KEEPING ROMANCE ALIVE DURING THE HOLIDAYS
(TheNest.com)
Start a tradition: The night before a big family gathering is the perfect time to reconnect with each other... alone. Plan a preholiday date that is bound to become tradition -- whether it's grilled cheese at the diner, a snowy stroll through the park, or camping indoors with a tent by your fireplace. The point is to enjoy each other -- and only each other -- before you loan yourselves out to relatives.
Get cookin': Neither of you needs to be a chef extraordinaire to have fun in a holiday kitchen. If you're a guest, ask for a task the two of you can work on. It's a great escape, and your help will be appreciated, to boot. In your own home, institute some holiday fun. Bake goodies you loved as kids or make eggnog from scratch.
Present something perfect: There are some gifts that make everyone in the room go "Wow!" and others that are meant for your eyes only. Give each other the cashmere sweater or briefcase to open with the gang, but save one small, heartfelt gift to open alone in bed together.
Deck the halls: Give the bedroom a seasonal boost with white twinkling lights strung on the headboard. You'll both feel like you're sliding under the covers in a whole new room.
Picture your life: Get out your photo albums and reminisce. You will be reminded of how important you are to each other, and the shared memories will come flooding back. If you're at a relative's home, ask to see old childhood photos.
Get a tune-up: The long drive for holiday ham can turn into a traffic nightmare. Come prepared with a CD or iTunes song playlist that reminds you of your courtship or of your wedding and honeymoon. Before you know it, you'll be pulling into the driveway with hoarse voices from all that crooning.
Go for the pass: The office party is a bore, and you both can't wait to leave. To make the hours go faster, pass your spouse a note on your way to the cheese table. Write about exactly what you want to do with him and the leftover gift-wrap and ribbon when you get home.
Give your time: You're fortunate to have each other, but not everyone is so lucky. Sign up to play bingo at a nursing home or distribute gifts to kids at a homeless shelter. Volunteering together will allow you to break from routines that might start to seem selfish, and it will bring smiles to new faces.
Just say no: Parties and get-togethers are great ways to catch up with special people you haven't seen in forever, but they can also leave you feeling too pooped to do anything else. The only solution: Tear up those invites! You just do not need to attend every function you are invited to.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Don't be sad
Sad women may have higher breast cancer risk
But depression isn’t strongly linked to other types of cancer, review finds
Reuters
Depression appears to somewhat heighten the risk of breast cancer, but it has no significant association with lung, colon or prostate cancer, according to a review of the medical literature conducted by Dutch researchers.
“Depression is related to a slightly increased risk of cancer,” investigator Dr. Marjan van den Akker told Reuters Health. “The relation with breast cancer gets stronger with a longer follow-up period.”
Van den Akker, of Maastricht University, and colleagues came to this conclusion after examining data from 13 studies involving more than 127,000 patients. Their findings are published in the journal Clinical Practice and Epidemiology in Mental Health.
Based on eight studies with complete data, the researchers calculated that the overall risk of cancer was increased by 12 percent in individuals with depression.
Based on data from seven studies that looked at a mixture of factors, no significant association was seen between depression and the development of breast cancer.
However, analysis of a subgroup of studies that included at least 10 years of follow-up showed a significant association — patients with depression had a 2.5-fold increased risk of developing breast cancer compared with undepressed patients.
“With the evidence available at this moment, it’s difficult to disentangle the possible effects of depression and antidepressants on the occurrence of subsequent cancer,” continued van den Akker. “It’s not yet possible to translate these results into preventive interventions,” she concluded.
But depression isn’t strongly linked to other types of cancer, review finds
Reuters
Depression appears to somewhat heighten the risk of breast cancer, but it has no significant association with lung, colon or prostate cancer, according to a review of the medical literature conducted by Dutch researchers.
“Depression is related to a slightly increased risk of cancer,” investigator Dr. Marjan van den Akker told Reuters Health. “The relation with breast cancer gets stronger with a longer follow-up period.”
Van den Akker, of Maastricht University, and colleagues came to this conclusion after examining data from 13 studies involving more than 127,000 patients. Their findings are published in the journal Clinical Practice and Epidemiology in Mental Health.
Based on eight studies with complete data, the researchers calculated that the overall risk of cancer was increased by 12 percent in individuals with depression.
Based on data from seven studies that looked at a mixture of factors, no significant association was seen between depression and the development of breast cancer.
However, analysis of a subgroup of studies that included at least 10 years of follow-up showed a significant association — patients with depression had a 2.5-fold increased risk of developing breast cancer compared with undepressed patients.
“With the evidence available at this moment, it’s difficult to disentangle the possible effects of depression and antidepressants on the occurrence of subsequent cancer,” continued van den Akker. “It’s not yet possible to translate these results into preventive interventions,” she concluded.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Gifts for men
Christmas is just around the corner so it's time for me to share some gift ideas for those special men in your life! Buying gifts for men is not nearly as complicated as it is for women. Follow these rules and you should have no problems.
