Looking For a Diet That Works
Diet, at our house, means much more than losing weight. Truth be told, none of us are really overweight. (Frankie is positively skinny, the brat!) I would be happy to lose 5-10lbs, especially around the middle.
In Mark's case, we need information on diets that work for managing his blood sugar. A sweet tooth and carb-loving appetite, is just not good for diabetes. But, with the price of meats around here, it's really difficult to keep him full without shooting his sugar through the roof.
. . .
Read More Looking For a Diet That Works
I was curious about the Glycemic Impact Diet from eDiets. It sounds like what we need - but, they all do, until you look a little closer. Still, it does bear reviewing; if for no other reason than knowing - for certain - that it's a bad idea.
After some review, information input, and eDiet recommendations, I have to say I'm rather impressed. Naturally, we can't get any actual information or help until we pay the monthly fee (not happening, right now). However, the system is easy and does seem to accurately assess needs, based on profile details.
Oh, it wasn't the Glycemic Impact Diet that was suggested. It was the Living with Diabetes online plan. Which includes dietician support, meal plans, personalized menus, shopping lists, and custom fitness guidance.
Could be a workable idea. We'll just have to see what we can afford - or find some good recipes on our own.
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It's Not Good to Be a Sick Kid in Arizona
It is not a good time to be a poor, sick kid in Arizona. Although, even the poor, healthy kids are losing out.
Arizona Governor Jan Brewer annouced that, due to financial difficulties in the state, the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) will be cancelled. Effective June 15th, the state, according to Brewer, can no longer afford to pay its share of the expenses for this program. A program covering 39,000 children in families between 100% and 200% of federal poverty level income.
There is a, possible, light at the end of the tunnel: A provision in the healthcare reform bill before Congress includes a "maintenance of effort" provision that may require the state to keep its SCHIP program in place. We'll see.
In the meantime, if you live in Arizona and need emergent care - expect a long wait at the local emergency room, which may become the only option for a lot of families.
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Online Criminal Justice Degree
Online post-secondary education is an amazing opportunity for people like me, who lack either the time or the resources to physically attend classes. In my case, I have no way to get to school. Well, no inexpensive way.
But thanks to the Internet, I can get a criminal justice degree from the comfort of my recliner. I have always wanted to work in this field, and decided to check out Northwestern College for a number of reasons. Credibility is at the top of the list.
. . .
Read More Online Criminal Justice Degree
With over 100 years experience, this is no here-today-gone-tomorrow operation. The programs are thorough and accredited. Northwestern knows what it takes to educate people and focus their programs on up-to-date, real-world requirements. No one is studying how it was done 30 years ago, but what is needed now.
Northwestern College also offers assistance with every step of the education process, from financial aid to flexible class scheduling. Being an online program, the interaction with professionals in the field is going to be much easier. Experts can quickly and easily support students - travel time and expense aren't a consideration.
Just reviewing the course topics is enough to inspire me to enroll. I'm especially interested in Criminology, and Criminal Law and Procedures. Homeland Security Law is another fascinating course title that I know would teach me a lot - and broaden my understanding of crime and the law.
Times are tough and crime is high. The demand for specialists in Criminal Justice is going to remain high, as well. This is something that, no matter where you live, you can do for yourself - and for your community.
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FDA Recall Notices ~ March 17, 2010
The following recall notices, market withdrawals, and/or safety alerts have been posted, through today, by the FDA. Note: most of these Voluntary Recalls are related to possible Salmonella contamination of ingredient(s) at a supplier location.
- (Complete list of HVP Containing Products, related to Salmonella Tennessee found at Basic Food Flavors.)
- (News release, dated March 17, 2010, updating recall information related to Salmonella Montevideo found at Mincing Overseas Spice Company and Wholesome Spice Company.)
- (FSIS list of Products Recalled by Daniele International Inc., related to Salmonella Montevideo found at Mincing Overseas Spice Company and Wholesome Spice Company.)
Updates to listings / unavailable information posted March 10, 2010:
- McCormick & Company, Incorporated ~ Expanded Recall ~ Dip and Stuffing Mixes ~ Possible Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
- Herr Foods Inc. ~ Recall ~ 'Herr's Cracked Pepper and Sea Salt Flavored' Kettle Style Potato Chips ~ Possible Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
- Dutch Valley Food Distributors, Inc. ~ Updated Lot Numbers ~ Black Pepper and Related Products ~ Possible Salmonella at Mincing Overseas Spice Company (Supplier)
New Notices (in numeric order):
. . .
Read More FDA Recall Notices ~ March 17, 2010
- GFN Foods, LLC ~ Recall ~ Gluten-free Mixes and Flour ~ Salmonella Found at Thumb Oilseed Producers Cooperative (Supplier)
- * Austinuts Of Dallas, Inc. ~ Recall ~ Honey Mustard Pretzels from National Pretzel Co. ~ Possible Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
- Frontier Natural Products Co-op ~ Recall ~ Products with non-organic Black Pepper ~ Possible Salmonella at Mincing Overseas Spice Company (Supplier)
- Mrs. Gerry’s Kitchen, Inc. ~ Recall ~ Crab Creole Spread ~ Possible Salmonella at Unnamed Supplier
- The Kroger Co. ~ Recall ~ Onion Soup & Dip Mixes ~ Possible Salmonella at Unnamed Supplier
- * Emmi - Roth Käse USA ~ Recall ~ Spreadables brand Crab Creole and Shrimp Scampi cheese spreads ~ Possible Salmonella
- * Tastefully Simple ~ Recall ~ Toasted Garlic & Parmesan Cheese Ball Mix ~ Possible Salmonella at Unnamed Supplier
- * Julia's Spices, Inc. ~ Recall ~ Hulled Sesame Seeds ~ Possible Salmonella
- * Spice Industrial Group, Inc. ~ Recall ~ Lian How White Sesame Seeds ~ Possible Salmonella at Specialty Commodities Corp. (Supplier)
- Produce Valley, Inc. ~ Recall ~ Toasted Onion Dip Mix ~ Possible Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
- Barcel ~ Recall ~ Tostachos 3.17 oz ~ Possible Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
- Spice Barn, Inc. ~ Recall ~ Two Lots of Black Pepper ~ Possible Salmonella at Mincing Overseas Spice Company (Supplier)
- C. H. Guenther & Son, Inc. ~ Recall ~ Seasoning and Soup Mixes ~ Possible Salmonella at Mincing Overseas Spice Company (Supplier)
Please visit the above links for complete product information, recommendations, contacts, and return details.
