SWEET ESCAPE - INSPIRING THOUGHTS

Competing with Ourselves

2010-09-16T12:09:00.007-05:00

"I do not try to dance better than anyone else. I only try to dance better than myself." Mikhail Baryshnikov

Have you ever noticed that when you compare how you're doing with how others are doing - it can feel very self defeating ?

I think it's important to do the best we can do as individuals - and then as we progess and desire to improve - we raise the bar for ourselves. The only competitor you have is yourself. The only one you need to beat is you.

Cheating on a test in order to get a better grade may get a better grade but what is the point if the lesson has not been learned? Failing, and then learning from that failure is what is called knowledge and progress. One of the biggest ways we learn and grow is from our failures. One person may be much slower or faster than another, however, in the end, isn't the lesson learned the ultimate prize?

If someone plays the guitar much better than you, admire them for their accomplishments, and learn from them if open and willing, but to quit your lessons because someone is better only makes it a loss of opportunity for you.

What are your thoughts?

The 5 Love Languages

2010-09-15T14:33:00.005-05:00

I just finished reading this book. I think it's amazing and highly recommend it. Marriage - or any close relationship - should be based on love, right? But does it seem as though you and your loved one are speaking two different languages? Author Dr. Gary Chapman guides couples in identifying, understanding, and speaking their loved one's primary love language—quality time, words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, or physical touch. By learning the five love languages, you and your loved one will discover your unique love languages and learn practical steps in truly loving each other according to what each of you desires. Chapters are categorized by love language for easy reference, and each one ends with specific, simple steps to express a specific language to your loved one and guide your marriage/relationship in the right direction.

Cooking with Skewers

2010-06-09T12:44:00.003-05:00

Tricks for using Skewers:
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using
them so they won't burn during cooking.

If you prefer metal skewers, which have a long life, use
square or twisted types, which will hold the food better
than round ones.

To keep food from slipping off during cooking and turning,
use two parallel skewers rather than a single skewer.

If you're using a wooden skewer, as you thread the food
move the pieces close together, with no space showing.
If the skewer is metal, you can leave small spaces between
the pieces.

When using foods with different cooking times (such as shrimp
and beef), don't combine them on the same skewer. Instead,
make skewers of just shrimp or just beef, start cooking the
beef first, and then combine them on a serving platter.

Men Just Can't Listen Like Women

2010-05-27T10:47:00.002-05:00

from the "Humor of Melvin Durai"

Hey, listen up. Here’s some important information.
Researchers have discovered that men and women
listen differently. Women listen with both sides of
their brains, while men listen with just the right sides
of their toes.

Well, not exactly. But the results would be the same.
Men listen with mostly the left sides of their brains,
according to a study by Dr. Joseph T. Lurito of
Indiana University School of Medicine.

A female friend tried to tell me about this study a
few weeks ago.

Friend: "Did you hear about the new study that
shows that men and women listen differently?"

Me: "Huh? Did you say something? I saw your lips
moving. You should know better than to speak to me
while I’m concentrating on something important, like
football."

Friend (shouting): "I said that men and women listen
differently. We use both sides of our brains, you
use just your left sides."

Me: "Hey, your lips were moving again. Do you have
some kind of twitch? You had better get it checked
out."

Friend (screaming): "I don’t have a twitch, you idiot. I
said that men and women are different. We have a
full brain and you apparently have only half a brain.
Just ask Dr. Lurito."

Me: "A burrito? Yes, I would like a burrito. I’m
really hungry."

In the study, researchers measured the brain activity
of 20 men and 20 women while the participants
listened to taped excerpts from John Grisham’s novel
"The Partner." The men used only the left side of
their brains and were apparently thinking of just one
thing: "I hope they aren’t going to test me on this."
The women used both sides of their brains and were
apparently thinking of two things: "What a thrilling
novel" and "John Grisham is cute. I wonder if he’s
single."

The study provides a good excuse for men:

Wife: "I thought I told you to stop the car and ask
for directions. You keep driving in circles. Why
aren’t you listening to me?"

Husband: "I’m sorry, honey, but I can listen with
only half my brain. Since you’ve been speaking into
my right ear, your words keep fading before they
reach the left side of my brain."