Rule #1:
When in doubt - buy him a cordless drill. It does not matter if he already has one. I have a friend who owns 17 and he has yet to complain. As a man, you can never have too many cordless drills. For that matter any power tool is a good choice. He may not need it, or know what it does, but it will look good hung on the peg board in the garage.
Rule #2:
If you cannot afford a cordless drill, buy him anything with the word ratchet or socket in it. Men love saying those two words. "Hey George, can I borrow your ratchet?" "OK. Bye-the-way, are you through with my 3/8-inch socket yet?"
Rule #3:
If you are really, really broke, buy him anything for his car. A 99-cent ice scraper, a small bottle of deicer or something to hang from his rear view mirror. Men love gifts for their cars.
Rule #4:
Do not buy men socks. Do not buy men ties and never buy men bathrobes. If God had wanted men to wear bathrobes, he wouldn't have invented Jockey shorts.
Rule #5:
You can buy men new remote controls to replace the ones they have worn out. If you have a lot of money buy your man a big-screen TV with the little picture in the corner. Watch him go wild as he flips, and flips, and flips.
Rule #6:
Do not buy a man any of those fancy liqueurs. If you do, it will sit in a cupboard for 23 years. Real men drink whiskey or beer.
Rule #7:
Do not buy any man industrial-sized canisters of after shave or deodorant. We do not stink - we are earthy.
Rule #8:
Buy men label makers. Almost as good as cordless drills. Within a couple of weeks there will be labels absolutely everywhere. "Socks. Shorts. Cups. Saucers. Door. Lock. Sink." You get the idea. No one knows why.
Rule #9:
Never buy a man anything that says "some assembly required" on the box. It will ruin his Special Day and he will always have parts left over.
Rule #10:
Good places to shop for men include Northwest Iron Works, Parr Lumber, Home Depot, John Deere, Valley RV Center, and Les Schwab Tire. (NAPA Auto Parts and Sear's Clearance Centers are also excellent men's stores. It doesn't matter if he doesn't know what it is. "From NAPA Auto, eh? Must be something I need. Hey! Isn't this a starter for a '68 Ford Fairlane? Wow! Thanks.")
Rule #11:
Men enjoy danger. That's why they never cook - but they will barbecue. Get him a monster barbecue with a 100-pound propane tank. Tell him the gas line leaks. "Oh the thrill! The challenge! Who wants a hamburger?"
Rule #12:
Tickets to a professional sports game (any team within 300 miles) are a smart gift. However, he will not appreciate tickets to "A Retrospective of 19th Century Quilts."
Rule #13:
Men love chainsaws. Never, ever, buy a man you love a chainsaw. If you don't know why - please refer to Rule #8 and what happens when he gets a label maker.
Rule #14:
It's hard to beat a really good wheelbarrow or an aluminum extension ladder. Never buy a real man a step ladder. It must be an extension ladder.
Rule #15:
Rope. Men love rope. It takes us back to our cowboy origins, or at least The Boy Scouts. Nothing says love like a hundred feet of 3/8" manilla rope.
Rule #16:
Clamps. Men can never have enough quick grip clamps. No one knows why
Rule #17:
Buy your man Duct Tape. This is a man's most universal repair tool. All men know, if you can't fix it, duct it.
Rule #1:
When in doubt - buy him a cordless drill. It does not matter if he already has one. I have a friend who owns 17 and he has yet to complain. As a man, you can never have too many cordless drills. For that matter any power tool is a good choice. He may not need it, or know what it does, but it will look good hung on the peg board in the garage.
Rule #2:
If you cannot afford a cordless drill, buy him anything with the word ratchet or socket in it. Men love saying those two words. "Hey George, can I borrow your ratchet?" "OK. Bye-the-way, are you through with my 3/8-inch socket yet?"
Rule #3:
If you are really, really broke, buy him anything for his car. A 99-cent ice scraper, a small bottle of deicer or something to hang from his rear view mirror. Men love gifts for their cars.
Rule #4:
Do not buy men socks. Do not buy men ties and never buy men bathrobes. If God had wanted men to wear bathrobes, he wouldn't have invented Jockey shorts.
Rule #5:
You can buy men new remote controls to replace the ones they have worn out. If you have a lot of money buy your man a big-screen TV with the little picture in the corner. Watch him go wild as he flips, and flips, and flips.
Rule #6:
Do not buy a man any of those fancy liqueurs. If you do, it will sit in a cupboard for 23 years. Real men drink whiskey or beer.
Rule #7:
Do not buy any man industrial-sized canisters of after shave or deodorant. We do not stink - we are earthy.
Rule #8:
Buy men label makers. Almost as good as cordless drills. Within a couple of weeks there will be labels absolutely everywhere. "Socks. Shorts. Cups. Saucers. Door. Lock. Sink." You get the idea. No one knows why.
