Wedding Flowers

As many of you know, Mark and I are planning to get married - one of these days, when we have time to actually put together a wedding. We have a lot of ideas about what we want. A lot of general ideas.

Beyond where, when, and what we'll be wearing, wedding flowers - truly - are one of my biggest priorities. You see, we've both been married before. Surprised, aren't you?! But I never really got to plan my perfect wedding and Mark never really wanted to.

This time we're going to do it our way and I just can't wait to put together my wedding bouquet. I am leaning, heavily, toward tulips; preferably in the lavender-to-purple color range. The more I think about it, I want dark purple tulips - with baby's breath in the bouquet and in my hair. Mark's birthstone is amethyst, as is the ring he gave me, so dark purple is almost required.

Wow! Who would have thought that the thought of wedding flowers could inspire so much?




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God Bless!

Jules

Blogsvertise.com

In my travels around the Internet - yes, I've been shopping again - I found an interesting site for Bloggers. Called Blogsvertise.com, it's a great way for me to earn a little extra holiday money while doing what I do anyway - blog, blog, blog. The process is simple and easy.

If you have a blog already, just register for free and follow the instructions. Naturally, there is a review process, so approval takes, on average, 24 hours. But, would you really want to associate with an organization that was cavalier about who could work with them? Besides, a day or two isn't all that bad, in the whole scheme of things.

There are a lot of things to like about Blogsvertise.com. First, the rules and guidelines are truly simple. You choose the 'tone' of your blog post; this isn't blatant advertising. It's also not the 'Great American Novel.' You aren't required to do more than mention a particular website, include 3 links to that website, and write 2-3 paragraphs - about 75 words or so. Now that's easy. (I've already written more than that, just telling you this much.)

Secondly, even if you don't currently have an active blog you can still participate. It will just take a couple of extra steps. You'll need to create a blog or online journal and start writing. No duh, huh? But Blogsvertise.com has a list of free software and sites to help get you started. Once you're set up and have some posts to show off, you can register for an account.

Naturally, newer blogs or blogs without a lot of regular activity may have a probationary period. Payments may be lower, or assignments may be fewer, until there are about 60 days worth of activity. I know that I was flat-out denied by a site before I starting writing regularly. So, that's not a big surprise.

Believe me, when you're keeping an online journal or blog anyway, it's dead easy to work with Blogsvertise.com and generate a little spending money for yourself.





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God Bless!

Jules

Exciting News

JMark Afghans, etc. has partnered with several exciting companies to bring amazing products to our customers. Over the last few weeks, some of these organizations have made some changes, so JMark Afghans has made some changes, as well. I am thrilled to be able to tell you about two (2) of our newest partners.

First, welcome FragranceNet.com! Personally, I have been doing business with them for years. In fact, it's the only place I purchase my favorite scents. You just can't beat the amazing prices, huge selection, and exquisite quality of the perfumes, colognes, and bath sets.




Our newest partner, has me really excited - Diabetic Living Diet! Ever since Mark started having problems with his blood sugar, I've been looking for effective, reasonably-priced dietary help. Today, we partnered with this amazing organization that has everything I was looking for - and much, much more. They have healthy recipes, and tips and information for living with diabetes.




Please stop by our newest Shopping Friends and explore the wonderful products they have to help you feel fantastic - outside and inside!




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God Bless!

Jules

Website Optimization

I received a call today from a gentleman who wanted to help me optimize my website. Not necessarily a bad idea - except for the fact that the example site he sent me to was actually less optimized than my home page. Add to that the fact that he had never heard of Google PageRank and didn't understand what the Alexa traffic numbers mean, and you've got someone who really needs to do a little more homework before calling site owners.

So, if you have a website of your own and get a call from someone who tells you that they can help you improve what you've done - be very careful.




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God Bless!

Jules

Turkey Leftovers

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. We definitely were more stuffed than the bird. Since I'm the only one in the family who eats stuffing, we've done away with that tradition. But we've added Pineapple Upside-Down Cake to our holiday table, which is so yummy. Somehow, I just don't miss the stuffing, when I'm munching on that cake!

Now, we've got leftovers to deal with. Mark makes a delicious turkey-and-gravy-over-biscuits that's good for one meal. But, when you start out with a 13 pound bird, that's a lot of turkey meals awaiting.

Any good recipes out there that you'd like to share?




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God Bless!

Jules

FreeRice.com

A friend of our sent us this link - FreeRice.com. For every definition you get right, they donate 10 grains of rice throughout the United Nations, in an effort to end world hunger. What a great way to practice your vocabulary!

Not all of the words are exactly easy. Some are older in usage, and some are medical. As you work through the list, your vocabulary level increases and decreases. Mine went up pretty fast, then went down even faster! lol

By the time my brain decided it had had enough, I had donated almost 2,000 grains of rice and gotten some well-needed mental exercise.




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God Bless!

Jules

Series 7 Exam

I couldn't believe all of the different exams required in order to work in the securities / stock industry. Not every position has to pass every exam. But, for example, in order to work as a General Securities Sales Supervisor, an individual has to pass the Series 9/10 ~ after passing the Series 7.

The Series 7 exam is the NASD/NYSE test required for registered representatives by most broker-dealers. While there are no prerequisites to this exam, the Series 63 or Series 66 exam is a co-requisite. That's a lot of information to learn. If it were me, I'd want all of the help I could get.

That's where Empire Stockbroker comes in. They offer classroom training, home study materials, and an online testing program designed to help individuals pass, whatever exam they're taking, the first time. Since the Series 7, alone, is 260 multiple-choice questions, with 3 hours allowed to complete each half, I certainly wouldn't want to have to take it more than once.

If your career requires NASD/NASAA licensing, why not trust the company whose instructors have actually taken and passed the exams themselves?




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God Bless!

Jules

Race to Stop Global Warming

From Care2.com:

Welcome to Care2.com's Race to Stop Global Warming!

Once per day, you can click for free to slow global warming by offsetting one pound of carbon, a greenhouse gas.

To offset even more greenhouse gases, please get your friends involved. Forward this message to let friends know that when they click on the Race, Care2 will pay to offset one pound of their personal carbon emissions - up to once per day.

Carbon, and other greenhouse gases, released into the air by power plants and cars
contribute to global warming. Each day, you can take a small step in slowing global warming by offsetting some of your emissions. Just go to: http://stopglobalwarming.care2.com

Be sure to tell your friends!

Thanks!
Care2.com

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God Bless!

Jules

Great Stocking Stuffers

Every year, since I can remember, I have included some kind of basic toiletries in everybody's stocking - new toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorant, shaving cream and razors for the guys. Nothing too exciting, but something necessary for each person. Then, came the fun stuff - depending on how much room was left.

This year, I got to sample some great cheap stocking stuffers, so the fun stuff comes first! I am really looking forward to everyone's face on Christmas morning.

For example, Smencils - Gourmet Scented Pencils are just the coolest. Made from recycled newspaper, with each layer soaked in scent, they save trees and smell great for the entire length of the pencil. The eraser is biodegradable and the metal 'thingy' that holds the pencil together is recyclable, as is the individual container that each Smencil comes in.

I love the Color Flames Colored Candles, too. I've seen a lot of different candle styles over the years, but different color flames on each candle is just too great. Birthdays around here are going to be a lot more festive - I promise! Heck, I may just use them to perk up every day desserts.

We haven't tried the Insta Snow - Fake Snow Powder yet. I'm waiting until we get the decorations out of storage, so I can use the 'snow' to decorate. We have a small fiber-optic tree that I think would be really cute with a little snow cover. Can you imagine the snow changing color with the different lights on the tree? I can! and I can't wait to see it.





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God Bless!

