Superbad YouTube Homepage Takeover

On your mark, get set ... On August 1st, Superbad is taking over the YouTube homepage! Who else would dare?

Superbad, due in theaters August 17th, is a hilarious coming-of-age film about two high school buddies facing the end of their ridiculously dependent relationship, after being accepted to different colleges. In one horrible, panic-driven night they attempt to reverse a lifetime of bad luck with women before they are separated. I've seen the clips, you're just gonna love these guys!

Seth is loud, obnoxious, and obsessed with sex; Evan is sweet, smart, and pretty much terrified of everything - the new odd couple. Add in their friend Fogell, who is a total nerd, pretending to be hip-hop cool, and you've got the perfect combination for trouble. Once they start bragging about their amazing social life, you just know they're going to have to come through and it won't be pretty.

Rush over to YouTube on August 1st and check out the videos. I've never taken Home Economics, but I'm pretty sure that's not the way the class generally works. And I'm absolutely certain kids don't just barge into classrooms announcing the imminent acquisition of illegal documents. But somehow, with these 3 guys, it seems natural; naturally goofy.

Once you've seen the clips and stopped laughing, be sure to head on over to the website for some Superbad *** ringtones, wallpapers, screensavers, and buddy icons.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

"Live Like You Were Dying"

This song has taken on a whole new meaning, since we found out that Mark has lung cancer.

He said I was in my early forties
with a lot of life before me
when a moment came that stopped me on a dime
and I spent most of the next days
looking at the x-rays
Talking bout the options
and talking bout sweet time
I asked him when it sank in
that this might really be the real end
how's it hit you when you get that kinda news
man what'd you do

and he said
I went sky diving
I went Rocky Mountain climbing
I went 2.7 seconds on a bull named fumanchu
and I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter
and I gave forgiveness I'd been denying
and he said someday I hope you get the chance
to live like you were dying.

He said I was finally the husband
that most the time I wasn�t
and I became a friend a friend would like to have
and all the sudden going fishin
wasn�t such an imposition
and I went three times that year I lost my dad
well I finally read the good book
and I took a good long hard look
at what I�d do if I could do it all again

and then
I went sky diving
I went Rocky Mountain climbing
I went 2.7 seconds on a bull named fumanchu
and I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter
and I gave forgiveness I�d been denying
and he said someday I hope you get the chance
to live like you were dying.

Like tomorrow was a gift and you got eternity to think about
what'd you do with it what did you do with it
what did I do with it
what would I do with it?

Sky diving
I went Rocky Mountain climbing
I went 2.7 seconds on a bull named fumanchu
and then I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter
and I watched an eagle as it was flying
and he said someday I hope you get the chance
to live like you were dying.
To live like you were dying
To live like you were dying
To live like you were dying
To live like you were dying
Tim McGraw

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Digital Cameras

For years, we managed with an inexpensive camera from Walgreens. It took pretty good pictures and we got a free roll of film every time we took the camera in for developing. They even offered, for a nominal fee, a disk with our pictures. Not too bad. Unless we needed something quick, then we were just out of luck.

Three years ago, we bought our first digital camera. And fell in love. Wow, what a difference! Not only did it hold more pictures, it took videos. We could pick the picture size, zoom in and out, and didn't have to wait for photo processing to email photos. Talk about instant gratification. And look at the quality:


We use our digital camera for everything. Arizona gets some severe weather, but no one ever believes how wet it can get. Now we take videos and stills to show them. A few months ago, a former tenant came back and graffitied a couple of buildings, including the one across from ours. I happened to be out taking shots of a full moon and managed to capture the "getaway" truck for management.

One of the primary uses for our cameras, we have two now, is taking pictures for my website. (Our first camera doesn't distinguish between blue and purple well, so I ended up getting a second camera for certain shots.) I can arrange the afghan, shoot, and immediately know if I need to rearrange something in the shot. If I don't like the particular image, I can just delete it, where before we had limited shots and had to pay to develop all of them, even the bad ones. Saves a ton of money this way.

Of course, there are top-of-the-line cameras that would eliminate the need for 2 cameras, like the Canon Rebel XTi. Just suffice it to say, it's on my wishlist!

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Get Ready for Cool Weather

Believe it or not, the kids are starting school in a couple of weeks. The weather has already cooled a bit, here in Arizona; although the humidity went up, so we're just as miserable as we were at 120 degrees. It won't be long and, around the country, leaves will be changing colors and nights will be cooling down.

Remember last winter - curled up on the sofa in sweatshirt, sweatpants, heavy socks, and a sweater - trying to keep warm? You could always turn up the furnace and pay that huge heating bill. Not exactly an earth-friendly, fiscally responsible idea, is it?

What if I told you there is a simple, far less expensive solution? You'd jump at the chance, right? Well, here it is - a cozy, cuddly, comfy afghan from JMark Afghans, etc. in your favorite colors and a perfect size for snuggling on a cool winter's evening.

Stop by and order one today - it doesn't have to be freezing outside to appreciate the comfort and warmth of an afghan!

Don't forget to visit My Gallery at Zazzle

We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Echo Malibu

With everything in the news these days about teens gone wild - alcoholism and drug abuse are rampant - it makes me wonder what I would do if my child were in trouble. Like it or not, some kids and teens with ADD/ADHD and other behavioral or emotional difficulties are more likely to engage in risky behaviors. As parents of challenged children, we have to be prepared to take action to help them, should the need arise.

There are many rehab programs out there which don't seem to work, think Lindsay Lohan, Nicole Ritchie, Britney Spears, Brad Renfro, and Paris Hilton. Echo Malibu is more than a teen drug rehab center. They believe in Empowerment, Choices, Hope, and Opportunities for adolescents and their families.

Empowerment: building on the strengths of every individual and family and working with them to create a treatment program that fits.

Choices: teaching adolescents how to assess their options in real-life situations and make positive choices.

Hope: rebuilding relationships and trust with work, integrity, compassion, and resolve.

Opportunities: providing teens and their families with optimal opportunities to open lines of communication, cope with adversity, let go of resentments, and affect positive changes.

It's not enough to place a person with abuse problems into a center - no matter the length of time - if they aren't given the education, support, and tools to cope with peer pressure and maintain sobriety in the real world.

Echo Malibu offers just such a teen drug treatment program. If your child or a child you know needs help, please contact them.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Bottled Water

Back when Mark was sick, I researched everything in his diet. There are so many restrictions to what an end-stage liver patient can eat and drink, it boggles the mind. To make sure what we were giving him was acceptable, I even looked into bottled water. So, obviously, we weren't surprised when PepsiCo. and Coca-Cola announced that Aquafina and Dasani were just fancily-labeled tap water. We knew that in 2004!

Not to mention, we knew that Dasani adds sodium to their water - 25mg per every 8oz serving! Since there are 2.5 servings per 20oz bottle, that puts the total sodium per bottle at a whopping 62.5mg - as much as a whole large egg. Now, which makes more sense in the diet of a very sick man - 20oz of water or an egg? I know it sounds silly, but that's actually the choices that had to be made. The protein and nutrients went a lot further toward keeping him strong than a bottle of water would have, I promise.

As far as water? We bought a Pur filter for our kitchen tap and spend $18.00 per month for 100 gallons of clean, clear, water with no sodium added. We keep a pitcher of filtered water in the fridge at all times, and Mike has a refillable water bottle that he takes along whenever he goes out on a hot summer day.

Do yourself and the environment a favor - buy a water filter and a reusable plastic bottle.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

AeroCare

Years ago, my mother-in-law was diagnosed with cancer. She was living across the state from her oldest son. As the disease progressed, we wanted to find a way to get her east. Because of the condition of her lungs, her doctor wouldn't allow her to take a commercial flight. I wish I'd known about AeroCare in those days.

An internationally recognized airline medivac service, AeroCare offers 24-hour, emergency and non-emergency services throughout the world. Specialists in transporting critically ill patients, each flight includes a nurse, paramedic and highly trained flight crew, as well as state-of-the-art equipment.

Their aircraft are licensed by the FAA and the company is licensed as an air ambulance service in their state. AeroCare is a provider, not a broker; the medical crew members are trained in altitude physiology; and they offer bedside to bedside service. Adding to the quality of the service is their dedication to keeping costs to a minimum. AeroCare will even help you coordinate with insurance or Medicare.

It's not a service that anyone wants to need, but if you do, isn't nice to know that AeroCare is there?

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Click to Give

Desperately looking for something positive in the news today, I decided that the most upbeat story comes straight off of my homepage: The Hunger Site and their "Click to Give" program.

For those of you who haven't seen this wonderful site and all of its sister sites, let me explain. Visit any of the sites and click to give to that cause. The sponsors of the sites donate the gifts - be it 6 bowls of pet food, free books, preservation of endangered rainforest, free mammograms, basic healthcare for kids, or 1.1 cups of staple food - per click! It doesn't cost the 'clicker' a thing and you're not limited to one click per day.

I have changed my homepage to The Animal Rescue Site so that I am reminded, every time I log in, to click and give.

Won't you do the same?

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

AJ's Jewelry

While I like jewelry, I have rather particular taste. For example, I don't actually like diamonds, I don't like little delicate gold chains, and I don't like anything 'crusted' with any kind of stones.

That's why AJ's Jewelry works for me. They let me design what I want, with the stones I prefer or none at all, and help me get it created. Like JMark Afghans, they let the customer decide what they want and make sure it happens that way. Customer service at its finest.

