Wendy thinks out loud

Cafe World: Cooking Academy Final Exam

2011-01-11T19:40:00.000-05:00

Final Exam Part 3
Finish Royal Collection
Have 1 Royal Utensil Holder
Rewards: Cravat Holder

Cafe World: Cooking Academy A Royal Test

2011-01-11T18:59:00.000-05:00

A Royal Test (Part 2 of Fall Registration)

12 Beef Wellingtons - You have to serve these, so if you have 12 hour thymes, cook these on your super lightning stove (the one that cooks 50% faster) and use your 12 hour thymes to complete this fast.

3 Royal Collection Items - You receive these randomly by cooking the Beef Wellingtons and you'll most likely need to cook more than the 12 you need to find them.

5 Seals of Approval - request from friends

Cafe World: Cooking Academy Fall Registration

2011-01-11T18:29:00.000-05:00

Fall Registration Part 1
Cook 4 Caramel Apples – only have to prep, so start them, then throw them away
10 Pumpkin Pies – only have to prep (same as above)
Earn 15000 coins – sell dishes to wholesale Dale to earn the coins fast!
Unlocks Beef Wellington

The Aflockalypse, current information and causes

2011-01-10T18:16:00.002-05:00

The reports of dead fish and birds seem to come in daily from around the world and officials are baffled at the ultimate cause. Explanations such as fireworks, sonic air frequencies and winter trauma are some of the excuses given, but no one seems to really know any real reason. It seems that all anyone can do is listen to the reports and keep up with the newest developments.

You can now follow the mass animal deaths that are occurring around the world on Google Maps.

On the Google Map link to the mass animal deaths, each pinpoint is linked to a news article with information about that area’s deaths. Drum fish and blackbirds aren’t the only creatures included in the reports. 70 bats were found dead in Tucson, Arizona on December 28, 2010. Starfish and jellyfish were reported to be “dying from the cold” in Charleston, South Carolina on December 23, 2010. Manatees along Treasure Coast in Florida were found dead on January 4, 2011.

The different species of birds continue to grow around the globe as well. In North America, mainly blackbirds have fallen out of the sky, but dead pelicans were found on Topsail Island in North Carolina on December 22, 2010. Over 300 doves fell out of the sky in Italy, up to 100 Jackdaw birds were found dead in Sweden, and dead birds were found in Japan.

Tension seems to grow amongst the population as people report on their Facebook statuses how terrifying this event actually is. “Wish I would have got the house with a bomb shelter” said one person and jokes are being made about the “daily dead bird/fish roundup.” Even with the reasoning from officials about the cause of these bizarre and sudden deaths, people aren’t buying it.

Many people are posting videos and links that the explanation may lie with the government. HAARP, the High Frequency Active Auroral Research Program funded by the U.S. government and military. Stationed in Alaska, HAARP uses radio frequencies for communication and bomb detection, but conspiracies abound with what is actually going on with the facility.

The only idea that officials seem to know about these apocalyptic events is that it’s not poison. Until the actual cause of death is known, people everywhere should be cautious about eating seafood and fowl.

References:
Nearly 70 bats found dead in Tucson. http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2010/12/28/20101228tucson-70-dead-bats-found.html
Starfish, jellyfish dying from the cold. http://www.abcnews4.com/Global/story.asp?S=13735801
Manatee death reports along Treasure Coast follow recent cold snap. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/fl-treasure-coast-manatees-20110104,0,7714948.story
Swedish birds ‘scared to death’: veterinarian. http://www.thelocal.se/31262/20110105/
HAARP. http://www.haarp.alaska.edu/

How to make your eyes look brighter and fresher

2011-01-05T19:02:00.000-05:00

Your eyes are the first thing people see when they look at you. Your eyes are also the first place that shows the signs of tiredness and aging. Combat the tired and sagging look with a routine that will give your eyes a boost of brightness and freshness. More...

How "Diary of a Madman" was the precursor to modern Asian horror films

2011-01-04T07:25:00.003-05:00

Asian films delve deep into the human psyche, play with the minds of the audience and leave them with much to think about. Lu Xun's "Diary of a Madman," written almost a century ago, set the foundation for Asian psychological horror films created today. "Diary of a Madman" can be compared to three Asian horror films: Perfect Blue, A Tale of Two Sisters, and Shutter. More...

The New Year's Eve Goals on Cafe World

2011-01-03T08:04:00.001-05:00

I've been playing Cafe World for some time now and the recent catering goal for New Year's Eve has done nothing but pissed me off. You have to complete 8 goals to unlock the dishes that you need to cook for the quest and if you're playing the game, I suggest you complete the goals before you start the catering quest.

Each of the 8 goals requires you to hound your friends with gift requests. This is a cooking game, not a gifting game. If the quests had been "cook x dishes", then I would understand and not complain at all, but they were not. If I'm not mistaken one of the early goals was to prepare a dish, but that was the only quest having anything to do with cooking.

Since the game is supposed to be about cooking, then why do we have to hound friends? Because zynga wants to gather as many players as possible, but it seems to me that they are just pissing people off.

