Random Musings of a Curious Mind

Surefire Flashlights

We have a lot of flashlights. Our apartment is so dark that it's impossible to find anything without additional light. Not to mention, we frequently lose power during the hot summer months.

I'd never seen Surefire flashlights before. The quality is quite impressive and the battery life is great. Then add in the free shipping and free batteries with a number of the items from LA Police Gear, and you've got a terrific value.

It's important to us to have extra light that works when we need it. Surefire seems to offer more than a lot of manufacturers.



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God Bless!

Jules

Safety of Plastics

I was reading this article earlier Safety of Plastics Chemical Questioned. It's absolutely terrifying!

Despite more than 100 published studies by government scientists and university laboratories that have raised health concerns about a chemical compound that is central to the multibillion-dollar plastics industry, the Food and Drug Administration has deemed it safe largely because of two studies, both funded by an industry trade group.

The agency says it has relied on research backed by the American Plastics Council because it had input on its design, monitored its progress and reviewed the raw data.

Isn't that just typical of our government, put our safety at risk based on information from an organization with a vested interest in keeping a product on the market. In fact, I recently saw a report on baby bottles that scared the daylights out of me.

We always told our kids to wash new plastic bottles - before use - to remove any residual chemicals. Now, I hear that these baby bottles actually give off more chemicals the more they are washed. To be specific, after 10 trips through the dishwasher, the bottles in question gave off 10 times the amount of chemicals as they did before they were washed.

There are, apparently, natural alternatives - if you can believe the ads at the bottom of the article. I think it's time that we - as consumers - stop giving our money to companies and groups that are lining their pockets at the cost of our - and our childrens' - health.


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We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
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We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Work Boots USA

A friend of mine is changing careers and needed to find work boots. So, you know me, I went online shopping.

I know a bit about the subject, but wasn't really sure where to go or what's a good price these days. Needless to say, I was thrilled (as was my friend) to find a site that carries several different brands in a great range of sizes. The Free Shipping was just an added bonus.

They have great looking Danner boots, with a Gore-Tex lining that is virtually critical to keep feet dry and comfy in the Arizona heat. I just love the Converse Lace-Up boots and the Rocky Street-Smart boots. They're great for hiking out here, because they're tall enough to protect your feet and ankles from scorpions and snakes.

If you're looking for new work boots - or just some great, durable boots - you've gotta check out Work Boots USA.



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Death of a Druid: Yellowstone Wolf Killing Begins

I received this email today and was so outraged that I couldn't speak.

Now that I've stopped crying - for the moment - I wanted to share the entire message with you.

The senseless slaughter of "Limpy" -- a world-famous wolf -- was just the beginning of a new era for Northern Rockies wolves without federal protections. At least 17 wolves have been killed so far. Help us stop the killing of Greater Yellowstone wolves...

Wolf 253M, known as "Limpy" was the beloved member of Yellowstone's Druid Peak pack -- and one of the first wolves shot dead when federal protections were lifted on Northern Rockies wolves. Please donate what you can today to help us save our Greater Yellowstone wolves and other wildlife. $30.00 $50.00 $100.00 Another Amount "Nicknamed 'Limpy' because his back legs were crippled in a fight when he was young, 253M was just shy of 8 years old -- a wolf Methuselah -- when he died March 28, shot in Wyoming on the first day wolves lost their protected status under the U.S. Endangered Species Act." --"Wolf's death stirs fears for species' fate" by Patty Henetz, The Salt Lake City Tribune, April 8, 2008 Dear Jg, The killing in the Greater Yellowstone region has already begun. One of the first victims: Wolf 253M -- a celebrity wolf, affectionately known as “Limpy.” Help us stop the senseless killing of Greater Yellowstone wolves now. Please make a tax-deductible contribution today. Limpy was many things to many people -- to wolf-watchers, he was the hobbling member of Yellowstone's famous Druid Peak Pack. To Utahans, he was the first wolf to be seen in the state for more than 70 years. But wolf 253M's celebrity didn't save him in the end. Limpy and two other wolves were shot dead in an elk feeding ground, part of Wyoming's brutal shoot-on-sight policy that covers virtually the entire state. The killing has already begun. Please donate now to support our work to save wolves in the Greater Yellowstone area. Limpy's death was just the beginning. It's been 26 days since wolves were stripped of federal protections in the Greater Yellowstone area -- and at least 17 wolves have already been killed in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. And there are surely more to come. Officials in Idaho changed their state law on the day wolves were delisted, making it far easier for anyone to kill wolves near livestock or domestic animals. In Wyoming, state officials stripped all protection from wolves in 88% of the state. Locals have organized weekend eradication "wolf hunts" to kill any wolf that they find. One group tracked a wolf for 35 miles on snowmobiles before shooting it dead.[1] You contribution will help us. . . Fight for our wolves in court; Confront flawed state wolf policies with science and common sense; Help ranchers reduce conflicts with wolves using non-lethal methods; Debunk the myths and misinformation about wolves through on-the-ground education and outreach; and Much, much more... Will you make a tax-deductible emergency donation right now to help? We can win the battle to save our wolves. But we can't do it without your help. Sincerely, Rodger Schlickeisen President Defenders of Wildlife P.S. You can make your tax-deductible contribution online now via our secure website or you can call 1-800-385-9712 to make your contribution by phone. Defenders Home | Privacy Policy | Contact Us | Donate Now