Jules

Carrot Cake and Banana Bread

Even with Mark's diabetes, we keep cake (of some sort) in the fridge for dessert. One small piece of cake doesn't seem to have any more effect on his blood sugar than a plate of pasta would. And, this way, no one feels deprived.

Today he mentioned being hungry for carrot cake with cream cheese frosting or banana bread. I've made banana bread before (a long time ago) and it's really simple. But I've never tried carrot cake, so I went looking for a recipe. What a pain!

Since I love the shows, I decided to search FoodNetwork.com. The recipes were great - I found the 2 that I wanted - but the site is slower than molasses in January. Apparently, they have so many ads supporting their site, it takes forever for the pages to load.

Great food - crappy site.




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God Bless!

Jules

Business Loan

One of the most difficult things about starting a business, and keeping it afloat, can be cash flow. In order to expand your company, you may need more employees, more inventory, or both. Eventually, your credit cards get maxed or the interest and payments become a financial burden to your business.

A debt-consolidation business loan could be just what your company needs. Before you run to the local bank, check out EZUnsecured.com. They have the products that will help you get out from under unmanageable debt. Combine all of your loan and/or credit card balances into one monthly payment, at a lower interest rate than you currently pay, without putting your assets at risk.

Best of all, the easy process, fast funding, and great service will have you in great financial shape before you know it.




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God Bless!

Jules

Ask Annie

I really like Care2.com. They have a tremendous news network, links to petitions that urge politicians to support the environment, and great ideas for Green Living - especially Ask Annie.

Are you looking for a non-toxic oven cleaner? Need a natural way to clean the spots and stains off your stainless pans, sink, and toaster? Is there a safe nail polish on the market? Looking for a natural skin toner, hydrating mask, or even hair spray?

Just Ask Annie. I'm going back to find out how to get rid of scale on my shower doors and what natural cleaner is best to ungunk my oven.




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God Bless!

Jules

Business Greeting Cards

This is the time of the year when families and businesses start thinking about holiday cards. If you usually order special cards, this is the time to get busy picking your 2007 Christmas card. The Gallery Collection has hundreds of styles to help you.

This year, in the spirit of the season, The Gallery Collection is sponsoring a Christmas cards scholarship contest for high school and college students. Simply use your creativity - original photos, artwork, or computer graphics are all welcome - and design a corporate Christmas card. The prize? A $10,000 scholarship!

Personally, I think that the Christmas Photo Cards are just beautiful. There is a huge selection of options, from elegant to whimsical, that serve as the perfect frame for a special holiday picture. Why not have a look and create a new card that evokes your idea of the spirit of the holidays?




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God Bless!

Jules

Happy Birthday to Me! (A Little Early)

Yes, it's obvious and probably in very poor taste. But my birthday is November 20th and I will be . . . older. (You didn't really think I was going to tell you my age, did you?!)


For those of you who have an overwhelming need to shop at the drop of a hat, I don't much like jewelry - with the exception of bangle watches and thumb rings. Chocolates are a bad idea, because then Mark will be tempted. I don't even buy myself clothes, so that's no good. Hmmmm . . . I am difficult, aren't I?!


Well, I guess you'll just have to send a card! Only Kidding!





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God Bless!

Jules

Isn't a Fractured Knee Enough?

You would think that limping around with a fractured left kneecap would be enough pain, but noooo! I had to sprain / break my little toe on my left foot to add to the joy. It is a really pretty shade of purple, for what it's worth.

Apparently, when I'm tired, I swing my left leg to the side, instead of lifting it and stepping straight forward. Not a good thing in this little apartment full of lots of big stuff. A couple of nights ago, I was walking from the living room to the bathroom, past the portable washing machine. Well, the theory was to move past the washing machine. I didn't quite make it and it felt like I tried to rip the little toe off my foot.

That purple I mentioned? It goes up both sides, and across the top of my foot from the little toe to the toe beside it. Did I mention that the toe is the size of a Vienna sausage? Oh, yes! It's just lovely!




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God Bless!

Jules

Fundraising Ideas

The kids are back in school and the holidays are right around the corner. It's prime fundraising time. In fact, most charitable organizations probably receive the majority of their donations in the last 3 months of the year.

Unfortunately, it's not always easy to come up with new, successful ideas. Whether you're working on school fundraisers, church fundraisers, or helping your favorite charity, the more exciting and original your ideas are, the more interest you can expect from donors. Me personally? I wouldn't have a clue where to start.

I count on sites like USAFundraising.com to help me find something to jump-start my creative processes. Not only do they offer general tips, letters, and tools, there are specific ideas for using food, gifts, magazines, or scratchcards to help meet your organization's goals. I particularly liked the section on online fundraising. It even includes a how-to article about creating a website for your group.

All in all, there are a lot of really great ideas to kick-start any campaign. And, if you've got a program that worked for your charity or organization, you can share it here. It's no wonder USAFundraising.com is one of the leading online fundraising resources.





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God Bless!

Jules

Thanksgiving Traditions

Every family has holiday traditions - whatever the holiday. What about Thanksgiving? Does your family shun the standard turkey for a standing rib roast? (If so, can I come for dinner?!) Or a luscious smoked ham?

We stay pretty traditional, with the good ol' bird. But Mark likes to make pineapple upside-down cake and we definitely don't do yams. I just have never developed a taste for them, even with melted marshmallows all over the top.

Have to have some pie - so I usually make at least one pumpkin for Mark and sometimes a fruit pie for me. (Not much of a winter squash person, myself.) I'm the only one who gets jazzed about cranberry sauce, so that's a bit of a debate every year. But I have faith that I'll get everyone hooked - eventually!

Both of our families did brown-and-serve rolls, so that's an easy part of our menu. We also put together a relish plate with carrot sticks, stuffed celery, pickles, olives, and whatever we can think of to throw on it. Can't forget the mashed potatoes and gravy, and some sort of veggie. I'm the only real veggie eater, so it's always fun trying to find something that everyone will eat.

Oh, and Mark's famous deviled eggs. I hate eggs and those things are so good I could make a meal out of them. Even the boys love them, and that's quite a feat.

So, as you can see - we put together a huge spread for Thanksgiving. We end up sharing with friends, so nothing goes to waste. It's just nice to be able to do it.




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God Bless!

Jules

City Guides

Have you ever been to Steamboat Springs? It's an amazing resort, high in the mountains of Colorado. I have to admit, it's been years since I visited, so I know a lot has changed.

That's why the USA Hotel Guide is so great. You don't have to know everything about the place you'd like to visit. Just look up the city and explore the information.

For example, on the Steamboat Springs page, I got a history of this beautiful area, the best things to do there and where - exactly - to find the hot springs. There's information about hotels, in and around the city; outdoor and indoor activities in the area; and where to pre-purchase your ski or snowboard rental for the big trip.

If you're planning a vacation, but can't decide where to visit, why not start with the city guides that give you all the information you need?




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God Bless!

Jules

Happy Anniversary!

I can't believe that it's been six years since I stepped off that bus from Michigan. If you're planning to move here from a cooler climate, I would strongly recommend you do it in November. The weather is just perfect - highs in the 80s and lows in the 60s. It's a refreshing change from the cold, but it gives you at least 6 months before the 100s and higher start melting your socks.

So many things have happened and so many things have changed in 6 years. From Mark's transplant, to the boys moving here, to the cancer surgery - it's been a wild ride. I just hope we have lots more time together - without life-threatening diseases. Please?!




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God Bless!

Jules

Great Gifts For A Good Cause

I hope that you'll visit this incredible site, for a number of reasons. Primarily, a portion of every item sold by JacarandaStyle is donated to a school in South Africa. The Ethembeni School serves 300 physically disabled and visually impaired students. Amazingly, a few children from the school even get to come here and run the New York City marathon, each year.


Just look at some of the beautiful items that are available on JacarandaStyle. The website curator, who lives in New York City and is married to a South African, travels frequently to that country, bringing unique, exclusive items to the world.