Over the last couple of weeks, I have noticed on my Facebook Newsfeed that many of my Cafe World neighbors have complained in their statuses about several issues with the game. I can't say that I blame any of them, but it's not like zynga will take notice. They just keep pumping out unfinished quests and tasks such as the coffee machine and cooking academy, with us players in the hopes that one day we'll be able to finish them.

I have completed all 8 goals and I finished the NYE catering with a two star rating, but I've started to become so neutral toward the game that I don't care that I didn't get the NYE monument. Truly, I have enjoyed it, but the changes zynga makes aren't changes they SHOULD be making. They need to update the recipe book without people having to hound friends to "earn" the recipe. Zynga needs to finish the other tasks they've started before adding other stuff. And it's my hope that in the next year, Zynga finds the technology to make Cafe World full screen. Until then, my desire for Cafe World wanes... :(

January Crafts for Kids

2011-01-02T09:06:00.003-05:00

Bring in the New Year with a bang and make crafts with your kids. There's no better way than to spend time with your children than by making crafts with them and they'll be sure to remember those special times with their own mementos. More

A Real Life Hero

2009-12-15T20:22:00.002-05:00

The real life hero that I wrote this article for is my mother. She has an enduring commitment to her family that I have never seen in another person. Read this story to read about hers.

2009-11-04T11:40:00.001-05:00

How to Draw Cartoon Characters
You don't need fancy pencils or paper. Just a copy of your favorite cartoon character on paper or the image on your computer. By the time you're finished reading this article, you'll have your very own cartoon character drawn.
Read More

Young Love, akin to Pac Man

2009-09-14T07:34:00.004-04:00

Recently, while at the park, my son found a new playmate.
They meet.

They Chase each other.

They Play.

Neither of them could talk very well to each other, but the little girl introduced herself by bringing my son a leaf. I told him to pick a little white flower and take it to her. He did. They started playing immediately. Wouldn't it be nice if adults could communicate that easily?

How to reuse old candle wax and tin cans for a fragrant project

2009-09-12T17:43:00.001-04:00

If you have candle wax that is left in a jar after the wick has burned down, don't toss it! Give it a new life and recycle it by creating a melting wax burner with a tin can on your stove. You can still use an old candle for a much longer time even if there is only a small amount of wax remaining in the jar. More...

How to Play Power Pets

2009-09-10T09:33:00.001-04:00

Powerpets is a fun free online virtual pet game that is suitable for kids of all ages. Raise your pet, visit other worlds, play games with your pets, and dress your pet up in different clothes. Similar to Neopets, you'll enjoy playing this game and raising your pet. More...

AdoptMe: How to Play the free virtual pet game

2009-09-09T10:47:00.002-04:00

A great game for younger kids who need a simple start into the world of virtual pets....More...

Foods that suppress and help boost your immune system

2009-09-03T15:36:00.002-04:00

Immune system disorders such as auto immune diseases or a low white blood cell count can have a direct effect on your body. You can feel tired, sluggish, and just plain bad. Many of the foods you consume can have a direct effect on your immune system. Learning what can help and hinder your white blood cells can improve your overall well-being. More...

I want August back!

2009-09-02T21:27:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, I changed the calendar that hangs on the kitchen wall. It's the type that you would find in classrooms. It's bright, colorful and big. As I changed the month label and rearranged the dates, I explained to Skylar that we are in a new month and showed him the day's date.

"What that say?" he pointed to the September tag.

"September," I answered.

"Where August?" he asked.

"August was last month. It's September now." I answered.

"Why?" he asked.

"Because it just is." I answered.

"Why?" he asked.

"You just have to trust me on this." I answered.

And this is where things just went bad. It all kind of happened in slow motion. His face screwed up and his body tensed up and he screams: "I WANT AUGUST BACK NOW!"

"But, honey, it's September now." I tried to soothe him.

"I WANT AUGUST BACK NOWWWWWWWW!!!"

"I'm sorry honey, but it won't be August again until next year." I said.

"Look at clock!!!" He yelled pointing to the clock behind me on the wall. "It says 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12."

Now I was totally confused.

"What does the clock have to do with anything?" I asked.

"HMPH!!!" He said as he crumpled his face, crossed his arms, turned and walked out of the kitchen.

Somehow I lost the battle that I didn't even start. I sat in the kitchen floor, perplexed, wide-eyed, and wondering what would happen when October comes around.

How to use a flat iron

2009-09-02T08:07:00.002-04:00

Using a flat iron to get straight beautiful hair can seem daunting, but is very easy once you get the hang of it. If you're straightening really long hair it can be time consuming, but looks really good once you're finished. Even if you have very curly hair, you too can have the stick straight look.More...

Berea Arena Theater Announce 3rd Season

2009-08-29T16:48:00.001-04:00

The Berea Arena Theater, a community theater group located in Berea, Kentucky, has announced their third season for September 2009 through August 2010. Nestled in the "Crafts Capital of the World," the theater is a wonderful addition to the arts community of Berea. More...

