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  15-Minute Fashion

• Street Style You Can Buy

  19 Nov 2009 | 2:48 am

  How many times have you walked down the block and noticed someone with great style that you wish you could emulate? Living in NYC, that happens to me at least once a day. But because it's New York, I have to act all cool and can't run up after a stranger to ask where she got her shoes. That's why I love the site Weardrobe. It allows users to celebrate their own personal street style by uploading pics of their favorite outfits. It's a great place to get inspiration for how to rock purple tights, a leather mini skirt or a colorful trench. Starting today, you can now buy clothes similar to…

• Ann Taylor Friends & Family Discount

  17 Nov 2009 | 8:05 am

  Holiday shopping this week? Get 30 percent off at Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor Loft today though November 22. Enjoy! Ann Taylor Friends & Family Discount originally appeared on About.com 15-Minute Fashion on Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 at 16:05:20.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Holiday Makeup Cheat

  13 Nov 2009 | 5:35 am

  Is your inbox as flooded with holiday party invites as mine? First off, you have my permission to turn down a few of them, especially if  A) You haven't spoken to the host since last December B) If it's Christmas Eve and you still haven't started shopping C) You suspect you or your child might be coming down with H1N1 flu. A simple, "Sorry I can't make it," is all you need to tell the host. What is not a good excuse? Having nothing to wear. Check out my Little Black Dresses for Every Figure piece stat. Then use my favorite glamorous makeup cheat that takes 60 seconds (I swear!): Simply swipe…

• Easy Ways to Beat the Beauty Blahs

  10 Nov 2009 | 10:02 pm

  When flipping through the November issue of Women's Health, I came across a very helpful article, "Beat the Beauty Blahs". It's chock full of helpful tips, including a reminder to start laser hair removal treatments now, when you're paler and there will be more contrast between your skin and hair, making the treatment more effective. I would add to schedule any vein removal treatments over the next few weeks, too,, so you can wear pants and hide those unsightly support hose. I also appreciated the tip to: Use a sheer indigo blue or emerald eye shadow to downplay [eye] redness, and apply it…

• Neiman Marcus Christmas Book

  8 Nov 2009 | 10:23 pm

  Granted, there's nothing quick or easy in the Neiman Marcus Christmas book, but it sure is 15-minutes worth of fun. The catalog is filled with mostly lust-worthy items, like the Laura Mercier Essential Eye Organizer and the Valentino hobo bag. But the reason you should flip through the online book is to check out the over the top fantasy gifts NM is famous for. One of my favorites is the utterly ridiculous Customized Cupcake Car. Those witty NM copywriters describe it as, "mind-blowing, triple-dog-dare, double-infinity forever cool." As equally amusing as the $25,000 electric motor car is…

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  19th Century History

• Anniversary of the Gettysburg Address

  19 Nov 2009 | 2:35 am

  Today marks the anniversary of one of the most quoted speeches in history, Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. The speech was brief, and Lincoln only needed a few minutes to deliver it on November 19, 1863 during a ceremony to dedicate a military cemetery at the site of the Battle of Gettysburg. At a time of great crisis, with the Civil War grinding on at enormous cost in human life, Lincoln desired an opportunity to make a statement about the war and its purpose. And when invited to speak at the event in Gettysburg, Lincoln crafted a profound text. In less than 300 words, Lincoln gave a…

• The War in Afghanistan, Circa 1870s

  16 Nov 2009 | 3:35 am

  Stories of foreign troops battling in Afghanistan while diplomats try to find a strong leader for the remote and rugged country sound like today's headlines. Yet they perfectly describe Britain's war in Afghanistan in the late 1870s. When the British invaded Afghanistan for the second time it wasn't to fight the Afghans so much as it was to thwart the Russian Empire. The feeling in London was that Russia wanted to eventually move southward and seize Britain's prize possession, India. When the British Army marched into Afghanistan in late 1878 things actually went too well at first. A weak…

• The 19th Century Is Now the Height of Fashion

  12 Nov 2009 | 3:46 pm

  A report in the Fashion and Style section of the New York Times makes it official: the 19th century is the current big trend. Seriously. Apparently fashion is looking backward, and what's trendy today are designs with their roots in the 1800s. As the Times puts it: As with home design, where curio cases, taxidermy and other stylish clutter of the Victorian era have been taken up by young hipsters, many of today's popular men's styles have their roots in the late 19th century. There are the three-piece suits once favored by mustachioed Gilded Age bankers; the military greatcoats and boots of…

• The Election Denounced as "The Corrupt Bargain"

  9 Nov 2009 | 3:10 am

  If you think overheated political rhetoric is something new, consider a classic controversy that rocked American politics long before the appearance of cable channels. The presidential election of 1824 featured four candidates, and when the voting ended in November there was no winner. The Constitution provides a solution, a presidential election to be held in the House of Representatives. In early 1825 that turned into a monumental drama with three strong characters, Andrew Jackson, John Quincy Adams, and Henry Clay, who happened to be the speaker of the house. When the dust settled, John…

• Anniversary of Lincoln's Election

  6 Nov 2009 | 2:12 pm

  On November 6, 1860 Abraham Lincoln was elected president in one of the most significant elections in American history. Lincoln, who had barely been known outside Illinois a year earlier, had engineered a brilliant campaign which took off after he gave a speech in New York City that made him a suddenly prominent voice against slavery and the politicians who accepted it. Lincoln was elected without a single electoral vote from the south. And the news of his election as president prompted a number of southern states to make good on their threats to secede from the Union. By the time of…

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  20th Century History

• The Last Survivors of China's Foot-binding

  19 Nov 2009 | 10:27 am

  For centuries in China, it was common for young girls to have their feet bound, with their toes pulled under the base of the foot. This binding would deform the girls' feet, resulting in feet so petite that they were hardly larger than a child's. The other result of foot-binding made women hardly able, or completely unable, to walk. Although foot-binding was banned in 1912, the long-held practice lingered in many areas. When the Communists came to power in China in 1949, foot-binding finally ended. The history of this practice is fascinating. Were girls' feet bound purely for erotic reasons?

• 90-Year-Old Former SS Member Charged With Murder

  19 Nov 2009 | 6:38 am

  After police raided his home in Duisburg, Germany, a man known as Adolf Storms was arrested and charged with 58 counts of murder. It is believed that Storms is a former member of the fifth SS Tank Division "Viking" and helped hatch a plan on March 28, 1945 to kill Jewish laborers at the end of World War II. Carrying out their plan, Storms and other SS took 57 Jewish inmates into the woods outside of Deutsch Schuetzen, Austria and shot them. He is also accused of killing another Jewish prisoner during a death march. For more information about Storms, read this AFP article.90-Year-Old Former SS…

• UN Tribunal Overturns Rwandan Genocide Ruling

  18 Nov 2009 | 5:47 am

  On Monday, November 16, 2009, a United Nations appeals court overturned the ruling against Protais Zigiranyirazo (also known as "Z"), the brother-in-law of ex-Rwandan President Juvenal Habyarimana. In 2008, Zigiranyirazo had been found guilty of genocide and extermination and had been sentenced to 22 years in prison for his participation in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The appeals court decided to overturn the ruling of the lower court because they found serious errors in the original trial which seriously impeded justice. Shortly after the announcement that the ruling had been overturned,…

• Charles Manson Turns 75

  15 Nov 2009 | 3:55 am

  On November 12, 2009, convicted serial killer Charles Manson turned 75 years old. Manson, who once headed the "Manson Family," still mesmerizes people. His new supporters believe he has insight into the environment. As Manson sits in the state prison in Corcoran, California he espouses his beliefs on ATWA (an acronym for air, trees, water, animals). Manson believes that the government is covering up how bad pollution has really gotten. For more about Manson and his new followers, see this CNN article (this page also includes a few recent pictures of Manson).Charles Manson Turns 75 originally…

• Hitler's House for Sale

  11 Nov 2009 | 2:38 pm

  Adolf Hitler was born on April 20, 1889 in a room on the first floor of the building at Salzburger Vorstadt 15 in Braunau-am-Inn, Austria. At the time, Hitler's parents rented a room upstairs in the building. During the Nazi era, Martin Bormann declared the building a national monument. The building is now being put up for sale for an estimated $3.3 million (£2 million). Town officials are worried that neo-Nazis might buy the property and turn it into a shrine to Hitler. Although the town officials would like to buy the property, they currently lack the funds to meet the asking price.

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  80's Music

• This Week's Forgotten Gem of the '80s - the Cult's "Wild Flower"

  18 Nov 2009 | 9:55 am

  One of the few bands to come close to the pure molten majesty of AC/DC, England's the Cult went through a number of transformations before settling on its arguably most successful sound. Starting off as a post-punk band with Goth trappings in terms of both image and sound, the group gradually adapted according to what seemed like a genuine pursuit of artistic distinction. Rather than attempting to fit into a popular format for the sole sake of popularity, band leaders Ian Astbury and Billy Duffy combined a throwback psychedelic fascination with driving, punishing rock and roll. Contemporary…

• This Week's Forgotten Gem of the '80s - Leslie (Sam) Phillips' "River of Love"

  9 Nov 2009 | 3:46 pm

  A keen spirituality has always flowed through the impeccable songwriting and vocals of Sam Phillips, even two decades after the end of her impressive early-'80s career as a Christian pop artist. However, in many ways this tune - written and originally recorded in 1986 by future husband and long-time collaborator T-Bone Burnett - represents her clear transition from niche artist to world-class original. So why do I choose Phillips' version rather than Burnett's to spotlight here? Easy answer: Phillips was and is one of the finest female singers alive. This is mesmerizing, guitar-based folk-pop…

• Dive into the '80s Deep End of Memorable New Wave Artists

  5 Nov 2009 | 7:38 am

  During the past decade, the term "new wave" has come to refer to a new crop of bands obsessed with melody and throwback style almost as much as the notorious, still world-famous Flock of Seagulls hairstyle from the early '80s. This says plenty about the ability of the era's music not only to resist labels such as disposable and unforgettable but also to influence subsequent generations of pop musicians. So feel free to seek out Snow Patrol and the Bravery to your heart's delight, but it never hurts to have a reminder of the artists who first mined the treasures of new wave music and paved the…

• This Week's Forgotten Gem of the '80s - Paul Brady's "Crazy Dreams"

  1 Nov 2009 | 1:12 pm

  Irish singer-songwriter Paul Brady has never quite become a household name across the Atlantic, but his influence on contemporary pop/rock has been substantial. In fact, I first heard Brady's sparkling composition "Crazy Dreams" through a cover version by folk/Americana singer-songwriter Lucy Kaplansky. Aside from the fact that she typically demonstrates impeccable taste in covers, this song fully earns the title of pop/rock masterpiece. Joyous, conflicted and wonderfully human in its examination of the ongoing fight against loneliness, this track - which first appeared in 1981 on Brady's…

• This Week's Forgotten Gem of the '80s - Guided by Voices' "The Future Is in Eggs"

  25 Oct 2009 | 1:17 pm

  Dayton, Ohio's indie rock heroes Guided by Voices - who just happen to sport one of rock music's finest all-time band names - may not garner much mention if any when the conversation turns to '80s music, but that doesn't mean it's excusable to ignore the group's groundbreaking, influential work of its late-'80s formative stage. Bypassing the growing alternative/modern rock movement that would explode in popularity a few short years into the '90s, band mastermind Robert Pollard carved an honorable swath in the developing history of indie rock. Without the benefit of radio airplay or…

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  Accessories

• Liz Claiborne Electric Slide Tote

  15 Nov 2009 | 3:34 pm

  Liz Claiborne Inc. was founded in 1976 by Liz Claiborne, Art Ortenberg and Leonard Boxer. The line specializes in clothing, accessories and beauty products for men and women. Fashion designer Issac Mizrahi is currently the Creative Designer of Liz Claiborne New York, which is the re-invented version of the Liz Claiborne brand. Courtesy of ZapposLiz Claiborne handbags are moderately priced and feature classic styles such as hobos, totes, shoulder bags and satchels. Materials include but are not limited to leather, canvas, linen, cotton and PVC. Liz Claiborne bags are available at most…

• Swatch Full Blooded White Watch

  14 Nov 2009 | 12:49 pm

  Earlier this week, at its flagship store re-opening in Time Square, Swatch revealed the brand new Full Blooded White Watch. This watch is a fabulous addition to their Full Blooded Collection and bears a resemblance to the Chanel Ceramic watch (without the huge price tag, of course). Courtesy of SwatchAt the event, celebrities like Kelly Osbourne and Michelle Trachtenberg were in attendance, sporting their Swatch watches. Kelly looked fab as she accessorized with a black cloche, black and white watches, and her black Mary Jane pumps. I could do without the green nail polish... but hey, she's…

• American Glamour Badgley Mischka Collection for HSN

  12 Nov 2009 | 5:30 am

  If you are a big fan of Badgley Mischka, but not their high price tags, you are in luck. Badgley Mischka is one of the new lines that is coming to HSN. The American Glamour Badgley Mischka Collection will be exclusive to HSN and include shoes, handbags, jewelry and apparel. Courtesy of HSNThe collection officially launches on Tuesday, November 17, 2009 with a 2-hour premiere special at 9:00 pm EST. However, some select styles are available on hsn.com right now (Visit the website). With prices ranging from $39 to $499, the collection is very affordable. They offer fantastic handbags for around…

• Dooney & Bourke Croco Luna Hobo

  8 Nov 2009 | 3:54 pm

  Croc-embossed bags continue to be on trend this season. Right now, you can get this leather hobo from Dooney & Bourke with oversized croc-embossing on sale for 33% off. Courtesy of NordstromThis bag comes in your choice of four fabulous colors - cognac (pictures), green, red and brown T-moro. Originally priced at $265.00, this bag is now just $176.90 for a limited time during Nordstrom's Half Yearly sale (Buy Direct). At 14 inches wide, this bag is big enough to carry all your daily essentials but not so big that it is overwhelming. It seems like it could be the perfect casual everyday…

• Brazen Space Dyed Beret

  8 Nov 2009 | 3:13 pm

  It's time to start pulling out your winter hats! A hat is essential when the weather turns cold. But it shouldn't just keep your head warm and dry, a hat should look stylish too. Courtesy of NordstromThis soft beret is space dyed, providing beautiful color. I love the burgundy hues pictured here, but it also comes in black, brown or grape. This Brazen beret has a grippy band for a comfortable fit. Regularly priced at $28.00, you can get this beret right now at Nordstrom (Buy Direct) for just $17.90. If you like the coloring, also check out the matching scarf on sale for $27.90 (Buy Direct).

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  Acne

• Skin Needling May Be Next Big Thing In Acne Scar Treatment

  17 Nov 2009 | 4:25 pm

  Acne scars can be notoriously tough to treat. The procedures aren't always as effective as we wish they could be. But a small study published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Dermatology has shown skin needling holds promise. During a skin needling procedure, a small tool is inserted under the skin under topical anesthetic. Skin needling stimulates percutaneous collagen creation, and has been used to treat other types of scarring. Study participants, all off which had rolling acne scars, underwent two treatment sessions spaced eight weeks apart. Researchers say significant…

• AAD Launches New Site for Kids

  11 Nov 2009 | 11:16 am

  The American Academy of Dermatology just launched a new website which aims to educate kids about their skin, hair and nails. It's a cute, cartoon-y site with tons of information. Kids aged 7 to 12 will probably get a kick out of it. While it contains tons of great info, older kids and teens will probably find it too childish. You're escorted around by Sammy Skin Cell (although I didn't realize ol' Sammy was a skin cell until he announced himself as one. He looks more like a funny-shaped kid.) Still, kids will think he's cute. The site contains plenty of info about pimples, acne causes, and…

• Product Review: Revlon ColorStay Concealer

  7 Nov 2009 | 12:03 am

  Finding a good acne concealer is tough. It has to cover blemishes, last all day, and not clog your pores in the process. How does Revlon ColorStay Blemish Concealer measure up to these requirements? Related Topics: How To Conceal Breakouts Readers Respond - What Is Your Favorite Acne Concealer? Bargain Acne Concealers Product Review: Revlon ColorStay Concealer originally appeared on About.com Acne on Saturday, November 7th, 2009 at 08:03:24.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Microdermabrasion: Getting the Results You Want

  6 Nov 2009 | 1:40 am

  Microdermabrasion is a hot skin care procedure that is done in posh skin spas and dermatologist offices alike. After a treatment the skin feels softer, smoother, and looks more radiant. But what if you want more visible results from your microderm treatment? For improving acne scars, sun damage, fine lines and the like, you have to get aggressive. Our About.com Guide to Dermatology explains. Related Topics: Treating Acne Scars The Effects of Microdermabrasion Should I See a Dermatologist or an Esthetician? Microdermabrasion: Getting the Results You Want originally appeared on About.com Acne…

• Happy Healthy Skin Month

  3 Nov 2009 | 4:44 pm

  November is National Healthy Skin Month. There is plenty you can do to celebrate: Spend a few minutes every day taking care of your skin. Start on a nightly cleansing routine, if you haven't already. Get a good oil-free moisturizer. Keep using sunscreen, even throughout the gloomy winter months. Learn more about what causes acne and get clear on what doesn't. If you need help treating your acne, now is a great time to see a dermatologist. Make an appointment this month. Make the time to take care of yourself, especially as we enter into the busy holiday season. Do you have any other…

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  ADHD

• Ever Feel a Sense of Paralysis in Trying to Get Things Done…or Even Started?

  16 Nov 2009 | 4:12 am

  Do you ever experience a sense of paralysis associated with a task or project - wanting to get started yet unable to make progress forward in any manner? And if you do get started, do you have difficulty maintaining your drive and persisting in your effort? It may begin to feel nearly impossible to get anything done! This can quickly lead to overwhelm, procrastination and avoidance and ultimately results in problems with productivity. What strategies have you found helpful in getting started and sustaining focus on a task that is overwhelming or just plain boring?Please share your own…

• Healthy Living With ADHD

  16 Nov 2009 | 4:03 am

  Do you ever receive emails of fun photos, comics, stories, lists, etc. forwarded from friends or family? Sometimes these emails are funny and help lighten the day. Other times they are insightful and inspirational. I received an email from an About.com reader with a list of wonderful advice that is not only practical, but one that can be easily incorporated into daily life to improve health and happiness. Click on Tips for Healthy Living to read more. Healthy Living With ADHD originally appeared on About.com ADD / ADHD on Monday, November 16th, 2009 at 12:03:41.Permalink | Comment | Email…

• The Power of Positive Attention

  16 Nov 2009 | 3:50 am

  Positive attention - we hear these words together a lot, but what does positive attention really mean and why is it so important for children with ADHD? Kids with ADHD often hear a lot of negatives. Certainly, their behaviors can be quite frustrating and disruptive at times. It's not unusual for some of these kids to experience more negative interactions day-to-day than positive ones, particularly when they are having difficulty managing their symptoms. This can quickly take a toll on a child's self-image and feelings of self-worth. Learning to pay positive attention to your child is very…

• Share Your Positive Parenting Tips

  10 Nov 2009 | 5:22 am

  Learning to pay positive attention to your child is very powerful, particularly for a child with ADHD who may often experience negative feedback. It can sometimes be difficult, however, to find the positives especially if disruptive and oppositional behaviors are taking over at home.Parents, please help other parents by sharing your advice and tips for positive parenting. What have you found to be most helpful? CLICK HERE to share your parenting tips.Share Your Positive Parenting Tips originally appeared on About.com ADD / ADHD on Tuesday, November 10th, 2009 at 13:22:45.Permalink | Comment |…

• The Importance of One-on-One Time

  10 Nov 2009 | 5:07 am

  Days are often so busy. Our to-do list can sometimes be pages long. It may seem difficult to fit one more thing in, but regular one-on-one time with your child is very important. How often do you sit down with your son or daughter with no distractions, just focusing on him or her, listening without correcting, being together and soaking up positive one-on-one attention? Learn more about Positive One-on-One Time Photo © Microsoft The Importance of One-on-One Time originally appeared on About.com ADD / ADHD on Tuesday, November 10th, 2009 at 13:07:05.Permalink | Comment | Email this

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  Addictions

• AMA Changes Medical Marijuana Policy

  20 Nov 2009 | 5:02 am

  Image (c) www.taatgen-fotografie.nl According to MedPage Today, the American Medical Association has changed it's policy on medical marijuana. They are asking for marijuana to be moved out of Schedule I, in which drugs considered to be unsafe, highly risky for abuse, and having no medical use are placed -- without specifying the schedule under which it belongs -- for more research to be conducted into the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, and for funding to be made available for research. Read more...AMA Changes Medical Marijuana Policy originally appeared on About.com Addictions on Friday,…

• Medical Marijuana For Kids With Autism

  18 Nov 2009 | 4:30 am

  Image (c) Hyperorbit/sxc.hu An article on controvery discussion site "Opposing Views" suggests that medical marijuana may help reduce aggressive behavior in children with autism. Although this is a complex issue, my gut reaction is negative. Here are some of the reasons why. Read more...Medical Marijuana For Kids With Autism originally appeared on About.com Addictions on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 12:30:27.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Crack Cocaine Increases HIV Risk

  15 Nov 2009 | 7:29 am

  Image (c) Charles Thompson A new study published in Canadian Medical Association Journal has shown that daily smoking of crack cocaine increases the risk of HIV infection, independently of other risk factors. The study followed over 1,080 injecting drug users who were HIV negative at the start of the study, and found that 137 had become HIV positive at follow up. The risk increased over time, and was independent of other risk factors such as needle sharing, sex work and unprotected sex. Read more...Crack Cocaine Increases HIV Risk originally appeared on About.com Addictions on Sunday,…

• New Evidence For Food Addiction

  10 Nov 2009 | 5:17 pm

  Image (c) Charles Thompson An exciting new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has demonstrated a new level of the addictive process in food addiction. The study, which induced palatable food addiction in rats, showed that these unfortunate creatures not only experienced pleasurable reward processes from overeating, but also actually experienced physiological withdrawal when the palatable food became inaccessible. Read more...New Evidence For Food Addiction originally appeared on About.com Addictions on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 at 01:17:45.Permalink |…

• Vaccines Protect the Whole Community

  4 Nov 2009 | 10:23 am

  The decision to get vaccinated against a disease such as H1N1 is a personal one. I've noticed this reflected in the way people talk about the decision -- whether they are in the higher risk groups, whether they mind being ill etc. Yet it is worth bearing in mind that your decision whether or not to get vaccinated may affect many more people than just you. You are also affecting everyone you could potentially pass the virus on to. And with people being contagious both before symptoms appear and after they disappear, there is a high likelihood that you will pass it on to many others without…

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  Adoption

• Saturday Is National Adoption Day

  19 Nov 2009 | 1:07 pm

  November 21, 2009, marks the 10th year for National Adoption Day. Through the help of adoption professionals, child advocates, judges, and attorneys, thousands of children in foster care will finalize their adoptions and become part of a permanent home and family. The goals for this National Adoption Day include: Finalize adoptions from foster care in all 50 states Celebrate and honor all families that adopt Raise awareness about the 129,000 children in foster care waiting for adoption Encourage others to adopt children from foster care Build collaboration among local adoption agencies,…

• The Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute Releases Latest Study on Adoption & Culture

  16 Nov 2009 | 3:49 pm

  The Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute has released the results of a new study regarding interracial adoption. Beyond Culture Camp: Promoting Healthy Identity Formation in Adoption findings may surprise you. Then again - maybe they won't. The report focused on two-parent, White adoptions of 179 South Korean adoptees and the 156 Caucasian adoptees out of the 468 adopted adults that completed surveys. I found this report extremely fascinating because of the experiences we've had with culture and adoption. My sister was adopted into a bi-racial home - White/Hispanic. She told me that growing…

• Angelina Jolie to Adopt from Syria

  12 Nov 2009 | 9:42 am

  Ever have those feelings when you just know something is missing, but you don't know what that something is? I've been feeling that way lately, I keep wandering around, rummaging through drawers, blankly staring at the TV. But I think I've finally figured out what was missing. We haven't heard anything about Angelina Jolie or Brad Pitt adding to their family. Angelina Jolie hasn't added to her family through adoption since completing the adoption of little Pax from Vietnam in 2007. And she hasn't given birth since the twins joined the Jolie-Pitt crew in July 12, 2008. Well, guess what - she…

• RegDay Is this Saturday

  9 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

  The International Soundex Reunion Registry (ISRR) was developed with the idea of providing a means for families that have been separated due to divorce, adoption, or foster care to reunite. ISRR is a mutual consent adoption registry, meaning that for the registry to work, each adult (18 and over), has to have registered with ISRR in order for a match to be made. Many volunteers and visitors to the booths share their touching stories of adoption reunion or the pain of a fruitless adoption search. RegDay or Adoption Registration Day is an annual one day event to increase public awareness of the…

• Happy Adoption Anniversary Boys!