I, personally, am in love with the jewelry. It's just amazing and not like anything else you see in the stores. You have to see the cuffs and the beadwork. They have so many different styles that you're sure to find a couple that you just can't do without. But, then you have the ceramics, both blue and white, and fusion. This pedestal bowl, for example, is hand-painted and signed by the artist.


Like all of the ceramics I looked at, it's lead-free, safe to use for food, and able to go into the dishwasher. Between the oval and square platters, the salad and triangular bowls, and all of the brass and pewter accessories, it is so easy to set an amazing table. Whether you're celebrating the holidays or just having some of your favorite friends over, you'll love these items.




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God Bless!

Jules

New Mail Scam

Today I received a letter from a PO Box in Canada, with a $3,600+ check inside. I was assured that I had won money through an ATM Mega Promotion. This Computer Reward Program is supposed to be for all bank card holders in North America, to encourage people to use their cards more often. Can you say "SCAM"?!

It's the same type of scam that's been going around for years. The scammers send out a check for a very tempting amount, and ask that you cash it at your bank. Then you are supposed to send - via Western Union - about 95% of the check to the agent for your area to cover fees. Once you do that, they assure you that you will receive your winnings. In this case, I'm supposed to receive $120,000.00, less the sponsor's commission, or $113,400.00.

Now, let me explain a bit of the legalities - as I understand them. If you receive one of these checks and actually cash it, once the account holder becomes aware of the loss of funds - they will come after your account for the money! Guaranteed!

We have been told - our entire lives - that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! If you get one of these checks, please google the account number on the bottom of the check for more information. In the case of the check I have, the account number belongs to a different company and has been used fraudulently for years.




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God Bless!

Jules

Weight Loss Diet Help

Are you trying to lose weight? I am. Somewhere in the last 6 months, or so, I managed to put on about 30 pounds. Five of them I can live with, but the other 25 have got to go. My only problem is that I've never actually tried to lose weight or tried any kind of diet plans.

Luckily, Weight Loss Diet Help has the information I need to find a plan that will work for me. By reading through the different diet options and checking out the Medifast and Nutrisystem weight loss program discount coupon codes, I can see which diet suits my personality and saves me money. Because this is all new to me, I'm concerned that I won't stick with it, so I have to have something that comes naturally to me - and Mark.

Right now, I'm leaning toward the South Beach Diet. It's something that will help Mark, too. We both need to learn how to incorporate good carbs into our meals, not just the low ones. As a carb-loader, it wouldn't do me any harm to be a bit more selective. And I really like the idea that the diet is a step-by-step process. We don't have to make drastic, immediate, permanent changes.

There are also a number of articles at Weight Loss Diet Help, in addition to the diet information, that provide really helpful tips and facts. I like Exercise and Diet For Diabetics and Weight Loss Tricks and Healthy Diet Tips. The advice is simple, no-nonsense and easy to follow.

If you have been thinking about starting a diet, this is a good place to get the practical information that you need to pick a plan and be successful.




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God Bless!

Jules

Judge Loses More Than Pants

Remember the judge that sued a dry cleaners for $54 million, over a pair of lost pants? Well, he lost his case and, more than that, he lost his job. Sounds only fair to me!

Roy Pearson's term as an administrative law judge expired on May 2nd. Officials from the District of Columbia confirmed to the AP on November 8th, that the Commission on Selection and Tenure of Administrative Law Judges has decided not to reappoint Pearson. Amazingly, he did not immediately respond to a request for comment.




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God Bless!

Jules

Insurance For EU Driving

I never really thought about this, but it has to be interesting living in EU countries and dealing with the different laws in different jurisdictions. In the United States, we have a taste of that. But, by and large, there isn't much difference between the states.

If you live and/or travel in Europe, one thing that you have to deal with is proving that you have car insurance that will cover you in each country. Not that long ago, one needed a "Green Card." It didn't offer insurance coverage, but it did document that there was a policy in place in your home country that covered you, as a driver, in any other country. Each insurance company issued these cards for policy holders who regularly drove outside their home country. Those cards are no longer required in the EU, but they are required outside EU countries.

How often do these rules change? I don't know. But I do know that it is in every driver's best interest to know what is required. How do you do that? Hold a policy with a company like Kwik-Fit Insurance, who stays on top of the requirements throughout the continent for its policy-holders.






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God Bless!

Jules

Which Cabana Do You Want?

We have an area, right outside our front window, with barbecues, picnic tables, and - on occasion - cabanas. I was looking out the window today, remembering the different looks we've had since Mark and I moved into this apartment. It's been a little schizophrenic, to say the least.

Right now, we're back to green cabanas, which went really well with the previous paint colors. But, the buildings have been repainted in shades of brown, so the green doesn't really work for me. It is, however, better than the temporary blue covers that had some Arizona college logo on them.

I know it wasn't the Sun Devils; I like those colors.




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God Bless!

Jules

Discount Dental Plans

Now that I've found a toothpaste that eliminates the pain in my teeth, I've been thinking about getting some work done. As I can't afford full price or outrageous premiums, discount dental plans are at the top of my Internet search list. Until I found DentalPlans.com, I wasn't having much success. This site understands what people want when they're trying to compare options.

I started by entering my zip code. This took me to the list of plans that are available in my area; a long list, I might add. From there, the chart told me everything - and I do mean everything - I needed to know to make an educated, cost-effective decision. Many of the listed plans are just as good as the one I had when I was employed, at about the same out-of-pocket cost, which means that they are a much better value.

Let me explain why. As a corporate employee, I was provided x-number of dollars each year with which to 'order' benefits. Of course, if you were a new employee, there was a waiting period until you were covered. The very, very basic coverages were, in essence, paid for by the company. But to upgrade services, i.e., avoid huge deductibles, the employees had to pay for the difference.

I always chose a dental plan upgrade, which meant that, each paycheck, I paid out-of-pocket fees for the better plan - lower or no deductible, lower or no charge for services. Over 6 years ago, my total annual cost was almost the same as many of the plans available at DentalPlans.com. And the coverage was, actually, not as good as some of the discount plans offered here.

If you don't have dental coverage at work, or you're paying too much for the plan that your company offers, I strongly advise that you look into these discount dental plans. Many of the ones in my area even include prescription, vision, chiropractic, and hearing plans - at the same low price. And the family enrollment fees are just as great.




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God Bless!

Jules

Chorus of Remembrance

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God Bless!

Jules

Calendar Software

As I wrote earlier, I was on a mad hunt for computer software that would let me design a personal calendar and print it in a format that would fit my organizer. Oh - and it had to be free. Did you notice that I said "was" on a mad hunt?

Now, I have a great sense of humor - just ask anyone. There aren't many situations where I can't find something amusing, if for no other reason than to break the tension. But this software thing put a serious dent in my funny bone.

Don't get me wrong, there are some absolutely fantastic - FREE - software titles out there for creating calendars. I think I've checked out about 90% of them, so I know. But with everything I wanted - not one!

That led me to my ultimate solution:


You see, I couldn't even find replacement pages for my old organizer, so I had to take radical action. (Actually, I saw it on the shelf, fell in love with the red binder and had to have it. But don't tell anyone. K? ) Plus, this organizer fits into my purse. It can go with me everywhere and doesn't take up a huge amount of space on my mini-desk. A win-win situation!




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God Bless!

Jules

LED Christmas Lights

Now this is a great idea! LED Christmas lights! There are so many reasons why it pays to upgrade your decorations this year. To start with, they use less electricity, which is one of the best recommendations I know.

You probably already know that LED lights last 50,000 hours, as opposed to about 2,000 hours for incandescent lights. LED Xmas lights also generate very little heat, so the risk of overheating and fire is virtually non-existent. Whether you need LED mini lights or LED Christmas tree lights, they come encased in an epoxy bulb that is not going to be nearly as fragile as regular glass holiday lights.