I honestly didn't realize that you could get a custom jewelry design, without knowing a jeweler or goldsmith. But AJ's not only offers personalized name jewelry, they will take my design and work with me to make it a reality. You've got to see these transformations. It's amazing what they can do with a rough drawing.

If you don't need a custom piece or need some design ideas, you'll find those here, too. I just fell in love with the mystic topaz collection. It's an unusual stone, which AJ's has put into some very attractive settings. But it got my imagination going and I think I need to start sketching a ring or two.

Do stop by AJ's Jewelry and have a look for yourself. The selection is wonderful.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Strange Bedfellows

It's not often that I agree with Newt Gingrich - okay it's never happened before. But today, made a prediction that I just had to go along with - Clinton / Obama Democratic Presidential Ticket! When the man's right, the man's right.

I was also intrigued (and again agree) with his assessment of McCain's chances of getting the Republican nomination. Mr. Gingrich put the odds somewhere between none and less than none. Arizona's senator has managed to even alienate his own party so completely that it's a wonder they recognize him at all.

As far as the rest of the Republican candidates - I don't know much about Romney and Thompson, but I'm not really too impressed with Guiliani. There is entirely too much negative press about his handling of the 9/11 situation and NY firefighters are leading the complaints. That and his 'close' relationship with his family, just lead me to believe that he has a habit of presenting one face to the public - and it's not the real man.

Should be interesting to see how things evolve?

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Abt Electronics

I believe that I can say, without exaggeration, that I have officially died and gone to electronics heaven. Seriously! (Okay, a little exaggeration. I am still breathing.)

Abt Electronics not only has appliances, electronics, computers, cameras, TV and video equipment - they have a gourmet kitchen shop! But, I'll have to save that department for another day, I am on the hunt for something else: a room air purifier! And Abt didn't disappoint me.

Mark and Michael have seasonal allergies; I have allergies all year long. Our complex just ruled that residents cannot smoke outside their apartments, so we now have 2 indoor smokers. It's too hot to open the windows, at any time of day, so we're pretty much recycling the smoke and allergens. Add to all of that, the fact that we live about 2 blocks from the freeway, on a busy north-south road, and you know we're breathing a lot of things that are really bad for us. A room air purifier is just logical in our situation.

There were no surprises at Abt. They provided the specifications for each of the models, as well as product details, accessories, and customer reviews. I think reviews are so helpful. No matter what the manufacturer says, a satisfied or dissatisfied customer will tell you what you need to know. None of the reviews I read were anything, but satisfied, which says a lot about the store.

Of course, so does 70 years in the business and a page full of accolades from manufacturers, merchants associations, electronics publications, and consumer protection groups. If you look around the site, you'll find a lot to recommend them - free shipping, free tech support, buying guides, available rebates, Guidester shopping tools, and even an outlet store.

If you're in the market for anything electronic, you have to visit Abt Electronics. You just can't go wrong.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

T-Shirts! Getcher T-Shirts!

As you can see, I've been busy designing T-shirts; lately, they've gotten rather political. For example:

• "Don't Vote? Then, don't Complain! One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics, is that you end up being ruled by your inferiors ~ Plato"
  
  
• "When Buying and Selling are controlled by Legislation, the first things to be bought and sold are Legislators ~ P.J. O'Rourke"
  
  
• "The price good men pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men ~ Plato"
  
  

Amazing how basic truths never age, isn't it?

Of course, I also have some fun shirts:

• "Never be afraid to try something new. Remember ... the Ark was built by one amateur; the Titanic took thousands of trained professionals!"
  
  
• on a baby shirt "If you looked this cute and smelled this good, Everyone'd wanna hug you, too!"
  
  
• on a sleep-shirt "There is no problem that chocolate can't solve!"

Stop by and pick out your favorite!

Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans

We also have a page on Squidoo that supports the Genocide Intervention Network.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Instant-Hypnosis.com

Hypnosis, to me, was a stage show where some guy makes people bark like a dog or cluck like a chicken. But, as I learn, I find that it's actually a pretty amazing tool for self-improvement.

By relaxing and retraining the subconscious mind, you can create the changes that you want in your life. Instant-Hypnosis.com offers hypnosis downloads to help with smoking cessation, phobias, eating problems, and sleep disorders, to name a few. If you would like to conquer a fear of public speaking, there's a download to help you. Carefully designed to address whatever area of your life you would like to improve, Instant-Hypnosis.com gives you the tools to help yourself.

When you are calm and your mind is open, you can easily learn new skills or hone existing skills, whether it's playing the piano, learning a language, or improving your golf game. Could you have more self-confidence? Do you back down when confronted, even though you know you're right? Try Positive Thinking or Believe in Yourself downloads and break those old patterns of negative thinking. Give yourself a new, confident outlook on life.

I really recommend you visit Instant-Hypnosis.com. They have dozens of downloads, addressing virtually every aspect of life, and it couldn't be easier. You decide what kind of help you'd like. There's no waiting for the mail; simply order and download. No inconvenient and expensive office visits; you listen to the downloads on your time, at your leisure; once, twice, or as many times as you like.

No one's life is perfect; we all have things we want to change or improve. Me? I'm looking at Perfect Posture. What would you like to try?

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Advice Columns

I love reading advice columns - I really do! Not because I enjoy the horror stories that are some people's lives, but because I get a kick out of the advice given. Dear Abby and Ann Landers were the staples when I was growing up. Now that they have passed, their daughters are doing a great job of filling their shoes - with enough of their own personalities that it's not like they're clones. (Although Dear Abby II did have me a bit concerned for awhile. Her style was eerily similar to her mother's.)

Today, while catching up with Dear Margo, Ann Landers' daughter, I found an advice column on Creators Syndicate called The Advice Goddess by Amy Alkon. If you have never read her column, you have got to take a look! She is absolutely fabulous - smart, sassy, occasionally snotty, honest to a fault, and a pure joy to read.

Her advice is spot-on, but at the same time - I don't think I've ever laughed so hard over a non-humor column.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Cheapest RDRAM

Computer running really slow? Take forever to start up and load programs? You're not alone. Our desktop, which is now over five years old, takes an eternity to get going in the morning. Mark is religious about defragging, spyware and virus scans, and deleting unused programs. (I am seriously bad about it - drives him crazy!) Nonetheless, the desktop is just incredibly slow.

One rather simple solution is to upgrade the RAM (random access memory). This, as opposed to storage memory, is the memory that runs all of the processes, games, and software on your computer. The more RAM you have installed, the more quickly your computer loads and runs these programs. And, with rdram prices falling all the time, an upgrade is much, much cheaper than buying a new computer.

Cheapest RDRAM is the perfect answer. They offer memory upgrades for virtually all computers on the market and couldn't be easier to use. It took me about 30 seconds to find what I needed and get ready to place an order. For about $150.00, we could double the RAM on our desktop; for $250.00 we could triple it. Plus, since I've never done a memory upgrade, the step-by-step instructions make it incredibly simple. I really like simple!

Don't throw out that pokey computer - upgrade it! And while you're ordering that additional memory, read the 10 Reasons Not to Throw Away That Old Computer. You might be surprised at how easy some of the solutions are.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Nude Prince

As if he didn't appear foolish enough, when he claimed to have fathered Anna Nicole Smith's baby, earlier this year. Now, Frederic von Anhalt claims that 3 women, in a car with Florida plates, robbed him at gunpoint and left him nude, handcuffed to his steering wheel. Okey dokey!

If you think that's hilarious, and I do, get this: He actually claimed that he thought the young women flagged him down to pose for a picture with him. Geez! No ego there! It's interesting that the police found no handcuffs at the scene. Just what was Zsa Zsa's hubby doing at 10am, in his car, in the nude?

I'm pretty sure I don't want to know. I mean, there are some mental images one just does not need!

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Rapid Supplies

One of the issues I have with my business is finding reasonably priced office supplies. While JMark Afghans, etc. offers handcrocheted afghans, I also do a great deal of printing - brochures, flyers, shipping labels, and my business cards, to name a few. That means inkjet cartridges, printer paper, labels, and business card forms.

Now, I've found all of those items in one convenient place - Rapid Supplies.com. We already have an office jet printer, so I don't have to pay a fortune for business cards, but I do have to have quality stock to print them on. I can get that at Rapid Business at a price that I can easily afford. Not to mention, the perforated paper forms are perfect for creating wallet-sized photos.

Printer ink is a huge outlay for any business that prints anything. Rapid Supplies has the cartridges I need at a 20% discount over other stores and if I buy 2 or more at a time, I save even more. Now, I don't have to worry about how much I need to print, which is a huge relief, believe me.

I also go through a lot of notebooks for keeping notes about medical appointments, editing categories, and ideas for blog postings; special paper for brochures and mailings; and card stock for the afghan-care information that I include with each afghan order. Before, I had to shop several stores - one had a better deal on notepads, another on inkjet cartridges, and a third on card stock. It just wasn't worth the hassle, so I ended up paying more for a lot of my supplies, because I don't believe in driving all over town - wasting gas and increasing pollution.

Now I don't have to worry - everything I need is at RapidSupplies.com and, when I spend $75.00 or more, I get free shipping.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Endorsers Back Away from Vick

Sports Illustrated published a story today that will make a lot of animal lovers very happy - three endorsers have backed away from Michael Vick.