Lurito says the study doesn’t necessarily mean that
women are better listeners than men. Listening could
in fact be harder for them. That’s why they need to
use both sides of their brains. But through personal
experience, I know that women are definitely better
listeners. For example, here’s a telephone conversation
between a female friend (let's call her Sandra) and I:

Sandra: "Hi Melvin. How are you?"

Me: "Great! Never felt better."

Sandra: "Are you sure? You don’t sound too good.
Your tone of voice is one tenth of an octave lower
than usual. And your words are coming out three
percent slower. Something is obviously bothering you.
Would you like to talk about it? I'm willing to listen
until Christmas."

Now here’s a conversation with a male friend (let's call
him Ramesh):

Ramesh: "Hi Melvin. How are you?"

Me: "OK, I guess, considering everything that’s
happened to me."

Ramesh: "Great! Did you catch the basketball game
last night? It was a thriller."

Me: "No, I was too busy picking up the pieces of my
shattered life."

Ramesh: "Man, you missed a great game. The Lakers
were awesome. Kobe was on fire. I told you to watch
the game. Why don't you ever listen?"

Summer Fun!

2010-05-25T13:00:00.005-05:00

Looking for inexpensive activities for your family this summer? Check out some of the ways you can find frugal fun this summer.

•Community Festivals: find city-wide festivals in your local community or neighboring communities.

•Music Festivals: there are lots of music festivals around that are surprisingly inexpensive and sometimes free. Check out this site for information.

•National Parks: national parks are great ways to have fun. You can camp, hike, explore and just enjoy the great outdoors - and it won't cost you a ton.

•State Parks: less expensive than national parks and they offer camping options.

•Community Calendars: just add your city and state to the Google query to find the community calendar for your town. You'll find a bunch of free events, from community dinners to farmer's markets. Also look for surrounding community's events.

•Craft Fairs: most craft fairs are free to enter and often provide a way to sell or trade your craft products. You'll also pick up useful supplies and new techniques.

•Volunteering: spend time helping others and feel good about yourself afterwards. Cost = completely free. Get the whole family involved!

Success

2010-05-25T08:31:00.000-05:00

"I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." - Michael Jordan

2010-05-18T10:23:00.003-05:00

The wider you grin and the deeper your laughter lines, the more likely you are to have a long existence.

Broader smiles and wrinkles around your eyes point to a positive outlook on life which translates to better long-term health.

It has long been thought that a happy disposition can impact on life expectancy, and the recent study by experts at Wayne University in Michigan, America, seems to back this.

They came to their conclusions by studying 230 pictures of major league baseball players printed in the 1952 baseball register.

Each picture came with a listing of the player's vital statistics, including age, weight, height and marital status.

Researchers then ranked the players according to their smiles and laughter lines, spanning from none at all, to partial and then those with a full blown toothy grin and crinkled eyes.

They then compared the chart to the lifespan of each player to reach their conclusions.

Of the 184 players who had since died, those in the "no smile" section lived an average of 72.9 years while the "partial smile" group lived to around the age of 75.

Those with the widest grins lived an average of 79.9 years – a full seven more years than their glum colleagues.

The study also found that putting on a false smile did not work, as only those who looked genuinely happy had the extra life expectancy.

Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy. --Thich Nhat Hanh

Peaceful World

2010-05-11T14:30:00.001-05:00

Overcoming Lonliness

2010-05-11T09:49:00.003-05:00

Loneliness is common to all people, but it should be temporary.

Apostle Paul wrote "In nothing be anxious but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God and the peace of God which passeth all understanding shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6,7).

I think it's important to decide to get busy helping others. Help those who are sick or shut-in. Call a person on the phone to cheer him up. Mail a card of sunshine to a friend. You and I are in the world to serve, to live, to help, and when we are doing this we just don't have time to feel sorry for ourselves.

Once, Sir Winfred Grenfall, a famous surgeon of England was asked what was his-most thrilling experience. He related an experience involving the invitation he received to deliver the graduating speech to four hundred nurses of the Massachusetts General Hospital. Just prior to the time of his graduation message, he learned that eight nurses were desperately needed in Labrador to work in his hospital. He decided to make a plea. "Yet all I have to offer", he told the graduates, "is clothes, room and board, and work. You will be giving one year of your lives for God". When Dr. Grenfall asked for volunteers there was a murmur that went up over the whole crowd. Then he raised his hand for silence and asked, "Are there eight of you who will give one year of your life to my Master?". A moment later about three fourths of that class of nurses stood up. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus said, "Inasmuch as you did it unto one of these my brethren, even these last, you did it unto me".