If you've ever wanted to decorate your house and yard for the holidays, but didn't want to face the outrageous electric bill, now you don't have to worry. LED holiday lights are the answer to all of your decorating needs.




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God Bless!

Jules

Reusable Totes

Rather than choose paper or plastic, why not carry one of these custom-designed totes?




I don't drive to any of the stores within about a 1/4 mile of our apartment - it's just more practical and logical to walk - so, I have a couple of totes for these quick trips. Not only am I not adding to the local landfill, it's actually a lot easier for me to carry everything home.

These totes are great, no matter what store you're going to. So many places - discount and grocery stores, for example - offer self-serve check-out lanes. Why not carry a canvas tote, rather than packing those few items into something that you're just going to throw away when you get home?




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God Bless!

Jules

Mortgages

I think I have mortgages on the brain. Lately, I've been doing a lot of research, because the market around here is changing monthly. While there have been some defaults on sub-prime mortgages, there are a large number of contractors, with homes on their hands, who are eager to sell. I've even seen companies who are still willing to help people with poor credit remortgages.

When I started to compare mortgages, even though our credit isn't the best, I found that we have some interesting options. Here in Arizona, there are lenders who are still working in the sub-prime arena. Not to mention, there are FHA mortgages, where the government insures the mortgage, that are still very attractive to most lending institutions.

Of course, with the financial problems that have been plaguing the housing industry, you can't just walk in and say, "Hi, I wanna buy a house," and necessarily strike gold the first time. It's important to research what the lender / mortgage company is offering, naturally. But it's also critical to research the company itself.

I can't be the only one in the world who's heard about finance companies cheating people by dramatically increasing their mortgage payment with hidden fees and points.




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God Bless!

Jules

Design Your Blog

Do you have a blog, but you're just not happy with the look? I know how you feel. When I started this blog, I used a template that was sorta, kinda similar to the colors on my website. It wasn't a bad looking template; it just wasn't what I wanted.

So, I started making changes. First I added some of the background patterns that I use on my website. Then, I incorporated fonts and colors. Finally, after adding more goodies, I got the links, banners, and style that you see today.

Because I like the look, I designed my MySpace Page to be very similar. Some of the link colors are different, but I think they work. Now, I just have to come up with a design for my new blog. It's still at the template state, but I plan to change that very soon. I don't think it will look anything like my website, when I'm done. But you just never know.

Would you like to update the look of your blog? Want to change things around to better represent your personality? Need a place for your favorite quotes or a list of your most-visited websites?

Let me know. I'd be happy to help.




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at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

My Latest Afghan Project

I have been crocheting all sorts of things lately - placemats, purses, scarves, hats, and shawls. It's always a great deal of fun coming up with new color combinations and patterns. Every time I get a new skein of yarn, something different comes out.

But this week, I have a project that is especially fun. I'm making a pink and white crib blanket. You would not believe how long it's been since I made a baby blanket - of any size. The first one I made was over 30 years ago and it was really, really uneven. Thank heaven I've had a little practice since then.

This blanket was a special order, designed to recreate a 6-year-old gift, so you won't see anything like it on my site. Of course, all of our styles are available as crib blankets, so you could always pick some colors and order a 36"x48" afghan of your very own.




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God Bless!

Jules

True Shopping

I have this recurring dream that my kitchen and bathroom don't actually look like a 1950s nightmare. Then, I wake up and my heart sinks, pardon the pun. Broken shower fixtures, cheap chipping bathroom faucet, hideous shower doors. Excuse me, but I'm going back to my lovely dream!

Now this is a beautiful bathroom! I can imagine myself soaking in this tub until I run out of hot water. And the vanity? Just perfect for keeping everything handy, but out of the way.

If I need any other bathroom accessories, all I have to do is page through trueshopping.co.uk - they have everything I could want. They actually have over 40 bathroom mirrors on their site!

But, you know, this is a great look, as well. The whole suite - pentangle (5-sided) enclosure and thermostatic shower, basin and stand, toilet and tank - can be ordered together for only £479.00. And, if you order before 2pm, it will ship the same day. Isn't that just fantastic?!

Don't live in the UK? Not to worry; trueshopping.co.uk ships outside the UK. Although, because of export restrictions, be sure to check availability before you order.




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God Bless!

Jules

Game Addiction

Uh oh! I got a new game on Big Fish Games yesterday - "Heroes of Hellas" - and I think I'm hooked. It's really a fun game, with a bunch of different tasks.

Basically, it's a match-3 game with a twist. The spaces are hexagon-shaped, so you can link any matching shapes that are touching on any of the six sides. Unlike other games, when you make the matches, the surrounding spaces drop straight down, not in the direction that you moved the matching spaces. (If you play match-3 games, that makes sense; if you don't, my apologies for confusing the issue.)

Each 'episode' introduces a new Greek hero, who has special powers to help you clear spaces. (He doesn't actually help until you beat the particular episode. As the game progresses you get to add parts to your palace, collect trophies for different achievements, and unscramble mosaics to get free wallpapers. Seriously! The game gives you free wallpapers!

You start out with 4 lives. Along the way, you can earn extra lives. I've only earned one so far, in episode 2. Unfortunately, I'm desperately stuck in episode 4, where the game adds 'Hades stones' that can only be broken with lightening or with the help of Achilles. And I am losing lives fast! Mark, however, has already passed episode 4 and is beating his head against the wall of episode 5.

I have a feeling that episode 4 and I are going to learn to hate each other pretty quick. This is my 3rd attempt to beat it and, so far, I'm not doing so well. At least I know I won't be bored with it any time soon!




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We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Whish Body Products

I don't care what they say, the shaving products for women that you can find in the local stores don't do the job. No matter the brand or the price, they don't moisturize or protect against those annoying bumps that pop up on my legs as the hair starts growing back. And don't tell me that if I shaved every day, I wouldn't have to worry about regrowth. My skin can't take it.

Now, women have some great options from Whish Body Products. It doesn't matter if you need oily skin care products, rejuvenating toners, or something that will soothe those sore muscles. If you want to get rid of scaly, flaky skin, Whish Body Products has the perfect lotions and potions.

Between the Body Brush that helps exfoliate; the Shave Crave shaving cream that tones and rejuvenates, and the Flawless Bump Fighter (my personal favorite) that inhibits hair growth - my legs are actually looking forward to the next shave.

The best part? Whish Body Products are hypoallergenic, never tested on animals, and made in the USA. I'm sold! How about you?




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at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Christmas Shopping

In order to keep the insanity to a bare minimum, Mark and I have started our Christmas shopping early this year. Rather than worry about availability and cash flow, we decided to pick up a gift here and a gift there. That way I don't have everything to wrap at once, either.

If you'd like to de-stress your shopping, here are a few of my favorite Partners-In-Shopping and some great ideas to get you started:

Need Stocking Stuffers?




For all of the little ones on your list:





Don't arrive empty-handed. Choose the perfect hostess gift:






Stop by our other Affiliate Partners for more holiday help. I know you'll find something you love.




Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle

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at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

New York CityPass

There are many cities, all over the world, that I want to see before I die. New York City is pretty near the top of that list. But, it's so expensive; especially if you don't know the city, and don't know where and when to go.

That's why the New York CityPass is such a great idea. It includes tickets to six (6) different attractions: the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Guggenheim Museum, the American Museum of Natural History, a trip to the Empire State Building Observatory, and a water tour of Manhattan on a Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise. If that weren't enough, you get a map, public transportation information, and tips on the best time to visit each attraction.

