pressure inside the pressure cooker cooks food much more rapidly than just boiling or baking. And while microwaves cook fast, often the food is dried out, rubbery or soggy. Using a pressure cooker, while the cooking time is greatly reduced, the quality of the food is preserved. Meats are juicy and tender, vegetables melt in your mouth and desserts come out more delicious than ever. Pressure cooked foods also retain their vitamins and nutrients unlike boiled or baked foods.

So, as you can see, using a pressure cooker is not only safe, but it saves you time and makes your foods taste much better!

Pressure Cooker Beef Recipes Part I

arika — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 07:00:23 +0000

Pressure Cookers aren’t just for beans! Using a pressure cooker saves time and money over baking in the oven or using a crock pot. In addition to that the meat is juicier and much tenderer. Below are some quick and easy recipes you can use with beef. The recipes times are based using a 15psi pressure cooker. For a lower psi pressure cooker, add 12% to 15% more time.

Old Fashioned Meat Loaf - Prepare the meat in the morning and chill to firm for a nice evening supper.

Ingredients:

·         1-1/2 lb. chopped or ground beef

·         1 tsp. salt

·         Ground black pepper

·         2 slices bread, soaked in water and squeezed dry

·         2 tbsp. parsley

·         1 med. Onion, minced

·         1 Garlic Clove

·         1 Egg

·         2 tbsp. Chicken Stock

·         2 tsp. Worcestershire Sauce

·         2 tbsp. Olive Oil

·         1 cup Tomato Sauce

·         1 cup Water

Preparation:

In a bowl, combine the meat, salt, pepper, bread, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, chicken stock and Worcestershire sauce. Shape into two small loaves. Wrap each in wax paper and chill several hours to firm.

When ready to commence cooking, heat the oil in the pressure cooker and brown the loaves well on all sides. Transfer to the cooker basket. Discard the oil and combine the tomato sauce and water and season with salt and pepper and spread over the loaves. Lower the basket into the pressure cooker, lock lid and bring to pressure. Lower heat and cook for 15 minutes on high pressure (15psi). Allow pressure to drop by quick release method or automatic release method, slice and serve.

Serves 4

Pressure Cooker Beef Recipes Part II

arika — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 07:00:17 +0000

Beef Stroganoff - A family favorite, serves 4

Ingredients:

·         2 lb beef stew meat or round steak cut into 1” cubes

·         3 tbsp. vegetable oil

·         2 tbsp. flour

·         1 large onion, chopped

·         1 tsp. garlic

·         1 cup beef broth

·         1/4 lb. fresh mushrooms, sliced

·         2 tbsp. tomato paste

·         1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

·         1 cup sour cream

·         Salt and Pepper to taste

·         1 pkg. egg noodles cooked

Preparation:

Brown meat in pressure cooker. Add flour and mix well. Stir in onion, garlic, beef broth, mushrooms, tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, blend thoroughly.

Lock the lid and bring to pressure. Lower heat and cook for 25 minutes on high pressure (15psi). Allow pressure to drop by the natural release method and remove lid. Stir in sour cream and blend well. Serve over hot egg noodles, or you can stir the cooked noodles into the meat mixture.

Pot Roast - A quick and easy recipe family favorite that serves 4.

Ingredients:

·         3 tbsp. Canola oil

·         1.5 lb. pot roast

·         Salt and pepper

·         1 chopped onion

·         1 bay leaf

·         1-1/2 cups water or beef stock

Preparation:

Place canola oil and roast in pressure cooker and brown on all sides. Place roast on trivet in cooker. Season roast with salt and pepper, then add chopped onion, bay leaf and water or broth.

Lock the lid in place and bring cooker to pressure. Lower heat and cook for 35 minutes at 15psi.

You Can Even Make Dessert with a Pressure Cooker Part I

arika — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 07:00:24 +0000

Preparing desserts has never been easier or less time consuming than with a pressure cooker! Not only are they easy and take less time than they would if you baked them, pressure cooked desserts also taste better and are healthier. Here are some favorite dessert recipes you and your family will love.

Creamy Cheesecake with Fruit Glaze - Delicious and quick to put together!

