On A Lighter Note

If the sandals fit

2011-12-29T16:01:00.002-05:00

I'm sure some women got womens sandals for gifts on Christmas. I would love to give someone a pair of sandals but sizes are tricky. Different brands have different measurements. So I'd rather give gift cards so they can get the sandals themselves.

There are lots of brands of sandals today and they're all beautiful. It makes picking a pair really difficult especially if you're presented with many choices. I'd say get the one that has the right fit - something that makes your feet comfortable.

I'm not really a sandal type of person. I go for sneakers and shoes with heels especially that I need a little boost in my height with my short frame. Fortunately no one has given me a pair of sandals because I will end up returning it and replace it with sneakers.

Holiday shopping

2011-12-27T16:24:00.002-05:00

I didn't do any shopping this holiday. The closest to shopping that I did probably was my trip to the local grocery store to get some baking stuff. With the throng of people I see on the news shopping I can imagine chaos if store don't use barcode scanners. I don't know how stores managed before the barcode scanner was invented. It was probably slow since cashiers had to enter the prices manually.

But anyways I heard on the news that there weren't too many great deals this year. But lo and behold that didn't dampen the shopping spirit of many people. They still went shopping for their family and friends.

Holiday concert

2011-12-27T15:59:00.002-05:00

My son participated in his school's holiday concert which was held on December 19th. He plays the saxophone while his best friend plays the clarinet. I didn't make it to the concert so my son had lots of stories for me when he got home. He said that his best friend did well on his solo performance playing the clarinet. I knew he would because I've seen him perform before in one of the holiday concerts when they were still in elementary. Clarinets are very common musical instruments that kids love to learn on how to use them. Clarinet was actually my son's second choice when he was trying to decide which instrument to get for his music class. He settled down with a saxophone.

Small business

2011-11-30T10:59:00.001-05:00

Have you ever been to www.smallbusiness.xo.com ? As a small business owner I’m always looking for ways to streamline things so I don’t have to be in the store for 17 hours a day but this is the best technology solution I’ve found thus far – I can’t imagine why in the world people would want to do things by ledger like they used to back in the old days. I know that’s silly but that’s what my dad always did with his store and I know he’d still be doing it that way if he was still alive – people don’t seem to understand that being a successful small business in this day means having to be just as technologically savvy as the big competitors, you know? You can’t just do things the old fashioned way because that’s how you’re used to it – you’ve got to learn and adapt with your surroundings which means getting better at technology. You know what I mean? You can’t just be blissfully ignorant about work!

Guest post by Roman May

Mosbeau Placenta White All-In-One Facial Cream

2011-11-06T11:31:00.006-05:00

Mosbeau's new and improved Placenta White All-In-One Facial Cream will soon be available in the US. This is good news to all Filipinas who are looking for a facial cream that suits our climate here in the US and other countries. This all-in-one facial cream contains the following ingredients:

HORSE & MARINE PLACENTAL PROTEIN

Popular skin-whitening agents in Japan.

CO-Q10

A component that cells use to produce energy your body needs for cell growth and maintenance.

HYDRAULIZED COLLAGEN
It forms a film on the surface of the skin making it smoother and softer.

SERICIN
Creates a protective film on the skin to block pollution and harmful UV rays.

You can find this product's Facebook page here and keep updated when it's going to be available here in the US.

Job growth in hospitality

2011-11-05T14:47:00.003-04:00

Looks like the employment scene in the USA is looking good. I know this is going to be a slow process but we'll surely get there as long as our government officials will play their cards right. But according to President Obama the US economy is underperforming that's why he's hesitant in putting back people to work. Consumers are holding back on spending which gives employers reason to freeze hiring. Consumer spending is an important economic indicator because it accounts for 70 percent of economic activity.

The competition out there is tough - there are 14 million unemployed Americans. But those interested in food service manager jobs should start looking now since it's reported that there's job growth in hospitality along with leisure, health care, and mining.

Citizen Eco-Drive Watch

2011-11-05T09:57:00.002-04:00

Citizen watch is a must have for those people who have a penchant for collecting the best timepieces. Not only Citizen manufactures watches that are affordable and are uniquely designed - they are also environment-friendly. Have you heard of their Citizen Eco-Drive watch? It uses the power of light from any artificial or natural source of light. It stores energy enough for six months which will allow the watch to run even in the dark.

If you want to buy the Citizen Eco-Drive make sure that you only buy it from an authorized dealer. Citizen eco drive watches come with a 5 year warranty.

Trophy collection

2011-10-21T14:22:00.008-04:00

My son who is into baseball has collected a bunch of sport trophies already. He started playing the sport since he was six years and he's now in middle school. The trophies vary in size and design but they all look nice to me. I put them in a place where they won't gather dust because for me they're a remembrance of my son's love of baseball. I'm not sure where the baseball organization buys their trophies but they have chosen a really good store based on the quality and look of the trophies.

I look forward to keeping more trophies that my son will win.

Are clothes sizes getting smaller?

2011-10-16T05:59:00.003-04:00

Two co-workers of mine sometimes would complain after a day of shopping how hard was it for them to look for plus size clothing. They think that top brand clothing lines only carry sizes that of the skinny girls we see trotting in the fashion runway. And I agree with them. I don't wear plus size clothing but I still find it difficult to find my size. Is it that clothing manufacturers forget that there are others who would love to wear their clothes but would require a different size other than what they always make?

I think we just have to concede that life doesn't always offer what we prefer. There are brands that carry plus size clothing but we would rather be dead than be caught wearing them. Or is it that these clothes are made outside the US and their idea of big is small? I don't know from where they pattern their sizes - from the country where they're going to be sold or from the country where they are manufactured?

I just hope that these manufacturers would be more sensitive to the clothing needs of other people.

Good Sam Mobile App Now Available

2011-10-15T07:40:00.004-04:00

Good news to all who own an RV who signed up for roadside assistance plan with Good Sam. They now have a mobile app which makes it a lot easier for members to request roadside assitance. If you haven't downloaded the app yet you better do it now. We'll never know when you're going to need their assistance.

If you are not yet a Good Sam member you can check out their website and see what they have to offer for you. You can choose from their basic emergency road service for a small introductory price of $79.95/year or the emergency road service platinum for an introductory price of $109.95 for one year.

Want to try trucking business?

2011-10-13T05:52:00.004-04:00

I admire people who are good in business. I think it's just not cut out for me. I know of some people who are into trucking business and I can't believe the trucking essentials they need to equip their business with. The only gadget I know that they use is the hand held radio. I remember my sister and I used to play with them when we were kids.

I have made plans before of venturing into a business but I backed out at the last minute. The idea to earn extra income that way is not something that I think I would have fun doing. Although I have so much respect and admiration for those people who had success as entrepreneurs.

Good Deals on Office Supplies

2011-10-11T08:29:00.005-04:00

Pleasant news for all those who want to save as much money as they can like me. I found a website called dropdowndeals dot com and they sell affordable office items. Nowadays everyone wants to save money and this is the best online office supplies store I have come across. They also have lots of clearance items and you can use shoplet coupons to save even more.

Next time you need to shop for office items remember to check them out first. I know there are other stores that sell the same office products but I'm sure they're not as cheap as the ones you can find at dropdowndeals.

Orogold Products

2011-09-26T15:16:00.002-04:00

There are so many brands of cosmetics in the market today and they all claim to be the best brands for skin care. Personally, it takes me a while to zero in on a product because I have to do some research on some brands that I like. There's one brand that has caught my attention lately, it's called orogold. This brand carries the essentials needed for a beautiful skin. However, their products are on the expensive side but as what they say - you pay for what you get. But don't get discouraged because an online store called Cleopatra's Choice is selling Orogold products for a discounted price for a limited time only. If you're interested check them out now to avail of this promo.

Happy customers

2011-09-21T20:57:00.002-04:00

A friend of mine owns an auto collision repair shop in the DC area. The business is doing great and it's weird how he rejoices when sees wrecked cars. He told me before that wrecked cars for him mean more money. One thing I like about him though is that he doesn't overcharge people. He uses a collision estimating software and this way his clients know what they're up to in terms of expenses.

He has a very solid group of happy customers and this is expected since he's a very conscientious person. He makes sure that he tells his customers upront what needs to be done and the cost. He doesn't stint on the parts that he uses in the car.

I'm happy for him that his business is doing well. I'm sure he will have a lot of happy customers in the days to come.

Scan your documents

2011-09-20T15:13:00.003-04:00

Technology has made life so much easier for all of us. Take for instance the scanner software technology - it is probably the best solution to piling receipts or other documents on your desk or drawers. You can choose from a desktop scanner or a mobile scanner depending on your needs. If this is good for companies then I believe this will also work for individuals who don't want to keep papers in their house. If you have a Mac product there are scanner software compatible with your operating system. If you're interested to know more about this software you can check out OfficeGemini online and see why they're the leader in document management and scanning technology.

Getting familiar with medical equipment

2011-07-29T12:00:00.002-04:00

As I go along in my health care studies I've come to know some medical equipment and one of them are the medical carts which we use in our nursing education. There are actually a lot of medical equipment and it's a challenge to familiarize of all of them. But I get to know them as I do my clinical and also in some of theory classes.

It's really fun being a medical student. I'm learning a lot of things from inside and outside the classroom. I believe I've made the right decision to enroll in the health care program. I love helping people and see them get better each day gives me a indescribable feeling of pride that I contributed something to make them feel well again.