I know that it sounds great already, but it actually gets even better. When you buy the New York CityPass, you pay half the cost of individual tickets to each attraction. That's right - adults get $130.00 worth of tickets for just $65.00. The CityPass for ages 12-17 is also 50% less than the normal ticket prices. Not to mention, if you have your tickets, at a lot of these attractions you can eliminate standing in line with the people who didn't plan ahead.

Since, the Winter Special is good for 3 months, from December 15 to March 15, you have plenty of time to plan your vacation. If you're in a hurry or planning to give the CityPass as a gift, there are overnight delivery and gift wrapping options available. They'll even include a gift card.

Me? I'm looking forward to seeing the Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and amazing exhibits at the Guggenheim, plus the free audio tour at MoMA. But what will, undoubtedly, be the most exciting attraction, for both of us, is the American Museum of Natural History. Just imagine being able to see a Space Show in the Hayden Planetarium, explore the world's most important collection of dinosaurs, visit a re-creation of an African rain forest, and go whale watching in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life - all in one place.

We may never come out!






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at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Aqua Dots Recall

Mark was telling me about this recall last night. Frankly, I had never even heard of "Aqua Dots" before, but I guess they're a really popular craft toy?! (Every shopping website I checked has yanked their product page, so I still don't know.) Not that it matters, too much, what they are; what matters is the reason for the recall. Oh, and the fact that they're manufactured in and imported from China!

To quote the above article: The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said the Aqua Dots craft toys include a chemical, 1,4 butanediol, on their beads which, if swallowed, can turn toxic and cause unconsciousness, respiratory depression, or seizures.

Not sure what 1,4 butanediol is? I wasn't either, so I did a little research. With thanks to the Faculty at the University of Washington and 'Neuroscience for Kids', here is what I found out:

1,4-Butanediol: An Overview

Its chemical formula is C4H10O2. You can purchase it on the Internet. It is in industrial cleaners. It is used in polyurethane to make car bumpers. It is used to make Spandex. It is also an abused recreational drug that has been linked to two deaths and six severe illnesses. "It" is 1,4-Butanediol (BD).

BD=GHB

Once ingested, BD (and a similar chemical, GBL) turns into gamma hydroxybutyrate, GHB. GHB, the so-called "date-rape" drug, received national attention when two teenage girls died after it was slipped into their sodas.

I have said this before and I will say it again - and again and again - STOP importing from China!! We have proven - over and over and over - that we are incapable of effectively monitoring the quality of products coming into this country. So in the best interest of the citizens and consumers of the United States - STOP LETTING CHINESE PRODUCTS INTO THIS COUNTRY!




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God Bless!

Jules

Design Diva Fabrics

Back in my youth, I used to do a lot of sewing. Saved me a fortune on clothes and kept me from getting really odd polyester outfits for my birthday. Well, rumor has it that Santa is bringing me a sewing machine for Christmas. That, naturally, means that I had to do some fabric shopping. Mark's chair desperately needs a cover; with Michael using it every night, it's getting really dirty.

I have to say that I fell in love with the discount Kravet fabric at Design Diva Fabrics. This gorgeous "Ricamo" silk and velvet, in gold, sage, and mushroom, wouldn't work for the recliner, it's not heavy enough. But don't you think it would make truly amazing throw pillows?


Especially gorgeous, if I were to make them reversible pillows, with this sage-on-sage "Silk Vines" pattern on the other side. At 54" wide, you could easily get six (6) good-sized pillows out of only a yard of each fabric. Now that's a great deal! And what tremendous Christmas presents they would make!


Of course, that leaves me without material for recovering the recliner. Hmmm? Guess I'll just have to keep shopping.




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God Bless!

Jules

The Perfect Dishwasher

I am going to be rich - just you mark my words! There's a product that Mark and I desperately need and it doesn't exist yet. So I am going to design it and sell it to the highest bidder.

What am I planning to design, you ask? That's a very good questions - I'm glad that you're paying attention. I am going to create the first . . . Collapsible Dishwasher! Seriously!

We have absolutely zero floor space left and, after doing dishes today, I want a dishwasher. What I need is something that sets up at full size, holds all of the dishes I want to wash, and then folds down to the size of - oh I don't know - a cigar box? Yup! A cigar box is just perfect! When I'm not doing dishes, I could collapse the dishwasher and stick it in a dresser drawer.

So, remember me when you see the "Expando Dishwasher" !




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at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Unsigned.com

Whether you're a music fan looking for a new sound or a new sound looking for music fans, Unsigned.com is a really well-designed, easy-to-use site. I can't remember another place where there are so many independent artists, just a click away from the main page. I know that a lot of unsigned (and signed) bands and solo artists have pages on some of the social network sites, but I have a really hard time finding specific artists and genres. Not to mention, if I haven't heard of them yet - how am I supposed to search for them?

At Unsigned.com, within a minute or two, I found a great country band, Boggy Creek, that I've heard and heard of. They're based in Florida and, for two years, have played at NASCAR's Pepsi 400; the July 4th race at Daytona International Speedway. Just goes to prove that lack of a recording contract doesn't mean that these independent bands are unknown, or untalented.

Whether you perform gospel, rock, metal, alternative, reggae, techno, or something in between, Unsigned.com has a place for you. Design your custom artist profile, upload your songs, and create fan networks. What a great way to get your music out onto the Internet!

For music fans, there's just no better place to sit back and explore all of the possibilities. Set aside some time; there's a lot to listen to here.





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

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at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Bragging Time!

Forgive me, but I've just gotta do it! I found out this week that one of the articles I wrote for Helium.com was selected by the publisher! Woo-hoo! (as my daughter would say)

I chose the article opportunity because it was about skiing vacations in one of my favorite states - Colorado, where I was born and raised. It was really fun researching all of the great places to stay and fun things to do. Now, to actually know that it will be published is even better.

If you love to write, why not join Helium.com? It's free and it's a wonderful way to do 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.

Be sure to Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Curtain Rods

I would just like to say - upfront, before we go any further - I prefer curtain rods with style! If you've ever rented an apartment, you know that the standard hardware for hanging window-coverings is not attractive. Usually plain white, flimsy metal rods that clip over a coordinating hook in the wall, generally so bent that you can barely get draperies on the rod, let alone hung securely on the wall.

Trust me! You have not lived until you've experienced curtains crashing to the floor, taking the plaster right off the wall, in the middle of dinner - in front of your mother-in-law! Have you ever noticed that when people say "Some day you'll laugh about this," they never mention that it will take years - and occasionally therapy - before these things are laughable!? Anyway ...

Personally, I've always loved the look of wrought iron - stair railings, beds, storage racks, bar stools, drawer and door pulls, candle holders - just everything. It adds so much to the style and feel of a room. In fact, I have wrought iron and wicker wall shelves in the bathroom and the matching 3-shelf stand works as a perfect occasional table between the two recliners in the living room.

You know? The more I think about it, the more I think that it's time to redecorate the living room window. Just look at this leaf pattern. It would be absolutely perfect in my little living room. It's not too big. It's not too bulky or heavy looking. And, (drumroll please) it is incredibly affordable! Even if I were doing more than one window, Wrought Iron Haven keeps everything within my budget, yet absolutely beautiful.

Did I mention that what we have is white, cheap, bent and eats bits of the curtains every time I take them down and put them up? Have I pointed out that the white, cheap, bent wall hooks are so bad that it takes two people to remove and rehang the white, cheap, bent rods? Ummm, did I happen to mention that I really, really, really hate white, cheap, bent curtain rods that eat my draperies?

If you have the same problem, don't wait! You never know when your mother-in-law might drop in. And, frankly, I think MILs have special powers to embarrass DILs. Seriously! It could happen!

Oh and by the way ~ I know a secret WROUGHT IRON GARDEN GATE backdoor that gives shoppers a great discount! Just go to the Wrought Iron Haven homepage. Halfway down the page, click on the comma in the line that reads "Our Store now has over 1,300 home & garden items for you to choose from!" Isn't that fantastic!?