Rule #9:
Never buy a man anything that says "some assembly required" on the box. It will ruin his Special Day and he will always have parts left over.
Rule #10:
Good places to shop for men include Northwest Iron Works, Parr Lumber, Home Depot, John Deere, Valley RV Center, and Les Schwab Tire. (NAPA Auto Parts and Sear's Clearance Centers are also excellent men's stores. It doesn't matter if he doesn't know what it is. "From NAPA Auto, eh? Must be something I need. Hey! Isn't this a starter for a '68 Ford Fairlane? Wow! Thanks.")
Rule #11:
Men enjoy danger. That's why they never cook - but they will barbecue. Get him a monster barbecue with a 100-pound propane tank. Tell him the gas line leaks. "Oh the thrill! The challenge! Who wants a hamburger?"
Rule #12:
Tickets to a professional sports game (any team within 300 miles) are a smart gift. However, he will not appreciate tickets to "A Retrospective of 19th Century Quilts."
Rule #13:
Men love chainsaws. Never, ever, buy a man you love a chainsaw. If you don't know why - please refer to Rule #8 and what happens when he gets a label maker.
Rule #14:
It's hard to beat a really good wheelbarrow or an aluminum extension ladder. Never buy a real man a step ladder. It must be an extension ladder.
Rule #15:
Rope. Men love rope. It takes us back to our cowboy origins, or at least The Boy Scouts. Nothing says love like a hundred feet of 3/8" manilla rope.
Rule #16:
Clamps. Men can never have enough quick grip clamps. No one knows why
Rule #17:
Buy your man Duct Tape. This is a man's most universal repair tool. All men know, if you can't fix it, duct it.
Osteoporosis test
Treating and preventing osteoporosis could be as easy as getting the results from one test.
A new study finds a bone density test can reveal if you're at high risk, which could then lead to early diagnosis, and much more.
A new study finds a bone density test can reveal if you're at high risk, which could then lead to early diagnosis, and much more.
Give happiness
5 great ways to give happiness
By MP Dunleavy
msn.com
A plastic gift card isn't really going to show your best friend you love her. These smart tips help you beat mall stress -- and pick presents your friends and family really want.
1. Think life, not stuff
There's a temptation to believe that the earrings you give Mom or the wallet you give your brother will hold more meaning over the years than, say, tickets to the theater, a snowboarding tutorial or a trip to a monster truck rally.
In fact, gifts that involve experiences are often treasured far more. Mom may lose those earrings, but will she ever forget the beer falling on your head at the truck rally?
2. Connect the dots -- er, people
A ton of research makes one thing clear: People are happiest when they are connected to their friends, family, community -- or a combination of the above.
Instead of spending that $859 on holiday gifts, what if you spent your money on a big ol' holiday open house? Or maybe a weekend getaway with your spouse or a spa day with your girlfriends?
You decide what will bring you closer to your sister or best friend: exchanging plastic gift cards (the top gift choice for 69% of consumers) or enjoying girl talk while the authentic desert-clay mask dries on your face. Do you really need time to think about it?
3. Make someone feel better
Whether it's a gift certificate for a reflexology treatment, a private session with a personal trainer or yoga teacher, or your own best back rub -- gifts that enhance health or well-being add up to a lot more than the one-time event itself.
That's more than you can say about whatever you picked up frantically at Wal-Mart at 11 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
4. Make time stand still
People are always talking about how little time they have, how much time they waste and how badly they wish they had just one extra hour each day. So take the hint and give those you love the most precious gift of all: free time that they can spend on themselves. Video: Fantasizing about the escape
Give your spouse a week without chores, so he or she can spend time doing more rewarding things.
Give the new parents in your life a day or a night off while you handle the diapers and burp cloths.
Offer to help a friend with a project, or retype her résumé or reprogram his new laptop -- whatever will produce a windfall of time. Video: The gift of 'getting down'
5. Give money
Beth, a former member of the Women in Red group that I write about, says that one of her favorite holiday gifts was a financial-planning session with a pro. A few years ago, her in-laws wanted to give their grown children and their families financial peace of mind, so rather than just give cash gifts, they gave each couple a session with a financial planner.
I know: Financial planning ain't exactly festive. But think how much joy there is in knowing you have a rock-solid financial plan.
By MP Dunleavy
msn.com
A plastic gift card isn't really going to show your best friend you love her. These smart tips help you beat mall stress -- and pick presents your friends and family really want.
1. Think life, not stuff
There's a temptation to believe that the earrings you give Mom or the wallet you give your brother will hold more meaning over the years than, say, tickets to the theater, a snowboarding tutorial or a trip to a monster truck rally.
In fact, gifts that involve experiences are often treasured far more. Mom may lose those earrings, but will she ever forget the beer falling on your head at the truck rally?
2. Connect the dots -- er, people
A ton of research makes one thing clear: People are happiest when they are connected to their friends, family, community -- or a combination of the above.