* Some FDA links were not functioning at the time of posting. Specific health risk information may be incomplete.
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Traveling Toronto
With the weather already in the mid-80s, it's easy to start thinking of getting out of town. To paraphrase John B.L. Soule, "Go North, old woman, Go North." Since we've been talking with a friend in Ontario recently, Toronto came immediately to mind.
Arts and crafts, theater, festivals, and some beautiful Toronto hotels got my travel bug buzzing. The museum exhibits - from dinosaurs to King Tut - certainly inspire a visit. As does the chance to see "Jersey Boys" live.
I do think, however, that a trip to the 'Look Out' at CN Tower might be pushing my vertigo-suffering travel bug a bit too far.
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Diabetes Study Negates Intensive Treatment
Diabetes is a big deal in our house. So, I have news alerts and email
subscriptions to all the information I can find. Just today, I was
reading about the results
of a ten-year study that just didn't have much good news for us.
. . .
Read More Diabetes Study Negates Intensive Treatment
The first thing I noticed was that the intensive blood sugar treatment
was stopped after eight years, due to higher risks of heart attack and
stroke. Now that the blood pressure and blood-fats information is in,
the prognosis isn't much better. None of the fancy drugs were
completely effective in reducing the risk of heart attack or stroke in
type-2 diabetics.
In the cholesterol study group, all were given a statin - like Lipitor
or Zocor. Some were also given TriCor, a fibrate. It seems that adding
fibrates, drugs that lower triglycerides and boost 'good' cholesterol,
only helped individuals with extremely high blood-fat levels. And, for
women, it increased the risk of heart problems.
For the blood pressure participants, the intensive treatment had no
effect on the number of heart attacks. The risk of stroke was reduced;
although that is a less common problem in diabetics. Either way? The
side effects from the intensive treatment were greater.
Bottom line? The researchers don't know what this means for treatment,
going forward. They do, however, recommend sticking with
tried-and-true medications, healthy diet, and exercise.
For us, it's an interesting dilemma. Mark's blood pressure is a bit
high, but he has serious reactions to the meds. His cholesterol is
amazingly good.
Guess we stick with carb counting and regular exercise.
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Education Jobs
I was, actually, searching for information on schools and funding, when I ran into a site offering Education job search assistance. Frankly, I'd never thought about all of the different levels of work available in the education field.
There are teachers, of course. But even then, there are so many different options. Elementary and secondary, vocational, and special education were not a big surprise.
What I didn't think about were positions in libraries and archives. And museums just totally slipped my mind. A very broad - and interesting - range of opportunities.
Teaching is one of the most important, frustrating, and potentially rewarding careers out there. I've known some amazing people who dedicated their efforts to improving the minds of our youth. All I can say is: Thank You.
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Some Good News for Smokers?
Even as a smoker, I would never advocate smoking for anyone. Many people have more health problems, more colds and bronchitis, and reduced lung function from using tobacco products. But, there may be a benefit from smoking, after all.
. . .
Read More Some Good News for Smokers?
Results of a new study, released yesterday and confirming information from other studies, indicate that smokers have a lower risk for developing Parkinson's disease. Now, don't go running out for a pack of smokes. There are a lot of factors to be considered in these results.
Although at least a pack a day was mentioned, it appears that how long someone smokes is more of a consideration than how much. Smoking less than 10 years resulted in a 4% lower risk to develop the disease. With 10 to 19 years showing a 22% reduction; 20 to 29 years, 36%; and 30 years or more, a whopping 40%.
Several questions arise from these results. Will smoking slow the disease? It appears it does not. In addition, it does not reduce the risk of death, once someone has it.
Are those more at risk for Parkinson's also more resistant to the addictive effects of smoking? They may be. When researchers looked at the "early smoking behavior" of the participants who developed Parkinson's, it was found they were "less likely to be smokers at a given age" and more likely to quit sooner.
Finally, what - exactly - is it, in the 4,000+ chemicals that come from cigarette smoking, that may block development of Parkinson's disease? Much more research will need to be done. Into those chemicals, and into alternatives that are less toxic.
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Okay, Where Are the Outer Banks?
It's not that I was actually looking for Outer Banks vacation rentals. Once again, my travels around the 'Net peaked my curiosity. Just one problem: where are the Outer Banks?
By and large, I can find and name all the states on a map. However, when you get down to regions, areas, and such - I'm a bit lost.
What I found was a beautiful long stretch of islands off the coast of North Carolina. Two hundred miles of ooh-and-aah that got me wondering what a vacation would offer. A great deal, it appears.
So, I'm off -- to Kill Devil Hills, or Duck, or Kitty Hawk, or maybe Nags Head.
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What's In That Food?
Yesterday, I posted a list of recent FDA recall notices. Nothing new; do it every week or so. But this group, in my mind, was different.
It wasn't one particular product that was an issue. And that's what scared me.
. . .
Read More What's In That Food?
So much of what we eat is a mystery, when you get right down to it. We're at the mercy of the growers. Or the manufacturers of the ingredients.
Do we really know what's in pre-packaged meals, sides, or mixes? Or where it comes from? With these product recalls, I found out that we don't have a clue.
Some companies have repeat problems. They are part of numerous recalls, because of their manufacturing practices. It's easy - if you keep an eye on the notices - to simply avoid their foods.
But, how do you avoid an ingredient, shipped to dozens of companies? Appearing in dozens of products? Invisible to even the most savvy consumer?
I don't think you can. And that's what scares me
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Blood Pressure Monitors
It's difficult to pick which was the most frightening symptom /
complication of Mark's liver disease. There were ascites (fluid in the
abdominal cavity), jaundice (yellow eyes and skin), and clotting
problems. He also developed hepatic encephalopathy (reduced brain
function), tachycardia (extremely rapid pulse) and high blood pressure.
. . .