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God Bless!

Jules

Looking for Undergarments

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God Bless!

Jules

How To Report Phishing Emails

I have heard of Phishing scams. They are actually quite scary - a seemingly-important email, from a business you know, asks you to login in and correct information on your account. Without knowing it, your browser is redirected to what they call a 'mirror' site - one that looks enough like the official site to fool the casual observer - and you enter your personal information. Oops! You've now given identity thieves just what they need.

Because I have a business, write articles, and receive personal messages from friends and family, I have several email addresses. Althought there's a bit of bleed over between the business and personal accounts, each one is (mostly) dedicated to particular uses. Because of this, I can usually tell, at a glance if something that wanders into my inbox is meant for that address or, better yet, meant for me at all.

While I put my faith in spam filters, it's not uncommon for valid messages to land in a spam folder or spam to sneak into an inbox. So, I do give a cursory glance at all of the messages in both folders, several times a day, just in case. Which leads me to the purpose of this post - bet you thought I'd never get there, didn't you?!

Over the past couple of weeks, I've gotten some interesting messages in a couple of my spam folders, telling me that the payment for my AdWords account failed to go throught, so my account had been suspended. That would be serious, if I actually had an AdWords account. Since I do use Google products for income and marketing, through one specific email address, I decided I'd best see what was going on. That was when I almost got phished!

I say almost because I've activated my browsers' options to check for forgery sites. The instant that I clicked on the link in the message, a large box with lots of Red letters and exclamation points !! I backed out (one of the options in the big box), deleted the message and was happy I'd activated that browser option.

This is the response I received today, after reporting another phishing email.

For additional information on how to recognize and avoid phishing scams, cut and paste the following link into your web browser:

http://www.us-cert.gov/reading_room/emailscams_0905.pdf

The United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT) is a partnership between the Department of Homeland Security and the public and private sectors. Established in 2003 to protect the nation's Internet infrastructure, US-CERT coordinates defense against and responses to cyber attacks across the nation.

US-CERT interacts with federal agencies, industry, the research community, state and local governments, and others to disseminate reasoned and actionable cyber security information to the public.

Your report will assist US-CERT in the identification of emerging cyber-security threats.
Thank you,

US-CERT Operations Center
888-282-0870
soc@us-cert.gov
http://www.us-cert.gov

Please feel free to use this information and save the email address soc@us-cert.gov, so that you can report any and all phishing emails you might receive. Additionally, make sure that you activate Security Features.

In FireFox:
Tools >>
Options >>
Security >>
{check} Tell me if the site I'm visiting is a suspected forgery

In Internet Explorer:
Tools >>
Internet Options >>
Advanced scroll down to:
Security Section: scroll down to:
Phishing Filter:
{check} Turn on automatic website checking



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We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Teenagers ~ Part II

Well, just when I thought Friday's stunt was as bad as it could get - it got worse. I should have known there was going to be a problem, but I still didn't see this one coming. Common wisdom dictates that if one says "Well, it can't get any worse," it will get worse. That's why it's common and wisdom - it's generally true.

Michael was to see his mom Friday night, coming home Saturday morning. Well, he didn't show up Saturday morning, didn't answer his phone, and Mom was unreachable as well. To make a long story short, he finally got home about 2 hours ago. But . . . Mom didn't bring him; she's at work. She had 'a friend' bring Michael home.