First Down: Facing protests from animal-rights groups at Niketown stores across the country, the company announced that it was suspending its contract with Vick - without pay - and halting sales of any Vick-related items in all of its retail stores. (Sacked)

Second Down and 20: Reebok, official apparel and equipment supplier to all 32 NFL teams, has announced that it will stop selling Vick-replica jerseys at all of its retail stores and on its website. This is the first time Reebok has ever pulled a jersey from the market. (Sacked for a huge loss)

Third Down and Long: Donruss, one of four major trading card companies, announced that it will pull Vick's cards from all future 2007 releases. Donruss' owner, Ann Powell, who takes her 5 dogs to work, asked that Vick's cards be pulled. According to a spokesman for Donruss: "We met as a company and the idea was brought up to pull him. There was no opposition from anybody in the room." (Intercepted and run back for a touchdown)


Congratulations and thank you to all of the organizations and individuals who have been pressuring these companies to step back and consider whether making money is worth seriously damaging their reputation and relationship with the public.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Designer Floor Area Rugs

I love to decorate and re-decorate and area rugs are a terrific, inexpensive way to change the whole mood and style of my room in the blink of an eye. As renters, we're stuck with white walls and whatever (often hideous) carpeting was on sale when they decorated the apartment, so I frequently use area rugs to add some personality and warmth to an otherwise drab look. With no effort whatsoever, they can be moved from room to room when I need a quick change or changed with the seasons. Light, bright rugs for the spring and summer; dark, rich colors to warm the winter months. The possibilities are virtually endless.

Obviously, I would love to have handmade rugs in all of my rooms, but my budget doesn't exactly allow for that. So, I love seeing that there are less expensive, machine-loomed, options such as the Misty Dream Collection from Designer Floor Area Rugs. They come in so many styles, sizes, and colors, that it's easy to find one (or more) that would be perfect in our apartment.

If I had my choice, of course, every home I lived in would have hardwood floors. From a maintenance standpoint, you just can't go wrong. But wood floors can look and feel cold. Again, area rugs to the rescue! Without breaking the bank, or robbing one, you can add color and warmth to any room, while keeping housekeeping chores under control.

Whether you're looking to change everything in the room or just want a quick pick-me-up for your existing decor, stop by DesignerFloor.com to add a little pizzazz to your life.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Avoiding Chinese Food Products

This article caught my attention, as it probably did that of many people who have been following all of the recalls and warnings about Chinese food imports. This particular family decided to go for one year without purchasing anything imported from China. What surprised me the most was that, due to the way the FDA regulates the food we buy here in the United States, it was virtually impossible to tell where ingredients came from. Only seafood is required to be labeled with the country of origin. One quote that was particularly telling:

[I]t is possible a frozen dinner, for example, could have 20 different ingredients from 20 different countries, food analysts say.

According to the article, the only way to reduce your consumption of foods with Chinese products is to avoid all processed foods. But, you'd be surprised just what some of those processed items are:

• Apple Juice
• Dried Berries
• Dried Garlic
• Instant Coffee
• Sausage Casings

The only way to change this situation is by giving the FDA back some power and increasing food inspections, which currently occur in about 1% of food imports, due to serious budget cuts by the government. If you would like to know where the food you eat is coming from; if you would like to see the FDA step up the inspection of imported foods; if you would like to make your voice heard, sign here:
Stop Starving Our Food Safety Syetem!

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Romance

Ah, romance! All you have to do is mention the word and people immediately react. Sometimes the reaction is a wistful smile or a knowing look that recalls a special moment; sometimes it's a single tear, in homage to a love that burned bright, but now is gone.

We all have an image in our mind of a romantic setting - be it a candlelight dinner in an elegant restaurant, a walk along the beach with the waves lapping at your feet, or cuddling in front of a roaring fire in a mountain cabin. Very often, true romance comes in much smaller, every day moments that we look back on for years and sigh with remembering.

What amazes me, though, is how many men groan when you mention romance. "I don't know how to be romantic!" or "I can't afford all that romance crap!" Of course, there are, what I call, large romantic gestures - flying her to Paris for dinner; a night at the Plaza; taking him on a hot air balloon ride. These are all great. But if you ask a wife about her favorite romantic moments, she might just smile and tell you about window-shopping at the mall - holding hands and sharing a hot pretzel - when her husband hates the mall. Or sitting in an ice cream shoppe feeding each other bites of a hot fudge sundae on a hot summer afternoon. Or about how he rubbed her swollen feet during the last 2 months of her pregnancy.

One of my favorite memories is dancing in the rain. I don't remember exactly how I got him out into the parking lot at our complex, but I do remember his laughing face as we held hands and spun in circles in the warm summer rain. It might seem like a small thing, but to me it was just wonderful. Apparently, the woman unloading her groceries, who stopped to watch us and sigh "Awwww!", thought so, too.

Five days after I moved to Arizona, I turned 45. Mark and I were, as they say, poorer than church mice. But he asked me to go for a drive. We talked and laughed, listened to the radio, and just took a leisurely sight-seeing tour. After about 45 minutes, he pulled into the local DQ, where he bought me my favorite sundae and held my hand.

We've been through a lot in the six years since that Peanut Buster Parfait. We've occasionally lost sight of the important things, while dealing with the day's crises. But every night, he takes me in his arms and tells me he loves me. And I hold him close, knowing that I've found my safe harbor for the night.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Another Day at the VA

For all of the bad press that VA medical care, in general and in specific, has been receiving lately, I have to tell you that the level of care I've seen, here in Phoenix, is extremely good. In fact, we just spent about 4 1/2 hours with them today.

During a routine CT scan of Mark's liver and abdomen, they found what looked like a shadow on his left lung. So, we went in for an MRI and they found a lesion on the outer edge of his left lung, as well as shadows on both lungs. Today, we went in for a lung biopsy. And we actually had a blast, the pain notwithstanding.

Before you jump to the conclusion that Mark gets great treatment because everyone knows us, let me assure you that we had never worked with any of the staff that we met today; although an old buddy of ours happened to come down to do an IV set-up for a patient with 'difficult' veins. The people we spent the morning with were incredibly competent, caring, efficient, and friendly.

The biggest risk in a lung biopsy is what they call a pneumothorax, or collapsed lung. A small amount of air getting into the chest cavity isn't usually an issue and the body will absorb it; but a large amount can press on the lung and cause it to collapse. This requires the insertion of a chest tube, just like you see on the medical shows, to remove the air. When Mark came back from the procedure complaining of excruciating pain in his chest, which wasn't common, the pulmonary doc immediately brought down x-ray and checked it out. Luckily, there was no serious problem and, after 3 hours of observation, the let me take him home.

I'll admit that not every department or every ward functions at the same level of competence and efficiency. We did have some issues in 2004 with one of the wards, where mostly indigent patients are treated. The furnishings looked like WWII surplus and the staff was a bit less willing to run if you called. But we said something and it was immediately resolved to our satisfaction.

The best thing you can do as a patient, family member, or caregiver is to educate yourself and stand up for your rights - whether you're dealing with the government or private medical care. And advocate for yourself as aggressively as you would for a friend or loved one - you deserve the best care, too.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Cedar Patio Furniture

When I was growing up, my mom had this great wooden picnic table and benches in her back yard. They were heavy as sin and built to last forever. I just loved them. Well, except for the time that my brother stained them with a really cheap stain and I ended up ruining my favorite white pants.


Today I found a great e-commerce site that has some of the most beautiful outdoor cedar furniture that I have seen. ADAMS All Natural Cedar doesn't chemically treat their wood, so it is naturally safe. The product list is huge, with everything from planters and window boxes to Adirondack-style chairs to picnic tables, and everything in between.

Just look at these picnic table sets:

Picnic Table Set

Pedestal Picnic Table Set

The first one is a lot like the one my mom had, but the round one is a great style, too. It isn't hard to imagine one of these in my back yard. Of course, I have to get a back yard first.


The other item I've always wanted is a porch swing. They just epitomize country charm and relaxation. Deciding between one suspended from the porch ceiling or one with a free-standing base is the hardest part. See what I mean:

Adirondack Log Porch Swing

Arbor Swing Set

These are just two of the available options, so you can see how difficult it is for me to make up my mind. Then add in the many available finishes and the option of cedar or cypress woods, and you can see that ADAMS offers a lot of choices. Free shipping is just icing on the cake.


Oh, they also offer the most adorable cat condos and dog houses. Houses are proudly hand built one at a time by our experienced craftsmen in America and individually hand signed. Isn't that cool? An autographed dog house!

Don't wait! Check them out today. I know you'll find something you love.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Bandwidth Auction

Have you been following the news about the upcoming bandwidth auction? Apparently, television broadcasters are required, in the very near future, to go all digital which will free up a ton of 700MHz bandwidth. The FCC is auctioning off the bandwidth and cellular phone providers are going crazy trying outbid each other.

One provider is particularly rabid about the whole process. It seems that Google is planning to bid on this new bandwidth, with the intention - get this - of letting consumers choose which company they use and use any existing phone while they do it. AT&T, for one, is really ticked off.

Currently, providers dictate what phones consumers can use and what services and sites will be provided. They also have contracts that institute extreme penalties for early termination. And they want to keep it that way.For example, I can't change from T-Mobile to Cingular without paying a stiff penalty. And even if that wasn't a problem, I couldn't take my Nokia with me; it's a T-Mobile authorized phone. If I want to change carriers, I have to get a new phone. Google is saying that I should be able to use this phone with any carrier, get all of the services and sites that I want, and change service whenever I want - and they want legislative changes so that all carriers have to offer these options.