Read More Blood Pressure Monitors
We spent a lot of time checking his pulse and blood pressure, so the VA
furnished a home monitoring unit. Unlike the Wristech
blood pressure monitor, which I found online today, the monitor we
have goes around the upper arm. It needs to be positioned just right to
get an accurate reading.
Under normal circumstances, not a problem. We still use it regularly
without any difficulty. But, when you're dealing with a patient who is
suffering from balance problems and is almost completely unable to
follow directions, simpler is better. Much, much better
Being able to slide a unit over his wrist, hit start, and be done - that
would have been a life-saver.
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FDA Recall Notices ~ March 10, 2010
The following recalls, market withdrawals, and/or safety alerts have
been posted, through today, by the FDA. Note: most of these Voluntary
Recalls are related to possible Salmonella contamination in
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein (HVP), used by the recalling companies for
flavor-enhancement. The HVP was manufactured and supplied by Basic Food
Flavors in Las Vegas, Nevada.
. . .
Read More FDA Recall Notices ~ March 10, 2010
In order of listing, newest first:
-
Olde
Westport Spice ~ Recall ~ Garden Harvest Special Blend Seasoning ~ Possible
Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
-
PepsiCo
Inc. ~ Recall ~ Quaker Snack Mix Baked Cheddar ~ Possible Salmonella
at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
-
Ventura
Foods, LLC ~ Recall ~ Seven Varieties of Its Dean's® Dip Products
~ Possible Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
-
Publix
~ Recall ~ Four (4) Seasoning Mixes ~ Possible Salmonella
at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
-
The
Proctor & Gamble Company ~ Recall ~ Two Flavors of Pringles® ~ Possible
Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
-
Nutritional
Resources ~ Recall ~ Healthwise Cream of Mushroom Soup ~ Possible
Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
-
*
Herr Foods Inc. ~ Recall ~ 'Herr's Cracked Pepper and Sea Salt
Flavored' Kettle Style Potato Chips
-
Dutch
Valley Food Distributors, Inc. ~ Recall ~ Black Pepper and
Products from Mincing Overseas Spice Company ~ Possible Salmonella
-
GNS
Foods, Inc. ~ Recall ~ Snack Mixes from National Pretzel Co. ~ Possible
Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
-
Nature's
Variety ~ Expanded Recall ~ All Raw Frozen Chicken Diets for Dogs
and Cats ~ Possible Salmonella
-
National
Pretzel Co. ~ Recall ~ Honey Mustard Onion Seasoned Pretzels ~ Possible
Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
-
Estrella
Family Creamery ~ Recall ~ Old Apple Tree Tomme Cheese ~ Possible
Listeria monocytogenes
-
*
Ed Roller, Inc. ~ Recall ~ Wegmans 9oz 'Food You Feel Good About®
Medium Seafood Sauce ~ Undeclared Soy and Anchovies
-
Mincing
Overseas Spice Company ~ Recall ~ Black Pepper Lots 3258 and 3309
~ Possible Salmonella
-
Fresh
Food Concepts ~ Recall ~ Spinach Dips ~ Possible Salmonella
at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
-
McCormick
& Company ~ Recall ~ Dip and Stuffing Mixes ~ Possible Salmonella
at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
-
Creative
Contract Packaging Corporation ~ Recall ~ HERB-OX® Bouillon
Products ~ Possible Salmonella at Basic Food Flavors
(Supplier)
-
Concord
Foods ~ Recall ~ Seasonings Mixes ~ Possible Salmonella
at Basic Food Flavors (Supplier)
Please visit the above links for complete contacts, product information,
recommendations, and return details.
* Some FDA links were not functioning at the time of posting. Specific
health risk information may be incomplete.
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Well, It Started With a Sore Throat
It started as a really sore throat on Sunday night, with pain shooting
up into my right ear. I figured a good night's sleep and I'd be fine.
Well, apparently, I figured wrong.
On Monday, the sinus congestion was worse; with a bit of a cough. By
Tuesday, it was moving into my lungs at a rapid pace and stubbornly
shutting off my sinuses. Today?
All I can say is it's a good thing I'm losing my voice, because the
whining is annoying - even to me! Chest hurts. Sinuses are sore,
stuffed, and miserable. And don't even get me started about the
sandpaper in my lungs every time I cough.
Every time I catch a cold, I tell myself that I don't get sick very
often, so I can be a baby about it. Here goes: "Mommy! I'm sick! Fix it!"
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Solutions for Acne
Chasing down reviews of acne
solutions isn't exactly a full-time job. But it does seem to occupy
more of my time these days. I can't do a product search, without running
full speed into someone's review site.
Sadly, some of the sites leave one, shall we say, wanting more. Just
today I stumbled across one that has absolutely no information. With
curiosity driving me, I went on an investigative trek into the
nether-regions of the Internet.
Aftar a couple of hours, I was more confused than when I started.
. . .
Read More Solutions for Acne
At some point in time, there was content on the website. (I know,
because I found an old cache of the front page.) Then, magically,
everything seemed to vanish.
Other, similar URLs also have little content. But most of those are up
for sale. Someone smelled money to be made from a particular domain
name, would be my guess. And, since there are different owners, the odor
of profit must have been rather strong.
But, the site I was chasing down didn't seem to be for sale, or parked,
or intentionally abandoned. It was, in fact, just updated in February.
Whether they gave up or lost their host or got hacked (although that
seems unlikely), all that is left is the bare-bones beginning of a
WordPress blog.
Rather sad.
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Reuters Health News ~ March 05, 2010
I recently subscribed to email news alerts from Reuters Health service.
Getting the updates in my mail, saves me a lot of time and energy. Now,
instead of chasing all over for information, I can sit down and share
what I've read.
Some of the headlines, from this week:
Read More Reuters Health News ~ March 05, 2010
Given my 'issues' with supplements and monitoring of product recalls, I
expect many of these topics will show up in posts on this blog.
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Exercise Equipment Needs
Recently, I've been doing a great deal of online window-shopping for
exercise equipment. Because I'm not outfitting a full gym, I've avoided
looking at commercial
fitness equipment. Size, weight, and cost keep professional machines
out of my range. Or so I thought.
While we have space issues, I discovered that price isn't automatically
a problem. Refurbished equipment, coming out of the local workout club,
can offer features not available on items designed for the home user.