We have been crazed all weekend. Little did we know how much was going on. Given what has been happening behind our backs - we should have been ballistic!

Today, we found out that Mom has broken all of the rules that were set up for her visits with Michael - from having a clean, safe apartment where he can see her to not having him around people we don't know. She immediately moved out of her apartment after our last court date, without telling anyone, and moved in with 'a friend'.

I'm so upset right now, I can't think straight. All I do know - if this continues, it's going to be a very long and stressful summer.


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We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Network Cabling

I was asked, recently, to help research and recommend a system to connect network resources. (Not because I knew anything about it, believe me.) It's mind-boggling how many options are out there. After about an hour, I was dizzy and confused.

One of the primary considerations, I learned, was the capacity of the cabling system. There are several categories available, each with different Ethernet transmission abilities. For a smaller network, Category 5 or 5e probably is sufficient to handle traffic and system noise.

Networks with newer faster equipment, judging by the information I read, would be best served by CAT6 equipment. The specifications are more stringent, with all of the network components required to meet the same high standards. Luckily, the hierarchy calls for a generic system, meaning all components must operate at the same level, regardless of manufacturer.

If you or your business are outgrowing your network, or your files and applications take forever to process, it may be time to upgrade. Just be aware, everything from the wall jack to the cabling to the couplers and panels need to be compliant to the same category. Otherwise, the network performance will be no better than the slowest component in the system.

I've learned something else - I'm glad I don't work in network design.


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Trade Shows

Your business routinely participates in industry shows, but you're not getting a lot of visitors to your display or sales from your presentation. Maybe it's time to rethink your design or approach. Personally, I would have no idea where to start.

That's why, when in doubt, I have to consult a professional. Companies that specialize in trade show displays understand how to create eye-catching booths and table-top displays. They can help you, within your budget, maximize product impact or emphasize service value.

Stand out from the competition, without breaking the bank.


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Teenagers ~ Why Humans Invented Alcohol & Prozac

I swear! If it weren't for lethal injection and an innate fear of burning in hell for all eternity...

Strike 1: Earlier this week, Michael informed us that he needed a signature on some paperwork that was due back to his teacher last Friday. This was something that he really wanted to do, so you'd think he'd make sure that he got the form filled out and returned. One house rule - no last minute plans. If you can't ask at least 2 days in advance, it ain't happenin'.

Strike 2: We don't have a vehicle right now, due to multiple problems, so we informed Michael that he couldn't go. His answer? "My teacher can take me." Serious error in judgement on his part, as one very serious no-no in our house is inviting yourself places. Even worse? Volunteering others to take you somewhere you don't have permission to go.

Strike 3: Tonight, as Michael was talking to his mom, he mentioned something about 'picking her up'. When asked who they were 'picking up,' Michael informed Dad that Mom had agreed to take him and a friend on this outing that we had told him he couldn't attend. Not only did he go behind our backs to ask his mom to chauffeur them, he (we found out) involved his teacher in getting Mom directions.

So, when Mom got here, we told her what was going on. Her response? "Well, I guess we're not going, then. Are we?" Yea, Mom!


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We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Detox and Weight Loss

As you're all probably aware by now, I am on the hunt for a way to get in shape - in a fairly short period of time, without sweating. Literally, without sweating. I hate formal exercise and sweating.

In my hunt for my perfect weight loss solution, I found orovo detox today. The concept, not to mention the testimonials, is rather impressive. Which, of course, makes me wonder.

Most of the ingredients are natural, and I'm familiar with the uses of many of them. For example, milk thistle and licorice root are supposed to be good for clearing toxins from the liver. Vitamin B6 helps the body produce antibodies, maintain nerve function, and form red blood cells. Antioxidants are always good, as are the so-called 10 SuperFoods. I'm a little concerned about the potassium and magnesium, and the dosage levels, which means I'll be doing a little more research.

Might be I've finally found the help I need; although, it still recommends exercise. Rats!


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We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Christianity and Politics

Today, I was reading an interesting opinion piece, by Uwe Siemon-Netto, in the Christian Science Monitor. It reminded me, again, how religion is being used - not merely in this political campaign season, but in all forms of political decision-making for years - to browbeat voters and politicians.