How to make paper bag monster puppets

2009-08-26T13:36:00.001-04:00

This lesson plan is from my summer arts camp program "Puppet Making" for elementary students. It incorporates creative arts and language arts....More...

Teacher's Guide to Thanksgiving Lessons

2009-08-26T13:19:00.001-04:00

The Thanksgiving holiday in the United States teaches children the history of America while giving thanks for our freedom. You can use a Thanksgiving theme and cover all subjects of study from social studies to language arts. Incorporate the children with the following activities for a festive holiday this season....More...

10 things you can do in the library to annoy other patrons

2009-08-26T13:01:00.001-04:00

You can legally annoy library patrons without getting thrown out! The secret is in one word: subtlety. If you have a penchant for annoying people, follow this sure-fire way to grate someone's nerves. The best part is this: they can't throw you out! ...More...

Astrology 101

2009-08-26T12:58:00.000-04:00

Astrology is the study that assumes and attempts to interpret the influence of the heavenly bodies on human affairs, according to Random House Unabridged Dictionary. It seems very complex, but when you understand some of the basic terminology and meanings, you can better understand the horoscopes you read. ...More...

Latin is not dead

2009-08-24T10:40:00.001-04:00

Latin is not a dead language, it's just undead. It's kind of like a zombie language that no one uses regularly, but it's all around us like a zombie infection. More...

How to teach your child to read the alphabet

2008-11-22T20:27:00.002-05:00

Teaching your child teh alphabet is fun and rewarding. As your child learns the alphabet, reward him or her to encourage learning. These daily activities will teach your child teh alphabet while having fun.

Posterboard ABC's
Make a posterboard with the letters of the alphabet on it for daily review. A project display board is sturdy and durable for long-time use. If you only have posterboard available, then just use that.

You can write the alphabet with markers or use pre-cut letters you can purchase at teacher stores or dollar stores. Tape the pre-cut letters on the posterboard. Read the letters to your child everyday.

As you say each letter, associate the letter with something the child knows. For example, A is for apple, B is for ball, C is for car.

The Alphabet Song
Sing this song any time there is silence between you and your child. Sing it while you're bathing your child, while driving the car or even changing your child's diaper. Repeated singing will teach your child the tune and later on, the letters. Sing the song even if your child hasn't learned to talk yet. If you sing it to them daily, your child will know the alphabet before they can talk.

Alphabet Envelopes
This activity helps children recognize letters and use association skills. Set out twenty-six envelopes, preferrably the short ones, not the business size. Write one letter on the outside front of each envelope. Use the pre-cut letters or make your own alphabet cards. Making your own is easy. Cut out twenty-six small squares and write a letter on each.

Mix up the letters and ask your child to pick up one at a time. Tell your child to find teh envelope that matches the letter. Place the letter inside the matching envelope.

Alphabet Scavenger Hunt
On a piece of paper, write the alphabet down the page in a column. Tell your child to find objects in your home (or classroom) that starts with each letter of the alphabet. Help them write the name of the objects or let them draw pictures of the objects beside the letter. Reward your child once he or she finds all twenty-six.

Alphabet Book
This lesson for older elementary kids encourages research and art. Have your child pick his or her favorite topic and make an ABC book. Each page is a different letter of the alphabet with something related to the selected topic.

For example, an "Ocean Alphabet Book" would have twenty-six pages. The first page "A" could represent angelfish. "B" could represent barracuda. Have them draw each page and color them.

Use a three-hole punch and store the pages in a binder or make a cover with construction paper and tie the pages together with yarn through the holes.

Travel Alphabet Bingo
Write the alphabet on a sheet of paper. Every time you see an object, word, or place check off the letter that begins it's name. For example, if you see a car, check off the letter "c." The first person to check off all their letters wins.

Commercial Alphabet Bingo
This is the same as the travel game, but the players must find the letters shown on commercials on the television. This game is a great learning tool for kids who don't like commercials. The first person who finds all twenty-six letters first wins.

Serious Times

2008-11-04T10:48:00.003-05:00

Today's the big day to go out and vote. If you've already voted, great. If not, think before you do so.

Make sure you know who you're voting for and what you're going to be getting yourself into.

I fully believe that we've had it either way it goes, but when it comes right down to it, I believe that we've had it much quicker if Obama gets in.

Many of the people who are voting for Obama aren't getting the right news. They are watching mainstream media controlled by the government. They only want you to hear certain things about certain people to sway your opinion.

The media and television programs have gone down so far in quality. Don't believe everything you hear. Listen and question. Pay attention. Don't let yourself get mesmerized by what others say. They are no better or smarter than the majority of people.

The majority of the media is only allowed to broadcast what they are told to. If the big companies give a program millions of dollars, the programming managers are swayed to air what the big companies tell them to.

Information is at everyone's fingertips in this day and age. If you hear something you don't understand, look it up. If you hear something that you question, look it up. Understand the topics that people are talking about. Understand so that you know how to defend the truth.

Don't let yourself get caught up in the brainwashing media. Think for yourselves.