Learning to Manage My Own Business

2011-07-24T09:39:00.000-04:00

Owning my own business has always been a dream of mine and this past year, it was realized. My brother and I decided to go in together on an auto repair shop since we’re both so into cars and so far, business has been great. I love working for myself and I know my brother feels the same way and we even asked our wives to come in to make the waiting room look a bit more hospitable. They totally hooked it up with some paint, a couple of TVs and Expertsatellite.com satellite and even some wireless internet so that people could get work done while they were waiting on their car. Anyway, we’ve had a really good response from the community so far and we’ve even decided to run a Groupon in a few weeks which is bound to make business even better so things are really on the upswing for our small auto business! Visit us the next time you’re in the Houston area and tell us hi!

Guest post by Lemuel Craft

A tablet for all - BlackBerry

2011-07-17T08:17:00.002-04:00

I was at the mall yesterday and I made a stop at my favorite coffee shop. After I got my coffee I took a seat and the person seated at the next table was using a black berry tablet. At first I thought it was a different brand but it was actually a BlackBerry after I asked the person. It really looked cool and how I wish I have one but it's not my priority right now. I have two textbooks to buy before the Fall semester starts.

But for those who have the budget to buy one you can check out thesource.ca. It's lightweight design is ideal for those who are always on the go and want to be in the loop of what's going on in the world.

Looking for a magic diet pill!

2011-07-11T17:39:00.002-04:00

I was about to give up on taking diet pills when my friend told me that that she lost weight from taking a particular brand of diet pill. I've been trying to lose weight since time immemorial but it looks like I've only lost a few pounds. Maybe it's time to change brands now.

I will try the diet pill that my friend is using and see if it will be as effective on me as it is on her. Now I know that losing weight is the hardest thing there is to accomplish. Foods are really tempting and sometimes it's a struggle to resist them. Working out is another struggle because sometimes you just don't feel like doing it.

I'm really hoping that this diet pill that I'm going to try soon will really work its magic on me.

A Loan Coward

2011-06-12T13:44:00.005-04:00

Have you guys tried payday advance loans? I'm curious how that works because I heard some opposing reviews about it. I agree that payday advance loans are good for those who can pay it on time. However if you know you can't pay it on time then this is not a good option since the rates are high and it will double up for the next repayment schedule.

Even if I have a stable income and would get approved for a payday advance loan I don't think I will go this route. I'm scared that something might happen along the way that would prevent me from paying my loan on time and it would put me in great debt. But for those of you who are sure that no matter what happens you can pay your loan on time then by all means you can apply for a payday advance loan. I'm a little coward when it comes to making loans.

Victoria's Secret online coupons

2011-06-11T19:59:00.003-04:00

It has been a habit of mine to check out for coupons online for anything that I want to buy especially with my textbooks and lingerie. These items are not really cheap especially if there are no used textbooks available for my course and I have to opt for a new one. Lingerie is not cheap either especially if you want to buy the brand that's trusted by most women - Victoria's Secret. But thanks to victoria's secret coupons they save me a few dollars which I can use towards a Victoria's Secret body lotion or perfume.

We just have to be diligent in utilizing the web for coupons that can be used either for in-store or online purchases. Online coupons come with codes that we enter ourselves upon check out when we do online purchases. Some are printable which we can use when we make in-store purchases.

Dance To Lose

2011-05-26T18:15:00.002-04:00

One of my co-workers is attending zumba classes. She has been asking me to join her but as much as I'd love to my schedule wouldn't permit. There's too much to be done with my studies and I still have to review for a qualifying exam. There's no doubt I want to be a zumba dancer and as a matter of fact whenever I get the chance I go to youtube and look for zumba videos.

I actually love dancing. I was an active member of the dance troupe club when I was in elementary and high school. When I was in college, it was only occasional dancing. Now, I dance to lose some extra pounds. Dancing is my workout style although I do it on my own. I don't attend zumba classes or something similar. I bought a dance workout DVD and I do it for 30 minutes a day.

I still would love to join my co-worker in her zumba class someday, when my schedule is not that hectic anymore.

A Doctor Should Be Patient

2011-05-23T22:59:00.002-04:00

Have you been seen by a rude doctor and who seems to rush things? I had an unfortunate time of consulting such kind of doctor. I even had doubts if he did what he was supposed to do. These are the kinds of doctors that can get sued, don't you think so? But I'm sure that there are lots of doctors who treat their patients with kindness and give them attention -and I'm sure if my friend had such kind of doctor she wouldn't be consulting a Bronx Medical Malpractice Attorney.

I haven't heard from my friend the complete scenario but I heard from our common friends that it was bad and she has a big chance of winning the case. I learned from my health class that taking every possible step to ensure patients get the best medical care and feel comfortable is the best way to avoid malpractice problems.

I Don't Despise Them

2011-05-22T16:06:00.000-04:00

We all have faced trials in our life - sometimes one after another. I have my own share of trials - maybe worse than yours. But as I have overcome them I pondered what's in me that made me triumph over them in the end. If you've asked me how I survived the storms in my life some years ago, I'd probably tell you that I had no idea - simply because I just went through the flow of life. But I realized now that my strong faith in Him saw me through it all. Through my tears, I prayed fervently.

As I'm facing another personal trial in my life, prayer is still my best weapon. This could probably be the most trying and difficult time of my life but in James 1:2-4 it says, Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. I'm hopeful that in God's appointed time, everything will fall into its right place.

I don't despise trials. I see them as blessings in disguise. There are events in our life that just happen like a big surprise - something that makes us realize that it's the one that we're missing all our life yet it doesn't come easy. But nothing worthwhile comes easy. Life has taught me how to be patient and now is the perfect time for me to use it.

Help on Mental Illness

2011-05-22T10:18:00.007-04:00

As I was doing a research on mental illness I realized how hard it is for someone who suffers from depression or schizophrenia and other forms of mental illness to claim social security disability. It is a lengthy process and sometimes you have to deal with uncooperative SS employees and all you can do is to muster all the patience you can get once you start the application process. Most people with mental illness don't even realize they suffer from it even when their behaviors are already affecting other people and their capacity to perform the functions required of their jobs is already compromised.

Co-workers, family, and friends who interact on a regular basis with the person who suffers from mental illness can help the person in his claim for benefits by stating any noticeable signs or symptoms that make the person unfit to work. On top of this, a doctor's evaluation explaining the symptoms and behaviors in detail is extremely helpful to prove to the Social Security judge that a person is not capable of getting a job.

A related article I just read mentioned that some American troops in war-ravaged countries like Iraq and Afghanistan suffer from mental health issues caused by exposure to traumatic combat events such as seeing a buddy killed or they have killed an enemy fighter and roadside bombings in close proximity.

If you or your loved one is suffering from a mental health illness and needs help, please contact Allsup - a nationwide provider of specialized services for those with disabilities, including Social Security Disability Insurance representation and Medicare plan selection services. Allsup experts have helped more than 120,000 people receive SSDI and Medicare benefits. The company is headquartered in Belleville, Ill., and has approximately 600 employees located around the country. For more information, call (800) 279-4357, ext. 2020, or visit www.Allsup.com.

Spiritual and Rich

2011-05-22T07:39:00.004-04:00

People who are rich and always remember their roots always inspire me. There was a time in my life when I wished I was born with a silver spoon in my mouth so I didn't have to struggle a day in my life. But what a shameful thought! As I read the stories of some of the world's richest I learned that they never sat on their laurels. Experts say that when you're at the top of your success and you stop learning there's no way to go but downhill.

There's nothing wrong with being rich, of dreaming and wanting to be rich. I even want my son to become rich. It's not a crime. I believe this boils down on how we teach our children the right attitude about money and acquiring things that they like and most importantly not to view other people's success with jealousy.

Our society today is bombarded with commercialism and materialism. Boys like to have fast and fancy cars when grow up. Girls want everything haute couture. Let kids dream and remind them that these things don't fall on their laps - it requires hard work just like anything else in life. It is as important to also let them understand that while material possessions give us pleasure there are other valuable things in life that provide permanent happiness. Most importantly, we should instill in the hearts and minds of our young children the value of humility - to always have their feet on the ground no matter what or where success brings them. Just as equally important is to teach our children to be grateful for all the blessings and difficulties, comfort and sufferings because one without the other is neither.

If you dream to become rich don't be discouraged when others try to dampen your spirits. There will always be people like them. Don't feel sorry of dreaming to have the means of affording you a better quality of life.. of making you capable in the future of doing some good in the world such as donating to charities and foundations whose goals are to reduce poverty and enhance global health care among other things.

But let's remember that we can't serve two Gods. It's easier to become rich when we are spiritual. I can't think of it in any other way.

Business is not my business

2011-05-21T23:19:00.003-04:00

I was never a business person nor I ever will be. If you want to know why it's because I don't enjoy working with numbers. I can never compete in the business world given my limited mathematical ability. I can lead, organize, and work with a team but these are not enough qualities for me to succeed in the business field.

I would have probably majored in business if numbers were easy for me to deal with. Salary in the business field is good and its gets even better when you get a promotion or advancement.

When I decided to go back to school to get a second degree I was leaning towards enrolling in an online business degree but decided against it at the last minute. My final decision was to get a degree in health science which for me was the best decision I've made to advance my education. I was already planning to obtain my online business degree at Western Governors University, a fully-accredited online university offering online bachelor's and master's degree programs. Their tuition is affordable, something that every student considers. If you are considering to enroll in an online business degree you can check out WGU and see if it's the right school for you.

Romantic vacation in the winter months

2011-05-18T15:26:00.002-04:00

My wedding anniversary is fast approaching and now comes the time to plan our vacation with hopes that I can surprise my husband. This is my favorite time of year for many reasons; because it's winter and I love the cold and snow, it's our wedding and more anniversary because the date we met is around the same time, and we get to go on a nice and romantic vacation together to celebrate our love.