For far too many years, I have watched religion and theologies force their way into the government and politics of this country. A country founded on the belief that religion and politics are mutually exclusive institutions. Government should not dictate how people worship their God; the church should not tell the government how to make law.

Well, that has been changing - dramatically - and it needs to stop. No, Mr. Huckabee, it is not necessary to bring the Constitution more in line with any religious tome - be it the Bible, Torah or Koran, any more than it is necessary to bring them more in line with the Constitution. And, in my humble opinion, the pulpit is no place for recriminations against the body politic.

To quote Siemon-Netto on the mingling of religion and politics: "A largely Protestant nation that can trace its theological taproot to Martin Luther ought to know better. As the original Reformer, Luther understood how critical it was to separate church and state and, in a more important sense, the spiritual kingdom of Christ and the secular realm where God reigns in a hidden way through humans using reason as a guide."

And again: "Half a millennium after Luther nailed his 95 theses to the door of the Castle Church of Wittenberg, it makes sense to ponder his down-to-earth comment that in politics, as in all other aspects of secular life, Christians must act reasonably according to natural law. The Gospel has freed them to do just that; it must not be perverted into a weapon to be slapped around other people's heads."

Christ, whose life is supposed to be the guiding principle for, and perfect example of, Christian behavior, said it best: "Render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's, and unto God the things that are God's" (Matthew 22:21).
And - most importantly -: "My kingdom is not of this world" (John 18:36).




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We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Doors Can Be Beautiful

I remember, years ago, that the most stylish homes were decorated down to the smallest details. Fixtures and furniture were carefully chosen to create a personal style or ambience. This attention was focused on doorknobs, as well.

Cut-crystal knobs and brass keyplates were not uncommon. They came in an amazing variety of styles and patterns. To this day, in antique shops and, sometimes, flea markets or garage sales, it's possible to find some of these beautiful decorations.

Because it is difficult to find matching antique knobs or switchplates for an entire room, let alone an entire home, Baldwin offers a collection of beautiful hardware to solve that problem. The crystal and venetian bronze knobs are just beautiful; as are the lever-style handles and door knockers.


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

My Kind of News

Now this is the kind of story I love to read: Nevada Dog Finds Her Way Home.

Although I never read the book, by Sheila Burnford, I have always loved the movie "Incredible Journey". In fact, to this day, I can't watch it without crying over those three beautiful souls, doing everything they can to help each other get home to their family.

It's one of the reasons that I get very angry with humans who feel that animals are lesser creatures. How many people do you know who would walk dozens, let alone hundreds, of miles to get back to family? And, even more importantly, without assistance from other humans, how many people would actually make it?

When your animal friends approach you for attention, remember that they may be more loyal than the people in your life. Give them a big hug - then give them another one from me!


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We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Wedding Dilemma

I am in the process of trying to put together a wardrobe for my daughter's wedding next month. Suffice it to say, I haven't dressed up in a very long time and I've never been mother-of-the-bride, so I'm in a bit of a quandary My nicest outfit will work for the rehearsal dinner, but not (obviously) for the wedding. Egad! What's a mom to do?

One of the problems is that it's an afternoon wedding, but all of the female attendants are wearing long dresses. Adding to my quandary, it isn't truly a formal wedding. Then, add in the fact that May in Colorado is not anywhere the same weather as May in Arizona. So, I have to find something appropriate in which I won't freeze to death.

Then, there's jewelry which, as it turns out, was the easiest part of my shopping expedition. I managed to find the most beautiful necklace and earrings in lavender freshwater pearls.

Keep watching this blog - find out if I end up attending in lovely pearls - and ratty jeans! (Just kidding, honey!)


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Diet Pills

There are a lot of diet pills on the market these days, making a wide variety of effectiveness claims. It's difficult to know what works, what's hype, and what's downright dangerous. I learned a lot about 'natural' remedies when Mark was sick. Just because something seems to help or works for some people, doesn't make it good for everyone.

One interesting item that's getting a lot of press these days, for losing weight, is DHEA. Occuring naturally in the body, DHEA regulates the production of other hormones and, among other things, helps increase lean muscle mass, burn fat, and stimulate bone growth. Pretty good, huh?

As our population ages, this would seem to be something that would be of great benefit. But, studies indicate that high doses and long-term use can negatively affect the body's ability to create DHEA naturally. In addition, there may be an increased risk of certain types of cancers.