And, because the gym is anxious to upgrade their treadmills and stair
climbers, the used machines may not be much more expensive.
I can't say how the quality compares. But it might well be worth a
closer look.
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WooHoo and YeeHaw!
Yippee! The new Blackberry's got here today!
Out of curiousity, Mark decided to see if we qualified for any phone upgrades a couple of nights ago. Much to our surprise, we did. Not a fully free phone, but a couple of seriously reduced phones.
Since we've both wanted a BlackBerry for - as they say - like, forever, the phone choice was easy. It just came down to what kind of deal we could get on which model.. Suffice to say - it was a good deal.
It certainly pays to stay with a good company. And, for us, T-Mobile has been great. Not perfect, but not AT&T or Verizon, either.
Now, if you'll excuse me - I have to go play!
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FDA Recall Notices ~ March 03, 2010
The following recalls, market withdrawals, and/or safety alerts have
been posted, through today, by the FDA. In order of listing, newest
first:
Through March 03, 2010:
-
Reser's
Fine Foods Inc ~ Voluntary Recall ~ Ranch Dressing, Dips, Redskin
Potatoes ~ Possible Salmonella
-
Earth
Island ~ Voluntary Recall ~ Select 'Follow Your Heart' Products ~ Possible
Salmonella
-
Homemade
Gourmet ~ Voluntary Recall ~ Tortilla Soup Mix ~ Possible Salmonella
-
Tim's
Cascade Snacks ~ Nationwide & Canada Recall ~ 'Hawaiian® Kettle
Style Potato Chips - Sweet Maui Onion' and 'Hawaiian - Sweet Maui
Onion Rings' ~ Possible Salmonella
-
Castella
Imports, Inc. ~ Nationwide Recall ~ Castella Chicken Soup Base ~ Possible
Salmonella
-
T.
Marzetti Company ~ Voluntary Recall ~ Veggie Dips, Oak Lake Chip
Dips, and Great Value Chip Dips ~ Possible Salmonella
-
Heartland
Foods, Inc. ~ Voluntary Recall ~ Coarse Ground Black Pepper ~ Possible
Salmonella
Read More FDA Recall Notices ~ March 03, 2010
Through February 28, 2010:
-
Johnny's
Fine Foods ~ Recall ~ Johnny's French Dip Powdered Au Jus ~ Possible
Salmonella
-
American
Pecan Co. ~ Recall ~ 1 lb. Bags of Pecan Pieces ~ Possible Salmonella
-
Thumb
Oilseed ~ Recall ~ Soy Grits and Flour ~ Possible Salmonella
-
Wholesome
Spice ~ Voluntary Recall ~ 25 Lb. Boxes Of Crushed Red Pepper ~ Possible
Salmonella
-
Trader
Joe's Company ~ Voluntary Recall ~ Chocolate Chip Chewy Coated
Granola Bars ~ Possible Salmonella
-
Lovin
Oven LLC ~ Voluntary Recall ~ Health Valley® Organic Peanut
Crunch, Dutch Apple and Wildberry Chewy Granola Bars ~ Possible Salmonella
-
Queseria
Bendita ~ Recall ~ Queso Fresco, Panela, and Requeson ~ Possible
Listeria monocytogenes
-
Fresh
& Easy Neighborhood Market ~ Voluntary Recall ~ Chewy
Chocolate Chip Granola Bars ~ Possible Salmonella
Please visit the above links for complete contacts, product information,
recommendations, and return details.
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Scanners for Healthcare
If I mention barcode scanners, most people will think of the grocery store check-out. Or, perhaps, a smaller hand-held unit at the department store register. Our corner convenience stores have scanners these days,as well.
Most people don't think of a hospital when someone says scanner and barcodes. But, for some reason, that was my first thought when I ran across the picture of this Symbol LS2208 today.
. . .
Read More Scanners for Healthcare
I don't recall, exactly, which hospital Mark was in or which time he was hospitalized. However, I do recall the cart that came around regularly with his medications. The security was high and the nurses couldn't just arbitrarily open it up and hand out meds.
First, they scanned Mark's wrist band. I don't remember if they had to key or scan anything else. Just that, after scanning, the medication drawer would pop open.
In that drawer, were compartments, if I recall correctly. Each room or patient, had a compartment with what drugs the doctor had ordered for that morning, afternoon, or evening. No order; no meds.
Each med in the applicable section was scanned and had to agree with the computer orders. A simple process obviously designed to reduce, if not eliminate, human error. That's a pretty interesting use for a scanner, if you ask me.
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Holidays and Observances for March
Oh, dear! I almost forgot! Let's see what special days await in March.
And now, just for fun:
-
Employee Spirit Month
-
Humorists are Artists Month
-
Irish-American History Month
-
National Frozen Food Month
-
Play the Recorder Month
-
Sing with Your Child Month
So, I guess my month is pretty straight forward: Frozen pizza, green
beer, a recorder, and making Frankie sing! Should be a blast! Hope you
have a great month, too.
- With many thanks to Brownielocks.com who offers amazing, validated holiday and observance information.
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TV Stands Aren't Just for TVs
Three people in a one-bedroom apartment requires creative thinking. Especially when the three people tend to be packrats The level of ... ummmm ... stuff quickly becomes overwhelming.
With the living room doubling as a bedroom, and containing a huge computer desk, we had to think vertical and quick. Using TV stands to get things off the floor was our first step. This had the immediate advantage of creating storage space under, for example, our television.
. . .
Read More TV Stands Aren't Just for TVs
By throwing a cover (half of a spare set of draperies) over the stand, we had a hiding place for a myriad of sins not fit for public viewing. A similar cover over the dining table, made another stashing spot. So far, so good. Things were disappearing at a rapid pace.
What I didn't anticipate, however, was how TV viewing would change when we lifted it up off the floor. It's fantastic! Due to the position of the desktop and torchieres, we had been squinting through odd lighting and reflections for months.
Now, every seat in the room has a perfect view - no glare, no reflected monitors! Amazing how solving our storage problem fixed an issue we didn't realize we had.
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Loving the New Blog
Since I've been forced to restart, in essence, my blog, I've made some
additional changes that I am really loving.
The first was updating to the lastest Thingamablog
release. This one has even more bells and whistles than the previous
version I was using. (Granted, that was an early, early interation.)