Why it's almost un-American! Giving the consumer what they want?! Has Google lost their mind?! I hope they win the bidding war and finally bring some sanity back to owning a cell phone.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Personal Loan Store

I've been thinking about loans a lot lately - especially mortgages. There once were so many different options, it made my head spin. Now, with all of the problems that have arisen from defaults on sub-prime mortgages, there are fewer and fewer poor credit loans for new buyers with credit issues. Many loans have prepayment penalties, designed to keep the borrower paying for the full term of the loan. Other loans may offer a great annual percentage rate (APR), but, hidden in the fine print, add fees and charges that actually increase the cost of the loan substantially over one that might have a slightly higher APR. There's a lot to learn before one decides to take on debt.


The UK Personal Loan Store offers an enormous amount of loan information for all types of borrowers - mortgage, refinance, personal loans, to name a few.

Variable-rate mortgages were once, when interest rates were more stable and the housing market was strong, a viable option for borrowers, but these changes have forced many homeowners into default and foreclosure. I've never cared for that option, because it's so difficult to budget when you don't actually know what your house payment may be from one month to the next. That's frightening to me; any negative financial change can seriously damage one's ability to keep their home.


Fixed-rate mortgages are better, by far, but many borrowers with credit problems aren't eligible for the best rates. Not to mention, some fixed-rate programs are only for a limited period of time, after which homeowners are forced to continue with their lender at a much higher rate or find another short-term fixed-rate with a different financial institution which may or may not be comparable to the rate they had before.


Personal loans pose just as many questions and just as many confusing answers. Prepayment penalties abound, as do special fees and charges that are often hidden in the small print. Then, there's personal protection insurance (PPI) which is supposed to cover borrowers if they have trouble making payments. The cost of these policies has seen a dramatic increase and, amid a huge controversy, institutions in the UK have been charged with forcing the coverage on individuals who wouldn't even be able to get assistance, should the need arise.


Years ago, when my credit was actually very good, I traded in my car and bought a new one. By the time all of the 'special' charges were added in, my rate went from just over 12% to almost 16%. I've become a much savvier consumer since then.


Be sure to read the fine print before you agree to any loan. It could save you thousands of dollars, not to mention keep you from losing your home or car if your financial situation changes negatively. And check out your lender's reputation carefully; not all institutions are scrupulously honest.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Why I Don't Own a Gun!

Or - why I seem angry all the time!


The NFL is disappointed in Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick, who has been indicted for promoting and engaging in dogfighting. If you read the story, There are allegations that Vick and his cohorts executed losing dogs in sickening manners: hosing down the dogs and then electrocuting them; hanging injured dogs; or repeatedly slamming them to the ground until they were dead. The Humane Society removed 52 dogs from Mr. Vick's property and is in serious need of financial assistance to care for the animals. Yet, because he is considered a super-star, the NFL is taking a "wait and see" attitude. Wait and see what? How many more animals he can abuse and destroy? Tell the NFL to take action against this monster!

Not to mention, Nike, the only corporate sponsor that hasn't terminated it's relationship with Vick, continues to market "Vick Hero" t-shirts to young boys. The man is no hero!

Please add your voice and urge Nike to stop their endorsement of Michael Vick.


Then, we have the 83 Dolphins Killed by Brazilian Fishermen. Caught on camera slaughtering the dolphins, the fishermen joked about their illegal catch: "Everyone's going to jail after this filming!" While Ibama, the Brazilian environmental protection agency, has confirmed the report that aired on Globo TV Monday night, no charges have been brought as authorities are still trying to identify the fishermen in the video.

What is WRONG with people!?


I much prefer my son Michael's attitude. He and I were at the pool a couple of weeks ago and a bee was hovering near us. I am highly allergic, so I was trying to encourage the insect to go away. After the bee got wet and was walking toward us at the edge of the pool, Michael jumped out, grabbed a leaf, scooped up the poor creature, and moved it to a rocky area where it could dry off and wouldn't be near us. All that just to help a small insect! Pretty cool kid, huh?!

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Female Heart Attack Symptoms

It never ceases to amaze me that, in the 21st Century, so many members of the medical community still assume that women are physically the same as men. Does that sound ridiculous to you? Well it should.


For years, women have been dying during their first heart attack because we were expected to have the same symptoms as men. If a man has abdominal cramps, is he diagnosed with Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)? Of course not. Yet, all patients are expected to exhibit the same symptoms during a heart attack.


Women aren't taken seriously by the medical community, so we need to educate ourselves and each other. I received an email and did some research. What follows is a copy of the original email that I found on Snopes.com:

Women and heart attacks

I've meant to send this to my women friends to warn them that it's true that women rarely have the same dramatic symptoms that men have when experiencing a heart attack... you know, the sudden stabbing pain in the chest, the cold sweat, grabbing the chest & dropping to the floor that we see in the movies.

Having had a completely unexpected heart attack about 10:30 p.m. with NO prior exertion, NO prior emotional trauma that one would suspect might've brought it on, it was this past April, '06, about 1-1/2 hours after I'd spent a pleasant 2 hrs. rehearsing with the Note-a-Belles. I was sitting all snuggly & warm on a cold evening, with my purring cat in my lap, reading an interesting story my friend had sent me, and actually thinking, "A-A-h, this is the life, all cozy and warm in my soft, cushy Lazy Boy with my feet propped up."

A moment later, I felt that awful sensation of indigestion, when you've been in a hurry and grabbed a bite of sandwich and washed it down with a dash of water, and that hurried bite seems to feel like you've swallowed a golf ball going down the esophagus in slow motion and it is most uncomfortable.

You realize you shouldn't have gulped it down so fast and needed to chew it more thoroughly and this time drink a glass of water to hasten its progress down to the stomach, which doesn't do much good, as your esophagus and throat muscles are in spasm and it hurts to swallow.

This was my initial sensation — the only trouble was that I hadn't taken a bite of anything since about 5:00 p.m. After that had seemed to subside, the next sensation was like little squeezing motions that seemed to be racing up my SPINE (hind-sight, it was probably my aorta spasming), gaining speed as they continued racing up and under my sternum (breast bone, where one presses rhythmically when administering CPR). This fascinating process continued on into my throat and branched out into both jaws.

AHA!! NOW I stopped puzzling about what was happening. We all have read and/or heard about pain in the jaws being one of the signals of a heart attack happening, haven't we?

I said aloud to myself and the cat, "Dear God, I think I'm having a heart attack!" I lowered the footrest, dumping the cat from my lap, started to take a step and fell on the floor instead. I thought to myself, "If this is a heart attack, I shouldn't be walking into the next room where the phone is or anywhere else.... but, on the other hand, if I don't, nobody will know that I need help. And if I wait any longer, I may not be able to get up in moment."

I pulled myself up with the arms of the chair, walked slowly into the next room and dialed the paramedics. I guess when one reaches them, your address automatically flashes on a screen, as the operator verified my address immediately and asked my symptoms.

I told her I thought I was having a heart attack due to the pressure building under the sternum and radiating into my jaws. I didn't feel hysterical or afraid, just stating the facts, ma'm. She said she was sending the paramedics over immediately, asked if the front door was near to me, and if so, to unbolt the door and then lie down on the floor where they could see me when they came in. No, I didn't take an aspirin, as I'm allergic to it, but I did take a 100 mg magnesium oxide capsule... which bottle I keep handily in reach on the kitchen counter... which is a small detour on my way to the front door...with about a 3/4 glass of water to get it dissolving ASAP into my bloodstream.

Magnesium relaxes blood vessels as it dissolves to get them expanded to let blood get through the constriction of the vessels. I then laid down on the floor as instructed and lost consciousness, as I don't remember the medics coming in... their examination... lifting me onto a gurney or getting me into their ambulance... or hearing the call they made to St. Jude ER on the way. But I did briefly awaken when we arrived and saw that the cardiologist was already there in his surgical blues and cap, helping the medics pull my stretcher out of the ambulance.

He was bending over me asking questions (probably something like "Have you taken any medications?") but I couldn't make my mind interpret what he was saying, or form an answer, and nodded off again... not waking up until the cardiologist and partner had already threaded the teeny angiogram balloon up my femoral artery into the aorta and into my heart where they installed two side-by-side stents to hold open my right coronary artery and now was being taken into the CCU, and looking up at the three anxious faces of Karen, Mark, and Wendy. Since I'd been a patient at St. Jude in 2002 for my TIA treatment, they had my emergency info in their system and had called my kids. I spent two days in CCU and two in general ward, then was discharged.

I know it sounds like all my thinking and actions at home must have taken at least 20-30 minutes before calling the paramedics, but actually it took perhaps 4-5 minutes before the call, and both the fire station and St. Jude are only minutes away from my home, and my Cardiologist was already to go to the OR in his scrubs and get going on restarting my heart (which had stopped somewhere between my arrival and the procedure) and installing the stents.

Why have I written all of this to you with so much detail? Because I want all of you who are so important in my life to know what I learned firsthand, as a Certified Medical Back-Office Assistant in Internal Medicine Clinics, and as one who has lived through a heart attack due to:

1. Being aware that something very different was happening in my body.. not the usual men's symptoms, but inexplicable things happening (until my sternum and jaws got into the act ). It is said that many more women than men die of their first (and last!) MI because they didn't know they were having one, and commonly mistake it as indigestion... take some Maalox or other anti-"heartburn" preparation... and go to bed... hoping they'll feel better in the morning when they wake up... which doesn't happen.

My female friends, your symptoms might not be exactly like mine, so I advise you to call the paramedics if ANYTHING is unpleasantly happening that you've not felt before. It is better to have a "false alarm" visitation than to risk your life guessing what it might be!