  5 Nov 2009 | 10:47 am

  Yes, seven years ago today, my husband, myself, and our daughter finalized the foster care adoption of our 3 boys. We fostered them for two years before facing a judge in Wichita, KS to make it all official. It's funny that we finalized in November during National Adoption Month, but back then I didn't even realize it was National Adoption Month. Many families plan for it to occur in November just for that reason, but we just fell into it. Parenting three teen boys with high emotional and behavioral needs was no picnic in the park. But we did learn a lot from our time together as a family and…

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  Adventure Travel

• Inexpensive Waterproof Camera Case Protects Digital Camera

  21 Nov 2009 | 5:22 am

  My husband, a gadget geek, tested the DiCAPac Alpha waterproof camera case using his Casio Exlim underwater in the Pacific Ocean, on the beach around sea lions kicking up sand, and river rafting near Telluride, Colorado. He got some excellent pictures underwater and on land that he would otherwise have missed. Here's his review of the DiCAPac waterproof camera case. Photo © Dick Friedland Inexpensive Waterproof Camera Case Protects Digital Camera originally appeared on About.com Adventure Travel on Saturday, November 21st, 2009 at 13:22:24.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Is this the ultimate adventure travel trip?

  17 Nov 2009 | 4:31 am

  Coca-Cola has named a team of three adventurous young adults as "Happiness Ambassadors" to travel around the world to find out what makes people happy. The team, chosen partly by a world-wide vote during which fans registered their preferences on the Coca-Cola site, will travel 275,000 miles and visit 206 countries in 365 days. They are already being prepped on fitness, fast packing, eating exotic foods and more, so they'll be primed for the journey which starts in January, 2010. You can influence who they meet and where they go by following Coca-Cola's Expedition 206. Is this the ultimate…

• Give a Rafting Trip as a Holiday Gift

  12 Nov 2009 | 9:01 pm

  There may be some snow outside my window this morning  and the rivers are low in Colorado,  but elsewhere it's not too late to go rafting on many rivers. Rafting America says you can watch the bald eagles alongside the banks while rafting down the Skagit River in Washington December through February, when the water is calm. If you want lots of action, consider heading to Chile, where it's summer in December. Photo by D Friedland Give a Rafting Trip as a Holiday Gift originally appeared on About.com Adventure Travel on Friday, November 13th, 2009 at 05:01:59.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• eBags Holiday 20 Percent Off Sale Through Thursday

  8 Nov 2009 | 4:40 am

  eBags, an online retailer that offers all types of luggage, handbags, laptop bags, backpacks, travel accessories and more, is having an early - 20 percent off  site-wide  - holiday sale. The sale clock stops at 11:59 MST, this Thursday, Nov. 12. eBags has its own brand, and offers a wide range of designer handbags (think Kate Spade and Michael Kors). eBags also sells carry-on bags to bigger luggage pieces from Samsonite, Vitorinox and the special Britto collection. (Britto is pop artist whose colorful paintings sell for big bucks.) Travel accessories range from camera bags and jewelry bags…

• Vantastic - You Won a 6-Week Trip to Australia

  4 Nov 2009 | 1:52 am

  The Aussies are still seeking three teams of two each, from anywhere in the world, for the last three legs of a Van-Tastic Adventure, all-expenses-paid journey through Oz.  Two Florida women won the right to take on the Tasmania leg of the journey by turning in a winning video. Adventurers chosen for the next legs will spend six weeks in a van driving across the country and video recording their experiences,which might include anything from swimming with sharks to hiking around Kangaroo Island and trading tales with locals in bars at the end of the day. If you're interested, turn in an…

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  Africa Travel

• Zimbabwe on the Up and Up

  20 Nov 2009 | 12:11 am

  Finally, it looks like Zimbabwe is getting out of its terrible economic slump. The coalition, forced on Mugabe after last year's elections, has helped stabilize the country and tourism is on the rise. According to a recent AP report, "The number of tourists visiting Zimbabwe this year has more than tripled". The initial number was so low, this probably sounds better than it is, but at least the trend is in the right direction. With the forced power sharing agreement many foreign governments have lifted their travel warnings, which has undoubtedly helped tourism. Zimbabwe was never very…

• Why Visit Kenya?

  17 Nov 2009 | 6:39 am

  There are plenty of good reasons to visit East Africa. So I thought it would help to give you my short list of  the 10 best reasons to visit Kenya. Kenya is blessed with some of Africa's finest national parks, mountains, beaches and its lakes are filled with flamingos and pelicans. No wonder it's one of Africa's most popular destinations. The country's natural beauty is also complemented by its proud cultural heritage. There are several tribes still living a traditional lifestyle such as the Samburu, Maasai and Turkana. Tourism is well established and there are some incredible eco-friendly…

• 2010 World Cup Africa Qualifiers

  14 Nov 2009 | 10:40 am

  The "Indomitable Lions", Cameroon's national soccer team, did it again by beating Morocco 2-0 to qualify for the 2010 World Cup. Nigeria's Super Eagles also managed to clinch a victory over Kenya (3-2) and will be heading to South Africa in the summer. The last available spot in the tournament will go to either Egypt or Algeria, who are scheduled to play their final playoff game in Sudan on Wednesday. In an earlier match, Egypt beat Algeria 2-0 in a heated soccer match, preceded by violence as Egyptian fans stoned the Algerian players' bus, injuring some of the players. Soccer is HUGE in…

• Fun Africa Facts (Nne)

  13 Nov 2009 | 4:53 am

  My fourth installment of "Fun Africa Facts" is unofficially brought to you by Chappies, the jaw-breaking chewing gum I grew up on in Malawi. Did You Know... Morocco was the first nation in the world to recognize the newly independent United States in 1777. Hippos can't swim, they walk along along the bottom of rivers or lakes. There is a building called Palacio de Ferro (the Iron Palace) in Luanda, Angola's capital, designed by Gustav Eiffel (same guy that designed the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel tower). You can cage dive with crocodiles in South Africa. Hyena poop is white, courtesy of…

• Too Many Elephants or Too Many People?

  10 Nov 2009 | 12:21 pm

  The LA Times had an interesting article this weekend that discusses the serious danger elephants in parts of southern Africa pose to villagers living close to wildlife reserves and parks. The fact is, there are many communities in Zambia and Botswana where elephants eat crops, crush homes, and charge people. But no one seems to care because much wealthier folks (i.e. tourists) spend a huge amount of money to come and see these fascinating creatures. As a result, the respective governments go to great lengths to protect the animals, and do seemingly little to protect the local communities.

• 
  African History

• Apartheid Quotes - Bantu Education

  19 Nov 2009 | 4:10 pm

  It is well known that one of the fundamental differences between the experiences of Whites and Blacks in Apartheid era South Africa was education. Whilst the battle against education in Afrikaans was eventually won, the Apartheid government's 'Bantu' education policy meant that Black children did not receive the same opportunities as White children. Find out more about the opposing views in Apartheid South Africa from this selection of quotes about Bantu Education. More on Bantu Education • School Enrollment in Apartheid South Africa • South African Students' Organisation •…

• More than One Billion in Africa

  19 Nov 2009 | 1:06 am

  According to the United Nations Population Fund continental Africa's population has passed the one billion level. Uganda and Nigeria are highlighted as regions of highest growth. Passing this milestone means that Africa's population doubled in only 27 years. Thoraya Obeid, UNPF's Executive Director, talking to journalists at the BBC, suggested the reason for the massive increase is because "there is large number of women who have no access to planning their families". The population boom has also led to children and young adults representing a much higher proportion of the population than in…

• Africa Past and Present -- Podcast 35 from MSU

  16 Nov 2009 | 9:29 pm

  Episode 35 of Africa Past and Present -- Michigan State University's podcast about African history,culture, and politics is now available. Peter Alegi and Peter Limb present a report by Dr. Wendi Manuel-Scott and Dr. Benedict Carton (George Mason University) on the recent 'African Identities in the Age of Obama' conference. Bridging the gap between African Studies, African-American Studies, and Caribbean Studies, the conference participants grappled with complex issues, including who and what does Obama represent? How do cultural aspects of the Obama phenomenon intersect with political and…

• A Few Words From Ngugi wa Thiong'o ...

  15 Nov 2009 | 10:42 pm

  "Christianity and Western civilization -- what countless crimes have been committed in thy name!"

• This Day in African History – Winston Churchill Captured

  14 Nov 2009 | 4:10 pm

  On 15 Novmber 1899 Republican forces in southern Natal ambushed a British armored train departing from Estcourt. The train was partially wrecked and in the ensuing fight four British soldiers were killed and 34 wounded. Winston Churchill, a war correspondent for The Morning Post was amongst 69 taken prisoner - he was captured trying to help the injured reach Estcourt. Churchill, although supposedly due non-combatant status as a war reporter was treated as a prisoner-of-war. (Just under a month later, on 12 December, Churchill managed to escape captivity by climbing over the wall of the State…

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  Agnosticism / Atheism

• Nietzsche vs. Gibson: Suffering, Debt, and Guilt with Jesus

  21 Nov 2009 | 7:00 am

  One of the curious features of Mel Gibson's film "The Passion" is how it is almost entirely preoccupied with the suffering and death of Jesus. We are told nothing about his message or his ministry - even the resurrection is given little attention. In their place, the camera lingers over Jesus' reaction to being whipped and even over the stripping of his flesh through torture. What does this have to say about Mel Gibson's theology and, perhaps, Christianity generally?   Read Article: Nietzsche vs. Gibson: Suffering, Debt, and Guilt with JesusNietzsche vs. Gibson: Suffering, Debt, and…

• Catholic Church: Guilty of Money-Laundering?

  21 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

  Many churches in America have set up separate divisions in their organizations to administer charitable programs in their local communities. The reason for this, rather than administering the programs directly, is that creating this separation allows them to solicit and receive government funding for the projects. Government cannot give money directly to church coffers because that money could be used for religious purposes, a violation of church/state separation. Government can, however, give money to a church-run organization where the money is separated from church funds and which is run…

• Bible Commentary: Jesus' Resurrection and the Empty Tomb (Mark 16:1-8)

  21 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  After the Jewish sabbath, which occurs on Saturdays, women who were present at Jesus' crucifixion come to his tomb to anoint his corpse with spices. These are things his close disciples should have done, but Mark portrays Jesus' female followers as consistently showing more faith and courage than the men. Read Article: Jesus' Resurrection and the Empty Tomb (Mark 16:1-8)Bible Commentary: Jesus' Resurrection and the Empty Tomb (Mark 16:1-8) originally appeared on About.com Agnosticism / Atheism on Saturday, November 21st, 2009 at 08:00:17.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Why Should Theists Prove that God Exists? Why Do Atheists Ask for Proof of God?

  20 Nov 2009 | 7:00 am

  When atheists and theists debate the existence of gods, atheists generally ask for some sort of proof of the god or gods that the theist claims exist. Why do they do this? That is a difficult question to answer because while it is true that atheists often ask theists for proof that their god exists, sometimes they shouldn't. Asking for proof may end up confusing the important issues, causing distraction, and leading the conversation away from where it should be.   Read Article: Why Should Theists Prove that God Exists? Why Do Atheists Ask for Proof of God? Why Should Theists Prove that…

• Christian Veterans Throw Temper-Tantrum as Lesson to Students

  20 Nov 2009 | 4:00 am

  The American Legion has a long, sordid history of reactionary and even authoritarian policies -- for example bigotry towards atheists coupled with promoting theocratic government. The latter came to the fore in Bloomington, Minnesota, when American Legion Post 550 insisted on inserting Christian prayers into a Veterans' Day flag raising ceremony. When they were informed that religious rituals couldn't be made an official part of an official school function, they not only refused to do the ceremony completely but also decided to withdraw funds for college scholarships. So if they couldn't…

• 
  AIDS / HIV

• The AMA Changes Views on Medical Marijuana

  18 Nov 2009 | 2:21 pm

  The American Medical Association (AMA) has reversed course regarding medical marijuana now urging the FDA to review marijuana's classification as a top tier controlled substance. While the AMA emphasizes that they are not endorsing state-based medical cannabis programs, the legalization of marijuana, or that scientific evidence on the therapeutic use of cannabis meets the current standards for a prescription drug product. They are urging the review to pave the way for more comprehensive studies of smoked marijuana of which on a few small trials now exist. The AMA's House of Delegates met in…

• Alledged Fort Hood Shooter Left Behind an Old Bottle of Combivir

  13 Nov 2009 | 12:42 pm

  In a shoe box filled with vitamins and prescription medications, the alledged Fort Hood shooter Major Nidal Malik Hasan had a bottle of the HIV medication Combivir. The box of drugs, found in the laundry room of his Casa del Norte apartment near Fort Hood, gives authorities a peak into the life of the man believed to be responsible for the shooting tragedy at Fort Hood. The prescription was dated 2001 and was the only HIV medication in the box. Does this mean Major Hasan had HIV? There is no way to tell from just a that prescription. Combivir, a combination of the drugs Epivir (lamivudine)…

• HIV/AIDS Leading Cause of Death and Disease in Women

  10 Nov 2009 | 1:03 pm

  In a study of women's health around the world, HIV/AIDS has been found to be the leading cause of death and disease in women 15 to 44 years of age. Data shows that 1 in 5 deaths among women is due to HIV related to unsafe sex practices. Unsafe sex is the leading HIV risk factor in developing countries. In addition there is a lack of access to contraception, condoms, and safer sex education. "Women who do not know how to protect themselves from such infections, or who are unable to do so, face increased risks of death or illness," The World Health Organization (WHO) said in a 91-page report.

• The Navy Has the Highest HIV Rate of All the Branches of the Military

  7 Nov 2009 | 6:28 am

  In 2008, the United States Navy diagnosed 36 new cases of HIV after testing over 100,000 sailors. The number of new cases was double the infection rate in 1999. Navy officials are not sure why there was such a rise in the infection rate but do confirm that most of the new HIV infections were a result of unsafe sex practices not IV drug use. Unsafe sex is not unique to the Navy. Across all branches of the military, condom use runs about 50% according to the Pentagon. However, the Navy figures are more concerning. Among unmarried naval officers, condom use declined from 40% in 2002 to 30% in…

• Researchers Do an About Face - N95 Masks Aren't any Better in Stopping H1N1

  3 Nov 2009 | 4:03 pm

  In a complete turn around from data released in September, researchers now say N95 masks are really offer no better protection against H1N1 flu than the typical disposable surgical mask. Back in September their story was different; stating that N95 masks offered the only true protection against the swine flu. Now after reanalysis, the story has changed; researchers believe N95 masks really offer little advantage over disposable masks. Why the change? Other studies contradicted the earlier findings of the study based in Sydney, Australia. In fact a Canadian study suggested there was no…

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  Air Travel

• Airfare Specials this Week

  18 Nov 2009 | 5:31 pm

  Lots of discounted airline tickets and vacation packages are on sale right now- too many to list so many are posted in the Air Travel Forum. Some of the airfare specials on sale this week... American Airlines holiday airfares. One way airfares now start at $50 based on roundtrip purchase. SAS Europe Sale. Book by December 7. Travel dates - January 11 - March 25, 2010. Sample Airfare -  one way airfare (roundtrip purchase is required) - Chicago / Moscow $285. Southwest Airlines 2010 Vacations. Book by December 11. Frontier Airlines sale. Book by November 23. One way airfares start at $49.

• Holiday / High Season Air Travel Guide

  16 Nov 2009 | 7:56 pm

  It's already mid-November so the busy holiday air travel season is quickly approaching. I wrote and compiled the Holiday / High Season Air Travel Guide to cover some of the important aspects of traveling during this time of year - from finding airfares, to the airport experience, and what happens when flights delay and cancel. The topics covered are - searching for cheap airline tickets; travel with infants; travel with pets; online check-in; luggage fees and allowances; what kids can do at the airport; TSA Secure Flight; airports during peak travel periods; rule 240 and canceled/ delayed…

• 'Tis the Season for Free WiFi

  14 Nov 2009 | 4:41 pm

  After a surprise slew of airlines offering free internet access on board, the free access continues at ground level. Google is providing free WiFi at nearly 50 airports across the United States through the holiday period (and into mid-January 2010). An early gift for bored, anxious, or flight-delayed passengers this holiday season...if you bring your laptop or WiFi-enabled mobile device.'Tis the Season for Free WiFi originally appeared on About.com Air Travel on Sunday, November 15th, 2009 at 00:41:35.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Airfare Specials this Week

  12 Nov 2009 | 5:44 pm

  Lots of discounted airline tickets and vacation packages are on sale right now- too many to list so many are posted in the Air Travel Forum. Some of the airfare specials on sale this week... American Airlines holiday airfares. One way airfares now start at $50 based on roundtrip purchase. Australia package deals. Book by November 30. Travel through end of May 2010. " Tourism Australia is currently offering One Week Walkabout packages - including round-trip airfare and five night's hotel in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane and surrounds - for as low as $1,299!" Funjet Vacations sale. Book by…

• $15 Fort Lauderdale - San Francisco - Cheap Airfare and Amazing Flight Deal

  12 Nov 2009 | 7:33 am

  One day only - $15 one way on JetBlue's inaugural flights between Fort Lauderdale - San Francisco on November 17. I just checked, and seats are still available for both directions on the 17th.$15 Fort Lauderdale - San Francisco - Cheap Airfare and Amazing Flight Deal originally appeared on About.com Air Travel on Thursday, November 12th, 2009 at 15:33:52.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• 
  Albuquerque, New Mexico

• Best Weekend Bets

  20 Nov 2009 | 4:15 am

  The weather forecast calls for sunny skies and warm temperatures this weekend, so outside is just as good as inside. Enjoy the beautiful sunshine. Can you believe it's almost Thanksgiving? Tromadance The independent film festival is now in its 6th year, bringing new films and a "Best of the Fest" retrospective of audience favorites. Visit the Tromadance website for a complete rundown of what's going on. When: Friday, November 20 - Sunday, November 22 Where: Guild Theater, Central Avenue Cost: $7 for a block of movies or $40 for an all festival pass. Placitas Arts and Crafts Festival If…

• Albuquerque Treasures - Where to See Sandhill Cranes

  19 Nov 2009 | 3:51 am

  The first time I saw sandhill cranes doing their mating dance, I wasn't sure what it was. It was energetic. It was, well, seemingly antagonistic, yet elegant all at once. Yes, yes, I saw those dancing birds. You can too, and one of the best places to see them up close is right here in town. Opened just a few years ago on the city's westside, the Open Space Visitor Center already qualifies as an Albuquerque treasure, providing interpretive exhibits and special events. The other day, I visited during the Sandhill Crane Celebration, and I wasn't disappointed. A few of the large, crackling birds…

• Wordless Wednesday

  18 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

  Where in Albuquerque? Let me know in the comments section below. Follow me on Twitter. Photo © Aileen O'Catherine Wordless Wednesday originally appeared on About.com Albuquerque on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 10:00:33.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Thanksgiving Dinner in Albuquerque

  17 Nov 2009 | 4:25 am

  Have you decided where you want to eat dinner in Albuquerque? There are a number of choices available, from brunch to buffets to a sit down meal. Find the right place in town for your Thanksgiving dinner. Or maybe you want to have dinner at home, but don't have time to cook. Consider the takeout possibilities that might make your life less stressful. Pick up a pre-cooked bird, or one that's smoked or bbq'd, or even consider a ham. Thanksgiving dinner doesn't have to have a turkey. After all, at the original Thanksgiving, they ate eels. Follow me on Twitter. Photo © Getty Images Thanksgiving…

• Two New Exhibits at Very Special Arts

  16 Nov 2009 | 4:28 am

  The Very Special Arts Program announces two new openings this week. Fresh Faces will run at the North 4th Gallery from November 20 to January 24, and features the work of eight emerging artists in a range of subjects. Quilts from the Day Arts fabric class will also be on display. Opening reception is Friday, November 20 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. VSA is located at 4904 4th NW. Call (505) 344-4542 for more information. The VSA also presents Everything's Different at the Petting Zoo, a week-long exhibit to complement Fresh Faces. New work from 18 VSA artists will be on display at the Petting Zoo,…

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  Alcoholism

• Do You Have an Alcohol or Drug Problem?

  19 Nov 2009 | 4:05 pm

  Alcohol and drug use can progress into abuse and even addiction so insidiously that sometimes people do not realize that it has become a problem for them and those around them. The following self-assessment tests can help you determine whether or not it may be time to get help. Alcohol Abuse Screening Quiz Drug Abuse Screening Quiz Could You Be Depressed? Is Your Child Using Drugs or Alcohol? Is Your Child Huffing Inhalants? Questions for Families: Are You Troubled by Someone's Drinking? Are You Enabling an Alcoholic or Addict? Did You Grow Up With a Problem Drinker? Domestic Abuse Screening…

• What Is the Harm in Heavy Drinking?

  18 Nov 2009 | 5:15 pm

  You may have heard that if you drink more than the recommended guideslines for alcohol consumption your drinking is in the "at risk" category. But at risk for what? What exactly is the harm in drinking too much? Read more... Related Information: Getting Help for Drinking Problems Finding the Right Treatment Program Does Treatment Work? Photo: BigStockPhoto.comWhat Is the Harm in Heavy Drinking? originally appeared on About.com Alcoholism on Thursday, November 19th, 2009 at 01:15:30.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• What Does 'At-Risk' Drinking Mean?