My absolute favorite winter travel destination that we have been to for our anniversary has to be the cruises we have been on a few times. Being on a large ship with all that we need within reach is by far the best vacation. All is paid for and included in the price, we get waited on by the friendliest staff and it is so relaxing to just drift along the water.

The only thing I wish I could do without is the slight stress of having to plan the trip and get everything in place at home for the time we will be away. We are lucky we have family nearby and friends who help by checking on our home and pets. We also have a reliable home security alarm from www.SecurityChoice.com/ that we set whenever we leave the house but especially when we are going away for a week or more.

guest post by Mitch Osborne

Mask with Mud

2011-05-06T12:45:00.005-04:00

Who doesn't want to have a clear, glowing skin? Not to mention smooth and beautiful. When I was a teenager I had my share of pimple attack. My face wasn't a pretty sight. I can't remember what remedy I used but I'm happy I've survived that stage without any serious facial damage. If there's one lesson that experience has taught me it's to take proper care of our skin. We have to eat the right diet, exercise, avoid exposure to sun and wind. Sometimes we can't avoid it - we eat foods that cause our skin to break out and we start swearing to our mother's grave never to do it again. I mean, who wouldn't? Our face is our first line of defense. We want to be proud of it. But if our face is muddled with impurities such as acne, wrinkles, and dirt particles among others then we have to seriously think about getting our hands on some facial skin care that is safe to use such as a mud masque.

Have you heard of Adovia Dead Sea Mud Mask? According to its website it's formulated with Dead Sea Black Mud, Beeswax and a deeply moisturizing combination of Jojoba Oil, Evening Primrose Oil and Olive Oil. Sounds very refreshing. As I went through the directions on how to use the mask I found them to be easy to follow and the promise of a totally fresh and revived skin after the application is so tempting. And the sale price is more so tempting from $37 to $29.99 (savings of 19%) and free shipping with orders over $29. Just in case your satisfaction is not met by the product you can return it within 90 days from the date of purchase.

If symptoms persist always consult your dermatologist.

Cookie lover

2011-04-05T15:00:00.003-04:00

I haven't had cookies for a while now since I'm carefully watching my diet. I know that if I have one bite of a cookie there's no stopping. On my birthday a friend of mine surprised me with my favorite chocolate chip cookies in a Mrs. Fields birthday tin. Boy, how I loved it. My son helped me finish it since I couldn't eat them all myself.

I've always loved Mrs. Fields cookies: fresh, chewy and amazingly delicious. They're so good with coffee too. Before I went on a diet, I used to check the cookie aisle first whenever I did my grocery shopping. But once in a while I get generous with myself and I indulge. Everything now is in moderation. Cookies are the greatest temptations.

How to get your child to sleep

2011-04-05T14:23:00.000-04:00

According to the HealthDay News your growing child needs a good night's rest, and a consistent bedtime routine can make putting your youngster to bed a little less challenging.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these suggestions:

Make the time before bed "quiet time," with a bath, book or soft music.
Have your child go to bed at the same time each night.
Let your child choose a favorite blanket or stuffed animal to take to bed. Just make sure there are no choking or strangulation hazards.
Take care of your child's preferences before bedtime, such as leaving the door slightly ajar, having a night light or having a drink of water.
Your child should sleep in his own room, not yours.
Don't make a habit of going back into your child's room each time the child cries or calls for you.
Be patient if the child wakes at night or has trouble falling asleep.

Blue in North Carolina

2011-03-30T15:38:00.003-04:00

I love my health insurance company which is the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. It was easy for me to choose the coverage plan that best fits my needs. I'm also at peace knowing that if I travel to a different state there are so many doctors and hospitals that are Blue Cross Blue Shield participants - just in case there is an emergency. One of the many things I like BCBS is that there is secure online access to my information if I needed to review my benefits, check the status of my claims, or print a temporary card.

My friend in North Carolina is a member of the Blue Cross Blue Shield North Carolina. And just like me she's satisfied with their services.

Blood money

2011-03-16T16:27:00.002-04:00

This is the first time I've heard about the plight of American CIA contractor Raymond Allen Davis. According to Davis he shot the two men in Lahore (who the US said were robbers) in self-defense. This happened on January 27th. He was released from prison today March 16th (the same day he was to be charged with murder) after a "blood money" of $2M was paid to the victims' families. There were also media reports that some of the families of the victims had been given permission to live in the United States. "Blood money" is common and legal in Pakistan but is criticized by human rights groups.

America needs the support and cooperation of Pakistan in its fight against terrorism especially in Afghanistan. But it looks like Pakistan is not really concerned about this effort of the US and they're more into making sure that America is not an ally of India which is Pakistan's long-term enemy. This also explains why Pakistan is not serious in cracking down Afghan Taliban factions in its country. But what is $2M to calm the two countries? After all, it's according to law.

The real thing soon

2011-03-16T14:44:00.002-04:00

It's funny how sometimes my son would use the steel drums we have at home and pretend it's the Pearl drum kit that he's been wishing to have. You see my son loves music so much. He plays his favorite online game and listens to Eminem or Linkin Park. He watches TV while his favorite FM radio station is on. He does RipStikin' outside while listening to his iTouch.

Eventually he's going to have the drums of his dreams but for now he has no choice but to amuse himself with what we have in the backyard.. lots of steel drums. :) I told him that he needs to go to a music school to learn how to play the drums before I buy him the real stuff.

My Dream Cruise To The Bahamas

2011-03-16T14:01:00.001-04:00

I am going on a cruise at least twice a year. Last time, my husband and I went on a five-day cruise from Miami to the Bahamas where Nassau was our first stop. In the morning, they offered us to take part in a city tour, which most guests attended. English settlers founded Nassau, a gorgeous town, in 1656. There, we visited the Parliament, the Pirate Museum and the Bahamas Historical Society Museum.

Going on a cruise to the Bahamas was the best decision we ever made. I can still picture the azure water of the ocean, while we had lunch on our ship, "The Majesty of the Seas." We enjoyed the afternoon in a romantic, old town and on the white, sandy Caribbean beach. The evening we spent in the casino aboard, as the cruise-liner sailed along to the next destination.

The play-hall was crowded, but the atmosphere was cheerful. Wealthy people surrounded us, especially Native Americans, and it was exciting to watch them gamble for large sums of money. We enjoyed delicious cocktails, and I got an insight into the latest fashion trend. The trip was over too soon, but my husband promised that we were going on a cruise next summer again.

Now, I am about to set my home security alarm (click here) because I am going out for a fun-filled bowling night.

Guest post by Kory Dotson

Help for sailors

2011-02-27T21:45:00.003-05:00

Offshore Injury doesn't happen all the time but when it does it could result to serious injuries or even fatalities. I just learned about the Jones Act which was created in 1920 and it's nice to know that this piece of legislation has assisted many sailors in recovering compensation following their offshore accidents.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of an offshore accident it is very important that you contact a qualified offshore accident attorney today. Experience and understanding of maritime law will help you fight for justice and receive the compensation you deserve.

Make your kids eat

2011-02-27T21:31:00.002-05:00

Virtually every young child goes through some level of Picky Eating at one time or another. Parents who have the kids who turn out to be “good eaters” will tell you that the key to successfully navigating these stages is to put firm and healthful eating habits in place from the beginning, and then stick to them, even when the going gets rough. Nancy Tringali Piho shares the following:

Sit Down!
Now is the time to teach that meals play an important role in our day. Make breakfast-lunch-dinner definite sit down-to-eat occasions, even if it’s just for 10 or 15 minutes at a time.

Doesn’t This Look Good?
Talk it up! Comment on the yummy smells from the oven, or the how pretty and juicy the steak looks. Little kids “eat with their eyes” just like adults do.

It’s a Dinner, Not a Diner!
And that means, no short order cooking! From earliest eating days, children can and should eat what everyone else at the table is eating.

Focus on the Whole Meal
If you’re serving chicken, peas and rice for dinner, then Toddler should have chicken, peas and rice on her plate, too. What if she scarfs down the rice and wants more? Not until she has a bite or two of the rest of the items in the meal.

Spice it Up
Don’t be afraid to let Toddler sample spicier dishes, like those found in Indian or Mexican cuisines. If it’s really too hot, stir a little milk or sour cream into his portion, so that he still gets the flavor of the dish, without the full effect of the heat.

Repeat, Repeat, Repeat
If at first Toddler doesn’t like spinach or Brussels sprouts or broccoli, try, try again. Researchers have found that up to 15 separate introductions of a food may required before it will be accepted by some children. Wait several days or weeks, but don’t drop the offending item out of the menu entirely.

Pour Out the Juice
Kiddie beverages all have one thing in common: they are sweet, sweet, sweet to the taste. Don’t start your little one off believing that drinks have to be sweet to taste good. Stick to plain milk and water.

…And Nix the Other Kiddie Products
Children’s menus in restaurants, children’s cereals and snack foods, packaged toddler meals: If it’s a food product made for and marketed to kids, chances are, it’s going to be inferior in taste and flavor to comparable adult products. Avoid these, and you will be way ahead in the game of preventing picky eating.

The strongest may not always be the best

2011-02-27T20:33:00.002-05:00

If you've been trying to lose weight you probably have asked at one point what are the strongest diet pills out there. But you have to be really careful since these diet pills can have different effects on people. What will work for others may not work for you.

Before you start taking a diet pill make sure you have done a thorough research about the product and have read the reviews about it. It will really help you make a decision whether or not you will go with the product.

Always remember that losing weight is more effective if you combine regular exercise with eating right.

Tan is beautiful

2011-02-27T19:57:00.003-05:00

There are many reliable outdoor tanning lotions in the market today. These products are specifically designed and formulated to carry out recommended and intended skin tanning procedures and tasks.