2. Note that I said "Call the Paramedics," Ladies. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE! Do NOT try to drive yourself to the ER. You're a hazard to others on the road, and so is your panicked husband/friend who will be speeding and looking anxiously at what's happening with you instead of the road, and so are your kids or friends a hazard as well. As sure as I sit here, they will get the attention of a cop who will pull you over for speeding--more wasted time. Do NOT call your doctor — he doesn't know where you live and if it's at night you won't reach him anyway, and if it's daytime, his assistants (or answering service) will tell you to call the Paramedics. He doesn't carry the equipment in his car that you need to be saved! The Paramedics do — principally OXYGEN that you need ASAP. Your Dr. will be notified later.

3. Don't assume it couldn't be a heart attack because you have a normal cholesterol count — I did, and do, too. Research has discovered that a cholesterol elevated reading is rarely the cause of an MI (unless it's unbelievably high, and/or accompanied by high blood pressure.) MI's are usually caused by long-term stress and inflammation in the body, which dumps all sorts of deadly hormones into your system to sludge things up in there (and, of course, family genetics can be a factor. I qualify for the latter, and the years 2005 and 2006 have been the most stressful of my life since Jack died in 1981.)

4. Read on for the e-mail I received today that prompted my above lecture to you:

SUBJECT: Drinking ice water at mealtime (which I've always done until now.) Noting neither Urban Legions nor Snopes has anything to say about this one, it must be true. Interesting, if you've read it before, re-read it. It may save your life. Send it to your friends and family. It may save their lives....

This is a very good article. Not only about the warm water after your meal, but about ladies and their heart attacks. This makes sense... the Chinese and Japanese drink hot tea with their meals... not cold water... maybe it is time we adopt their drinking habit while eating!!! Nothing to lose — everything to gain...

For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this "sludge" reacts with the stomach's hydrochloric acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal. (Make it green tea — a great antioxidant!)

A serious note about heart attacks: Women should know that not every heart attack symptom is going to be the left arm hurting. Be aware of intense pain in the jaw line, or even pressure there and under the sternum, or "indigestion" symptoms, especially if you haven't eaten in several hours. You may never have the first chest pain during the course of a heart attack, but heaviness /pressure under the sternum is common. Nausea and intense sweating are also common symptoms, but not necessarily in the women. 60% of people who have heart attacks while they are asleep do not wake up.

Pain in the jaw can wake you from a sound sleep. Let's be careful and be aware. The more we know, the better chance we could survive.

A cardiologist says if everyone who gets this email and sends it to ten people, you can be sure that we'll save at least one life.

I am publishing the full version of this email, because it includes much more information than the one currently floating around the Internet. But both versions include several misconceptions.


Please visit Snopes.com for further clarification. They say it better than I can.



We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Celebrity Gossip

It doesn't matter how much we deny it. If we weren't reading celebrity gossip, we wouldn't be able to cite, so completely, the ups and downs of the glitterati. (If you remember, even I broke down and wrote a blog about Paris.) They capture our attention and, like it or not, we do follow the antics of our most and least favorites.


Now, there's a fun new site that not only consolidates all of the celeb gossip in one place, it lets readers vote on the stories and leave comments. Since you know you're going to read the celebrity news, why not choose a site where you can put your 2cents in? I started wandering through the site today and was immediately hooked. Not only does Celebrity Gossip give you the news, they offer links to related 'chatter', so you can see what other people are saying and get different perspectives. Luckily, not every celeb story is viewed in the same way, so it's fun to see how different people interpret the 'news'.


While I wasn't all that interested in Ben Stiller's day at the beach, I did enjoy reading about casting changes on House and the protest song written by Martha Stewart's neighbor. (What makes Martha think that she has the right to trademark a village's name for use on a line of products?)


See how easy it is to get into the celeb news?

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Center for Rural Affairs

Please visit this site and send a message to Ms. Pelosi about the fake reform bill, submitted by House Ag Committee Chairman Collin Peterson. I have and this is what I asked:

Ms. Pelosi:

I come from a family of farmers; family farms, not corporate farms. For over 30 years, I have watched the US government force these farmers out of business or into ever-increasing debt, to the benefit of mega-farms.

Chairman Collin Peterson's proposal is not real reform; it is bigger subsidies for mega-farms. It seeks to destroy family farming.

The fact that this 'reform' bill is brought by a Democrat upsets me greatly, but it does not indicate to me that it is legislation in the best interest of the people who need help most.

Please do not back this proposal.

This country was built on the blood, sweat, and tears of real farmers - not corporations. It is time that the government start supporting its citizens, not he-who-has-the-most-money.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Julie G. Hughes

The family farmers need your help. Please don't let Congress harm them again.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Support Breastfeeding

I have been reading, far too often lately, about mothers being harassed for daring to feed their children in public. When I was a young mother, there didn't seem to be the stigma associated with nursing in public. Of course, I was always discreet and covered myself and my baby to discourage prurient attention, but that doesn't really seem to be the issue these days.


One of my fondest memories is my younger cousin's surprised face. Only 15 or 16, she was holding my infant son in her arms, across her chest, and he started to "look for lunch." I can still hear my aunt's laughter as my cousin's face turned redder and redder. But I was not attacked for nursing my child or creating a situation in which my cousin was embarrassed; quite the contrary. My aunt simply explained the facts about, and benefits to, nursing infants to my cousin, who immediately handed my son back to me. Having grown up in that type of environment, it's very difficult for me to understand the negative emotions that breastfeeding brings out in people today.


In early 1980, I was flying with my 2 1/2 year old son and 2 month old daughter from Michigan to Colorado for my grandparents 60th wedding anniversary. As the plane was taking off, I let my daughter nurse to equalize the pressure in her ears and keep her from being uncomfortable. No one on the plane complained. I did the same as we landed; again, no complaints. In fact, I can only remember one person who ever said anything and that was my very, very conservative grandfather.


I know that there was a time, which I thought had long passed, when breastfeeding was considered 'common' and women who nursed their infants were looked on as unsophisticated and coarse. If one had 'class,' one bottle-fed their babies. One infant formula manufacturer went so far as to develop and deliver a campaign in third-world countries that touted bottle-feeding as a healthier alternative to nursing. What they failed to take into account was that these families couldn't afford formula, ending up diluting what they had to make it last longer, and the infant malnutrition and mortality rate skyrocketed. As we have become a truly enlightened society, we should have moved away from stereotypes that actually harm the infant, the mother, and our society.


I strongly support organizations like Breastfeeding.com, La Leche League International, and the United States Breastfeeding Committee in their efforts to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding.

Universally endorsed by the world's health and scientific organizations, breastfeeding offers a vast array of benefits, not just for infants and their mothers, but also for society. If you doubt the benefits to society, take a look at these statistics:

Economic Facts

Economic facts related to breastfeeding in the United States include:

• $2 billion per year is spent by families on breast milk substitutes such as infant formula
  
• $578 million per year in federal funds is spent by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) to buy formula for babies who are not breastfeeding
  
• Every 10 percent increase in the breastfeeding rate among WIC recipients would save WIC $750,000 per year
  
• $1.3 billion more is spent by insurers, including Medicaid, to cover sick-child office visits and prescriptions to treat the three most common illnesses - respiratory infections, otitis media (ear infections), and diarrhea - in the first year of life for formula-fed infants versus breastfed infants.
  
• $3.6 to 7 billion excess dollars are spent every year on conditions and diseases that are preventable by breastfeeding.

From: US Breastfeeding Committee

If you are, or know, a nursing mother remind society that your child has as much right to eat in public as they do:

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Whisper Mountain

Over the last couple of years, Mark and I have been seriously looking into buying a home. We miss having four seasons, hate throwing away so much money in rent every month, and would love to get out of the city, so anywhere in the country is fair game.

I've been searching, among other areas, Charlotte Real Estate, which offers some tremendous properties and got me seriously interested in the area. It's actually exciting, how much more space we could get for the same amount we kiss goodbye in rent!



Today, I fell in love with a really beautiful Asheville Property called Whisper Mountain. At elevations of 2,700 to 3,800 feet, the homesites overlook magnificent Mt. Mitchell, the Pisgah National Forest, and even downtown Asheville. But, what attracted me most is their green agenda. I've lived in too many places that sacrifice the environment in order to throw up a bunch of cookie-cutter houses. At Whisper Mountain, each of the beautiful wooded lots has been thoughtfully planned, with full regard for environmental preservation. They have created homesites, trails, and many other exclusive amenities that tread lightly on the earth. Why would you want to throw away hundreds of dollars a month in rent, when you could own a beautiful home in such an incredible development?

Not sure what you can afford? No problem. Compare Mortgage Rates and get matched with lenders who can help, no matter where in the country you're looking to buy. The quick, easy form takes almost no time to complete and will help start the process, whether you're looking to refinance, buy a home, or consolidate debt.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Dream Themes

The last few weeks, I have been having the same (or similar) dreams over and over. So I thought maybe I should see if they 'meant' anything. And, of course, got caught up in reading about different dreams.

Did you know that if you dream about your teeth falling out or crumbling, that it may be a sign that you're feeling powerless or unattractive? I find that really interesting, because I used to have those dreams all the time - in the midst of a really bad relationship where I was treated as very unattractive and had very little power over the situation.