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.

Be sure to Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Blogger Breakdown

November 6, 2007 2:12PM Just to let everyone know - if you suddenly see 50 new posts on here, Blogger finally loves me/us again. Starting Sunday, all of the blogs that are hosted on their own site - like mine on www.jmarkafghans.com - stopped posting. Apparently, according to the staff at Blogger, there is a server problem.

Personally, I'm going nuts! I can't take any posts at PPP until this mess is fixed. I can't publish anything to this - or any other blog - right now. It's a bit like having laryngitis - the vocal cords are there, you just can't make any sounds. Those of you who know me well know that shutting me up is a virtual impossibility - so you can imagine my stress level right now! ARGHHHH!!

Oh, well. There's a Blogger outage planned for tonight, so hopefully it'll be a short-lived silence.





Don't forget to visit JMark Afghans and My Gallery at Zazzle

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at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

Plastic and Food - Handy Tips

We've all read about the risk of microwaving food in plastic containers. I've never really done that, preferring glass containers for the microwave. But I do have a couple of containers in which, admittedly, I have 'nuked' food. It's just easier to go from fridge to micro in the same dish.

Today I was reading my latest Green Living email, the Care2 newsletter about healthy living ideas, and found an article about food and plastic. Not good news, my friends. But a lot of really helpful tips that I just have to share:

Many of these tips don’t exclude the use of plastic, but rather offer the safest options.

1. Know your plastics. Plastic items are marked with a resin identification coding system (the number surrounded by arrows), which stand for:
1 - polyethyelene terephthalate (PETE)
2 - high-density polyethylene (HDPE)
3 - vinyl, polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
4 - low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
5 - polypropylene (PP)
6 - polystyrene (PS)
7 - other (includes polycarbonate, acrylic, polylactic acid, fiberglass)

2. When you need to use plastic, these are the safer choices to use with food: 1, 2, 4 and 5.

3. Learn to recognize, and then avoid, polycarbonate (number 7) for food usage. Polycarbonate plastics are hard and clear. Common items made from this BPA-containing plastic are food storage containers, baby bottles, water bottles, bowls and tableware. (And the lining inside food and drink cans, by the way.)

4. If you don’t get rid of all of your plastic, at least retire old plastic containers, especially those that are heavily worn or scratched. Older plastics tend to leach increasing amounts of toxins as they age. Use them to organize and store non-food items.

5. Be careful of serving and storing hot foods or foods made with fats or oils in plastic containers. These foods more readily facilitate the transfer of plastic toxins.

6. Never microwave foods in plastic containers. “Microwave safe” means the container won’t melt or warp, but doesn’t mean it won’t leach. Heating plastics increases the potential for leaching of chemicals into your food.

7. Never microwave food in yogurt tubs, take-out bowls, or other one-time use containers. These containers can warp or melt, possibly causing harmful chemicals to migrate into the food.

8. Avoid using plastic sandwich bags or plastic wrap products.

9. If you must use plastic wrap, make sure it is a brand free of both BPA and PVC. Ziploc, Glad and Saran are promoted as being free of BPA and PVC—but remember that these plastics live for 1,000 years…in our landfills.

10. Avoid deli-wrap and similar generic packaging since you can’t ascertain the plastic type used. When sliced cheese and meats are sold in plastic bags and/or plastic deli wrap, transfer them as soon as possible to unbleached wax paper or a safe container.

11. Remember that if you are pregnant or nursing, BPA chemicals are passed through your bloodstream directly to your baby.

12. Instead of mixing petroleum (i.e. plastic) with your food, use inert alternatives such as glass and ceramic rather than plastic food storage containers. Reusing jars is a win-win—and you can often find glass storage containers at flea markets and thrift shops. Or simply store food in bowls covered with a plate.

I'm going to go check all of my bowls, storage containers, and that gallon-size pitcher that we keep in the fridge for tea. Wish me luck - I have a feeling I'm in for some serious surprises.




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Be sure to Vote For JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers

We look forward to seeing you online.

God Bless!

Jules

"The Mist" by Stephen King

I have been a Stephen King fan since Carrie scared the daylights out of me. High school wasn't all that kind to me and my mother was, in my opinion, a bit rigid. You can imagine how much I, for just a moment, really wanted those powers.

Despite that, I'd have to say that, out of all of the movies and series I've seen, "The Langoliers" is my favorite Stephen King story. During an ordinary cross-country flight from LA to Boston, several passengers wake to find that virtually all of their fellow passengers have disappeared. One of the people still on board is a pilot, who takes control of the plane. As time passes, they are unable to reach anyone or any city over which they fly, including military bases.

After diverting the flight to Bangor, Maine which has less traffic than Boston, the passengers realize that not only did their fellow passengers disappear - so did everyone everywhere else. The Bangor airport is a ghost town. But stranger yet, none of the ordinary items in the snack bar are real. There is no carbonation in the soda or beer, the sandwiches have no flavor, and the matches won't light. As the situation becomes more and more bizarre, one of the passengers slowly descends into madness - convinced that every approaching sound is the Langoliers, coming to kill him.

There is simply no way to sit back and calmly watch the creatures coming at the plane as it sits stranded on the tarmac. Every fiber of your being is wrapped up in the fate of the awakened passengers and one very frightened madman. An ordinary flight with extraordinary outcomes.

Today, I was watching the movie trailers for The Mist. Once again, a group of diverse people are brought together by an ordinary situation. Except this situation was imagined by Stephen King, so it quickly becomes unnatural, extraordinary, and terrifying.

Be sure to check out the trailers on the movie website. Then, get ready for another unforgettable and intensely unnerving experience - The Mist by Stephen King.







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Jules

The Case of the Amputated Leg, Part II

Remember the post I did a while back about the man who had kept his amputated left leg in a BBQ smoker, planning to have it cremated with the rest of him when he died? If so, then you'll also remember that he couldn't pay his bill, so the storage company sold the contents of his storage unit - smoker, leg, and all. The new owner of the smoker and leg, refused to return the leg, so the two men decided to take it to court - TVs Judge Greg Mathis, to be specific.

I had completely forgotten about the story until I ran across an update today. Not surprisingly, the judge awarded custody of the leg to the original owner - pardon the pun. But he also ordered reimbursement, in the amount of $5,000.00, to the man who had purchased the contents of the storage unit.

All in all, a rather macabre and disgusting case.




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Jules

Wanna Buy a Car ... Cheap?

We've all heard stories about wives who sell their husband's cars for $1.00, as revenge for bad behavior. Until now, I honestly thought most of those were urban legends, designed to keep errant husbands in check. But today I found out differently. It really does pay to "beware of a woman scorned," especially if you live in the UK.

There's a top UK site where people list cars for sale. At a flat rate of £4.95 until the car sells, it's a terrific deal. The site gets thousands of hits per day, so you know the ads get a lot of traffic. They also offer new cars and car loans, but it was the used car advertisements that really caught my eye.

It seems that a man bought himself a lovely Jaguar S-type. Gorgeous car! For whatever reason (the ad doesn't say) he registered the vehicle in his wife's name. (Big mistake!) He then proceeded to use this his lovely little car to pick up his mistress and cheat on his wife. (Terminal Mistake!) Being justifiably upset, the wife responded.

After correcting the paint scheme (see image at right), the wife - within her rights as titled owner - listed the Jaguar in the Used Cars section of the website - at 50% of it's actual value! But that's not quite the best part - at least it wasn't to me. What I enjoyed most was the wording of her advertisement, which begins: "Car Belongs To Cheating Rat Of A Husband. But The Idiot Had The Car Registered In My Name So It's Mine To Sell."