Remember, what you give comes back to you in abundance.

Make meals with what's on hand

2010-04-29T13:51:00.000-05:00

Check out www.supercook.com. You enter what you have on hand and get suggestions for what to make with it. This can save you from making an unnecessary trip to the store and use up what you have on-hand before it goes bad.

What lies inside

2010-04-29T08:56:00.003-05:00

"What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Bag It...

2010-03-01T08:09:00.003-06:00

Hanging shoe bags are a great way to get things organized. Keep one in the broom closet for cleaning supplies and another on the back of the door to store craft and sewing supplies. You can hang one in the kids' room for all those small cars, toys, and stuffed animals. shoe bags come in clear vinyl, plastic, and canvas, and are quite inexpensive.

Ethan with proud Mommy and Daddy

2010-03-01T08:02:00.003-06:00

WELCOME ETHAN LAWRENCE!

2010-02-24T13:18:00.006-06:00

You are the apple of my eye, my dear grandson! May you always know deep love and peace throughout your life. I can't wait to hold you in my arms! I love you so much! Grandma.

Rules for an Extraordinary Life

2010-02-22T14:30:00.000-06:00

Falling In Love At A Coffee Shop

2010-02-17T13:14:00.000-06:00

Flower Tips...

2010-02-11T14:19:00.004-06:00

Sure, you can order flowers at 3 a.m. from 1-800-Flowers, FTD, or Teleflora. But they'll charge you $15 and then just call the local florist.

Most flower shops restock on Monday mornings, so that's the time to place an order. Fridays and Saturdays are good days to ask what's on special.

Out of preservative? Try this: one fourth 7Up, three fourths water, and two or three drops of bleach.

Ask for a discount. Many florists give one to senior citizens, professional groups, and customers they like.

The trick to making flowers last: Cut the stems at an angle and change the water at least every other day. And use the floral preservative they give you, not copper pennies.

Don't forget to wash the vase with soap when you change the water. Otherwise, the bacteria clinging to the sides will contaminate your new water.

How fresh is your rose? Look closely at the bottom of the blossom and see how many outside petals have been removed. The more ripped petals you see, the older it is.

That cheap glass vase that came with your bouquet? Most Florists will gladly recycle it if you return it.

Fruit is the enemy. It emits ethylene gas, so even in a separate bowl a few inches away, it's a surefire flower killer.

Yes, your flowers look beautiful in the window, but the heat from direct sunlight will kill them in a day or two

You can buy the cheaper Valentine's Day roses at the gas station. But they may droop or lose petals the next day. They were probably cut weeks ago and put in cold storage.

It's not your nose. Many flowers today don't have much scent, because growers are breeding for long stems and a lengthy vase life instead.

Florists didn't choose February. If it were up them, Valentine's Day would be in the summer, when roses are actually in season.

Readers Digest

Expression

2010-02-09T14:23:00.000-06:00

EXPRESSION
It’s not the thought that counts.
It’s the expression of the thought.
The physical.
The vocal.
The tangible.
It’s the head tilt, empathetic stance, warm touch.
It’s the soft tone, poignant words, love language.
It’s the phone call, the note, showing up.
It’s not the thought that counts.
It’s the expression of the thought.

unknown author

Meaning

2010-02-03T09:55:00.002-06:00

Everyone has their own private Mount Everest they were put on this earth to climb. Anything can be a mountain. Admit that your own Mount Everest exists - that's half the battle. Then gather your courage - yes, you have it - and continue to rise to the top. Make no mistake, it WILL be difficult. Fear will invade your thoughts. It will require you to be bold and clever. It will require you to reach out to others. It will require humilty (maybe you have to admit you need help now and then), trust (that you will succeed), strength, discipline, courage and endurance. You may take a fall, as we all do - but do not let Fear win the journey.

Chasing Pirates

2010-01-28T12:45:00.001-06:00

More for Less with Dryer Sheets...

2010-01-28T10:04:00.002-06:00

Here's a neat trick for making expensive dryer sheets last longer. Cut them lengthwise into 4 pieces and use one strip per load. You won't have static cling, and a 120-count box will last about a year.

Lucky...

