No More Couch Potatoes
You've probably heard the dreary statistics: By the time the average American child enters first grade, he or she has watched more than 5,000 hours of television. By the time kids are 14, they've seen 11,000 murders on TV. And then there are the video game years, when thousands more hours are racked up playing games. Whether you think all of that screen time is downright dangerous or just turning kids into couch potatoes, you probably agree that it's a worry.
We live in such an amazing technological age that it's easy to have the TV on all of the time and not even notice, or have a child glued to a video game and lose track of the hours. But the truth is, to get TV watching and video-game playing under control, the whole family has to become more mindful. Limit the background noise and only turn on the TV when there are certain must-see shows. Make video game rules with daily time limits. This means the adults in the family really shouldn't turn on the TV the minute they walk in the door, or sit in front of the computer playing solitaire for hours. Set a good example. As time goes on, the whole family will start to appreciate and value "quiet time," when each person has time to think, read, or do something nonelectronic.
Establishing age-appropriate guidelines isn't easy, but here are some ideas. Preschool children are bubbling with so much creativity and imagination, they can stay occupied with toys and other activities. Most educators would recommend no video games and keeping TV time to 30 minutes a day, and matching that with as much or more reading-aloud time. Once kids are in elementary school, they may request time to watch TV or play video games. The best solution is to watch and play with your child, planning when you'll watch or play, what, and for how long. Three hours a week is plenty. In the later elementary years, kids have more independence (but also more homework) and should be limited to six or seven hours a week, experts say.
It's easy for children to confuse fact from fiction when it comes to what they're seeing on TV and in the video games they play. Instead of watching TV over dinner, use that precious time to talk with kids about the depictions of on-screen violence versus what happens in real life. Make sure your child is having enough adventures in the real world, which may make the "fake" stuff seem less exciting. Travel to museums and parks and sporting events. If a TV show or video game is on the agenda, try to watch/play together.
There is help out there. Many televisions or cable services allow you to restrict what your children can access on your TV. The TV industry and leading children's advocacy and education organizations, including the National Education Association, have created the TV Parental Guidelines to help you select appropriate programs for your child. And ratings by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) can be found on video game packages.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Wedding planning season
What's hot now? This year, bigger is definitely better, from luxe place settings to statement-making gowns and hairstyles.
By Christa Vagnozzi
Top Wedding Trends for 2008:
Trend 1: Making Split Decisions
Can't decide between a princess ball gown and a sexy mini? Wear both! In 2008, brides will make their guests do a double take by switching up their looks between the ceremony and reception with their gowns and hairstyles -- like an elegant updo for when you recite your vows and switching to natural cascading curls to party. And it's not just the bride that's getting a makeover between acts. Couples are also changing up their palettes with a progression of color throughout the day. Guests arrive to a clean, all-white ceremony, experience a hint of pale hues during the cocktail hour, and then step into an explosion of rich color for the reception.
Trend 2: The Gray Area
Steel gray will replace chocolate brown as the accent color. We absolutely love this soft yet deep hue teamed with butter yellow, bright aqua, rich eggplant, or pale pink. It's so versatile! Introduce the color in your stationery, either in the typeface or paper, and then gradually build it into your reception space by way of slate gray table accents and pewter-toned bridesmaid dresses with a contrasting sash.
Trend 3: A Return to White
In recent years, white has taken a backseat to bold hues like hot pink, orange, and purple. The classic color (or lack thereof) is poised to make a huge comeback in a fresh, modern way. Think tall, glistening glass vases overflowing with crisp arrangements of white phalaenopsis orchids and clouds of soft baby's breath. Also, picture sparkling white cakes covered from top to bottom in miniature fondant blossoms. Palette partner: Rose-colored metallics will add a big dose of sophisticated glamour.
Trend 4: Lush and Luxe
Size does matter. Event designers and brides alike are teaming up to create showstopping floral arrangements, such as those seen during the days of Marie Antoinette. This move toward French opulence means more petals, blossoms, candles -- even feathers! -- as centerpieces go from simple and low to towering and lush. Gilded place settings, brocade linens, and hand-painted invitations complete the elaborate look.
Trend 5: Sample Stations
Self-proclaimed foodies will love this trend: tasting bars for every whim. Sure to be popular, wine and cheese stations are not only delicious, they can be educational as well. We know one couple who hired a professional sommelier to provide pairing pointers. Our favorite is the champagne bar. Just pick your favorite bottles of bubbly and don't forget the mixers, such as Chambord, Midori, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice. Guests will have so much fun making their own signature cocktails.
Trend 6: Vintage Visions
From dresses to rings, brides are revisiting the past for style inspiration. For wedding gowns, that means delicate fabrics like chiffon and tiers of tulle, along with bygone embellishments such as beaded straps, keyhole halters, and lace sleeves. For rings, the hot style for '08 is something vintage. Whether it's simply an antique-style band or a real antique (think your great-grandmother's diamond), what's old is definitely new again.
Trend 7: Guests Make the Call
Need help picking that first dance song? Have your guests vote on it. With wedding websites adding more features like blogs, polls, and quizzes, it's easier than ever to involve your loved ones in the planning and decision making. Blogs are also great for reaching out to your bridesmaids and getting feedback on dress colors, flower options, and decor ideas. We love the idea of setting up wedding polls on your website and asking your guests to vote for their favorite cake flavor, entree choices, or dance music.
More Hot Trends
Green Weddings: Couples continue to be earth-conscious in 2008, from buying conflict-free diamond rings and recycled gold wedding bands to serving locally grown, free-range fare and donning bio-friendly wedding dresses made of 100 percent silk and cottons. They're also honeymooning at eco-resorts and gathering friends for charitable showers at soup kitchens and local park events.
Honeymoon Hopping: By now, it's no secret: Brides and grooms are going big this year for their weddings, and that includes the honeymoon too. Newlyweds are jetting off to not one, but two or three different destinations to celebrate their union. And they're traveling further than ever before. The hot spots: South Pacific jaunts to Tahiti and Bora Bora; Mediterranean getaways to Sicily and the Greek Isles; and African expeditions to Zambia, Botswana, and Johannesburg.
Home-Spun Weddings: For the utmost in personalization, couples are choosing to wed in their own or their parents' backyard. While it may be harder to plan than a ballroom wedding (you'll need to bring in your own caterer, tent, decor, etc.), your day will be truly one-of-a-kind.
Cover Bands: You heard it here first. Cover bands are in demand for 2008. From '80s cover bands to other genres such as classic rock, swing orchestras, or Latin ensembles, it's all about specialized live music to keep guests on their feet.
By Christa Vagnozzi
Top Wedding Trends for 2008:
Trend 1: Making Split Decisions
Can't decide between a princess ball gown and a sexy mini? Wear both! In 2008, brides will make their guests do a double take by switching up their looks between the ceremony and reception with their gowns and hairstyles -- like an elegant updo for when you recite your vows and switching to natural cascading curls to party. And it's not just the bride that's getting a makeover between acts. Couples are also changing up their palettes with a progression of color throughout the day. Guests arrive to a clean, all-white ceremony, experience a hint of pale hues during the cocktail hour, and then step into an explosion of rich color for the reception.
Trend 2: The Gray Area
Steel gray will replace chocolate brown as the accent color. We absolutely love this soft yet deep hue teamed with butter yellow, bright aqua, rich eggplant, or pale pink. It's so versatile! Introduce the color in your stationery, either in the typeface or paper, and then gradually build it into your reception space by way of slate gray table accents and pewter-toned bridesmaid dresses with a contrasting sash.
Trend 3: A Return to White
In recent years, white has taken a backseat to bold hues like hot pink, orange, and purple. The classic color (or lack thereof) is poised to make a huge comeback in a fresh, modern way. Think tall, glistening glass vases overflowing with crisp arrangements of white phalaenopsis orchids and clouds of soft baby's breath. Also, picture sparkling white cakes covered from top to bottom in miniature fondant blossoms. Palette partner: Rose-colored metallics will add a big dose of sophisticated glamour.
Trend 4: Lush and Luxe
Size does matter. Event designers and brides alike are teaming up to create showstopping floral arrangements, such as those seen during the days of Marie Antoinette. This move toward French opulence means more petals, blossoms, candles -- even feathers! -- as centerpieces go from simple and low to towering and lush. Gilded place settings, brocade linens, and hand-painted invitations complete the elaborate look.
Trend 5: Sample Stations
Self-proclaimed foodies will love this trend: tasting bars for every whim. Sure to be popular, wine and cheese stations are not only delicious, they can be educational as well. We know one couple who hired a professional sommelier to provide pairing pointers. Our favorite is the champagne bar. Just pick your favorite bottles of bubbly and don't forget the mixers, such as Chambord, Midori, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice. Guests will have so much fun making their own signature cocktails.
Trend 6: Vintage Visions
From dresses to rings, brides are revisiting the past for style inspiration. For wedding gowns, that means delicate fabrics like chiffon and tiers of tulle, along with bygone embellishments such as beaded straps, keyhole halters, and lace sleeves. For rings, the hot style for '08 is something vintage. Whether it's simply an antique-style band or a real antique (think your great-grandmother's diamond), what's old is definitely new again.
Trend 7: Guests Make the Call
Need help picking that first dance song? Have your guests vote on it. With wedding websites adding more features like blogs, polls, and quizzes, it's easier than ever to involve your loved ones in the planning and decision making. Blogs are also great for reaching out to your bridesmaids and getting feedback on dress colors, flower options, and decor ideas. We love the idea of setting up wedding polls on your website and asking your guests to vote for their favorite cake flavor, entree choices, or dance music.
More Hot Trends
Green Weddings: Couples continue to be earth-conscious in 2008, from buying conflict-free diamond rings and recycled gold wedding bands to serving locally grown, free-range fare and donning bio-friendly wedding dresses made of 100 percent silk and cottons. They're also honeymooning at eco-resorts and gathering friends for charitable showers at soup kitchens and local park events.
Honeymoon Hopping: By now, it's no secret: Brides and grooms are going big this year for their weddings, and that includes the honeymoon too. Newlyweds are jetting off to not one, but two or three different destinations to celebrate their union. And they're traveling further than ever before. The hot spots: South Pacific jaunts to Tahiti and Bora Bora; Mediterranean getaways to Sicily and the Greek Isles; and African expeditions to Zambia, Botswana, and Johannesburg.
Home-Spun Weddings: For the utmost in personalization, couples are choosing to wed in their own or their parents' backyard. While it may be harder to plan than a ballroom wedding (you'll need to bring in your own caterer, tent, decor, etc.), your day will be truly one-of-a-kind.
Cover Bands: You heard it here first. Cover bands are in demand for 2008. From '80s cover bands to other genres such as classic rock, swing orchestras, or Latin ensembles, it's all about specialized live music to keep guests on their feet.
Chew on this
Too Much Sugar-Free Gum Linked to Severe Weight Loss
By Ed Edelson, HealthDay Reporter
HealthDay
Chewing too much sugar-free gum containing the artificial sweetener sorbitol can cause diarrhea leading to potentially dangerous weight loss, German physicians report.
The cases of a 21-year-old woman who suffered diarrhea that caused her to lose about 24 pounds and a 46-year-man who lost approximately 46 pounds because of diarrhea were mysteries until the doctors asked about their chewing habits.
Both were found to be consuming a lot of sorbitol, primarily from chewing gum, said Dr. Herbert Lochs, professor of internal medicine at Humboldt University in Berlin, and one author of the report.
The answer solved the mystery, since heavy consumption of sorbitol has long been associated with a risk of diarrhea, Lochs said.
"There have been case reports earlier, as far back as the 1980s," he said. "These were people who did not have malabsorbtion and malnutrition."
The risk is not as great for consumers in the United States, said Dr. Bret Lashner, a gastroenterologist who is professor of medicine at the Cleveland Clinic, since sorbitol is rarely used in chewing gum here. The preferred artificial sweetener for chewing gum and candy here is aspartame, sold as NutraSweet, Lashner said.
"NutraSweet and saccharin are safe," he said. "Sorbitol is not safe. People should look at the labels to see if they are getting something with sorbitol."
The new findings are published in the Jan. 12 issue of the British Medical Journal.
The two people seen by Lochs and Dr. Juergen Bauditz, a gastroenterologist at the University of Berlin, were consuming sorbitol-containing chewing gum with gusto -- 15 to 20 sticks a day, containing up to 20 grams of the sweetener, for the woman, and 20 sticks of gum and up to 200 grams a day of artificially sweetened candy for the man.
Both were visiting the bathroom 10 or more times a day, and both underwent extensive laboratory testing and physical examinations that left the cause unknown -- until the doctors asked about their chewing habits.
Mystery solved. After the woman stopped chewing gum, she was discharged from the hospital, with just one bowel movement per day. A year later, she had regained 15 pounds. It was the same story for the man -- one bowel movement a day and a weight gain of 11 pounds six months after the gum-chewing ended.
How much sorbitol is safe? It's hard to say, Lochs said. "We thought of trying in a group of healthy people to determine the limit in a majority of cases, but this has not been done yet," he said.
It's not a big issue for the majority of European gum-chewers, Lochs said. "If they don't have symptoms, they should not worry," he said. "If they have diarrhea, they should not chew gum for a while so that the cause can be diagnosed."
American gum-chewers who have diarrhea can mention the habit to their physicians, Lashner said. "Certainly, all doctors are aware of this," he said of the sorbitol connection.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says the danger of diarrhea is associated with consumption of more than 50 grams of sorbitol daily.
By Ed Edelson, HealthDay Reporter
HealthDay
Chewing too much sugar-free gum containing the artificial sweetener sorbitol can cause diarrhea leading to potentially dangerous weight loss, German physicians report.
The cases of a 21-year-old woman who suffered diarrhea that caused her to lose about 24 pounds and a 46-year-man who lost approximately 46 pounds because of diarrhea were mysteries until the doctors asked about their chewing habits.
Both were found to be consuming a lot of sorbitol, primarily from chewing gum, said Dr. Herbert Lochs, professor of internal medicine at Humboldt University in Berlin, and one author of the report.
The answer solved the mystery, since heavy consumption of sorbitol has long been associated with a risk of diarrhea, Lochs said.
"There have been case reports earlier, as far back as the 1980s," he said. "These were people who did not have malabsorbtion and malnutrition."
The risk is not as great for consumers in the United States, said Dr. Bret Lashner, a gastroenterologist who is professor of medicine at the Cleveland Clinic, since sorbitol is rarely used in chewing gum here. The preferred artificial sweetener for chewing gum and candy here is aspartame, sold as NutraSweet, Lashner said.
"NutraSweet and saccharin are safe," he said. "Sorbitol is not safe. People should look at the labels to see if they are getting something with sorbitol."
The new findings are published in the Jan. 12 issue of the British Medical Journal.
The two people seen by Lochs and Dr. Juergen Bauditz, a gastroenterologist at the University of Berlin, were consuming sorbitol-containing chewing gum with gusto -- 15 to 20 sticks a day, containing up to 20 grams of the sweetener, for the woman, and 20 sticks of gum and up to 200 grams a day of artificially sweetened candy for the man.
Both were visiting the bathroom 10 or more times a day, and both underwent extensive laboratory testing and physical examinations that left the cause unknown -- until the doctors asked about their chewing habits.
Mystery solved. After the woman stopped chewing gum, she was discharged from the hospital, with just one bowel movement per day. A year later, she had regained 15 pounds. It was the same story for the man -- one bowel movement a day and a weight gain of 11 pounds six months after the gum-chewing ended.
How much sorbitol is safe? It's hard to say, Lochs said. "We thought of trying in a group of healthy people to determine the limit in a majority of cases, but this has not been done yet," he said.
It's not a big issue for the majority of European gum-chewers, Lochs said. "If they don't have symptoms, they should not worry," he said. "If they have diarrhea, they should not chew gum for a while so that the cause can be diagnosed."
American gum-chewers who have diarrhea can mention the habit to their physicians, Lashner said. "Certainly, all doctors are aware of this," he said of the sorbitol connection.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says the danger of diarrhea is associated with consumption of more than 50 grams of sorbitol daily.
Woof!
The American Kennel Club® announced that the Bulldog, a popular sports team mascot and one of the most recognizable and iconic purebred dogs, has muscled its way into the 10th spot on the organization’s annual list of the most popular breeds in America according to 2007 AKC® registration figures. The Labrador Retriever retains the title of “Top Dog”— a position it has now held for 17 consecutive years.
“This is the first time the Bulldog has made it onto the top ten list since 1935,” said AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson. “This breed appeals to a very wide range of dog lovers so it’s no surprise that it is a favorite amongst AKC’s 157 breeds. The Bulldog is both docile and adaptive, and can thrive in small or large homes. It’s an excellent all-around family pet.”
The Bulldog was first recognized by the AKC in 1886 – just two years after the organization’s founding – and was most popular in 1915* when it peaked in 5th place. The breed’s popularity ebbed and flowed throughout the mid-20th century, but since hitting a low of 41st place in 1973, its ranking has steadily increased.
2007 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.
1. Labrador Retriever
2. Yorkshire Terrier
3. German Shepherd Dog
4. Golden Retriever
5. Beagle
6. Boxer
7. Dachshund
8. Poodle
9. Shih Tzu
10. Bulldog
“This is the first time the Bulldog has made it onto the top ten list since 1935,” said AKC spokesperson Lisa Peterson. “This breed appeals to a very wide range of dog lovers so it’s no surprise that it is a favorite amongst AKC’s 157 breeds. The Bulldog is both docile and adaptive, and can thrive in small or large homes. It’s an excellent all-around family pet.”
The Bulldog was first recognized by the AKC in 1886 – just two years after the organization’s founding – and was most popular in 1915* when it peaked in 5th place. The breed’s popularity ebbed and flowed throughout the mid-20th century, but since hitting a low of 41st place in 1973, its ranking has steadily increased.
2007 Most Popular Dogs in the U.S.
1. Labrador Retriever
2. Yorkshire Terrier
3. German Shepherd Dog
4. Golden Retriever
5. Beagle
6. Boxer
7. Dachshund
8. Poodle
9. Shih Tzu
10. Bulldog
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Don't wine about the price
Apparently, raising the price really does make the wine taste better.
At least that seems to be the result of a taste test. The part of the brain that reacts to a pleasant experience responded more strongly to pricey wines than cheap ones -- even when tasters were given the same vintage in disguise.
Antonio Rangel and colleagues at California Institute of Technology thought the perception that higher price means higher quality could influence people, so they decided to test the idea.
They asked 20 people to sample wine while undergoing functional MRIs of their brain activity. The subjects were told they were tasting five different Cabernet Sauvignons sold at different prices.
However, there were actually only three wines sampled, two being offered twice, marked with different prices.
A $90 wine was provided marked with its real price and again marked $10, while another was presented at its real price of $5 and also marked $45.
The testers' brains showed more pleasure at the higher price than the lower one, even for the same wine, Rangel reports in this week's online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
In other words, changes in the price of the wine changed the actual pleasure experienced by the drinkers, the researchers reported.