I know it's not easy maintaining your skin once you get tanned. You have to make sure you apply skin moisturizer to keep your skin in good condition. It's also important not to overdo exposure in the sun because of its harmful rays especially from 10am to 3pm. Studies have shown and proved that exposure to the scorching sunlight from 10 am to 3 pm, when the sun is at its hottest, would eventually cause formation and onset of several forms of skin cancer and would apparently and significantly damage the skin.

How to keep your clothes look their best...

2011-02-27T19:46:00.001-05:00

Linda Cobb, founder of Vaska, and the so-called Queen of Clean, debunks some of the pervasive myths about laundry... Read her tips for keeping your clothes looking their best!

· If the clothes are really dirty use more detergent

This is not a good idea; too much detergent doesn’t rinse out, attracts dirt and is hard on the fibers. Use the recommended amount per load.

· You should always use chlorine bleach for white clothes.

No. Chlorine bleach whitens and disinfects 100% cotton. For blends and colors, use an oxygen bleach.

· Washing in cold water doesn’t really get clothes clean.

Not True! Except for towels, underwear and socks, washing in cold water works well.

· Clothes shrink in the washer.

Clothes actually shrink in the dryer; avoid over drying or leaving them in the dryer and then drying for an extended period of time.

· Sorting clothes isn’t necessary.

Sorting clothes is necessary; don’t trust so called “color magnet” products. Wash whites, darks and colors separately.

· There is nothing I can do to fresh up the color in blue jeans once it fades.

Try washing your old jeans with new ones to add some color to the faded jeans.

· I need fabric softener to keep my towels soft.

No. Do not use a softener on towels as it coats the fiber and won’t dry you off well after your shower; it can also lead to an odor. Instead, try tossing a couple of clean tennis balls in the dryer with them and they will come out soft and absorbent.

Not ready for wrinkles

2011-02-27T18:12:00.003-05:00

A friend in the Philippines asked me one time what's the best wrinkle cream that's sold here in the US. I wasn't able to answer her question since I don't use one just yet but surely will in due time.. Well, isn't that thought scary?

I haven't heard from her again but if I would I will refer her to a website I found online that features the top 5 wrinkle creams of 2011. Out of those five wrinkle creams only the Olay Regenerist Micro Sculpting Cream is familiar to me since I also see it in stores.

Bronzed

2011-02-27T17:58:00.002-05:00

I haven't been to a tanning salon simply because I don't need a tan since it's my natural color. Some people at work are fond of getting tanned and I can't believe the money they spend on it. Well I can't blame them.. as what others say "tanned is beautiful."

One of my co-workers has a tanning bed and she uses a tanning bed lotion to maximize her tanning experience. She really looks beautiful with her bronze tan skin color which provides a striking contrast to her deep-blue eyes.

Benefits of natural make up

2011-02-20T17:31:00.002-05:00

I wear make up once in a blue moon - only during special occasions. I like wearing it light and I prefer using natural makeup. I'm very picky when it comes to what kind of make up I use, I make sure that they are not tested on animals to get the following benefits:

Reduces skin irritation
Decreases wrinkles
Provides greater sun protection
Reduces breakouts
Safer for sensitive skin

The theory behind natural makeup is that since it is created from natural ingredients, such as plants, the resulting product will be much gentler on the skin.

Samsung Galaxy

2011-02-17T18:45:00.002-05:00

The Samsung Galaxy was launched on June 2009. The Samsung i7500 was officially announced as the company's first Android Phone.

Here are some of the Samsung Galaxy reviews:

T3 - "The Galaxy is a respectable effort from Samsung. It is by no means the finished article and is far from comparable to the likes of the Motorola DEXT with MOTOBLUR or the HTC Hero with HTC Sense. Both the Hero and DEXT offer fully customisable operating systems that have truly stretched Android’s legs. Think of the Galaxy as more of an alternative to the G1."

CNET UK - "Samsung has brought some crave-worthy hardware features to its first Android handset, the Galaxy i7500, like a gorgeous screen, good camera and plenty of on-board memory. But it runs on the bog-standard version of Android, which means it lacks multi-touch and fun custom widgets like we've seen on other phones. It also looks slightly dull. Overall, the Galaxy fails to reach the heady heights of the HTC Hero, but it's a strong competitor to the HTC Magic."

PHONE ARENA - "Our final verdict is that Samsung has not done its best with the Galaxy I7500. However, it still packs a good workmanship, beautiful AMOLED display and decent 5-megapixel camera. These will definitely attract followers, but some people will be dissuaded from getting the phone due to the unhandy alignment of the navigational buttons and the mediocre in-call quality."

Cost-cutting on car insurance

2011-02-17T18:03:00.003-05:00

I'm in search of an insurance company that offers fair rates and full coverage. I've been reading reviews of different insurance companies to learn more about the services and guarantees that they offer. Hopefully soon I can find an insurance company that will work for me.

I'm definitely looking for a low cost car insurance rate and right now I'm trying to compare car insurance rates. I'm cutting costs wherever I can. I'm looking at different reputable quote sites so I can save money.

Natural ingredients make up Acnepril

2011-02-13T09:03:00.002-05:00

I just came across with an acne remedy called Acnepril. I'm not familiar with it so I searched about it online and here's what I found:

acnepril

Acnepril is a dietary supplement, taken in pill form, and works to reduce the amount of sebum that is produced under the skin. As Sebum is one of the root causes of acne, reducing it can help alleviate the condition. Acnepril contains a range of natural ingredients, some of which you may be familiar with if you've ever tried home remedies for acne before. These ingredients include white willow bark, mangosteen juice, witch hazel, dandelion root, garlic, licquorice root, apple cider vinegar and green tea.

Natural ingredients are vital to keep you and your skin healthy and are far more effective than the hyped up leading brands can ever be.

Steelers or Packers

2011-02-04T19:54:00.003-05:00

So what team are you rooting for Super Bowl XLV, Steelers or Packers? I'm a Patriots fan so I don't really share the excitement for this year's Super Bowl. I read in the news that Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger was in a bar in Fort Worth, Texas "belting out karaoke songs and boozing it up." It looked like Ben celebrated too early.

It seemed from the report that Ben was a good boy at Pete's Dueling Piano Bar. He was in good spirits and even "invited the entire bar to join him for several rounds." Too bad he was already voted as the Most Disliked Player of Super Bowl XLV.

Pillow top mattress for side sleepers

2011-02-04T12:29:00.003-05:00

I'm thinking of getting myself a new mattress. I'm not comfortable anymore with the mattress that I'm using now. But there are so many different kinds of mattresses out there and it will take me a while to decide which to buy. I know that support and comfort are the two main things to consider when buying a mattress.

I'm a side sleeper so I think I would go for a softer mattress probably a pillow top and should be organic because it's better for the environment and better for the health. I have to make sure that the store where I'm going to buy my mattress will allow me to exchange for another if what I bought wasn't the right one for me.

Cautions about diet pills

2011-01-19T21:10:00.002-05:00

If you really want to know what are the most effective diet pills the best person to ask is your doctor. It is easier to just swallow a diet pill than eating right and exercising but is our body safe? Are the ingredients natural? Do you have any type of health condition?

If you have some health problems your doctor will tell you the best way to lose weight that wont endanger your health in any way. A little research will also help before considering any claims by companies that sell weight loss products.

My suggestion? Consume less calories.

Thinking of planting a fig tree

2011-01-19T20:32:00.004-05:00

I haven't seen a fig tree yet nor tasted its fruits whether dried or fresh. However, if I were to plant a fruit tree I'd choose a fig tree since I don't have to do so many things to it during winter. One thing I like about fig tree is that I can plant it on a pot which makes it more convenient during winter time since I can just put the potted plant in the garage or the storage area. Even if it gets destroyed by the cold weather new shoots will frequently sprout from the roots to reestablish itself.

The health benefits of figs include promoting healthy bowel function due to the high levels of fibre. Figs are amongst the most highly alkaline foods, making them useful in balancing the pH of the body. They are a good source of potassium, important in helping to regulate blood pressure.

Slam Dunk

2011-01-12T13:06:00.000-05:00

I had gotten some amazing seats to the upcoming NBA game for Christmas from a friend of mine and was so excited to be going. The two teams playing were going to put up a fight and I knew that it was going to be a close game with plenty of excitement on the floor. I saw our seats were very close and that was what was most exciting since I had only ever sat in the nose bleed section when I had gotten to attend a game in the past.

The night of the game I put on my jersey, set my alarm systems systems before walking out the door, and jumped in his car. We rushed there, went through parking and got nachos on the way to our seat. Im glad I did since the second that I sat down I was so into the NBA showdown in front of me I never wanted to get up for anything. My favorite part of the game was the slam dunk that was done to win the game in the last few seconds. No other play had ever been more exciting, and seeing it up front and close and personal was the best part of the entire experience.

*Guest post by Darwin Garza

Remembering my Prom

2011-01-10T16:14:00.003-05:00

When I was in high school I attended two proms - Junior Prom and Senior Prom. Exciting times! I prepared weeks ahead of the big night making sure I had everything taken care of like my hair, make up, and of course I had to choose from a few prom dresses. It was overwhelming but fun. My classmates were more worried if they're going to get a date or not while I was more concerned on how to coordinate my look from my gown, shoes and accessories.

It was a fun night. I felt so relaxed because I had everything organized ahead of time. I had a great time with friends without doing any bad stuff.

Surprise wedding for New Year's Eve

2011-01-07T18:21:00.001-05:00

I know that we're kind of crazy to do this, but in a few days we're going to get married and our friends and families aren't even expecting it! We've invited them over for New Year's Eve and told them that it's our engagement party and it's important for everyone to come to it, just so no one will miss it that we would want to be there.