  17 Nov 2009 | 5:58 pm

  If you regularly exceed the recommended guidelines for daily and weekly alcohol consumption you may be concerned that your drinking pattern is not safe. Heavy drinking is considered an "at risk" level of alcohol consumption, so you may have a reason to be concerned. Read more... Related Information: What Is Alcoholism? Alcohol Abuse vs. Alcohol Dependence Online Alcoholism Screening Quiz Photo: BigStockPhoto.comWhat Does 'At-Risk' Drinking Mean? originally appeared on About.com Alcoholism on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 01:58:49.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• FDA to Examine Alcohol Energy Drinks

  16 Nov 2009 | 4:30 pm

  Are those new alcohol energy drinks really safe? Doesn't adding caffeine to an alcoholic beverage encourage the consumption of even more alcohol? The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is looking at the safety and legality of alcoholic beverages that contain caffeine as an additive. At the request of several state attorney generals, the FDA decided to examine the health and safety issues surrounding the popular beverages. The FDA sent letters to 30 manufacturers of the beverages giving them 30 days to show proof that the drinks are safe. Read more...FDA to Examine Alcohol Energy Drinks…

• Alcohol in the News

  15 Nov 2009 | 4:05 pm

  Rapper 'Lil Boosie' Faces More Prison Time... Realtors Want Guidelines for Drug Houses... Lawmaker Wants 'Three Strikes' Law for DUIs... Mexico's Drug Cartels Recruiting Youth... Police Find Meth Lab on Moped... Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time... More... Read more... Free Newsletter: Sign Up for Recovery News Join the Discussion: Alcoholism Forum Photo: © Getty Images Alcohol in the News originally appeared on About.com Alcoholism on Monday, November 16th, 2009 at 00:05:04.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• 
  Aliens/UFO

• Strange Event in the Dakotas

  19 Nov 2009 | 7:18 pm

  I would like for you to check out a report sent to me by one of our readers. The case concerns the sighting of unknown lights by her brother and two other men while on a hunting trip in the Dakotas. Their sighting is strange enough, but that's not all that happened that night. About 45 minutes from their sighting, three college women who were doing some star gazing of their own, were found dead in their sport utility vehicle ten feet under a farmer's pond. Are these two cases related? Check out all the details at Strange Event in the Dakotas, and tell us what you think. Strange Event in the…

• UFO Sighting Reports

  18 Nov 2009 | 7:47 pm

  Welcome to another session of UFO sighting reports. This week we have several very detailed reports to show you. An amateur astronomer reports an unknown object in Arizona. A Colorado man reports a half dozen bright, flat objects. A man and wife from New Mexico see a large, gray object which has a near miss with a plane, and our last report comes from Texas, where a man and his son see a red object, stationary in the sky. Check out the full length reports of these at UFO Sighting Reports, 11-19-09, and don't forget to keep your eyes on the skies. UFO Sighting Reports originally appeared on…

• UFO over South Quadrant, Argentina

  17 Nov 2009 | 5:26 pm

  Another UFO video that has gained some popularity lately is one submitted from Argentina. The video supposedly shows one glowing object in the night skies of South Quadrant on 09-28-09. The video has dimension to it, but you have to be patient, as the 06:29 minute video has some redundancy. I think you will find it worth the wait. Check this one out at UFO from Argentina, and give us your opinion. UFO over South Quadrant, Argentina originally appeared on About.com UFOs / Aliens on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 01:26:22.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Next: A Space Station on the Moon?

  15 Nov 2009 | 5:15 pm

  We now have another report that they have found water on the moon. Not just a little water, but a lot. NASA spokesmen used the term, "significant," when describing the water content. This discovery came about when the Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite, or LCROSS, intentionally crashed October 9 into the permanently shadowed region of Cabeus crater near the moon's south pole. After the bombing, a rocket flew through the aftermath of the event, and measured the water content. Other data was also collected during the 79 million dollar mission. "The discovery opens a new chapter in…

• 2012: Now the Movie

  12 Nov 2009 | 5:38 pm

  The 2012 question keeps popping up. Now, we have a full theatrical release of 2012: The Movie. I wonder how many of these we will be exposed to before December, 2012. Roland Emmerich, director of such notable disaster films as "Independence Day," and "The Day After Tomorrow," strikes again with his latest offering, using the 2012 prediction to draw ticket buyers. The film stars John Cusack, Danny Glover, and Amanda Peet. The North American debut was November 13. You can see a trailer and start dates at the official 2012 site linked above. If any of you choose to see the end of the world…

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  Allergies

• Thanksgiving Allergies

  19 Nov 2009 | 4:44 pm

  Soon many of us will travel to see family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving. These travels could lead to various exposures that could worsen underlying allergies. From hidden food allergens in the mom's famous stuffing, to Aunt Edna's pet cat, and from Uncle Ed's cigars to Grandma's dusty spare bedroom, your allergies could be in for more than you bargained for this Thanksgiving. Learn how to be prepared to prevent and treat food allergies, cat allergy, reactions to cigarette smoke and dust avoidance measures. Read more: Preparing for Hidden Food Allergens How to Deal with Grandma's Four…

• Allergies in Children

  9 Nov 2009 | 6:33 pm

  Allergies are becoming more and more common in children. For example, allergic rhinitis is extremely common in children, and is far more than just a runny nose. Allergies of all kinds can have a major effect on a child's quality of life, including effects on mood and behavior, activities such as school and sports, as even effects on sleep. Learn about ways that allergies have affected children's lives, as well as how allergy treatments have improved these children's lives. Read about: Recognizing Allergies in Children How Allergies Affect a Child's Well-Being Allergies at SchoolAllergies in…

• Food Allergies and Vaccines

  2 Nov 2009 | 5:48 pm

  Millions of vaccinations are given every year in the United States; allergic reactions from these vaccines are extremely rare. However, some people with certain food allergies may be at higher risk for allergic reactions as a result of vaccines containing certain food proteins. Many routine immunizations contain traces of egg protein or other food ingredients. As a result, there is the possibility that a person with food allergies will experience a severe allergic reaction as a result of receiving a vaccination. Learn more: Basics of Food Allergies and Vaccines H1N1 Vaccine and Egg Allergy…

• Are You Going to Get the H1N1 Swine Flu Vaccine?

  26 Oct 2009 | 5:36 pm

  The swine flu is front page news on a daily basis. And now that the swine flu vaccine is available, there seems to be a huge demand for the vaccine, but also concerns from some people that the vaccine may not be completely safe. Do you intend to receive, or have your children receive, the swine flu vaccine? Would you want to receive the nasal form, shot form, either one or neither one? Share your opinion, and read about others' thoughts. Are You Going to Get the H1N1 Swine Flu Vaccine? originally appeared on About.com Allergies on Tuesday, October 27th, 2009 at 00:36:39.Permalink | Comment |…

• Put a Stop to the Swine Flu!

  19 Oct 2009 | 5:32 pm

  The swine flu is here, and more and more people are becoming infected. It appears that people, especially children, with asthma are at higher risk for complications from the flu. The new swine flu vaccine, in both injected and nasal forms, are becoming available nationwide. Learn how swine flu can be prevented and treated, and what to do about the flu if you have asthma. Learn more: Swine Flu Prevention Swine Flu Treatment Swine Flu Vaccine and Egg AllergyPut a Stop to the Swine Flu! originally appeared on About.com Allergies on Tuesday, October 20th, 2009 at 00:32:18.Permalink | Comment |…

• 
  Alternative Music

• From the Vaults Friday: Skip Spence, Oar (1969)

  20 Nov 2009 | 12:00 pm

  The Year: 1969 The Album: Alexander 'Skip' Spence, Oar Who It Influenced: Beck, Wilco, Tom Waits, Giant Sand, Cat Power, Sandro Perri This year, Scientologist song-and-dance-man Beck started up an online 'Record Club,' in which he and his pals —brother-in-law Giovanni Ribisi, producer Nigel Godrich, Devendra Banhart, Little Joy, MGMT— would get together to cover an entire album, all in a single day. The first two LPs done in their entirety, The Velvet Underground's The Velvet Underground and Nico and Leonard Cohen's Songs of Leonard Cohen, are perennial classics, records already…

• The Title of the Next Xiu Xiu LP is Really, Truly Dear God, I Hate Myself

  19 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  Xiu Xiu, the long-running art-noise confessional vehicle of Oakland's Jamie Stewart, will release their ninth album on February 23, via Kill Rock Stars. Having already named albums Knife Play, Fag Patrol, and Women as Lovers, Stewart keeps things consistent with the happily, self-parodically shocking title of his latest: Dear God, I Hate Myself. Stewart has spent most of 2009 doing things other than Xiu Xiu; from working on the pretty-great Former Ghosts record (alongside the amazing Nika Roza Danilova of Zola Jesus), to touring solo, to guesting on the forthcoming Los Campesinos! LP. Now,…

• Chris Knox Tribute Album Features Mountain Goats, Yo La Tengo, Bill Callahan

  18 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  In June, lo-fi innovator and New Zealand music legend Chris Knox suffered a debilitating stroke. Since then, Knox has been hard at work on the slippery slope of recovery. In aid of such, a motley crew of friends, peers, and fans have assembled two compact-discs' worth of Knox covers on a fundraising tribute record entitled, funnily enough, Stroke. Initially, super-reclusive Neutral Milk Hotel main man Jeff Mangum was lined up as a contributor, but, alas, Mangum's contribution never arrived, and he remains a figure of pure mystery. Still, indie fans will be able to comfort themselves with a…

• St. Vincent, Wildbirds & Peacedrums to Tour Together

  17 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  Like peaches and cream, or a coach and a team, St. Vincent and Wildbirds & Peacedrums are hoping to be a perfect match when they pair up for one heavy February of shows together. The New Yorker vixen and the Swedish husband/wife duo have both been standout alternative music figures this year: St. Vincent earning copious admirers for her second LP, Actor, whilst Wildbirds & Peacedrums' sophomore set, The Snake, has been undoubtably one of the best albums of the year. Now, the two will join forces on a North American tour early in 2010; where they'll get to swap stories of jazz…

• Introducing: Jordaan Mason and the Horse Museum

  16 Nov 2009 | 12:00 am

  Name: Jordaan Mason and the Horse Museum From: Toronto, Ontario Story: His soft, silly music is meaningful, magical Sound: Acoustic music as an open wound. With horns! When I introduced you to the Rural Alberta Advantage back in June, prior to the Saddle Creek release of their stirring first LP, Hometowns (truly one of 2009's best debut albums), it seemed safe to assume they would be the best Neutral-Milk-Hotel-influenced, aching acoustic act to come out of Canada in 2009. Yet, a young songwriter from Toronto named Jordaan Mason has blown that idea out of the water. With his nasally wail and…

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  Alternative Religions

• Old Religions; New Approaches

  16 Nov 2009 | 1:58 pm

  CNN reports about a growing number of cyber-churches, where services are broadcast and parishioners view it and even take part in it from the comfort of their homes. Some insist that things will be lost, that one cannot simply "grab grape juice and a cracker from the fridge and watch a computer screen, thinking they are truly participating in a gathering of the faithful." Why not? While many might not find meaning in such a scenario, they can attend traditional services. But if it is meaningful to someone, who is anyone to argue? People gripe about lowering attendances at traditional services…

• Defining "Religion": The Power of Words

  15 Nov 2009 | 7:35 pm

  In the wake of Ft. Hood shootings, conservative preacher Pat Robertson has stated, "Islam is a violent -- I was going to say religion, but it's not a religion. It's a political system. It's a violent political system bent on the overthrow of the governments of the world and world domination." It's a powerful statement, but the power isn't in the accusation it makes. Rather, the power is in the attempt of redefining Islam as not a religion. Religions have particular rights in Western countries. Talk of not calling Islam a religion is tantamount to suggesting those rights are not deserved by…

• Baha'is Celebrate the Birth of Baha'ullah

  11 Nov 2009 | 4:34 pm

  November 12 is celebrated by Baha'is as the birthday of Baha'u'llah, founder of the Baha'i Faith. Official holidays of the Baha'i Faith, including the birthday of Baha'u'llah, are expected to be marked with the suspension of work or school. Beyond that, however, celebrations widely vary. They might involve a communal meal and scripture readings, and they are generally open to the public.Baha'is Celebrate the Birth of Baha'ullah originally appeared on About.com Alternative Religions on Thursday, November 12th, 2009 at 00:34:47.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• "I believe" Licence Plates Unconstitutional

  11 Nov 2009 | 4:19 pm

  A judge in South Carolina has ruled that legal license plates bearing a cross and the words "I believe" on them are unconstitutional. He also accused legislators, who unanimously approved the plates of "unnecessarily draw[ing] the state into an expensive lawsuit." I can't even begin to comprehend how these people thought such a move would be legal, especially when some lawmakers were against offering similar plates for other faiths. This shouldn't have needed to go to court. The problem with the plates should have been obvious. Separation of Church and State, folks. It's very cut and dry on…

• 2012: Can the End be Near?

  8 Nov 2009 | 8:32 pm

  For all of you tired of the 2012 hysteria, try pointing the next panicked individual in the direction of this National Geographic article, which addresses several of the common claims involved in this mad rumor. The article doesn't address the issue of Nostradamus predicting 2012, nor does it touch upon claims of Biblical prophecy. For these, I challenge people to actually find a quote from either source that actually mentions 2012. (You can also read more on the ludicrousness of Nostradamus theories over at Paranormal Phenomena.)2012: Can the End be Near? originally appeared on About.com…

• 
  American Food

• Oh, Fudge

  19 Nov 2009 | 7:21 pm

  I recently came into some complimentary coupons for a few cans of evaporated milk. It's not exactly like winning the lottery, but hey, free food is free food. Besides, who has time to evaporate milk? Takes forever. I'll admit, I was at a loss for what to do with it, but a quick online search reminded me that evaporated milk is a key ingredient in one of my favorite childhood treats - chocolate fudge! I just posted the classic Carnation version of this sweet treat, and while many "real" fudge recipes require precise procedures and candy thermometers, this one doesn't, and it couldn't be…

• Locked and Loaded Potato Casserole

  17 Nov 2009 | 5:23 pm

  Who doesn't like a loaded potato? For one thing you have to admire the genius of the name. What an inspired euphemistic abbreviation for what used to be called a "baked potato stuffed with cheese, onions, sour cream and bacon." Now you can enjoy this celebration of spud-tastic excess in casserole form. I just posted a loaded potato casserole recipe that takes this over-the-top side dish and turns it into a great option for feeding a larger group. Enjoy! Photo (c) John MitzewichLocked and Loaded Potato Casserole originally appeared on About.com American Food on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009…

• Four Terrific Tips for Your Thanksgiving Meal

  15 Nov 2009 | 4:21 pm

  It's almost here, the Super Bowl of American food! Here are a few tips if you are doing the cooking this year: It always tastes better when someone else makes it! Remember, the food will taste twice as good to your guests, than it does to you. Why? Because you just tasted that gravy for the nineteenth time. Stop fussing with it, it's fine. Timing isn't everything. Don't try and time everything to finish cooking at the same time so it can all be piping hot at the table. The turkey can easily rest 30 minutes tented with foil, so relax, you have plenty of time to bring the other sides to the…

• Studying Hard at Kingsford University

  12 Nov 2009 | 5:17 am

  Finally, a University I can excel in! I'm in Sonoma, California at Kingsford University, a gathering of food writers and bloggers hosted by Kingsford Charcoal. We're going to watch demos on the finer points of barbecue from world champion pitmaster Chris Lilly, as well as see the entire process of what goes in to making charcoal. In addition to the great food and drink, I get to rub elbows with some of the top food writers in the country including our very own Derrick Riches, About.com's Guide to Barbecues & Grilling. Stay tuned for more information soon! Photo (c) John MitzewichStudying…

• A Mushroom Burger Even a Burger Lover Will Enjoy

  8 Nov 2009 | 5:49 pm

  Usually when one hears the words "mushroom burger," visions of a thick, juicy hamburger topped with fried fungi comes to mind. But one of my favorite meatless meals of all time is actually a burger that features mushrooms as the star ingredient. Commercially made veggie burgers can often be joyless discs of disappointment. The ingredients tend to be ground into oblivion, but the secret to this easy recipe is the larger chunks of mushroom, which produces a deliciously meaty burger. Enjoy! Photo (c) John Mitzewich A Mushroom Burger Even a Burger Lover Will Enjoy originally appeared on About.com…

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  American History

• Women's Christian Temperence Union Formed

  17 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

  On November 18, 1874, the Women's Christian Temperance Union was formed in Cleveland, Ohio. Under Miss Frances Elizabeth Caroline Willard, the WCTU aimed to protect Christians through commitment, abstinence, and abolition of the liquor trade. Prohibition Timeline Women's Christian Temperence Union Formed originally appeared on About.com American History on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 00:00:54.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Sherman Orders the Burning of Atlanta

  14 Nov 2009 | 4:57 pm

  On November 15, 1864, General Sherman gave orders to burn all public buildings, machine shops, depots, and arsenals in Atlanta during the Civil War. While setting out for Savannah that same day Sherman stated, "Behind us lay Atlanta smoldering and in ruins, the black smoke rising high in the air and hanging like a ball over the ruined city." Sherman Orders the Burning of Atlanta originally appeared on About.com American History on Sunday, November 15th, 2009 at 00:57:09.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• The Second American Revolution

  12 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

  Termed the Second American Revolution, the War of 1812 had a major impact on American life. Take a look at the timeline of events that took place during this ordeal that involved President James Madison fleeing from the White House. The Second American Revolution originally appeared on About.com American History on Friday, November 13th, 2009 at 00:00:44.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Remembering Our Veterans

  10 Nov 2009 | 4:14 pm

  November 11th is the day that all Americans salute the men and women who have served time in our armed forces. Thousands of these men and women have put their lives on the line during war, not to mention being very far from home for a long period of time. These individuals have risked their lives to protect each and every one of us, so it's important that we show our appreciation to our veterans. Take some time this Veteran's Day to remember and if possible thank a veteran. Remembering Our Veterans originally appeared on About.com American History on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 at…

• William Quantrill: Murderer or Soldier?

  7 Nov 2009 | 4:54 pm

  The controversy swirls around William Clarke Quantrill. Some people would consider him a patriot of the South, doing his part again Northern tyranny. Others would consider him to be a lawless butcher that took advantage of the disarray brought about by the Civil War to assuage his need for brutality and cruelty. Which was he? Read this article to get a historical look at this controversial man. William Quantrill: Murderer or Soldier? originally appeared on About.com American History on Sunday, November 8th, 2009 at 00:54:22.Permalink | Comment | Email this

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  Amsterdam Travel

• Craving Thai in the Jordaan?

  14 Nov 2009 | 2:05 am

  So you've been walking around Amsterdam's western canals all day and just don't feel like traditional Dutch fare tonight. If you're craving Thai food, stay in the neighborhood, because nearby Rakang Thai Restaurant serves some of the city's best. Not quite your typical Thai place, Rakang prides itself on excellent (if not showy) service and unique ambiance. Prices reflect the quality of the food, so mark this one down as a special dinner, order one the € 36-39 fixed-price menu dishes and enjoy the splurge. Be sure to make reservations at Rakang, as it fills up fast. If you score a seat…

• Amsterdam Coffeeshop Dos and Don'ts

  8 Nov 2009 | 3:45 am

  Visitors to Amsterdam are always intrigued by the tolerant attitude the Dutch have toward "soft drugs" (e.g., cannabis products). I couldn't escape talking about it forever. I used to think that there's already enough information about it online. But with these Amsterdam Coffeeshop Dos and Don'ts I hope to help your tolerant cultural experience be a better one!Amsterdam Coffeeshop Dos and Don'ts originally appeared on About.com Amsterdam Travel on Sunday, November 8th, 2009 at 11:45:58.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Welcome Sinterklaas to Amsterdam November 15

  3 Nov 2009 | 3:17 am

  Sinterklaas, or St. Nicholas, arrives from Spain on his boat at the Scheepvaart Museum (Maritime Museum) in Amsterdam's harbor on Sunday, November 15, at 12 noon. He'll be arriving in preparation for Sinterklaasavond on December 5, the most important night of the Dutch holiday season, when he'll fill the shoes of deserving little ones with treats and gifts. From the harbor area, Sinterklaas will ride his white horse through the center of Amsterdam as his helpers throw holiday cookies and candies to the hundreds of children and onlookers along the route. This is one of the most anticipated…

• Don't Miss Museumnacht in Amsterdam!

  1 Nov 2009 | 4:29 am

  If you've been a reader of mine for a while, you know that Museumnacht (Museum Night) is an Amsterdam event I hold dear. I realize plenty of cities put on similar "night at the museum" events, but there's something so special about biking all over shimmering, watery Amsterdam as you cultural-cocktail-party-hop. Learn what to expect on n8 and find out what that little abbreviation means in my guide to Museumnacht in Amsterdam, coming up on Saturday, November 7. Don't Miss Museumnacht in Amsterdam! originally appeared on About.com Amsterdam Travel on Sunday, November 1st, 2009 at…

• Peruse the 'pAn' for Stunning Art and Antiques

  27 Oct 2009 | 2:43 am

  Later this month, the city will host the annual pAn Amsterdam, the Netherlands' national art and antiques fair. The more than 100 dealers -- most are from the Netherlands, some hail from Belgium and Germany -- offer everything from Chinese teracotta horses dating to the 4th century to 17th-century furniture to Art Deco jewelry. I've attended in the past and felt like I was in a museum, surrounded by Old Master and even French Impressionist paintings. The only difference is, these stunning works of art and historical objects are for sale to anyone who can afford them. I think the € 15…

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  Theme Parks

• Mission: THRILLS at Epcot

  20 Nov 2009 | 7:50 am

  The World's Fair-like Epcot at Walt Disney World is less about thrill rides and more about the wonders of science, technology, and the future (in Future World) along with a multi-culti peek into the international community (in World Showcase). But there are some thrills to be had at Epcot, including one of the most intense G-force rides in the industry. Top Epcot Thrill Rides. Mission: SPACE - Ride review. Photo: The entrance to Epcot's Mission: SPACE is very sleek. © Arthur Levine, 2003. Licensed to About.com. Mission: THRILLS at Epcot originally appeared on About.com Theme Parks on Friday,…

• I Have a Feeling We're Not in Orlando Anymore

  20 Nov 2009 | 3:10 am

  An $800-million movie-themed park planned for Rome will be modeled after Universal Studios Hollywood, according to Variety. Construction on Cinecitta World, named after Italy's Cinecitta Studios, will begin next year, and the first phase is expected to open in 2011. A quote from the Variety article caught my attention: "...one ride will feature the huge slide that Marcello Mastroianni travels down as his sexual history flashes by in Fellini's 'City of Women'..." Scusi? Somehow, I don't see the Imagineers developing a similar attraction for Disney's Hollywood Studios. Although a Perverts of…

• Should Kings Island Tear Down its S.O.B.? Take the Son of Beast Poll.