On the other hand, when tasters didn't know any price comparisons, they rated the $5 wine as better than any of the others sampled.
"We were shocked," Rangel said in a telephone interview. "I think it was because the flavor was stronger and our subjects were not very experienced."
He added that wine professionals would probably be able to differentiate the better wine -- "one would hope."
"Our results suggest that the brain might compute experienced pleasantness in a much more sophisticated manner that involves integrating the actual sensory properties of the substance being consumed with the expectations about how good it should be," the researchers reported.
Next step: pain.
Rangel wants to see if people perceive pain differently, depending on their expectations. He hopes to administer mild electric shocks to subjects and measure their reaction when told a shock was going to be stronger or weaker.
"We are trying to understand how the brain encodes experiences and what variables can manipulate this," he said. "It helps us understand what it means to be human."
The research was funded by the National Science Foundation and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation
At least that seems to be the result of a taste test. The part of the brain that reacts to a pleasant experience responded more strongly to pricey wines than cheap ones -- even when tasters were given the same vintage in disguise.
Antonio Rangel and colleagues at California Institute of Technology thought the perception that higher price means higher quality could influence people, so they decided to test the idea.
They asked 20 people to sample wine while undergoing functional MRIs of their brain activity. The subjects were told they were tasting five different Cabernet Sauvignons sold at different prices.
However, there were actually only three wines sampled, two being offered twice, marked with different prices.
A $90 wine was provided marked with its real price and again marked $10, while another was presented at its real price of $5 and also marked $45.
The testers' brains showed more pleasure at the higher price than the lower one, even for the same wine, Rangel reports in this week's online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
In other words, changes in the price of the wine changed the actual pleasure experienced by the drinkers, the researchers reported.
On the other hand, when tasters didn't know any price comparisons, they rated the $5 wine as better than any of the others sampled.
"We were shocked," Rangel said in a telephone interview. "I think it was because the flavor was stronger and our subjects were not very experienced."
He added that wine professionals would probably be able to differentiate the better wine -- "one would hope."
"Our results suggest that the brain might compute experienced pleasantness in a much more sophisticated manner that involves integrating the actual sensory properties of the substance being consumed with the expectations about how good it should be," the researchers reported.
Next step: pain.
Rangel wants to see if people perceive pain differently, depending on their expectations. He hopes to administer mild electric shocks to subjects and measure their reaction when told a shock was going to be stronger or weaker.
"We are trying to understand how the brain encodes experiences and what variables can manipulate this," he said. "It helps us understand what it means to be human."
The research was funded by the National Science Foundation and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation
Surviving a nasty neighbor
By E. Bougerol
(LifeWire)
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood -- except your neighbor's not exactly Mr. Rogers. Mr. Rogers wouldn't let his cat use the building's hallways as a litter box.
Tips for coping with bad neighbors before they -- or you -- wind up before a judge (or online).
Five tips for keeping the peace
1. Know your neighbors. Upon moving in, knock on doors, introduce yourself and establish a rapport. That way, when a problem does arise, you'll both want to resolve it peacefully.
2. Bring problems up immediately. Don't delay. The longer you wait, the bigger the problem can get -- literally, in some cases (a new puppy, a tree that blocks your sunlight, an add-on to property).
3. Ask around. Most problems bother more than one neighbor. Gather support to build your case, and consider talking to the offending party as a group.
4. Be nice. Bring your neighbor cookies or a bottle of wine. It sets the stage for an amicable discussion. And if you've been confrontational, apologize. Nothing's more powerful -- and chances are, they'll apologize back.
5. Be proactive. Try to deal with conflict on your own before taking things to the next level. Unless the offense is truly egregious, reporting a neighbor to the police or another relevant agency is the wrong first move.
(LifeWire)
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood -- except your neighbor's not exactly Mr. Rogers. Mr. Rogers wouldn't let his cat use the building's hallways as a litter box.
Tips for coping with bad neighbors before they -- or you -- wind up before a judge (or online).
Five tips for keeping the peace
1. Know your neighbors. Upon moving in, knock on doors, introduce yourself and establish a rapport. That way, when a problem does arise, you'll both want to resolve it peacefully.
2. Bring problems up immediately. Don't delay. The longer you wait, the bigger the problem can get -- literally, in some cases (a new puppy, a tree that blocks your sunlight, an add-on to property).
3. Ask around. Most problems bother more than one neighbor. Gather support to build your case, and consider talking to the offending party as a group.
4. Be nice. Bring your neighbor cookies or a bottle of wine. It sets the stage for an amicable discussion. And if you've been confrontational, apologize. Nothing's more powerful -- and chances are, they'll apologize back.
5. Be proactive. Try to deal with conflict on your own before taking things to the next level. Unless the offense is truly egregious, reporting a neighbor to the police or another relevant agency is the wrong first move.
Deal with your boss
By Anthony Balderrama
Writer, CareerBuilder.com
If you're more excited that your boss is out sick with the flu than you are about your new raise, you're in good company.
In workplaces throughout the country, difficult bosses are ruining morale and making life just downright unpleasant. Whether they refuse to give you time off or they expect you to be their mother, bad bosses can put you in an awkward position.
You need an escape plan when you find yourself in these sticky situations.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Get ready Idol fans!
As we gather in our living rooms for the start of American Idol's seventh season tonight, some of us are wondering: How can Fox keep this show interesting for us?
As for the year that's upon us, there are several points of interest:
• John Sligh, younger brother of curly-topped Chris from season six, auditioned this year, reports the TV Guide Channel's Idol Wrap. (No word on whether he was horrible, dreadful, terrible or even good.)
• Familiar faces in the audition rounds include Derrell and Terrell Brittenum, the Memphis twins who were disqualified in season five due to a run-in with the law. "They let the twins back in!" an Atlanta contestant complained on Idol Wrap. "The credit-card theft twins!" (It was actually identity fraud and forgery, but close enough.) The two thanked "God's grace" for restoring their Idol dreams. At least temporarily.
• In previous years, the main focus of the Hollywood round involved the gang splitting into trios, practicing a song, bickering, backstabbing, learning dance moves, complaining about sleepiness and then performing the tune for the judges. It's not happening this year. No more group numbers, reports the TV Guide Channel. But hopefully they'll still be able to cry about being tired!
• Another Hollywood-round change: This year, contestants were allowed to play an instrument to accompany themselves onstage. Not all were great multitaskers; Mr. Lythgoe recalls one person who attempted to play the drums while belting out a song. "It sounded like a complete nightmare," he reports. "Even Karen Carpenter wasn't that good at doing that."
• The list of guest mentors – a.k.a., celebrities looking for free publicity – will be much shorter this year. (Again, it's about the kids this time around.) Mr. Lythgoe wouldn't name any special guests, but he noted there are two that he's "absolutely thrilled with." (No, not Britney: Although he's a fan of Ms. Spears, he says that at this point, "I don't think she's well enough to do anything.")
• Sorry, America: Sanjaya mania will not be repeated. At least that's what Mr. Lythgoe predicts, "purely and simply because I'm rather hoping that our top 12 is going to be so talented this year."
• "Idol Gives Back" will be back.
So will all of those ridiculously awful auditions. The Idol honchos are convinced that America simply cannot get enough of painful warbling from delusional people. Oh, and Mr. Cowell promises "shockingly bad people this year." Yes. We know the drill.
As for who will be the last Idol standing, Mr. Cowell says he already has a few favorites.
"Luckily, we have three or four very strong guys and very strong girls this year," he says, adding that viewers should get "a more interesting" top 12 than, say, last season.
And speaking of seasons, how many more will the crotchety judge stick around for? He hints that his contract ends two seasons after this one, "which would make it nine in total," he says. "Nine is probably enough to inflict on anyone."
But could the show go on without him? "Absolutely," Mr. Cowell says. "In fact, it could get better.
By DARLA ATLAS
"American Idol" at 8 tonight and Wednesday on channel 7.
As for the year that's upon us, there are several points of interest:
• John Sligh, younger brother of curly-topped Chris from season six, auditioned this year, reports the TV Guide Channel's Idol Wrap. (No word on whether he was horrible, dreadful, terrible or even good.)
• Familiar faces in the audition rounds include Derrell and Terrell Brittenum, the Memphis twins who were disqualified in season five due to a run-in with the law. "They let the twins back in!" an Atlanta contestant complained on Idol Wrap. "The credit-card theft twins!" (It was actually identity fraud and forgery, but close enough.) The two thanked "God's grace" for restoring their Idol dreams. At least temporarily.
• In previous years, the main focus of the Hollywood round involved the gang splitting into trios, practicing a song, bickering, backstabbing, learning dance moves, complaining about sleepiness and then performing the tune for the judges. It's not happening this year. No more group numbers, reports the TV Guide Channel. But hopefully they'll still be able to cry about being tired!
• Another Hollywood-round change: This year, contestants were allowed to play an instrument to accompany themselves onstage. Not all were great multitaskers; Mr. Lythgoe recalls one person who attempted to play the drums while belting out a song. "It sounded like a complete nightmare," he reports. "Even Karen Carpenter wasn't that good at doing that."
• The list of guest mentors – a.k.a., celebrities looking for free publicity – will be much shorter this year. (Again, it's about the kids this time around.) Mr. Lythgoe wouldn't name any special guests, but he noted there are two that he's "absolutely thrilled with." (No, not Britney: Although he's a fan of Ms. Spears, he says that at this point, "I don't think she's well enough to do anything.")
• Sorry, America: Sanjaya mania will not be repeated. At least that's what Mr. Lythgoe predicts, "purely and simply because I'm rather hoping that our top 12 is going to be so talented this year."
• "Idol Gives Back" will be back.
So will all of those ridiculously awful auditions. The Idol honchos are convinced that America simply cannot get enough of painful warbling from delusional people. Oh, and Mr. Cowell promises "shockingly bad people this year." Yes. We know the drill.
As for who will be the last Idol standing, Mr. Cowell says he already has a few favorites.
"Luckily, we have three or four very strong guys and very strong girls this year," he says, adding that viewers should get "a more interesting" top 12 than, say, last season.
And speaking of seasons, how many more will the crotchety judge stick around for? He hints that his contract ends two seasons after this one, "which would make it nine in total," he says. "Nine is probably enough to inflict on anyone."
But could the show go on without him? "Absolutely," Mr. Cowell says. "In fact, it could get better.
By DARLA ATLAS
"American Idol" at 8 tonight and Wednesday on channel 7.
Craving cookies?
I look forward to this time of year. The sale of Girls Scout cookies. My favorites are Thin Mints and Samoas. But I'll take a Do-si-dos anytime. Cookies go on sale this Thursday so stock up and support The Girl Scouts.
Here are the sweet details.
Here are the sweet details.
Water restrictions
CBS4
Starting today, South Florida will be under some of the tightest water restrictions ever imposed by the South Florida Water Management District.
The new modified Phase III restrictions will be in effect from Orlando to the Keys and it will be the first time ever the water district has imposed the severe restrictions uniformly throughout its 16 county territory.
Starting on January 15th, odd numbered addresses will only be allowed to water their lawns on Monday from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m. or 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Even numbered addresses will only be allowed to water their lawns on Thursday from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m. or 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information the restrictions CLICK HERE.
Starting today, South Florida will be under some of the tightest water restrictions ever imposed by the South Florida Water Management District.
The new modified Phase III restrictions will be in effect from Orlando to the Keys and it will be the first time ever the water district has imposed the severe restrictions uniformly throughout its 16 county territory.
Starting on January 15th, odd numbered addresses will only be allowed to water their lawns on Monday from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m. or 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Even numbered addresses will only be allowed to water their lawns on Thursday from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m. or 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information the restrictions CLICK HERE.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Bottoms up
A drink a day for a longer life: study By Michael Kahn
Drinking is healthy, exercise is healthy, and doing a little of both is even healthier, Danish researchers reported on Wednesday.
People who neither drink nor exercise have a 30 to 49 percent higher risk of heart disease than people who do one or both of the activities, the researchers said in the European Heart Journal.
"The main finding is there seems to be an additional beneficial effect of drinking one to two drinks per day and doing at least moderate physical activity," said Morten Gronbaek of the University of Southern Denmark, who led the study.
Several major studies have found that light to moderate drinking -- up to two drinks a day on a regular basis -- is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, and some have also found this leads to a lower risk of some cancers.
But the Danish study, one of the largest of its kind to examine the combined effect of drinking and exercise, found there were additional protective effects gained from doing both.
The researchers collected information on the drinking and exercise habits of nearly 12,000 men and women aged 20 years or older between 1981 and 1983.
Over the next 20 years, some 1,200 of the participants died from heart disease and about 5,900 died from other causes.
Non-drinkers had a 30 percent to 31 percent higher risk of heart disease compared to moderate drinkers, no matter the amount of physical activity they undertook. Moderate consumption was defined as between 1 to 14 drinks per week.
But teetotallers who exercised at least moderately were able to reduce their risk of heart disease, an important finding for people who abstain because of religious beliefs or other health issues such as pregnancy, the researchers said.
People who had the lowest risk of dying from any cause were physically active, moderate drinkers while those at highest risk were the physically inactive, heavy drinkers, the study found.
Drinking is healthy, exercise is healthy, and doing a little of both is even healthier, Danish researchers reported on Wednesday.
People who neither drink nor exercise have a 30 to 49 percent higher risk of heart disease than people who do one or both of the activities, the researchers said in the European Heart Journal.
"The main finding is there seems to be an additional beneficial effect of drinking one to two drinks per day and doing at least moderate physical activity," said Morten Gronbaek of the University of Southern Denmark, who led the study.
Several major studies have found that light to moderate drinking -- up to two drinks a day on a regular basis -- is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, and some have also found this leads to a lower risk of some cancers.
But the Danish study, one of the largest of its kind to examine the combined effect of drinking and exercise, found there were additional protective effects gained from doing both.
The researchers collected information on the drinking and exercise habits of nearly 12,000 men and women aged 20 years or older between 1981 and 1983.
Over the next 20 years, some 1,200 of the participants died from heart disease and about 5,900 died from other causes.
Non-drinkers had a 30 percent to 31 percent higher risk of heart disease compared to moderate drinkers, no matter the amount of physical activity they undertook. Moderate consumption was defined as between 1 to 14 drinks per week.
But teetotallers who exercised at least moderately were able to reduce their risk of heart disease, an important finding for people who abstain because of religious beliefs or other health issues such as pregnancy, the researchers said.
People who had the lowest risk of dying from any cause were physically active, moderate drinkers while those at highest risk were the physically inactive, heavy drinkers, the study found.
Custom hormones
FDA cracks down on custom-made hormones
By RANDOLPH E. SCHMID, AP Science Writer
Government health officials on Wednesday began cracking down on Internet sales of custom-mixed hormones for menopausal women, a market born when doctors deemed prescription estrogen therapy too risky for many.
But the Food and Drug Administration says these alternative hormone mixes are no safer, and told seven makers to stop selling them.
The FDA said it sent warning letters to the companies saying their claims about the "bio-identical hormone replacement therapy" or BHRT products are not supported by medical evidence and are considered false and misleading.
"We want to assure that Americans receive accurate information about the risks and benefits of drug therapies," Dr. Janet Woodcock, FDA's chief medical officer, said in a statement.
The agency said it is concerned that the claims for safety and effectiveness mislead patients, as well as doctors and other health care professionals.
Compounded drugs are not reviewed by the FDA for safety and effectiveness, and FDA encourages patients to use FDA-approved drugs whenever possible, the agency said.
The warning letters say the pharmacy operations violate federal law by making false and misleading claims about their hormone therapy drugs.
Following a 2002 study that found replacement hormones made by drug companies raised the risk of heart attacks, breast cancer and strokes, many women turned to the estrogen, progesterone and testosterone products sold by compounding pharmacies.
Medical researchers concluded in 2003 that hormone replacement pills should be taken only as a brief treatment to help women weather the worst symptoms of menopause.
The drug company Wyeth later complained to the FDA about the Internet sales of compounded products.
By RANDOLPH E. SCHMID, AP Science Writer
Government health officials on Wednesday began cracking down on Internet sales of custom-mixed hormones for menopausal women, a market born when doctors deemed prescription estrogen therapy too risky for many.
But the Food and Drug Administration says these alternative hormone mixes are no safer, and told seven makers to stop selling them.
The FDA said it sent warning letters to the companies saying their claims about the "bio-identical hormone replacement therapy" or BHRT products are not supported by medical evidence and are considered false and misleading.
"We want to assure that Americans receive accurate information about the risks and benefits of drug therapies," Dr. Janet Woodcock, FDA's chief medical officer, said in a statement.
The agency said it is concerned that the claims for safety and effectiveness mislead patients, as well as doctors and other health care professionals.
Compounded drugs are not reviewed by the FDA for safety and effectiveness, and FDA encourages patients to use FDA-approved drugs whenever possible, the agency said.
The warning letters say the pharmacy operations violate federal law by making false and misleading claims about their hormone therapy drugs.
Following a 2002 study that found replacement hormones made by drug companies raised the risk of heart attacks, breast cancer and strokes, many women turned to the estrogen, progesterone and testosterone products sold by compounding pharmacies.
Medical researchers concluded in 2003 that hormone replacement pills should be taken only as a brief treatment to help women weather the worst symptoms of menopause.
The drug company Wyeth later complained to the FDA about the Internet sales of compounded products.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Where the boys are
10 offbeat places to meet guys
By Lisa Lombardi
Heard about the woman who met an amazing guy browsing placemats at Williams-Sonoma? Us neither. Fact is, dating is an odds game—if you want to meet a guy, you’ve gotta go where the boys are. Here, in no particular order, are 10 surprising hot spots. But keep in mind that you can find someone practically anywhere, so don’t overlook the guys you whiz by every day as you pick up your dry cleaning, add cinnamon to your latte or scarf down your sandwich at your cubicle. As Steve Santagati, author of the book The Manual, puts it: “There’s probably a guy within 10 feet of you checking you out right now.”
1. Your local hardware store
If Flip This House has taught us anything, it’s this: Cute Homeowning Guys Do Their Own Renovations! (And save a bundle in the process.) Your neighborhood hardware joint is a hangout for not just handy condo-owning types, but all guys—even the ones whose last big project was the pig-shaped cutting board they made for Mom in eighth-grade shop class. “Being surrounded by tools brings out any man’s masculine side,” explains Patrick Carone, an editor at Maxim magazine. “Added bonus—if you go alone, you’re pretty much letting him know you don’t have a man in your life.” Ask for his advice on a DIY project (“Do I need special hooks to hang a giant mirror?”). Whatever you do, “don’t introduce yourself,” advises Santagati. “Just go up and start talking as if you know him.” Because now you do.