Apparently, the paint damage is relatively inexpensive to correct. Somehow I doubt that the damage she's going to inflict on her husband is going to be inexpensive - at all!




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Jules

Crocheted Whatchamacallit

A couple of months ago, I was watching a sell-my-house show on (probably) HGTV and just fell in love with the sweater that the host was wearing. Although, it wasn't really what I would call a sweater. It had really long sleeves, reaching down past the palms of her hands, but the body of the jacket didn't meet in front (no buttons or ties) and barely reached her waist in back. There was an edging at the wrists that circled the body - around the back, up the front, and around the neck.

It reminded me, a bit, of a crocheted bolero jacket; like this beautiful leather jacket from Lew Magram, only knitted or crocheted. (I just stumbled across Lew Magram's site, looking for a good example of a bolero jacket, but I think I'll be heading back. Gorgeous clothes! Great prices!)

Okay, back to the sweater / jacket / whatever that I was madly in love with. My first and most pressing problem was finding a pattern or rough guideline. How are you supposed to find a pattern for something when you don't even know what it's called?! Kinda tough, huh?

Well, I finally found out that it's called a Shrug - I guess because you just shrug into and out of it. Who knows? And it's dead easy to make! My favorite kind of pattern. So, as you're wandering the pages of JMark Afghans' Other Products, keep your eyes open! You may just see a shrug or two for sale.




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Jules

Damaged Nail

I know this is going to sound a bit silly, but it wouldn't be the first time I sounded a bit silly - so here goes: Does anyone know how to repair a seriously damaged fingernail? Currently, I have a big problem with the nail on my right index finger.

For as long as I can remember, I've been a nail biter. To cover the ragged edges, I started wearing artificial nails - both from a salon and the kind you get at the drugstore - years ago. I don't wear them all the time, but I do wear them frequently; especially now, since I can't grow all 10 nails. The problem is that the nail splits from tip to cuticle, just to the right of center, once it grows out even the slightest bit. Obviously, I've seriously damaged the nail bed, since it's been splitting for about 3 years.

I have tried gluing the split tip, to allow it to grow and strengthen - didn't work. The glue drove me nuts and I just ended up picking at it until it came off and the nail split again. Artificial nails aren't a really good choice, either. They're tough on all of my nails.

Any ideas would be immensely appreciated.




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Jules

Pay Allowances with a Target GiftCard

PAYjr, the online chore and allowance program that introduced Visa Buxx cards for teens, is partnering with Target to create a similar program for kids 12 and under. Now, parents can put allowances automatically and electronically onto a free, reloadable Target GiftCard^SM. For younger kids, who cannot get a Visa Buxx card, this is a great way to teach them the connection between hard work and financial reward.

The system, which I think is ingenious, lets parents assign household chores online, schedule the frequency and due date of each chore, and set the amount to be paid when each chore is completed. A printable calendar is automatically generated for each child, listing their daily, weekly, or monthly responsibilities and check boxes to mark completed tasks. You'll never have to write out another monthly schedule again.

PAYjr sends an email to the kids, reminding them which chores they haven't done, yet. Once they do their chores, kids can log onto the website and mark off what's been finished. Parents then receive an email, letting them know that tasks have been done. When they confirm completion, through a link in the notification or online, PAYjr creates an electronic record of the amount owed or paid to each child.

Tired of digging for cash to pay allowances? Sick of arguing about which chores do and don't need to be done? Eliminate the hassle and stress, while giving your children the ability to grow and learn.




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Jules

Blood Sugar and the Hypoglycemic

It's interesting. Mark has hyperglycemia, abnormally high blood sugar levels, meaning his pancreas either doesn't make enough insulin or his system has forgotten how to use it. I, on the other hand, have hypoglycemia, abnormally low blood sugar levels, meaning my system over-produces insulin or has forgotten how to process sugars. Both conditions are greatly improved by eating several small meals and managing dietary carbohydrates.

I've been re-reading information about hypoglycemia, because I've been feeling funky recently. Check out this information I pulled from The Hypoglycemia Support Foundation. It's a bit scary.

Some of the symptoms of hypoglycemia are:

fatigue insomnia mental confusion nervousness mood swings faintness headaches depression phobias heart palpitations

a craving for sweets cold hands and feet forgetfulness dizziness blurred vision inner trembling outbursts of temper sudden hunger allergies crying spells

I hate to admit that at my age, I still have the horrible eating habits of the average teenager. Bad food choices, too many sweets, skipped meals - all of it. It's no wonder I have experienced virtually every symptom on that list at different times in the last few years.

Guess it's time to get back to that hypo diet again. It's not really difficult to follow. I am just so out of the habit of eating 3 times a day that I can't imagine eating several small meals or 3 meals plus snacks. Although - now that I'm thinking about it - I'm actually hungry.

Maybe if I stop stifling hunger with tobacco and soda - and actually eat - I'll start feeling better. What a concept!





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Jules

Dansko Women's Shoes and Clogs

I was cleaning out my dresser drawers recently and found, much to my surprise, two pairs of shoes in the bottom drawer. One pair, unfortunately, is a white sandal that will have to wait until spring for its reappearance. The other is a reptile-skin patterned, black patent-leather with a 3" heel. It will be waiting until I have surgery on my knee and/or get out of this brace.

Finding shoes that I'd forgotten about but can't wear right now, just made me want to find some that I can wear - right now. So, you know I went online shopping. All of the women's Dansko shoes are adorable.Between the terrific prices and free shipping on all orders over $100.00, I know that I can find just what I want and more than I need. Fun, huh?!

I immediately fell in love with the Dansko 'Midori'. Just look at the detailing around the edge; absolutely adorable. And the styling is great, with the cut-out and band across the arch, I can wear them with just about anything. Of course, there are several other styles.


The 'Myla' would also look very good with just about everything in my closet, under my jeans, or with my favorite mid-calf skirt. With the criss-cross straps across the top and the cute little buckles on the outside, I think the styling is perfect for so many occasions.

Either way, no matter which Dansko style I choose, I don't have to worry about falling off high heels or my feet being uncomfortable. For a woman who loves wearing no shoes as much as she loves new shoes, that says a lot.




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Jules

No Good Deed . . .

There's a saying, quite popular around our house, that No good deed goes unpunished. We are rapidly becoming living proof that the saying is quite, quite true. Today, we got hit with one great big example.

After 6 weeks in a group home, Michael has come back to live here. Given all of the possible options, everyone involved decided that it was best for him to live with us. With the issues that we've had for the past 3 years, I'm not sure that it's best for Mark or me, but right now we're not the primary concern. Working within the system, we are getting Michael the attention that we couldn't get for him on our own, so that is a good thing.

Unfortunately, the system that we're hoping will help, is the same one that has brought Michael's mom back into the mix. For years, we have heard nothing but horror stories about the boys' life with this woman. Three years ago she put Michael, at the tender age of 13, on a bus with a total stranger and told him that she didn't want him back.

Since the court tracked her down and is working to terminate her custody and/or parental rights, she immediately moved back to Arizona with her father and is worming her way back into Michael's life. Right now, that means every Saturday morning and every Saturday evening, we'll be invaded as they pick him up and drop him off. It is good for Michael, because he'll get to spend some time with his only grandfather every week.

For Mark and me? I'm not so sure.




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Jules

Biotene® Sensitive

For years, my teeth have given me pain. The degree and frequency has varied, but there is always some pain. It doesn't help that I am deathly afraid of dentists and the last one I visited did such an abominable job that my mouth is in worse shape than it was before I sought treatment.

A few months ago, in addition to 2 broken teeth, I lost a crown that this dentist had installed. The sensitivity to cold and heat was excruciating. With all of the exposed nerves, the pain is sometimes so bad that I can barely eat. As you can imagine, I have worked my way through the special products in the toothpaste aisle; very few offered relief for more than a few hours.