2010-01-28T09:49:00.001-06:00

"Lucky" Official Video With Colbie Caillat

Jason Mraz | MySpace Music Videos

All We Are...

2010-01-26T07:40:00.001-06:00

All We Are

Matt Nathanson | MySpace Music Videos

How to Unseal Envelopes

2010-01-25T10:21:00.003-06:00

There are times that you need to unseal a letter you've written to either change or add to its contents. Here's a handy way to do that without ruining the envelope: Put it in the freezer for a few hours. Slide a knife under the flap and it will pop open. Even better, the glue is still good so you can reseal it.

Somewhere over the Rainbow - What a Wonderful World

2010-01-12T16:56:00.000-06:00

Lift Us Up Where We Belong...

2010-01-11T06:11:00.000-06:00

Top 5 Keys to Happiness

2009-12-18T07:18:00.000-06:00

http://www.livescience.com/health/080822-top5-keys-happiness.html

Music Box Dancer Lights Display

2009-12-17T20:22:00.001-06:00

Firefly - Owl City

2009-12-13T16:27:00.000-06:00

Lyrics | Owl City lyrics - Fireflies lyrics

Happiness Is a Journey

2009-12-10T07:57:00.001-06:00

We convince ourselves that life will be better after we get married, have a baby, then another. Then we're frustrated that the kids aren't old enough and we'll be more content when they are. After that, we're frustrated that we have teenagers to deal with. We'll certainly be happy when they're out of that stage.
We tell ourselves that our life will be complete when our spouse gets his or her act together, when we get a nicer car, are able to go on a nice vacation, when we retire.
The truth is,there's no better time to be happy than right now. If not now, when?
Your life will always be filled with challenges. It's best to admit this to yourself and decide to be happy anyway.
One of my favorite quotes comes from Alfred D. Souza. He said, "For a long time it had seemed to me that life was about to begin-real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, or a debt to be paid. Then life would begin. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life."
The perspective has helped me to see that there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So, treasure every moment that you have and treasure it more because you shared it with someone special enough to spend your time with...and remember that time waits for no one.
So, stop waiting until you finish school, until you go back to school, until you lose ten pounds, until you gain ten pounds, until you have kids, until your kids leave the house, until you start work, until you retire, until you get married, until you get divorced, until Friday night, until Saturday morning, until you get a new car or home, until your car or home is paid off, until spring, until summer, until fall, until winter, until you're off welfare, until the first or fifteenth, until your song comes on, until you've had a drink, until you've sobered up, until you die, until you're born again to decide that there is no better time than right now to be happy.
Happiness is a journey, not a destination.
--Copyright1997 Crystal Boyd

Maybe - Ingrid Michaelson

2009-12-09T09:04:00.001-06:00

Thanksgiving Reflection

2009-11-24T10:04:00.002-06:00

Sometimes it’s just best if we sit down, relax, and think about what life has given us. Reflect on the good fortunes that have made themselves present on the path we walk, and appreciate those individuals who have made a mark on our lives for the better. This Thanksgiving season, reflect on what makes your life important, happy, and worthwhile. Regardless of the trials and troubles we face, we must never lose hope or love.

Do you have a special person in your life that you love? Don't let a day pass without letting them know, for no one is promised a tomorrow. Hold their hands, look into their eyes and tell them how much they mean to you.

May God Bless you and yours on this Holiday Season.

Come Back To Me - David Cook

2009-11-11T06:08:00.000-06:00

David Cook - Come Back To Me (Official Music Video) - For more funny movies, click here

Great Things Can Be Achieved If We Work Together

2009-11-04T08:03:00.000-06:00

Tears in Heaven

2009-11-02T13:25:00.001-06:00

Monster Mash

2009-10-28T19:00:00.000-05:00

Margarine Tip

2009-10-27T07:03:00.005-05:00

To reduce fat intake, buy tub margarine instead of stick margarine. Tub margarine containes less than half the amount of trans fatty acids (a harmful type of fat) that stick margarine does. Some tub margarines have no trans fatty acids. Generally, tub-style margarines are not suitable for baking because of their high water content.