2. The driving range, early on Saturday afternoon
Used to be, you’d only find two types golfing: guys over 50, and guys who dress like they’re over 50. These days, though, it isn’t just your dad’s cardiologist teeing off: Cute non-prepped-out guys are hitting the links en masse. Don’t feel like killing 18 hours at an actual golf course? Luckily, hitting balls at the driving range is a quicker way to sink a Saturday night date. “At a driving range, you’re close to the other golfers, making it easy to fall into conversation,” points out Carone. And when you go after lunch you’re more likely to find guys who just want to hit balls for fun (scary serious-golfer dudes show up at the range in the late afternoon, after they’ve finished their regular round of golf). How to spark something? Just ask the cutest golfer in the immediately vicinity if he can show you how to hold the club. “Voilà, he’s got his arms around you already,” says Carone.
3. Jury duty
So you think the only men in the jury pool are ones who weren’t bright enough to get out of jury duty? Linda Barlow, of Warrington, PA, begs to differ. “I met my husband Bruce at jury duty,” Linda says. He asked her to lunch; she said no, but quickly reconsidered because he didn’t seem like an axe-murderer. “I always tell my girlfriends who complain about getting jury duty that it’s a great place to meet men,” she notes. And all that waiting makes it a natural hook-up spot: “The guys are bored and thinking about women,” promises Santagati. That means making one small move (from “Hey, any interest in the other half of my muffin?” to “Want a section of my paper?”) can reap a big romance payoff. And, as Linda and Bruce can attest, you can’t fail with, “Know where to get Chinese/Thai/good sandwiches around here?”
4. Improv class
Why? They’re jam-packed with men, for one. (Which sex loves Second City and consistently stays up for Conan? The men.) Two: The class is all about interaction, notes Carone, so you don’t have to think up cheesy lines (like, “Who’s your favorite comedian?”) to start a conversation. Not to mention, the nature of spontaneous ad-libbing gives you a chance to see if you two have Bogart-Bacall chemistry, says Debbie Magids, Ph.D., author of All the Good Ones Aren’t Taken. By the time your first date rolls around, don’t be surprised if you feel like you’ve known each other since back when Saturday Night Live was funny. “You are opening up to parts of yourself that are hard to get to, and it could really make for a true connection,” says Dr. Magids.
5. A store’s flat-screen TV section
Have you noticed that every guy is in the market for a plasma TV? “Single guys between 18 and 34 are much more likely than the general population to say they plan on buying a plasma TV,” confirms Carone. So he already has one? He wants a bigger one! So he can’t even afford an iPod? He heard the prices are dropping fast! Next time you’re in Best Buy or WalMart, swing by the stupidly-big TV aisles and do a little shopping of your own. If you want to strike up a conversation, say, “What’s the first movie you’d watch on that?” His answer could be a deal-breaker (think: Big Momma’s House 2) or a deal-sealer (insert name of obscure movie you love here).
6. The blackjack or craps table
“This is the absolute best place to meet,” says Santagati. “Everyone’s close to each other and having fun.” And few guys can resist a woman who knows her way around the real games. “Slots are for old ladies,” adds Carone. “When a man sees a girl at the craps table who’s doing more than just blowing on dice, he takes note. And if you roll and double his money, he’ll be in love.” Just please don’t blow the rent money, OK?
7. In line at the DMV
At first thought, this doesn’t seem like the optimal place to meet your soul mate. Almost everyone’s cranky, the lighting is horrible and filling out 70 forms doesn’t leave you much time to flirt. But the DMV is actually a great place to guy hunt. Here’s why: If a man can stay good-natured and polite even though he has 800 people in front of him and just waited half-an-hour in the wrong line, he’s a good guy. Actually, lines in general are underrated: Eva Pereira, 31, met her husband, Ron, 33, buying coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts. He asked her if she was following him (she had parked next to him, then ended up behind him on line). This made her laugh. “We spent the next hour drinking our coffees and chatting,” she says. “We’ve been together ever since.”
8. The nearest bar to the sports arena after a big game
“Sometimes, numbers count,” says Dr. Magids. “The more men you meet, the better shot you have of finding the one.” Where can you be guaranteed to find guys in bulk? At the closest pub to your local sports arena. (It must be the closest one, because guys in search of a post-game beer don’t walk far). “This is a great place to find men in partying mode,” says Dr. Magids. If their team won, you know they’ll be in a great mood. And if they lost, you’ll be a welcome distraction—just don’t say, “It’s only a game!”
9. Sam Ash (or another musical instrument store)
If you have a thing for brooding band guys, hit up your local instrument store. Bonus: the guy-girl ratio tends to be more favorable than Alaska, so you don’t have to sweat the competition. “Many women compare and contrast constantly, and when they have a lot of competition they wipe themselves out from the game,” says Dr. Magids. “Without that element, you can just be yourself.” Don’t worry if you haven’t picked up an instrument since the 4th grade. “See if he’ll play a chord from your favorite Fall Out Boy song,” suggest Carone. “Even if he can’t, it’ll lead to a rocking conversation.”
10. Frequent-flyer lounge in your hometown airport
First off, you know he isn’t an international terrorist (thanks, security check!). But there are other perks to mingling in the VIP lounge. It’s easy to strike up a conversation because you have “an easy opening topic,” notes Dr. Magids. “Where are you going? Then you can start talking about where you have traveled in the past. Also, if there is a delay, people naturally start to commiserate.” So he’s not in the VIP area? Go ahead and board, because Passenger Right may be seated right next to you, which is the serendipitous situation Vanessa Ton found herself in on a flight from Detroit to her home base of Los Angeles. “We talked for four hours straight, about everything,” she reports. “Now he’s moving to L.A. to be near me.” Memo to airlines: Make that perk standard, and you’ll all get out of chapter-whatever-it’s-called fast.
Lisa Lombardi has written for Marie Claire, Glamour, Maxim and other magazines. She met her husband in a job interview.
By Lisa Lombardi
Heard about the woman who met an amazing guy browsing placemats at Williams-Sonoma? Us neither. Fact is, dating is an odds game—if you want to meet a guy, you’ve gotta go where the boys are. Here, in no particular order, are 10 surprising hot spots. But keep in mind that you can find someone practically anywhere, so don’t overlook the guys you whiz by every day as you pick up your dry cleaning, add cinnamon to your latte or scarf down your sandwich at your cubicle. As Steve Santagati, author of the book The Manual, puts it: “There’s probably a guy within 10 feet of you checking you out right now.”
1. Your local hardware store
If Flip This House has taught us anything, it’s this: Cute Homeowning Guys Do Their Own Renovations! (And save a bundle in the process.) Your neighborhood hardware joint is a hangout for not just handy condo-owning types, but all guys—even the ones whose last big project was the pig-shaped cutting board they made for Mom in eighth-grade shop class. “Being surrounded by tools brings out any man’s masculine side,” explains Patrick Carone, an editor at Maxim magazine. “Added bonus—if you go alone, you’re pretty much letting him know you don’t have a man in your life.” Ask for his advice on a DIY project (“Do I need special hooks to hang a giant mirror?”). Whatever you do, “don’t introduce yourself,” advises Santagati. “Just go up and start talking as if you know him.” Because now you do.
2. The driving range, early on Saturday afternoon
Used to be, you’d only find two types golfing: guys over 50, and guys who dress like they’re over 50. These days, though, it isn’t just your dad’s cardiologist teeing off: Cute non-prepped-out guys are hitting the links en masse. Don’t feel like killing 18 hours at an actual golf course? Luckily, hitting balls at the driving range is a quicker way to sink a Saturday night date. “At a driving range, you’re close to the other golfers, making it easy to fall into conversation,” points out Carone. And when you go after lunch you’re more likely to find guys who just want to hit balls for fun (scary serious-golfer dudes show up at the range in the late afternoon, after they’ve finished their regular round of golf). How to spark something? Just ask the cutest golfer in the immediately vicinity if he can show you how to hold the club. “Voilà, he’s got his arms around you already,” says Carone.
3. Jury duty
So you think the only men in the jury pool are ones who weren’t bright enough to get out of jury duty? Linda Barlow, of Warrington, PA, begs to differ. “I met my husband Bruce at jury duty,” Linda says. He asked her to lunch; she said no, but quickly reconsidered because he didn’t seem like an axe-murderer. “I always tell my girlfriends who complain about getting jury duty that it’s a great place to meet men,” she notes. And all that waiting makes it a natural hook-up spot: “The guys are bored and thinking about women,” promises Santagati. That means making one small move (from “Hey, any interest in the other half of my muffin?” to “Want a section of my paper?”) can reap a big romance payoff. And, as Linda and Bruce can attest, you can’t fail with, “Know where to get Chinese/Thai/good sandwiches around here?”
4. Improv class
Why? They’re jam-packed with men, for one. (Which sex loves Second City and consistently stays up for Conan? The men.) Two: The class is all about interaction, notes Carone, so you don’t have to think up cheesy lines (like, “Who’s your favorite comedian?”) to start a conversation. Not to mention, the nature of spontaneous ad-libbing gives you a chance to see if you two have Bogart-Bacall chemistry, says Debbie Magids, Ph.D., author of All the Good Ones Aren’t Taken. By the time your first date rolls around, don’t be surprised if you feel like you’ve known each other since back when Saturday Night Live was funny. “You are opening up to parts of yourself that are hard to get to, and it could really make for a true connection,” says Dr. Magids.
5. A store’s flat-screen TV section
Have you noticed that every guy is in the market for a plasma TV? “Single guys between 18 and 34 are much more likely than the general population to say they plan on buying a plasma TV,” confirms Carone. So he already has one? He wants a bigger one! So he can’t even afford an iPod? He heard the prices are dropping fast! Next time you’re in Best Buy or WalMart, swing by the stupidly-big TV aisles and do a little shopping of your own. If you want to strike up a conversation, say, “What’s the first movie you’d watch on that?” His answer could be a deal-breaker (think: Big Momma’s House 2) or a deal-sealer (insert name of obscure movie you love here).
6. The blackjack or craps table
“This is the absolute best place to meet,” says Santagati. “Everyone’s close to each other and having fun.” And few guys can resist a woman who knows her way around the real games. “Slots are for old ladies,” adds Carone. “When a man sees a girl at the craps table who’s doing more than just blowing on dice, he takes note. And if you roll and double his money, he’ll be in love.” Just please don’t blow the rent money, OK?
7. In line at the DMV
At first thought, this doesn’t seem like the optimal place to meet your soul mate. Almost everyone’s cranky, the lighting is horrible and filling out 70 forms doesn’t leave you much time to flirt. But the DMV is actually a great place to guy hunt. Here’s why: If a man can stay good-natured and polite even though he has 800 people in front of him and just waited half-an-hour in the wrong line, he’s a good guy. Actually, lines in general are underrated: Eva Pereira, 31, met her husband, Ron, 33, buying coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts. He asked her if she was following him (she had parked next to him, then ended up behind him on line). This made her laugh. “We spent the next hour drinking our coffees and chatting,” she says. “We’ve been together ever since.”
8. The nearest bar to the sports arena after a big game
“Sometimes, numbers count,” says Dr. Magids. “The more men you meet, the better shot you have of finding the one.” Where can you be guaranteed to find guys in bulk? At the closest pub to your local sports arena. (It must be the closest one, because guys in search of a post-game beer don’t walk far). “This is a great place to find men in partying mode,” says Dr. Magids. If their team won, you know they’ll be in a great mood. And if they lost, you’ll be a welcome distraction—just don’t say, “It’s only a game!”
9. Sam Ash (or another musical instrument store)
If you have a thing for brooding band guys, hit up your local instrument store. Bonus: the guy-girl ratio tends to be more favorable than Alaska, so you don’t have to sweat the competition. “Many women compare and contrast constantly, and when they have a lot of competition they wipe themselves out from the game,” says Dr. Magids. “Without that element, you can just be yourself.” Don’t worry if you haven’t picked up an instrument since the 4th grade. “See if he’ll play a chord from your favorite Fall Out Boy song,” suggest Carone. “Even if he can’t, it’ll lead to a rocking conversation.”
10. Frequent-flyer lounge in your hometown airport
First off, you know he isn’t an international terrorist (thanks, security check!). But there are other perks to mingling in the VIP lounge. It’s easy to strike up a conversation because you have “an easy opening topic,” notes Dr. Magids. “Where are you going? Then you can start talking about where you have traveled in the past. Also, if there is a delay, people naturally start to commiserate.” So he’s not in the VIP area? Go ahead and board, because Passenger Right may be seated right next to you, which is the serendipitous situation Vanessa Ton found herself in on a flight from Detroit to her home base of Los Angeles. “We talked for four hours straight, about everything,” she reports. “Now he’s moving to L.A. to be near me.” Memo to airlines: Make that perk standard, and you’ll all get out of chapter-whatever-it’s-called fast.
Lisa Lombardi has written for Marie Claire, Glamour, Maxim and other magazines. She met her husband in a job interview.
Play Jeopardy
Get your brain sharpen to a razors edge!
The JEOPARDY! Brain Bus is a fun-filled event that offers prizes, personal appearances by the Clue Crew and even gives you the chance to try out for the show.
Upcoming Brain Bus Events
MIAMI EVENT
Date: Saturday, January 12, 2008
Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Gulfstream Park
Sport of Kings Room (2nd Floor)
901 S. Federal Highway
Hallandale, FL 33009
The JEOPARDY! Brain Bus is a fun-filled event that offers prizes, personal appearances by the Clue Crew and even gives you the chance to try out for the show.
Upcoming Brain Bus Events
MIAMI EVENT
Date: Saturday, January 12, 2008
Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Location: Gulfstream Park
Sport of Kings Room (2nd Floor)
901 S. Federal Highway
Hallandale, FL 33009
Keep it in the vault
WHAT NOT TO DISCUSS WITH YOUR CO-WORKERS
(CareerBuilder.com)
Salary information: What you earn is between you and Human Resources. Disclosure indicates you aren't capable of keeping a confidence.
Medical history: Nobody really cares about your aches and pains, your latest operation, your infertility woes or the contents of your medicine cabinet. To your employer, your constant medical issues make you seem like an expensive, high-risk employee.
Gossip: Whomever you're gossiping with will undoubtedly tell others what you said. Plus, if a co-worker is gossiping with you, most likely he or she will gossip about you.
Work complaints: Constant complaints about your workload, stress levels or the company will quickly make you the kind of person who never gets invited to lunch. If you don't agree with company policies and procedures, address it through official channels or move on.
Cost of purchases: The spirit of keeping up with the Joneses is alive and well in the workplace, but you don't want others speculating on the lifestyle you're living -- or if you're living beyond your salary bracket.
Intimate details: Don't share intimate details about your personal life. Co-workers can and will use the information against you.
Politics or religion: People have strong, passionate views on both topics. You may alienate a co-worker or be viewed negatively in a way that could impact your career.
Lifestyle changes: Breakups, divorces and baby-making plans should be shared only if there is a need to know. Otherwise, others will speak for your capabilities, desires and limitations on availability, whether there is any truth to their assumptions or not.
Blogs or social networking profile: What you say in a social networking community or in your personal blog may be even more damaging than what you say in person. Comments online can be seen by multiple eyes. An outburst of anger when you are having a bad day can blow up in your face.
Negative views of colleagues: If you don't agree with a co-worker's lifestyle, wardrobe or professional abilities, confront that person privately or keep it to yourself. The workplace is not the venue for controversy.
Hangovers and wild weekends: It's perfectly fine to have fun during the weekend, but don't talk about your wild adventures on Monday,. That information can make you look unprofessional and unreliable.
Personal problems and relationships - in and out of the office: Failed marriages and volatile romances spell instability to an employer. Office romances lead to gossip and broken hearts, so it's best to steer clear.
Off-color or racially-charged comments: You can assume your co-worker wouldn't be offended or would think something is funny, but you might be wrong. Never take that risk. Furthermore, even if you know for certain your colleague wouldn't mind your comment, don't talk about it at work. Others can easily overhear.
(CareerBuilder.com)
Salary information: What you earn is between you and Human Resources. Disclosure indicates you aren't capable of keeping a confidence.
Medical history: Nobody really cares about your aches and pains, your latest operation, your infertility woes or the contents of your medicine cabinet. To your employer, your constant medical issues make you seem like an expensive, high-risk employee.
Gossip: Whomever you're gossiping with will undoubtedly tell others what you said. Plus, if a co-worker is gossiping with you, most likely he or she will gossip about you.
Work complaints: Constant complaints about your workload, stress levels or the company will quickly make you the kind of person who never gets invited to lunch. If you don't agree with company policies and procedures, address it through official channels or move on.
Cost of purchases: The spirit of keeping up with the Joneses is alive and well in the workplace, but you don't want others speculating on the lifestyle you're living -- or if you're living beyond your salary bracket.
Intimate details: Don't share intimate details about your personal life. Co-workers can and will use the information against you.
Politics or religion: People have strong, passionate views on both topics. You may alienate a co-worker or be viewed negatively in a way that could impact your career.
Lifestyle changes: Breakups, divorces and baby-making plans should be shared only if there is a need to know. Otherwise, others will speak for your capabilities, desires and limitations on availability, whether there is any truth to their assumptions or not.
Blogs or social networking profile: What you say in a social networking community or in your personal blog may be even more damaging than what you say in person. Comments online can be seen by multiple eyes. An outburst of anger when you are having a bad day can blow up in your face.
Negative views of colleagues: If you don't agree with a co-worker's lifestyle, wardrobe or professional abilities, confront that person privately or keep it to yourself. The workplace is not the venue for controversy.
Hangovers and wild weekends: It's perfectly fine to have fun during the weekend, but don't talk about your wild adventures on Monday,. That information can make you look unprofessional and unreliable.
Personal problems and relationships - in and out of the office: Failed marriages and volatile romances spell instability to an employer. Office romances lead to gossip and broken hearts, so it's best to steer clear.
Off-color or racially-charged comments: You can assume your co-worker wouldn't be offended or would think something is funny, but you might be wrong. Never take that risk. Furthermore, even if you know for certain your colleague wouldn't mind your comment, don't talk about it at work. Others can easily overhear.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Lighten your load
(CBS4)
A recent study discovered that today's women carry twice as much in their handbags as their mothers did.
While previous generations might have carried a wallet, lipstick, and keys, today's women frequently carry everything from cell phones to bottled water.
And even though big handbags are the latest rage, enabling women to carry lots of stuff, they could cause significant health problems.
Joanna Coles highlighted those problems in Marie Claire magazine.
Coles, the magazine's editor in chief, discussed the situation on "The Early Show" on Monday.
Today's woman is often "super-woman" - mom, partner, business person, host, friend, and more. She isn't leading the life of yester-year. Her life, like her purse, is over-crowded and full. And she "needs" and "wants" a large purse.
Designers conscious of this have turned out some amazing oversized bags and have turned them into the "it" bag.
In general, what makes these bags weigh a lot is the thickness of the leather, the hardware, and even the interior pockets' lining. These are things to watch out for when purchasing a bag. One of the drawbacks about the designer bags is that many of the more expensive ones have more ornate detailing or thicker leather, and so are considerably heavier.