No, really, I love wearing puke

2008-10-28T21:20:00.000-04:00

So I took the baby to get his hair cut last week. We (as in Haley, myself, Skylar, and Mom) went into the salon. The kids got called back immediately.

Haley sat in a chair. I sat in another chair to hold Skylar. He was okay. For like a minute. When the lady sprayed his hair, he got mad. Then he started crying. The woman clipped his hair as quickly as she could. He still cried. We gave him a sucker. He still cried. She kept clipping. He looked at Haley. He cried. He got madder.

If any of you have read "I fought Pooh in the washing machine," then you'll know what's going to happen. And yes, it happened. Skylar got so mad that he threw up all over himself, his smock, my smock, the floor, and me.

And it wasn't just your average little up-chuck. Oh no! It was grade A certified puke. And it was ruthless. It was clabbered milk mixed with some blue drink. It was everywhere. It gushed out of him like a geyser at Yellowstone. Awesome is not a word I would use, but the hairdresser stood there in awe. She was amazed such a little fellow could hold so much puke.

Mom took Skylar's clothes off and took him out to the car. I managed to clean up the mess, offered to take the smocks home and wash them, but the kind lady said no.

I went to the front to pay. The man asked me, "What happened?" I told him. He looked at me disgusted.

"Are you okay?" He asked.

"Yeah." I answered.

"You look a little pale." He said.

"I'm usually pale." I answered.

"No, you look kinda green." He said.

"Well, I'm used to the puke being on the floor." I said. "Not on me."

I told Haley to take her time. I went to the car. Skylar was fine at this point, but I was not. I looked down at my clothes.

My white capris had blue stains. My red shirt had white clabbered milk soaking through. How on this earth I had puke on my back, I'll never know, but it was there.

Haley finally came out to the car.

"It stinks in here." She said as she rolled down the window.

"I don't know why." I replied, turning up the AC full throttle.

"You stink." She said.

"Really?" I asked. "I hadn't noticed."

Not only does the stench still linger in my car, but my son has only half a haircut. It's short in the back, kinda long in the front. Like a reverse mullet. Like Lyle Lovett. Like those stupid boys who have bangs. I'll be damned if you ever see me taking THAT child to the salon again. He can look like a girl for all I care.

Zombie Love

2008-10-28T21:12:00.000-04:00

Dear friends, for those of you who know about my ultimate terror of the walking dead, I have promising news for you: my feelings for zombies have changed.

I have always believed zombies were inhuman, non-thinking, unemotional automatrons who only wanted to eat my brains. There have been countless nights since I was a small child where I laid in bed imagining what undead creature may be lurking outside around the bushes looking for me. There have been numerous early mornings in my adult life (on my way into my wee morning hour radio job) where I just knew without a shadow of a doubt that a zombie would come chasing me down and I wouldn't be able to run away because I had on flip flops.

There have been the years of terrible nightmares where the living dead were trying to eat my flesh and I'd wake up in a panic, ready to run out of the house, jump in the car and flee town. (That actually happened last week. Not fleeing town, just waking up in a panic.)

I have seen countless zombie films since the tender age of 6 (again, for those of you who didn't read "I Like the Evil Things" please do so.) I've seen them evolve from slowly walking, stiff knee'd, grunting creatures into athletic superhuman monsters. I have been scared out of my wits. I have screamed in the movie theaters. I have even cried.

The last zombie flick I saw back in January, "I Am Legend" totally changed everything for me. It was bad enough in the new batch of movies pre-dating "I Am Legend" that the zombies could run like retarded kids in the Special Olympics (and I'm not making fun or anything, I'm just saying those kids run FAST.) It was bad enough that they had the strength of superman and could flip over automobiles.

What really changed life for me with "I am Legend" was the idea that zombies could think, plan, and set traps. Let me just say this: "I don't need the damn zombies thinking!" It scared me to death when I watched that movie. I had to stop the dvd several times just to get myself together in order to continue watching it. But there was something about the ending that I hated. Most zombie movies end horribly anyway, so I shouldn't have been so let down, however, I had this lingering feeling that with the movie "I am Legend" that there had to be more.

Well, there is. +++Spoiler Alert for alternate ending to I AM LEGEND+++

Last night, I watched the alternate ending to I Am Legend and my life is changed as we know it. Not only do the zombies think and set traps, but they do so because they have feelings too. They love. And they, just like us, fight for love. Just because they look different and just because they may not have the vocal capacity to express the emotion with words, they express it in ways that love should be expressed: through actions.

They don't just want to kill to eat brains, they want to be with their own kind and take care of each other, much like humans. They may not have the luxuries that we have such as clean homes and pretty decor, but we should not hold that against them. Just because they prefer the rusty look of abandoned industrial buildings with the finishing touch of pools of blood in the floor or trickling down the staircase does not mean we should compartmentalize them all into a group of savages.

Zombies, I am sorry I have been racist, I mean, Zombist against you most of my life. I just didn't understand.