Addams Family

2009-10-27T07:03:00.001-05:00

I'm Yours

2009-10-23T12:02:00.000-05:00

A Day At the Office

2009-10-21T08:58:00.001-05:00

Mother Teresa Quote

2009-10-19T09:08:00.000-05:00

"I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish that He didn't trust me so much." Mother Teresa

I Could Use Somebody

2009-10-19T07:31:00.000-05:00

How To Get Rid of Coffee Stains in Cups

2009-10-19T07:27:00.004-05:00

To remove coffee stains from cups scrub with a paste of equal parts salt and vinegar.

Suffering and Surviving

2009-10-14T13:30:00.001-05:00

"...to live is to suffer, so survive is to find meaning in the suffering." excerpt from the book "Man's Search for Meaning".

500 Miles

2009-10-13T19:44:00.001-05:00

Dedicated to my son's friend Michael...

Charming Couple at Mayo Clinic

2009-10-13T11:44:00.000-05:00

Tell Me Why - Declan Galbraith

2009-10-08T21:10:00.000-05:00

Life Quote

2009-10-08T07:02:00.001-05:00

"A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives." Jackie Robinson

When I Close My Eyes

2009-10-06T19:24:00.001-05:00

New Ending's...

2009-09-30T11:58:00.003-05:00

Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.

--Author Unknown

New Soul

2009-09-28T21:47:00.002-05:00

Magic...

2009-09-28T15:02:00.002-05:00

That's the thing with magic. You've got to know it's still here, all around us, or it just stays invisible to you.

Charles de Lint

15 yr old Down Syndrome Boy Runs In for a Touchdown

2009-09-24T07:42:00.002-05:00

KANSAS CITY - Matt Ziesel doesn’t stray far from coach Dan McCamy on the sidelines during St. Joseph Benton High School’s freshman football games. He likes to stay within earshot.

“I’m ready, Coach. … Coach, I’m ready,” Ziesel says.McCamy says he hears it about 10 times a game, and also at practices, from Ziesel, his 5-foot-3, 110-pound running back.

So in the final stages of Benton’s third game of the season on Monday at Maryville, McCamy decided it was time for Ziesel — a 15-year-old freshman with Down syndrome — to make his season debut.

With about 10 seconds left in the game, and Benton trailing 46-0, McCamy called his final timeout, told an assistant coach to organize the team for the “Matt play” and ran across the field to the Maryville defensive huddle — and to some puzzled looks from the opposing players.

“I’ve got a special situation,” McCamy remembers telling Maryville freshman defensive coach David McEnaney. “I know you guys want to get a shutout. Most teams would want a shutout, but in this situation I want to know if maybe you can let one of my guys run in for a touchdown.” Read full story

Smile...

2009-09-22T10:32:00.001-05:00

Potential

2009-09-19T07:25:00.002-05:00

"The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn." Ralph Waldo Emerson

1 thing 2 do 3 words 4 you I Love You Video

2009-09-18T07:08:00.000-05:00

Brownie Secret

2009-09-17T08:15:00.002-05:00

Here's a secret for making bakery quality brownies at home for just pennies. Buy generic or store brand brownie mix and substitute olive oil for the required vegetable oil. The brownies will taste better than those you can get from a fancy bakery. Cheap brownie mix almost always costs less than purchasing the ingredients individually to make from scratch.

John Wooden on True Success

2009-09-14T14:26:00.000-05:00

Intelligence

2009-09-09T09:10:00.002-05:00

"Intelligence is proved not by ease of learning but by understanding what we learn." Joseph Whitney

Fun Friday Video

2009-09-04T13:10:00.000-05:00

Lost Letter Reunites Lovers

2009-09-03T12:09:00.004-05:00

Two former lovers reunited in a passionate airport scene straight out of a movie or storybook -- thanks to the discovery of a letter that had been lost for a decade.
Steve Smith, of Devon in southwest England, and Spaniard Carmen Ruiz-Perez, both 42, were married on July 17, the BBC reported Monday.

The couple met 17 years ago when Ruiz-Perez was an exchange student in Devon and became engaged shortly thereafter. They separated when Ruiz-Perez departed for Paris to manage a store.
Smith wrote a letter to her in Paris, but she had moved and the letter came back. Determined to mend their relationship, he wrote again, this time sending the letter to her mother's house in Spain. Unfortunately, the letter was placed on a mantelpiece, and then fell behind the fireplace. It wasn't until 10 years later that workmen doing renovations found the envelope.
"When I got the letter I didn't phone Steve right away because I was so nervous," Ruiz-Perez told the BBC. "I nearly didn't phone him at all. I kept picking up the phone then putting it down again. But I knew I had to make the call."
A few days after she called, the couple met in Paris.
''When we met again it was like a film. We ran across the airport into each other's arms," said Smith.
"I'm just glad the letter did eventually end up where it was supposed to be."