Celebrities have grabbed hold of the trend. Take Nicole Richie, for instance: Half the time, you're not sure who's bigger or weighs more - her or her bag.
Since large handbags are fashionable, with bargain brands and expensive labels alike offering the bulky bags, and since they're roomy, they can tempt women to carry along those extra sneakers to walk on a lunch break, an umbrella in case of a sudden shower, or even a stock of snacks or a bottle of water.
But, says Coles, just because the space is there doesn't mean women really need to use all of it.
Trouble is - a cool accessory is turning into muscle mayhem.
Many women are complaining of neck, shoulder and back pain. Physical therapists claim an aggravated neck or shoulder can lead to upper-back problems, from which pain can be felt long after the purse is back on the coat rack. The pain can be felt, they explain, while playing sports, exercising, or even working at the computer.
Other symptoms that your bag is too heavy and creating problems could include tingling fingers and headaches.
Experts suggest avoiding bags that weigh more than three pounds, and say the ideal bag should weigh two pounds, total - yes - total! That doesn't seem possible, partially because most of the new, fashionable bags weigh more than three pounds empty!
The absolute maximum should be no more than 10 percent of your body weight, experts emphasize which would mean, for instance, a maximum of 13 pounds if you weigh 130 pounds.
If you have to follow the trend, Coles say, try to buy a big bag, made from light material. Also, experts say to try exercising and stretching your neck throughout the day. Try to avoid overloading your bag. You don't need your entire kitchen sink with you! And try to change the shoulder on which you carry your big bag every ten-to-15 minutes if you're walking around.
A recent study discovered that today's women carry twice as much in their handbags as their mothers did.
While previous generations might have carried a wallet, lipstick, and keys, today's women frequently carry everything from cell phones to bottled water.
And even though big handbags are the latest rage, enabling women to carry lots of stuff, they could cause significant health problems.
Joanna Coles highlighted those problems in Marie Claire magazine.
Coles, the magazine's editor in chief, discussed the situation on "The Early Show" on Monday.
Today's woman is often "super-woman" - mom, partner, business person, host, friend, and more. She isn't leading the life of yester-year. Her life, like her purse, is over-crowded and full. And she "needs" and "wants" a large purse.
Designers conscious of this have turned out some amazing oversized bags and have turned them into the "it" bag.
In general, what makes these bags weigh a lot is the thickness of the leather, the hardware, and even the interior pockets' lining. These are things to watch out for when purchasing a bag. One of the drawbacks about the designer bags is that many of the more expensive ones have more ornate detailing or thicker leather, and so are considerably heavier.
Celebrities have grabbed hold of the trend. Take Nicole Richie, for instance: Half the time, you're not sure who's bigger or weighs more - her or her bag.
Since large handbags are fashionable, with bargain brands and expensive labels alike offering the bulky bags, and since they're roomy, they can tempt women to carry along those extra sneakers to walk on a lunch break, an umbrella in case of a sudden shower, or even a stock of snacks or a bottle of water.
But, says Coles, just because the space is there doesn't mean women really need to use all of it.
Trouble is - a cool accessory is turning into muscle mayhem.
Many women are complaining of neck, shoulder and back pain. Physical therapists claim an aggravated neck or shoulder can lead to upper-back problems, from which pain can be felt long after the purse is back on the coat rack. The pain can be felt, they explain, while playing sports, exercising, or even working at the computer.
Other symptoms that your bag is too heavy and creating problems could include tingling fingers and headaches.
Experts suggest avoiding bags that weigh more than three pounds, and say the ideal bag should weigh two pounds, total - yes - total! That doesn't seem possible, partially because most of the new, fashionable bags weigh more than three pounds empty!
The absolute maximum should be no more than 10 percent of your body weight, experts emphasize which would mean, for instance, a maximum of 13 pounds if you weigh 130 pounds.
If you have to follow the trend, Coles say, try to buy a big bag, made from light material. Also, experts say to try exercising and stretching your neck throughout the day. Try to avoid overloading your bag. You don't need your entire kitchen sink with you! And try to change the shoulder on which you carry your big bag every ten-to-15 minutes if you're walking around.
The healthy hair diet
Healthy Diet Is Key To Healthy Hair
You know the line, "You are what you eat"?
Your hair reacts strongly to what you consume.
On "The Early Show" Wednesday, dietitian Keri Glassman offered the recipe for healthy, good-looking hair - and fewer bad hair days - by tending toward certain foods and avoiding others.
Glassman says people may not realize that their diet affects their hair, but it does! Hair can look old just like skin can look old.
Everyone wants their hair to look shiny and fresh - and diet could help in that regard, Glassman points out.
FOR STRONG/FAST GROWING HAIR
Protein: a building block of hair (meat, fish, eggs)
B12: prevents hair loss (meat, eggs, fish, yogurt)
Iron: prevents hair loss
Calcium: essential for hair growth (yogurt, milk)
Biotin: Helps produce keratin; may prevent graying and hair loss (wheat germ, brewers yeast, organ meats, oatmeal, egg yolk, soy, mushrooms, bananas, peanuts)
Silica: strengthens hair, prevents hair loss (sunflower seeds, peanuts, almonds, strawberries)
Choose: lean beef, eggs, chicken, yogurt, asparagus, Swiss chard, almonds, brown rice, cumin, tumeric
FOR SHINY HAIR
Omega 3 fatty acids: encourage re-growth and prevent hair loss (salmon, walnuts, flaxseed)
Vitamin A: helps produce healthy sebum in scalp (carrots, Swiss chard, cantaloupe)
Vitamin C: maintains scalp health
Selenium: keeps skin and scalp supple and elastic (tuna, turkey)
Choose: wild salmon, tuna, sardines, walnuts, brazil nuts, beets, broccoli, carrots, berries, melons, flaxseed,
FOR DRY HAIR
Iodine: prevents dry hair, hair loss (bowl of salt)
Vitamin A: helps produce healthy sebum in scalp
Vitamin E: enhances scalp circulation (almonds, green leafy veggies, avocado)
Zinc: prevents dry hair (oysters, poultry, meat, beans, nuts, and dairy, coconut)
Choose: water, seaweed, green vegetables, olive oil, avocado, mushrooms, sunflower seeds, kelp, iodized salt, garlic
FOR ENHANCED COLOR HAIR (NON-GRAYING HAIR)
Vitamin B5: prevents graying, hair loss (eggs, brewers yeast, liver, milk, sunflower seeds, peas, peanuts, beans, broccoli, bananas, mushrooms, wheat germ)
Vitamin B6: helps create melanin, which gives hair its color (wheat germ, baked potato, garbanzo beans, chicken, spinach, red meat)
Choose: coconut, brewer's yeast, milk, eggs, shellfish, liver
GENERAL TIPS
Stay hydrated; water is best.
Choose whole, natural, fresh foods
Focus on getting five-plus servings of fruits and vegetables per day
A balance of protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals is key
Avoid processed, packaged foods
Take a multivitamin and omega-3 supplement
Get adequate sleep
Keep stress levels low
Damaging to hair:
Caffeinated beverages: coffee, soda, etc.
Low-protein diet
Vitamin/mineral deficiencies
Refined sugars
Processed foods with preservative, high salt content
Transfats, saturated fats
Excess amount of vitamins, minerals - be careful with supplements
Lack of sleep
You know the line, "You are what you eat"?
Your hair reacts strongly to what you consume.
On "The Early Show" Wednesday, dietitian Keri Glassman offered the recipe for healthy, good-looking hair - and fewer bad hair days - by tending toward certain foods and avoiding others.
Glassman says people may not realize that their diet affects their hair, but it does! Hair can look old just like skin can look old.
Everyone wants their hair to look shiny and fresh - and diet could help in that regard, Glassman points out.
FOR STRONG/FAST GROWING HAIR
Protein: a building block of hair (meat, fish, eggs)
B12: prevents hair loss (meat, eggs, fish, yogurt)
Iron: prevents hair loss
Calcium: essential for hair growth (yogurt, milk)
Biotin: Helps produce keratin; may prevent graying and hair loss (wheat germ, brewers yeast, organ meats, oatmeal, egg yolk, soy, mushrooms, bananas, peanuts)
Silica: strengthens hair, prevents hair loss (sunflower seeds, peanuts, almonds, strawberries)
Choose: lean beef, eggs, chicken, yogurt, asparagus, Swiss chard, almonds, brown rice, cumin, tumeric
FOR SHINY HAIR
Omega 3 fatty acids: encourage re-growth and prevent hair loss (salmon, walnuts, flaxseed)
Vitamin A: helps produce healthy sebum in scalp (carrots, Swiss chard, cantaloupe)
Vitamin C: maintains scalp health
Selenium: keeps skin and scalp supple and elastic (tuna, turkey)
Choose: wild salmon, tuna, sardines, walnuts, brazil nuts, beets, broccoli, carrots, berries, melons, flaxseed,
FOR DRY HAIR
Iodine: prevents dry hair, hair loss (bowl of salt)
Vitamin A: helps produce healthy sebum in scalp
Vitamin E: enhances scalp circulation (almonds, green leafy veggies, avocado)
Zinc: prevents dry hair (oysters, poultry, meat, beans, nuts, and dairy, coconut)
Choose: water, seaweed, green vegetables, olive oil, avocado, mushrooms, sunflower seeds, kelp, iodized salt, garlic
FOR ENHANCED COLOR HAIR (NON-GRAYING HAIR)
Vitamin B5: prevents graying, hair loss (eggs, brewers yeast, liver, milk, sunflower seeds, peas, peanuts, beans, broccoli, bananas, mushrooms, wheat germ)
Vitamin B6: helps create melanin, which gives hair its color (wheat germ, baked potato, garbanzo beans, chicken, spinach, red meat)
Choose: coconut, brewer's yeast, milk, eggs, shellfish, liver
GENERAL TIPS
Stay hydrated; water is best.
Choose whole, natural, fresh foods
Focus on getting five-plus servings of fruits and vegetables per day
A balance of protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals is key
Avoid processed, packaged foods
Take a multivitamin and omega-3 supplement
Get adequate sleep
Keep stress levels low
Damaging to hair:
Caffeinated beverages: coffee, soda, etc.
Low-protein diet
Vitamin/mineral deficiencies
Refined sugars
Processed foods with preservative, high salt content
Transfats, saturated fats
Excess amount of vitamins, minerals - be careful with supplements
Lack of sleep
Libio gel for women
Viagra-like drug for women being tested
Testosterone ointment intended to boost female libido
The Associated Press
A drug that could do for women what Viagra has done for men is being tested at the University of Virginia. The drug is a testosterone-laden ointment called LibiGel and it's intended to boost the libido of women who have lost interest in sex. It will be prescribed at UVa in coming months to women who are suffering from hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
The condition is believed to affect one-third of American women.
"It is the most common sexual problem that women have," said Dr. Anita Clayton, a psychiatrist with the UVa Health System and author of the 2007 book "Satisfaction: Women, Sex and the Quest for Intimacy."
UVa joins 99 other medical institutions participating in testing the drug's efficacy and safety.
If given the green light by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Illinois-based BioSante Pharmaceuticals Inc. hopes to offer the drug to any woman complaining of a low sex drive.
For now, though, Clayton will enroll 25 women between the ages of 30 and 65 to take part in the national study.
Those women must have had both ovaries surgically removed, be currently taking an estrogen supplement and be distressed about their lack of libido.
Ovariectomies, or surgical menopause, can lead to a drop in sexual interest because ovaries produce roughly half of the testosterone in a woman's body.
Testosterone plays a key role in sexual functioning for men and women.
LibiGel comes in a pump bottle. The woman rubs the small dot of gel into the skin of her upper arm. Over the next 24 hours, the gel's testosterone seeps into her bloodstream, boosting her energy and libido.
Increase in satisfying sex
Clayton, who is running the clinical trial at UVa, said the drug is better than previous testosterone treatments because it keeps levels of the chemical constant, much like naturally occurring testosterone.
"I expect this will work," she said.
In its second-phase clinical trials at 17 institutions, LibiGel led to a 283 percent increase of satisfying sexual encounters for the women taking the drug.
"A lot of women have this problem, but unfortunately they've been largely ignored by pharmaceutical companies," said BioSante's chief executive, Stephen M. Simes. "It's not fair that women have no drugs, while men have many."
Testosterone ointment intended to boost female libido
The Associated Press
A drug that could do for women what Viagra has done for men is being tested at the University of Virginia. The drug is a testosterone-laden ointment called LibiGel and it's intended to boost the libido of women who have lost interest in sex. It will be prescribed at UVa in coming months to women who are suffering from hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
The condition is believed to affect one-third of American women.
"It is the most common sexual problem that women have," said Dr. Anita Clayton, a psychiatrist with the UVa Health System and author of the 2007 book "Satisfaction: Women, Sex and the Quest for Intimacy."
UVa joins 99 other medical institutions participating in testing the drug's efficacy and safety.
If given the green light by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Illinois-based BioSante Pharmaceuticals Inc. hopes to offer the drug to any woman complaining of a low sex drive.
For now, though, Clayton will enroll 25 women between the ages of 30 and 65 to take part in the national study.
Those women must have had both ovaries surgically removed, be currently taking an estrogen supplement and be distressed about their lack of libido.
Ovariectomies, or surgical menopause, can lead to a drop in sexual interest because ovaries produce roughly half of the testosterone in a woman's body.
Testosterone plays a key role in sexual functioning for men and women.
LibiGel comes in a pump bottle. The woman rubs the small dot of gel into the skin of her upper arm. Over the next 24 hours, the gel's testosterone seeps into her bloodstream, boosting her energy and libido.
Increase in satisfying sex
Clayton, who is running the clinical trial at UVa, said the drug is better than previous testosterone treatments because it keeps levels of the chemical constant, much like naturally occurring testosterone.
"I expect this will work," she said.
In its second-phase clinical trials at 17 institutions, LibiGel led to a 283 percent increase of satisfying sexual encounters for the women taking the drug.
"A lot of women have this problem, but unfortunately they've been largely ignored by pharmaceutical companies," said BioSante's chief executive, Stephen M. Simes. "It's not fair that women have no drugs, while men have many."
Javafit coffee
This morning we were talking about who keeps you caffeinated and I got a nice note from the folks at Javafit. This will perk you up.
Javafit is gourmet coffee (100% Arabica coffee) that is fortified with nutrients. They have energy, immune, focus and diet. All the products offer benefits. If you want something a little different check out Javafit.
Javafit is gourmet coffee (100% Arabica coffee) that is fortified with nutrients. They have energy, immune, focus and diet. All the products offer benefits. If you want something a little different check out Javafit.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Make him slimmer
Is the man in your life fighting the "dunlop?" You know, when your belly dun lop over your belt? Well you may have heard of Spanx for women...now there's a company with compression under garments for men.
Tasers for her
Now there are Tasers made just for women.
A woman in Arizona loves the lady Tasers so much, she's started her own version of Tupperware parties involving the stun guns, reports the Arizona Republic. Hey, everybody, It's a Taser Party!
Dana Shafman, founder of Shieldher Inc., has recently started sponsoring Taser parties, giving women a chance to buy Tasers for $300, or $350 with a laser beam to help with aiming.
Shafman's parties allow women to get together to discuss concerns and learn about the Taser C2, the newest consumer Taser that is similar to the device police officers use. "I felt that we have Tupperware parties and candle parties to protect our food and house, so why not have a Taser party to learn how to protect our lives and bodies," Shafman said.
She has had parties in Phoenix and Scottsdale by invitation. Guests have the opportunity to shoot the Taser for the first time at a cardboard cutout during the parties. For safety reasons, no alcohol is served and no one is actually Tasered.
After her first Taser party in Scottsdale recently, Shafman said, "I think the party was spectacular. It opened up opportunities for people to ask questions and get informed about the Tasers." Debi McMahon was excited to get her Taser activated. "I feel like I'm 6 feet tall and 250 pounds. I'm going to buy one for my mom. It's going to be her 81st birthday present."
Apparently, one concern among the women is that Tasers, which come in a variety of pretty colors, will be mistaken as toys by their children. Some women think the solution is tell their kids "telling their children what the Taser does and why it should be handled only by Mommy and Daddy."
A woman in Arizona loves the lady Tasers so much, she's started her own version of Tupperware parties involving the stun guns, reports the Arizona Republic. Hey, everybody, It's a Taser Party!
Dana Shafman, founder of Shieldher Inc., has recently started sponsoring Taser parties, giving women a chance to buy Tasers for $300, or $350 with a laser beam to help with aiming.
Shafman's parties allow women to get together to discuss concerns and learn about the Taser C2, the newest consumer Taser that is similar to the device police officers use. "I felt that we have Tupperware parties and candle parties to protect our food and house, so why not have a Taser party to learn how to protect our lives and bodies," Shafman said.
She has had parties in Phoenix and Scottsdale by invitation. Guests have the opportunity to shoot the Taser for the first time at a cardboard cutout during the parties. For safety reasons, no alcohol is served and no one is actually Tasered.
After her first Taser party in Scottsdale recently, Shafman said, "I think the party was spectacular. It opened up opportunities for people to ask questions and get informed about the Tasers." Debi McMahon was excited to get her Taser activated. "I feel like I'm 6 feet tall and 250 pounds. I'm going to buy one for my mom. It's going to be her 81st birthday present."
Apparently, one concern among the women is that Tasers, which come in a variety of pretty colors, will be mistaken as toys by their children. Some women think the solution is tell their kids "telling their children what the Taser does and why it should be handled only by Mommy and Daddy."
McDonalds vs Starbucks
Would you like fries with your latte?
McDonald's Corp is set to launch coffee bars with "baristas" serving cappuccinos and lattes, moving into direct competition with global coffee chain Starbucks Corp.
McDonald's will install coffee bars at its 14,000 U.S. stores, incorporating theatrics similar to Starbucks' counters, displaying espresso machines and having baristas prepare drinks, the report said.
The report, citing internal documents from 2007, said the move will add $1 billion to McDonald's annual sales of $21.6 billion. McDonald's will also sell smoothies and bottled beverages, it said.
A McDonald's representative was not immediately available for comment.
Competition between the two companies has already been brewing, with McDonald's expanding its coffee offerings. Specialty coffee, along with breakfast items and lower-cost offerings have helped McDonald's outperform most other U.S. restaurant companies this year.
Starbucks, on the other hand, has been tempering its previous message that its perpetual expansion was resistant to blips in the U.S. economy. It has said that it plans to open 2,500 stores in fiscal 2008, down from a previous target of 2,600.
McDonald's Corp is set to launch coffee bars with "baristas" serving cappuccinos and lattes, moving into direct competition with global coffee chain Starbucks Corp.
McDonald's will install coffee bars at its 14,000 U.S. stores, incorporating theatrics similar to Starbucks' counters, displaying espresso machines and having baristas prepare drinks, the report said.