Dreaming about school? I keep having this dream that I'm back in school, can't find my locker or remember the combination, and am missing important classes. School apparently means I have unresolved childhood insecurities and/or am going through a spiritual learning experience. The locker problems are supposed to indicate insecurity in a role or situation, while missing classes points to a fear of failing or anxieties. Sheesh! Looks like I'm just a mess. lol


Visiting a Cafeteria in your dreams may indicate issues that are 'eating' you up inside. A couple of times recently, I dreamed about being in a cafeteria where I couldn't find any food. Far from issues, I think I just shouldn't have gone to bed hungry. :-)


How about an Amusement Park? This dream may mean that you need more time for leisure and enjoyment. I used to have a nightmare about my kids disappearing in an amusement park. Don't think that had much to do with leisure.


Cars are supposed to be an indication of one's drive, ambition, and ability to navigate from one stage of life to another. I've been having this really weird dream about being unable to steer my car. Doesn't sound good, does it?


Frankly, I think it's time to either stop reading this stuff or make an appoinment with a shrink! lol

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

MDVIP

Have you been to a doctor's office lately? Did you feel rushed through and summarily dismissed? Well, that's what I've been going through, too. In fact, I don't even get to see the doctor; I am treated by the physician's assistant. The last visit she forgot both of the referrals that I needed. And, although she recommended a new medication to help me stop smoking, didn't provide a prescription. Luckily?, I have to go back at the end of the week for follow-up.


Tired of this cursory treatment? Need a doctor who actually sees you and listens to your questions and concerns about your health? Check out:
A national leader in personalized and preventive medicine with a growing network of over 130 physicians, they can be found in 21 markets and 15 states. What they offer is simple and, to me, quite unique in this world of skyrocketing medical greed and perfunctory medical exams:

By dramatically reducing the size of their practices, MDVIP-affiliated physicians have time to provide comprehensive preventive care services to all patients, and also have the time required to address chronic and acute conditions.

Physicians limit their practices to around 600 patients, so that you get their time and full attention at each visit; a new level of highly personalized healthcare that focuses on prevention and early detection.

One of the greatest advantages, to me, is the myMDVIP personalized health website that each patient receives. This website includes some amazing tools for managing your health:

• a custom health risk assessment,
• a personalized wellness plan developed with Duke University and Wellness By Choice,
• an extensive library of educational materials to help answer questions and enhance personal knowledge,
• secure email to contact your physician and their staff without waiting for office hours to call, and
• an electronic health record that consolidates all of your medical information.

When Mark got sick in 2003, I started researching liver disease, cirrhosis, HCV, ascites - whatever condition developed, I looked into it, as best I could. Can you imagine having all of the information you need to educate yourself in one place? I think that is absolutely incredible! Because, while I depend on the doctor to order the tests and help me decipher the results, I want to be educated about my or my loved ones' condition.

Over the last few years, I have seen the level of care that Mark receives through the VA and, to a lesser extent, his private physicians. Each person he sees has taken a personal interest in his health and wellbeing. They are never in a rush; they never fail to ask and answer questions; and they aggressively treat any and all problems that arise.

Frankly, I don't think I should have to nearly die and go through an organ transplant to have a physician who cares about my health. MDVIP offers that care and concern.

Your health is too important to trust to doctors and staff who see you as just another insurance check.

Visit MDVIP.com today and find a partner in your healthcare.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Some 'Interesting' News Stories

When reality just gets to be too much, I read odd / weird news - I mean, come on - how many times can you read about the latest stupid story to come out of the White House without wanting to run screaming into the street. Sometimes the stories are cute; sometimes they're silly; sometimes they're just shake-your-head stupid. But, fortunately, they aren't about GWB, yet!

• Tourism Amid Drug Wars - Sinaloa, Mexico is hoping to lure tourists to rustic cabins that sit in a rugged area which just happens to be known for generations of opium and marijuana growth, and powerful drug gangs. Officials are quite certain that tourists have nothing to fear, because the drug cartels are only killing each other. Oooooh, sign me up! Can I have the cabin with the gun turret?


• Democracy - in Weld County, Colorado a jury determined that a woman who left a flier containing dog droppings on the doorstep of a US representative was simply exercising free speech! Hooray for the Constitution and Bill of Rights!


• Hurt So Good - Guelph, Ontario, Canada police have been looking for a man who, not once or twice but, three times stopped women and asked them to kick him in the groin! Maybe his wife was on vacation!?


• Are You My Mommy? - in Belgrade, Serbia a Rhodesian Ridgeback mother has adopted a 15-week-old black panther cub, named Milica, whose mother refused to feed her and tried to kill her. Zoo officials believe that the mother was traumatized in 1999 by NATO airstrikes intended to stop Slobodan Milosovic.
  
  What a sweet baby!

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Metal Pegboard

Do you know what pegboard is? I certainly do. Every garage, in my youth, had a wall of tools that included something mounted on pegboard. (Think tool-related TV shows and you'll know what I mean.) Made of fiberboard, they were never very attractive and it always appeared, to me, that they would collapse if too much weight was placed on them.

Well, now pegboard has grown up and grown some muscle. Today, there is a fantastic alternative to the old fiberboard - metal pegboard - which adds strength and style to any garage. Although, frankly, I don't think that they need to be limited to a garage.

Just look:



Many of you know that we have an extremely small kitchen. In fact, if it weren't for wall space, we wouldn't have anywhere to put most of our cookware. I've always loved the idea of hanging my pots and pans; with this kitchen I don't have much choice. Right now I have nails, not necessarily hitting any studs, holding up my pots and I hope every time I walk through that they won't fall down. I never thought I'd find something that looks this fantastic that also won't drop my cookware on my head as I walk by.

In the living room, we have a wooden wall rack for the coats that we wear regularly. It's bulky and not very attractive. Imagine: an attractive metal pegboard panel with as many hooks as you need - voila the perfect coat 'rack'.

Okay, I've also imagined these metal pegboards in my closet (I'm totally hooked! pardon the pun.)

Car Guy Garage, I'm sure, didn't originally intend to create something marvelous for the rest of the house, but it is just such a great product that I think it will rapidly move from occupying the garage to helping out everywhere.

I want their pegboards in my kitchen, foyer, and closet. But, hey, they're also terrific for the garage!

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

TB Lawsuits

You know? I've been waiting for this to happen. Andrew Speaker knew he had TB and was warned by health officials not to get on another international flight. The fact that he flew from the Czech Republic to Montreal (not the US), rented a car, and attempted to 'slip across the border' into the United States, tells me that he knew what he did was seriously wrong.


A Montreal lawyer filed a motion in Quebec Superior Court yesterday, on behalf of eight passengers and the roommate / brother of one passenger. Montreal graduate student, Nassim Tabri, sat one row in front of Speaker and didn't know he'd been exposed until a reporter contacted him after the story broke. Can you imagine the shock?!


The one passenger whose story moved me the most is that of a 72-year-old man who tested positive for TB and now lives in a room, separate from his wife. Health officials aren't certain that the result is related to contact with Speaker, and false-positives aren't uncommon. But, how would you like to have your health, your very life put in jeopardy because ONE person selfishly decides that his rights supercede yours?!

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Baby Shower Decorations

I've been designing baby shirts and creepers lately, which reminded me of baby showers - one of my favorite parties. There's just nothing like all the cute little outfits and decorations!

There's a terrific site, PartyPail, that offers adorable baby shower decorations and supplies in 15 different themes. Personally, I just love Winnie the Pooh and all of his friends, so I couldn't resist this great package.



The 8-person Pooh's Playful Baby Shower kit is currently 15% off at just $29.99 and includes invitations, large table cloth, plates, cups, drink napkins, cutlery, 2 solid streamers, a playful Pooh streamer, 18" star balloon, 16 12" balloons, and curling ribbon. That's an amazing amount of supplies and decorations for such a low price! I really thought it would be a lot more.

Hosting more than 8 people? No problem! You can easily add matching and complimentary plates, cups, cutlery, invitations, thank you cards, banners, centerpieces, and confetti. PartyPail even has game books, favor ties and tulle, doilies, cups for treats, and a beautiful keepsake registry. Everything you need for a perfect shower!

What I didn't expect to find were the worksheets they offer to help with planning. There's a Budget Worksheet that lets the planner list everything they'll need, what it cost, and (for more than one host) how much each person has paid. The Shower Timeline provides a timed list of tasks, starting 6 weeks out, that will help organize and de-stress the entire process.

What more could you ask for?

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Millions Stolen From Baghdad Bank

Have you seen this story? It seems that two, or three depending on to whom you speak, guards at the Dar Es Salaam Bank in Baghdad stole over one-quarter billion American dollars yesterday!


Now, I might be a grumpy old cynic, but does anyone believe that these guards - however many there were - had no connection to the militia? Of course they did! Else, how could they have gotten through all of the checkpoints and disappeared with all of the that lovely American money?


Does anyone believe that $282 million American dollars isn't going to go a long way toward funding further terrorist activities? Of course it is! Why mess with all those Iraqi dinars, when you can float around legal US currency?


Would anyone care to hazard a guess as to why there was so much American money in the private Baghdad bank? Your guess is as good as mine. That one I haven't quite figured out, yet. But, does it really matter, in the whole scheme of things? Not really. The money is gone and, undoubtedly, in the wrong hands.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Side Step - Aruba

Ever dreamed of visiting Aruba? Me, too!

A couple I know spent their honeymoon at one of the all-inclusive resorts and had an absolutely wonderful time.