You're in Urine*

2008-10-28T21:10:00.000-04:00

This morning I dropped my laundry off at my mom's. I'm not ashamed. My mom does my laundry. I no longer have a washer/dryer, so my mom does my laundry for me. I had a washer and dryer four months ago at my previous residence, but alas, we have parted ways. Aside from the dishwasher, those are the only things I miss about that place.

Anyway, after my mom had washed a couple of loads of laundry, she asks me, "Are you wiping up pee with your wash cloths?"

"No." I answered, absolutely disgusted that she would ask that and then I realized why she was asking me such a weird question. "Why? Do they smell like pee?"

"It's terrible, Wendy," she said as she scrunched up her face. "I had to re-wash an entire load." She held up a stack of folded wash cloths and said, "Here. Smell them."

"I don't want to." I said.

"Smell them and see if that's what it smells like." She handed the stack to me. I smelled them.

"Oh my God!" I handed them back to her. "Why would they smell like that?"

"I have no idea." She said as she walked to the garbage can. "I'm throwing them away."

"That doesn't make sense." I said thoughtfully. "How on this earth could that happen?" I was thinking very hard. "Did the rest of my clothes smell like pee? DO I SMELL LIKE PEE?"

"None of the other clothes smelled like that and I haven't smelled pee on you." She said.

"This is very weird." I said.

I still don't know what is the cause of the problem. I'm not peeing on the wash cloths and the baby doesn't go in there without me, so he's not peeing on stuff. I have no idea.

The only thing that is even feasible in this entire debacle of urine marinated wash cloths is this: some type of creature with a full bladder is making it's way into my home and urinating on my wash cloths.

Anyway, for those of you who have been to my home or should visit me, please let me know if my belongings, furniture, home, or self smells like pee. I would really appreciate it.

This is definitely the mystery of the century, but I'm hoping that I resolve the issues immediately. If anyone has any tips or clues in solving this case, please contact me.

*This is the name of a band, but I had to use it for my blog title since it was so fitting.

The Black Widow

2008-10-28T21:07:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, mom told me this little story over the phone:

"I was watching Larry King and they were coming up on a segment about a woman who had been married four different times and they all had died. They called her the Black Widow and I asked Haley if she knew what that meant.

Haley says, "I knnnnoooooowwww" Because you know how she know's everything.

I told her it was because all the husbands had died. The woman probably killed them! Haley then said, "I thought it meant she was part spider."

Then I asked her if she knew what a man was called when his wife dies and you know what she said?"

"No" I said.

"She said 'A homeless man!' I asked her how she came up with that, but I think she thinks that men don't know how to do anything if they don't have a wife."

"I'm so proud of her." I said. "We've raised her right."

Biden reminds me of Hitler

2008-10-22T18:09:00.001-04:00

Joe Biden: "We're going to need your help because we're going to do something that appears to be wrong and you're going to look at the polls a year from now and you're going to say, how is it possible that this team is in the polls, and we're going to need your help to stand up because nobody's going to see this, what we're doing, as the right thing to do. But trust us, it's the right thing to do."

For one, it doesn't make sense anyway. It's like a long run-on sentence. He's not known for his math skills, so I'm sure he has no grammar skills either. However, it seems to me that he's basically covering up the fact that he and Obama are going to do something they shouldn't do and they are asking for help from the people to be supported. With as many "Obama '08" bumper stickers I see on people's cars around town, it seems that many people are already supporting Obama and Biden's massive IQ.

Hitler also told everyone ahead of time what he was going to do, but he was specific. They still supported him and carried out his plans. I'm not saying that Obama is leading us into an ethnic cleansing, but would it suprise you? Look up his values on abortion. How is that any different than killing off masses. Even if the babies are different ethnicities, they can still be put under the group of "babies." An infant cleansing is exactly what the kind of people like Obama, Ayers, and the rest of them want.

We are coming into an age where many babies that are being born now are spirit entities of the light. When the forces of darkness begin to take over this earth as they have been for years, they are going to take all precautions that the light of God will be removed from the earth. These dark forces are working from all angles. Every person has the right to live and every baby born of the light or not, has the right to be present on this earth. We need the positive energy, the healing, and all the help we can get.

What if someone had aborted you?

Lame Cherry isn't so lame

2008-10-22T17:54:00.000-04:00

After a friend recommended the website Lame Cherry, a blog about political issues, I read the newest posts in earnest. What we need to see here is that there are many people out there that feel the same way about where this country is heading if Obama is elected the next president.

We need to be real people, we need to pay attention to what he's really saying. And for those who have been hypnotized by his "great speaker" qualities, we all must pray that you will wake up out of the brain washing and see the truth. He's a great speaker, yes, I agree. But so was Hitler.

Just because someone is a great speaker doesn't mean that what they are saying has any merit, value, or worth.

Obama has been talking about race issues this entire campaign, but the one who is racist is himself. Today Sean Hannity aired audio of Obama, Biden, and McMurther announcing that Pennsylvania is racist and redneck. That's funny. Coming from a very racist and redneck state myself, I never would have thought that Pennsylvania would ever be called that.