Guess I'll stick with calorie counting and exercise.


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We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

This Is A Debate?

I've been reading op/ed pieces and news articles about the recent Democratic 'debate'. What a joke!

Nothing, apparently, was done to address issues. Instead, the moderators basically quoted the latest gossip and set the two candidates at each other. I really thought Gibson and Stephanopoulos were smarter and more competent than they showed.

What happened to debating the issues? Telling voters what's wrong and how it should be fixed? It's not like there's a shortage of problems in the United States right now. Between the economy in general, the mortgage debacle, unemployment, and - let us not forget - that nightmare in the Middle East, surely the moderators could have come up with better topics than wearing flag pins.


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Party Invitations

I can't believe that 'our' oldest will be turning 19 in May. It seems like just yesterday that a shy 15-year-old arrived at our door, everything he owned in a couple of bags.

In the last year, since he moved up north, we don't get to see him very often. Being a glutton for punishment, I suggested that he celebrate his birthday down here. Which of course led me to think of party invitations, decorations, etc.

It's not easy to come up with something that isn't too cutesy or too young. Given he loves big cats - I'm thinking tiger or leopard patterns.

Whatdya think?


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We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Condo Hotel

Like the 'snowbirds' who winter in Arizona, when the weather turns warm, we all start thinking about getting out of town. In fact, just yesterday there was a conversation here that threatened throwing the tent in the back of the truck and taking off - indefinitely. Luckily, the truck has a dead battery (among other problems).

Rather than take any chances, I decided to start 'shopping' for a vacation. Though I wasn't too sure what a condo hotel was, it sounded infinitely better than 'tent, hard ground, snakes, scorpions, and no running water'. So, I investigated further.

Now for the bad news . . .

I absolutely fell in love with this rental in Pula, Croatia. Seriously! It is beautiful - between the countryside and the Adriatic and the proximity to Italy and Austria, you just can't go wrong. Then there's the cute little apartment - complete with computer, internet, and satellite TV.

Anyone have any idea how I can get Mark to Croatia?


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

News from JMark Afghans, etc.

At the risk of repeating myself, since I posted some of this before I changed blogging software ~~ We've got great changes going on!

For the longest time, I had threatened to come up with new designs and new products. The spirit was willing, but the yarn kept cranking out afghans. Now that the weather is warming up - we were in the 90s a few days ago - I've decided it's time to really branch out.

If you haven't visited JMark Afghans, etc. in the last couple of weeks, you don't know what you're missing!

We've added hats, scarves, shawls, placemats and (well, the yarn does what the yarn does) three (3) new afghan styles! The latest addition is a dramatic red-and-white fringeless shawl that I'm thinking about recreating - with a twist. Instead of a straight shawl, I would seam the last 12" or so, of each side, like sleeves. It would still be one-size-fits-all, but, as I sit here typing away, it wouldn't slide off my arms.

Not only are there new goodies to order, it's now much simpler to order them. I finally found a shopping cart that I really like and added it's functionality to all of the order pages. So, not only are the sizes and yarn options consolidated into one simple form per item, you can also check your order before you zip off to PayPal. Or - and this is another new goodie - you can check out through Google Checkout.

It isn't just the 'goodies' that have changed, either. I've always been disappointed with the navigation menu on the website. Yes, it did it's job and guided all of you wonderful visitors from page to page. But it just had no style; no panache. Now - after a lengthy battle with HTML, CSS, and several 'blonde moments' - JMark Afghans, etc. has a collapsing/expanding menu!!

Unless you use IE. In which case, JMark Afghans, etc. has a really long, static menu. But I'm working on it!


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Naot

For those of you who have been reading this blog for a while now, you know that I am a shopping junkie. Luckily for my budget, my need to eat, and an innate desire to keep a roof over my head, I don't have to (necessarily) purchase everything I find. Unless, it's shoes.

I love shoes! Dress shoes, casual shoes, sandals, and boots! Probably because of my long, skinny feet, I have always had trouble finding shoes that fit, that are comfortable, and that don't look ridiculous on me. When I find a style or brand that work for me, I go a little bit crazy.

Living in Arizona, I wear sandals - a lot. In fact, I can count on one hand the number of times I've had on closed-toe shoes in the last 2 years. The sandals that I have been wearing for - literally - the last 3 years are falling apart. In fact, I actually had to glue the cracks in the soles a few months ago. Very sad!