Instead of spending that $859 on holiday gifts, what if you spent your money on a big ol' holiday open house? Or maybe a weekend getaway with your spouse or a spa day with your girlfriends?
You decide what will bring you closer to your sister or best friend: exchanging plastic gift cards (the top gift choice for 69% of consumers) or enjoying girl talk while the authentic desert-clay mask dries on your face. Do you really need time to think about it?
3. Make someone feel better
Whether it's a gift certificate for a reflexology treatment, a private session with a personal trainer or yoga teacher, or your own best back rub -- gifts that enhance health or well-being add up to a lot more than the one-time event itself.
That's more than you can say about whatever you picked up frantically at Wal-Mart at 11 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
4. Make time stand still
People are always talking about how little time they have, how much time they waste and how badly they wish they had just one extra hour each day. So take the hint and give those you love the most precious gift of all: free time that they can spend on themselves. Video: Fantasizing about the escape
Give your spouse a week without chores, so he or she can spend time doing more rewarding things.
Give the new parents in your life a day or a night off while you handle the diapers and burp cloths.
Offer to help a friend with a project, or retype her résumé or reprogram his new laptop -- whatever will produce a windfall of time. Video: The gift of 'getting down'
5. Give money
Beth, a former member of the Women in Red group that I write about, says that one of her favorite holiday gifts was a financial-planning session with a pro. A few years ago, her in-laws wanted to give their grown children and their families financial peace of mind, so rather than just give cash gifts, they gave each couple a session with a financial planner.
I know: Financial planning ain't exactly festive. But think how much joy there is in knowing you have a rock-solid financial plan.
Look rich live cheap
Want to look as if you're living a wealthier lifestyle than you actually are? Many frugal women obey the motto: Live well, look rich and never let the world know how little you're really paid. An excellent philosophy, which can be summed up as Live cheap, look rich.
Find out how.
Find out how.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Medical gift cards
We will be spending more than $26 billion on gift cards this year. And just when you thought there's nothing new under the Christmas tree along comes one for "good health." a medical gift card. The card is issued by Visa, so it can be used anywhere Visa is accepted for health-related services. They are not sold in stores and need to be purchased online or over the phone for up to $5,000.
Holiday etiquette for Fido
Holiday Etiquette for Dogs
1. Be especially patient with your humans during this time. They may appear to be more stressed-out than usual and they will appreciate long comforting dog leans.
2. They may come home with large bags of things they call gifts. Do not assume that all the gifts are yours.
3. Be tolerant if your humans put decorations on you. They seem to get some special kind of pleasure out of seeing how you look with fake antlers.
4. They may bring a large tree into the house and set it up in a prominent place and cover it with lights and decorations. Bizarre as this may seem to you, it is an important ritual for your humans, so there are some things you need to know:
- - don't pee on the tree
- - don't drink water in the container that holds the tree
- - mind your tail when you are near the tree
- - if there are packages under the tree, even ones that smell interesting or that have your name on them, don't rip them open
- - don't chew on the cord that runs from the funny-looking hole in the wall to the tree
5. Your humans may occasionally invite lots of strangers to come visit during this season. These parties can be lots of fun, but they also call for some discretion on your part:
- - not all strangers appreciate kisses and leans
- - don't eat off the buffet table
- - beg for goodies subtly
- - be pleasant, even if unknowing strangers sit on your sofa
- - don't drink out of glasses that are left within your reach.
6. Likewise, your humans may take you visiting. Here your manners will also be important:
- -observe all the rules in #4 for trees that may be in other people's houses.
- - respect the territory of other animals that may live in the house
- - tolerate children
- - turn on your charm big time.
7. A big man with a white beard and a very loud laugh may emerge from your fireplace in the middle of the night. DON'T BITE HIM!!
Naughty pets can unleash Christmas chaos!
1. Be especially patient with your humans during this time. They may appear to be more stressed-out than usual and they will appreciate long comforting dog leans.
2. They may come home with large bags of things they call gifts. Do not assume that all the gifts are yours.
3. Be tolerant if your humans put decorations on you. They seem to get some special kind of pleasure out of seeing how you look with fake antlers.
4. They may bring a large tree into the house and set it up in a prominent place and cover it with lights and decorations. Bizarre as this may seem to you, it is an important ritual for your humans, so there are some things you need to know:
- - don't pee on the tree
- - don't drink water in the container that holds the tree
- - mind your tail when you are near the tree
- - if there are packages under the tree, even ones that smell interesting or that have your name on them, don't rip them open
- - don't chew on the cord that runs from the funny-looking hole in the wall to the tree
5. Your humans may occasionally invite lots of strangers to come visit during this season. These parties can be lots of fun, but they also call for some discretion on your part:
- - not all strangers appreciate kisses and leans
- - don't eat off the buffet table
- - beg for goodies subtly
- - be pleasant, even if unknowing strangers sit on your sofa
- - don't drink out of glasses that are left within your reach.