The report, citing internal documents from 2007, said the move will add $1 billion to McDonald's annual sales of $21.6 billion. McDonald's will also sell smoothies and bottled beverages, it said.
A McDonald's representative was not immediately available for comment.
Competition between the two companies has already been brewing, with McDonald's expanding its coffee offerings. Specialty coffee, along with breakfast items and lower-cost offerings have helped McDonald's outperform most other U.S. restaurant companies this year.
Starbucks, on the other hand, has been tempering its previous message that its perpetual expansion was resistant to blips in the U.S. economy. It has said that it plans to open 2,500 stores in fiscal 2008, down from a previous target of 2,600.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Easy ways to go green
The nest
Change your light bulbs. We're sure you've heard this before -- and we know it's tempting to buy the four-pack of bulbs for $2 -- but compact fluorescent bulbs use two-thirds less energy and last 10 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs.
Bring your own mug to Starbucks. You'll get a 10-cent discount, and it's one less paper cup to end up in a landfill. While you're there, pick up some free bags of spent coffee grounds to use as "green" fertilizer in your garden.
Save water. Run the dishwasher only when it's full and don't pre-rinse dishes (a waste of time, water, and energy). But the real water drain is the shower -- take shorter ones.
Turn off your computer. When in standby mode, your PC is still using energy. In fact, 75 percent of electricity used in your home comes from electronics that are turned off. Stop this phantom electro rush by plugging your computer into a power strip and shutting the strip down completely at the end of the day. Also, remove your iPod, digital camera, and phone chargers from outlets when not in use.
Cancel catalogs. Many of us have a steady flow of unwanted and unsolicited junk mail, catalogs, and magazines. Let's say everyone in New York City received 10 a month: That would make 240,248 tons of paper waste!
Reuse plastic bags. Instead of chucking 100 billion plastic sacks a year (wow!), try and get a second, third, or tenth use out of them. Tote your lunch to work or your groceries home in them, or at least use them as garbage bags. Better yet, next time you shop, try a reusable bag. Learn how at reusablebags.com
Green your car. The next time you're in the market for a new car, check out an eco option like a hybrid model -- whatever you do, don't get an SUV. In the meantime, take care of your current ride with regular tune-ups and properly inflated tires.
Use recycled paper... in the bathroom. Most of the TP we use is made from virgin trees found in forests previously untouched by humans. Seeing as trees absorb carbon dioxide, we'd get better use from them living than we would as a roll in the powder room.
Buy energy-efficient appliances. The old fridge conked out. Great! Replace it with an Energy Star appliance (energystar.gov), and you'll use at least 15 percent less energy and water in your home. It might be a little pricier to buy, but you'll be saving money on your utility bills and helping the environment.
Plant a tree. Adding green to your garden is aesthetically -- and earth -- pleasing.
Give and voice your support. Contribute or volunteer with the green organization of your choice. And tell a friend to do the same. Some we like: onepercentfortheplanet.org, saveourenvironment.org, sierraclub.org, and conservationfund.org. Sign the "Emissions Petition" at environmentaldefense.org and send the message to your local government representatives that you want to undo global warming.
Change your light bulbs. We're sure you've heard this before -- and we know it's tempting to buy the four-pack of bulbs for $2 -- but compact fluorescent bulbs use two-thirds less energy and last 10 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs.
Bring your own mug to Starbucks. You'll get a 10-cent discount, and it's one less paper cup to end up in a landfill. While you're there, pick up some free bags of spent coffee grounds to use as "green" fertilizer in your garden.
Save water. Run the dishwasher only when it's full and don't pre-rinse dishes (a waste of time, water, and energy). But the real water drain is the shower -- take shorter ones.
Turn off your computer. When in standby mode, your PC is still using energy. In fact, 75 percent of electricity used in your home comes from electronics that are turned off. Stop this phantom electro rush by plugging your computer into a power strip and shutting the strip down completely at the end of the day. Also, remove your iPod, digital camera, and phone chargers from outlets when not in use.
Cancel catalogs. Many of us have a steady flow of unwanted and unsolicited junk mail, catalogs, and magazines. Let's say everyone in New York City received 10 a month: That would make 240,248 tons of paper waste!
Reuse plastic bags. Instead of chucking 100 billion plastic sacks a year (wow!), try and get a second, third, or tenth use out of them. Tote your lunch to work or your groceries home in them, or at least use them as garbage bags. Better yet, next time you shop, try a reusable bag. Learn how at reusablebags.com
Green your car. The next time you're in the market for a new car, check out an eco option like a hybrid model -- whatever you do, don't get an SUV. In the meantime, take care of your current ride with regular tune-ups and properly inflated tires.
Use recycled paper... in the bathroom. Most of the TP we use is made from virgin trees found in forests previously untouched by humans. Seeing as trees absorb carbon dioxide, we'd get better use from them living than we would as a roll in the powder room.
Buy energy-efficient appliances. The old fridge conked out. Great! Replace it with an Energy Star appliance (energystar.gov), and you'll use at least 15 percent less energy and water in your home. It might be a little pricier to buy, but you'll be saving money on your utility bills and helping the environment.
Plant a tree. Adding green to your garden is aesthetically -- and earth -- pleasing.
Give and voice your support. Contribute or volunteer with the green organization of your choice. And tell a friend to do the same. Some we like: onepercentfortheplanet.org, saveourenvironment.org, sierraclub.org, and conservationfund.org. Sign the "Emissions Petition" at environmentaldefense.org and send the message to your local government representatives that you want to undo global warming.
Find Mr. or Ms. right
HOW TO DATE GREAT IN 2008
(Match.com)
Dare to have spares Dating is a numbers game, so ignore the old rule that says, 'A nice person only dates one at a time.' The more you date, the better the odds of finding someone wonderful who's worth weeding out from the pack. Plus, a full social calendar and lack of instant availability brings out the hard-to-get reaction in the opposite sex without actually having to play a game!"
Roll up the rugs Throw a 'widening your net of possibilities' party. Love matches often come from your network of friends, colleagues and family. Invite everyone you know and ask them to bring at least one single person, or even a couple. The love of your life -- or at least his or her cousin -- just might walk through your door.
Be captivated Finding and sustaining love is like acquiring a piece of art. We should wait to be struck and captivated. But all too often we walk around with our pre-crafted 'frame' or idea of whom we belong with -- desperately trying to fit someone into it. So in 2008, throw away your mental checklist of what you're looking for and keep a truly open mind --you might be surprised at who truly clicks with you.
Get a planner Set dating goals. Writing things down helps you to achieve your goals. Think short- and long-term. Maybe it's one date a week or meeting three new people a month. Either way, write it down and make it happen.
Risk embarrassment Don't be afraid of going out on a limb. You don't want to appear desperate, but at some point one of you has to give up waiting three days to call the other person back and pretending you're too aloof to fall in love. Why not you? A corny gesture -- writing a note telling how happy you are when you see him or cooking a meal -- can make him think it's time to take things beyond the stage of dates you aren't sure are actually dates.
Play the odds The quickest way to meet prospective dates is to hang out in places where the odds are in your favor. For women, that means sports bars or the driving range. For guys, try DSW (or any other gigantic shoe warehouse). These places are crawling with women, especially on early Friday evenings and Saturdays. Just ask the nearest unattached female to help you pick out a new pair of shoes. See where it goes from there.
Listen up One of the most engaging ways to get people to feel close to you is by being a good listener. Why do you think people love to go to their hairdresser? Good listening requires paying close attention, asking for details, and then echoing back the important points of the conversation. If you take the time to listen to someone, he or she will feel like you really care.
Get some class Sign up for one thing you're interested in that involves a group meeting on a regular basis. I recommend ones that focus on your own interests: Yoga, cooking or kayaking class, a gardening group, a political campaign, or a co-ed sports league or team. In no time, you'll have a wider circle of friends, and when you meet a prospect, you'll already have some idea of that person's character and personality. This will prevent you from wasting a lot of time on a loser.
Give good sense Have a romance with life! Tap into your senses, and you'll come alive with positive energy. Really taste your food and savor your wine; enjoy your music and the sounds of nature; feel the sun or the breeze on your skin and smell the aromas around you. When you get in the habit of living life like this, others are drawn to your passion and enthusiasm.
(Match.com)
Dare to have spares Dating is a numbers game, so ignore the old rule that says, 'A nice person only dates one at a time.' The more you date, the better the odds of finding someone wonderful who's worth weeding out from the pack. Plus, a full social calendar and lack of instant availability brings out the hard-to-get reaction in the opposite sex without actually having to play a game!"
Roll up the rugs Throw a 'widening your net of possibilities' party. Love matches often come from your network of friends, colleagues and family. Invite everyone you know and ask them to bring at least one single person, or even a couple. The love of your life -- or at least his or her cousin -- just might walk through your door.
Be captivated Finding and sustaining love is like acquiring a piece of art. We should wait to be struck and captivated. But all too often we walk around with our pre-crafted 'frame' or idea of whom we belong with -- desperately trying to fit someone into it. So in 2008, throw away your mental checklist of what you're looking for and keep a truly open mind --you might be surprised at who truly clicks with you.
Get a planner Set dating goals. Writing things down helps you to achieve your goals. Think short- and long-term. Maybe it's one date a week or meeting three new people a month. Either way, write it down and make it happen.
Risk embarrassment Don't be afraid of going out on a limb. You don't want to appear desperate, but at some point one of you has to give up waiting three days to call the other person back and pretending you're too aloof to fall in love. Why not you? A corny gesture -- writing a note telling how happy you are when you see him or cooking a meal -- can make him think it's time to take things beyond the stage of dates you aren't sure are actually dates.
Play the odds The quickest way to meet prospective dates is to hang out in places where the odds are in your favor. For women, that means sports bars or the driving range. For guys, try DSW (or any other gigantic shoe warehouse). These places are crawling with women, especially on early Friday evenings and Saturdays. Just ask the nearest unattached female to help you pick out a new pair of shoes. See where it goes from there.
Listen up One of the most engaging ways to get people to feel close to you is by being a good listener. Why do you think people love to go to their hairdresser? Good listening requires paying close attention, asking for details, and then echoing back the important points of the conversation. If you take the time to listen to someone, he or she will feel like you really care.
Get some class Sign up for one thing you're interested in that involves a group meeting on a regular basis. I recommend ones that focus on your own interests: Yoga, cooking or kayaking class, a gardening group, a political campaign, or a co-ed sports league or team. In no time, you'll have a wider circle of friends, and when you meet a prospect, you'll already have some idea of that person's character and personality. This will prevent you from wasting a lot of time on a loser.
Give good sense Have a romance with life! Tap into your senses, and you'll come alive with positive energy. Really taste your food and savor your wine; enjoy your music and the sounds of nature; feel the sun or the breeze on your skin and smell the aromas around you. When you get in the habit of living life like this, others are drawn to your passion and enthusiasm.
Start your day right
Do you find yourself getting up on the wrong side of the bed? Here's a little science to help you make it the right side, and step into 2008 fully awake!
First, leave your blinds half way open. Morning sunlight signals your brain to cut down on the production of melatonin, and bump up production of adrenaline. So when the alarm goes off, your body is already working on waking up.
Program your coffee maker- and actually use the timer! Treat yourself to the best coffee you can afford, and put if half a scoop more than you normally use! The scent of strong coffee brewing activates the pleasure centers in the brain, and caffeine stimulates the central nervous system.
Exercise for 30 minutes every morning! People who exercise in the morning are the most likely to stick with it, and the morning shot of endorphins and increased blood flow to the brain will have you thinking sharper, too.
Finally, you'll have a better day if you can do the following: hug your spouse, your child, or even a pet before you leave home. Hugging decreases levels of the stress hormone cortisol, and increases the levels of the 3 "feel good" brain chemicals- dopamine, seratonin and oxytocin.
First, leave your blinds half way open. Morning sunlight signals your brain to cut down on the production of melatonin, and bump up production of adrenaline. So when the alarm goes off, your body is already working on waking up.
Program your coffee maker- and actually use the timer! Treat yourself to the best coffee you can afford, and put if half a scoop more than you normally use! The scent of strong coffee brewing activates the pleasure centers in the brain, and caffeine stimulates the central nervous system.
Exercise for 30 minutes every morning! People who exercise in the morning are the most likely to stick with it, and the morning shot of endorphins and increased blood flow to the brain will have you thinking sharper, too.
Finally, you'll have a better day if you can do the following: hug your spouse, your child, or even a pet before you leave home. Hugging decreases levels of the stress hormone cortisol, and increases the levels of the 3 "feel good" brain chemicals- dopamine, seratonin and oxytocin.
Monday, January 7, 2008
Your crown of beauty
A COLORFUL JOB HUNT:
***Looking for that “in” for your next interview? Seventy-six percent of women believe brunette is the best hair color for making a good impression on an interview. Blonde came in second (12 percent) and red last (three percent).
***CEOs prefer … Brunettes! Sixty-seven percent of women said if they were a CEO and could hire only one person based on their hair color, they would hire a brunette. Thirteen percent of women chose redheads and eight percent chose blondes.
THE BEAUTIFUL BLONDE:
***Sex appeal … Flirty blonde icons clearly still hold influence, as more than half of women polled said blonde is the hair color men find sexiest on a woman. Half of women surveyed also chose blonde as the most seductive hair color.
***Blondes still have more fun … More than half of women surveyed reported that they believe blonde is the most fun-loving hair color.
THE BRILLIANT BRUNETTE:
***Seriously speaking … More than three quarters of women surveyed said they associate brunettes with being the most serious. Fifty-six percent also reported that brunette signals the most confidence.
***Trust me, I’m a doctor … Seventy-seven percent of respondents said that a brunette doctor would appear the most trustworthy to them. Seventy-two percent of women find brunette to also be the most trustworthy hair color in general.
LADIES IN RED:
***They mean business … Redheads were voted most intimidating by half of respondents.
***If only for a day … The majority of women surveyed said that if they could change their hair color for a day, they would choose to go red.
***Looking for that “in” for your next interview? Seventy-six percent of women believe brunette is the best hair color for making a good impression on an interview. Blonde came in second (12 percent) and red last (three percent).
***CEOs prefer … Brunettes! Sixty-seven percent of women said if they were a CEO and could hire only one person based on their hair color, they would hire a brunette. Thirteen percent of women chose redheads and eight percent chose blondes.
THE BEAUTIFUL BLONDE:
***Sex appeal … Flirty blonde icons clearly still hold influence, as more than half of women polled said blonde is the hair color men find sexiest on a woman. Half of women surveyed also chose blonde as the most seductive hair color.
***Blondes still have more fun … More than half of women surveyed reported that they believe blonde is the most fun-loving hair color.
THE BRILLIANT BRUNETTE:
***Seriously speaking … More than three quarters of women surveyed said they associate brunettes with being the most serious. Fifty-six percent also reported that brunette signals the most confidence.
***Trust me, I’m a doctor … Seventy-seven percent of respondents said that a brunette doctor would appear the most trustworthy to them. Seventy-two percent of women find brunette to also be the most trustworthy hair color in general.
LADIES IN RED:
***They mean business … Redheads were voted most intimidating by half of respondents.
***If only for a day … The majority of women surveyed said that if they could change their hair color for a day, they would choose to go red.
Bionic women
Rebuild Your Body
How today's technology can turn you into a bionic woman
Holly C. Corbett
It's official: They can rebuild you. While you were busy puzzling out the sci-fi mysteries of Bionic Woman the show, bionic woman the reality has been brewing in science labs and doctors' offices across the country. These days, researchers are boldly going where no one has gone before when it comes to the art of human reconstruction. ACL surgery? Who needs it! Botox? For rubes. That's all baby steps compared with the stuff we found when we checked in with leading experts to uncover which of your body parts can be fine-tuned through technology.
Spine
Old-school spinal surgery is invasive and painful -- and puts a serious dent in your ability to perform downward dog. But now docs can replace a damaged disc -- the cartilage pad between vertebrae -- with a stainless-steel version that allows the spine to retain its natural range of motion. It's designed as a metal socket with a steel ball that pivots as you move. And because you don't have to wait for bones to heal, recovery time is only about a week. Docs expect insurance providers to cover the surgery fully within the next year.
Rather not have a spine that sets off metal detectors? In the next five to 10 years you may be able to get replacement discs created in the lab from your own tissue. Scientists are working on a procedure that would remove cells from faulty discs, inject them with healthy new DNA, and then place the cells back into your spine, where the DNA would help heal the disc from the inside out, says Gerald E. Rodts Jr., M.D., professor of neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery at Emory University in Atlanta. Bonus: There's no incision, so you can walk out with just a Band-Aid.
Feet
A new surgical wand called the Topaz can slash the time you spend off your feet after common sports injuries. The device emits sound waves that target damaged tissue inside the foot. Just a small incision allows the radio-frequency waves to penetrate the trouble spot and boost blood flow, which speeds healing. "Patients only need to wear a walking boot for only about a month, versus the two to three months on crutches after traditional surgery," says Jane Andersen, D.P.M., a podiatrist in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
Teeth
Fixing broken teeth or getting a Hollywood smile with a crown or veneer requires multiple visits to the dentist. But the Cerec 3D, a technology that's been gaining popularity among dentists, streamlines the process. A dentist uses a 3-D camera to take photos of the damaged tooth, and then a computer with a built-in grinding machine assembles a multidimensional image and grinds a perfect match while you wait. (Dental insurance should cover the procedure, but if you aren't insured, it can run you from $400 to $1,500.) Total time in the chair: two hours.
And in the next 10 years, tooth repair could become an all-natural process. "Scientists are working on growing tooth enamel in the lab using human stem cells, which could then be used to replace fillings and broken teeth," says Alan Zweig, D.D.S., a cosmetic dentist in Beverly Hills, California.
Skin
For anyone who has ever forgotten sunscreen: Remergent's DNA Repair Formula ($125, remergentskin.com) has been clinically proven to reverse the effects of sun damage, including wrinkles, according to Ronald Moy, M.D., director of dermatology and cosmetic surgery at the California Health and Longevity Institute in Westlake Village, California. The science: It contains enzymes that help repair cell DNA while channeling the power of antioxidants to prevent future damage.
A new alternative may keep you wrinkle-free for at least twice as long as Botox injections. Scientists have created a needle that emits energy waves to destroy or paralyze the nerves controlling the facial muscles that cause frown lines. The effects last up to eight months.
Fat
Dimples are cute on Mario Lopez, but not on your backside. Lipotherapy involves a series of small injections of phosphatidylcholine, a chemical that breaks down fat cells, eventually flushing them from the body. "There's no anesthesia or incisions, as there is with liposuction," says Ruthie Harper, M.D., of the Laser and Skincare Clinic in Austin, Texas. (And at $800 for four treatments, it's much less costly.)
Within the next year, a painless ultrasound could instantly dissolve fat anywhere on your body so it's reabsorbed into the bloodstream. "The technology may be used to target fat cells and liquefy them without incisions or injections," says Neil Sadick, M.D., clinical professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York. Early studies show that it can safely reduce the waistline by one to two inches.
