White House Releases "Barney Cam 2007"
It's looking a lot like Christmas at the White House and the best view of the executive mansion decorations is through the eyes of our nation's four-legged friends. It's the 2007 Barney Cam.
Barney and Miss Beazley are President and Mrs. Bush's beloved Scottish Terriers.
This year, the White House first pets become Junior Park Rangers. The theme of the decorations in the White House this holiday season highlights America's National parks and the decorations were picked out by first Lady Laura Bush.
Mrs. Bush, with Barney and Miss Beasley's help, put up 347 ornaments by artists from parks across the country. For their efforts, the Scotties were awarded junior park rangers.
The video includes President Bush, First Lady Laura Bush, Barbara and Jenna Bush, Barney, Miss Beazley, Kitty, the "Presidents Own" United States Marine Band, Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne, National Park Service Director Mary Bomar, Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and country singer Alan Jackson.
Friday, December 14, 2007
’Twas the flight before Christmas
Sure, Thanksgiving wasn't as bad as past years — but plan ahead, anyway
SEAT 2B
By Joe Brancatelli
Portfolio.com
The airlines ran about 75 percent on time over the recent Thanksgiving holiday, so the major carriers declared victory and claimed they had done a great service for the American traveling public. And since they didn’t find too many wailing families spending Thanksgiving sleeping in chairs at the airport, the major media ran a spate of things-went-better-than-expected stories.
But here’s a better way to look at things: Would you be satisfied if FedEx or U.P.S. delivered one out of every four of your parcels late? How eager would you be to eat at a restaurant that delivered one of your entrées late and cold when your party of four arrived for a meal? What if your dry cleaner returned only 75 percent of your clothes?
The brutal reality of holiday travel is that you run a good chance of being late, missing a connection, and otherwise being inconvenienced by the nation’s air-travel system. So if you’re planning to hit the road during the next month, when inexperienced leisure travelers will far outnumber grizzled business fliers, you need to plan tactically and do everything you can to control your destiny.
Fly early in the day
Government statistics show that flights scheduled to depart and arrive early in the day have the best on-time performance. But relative timeliness isn’t the only reason to fly early: If your selected flight is canceled, there are more flights remaining for you to get rebooked on. Conversely, book an evening flight and you’re subject to longer delays, and then you may not get another flight that day if your original one is canceled.
Do more online
Airlines offer online seat selection and check-in up to 24 hours before departure. Use it. Having your seat assignment and boarding pass before you leave for the airport eliminates two of the major stress factors of holiday travel. It will also allow you to bypass a third stress point — the checked-luggage line — because most carriers now offer fast-bag-drop stations for travelers who’ve used online check-in.
Carry-on less
The government imposes a two-item limit for carry-on bags. But airlines reserve the right to force you to check one of the carry-ons on full flights. There’s a good chance holiday flights will be full, so consider traveling with just one carry-on bag.
Check fewer bags
The major carriers are now cracking down on excess-weight bags and charging up to $100 for luggage above the 50 pounds you get for free. Try shipping your belongings instead. U.P.S., FedEx, and specialty bag-handling firms offer cost-effective options. They’ll pick up your bag at your home or office and ship it directly to your hotel or final destination.
Ship your presents
Reduce your load further by sending your gifts by mail, an overnight courier, or a package service. It may cost a few dollars, but the stuff will get there, and you won’t have to carry it. And abandon all hope of taking gifts as carry-ons. First of all, they will count against your carry-on limit. Second, wrapped presents will be unwrapped and examined if their contents can’t be verified by the X-ray machines at security.
Win the ground war
Don’t risk missing your flight because of a ground delay. Roads to, from, and inside the airport and airport parking lots are clogged with traffic during the holidays, so allow more time than usual. And remember: In-airport lots will be filled to overflowing, so use an off-airport private lot instead. All offer shuttle service directly to departure terminals; many offer perks like car washes and oil changes. Alternatively, take a car service or taxi to the airport. And trust me on this: Do not rely on friends or family for transportation. The holiday season is stressful enough. Why dump the extra grief of an airport run on anyone — especially people you care about?
Prepare for the inevitable delays
The long lines — and all the extra time you’ll have if everything goes swiftly — are less annoying if you’re prepared. Bring plenty to read and lots of music and videos. If you’re traveling with kids, make sure you’ve got a supply of games, toys, and snacks. If you’re traveling with infants, have more than enough diapers and food. You won’t find this kind of stuff at most airport shops. And accept the fact that there may be unexpected security delays and diversions: Abrupt closures of terminals or entire airports for real or imagined security breaches have been a regular occurrence during the past several Christmas seasons.
Pack rations
No one likes airline food, so why complain about the carriers’ not giving it away anymore? Instead, pack a sandwich, fruit, and several bags of nuts, or a supply of energy or protein bars. And don’t scrimp on water. Airline travel is dehydrating, and you should drink at least eight ounces of water for every hour of flying. You can’t carry water through security, so pick up several bottles from the shops inside the “sterile” area beyond the screening checkpoints. Do not assume you’ll get all the beverages you need in-flight. Flight attendants won’t come down the aisles often enough to suit your needs.
Hide out in the club
If you’ve got a long layover between flights or are faced with an unexpected delay, consider joining an airline’s club network. The clubs are relatively quiet oases in the maelstrom of airports during the holiday season, and most airlines sell day passes for about $50. Your sanity is worth the relatively small investment.
The fine print
Take a psychic tip from a 30-year veteran of the road: Leave your emotional baggage behind. It won’t clear security anyway. It may sound silly, but if you come to a flight with a positive mind-set, your chances of having a good experience improve. Come to the airport stressed and strung out and you’re almost sure to have a bad flight.
Sure, Thanksgiving wasn't as bad as past years — but plan ahead, anyway
SEAT 2B
By Joe Brancatelli
Portfolio.com
The airlines ran about 75 percent on time over the recent Thanksgiving holiday, so the major carriers declared victory and claimed they had done a great service for the American traveling public. And since they didn’t find too many wailing families spending Thanksgiving sleeping in chairs at the airport, the major media ran a spate of things-went-better-than-expected stories.
But here’s a better way to look at things: Would you be satisfied if FedEx or U.P.S. delivered one out of every four of your parcels late? How eager would you be to eat at a restaurant that delivered one of your entrées late and cold when your party of four arrived for a meal? What if your dry cleaner returned only 75 percent of your clothes?
The brutal reality of holiday travel is that you run a good chance of being late, missing a connection, and otherwise being inconvenienced by the nation’s air-travel system. So if you’re planning to hit the road during the next month, when inexperienced leisure travelers will far outnumber grizzled business fliers, you need to plan tactically and do everything you can to control your destiny.
Fly early in the day
Government statistics show that flights scheduled to depart and arrive early in the day have the best on-time performance. But relative timeliness isn’t the only reason to fly early: If your selected flight is canceled, there are more flights remaining for you to get rebooked on. Conversely, book an evening flight and you’re subject to longer delays, and then you may not get another flight that day if your original one is canceled.
Do more online
Airlines offer online seat selection and check-in up to 24 hours before departure. Use it. Having your seat assignment and boarding pass before you leave for the airport eliminates two of the major stress factors of holiday travel. It will also allow you to bypass a third stress point — the checked-luggage line — because most carriers now offer fast-bag-drop stations for travelers who’ve used online check-in.
Carry-on less
The government imposes a two-item limit for carry-on bags. But airlines reserve the right to force you to check one of the carry-ons on full flights. There’s a good chance holiday flights will be full, so consider traveling with just one carry-on bag.