I decided I'd better start looking for at least one new pair and since our truck is not currently motoring - at all - I had the perfect excuse to surf the 'Net. (hee, hee) Oh, did I find some great shoes! I'd never heard of Naot, but I think I'll be hard-pressed to ever find such a huge selection of just-what-I-want shoes again.

All I can say is -- "Wow! You have got to check out these shoes!"


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Camps for Chronically Ill Kids

Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Cobra Golf

I've never been overly athletic. In fact I'm positively lazy. My mind goes 80 miles an hour; my body is happiest sitting still. Although I'll happily walk to the corner store for smokes or a soda, I can't imagine spending several hours chasing a little white ball around a golf course.

Needless to say, I don't know much about the game of golf or the equipment required to beat up that little white ball. You can imagine my amazement when, while searching for something completely different, I found a page about Cobra golf clubs. I will never look at golf the same way again.

These clubs are amazing. The effort put into designing and creating them is even more amazing. I didn't understand half of what I read, but I do know that if you know what a 3R 20 Degree Wood is or why a swing weight adjustment screw makes a difference, you are a golfer with a capital 'G'.


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God Bless!

Jules

New Blog Format

Well, I'm finally back. My previous blog host wouldn't post anything and I had to find a better solution. After a many hours, coding myself silly, I finally have a working blog again. Hooray!! (The withdrawal was brutal!)

Of course, due to the difference in the different hosts, none of the old posts are listed here. They aren't included in any of the Category or Archive lists, either. Since all of the pages are stored on my webhost, I was able to include links to all of the posts I have ever written. (Oh, goodie!)

It will be a couple of days before I get the software installed to allow comments again. But you can always send me an email.


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
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God Bless!

Jules

Theater Seating

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Jules

Test Post

Just working on the formatting for the new blog host. Man, what a job!

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God Bless!

Jules

Edited on: Monday, April 14, 2008 11:28 PM by JMarkAfghans

High Risk Health Insurance

Given Mark's health - liver cancer and transplant, lung cancer - his only option is high risk life insurance. This is not generally an inexpensive policy, to say the least. What I didn't know is that there are companies out there that have a different outlook.

It's the underwriting process, which determines the financial risk to the insurer, that sets the policy premiums. By using outdated, 30-year-old mortality tables, insurance companies blindly decide that people with serious health problems are a much higher risk than they actually are. Because they take into account medical advances and treatments, which allow cancer patients or diabetics to live longer than they did 30 years ago, some insurers actually have premium rates that are similar to those for people in 'perfect' health.

All I can say is - It's about time!


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

7th Heaven Book

I am a voracious reader - romances, mysteries, mystery-romance, suspense, and thrillers. Not every book in every genre is a keeper, so I tend to stick with the authors that I know I'll consistently enjoy. One of my favorites is James Patterson.

Although I regularly read the "Alex Cross" series, I didn't realize that there was another Patterson series - "The Women's Murder Club." With characteristic attention to detail and palpable tension from the opening line, the excerpt from the 7th Heaven book promises another can't-put-it-down read. I can't wait to get a copy and curl up under my cozy afghan for an evening with new 'friends', murder, and nail-biting suspense.

Keep 'em coming, Mr. Patterson!


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

China Alleges New Olympic Terror Plot

Now, I'll admit to being a bit of a cynic and stories like this one just don't help. Given China's history of prevarication, do we really believe that this is actually more than a protest against government restraints and abuses? Or is it something manufactured to make them look like they're taking care of business?

On the other hand, it's not exactly a comforting PR stunt - making up a serious threat to foreign journalists, athletes, and visitors. It makes me wonder if this is just an excuse to increase Chinese persecution in Tibet and the surrounding regions. I suppose it would be a valid reason, if it really was terrorism.

I've never believed in throwing political issues into the Olympics, but this year - I just don't know. Many world leaders have chosen to 'miss' the opening ceremonies. Maybe it is time to talk about boycotts.


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Death Claims the Great 'Ben Hur'

Sadly, we learned yesterday that the world has lost another great actor. Seeing the headline: Film legend Charlton Heston dead at 84, was quite a jolt. He and his movies were so much a part of my life and the lives of my generation.