I agree with Sean Hannity that no one in Pennsylvania should vote for Obama after being called redneck. I think that all the "redneck" states should just bond together and take sides on who really is racist. I mean, come on! If you have a presidential candidate, SOMEONE BEING CONSIDERED FOR RUNNING OUR COUNTRY, call an ENTIRE state "redneck and racist" then there is something definitely wrong here.

Think about it. Turn off the tv, turn off the radio, the ipod, and your phone. Sit in the silence and critically think about that one issue. How mature is it?

If he would call one of the fifty states redneck and racist, what is he going to say about another country? Will he taunt another country with name calling and slandering and propel the USA into a global war? We would be blown off the map. Is that what you want, people? Think for yourselves. Do you want someone who will turn on their own countrymen? If they'll turn on their own countrymen, they'll turn on anyone. Obama doesn't care the way he should care about the people as a presidential candidate.

Are you EVEN teaching your kids anything?

2008-10-22T16:55:00.001-04:00

Today while I was at work (I teach after school programs at the Richmond Area Arts Council), I was helping some kids with their homework. One seven year old girl asked me to tie her shoes for her. I was shocked. I had no idea this little girl didn't know how to tie her shoes, especially because I knew how to tie mine before I started elementary school. I asked her if she was kidding me and she smiled sweetly and said she didn't know how to tie them. So instead of doing it for her so that I could just quickly get back to my work, I put my foot on her chair and instructed her to put her foot on the same chair opposite mine. I then had her mirror me as I walked through how to tie a shoe. Low and behold after a few times, she had it! Now, she has probably watched her parents do it for her hundreds of times, but it didn't take five minutes to teach her how to do it herself. This is something she should have known already. I'm not saying it's her fault that she didn't know it. Because she can't be blamed for something she doesn't know if no one ever taught her. And if she's being taught to have people do everyday tasks for her, then how is she going to manage through life with the more complicated tasks?
While I was teaching the little girl how to tie her shoes, another girl said, "Miss Wendy, I need help with my homework." I stopped for a minute, looked at her homework and then said, "Sweetie, it is more important that she learns how to tie her shoe, which is a life skill, than it is for you to be doing that word find right now. I'll help you after she has learned to tie her shoes."
This girl who asked for help with homework, which was a word find, has a hard time finding words. Her teacher always gives her word finds for homework. Someone! Please tell me how this is teaching this child ANYTHING! If you want the children to learn how to spell words, make them write them ten times each, just like we used to do when I was a kid. But that's the problem: no one is making these kids learn. That's why the illiteracy problem is so high, the reason why cursive handwriting is becoming extinct in school systems and the reason why America is becoming dumber every year. There are plenty of intelligent people out there, don't get me wrong, but many people are just sailing through in their own little bubble paying no attention to anything and not challenging their critical thinking skills. Many people probably don't even know what that phrase even means. It's sad and I'm disgusted. America needs to wake up and pay attention. Play with your family, teach your children, and quit being so self-obsessed.

Easy ways to meditate

2008-10-22T03:44:00.000-04:00

Anyone can meditate. The simplest way for beginners is to meditate while you're going to sleep. It helps you to slip quickly into restful, deep sleep. I started meditating like this about ten years ago. MORE

Hummingbird Sex Position

2008-10-22T03:19:00.000-04:00

I was checking out Google Trends when the #3 hottest search was for "Hummingbird Sex Position." I could care less how hummingbirds mate, but why was there an all of a sudden increase in people searching this? I clicked on the link and found this site: ActionNooz.com reporting how it happens. Now I know that our society has become very much indulged in sex. On almost every commercial, game show, and even so-called family shows there are references to sex if not blatantly sexual. Marriages are ruined all over America because of fleeting sexual fancies with people other than their spouses. But why on this earth does anyone care about how hummingbirds do it? I mean, really people. Has it gotten so bad that people are so perverse that they want to know and watch how birds do it? Are that many people desperate for action that they want to watch BIRDS mate? Call me old fashioned, but is this borderline beastiality? You can't tell me that THAT many teachers assigned an essay on "Hummingbird Sex Position" 500 words, double spaced, 12 point font, due tomorrow.

How old is too old to wear a mini skirt?

2008-10-22T03:15:00.000-04:00

Mini skirts are ultra chic and stylish and look great with the ballet style shoes that are currently in style. But is there an age limit to mini skirts? Can a woman be too old to wear a mini skirt? MORE

An overview of the chemicals in nail polish

2008-10-22T03:09:00.000-04:00

When you go to the store to buy nail polish, one of the most important factors for what you purchase is the color. Is this the right shade? How will it look on my nails? Does it match my new outfit? But how often do you think about the ingredients that make up the liquid that you're putting on your nails? And how harmful are the chemicals that have been key components in those polishes? MORE

Basic Makeup Tips for Beginners

2008-06-26T23:40:00.000-04:00

It's not a great idea to purchase every type of make-up product if you've never used any before. Begin with one item, practice applying it until you are comfortable using it, then add another cosmetic to your beauty regimen. More...