  17 Nov 2009 | 10:09 pm

  When I exited the unloading station at Son of Beast this past June, I felt like the coaster did to me what a wild night of boogie-woogieing does to Jerry Lee Lewis: It shook my nerves and rattled my brain--and every other part of me. It's no wonder. The mammoth wood coaster at Kings Island is notoriously brutal. In fact, it was closed for most of last season after a passenger claimed she suffered a burst blood vessel in her brain after riding the woodie. Now, there are reports, including this one from the Cincinnati Enquirer, that the frequently-closed Son of Beast may never reopen. When it…

• Will Ferrari World Win the Coaster Race?

  17 Nov 2009 | 8:38 am

  When it opens next year, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, will be among the first of a number of high-profile theme parks planned for the UAE. (Many United Arab Emirates park projects are in limbo or have fizzled amid the world's economic tailspin.) Among its 20-plus attractions, the hybrid Epcot-type pavilion/Six Flags-type amusement park/corporate hospitality center will feature the F1 Coaster (tentative name), which the park claims will be able to reach 150 mph--yikes!--and lay claim to the world's fastest coaster crown. But, officials from the park have also stated that they may operate the…

• Looking for Thrills at the Magic Kingdom? Head to the Mountains.

  16 Nov 2009 | 4:19 am

  The Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World is known more for its boundless charm, immersive themes, and cuddly characters than for white-knuckle, thrill rides. While no attraction at the Magic Kingdom can match the behemoth coasters and other adrenaline-pumping rides found at parks like Six Flags, it does offer some rides that appeal to thrill-seekers. On the mild-to-wild scale, however, riders of nearly all thrill-tolerance levels should be able to handle Disney's legendary mountain range and its classic dark rides. Check out the Top Magic Kingdom Thrill Rides. Mission: SPACE- A thrilling Epcot…

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  Ancient History

• Ancient Finger Counting

  21 Nov 2009 | 7:35 am

  Has a joker ever tried to show you that instead of having the obvious 10 fingers, he actually has 11? This is done by bending down and counting fingers on one hand backwards from 10: "10, 9, 8, 7, 6...." The joker then says "... and 5 makes 11". CC Flickr User izZM

• On This Day in History Crassus

  20 Nov 2009 | 11:53 pm

  On this day in 53 B.C. Marcus Licinius Crassus died. Crassus was a member of the first triumvirate along with Pompey and Caesar. He was a very wealthy and greedy man, but not as capable a military leader as Pompey or Caesar. However, it was largely through Crassus' efforts that the rebellion of Spartacus was put down in 71 B.C., even though Pompey took the credit. In 53 B.C. Crassus was governor of Syria. He was attempting to earn glory for himself by invading Parthia, even though there was no justification for it. Crassus was killed. Read more about Crassus in Bingley's Biography of…

• Forum Topic of the Week - SPQR

  19 Nov 2009 | 11:59 pm

  This week there has been a flurry of activity in the forum, including posts in two threads on the topic of the famous Roman letters SPQR. Here is what veteran forum user Aulus has to say on the matter: SPQR at Vindolanda CC Flickr User Alun Salt. Truth be told, we really do not absolutely know what the acronym SPQR stood for. The most common interpretation is Senatus Populusque Romanus, but it could equally be Senatus Populusque Romae or a few other combinations which I cannot recall right now, but are rather tenuous. In fact, the acronym SPQR, as far as I have been able to find it, does not…

• Thursday's Term to Learn - Black Figure

  19 Nov 2009 | 7:04 am

  Peleus and Thetis, Boeotian black-figure dish, c. 500 B.C. - 475 B.C.PD Courtesy of Marie-Lan Nguyen/Wikimedia Commons. The term "black figure" comes up when you look at the captions under some of the images on this site, so in case you've been wondering, it refers to the color of the painting in Greek pottery. Now, the later "red figure" pottery also uses black (all over the background), so, clearly, I need to explain it a bit better. In black figure painting, the pottery remains clay colored, so it is usually red, but the figures are painted. Figures painted black are sometimes enhanced by…

• It's Not Too Early For (Stoic) Resolutions

  18 Nov 2009 | 10:55 pm

  Gym classes may be a great way to lose weight and gain muscle, but they're also good for chatting and learning about health and lifestyle. In one of my classes, a fellow participant said a major reason for our collective weight problem is that people set up New Year's Day as the time to start dieting. Then from U.S.-Thanksgiving through New Year's Eve they binge because it doesn't yet count and they want to get it all in before they have to deprive themselves. This has the predictable, dire consequences. While behavioral resolutions won't necessarily be compromised by a few extra pounds of…

• 
  Animal Rights

• Dairy Industry Silences Vegan Cookbook Author

  19 Nov 2009 | 6:04 am

  Vegan cookbook author, Sharon Valencik. My friend and vegan cookbook author, Sharon Valencik, was invited to appear on a TV show earlier this month, but the invitation was revoked when one of the advertisers - the dairy industry - objected. I was livid. I was angry that the producers allowed their content to be manipulated by an advertiser. I was angry that the dairy industry felt so threatened, they had to try to silence a cookbook author. Of course, their actions were part of their larger efforts to continue to use and oppress animals in any manner they wish, without criticism. In an…

• BLM Removes Thousands of Wild Horses to Make Room for Millions of Cattle

  18 Nov 2009 | 8:42 pm

  Wild horses rounded up by BLM. The Bureau of Land Management's latest proposal to round up wild horses says they are trying to prevent "further range deterioration." If they're worried about range deterioration, shouldn't they ban the grazing of tens of millions of cattle and other domestic livestock on public lands? These are not theoretical livestock, hundreds of miles away from the horses. If you look at the map of the "capture area" (outlined in yellow), these cattle grazing allotments (outlined in green) are inside the Calico Complex area where the BLM proposes to remove the horses…

• Cat Declawing Banned in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills

  18 Nov 2009 | 3:59 pm

  The Los Angeles and Bevery Hills City Councils both unanimously passed ordinances last night to ban cat declawing. Both ordinances will take effect before January 1, 2010, when the state of California will prohibit counties and municipalities from regulating the practice of veterinary medicine. Los Angeles Councilman Paul Koretz stated: We need to ban declawing, which is one of the most cruel practices . . . The obvious truth is that declawing does nothing good for cats. It is not clipping nails. It is actually amputation, sometimes leaving cats crippled and in pain for the rest of the lives.

• Bob Barker Donates $1 Million for Animal Rights, Again

  16 Nov 2009 | 6:47 pm

  Bob Barker accepts an award from Madeline Bernstien, Los Angeles President of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, in 2007. Bob Barker has donated $1 million to Drury University, to establish the Dorothy Jo Barker Endowed Professorship of Animal Rights. Dorothy Jo was Barker's late wife, whom Barker credits with introducing him to animal rights. And this was not his first million-dollar donation to Drury. In 2008, his donation went to establish an Animal Ethics course. The former game show host is a long-time animal rights supporter. Learn more about Bob Barker's animal…

• Chimp Attack Victim Appears on Oprah

  11 Nov 2009 | 5:03 pm

  Charla Nash wears her veil during the first part of her interview on The Oprah Winfrey Show. Charla Nash, the victim of a chimpanzee attack in Stamford, CT in February, appeared in public for the first time yesterday, on The Oprah Winfrey Show. Nash lost both hands and parts of her face. The chimp, Travis, was killed by local police immediately after the attack. Nash has been recovering at the Cleveland Clinic, a facility famous for performing the first face transplant in the United States. Although she usually wears a veil to cover her face, Nash reveals her face during the interview. She is…

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  Animals / Wildlife

• Photos: Scorpionfly Fossils

  20 Nov 2009 | 4:38 am

  Yesterday, I wrote about some extinct scorpionflies that scientists think may have fed on the nectar of seed ferns, conifers, and other ancient plants. Now you can get a pretty good idea of what some of these primitive pollinators looked like in this photo album of scorpionfly fossils. Photos: Scorpionfly Fossils originally appeared on About.com Animals / Wildlife on Friday, November 20th, 2009 at 12:38:34.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Scorpionflies: The Oldest Known Animal Pollinators

  19 Nov 2009 | 1:00 pm

  A new study suggests that scorpionflies that lived during the Jurassic Period fed on the nectar-like juices of seed ferns, conifers, and other primitive plants. As the scorpionflies feasted on the sweet liquid from these plants, they may have also acted as animal pollinators—couriers of pollen grains that are vitally necessary to the reproductive cycle of their host plants. If this scenario is true, scorpionflies represent the earliest known animal pollinators. In general, for plants to reproduce, pollen grains must be transported from the stamen of a flower to the pistil. There are…

• Animal ID Challenge - Nuthatch, Tufted Titmouse, or Chickadee

  2 Nov 2009 | 4:52 am

  Photo © Chas53 / iStockphoto. In today's animal identification challenge, we have a little grey and white bird with a splash of orange on its flanks. This little bird is about 6.5 inches in length with a 9.75 inch wingspan. It is common in mature deciduous forests in the US, east of the Mississippi River. Its song is whistled "peter peter peter peter" and its call is a series of thin nasal notes, "ti ti ti sii sii zhree zhree zhree". The adult has a black forehead, pale cream feathers around the eye, and a blue-gray crest and upper body. It has a splash of rusty orange feathers on its…

• For Paper Wasps, Being Unique Has its Benefits

  20 Oct 2009 | 9:21 am

  For paper wasps, it pays to have a unique face. That's what Michael Sheehan and Elizabeth Tibbetts of University of Michigan concluded in a recent paper published in the journal Evolution. Their research reveals that paper wasps (Polistes fuscatus) that have distinct facial markings become embroiled fewer aggressive conflicts than those that had facial markings that made them less easily distinguished from fellow wasps. "It's good to be different, to wear a name tag advertising your identity," said Michael Sheehan. In previous research, Elizabeth Tibbetts showed that paper wasps are able to…

• Fossil Mammal Reveals Clues About Mammalian Hearing

  12 Oct 2009 | 1:46 pm

  Photo © Mark A. Klingler / Carnegie Museum of Natural History. A team of paleontologists have discovered a fossil of a 123-million-year-old mammal that lived in what is now the Lianoning Province of northeastern China. The mammal, Maotherium asiaticus, was so well preserved that it has provided scientists with new insights into the evolution of the mammalian middle ear. "What is most surprising, and thus scientifically interesting, is this animal's ear. Mammals have highly sensitive hearing, far better than the hearing capacity of all other vertebrates, and hearing is fundamental to the…

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  Animated TV

• The Simpsons Character Contest Winner

  20 Nov 2009 | 3:49 am

  The votes are in and Peggy Black of Orange, CT has been selected by The Simpsons producers as the winner of The Simpsons Character Contest. Black created the character Ricardo Bomba (nicknamed "La Bomba"), a smooth-talking ladies' man from South America with a luxurious black mane, a chiseled physique and a voice as smooth as silk. By day, Ricardo works as a safety inspector at the nuclear power plant, and by night, he works Springfield's singles scene - melting women's hearts all over town. As the grand prize winner, Black won a trip to Los Angeles where she met with Simpsons producers and…

• Rocky and Bullwinkle Turn 50

  18 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

  Join Rocky and Bullwinkle in celebrating their 50th anniversary! Moose and Squirrel have been battling Boris and Natasha since 1959 (for those who can't subtract). Rocky and Bullwinkle is one of the first cartoons I remember ever watching as a child, one that I can still watch with my kids and laugh. The show also introduced fans to several other characters. Learn more about the Rocky and Bullwinkle cartoons.Picture courtesy of Classic Media. Follow Me on Twitter Rocky and Bullwinkle Turn 50 originally appeared on About.com Animated TV on Thursday, November 19th, 2009 at 00:00:52.Permalink |…

• "Pee" in South Park

  18 Nov 2009 | 2:52 am

  Things at the water park are not what they seem. The boys' fun-filled day is about to turn deadly. Events are in play at Splash Town that signal the end of the world is upon us. Cartman tries to warn everyone, but no one will listen. Disaster is about to strike and the boys are in a race to survive. Based on the title of the episode, "Pee," I can imagine what the disaster may be. Ew. Watch the South Park season finale tonight on Comedy Central at 10:00 p.m. ET.Picture courtesy of Comedy Central. "Pee" in South Park originally appeared on About.com Animated TV on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009…

• Drawn Together: The Complete Series on DVD

  16 Nov 2009 | 4:33 pm

  The DVD box set of Drawn Together: The Complete Series features all 36 Drawn Together episodes completely uncensored and includes The Drawn Together Movie: The Movie! red band trailer, audio commentaries by the cast and creators, behind-the-scenes interviews, a karaoke sing-along, deleted scenes and some pretty goofy board games. Compare prices for Drawn Together: The Complete Series on DVD.Picture courtesy of Pricegrabber.com. Follow Me on Twitter Drawn Together: The Complete Series on DVD originally appeared on About.com Animated TV on Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 at 00:33:41.Permalink |…

• Truth or Square Turns Out Well-Rounded

  14 Nov 2009 | 6:22 am

  I had doubts that the recent Truth or Square special of SpongeBob SquarePants would be funny or clever. I was quite wrong. There's a reason the special drew 7.7 million total viewers, ranking as basic cable's number-one entertainment show for the week. Silly dialogue and songs were abundant, and the plot was reasonable. As I had suspected, and hoped, SpongeBob's marriage to Sandy had little to do with anything that happened. Besides SpongeBob decorating the Krusty Krab with toilet paper and mustard, the best part of the episode was the stop-motion animated opening sequence. My kids and I were…

• 
  Animation

• Animation Software Review: Reallusion's WidgetCast

  14 Nov 2009 | 10:54 pm

  Normally I'm pretty excited when I get to review new software; in this case I think I might have shot myself in the foot, as while I enjoyed WidgetCast and it's a darling piece of software with extremely useful features, I nonetheless found it to be a little bit of a letdown (probably because I built it up too much in my head). It's basically Sprout Builder with a few extra capabilities and a much larger price tag - but for what it's worth, it does its job well as a product that can neatly deliver Web 2.0-ready microapplications / widgets, capable of interacting with a range of popular social…

• Balancing Your Pocketbook and Your Animation Habit

  12 Nov 2009 | 11:01 pm

  If you aren't cutting corners with the current economic recession, you're one of the lucky ones. I know I'm scrimping and saving even the tiniest pennies: foregoing new pen nibs for my tablet, buying budget versions of softwae applications, using free trials where I can, clinging to my royalty-free content for dear life. Right now the only way to stay afloat as a freelancer is to save money where I can...and these tips might help you keep your head above water, too.Balancing Your Pocketbook and Your Animation Habit originally appeared on About.com Animation on Friday, November 13th, 2009 at…

• Staying Up-to-Date

  10 Nov 2009 | 11:19 pm

  Competition for work is extremely stiff these days. Everyone's looking for work, looking for new clients, and there are plenty of talented people out there willing to do your job for less money. So how do you make yourself more attractive to potential clients? One way is to stay up-to-date...not just on the latest trends, but on the latest software, developments in the industry, and your own presentation materials.Staying Up-to-Date originally appeared on About.com Animation on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 at 07:19:46.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Sakura Pens in Santa's Stocking

  7 Nov 2009 | 5:47 pm

  For you gift-giving types out there, Christmas is next month - and if you aren't shopping already, you're a bit behind the curve. If you know any animators or artists, you might be a bit stumped about what to get them, especially if you're anything like me: disgustingly practical and determined to choose gifts that are appealing and useful. My grandmother used to try to do that, and I'd get socks and ugly sweater-vests. My partner's trying to do it this year, and instead I'm getting a new computer to replace the one that's started crashing any time I try to do something with high-end graphics…

• The Only Snow That Won't Pile Up in Drifts

  5 Nov 2009 | 6:08 pm

  Wondering how the snow was done in the Christmas tree ornament animation? It's pretty easy, just a matter of using random motion and symbol-duplication scripts in Flash to create a mild flurry, a blizzard, a pleasant evening snow - only you'll never have to shovel this snow from your sidewalk, or scrape it off your windshield. The Only Snow That Won't Pile Up in Drifts originally appeared on About.com Animation on Friday, November 6th, 2009 at 02:08:14.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• 
  Anime

• 'Darker Than Black' Side Stories Revealed

  15 Nov 2009 | 6:43 pm

  If you're a Darker Than Black fan, here's something you might enjoy: The official Japanese website for Darker Than Black is now streaming a promo video for "side stories" to the anime series. The stories will explain what happened to the main character Hei during the two year span between the first Darker Than Black series, Kuro No Keiyakusha and the second installment, Ryusei no Gemini. You might remember that Hei is a psychic "contractor" with the ability to control electricity. In the first series, he works with a secret agency - the Syndicate - to discover the secret to Hell's Gate and…

• Best Shojo Action Anime Titles

  15 Nov 2009 | 6:13 pm

  The fun of action anime continues with this latest top picks list from yours truly. While putting together a comprehensive look at the action anime genre, I realized that it's typically thought of as a genre specifically for the guys. Not that girls don't also appreciate traditional action anime titles like Naruto, Dragonball Z and Cowboy Bebop - we most certainly do... But wouldn't it be nice, I thought, if there were a separate list of action titles, just for the girls? So, that's exactly what I've done. As always, I'd love to expand this list even more, so if you've got an action anime…

• 'Final Fantasy XIII' - A Sneak Peek at the New 'Final Fantasy' RPG

  15 Nov 2009 | 4:57 pm

  Looks like Square Enix has done it again. Continuing to ride success of the ever-popular Final Fantasy saga, the much-anticipated RPG sequel - Final Fantasy XIII - is slated to be released on March 9, 2010. Available for both PS3 and XBox 360 platforms, the newest game in the Final Fantasy franchise promises over-the-top game play as well as the breath-taking graphics the series has always been known for. For those of you who don't yet own a PS3, it was announced by Sony's Kaz Hirai at a FFXIII premier party that a PS3/FFXIII bundle is planned for release in March as well... so if you were…

• Astro Boy: The Movie - A Complete Anime Guide Review

  8 Nov 2009 | 7:25 pm

  Wondering if you should go see the new Astro Boy movie? Apparently, so were a lot of anime fans. Although Astro Boy didn't fare well against some of the other releases hitting the box office, it hung tight about midway on the box office top 10. Read the many reviews and you'd find a mixed bag of comments, some from those who said the flick was fine while others gave it a big thumbs down. So why the mixed reviews? For some long-time anime fans, Astro Boy didn't live up to expectations. Not because the CGI isn't good... it's actually great. And not because the story is too dark or too scary for…

• Action Anime Sub-Genres and Themes

  8 Nov 2009 | 7:11 pm

  Do you like edge-of-your-seat excitement? Heart-pumping chases, bad-to-the-bone fist fights and in-your-face action that makes you gasp for breath? Then you're an action anime fan! But just what makes a good action anime? The truth is, there are number of things that make a good action flick... from down-in-the-dirt fisticuffs to chasing the bad guy across the Universe. There's also action anime titles that make your skin crawl, your heart beat faster and leave you sleeping with the light on at night, "just in case". The reason that the action anime genre is so varied is that it crosses over…

• 
  Antiques

• Collect a Crop of Cranberry Glass

  18 Nov 2009 | 12:20 pm

  How wonderful it is to look forward to those bountiful Thanksgiving feasts complete with turkey, stuffing and all the trimmings! A meal like that usually includes a cranberry dish of some sort. Not a real cranberry fan? Well, how about a few pieces of beautiful cranberry glass instead? Whet your appetite for collecting this gorgeous glass while learning about the extraordinary history, craftsmanship and a touch of lovely gold behind all that glimmer. Read Collect a Crop of Cranberry Glass to find out more. Collect a Crop of Cranberry Glass originally appeared on About.com Antiques on…

• How Much is a Moderntone Cream Soup Worth These Days?

  18 Nov 2009 | 11:35 am

  I've just updated my Depression Glass Price Guide with a couple of new items and some updated values to help you identify and price your fall glass finds. One of them is the beautiful cobalt blue Moderntone cream soup bowl shown here. Did one like it recently sell on eBay for for $5.50, $55 or $550? Visit the updated price guide to find out! How Much is a Moderntone Cream Soup Worth These Days? originally appeared on About.com Antiques on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 19:35:12.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• A Veteran's Day Remembrance: Let Me Call You Sweetheart

  11 Nov 2009 | 2:41 am

  Finding ways to show appreciation on Veteran's Day takes many forms, including taking a look back at the traditions of yesteryear and the significance they had in the lives of service personnel and their families. Thinking along these lines, one of my favorite World War II topics happens to be sweetheart jewelry. When these mementos were given and received more than 60 years ago, they held special meaning. This significance lives on today through collectors of military memorabilia and vintage jewelry lovers alike. Read Let Me Call You Sweetheart to learn more. A Veteran's Day Remembrance: Let…

• Updated: Pottery and Porcelain Marks Guide

  11 Nov 2009 | 1:13 am

  I've recently updated my Pottery and Porcelain Marks Gallery to include a few more examples since that's always a popular area for research on the site. Do you recognize the mark shown here? Honestly, I didn't realize this company didn't actually produce the china bearing its mark until I did a little research. Updated: Pottery and Porcelain Marks Guide originally appeared on About.com Antiques on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 at 09:13:40.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Newly Updated: Vintage Costume Jewelry Price Guide

  10 Nov 2009 | 11:16 am

  Loving vintage costume jewelry like I do, it's always a pleasure to share information on this topic with my online friends. I've just added some great new pieces to my Vintage Costume Jewelry Price Guide, including the adorable Coro birthstone Duette pictured here. Other names you might recognize like Miriam Haskell, Napier, Schreiner, and Juliana/DeLizza & Elster have new examples with values, too. Newly Updated: Vintage Costume Jewelry Price Guide originally appeared on About.com Antiques on Tuesday, November 10th, 2009 at 19:16:31.Permalink | Comment | Email this

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  Antivirus Software

• No Free (or Cheap) Rides

  20 Nov 2009 | 12:26 pm

  McAfee AVERT Labs has posted a humorous (but cautionary) tale of a scam targeting Brazilian users. The scam involves a promise of cheap $1 airfare, but delivers a password stealing trojan that  could wipe out your bank account. For details, see: Fly for $1 or Your Money Back!No Free (or Cheap) Rides originally appeared on About.com Antivirus Software on Friday, November 20th, 2009 at 20:26:13.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Adobe Attacks are Opportunity Driven

  20 Nov 2009 | 5:36 am

  In Can Adobe Beat Back the Hackers, BusinessWeek claims "as Microsoft has toughened up its security, Adobe has become a more tempting prey." In reality, it has little to do with improvements in Microsoft security - attackers moved to Adobe because attacks moved to the Web. Adobe Flash and Adobe Reader (PDF) are ubiquitous Web-enabling apps and Adobe's lack of security in their product line has made it painfully easy for these attacks to succeed.Adobe Attacks are Opportunity Driven originally appeared on About.com Antivirus Software on Friday, November 20th, 2009 at 13:36:05.Permalink |…

• Mac Phishing a Problem, Too

  17 Nov 2009 | 4:43 pm

  According to survey results from Competitive Edge Research, Mac users are as prone to phishing attacks as are PC users. Unfortunately, the report concluded that "most cybercrime losses are caused by phishing attacks" - a finding that might be erroneous at best. Perhaps a more accurate conclusion would be that most quantifiable reports of losses are the result of phishing. In any event, it does serve as a good reminder that  scams are a universal problem - they target the person directly and not the operating system.Mac Phishing a Problem, Too originally appeared on About.com Antivirus…

• Apple MobileMe Phishing Scam

  11 Nov 2009 | 4:24 am

  Sunbelt Software is warning of a new phishing scam, this one targeting Apple MobileMe users. The bogus email masquerades as a subscription expiration from Apple's MobileMe service.  The phishing scam uses a spoofed From address of Mobile IDisk [noreply01@me.com] [mailto:noreply01@me.com A copy of the MobileMe phishing email is available on the Sunbelt blog. Research from the University of New South Wales indicates one defenses against email scams and phishing attacks may just be reading your email when you're feeling a bit down.Apple MobileMe Phishing Scam originally appeared on About.com…

• Hacked iPhones Need Password Reset

  10 Nov 2009 | 5:42 am

  In the past few weeks, there have been a couple of worms targeted hacked iPhones. Nothing major and highly regional, but still a good wake up call. To spread, the worms take advantage of the default password on a jailbroken iPhone. If you decided to jailbreak your iPhone but have not changed the default passwords, you should definitely make sure you do that. Here are a couple of good resources to help you through the process: The iPhone Hacking Kit, step by step (MacWorld) Short and Sweet SSH Guide for the iPhone (Gizmodo) Hacked iPhones Need Password Reset originally appeared on About.com…

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  Anxiety Disorders

• Is PD Caused by a Chemical Imbalance?