A well-done, in my opinion, fansite is in contact with Mr. Heston's personal assistant. They have been given permission to collect and forward condolences to the family. If you would like to share your feelings, this looks like a good place.

"I've played three presidents, three saints and two geniuses - and that's probably enough for any man." ~ Charlton Heston


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Futures Broker

Years ago, in an effort to manage my 401K, I did some investing. It was quite simple. Buying and selling stocks, as prices went up and down, didn't require much more knowledge than keeping an eye on the market. Since I had a serious aversion to risk, most of my investments didn't exactly yo-yo.

A much more, potentially, volatile market is futures. I recently did some serious reading on the topic, including what a futures broker actually does, how to invest in futures, and the financial risks involved. Given my income situation, I don't think that this is something with which I would be comfortable. However, if things change, I now know exactly where to get in-depth information and reliable investment assistance.

It's nice to have options.



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Third Paternity Test?

I read this story earlier and was absolutely floored. Obviously, men who father children out of wedlock, as we used to say, need to step up and take responsibility. When DNA testing proves fatherhood, that's really all the impetus necessary to document a legal obligation.

However, when not one, but two DNA tests confirm that someone did not father a child, that should also be sufficient documentation. Not for this woman!

The first DNA test in 2005 was negative. With the legal agreement that this [crazy?] woman would leave him alone, Michael Jordan submitted to another test that same year. It was also negative. Enough proof, right? Oh, no!

Now, three years later, Ms. Miceli is asking for a third paternity test. And that's not all! You're gonna love this -- she is also requesting that the judge lift a temporary restraining order, issued after Mr. Jordan filed a harassment suit against her.

It may be time for Ms. Miceli to take a test - to determine whether or not she's actually sane!



Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

Weight Loss

I never thought I'd have to worry about weight loss. Then, I turned 47 and - boom! None of my clothes, which were previously too big, fit anymore. Being a fairly lazy person, I took my weight for granted. After all, I had weighed the same 125-130lbs., not counting pregnancy weight, for over 20 years. At 6-feet tall, I was happily thin with a metabolism that let me eat whatever I wanted and never think twice. Admittedly, I don't eat three-squares-a-day and never really have. This may account for a seriously slowed metabolism and the subsequently enlarged abdomen and hips. My body refuses to burn calories, since I'm not putting back in enough to keep it going. Guess it's time to rethink my diet and exercise non-regime. In the words of my favorite red-headed singer/sitcom mom - "Crap!!"


Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

International Children's Book Day

This is one that I've never heard of, but I just love the idea.

The goal, since 1967, has been to bring books and children together. Each year, on the anniversary of Hans Christian Andersen's birthday - April 2nd - the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) chooses one of its National Sections to host the celebration. IBBY's Board decides on a theme for the year, and invites a prominent author (from the host country) to write a message to the children of the world and a well-known illustrator to design a poster.

For 2008, Thailand has been chosen to host Children's Book Day, write the message, and design the poster. Rest assured, there are events planned in many countries and communities around the world, designed to encourage the love of books in children.

Don't wait for a special day - buy your kid(s) a book and read to them, as often as you can.






Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules

National Donate Life Month

Obviously, this is a subject near and dear to our hearts.

Tell someone: The need is great and growing.

* More than 95,000 people are in need of an organ for transplant.
* Each day, about 77 people get the organ transplant that gives them a second chance, but 17 to 19 others die because they did not receive an organ transplant.
* More than half the people on the waiting list for a donated organ are racial or ethnic minorities. Chances of getting a transplant increase if donor and recipient share the same racial/ethnic background.
OrganDonor.gov "April is National Donate Life Month"

Since 2003, April has been designated as Donate Life Month. There are 30 days in which you, your company, and your school can make a difference in the lives of people who need organ transplants. Programs exist for a myriad of applications.

Decision Donate is an instructional program for high schools, that helps students make informed decisions about becoming an organ donor.

The Workplace Partnership provides information about businesses that make donation information available to their employees. Find out how to get your company/employer involved.

Participate in National Donate Life Month events sponsored by an organization in your area. Help them spread the word!

As harsh as it may sound - when you're dead, you're dead. How incredible is it that from one death, the life of at least eight (8) people can be improved/saved? Don't think about death, think about life. Commit to Donation

What if You were on The List?

Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle
We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.
You can cast your Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
We look forward to seeing you online.
God Bless!

Jules