Check fewer bags
The major carriers are now cracking down on excess-weight bags and charging up to $100 for luggage above the 50 pounds you get for free. Try shipping your belongings instead. U.P.S., FedEx, and specialty bag-handling firms offer cost-effective options. They’ll pick up your bag at your home or office and ship it directly to your hotel or final destination.
Ship your presents
Reduce your load further by sending your gifts by mail, an overnight courier, or a package service. It may cost a few dollars, but the stuff will get there, and you won’t have to carry it. And abandon all hope of taking gifts as carry-ons. First of all, they will count against your carry-on limit. Second, wrapped presents will be unwrapped and examined if their contents can’t be verified by the X-ray machines at security.
Win the ground war
Don’t risk missing your flight because of a ground delay. Roads to, from, and inside the airport and airport parking lots are clogged with traffic during the holidays, so allow more time than usual. And remember: In-airport lots will be filled to overflowing, so use an off-airport private lot instead. All offer shuttle service directly to departure terminals; many offer perks like car washes and oil changes. Alternatively, take a car service or taxi to the airport. And trust me on this: Do not rely on friends or family for transportation. The holiday season is stressful enough. Why dump the extra grief of an airport run on anyone — especially people you care about?
Prepare for the inevitable delays
The long lines — and all the extra time you’ll have if everything goes swiftly — are less annoying if you’re prepared. Bring plenty to read and lots of music and videos. If you’re traveling with kids, make sure you’ve got a supply of games, toys, and snacks. If you’re traveling with infants, have more than enough diapers and food. You won’t find this kind of stuff at most airport shops. And accept the fact that there may be unexpected security delays and diversions: Abrupt closures of terminals or entire airports for real or imagined security breaches have been a regular occurrence during the past several Christmas seasons.
Pack rations
No one likes airline food, so why complain about the carriers’ not giving it away anymore? Instead, pack a sandwich, fruit, and several bags of nuts, or a supply of energy or protein bars. And don’t scrimp on water. Airline travel is dehydrating, and you should drink at least eight ounces of water for every hour of flying. You can’t carry water through security, so pick up several bottles from the shops inside the “sterile” area beyond the screening checkpoints. Do not assume you’ll get all the beverages you need in-flight. Flight attendants won’t come down the aisles often enough to suit your needs.
Hide out in the club
If you’ve got a long layover between flights or are faced with an unexpected delay, consider joining an airline’s club network. The clubs are relatively quiet oases in the maelstrom of airports during the holiday season, and most airlines sell day passes for about $50. Your sanity is worth the relatively small investment.
The fine print
Take a psychic tip from a 30-year veteran of the road: Leave your emotional baggage behind. It won’t clear security anyway. It may sound silly, but if you come to a flight with a positive mind-set, your chances of having a good experience improve. Come to the airport stressed and strung out and you’re almost sure to have a bad flight.
Is fat really bad?
What if bad fat isn’t so bad?
No one's ever proved that saturated fat clogs arteries, causes heart disease according to this article.
Suppose you were forced to live on a diet of red meat and whole milk. A diet that, all told, was at least 60 percent fat — about half of it saturated. If your first thoughts are of statins and stents, you may want to consider the curious case of the Masai, a nomadic tribe in Kenya and Tanzania.
In the 1960s, a Vanderbilt University scientist named George Mann, M.D., found that Masai men consumed this very diet (supplemented with blood from the cattle they herded). Yet these nomads, who were also very lean, had some of the lowest levels of cholesterol ever measured and were virtually free of heart disease.
No one's ever proved that saturated fat clogs arteries, causes heart disease according to this article.
Suppose you were forced to live on a diet of red meat and whole milk. A diet that, all told, was at least 60 percent fat — about half of it saturated. If your first thoughts are of statins and stents, you may want to consider the curious case of the Masai, a nomadic tribe in Kenya and Tanzania.
In the 1960s, a Vanderbilt University scientist named George Mann, M.D., found that Masai men consumed this very diet (supplemented with blood from the cattle they herded). Yet these nomads, who were also very lean, had some of the lowest levels of cholesterol ever measured and were virtually free of heart disease.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Soda & Alzheimer's
Drinking too many sugary sodas may increase a person's risk for developing Alzheimer's disease late in life, new research suggests.
The small study was conducted in mice, not humans, and it falls far short of proving a link between the consumption of sugary beverages and Alzheimer's.
My grandpa always told me if I drank too much pop...it would rust my pipes.
The small study was conducted in mice, not humans, and it falls far short of proving a link between the consumption of sugary beverages and Alzheimer's.
My grandpa always told me if I drank too much pop...it would rust my pipes.
Gifts under 20 bucks
If you play secret Santa to a co-worker, here are some great gift ideas that wont break the bank.
Lessons from kids
1. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Even when there's not a prize in the bottom of the box.
2. Sometimes it's best to be completely blunt with people, as you used to be with relatives who wanted you to do something embarrassing or tedious for a shiny quarter.
3. Asking questions is how you figure things out. Lots and lots of questions.
4. An older, wiser Gordie Lachance says in Stand By Me, "I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was 12." Lachance is right. The trick is to try to be the friend you were when you were 12: fun-loving and loyal, with no strings attached.
5. Playing is work. Approach your downtime with all the seriousness of a 5-year-old with a secret treasure map.
6. Real guys don't dip their toes in the water. They jump right in.
7. Girls have cooties. Well, the ones you meet in certain bars do, anyway.
8. You hated it when a grown-up told you, "We'll see." It's still unacceptable. Don't say it yourself.
9. The only way to know how something works is to completely disassemble it. (This is still good advice when tackling a complex problem. Your plasma TV? Not so much).
10. There's a reason they don't give credit cards to 8-year-olds. You're supposed to save up money before you buy a new toy.
11. Your body was designed for throwing baseballs, shooting hoops, and jumping off diving boards and stuff. In the secret language of children, the word "fitness" doesn't exist. It's called "having fun."
12. Your world can be half-real and half-imaginary.
13. Homework blows. Bring work home with you and it'll ruin your night. And your marriage. And your family. And your life.
14. Too much of anything will give you a tummy ache. Like, say, bourbon.
15. If there's even the slightest doubt, hit the potty before you leave.
16. The coolest adults were the ones who took the time to listen to you. You still want to grow up to be a cool adult, right?
17. Treasure Island, Dracula: The best books are consumed after dark with a flashlight.
18. Use adrenaline as your drug of choice. You don't need beer, pot, or cigarettes to have a good time.
19. Kissing a girl on the cheek is a big deal. Kissing her lips is an even bigger deal. Seeing her naked for the first time is a major, life-altering event.
20. Going after a target in the urinal makes the time whiz by.
21. Seeing a thunderstorm roll in is better than watching HDTV. And rain isn't something to curse, but to enjoy. Hurry up, before it clears.
2. Sometimes it's best to be completely blunt with people, as you used to be with relatives who wanted you to do something embarrassing or tedious for a shiny quarter.
3. Asking questions is how you figure things out. Lots and lots of questions.
4. An older, wiser Gordie Lachance says in Stand By Me, "I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was 12." Lachance is right. The trick is to try to be the friend you were when you were 12: fun-loving and loyal, with no strings attached.
5. Playing is work. Approach your downtime with all the seriousness of a 5-year-old with a secret treasure map.
6. Real guys don't dip their toes in the water. They jump right in.
7. Girls have cooties. Well, the ones you meet in certain bars do, anyway.
8. You hated it when a grown-up told you, "We'll see." It's still unacceptable. Don't say it yourself.
9. The only way to know how something works is to completely disassemble it. (This is still good advice when tackling a complex problem. Your plasma TV? Not so much).