Labels, keywords, post descriptions - all new to me.
Secondly? I have figured out the coding so that I don't have to allow my
verbose nature to crowd the front page of the blog. All the long-winded
posts, I like to call them full-thoughts, have a break after the first
couple of paragraphs. A link takes readers to the full-length article.
(Yes, I've been patting myself on the back over that one.)
Lastly, it seems to post much quicker. On the pokey Internet service we
have most times, that is critical. Unless I'm down to virtually no
connection, I barely have time to pull up the main page and - boom! -
posted.
Ahhhh! Blogging is good!
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San Diego Homes
It's that time of year again. When others dream of opening up the house and cleaning out the winter, we dream about moving somewhere cooler. The one stumbling block is the fact that neither of us could tolerate a 'normal' (northern) winter.
So, in my annual gotta-get-out-before-the-heat-arrives exercise, I threw a dart at a map and decided to see if there were any interesting (read: affordable) San Diego homes for sale. Easy enough, right? Wrong!
. . .
Read More San Diego Homes
Did you know that there are zillions of neighborhoods that are part of San Diego? I didn't! I figured that one moved to San Diego, period. But, oh no!
There is central, downtown, east county, north county coastal, north county inland, San Diego coastal, and - if that weren't enough to consider - south county real estate. Then, there are the areas within these areas. Vista, Rancho Santa Fe, La Mesa, Little Italy, Columbia, San Carlos - they just go on and on.
How, in the world, is a person supposed to know where to look?! North and move south? East and move west? Central and fan out from there? My head is spinning already!
Guess I'd better make another pot of coffee and a big breakfast. I'm gonna be at this for a good long while.
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Fighting Wrinkles
An evening spent reading wrinkle cream reviews ends up creating more questions than answers. All products claim to work wonders; that their ingredients are the best. But are they?
There's no argument that collagen, which the young have in abundance, is what keeps skin smooth and supple. Where to get it, or more accurately, how to increase collagen production is the real issue. It's also where opinions, products, and web sites diverge - dramatically.
. . .
Read More Fighting Wrinkles
From what I've read, using products with collagen in them doesn't do any good. The skin can't absorb collagen, so it simply sits on the face. Stimulating production is the key, and there are - actually - many ways to do it. At a variety of prices.
Dermatologists use laser treatments, peels, and microdermabrasion to stimulate the dermis, the middle layer of the skin where collagen lives. Naturally, these are not inexpensive treatments, but they are going to be more effective than department store versions. On the plus side, some of these treatments, which require more than one visit, are effective for years.
Topical solutions vary as well, from source to source. Consistently, however, articles mention creams containing peptides to be effective. And, typically, no two articles agree on which peptides are best.
My favorite? The article that lists dozens of foods that stimulate collagen and elastin production. It helps that I happen to love greens, cantaloupe, citrus, asparagus, cashews, pecans, almonds, and avocado.
Darn it! Now I'm hungry!
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Oddly Enough Blog
As often as I go through 'odd news' reports, I don't know how I missed
the Oddly
Enough Blog on Reuters. The tagline says it all: "News, but not the
serious kind"
I've been catching up on some of the recent posts and just had to cringe
over the "Five reasons to just go barefoot ..." from February 24th. Oh,
my gawd! Who in the world could/would wear these things?!
Me?! I'm gonna shuffle - barefoot - back to more columns. I love a good
laugh.
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Treadmills
Here it is, the beginning of March, and we're already thinking about summer heat. In Arizona, it gets warm early, and stays warm (okay, hot) for a long time. Makes me wish I had a treadmill about now.
There are dozens of sizes, speeds, and models to choose from. Some aren't nearly as expensive as others. Which may or may not be a good thing.
I know I wouldn't enjoy having my equipment crumble under my feet - in mid run. Just imagine - like a comedy routine - flying off the running surface and into the nearest wall! Definitely in the not-a-good-thing category.
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How Could 28 Days Last So Long?
I don't know about you, but for us this has been one incredibly long
month. Twenty-eight little days have dragged on forever.
Usually, February flies by so quickly that I end up, on the 28th,
wondering where it went and why I didn't get anything done. Not this
year. I wonder if that means the whole of 2010 is going to last for
about a decade in my mind.
Hmmm?! That might not be so bad. Maybe I'll get the closets organized
and the morons chased out of the Senate and the mending done and the
bathroom painted and the ironing addressed and the kitchen cupboards
reorganized and world hunger ended and the DVDs alphabetized and the
novel finished (or started) and the Middle East crisis resolved and an
organizer ordered and my hair color changed and the carpets shampooed
and the windows washed and the ...
Aw heck. Maybe I'll just have another cup of coffee and hope that March
doesn't last 60 days.
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Pneumococcal Vaccine
A brief article in Reuters Health today, reported that the U.S. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has recommended that children, previously vaccinated with Prevnar®, receive a 5th booster shot using the new version. To whom this recommendation was given isn't noted.
I can't say that I am fully aware of the interaction (read: symbiotic relationship) between all of the players in this game. But, I do know that, just minutes before the recommendation was proffered, the FDA approved the updated vaccine. Makes me wonder.
. . .
Read More Pneumococcal Vaccine
Recommending a new-and-improved version of a vaccine is nothing bad, in and of itself. The original Prevnar® was designed to protect against the seven most common serotypes (strains) of Streptococcus pneumoniae. Six additional strains have been added to the updated vaccine.
Again, not bad news. Unless, of course, you are of the opinion that we are over-vaccinating our children. (I am of two minds on that one, and must save that (lengthy) opinion for another day.) Or unless you question the validity of recommendations and approvals that occur almost simultaneously. Wonder who was on the phone with whom? "Stall, stall! We've almost got approval!"
I just don't know. How much faith can we put in the approval process, when things like this happen? And, what is - really - in these vaccines?
The standard warning / disclaimer for any medication: this {insert function here} is contraindicated (should not be used) by anyone with hypersensitivity to any component, is included in the information about Prevnar®. Not unexpected. Highly unexpected: diphtheria toxoid is one of the components in the original version. There is no reason to believe that it isn't, also, in the revised version.