I was taking a virtual vacation at SideStep.com and just fell in love with the island. First of all, you just can't beat the weather - virtually unending sunny days, warm temps, and tropical breezes. Not to mention, low humidity and no hurricanes! The only time I've been to the beach was in California in December, so I can see myself stretched out on the beautiful white sand for hours with a great book and a cold drink.

The area along Eagle Beach sounds perfect to me. It's less urbanized and crowded. There are apartment-style accommodations with kitchens, living rooms, and guest rooms that would just be perfect for us. Being able to fix a quick bite really appeals to me.

Fortunately for Mark, who has to avoid the sun, there are tons of things to do on Aruba besides playing on the beach. I was reading about Fort Zoutman, built by the Dutch in 1796. The oldest example of Dutch architecture on the island, it houses the Museo Arubano, which displays prehistoric Caiquetio artifacts and remnants from the Dutch colonial period. Then, there's the beautiful churches and synagogue, the Numismatic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and the Cultural Center. I just love museums and historic architecture. So much of the United States is designed around the concept that newer is better. I totally disagree.

Of course, one of the great things about a vacation is the food! From lobster at Flying Fishbone to dining in a Dutch galleon at Pirate's Nest, I'm starved just reading the menus. Aruba offers such a variety of dining options that I can't imagine there would be any complaints in the group. Some restaurants are very kid-friendly, with grilled cheese sandwiches or spaghetti at The Waterfront Crabhouse and kids meals starting at a very friendly $3.95 at The Turtle's Nest.

Although the days of huge Caribbean bargains are waning, you can still find everything from shoes to linens to fragrances to T-shirts, tanks, and totes that change color in the sun and only 3.3% duty. So, at least one afternoon of serious shopping is definitely on my to-do list! Poor Mark!

Now I just have to convince Mark! Maybe we can start at a Tampa Hotel and work our way up!?

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Lady Bird Johnson

I am old enough to remember the Johnson administration. More to the point, I vividly remember the Kennedy assassination (the funeral took place the weekend of my 7th birthday) and the images of Lyndon Johnson taking the oath of office aboard Air Force One, his wife by his side. While I wouldn't say I was a fan of LBJ, Lady Bird Johnson was truly an amazing woman.


In the 1960s, before widespread talk of global warming and the greenhouse effect, remember the first Earth Day wasn't until 1970, Mrs. Johnson was a vocal advocate for replacing billboards and junkyards with trees and wildflowers. What few may know, the $320 million Highway Beautification Bill, passed in 1965, was known as "The Lady Bird Bill," and she made speeches and lobbied Congress to win its passage.


Soft-spoken and genteel, turning a modest inheritance into a multi-million dollar radio corporation, she was known to mop floors and sell radio time. Even though she had an almost crippling fear of public speaking, she once appeared for 47 speeches in 4 days, while LBJ was on the campaign trail.


Admired and respected by all who came after her, on her 70th birthday, in 1982, she and Helen Hayes founded the National Wildflower Research Center near Austin, later renamed the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. The research and education center is dedicated to the preservation and use of wildflowers and native plants.

"I'm optimistic that the world of native plants will not only survive, but will thrive for environmental and economic reasons, and for reasons of the heart. Beauty in nature nourishes us and brings joy to the human spirit," Lady Bird Johnson wrote.


Amen, Mrs. Johnson.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Comfy Sacks

Remember bean bag chairs!? I sure do! Loved 'em, in fact. All you had to do was wiggle a little to make a perfect support for your body and you were so incredibly comfy that you'd never want to get up. (Not to mention, the fond memories I have of my first boyfriend and the bean bag chair in his basement. lol) When I was expecting my son, I would lay belly-down in our bean bag chair to take pressure off my back and hips. It worked wonders!

To be perfectly honest, I didn't actually realize that bean bag chairs were still around, in any form, until I found this site.

Now ( I just had to post the logo, it's so cute! ) offers an updated version that uses high quality shredded polyurethane foam and comes in a variety of sizes (from 3.5ft. to 8ft.), fabrics (twill or micro suede), and colors (black, brown, navy blue, red, pink, and tan).

There are other companies, Lovesac is one, that offer a similar product. But for me, they really don't compare to Comfy Sacks. Let me explain why Find Out Why Comfysacks Is Superior Over Lovesacs. For a 6ft model, Comfy Sack vs. Lovesac:

1. Five-year Warranty vs. Two-year Warranty
2. Made in US vs. Made in China
3. $332.60 vs. $530.14

Even if the price was higher, I'd still have to shop with Comfy Sacks, for one very important reason. Above and beyond the obviously superior quality and warranty, I just can't support a company that is based in the United States, but outsources to China.

I can, however, imagine curling up in one of these great chairs, with a bowl of popcorn, and a great movie on the TV. In fact, I'm thinking that the 8ft model would make a really comfy bed! Do you think I can convince Mark?!

Take a look! They're just gorgeous!See why I just love these chairs?

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Online Dating for Geeks

The Internet was, originally, the purview of geeks and nerds. 'Cool' people didn't bother with it. Well, all of that has changed with the growth of the World Wide Web. Non-nerds are now invading all areas of nerd-dom, especially online dating sites.


I'm sure that you've seen the new TV ads about people who were rejected by one harmonious site, urging them to get matched on another. Well, Joyce Dales can tell you that 'another' isn't any more geek-friendly than the original; although she did eventually find and marry Jeff Dales. Then, there's her brother's unharmonious rejection when he tried to complete an application.


In defense of nerds everywhere, the self-professed geeky couple and sibling launched, SweetOnGeeks.com, which offers a safe place for the socially-awkward to find true love. If you're a Trekker, history maven, Tesla aficianado, or DaVinci expert, this is the place for you.


Free for the first 2 weeks, the cost is a nominal $5.00 per month after that; although the intent is to make the site completely ad-supported in the future. Pretty cool, huh?


Where were they when I was dating?

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Keep Ca$h

We do a lot of shopping on the Internet, especially now, when it's just too hot to go out, and at Christmas-time, when there are just too many people in the stores. Obviously, since we're on a fixed income, we have to get the most for our money. Not to mention, we're trying to reduce our 'carbon footprint' by driving as little as possible.

That's why ( don't you just love that logo! ) and the deals, coupons, and promo codes they offer really help.

It's great for me, because I can get the yarns I need from JoAnn Fabrics and save money. I don't have to worry about whether my local store stopped carrying a particular brand or color, which has happened and can be a serious problem for my business. If I want to try a new brand or color, or take up a new craft, it's easy to order and returns are never a problem. I really like easy and no problem!

Mark and I can't stand the prices, so we don't go to the theater. Instead, we buy a lot of movie DVDs, which really makes more sense - unlimited viewing for about the same price as 2 tickets to a first-run movie. I didn't even realize, until I started looking around KeepCa$h, that DVDPlanet even existed. They have an absolutely amazing collection of movies, all discounted! I spent hours just looking at all the titles, remembering so many movies that I haven't seen or thought about in ages. There are familiar 'old friends' like Citizen Kane, It's a Wonderful Life!, and Brigadoon. But it's the collections that just amazed me - like 57 Charlie Chaplin classics, or a Charles Dickens 4 movie set; not to mention new releases and pre-order deals. It's just a great place to shop!

Whether you're looking for movies, a dozen roses, computer accessories, or new shoes, Keep Ca$h has a store for you - with deals and coupons that make shopping even more fun!

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Charles Lane

I have watched this actor all of my life - from Petticoat Junction, to I Love Lucy, to It's a Wonderful Life! and hundreds of other roles. Typecast as a grump, he was nonetheless a joy to watch.


After trying, in vain, to explain to Mark where he would have seen the actor, I became fascinated with Mr. Lane's story. Born in San Francisco, he was one of the last survivors of the 1906 earthquake. It seems everyone knows his face; in fact, you'd have to have been living under a rock for the last 70 years to have not seen him in one of his over 250 movie and television roles.


In an interview from, I believe, the 1980s, Mr. Lane tells of working in the studio 'system' in the 1930s. Some days he would have parts in 3 different movies, so they would rush him in and out of costume, from one set to another, to do his few lines - for $35.00 a day! It's not surprising that, when the Screen Actors Guild was being formed, he was one of the first to join. (Some sources credit him with being a co-founder.)


An amazingly talented, and prolific, actor who was still working at 100, he passed this week at 102. RIP, Mr. Lane and thank you for sharing your talent with us for all of these years.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

acquisio

Pay-Per-Click (PPC) campaigns are a popular online marketing tool. If you use PPC or manage PPC for clients, you know that to monitor accounts you have to log into Google, Yahoo, and MSN for each account that you manage.


Now, you can access all of your accounts, or your clients' accounts, from one interface through acquisio Search, bid management software.

To make it as seamless as possible, acquisio SEARCH offers . . . a number of templates which you can use right out of the box - or if you wish you can edit backgrounds, logos, placement of elements, and CSS of the entire interface from an easy to use settings environment. What more could you ask for?

Well, there's even more:

• flexible reporting options,
• easy account importing,
• bid management,
• a web-based demo, and
• a fully-functional risk-free 30-day trial.

Not to mention, a flat-fee pricing structure, your own dedicated account manager, training and support, and a VAR program if you're interested in becoming a reseller.

If PPC is part of your marketing strategy, you really need to check out acquisio SEARCH.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

I Have Had Enough! Vote Hillary!

Based on an amazing collection of manufactured 'truths' and an incredible amount of disinformation, the current administration started a war that has completely destabilized most of the Middle East. It has allowed fringe groups, that would never have had a chance to rise to this level of power, to overrun not just Iraq, but the entire area.