10. There's a reason they don't give credit cards to 8-year-olds. You're supposed to save up money before you buy a new toy.
11. Your body was designed for throwing baseballs, shooting hoops, and jumping off diving boards and stuff. In the secret language of children, the word "fitness" doesn't exist. It's called "having fun."
12. Your world can be half-real and half-imaginary.
13. Homework blows. Bring work home with you and it'll ruin your night. And your marriage. And your family. And your life.
14. Too much of anything will give you a tummy ache. Like, say, bourbon.
15. If there's even the slightest doubt, hit the potty before you leave.
16. The coolest adults were the ones who took the time to listen to you. You still want to grow up to be a cool adult, right?
17. Treasure Island, Dracula: The best books are consumed after dark with a flashlight.
18. Use adrenaline as your drug of choice. You don't need beer, pot, or cigarettes to have a good time.
19. Kissing a girl on the cheek is a big deal. Kissing her lips is an even bigger deal. Seeing her naked for the first time is a major, life-altering event.
20. Going after a target in the urinal makes the time whiz by.
21. Seeing a thunderstorm roll in is better than watching HDTV. And rain isn't something to curse, but to enjoy. Hurry up, before it clears.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Home Depot recall
Home Depot Recalls Festive Holiday Figurines
Figurines Recalled Due To Excessive Levels Of Lead Paint
Consumers Can Contact Home Depot at 800-394-2064
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced the voluntary recall of several holiday figurines sold at Home Depot stores.
The CPSC said the recall involving approximately 64,000 Chinese-made figurines was initiated because the products' surface paint contains excessive levels of lead paint.
The recalled figurines were manufactured by Creative Design of Hong Kong. They include:
Holiday Bear Door Greeter: SKU number 894-825
Snowman with "Let it Snow" Sign": SKU number 894-893
Three Snowmen with "Joy" Sign: SKU number 898-964
Snowman Votive Holder: SKU 967-467
The figurines were sold exclusively at Home Depot stores from October through November for between $10 and $20.
The commission said consumers should immediately stop using the figurines and return them to any Home Depot store for a full refund.
Consumers with questions can contact Home Depot at 800-394-2064 or visit the Home Depot Web site at www.homedepot.com.
Figurines Recalled Due To Excessive Levels Of Lead Paint
Consumers Can Contact Home Depot at 800-394-2064
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced the voluntary recall of several holiday figurines sold at Home Depot stores.
The CPSC said the recall involving approximately 64,000 Chinese-made figurines was initiated because the products' surface paint contains excessive levels of lead paint.
The recalled figurines were manufactured by Creative Design of Hong Kong. They include:
Holiday Bear Door Greeter: SKU number 894-825
Snowman with "Let it Snow" Sign": SKU number 894-893
Three Snowmen with "Joy" Sign: SKU number 898-964
Snowman Votive Holder: SKU 967-467
The figurines were sold exclusively at Home Depot stores from October through November for between $10 and $20.
The commission said consumers should immediately stop using the figurines and return them to any Home Depot store for a full refund.
Consumers with questions can contact Home Depot at 800-394-2064 or visit the Home Depot Web site at www.homedepot.com.
Really cool gift
IN STORES: COOL IT USB BEVERAGE CHILLER
This is the kind of present that will almost guarantee that the person you give it to will say: "cool." The Cool It USB Beverage Chiller is exactly what it implies -- it's a device that plugs into the USB port of your computer and can keep your beverages nice and cool.
How cool? How about 45 degrees Fahrenheit, considered a pretty nice temperature to hold a brewskie or a can of cola while you're working at your computer. The device starts to get cool seconds after it's plugged in and can keep things cool as long as you need it to. And not to worry about spills, the chiller has a pretty long cord so your beverage isn't right next to your computer or laptop.
This is the kind of present that will almost guarantee that the person you give it to will say: "cool." The Cool It USB Beverage Chiller is exactly what it implies -- it's a device that plugs into the USB port of your computer and can keep your beverages nice and cool.
How cool? How about 45 degrees Fahrenheit, considered a pretty nice temperature to hold a brewskie or a can of cola while you're working at your computer. The device starts to get cool seconds after it's plugged in and can keep things cool as long as you need it to. And not to worry about spills, the chiller has a pretty long cord so your beverage isn't right next to your computer or laptop.
Gift wrap tips
Gift wrapping holiday gifts can be a joy -- if done ahead using a generous supply of materials and a little inspiration.
However, it it's left until the last minute and you're scrambling for scissors, tags, and tissue paper, then it's a job that can turn into a stressful chore.
Here are some helpful tips for organizing gift wrapping jobs and some ideas to make gift wrapping easier.
Collect Generic Gift Wrap Materials - Instead of buying Santa gift paper, try going with a plain red, a metallic silver, and a beautiful white. These papers can look wonderful during the holidays by using red, green, or metallic ribbons. And later they can look equally wonderful for Valentine's Day with pink ribbon or for a birthday with blue ribbon.
Cellophane Bags - Clear or printed cellophane bags (like the ones florists use for corsages) can be a lifesaver for small non-fragile gifts, candies, or baked goods. Simply insert the item into the bag (wrapped in tissue if desired) and seal the top with ribbon, raffia, cording, or a twist tie. These bags come in several sizes. Look for them in bulk at a paper warehouse outlet.
Colored Tissue Paper - Tissue can make any gift seem more festive. Collect several colors to use when lining gift boxes, to cushion delicate items, inside cello bags, or even to use as gift paper. Avoid buying a few sheets at a time, as these are particularly expensive. Order in bulk or browse paper warehouses.
Hole Punch - Use an inexpensive hole punch to puncture gift tags (to insert a ribbon) or to punch two holes in the top of a folded gift bag (to insert a ribbon or raffia).
Stickers - Seasonal stickers are a fun way to decorate plain gift bags, tags, or to close cello bagged gifts.
Tags - Beautiful tags are a lovely touch. However, they can sometimes come off and get lost. Try the stick-on types when mailing gifts or for large gatherings when the tag could be inadvertently detached. To and from information can also be written on top of the gift (on the wrapping paper) or on the ends of the ribbon tie. Or, glue or tape the greeting card right to the top of the box.
Making Gift Tags - Craft and stationery stores have blank tags in a variety of shapes. You can also make your own tags in any size or shape using colored paper or cardstock. Scalloped edge scissors will also help create beautiful looking tags.
Recycled Greeting Cards - Cut off the fronts of beautiful holiday cards and attach them to your gifts using double face tape. The picture on the card will dress up your gift and add a bit of color and style. Use a simple cording as ribbon.
Embellishments - Gifts can be made special by tucking in a bit of greenery. Look for artificial leaf or pine sprigs to use on gifts.
Pens - Keep gold, silver, gel, or colored pens available for writing greeting cards and gift tags.
Raffia - Raffia strands are available in natural beige as well as a number of bright dyed colors. They give a homey touch to gifts and are perfect for more country or rustic decors. Use at least 3 strands together when using as ribbon. Knot strands from end to end to make longer lengths for larger gifts.
Ribbons - Passion for beautiful ribbon has increased in recent years. Keep in mind, however, that gorgeous ribbons are often very expensive. Use them for special gifts rather than presents that might be ripped open in the blink of an eye. It will also help to confine the use of special ribbons to smaller items and come up with cheaper alternatives for large bulky gifts.
Glitter Wire - This is a useful item for all sorts of gifts in bags. Glitter wire (or garland) is metallic covered wire with sprays of metallic cutouts (stars, hearts, trees, etc.) bursting out in every direction. Use wire cutters to trim to shorter lengths and use them as "twist ties" to close cello or paper gift bags. Wind the ends around a pencil for a curly finish.