This concerns me. Diphtheria, a serious bacterial infection of the mucous membranes in the nose and throat, is not caused by or, as far as I can tell, related to Streptococcus pneumoniae. According to the Mayo Clinic, and the National Institutes of Health, Corynebacterium diphtheriae causes Diphtheria.
What - exactly - is the purpose behind including a Diphtheria toxin in a streptococcal / pneumonia vaccine? How does this interact with the DPT shots that kids are getting at about the same time?
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Baby Black Panther Picture
In July 2007 - July 14, 2007 to be exact - I wrote a post which I called Some
'Interesting' News Stories. One of the stories was about a newborn
panther at the Belgrade zoo, being mothered by a Rhodesian Ridgeback.
The cub's mother, traumatized by NATO airstrikes, had tried to kill it.
A cute story, accompanied by a picture I found online. It didn't seem
like much and, at the time, didn't garner much attention. Boy have
things changed!
In the last couple of months, however, that photograph has become
tremendously popular. It keeps showing up in the keyword results for my
website. Oddly enough, for the 2 years and 5 months prior to that, no one seemed to notice it.
I wonder what triggered this renewed interest in a story that may or may
not, after all this time, be true?
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Branson Vacation
Being a curious sort, I was wondering about what a Branson vacation would offer. It's a place I've always wanted to visit. But, was fairly certain that I wouldn't find much to keep me occupied.
I knew there would be musical shows, of course. In my mind, that's what Branson was all about - great concerts. Boy was I wrong. Well, not wrong as much as seriously uninformed. Seriously!
. . .
Read More Branson Vacation
Yes, there are over 100 shows, but not just musicals. Entertainment options include magic and comedy. Remember Yakov Smirnov? Well, he performs in Branson.
Then, there are dinner cruises, tours, a water park, a permanent Titanic exhibit, museums, and a zoo. For the outdoorsy types, the area offers trails, golf courses, and three lakes.
Much more than just concerts, isn't it?
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The Big Apology
Admittedly, I didn't watch Tiger Woods' big apology yesterday. Not because I don't care. Well, okay, I really don't care. In fact, I believe that I can, quite probably, predict how it went.
"I cheated on my wife"
- This is pretty standard stuff for a public confession. Nothing
earthshattering. The whole world knew it already.
"I had multiple affairs"
- Again!? This would be stating the obvious. We've been reading about them forever.
And, the way I imagine it, it just gets more interesting from there.
. . .
Read More The Big Apology
"I am sorry"
- Sorry for ... getting caught?!
- Chalk it up to cynicism, but I don't really think that anyone who gets busted is truly sorry for the cheating. They are, in my humble opinion, really really sorry that they got caught. The good old It-isn't-illegal-unless-you-get-caught mentality.
There are indications that his wife was figuring things out, long before she (the way I see it) went after him with a nine-iron. Did that slow him down or stop him? No.
Note to Tiger: When the missus starts checking your cell phone? The secret's out. Don't leave messages for the girlfriend. Start preparing for big trouble.
"I will never do it again"
- Never do what again? My Guess? Get caught.
- Although, this time around, Tiger's handlers and toadies (and the sports press) may be less likely to throw cash at the situation and look the other way. It reflects badly on everyone who knew about the affairs and did or said nothing.
Bottom line? I question the 'addiction' portion of the mea culpa. To me, it's more about power and immunity. This man was in a position of immense power in the sports world.
He was the hero who could have and do anything he wanted. So he did. "Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely."
There is, however, a bottom line that I hope people remember. This was a private problem - between a man and his wife - that, under any other circumstances, would have stayed that way. Should have stayed that way.
Yes, Tiger Woods is a public figure and role model. His behavior is expected to be above reproach. He's also human, fallible, and - apparently - more image than substance.
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I Hate Weekends
I know it sounds odd to say that I hate weekends. Most everyone looks
forward to their two days off. Not me.
First, I work seven days a week or two or four. Whatever my schedule
calls for. So, to me, each day is pretty much the same as the other.
Except for news and television: That's where the similarities end.
. . .
Read More I Hate Weekends
I read a lot of news on my phone, late at night, as I'm relaxing to go
to sleep. Every day of the week, news services update their websites and
provide lots of reading material. On the weekend? Not so much.
Judging by the listings on virtually every mobile news site, nothing
much happens in the world from Friday night through Monday morning. No
new news; no email; lots and lots of nothing I haven't already read.
The one exception, that I've found, is Reuters. Thank heaven! And,
unlike many other mobile versions, their website works well on and with
my phone.
Now, I am quite certain that the world does not stop for the weekend.
But you certainly couldn't tell it by the news.
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Ordering Wrinkle Creams
One common complaint I've read about ordering some acne treatments and
weight-loss supplements is the automated ordering process. The customer
opts for a (usually) 14-day free trial; just pay shipping and handling.
Websites may or may not explain that, unless the account is cancelled
within that 14 days, the product will automatically ship at full price.
They also don't mention that the 14 days starts from the moment the
order is placed. And full price is never cheap.
Although more common with other products, some wrinkle
creams pull the same tricks. I know. They got me a couple of years
ago.
. . .
Read More Ordering Wrinkle Creams
Now, don't get me wrong. It's a perfectly good product. Two steps,
applied right after cleansing, you can actually feel the skin on your
face firm up.
Or maybe it's just an astringent in the mix, tightening up the pores.
But, I could feel it work - the few times I remembered to use it. All in
all, I was rather impressed ... until I got the charges on my card.
Then, I was simply angry.
When I contacted customer service, they insisted that I had agreed to
all of their fine print when I place my trial order. Nope; sure didn't.
In fact, I will go to my grave confident that there was zero warning of
the automatic shipping policy.
Happily, they did refund the charges quite quickly. And I learned a
valuable lesson. Ain't no such thing as free.
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FDA Recall Notices ~ February 18, 2010
The following recalls, market withdrawals, and/or safety alerts have been posted, through today, by the FDA. In order of listing:
Please visit the above links for complete contacts, product information, recommendations, and return details.
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Germ-Fighter Pillows
Our household is perhaps more sensitive to pollutants than the average
family. With Mark on immunosuppressants, missing most of his left lung,
and suffering from diabetes and seasonal asthma - dust, dander, germs,
and allergens are a big no-no for us. After seeing these allergy
pillows, I realized that we aren't doing everything we can to help
him breathe more easily.