Ingredients:

·         1 tbsp. butter

·         4 tbsp. bread crumbs

·         2-8 oz. pkgs. Cream cheese

·         3/4 cup sugar

·         1/4 cup heavy cream

·         2 tsp. vanilla

·         2 tsp. grated lemon zest

·         2 tbsp. flour

·         6 tbsp. sour cream

·         2 eggs

·         2 egg yolks

·         2 cups water

Preparation:

Butter a 7 inch spring form mold or other baking dish. Sprinkle with bread crumbs and set aside. In a bowl, blend the cream cheese, sugar, cream, vanilla, lemon zest, flour and sour cream. Beat in the eggs and egg yolks and pour mixture into the baking dish.

Center the uncovered pan on a piece of 24” long aluminum foil. Cover the top of the pan with another piece of foil and pinch around the edges to seal. Create a handle by scrunching up the ends of the foil over the top of the pan. Set the trivet in the pressure cooker and pour in the water. Lower the foil covered pan into the pressure cooker and place on the trivet.

Lock the lid into place and bring to pressure. Lower the heat and cook for 30 minutes at 15psi. Remove from heat and release pressure using the natural release method.

Remove the pan from the pressure cooker using the foil handle. Loosen the foil and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, arrange fruit topping or fruit preserves in thick layer over the cheesecake. If using a spring form pan, release and remove the rim of the spring form pan.

You Can Even Make Dessert with a Pressure Cooker Part II

arika — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 07:00:09 +0000
Preparing desserts has never been easier or less time consuming than with a pressure cooker! Not only are they easy and take less time than they would if you baked them, pressure cooked desserts also taste better and are healthier. Here are some favorite dessert recipes you and your family will love.
Rice Pudding - A favorite especially on those chilly fall or winter days!

Ingredients:

·         1 tbsp. butter

·         1/4 cup long grain rice

·         2 cups milk

·         1 cup water

·         1/3 cup sugar

·         1/2 tsp. salt

·         1 egg

·         1/4 cup evaporated milk

·         1/2 tsp. vanilla

·         Cinnamon to taste

Preparation:

Melt the butter in the pressure cooker and add the rice coating it with butter. Pour in the fresh milk and water and then stir in the sugar and salt.

Lock the lid in place and bring to pressure. Lower heat and cook for 12 minutes at 15 psi. Release pressure using natural release method and remove lid.

In a small bowl, combine egg, evaporated milk and vanilla. Stir in a little of the hot liquid from the pressure cooker then add the mixture to the pressure cooker. Cook uncovered over medium heat with a wooden spoon, stirring constantly until the rice pudding begins to barely bubble. Immediately remove from heat and allow to cool 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Transfer to individual dessert bowls, and refrigerate to continue cooling. Sprinkle with cinnamon when serving.

Makes 4 servings

45 Minute Brown Bread

arika — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 07:00:33 +0000

What You Need:

1 C of yellow cornmeal

1 C of whole wheat flour

1 C rye flour

1 t of salt

4 t of baking powder

1/4 t of baking soda

1 3/4 C of milk

3/4 C of molasses

1 C of raisins

How to Make It:

Place the cornmeal, wheat and rye flour, salt, baking powder and baking soda into a mixing bowl.

Toss the dry ingredients together until well combined.

Stir together the milk and molasses in a separate bowl.

Alternating back and forth between the milk mixture and raisins add them to the flour mixture.

Stir after each addition.

Grease the bottom and sides of 2 bread pans well.

Fill both pans 2/3 full of the batter and cover tightly with foil.

Place both pans, if the cooker is large enough or one pan if not into the pressure cooker.

Remove the pressure regular and place the lid on the cooker.

Cook 15 minutes on low heat without using any pressure.

Replace the regular and bring the cooker up to 15 pounds of pressure on high heat.

Cook 30 minutes then allow the pressure to fall on its own.

Pressure cookers make very moist and delicious breads. Whether it is breads, puddings or custards remember to add the required amount of water as noted in your cooker instructions to ensure you have the right amount of steam for your food.

Makes 2 loaves

Chateau de Moulin Rouge 2006 Bordeaux

Admin — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:29:30 +0000

Chateau de Moulin Rouge 2006 Bordeaux, $11

Good body and flavor, a bit thinner than I would have thought for a Bordeaux. An earthy red long on taste, great value for a French wine, slightly off dry for my liking.