  5 Nov 2009 | 3:17 am

  The human brain functions in a complex chemical environment. Researchers now know that brain chemicals play a big part in anxiety and panic. For example, serotonin is one chemical that plays role in modulating anxiety and mood. If serotonin levels are out of balance, excess anxiety and panic may result. Photo © Microsoft Corporation Is PD Caused by a Chemical Imbalance? originally appeared on About.com Panic Disorder on Thursday, November 5th, 2009 at 11:17:03.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Tips to Manage Stress and Feel Good About You

  25 Oct 2009 | 4:24 pm

  Is stress causing your heart to pound and your head to ache? It's easy to let stress get the best of us. It gains power when we feel most vulnerable, and its influence can complicate just about every area of our lives. If you're stressed out, you may feel frustrated, angry, nervous and worried. These feelings are likely to have a negative affect on your family, work and social life. Persistent and unhealthy stress often leads to increased anxiety. If you have panic disorder, more anxiety is the last thing you probably need. In the long-term, unchecked stress has also been indicated in a…

• Depersonalization, Derealization and Panic Disorder

  18 Oct 2009 | 5:34 pm

  Forum member, JGRECS, asks, "Does anyone ever feel like they are floating? Tingling in the hands, light sensitivity?" A couple of members responded with descriptions of similar sensations: I too get the floating feeling you are describing - sometimes it feels like my head is going to leave my body - I actually put my hand on my head to make sure it's still there. And, if this happens while walking - the floating feeling - I will walk a little hard on my feet just to feel the floor to make sure I am still grounded. --mrsellen I almost feel like I've floated out of my body and I'm standing…

• Help for Those Who Are Uninsured or Underinsured

  8 Oct 2009 | 4:16 am

  The state of our current economy has caused skyrocketing unemployment. This has left many Americans without health insurance. Even with the option to continue health coverage with a former employer, few can afford the high premiums to keep their health policy in effect. And, many employers are feeling the economic pinch and cutting employee benefits, leaving many uninsured or underinsured. While state and federal legislators battle about healthcare reform and the need to make sure all of us have access to healthcare, the Census Bureau's Current Population Survey estimates 47 million Americans…

• Worried About Swine Flu?

  27 Sep 2009 | 3:45 pm

  Forum member tina2008 writes, “I am getting real worried over swine flu. Is it my GAD or is the media just hyping it up?? Or is this a real worry??? I can't even tell anymore. I'm going to freak come October through WInter.” Given some of the predictions about this year’s flu season, Tina is probably not alone in her worries. For those of you who remember the swine flu scare of 1976, there was a lot of worrying that turned out to be unnecessary. Could the 2009 H1N1 swine flu be a 1976 repeat? Or, are we looking at a more sinister scenario such as that of the 1918 flu pandemic?

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  Apartment Living

• Having People Over for Thanksgiving?

  20 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am

  If you're hosting a Thanksgiving get-together this Thursday at your apartment, catering to your guests will no doubt be your top priority. But don't be a turkey and forget about being considerate to your neighbors. It doesn't take much effort, and it can be a great way to maintain a respectful relationship with the people who live around you. Here are tips for how you can practice "neighbor-friendly entertaining" at your apartment this Thanksgiving. (Photo © David Sinofsky / SXC) Having People Over for Thanksgiving? originally appeared on About.com Apartment Living / Rental on Friday,…

• Unusual Circumstances Lead to Unrelated Apartment Marijuana Arrests

  19 Nov 2009 | 10:42 am

  It's not at all uncommon for police officers to find drugs on suspects and arrest them for it. But here are two recent stories of arrests involving marijuana possession at an apartment that you don't read about every day. Today, apartment roommates in Wichita, Kansas called the police to report that robbers were making off with their marijuana. After the police apprehended the robbers and found the drugs in question, they proceeded to arrest the tenants, who now face charges of possession and intent to sell within 1,000 feet of a school, according to UPI.com. On November 6, a landlord in…

• Does Multifamily Housing Lead to Overcrowded Schools?

  17 Nov 2009 | 10:54 am

  According to a recent study of communities across Long Island, New York, the idea that apartment complexes house more school-age children per unit than single-family homes is a myth. The Long Island Housing Partnership (LIHP), a not-for-profit affordable housing developer, commissioned the study to address communities' concerns that multifamily housing leads to overcrowding in schools, putting an added strain on school districts' wallets. These concerns have led residents to fear school tax increases, which in turn, according to Newsday, have led to the rejection of several high-density…

• Apartment Manager Arrested for Money Order Disorder

  13 Nov 2009 | 12:10 am

  If you're a tenant who pays the rent in full and on time, the last thing you want to hear is that your hard-earned money isn't quite making it into your landlord's bank account. That's what happened to tenants at a Baton Rouge, Louisiana apartment complex, where an apartment manager now stands accused of stealing over $12,000. According to a report from The Advocate, the manager allegedly took tenants' rent by making their money orders out to herself. She also allegedly fabricated receipts for uncompleted work. The manager, who claims she needed the extra money to cope with hard…

• A Sleepwalker Awakens to a Nightmare

  12 Nov 2009 | 1:22 am

  Three Iowa City men face up to five years in prison for beating up a sleepwalker whom they discovered in one of the alleged attacker's apartment. It's not clear from press reports how the sleepwalker, who was reportedly staying with a friend across the hall, secured entry into the apartment. But when the three men returned from a late night of drinking, the sight of a stranger on the couch put them into assault mode, according to the local ABC affiliate. Fortunately for the sleepwalker, his friend intervened, saving him from greater bodily harm. How would you react if you returned to your…

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  Appliances

• Using a Foil Roaster for Your Turkey?

  20 Nov 2009 | 11:55 pm

  Aluminum foil roasting pans are the roaster of choice for some. They're fairly cheap, easy to find in stores and clean up can be a breeze - just throw it out. However as I found out several years ago, even with the best of care, this flimsy roasting choice can leave you the biggest clean-up right in the oven. It's no longer my preferred roaster, but if you are using a foil roasting pan for your turkey this year, you may want to read my Tips on Using a Foil Roaster to ensure you don't have more clean-up than you bargained for. Last Minute Dinner Tips | Hosting | Thanksgiving 2009…

• Wilton Ultimate Gingerbread House

  19 Nov 2009 | 11:55 pm

  If you're looking for a festive family project to get everyone in the holiday mood, this Wilton Ultimate Gingerbread House may be just right for family night fun. And bonus, the house walls are pre-built so no construction (baking) experience required - just imagination. Learn more about this holiday decoration in Wilton Ultimate Gingerbread House. Photo Courtesy of PriceGrabber Cake Decorating Supplies | Gadgets & Kitchen Tools | Buying a Great GiftWilton Ultimate Gingerbread House originally appeared on About.com Housewares / Appliances on Friday, November 20th, 2009 at…

• Save With E-zeeWrap

  17 Nov 2009 | 11:37 pm

  I have to admit that I'm often skeptical when it comes to products advertised on TV and yet it's the market of choice for many small brands.  One such product that does work and yes, really does save you money is the E-zeeWrap food wrap dispenser.   It's not the dispenser per say that saves you money, it's the roll it takes and with all the smaller food wrap rolls you won't need to buy, you can quickly recoup the cost of the dispenser.  I've used an earlier white model for years and though I've never taken an actual count of the savings, I know one roll will last me a year and beyond. …

• Manage That Waste!

  15 Nov 2009 | 11:58 pm

  We hear terms like reuse, recycle and reduce often and while we may participate in some form of local recycling program, voluntarily or otherwise, it can be somewhat daunting when we stand back and take a look at what we actually accumulate in a week, in way of trash.   In other words, how much more trash would we have if we did nothing at all to reduce it.   It boggles my mind how much just two people can discard.   And if you pay user fees for every trash bag you drag to the curb, well I can think of lots of ways to spend that loot and it's not on garbage.  There are options to…

• Paderno Jumbo Steak Knives - Review

  13 Nov 2009 | 11:57 pm

  They look very impressive by their sheer size and seem more fitting beside a large steak. They're also economical to buy.  Now, find out how they performed in my home test of Paderno's Jumbo Steak Knives - Review. Read more Knife Reviews: Forever Sharp Knives Review Chicago Cutlery Asian Set Review Miracle Blades III Review Photo © MifflinPaderno Jumbo Steak Knives - Review originally appeared on About.com Housewares / Appliances on Saturday, November 14th, 2009 at 07:57:00.Permalink | Comment | Email this

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  Aquariums

• Removing Aquarium Snails

  17 Nov 2009 | 2:18 pm

  Aww, look at the little snail on the glass. It looks harmless, almost cute. A week later the snail has half a dozen companions. Before you know it, the tank is crawling with them. Where did they come from? How do they multiply so rapidly? What can you do to get rid of them? Anyone who has fought snails knows it is a tough battle, but there are things you can do to keep them at bay What have you done to rid yourself of snails? Share your tips with others who are battling the scourge of exponential snail growth. Removing Aquarium Snails originally appeared on About.com Freshwater Aquariums on…

• Photo Ace is Back!

  14 Nov 2009 | 6:23 pm

  After a two year break, the Photo Ace contest returns with ten excellent entries. Check them out and vote for your favorite photo (voting is limited to once per day). If you'd like to participate in a future contest, here's how to submit your photo. Photo Ace is Back! originally appeared on About.com Freshwater Aquariums on Sunday, November 15th, 2009 at 02:23:49.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Do Water Changes Kill Fish?

  13 Nov 2009 | 1:49 pm

  Water changes are touted by some, and bashed by others. One common story used when debating the perils of frequent water changes is that they will kill the fish. Is it true? Actually there is some truth to the story, but before you give up on water changes, learn the real reason why in some cases water changes do kill fish. Photo © Shirlie L SharpeDo Water Changes Kill Fish? originally appeared on About.com Freshwater Aquariums on Friday, November 13th, 2009 at 21:49:01.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• White Residue

  12 Nov 2009 | 9:32 am

  White residue on aquarium glass and equipment is an annoying fact of life. Here's an inexpensive and simple way to remove white residue from your aquarium.White Residue originally appeared on About.com Freshwater Aquariums on Thursday, November 12th, 2009 at 17:32:03.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Yo Yo Loach

  10 Nov 2009 | 4:11 pm

  Study this photo closely and guess where the Yo Yo loach got it's name. Bingo, you guessed it! The the pattern of Y's and O's adorning the flanks of this lively fish are a dead giveaway. Yo Yos are fun to keep, and make a great addition to a community tank. However, they don't do well with all fish, so before you bring them home it's wise to read up on their care and habitat requirements. Have you kept Yo Yo Loaches? Contribute to the profile by adding your own experiences. Your knowledge could help other owners! Photo © Barbara BrooksYo Yo Loach originally appeared on About.com Freshwater…

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  Archaeology

• National Geographic Expedition Week: Bob Ballard at Gallipoli

  17 Nov 2009 | 2:02 pm

  I admit right up front that I haven't seen the video "Deep Secrets: The Ballard Gallipoli Expedition", because it wasn't made available to us journalist types prior to the program, which airs on the National Geographic channel Wednesday November 18th. All I know for sure is what is in the press kit. AE2 Wreck from Underwater at Gallipoli, Turkey. Photo (c) ProsperoPTY Ltd/NGT/Screen Australia/Screen West, Inc. However, by poking around on the Internet, I have discovered some information on the wreck illustrated in the photograph provided—it is the wreck of a Class E Australian submarine…

• NatGeo Expedition Week 2009: Hunt for the Samurai Subs

  15 Nov 2009 | 1:13 am

  On Tuesday, November 17, 2009, National Geographic's Expedition Week presents a new video documenting the underwater archaeology discovery of three imperial Japanese submarines, all scuttled by the American forces off Oahu in 1946. CGI Image of the I-201 Fast Attack Japanese Imperial Navy Submarine. Photo credit: (c)Wild Life Productions "Hunt for the Samurai Subs" is entertaining and educational, and contains lots of interviews with members of the Japanese and American navies, as well as 1946 footage from one of the American servicemen who watched some of the purposeful scuttlings of the…

• NatGeo Expedition Week: Search for the Amazon Headhunters

  12 Nov 2009 | 2:05 pm

  This year, like last year, National Geographic Channel plans to dedicate this coming week to airing new exploration videos. This year, like last year, they were kind enough to send them along to me to review. Four of the seven new videos are related to archaeology, and, like last year, I will provide a guide to the interested reader, including context and additional reading for those viewers who might want to research a little deeper. Tsantsa Head in the Quito Amazonia Museum. Photo © Diverse Productions, Ltd I wish, I really wish I could say that I liked the first video, Search for the…

• New Discoveries at Calakmul

  9 Nov 2009 | 1:17 pm

  Today, a new article in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences revealed evidence from the Maya civilization site of Calakmul, a Late Classic period capital in Campeche state of Mexico, 30 km north of the Guatemala border. Scene showing the serving and drinking of ul "maize-gruel." The hieroglyphic caption aj ul "Maize-gruel Person" (AJ u-lu) appears at top left. Image courtesy PNAS Calakmul is an important Maya capital, not the least because its importance was discovered so recently. Archaeologists have discovered evidence of occupation at Calakmul between the Middle Preclassic…

• Finding Bosutswe: Modern Archaeology vs. Indiana Jones

  5 Nov 2009 | 2:33 pm

  To most of the world, the image of an archaeological dig comes from the movies. You remember: in the first Indiana Jones movie, there's an iconic moment when Indy is standing at the archaeological site in Tanis, peering through a theodolite, with hundreds of Nazi-paid workmen around him. He is alone, above the crowd—the only crew member he talks to in the whole movie is Sallah, his faithful foreman. The perfect, tanned, obsessed, isolated scholar. Toutswemogala Hill, Botswana. Photo by James R. Denbow (c) 2007 The reality of modern archaeology is far more interesting, not to mention…

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  Architecture

• Ever Seen a 13th Floor?

  20 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

  Funny how superstition can influence the way we build and the names we use for our buildings. A reader in our Discussion Forum wonders whether any tall buildings in the USA have a floor that is actually designated as the 13th floor. Somehow, American skyscrapers skip the unlucky number and floors jump magically from 12 to 14. Can you name a building with a 13th floor? Tell us! Related: World's Tallest Buildings Famous Tall Buildings Tall Buildings Ranked Ever Seen a 13th Floor? originally appeared on About.com Architecture on Friday, November 20th, 2009 at 10:00:07.Permalink | Comment | Email…

• Celebrate Saarinen!

  17 Nov 2009 | 3:00 am

  Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen only lived to 51, and yet he created a dramatic body of work, from furniture designs to airport terminals. An amazing collection of his sketches, working drawings, models, photographs, furnishings, and other items are on display at the Museum of the City of New York through January 31. The exhibition, Eero Saarinen: Shaping the Future, then moves to Yale University, which houses the world's largest archives of Saarinen papers. Making the Face of Modernism Familiar in the New York Times The Purpose-Driven Wife in Newsweek Exhibition Catalog: Eero…

• What Else Do Architects Do?

  14 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

  We all know that architects design buildings, but how about all that other stuff they do? From teapots to lunar cities, great minds have taken on some pretty far flung projects. What else? How about shoes? Architects Tread in New Territory: Shoe Design in Architectural Record More: What Can I Do With a Major In Architecture? Tell Us: What Qualities Make a Great Architect? What Else Do Architects Do? originally appeared on About.com Architecture on Sunday, November 15th, 2009 at 00:00:16.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• High Design For Your Car

  12 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

  Frank Lloyd Wright had the right idea when he drew plans for the Gordon Strong Automobile Objective and Planetarium. That tourist destination never got built, but nowadays architects are designing all sorts of structures that put cars in fancy places. Exhibit: House of Cars, Innovation and the Parking Garage at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. through July 11, 2010. Book: The Parking Garage: Design and Evolution of a Modern Urban Form by Shannon Sanders McDonald (compare prices) Photos: Parking Outside the Box in Metropolis Magazine. Images: Above: "Pez-dispenser" design for a…

• Rise and Fall of a Gilded Age Giant

  11 Nov 2009 | 5:00 pm

  Philadelphia architect Frank Furness was born on November 12, 1839. Known for his bold and oversized Victorian buildings, Furness became one of the greats of the Gilded Age. However, his dramatic buildings faded in popularity and many have been remodeled or destroyed. Wonderful photos of Furness's works are housed in the Architectural Archives of the University of Pennsylvania.Rise and Fall of a Gilded Age Giant originally appeared on About.com Architecture on Thursday, November 12th, 2009 at 01:00:00.Permalink | Comment | Email this

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  Art History

• Adieu, Jeanne-Claude (1935-2009)

  19 Nov 2009 | 10:19 am

  The family of artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude announced early today that Jeanne-Claude died Wednesday night in New York City after suffering a ruptured brain aneurysm and its medical complications. Jeanne-Claude became more of a "name" in the media during 2005's The Gates installation in Central Park, but she had always worked in tandem with the more famous Christo. Their "wrapping" and large-scale outdoor projects are certainly well known in artistic circles: Wrapped Coast, Little Bay (1969), Running Fence, Sonoma and Marin Counties (1976), Surrounded Islands, Biscayne Bay (1983) and The…

• Wordless Wednesday - St Mary Magdalene in a Landscape

  17 Nov 2009 | 4:42 pm

  Lucas Cranach the Elder (German, 1472-1553) St. Mary Magdalene in a Landscape, 1525 Mixed media on beechwood 47.8 x 30 cm (18 13/16 x 11 13/16 in.) © Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud, Köln See more Wordless Wednesdays on AboutWordless Wednesday - St Mary Magdalene in a Landscape originally appeared on About.com Art History on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 00:42:41.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Edvard Munch a Hit With Art Thieves

  17 Nov 2009 | 3:56 pm

  Another year, another smash and grab in Oslo, another Munch theft. One might be forgiven for wondering if Norwegian art thieves have ever heard of Frits Thaulow, Erik Werenskiold or the more modern Gunnar S? Odd Nerdrum, even? Anyone besides Edvard Munch? If these robbers are all Norwegian citizens, they (or, more likely, the people for whom they are working) show a sad lack of cultural awareness. (Yes, and also a willful disregard of the law. And ignorance of mortal sin. And so on.) Image Credit: Edvard Munch (Norwegian, 1863-1944) Historien (History), 1914 Lithograph with hand coloring 57 x…

• Wordless Wednesday - Doe: a Deer. A Female Deer.