To start with, our pillows don't have anything to keep us from exhaling
moisture into them, giving germs and bacteria a nice moist environment.
Worse yet, we're inhaling any mold, dust, and allergens that are in
them. Healthy Dreams Germ-fighter pillows, on the other hand, have a
bio-filter membrane and permanently treated fabric.
. . .
Read More Germ-Fighter Pillows
As the name explains, the membrane filters the air going into, and the
air coming out of, the pillow. And this is no ordinary filter. The
Micrenza bio-filter has the filtering equivalency of an N95-rated
surgical mask; the type used in situations where TB exposure
protection is required.
If that weren't enough, the pillow fabric is treated with an
EPA-registered - permanent - antimicrobial. Definitely above and
beyond the average pillow or pillow protector. And certainly more
health benefits than a monthly trip through the washer.
Another benefit of these allergy pillows? No trips through the washer.
Simply spot clean with a damp cloth and allow to air dry.
Trust me, I have washed pillows, more than once, in hot water
with a little bleach. I have also cleaned feathers and fiberfill out
of my washing machine! Egads! What a pain in the neck!
Since Mark is also sensitive to bleach, this is not a perfect
solution, either. We use anti-allergen carpet shampoo every month and
have ionizing air filters in every room. I think it's time to address
the quality of the air we breathe while we sleep.
And, to be perfectly honest, I would be very happy to wake up without
sinus congestion and headaches.
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Odd Uses for Hemorrhoid Creams
The first time I heard about using hemorrhoid treatment for puffy eyes, I thought it was a joke. After all, I was watching 'Miss Congeniality.' And they were doing all sorts of interesting things to Sandra Bullock and her bathing suit at the time.
Imagine my surprise when I read that not only do people do this, it's so prevalent that U.S. manufacturers changed their formulas. They have actually removed two of the ingredients that are reputed to reduce puffiness. Which means they're less attractive to people with bags under their eyes.
But, now, the products aren't as effective for those applying them where they belong, either.
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Proposed DSM Reclassification for Asperger's
For several years now, since Mark's youngest moved in with us, I have been researching developmental disorders. We were told he had been diagnosed with ADHD, but so many of his behaviors were more inline with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs).
A friend of ours has a son with Asperger's and much of his behavior was very similar to what we were living with. Perhaps there was a cross-over. I didn't know.
Now, for DSM-V, the American Psychiatric Association is proposing a merger of conditions, so to speak. As I understand it, there would be no diagnosis of Asperger's or Pervasive Development Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified. Everything would fall under ASDs, with a differentiation as to severity of symptoms.
Needless to say, this proposal has caused an uproar from both sides of the issue.
. . .
Read More Proposed DSM Reclassification for Asperger's
Understandably, higher functioning Aspies are not thrilled with the idea of being 'renamed' Autistic. In the world in general, there is a huge difference in the two labels. One being more positive than the other or, at the very least, less negative.
Their fear, which may or may not be justified, is that they and their affected children will no longer receive the services they need, due to that higher functioning. Parents of children at the other end of the spectrum (pardon the phrase) share the concerns over reduced services.
Believing that higher functioning Autistics provide better success stories, these parents fear that their children will be shunted aside in favor of 'good press' for management therapies. I can see both sides. And I understand the concerns.
I guess only time will tell if patient care improves or worsens - for all involved.
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Colon Cleansing: Good Idea?
Okay, I'm all for anything that will keep me healthy - or get me healthier. But a colon cleanse detox may just be a bit much. Then again, who knows?
In the spirit of open-mindedness, let's look at the claims and - if possible - the facts. Not much is really known about the benefits of colon cleansing. Although, if I recall correctly Dr. John Kellogg (as in the cereal family) was an almost rabid proponent of colonics and enemas at the sanitarium where he practiced.
The basic purpose of these cleansings, then and now, is to eliminate toxins in the intestines. It was and is believed that these toxic byproducts of the digestive process are reabsorbed into the system, causing a variety of health problems. Logically, it's a valid concept. In actuality, less so.
. . .
Read More Colon Cleansing: Good Idea?
Physically, cleansing doesn't appear to be necessary. The colon and the liver already work to detoxify waste from food. There are mucus membranes in the colon that block substances from getting back into the body. And, according to a couple of sources, the colon sheds old cells every three days or so.
As with anything else, there are risks. Taking laxatives can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Irrigation has its own risks. Anything used long-term can alter the balance of good bacteria in the system and create more problems than it solves.
That said, I have to admit that I don't always feel well when I'm not regular. But, frankly, I think I'll just drink more water and go for the whole grains.
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Westminster Dog Show
Is it me, or did they move the Westminster Dog Show this year? I thought
it was a Valentine's Day staple, until I couldn't find it on TV
yesterday. Turns out, I didn't miss it; I was just a day early. Whew!
Looking forward to seeing the three 'new' breeds. Two from the herding
group and one from the sporting group. Anyone think a new breed could
actually take Best in Show?
Nah, me neither. But it will still be a great show. It always is.
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Skin Care Options
Even though I know that foods do not contribute to breakouts, I also
know that massive quantities of chocolate aren't good for my skin. Not
because chocolate is bad, but because the caffeine and sugar combination
tends to bother my system. I get edgy; I get pimples.
Since I was thinking about the ramifications of (really, really)
enjoying Valentine's Day goodies, I decided to do a little investigation
into best skin
care advice. I've been thinking about getting some kind of toner or
astringent for the good ol' oil factory on my forehead and chin. What I
used as a teenager, is just too strong (if they even make it anymore)
for my aging skin.
Sadly, the first place I found - which seemed to cover everything from
day creams to toners to eye creams - had no content. Nothing. All of the
links went nowhere.
The site had been revised / changed / moved last May, but was apparently
never updated. Very sad. It looks like a great start.
Oh, well. Guess I'll just have to push on and find what I'm looking for
somewhere else.
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Happy Valentine's Day
Although many people tout Valentine's Day as a 'Hallmark holiday,' it
truly isn't. Since I didn't really know the origins of the holiday, I
decided to do a little research. Easier said than done, let me tell you.