Wired Ribbon - Wired ribbons are becoming widely available. Most offer beautiful colors or sheers with the convenience of wired edges. Making a package look gorgeous is a snap with wired ribbon since you'll be able to "fuss" with the bow to get it looking just right. Trim the ends of wired ribbon on a slant or in a V-shaped "swallow tail" cut.
Alternative gift papers - Many people like the look of using wrapping paper that is homemade. These can be done in brown craft paper (plain or rubber stamped with designs), using the comics as wrapping paper, origami papers for small gifts, wallpaper scraps, old scarves, or even pieces of fabric.
Cording - Metallic cording is a simple but elegant touch on a package. In addition it can be reused easily later on another gift. Collect several colors.
Paper Sleeves - Interesting effects can be made by using wrapping paper strips as ribbons for gifts. Use one or two layers, and tape or glue them in place. These can also be nice for mailed gifts since this is a ribbon that won't get crushed.
Curling Ribbon - This inexpensive narrow ribbon can be curled with the blade of a knife or scissors. It can be somewhat fussy to use, but is colorful and fun for kids gifts. Gather three or four strands of assorted colors and use them together as if they were a single strand. Tie in a knot, leaving about about 12" of end to curl.
Sewing Notions - Martha Stewart is fond of using seam binding as ribbon. Purchase it on her website, or simply go to your local fabric store if you like this look. Browse other sewing notion trims -- rick rack, satin binding, tape, cording -- any of these might be used as ribbon.
However, it it's left until the last minute and you're scrambling for scissors, tags, and tissue paper, then it's a job that can turn into a stressful chore.
Here are some helpful tips for organizing gift wrapping jobs and some ideas to make gift wrapping easier.
Collect Generic Gift Wrap Materials - Instead of buying Santa gift paper, try going with a plain red, a metallic silver, and a beautiful white. These papers can look wonderful during the holidays by using red, green, or metallic ribbons. And later they can look equally wonderful for Valentine's Day with pink ribbon or for a birthday with blue ribbon.
Cellophane Bags - Clear or printed cellophane bags (like the ones florists use for corsages) can be a lifesaver for small non-fragile gifts, candies, or baked goods. Simply insert the item into the bag (wrapped in tissue if desired) and seal the top with ribbon, raffia, cording, or a twist tie. These bags come in several sizes. Look for them in bulk at a paper warehouse outlet.
Colored Tissue Paper - Tissue can make any gift seem more festive. Collect several colors to use when lining gift boxes, to cushion delicate items, inside cello bags, or even to use as gift paper. Avoid buying a few sheets at a time, as these are particularly expensive. Order in bulk or browse paper warehouses.
Hole Punch - Use an inexpensive hole punch to puncture gift tags (to insert a ribbon) or to punch two holes in the top of a folded gift bag (to insert a ribbon or raffia).
Stickers - Seasonal stickers are a fun way to decorate plain gift bags, tags, or to close cello bagged gifts.
Tags - Beautiful tags are a lovely touch. However, they can sometimes come off and get lost. Try the stick-on types when mailing gifts or for large gatherings when the tag could be inadvertently detached. To and from information can also be written on top of the gift (on the wrapping paper) or on the ends of the ribbon tie. Or, glue or tape the greeting card right to the top of the box.
Making Gift Tags - Craft and stationery stores have blank tags in a variety of shapes. You can also make your own tags in any size or shape using colored paper or cardstock. Scalloped edge scissors will also help create beautiful looking tags.
Recycled Greeting Cards - Cut off the fronts of beautiful holiday cards and attach them to your gifts using double face tape. The picture on the card will dress up your gift and add a bit of color and style. Use a simple cording as ribbon.
Embellishments - Gifts can be made special by tucking in a bit of greenery. Look for artificial leaf or pine sprigs to use on gifts.
Pens - Keep gold, silver, gel, or colored pens available for writing greeting cards and gift tags.
Raffia - Raffia strands are available in natural beige as well as a number of bright dyed colors. They give a homey touch to gifts and are perfect for more country or rustic decors. Use at least 3 strands together when using as ribbon. Knot strands from end to end to make longer lengths for larger gifts.
Ribbons - Passion for beautiful ribbon has increased in recent years. Keep in mind, however, that gorgeous ribbons are often very expensive. Use them for special gifts rather than presents that might be ripped open in the blink of an eye. It will also help to confine the use of special ribbons to smaller items and come up with cheaper alternatives for large bulky gifts.
Glitter Wire - This is a useful item for all sorts of gifts in bags. Glitter wire (or garland) is metallic covered wire with sprays of metallic cutouts (stars, hearts, trees, etc.) bursting out in every direction. Use wire cutters to trim to shorter lengths and use them as "twist ties" to close cello or paper gift bags. Wind the ends around a pencil for a curly finish.
Wired Ribbon - Wired ribbons are becoming widely available. Most offer beautiful colors or sheers with the convenience of wired edges. Making a package look gorgeous is a snap with wired ribbon since you'll be able to "fuss" with the bow to get it looking just right. Trim the ends of wired ribbon on a slant or in a V-shaped "swallow tail" cut.
Alternative gift papers - Many people like the look of using wrapping paper that is homemade. These can be done in brown craft paper (plain or rubber stamped with designs), using the comics as wrapping paper, origami papers for small gifts, wallpaper scraps, old scarves, or even pieces of fabric.
Cording - Metallic cording is a simple but elegant touch on a package. In addition it can be reused easily later on another gift. Collect several colors.
Paper Sleeves - Interesting effects can be made by using wrapping paper strips as ribbons for gifts. Use one or two layers, and tape or glue them in place. These can also be nice for mailed gifts since this is a ribbon that won't get crushed.
Curling Ribbon - This inexpensive narrow ribbon can be curled with the blade of a knife or scissors. It can be somewhat fussy to use, but is colorful and fun for kids gifts. Gather three or four strands of assorted colors and use them together as if they were a single strand. Tie in a knot, leaving about about 12" of end to curl.
Sewing Notions - Martha Stewart is fond of using seam binding as ribbon. Purchase it on her website, or simply go to your local fabric store if you like this look. Browse other sewing notion trims -- rick rack, satin binding, tape, cording -- any of these might be used as ribbon.
Curb holiday stress
Stress about the holidays- many of us get it- in one way, or another. Here's how to curb some of that- it's some holiday intel, sure to relieve some of that "can't get it all done" feeling!:
If holiday cards stress you out- thinking about all the personal notes you think you need to include- go for a photo card this year. There's not a lot of room to write, so all you need to do is sign.
Decorating should be fun, too, so don't let it get you upset. Experts suggest that you stick with the big 3: a wreath on the door, a Christmas tree, and either a garland on the mantle or a display on the coffee table (for the garland, just trim a few boughs from the base of the tree to make it, and for the coffee table display, stick a few leftover tree ornaments in a glass bowl and call it a day!)
Last tip? Drop a little something in the Salvation Army kettle- research shows helping others lowers your blood pressure, improves your sleep and increases your holiday spirit!
If holiday cards stress you out- thinking about all the personal notes you think you need to include- go for a photo card this year. There's not a lot of room to write, so all you need to do is sign.
Decorating should be fun, too, so don't let it get you upset. Experts suggest that you stick with the big 3: a wreath on the door, a Christmas tree, and either a garland on the mantle or a display on the coffee table (for the garland, just trim a few boughs from the base of the tree to make it, and for the coffee table display, stick a few leftover tree ornaments in a glass bowl and call it a day!)