6. Likewise, your humans may take you visiting. Here your manners will also be important:
- -observe all the rules in #4 for trees that may be in other people's houses.
- - respect the territory of other animals that may live in the house
- - tolerate children
- - turn on your charm big time.
7. A big man with a white beard and a very loud laugh may emerge from your fireplace in the middle of the night. DON'T BITE HIM!!
Naughty pets can unleash Christmas chaos!
Mistletoe manners
Mistletoe makes people pucker up, but there are times when it's best to mind your mistletoe manners. An etiquette expert says, "Obviously you're not going to kiss your cousin the way you do your significant other. But if you're under there with someone you really love, why not give them a full lip lock? It's one of the few public places where you can kiss someone the way you want."
If your boss brings you under the smooching sprig, she says to use the cheek kiss, the hand kiss, or the ever-so-safe air kiss.
For more information check out her website.
If your boss brings you under the smooching sprig, she says to use the cheek kiss, the hand kiss, or the ever-so-safe air kiss.
For more information check out her website.
Police seek 2 men
Police want to question two men in connection with the murder of mother and daughter found dead at the Town Center Mall in Boca Raton.
They believe David Goodman, 40, who is 5 foot 9, and another man possibly known just as "Charles," may have information regarding this case. Both men are known to frequent the Miami area. Authorities said they believe "Charles" had access to the victim's cell phone after the homicide.
If you recognize either of them and know where they are, please call Boca Police at 561-338-1352 or Palm Beach Crimestoppers at 1-800-458-TIPS.
See the photo.
They believe David Goodman, 40, who is 5 foot 9, and another man possibly known just as "Charles," may have information regarding this case. Both men are known to frequent the Miami area. Authorities said they believe "Charles" had access to the victim's cell phone after the homicide.
If you recognize either of them and know where they are, please call Boca Police at 561-338-1352 or Palm Beach Crimestoppers at 1-800-458-TIPS.
See the photo.
Cheap texting
Any parent who has a teenager with a cell phone is finding out that one of the biggest expenses can be a teen's desire to send text messages to their friends. Now a small South Carolina company says it has come up with a way for you to text as much as you want, without breaking the bank. It's called Zipitwireless.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Sounds relaxing
Did you know that sound has healing properties? From Women's World, studies tell us that sounds have the power to heal broken bones, cure life-threatening heart ailments, and fight depression.
First- the sound of a harp can cure heart problems. The powerful vibrations from harp music can reduce blood pressure, calm the nervous system, and normalize irregular heartbeats. Some operating rooms now play harp music during delicate heart surgeries.
A purring cat can heal broken bones, because they purr at the same frequency already being orthopedists to strengthen bones, and the sound can even help speed the healing of fractures, and studies are underway to see if purring can help to prevent osteoporosis.
When it comes to soothing pain, the sound of waterfalls work. A study found that patients with chronic pain exposed to sounds of rushing water experienced a 30% drop in stress hormones, and confirmed that their pain had diminished.
And what sound helps to ward off depression and anxiety? Ocean waves. It's a very relaxing form of white noise that sub-consciously induces serenity. Students who listened to ocean sounds had less anxiety, less depression, and higher test scores than students who weren't exposed to the sounds of the crashing surf.
First- the sound of a harp can cure heart problems. The powerful vibrations from harp music can reduce blood pressure, calm the nervous system, and normalize irregular heartbeats. Some operating rooms now play harp music during delicate heart surgeries.
A purring cat can heal broken bones, because they purr at the same frequency already being orthopedists to strengthen bones, and the sound can even help speed the healing of fractures, and studies are underway to see if purring can help to prevent osteoporosis.
When it comes to soothing pain, the sound of waterfalls work. A study found that patients with chronic pain exposed to sounds of rushing water experienced a 30% drop in stress hormones, and confirmed that their pain had diminished.
And what sound helps to ward off depression and anxiety? Ocean waves. It's a very relaxing form of white noise that sub-consciously induces serenity. Students who listened to ocean sounds had less anxiety, less depression, and higher test scores than students who weren't exposed to the sounds of the crashing surf.
In-law advice
5 Ways to Outsmart Your In-Laws
By Dina Koutas Poch
Even if you hit the in-law lottery and won a stellar set of bonus-parents, it's hard to remain sane when you are staying in their home for the weekend -- or, yikes -- a week. But instead of rolling your eyes or escaping to the bathroom for "me" time, try going with the flow. It will make the hours pass more smoothly, and you can always use your model behavior to blackmail your spouse next holiday season.
Bring a Special Dish
This 9 x 13-inch offering is your clever token of gratitude. It shows you appreciate how much effort your in-laws put into hosting the holidays. Aren't you a peach! The real truth is you've guaranteed there's something digestible on the table, and you get to avoid the family specialty of Beef Cups with Pizza Rice. Best of all? Your winter squash gratin will limit the amount of time you'll have to spend in the kitchen.