The Roman Catholic church recognizes three different martyred saints
named Valentine, or Valentinus, and about as many legends exist
regarding the beginnings of the holiday. They range from the romantic to
the political.
A prevalent one has Valentine, a third century priest, performing
marriages against the orders of Claudius II, who felt single men made
better soldiers and outlawed marriage. The emperor had Valentine put to
death for his actions.
. . .
Read More Happy Valentine's Day
It is believed that the February celebration of love and romance began as an homage to his works on the anniversary (or thereabouts) of his death or burial.
Another legend has Valentine helping prisoners, who were frequently beaten and tortured, escape from Roman prisons. In love with a young girl, possibly his jailer's daughter, he is often credited with sending the first message signed 'From Your Valentine.' Whether this is the same Valentine who performed marriages against the orders of Claudius II, isn't clear.
Some put forth the theory that the church decided to celebrate St. Valentine's feast day in mid-February to counteract the influence of Lupercalia, a pagan fertility ritual celebrated on the ides of February. Pope Gelasius officially made February 14th St. Valentine's Day somewhere around 498 A.D.
There is even a story from the Middle Ages, that February 14th was believed to be the start of birds' mating season which indicated to the British and French that the middle of February was a time for romance.
Whatever the truth, and I suspect that all of the pieces fit together
somehow, have a Happy Valentine's Day!
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Weight Loss Product Reviews
It isn't difficult to find a website offering weight loss product reviews. (Or any kind of product review, for that matter.) The real question is: Are they honestly reviewing products? Or are they affiliate marketers of those same supplements?
(Don't get me wrong - I have nothing against affiliate marketing. There are several companies with which I do business as an affiliate. But, then, I'm not offering unbiased reviews of their products. I just like what they sell and offer their products to my customers, as well.)
Over time, I've run across several 'review' sites that are more than a little misleading. My all-time favorites, and there are a bunch, are the ones that mirror each other - down to typos and misprints. The top 3 or 5 or whatever combination they choose are always the same few products.
. . .
Read More Weight Loss Product Reviews
I suppose you could say that they're the top supplements across the board, because they are the best. You could. I probably wouldn't, but I'm funny that way.
My problem is that so many weight loss products don't have any supporting clinical trials to back up their claims. The best I've found is that some of the ingredients listed may have some valid claim to supporting fat-burning or weight loss. The ingredients themselves - not the combination in any particular product.
There is no monitoring or control over how much of what is included in a particular formula. And, when you're buying something over-the-counter, there is no medical support to ensure safe usage. Unless the consumer actually works with their doctor to monitor weight loss and side effects. I doubt many people do.
Take what you read with a grain of salt, as it were. Some sites do offer, what appear to be, unbiased reviews of certain products. It is certainly conceivable, though, that those are not the products they are (possibly) being paid to promote.
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Focus, Woman, Focus!
I have managed to update the templates for my blog to let me create expandable posts. Now - the problem! It is soooo distracting!
They work - and look - so great that I just keep focusing on how do I use this, when do I use this, I gotta use this! So embarrassing!
It is a great thing for me, distractions notwithstanding. I want more posts on my front page, without forcing readers to scroll, and scroll, and scroll, and ...
Well, you get the idea. Let me know what you think. Please?!
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Wrinkle Removers
Since my last birthday, I've been making lots of jokes about wrinkle creams. It's tough to get up in the morning, look in the mirror, and not see the 20- or even 30-year-old face I (for some reason) still expect to see. But wrinkle cream?
Admittedly, not all moisturizers are the same. They run the gamut from simple face cream to instant wrinkle remover, and everything in between. But which work? Which are safe?
It's tough to know. And, since there are new products every day (or at least new websites promoting products), I try to review regularly. Imagine my surprise when I saw a product, previously touted as the best weight-loss pill, offered as a skin treatment. You know I had to check it out.
. . .
Read More Wrinkle Removers
Ah, yes! The Super Foods pill! I remember Lipovox!
It does everything but wash the dishes and scrub the floors. Yet, who came up with this magic pill?! How do you track down the original? That's the fun part.
If you search "I worked with one of the largest Nutraceautical company's in the world and had them find the HIGHEST Concentrates of All 10 Super Foods." you will find no less than 121 sites sharing this story - complete with the typographical errors. There is one 'official' site, but who knows. Half of them look like copies of each other.
The bottom line?! There is no scientific proof that this pill does anything - except empty your wallet. Although, chances are - if you consumed a sufficient quantity of these 'Super Foods' - you would probably notice a benefit. But does this pill provide it?
If you've actually tried Lipovox - please leave your comments below. (Note: Moderators reserve the right to expose spurious claims.)
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Just Look at This! It's Getting Done!
It has taken me all day, but I have managed to update the comments
coding. Not only that - I managed to actually updated the appearance to
complement the colors of the blog. It's a little bluer and definitely
uses different background, but I rather like the difference.
Tomorrow, lucky me, I'll be updating the coding to allow what are called
expandable posts.
Undoubtedly you've seen a post that, after a few sentences, has a link
to Read More of the article or story. The format is common in
blogging, especially people (like me) who enjoying writing lots of
long-winded posts. By using these expandable formats, we can have more
individual posts on the main page and our readers aren't scrolling for
hours to see them.
When I had my blog on Blogger, they had the coding all set up for their
users. Now that I'm hosting my blog on my website, I had to figure out
how to code it myself. It took a while, but I managed to figure it out -
as you can see on my
other blog.
In truth, it's rather fun to try something new. I would prefer, though,
to be doing it by choice, rather than necessity. Oh, well. That's what
keeps life interesting.
Stop by JMark Afghans. Or catch us on Squidoo and Facebook.
Vote for JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
Can't wait to see you online!
Jules
Setting Up New Blog
Sadly, in mid-post tonight, the laptop lost power and trashed my access to
the database that held my blog.
This is my attempt to recreate the blog - going forward - in a fairly transparent way. All previous files still exist on the Internet. It's just that the basic posting information is gone, so I can't post anything new.
Wish me luck. It's going to be a long few days.
Stop by JMark Afghans. Or catch us on Squidoo and Facebook.
Vote for JMark Afghans, etc.
at Independent Designers
Can't wait to see you online!
Jules
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