Last tip? Drop a little something in the Salvation Army kettle- research shows helping others lowers your blood pressure, improves your sleep and increases your holiday spirit!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Get a raise
Don't let tough times keep your earnings down.
By Dan Caplinger
With increasing evidence of a potentially slowing economy, you might not think it's the best time to ask for a raise. But even though many companies are reducing their expected salary bumps in 2008, that shouldn't stop you from getting as much compensation as you deserve.
After years of rising home prices, a boisterous economy, and easy credit terms, workers have gotten a nasty wake-up call recently. Food and energy prices have risen dramatically. Many face rising mortgage payments. And one source of extra money that was available in past years -- home equity -- has dried up in many areas of the country. Lots of families could use a raise at work.
Yet companies aren't going to make it easy. A Towers Perrin survey shows that employers expect to give raises averaging about 4% in 2008, matching the amount from 2007 but barely keeping up with inflation. Meanwhile, the mortgage debacle has forced layoffs at companies like Citigroup (NYSE: C) and Lehman Brothers (NYSE: LEH). And the pain isn't only within the financial services industry -- tech giants Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) and IBM (NYSE: IBM) have laid off workers this year, as well as retailer Circuit City (NYSE: CC).
You can't win if you don't play
All that bad news may make it seem as though you don't have much leverage to ask for a raise right now. But when times are tough, employers become increasingly dependent on their most efficient and productive employees. Even a company that's cutting its workforce may be willing to give its remaining employees more in overtime and other incentives to keep its sales and revenue levels stable.
So if you're gunning for some extra dough, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Focus on performance. The Towers Perrin survey noted that many companies favor bonuses over permanent salary increases. These one-time payments are meant to reward employees who perform well, so make sure you understand how your employer measures your performance and learn what to do to improve it.
Know your job market. Some employees are in a better position to ask for a raise than others. While those who work in homebuilding or mortgage lending may simply be lucky to have a job at all, labor shortages in areas like mining and oil drilling have forced companies like Freeport-McMoRan (NYSE: FCX) and Chevron (NYSE: CVX) to take extraordinary measures to find and retain workers.
Be prepared. Don't just expect to walk into your boss's office and demand more money. Treat a salary meeting like any negotiation. Be ready to talk about your accomplishments and successes, and know what you're going to say about any challenges or problems you've faced. Also, learn what people at other companies make to get an idea of whether you're above or below the typical salary elsewhere. The more professional you are in your discussion, the more likely you'll get what you want.
Money isn't everything. When cash is tight, your boss might not want to give you a raise. But you might get a better reception for something more intangible, such as flexible work schedules, working from home, or even shorter hours. Your employer may well like a solution that doesn't cost any money.
Above all, know yourself. Asking for a raise puts you in a confrontational situation with your employer, so if that will stress you out too much, you might reasonably decide that it's not worth it. But if financial concerns are causing you stress, you're actually doing your employer a favor by trying to resolve those concerns in a way that will improve your work performance. Good luck!
By Dan Caplinger
With increasing evidence of a potentially slowing economy, you might not think it's the best time to ask for a raise. But even though many companies are reducing their expected salary bumps in 2008, that shouldn't stop you from getting as much compensation as you deserve.
After years of rising home prices, a boisterous economy, and easy credit terms, workers have gotten a nasty wake-up call recently. Food and energy prices have risen dramatically. Many face rising mortgage payments. And one source of extra money that was available in past years -- home equity -- has dried up in many areas of the country. Lots of families could use a raise at work.
Yet companies aren't going to make it easy. A Towers Perrin survey shows that employers expect to give raises averaging about 4% in 2008, matching the amount from 2007 but barely keeping up with inflation. Meanwhile, the mortgage debacle has forced layoffs at companies like Citigroup (NYSE: C) and Lehman Brothers (NYSE: LEH). And the pain isn't only within the financial services industry -- tech giants Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) and IBM (NYSE: IBM) have laid off workers this year, as well as retailer Circuit City (NYSE: CC).
You can't win if you don't play
All that bad news may make it seem as though you don't have much leverage to ask for a raise right now. But when times are tough, employers become increasingly dependent on their most efficient and productive employees. Even a company that's cutting its workforce may be willing to give its remaining employees more in overtime and other incentives to keep its sales and revenue levels stable.
So if you're gunning for some extra dough, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Focus on performance. The Towers Perrin survey noted that many companies favor bonuses over permanent salary increases. These one-time payments are meant to reward employees who perform well, so make sure you understand how your employer measures your performance and learn what to do to improve it.
Know your job market. Some employees are in a better position to ask for a raise than others. While those who work in homebuilding or mortgage lending may simply be lucky to have a job at all, labor shortages in areas like mining and oil drilling have forced companies like Freeport-McMoRan (NYSE: FCX) and Chevron (NYSE: CVX) to take extraordinary measures to find and retain workers.
Be prepared. Don't just expect to walk into your boss's office and demand more money. Treat a salary meeting like any negotiation. Be ready to talk about your accomplishments and successes, and know what you're going to say about any challenges or problems you've faced. Also, learn what people at other companies make to get an idea of whether you're above or below the typical salary elsewhere. The more professional you are in your discussion, the more likely you'll get what you want.
Money isn't everything. When cash is tight, your boss might not want to give you a raise. But you might get a better reception for something more intangible, such as flexible work schedules, working from home, or even shorter hours. Your employer may well like a solution that doesn't cost any money.
Above all, know yourself. Asking for a raise puts you in a confrontational situation with your employer, so if that will stress you out too much, you might reasonably decide that it's not worth it. But if financial concerns are causing you stress, you're actually doing your employer a favor by trying to resolve those concerns in a way that will improve your work performance. Good luck!
Holy water
Bless This Bottled Water
Forget Evian or Vitaminwater. The latest beverage trend: 'Holy Water.'
By Lisa Miller
NEWSWEEK
You need only go back to the first chapter of Genesis to see how elemental water is to the observance of faith: "And the Spirit of God," the Bible says, "moved upon the face of the waters." In the Torah, water is used to ordain priests and to purify the sons of Aaron before they enter the temple. In the New Testament, John baptizes Jesus with water from the Jordan River. Observant Muslims wash hands and feet before they pray, orthodox Jewish women take ritual baths once a month—and every Christian denomination still uses water as part of its sacred rites. Mormons, when they take the weekly sacrament, drink water instead of wine.
So it's not surprising that a few savvy marketers would seize on this universal symbol of purity for financial gain. Inspired, perhaps, by vitamin and energy waters, a number of new companies have begun making more explicit claims: their water doesn't just promote good health, it actually makes you good. Holy Drinking Water, produced by a California-based company called Wayne Enterprises, is blessed in the warehouse by an Anglican or Roman Catholic priest (after a thorough background check). Like a crucifix or a rosary, a bottle of Holy Drinking Water is a daily reminder to be kind to others, says Brian Germann, Wayne's CEO. Another company makes Liquid OM, superpurified bottled water containing vibrations that promote a positive outlook. Invented by Kenny Mazursky, a sound therapist in Chicago, the water purportedly possesses an energy field that Mazursky makes by striking a giant gong and Tibetan bowls in its vicinity. He says the good energy can be felt not just after you drink the water but before, when you're holding the bottle.
The most recent entry in this niche is Spiritual Water. It's purified municipal water, sold with 10 different Christian labels. The Virgin Mary bottle, for example, has the Hail Mary prayer printed on the back in English and Spanish. Spiritual Water helps people to "stay focused, believe in yourself and believe in God," says Elicko Taieb, the Florida-based company's founder who was formerly in the pest-control business. All three companies give a portion of their profits to charity.