I've never actually known someone who's done this with a wedding before, so we'll see how people react to it. One night when I was looking over shoes for the wedding, I came across some New York clear wireless internet offers and after I read a little more about them, I decided to sign us up for one of them.

My mom will probably fuss at her for not including her in the wedding preparations, but she actually has helped me pick out a dress, centerpieces and all kinds of stuff. She just doesn't know that we'll be having a NYE surprise wedding.

*Guest post by May Simmons

Going out for New Year's Eve

2011-01-06T15:32:00.000-05:00

This New Year's Eve I will be celebrating with friends and family down to my local pub. Nothing beats the opportunity to have drinks, play pool and watch the national shows drop the balls. Pubs offer the chance to have a relaxing time while enjoying the company of good friends. Since I am not a young kid and into get smashed and passing out in someone's yard I will enjoy a quiet holiday with cold beer and good friends.

When going out I make sure that I take all safety precautions. I have a designated driver to ensure that I do not drink and drive. In addition, I always remember to set my home alarm before heading out for the night. In fact, the neighbor across the street was burglarized two weeks ago when she did not set her alarm system (specials home security systems) and she is now dealing with the consequences.

I hope everyone has a safe and happy New Year's Eve and let us make this the best year possible. Let 17000 be the year that we come together as a country and move on from the hard times over the last few years.

*Guest post by Toni Jensen

Cheap stocking stuffers

2010-12-31T09:40:00.002-05:00

I'm trying to be a lot more budget conscious this year for the holidays because I don't want the surprise that I got back in January when I got my credit card bill. I had charged all of that stuff, it's just that I hadn't realized that I had spent so much on Christmas. Not this year though. I did a lot of budget planning and I had all of my stuff bought until a few days ago when I realized that I still needed to get some stocking stuffers.

I went online to try and get some good ideas about stocking stuffers that wouldn't completely break my Christmas budget that I had been sticking to so well up until then. When I was online looking up that stuff, I randomly came across some Trenton 4G Internet information and after I read through it some, I decided to sign up for one of the internet packages from it.

Some of the inexpensive stocking stuffers idea that I found were lip balm, which everyone could always use an extra stick of, along with pens and pencils. Of course, there will be some chocolate candy included along with the other stuffers.

* Guest post by Penny Hamby

My First Bull's Game

2010-12-30T08:24:00.000-05:00

Just last year was the very first time that I had ever been to an NBA game. I was so excited to go with a large group of friends that I could barely contain my excitement in the week leading up to the game. I attended a Bulls game in Chicago, and despite that fact that it was extremely cold, I was more than looking forward to the game. I grew up watching the Bulls in the 90's and had always wanted to go to a Bulls game. Going to a Bulls game for my first NBA experience was perfect.

Since I was so excited about the game, I made sure that we got as great of seats as possible so we could really get the most out of the experience. Since the game was on a weekend, I spent the afternoon before the game with our friends who were attending the game with us. We spent the afternoon eating and enjoying each others company, before setting the home security alarm (pricing home security systems) and heading out to the arena. The excitement of the game was exactly what I was hoping for. I had so much fun that I have been back five times since that first game.

*Guest post by Johnny Graves

My Love for Knitting

2010-12-29T06:18:00.001-05:00

Knitting is something I've been doing since I was about sixteen years old. My best friend's mom loved to knit and she tried to get her daughter to fall in love with it as well. Unfortunately, my best friend hated knitting. That's when her mom decided to teach me how to do it. I can still remember those Saturday afternoons when my best friend's mom patiently taught me how to knit. I got pretty good at it too, eventually learning how to knit scarves, hats, and blankets. Recently, I started knitting sweaters.

I love being able to wear a unique sweater that no one else has. It's one of my favorite things about knitting my own clothes. When I knit, I enjoy watching Direct TV. I consider it the perfect weekend or evening to knit as I watch my favorite TV programs. I wish more people would learn how to knit because it is such a relaxing hobby. I also have adult ADHD so it helps me to focus my energy on something productive as I sit on the couch or in a waiting room.

Whenever I have a child, I'm going to take the time to teach him or her the art of knitting. It's a useful skill to learn and is quickly becoming a lost art. One day, I will pass on my love for knitting. Hopefully, my child will learn to love knitting as much as I do.

*Guest post by Prince Raymond

Medical apparel

2010-12-24T06:15:00.003-05:00

In a few years from now, God willing, I will be a nurse. I'm looking forward to that day when my name will be called up on stage to receive my graduation diploma. Meanwhile, I still have a lot of studying to do.

Believe it or not, I'm excited to go to work with scrub as uniform. The only time I get to wear a medical garb is during a lab class since it's a requirement to use a lab coat. For so many years now I've been wearing shirt and jeans to work.

It's amazing how the medical apparel has changed over the years. In the past workers in the medical community only wore solid white colors but now a variety of colors is available to choose from. Personally, I love greens and blues so my scrub uniforms will have shades of these colors.

Christmas comic book for my son

2010-12-23T16:01:00.001-05:00

It seems like every other day my son always asks me to take him to the comic book store. But he's only 11 so it's not like he can drive himself there and it's too far across town for him to walk or ride his bike there. Normally he already knows exactly what he wants anyway, so I just work it into some of my errands every week anyway. I went there a few weeks ago by myself to try and pick out some of his Christmas presents and actually found something that I thought was really neat.

I had gone online with my Clear wire Wimax 4g to make sure that I was getting the right comic books from the store. I could have ordered them off the internet, but I wanted to support the local business.

When I was doing that research, I found a Christmas comic book that I thought looked so neat so I'm actually went ahead and ordered it offline. I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to find it in the store.

*Guest post by Debbie Powers

The First Snow of Winter is Here!

2010-12-22T05:48:00.000-05:00

You know, normally I detest those fluffy white flakes. Not because they are sinister in their intent or anything; it's just that I don't do so well with the cold weather, or at least, I didn't used to. What I discovered is that I really need to wear a snow suit. We had them as kids, but I guess I thought I was too old for them or something. Well, I'm not. Normally we play family games inside for the winter, except when it is time to cut and harvest our firewood. We normally take care of firewood from October to April. Before and after that is simply too hot!

And now it is more important than ever to have my snow suit because we bought a snow mobile! Unfortunately there are four of us and only one snowmobile, so we have to share. Still, two can ride at once. We have a large yard, and we are near a couple of forest trails for riding. Last year, we tried using the four-wheeler to play in the snow, and I can tell you it did not work out well at all! We kept getting stuck while trying to pull the kids behind on the sled. And then, on every turn, you could easily fall off! Well, that is not the case with the snowmobile!

I will admit I am ready to go in after a few hours. Then, it's time to sit down and watch some satellite television that I got after checking out this DIRECTV HD Comparison!

*Guest post by Kathy Shelton

No more Elmo

2010-12-20T14:59:00.004-05:00

Gone are the days when I'd look for the perfect Elmo gifts for Christmas. But I miss those times. My son is now 10 years old and he doesn't want to have anything to do with Elmo or Sesame Street anymore. However, when he heard that Katy Perry was doing a song with Elmo (which was set to air on New Year's Eve) he was looking forward to watching that episode. I would not go into the details but Sesame Street producers have made the decision not to air that particular segment but Katy Perry fans can watch it on You Tube.

My son's Christmas list has gotten shorter and shorter each year but more expensive. This Christmas I decided to get him something that I'm sure he'd love (of course) and Christmas morning is always the time that I see my son smile from ear to ear.

I remember when I was a kid I didn't get any expensive gifts either on Christmas or my birthday. I only imagined them. But kids nowadays are extremely lucky. But for me Christmas is a very special time to let my son know how special he is to me and that I appreciate all his good deeds and acts.

Success in America depends on a good credit score

2010-12-17T14:15:00.003-05:00

Let's face it that in America our future depends on our credit history. It's tantamount to saying that our success in life is determined by our credit score. A good credit history is a guarantee that we can get a cellphone service, rent an apartment, secure a loan from a bank, get approved for a mortgage, or land a job. In short, nothing is impossible when you have a good credit.

A credit score of 650 is considered excellent. If you're looking to apply for a mortgage it's important to shop around and use your credit score as your bargaining chip. Pay particular attention to the interest and fees associated with the mortgage. There are so many banks and mortgage companies out there who are willing to compete with each other just to get your business.

Remember that you've worked so hard to have an excellent credit score and did all you can to maintain it. You've made payments on time, you've paid what you owe and you've lived on a realistic budget and because of these you deserve the best mortgage deal there is.

One of the things I miss about the Philippines

2010-12-17T04:13:00.003-05:00

I miss the Philippines but I didn't realize how much until I went there for a short visit last summer.

What I miss most about my country is it's easy access to almost everything especially fresh foods. I must admit though that the prices have gone up but it's been almost seven years since I left my country to live here in the US. I didn't expect the prices to stay the same but I was a bit shocked at how expensive things are now in the Philippines.

So yes, fresh foods. Foods that can really nourish us. Not canned with different kinds of preservatives. Fresh food is always an option in my country. You go to the market and there's an abundance of fish right from the sea. Not what we see here in the US supermarkets that are frozen and have traveled a thousand miles before getting here. And yes, a little pricey and most wallets can't support it.

It always feels good to know that everything on our plate gives us better nutrition. I prefer going to a local farm to get my meat and produce because I know it's quality food. There are some things worth the extra cost and food is one of them.

Get your own domain

2010-12-16T11:41:00.001-05:00

When I started blogging the first thing I wanted to do was to get my own domain. At the time all of my blogger friends already had their own domain so they were a big help when I had to choose from so many website hosts. It didn't take me long to get my own domain with Web Hosting Hub. The price was my primary consideration and since Web Hosting Hub only costs $4.95/monthly I decided to stick with them. And I was also given the guarantee that if I wasn't satisfied with their service I can get my money back in FULL within 90 days.