  10 Nov 2009 | 5:01 pm

  Photo © INAH, Centro Regional de Investigaciones (While they distilled alcohol, I am fairly certain that members of the Mayan culture didn't carry firearms, wear safety orange or need special permits to take antlerless deer. In fact, some Mayan artisan actually saluted this doe in ceramic form. That said, happy firearms deer season to you hunters who will go sit out in the predicted freezing rain before sunup next Monday. P.S.: Never make fun of art historians for incomprehensible pursuits, all right? Ever again. You know who you are. And I know where you've plugged your campers' extension…

• In Which the Definitions of "Arts" and "Humanities" Confuse Me

  3 Nov 2009 | 3:35 pm

  So, today the President's Committee on the Arts and Humanities named 26 nominees to this largely ceremonial post. Which is cool because, hey! It's honestly thrilling to see a guy so busy trying to find a large enough tow truck to pull the US economic bus out of the ditch give even a passing nod towards something so crucial (to some of us) as the Arts and Humanities. And the Honorary Chairman of the PCAH is First Lady Michelle Obama, a lovely, genuine human being with larger issues on her agenda. Please don't suppose that I suppose Barack and Michelle Obama stayed up late over the course of…

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  Arthritis

• What Arthritis Patients Should Know About Biologics

  18 Nov 2009 | 3:54 pm

  In the late 1990s, the first of several biologics went on the market to treat rheumatoid arthritis. The first was Enbrel (etanercept) -- but it did not take long for other biologics to be developed and marketed. Biologics target molecules on cells of the immune system, joint, and the products that are secreted in the joint, all of which can cause inflammation and joint destruction. Who should use biologics? Perhaps even more importantly, who should not use biologics? If you decide biologics are for you, what helps you decide which biologic to try? Learn more in What Arthritis Patients Should…

• Memory Foam Is Comforting to Arthritis Patients

  15 Nov 2009 | 3:15 pm

  You've probably seen pillows, mattresses, mattress toppers, and seat cushions made of memory foam. Usually, memory foam is made of polyurethane and added chemicals that increase its viscosity and density. Memory foam is firmer when cooler. High density memory foam reacts to body heat -- molding to a warm human body in a few minutes. A lower density memory foam reacts to pressure and molds quickly. Regardless, memory foam products have become popular among chronic pain and arthritis patients looking for comfort when sitting, resting, or sleeping. Look at a few of your options in Memory Foam…

• Cricoarytenoid Joint - What You Should Know

  14 Nov 2009 | 3:45 pm

  The knee, hip, wrist, elbow, and even shoulder joints are commonly affected by arthritis -- but what about the cricoarytenoid joint? The cricoarytenoid joints are between the cricoid and paired arytenoid cartilages in the back wall of the larynx. The cricoarytenoid joints help open, close, and tighten the vocal cords during speech and breathing. About one in three rheumatoid arthritis patients suffers from cricoarytenoid arthritis. Why some people get it and others don't is not known. Learn more about symptoms, prevalence, and treatment in Cricoarytenoid Joint - What You Should Know. Related…

• Systemic Disease in Arthritis Explained

  11 Nov 2009 | 1:20 pm

  When you think about arthritis, you likely think "joint disease." But there are certain types of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, that have "extraarticular manifestations" -- meaning, the disease affects areas of the body outside of the joints. When this occurs, especially in multiple organ systems in the body, that form of arthritis is referred to as a systemic disease. There are over 100 types of arthritis. Learning about the individual types of arthritis can help you determine whether systemic disease is likely, and what you can expect. What are some examples of…

• Grab Bars Create a Safe Bathroom Environment for Arthritis Patients

  8 Nov 2009 | 3:12 pm

  Everyone should be careful when they get in and out of a shower or bathtub. People with arthritis are dealing with limited range of motion, pain, and weakness -- so safety is a concern. Grab bars can improve bathroom safety. If you have grab bars, suffice to say, you have made necessary improvements and created a safe environment. If you don't, consider these grab bars for your bathroom. Check out some of your options in Grab Bars Create a Safe Bathroom Environment. Related Resources: Assistive Aids for Arthritis Raised Toilet Seats Help I Can't Get Up! How to Prevent Slips and Falls…

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  Asian History

• Cambodian Students Learn about Khmer Rouge

  19 Nov 2009 | 7:07 am

  The majority of today's Cambodian people were not even born in the late 1970s, when the Khmer Rouge unleashed its reign of terror on that country. Cambodians under the age of 30 have had to rely on older surviving relatives to tell them what happened when Pol Pot and his regime killed an estimated 1/5 of their own population. Many of the survivors are so traumatized that they have a hard time speaking about their ordeals; sometimes younger family members find it impossible to believe what they hear from those who do tell their stories. Today, though, the current generation of students in…

• Travel the Silk Road

  15 Nov 2009 | 12:18 pm

  The American Museum of Natural History has a new exhibit on the Silk Road, history's most famous trade route. "Traveling the Silk Road: Ancient Pathway to the Modern World" takes visitors from Xi'an, China to Baghdad, in the company of grunting camels, armed bandits and exotic trade goods. A New York Times review notes that the shows stops short - goods from China moved on from Baghdad to Constantinople, thence to Venice and the rest of Europe. Nonetheless, the exhibit sounds very interesting. It opened yesterday, November 14. Photo by wildxplorer on Flickr.com. Travel the Silk Road…

• Queen Himiko of Japan's Palace Discovered

  15 Nov 2009 | 12:02 pm

  Japanese history and legends tell the tale of Queen Himiko or Pimiko, a warrior-queen endowed with magical powers who ruled the Yamatai state during the 3rd century CE. Himiko may be a different name for the Empress Consort Jingu, but nobody knows for certain. On November 11, 2009, archaeologists announced the discovery of a three-tiered palace in the ancient capital of Nara. They speculate that this could be the seat of Queen Himiko's power, 1,700 years ago. We may never know for sure, however. Japan's current emperor, Akihito, and the Imperial Household Agency has forbidden the excavation…

• Cambyses' Army Found in the Sands of Egypt?

  11 Nov 2009 | 12:22 pm

  According to Herodotus, in 525 BCE the Persian king Cambyses, son of Cyrus the Great, sent a mighty army of 50,000 men to the oasis at Siwa. Cambyses sent this overwhelming force to crush the Temple of Amun, after its priests refused to recognize his right to rule Egypt. The ancient historian tells us, however, that a blinding sandstorm sprang up from the Sahara and buried the Persian host alive. They were never heard from again. For much of the intervening 2,500 years, people have regarded this legend with skepticism. After all, Herodotus includes some pretty amazing flights of fancy in with…

• World War Zero - The Russo-Japanese War

  8 Nov 2009 | 2:12 pm

  In 1904-05, two expanding imperial powers clashed furiously on land and at sea. Japan sought to exert itself as a global player, in order to enhance its own prestige and prove that it belonged among the colonial powers. Russia likewise needed to enhance its image with the other European powers - and the czar needed a victory to quell domestic opposition. With Qing China on its last legs, these two of its neighbors fought over Manchuria, the rich northern section of China (and the Qing imperial family's home region). To complicate matters further, in 1902 Japan had signed a treaty of amity…

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  Asthma

• Acetaminophen May Increase Risk of Asthma And Wheezing

  18 Nov 2009 | 10:41 pm

  According to an article published in the November issue of CHEST, the journal of the American College of Chest Physicians, acetaminophen use in both children and adults may be associated with an increase in asthma and wheezing. The authors reviewed 19 different studies that collected data on both asthma and wheezing as well as acetaminophen use. Patients using acetaminophen were significantly more likely to have asthma than those that did not use acetaminophen. Similarly in children, acetaminophen use was more common in children during the year preceding a diagnosis of asthma and more common…

• Your Input- What Would You Like To See Covered On The Asthma Site?

  15 Nov 2009 | 10:00 pm

  What would you like to see covered on the asthma site. Let us know so we can give you the asthma information you want! Your Input- What Would You Like To See Covered On The Asthma Site? originally appeared on About.com Asthma on Monday, November 16th, 2009 at 06:00:21.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Zinc Deficiency & Asthma

  15 Nov 2009 | 2:04 pm

  Are you zinc deficient? While not a common question, a study presented at Chest 2009, the annual meeting of the American College of Chest Physicians, found that patients with allergic asthma had significantly lower zinc levels than patients with other types of asthma. Zinc is an antioxidant that may have anti-inflammatory properties related to the pathophysiology of asthma and is commonly found in beef, chicken, and pork. Many of the symptoms of zinc deficiency can be very non-specific-- rash, tiredness, poor appetite, and slow wound healing. As a result mild forms of zinc deficiency may be…

• 9/11 Responders Develop Asthma At Alarming Rate

  9 Nov 2009 | 11:35 pm

  First responders and other rescue and recovery workers following the 2001 World Trade Center (WTC) terrorist attacks received significant dust and pollutant exposures and have developed asthma at twice the rate of the US general population according to new research presented at CHEST 2009, the 75th annual international scientific assembly of the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP). According to a press release, as many as 8% of workers and volunteers participating in the rescue, recovery, and cleanup have developed some sort of asthma episode compared to 4% of the general population.

• Your Asthma Medications & Healthcare Reform

  9 Nov 2009 | 12:37 am

  With all of the debate over the weekend regarding health-care, I thought it would be interesting to see what ya'll think about payment for asthma medications. Your Asthma Medications & Healthcare Reform originally appeared on About.com Asthma on Monday, November 9th, 2009 at 08:37:02.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• 
  Astrology

• Sun in Sagittarius

  21 Nov 2009 | 2:04 am

  In the darkest time of the year, the Sun is in the sparking sign of Sagittarius. It's a month of looking for the light within, as the solar light wanes through to Winter Solstice (Dec. 21st). When that warms us up from within, we re-discover our own natural optimism. It's a time for finding faith in the darkness.... Sun in Sagittarius brings: The rhythm of being in-motion that gets you moving! A social curiosity that makes it easier to mingle at the holidays. The impulse to learn, travel, experience....a time to dream of future plans. Startling, bold communication that wakes you up! The…

• Neptune and the Immune System

  20 Nov 2009 | 3:08 am

  Since it appears that something wicked this way comes that could affect our health, it's wise to boost the immune system as much as possible. Some countries, like Serbia are turning to garlic as a tried and true "folk remedy," and Moldova is giving out extra cloves to their soldiers. In his article on Star IQ called Your Health and Neptune, herbalist and astrologer Jonathan Keyes has other natural remedies to try. Neptune in medical astrology is linked to the immune system, which is the lymph glands and vessels that help us fight off disease. And there's a guide in that, says Jonathan, that…

• Flashmob: Mass Joy

  19 Nov 2009 | 5:49 am

  There was a joyful flashmob in Cork, Ireland last weekend to the happy Aquarian tune of "Mr. Blue Sky." The idea of the flashmob is very Aquarian to me. It's coordinated via texting and emails, and involves a spontaneous-feeling outburst in a public place. Sometimes, it's for a cause, but mostly, it's to dance en masse for the sheer fun and randomness of it. "Hey you with the pretty face....welcome to the human race," sings the Electric Light Orchestra. The Cork flashmob chose this 70s techno-style song, from a band that first peaked when Jupiter was in Aquarius in 1974. The flashmob…

• Venus square Mars: Outbursts

  19 Nov 2009 | 2:26 am

  What holds you back from Doing What You Love? Mars in Leo through the year is stirring passions, including buried ones. It's inciting us to be big and step into the spotlight. Today Mars in Leo is in a tense square to Venus in Scorpio. This square can lead to outbursts of frustration that come from a burning desire to live our creative dreams. Venus in Scorpio keeps us close to the roots of the psyche. So when it's triggered with the square, there's raw emotion released that can free us up. This cosmic weather may lead to: Looking at how debts keep you from following your heart. The purging…

• Staying Hopeful

  18 Nov 2009 | 2:15 am

  These first days emerging from the New Moon can be a vulnerable time. During those first steps out of the big empty of the Void, anything can happen. After the Scorpio New Moon, so much is being dislodged, dragged into the open. It's happening to each of us personally, and to society too. You may sense the inner transformation that's underway, but have a lot of fear about where it's taking you (and us). It's a time to have faith and keep encouraging yourself. With Saturn square Pluto, we're having our faces rubbed in the roots of what's making us sick. It has to do with the state of our food…

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  Astronomy

• "Strange" New Star?

  18 Nov 2009 | 2:01 am

  Supernova remnants are beautiful to behold, but they are also the result of extremely violent explosions and leave behind one of the most dynamic objects in the Universe. One such object, the pulsar at the center of the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A (Cas A), has been the source of much study ever since data from the Chandra X-ray observatory were published over 10 years ago. Based on the observational data, the size of the pulsar -- a rapidly rotating neutron star -- was estimated to be about 6 miles across, which is theoretically impossible. Theories abounded, that this must not be a…

• Water Found On The Moon

  17 Nov 2009 | 2:20 pm

  Back in October many of you were following the events of the LCROSS mission as the probe slamed into the Moon (on purpose), to look for traces of water. Well, after weeks of pouring over mountains of data, NASA has released their initial findings. And it turns out that the Moon contains more water than we once thought. NASA determined that the only way they could make sense of the data was if water was present on the Moon -- and a rather significant amount of water at that. This was not completely surprising however; several months ago, NASA determined that deep in the Moon's shadowed craters…

• Meteor Shower To Peak Over The Next Two Nights

  16 Nov 2009 | 5:40 am

  Every year the Earth passes through the trail of the comet Tempel-Tuttle, creating a pretty good meteor shower visible in the night sky. NASA reports that about about 20 - 30 meteors per hour should visible during the Leonid shower in North America. While this pales in comparison to the nearly 300 per hour being predicted in Asia, it should be a great sight nontheless. The Moon will be in a new phase, creating the kind of dark conditions desired for seeing the events. The best time to see the events will be after 4:00 a.m. So those of you who are early risers, get out there with your morning…

• Creating A New Earth

  12 Nov 2009 | 6:04 am

  The idea of colonizing Mars is not a new one, it has been the backdrop of many science fiction novels, and the focus of much scientific research. But, actually making it happen is a whole other story. Well on Sunday, November 15, the National Geographic Channel is going to air a special, as part of their "Expedition Week", about how we would go about creating a habitable planet out of Mars. I think it will definitely be worth a watch, and in the meantime you can check out the promotional material and videos to whet your appetite. I think the reality of how close we are to undertaking the…

• Asteroid Has Near Miss With Earth

  11 Nov 2009 | 2:19 am

  NASA reported that a 23 foot wide asteroid came within about 8,700 miles of entering Earth's atmosphere on Friday. This was the third closest miss on record. Astronomers at the University of Arizona's Catalina Sky Survey group announced the finding. They discovered the asteroid about 15 hours before it passed our planet, moving at more than 16,000 miles per hour. So, what would have happened if the asteroid would have entered our atmosphere? Well, at 23 feet across, it most likely would have burned up in our atmosphere. The heat generated by air resistance as it fell toward Earth would have…

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  Atlanta

• Turkey Eve at Red Door

  18 Nov 2009 | 10:08 pm

  Thanksgiving is often a time for reunions. Turkey Day may be reserved for family activities, but Turkey Eve is all about celebrating with friends who you may only see a few times a year. Get everyone together at Red Door for the Spiral Entertainment Turkey Eve on Wednesday, November 25. There will be live music, DJs, drinks and lots of festive folks. The party extends outside under a huge, heated tent. $5 in advance or $10 at the door. Red Door Tavern is located on Roswell Road in Buckhead.Turkey Eve at Red Door originally appeared on About.com Atlanta on Thursday, November 19th, 2009 at…

• Princess Day at the Aquarium

  18 Nov 2009 | 4:06 am

  Ok, I know life is no fairy tale but this sounds like a super fun day for girls! Walt Disney Pictures' The Princess and the Frog presents Georgia Aquarium Princess Day: A Benefit for Frog Conservation. Girls 12 and under, in princess costumes, receive FREE general admission on Nov. 21, 2009 and are invited to stop by from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. for parades, games and fairytale fun. Frog kissing is optional! B.Y.O.T (bring your own tiara) and help give frogs a happily ever after! Note the following details: Offer valid for one free child with each paid adult or Annual Pass Member. Offer includes…

• Canoe Restaurant to Reopen

  17 Nov 2009 | 3:09 am

  One of my favorite Atlanta restaurants, Canoe, was forced to temporarily close after September's floods rushed the popular riverside restaurant. I'm happy to hear that Canoe will reopen the week of Novemer 23 (dinner service only) with old favorites and some brand new menu items. They will also be open on Thanksgiving to serve a three-course fixe prix menu on Thanksgiving Day.Canoe Restaurant to Reopen originally appeared on About.com Atlanta on Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 at 11:09:34.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Skating Season at Centennial Park

  16 Nov 2009 | 3:54 am

  This weekend the outdoor skating rink, an Atlanta holiday tradition, opened at Centennial Olympic Park. This a a fun, wallet-friendly attraction for all ages and it is really a unique opportunity for Southerners who don't often get the excitement of frozen lakes and outdoor skating. The rink is open November 14, 2009 - January 31, 2010 with various operating hours throughou the season. The cost is $7 admission for 90 minutes plus $2 if you need to rent skates.Skating Season at Centennial Park originally appeared on About.com Atlanta on Monday, November 16th, 2009 at 11:54:25.Permalink |…

• Brian McCann Rally Celebrity Softball Game

  12 Nov 2009 | 1:21 am

  Missing the Braves already? This Friday, catch some of your favorite players. Atlanta Braves All-Star catcher Brian McCann and his wife Ashley; Braves All-Star Third Baseman Chipper Jones and his wife Sharon; and Jet Sports Management are proud to present the first ever Brian McCann Rally Celebrity Softball Game, taking place Friday, November 13 at Russ Chandler Stadium on the Georgia Tech campus. Gates open at 6:00 p.m., Home Run Derby begins at 7:00 p.m., and first pitch of the Celebrity Softball Game is set for 7:35 p.m. With Brian McCann anchoring one team and teammate Chipper Jones…

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  Austin

• Expansion Continues on The Domain

  19 Nov 2009 | 8:29 am

  The Domain is mixed-use facility in North Austin that features an outdoor shopping mall, apartments, and restaurants. Its first phase has been open for several years, and its second phase is currently under expansion in what is the largest ongoing retail construction in the city. According to the Statesman, the new section of The Domain will feature 600,000 square feet of apartments, a luxury movie theater, several small retailers, and a Dillard's department store (the first new one in Austin in over 10 years). Most of the existing Domain retailers are luxury and designer shops, but the new…

• Austin Ranked Top City for Job Performance

  14 Nov 2009 | 3:52 am

  Austin is yet again at the top of a list for cities performing well in a crummy economy. The Milken Institute recently released a report of the cities that performed best at creating and sustaining jobs in 2009. Texas metro areas took three of the top 10 spots. The Austin-Round Rock metro was ranked No. 4 last year, but came in at No. 1. This year. The Killeen-Temple-Fort Hood area rose from 13th place to second. The Houston-Sugar Land-Baytown metro went from up from 16th to 5th place this year. The Milken Institute says regional economic factors were major influencers, and the industries…

• Live From 'La Boheme' at Intermission

  7 Nov 2009 | 1:26 pm

  As I mentioned in the last post, I'm blogging live at Austin Lyric Opera's 2009-2010 season opener, La Boheme. We are currently in the first intermission of the four-act opera. The talent on the stage is incredible, in addition to that of the orchestra below. The set design is also top-notch; the second act takes place in the Latin Quarter of Paris. The set was colorful and full of suspended old Parisian paintings in the style of Toulouse-Lautrec. A real marching band came out and the second act ended with a stage full of colorfully-dressed characters, dancing children, and sky-high musical…

• Austin Lyric Opera Presents 'La Boheme'

  7 Nov 2009 | 11:51 am

  Austin Lyric Opera is kicking off its 2009-2010 season with La Boheme tonight. There will be shows on Nov. 7, 11, 13, and 15 at the Long Center for the Performing Arts. I'm currently blogging from the orchestra level of the Long Center's Lobby. The theme of tonight's season-opening gala is "An Evening in Paris." The opera takes place in Paris in around 1830. A large replica of the Arc de Triomphe sits above the top of the Long Center's grand stairs, so each patron walks through it as they arrive. Outside on the Pavillion, there is a roped off area for patrons only, which features a large…

• Fun Fun Fun Fest This Weekend

  6 Nov 2009 | 5:44 am

  The fourth annual Fun Fun Fun Fest takes place in Austin this Saturday and Sunday. Put on by Transmission Entertainment, this increasingly popular festival features progressive and underground music in the genres of punk/hardcore, indie rock, and hip hop/DJ. There will also be some comedy shows. The event will be held at Waterloo Park in downtown Austin and will feature four main stages, one for each genre. While most of the bands are emerging and lesser-known, there will be a few big names there, such as Ratatat, Danzig, Of Montreal, and Pharcyde. Several local food vendors will be there,…

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  Australia / New Zealand Travel

• Melbourne Landmarks Are a Fascinating Blend of Old and New

  20 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

  If you start your Melbourne sightseeing at Flinders St Station, you'll find close by the imposing Anglican cathedral, St Paul's, whose foundation stone was laid in 1835. The cathedral's architecture is described as a revival of the style known as Gothic transitional, partly early English Gothic and partly Decorated Gothic. Melbourne, Australia's second largest city and the capital of the state of Victoria, is a fascinating blend of old and new. There is much of Australia's past in the Victorian and Gothic architecture in many Melbourne buildings even as they sit alongside more modern steel…

• Discover North Queensland's Coastal and Island Attractions

  18 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

  Drive north from Brisbane and all along the north Queensland coast, you'll find jump-off points to many coastal and island attractions. From the Capricornia Coast, for instance, you can head across the water to Heron Island, one of the coral sand islands at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef. North of Capricornia lies the Whitsunday Coast where you find Mackay, gateway to Eungella National Park, Hatton Finch Gorge and, across the water, Brampton Island, another of those popular Queensland island resorts. Drive further north and you reach Airlie Beach and Bowen. From Airlie Beach you…

• Here's How to Get to Cradle Mountain

  16 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

  Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is accessible through Tasmania's network of roads from major towns and cities on the island. If coming from outside Tasmania, you could take the ferry from Melbourne, sail in your own boat to Tasmania, or fly. Cradle Mountain: Walk on the Wild Side Lake St Clair: Australia's Deepest Natural Freshwater Lake Overland Track: Kilometres of Wilderness Photo: Cradle Mountain © Australian Tourist Commission Here's How to Get to Cradle Mountain originally appeared on About.com Australia / New Zealand Travel on Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 at…

• Take Time to Visit Katherine Gorge

  14 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

  In the tropical Australian north, fly or drive down from Darwin to visit one of the Northern Territory's visually stunning national parks, Katherine Gorge, also known as Nitmiluk. Or take the Ghan from Adelaide (or down from Darwin). Katherine Gorge is a stop on the Adelaide-Darwin rail line. Swim, canoe, cruise, fish, walk, go on a scenic flight — there are a number of activities to tempt you at the Gorge. Photo: Katherine Gorge © Australian Tourist Commission Take Time to Visit Katherine Gorge originally appeared on About.com Australia / New Zealand Travel on Sunday, November…

• Ned Kelly Death Remembered

  10 Nov 2009 | 4:00 pm

  A century and twenty-nine years ago, Australia's most famous bushranger, Ned Kelly, was hanged in Melbourne. He had been caught in a shootout in the Victorian town of Glenrowan and went to trial in Beechworth, east of Wangaratta. He was then brought to Melbourne where he was hanged on November 11, 1880, inside what is now the Old Melbourne Gaol. Photo: Giant Ned Kelly statue in Glenrowan, Victoria © Tourism Victoria Ned Kelly Death Remembered originally appeared on About.com Australia / New Zealand Travel on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 at 00:00:13.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• 
  Australia / New Zealand Food

• Poached Eggs with Sauteed Mushrooms on Turkish Toast

  17 Nov 2009 | 5:58 pm

  Summer in the southern hemisphere has well and truly arrived. People are firing up their barbecues and breakfast at beach side cafes is a favorite weekend activity. And there's nothing like a hearty breakfast to start the weekend. While for some the word 'hearty' may conjure up images of bacon and sausages, I'm offering up something less meaty but just as fulfilling -- poached eggs with sautéed garlic mushrooms on toasted Turkish bread with ricotta cheese. Accompanying this dish are Roma tomatoes slow-roasted with fresh thyme. This is a delightful breakfast I enjoy regularly at one of my…

• White asparagus, orange and arugula salad

  16 Nov 2009 | 9:25 pm

  I have been a willing convert to the gospel of fruit in salads. I have found exquisite partnerships and unlikely complements with fruits too numerous to list in this short blog post. This white asparagus, orange and arugula (roquette) salad is one of the most elegant I have discovered. The contrast in color and flavor is so stark; so inviting; so perfectly balanced that it takes all my restraint not to make loud, appreciative noises while I eat it. More salads with fruit Thai Mango Salad Watermelon and Feta Salad Peach, Corn and Buffalo Mozzarella Salad Strawberry Salad with apple and toasted…

• Chocolate Shortbread Cookies

  15 Nov 2009 | 4:30 pm

  These versatile shortbread cookies can be coated with melted chocolate, icing sugar, infused with lemon zest or enjoyed unadorned for their buttery goodness. They are just as shortbread should be - crumbly, buttery and just sweet enough. I often use this shortbread recipe as a base for tarts. Shortbread is so named because of its crumbly texture -- a result of working with the dough very gently and allowing it to rest. This allows the butter to inhibit the formation of gluten. For the best tasting results it's also important to use good quality, unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract. More…

• VictorsFood Tour: Hungry for the South Coast

  10 Nov 2009 | 9:55 pm

  I am a very particular traveler. I love travel and I plan meticulously. I want to explore the local food scene thoroughly and in my own time. So I have never been one for group tours... that is, until very recently. I left Sydney for a weekend away which I couldn't have planned better myself. And I made ten new friends in the process. VictorsFood offers a variety of food-centric activities including cooking classes, corporate team-building and regional and international food tours. I went for the 'Hungry for the South Coast' tour. Just south of Sydney is magical. The beaches are stunning and…

• Vanilla Rice Pudding

  7 Nov 2009 | 8:17 pm

  Rice pudding is a much-loved, old-fashioned dessert. Served warm, it's comforting on a cold night, or served chilled, it's just as soothing in warmer weather. The world's soft spot for rice pudding is evident in the hundreds of recipes for the timeless dish. In Greece there's the creamy cinnamon infused "rizgalo"; in Lebanon aromatic "meghli", a ground rice pudding, is served on special occasions. In Thailand sweet sticky rice is served with succulent mango and coconut milk. The English love slowly-baked rice puddings while the Spanish love "arroz con leche" cooked on the stove-top with hints…

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  Autism

• Stress and the Autism Mom

  21 Nov 2009 | 12:02 am

  Last week, a study came out in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders which said, in essence, that in many cases mothers of teens and adults with autism are under tremendous stress. The blog DisabilityScoop cites the study as saying: Mothers of adolescents and adults with autism experience chronic stress comparable to combat soldiers and struggle with frequent fatigue and work interruptions, new research finds. These moms also spend significantly more time caregiving than moms of those without disabilities. Intriguingly, though, the abstract of the study also states: However,…

• Marijuana as a Treatment for Autism?