Eyes
For the more than 110 million Americans with less-than-crystal distance vision, Lasik was a breakthrough, but the surgery still can't guarantee 20/20 because it reshapes only the front surface of the cornea. Now a new tool called the Pentacam (available in corneal and laser specialists' offices) creates a 3-D map of both the front and back of your lens in seconds, so docs can further customize treatment.
Because people with extreme nearsightedness or thin corneas are poor candidates for Lasik, they haven't had options to correct their vision permanently. "But a corneal implant may soon provide them freedom from contacts and glasses," says Brian Bonanni, M.D., of Gotham Lasik in New York. "A tiny, clear plastic disc is inserted into the eye, and it reshapes the cornea from inside."
Bones
If you break your arm snowboarding this winter, a new laser treatment can help that pesky cast come off sooner. "It uses cold lasers, which emit low-level energy that stimulates cell growth," says Gregory Roche, D.O., a reconstructive surgeon based in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. "Fractures heal about 30 percent faster with the laser than without it." The treatment requires several 10-minute sessions over two to four weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. It's typically used on bones that can't be cast, like ribs and toes, but it also speeds recovery on bigger limbs.
Knees
Women are almost twice as likely as men to need a knee replacement. But until recently, total knee replacements were one-size-fits-all. Today, woman-specific implants are "designed to mimic a woman's smaller, narrower knees, and they sit at a proper angle in relation to the hips," says Robert Bucholz, M.D., chairman of orthopedic surgery at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.
In the next decade, you may see a faster fix for ACL tears, which affect up to eight times as many women as men. A study published in the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine found that injections of hyaluronic acid, a lubricating fluid found naturally in the joints, boosted patients' walking speed and muscle strength and slashed recovery time.
How today's technology can turn you into a bionic woman
Holly C. Corbett
It's official: They can rebuild you. While you were busy puzzling out the sci-fi mysteries of Bionic Woman the show, bionic woman the reality has been brewing in science labs and doctors' offices across the country. These days, researchers are boldly going where no one has gone before when it comes to the art of human reconstruction. ACL surgery? Who needs it! Botox? For rubes. That's all baby steps compared with the stuff we found when we checked in with leading experts to uncover which of your body parts can be fine-tuned through technology.
Spine
Old-school spinal surgery is invasive and painful -- and puts a serious dent in your ability to perform downward dog. But now docs can replace a damaged disc -- the cartilage pad between vertebrae -- with a stainless-steel version that allows the spine to retain its natural range of motion. It's designed as a metal socket with a steel ball that pivots as you move. And because you don't have to wait for bones to heal, recovery time is only about a week. Docs expect insurance providers to cover the surgery fully within the next year.
Rather not have a spine that sets off metal detectors? In the next five to 10 years you may be able to get replacement discs created in the lab from your own tissue. Scientists are working on a procedure that would remove cells from faulty discs, inject them with healthy new DNA, and then place the cells back into your spine, where the DNA would help heal the disc from the inside out, says Gerald E. Rodts Jr., M.D., professor of neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery at Emory University in Atlanta. Bonus: There's no incision, so you can walk out with just a Band-Aid.
Feet
A new surgical wand called the Topaz can slash the time you spend off your feet after common sports injuries. The device emits sound waves that target damaged tissue inside the foot. Just a small incision allows the radio-frequency waves to penetrate the trouble spot and boost blood flow, which speeds healing. "Patients only need to wear a walking boot for only about a month, versus the two to three months on crutches after traditional surgery," says Jane Andersen, D.P.M., a podiatrist in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
Teeth
Fixing broken teeth or getting a Hollywood smile with a crown or veneer requires multiple visits to the dentist. But the Cerec 3D, a technology that's been gaining popularity among dentists, streamlines the process. A dentist uses a 3-D camera to take photos of the damaged tooth, and then a computer with a built-in grinding machine assembles a multidimensional image and grinds a perfect match while you wait. (Dental insurance should cover the procedure, but if you aren't insured, it can run you from $400 to $1,500.) Total time in the chair: two hours.
And in the next 10 years, tooth repair could become an all-natural process. "Scientists are working on growing tooth enamel in the lab using human stem cells, which could then be used to replace fillings and broken teeth," says Alan Zweig, D.D.S., a cosmetic dentist in Beverly Hills, California.
Skin
For anyone who has ever forgotten sunscreen: Remergent's DNA Repair Formula ($125, remergentskin.com) has been clinically proven to reverse the effects of sun damage, including wrinkles, according to Ronald Moy, M.D., director of dermatology and cosmetic surgery at the California Health and Longevity Institute in Westlake Village, California. The science: It contains enzymes that help repair cell DNA while channeling the power of antioxidants to prevent future damage.
A new alternative may keep you wrinkle-free for at least twice as long as Botox injections. Scientists have created a needle that emits energy waves to destroy or paralyze the nerves controlling the facial muscles that cause frown lines. The effects last up to eight months.
Fat
Dimples are cute on Mario Lopez, but not on your backside. Lipotherapy involves a series of small injections of phosphatidylcholine, a chemical that breaks down fat cells, eventually flushing them from the body. "There's no anesthesia or incisions, as there is with liposuction," says Ruthie Harper, M.D., of the Laser and Skincare Clinic in Austin, Texas. (And at $800 for four treatments, it's much less costly.)
Within the next year, a painless ultrasound could instantly dissolve fat anywhere on your body so it's reabsorbed into the bloodstream. "The technology may be used to target fat cells and liquefy them without incisions or injections," says Neil Sadick, M.D., clinical professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York. Early studies show that it can safely reduce the waistline by one to two inches.
Eyes
For the more than 110 million Americans with less-than-crystal distance vision, Lasik was a breakthrough, but the surgery still can't guarantee 20/20 because it reshapes only the front surface of the cornea. Now a new tool called the Pentacam (available in corneal and laser specialists' offices) creates a 3-D map of both the front and back of your lens in seconds, so docs can further customize treatment.
Because people with extreme nearsightedness or thin corneas are poor candidates for Lasik, they haven't had options to correct their vision permanently. "But a corneal implant may soon provide them freedom from contacts and glasses," says Brian Bonanni, M.D., of Gotham Lasik in New York. "A tiny, clear plastic disc is inserted into the eye, and it reshapes the cornea from inside."
Bones
If you break your arm snowboarding this winter, a new laser treatment can help that pesky cast come off sooner. "It uses cold lasers, which emit low-level energy that stimulates cell growth," says Gregory Roche, D.O., a reconstructive surgeon based in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. "Fractures heal about 30 percent faster with the laser than without it." The treatment requires several 10-minute sessions over two to four weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. It's typically used on bones that can't be cast, like ribs and toes, but it also speeds recovery on bigger limbs.
Knees
Women are almost twice as likely as men to need a knee replacement. But until recently, total knee replacements were one-size-fits-all. Today, woman-specific implants are "designed to mimic a woman's smaller, narrower knees, and they sit at a proper angle in relation to the hips," says Robert Bucholz, M.D., chairman of orthopedic surgery at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.
In the next decade, you may see a faster fix for ACL tears, which affect up to eight times as many women as men. A study published in the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine found that injections of hyaluronic acid, a lubricating fluid found naturally in the joints, boosted patients' walking speed and muscle strength and slashed recovery time.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Bad bedroom behavior
The Cover Hog
A spouse who unwittingly claims all blankets and sources of warmth for him -- or herself, not to mention the entire bed.
How to Deal: Try to wake your cover hog and he won't respond. Try to reclaim some covers and you're faced with her sudden super-human strength to hold tight. Don't be left out in the cold. Either make the bed with three blankets (one shared and one for each of you) or switch positions. If the offender always rolls to the left with the goods, that's where you need to sleep, so the hoglet doesn't pull the blanket out from under you.
The Night Owl
A TV-watching, book reading, lights-on menace to your sleep. He or she has been known to putter around the house making too much noise.
How to Deal: It's hard to keep a bird from flying, but this one needs limits. Once you close your eyes, your owl should be allowed to read or watch the tube for a limited time frame. Then it's really time for sleep. Any outside-the-bedroom activities must be kept to a minimum and the vacated side of the bed must be filled with supportive pillows that at least mimic a warm body.
The Hyena
A mate who won't shut up … even during REM sleep. It's bothersome on numerous levels -- most of all because you wind up looking like a jerk for complaining that you didn't get any shuteye.
How to Deal: Slipping the hyena a sleeping pill is not an option (though we admit, we're often tempted). Gently nudging the hyena is allowed, as it can rouse the humming, wheezing, jabbering animal for temporary relief. For more aid, try earplugs or a white noise machine. Hey, it's that or the couch.
The Octopus
A hands-on touchy feeler who invades the coveted bed-space of their innocent, unsuspecting mate.
How to Deal: Sometimes a cuddle is just that. Your mate needs affection and you should provide it. But it doesn't have to last forever. Even if you require your space, start the night off with five minutes of close hugs, a massage, or a little hand-holding. The prize: The other person falls asleep and eventually you can roll them over and reclaim your space again, you champion, you.
The Stink Bug
This partner finds great joy in creating smelly situations under the covers (more often the male). The victim is often unaware and tricked into bed.
How to Deal: Have a good laugh and then grow up. Unless there's a medical issue behind the rumblings (or a spicy meal), ask that all gas be passed before entering the bedroom and an effort be made to send the blast to the other side of the room. Keep air freshener handy.
A spouse who unwittingly claims all blankets and sources of warmth for him -- or herself, not to mention the entire bed.
How to Deal: Try to wake your cover hog and he won't respond. Try to reclaim some covers and you're faced with her sudden super-human strength to hold tight. Don't be left out in the cold. Either make the bed with three blankets (one shared and one for each of you) or switch positions. If the offender always rolls to the left with the goods, that's where you need to sleep, so the hoglet doesn't pull the blanket out from under you.
The Night Owl
A TV-watching, book reading, lights-on menace to your sleep. He or she has been known to putter around the house making too much noise.
How to Deal: It's hard to keep a bird from flying, but this one needs limits. Once you close your eyes, your owl should be allowed to read or watch the tube for a limited time frame. Then it's really time for sleep. Any outside-the-bedroom activities must be kept to a minimum and the vacated side of the bed must be filled with supportive pillows that at least mimic a warm body.
The Hyena
A mate who won't shut up … even during REM sleep. It's bothersome on numerous levels -- most of all because you wind up looking like a jerk for complaining that you didn't get any shuteye.
How to Deal: Slipping the hyena a sleeping pill is not an option (though we admit, we're often tempted). Gently nudging the hyena is allowed, as it can rouse the humming, wheezing, jabbering animal for temporary relief. For more aid, try earplugs or a white noise machine. Hey, it's that or the couch.
The Octopus
A hands-on touchy feeler who invades the coveted bed-space of their innocent, unsuspecting mate.
How to Deal: Sometimes a cuddle is just that. Your mate needs affection and you should provide it. But it doesn't have to last forever. Even if you require your space, start the night off with five minutes of close hugs, a massage, or a little hand-holding. The prize: The other person falls asleep and eventually you can roll them over and reclaim your space again, you champion, you.
The Stink Bug
This partner finds great joy in creating smelly situations under the covers (more often the male). The victim is often unaware and tricked into bed.
How to Deal: Have a good laugh and then grow up. Unless there's a medical issue behind the rumblings (or a spicy meal), ask that all gas be passed before entering the bedroom and an effort be made to send the blast to the other side of the room. Keep air freshener handy.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Mirror health behavior
Husband see, husband do, and vice versa, a study has found. Researchers say that if one spouse adopts a new health behavior, the other is likely to do the same. So if one spouse exercises, quits smoking or drinking, or gets a flu shot, the other spouse is likely to follow suit.
The changes in the health habits were most noticeable when it came to smoking and drinking. Smokers were 5 times more likely to quit smoking if their spouse quit. Drinkers were also 5 times more likely to quit drinking alcohol if their partner didn't drink.
Keep in mind the opposite is also true. A spouse can mirror destructive behaviors as well.
The changes in the health habits were most noticeable when it came to smoking and drinking. Smokers were 5 times more likely to quit smoking if their spouse quit. Drinkers were also 5 times more likely to quit drinking alcohol if their partner didn't drink.
Keep in mind the opposite is also true. A spouse can mirror destructive behaviors as well.
6 Marriage Myths
6 surprising marriage myths
Dale Atkins shares smart, practical advice on separating fact from fiction
By Dr. Dale Atkins
For most people, the picture of a perfect marriage is a white picket fence and eternal happiness. But just how to achieve that bliss is subject to wide debate: Do babies really bring you closer? Should you be concerned if you’re not having much sex? How much should you tell your spouse? Psychologist Dale Atkins, author of “Sanity Savers,” helps separate the marriage myths from reality.
Your spouse is your best friend
If you think this way, you'll be in for a big disappointment. Over the years, you definitely develop an amazing friendship with the person you are married to. But it doesn't necessarily start off that way. You develop that respect because you have your own life and your own interests and you support each other through illness, bad times, and death. That is what the basis of the friendship is about.
A best friend is someone you go to the movies with, that you have a lot in common with. But you need someone who you can go through life with, depending and relying on — and that takes time. And you may not tell your spouse everything, but it doesn't mean you are not close.
Don't go to bed angry
When you are lying next to someone and you are seething anger, it's not good. The best thing is to table things so you don't feel like you want to murder the person sleeping next to you. Remind yourself of all the positive things about this person and hopefully you will have a fresh eye in the morning. If you are that angry with somebody, you might not hear what they are saying anyway. It becomes unproductive.
Is there a problem if one of you sleeps on the couch? Well, it might be a problem if one of you doesn't! As long as you are not running away, then you are all right. But if you need time to think, that's one thing. If it becomes weeks at a time, it's a problem.
Don’t worry if you don't have sex
On the one hand, people are so busy, that sex becomes something else you have to do. But it should be a way to unwind, to be playful together. It doesn't have to be a whole romantic evening, it can be a quickie. The myth is that you are going to want to have sex every night, and that is just not what happens.
People are different, and marriages — good marriages — are based on lots of different factors Some people have really good marriages and make love a lot, and some make less. Most people who have really good marriages make love. They do it in ways that are important to each of them. So if you are not having sex, it is something to examine.
The balance definitely changes as you get older. But you have to be careful that you are getting what you need. You don't want to get into a boring pattern where you are no longer interested in your mate or want to share your life with them.
Babies bring you closer
Babies can bring you closer in many ways. But it's so hard on the body and the mind and the emotions — people are exhausted, and constantly questioning whether they are doing it right Usually the woman feels she is doing way more than her share and is very resentful and disappointed in her partner, but most of it initially is hormones. A woman's body goes nuts. There are wonderful moments of parenting children together, but it's important to maintain and really nurture your marriage when you have new children in it.
Most people put most of their energy into their kids. If you can afford child care, get someone to baby-sit and go out to dinner. Or rent a movie and cuddle up together — don't go on your respective BlackBerries. For some people, nighttime is the only time they have to do laundry or clean the house. But try to take an hour, and be sure to focus on talking about something other than the baby.
Don’t fight in front of the kids
It all depends on how you define "fight." It can be very frightening to observe parents going at it. You have to be civil with each other. But if you fight fair, you can be teaching your children how to have a disagreement respectfully. Most people don't fight fair; they call each other names, they diminish each other. And most children don't know what to do and they mimic it. If you know how to fight and can fight fair, then very often you then have to make up in front of the kids as well. Let them see that this is a process — so they see how mom and dad get along.
You have a responsibility as a parent to teach your children how to interact with other people in difficult times and good times. We spend a lot of time teaching them please and thank you, but we don't give them any lesson at all about how you fight, disagree, how you can agree to disagree, because generally we all get too hot-headed.
If you learn how to fight civilly, I would say you'll fight less. You will learn how to come to solutions rather than fight.
Don’t take your spouse for granted
If you can't rely on them, who can you rely on? Of course, don't treat them like an old shoe. That is really very important when you build trust in a relationship, that you can rely on the person but you don't take advantage of their love and their commitment. You still consider them and treat them very specially.
You want to feel secure in your relationship but at the same time, you have to show them how much you count on them and rely on them. Nobody wants to be taken for granted — everyone wants to be appreciated. You have to let the person know they are appreciated. Don't assume they know you appreciate them — even if you say "Thank you" or "I don't know how to do it without you." Let them know they are the person you want to be with, and you have to remind yourself why you are with them. Remove yourself from seeing the dirty T-shirts ... the weight gain ... sometimes it's hard to focus on what's positive and remind yourself what a great person they are.
Dale Atkins shares smart, practical advice on separating fact from fiction
By Dr. Dale Atkins
For most people, the picture of a perfect marriage is a white picket fence and eternal happiness. But just how to achieve that bliss is subject to wide debate: Do babies really bring you closer? Should you be concerned if you’re not having much sex? How much should you tell your spouse? Psychologist Dale Atkins, author of “Sanity Savers,” helps separate the marriage myths from reality.
Your spouse is your best friend
If you think this way, you'll be in for a big disappointment. Over the years, you definitely develop an amazing friendship with the person you are married to. But it doesn't necessarily start off that way. You develop that respect because you have your own life and your own interests and you support each other through illness, bad times, and death. That is what the basis of the friendship is about.
A best friend is someone you go to the movies with, that you have a lot in common with. But you need someone who you can go through life with, depending and relying on — and that takes time. And you may not tell your spouse everything, but it doesn't mean you are not close.
Don't go to bed angry
When you are lying next to someone and you are seething anger, it's not good. The best thing is to table things so you don't feel like you want to murder the person sleeping next to you. Remind yourself of all the positive things about this person and hopefully you will have a fresh eye in the morning. If you are that angry with somebody, you might not hear what they are saying anyway. It becomes unproductive.
Is there a problem if one of you sleeps on the couch? Well, it might be a problem if one of you doesn't! As long as you are not running away, then you are all right. But if you need time to think, that's one thing. If it becomes weeks at a time, it's a problem.
Don’t worry if you don't have sex
On the one hand, people are so busy, that sex becomes something else you have to do. But it should be a way to unwind, to be playful together. It doesn't have to be a whole romantic evening, it can be a quickie. The myth is that you are going to want to have sex every night, and that is just not what happens.
People are different, and marriages — good marriages — are based on lots of different factors Some people have really good marriages and make love a lot, and some make less. Most people who have really good marriages make love. They do it in ways that are important to each of them. So if you are not having sex, it is something to examine.
The balance definitely changes as you get older. But you have to be careful that you are getting what you need. You don't want to get into a boring pattern where you are no longer interested in your mate or want to share your life with them.
Babies bring you closer
Babies can bring you closer in many ways. But it's so hard on the body and the mind and the emotions — people are exhausted, and constantly questioning whether they are doing it right Usually the woman feels she is doing way more than her share and is very resentful and disappointed in her partner, but most of it initially is hormones. A woman's body goes nuts. There are wonderful moments of parenting children together, but it's important to maintain and really nurture your marriage when you have new children in it.