On the Bright Side of the Road

2009-08-30T06:50:00.001-05:00

4 Words: Talent, Trust, Balance and Collaboration

2009-08-28T13:40:00.002-05:00

Check out this video !! MUST SEE!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b36Yi-Pb1wM

Go Green for Back To School

2009-08-28T11:12:00.004-05:00

One-stop green shop: The motto for the Red Apple School Supply company is “stretch minds, not resources” and they do just that by offering the Green Apple Earth-Friendly School Pack containing everything kids and teens need to go to the head of the class. Includes a three-ring binder made of recycled paper and reusable hardware; recycled notebook; filler paper and folder. Writing instruments like pencils, pens, and highlighters all made from recycled materials are also included; there’s even a ruler made in part from recycled yellow phone books! Order online at http://www.redapplesupply.com/.

Get carried away: School supplies, books and much more will fit easily into the stylish and affordable EcoGear “Snow Leopard” back pack. Available in three colors and constructed using PVC-free, 1680D ballistic nylon as well as non-toxic dyes, the pack also features ergo friendly padded shoulder straps, an MP3 player port and interior pockets. Right now, the “Snow Leopard” and other styles in EcoGear’s Genus series are marked down online at http://www.ecogear-products.com/.

It's in the bag: For the high school or college student who might be carrying a heavier load to class, consider the Urban Traveler Pack by REI. With over 1,500 cu.inches of space – and the potential to expand by an additional 500 – this backpack has plenty of room for books, athletic gear, water bottles and more. Largely made from sturdy 100% recycled PET polyester fabric, each Urban Traveler each pack keeps 33 16 oz. plastic bottles out of landfills.

Reuse it or lose it: Don’t forget to get kids ready for their favorite time of day – lunch! Pack the cute and eco-friendly “Critter Lunch Tote” (available at all Patina stores) with their favorite healthy foods stored in SnackTAXIS colorful, washable and reusable snack and sandwich bags. Created by a Massachusetts mom who packs a lot of lunches for her kids, SnackTAXIS come in a wide variety of prints and patterns and are available at Linden Hills Co-op.

Greenie in a bottle: Water bottles are a “must-have” item on the back-to-school shopping list. For the younger set, are Bibelot Shops have 10 oz. stainless steel water bottles (stay away from plastics) featuring a pop top drinking spout and a plastic cover for cleanliness, all brightly decorated with fire trucks or the solar system. Older kids might prefer a 20 oz. cool silver retro robot version that has a twist top, key ring and carabiners.

The Path of Truth

2009-08-27T07:57:00.002-05:00

"If error is corrected whenever it is recognized as such, the path of error is the path of truth." Hans Reichenbach

6 Alternative-Fuel Vehicles Built By Teenagers

2009-08-25T10:30:00.005-05:00

Car companies like Tesla, Toyota and Nissan are all scrambling for a piece of the EV market. Heck, even cities like San Francisco and Portland want some. But they all just got pwned by these kids. These vehicles run on everything from solar to soy! Check out full story here!

How to Make A More Healthful Egg Salad

2009-08-24T16:40:00.003-05:00

Use twice as many egg whites as yolks. Or substitute some drained and chopped firm tofu for part or all of the egg whites. You can also replace all or part of the mayonnaise with reduced-fat mayonnaise and/or plain yogurt. Add prepared mustard to boost flavor. And you an add finely chopped vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or scallions for texture.

Main Task in Life

2009-08-20T07:40:00.000-05:00

"Man's main task in life is to give birth to himself, to become what he potentially is."– Erich Fromm

Check out this Sidwalk Chalk Art

2009-08-19T14:26:00.000-05:00

Groom Saves Pair in Wedding Day Rescue

2009-08-19T13:50:00.000-05:00

(Aug. 19) - A Wisconsin groom gained a wife and saved a life all in the same day at the same location.
Adam and Julie Hatfield were taking pictures in their wedding attire on the day of the ceremony at their favorite park off the Mississippi River in LaCrosse when they heard a man frantically screaming a girl's name, reported WKBT-TV and The Wisconsin State Journal.