  18 Nov 2009 | 11:25 pm

  In the last few days, quite a few pieces have appeared in the media about the use of marijuana as a treatment for autism. In fact, our own About.com Guide to Addictions has written a blog post on the subject and received some interesting responses from parents and, notably, from adults with autism. Her questions and concerns grow from articles on sites such as Opposing Views, Autism-PDD.Net, and the New York Times' MomLogic blog which cites a blog from a mom who writes about "Why I give my 9 year old pot." Each of these pieces is very similar. They begin with a personal story of an individual…

• What Do People with Autism Have in Common?

  15 Nov 2009 | 12:38 pm

  People on the autism spectrum may be verbal or non-verbal, brilliant or mentally challenged, passive or aggressive, physically healthy or physically ill. They may have "savant" skills - or not. In fact, people with autism spectrum diagnoses seem to have very little in common. So what do people on the autism spectrum really have in common?What Do People with Autism Have in Common? originally appeared on About.com Autism on Sunday, November 15th, 2009 at 20:38:30.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Autism and Bullying: How Bad Is It?

  13 Nov 2009 | 1:11 am

  The answer is - it's very bad indeed. According to an article in the Boston Herald: A shocking new online survey has found that nearly 90 percent of autistic children in the Bay State have been targeted by bullying so violent and ruthless that a state lawmaker says teachers and school systems must be held accountable. The survey conducted by the Massachusetts Advocates for Children includes painful testimony from parents of autistic children who felt so tortured they stayed home from school for extended periods and even considered suicide. This information isn't brand new. Most families are…

• Handwriting and the Child with Autism: Don't Sweat It

  12 Nov 2009 | 4:33 am

  A new, small study came out the other day linking autism with bad handwriting. To be honest, I intended to ignore the study, since it seemed on the one hand to be rediscovering the wheel (bad handwriting and autism go together? surely you jest!) and on the other hand it didn't seem terribly important even if true. But I see that a number of major media outlets including the Washington Post have picked up the story... so I thought it might be a good idea to at least nod in its general direction. Yes, kids with autism typically have bad handwriting. There are a number of reasons for this, most…

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  Auto Repair

• The Importance of Estimates

  18 Nov 2009 | 2:06 pm

  It's common practice for a repair shop to provide a detailed estimate of needed repairs before work begins on your car or truck. If you're getting work done without one, you could be making a big mistake. Estimates aren't just for a consumer's protection, they protect the shop from misunderstandings, arguments and even law suits. Getting the details on paper ensures everybody knows what to expect when work commences, and when it's time to pay up. A proper estimate will detail both parts and labor charges in a way you can read and make sense of. Keep in mind, however, that an estimate isn't…

• More and More Car Owners Diving Into Repairs

  14 Nov 2009 | 2:34 pm

  When times get tough, Americans get tougher. That may sound like a propaganda slogan, but in many cases it rings true. People in this country take their cars and trucks very seriously. Even those you would hardly label "gearheads" will step up to the plate if they think their driving status is at stake, and lately they've been doing just that. It's easy for me to tell you, but check out the results of a recent study by Honeywell. They found that more than half of the car owners in the US are getting greasy more often! Here are the results: 51% of American vehicle owners are rolling up their…

• Tame the Tire Eating Monster

  9 Nov 2009 | 4:09 pm

  This letter was a good reminder that your car is always communicating with you in its own way. Hi Matthew, I think I need to have the frame of my car straightened. My tires are going bald on one side and it's gotten to the point that I think I should pay to have the frame repaired rather than keep buying tires. Any advice is appreciated! -- Janice Janice, a bent or twisted frame can cause your tires to wear unevenly, but there are far more common causes than that. If your car was in a serious accident, you might check the frame, but most likely the problem is in your suspension. Even a…

• A Reader's Sage Reminder - Fire!

  5 Nov 2009 | 3:35 pm

  Patrick Sullivan writes to remind us how important it can be to carry a fire extinguisher. Even the smallest emergency model is enough to put out most common automotive fires. Patrick has used his extinguisher on more than one occasion, hear his stories: A tow truck on a hot summer day in Chicago backfired at a red light while towing a disabled vehicle. A small fire began under the hood in the carburetor and the driver was using everything nearby to put it out. I had a small extinguisher and gave it to him and it immediately put out the fire and saved his truck. Another time an old car at a…

• Old School Trick, the Soapy String

  30 Oct 2009 | 4:37 pm

  We aren't all driving new cars, so I feel it's ok to mention some older school repair tricks from time to time. Ever hear of the soapy string trick for installing a windshield? It's pretty fun, and it works pretty well, too. Check out the soapy string trick and let me know what you think!Old School Trick, the Soapy String originally appeared on About.com Auto Repair on Friday, October 30th, 2009 at 23:37:35.Permalink | Comment | Email this

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  Bed & Breakfasts

• Sag Harbor Needs Bed and Breakfasts

  14 Nov 2009 | 9:33 pm

  Sag Harbor, a village located on Long Island about 100 miles east of New York City, needs more bed and breakfasts. At least that's the view of The Sag Harbor Express newspaper, which recently editorialized in favor of a plan to convert a former Methodist church into a B&B. The editorial serves as a reminder that not every community has embraced the idea of bed and breakfasts. Aspiring innkeepers need to study local zoning issues and other ruled and regulations before opening for business. More for Aspiring Innkeepers: Aspiring Innkeeper Worksheets Best Books for Aspiring Innkeepers…

• Luxury Bed and Breakfast Resorts

  11 Nov 2009 | 9:33 pm

  Sometimes, it's wonderful to dream of luxurious getaways -- even if it's not very likely that you'll be able to afford one anytime soon. All of the B&Bs featured in Luxury Bed and Breakfast Resorts - When Price Doesn't Matter have rooms costing $295 or more per night. These inns also provide three meals a day, which sets them apart from our collection of more traditional luxury B&Bs. Photo courtesy of Harbor House Inn Luxury Bed and Breakfast Resorts originally appeared on About.com Bed & Breakfasts on Thursday, November 12th, 2009 at 05:33:03.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• The Red Door Inn in Canandaigua, NY

  8 Nov 2009 | 9:33 pm

  Innkeepers Kevin and Kathryn Carson had a long-term plan to turn a home that they did not even own yet into a bed and breakfast. A series of events conspired to dramatically speed up their plans, according to an article in the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle. First, the property they had their eyes on unexpectedly went up for sale. Then, Kevin's work place went out of business. And so, The Red Door Inn of Canandaigua, New York, is now open for business. More New York Bed and Breakfasts: Bedford Post Inn - Bedford, New York Mill House Inn - East Hampton, New York Saugerties Lighthouse Bed and…

• Green Bay B&B For Sale

  7 Nov 2009 | 9:33 pm

  Astor House Bed and Breakfast in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is up for sale. Innkeeper Greg Robinson recently told the Green Bay Press-Gazette that he and his wife Barbara are "ready to move on and do something else." He told the newspaper, "We never had an idea we'd own a bed and breakfast in Green Bay. The time was just right for that to happen, and I'm sure for the next buyers that will be true too." The asking price is $509,900. Buying a Bed and Breakfast: Best B&B For Sale Listings Before You Buy a Bed and Breakfast Million Dollar Bed and Breakfasts Green Bay B&B For Sale originally…

• Nudist Inn Draws Complaints

  3 Nov 2009 | 9:33 pm

  Neighbors of a bed and breakfast in Staffordshire, England, have complained to authorities that a fence should be built so that they do not have to see the inn's guests, who tend to be nude. According to a report from the BBC, owner Mike Howard said he and his wife are planting shurbs and trees around their property, which is described as a "naturist bed and breakfast." One neighbor told the BBC that she was moving cattle on her farm when she "saw a man walking around with no clothes on and a cup of tea in his hand, or coffee, whatever it was." The Howards said they are working to ensure…

• 
  Babies & Toddlers

• Soap Flakes for Holiday Crafts

  21 Nov 2009 | 7:00 am

  And speaking of gingerbread houses, Barbara writes: "I am trying to build a gingerbread house. I need snow and, of course, I do remember when you just beat Ivory flakes. If I grate the bars, will I get the same effect?" Yes, this will totally work. Craft recipes (like soap crayons and paints) sometimes call for Ivory Soap Flakes. Unfortunately, the company stopped making the flakes in 1993. Here's how you can make your own soap flakes and maintain the quality of these recipes. I do recommend using the smaller holes (like the kind used to make extra-fine cheese) for this activity and of course…

• Making Gingerbread Men and Houses with Toddlers

  21 Nov 2009 | 6:00 am

  Gingerbread MenDaveFayram / FlickrMaking gingerbread cookies is one of my favorite holiday activities. We love to make the men and flat pieces for gingerbread houses, too. Like making cinnamon applesauce ornaments, this is an activity where toddlers can participate in stirring, mixing, measuring and using cookie cutters. If you're not into baking or are short on time, try picking up a gingerbread house kit like this one from Wilton where all you have to do is start decorating (just watch out for items your toddler can choke on like gum drops.) For years, I've been using this recipe to make…

• Holiday Shopping Deals and Free Shipping for Online Shoppers

  14 Nov 2009 | 1:59 pm

  mysza / FlickrToday as I left Costco, I was handed a booklet of coupons letting me know about all the sales going on over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. I didn't really need this information, though, since I've been keeping up with all the rumors (and truths) online. I love going to Fat Wallet to see their long lists of Black Friday deals. It's easy to find out whether something I'm thinking about buying is going to be on sale that day (and it saved me from some mishaps today). I also love the Black Friday coverage on the Productopia Blog (an About.com service, by the way) because while…

• Fingertip Amputations Prompt Recall of Maclaren Strollers

  11 Nov 2009 | 7:18 am

  Maclaren QuestPhoto © CPSCNo matter how ridiculous you think the recent Baby Einstein DVD return program is, and unlike the debate over whether or not to continue using the recalled Little Tikes Workshop nails, what we've got here is a much more serious situation. I'm talking about over a million strollers that are affected with reported injuries. Yes, 12 actual fingertips were sliced off after getting caught in the hinge mechanism during opening or closing, so please don't ignore this recall. Stop using your stroller and get the repair kit from Maclaren if you have one of these sold in…

• Celebrate National Peanut Butter Lover's Month in November

  7 Nov 2009 | 3:31 pm

  Yum! Peanut ButterJason Tromm / Flickr That's right. November is the time to celebrate that ooey-gooey, stick-to-the-roof-of-your-mouth treat -- peanut butter. There are a lot of reasons to love peanut butter. It's a great source of protein. It's a natural part of a vegetarian or vegan diet. It's got no cholesterol. It's very low in trans fat and the natural/organic types have no transfat at all. It's also packed with magnesium, folate and niacin. So what's not to love? Well, for one thing, if you've got a history of allergies in the family, you should wait before introducing peanut butter to…

• 
  Baby Products

• Must-Have Products for Sick Kids

  18 Nov 2009 | 2:53 am

  A stomach bug has invaded our house this week, so I've made great use of that sanitary cycle on my washer and I've been trying to coat everyone with hand sanitizer to keep the further spread of germs to a minimum. Winter tends to bring more sick days for families, so you may want to begin stocking your "sick kid" kit now. Here are a few things that I like for reducing the misery for sick children and for keeping germs at bay in the house. Boogie Wipes (Compare Prices). These disposable saline wipes are perfect for cleaning up yucky noses. Check out the full Boogie Wipes review. Jackson Reece…

• UK Maclaren Owners: No Stroller Recall, But You've Been Heard

  13 Nov 2009 | 2:47 am

  Following the recent recall of about a million Maclaren strollers in the U.S., due to a hinge issue that resulted in 12 fingertip amputations, many parents in the U.K. wondered why their strollers weren't also covered in the recall. After all, the strollers are exactly the same, exposed hinges and all. The difference is in laws between countries and how recalls and labeling work. Therefore, Maclaren only recalled the strollers in the U.S. and provided free hinge covers to U.S customers. After a few days of emails and consumer outrage, though, it appears that the company has had a change of…

• Maclaren Recalls 1 Million Strollers

  9 Nov 2009 | 8:24 am

  If you're one of many parents with a Maclaren umbrella stroller, take note - the company is recalling about 1 million strollers because the hinge can trap fingers when the stroller is being unfolded. The result can be serious cuts or even fingertip amputations. According to CPSC, Maclaren has had 15 reports of kids putting their fingers inside the hinge mechanism, and they have 12 reports of fingertip amputations as a result. Several popular Maclaren stroller models are affected by the recall, including Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, TechnoXLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and…

• Holiday Head Start

  7 Nov 2009 | 4:49 pm

  I am not one to finish my holiday shopping months in advance. There's something cozy to me about bundling up to hit the after-Thanksgiving sales and coming home, utterly exhausted, to enjoy some leftover turkey. It's nearly 70 degrees outside where I live now, so I'm having a hard time convincing myself that the holidays are just around the corner! If you're gearing up to shop for the holidays, too, here are some great gift ideas for the babies and toddlers in your life. From baby's first Christmas to fun family gifts, the About.com Parenting & Family Channel has plenty of holiday…

• Reader Question: How to Keep Baby Rear-Facing

  5 Nov 2009 | 12:06 pm

  Q: My baby is only 6 months old and weighs 23 lbs. His infant car seat is only rated to 22 lbs. I know I'm supposed to keep him rear-facing longer than 6 months, so what should I do? A: Luckily, infant car seats are not the only type that can be used rear-facing. You can keep your baby rear-facing in a convertible car seat until he weighs 35 lbs or more, depending on which car seat you choose. Choosing a convertible car seat that also has a high forward-facing weight limit should allow you to use it for several years. It's likely that your son's growth will slow down a bit in toddlerhood, so…

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  Back & Neck Pain

• Arthritis of the Neck

  17 Nov 2009 | 4:28 am

  (c) mzacha Oh, the scourges of aging! In the neck, one of these is cervical spondylosis, aka arthritis of the neck. It is due to the formation of bone spurs, which often irritate nearby spinal nerves. Cervical spondylosis can get really painful in the case of myelopathy, that is, when the spinal cord is involved. There are a number treatments for cervical spondylosis, and they are generally non-invasive. If you doctor tries to talk you into surgery, beware that going this route will likely take its toll on you, but whether it is the best option for pain relief remains questionable. Arthritis…

• Chiropractic - The Spine's Relationship to Your Overall Health

  11 Nov 2009 | 7:06 am

  (c) Michael J. Summerville Many people think of chiropractors as merely back doctors. In reality, the chiropractic profession is built on the belief that spinal alignment affects the health of the whole body. Therefore, your chiropractor might treat your spine in order to bring about a variety of health benefits, including back health. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, about 18 million adults and 2 million children go to a chiropractor. While it's true that most visits are for common back conditions and injuries, here's an example of the chiropractic…

• Don't Get Post-Halloween Back Pain!

  1 Nov 2009 | 3:39 pm

  Photo: Kameleon007 The thought of post-Halloween back pain may conjure images of taking the costumes back up to the attic or lugging heavy bags of candy. But let's not forget the extra weight you may be carrying from having eaten those Halloween treats! With the holidays approaching, be forewarned that back pain a very common problem for overweight people. Carrying extra pounds can increase your risk for developing several back disorders. Don't Get Post-Halloween Back Pain! originally appeared on About.com Back & Neck Pain on Sunday, November 1st, 2009 at 23:39:46.Permalink | Comment | Email…

• Be a Writer for the Back and Neck Pain Site

  23 Oct 2009 | 3:36 pm

  If you are a spine surgeon or a surgical nurse specializing in spine who likes to write, About.com has an opportunity for you! As an About.com Contributing Writer, you will work with me to cover the sub-topic of spinal procedures and surgeries. You'll be responsible for producing about 15 short articles per month, and you can also write more than the minimum, if you want. If you are interested in applying or learning more, please email your RESUME and a WRITING SAMPLE -- both IN THE BODY OF AN EMAIL -- to contributingwriters@about.com. Put the "Back and Neck Pain" in the subject line of the…

• Steroid Injections for Pregnancy Related Low Back Pain

  13 Oct 2009 | 9:20 am

  Photo: jdurham Are you pregnant with low back pain? One type of low back pain that's very common during childbearing is sacral pain. Experts think that when low back pain in this area begins during pregnancy, chances are you may be experiencing it long after your baby is born. About 10% of pregnant women with low back pain continue to experience disabling pain two years after delivery. A new study, published in Spine found that a corticosteroid injection to the lowest part of the pelvis (called the ischial spine) relieved pain for 4 weeks in 36 women who had chronic pain that had begun while…

• 
  Baking

• Do You Get Yours?

  18 Nov 2009 | 4:15 pm

  Are you a subscriber to my weekly newsletter? If you aren't, then you missed getting this recipe for Sweet Potato Pie with Streusel Topping sent directly to your email box. Be sure to subscribe today so you won't miss one single issue.Photo © 2009 Carroll Pellegrinelli, licensed to About.com, Inc. Do You Get Yours? originally appeared on About.com Desserts / Baking on Thursday, November 19th, 2009 at 00:15:42.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Wordless Wednesday

  17 Nov 2009 | 11:21 pm

  Apple Pie a la Zing - Cranberry Apple Pie2009 Photo by Carroll Pellegrinelli, licensed to About.com Wordless Wednesday originally appeared on About.com Desserts / Baking on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 07:21:04.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Pecan Pie

  16 Nov 2009 | 2:01 am

  When I was growing-up we ate more Pecan Pie than Pumpkin or Mincemeat. This is the very best Pecan Pie recipe. There's more nuts and lots of brown sugar, which makes it less sweet than most pecan pies.Photo by Carroll Pellegrinelli, licensed to About.com Pecan Pie originally appeared on About.com Desserts / Baking on Monday, November 16th, 2009 at 10:01:15.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Frozen Whipped Topping - Truwhip

  12 Nov 2009 | 11:05 pm

  If you prefer whipped topping over real whipped cream, there's a new product you should try. Actually, Truwhip isn't new, but it is to me. What I liked the most about Truwhip is that I didn't get a metallic taste in my mouth like I do with other whipped toppings. Maybe that's because it's 70 percent organic. If you'd like to find out more about Truwhip visit their website at Truwhip.com. 2009 Truwhip Photo Courtesy of Peak Foods, LLC Frozen Whipped Topping - Truwhip originally appeared on About.com Desserts / Baking on Friday, November 13th, 2009 at 07:05:02.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Making a Pie Crust From Scratch

  11 Nov 2009 | 5:54 pm

  We've only got a couple of weeks until Thanksgiving a.k.a. Pie Day as I call it. This is the day that many people serve not one but maybe 2 or 3 different pies. This year try to avoid purchasing a ready-made pie crust. Use these Pie Crust Making Step-by-Step Photo Instructions to make your own. Not only is it made with ingredients you have on hand, but you can make your own for a lot less money. Also, you know exactly what you're getting. There are no strange chemicals. The best part, of course, is that a Homemade Pie Crust tastes the best!2009 Pie Dough Photo by Carroll Pellegrinelli,…

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  Baltimore

• Weekend Roundup

  19 Nov 2009 | 4:30 am

  Amazing how this year is flying by, isn't it? It's almost Thanksgiving! Friday Bruce Springsteen in concert - The Boss is back in Baltimore for the first time in 36 years. Tickets to the show at 1st Mariner Arena sold out in 20 minutes, so if you want to catch this historic performance, you'll have to pay a pretty penny - but they are available on StubHub. Jim Gaffigan in concert - The hilarious dry humor of Midwestern comic extraordinaire Jim Gaffigan comes to the Lyric Opera House. If you haven't heard Gaffigan's musings on Hot Pockets and Popeye's, well, you're missing out. Tickets start…

• This is Jeopardy...

  17 Nov 2009 | 8:31 pm

  Well, the celebrity edition, anyway. On tomorrow's show (7 p.m., Channel 2), three "celebrity" contestants compete in the Jeopardy Million Dollar Celebrity Challenge. Among the trio is Robin Quivers, sidekick on the Howard Stern Show. Quivers is a Baltimore native, and tomorrow night she'll be playing for the SEED School of Maryland, a statewide, public college preparatory boarding school that presents students from across the state with an opportunity to receive a tuition-free education that prepares them for success in college and beyond. Kudos to Quivers, who has been the King of All…

• Towson's Asian Arts Gallery

  16 Nov 2009 | 11:10 pm

  Not sure how many of you know about the Asian Arts Gallery at Towson University, but there's an interesting exhibit running there through Dec. 12. "Furniture for the Divine," features, well, furniture, and accessories used in the worship of deities and ancestors dating from the 14th century. Items include altar tables, shrines, tributary carvings and sculptures, tapestries, and portraits. The gallery is open Mondays through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m. It's closed on Sundays and Thanksgiving Weekend. Admission is free. It's located in the Center for the Arts…

• Are You Ready For Monday Night Football?