Today, I tried something new from Biotene that actually works. Unlike other products that I've used, Biotene® Sensitive toothpaste isn't a temporary pain-blocker. It combines Potassium Nitrate, powerful protection against sensitivity, with a patented enzyme complex that inhibits bacteria growth.

This one-of-a kind toothpaste builds increasing protection against sensitivity. In addition, the natural immune-boosting enzymes promote healing of bleeding gums and irritation caused by a dry mouth, treating common causes of tooth sensitivity. I didn't realize that I could be suffering additional problems; I just knew that my teeth hurt.

Since I used Biotene® Sensitive earlier today, I have had hot coffee, iced tea, and hot stew. Not only do I have no pain, my teeth still feel clean and even after a cigarette, my mouth isn't dry.







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Jules

Time Change Increases Pedestrian Deaths

I was reading an article today that was a little frightening. Studies have shown that, after daylight savings time (DST) ends, pedestrians are almost 3 times more likely to be struck and killed by cars during the 6PM rush hour. By December, the statistics drop back down to numbers similar to those from October and continue their decline until May.

The reverse is true for the morning hours, when daylight comes earlier. Although pedestrian deaths drop during the 6AM rush hour, there are fewer walkers, so the morning reduction doesn't offset the evening increase. There is talk that implementing a permanent daylight savings time would save about 200 lives per year.

I don't mean to be difficult, but if changing the time twice a year is hazardous - why not just leave it alone?! It works for Arizona!




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Jules

Web Hosting Solutions

No matter what type of website you have or want to have, one of the most important aspects is finding reliable hosting. There are hundreds of hosting services with a wide range of services and a wide range of prices. Paying less doesn't necessarily mean fewer features, any more than outrageous monthly fees guarantee uptime and stable service.

If you're looking to start an online business, look at the features you can find at AQHost.com. All Business Hosting plans include:

• FREE installation of osCommerce to your Business hosting account
• FREE step-by-step osCommerce video tutorials
• FREE transfer of your Business Hosting account from any other cPanel host
• FREE account setup, no long term contracts, no hidden fees
• FREE daily server backups to protect your vital data

There are starter, intermediate, webmaster, business, and corporate packages, so you're not getting less than you need or paying more than you can afford. If you have your own domain, AQHost.com can help you transfer your website and domain registration, set up your eCommerce shopping cart, and put your business to work. For those just starting out, they have economical packages that include a free domain name, multiple email accounts, eCommerce hosting, and 24/7 support.

If you want a one-stop solution with site design, shopping carts, free eCommerce installation, SSL Certificates, and a merchant account that lets you process credit card payments, start with AQHost.com. Setting up your own online store couldn't be faster or easier. You could be making money in no time at all.





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Jules

Brand New Business Card

Years ago, I bought software to help me design business cards. It's even possible that I designed something - years ago - and, through several laptop restarts and replacements, managed to lose the file. So, I decided, last month, that it was time to get serious about it.

This is the standard front that will appear on each card.

(Unless I decide to redesign it. You know how I get.)

And this is the standard back of each card.

I have designed other 'backs' for different uses, but this is the one that most people will see.

They were designed in 'PrintShop' and, unfortunately, aren't quite as clear when saved as a photo. But you get the idea.

Let me know what you think -




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Jules

iFLOOR Unveils $1,000,000 Flooring Warranty

I do a great deal of online shopping, and I have never heard of manufacturers refusing to honor a warranty on products that were purchased from an online retailer. Frankly, I'm appalled at the concept and was under the impression that a warranty was a warranty was a warranty, regardless of point-of-sale. That would be like HP refusing to warranty a computer because it was purchased online at BestBuy. Ridiculous!

Thank heaven for companies like iFLOOR. They are providing a one million dollar limited warranty (see Press Release below) to cover any of their customers whose warranty claims are denied by the manufacturer, simply because the product was purchased online. I think that's pretty amazing and definitely qualifies as some of the greatest customer service I've seen in a good long while.

When I buy flooring - you know where I'm shopping!

Press Release:

iFLOOR, America's largest online flooring retailer, today announced a $1,000,000 limited warranty designed to protect its customers from predatory manufacturer policies that exclude warranty coverage from online purchases.

The policy, which goes into effect immediately, offers up to one million dollars of coverage in the event that a customer's warranty claim is denied specifically because they made their purchase online. It is complimentary for every iFLOOR customer, and protects the buyer under the same terms as the original product warranty.

iFLOOR, Inc. CEO, Steve Simonson, came up with the program to combat "scare tactics" used by manufacturers of hardwood floors and laminate flooring. "Their idea is to discourage you from buying at a discount!" wrote Simonson in his blog "It's About Flooring". "This is not right! You deserve to save money! So we're going to take care of this problem once and for all."

And it would appear that federal law is on his side. Section 108 of the 1975 Magnuson-Moss Act, states that, "In general, tie-in sales provisions are not allowed. Such a provision would require a purchaser of the warranted product to buy an item or service from a particular company to use with the warranted product in order to be eligible to receive a remedy under the warranty."

Under iFLOOR's new warranty, a key provision allows for iFLOOR to "seek justice" on behalf of the customer in the event of legal action. According to Simonson, "I'm putting iFLOOR's money where my mouth is."

About iFLOOR, Inc.
Since 1998, iFLOOR.com has been the leading online and retail flooring company, with 36 local retail stores nationwide offering more than 70,000 products, including hardwood floors, laminate flooring, bamboo flooring and cork floors. iFLOOR.com is the largest online flooring retailer according to Internet Retailer Magazine, and was named by Inc. Magazine as one of the fastest growing private companies in the United States for the past three years. Committed to quality customer service, superior selection and friendly expert advice, iFLOOR.com enables customers to buy flooring both online and in its retail stores at a substantial savings over traditional retailers. For more information about iFLOOR, please visit www.iFLOOR.com.

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Jules

JMark Afghans' Updates

I have been incredibly busy the last few days, making sure that the images of our new products are uploaded and the order forms are in place. Not only have I (finally) put together some of the Etcetera in JMark Afghans, etc., there is a brand new page of Variegated Yarn colors from Red Heart Yarns. Since it's been so much fun changing everything around, I thought I'd have a go at a new navigational menu format, too. (Definitely gonna need another pot of coffee for that one!)

And, while I'm at it . . . I think I'll put together an extra Newsletter - so everybody knows about all these new goodies. (Oops! That one may take a pot of coffee AND a vitamin!)

Keep watching! The pages they are a changin'!

By the way ~ if you aren't on our Mailing List - why not sign up now!? You wouldn't want to miss all the fun, now would you?!

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Jules

National Memory Screening Day

As you know, November is National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. For the 4th consecutive year, the Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA) is bringing together organizations and healthcare professionals from across the United States for the National Memory Screening Day on November 13, 2007. As part of the focus on "Together for Care . . . in addition to Cure," participating sites are providing free confidential memory screenings, follow-up resources, and educational materials to those concerned about memory loss.

This collaborative event is part of the ongoing national effort to promote early detection of Alzheimer's disease and related illnesses. Memory screenings are an important first step toward early detection and appropriate intervention, including medical treatments, social services, and other resources. They are not solely for those who are concerned about recent memory changes, but for anyone who would like to determine their current score as a basis for comparison in the future.

Screening sites have been established throughout the United States, making it simple to find a convenient location and time. Don't wait. Mark your calendar - November 13, 2007 - and choose the site that works best for you. Like watching your blood pressure and cholesterol or regular exercise and a healthy diet, this is just one more tool to help maintain a lifestyle that promotes Successful Aging.

Without a doubt, seeking a cure to Alzheimer's is important. However, we must not overlook the need for continuing quality care for those who suffer from this disease. Please contribute to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America and come "Together for Care . . . in addition to Cure."








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Jules