Embrace How They Do Things
Your in-laws probably don't post a "House Rules" sign on the front door, but you know that their thermostat never rises above 60 degrees, everyone eats dinner at 5:30 p.m., and the whole gang gathers around the TV whenever there's a M*A*S*H marathon. Welcome to clannish behavior!
Rather than recoiling, indulge in at least one family tradition. Remember: Your family's way of doing things isn't necessarily correct, so get over yourself and join in the fun.
Accept Gifts Strategically
No, you can't immediately go on eBay and list the bald eagle bookends your in-laws gave you because they'll look for them on the next visit … unless you tell them you love the gift so much that you brought it to work. This response can be used with a plethora of tacky decorative items. What are the chances your in-laws will see your office?
Throw the Family Pet a Bone
Nobody seems to mind that your in-laws' dog isn't house-trained and bites because "she doesn't like strangers." The way to their hearts is through their best friend. So bring along pet toys. You'll be praised as a thoughtful daughter/son-in-law and may even avoid getting tooth marks in your leg.
Once you make nice with Fluffy or Spot, you'll notice a shift: The dog won't leave you alone. Which is why you'll need to softly repeat these mantras to yourself:
I accept that there will be dog hair on my new J.Crew shirt/Michael Kors sweater.
I accept that their 100-pound, slobbering golden retriever will climb on my lap and refuse to move, even when I need to get up to go to the bathroom.
I accept that after all this tender, loving torture, the dog will probably forget who I am the next time I show up at this house.
Silence Your Inner Cruise Director
Recommending novels, restaurants, or movies can be risky. Sure, you brought the squash gratin, but you chance falling out of favor if your movie rental choice, D3: The Mighty Ducks, bores them to tears, or if your seafood eatery (the one with the rave reviews) gives everyone the Norwalk virus. Sometimes, it's best to be bland, boring, and unopinionated -- for once.
By Dina Koutas Poch
Even if you hit the in-law lottery and won a stellar set of bonus-parents, it's hard to remain sane when you are staying in their home for the weekend -- or, yikes -- a week. But instead of rolling your eyes or escaping to the bathroom for "me" time, try going with the flow. It will make the hours pass more smoothly, and you can always use your model behavior to blackmail your spouse next holiday season.
Bring a Special Dish
This 9 x 13-inch offering is your clever token of gratitude. It shows you appreciate how much effort your in-laws put into hosting the holidays. Aren't you a peach! The real truth is you've guaranteed there's something digestible on the table, and you get to avoid the family specialty of Beef Cups with Pizza Rice. Best of all? Your winter squash gratin will limit the amount of time you'll have to spend in the kitchen.
Embrace How They Do Things
Your in-laws probably don't post a "House Rules" sign on the front door, but you know that their thermostat never rises above 60 degrees, everyone eats dinner at 5:30 p.m., and the whole gang gathers around the TV whenever there's a M*A*S*H marathon. Welcome to clannish behavior!
Rather than recoiling, indulge in at least one family tradition. Remember: Your family's way of doing things isn't necessarily correct, so get over yourself and join in the fun.
Accept Gifts Strategically
No, you can't immediately go on eBay and list the bald eagle bookends your in-laws gave you because they'll look for them on the next visit … unless you tell them you love the gift so much that you brought it to work. This response can be used with a plethora of tacky decorative items. What are the chances your in-laws will see your office?
Throw the Family Pet a Bone
Nobody seems to mind that your in-laws' dog isn't house-trained and bites because "she doesn't like strangers." The way to their hearts is through their best friend. So bring along pet toys. You'll be praised as a thoughtful daughter/son-in-law and may even avoid getting tooth marks in your leg.
Once you make nice with Fluffy or Spot, you'll notice a shift: The dog won't leave you alone. Which is why you'll need to softly repeat these mantras to yourself:
I accept that there will be dog hair on my new J.Crew shirt/Michael Kors sweater.
I accept that their 100-pound, slobbering golden retriever will climb on my lap and refuse to move, even when I need to get up to go to the bathroom.
I accept that after all this tender, loving torture, the dog will probably forget who I am the next time I show up at this house.
Silence Your Inner Cruise Director
Recommending novels, restaurants, or movies can be risky. Sure, you brought the squash gratin, but you chance falling out of favor if your movie rental choice, D3: The Mighty Ducks, bores them to tears, or if your seafood eatery (the one with the rave reviews) gives everyone the Norwalk virus. Sometimes, it's best to be bland, boring, and unopinionated -- for once.
Wii rainchecks
GameStop to sell Wii rain checks
Rain checks will be available for $250 on Dec. 20 and 21
By Peter Svensson
The Associated Press
To deal with frustration among holiday shoppers hunting for its Wii game console, Nintendo Co. and retailer GameStop Corp. are launching a rain check program.
"We expect this to be a great way for consumers who desperately want a Wii to have something to put under the tree," Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime said Friday.