When my blog was already live and I had some technical questions they were always available to assist me whether it's over the phone or by chat - 24/7. This great customer service gives me peace of mind knowing that should something happen to my blog I can always count on them and I won't just get a recording.

If you're thinking of getting your own domain you definitely have to get a reliable website host like Web Hosting Hub. For more information about their great service check out their website or give them a call at 877-595-4482.

Hard times for people with HIV

2010-12-16T09:27:00.003-05:00

If you have HIV and is earning more than $21,000 per year you are facing the risk of becoming ineligible for free medicine. It is a shame that states who are low in cash are resorting to this measure and leaving those who are on HIV drugs panic about their future. These medicines have helped people with HIV live longer and as a result states have a hard time keeping up with the demands. Also, unemployment has created more demands for free HIV drugs.

As a health care student this situation concerns me so much. If people with HIV start missing to take their medicines chances are they will develop resistance to drugs and there is a high risk of transmission. Some of them are also suffering from other ailments like arthritis.

Right now people are hoping that the government will step in and help the AIDS Drug Assistance Program with the funds. And hopefully drug companies who provide free AIDS drugs would continue their free program.

Alternatives to HGH supplements

2010-12-13T15:21:00.002-05:00

Some people who have lost their youth sometimes resort to taking hgh supplements. There's nothing wrong with this since they don't actually contain HGH and thus are not introduced into the blood stream. The hgh supplements come in pills and sprays and you don't need a prescription for them.

However, if we talk about HGH therapy this can mean serious money. Pure HGH is an injection and can cost you a fortune and some serious side effects too. We've heard of athletes abusing injection based HGH treatments for:

increased endurance
increased strength
increased lean muscle mass
decreased body fat
decreased recovery time
increased energy levels

Athletes take more higher-than-recommended doses of HGH over longer-than-recommended periods of time. HGH has been known to occasionally cause hypoglycemia, acromeglia, extended belly, carpal tunnel syndrome, and joint pain.

It's common knowledge that when we reach our early twenties our body stops growing and our pituitary gland (found in the brain) slows down in producing HGH. Many people stop producing human growth hormone by the time they are 50 years old.

If you are not at all interested in taking HGH supplements you can always eat foods rich in protein and of course exercise to help you produce HGH naturally.

Save money on generic toner cartridges

2010-12-13T09:56:00.005-05:00

I must admit it that I'm brand conscious simply because I had so many bad experiences with less-known brands. But when it comes to replacing our color laserjet 2840 toner I go for compatible cartridges to save me some money. Although it's easier to get the branded names from the store or manufacturer, it can get very expensive especially in my case where I print lots of school materials.

So far I didn't encounter any problems using a generic toner cartridge contrary to what others think that it will compromise the printing quality. I think as long as you use the right toner cartridge for your printer then you'll be fine. Just make sure you purchase it from a reliable shop that offers refunds and exchanges in case it won't work out for you. It doesn't matter what brand of printer you have whether it's HP, Canon, Brother, Xerox, Oki, or Samsung you will always find great deals on compatible laserjet toner.

Go fly a kite!

2010-12-12T09:45:00.004-05:00

I love making that special person in my life feel that I care for him in every way. I don't want to miss any special occasions without letting him know that I remember. But I don't sweat about it since I know he's a simple guy and would love and appreciate anything I do for him.

I know of couples who give each other wedding anniversary gifts by year. I think it's so sweet and thoughtful and I'd love to do the same when my turn comes. There are many available anniversary gifts by year to choose from and I'm sure I can find something that he would like.

The first year of any anniversaries is always exciting and I think going away on a beach trip and flying a kite which has a 'happy 1st anniversary' print on it is a unique way to greet him on that special day.

Eating on holidays

2010-12-11T22:14:00.004-05:00

Chocolate fudge, special holiday cookies, candied yams - no matter how hard we try it's impossible to stick to our diet or eat responsibly during the holidays. All of a sudden we lose our will power and eat like how we're supposed to eat on Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. We forget about counting calories and not worry about carbs. Most of the time we eat what's on the table even if we don't like it just to please our folks.

On the other hand, we should remember that there are no "good" and "bad" foods, only good and bad eating habits. Let's all remember to eat with restraint. We don't have to deprive ourselves of desserts and other sweeteners but only little portions to keep ourselves from indulging too much. Otherwise, we'll all be searching the web for diet pills like Lipofuze to help us back on track again with our diet.

Solution to acne problems

2010-12-01T15:55:00.002-05:00

According to a non-profit organization for kids there are about 17 million people in the United States who have acne. In other words, it's very common. But of course this fact doesn't provide any relief to those who suffer from acne problems such as whiteheads, blackheads, and bumps that are filled with pus.

Many lotions and creams are sold online or in store to help prevent acne and clear it up. Don't ask me about acne treatments that actually work because you might take my word for it but always buy products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid in them which are helpful for treating acne. Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria that can lead to acne and it also can reduce swelling of pimples. Salicylic acid is another acne-fighting ingredient. It causes skin to dry out and peel, which can help get rid of pimples, too.

A closer look at Acsonix

2010-12-01T15:26:00.003-05:00

If you're plagued by acne you probably feel totally wiped out and no confidence at all to face the day - like the world is starting to crumble on you. You feel deeply humiliated and embarrassed and you are desperate to get rid of it the fastest way you can.

Unfortunately, most acne victims go through trial and error. They try acne ointments and creams and other chemical-blasted remedies but to no avail. Sometimes if they get lucky they're able to get rid of it only to return after a few days.

But don't give up in your quest for an acne cure that really works for you. Why don't you read some of the acsonix reviews and see if it's something you'd like to try.

The Acsonix Has 2 Active Acne Fighting Ingredients!

Benzoyl Peroxide-benzoyl peroxide is the best known natural acne fighter. When you use benzoyl peroxide, you get a powerful and effective antibacterial that can help you to eliminate acne and get the best possible approaches. It helps you to fight even the toughest problems. But the problem that most run into is that it stops working after a while and it’s not quite as effective as they thought. Why? Because most companies only use 2.5%, which can lead to resistance and other problems. But when you use this, you get 5%, which is clinically proven to be more effective and not cause the resistance.

Sulfur-sulfur helps you to get the better skin benefits. It has been used for its antibacterial, antifungal, and keratolytic activity. And when you use sulfur, you will be able to get rid of acne vulgaris, dermatitis, dandruff, scabies, versicolor, and warts. When you use sulfur, it can eliminate acne while also helping you to improve the overall health of your skin.

Zappos rocks!

2010-11-30T06:46:00.002-05:00

I'm a regular customer of Zappos, an online shoe store. I like them because of their prompt service, wide selection, and most of all free shipping on orders and returns. I remember on my first order with them, I had to return the item because the fit wasn't right. The Zappos rep who helped me was very apologetic about that incident. She immediately shipped me the next size and gave me enough time to return my order.

One of my favorite brands is Cole Haan. I saw this beautiful loafers over at Zappos and I couldn't stop thinking about it. When I get my Christmas bonus at work I will buy it right away. I've been having sleepless nights just thinking about how comfortable those shoes would be on me.

Athritis and losing weight: Can glucosamine sulphate help?

2010-11-29T09:07:00.004-05:00

When I make a trip to my local pharmacy I always check what's on sale with their vitamins. But last weekend I was more curious to look for a brand that would contain glucosamine sulphate. I heard people talk about its benefits and how they feel better from their athritis. My aunt has osteoathritis which is the most common type of athritis. And guess what, they also say that glucosamine sulfate can help in loss weight but the only thing that's making me hesitant to use it is because it hasn't been proven yet.

There's a vitamin brand that contains glucosamine sulphate and I have to discuss this with my aunt to see if she's interested in using it as her dietary supplement.

Major acne problem

2010-11-28T18:10:00.004-05:00

My sister who's working in Saudi Arabia as a nurse is having some acne issues. She's worried because they're starting to turn into black. As of now she doesn't know what causes it especially that she didn't have that kind of problem before.

When I talked to her last night she wanted me to send her an acne wash so I searched online for the best face wash for acne. I will send it to her together with the camera that she ordered me to buy for her.

I hope to find one on the Internet tonight or tomorrow especially that it's Cyber Monday. Hopefully I can get a good deal.

Great deals on Outer Banks properties

2010-11-28T12:06:00.003-05:00

In 2008 around 150 Outer Banks properties were foreclosed despite efforts from Outer Banks oceanfront lenders to help consumers minimize their losses. As the economy worsened, North Carolina Bank foreclosures were continuing on.

Right now, there are lots of great deals on Outer Banks foreclosures. If you are not afraid to step in and jump through the hoops you can avail of low interest. As of 1/1/10 there were 147 residential properties under contract, 239 lots sold and 33 lots under contract which means there are 1,539 buyers who think now is a good time to buy real estate here on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Don't wait too long or you will face rising prices and rising interest rates.

Guide for buying a hot tub cover

2010-11-27T09:14:00.002-05:00

If you will search the Internet and if you visit your local stores there are many hot tub covers that you can choose from. The question now is how educated are you in choosing the best hot tub cover for your hot tub with the best price available.

These are some of the things you need to consider:

Foam thickness:
The most important thing to look at is your climate, the more snow load the heavier the cover you require. The best cover for most conditions is the all season cover, the 4x3 hot tub cover taper which is manageable weight and great load capacity.

Foam density:
Always go for the highest density foam available regardless of your location.

Vinyl
Always look for covers with marine grade vinyl.