Now, I read that we, the taxpayers, are paying billions of dollars A DAY for a conflict that has very little citizen support and is doing little more than killing Americans. Of course, the Iraqi government is insisting that, if US troops leave, a civil war will ensue.


Has anyone noticed that the civil war has already begun?


Under the Clinton administration the United States actually enjoyed a budget surplus, and international respect.


Is there any doubt that we need to put another Clinton in the White House?

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

PrayAbout.com

Over the time that Mark was so sick in 2003 and 2004, many people across the country prayed for him. They submitted prayer requests at their churches and started prayer chains all over the Internet. Whether you believe or not, I can tell you that with less than 2 months to live, a series of events transpired that could only be called miraculous and they saved his life. (Not to mention an extremely talented surgical team and amazing nursing staff.) To this day I believe in the power of prayer.


That's why I was so happy to find PrayAbout.com. It's a non-denominational site where people can make a prayer request online, for free.

Christian prayer, Islamic prayer, Jewish prayer - it doesn't matter. Thousands join with you in prayer, no matter what you're praying about today. Feel the love and support of people world-wide as you pray for healing, love, peace, children...anything that you want to make a request for.

Can you imagine the power of thousands of people praying with you?!


Share your love and faith by responding and supporting others who have submitted requests. You can even light a candle, if you like.

Lighting candles is your way of saying "I'm praying for you". It's also a way for you to help "illuminate" those prayer requests that you think other people should see -- so that they can join in and pray with you.

Please help others and yourself. Visit this special site.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

The Other Boomers Get a Social Network

Have you read this article? (Click on the title to check it out.)


Were you, like me, born between 1954 and 1965? Did you know that, according to Jonathon Pontell, we are no longer 'Baby Boomers'? We are now 'Generation Jones', which (as the article mentions) doesn't really have a positive ring to it. Jonesing has never been something that I'd like to associate myself with, if you know what I mean.


Not to mention, I have never felt the need to align myself or my identity with any particular social grouping - be it 'Boomers' or anything else. Apparently, society hasn't created quite enough cultural divisions or identities to suit some people's need to belong to something bigger than themselves.


The whole thing seems rather silly to me. Does it really matter? I'd rather not be grouped, labeled, or otherwise pigeon-holed. Are we now going to experience a new wave of marketing, designed to get us 40- and 50-somethings to jones for their products?


I certainly hope not. I've never been afraid to boycott products and companies, based on policies that I find offensive. This would be no different to me.


Give me a break people! How are we ever going to move to a global society when we continue to divide and subdivide ourselves?!

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Furniture From Home

We've been toying with the idea of replacing our computer desk, cuz it just eats up space in our tiny living room and really doesn't have the file storage that I'd like. So, you know me, I've been window shopping online. Now, I have a bigger problem - too many great home office furniture options.

I really love this style

But, then there's this one!

I just love that with Furniture From Home, I'm not limited in what I can get. If I want to start small, with just a desk and hutch, I can. Or if I want to get an entire set, I can do that, too. It's all up to me! Face it, no matter how much space you have, or don't have, there's a great office right there just waiting for you.

Of course, while I was checking out desks, I had to have a look at sectional sofas. We currently have 2 recliners, which is fine for Mark and me, but not so good when we have company.

Unlike a lot of sectionals I've found, with Furniture From Home I don't have to buy more pieces than will fit in my room. Or settle for fewer pieces than I need. It's all customizable. And each page includes the dimensions for each piece - there's no guessing about whether it'll fit. Not to mention, the quality standards are amazing! From the frames, to the fabrics, to the cushions - all top quality.

I think I'm in love with this one
Just look at that reclining chaise! Could you get more comfy?!

Since I was 'shopping' anyway, I decided to check out bedroom furniture, because we do need to get something for Mike.
I honestly think that this is a perfect set for any age

I've always loved trundle beds. Although, a bookcase bed is really cool, too. And, again, you can order everything or pick and choose. If you decide to add more pieces later, you know that they'll match.

Did I mention that they offer free shipping?

You're gonna love this site!

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Proper Language

I, throughout my life, have turned to the dictionary for proper usage and pronunciation, priding myself on being able to read, write, and speak 'proper' American-English. Admittedly, I have gotten rather lazy over the years and do not, necessarily, speak as well as I could. (Heaven knows, 15 years with a carpenter, certainly added some spice to my usage of the language!) And what about all of the word games we've played where the dictionary was the arbiter of what is and isn't a 'real' word.


The dictionary taught me how words are formed, what each 'piece' means; their ancestry, so to speak. Now, may Webster forgive us, any word or pronunciation that is "popular enough" becomes acceptable, worthy of a listing in the dictionary, and can actually replace pronunciations that go back to the roots of the word? I live with kids who say "psgetty". Because there are 2 of them and only one of me, does that give their pronunciation validity over mine? I don't think so! Yet, that is what I see happening, every time the dictionary is 'updated'.


No wonder people find our language so difficult to learn. This is one time that I have to applaud the French - they actually legislate proper usage and changes to their language.


Maybe I'm a purist, but how does anyone learn a language that is constantly being corrupted by "common" terms?

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Perfume

I love perfume! But, when I can smell someone coming for 2 blocks, that's just too much. Which is why I don't buy cologne - it's too strong, never subtle and just overwhelms the senses.


Perfume, on the other hand, when used appropriately, creates an aura that doesn't announce your arrival. One of my favorites is "Oscar," because it totally suits my body chemistry, and when I wear it no one knows unless they get close to me. Not to mention, my ego loves hearing "You smell so good!" It's the only fragrance I currently own or wear. And I only wear it in the evenings. It's really not a daytime scent, to me.


I'm not really fond of 'flowery' scents, the more earthy and woodsy kinds of fragrances definitely seem to suit me better. Years ago, I wore 'L'air du Temps' by Nina Ricci and 'Rive Gauche' by Yves Saint Laurent - such wonderful perfumes. And I absolutely love 'Grey Flannel' by Geoffrey Beene for men. Although, 'Old Spice' is one of my first sensory memories - from my grandpa. It always smells like love to me, so I love the fact that Mark wears it, too.


Between you and me, I think that everyone should find a scent that 'speaks' to them and that they are proud to wear.

We, as a species, relate to each other based on scent. Find your perfect fragrance and wear it proudly.

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

JMark Afghans on Squidoo

You may have noticed the link we've added to JMark Afghans on Squidoo both in the sidebar and in 'our' signatures. If you haven't stopped by lately, please come say "HI"!

Not only do we feature some of the afghans that Jules has created, you can find her Zazzle creations and, new to Squidoo, special items to compliment any purchase.

Have you found a great new mug, but the coffee maker died? Not a problem. We offer links to some great coffee and tea makers. You've ordered that special lady an elegant Lacy Afghan, but you'd like to even do more? Terrific! Add a luxurious home spa basket and let her escape without ever leaving home. Been doing battle with your computer lately? Trust me! We understand - check out our Computer Humor Mousepads. They won't fix your computer, but they might just make the battle a little more amusing.

Remember our lens at Squidoo supports the Genocide Intervention Network.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Pet-Super-Store

While we don't have a dog, yet, I am always surfing the 'net for cool pet stuff. Today I found Pet-Super-Store and just had a blast checking out their dog beds, among other fun stuff. Paka's outgrown his 'little house' that we bought when he was a baby, so I was in the market for a great new space for him. Boy, did I find some great options!


Beyond the cool pet beds and houses, which I'll get to in a second, I just love the additional features that they offer - 100% money back guarantee, free UPS shipping, and FREE advice from a pet expert. It's really tough to get good advice for free and I, personally, am loathe to pay for a vet visit for simple questions. So this is really cool to me.


Okay, I'm telling you, if you have a pet, you have got to check out these cool dog beds! These are just 2 of over 40 available styles.

Bean Bag Ultra Comfort This one made me want to curl up and take a nap, too. I remember bean bag chairs from my youth and they are just the most comfy things in the world. No dog will be able to resist!

Soothsoft Canine Cooler Now, pardon the pun, this is cool! Especially in Arizona in the summer! Can you imagine having your very own soft, cool place to lie down in the middle of a hot afternoon?! I wanna be a puppy, too!

Not only are these beds terrific, and I don't see why many of them wouldn't be great for my cat, I fell in love with the pet furniture, too. In fact, there is just so much to look at, you'll spend hours oohing and aahing, and ordering, these great items.

You won't be sorry!

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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Happy Birthday 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.


We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Happy Anniversary!!

Today is the third anniversary of the day that Mark got out of the hospital, after his transplant.


It's funny. You would think that Mark's transplant day would be a date I never forget. But somehow I do; according to his records it was 06/26/04. The date I never forget is the day he came home from the hospital.


There is nothing - and I mean nothing - that could have prepared me for the absolute insanity that would reign for several weeks after he got home! I mistakenly believed that things would be calm and quiet. Yeah, sure!? The medications that he had to take for months, made him a constant blur of energy.


We didn't even make it home from the hospital and Mark decided that we needed new cell phones. Which was true, but couldn't it have waited a day or two?! Nope! And that was just the beginning - he started (note I said started) at least a dozen small to large projects in the days that followed.


I think the one that drove me the most insane was his rearranging cupboards and cabinets, drawers and shelves. There are things that, to this day, I have never been able to find! So much for my idea of peace and quiet!


While exhausting at the time, I look back with such joy at those days. After all, everyone expected him to be gone by then.



God Bless!

Jules