The rain checks will be available at the regular Wii system price, $249.99, on Dec. 20 and 21, and will entitle buyers to get the Nintendo console before Jan. 29. Fils-Aime said "many tens of thousands of rain checks" would be available.
GameStop regularly takes deposits on hot software titles before they launch, which means it has the infrastructure to deal with rain check program, Fils-Aime said. The company is working with other retailers, like Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Best Buy Co., to push out inventory from the supply chain to shelves as quickly as possible before Christmas, he added.
The Wii has been a startling success for the Japanese company, selling more than 6 million units in the U.S. since it was launched a little over a year ago. In November alone, 981,000 were sold in the U.S., according to NPD Group. That compares to 770,000 Microsoft Xbox 360s sold, and 466,000 Sony PlayStation 3s.
However, Wii sales have been constrained by supply, with units selling out minutes after going on store shelves. Nintendo has repeatedly denied rumors that it's creating an artificial shortage by not increasing production to match demand.
"I get personal calls from people wanting to know why we don't just manufacture more. Believe me, if it were that easy, we would," Fils-Aime told reporters and analysts on a conference call Friday.
"Production depends on components from a wide array of suppliers. If only one can't increase their capacity, then we can't increase ours," the executive said.
After Nintendo raised production twice since April, production for the worldwide market is now at 1.8 million Wiis a month. Fils-Aime held out no hope of an imminent increase.
"We'll keep producing at that level for quite a while," he said. "When will we finally meet demand? There is no way to answer that question until we finally meet it."
Rain checks will be available for $250 on Dec. 20 and 21
By Peter Svensson
The Associated Press
To deal with frustration among holiday shoppers hunting for its Wii game console, Nintendo Co. and retailer GameStop Corp. are launching a rain check program.
"We expect this to be a great way for consumers who desperately want a Wii to have something to put under the tree," Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime said Friday.
The rain checks will be available at the regular Wii system price, $249.99, on Dec. 20 and 21, and will entitle buyers to get the Nintendo console before Jan. 29. Fils-Aime said "many tens of thousands of rain checks" would be available.
GameStop regularly takes deposits on hot software titles before they launch, which means it has the infrastructure to deal with rain check program, Fils-Aime said. The company is working with other retailers, like Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Best Buy Co., to push out inventory from the supply chain to shelves as quickly as possible before Christmas, he added.
The Wii has been a startling success for the Japanese company, selling more than 6 million units in the U.S. since it was launched a little over a year ago. In November alone, 981,000 were sold in the U.S., according to NPD Group. That compares to 770,000 Microsoft Xbox 360s sold, and 466,000 Sony PlayStation 3s.
However, Wii sales have been constrained by supply, with units selling out minutes after going on store shelves. Nintendo has repeatedly denied rumors that it's creating an artificial shortage by not increasing production to match demand.
"I get personal calls from people wanting to know why we don't just manufacture more. Believe me, if it were that easy, we would," Fils-Aime told reporters and analysts on a conference call Friday.
"Production depends on components from a wide array of suppliers. If only one can't increase their capacity, then we can't increase ours," the executive said.
After Nintendo raised production twice since April, production for the worldwide market is now at 1.8 million Wiis a month. Fils-Aime held out no hope of an imminent increase.
"We'll keep producing at that level for quite a while," he said. "When will we finally meet demand? There is no way to answer that question until we finally meet it."
Monday, December 17, 2007
What not to give
WHAT NOT TO GIVE YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER FOR THE HOLIDAYS (Yahoo Personals)
Gift to avoid #1: Unless you are planning on proposing, avoid gifting jewelry, especially a ring, as that perceived level of commitment may intimidate your sweetheart.
Gift to avoid #2: While a ring may be considered overboard, anything impersonal, such as a kitchen appliance or gift card can be construed as thoughtless or insincere.
Gift to avoid #3: Avoid gifting lingerie for your first holidays together. It may be considered too intimate and send the wrong message.
Gift to avoid #4: Gifting something selfish, such as sporting event tickets when you know your significant other isn't a sports fan, can relay that you may be more focused on your own interests than that of the person you are getting the gift for.
Gift to avoid #5: Work-related items that promote efficiency at the office should generally be avoided. Why bring up "work" during the holidays, which is a time for relaxation.
Gift to avoid #6: Clothing may be offensive, especially if you aren't sure about what size to purchase.
Gift to avoid #7: Animals as presents are generally bad ideas unless you know the person very well. Pets are huge commitments and way too serious for a "first holiday" together.
Gift to avoid #8: Re-gifting is never a good idea, especially if it's a gift from a past relationship.
Gift to avoid #9: Forget cliches, such as boxes of chocolates or flowers. They show little thought or effort.
Gift to avoid #10: Avoid gifts that may suggest that your significant other needs to change something about himself/herself, such as exercise clothes or gym equipment, which may say that he/she doesn't look good enough as he/she is.
Gift to avoid #1: Unless you are planning on proposing, avoid gifting jewelry, especially a ring, as that perceived level of commitment may intimidate your sweetheart.