Phone Made of Recyclable Materials

2009-08-19T09:35:00.002-05:00

The much-anticipated Samsung Reclaim phone hits stores this week, becoming the first phone in the U.S. made in part from bioplastic, a material used often in other industries but widely unused in the electronics industry.
The full featured QWERTY phone, being sold by Sprint, is made of 80 percent recyclable materials and packaged in 100 percent recyclable packaging that includes 70 percent recycled content. And when you open your new phone, don’t think you’ve misplaced your user manual – there isn’t one. The typical thick paper user manual has been replaced with a virtual manual consumers can access online.

When It's OK to Swear...

2009-08-18T13:53:00.002-05:00

Twitter site offers followers line to God

2009-08-18T12:31:00.002-05:00

Want to tweet God?
An Israeli university student has opened a Twitter site, twitter.com/thekotel, where prayers can be sent for placement in the crevices of Jerusalem's Western Wall, a Jewish holy site that faithful believe provides a direct line to the Almighty.
"I take their prayers, print them out and drive to Jerusalem to put them in the Western Wall," said Alon Nir, a resident of Tel Aviv.
He said he hoped his initiative on the popular Internet social networking service, where users post brief messages known as tweets, would be "beneficial to people all over the world."
Nir promises to deliver the prayers -- each no longer than a tweet's maximum 140 characters -- on a regular basis.
Prayers, which are sent via a direct message link on Nir's Twitter site, cannot be viewed by the public.
At the Western Wall, where he placed some 1,000 rolled-up papers, Nir told Reuters: "People trusted me with their innermost feelings and secret thoughts ... and it's my duty to provide them with what I promised."
Several services deliver prayers sent by email, text message or fax to the wall. Israeli postal authorities say prayers also arrive from overseas by regular mail, some in envelopes addressed "Dear God."
(Reporting by Lianne Gross, Writing by Jeffrey Heller, Editing by Janet Lawrence)

8 Year Old, President of Own Non-Profit Agency

2009-08-18T09:50:00.001-05:00

Eight-year-old Joshua Williams of Miami has amazed area officials with his passion to help others and his ability to lead his own foundation to raise funds and collect materials for the poor.

See entire article here.

The Power of Women

2009-08-14T09:47:00.001-05:00

Yeah, Bill thought he was president too. :)

Strength

2009-08-14T07:58:00.002-05:00

It is a sign of strength, not weakness to admit you don’t know all the answers.

~ John P. Loughrane

Special Olympians Reflect on Shriver

2009-08-13T11:30:00.000-05:00

Fishing Made Simple

2009-08-13T08:09:00.001-05:00

...huh. So THAT'S what I'm doing wrong...

Going Green - Label Watch

2009-08-13T07:47:00.004-05:00

Not all products claiming to be green live up to their promises. The Natural Products Association, which represents more than 10,000 natural product companies and retailers, reports that Americans spent $7.5 billion in 2006 on personal care products that claimed to be all-natural but often were not.
You can feel safe with the term “organic,” which is monitored by state and federal agencies. Look for other trustworthy labels such as ENERGY STAR, Forest Stewardship Council, Good Housekeeping Green Seal and GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality.

Simon's Cat Cartoon

2009-08-12T13:16:00.001-05:00

Once again, Simon Tofield shows his ability to capture uncanny kitteh-like behavior:

Was he at my house when this happened??

Some Happy Music - Enjoy

2009-08-12T09:51:00.000-05:00

Remeber these guys?

Love and Acceptance

2009-08-11T12:47:00.003-05:00

“We come to love not by finding a perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly” Sam Keen

It’s up to you. Take the first step. Do it.

2009-08-11T09:28:00.000-05:00

How To Make Your Own Disinfecting Solution

2009-08-10T07:50:00.003-05:00

It's important to disinfect cutting boards and counter tops, especially when working with poultry and meat products. Instead of buying expensive kitchen disinfectants, make your own: Combine 1/2 teaspoon liquid chlorine bleach to one quart of water. Dispense from a clean spray bottle. Flood the cutting surface with the solution, let stand several minutes, then wash and rinse. More bleach is not better. This is the perfect ratio of bleach to water to kill bacteria and not leave bleach spots on kitchen linens.