Ham and Pea Soup with Ginger

arika — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 07:00:43 +0000

What You Need:

1 T of garlic, minced

1 small onion, chopped

1/4 lb smoked ham, chopped

3 1/2 C of chicken broth

2 T cilantro, chopped

1 carrot, chopped fine

1/4 lb. split peas

1/4 t fresh ginger, minced

How to Make It:

Spray the cooker with a non stick cooking spray then add the garlic, onion and ham.

Cook the mixture over medium heat for 8 minutes or until the ham is completely browned.

Pour the chicken broth into the cooker.

Add the cilantro, carrots, peas and ginger.

Bring the cooker up to high pressure.

Cook for 9 minutes then let the pressure fall on its own.

This soup is perfect for those cold winter days. Soups turn out delicious when made in a pressure cooker. The hot water, meat, vegetables, seasoning and broths mingle together to give a slow cooked taste in a matter of minutes.

Makes 6 servings

Wild Mushroom and Kielbasa Stew

arika — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 07:00:20 +0000

What You Need:

6 C of beef broth

3/4 oz. dried shitake mushrooms

3/4 C of shallots, sliced

1 1/2 lb. white potatoes, chopped

1/2 lb. fully cooked Kielbasa, sliced

1 C lentils, rinsed and drained

1 t dried thyme

How to Make It:

Pour the beef broth into a large bowl or pan.

Add the mushrooms and let them soak while preparing the ingredients.

Coat the cooker with a non stick cooking spray and add the shallots

Cook the shallots 3 minutes or until lightly browned.

Add the potatoes, Kielbasa and lentils.

Pour the beef broth and the mushrooms into the cooker.

Sprinkle in the thyme.

Bring the cooker to high pressure and cook on medium heat for 20 minutes.

Allow the pressure to release on its own.

Shitake mushrooms can be found in most grocery stores. They can be purchased either dried or fresh. They work well in soups and stews because of their strong garlic flavor. They also have great nutritional value.

Makes 8 servings

Barbecue Steak Dinner with Yams

arika — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 07:00:58 +0000

What You Need:

2 C of water

1 (12 oz.) lean round steak

4 yams, scrubbed and sliced

8 T of barbecue sauce

4 bananas, unpeeled

4 T of honey

1 t cinnamon

How to Make It:

Place the trivet into the bottom of the pressure cooker.

Pour the water over the trivet.

Trim the steak of any visible fat.

Place the steak onto the trivet in the pressure cooker.

Layer the yam slices over the top of the steak.

Bring the pressure cooker to high pressure and cook for 20 minutes.

Cut each of the bananas in half lengthwise.

Drizzle the honey over each banana slice then sprinkle each slice with the cinnamon.

Lay the bananas prepared side up onto a piece of aluminum foil.

Wrap the foil around the bananas and seal.

After the 20 minute cooking quick cool the pressure cooker under cold water.

Spread the barbecue sauce over the top of the yams and steak.

Lay the wrapped bananas on top of the barbecue sauce covered yams.

Recover the cooker and bring the pressure up to high.

Cook for 10 minutes.

Cool the cooker under cold water before removing the food.

The quick release under water is the safest, fastest and easiest method in releasing the pressure in your pressure cooker. Leave the lid on the cooker and place in a cleared sink. Run cold water over the top of the cooker to release the pressure. It only takes a few seconds and when you open the cooker no odors or dangerous steam will escape.

Makes 4 servings

Italian Tomato Pot Roast

arika — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 07:00:25 +0000

What You Need:

1 (3 lb.) pot roast

1 C of baby carrots

1 C onion, sliced

1/2 C of water

1 C dry red wine

4 potatoes

1 (16 oz.) can of whole tomatoes, including the juice

1 t salt

2 T of vegetable bouillon

2 t of Italian seasoning

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 bay leaf

How to Make It:

Coat the cooker with a non stick cooking spray.

Place the roast, carrots and onions into the cooker.

Cook until the roast is browned on all sides.

Pour the water and wine into the cooker.

Lay the potatoes around the roast.

Pour the tomatoes with the juice into the cooker.

Sprinkle evenly with the salt, bouillon and Italian seasoning.

Add the garlic and bay leaf.

Bring the pressure to high and cook for 45 minutes.

Let the pressure fall on its own.

For something a little different substitute sweet potatoes for the regular potatoes and add 2 C of chicken broth instead of the water and wine. When browning meats in the pressure cooker place the cooker on medium heat and gently brown. After the meat has browned add the liquid and proceed as described in the recipe.