Gift to avoid #2: While a ring may be considered overboard, anything impersonal, such as a kitchen appliance or gift card can be construed as thoughtless or insincere.
Gift to avoid #3: Avoid gifting lingerie for your first holidays together. It may be considered too intimate and send the wrong message.
Gift to avoid #4: Gifting something selfish, such as sporting event tickets when you know your significant other isn't a sports fan, can relay that you may be more focused on your own interests than that of the person you are getting the gift for.
Gift to avoid #5: Work-related items that promote efficiency at the office should generally be avoided. Why bring up "work" during the holidays, which is a time for relaxation.
Gift to avoid #6: Clothing may be offensive, especially if you aren't sure about what size to purchase.
Gift to avoid #7: Animals as presents are generally bad ideas unless you know the person very well. Pets are huge commitments and way too serious for a "first holiday" together.
Gift to avoid #8: Re-gifting is never a good idea, especially if it's a gift from a past relationship.
Gift to avoid #9: Forget cliches, such as boxes of chocolates or flowers. They show little thought or effort.
Gift to avoid #10: Avoid gifts that may suggest that your significant other needs to change something about himself/herself, such as exercise clothes or gym equipment, which may say that he/she doesn't look good enough as he/she is.
Must have friends
What kind of friends do you have?
Oprah.com
By Michelle Burford
"Friends are the family we choose for ourselves," writer Edna Buchanan once said. I consider the "family" I've gathered—with five kinds of pals I count on for completely different things—among the wisest choices I've made. If you can find even one who embodies any of the characteristics that follow, you can consider yourself fortunate.
1. The Uplifter
This woman's favorite word: yes. You could tell her you're trading your six-figure income for a career in offtrack betting, and she'd barely pause before yelping "Go for it!" Don't you need someone who looks past the love handles to notice the extraordinarily gorgeous you?
2. The Travel Buddy
When the hotel in St. Lucia is a bust, one characteristic becomes all-important: flexibility. This agreeable companion need not be the girl you traded pinkie swears with on the playground; it's enough that she's comfortable with quiet (between gabfests) and is a teensy bit mischievous (as in tequila after midnight).
3. The Truth Teller
Intent is what separates the constructive from the abusive. Once you've established that the hard news is spoken in love (not in jealousy or malice), you'd be smart to seek out this woman's perspective.
4. The Girl Who Just Wants to Have Fun
One Saturday a pal and I—and yes, we're both over age 12—pored over every glitter lip gloss in a drugstore aisle for an entire 45 minutes. Forget the crisis download (for that, see the Uplifter); this partnership is about spontaneous good times.
5. The Unlikely Friend
"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive," Anaïs Nin wrote. My friends—some twice my age, others half, some rich, others homeless, some black like me, others Korean, Mexican, Caucasian—have added richness to my life that only variety can bring.
Oprah.com
By Michelle Burford
"Friends are the family we choose for ourselves," writer Edna Buchanan once said. I consider the "family" I've gathered—with five kinds of pals I count on for completely different things—among the wisest choices I've made. If you can find even one who embodies any of the characteristics that follow, you can consider yourself fortunate.
1. The Uplifter
This woman's favorite word: yes. You could tell her you're trading your six-figure income for a career in offtrack betting, and she'd barely pause before yelping "Go for it!" Don't you need someone who looks past the love handles to notice the extraordinarily gorgeous you?
2. The Travel Buddy
When the hotel in St. Lucia is a bust, one characteristic becomes all-important: flexibility. This agreeable companion need not be the girl you traded pinkie swears with on the playground; it's enough that she's comfortable with quiet (between gabfests) and is a teensy bit mischievous (as in tequila after midnight).
3. The Truth Teller
Intent is what separates the constructive from the abusive. Once you've established that the hard news is spoken in love (not in jealousy or malice), you'd be smart to seek out this woman's perspective.
4. The Girl Who Just Wants to Have Fun
One Saturday a pal and I—and yes, we're both over age 12—pored over every glitter lip gloss in a drugstore aisle for an entire 45 minutes. Forget the crisis download (for that, see the Uplifter); this partnership is about spontaneous good times.
5. The Unlikely Friend
"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive," Anaïs Nin wrote. My friends—some twice my age, others half, some rich, others homeless, some black like me, others Korean, Mexican, Caucasian—have added richness to my life that only variety can bring.
Holiday tipping
If you've made your holiday list and checked it twice, chances are you've still forgotten some folks: the service providers who are expecting holiday tips.
End-of-the-year gratuities can show these folks that you appreciate the work they do for you and thank them for helping your life run more smoothly. This extra cash may help foster loyalty and, in a few instances, prevent future problems.
Find out who you should and should not tip.
End-of-the-year gratuities can show these folks that you appreciate the work they do for you and thank them for helping your life run more smoothly. This extra cash may help foster loyalty and, in a few instances, prevent future problems.
Find out who you should and should not tip.
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