  16 Nov 2009 | 3:27 am

  There's just about 9 hours until kickoff of the Ravens-Browns game. While the game almost was blacked out in Cleveland (the team stepped up and bought the remaining tickets to ensure a sellout and avoid a local TV blackout), it will be on (many, many) televisions in Baltimore. If you're heading out to watch it, check out my list of top spots around town to take in a game. If not, crack a cold one, sit back in the recliner and enjoy. I'd love to hear your score predictions. The Browns are awful, but there were a lot of upsets yesterday in the NFL, proving anything can happen any time two NFL…

• Blast-off for Indoor Soccer Team

  12 Nov 2009 | 8:31 pm

  Fear not fans of the 4-4 Ravens and perpetually putrid Orioles. Baltimore does have one winning pro sports franchise, and they kick off their season tonight. The Baltimore Blast begin defense of their indoor soccer championship tonight at 7:35 p.m. at 1st Mariner Arena against the Rockford Rampage.  The Blast are the class of the Major Indoor Soccer League, the new/old name of the six-team league in which they compete. Tickets start at $16, and are available by calling 410-732-5278 or 410-547-SEAT. They also can be purchased online.  Going to a Blast game is, well, a blast. The soccer is…

• 
  Banking

• Understanding Annual Percentage Rate (APR)

  19 Nov 2009 | 1:55 pm

  Mortgage rates are back at the low levels, making home purchases and refinancing more attractive. What exactly do the low rates mean, and how can you compare rates? One way to compare loans is to look at the annual percentage rate (APR). APR is not perfect, but it gives you a starting point to compare costs on different options. See how APR works learn more about it, and how you can calculate it. Further reading: Get the Wrong Loan by Comparing APR Understanding Annual Percentage Rate (APR) originally appeared on About.com Banking / Loans on Thursday, November 19th, 2009 at 21:55:42.Permalink…

• Reward Checking Squeezed by FDIC

  17 Nov 2009 | 9:46 pm

  Reward checking accounts have been under a lot of pressure lately. Banks are finding it harder to make a profit with the accounts, and they've made it harder for some customers to work the system. Bankdeals reports that the accounts are under even more pressure - this time from regulators.  The FDIC is limiting how much interest banks can pay if they're "less than well capitalized". The idea is that troubled banks may try to soak up assets by offering extremely high rates. If things don't work out, the FDIC has to cover all the funds that gushed into the bank (and stronger banks suffer when…

• Text Your Way to Better Saving

  11 Nov 2009 | 10:26 pm

  Having a hard time building up that savings account? Text messages might help you - assuming you won't have to pay more to receive them. Economists studied how people behave when they receive text messages about their bank accounts.  If the texts pester and scold you for failing to save, not much will change.  However, more positive text messages that remind you of your savings goals are likely to help. If you think this would be useful, find ways to make it happen.  As Lifehacker points out, you can send yourself personalized, encouraging text messages.  Set up periodic reminders with an…

• Banks Still Hesitant to Lend

  9 Nov 2009 | 9:12 pm

  The Federal Reserve just released the quarterly Senior Loan Officer Survey on Bank Lending Practices. The findings? Banks are still scared to lend money but there are glimmers of hope. Consumers and businesses alike have a tough time getting money.  We're not even asking for loans as much as we used to - either because we've given up or we don't want to take on the risks that come with more debt. The results of this survey might be described as "slightly less bad" than previous ones.  At least it's not as bad as it was one year ago. Banks also expect to tighten lending standards on credit…

• FDIC Insurance on 529 Plans

  4 Nov 2009 | 11:56 pm

  529 college savings plans allow you to save for higher education, and you may qualify for some tax benefits. Most parents invest in mutual funds, hoping they'll be able to earn enough (combined with their contributions) to create a healthy college fund.  However, those accounts can also lose money. For a government guarantee, you'll need FDIC insurance on your 529 savings.  This is hard to find, but Virginia's 529 program recently added an FDIC insured option for conservative savers.  You don't have to live in Virginia to use the program, but you should investigate your home state's…

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  Barbques & Grilling

• Top 10 Thanksgiving Recipes

  20 Nov 2009 | 6:32 pm

  Chances are you cook one turkey a year so you've only got one shot at getting it right. There are a lot of ways to cook a turkey so whether you are roasting, grilling, frying, smoking, or putting it on a beer can here are some recipes to help.Top 10 Thanksgiving Recipes originally appeared on About.com Barbecues & Grilling on Saturday, November 21st, 2009 at 02:32:20.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Talking Turkey with HPBA

  19 Nov 2009 | 6:40 am

  Our friends over at the Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association have come up with some new statistics just in time for Thanksgiving. This numbers are pretty amazing and clearly show that more and more people are doing their cooking on the porch. Take a look: "Americans are rethinking tradition this Thanksgiving with more than 70 percent of consumers saying they would opt out of using the oven to instead grill (18 percent), smoke (25 percent) or fry (28 percent) their turkey, according to HPBA's Thanksgiving poll. Turkeys can be fried in less than an hour, smoked over low heat for several…

• Brining Turkey - Step by Step

  18 Nov 2009 | 6:35 pm

  Brining a turkey is a simple process, but you need to start a day before you plan to cook. A whole turkey can take up to 24 hours to properly brine depending on the size so plan ahead. Brining makes the most of a turkey. It adds moisture to the meat and makes it more tender. Throw in some herbs and spices and you get a lot more flavor as well. All you really need to brine a turkey is the bird and some salt and water. Step one is determining how much water you need. Photo © 2008 Regarding BBQ Inc., licensed to About.com, Inc. Brining Turkey - Step by Step originally appeared on About.com…

• Recall Alert: Perfect Flame SLG Series Grills

  18 Nov 2009 | 8:01 am

  The Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada have announced a voluntary recall of Perfect Flame SLG Series Gas Grills sold through Lowes Home Improvement Stores between September 2005 and May 2009. This recall affects about 665,000 Gas Grills manufactured by L G Sourcing, Inc of China and imported by Lucas Innovation, Inc of North Wilkesboro, North Carolina. Burners in these grills can deteriorate causing irregular flames and in some models the metal lids can catch fire, causing a serious metal fire. If you own this grill you are asked to immediately discontinue use until you can…

• What's on the Menu this Holiday Season?

  17 Nov 2009 | 6:50 pm

  The big Holiday Meals are a great time to show off our cooking abilities while still clinging to the traditional favorites. From the Deep Fried Turkey to slow roasted Ham to a rotisserie Goose these classics of the Holidays are food we seldom prepare but expect to get right every time. And this isn't limited to the Christmas Feast, because I know that everyone has their favorite, that one big holiday of the year that is their specialty, their best meal. Now I know that Thanksgiving is upon us in the U.S. and that typically means Turkey, but it isn't limited to that one bird. Every family has…

• 
  Baseball

• Comeback theme to AL Cy Young, manager awards

  18 Nov 2009 | 3:44 pm

  Zack Greinke and Jim Tracy certainly weren't front-runners for major awards back in April. Greinke was a guy with a ton of talent who almost lost it all because of a social anxiety disorder that threatened his career. Tracy wasn't even a manager, squarely in retread territory as the bench coach with the Colorado Rockies after two terrible seasons as the Pittsburgh Pirates' manager and a last-place finish with the Dodgers in 2005. Greinke, the AL Cy Young Award winner, starred for a last-place team in Kansas City, but it certainly wasn't his fault with a 2.16 ERA. He won 16 games - the lowest…

• Star potential resides further down the rookie ballots in 2009

  16 Nov 2009 | 6:25 pm

  Andrew Bailey and Chris Coghlan could become stars like Derek Jeter, Cal Ripken, Pete Rose or Willie Mays. It's also just as likely they'll become Bob Hamelin, Joe Charboneau, Pat Listach or Butch Metzger. All of the above, now including Bailey and Coghlan, were selected Rookies of the Year in their respective leagues. It means a lot, or a very little. Sometimes we see the brilliance early. Other times, it fades away as quickly as it seems to arrive. And I could be very wrong here, but at this point I'm leaning toward the latter camp with Bailey, who was a solid closer for the A's (26 saves,…

• Big markets bidding for Cuban lefty

  14 Nov 2009 | 3:34 pm

  One of the wild cards this free agent season is a guy who hasn't thrown a major-league pitch. The agent for Aroldis Chapman is drumming up buzz for his client, a Cuban defector who pitched in the World Baseball Classic. He actually didn't throw all that well, but he's a 21-year-old lefty who throws 100 mph. Those don't exactly grow on trees. He's making the media rounds, telling his story about how he defected (there weren't any motorboats - he just left a hotel during a tournament and got in a car at a predetermined time). He left behind a family, a girlfriend and a baby daughter. He also…

• Gold Gloves can be fool's gold

  11 Nov 2009 | 5:18 pm

  Baseball's Gold Glove winners, honoring the top fielders in the game, are always going to have a tendency to be flawed, because defense can be subjective. The sabermetrics folks have fielding stats, too, and they scoff at the Gold Gloves because the managers and coaches select them. The new stat used to measure fielding is the UZR (ultimate zone rating). It factors in range, arm, and fielding percentage in a form of  runs saved or cost, in comparison to an average fielder. (Click here for a more detailed explanation.) How well do the managers and coaches do compared to the stats? Not well at…

• Free-agent system is no relief to bullpen dwellers

  11 Nov 2009 | 1:35 pm

  The Elias rankings are out, which is one of those moments in the offseason that seems to become more important every year. The draft each June seems to take on more importance every year as salaries escalate for the top picks. Scouting has never been better; few prospects fall through the cracks. A first-round pick is now more valuable in many cases than a decent free agent, especially to a rebuilding team. And there's the rub in the current free agent/draft pick system. Any team that picks a Type A free agent - defined as a player in the top 20 percent of players at his position - loses its…

• 
  Beadwork

• Inspiration

  19 Nov 2009 | 1:06 am

  One of the things that I most enjoy about being a beadwork artist, and being an artist in general, is the seemingly endless supply of inspiration that surrounds me. Once I was able to tap into that part of my mind that I refer to as my "artist brain", I found it easy to find inspiration for beadwork in pretty much anything that I see. The bracelet and earring set in this photo is a recent creation of mine, inspired by one of my many sessions perusing the online catalogs for the big auction houses like Christie's and Sotheby's. Many of the jewelry collections include works by well-known…

• My Fabulous Glass Fish Focal Bead by Ofilia Cinta

  17 Nov 2009 | 8:12 am

  Ever since I started learning the art of making glass beads, there are a few lampwork artists whose work has fascinated me. Ofilia Cinta is one of those lampwork artists, and this past summer, I got to meet her and purchase one of her incredible glass fish beads. Ofilia's glasswork is inspired by her rich heritage and her memories of childhood trips to Mexico and Texas. When you look at her richly colored hollow glass fish, her signature creation, you find unexpected depth in the layers of glass and light. Sometimes she includes small patches of dichroic glass or copper mesh to give texture…

• Beadweaving Blog Love for Friday October 13 2009

  13 Nov 2009 | 5:00 am

  Some great weekend reading for you in the world of beads and blogs: Tapestry Beads - Jill Wiseman is gearing up for her last show of a very busy year. Beadazzled of Oregon - Dini Alves shows off some incredible new beaded chevrons. Beadedbear's Nonsense and Complete Waste of Time - Sig Wynne-Evans has a day off from her day job and gets ready for BABE. Etsy Beadweaver's Team - the November challenge entries are in and are open for voting. Some beautiful work based on the theme "Beauty of the Flower". Ramblings on Jewelry Making and Life - Jean Campbell talks about reinforcing your beadwork to…

• Fabulous Focals

  11 Nov 2009 | 8:58 am

  While I was at Bead Fest Philadelphia this past summer, I treated myself to a number of beautiful focal artist beads, something that I haven't done since I went to the first Bead Fest in 2003. For the next few days, I will be featuring each of the artists from whom I bought a focal bead with a little information about the artist and links to where you can buy your own miniature work of art. Kristie Roeder of Artisan Clay creates beautiful, one of a kind hand-thrown ceramic beads, pendants and donuts. At Bead Fest, I bought two of her glass and stoneware cabochons and a smoke-fired donut.

• My Muse

  6 Nov 2009 | 8:05 am

  In addition to the many, many other things that I have going on this week, I am finishing up my entry for Scarlet Lanson's Use the Muse III competition. Here is a sneak peek: That's all I can show you right now! The space in the center between the two flowers is where the Muse component will be placed. If you like the flowers, you can try your hand at making your own Russian style netted flowers. I'm very happy with the warm colors I chose to use in this project. All of the beads came from my shopping spree at the Beyond Beadery booth at Bead Fest Philadelphia this past August. (Can you even…

• 
  Beauty

• My Favorite Cleansers From Cheap to Steep

  18 Nov 2009 | 10:51 am

  I've become a Pond's cold cream person. There, I said it. I've always thought of Pond's cold cream as the cleanser of choice for old ladies until I read that it's also the choice of French women. Then my editor told me she'd become obsessed with it and I decided to try it out. I am thrilled with the results. Pond's leaves my dry face moist and dewy and gets rid of every last bit of makeup. There's something very satisfying looking at a tissue full of makeup. Plus, I love not splashing my face with water before heading off to bed. The water wakes me up from my much-preferred drowsy state.

• New! More Short Hair Photo Galleries

  17 Nov 2009 | 4:11 pm

  Short hair is more trendy than ever with some women opting to go super-short (the photo here of singer Pink is one of my most popular short hairstyle photos on my site). I've had my hair chin-length (or shorter) for more than a year now and I've never gotten more compliments on my hair in my life. The comments still come almost daily. It blows my mind. And yes, I do need to post a photo so you can see it for yourself. So is short hair for you? Should you opt for a bob or an edgy, punk cut? Check out these new photo galleries and decide for yourself. Short, dark hair Short, blonde hair…

• Holiday Hair: Photo Galleries of My Favorite Hair Styles

  15 Nov 2009 | 3:07 pm

  You have the date set, perhaps the dress picked out and the shoes. What what in the heck are you going to do with your hair for the company holiday party? I've pulled together a special hub of holiday hair just for you. Browse short hairstyles and find out how to dress up short hair (hint: it's all about the statement necklace, the lipstick, the smoky eyes), or pick out the updos and choose between a formal chignon or a loose, messy bun. Perhaps you have long hair and want to curl it, but should you use rollers or a curling iron? I've got the scoop on the hottest holiday hair for 2009. Photo:…

• Watch a Botox Injection

  14 Nov 2009 | 5:11 pm

  Whether you approve or disapprove of Botox (for the record, I have no problem with Botox, I have several friends who SWEAR by it), you may wonder what happens during a Botox injection. This video shows you exactly what happens during the procedure.Watch a Botox Injection originally appeared on About.com Beauty on Sunday, November 15th, 2009 at 01:11:33.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• What to Do When a Friend Suggests You Get a Makeover

  13 Nov 2009 | 5:05 pm

  A couple years ago my then-boyfriend took one look at the baggy pajama bottoms I was wearing at brunch and suggested I go on "What Not to Wear." Around the same time, my best guy friend told me I needed a new hairstyle (see dated haircut in my picture on this site). He couldn't believe that a beauty editor only got her hair cut and colored 4 times a year. They were right. I needed a makeover, stat. What do you do if your friends suggest you get a haircut, new glasses or start wearing more color? You either get mad at them or you listen. Here's how to give yourself a makeover, from a new…

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  Beer

• Beer for the Holidays

  19 Nov 2009 | 9:59 pm

  With Thanksgiving here in the US just a week away and Christmas a little over a month away we are just about ready to enter the holiday season.  This time of year brings lots of reasons to eat and drink well with friends and family and so it is time, once again, for me to admonish you to serve beer with your feasts.  You know you want to and with a wider selection of beers available today than ever before, not to mention the great holiday seasonals that are hitting the beer store shelves, you simply don't have an excuse not to.  Make it beer this year! Follow me - Friend me - Link me - Use…

• Are Estate Beers Better?

  19 Nov 2009 | 9:48 pm

  There seems to be a growing trend of brewers looking locally or even in their own backyards for brewing ingredients. While most craft and regional brewers don't have the resources to produce a complete estate beer like Sierra Nevada, a lot are looking closer to home for their ingredients. Locally grown hops and barley offer a lot of advantages - lower shipping costs, supporting the local economy, sustainability issuses and consumers tend to like the idea. But does it really make a difference in the glass? I'm not saying that the trend should be stopped or even slowed. I'm all for it for the…

• The End of Coffee Stout?

  17 Nov 2009 | 3:11 am

  I'm a big fan of coffee stout. It was one the first styles I homebrewed and I always grab a six pack of it when I notice a new one at the beer store - an increasingly rare event. And here might be the reason why. The FDA sent a letter to nearly thirty makers of caffeinated alcohol products. It basically said that this particular combination has never been deemed safe and is, therefore, unsafe. The companies have 30 days to prove that the FDA actually did call the combo safe sometime in the past or they will have to stop making and selling the stuff. Presumably, this came about because of the…

• £5,000 for a Single Beer? Oh, the Humanity!

  13 Nov 2009 | 12:55 am

  Did you know that a six pack of beer survived the crash of the Hindenburg? For a long time hardly anyone did. When fire fighter Leroy Smith found the six bottles of Lowenbrau beer and a silver pitch among the wreckage he hid them. Later he gave five of the bottles to colleagues. Most of the beer has been lost to history. But Leroy's bottle survives along with the pitcher. Both are being auctioned with the beer expected to fetch £5k and the pitcher £12k. Follow me - Friend me - Link me - Use me Twitter Facebook The Aleuminati £5,000 for a Single Beer? Oh, the Humanity! originally appeared…

• To Sell a Brewery

  13 Nov 2009 | 12:42 am

  Like all beer lovers, I occasionally fantasize about owning my own brewery. But what if you could own one of the most iconic brands out there? Well, now you can! (Provided you have $300K in your wallet.) Pabst is up for sale. Yep, once again the brand is looking for a new home. Most of us know the recent troubled past of the once dominant American lager. With the recent surge of popularity of PBR, it looked like the troubles might be in the past. Not so. The current owner, Kalmanovitz Charitable Foundation, has been told that they need to unload their profitable asset. See, Kalmanovitz is a…

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  Bestsellers

• Funny Holiday Books

  19 Nov 2009 | 4:13 pm

  The holiday season can be hectic. Whether you love November and December or dread the string of parties and get-togethers, all of us have moments when we could use some comic relief. These holiday books are witty, sometimes moving and often laugh out loud funny. Cover Photo Courtesy Hachette Book Group Funny Holiday Books originally appeared on About.com Bestsellers on Friday, November 20th, 2009 at 00:13:34.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Books about India

  17 Nov 2009 | 4:09 pm

  In the next couple months, many of us will be traveling or taking some time off from work. Even if you can't go somewhere exotic over the holidays, you can still visit a far off place through great fiction. Here are four Books about India that are full of love, adventure and intrigue. Cover Photo Courtesy Atria Books about India originally appeared on About.com Bestsellers on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 00:09:50.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• South of Broad by Pat Conroy

  15 Nov 2009 | 4:35 pm

  Pat Conroy, bestselling author of novels including Prince of Tides and Beach Music, has made his fans wait fourteen years for his newest novel. South of Broad is a rambling novel about Charleston, South Carolina and a group of unlikely friends who weather life's storms together. While South of Broad offers definite charms, it lacks the charisma of some of his earlier novels. Read a complete review of South of Broad by Pat Conroy Cover Photo Courtesy Knopf South of Broad by Pat Conroy originally appeared on About.com Bestsellers on Monday, November 16th, 2009 at 00:35:41.Permalink | Comment |…

• Most Disappointing Books of 2009

  12 Nov 2009 | 5:01 am

  Wondering what not to read? Every year there are books that just don't match their hype. These titles are often prominently displayed in bookstores, but don't be fooled -- good marketing does not a good book make. Here are the most disappointing books from 2009 along with suggestions for books in the same genres that would be better choices. Cover Photo Courtesy DoubledayMost Disappointing Books of 2009 originally appeared on About.com Bestsellers on Thursday, November 12th, 2009 at 13:01:30.Permalink | Comment | Email this

• Pulpy Paperback: Beat the Reaper

  10 Nov 2009 | 4:09 pm

  Pulp ER Fiction. Ever wondered what would happen if Michael Crichton and Quentin Tarantino hatched an idea and then coated it in violence and wit? No worries. Josh Bazell is their offspring. Bazell's debut novel, which was released earlier this year, is available in paperback for those who need an escape from holiday cheer. Read a complete review of Beat the Reaper by Josh Bazell Beat the Reaper Book Club Discussion Questions Cover Photo Courtesy Little, BrownPulpy Paperback: Beat the Reaper originally appeared on About.com Bestsellers on Wednesday, November 11th, 2009 at 00:09:07.Permalink |…

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  About.com Health Careers

• Novartis Oncology Launches Global Hiring Campaign

  19 Nov 2009 | 8:59 am

  While most companies in other industries are looking for ways to cut back on payroll and overhead, some healthcare companies are actually launching creative marketing campaigns to help attract a high volume of top talent to add to the team. One example is Novartis Oncology, which has recently launched an interesting and unique campaign enlisting current Novartis employees to help recruit new talent by sharing their perspective on the benefits of working at Novartis Oncology. The company launched a global campaign to help attract and hire hundreds of people worldwide to Novartis Oncology this…

• Forensic Nursing Careers

  14 Nov 2009 | 12:43 am

  What is forensic nursing? According to Vida Lock, Director of the Cleveland State University School of Nursing, forensic nursing "bridges the gap between health care and law enforcement." Forensic nurses work with victims of violent and criminal activity, helping treat the patient while also assisting law enforcement with collecting evidence, gathering accounts of the incident, and looking for clues. Forensic nurses also are trained to help patients deal with the psychological aspects of their ordeal, whether it was a rape, assault, or a traumatic accident. Due to the nature of the field,…

• Thank You, To Our Veterans

  11 Nov 2009 | 1:58 am

  Today is the day for remembering our veterans, and active duty military personnel, who have valiantly served their country to help protect and provide the freedoms we enjoy as citizens of the United States of America. Among those brave men and women are countless military medical personnel including doctors, dentists, nurses, medics, and allied professionals who helped care for the wounded and dying. In a week when a horrific crime was committed at the hands of a military medical doctor, hopefully the actions of one have not overshadowed the positive hard work of many devoted medical military…

• Explore Nurse Practitioner Careers

  10 Nov 2009 | 2:00 am

  Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced practice nurses who, in some states, can practice independently, seeing patients and billing for their time and services almost as a physician would. Some healthcare analysts and experts see nurse practitioners and physician assistants (PAs) as the answer to the growing physician shortage, particularly in primary care, while others feel that nurse practitioners do not possess enough extensive training and education to fill physicians' shoes. November 5-12 is Nurse Practitioner recognition week, so this is a great time to learn more about the role of…

• House Passes Health Reform Bill

  8 Nov 2009 | 2:29 am

  After 11 hours of debate, the House of Representatives passed a "sweeping" health reform bill, H.R. 3962, the "Affordable Health Care for America Act." In a vote of 220 to 215, the landmark vote brings the nation one (very large) step closer to a complete healthcare system overhaul. The more than $1 Trillion bill will expand coverage to more Americans, provides a government run health insurance option, requires insurers to cover patients with pre-existing conditions, and requires all Americans to obtain healthcare coverage. The bill will be funded by tax increases and cuts in other programs…