Unexpected changes during pregnancy

2008-02-29T21:58:00.000-05:00

What's happening to my body?!? When you're pregnant, your body changes fast. The truth is, you're not going to like it. Here is an honest list of what happens to your body when you're pregnant: more

St. Patrick's Day crafts ideas

2008-02-29T21:50:00.000-05:00

There are so many crafts that kids and adults can make on St. Patrick's Day. St. Patrick's Day 2008 is on a Monday. Beat the boring Monday blues by making some fun crafts with your family and friends and celebrate the festive holiday in a nice and wholesome way..More..

Teacher's guide to St. Patrick's Day

2008-02-29T21:48:00.001-05:00

Students love St. Patrick's Day and you can incorporate the festive holiday into any subject. From the history of St. Patrick to bulletin board displays, you'll have a great time getting your students involved and excited about learning. Start planning today and you'll be their favorite teacher ever. More

Helium rating process: Why lists are popular

2008-02-29T21:46:00.000-05:00

I first started writing my articles in the form of lists on Helium. I have since changed my format and noticed that my rankings are going down. I rank articles higher who have well-developed paragraphs and follow Helium guidelines. Still, it seems that the majority of people on Helium are rating up the lists. So why are lists popular, I wonder? More

Bicycle Inventor Joe Breeze

2008-02-28T11:52:00.000-05:00

Joe Breeze is the single most influential person in mountain biking today. More

How to incorporate exercise on your next vacation

2008-02-27T20:56:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel like you need a vacation from your vacation? All that leisurely activity can leave you feeling tired. Incorporating exercise during your next vacation will keep your energy level up throughout and after your next getaway. Make an activity plan and stick to it during your next trip. It is simple to do and will keep you feeling great during your time away. more...

Complete Spring Cleaning Checklist

2008-02-26T22:08:00.000-05:00

This year, take your spring cleaning to a whole new level of efficiency. This complete spring cleaning checklist will help you stay on track, finish the job in a timely fashion and have you back to your regular routine before you know it. More...

Overview: Leap Year 2008

2008-02-14T07:35:00.001-05:00

February 29th only comes every four years. Many exciting events have happened on past leap days. In 1692, in Salem, Massachusetts, the first witchcraft accusations were pointed to Sarah Goode, Sarah Osborne, and Tituba. In 1960, Hugh Hefner opened the first Playboy Club in Chicago, which was later known as the busiest night club in the world. February 29, 2008 should herald an exciting leap day, since there are so many events occurring in our world. more...

Greatest guitar players of all time

2008-02-14T07:26:00.001-05:00

Fingers shred chords across the neck of an electric guitar like destructive flames. The greatest guitarists perform flawlessly before the throngs of music-worshipping fans. Their ingenious creativity and mastermind to innovative playing styles and techniques are qualities that only the novice guitarist could dream to acquire. From early classical music to today's rock and roll, the greatest guitarists have left their mark on music history and its future. more...

Famous celebrity adoptions

2008-02-05T11:00:00.000-05:00

Take a look at this comprehensive list of famous adoptive parents and see who's who in the world of celebrity adoption.

Best convertible car seats under $100

2008-02-05T10:57:00.000-05:00

For the new parent on a budget and looking for a convertible car seat to grow with your child, here is an overview of convertible car seats under $100.

Where to get Valentine's clipart

2008-02-05T10:55:00.000-05:00

These are personally selected websites that yours truly will be using this Valentine's season. After looking through several sites that have a lot of clip art and graphics, but not very good quality, I have taken measures on finding the best ones to use.
Here is a list of websites to browse for great Valentine's Day clip art.

Babysitting Basics for Beginners

2008-02-05T10:54:00.000-05:00

Finding out that you get to spend an evening playing with young children and getting paid for it is very exciting. If this is the first time you’ve ever sit with young children or babies, you need to know a few things about the world of childcare.

What you need to buy for your first baby

2008-02-05T10:51:00.000-05:00

Finding out that you’re pregnant for the first time can be exciting and then you think about everything you have to buy. It is overwhelming. As a mother of two, I have compiled a simple check list for those must need items for your first baby.

How Valentine's Day is celebrated around the world

2008-02-05T10:50:00.000-05:00

On February 14th, the world comes together to celebrate St. Valentine’s Day. Many countries decorate and stock stores with gifts and chocolates. There are many festivities throughout the world on St. Valentine’s Day, but many countries do not celebrate the day. Many people believe the day should be banned. Let’s take a look around the world at how different cultures celebrate St. Valentine’s Day.

Shopping for Baby Shower Gifts

2008-02-05T10:48:00.000-05:00

Are you looking for inexpensive baby shower gifts? Finding a thoughtful gift for the expectant mother isn’t that difficult. From experience, I know what I really appreciated receiving, and as a mother, here’s the list on what mothers need.

How to write a college essay

2008-01-30T11:34:00.000-05:00

Take the mystery out of writing college essays. These tips will land an “A” paper every time.