Most people put most of their energy into their kids. If you can afford child care, get someone to baby-sit and go out to dinner. Or rent a movie and cuddle up together — don't go on your respective BlackBerries. For some people, nighttime is the only time they have to do laundry or clean the house. But try to take an hour, and be sure to focus on talking about something other than the baby.
Don’t fight in front of the kids
It all depends on how you define "fight." It can be very frightening to observe parents going at it. You have to be civil with each other. But if you fight fair, you can be teaching your children how to have a disagreement respectfully. Most people don't fight fair; they call each other names, they diminish each other. And most children don't know what to do and they mimic it. If you know how to fight and can fight fair, then very often you then have to make up in front of the kids as well. Let them see that this is a process — so they see how mom and dad get along.
You have a responsibility as a parent to teach your children how to interact with other people in difficult times and good times. We spend a lot of time teaching them please and thank you, but we don't give them any lesson at all about how you fight, disagree, how you can agree to disagree, because generally we all get too hot-headed.
If you learn how to fight civilly, I would say you'll fight less. You will learn how to come to solutions rather than fight.
Don’t take your spouse for granted
If you can't rely on them, who can you rely on? Of course, don't treat them like an old shoe. That is really very important when you build trust in a relationship, that you can rely on the person but you don't take advantage of their love and their commitment. You still consider them and treat them very specially.
You want to feel secure in your relationship but at the same time, you have to show them how much you count on them and rely on them. Nobody wants to be taken for granted — everyone wants to be appreciated. You have to let the person know they are appreciated. Don't assume they know you appreciate them — even if you say "Thank you" or "I don't know how to do it without you." Let them know they are the person you want to be with, and you have to remind yourself why you are with them. Remove yourself from seeing the dirty T-shirts ... the weight gain ... sometimes it's hard to focus on what's positive and remind yourself what a great person they are.
More than pillow talk
5 important talking rules for couples
Relationship expert Ian Kerner on communicating better with your partner
By Ian Kerner
Successful relationships need to always be moving forward — and positive communication is the fuel that keeps them going. Ian Kerner, author and relationship counselor, shares common communication mistakes that could leave your relationship running on empty:
Confronting instead of communicating
In any long-term relationship, it’s easy to get stuck in a negative pattern of confrontation, but this isn’t just a relationship issue, it’s a health issue. Confrontation naturally triggers the brain’s “fight or flight” response, and most men respond by fighting, which raises heart rate, increases blood pressure and plays a role in chronic stress and heart disease. In women, the opposite reaction, flight, can be just as harmful: This self-silencing and bottling-up of emotions leads to stress, anxiety, depression and a cascade of unhealthy behaviors. Our “fight or flight” responses are naturally hard-wired into our brains, and often hijack our emotions before we have a chance to communicate rationally and lovingly.
So next time you find yourself wanting to fight or take flight, instead just take a deep breath, and let those gut responses pass through. Then start talking.
Coaching instead of cheering
From dealing with money to managing a household to keeping a family running, it’s all too easy to get stuck in a pattern of “coaching” each other, when what we really need is a little praise from our partner. Too often, we feel like it’s us against the world, and knowing our partner is on our team and believes in us can make all the difference. No one’s telling you to pick up a pair of pom-poms, but if your face is constantly scrunched up like an umpire’s, it’s time to introduce some praise into the game. Praise is mutually beneficial. The receiver feels acknowledged and supported and the giver feels connected and empathetic. A little bit of praise can quickly change your relationship outlook from negative to positive. So go find one thing about your partner that you can praise.
Saying too much
When it comes to communicating, sometimes you need to know when not to talk. This is especially true when your impulse is to say something negative to your partner. Research shows that the difference between those relationships that succeed and those that fail is the ability of a couple to stay in the 5-to-1 zone: five positive interactions to every negative one. Of course you can’t go through life tallying every interaction, but you absolutely can know whether you’re fundamentally in positive or negative territory and start swinging the pendulum back to where it belongs.
Saying too little
At the end of the day, it’s easy to feel that communication is a chore, that talking to your partner is boring or routine and that there’s nothing new under the sun to possibly talk about. When you’re feeling this way (when you’re nodding and half-listening and have no real interest in how your partner’s day went), you’re in serious danger of getting too detached and disconnected, and becoming vulnerable to things like infidelity, depression and indifference.
If you feel like communicating with your partner is boring or uninteresting, then this is a time to create new things to talk about. Try to do at least one new thing together. Use this new connection to set the foundation for a process of relationship renewal and expansion. That sense of novelty drives dopamine activity, which plays a key role in both desire and pleasure but also enables us to idealize the qualities in our partner we find most appealing. At the start of a relationship, dopamine activity enables us to see our mate with a “rose-colored tint” that filters out the negative. (How often do those quirky habits and eccentricities that we first adored in our partner eventually become the very things that annoy us?)
By re-investing our relationship with a sense of newness, however, we trigger that dopamine rush that allows us to surf on a hormonal wave of good feeling. And finding ways to remain focused on the positive without getting too bent out of shape about those irritating little things we once adored is critical to ongoing relationship success.
Talking when you should be touching
There’s more to communication than just using your mouth. Sometimes a simple touch takes us where words cannot go. Studies show that even a 20-second hug raises oxytocin levels in both men and women — oxytocin is the “cuddle hormone” — it helps us to feel calm and connected to our partner. According to the New Scientist, “Oxytocin also boosts trust, which is an important step in developing a loving relationship.” British scientist Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg and his team at the National Institute of Mental Health found that oxytocin release “reduced activity in the amygdala, a part of the brain that signals fear, and therefore helped them to bond to another person.”
So when words fail you, go for that 20-second hug. It may be just the fuel you need to fill up your tank for the relationship-road ahead.
Relationship expert Ian Kerner on communicating better with your partner
By Ian Kerner
Successful relationships need to always be moving forward — and positive communication is the fuel that keeps them going. Ian Kerner, author and relationship counselor, shares common communication mistakes that could leave your relationship running on empty:
Confronting instead of communicating
In any long-term relationship, it’s easy to get stuck in a negative pattern of confrontation, but this isn’t just a relationship issue, it’s a health issue. Confrontation naturally triggers the brain’s “fight or flight” response, and most men respond by fighting, which raises heart rate, increases blood pressure and plays a role in chronic stress and heart disease. In women, the opposite reaction, flight, can be just as harmful: This self-silencing and bottling-up of emotions leads to stress, anxiety, depression and a cascade of unhealthy behaviors. Our “fight or flight” responses are naturally hard-wired into our brains, and often hijack our emotions before we have a chance to communicate rationally and lovingly.
So next time you find yourself wanting to fight or take flight, instead just take a deep breath, and let those gut responses pass through. Then start talking.
Coaching instead of cheering
From dealing with money to managing a household to keeping a family running, it’s all too easy to get stuck in a pattern of “coaching” each other, when what we really need is a little praise from our partner. Too often, we feel like it’s us against the world, and knowing our partner is on our team and believes in us can make all the difference. No one’s telling you to pick up a pair of pom-poms, but if your face is constantly scrunched up like an umpire’s, it’s time to introduce some praise into the game. Praise is mutually beneficial. The receiver feels acknowledged and supported and the giver feels connected and empathetic. A little bit of praise can quickly change your relationship outlook from negative to positive. So go find one thing about your partner that you can praise.
Saying too much
When it comes to communicating, sometimes you need to know when not to talk. This is especially true when your impulse is to say something negative to your partner. Research shows that the difference between those relationships that succeed and those that fail is the ability of a couple to stay in the 5-to-1 zone: five positive interactions to every negative one. Of course you can’t go through life tallying every interaction, but you absolutely can know whether you’re fundamentally in positive or negative territory and start swinging the pendulum back to where it belongs.
Saying too little
At the end of the day, it’s easy to feel that communication is a chore, that talking to your partner is boring or routine and that there’s nothing new under the sun to possibly talk about. When you’re feeling this way (when you’re nodding and half-listening and have no real interest in how your partner’s day went), you’re in serious danger of getting too detached and disconnected, and becoming vulnerable to things like infidelity, depression and indifference.
If you feel like communicating with your partner is boring or uninteresting, then this is a time to create new things to talk about. Try to do at least one new thing together. Use this new connection to set the foundation for a process of relationship renewal and expansion. That sense of novelty drives dopamine activity, which plays a key role in both desire and pleasure but also enables us to idealize the qualities in our partner we find most appealing. At the start of a relationship, dopamine activity enables us to see our mate with a “rose-colored tint” that filters out the negative. (How often do those quirky habits and eccentricities that we first adored in our partner eventually become the very things that annoy us?)
By re-investing our relationship with a sense of newness, however, we trigger that dopamine rush that allows us to surf on a hormonal wave of good feeling. And finding ways to remain focused on the positive without getting too bent out of shape about those irritating little things we once adored is critical to ongoing relationship success.
Talking when you should be touching
There’s more to communication than just using your mouth. Sometimes a simple touch takes us where words cannot go. Studies show that even a 20-second hug raises oxytocin levels in both men and women — oxytocin is the “cuddle hormone” — it helps us to feel calm and connected to our partner. According to the New Scientist, “Oxytocin also boosts trust, which is an important step in developing a loving relationship.” British scientist Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg and his team at the National Institute of Mental Health found that oxytocin release “reduced activity in the amygdala, a part of the brain that signals fear, and therefore helped them to bond to another person.”
So when words fail you, go for that 20-second hug. It may be just the fuel you need to fill up your tank for the relationship-road ahead.
Women sleep better alone
How'd you sleep last night?
Many men seem to be looking for that special someone to share their life with... someone to do those couple-like things with, like cuddling on the couch, walking in the park and spooning in bed until you both fall asleep.
But how's all this spooning in bed affecting your quality of sleep? A recent study published in the journal Sleep and Biological Rhythms found that men actually sleep more soundly than women when they share a bed with their partner. Women are having rougher nights mostly because men are more likely to be snorers, which is causing 23%of American couples to sleep in separate sacks.
Researchers also suggest that women might be lighter sleepers due to their historic roles in caring for infants.
Many men seem to be looking for that special someone to share their life with... someone to do those couple-like things with, like cuddling on the couch, walking in the park and spooning in bed until you both fall asleep.
But how's all this spooning in bed affecting your quality of sleep? A recent study published in the journal Sleep and Biological Rhythms found that men actually sleep more soundly than women when they share a bed with their partner. Women are having rougher nights mostly because men are more likely to be snorers, which is causing 23%of American couples to sleep in separate sacks.
Researchers also suggest that women might be lighter sleepers due to their historic roles in caring for infants.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Wedding bells for me!
I want to share some romantic news with you. Last Friday my sweetheart, Howard told me to "pack a bag"....I had no idea where we were going. But eventually I found myself at a romantic restaurant in the Keys having a intimate dinner with the love of my life. Then...it was off to our secret romantic hideaway where he proposed!!!
That's right, we're getting married. I can't stop smiling. We are thinking about an October wedding. So, if you have any advice for me please respond to my blog. We have a lot of planning to do.
Am I too old to wear white? : )
That's right, we're getting married. I can't stop smiling. We are thinking about an October wedding. So, if you have any advice for me please respond to my blog. We have a lot of planning to do.
Am I too old to wear white? : )
Get organized
Looking down your list of New Year's resolutions, you're bound to come across 'Get better organized.' The Web has a few ingenious -- and free -- programs ready to help bring order to your daily life.
> Gather items you plan to store. Sort by decorations, wrapping paper, bows, holiday dishes, towels, cards, etc.
> Determine what you will and won't want to use next year. Put all items that will be discarded in a box. Then decide whether they can be given to a nonprofit or sold at a garage sale. If you have decorations that your children will be taking, now's the time to send them on their way. Discard broken decorations or items that can't be recycled.
> Determine a place to store holiday decorations. If the amount of stuff exceeds the amount of space, it's time to make a decision. Are you willing to expand the storage space for the holiday items? If not, it might be time to cut back even more on what you have.
> Decide what storage containers to use. First choice is to reuse the containers or packages the items came in. If not, ask the following questions: Do you prefer clear containers so you can easily see what is in the container or do you prefer the season-colored containers? Which is best for your storage situation? What size containers will fit in your storage area? What type of labels are best to list the items on the outside of the container? Yes, each container needs to be labeled with a list of contents. Perhaps its time to purchase a label maker to make the task more fun.
> Buy storage containers for specific items. There are special containers for bulbs, trees, wreaths, lighting, wrapping paper, dishes and almost anything else you have. But remember to sort and purge before you buy any new containers.
> Study your storage space. Decide if you need shelves or if existing shelves should be readjusted. Shelves with wheels allow you to easily move items.
> Pack the containers and put them away. Like things go into the same container, and don't forget the label so you know what is in each container. Store heavy boxes on the bottom and lighter items on the top shelves.
Click here for more tips.
> Gather items you plan to store. Sort by decorations, wrapping paper, bows, holiday dishes, towels, cards, etc.
> Determine what you will and won't want to use next year. Put all items that will be discarded in a box. Then decide whether they can be given to a nonprofit or sold at a garage sale. If you have decorations that your children will be taking, now's the time to send them on their way. Discard broken decorations or items that can't be recycled.
> Determine a place to store holiday decorations. If the amount of stuff exceeds the amount of space, it's time to make a decision. Are you willing to expand the storage space for the holiday items? If not, it might be time to cut back even more on what you have.
> Decide what storage containers to use. First choice is to reuse the containers or packages the items came in. If not, ask the following questions: Do you prefer clear containers so you can easily see what is in the container or do you prefer the season-colored containers? Which is best for your storage situation? What size containers will fit in your storage area? What type of labels are best to list the items on the outside of the container? Yes, each container needs to be labeled with a list of contents. Perhaps its time to purchase a label maker to make the task more fun.
> Buy storage containers for specific items. There are special containers for bulbs, trees, wreaths, lighting, wrapping paper, dishes and almost anything else you have. But remember to sort and purge before you buy any new containers.
> Study your storage space. Decide if you need shelves or if existing shelves should be readjusted. Shelves with wheels allow you to easily move items.
> Pack the containers and put them away. Like things go into the same container, and don't forget the label so you know what is in each container. Store heavy boxes on the bottom and lighter items on the top shelves.
Click here for more tips.
Vacation ills
It may not be the eggnog, the endless holiday music or even the pounds of sugar cookies that are making you ill. It may be the same thing that seems to set you back when you finally head for a weekend of winter sports or jet off for a week on the beach: You're off work.
Ad Vingerhoets, an associate professor of clinical health psychology at Tilburg University in the Netherlands, calls it "leisure sickness." Just when you take a break from your busy schedule to enjoy a little relaxation, your leisure time becomes anything but — full of aches and pains, cold- and flulike symptoms and other health complaints.
Bummer. Read the whole story.
Ad Vingerhoets, an associate professor of clinical health psychology at Tilburg University in the Netherlands, calls it "leisure sickness." Just when you take a break from your busy schedule to enjoy a little relaxation, your leisure time becomes anything but — full of aches and pains, cold- and flulike symptoms and other health complaints.
Bummer. Read the whole story.
Monday, December 31, 2007
"Auld Lang Syne" lyrics
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And days of auld lang syne? And days of auld lang syne, my dear,
And days of auld lang syne.
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And days of auld lang syne?
We twa hae run aboot the braes
And pu'd the gowans fine.
We've wandered mony a weary foot,
Sin' auld lang syne.
Sin' auld lang syne, my dear,
Sin' auld lang syne,
We've wandered mony a weary foot,
Sin' auld ang syne.
We twa hae sported i' the burn,
From morning sun till dine,
But seas between us braid hae roared
Sin' auld lang syne.
Sin' auld lang syne, my dear,
Sin' auld lang syne.
But seas between us braid hae roared
Sin' auld lang syne.
And ther's a hand, my trusty friend,
And gie's a hand o' thine;
We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet,
For auld lang syne.
For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet,
For auld lang syne.
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And days of auld lang syne? And days of auld lang syne, my dear,
And days of auld lang syne.
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And days of auld lang syne?
We twa hae run aboot the braes
And pu'd the gowans fine.
We've wandered mony a weary foot,
Sin' auld lang syne.
Sin' auld lang syne, my dear,
Sin' auld lang syne,
We've wandered mony a weary foot,
Sin' auld ang syne.
We twa hae sported i' the burn,
From morning sun till dine,
But seas between us braid hae roared
Sin' auld lang syne.
Sin' auld lang syne, my dear,
Sin' auld lang syne.
But seas between us braid hae roared
Sin' auld lang syne.
And ther's a hand, my trusty friend,
And gie's a hand o' thine;
We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet,
For auld lang syne.
For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne,
We'll tak' a cup o' kindness yet,
For auld lang syne.
New Years Eve parties
New Year's Eve is almost here, and as always Miami and South Florida have some of the hottest party tickets in town, it just depends on how much money you're willing to dish out.
MIAMI-DADE:
Bayfront Park New Year's Eve, Downtown Miami:
Dubbed the largest free party in South Florida, Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami is hosting free party with the salsa band Grammy Award Winning "Conjunto Progresso" with the Cuban Son. Also performing are South Florida favorites Iko-Iko, and Betty Padgett & Elements of Funk. Gates open at 7p.m. and a fireworks show on Biscayne Bay will top the festivities at midnight.
The Cameo, South Beach:
Actor Chace Crawford will be making a special appearance at this bastion of Miami Beach nightlife; there will be plenty of dancing involved, and VIP tables available.
The 5th, South Beach:
Gerry Kelly and friends invite you to a night of dancing with DJ Victor Calderone. For more info: www.thefifth.com
Lewis Black, The Fillmore, Miami Beach:
If you're looking for comedy in South Beach, you can check out Lewis Black at the Fillmore Miami Beach, Jackie Gleason Theater. 9.p.m. Click Here For More Info.
Venetian Carnival, Touch Restaurant, South Beach:
Touch Restaurant on Lincoln Road is hosting a "New Year's Without Grief". Starting at 7p.m. The entertainment promises to be as extravagant as the food, with models and performers thematically dressed, interacting with guests, live musicians and sexy dancers through the venue, plus a DJ. 910 Lincoln Road, (305) 532-8003.
Mansion Nightclub, Miami Beach:
If you have the spare $200 and the inkling to party as a VIP, you can do it with December Playboy cover girl Kim Kardashian. If you want to be an ultra-VIP, $6,000 will get you an 8 person VIP table in front of the stage. Tickets: www.theopiumgroup.com or 305-531-5535
Privé, NYE Hosted by Nick Cannon, Miami Beach:
The SOBE club known for its VIP's and visiting celebrities will throw a party hosted by Nick Cannon. This party will cost you a pretty penny, and you will have to reserve in advance: www.theopiumgroup.com
King Mango Strut Parade, Coconut Grove:
If you're boss is being a meanie and not giving you the holiday off, you can celebrate early by laughing it off at Coconut Grove's King Mango Strut Parade on Sunday, December 30th. This year's grand marshals are the Chongalicious Girls made famous by their YouTube video. 2-5P.M. Starts at Commodore Plaza and Main Highway. A pre-show starts at noon.