This small band of feel-good entrepreneurs may face objections from a surprising quarter. Some religious believers, also convinced of the elemental importance of water, are campaigning against its ubiquitous sale and packaging on the grounds that the practice is neither ethical nor good for the environment. "Water is life," says Sister Mary Zirbes, a nun in the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, Minn. "It really should not be a commodity to be bought." The Franciscan Sisters, together with a community of Benedictine nuns nearby, have launched a letter-writing campaign against the largest producers of bottled water and they've designed coasters to encourage people to drink glasses, not bottles, of water from the tap. The Vineyard church in Boise, Idaho, sells slim reusable plastic bottles in its bookstore, and it has placed water stations throughout the church. "In a world where a billion people have no reliable source of drinking water, where 3,000 children die every day of waterborne diseases, let's be clear: bottled water is not a sin, but it sure is a choice," says Richard Cizik of the National Association of Evangelicals. "Spending $15 billion a year on bottled water is a testimony to our conspicuous consumption, our culture of indulgence." Taieb calmly refutes the implication that his Spiritual Water is bad for the planet. People put fewer of his bottles in the trash, he says, because they don't want to discard images of Jesus or Mary. Instead, they refill them with other beverages. Obviously, even do-gooders can disagree. Some believe that water is life, while others believe that water is their livelihood.
Forget Evian or Vitaminwater. The latest beverage trend: 'Holy Water.'
By Lisa Miller
NEWSWEEK
You need only go back to the first chapter of Genesis to see how elemental water is to the observance of faith: "And the Spirit of God," the Bible says, "moved upon the face of the waters." In the Torah, water is used to ordain priests and to purify the sons of Aaron before they enter the temple. In the New Testament, John baptizes Jesus with water from the Jordan River. Observant Muslims wash hands and feet before they pray, orthodox Jewish women take ritual baths once a month—and every Christian denomination still uses water as part of its sacred rites. Mormons, when they take the weekly sacrament, drink water instead of wine.
So it's not surprising that a few savvy marketers would seize on this universal symbol of purity for financial gain. Inspired, perhaps, by vitamin and energy waters, a number of new companies have begun making more explicit claims: their water doesn't just promote good health, it actually makes you good. Holy Drinking Water, produced by a California-based company called Wayne Enterprises, is blessed in the warehouse by an Anglican or Roman Catholic priest (after a thorough background check). Like a crucifix or a rosary, a bottle of Holy Drinking Water is a daily reminder to be kind to others, says Brian Germann, Wayne's CEO. Another company makes Liquid OM, superpurified bottled water containing vibrations that promote a positive outlook. Invented by Kenny Mazursky, a sound therapist in Chicago, the water purportedly possesses an energy field that Mazursky makes by striking a giant gong and Tibetan bowls in its vicinity. He says the good energy can be felt not just after you drink the water but before, when you're holding the bottle.
The most recent entry in this niche is Spiritual Water. It's purified municipal water, sold with 10 different Christian labels. The Virgin Mary bottle, for example, has the Hail Mary prayer printed on the back in English and Spanish. Spiritual Water helps people to "stay focused, believe in yourself and believe in God," says Elicko Taieb, the Florida-based company's founder who was formerly in the pest-control business. All three companies give a portion of their profits to charity.
This small band of feel-good entrepreneurs may face objections from a surprising quarter. Some religious believers, also convinced of the elemental importance of water, are campaigning against its ubiquitous sale and packaging on the grounds that the practice is neither ethical nor good for the environment. "Water is life," says Sister Mary Zirbes, a nun in the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, Minn. "It really should not be a commodity to be bought." The Franciscan Sisters, together with a community of Benedictine nuns nearby, have launched a letter-writing campaign against the largest producers of bottled water and they've designed coasters to encourage people to drink glasses, not bottles, of water from the tap. The Vineyard church in Boise, Idaho, sells slim reusable plastic bottles in its bookstore, and it has placed water stations throughout the church. "In a world where a billion people have no reliable source of drinking water, where 3,000 children die every day of waterborne diseases, let's be clear: bottled water is not a sin, but it sure is a choice," says Richard Cizik of the National Association of Evangelicals. "Spending $15 billion a year on bottled water is a testimony to our conspicuous consumption, our culture of indulgence." Taieb calmly refutes the implication that his Spiritual Water is bad for the planet. People put fewer of his bottles in the trash, he says, because they don't want to discard images of Jesus or Mary. Instead, they refill them with other beverages. Obviously, even do-gooders can disagree. Some believe that water is life, while others believe that water is their livelihood.
Get in the giving spirit
Teach your children the joys of caring and show them the true meaning of the season.
By Toby Leah Bochan
This year, create a new holiday tradition with your family — get involved in a charitable activity. It's an ideal way to teach your child values such as generosity, compassion, and gratitude and prevent her from coming down with an annual case of "the gimmes." The months of November and December are a great time to get involved, as there are a plethora of opportunities to suit your family's interests and availability. It's also a chance to try out several different types of activities and find one your family can get involved in all year round.
When selecting an activity, consider your child's interests, and let her help choose so she feels that it's something she wants to do instead of has to do. Spend some time brainstorming together: Outdoors or indoors? Working with people or animals? Is your child a good singer or dancer? Also consider her physical ability, sensitivity, and attention span — shoveling snow for an elderly neighbor is great for an older child, but perhaps not the best idea for your 6 year old. We've got a number of ideas to get you started, but to find more options and specific opportunities in your neighborhood, visit volunteermatch.org.
1. Host a Coat or Food Party
Drumming up donations is a great way to start a tradition that not only helps your community but also strengthens bonds within it. It's great to give some canned goods or your family's old coats to a charity, but making it a party takes it up a notch. For a coat party, have guests bring coats that are used but still in good condition. Put younger kids to work cleaning out pockets and using masking tape to mark areas that need to be mended or buttons that are missing. Monitor and help older kids sew buttons and do simple mending. Other kids can decide which coats might need dry cleaning and which are ready to go and separate them into piles. It'll be a celebration sure to give everyone a warm feeling. If you want to have a food party, ask for canned and dried food and have kids help pack it up for food banks and shelters. You can also host toy or book parties!
2. Sing and Dance for Joy
If your child is the type to surprise you with impromptu puppet shows or sings from dawn to dusk, consider harnessing that energy to put on a play (or other performance) at a nursing home or community center. Involve everyone in the family in making costumes and sets and recruit other families and friends to play parts. If your family isn't up to the responsibility of being the sole form of entertainment, consider becoming part of the festivities at a community center holiday party by putting on a skit or a few musical numbers. This is also a good option if your family can't agree on a single performance piece and everyone wants to put on their own show. Another option is to go caroling not only around the neighborhood but also within the halls of a hospital or nursing home.
3. Help Furry Friends
For animal lovers, helping out at a pet shelter is an easy choice. Donate a few days or just an afternoon to give the regular staff a break and fill in for vacationers. Even during the holidays, dogs need to be walked, cats need petting, and all animals need to be played with, fed, and have their cages cleaned. If you have young or sensitive children, a no-kill shelter is a good option (especially if you don't want to come home with a new pet!). You can also help out an animal shelter by collecting always-needed supplies such as cat litter, pet food of every variety, dog leashes, animal carriers, collars, and household goods such as paper towels and garbage bags.