Makes 6 servings

Parmesan and Sage Stuffed Onion

arika — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 07:00:09 +0000

What You Need:

4 large sweet onions

1 C of bread crumbs

4 egg whites

1 t dried sage

1/2 t salt

1/4 t pepper

4 t Parmesan cheese, grated

2 C of water

How to Make It:

Scoop the center out of each of the onions leaving 2 layers of onion and being careful not to perforate the onion walls.

Place the bread crumbs into a mixing bowl.

Add the egg whites.

Sprinkle in the sage, salt and pepper and mix until blended together well.

Stuff the onions 2/3 full of the mixture.

Sprinkle each onion with 1 t of the Parmesan cheese.

Pour the water into the pressure cooker.

Place the trivet into the cooker.

Lay the stuffed onions on the trivet making sure the onions do not touch the sides of the cooker.

Bring the cooker to high pressure quickly and cook 5 minutes.

Quickly release the pressure under cold water.

Pressure cookers are a major time saver. They are at least three times faster than normal cooking and almost twice as fast as the microwave. If your food is not done after the recommended cooking time, recover the cooker and bring it back up to pressure. Continue cooking for 3 minutes and then quickly release the pressure again.

Makes 4 servings

Colorful Corn Confetti Casserole

arika — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 07:00:39 +0000

What You Need:

2 C of water

1 C frozen corn

1/2 C frozen peas

1/2 C red bell pepper, chopped

1/4 C frozen pearl onions

1 t of mixed herbs

How to Make It:

Pour the water into the cooker and place the trivet into the cooker.

Generously grease a casserole dish.

Place the corn, peas, bell pepper and onions into the dish.

Sprinkle with the mixed herbs.

Cover tightly and place on the trivet.

Bring the pressure to high and cook 5 minutes.

Reduce the pressure quickly under cold water.

This casserole is not only great tasting but pretty when placed on your table. It makes a great side dish for any meal. Fresh vegetables may be substituted for frozen vegetables if you prefer.

Makes 4 servings

Sweet Pumpkin Golden Syrup

arika — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 12:49:15 +0000
What You Need: 1 C maple syrup 1 1/4 C pumpkin puree 1/4 tsp. cinnamon 1/4 tsp. nutmeg How to Make It: Pour the syrup into a small saucepan and place over low heat. Heat the syrup until it just begins to warm through. Add the pumpkin puree and stir slightly to incorporate. Sprinkle in the cinnamon and nutmeg and stir to mix in well. Stir often and heat until completely warmed through. 8 Servings Great syrup to serve over pancakes, waffles or French toast on a cool fall morning.

Livio Felluga Pinot Grigio 2007

Admin — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:45:29 +0000

Livio Felluga Pinot Grigio 2007 $21.99

Superb Pinot Grigio from the Veneto. Dry, crisp, amazing nose and flavors. Not too much citrus, serve closer to room temperature to really release its full impact. A great wine for the price compared with its cheaper cousins.

Rich Chocolate Nutmeg Custard

arika — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 07:00:31 +0000

What You Need:

2 C of low fat milk

3 eggs, lightly beaten

1/2 C premium sweet cocoa

1 t of vanilla

1/8 t of salt

1 t of nutmeg

How to Make It:

Spray 4 custard cups with a non stick cooking spray.

Place the milk and eggs into a mixing bowl and blend together well.

Add the cocoa, vanilla and salt.

Beat with an electric mixer until combined well.

Divide the mixture into the custard cups filling them 2/3 full.

Place the trivet into the cooker.

Cover each cup tightly with aluminum foil and place on the trivet.

Bring the pressure up quickly and cook for 4 minutes.

Release the pressure quickly under cold water.

Remove the custard cups and sprinkle the top of each with the nutmeg.

There are many variations to this custard. To make a basic egg custard, leave out the cocoa and add 2 T of sugar. For caramel custard use the basic egg custard recipe and place 1 1/2 T of brown sugar into the bottom of each custard cup before adding the custard. After cooking turn the custard upside down and the brown sugar will form a caramel sauce that oozes down the side of the custard.

Makes 4 servings

Warm Oranges in Honey Sauce

arika — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 07:00:49 +0000

What You Need:

3 1/2 C of water, divided

4 large oranges

1/2 C of honey

1/4 t of allspice

1 t of rum extract

How to Make It:

Pour 3 C of water into the pressure cooker.