Fun Friday Video

2009-08-07T07:20:00.002-05:00

One of the quotes from song: "The More I See The Less I Know" - 'ain't that the truth?

World Science Festival 2009: Bobby McFerrin Demonstrates the Power of the Pentatonic Scale

2009-08-05T08:56:00.003-05:00

World Science Festival 2009: Bobby McFerrin Demonstrates the Power of the Pentatonic Scale from World Science Festival on Vimeo.

The World Science Festival turns New York into a grand stage with science as the headliner. Through a series of gripping debates, captivating performances and interactive events, the Festival showcases cutting edge ideas and discoveries, reveals sciences pivotal role in addressing critical global issues, and explores how it profoundly shapes modern life. Bobby McFerrin uses the pentatonic scale and an audience's expectations to demonstrate neural programming at this years World Science Festival. "And now, I shall transform the audience into a musical instrument."

Flavor Up Those Mashed Potatoes

2009-08-05T06:24:00.003-05:00

To add rich flavor to mashed potatoes, use evaporated milk in place of 1/2 cup of the milk called for in the recipe.

Happy Birthday To The Best Daughter Ever

2009-08-04T06:56:00.003-05:00

Happy 23rd Birthday Sarah!

YOU inspire me.

The Present Moment

2009-08-04T06:28:00.002-05:00

"Most people treat the present moment as if it were an obstacle that they need to overcome. Since the present moment is Life itself, it is an insane way to live." Eckhart Tolle

The Complexity of Faith and Logic

2009-08-03T09:45:00.006-05:00

"Faith must trample underfoot all reason, sense and understanding." Martin Luther

Sometimes our intellect gets in the way of our heart. It can be much easier for us to think than to feel. Our faith can be smothered by logic. The answer is not having to have the answers.

Spirituality involves all the varied confusions and paradoxes of life that we discover in ourselves and in others.

When we give love, we receive love in return - at times, beyond our wildest dreams. Sometimes, all we can do is smile at the joy and confusion of life.

How to Reduce Fat Content in Baking

2009-07-31T08:22:00.002-05:00

Substitute half applesauce for the vegetable oil in your baking recipes~you'll greatly reduce the fat content! (Example: 1/2 cup vegetable oil = 1/4 cup applesauce + 1/4 cup oil)

The Way I Am

2009-07-30T13:25:00.000-05:00

Changes For The Better

2009-07-30T09:20:00.003-05:00

One reason people are so unhappy is that they think there is nothing that they can change.

I especially like the story of the man who says to the shopkeeper, "This radio you sold me is excellent for the quality of sound; but I want it exchanged for one that has better programs." The man was able to fix the problem himself (by turning the dial), but did not think he could - and did not try. Sometimes people don't TRY before giving up. Giving up, in many cases, can lead to unhappiness.

Recycle a T Shirt into a Shopping Bag

2009-07-29T12:14:00.005-05:00

The popular reusable bag is getting yet another new source: your old T-shirts. Not a job for the weaker of the bunch, a strong cotton blend may be the best foundation for this fresh, fun and useful accessory. Good news is this project is great for beginners and only takes a few steps.
Get started:

Martha Stewart and many others are catching on to this hot reuse trend! Photo: Marthastewart.com
Martha Stewart

Wild Onion Studio

I'm Not Letting You Go!

2009-07-29T08:10:00.000-05:00

Answer to Yesterday's Trivia Question:

2009-07-29T07:59:00.003-05:00

What movie character was famous for saying "What's up, Doc?"
Answer: Bugs Bunny!

Coffee Break Trivia Question:

2009-07-28T06:57:00.004-05:00

What movie character was famous for saying "What's up, Doc?"
Any guesses?
Tune in next time for the answer!

Handy Broth Cubes

2009-07-27T08:18:00.004-05:00

If you cook whole chickens for various dishes, you'll end up with lots of chicken broth. Instead of freezing it in a large container, fill muffin tins with the broth, freeze, and then pop into a freezer bag. Now you have homemade chicken broth in 1/2 portions that you can take from the freezer as needed. You'll never have to resort to canned broth again!

Now THAT"S A Wedding Entrance!

2009-07-24T18:45:00.000-05:00

Optical Illusion

2009-07-24T07:19:00.005-05:00

Are These Lines Straight Or Crooked?
Look Closely!

Believe It or Not...

- - - Every Line Is Straight! - - -