Space Miami, Downtown Miami:
The world famous nightclub is having a Casino Royale themed party, lasting 24-hours. Music by Space's staple DJ's Oscar G. and Ivanno Bellini, among others. Doors open at 9p.m. www.clubspace.com
Spam Allstars at Studio A, Downtown Miami:
If you're looking for a real Miami musical treat, this is the place, DJ Spam and the Spam Allstars will be playing at Studio A. Also idie band Awesome New Republic and ArtOfficial will be performing. The price tag won't hurt your pocket: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. 60 NE 11th Street, Miami. www.studioamiami.com
BROWARD:
Downtown Countdown, Ft. Lauderdale:
The City of Ft. Lauderdale has their free celebration in the Downtown area, along SW 2nd Street, between SW 2nd Avenue and 4th Avenue. The celebration will have activities for the whole family including an "early countdown" for children at 7 p.m. when the ball will be lit. Live musical acts start at 9.p.m. and continue till 3 a.m. A lit ball drop and fireworks will mark the New Year. For more information, call the event hotline at 954-828-5363.
Ocean Dance Hollywood Beach, South of Johnson Street:
The annual OceanDance features Wylliams/Henry Danse Theatre of Kansas City, Mo. Performing at 9:30 p.m., followed by a laser light show simulating fireworks. General admission is free. Fore VIP information call 954-921-3274, www.artandculturecenter.org
Blue Martini, Ft. Lauderdale:
The party features live music. You can reserve a table on the patio, or get VIP seating , including complimentary dinner buffet and champagne at midnight. Doors open at 8p.m. 2432 E. Sunrise Blvd., No. 1008, Fort Lauderdale, 954-653-2583
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood:
You can go cheap or start with empty pockets for the New Year with all the variety the Seminole entertainment complex offers. From a dinner with live music or you can simply buy yourself a spot on the dance floor, and later enjoy the fireworks over their lake. Seminole Paradise, 1 Seminole Way (off U.S. 441 north of Stirling Road), near Hollywood. For info call: 954-583-8335.
Comedian Robert Schimmel, Ft. Lauderdale:
This American Comedy Awards Best Stand-Up Male Comic will make you laugh at the Parker Playhouse. NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale; 954-462-0222 or www.parkerplayhouse.com
Isle Casino & Racing at Pompano Park, Pompano Beach:
The Ruby Baker Band performs at the Fling Bar, and there will be a balloon drop, party favors and a New Year's sweepstakes. No cover. 9p.m.-1a.m. 777 Isle of Capri Circle, Pompano Beach 954-972-2000.
Rosey Baby, Lauderhill:
This New Orleans-style restaurant is also celebrating its 18th anniversary. The Joe Friday Band will perform at 9p.m. They offer reserved and non-reserved seating to eat. Includes midnight champagne toast. 4587 N. University Drive, Lauderhill: 954-749-5627
Scandals Saloon, Wilton Manors:
If you like country and you're gay or gay friendly, this is the place to go. No cover, cash prize and a balloon drop. 9 a.m.-3 a.m. 3073 NE Sixth Ave, 954- 567-2432.
Seminole Casino, Coconut Creek:
You can enjoy dinner at the Sunset Grill or buffet at Fresh Harvest for $29.95. After midnight, Nectar Lounge offers a party with entertainment by Alisha, the Cover Girls and C&C Music Factory. No cover. 954- 977-6700.
MIAMI-DADE:
Bayfront Park New Year's Eve, Downtown Miami:
Dubbed the largest free party in South Florida, Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami is hosting free party with the salsa band Grammy Award Winning "Conjunto Progresso" with the Cuban Son. Also performing are South Florida favorites Iko-Iko, and Betty Padgett & Elements of Funk. Gates open at 7p.m. and a fireworks show on Biscayne Bay will top the festivities at midnight.
The Cameo, South Beach:
Actor Chace Crawford will be making a special appearance at this bastion of Miami Beach nightlife; there will be plenty of dancing involved, and VIP tables available.
The 5th, South Beach:
Gerry Kelly and friends invite you to a night of dancing with DJ Victor Calderone. For more info: www.thefifth.com
Lewis Black, The Fillmore, Miami Beach:
If you're looking for comedy in South Beach, you can check out Lewis Black at the Fillmore Miami Beach, Jackie Gleason Theater. 9.p.m. Click Here For More Info.
Venetian Carnival, Touch Restaurant, South Beach:
Touch Restaurant on Lincoln Road is hosting a "New Year's Without Grief". Starting at 7p.m. The entertainment promises to be as extravagant as the food, with models and performers thematically dressed, interacting with guests, live musicians and sexy dancers through the venue, plus a DJ. 910 Lincoln Road, (305) 532-8003.
Mansion Nightclub, Miami Beach:
If you have the spare $200 and the inkling to party as a VIP, you can do it with December Playboy cover girl Kim Kardashian. If you want to be an ultra-VIP, $6,000 will get you an 8 person VIP table in front of the stage. Tickets: www.theopiumgroup.com or 305-531-5535
Privé, NYE Hosted by Nick Cannon, Miami Beach:
The SOBE club known for its VIP's and visiting celebrities will throw a party hosted by Nick Cannon. This party will cost you a pretty penny, and you will have to reserve in advance: www.theopiumgroup.com
King Mango Strut Parade, Coconut Grove:
If you're boss is being a meanie and not giving you the holiday off, you can celebrate early by laughing it off at Coconut Grove's King Mango Strut Parade on Sunday, December 30th. This year's grand marshals are the Chongalicious Girls made famous by their YouTube video. 2-5P.M. Starts at Commodore Plaza and Main Highway. A pre-show starts at noon.
Space Miami, Downtown Miami:
The world famous nightclub is having a Casino Royale themed party, lasting 24-hours. Music by Space's staple DJ's Oscar G. and Ivanno Bellini, among others. Doors open at 9p.m. www.clubspace.com
Spam Allstars at Studio A, Downtown Miami:
If you're looking for a real Miami musical treat, this is the place, DJ Spam and the Spam Allstars will be playing at Studio A. Also idie band Awesome New Republic and ArtOfficial will be performing. The price tag won't hurt your pocket: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. 60 NE 11th Street, Miami. www.studioamiami.com
BROWARD:
Downtown Countdown, Ft. Lauderdale:
The City of Ft. Lauderdale has their free celebration in the Downtown area, along SW 2nd Street, between SW 2nd Avenue and 4th Avenue. The celebration will have activities for the whole family including an "early countdown" for children at 7 p.m. when the ball will be lit. Live musical acts start at 9.p.m. and continue till 3 a.m. A lit ball drop and fireworks will mark the New Year. For more information, call the event hotline at 954-828-5363.
Ocean Dance Hollywood Beach, South of Johnson Street:
The annual OceanDance features Wylliams/Henry Danse Theatre of Kansas City, Mo. Performing at 9:30 p.m., followed by a laser light show simulating fireworks. General admission is free. Fore VIP information call 954-921-3274, www.artandculturecenter.org
Blue Martini, Ft. Lauderdale:
The party features live music. You can reserve a table on the patio, or get VIP seating , including complimentary dinner buffet and champagne at midnight. Doors open at 8p.m. 2432 E. Sunrise Blvd., No. 1008, Fort Lauderdale, 954-653-2583
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood:
You can go cheap or start with empty pockets for the New Year with all the variety the Seminole entertainment complex offers. From a dinner with live music or you can simply buy yourself a spot on the dance floor, and later enjoy the fireworks over their lake. Seminole Paradise, 1 Seminole Way (off U.S. 441 north of Stirling Road), near Hollywood. For info call: 954-583-8335.
Comedian Robert Schimmel, Ft. Lauderdale:
This American Comedy Awards Best Stand-Up Male Comic will make you laugh at the Parker Playhouse. NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale; 954-462-0222 or www.parkerplayhouse.com
Isle Casino & Racing at Pompano Park, Pompano Beach:
The Ruby Baker Band performs at the Fling Bar, and there will be a balloon drop, party favors and a New Year's sweepstakes. No cover. 9p.m.-1a.m. 777 Isle of Capri Circle, Pompano Beach 954-972-2000.
Rosey Baby, Lauderhill:
This New Orleans-style restaurant is also celebrating its 18th anniversary. The Joe Friday Band will perform at 9p.m. They offer reserved and non-reserved seating to eat. Includes midnight champagne toast. 4587 N. University Drive, Lauderhill: 954-749-5627
Scandals Saloon, Wilton Manors:
If you like country and you're gay or gay friendly, this is the place to go. No cover, cash prize and a balloon drop. 9 a.m.-3 a.m. 3073 NE Sixth Ave, 954- 567-2432.
Seminole Casino, Coconut Creek:
You can enjoy dinner at the Sunset Grill or buffet at Fresh Harvest for $29.95. After midnight, Nectar Lounge offers a party with entertainment by Alisha, the Cover Girls and C&C Music Factory. No cover. 954- 977-6700.
Watch your mouth tonight
All the chomping you do while celebrating tonight might go right to "waist."
That's the fit fact from a nutrition expert who says a handful of chips contains 155 calories, which will take you 40 minutes to walk off.
Other problematic party foods:
Mini hot dogs, which come stocked with 290 calories per five, and will take 75 minutes to walk off.
Party mix, which, at 240 calories a cup, will have you pounding the pavement for 62 minutes.
A single cracker with salami and cheese contains 160 calories and will take 45 minutes to burn.
But it's not all bad news, especially for posh partiers.
Champagne is the lesser of the evils, only 105 calories per five-ounce glass, while caviar has only 40 calories per tablespoon.
Now, go... enjoy , be responsible and have a Happy New Year!!
That's the fit fact from a nutrition expert who says a handful of chips contains 155 calories, which will take you 40 minutes to walk off.
Other problematic party foods:
Mini hot dogs, which come stocked with 290 calories per five, and will take 75 minutes to walk off.
Party mix, which, at 240 calories a cup, will have you pounding the pavement for 62 minutes.
A single cracker with salami and cheese contains 160 calories and will take 45 minutes to burn.
But it's not all bad news, especially for posh partiers.
Champagne is the lesser of the evils, only 105 calories per five-ounce glass, while caviar has only 40 calories per tablespoon.
Now, go... enjoy , be responsible and have a Happy New Year!!
Unhappy returns?
10 Tips: Happy returns after the holidays
Don't want that ill-fitting sweater? Check the return policy
By Laura T. Coffey
Whether it’s an unappealing bauble from your Aunt Lucy or an ill-fitting sweater from your grandparents, unwanted gifts may send you running back to retailers after the holidays.
If you do attempt to return a few duds this year, you’re bound to encounter some store policies that will make you smile – and others that will make you grit your teeth and wish you never bothered. The following tips can help you play the returns game successfully or decide in advance to avoid the game altogether.
1. Pray for a gift receipt. Hopefully the person who gave you your third George Foreman Grill included a gift receipt that has the price embedded in its bar code. If you’re armed with the name of the retailer and this unmistakable proof of purchase, rejoice! You’re well on your way to avoiding potential headaches and run-arounds. Without a receipt, though, you might not be able to return the item at all. (More on this in Tip #3.)
2. Engage in tactful reconnaissance if necessary. Didn’t get a gift receipt from your friend or loved one? Then it’s time to do some sleuth work and figure out where the purchase was made. If you’re positive that you won’t hurt the gift giver’s feelings, simply explain that you need to return the item for whatever reason. But if hurt feelings are a concern, try these questions on for size: “Oh my goodness! Where on Earth did you find this?” “This is so unique – where did you get it?” “Where did you do your holiday shopping this year?”
3. Read the return policy online. Once you know the name of the retailer, you can read up on its specific rules and regulations from the comfort of your own home. Just visit the store’s Web site and tool around until you find the policy for returns and exchanges. Be on the lookout for answers to these sorts of questions: Does the retailer provide extra time for consumers to return or exchange unwanted holiday gifts? Or do its return policies become even more draconian around this time of year? (Some stores will only let you pursue returns for seven days after the holidays.) What will the store do for you if you don’t have a gift receipt? If the item was purchased online, who has to pay the return shipping costs? Can shipping costs be avoided altogether if you return the item at a brick-and-mortar store? Is that even allowed?
4. Go easy with the scissors. If you even suspect that you might not want to keep a certain gift, avoid cutting off any tags or throwing away any packaging or accompanying manuals. Otherwise, you might void the store’s return policy or trigger hefty restocking fees. In fact, when it comes to certain kinds of electronics goods, computers and computer accessories, many stores charge a fee if you attempt to return merchandise after the box has been opened.
5. Brace yourself. Here’s yet another detail to clarify: Just how big of a restocking fee might apply? Be aware that it can be as high as 15 percent of the purchase price – and depending on the item, that can equal hundreds of dollars. Sears, for example, charges such a 15 percent restocking fee on certain appliances, tools, sporting goods, automotive items and lawn and garden items that are not returned in their original boxes with all of their original packaging intact.
6. Know when a trip to the store may be fruitless. Many stores will not allow you to return gift certificates, gift cards, grocery products, gourmet gift baskets, plants, bedding or linens that have been opened, software that’s been opened, undergarments or bathing suits. Granted, you might be able to return some of these items, so it pays to check the store’s return and exchange policy. Just be sure to check first in order to avoid unnecessary frustration.
7. Have you been blacklisted? Here’s another little surprise you might encounter this year: More and more retailers are blocking shoppers deemed to be “serial returners” from returning items at all. The return limits vary from store to store, but they might come into play if you’ve tried to make more than three returns within 45 days or five returns within 90 days. If you’ve mistakenly or unfairly landed on one of these “serial returner” lists, ask to speak with the store’s manager about getting the situation rectified.
8. Take a deep breath. It’s common for retailers to direct all shoppers seeking returns to one central counter – where they might be forced to wait as long as 30 minutes for assistance. If you really want to return an item, walk into the store psychologically prepared to wait patiently in line and persevere. For tips on how to time your trip so as to avoid crowds, you can read my past “10 Tips” column on that subject.
9. Be determined. Approach the return desk with confidence about your mission. If the store clerk turns down your request for a refund or exchange, ask to speak with the store manager. Be aware that most companies allow their managers to make exceptions to the usual return policy.
10. Be nice. Store clerks and other customer-service employees endure a tremendous amount of rude and shoddy treatment from customers – and the long hours they’ve likely had to work in recent weeks may have left them exhausted. Bearing this in mind, remember that a smile and good manners can defuse a potentially unpleasant situation and help you as you negotiate your refund or exchange.
Don't want that ill-fitting sweater? Check the return policy
By Laura T. Coffey
Whether it’s an unappealing bauble from your Aunt Lucy or an ill-fitting sweater from your grandparents, unwanted gifts may send you running back to retailers after the holidays.
If you do attempt to return a few duds this year, you’re bound to encounter some store policies that will make you smile – and others that will make you grit your teeth and wish you never bothered. The following tips can help you play the returns game successfully or decide in advance to avoid the game altogether.
1. Pray for a gift receipt. Hopefully the person who gave you your third George Foreman Grill included a gift receipt that has the price embedded in its bar code. If you’re armed with the name of the retailer and this unmistakable proof of purchase, rejoice! You’re well on your way to avoiding potential headaches and run-arounds. Without a receipt, though, you might not be able to return the item at all. (More on this in Tip #3.)
2. Engage in tactful reconnaissance if necessary. Didn’t get a gift receipt from your friend or loved one? Then it’s time to do some sleuth work and figure out where the purchase was made. If you’re positive that you won’t hurt the gift giver’s feelings, simply explain that you need to return the item for whatever reason. But if hurt feelings are a concern, try these questions on for size: “Oh my goodness! Where on Earth did you find this?” “This is so unique – where did you get it?” “Where did you do your holiday shopping this year?”
3. Read the return policy online. Once you know the name of the retailer, you can read up on its specific rules and regulations from the comfort of your own home. Just visit the store’s Web site and tool around until you find the policy for returns and exchanges. Be on the lookout for answers to these sorts of questions: Does the retailer provide extra time for consumers to return or exchange unwanted holiday gifts? Or do its return policies become even more draconian around this time of year? (Some stores will only let you pursue returns for seven days after the holidays.) What will the store do for you if you don’t have a gift receipt? If the item was purchased online, who has to pay the return shipping costs? Can shipping costs be avoided altogether if you return the item at a brick-and-mortar store? Is that even allowed?
4. Go easy with the scissors. If you even suspect that you might not want to keep a certain gift, avoid cutting off any tags or throwing away any packaging or accompanying manuals. Otherwise, you might void the store’s return policy or trigger hefty restocking fees. In fact, when it comes to certain kinds of electronics goods, computers and computer accessories, many stores charge a fee if you attempt to return merchandise after the box has been opened.
5. Brace yourself. Here’s yet another detail to clarify: Just how big of a restocking fee might apply? Be aware that it can be as high as 15 percent of the purchase price – and depending on the item, that can equal hundreds of dollars. Sears, for example, charges such a 15 percent restocking fee on certain appliances, tools, sporting goods, automotive items and lawn and garden items that are not returned in their original boxes with all of their original packaging intact.
6. Know when a trip to the store may be fruitless. Many stores will not allow you to return gift certificates, gift cards, grocery products, gourmet gift baskets, plants, bedding or linens that have been opened, software that’s been opened, undergarments or bathing suits. Granted, you might be able to return some of these items, so it pays to check the store’s return and exchange policy. Just be sure to check first in order to avoid unnecessary frustration.
7. Have you been blacklisted? Here’s another little surprise you might encounter this year: More and more retailers are blocking shoppers deemed to be “serial returners” from returning items at all. The return limits vary from store to store, but they might come into play if you’ve tried to make more than three returns within 45 days or five returns within 90 days. If you’ve mistakenly or unfairly landed on one of these “serial returner” lists, ask to speak with the store’s manager about getting the situation rectified.
8. Take a deep breath. It’s common for retailers to direct all shoppers seeking returns to one central counter – where they might be forced to wait as long as 30 minutes for assistance. If you really want to return an item, walk into the store psychologically prepared to wait patiently in line and persevere. For tips on how to time your trip so as to avoid crowds, you can read my past “10 Tips” column on that subject.
9. Be determined. Approach the return desk with confidence about your mission. If the store clerk turns down your request for a refund or exchange, ask to speak with the store manager. Be aware that most companies allow their managers to make exceptions to the usual return policy.
10. Be nice. Store clerks and other customer-service employees endure a tremendous amount of rude and shoddy treatment from customers – and the long hours they’ve likely had to work in recent weeks may have left them exhausted. Bearing this in mind, remember that a smile and good manners can defuse a potentially unpleasant situation and help you as you negotiate your refund or exchange.
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