4. Serve a Senior Citizen
If your child is unable to spend time with his grandparents this season, consider reaching out to an elderly person. The winter and holiday months are often the hardest on the elderly and a little help will be much appreciated. Help your child connect with past generations by visiting with seniors in a retirement community or nursing home. Your child can give manicures or makeovers, deck the halls with boughs of holly jolly décor, help wrap gifts, or read to the hard-of-sight. Or bond with older neighbors by arranging to have your child help with their shopping or bringing them along for trips to the mall. Your child can also shovel the snow off a senior citizen's walkway through the winter as a holiday gift.
5. Feed the Needy
The most familiar way to volunteer is still a perfect one: Help out at soup kitchen or food bank. The holidays are the busiest time at shelters and they need help setting up, serving, and cleaning up. If your older child is interested in cooking, he can don an apron and help prepare food in the kitchen. Not interested in food but want to help the hungry? Consider sorting the donated goods or helping with office tasks like answering the phone.
6. Give While Spending
Even the busiest families can make a difference by deciding to spend their holiday (and regular) dollars in a way that benefits others. Sit down together in front of the computer and join iGive, a free service that donates a portion of every purchase you make at hundreds of popular online stores to a charity of your choice. Another option is to visit a real or virtual charity auction (there's a whole section devoted to this on eBay) with your child to complete your holiday shopping. Or let your child help you pick out holiday cards that benefit a charity such as the ones from Unicef or charitycards.com and send goodwill to all your loved ones.
By Toby Leah Bochan
This year, create a new holiday tradition with your family — get involved in a charitable activity. It's an ideal way to teach your child values such as generosity, compassion, and gratitude and prevent her from coming down with an annual case of "the gimmes." The months of November and December are a great time to get involved, as there are a plethora of opportunities to suit your family's interests and availability. It's also a chance to try out several different types of activities and find one your family can get involved in all year round.
When selecting an activity, consider your child's interests, and let her help choose so she feels that it's something she wants to do instead of has to do. Spend some time brainstorming together: Outdoors or indoors? Working with people or animals? Is your child a good singer or dancer? Also consider her physical ability, sensitivity, and attention span — shoveling snow for an elderly neighbor is great for an older child, but perhaps not the best idea for your 6 year old. We've got a number of ideas to get you started, but to find more options and specific opportunities in your neighborhood, visit volunteermatch.org.
1. Host a Coat or Food Party
Drumming up donations is a great way to start a tradition that not only helps your community but also strengthens bonds within it. It's great to give some canned goods or your family's old coats to a charity, but making it a party takes it up a notch. For a coat party, have guests bring coats that are used but still in good condition. Put younger kids to work cleaning out pockets and using masking tape to mark areas that need to be mended or buttons that are missing. Monitor and help older kids sew buttons and do simple mending. Other kids can decide which coats might need dry cleaning and which are ready to go and separate them into piles. It'll be a celebration sure to give everyone a warm feeling. If you want to have a food party, ask for canned and dried food and have kids help pack it up for food banks and shelters. You can also host toy or book parties!
2. Sing and Dance for Joy
If your child is the type to surprise you with impromptu puppet shows or sings from dawn to dusk, consider harnessing that energy to put on a play (or other performance) at a nursing home or community center. Involve everyone in the family in making costumes and sets and recruit other families and friends to play parts. If your family isn't up to the responsibility of being the sole form of entertainment, consider becoming part of the festivities at a community center holiday party by putting on a skit or a few musical numbers. This is also a good option if your family can't agree on a single performance piece and everyone wants to put on their own show. Another option is to go caroling not only around the neighborhood but also within the halls of a hospital or nursing home.
3. Help Furry Friends
For animal lovers, helping out at a pet shelter is an easy choice. Donate a few days or just an afternoon to give the regular staff a break and fill in for vacationers. Even during the holidays, dogs need to be walked, cats need petting, and all animals need to be played with, fed, and have their cages cleaned. If you have young or sensitive children, a no-kill shelter is a good option (especially if you don't want to come home with a new pet!). You can also help out an animal shelter by collecting always-needed supplies such as cat litter, pet food of every variety, dog leashes, animal carriers, collars, and household goods such as paper towels and garbage bags.
4. Serve a Senior Citizen
If your child is unable to spend time with his grandparents this season, consider reaching out to an elderly person. The winter and holiday months are often the hardest on the elderly and a little help will be much appreciated. Help your child connect with past generations by visiting with seniors in a retirement community or nursing home. Your child can give manicures or makeovers, deck the halls with boughs of holly jolly décor, help wrap gifts, or read to the hard-of-sight. Or bond with older neighbors by arranging to have your child help with their shopping or bringing them along for trips to the mall. Your child can also shovel the snow off a senior citizen's walkway through the winter as a holiday gift.
5. Feed the Needy
The most familiar way to volunteer is still a perfect one: Help out at soup kitchen or food bank. The holidays are the busiest time at shelters and they need help setting up, serving, and cleaning up. If your older child is interested in cooking, he can don an apron and help prepare food in the kitchen. Not interested in food but want to help the hungry? Consider sorting the donated goods or helping with office tasks like answering the phone.
6. Give While Spending
Even the busiest families can make a difference by deciding to spend their holiday (and regular) dollars in a way that benefits others. Sit down together in front of the computer and join iGive, a free service that donates a portion of every purchase you make at hundreds of popular online stores to a charity of your choice. Another option is to visit a real or virtual charity auction (there's a whole section devoted to this on eBay) with your child to complete your holiday shopping. Or let your child help you pick out holiday cards that benefit a charity such as the ones from Unicef or charitycards.com and send goodwill to all your loved ones.
Live longer
Want to live even just a little longer? From the book by John Corso, "Stupid Reasons People Die", talking to your doctor about a few simple tests can prevent fatal illness, and add years to your life. Here are 4 ways you can be proactive:
1. Get a colonoscopy- colon cancer is one of the easiest cancers to treat, but 60,000 people die from it each year because their cancer went undetected
2. Know your heart disease risk factors- ask your doctor to do a scan that measures plaque in the arteries
3. Esophageal cancer- doctors believe that it's related to stress and acid reflux, so if you've suffered from chronic heartburn, consider getting an endoscopy to make sure your throat's in good health.
4. Malignant melanoma- check yourself, and look for flat, dark brown, or black lesions with irregular shapes. Find one; see your doctor.
1. Get a colonoscopy- colon cancer is one of the easiest cancers to treat, but 60,000 people die from it each year because their cancer went undetected
2. Know your heart disease risk factors- ask your doctor to do a scan that measures plaque in the arteries
3. Esophageal cancer- doctors believe that it's related to stress and acid reflux, so if you've suffered from chronic heartburn, consider getting an endoscopy to make sure your throat's in good health.
4. Malignant melanoma- check yourself, and look for flat, dark brown, or black lesions with irregular shapes. Find one; see your doctor.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Listen up!
Why Can't He Hear What You're Saying?
Why doesn't he really listen? I call it "man-hearing". Jeff Martin calls it "Marital deafness."
The psychologist says... He's too busy trying to fix the problem.
Here is what the experts have to say about this problem.
Why doesn't he really listen? I call it "man-hearing". Jeff Martin calls it "Marital deafness."
The psychologist says... He's too busy trying to fix the problem.
Here is what the experts have to say about this problem.
Party no nos
TOP TEN COMPANY HOLIDAY PARTY OFFENSES
(careerbuilder.com)
Assuming you aren't required to go. Unless you've got an unbelievably good reason, you need to attend. Not attending speaks volumes about your attitude toward the company.
Dressing inappropriately. Don't dress as if you were going to a club or trolling for dates. Even if you're hitting the town later, you still need to dress properly for the party. Maybe you're known for being very stylish in your private life, but when it comes to a work function, it's better to blend in as opposed to making a statement that might get misinterpreted.