Scrim
The best scrim out there is the reflective scrim which deflects the radiant heat from your spa back into the spa reducing your heating cost, but more importantly this material is water repellent saving your foam core and adding years of service to your cover.

Poly wrap
Look out for poly wraps that are taped, these will not stand up to the moisture in your spa and cause your hot tub top to become waterlogged.

Locks
This is very important as there have been increased reports of accidental drowning among small children in spas.

Reinforcement
All spa covers should have a reinforcing c-channel either aluminum or galvanized steel.

Things to watch out for on Cyber Monday

2010-11-26T11:11:00.002-05:00

I don't shop on Black Friday. I wait for Cyber Monday to do my shopping. However, I am very aware of the risks that I'm exposing myself to when I give out my information online. Here are some tips I would like to share to my readers to protect themselves from identity theft:

Don't shop from a public Wi-Fi connection
Hackers can tap into Wi-Fi connections at public hot spots and steal your personal information.

Monitor your accounts
If you're doing a lot of your shopping online, keep an eye on your bank and credit card statements to make sure there are no unauthorized purchase.

Shop at trusted websites
When looking for a particular item, go to a well-known price comparison site. Don't let a search engine pick a website for you. Use a direct web address for stores you know.

Baby clothes for my grandchild

2010-11-26T10:41:00.003-05:00

I'm planning to buy some baby clothes for my grandchild in the Philippines. I am thinking of buying discounted clothes since babies grow up so fast. I think it is unwise for me to spend so much money on full price and a few months later they will outgrow the clothes.

Some friends here have given me hand me downs and I'm happy that I have more clothes to send to my grandchild. His wardrobe will be so colorful. I can't wait to have everything ready so I can send the package soon before the postal service gets too busy.

Too much TV is bad

2010-11-24T16:20:00.003-05:00

How much TV time do you have in a day? If you're going to ask me, I'd say I'm lucky if I get 10 minutes in a day. My Samsung HDTV is probably the happiest TV on earth for not being used all the time. As you can tell, I'm not a couch potato. I spend most of my time working. I hope this will make me live longer since researches and studies say that 'people who spend more than four hours in front of the television each day have a far higher risk of dying early than those who limit their viewing.' Researchers recommend to 'switch off, stand up and keep moving.'

It's a good thing that I'm not a television fan because if I was then I couldn't do all the things I have at hand. And I think it's a total waste of time instead I can spend my idle time on some other activities like exercising, reading, interacting with friends and family - activities that are crucial for a healthy lifestyle.

TV stands for Christmas

2010-11-20T23:32:00.003-05:00

I am imagining that this Christmas I'm going to get myself a sleek, flat-panel TV. Hopefully, Santa has some extra cash to get me one. And I'm also imagining that he would include a pedestal style tv stands. Yes, tv stands because there's an extra TV at home that badly needs one. I prefer the pedestal style tv stand because it's cheap, light and easy to move.

I know some people don't appreciate this piece of furniture but I'm just thinking of the limited space we have at home. I am convinced that the pedestal type of tv stand will be efficient in the house.

Time to gobble

2010-11-20T22:02:00.001-05:00

I've heard some co-workers talking about how they are scared of the holiday feast because they're sure to pack up some pounds. Looks like they will be needing a fat burner supplement. I for one knows how hard it is to resist those delectable treats, juicy meats and flavorful eats.

Here are simple rules to follow to avoid struggling with overeating this Thanksgiving:
* Eat normally throughout the day.
* Get some exercise before dinner.
* Drink lots of water.
* Don't put more on your plate than you normally would.
* Indulge in one worthy dessert.

A Black Friday Confession

2010-11-20T21:19:00.003-05:00

Let me confess - I'm not a pro when it comes to shopping on Black Friday. I rely on the sale ads in the local paper. I'm not a great Black Friday fan because I dread the pushing and shoving. One time I did it, I went home late and so exhausted. The chaos in the stores where I shopped left me thirsty and hungry.

But I have decided to shop on Black Friday this year. Me and my girlfriends have made a plan that's hopefully going to make our shopping smooth and hassle-free.

And for important tips:
* There are plenty of crooks in the world. Make sure you keep your car locked at all times.
* Never put shopping bags where they can be seen, the trunk is the best spot.
* Ladies, keep your purse on you at all times, never set it in the shopping cart.
* It is best to leave the kids at home, you will not be able to keep your eye on them at all times.

Flowers say it all

2010-11-19T20:47:00.003-05:00

Thanksgiving is next week. We're invited to a friend's house for Thanksgiving dinner and I offered to bring seasonal flower bouquets. It is my way of expressing my gratitude to them for having us over in their place.

I used to wonder what gifts to bring to holiday hosts. But now I always order bouquets to present to whoever invites us. So far everyone has appreciated the gesture and they all loved the flowers I picked for the bouquet.

I hope everyone will have a meaningful Thanksgiving celebration.

How to build your own website

2010-11-17T19:10:00.003-05:00

I'm sure lots of people are just like me who wants some things to be easy especially if they're meant to be easy. I know how frustrating it is to do something and you couldn't get it done because you're stuck in a particular step. This is exactly what I felt when I was just starting to do blogging. I really wanted to build my own website but I lacked the resources until a friend suggested to me to I look around and search for an easy website builder.

True enough I found a website called WebDeva and right away I went through all their services and what they can do for me especially that I was just a beginner in blogging at the time. I was very pleased with their ourstanding service and helpful staff. They answered all my questions even the petty ones.

If you're new in blogging and want to create your own website please check them out and see if they can provide you with your needs in building your own website.

What to look for when buying a sofa

2010-11-14T07:19:00.002-05:00

Contemporary sofas are major investments. To ensure you get the right set follow these tips:

Check the frame. - To test frame strength, lift one front corner or leg of the sofa off the floor. By the time you've raised it six inches, the other front leg should have risen too. If it's still touching the floor, the frame has too much give; it's weak.
Ask about joinery. - Ask your salesperson for written manufacturer information on frame joinery.
Test the springs. - Sit down firmly on a corner or outside edge of a sofa you're considering. Squeaks and creaks suggest that springs are incorrectly placed or hitting the frame.
Feel your fillings. - Two good options that are comfortable and reasonably priced: HR foam in a layer of down and conventional foam wrapped in polyester batting.
Find tough textiles. - Ask the store for a piece of fabric larger than the usual swatch. Place it where the sofa will go. View it in natural and artificial light — and see how much you still like it after a few days.

Watching Baseball and the Phillies

2010-11-10T05:08:00.000-05:00

It is a great thrill watching major league baseball. I can enjoy watching many different games thanks to www.tvbydirect.com/. However, watching the Phillies remains my greatest thrill. The Phillies are one of the oldest baseball franchises, but have had little success in their more than 125 years of existence. That has changed in recent years. The Phillies have reached the postseason every year since 2007. They won the World Series for just the second time in team history in 2008.

The Phillies won their fourth straight National League East title in 2010. They were seven games behind Atlanta at one point, but turned it around down the stretch. A combination of players returning from injury and great pitching helped the Phillies climb the standings and return to the postseason once again. The offseason acquisition of pitcher Roy Halladay proved to be the best move of the offseason. Halladay won 21 games and led the league in ERA. Cole Hamels also returned to form, posting a remarkable season. The Phillies also traded for Roy Oswalt at the trade deadline, giving them one of the most formidable pitching rotations in major league baseball.

The way the roster is built, the Phillies figure to continue contending for years to come. That is welcome news for fans of the team. The Phillies are looking to reach the World Series for the third straight season. There is a good chance that will happen.

Guest post written by Franklin Davenport

Our Trick or Treating Traditions

2010-11-01T18:59:00.001-04:00

My three children and I go trick or treating in our own neighborhood. For the last three years we have been lucky enough to live in a neighborhood which reminds me of the one I grew up in. We know all our neighbors and most of the kids on the block. We live on a dead end street so I don't even have to worry about that much traffic.

My eldest son is going as a wizard this year. He is wearing a purple and silver robe that I made for him. My middle child is going as his favorite video game character. This is a simple a green tunic with leggings and a toy sword. My youngest is going as a ghost in a mask he designed himself.

We always leave the house shortly after I get home which is usually around five-thirty. We will start out by ourselves, but will probably be joined by other kids. We usually stay out for a bit more than an hour. We usually cover about four to five blocks. Sometimes the younger ones get tired and one of the adults takes them home while the rest finish trick or treating. Once everyone has enough candy to last until Christmas, we all head to one of the houses and watch Halloween specials on satellite TV that we got through expertsatellite.com deals in Colorado.

Guest post written by Arden Wallace

Looking for the best

2010-10-27T21:37:00.002-04:00

If you're looking for the best multivitamins you should read this article by Melissa Bell as written on the Washington Post on January 28, 2010.

"Many people take just one supplement, a multivitamin. Here are some tips for choosing the best multivitamin, from Andrew Weil, founder of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona, which focuses on combining alternative treatments with conventional medical practices.

Stay away from iron. The body can't eliminate iron, so unless your doctor tells you otherwise, , you shouldn't be consuming extra iron.
Mix up the carotenoids. Beta carotene may be the best-known carotenoid, but it shouldn't be the only one in your multivitamin. Carotenoids are found in fruits and vegetables and are said to be necessary to the human diet. There should be at least some of the following in the multivitamin: beta carotene, alpha carotene, gamma carotene, lycopene, lutein, beta-cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin or astaxanthin.
Check the type of Vitamin E. Dl-alpha-tocopherol is the least beneficial variety of Vitamin E and the most widely used. Look for a multivitamin with d-alpha-tocopherol (rather than "dl") or one with tocotrienols.
Get plenty of Vitamin D. Studies suggests people should get about 2,000 international units a day of Vitamin D, but most multivitamins have only about 200 to 400 IU.
Avoid calcium. Men shouldn't take a calcium supplement; Weil says it increases the risk of prostate cancer. "

Taking multivitamins

2010-10-27T20:46:00.002-04:00

I am taking three different kinds of multivitamins but nothing expensive. As we get older our bodies are in great need of essential vitamins and minerals. We need multivitamins for increased energy, stress reduction, and enhanced immune function. It can also improve cardiovascular health, decrease risk of osteoporosis, improve eye health and brain function. Multivitamins need to be taken properly to avoid problems.