Place the unpeeled oranges into the water.

Bring the cooker up to high pressure and poach the oranges for 3 minutes.

Quickly release the pressure under cold water, remove the oranges and drain the water.

Peel the oranges and place them back into the cooker.

Add the honey, allspice, rum extract and remaining water to the cooker.

Bring the cooker back up to high pressure and cook for 2 minutes.

Allow the pressure to be released on it own then remove the oranges.

Allow the sauce to heat over medium heat until it has thickened to your preference.

Pour the sauce over the oranges just before serving.

This dish is very versatile when it comes to how it's served. It can be used as a side dish at dinner, as a dessert or even as a breakfast treat. Grapefruit can be substituted for the oranges if you prefer. Be sure when you pressure cook fruit that it doesn't touch the side of the cooker and burn.

Makes 4 servings

Paprika Potato Wedges

arika — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 06:00:47 +0000
A great treat to serve on the side for these chilly fall days.
What You Need:

3 large baking potatoes

1/4 C canola oil

2 t paprika

1 t salt

1/2 t pepper

2 T Parmesan cheese, grated

How to Make It:

Place the oven temperature on 425 degrees and allow the oven to heat while preparing the potatoes.

Line a baking pan with foil then spray the foil with a non stick cooking spray.

Wash the potatoes under cold water then pat dry.

Cut each potato into 8 even size wedges.

Place the oil, paprika, salt and pepper into a sealable plastic bag.

Seal and shake to mix the ingredients together.

Add the potatoes and reseal.

Shake until all the potatoes are covered well.

Remove the potatoes and place skin side down in the prepared baking pan.

Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over all the potatoes.

Bake 35 minutes or until the potatoes are fork tender.

Serving Size: 6

These potato wedges make a great side dish for any lunch.

Serve them with a little sour cream or salsa and your loved ones will be in seventh heaven.

Cinnamon Butter Bread Pudding

arika — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 07:00:11 +0000

What You Need:

8 t of butter, softened

1 t of ground cinnamon

8 slices of stale bread

4 eggs lightly beaten

2 C of milk

2 t of vanilla extract

1/2 C of honey

1/4 C of dried apricots, chopped

How to Make It:

Place the butter into a small mixing bowl.

Sprinkle the cinnamon into the butter and stir until well combined.

Spread each slice of the bread with the prepared butter.

Break the bread into 1 inch cubes.

Mix together the eggs, milk, vanilla and honey in a separate bowl.

Light grease a casserole dish.

Place half of the bread into the bottom of the prepared dish.

Sprinkle the bread with half of the dried apricots.

Pour half of the milk mixture over the bread.

Repeat the layers again ending with the remaining milk.

Place a trivet into your pressure cooker.

Cover the casserole dish with foil and place on the trivet.

Bring the pressure to high and cook 15 minutes.

Let the pressure fall on its own.

Stale bread does have its place when you cook up this delicious pudding. Any type of bread will work including wheat. Fresh bread can also be used if you're in a pinch. Any type of dried fruit will work including raisins.

Makes 4 servings

Almond Cranberry Pasta Salad

arika — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 09:00:16 +0000
This is a great recipe for Thanksgiving, the autumn, or even Christmas. Enjoy!
What You Need:

1 (10 oz) pkg. plain couscous

1 C dried cranberries

3/4 C green onions, chopped

3/4 C sweet yellow pepper, chopped

3/4 C almonds, toasted

1/3 C lemon juice

1/4 C olive oil

1/2 t paprika

1/4 t salt

1/8 t pepper

How to Make It:

Prepare the couscous as directed on the package.

When the couscous is cooked, place it in a large salad bowl and use a fork to fluff.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate 30 minutes or until chilled completely through.

When chilled remove the couscous from the refrigerator and stir in the cranberries.

Add the onions, sweet pepper and almonds and toss to combine all the ingredients.

Place the lemon juice into a small mixing bowl.

Add the oil, paprika, salt and pepper.

Use a whisk to mix the ingredients together well.

Drizzle the dressing into the salad and toss to coat.

Cover and refrigerate 1 hour before serving.

Serving Size: 14

Couscous is a North African pasta and can be used in many different dishes. This pasta can be found in most large supermarkets.

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