Attending on an empty stomach. Holiday events typically involve drinks and appetizers before the meal. But, appetizers often don't make it all the way through the crowd. It's better to get some food in your stomach prior to the event so your first drink doesn't go straight to your head.
Pitching ideas to upper management. Some folks view the company party as a way to schmooze the higher-ups or tell them their grand plans to save the company. While managers do use these events to meet and spend time with employees they don't regularly come in contact with, they aren't looking to strategize on work.
Getting drunk! Seventy percent of companies are serving alcohol at their holiday parties this year, a 15 percent drop from last year, according to a recent survey. There's a reason for this! Bottom line: Don't drink excessively at the holiday party. You'll end up saying or doing something you'll regret.
Hooking up! Co-workers secretly harboring feelings for each other often think it's OK to act on those feeling at the holiday event. Not so. It's important to act like you do at work. You're not paid to get cozy on the job, and the holiday party is an extension of your job.
Bringing a 'crazy' date. If your spouse or date is known as the 'life of the party,' there's a chance he or she will make the night unforgettable -- and not in a good way. Some people think, 'It shouldn't matter how they act, as long as I act OK,' But you are guilty by association.
Being a 'Scrooge.' Don't be a Debbie Downer and walk around with a scowl on your face. If you aren't excited to be there, keep your thoughts to yourself. These events are meant to give employees an opportunity to connect on a personal level so they can relate to one another at work. You don't have to overdo it, but you have to at least do it.
Not using your best table manners. It seems obvious, but for many, manners go out the door after business hours -- especially with a drink in hand. No swearing, chew with your mouth closed and remember to say "please," "thank you" and "excuse me."
"Dirty dancing" or executing "athletic displays." Even though krumping, bumping and grinding are all the rage, these moves have no place on the corporate dance floor. Moreover, back flips, splits, jumps and spins can only lead to disaster.
(careerbuilder.com)
Assuming you aren't required to go. Unless you've got an unbelievably good reason, you need to attend. Not attending speaks volumes about your attitude toward the company.
Dressing inappropriately. Don't dress as if you were going to a club or trolling for dates. Even if you're hitting the town later, you still need to dress properly for the party. Maybe you're known for being very stylish in your private life, but when it comes to a work function, it's better to blend in as opposed to making a statement that might get misinterpreted.
Attending on an empty stomach. Holiday events typically involve drinks and appetizers before the meal. But, appetizers often don't make it all the way through the crowd. It's better to get some food in your stomach prior to the event so your first drink doesn't go straight to your head.
Pitching ideas to upper management. Some folks view the company party as a way to schmooze the higher-ups or tell them their grand plans to save the company. While managers do use these events to meet and spend time with employees they don't regularly come in contact with, they aren't looking to strategize on work.
Getting drunk! Seventy percent of companies are serving alcohol at their holiday parties this year, a 15 percent drop from last year, according to a recent survey. There's a reason for this! Bottom line: Don't drink excessively at the holiday party. You'll end up saying or doing something you'll regret.
Hooking up! Co-workers secretly harboring feelings for each other often think it's OK to act on those feeling at the holiday event. Not so. It's important to act like you do at work. You're not paid to get cozy on the job, and the holiday party is an extension of your job.
Bringing a 'crazy' date. If your spouse or date is known as the 'life of the party,' there's a chance he or she will make the night unforgettable -- and not in a good way. Some people think, 'It shouldn't matter how they act, as long as I act OK,' But you are guilty by association.
Being a 'Scrooge.' Don't be a Debbie Downer and walk around with a scowl on your face. If you aren't excited to be there, keep your thoughts to yourself. These events are meant to give employees an opportunity to connect on a personal level so they can relate to one another at work. You don't have to overdo it, but you have to at least do it.
Not using your best table manners. It seems obvious, but for many, manners go out the door after business hours -- especially with a drink in hand. No swearing, chew with your mouth closed and remember to say "please," "thank you" and "excuse me."
"Dirty dancing" or executing "athletic displays." Even though krumping, bumping and grinding are all the rage, these moves have no place on the corporate dance floor. Moreover, back flips, splits, jumps and spins can only lead to disaster.
10 Superfoods
The benefits from eating healthy are endless. And, according to Dr. Nicholas Perricone, some foods can be eaten to help you look and age better!
oprah.com
Acai fruit
This little berry is one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world. It can often be found in juice form in health food and gourmet stores.
Anything in the "Allium Family"
Garlic, onions, leeks, scallions, chives and shallots can all help the liver eliminate toxins and carcinogens.
Barley
This can be used as a breakfast cereal, in soups and stews, and as a rice substitute. Barley's also high in fiber, helping metabolize fats, cholesterol and carbohydrates.
Green Foods
Green foods like wheat and barley grasses can be bought in powder, tablet or juice form, and offer greater levels of nutrients than green leafy vegetables. They also help cholesterol, blood pressure and immune response.
Buckwheat: Seed & Grain
Buckwheat is loaded with protein, high in amino acid, stabilizes blood sugar and reduces hypertension.
Beans & Lentils
You can reduce cholesterol while beefing up on antioxidants, folic acid and potassium. Try kidney, black, navy, pinto, chickpeas, soybeans, peas and lentils.
Hot Peppers
Both bell and chili peppers contain antioxidants, have twice the Vitamin C as citrus fruit and work as great fat burners.
Nuts & Seeds
You can't go wrong with a handful of nuts a day—walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, macadamia and pistachio nuts contain Omega 3 fats, which are great for your heart. Raw, unsalted nuts and seeds are best.
Sprouts
Numerous varieties of sprouts are great with any meal. They're a great source of protein and Vitamin C. Try adding them to any dish and your immune system will get a boost.
Yogurt and Kefir
These cultured foods contain healthful bacteria that aid immune function, and the calcium helps burn fat. Try using them as a base for a smoothie.
Learn more about Dr. Perricone's superfoods!
oprah.com
Acai fruit
This little berry is one of the most nutritious and powerful foods in the world. It can often be found in juice form in health food and gourmet stores.
Anything in the "Allium Family"
Garlic, onions, leeks, scallions, chives and shallots can all help the liver eliminate toxins and carcinogens.
Barley
This can be used as a breakfast cereal, in soups and stews, and as a rice substitute. Barley's also high in fiber, helping metabolize fats, cholesterol and carbohydrates.
Green Foods
Green foods like wheat and barley grasses can be bought in powder, tablet or juice form, and offer greater levels of nutrients than green leafy vegetables. They also help cholesterol, blood pressure and immune response.
Buckwheat: Seed & Grain
Buckwheat is loaded with protein, high in amino acid, stabilizes blood sugar and reduces hypertension.
Beans & Lentils
You can reduce cholesterol while beefing up on antioxidants, folic acid and potassium. Try kidney, black, navy, pinto, chickpeas, soybeans, peas and lentils.
Hot Peppers
Both bell and chili peppers contain antioxidants, have twice the Vitamin C as citrus fruit and work as great fat burners.
Nuts & Seeds
You can't go wrong with a handful of nuts a day—walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, macadamia and pistachio nuts contain Omega 3 fats, which are great for your heart. Raw, unsalted nuts and seeds are best.
Sprouts
Numerous varieties of sprouts are great with any meal. They're a great source of protein and Vitamin C. Try adding them to any dish and your immune system will get a boost.
Yogurt and Kefir
These cultured foods contain healthful bacteria that aid immune function, and the calcium helps burn fat. Try using them as a base for a smoothie.
Learn more about Dr. Perricone's superfoods!
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