1. Read the product label to determine the dosage. Check with a pharmacist if you have questions.
2. Take your vitamin at the same time each day. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for the regular does. Do not double dose.
3. Take each dose with a full glass of water.
4. Take your multi-vitamin at least 30 minutes after consuming caffeine, which can inhibit the absorption of certain vitamins.
5. Take the vitamin after a meal to lessen stomach irritation.

SEO in my mind

2010-10-27T20:16:00.002-04:00

Lately I haven't really put much effort in my blogging responsibilities such as visiting other blogs or placing my ad in other blogs to drive more traffic to my site. I was already expecting that in the process I would lose my PR which unfortunately happened last week.

I am seriously thinking of using a marketing strategy such as the SEO. It is believe to increase ranking and the number of visitors. The most important question now is if I can afford the cost of hiring an SEO company. I need to avail of the directory submission services if only to get quality inbound links and also to save me time and energy.

The best animated Christmas movie

2010-10-22T16:42:00.000-04:00

Christmas time is my favorite time of year. I love turning on DIRECTV New Mexico and searching for Christmas movies. When I was little it was absolute magic to watch Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. It is still by far my favorite animated movie to watch at Christmas.

I believe that it has an important plot. It teaches kids about being bullied and standing up for their rights. It shows that nice guys finish first, and of course it has all the wonderful meaning of Christmas in it. I know it is old style animation and there are many more exciting cartoons out there. As for me, Rudolph is instilled in my heart to be the one show not to miss during the holidays.

I have a child of my own now. Every year we search for movies together as I did with my mom and dad when I was his age. We always seem to find Rudolph. I do believe I have a new generation Reindeer lover! It is very exciting to watch him get as excited as I always did. My job is complete.

Guest post written by Nestor Nielsen

Losing Weight

2010-10-21T13:56:00.003-04:00

I lost 14lbs. and I want to lose more extra weight to reach my ideal number which is 110lbs. I haven't taken any weightlosstablets out in the market today. Instead, I make sure I exercise for 30 minutes in the morning and another 30 minutes in the evening. It has helped me shed some unwanted pounds. The problem is my pants are loose on me now so I have to pull them up until I can buy new ones.

I have no plans right now to take any weight loss pills. I'm willing to take it easy. I don't want to make any drastic decision as far as my health is concerned.

Wilma, Tinkerbell, and Batman:Halloween 2010

2010-10-20T15:41:00.000-04:00

As we enter the month of October, shopping for Halloween costumes is something kids and adults alike look forward to. Even at 30 years of age, dressing up is fun for me,too. My children and I love to go to the Halloween specialty store to choose costumes.

Every year we go to the store, but first, I make sure I set the new home security alarm system (NY home alarms specials) that was installed a few months back. It is a great thing to have, and really gives me the peace of mind that I need while we are away from the house.

It usually takes us an hour or two to choose the costumes that we want. This year I plan to dress up as Wilma Flintstone. I don't know why I chose Wilma, but,I did. My kids wouldn't dress like the rest of the Flinstones with me, so I will be tagging along with Tinkerbell and Batman. What an interesting group we will be! No matter what we are dressed as, shopping for our costumes is so much fun!

Guest post written by Darrick Franklin

Caffeine Intake

2010-10-18T15:37:00.005-04:00

What I need right now is a natural sleep aid. I've been staying up late these past few weeks and it's just so hard for me to fall asleep. I really believe that it's caused by my daily caffeine intake. I'm afraid that I'm drinking more coffee than what is considered moderate. I usually drink lots of coffee when I'm studying but on the day of the exam I feel exhausted.

So what is the best way to energize? I found these tips online:

Get a good night's sleep. If you are tired during the day, take a short nap.
Take a brisk, 10 minute walk.
Eat regular, healthful meals.
Try not to skip or delay meals. Avoid eating very large meals. Digesting a large meal can make u want a nap.

Movies on Demand

2010-10-18T14:41:00.001-04:00

I've always been a little different. The thing is I like watching movies by myself. Sometimes, I enjoy watching "bad" movies or watching the mindless blockbuster flick. When I go with my friends, its always a chore to pick a movie none of us have seen and I feel like I always end up getting influenced by their opinions on the flick afterward. But there is a stigma going to the movies by oneself and I always feel a little uncomfortable without another person by my side. It's especially hard to watch chick flicks without other or laugh at a comedy when you're by yourself. Thanks to movies on demand on satellite TV, I no longer have this dilemma.

I can enjoy badly acted chick flick movies like Miley Cyrus' "Last Song" or crap filled action flicks like "The Expendables" without hearing my friends complain or whine about how bad the movies are. I also don't have to hear comments about how my movie selections match that of a child or whatever. While I enjoy thought provoking or well written films, sometimes I just want some mindless drama or action to enjoy. I can also laugh maniacally at pointless comedies without worrying about people staring at me wondering what was so funny. Watching movies with expertsatellite.com deals in Colorado also makes me feel better when I watch a really bad movie because I don't feel as ripped off paying for an on demand movie versus the prices at the movie theater.

Guest post written by Shad Blake

The beauty of the changing seasons

2010-10-18T14:39:00.000-04:00

A lot of people will say that the most beautiful scenery during the year is when freshly fallen snow is covering the ground and before it becomes muddy sludge and snow plows and other vehicles ruin the look of it. But I disagree. I prefer the look of fall leaves with all kinds of beautiful colors.

I even like to share pictures that I take of my neighborhood when I get a chance. Most of the time I'll send them to my friends and family with my clear bundle and compare pictures of their surrounding fall foliage with them. But I have to say, that I think that mine always looks a lot more vibrant and colorful. That's definitely the case right now because it's right at the peak of when the leaves are turning and just before they're getting ready to fall off of all the trees.

But once the leaves start falling off, I'm ready for that snow to fall and be untouched by vehicles. There just aren't that many pretty scenes other times of the year.

Guest post written by Dave Vargas

Job stability in the health field

2010-10-16T22:57:00.003-04:00

Every time I look at a medical job listing the more that I'm eager to finish my nursing degree. I've seen so many job ads from hospitals looking for nurses and how I wish I can already apply. But of course, it's wishful thinking for now. The health care industry doesn't only pay well but also offers considerable stability. There are many other industries out there but I don't want to make myself the next recession casualty.

I'm looking forward to finishing my degree in nursing. A nursing career is one that is not going anywhere.

Penn State Fans

2010-10-10T15:52:00.000-04:00

My husband I are huge Penn State fans. Although we love the Nittany Lions, we live in Ohio. We get to as many games as we can, because we hold season tickets, and we love it. We take our coolers, grills, food, chairs, games, blankets, and head out to Happy Valley on Saturdays to cheer on our team. Many of our friends are also alumni, so we meet up with them to tailgate. Unfortunately, the drive to the stadium from our home is over 4 hours, so as expected, we can't always make it to all the games. Since we live in Ohio, we also used to have problems finding the games on television, since Penn State isn't our local team. Now we have satellite tv from this site, and its so great! We don't have to miss a single game anymore, regardless to them being on the road, or us not being able to make it. We are die hard fans, and would be lost with out Penn State football, and we have found this to be the best thing for us.

Open House

2010-10-10T15:49:00.000-04:00

Last "Open House," I found out that my daughter's school was going to have to cut down on library hours because they could not afford to keep paying the librarian for the extra hours. Being that I had experience as a librarian during college, I somewhat reluctantly offered my services to the principal as a volunteer.

I say reluctantly because at first I had my reservations about leaving the house unattended for 2 hours every day considering the neighborhood we live in, but I felt safer about it once my husband set up a home security alarm from Home-Alarm-Systems.com. It's easy for me to set up before I head off to school. I was also worried how my daughter would react to being stuck at the library for 2 hours a day. One benefit has been that since I'm at the library, my daughter is at the library. Since I started volunteering, she has been able to complete every homework assignment since and her test scores have been exemplary thanks to the extra study time. She always had trouble with distractions at home, but at the library none of those problems exist. I just started and there hasn't been a report card yet, but I'm anxious to see how it has affected her grades. The library has also helped me catch up on my reading. I was an avid reader in my school days, but had abandoned books for the allure of television.

Hawaii Five-O

2010-09-29T06:36:00.000-04:00

I'm not usually a fan of remakes, but when the fall season begins, I plan to clear my schedule to make sure I don't miss Hawaii Five-O. My husband and I plan to hang out and watch on our DIRECTV in Texas. It isn't really the story that interests me much. I know that it is going to be a crime drama and there are going to be some of the same characters as the original.

What really interests me are the actors and actresses that are starring in Hawaii Five-O. Alex O'Loughlin is going to be the star of the show. He plays a guy that comes out to Hawaii and sort of takes on the role of being on a special task force. Obviously, I think he is going to be a draw for tons of female viewers! Daniel Dae Kim, from Lost, will also be starring as well as one of the guys from Oceans Eleven, Scott Caan.

If nothing else it will sure be enjoyable to watch. Not knowing much about the original or ever watching it will make this Hawaii Five-O a completely new experience for me. I like that someone is taking a risk and trying to redo something that was successful in the past.