How to make a good lump free gravy

2008-01-30T11:32:00.000-05:00

This family favorite Appalachian recipe has been passed down through many generations of my family and is a highly requested dinner. The best gravy is lump free and cooked from scratch. Blow breakfast restaurants out of the water with the ultimate recipe for lump free gravy.

Guide to cooking and eating instant ramen noodles

2008-01-30T11:30:00.000-05:00

Instant Ramen noodles cooked like a professional is delicious and loved by the whole family. Instead of eating it like the package suggests, try this original and special variation for a low sodium meal with an Asian flavoring.

Money Making Ideas

2008-01-28T00:13:00.000-05:00

There are many ways to make money. Whether the money earned is used for getting out of debt or just saved for a rainy day, money is always useful. From assessing one’s skills to finding a job, this article is a must read for generating ideas to make money.

Lower the Monthly Grocery Bill This WEEK

2008-01-28T00:12:00.001-05:00

Lowering the monthly grocery bill takes planning and a little time, but is easily accomplished with these steps.

Lower your electric bill NOW

2008-01-28T00:10:00.000-05:00

Lowering the electric bill is easy when following the simple tips in this article. Habits of leaving all the lights on in the house can cause the electric bill to sky rocket. Reduce the electric bill starting now with these tips.

Best Dollar Store Deals

2008-01-28T00:09:00.000-05:00

The best Dollar Store deals are found when shopping for seasonal items or household supplies. There are several Dollar Stores in most cities. Shopping frequently at these, one finds what each store carries the most and what products are available. These are the best Dollar Store deals.

The Secret to Cleaning Bathrooms

2008-01-27T13:27:00.000-05:00

The secret to cleaning bathrooms is having the right products and a little elbow power to get the job done. A sparkling clean bathroom is the first things guests notice when visiting. If the bathroom is has grime buildup and hair on the sink, a guest will be disgusted and not want to come back. There is nothing more relaxing than stepping into a clean and fresh bathroom. Here’s the secret to cleaning bathrooms.

Why Schedules Don't Work

2008-01-26T23:21:00.001-05:00

For a long time, I was planning my days by hourly increments. I thought that making an hourly schedule was great for multitasking. I was wrong.
When you make a schedule, they never work.
Anything can come up to interfere with your plan. When an interference occurs, it's too easy to scrap the whole schedule. Then you get nothing accomplished.
What else can you do?
First, write down everything you MUST do
Second, prioritize the tasks by numbering them. (1 = ASAP, 5 = sometime today)
Third, examine your list. Can you multitask any of these jobs?
If I have laundry on my list (I usually do), I will always start the laundry first. This way, I am multitasking the laundry while doing other stuff.
Fourth, revise and rewrite the list neatly.
Last, get to work. If something comes up to interfere, just handle the issue as quickly as possible. Don't sweat it, it's all a part of life. But don't forget your list!

How to Multitask While Cleaning House

2008-01-26T23:20:00.002-05:00

Start up the machines
Load the washerLoad the dishwasherClean off the kitchen countersNow you can bake or cookThe washer should be finished, so load it into the dryerRestart the washerSpend only 10 to 15 minutes in each room
Time yourself and do as much as you can in each roomThings that don't belong
Should be put by the doorwayTake it where it belongs AFTER your 10 or 15 minutes is upWhy? So that you don't lose momentum in the room you're cleaningMake a routine
to take something with you when you leave a room and put it where it goes.Do this while a commercial is onOn your way to the bathroomThroughout the day

How to multitask in the shower

2008-01-26T23:20:00.001-05:00

If you have thick hair
getting it all wet takes some time
While, you're wetting your hair to shampoo it,wash your body
then shampoo your hairWhile rinsing the shampoo
ShaveWhen the shampoo is rinsed
Condition your hairleave in the conditioner while youuse a foot scrub to exfoliate dead skinthen rinse the conditionerNow you're all done and did so much in 15 minutes! How FAST and EASY!

How to clean baby's nose

2008-01-26T23:19:00.001-05:00

Forget the bulb thing that they gave you in the hospital. It doesn't work that well. Those things always made my baby gag and throw up.
Use a q-tip. Not the safety q-tip that Johnson and Johnson makes because it doesn't go deep enough
Take a regular q-tip and place it between your finger and thumb and swirl it, so the cotton is tight on the stick.
gently put it in the baby's nose to the side
swirl around and pull it out
This has always worked for me. When he lets me clean out his nose. Babies definitely hate having their noses cleaned, but this is the easiest way.
Use the q-tip when he is taking his bottle or playing with something so that he is distracted. Be sure to focus and be careful, because if he jerks it could be painful for him.
Good luck!

Why cook from scratch?

2008-01-26T23:13:00.000-05:00

One recent Sunday morning, I walked into the kitchen to begin cooking breakfast and realized that I had cooked for a week straight. So, I decided we were going out to eat. My family and I decided we would treat ourselves to Cracker Barrel for a nice home style cooked breakfast. My husband and I ordered the same dish, a huge platter of all kinds of greasy goodness. But unfortunately, the overall meal wasn't that great and not as good as we had expected. Whether it was cheap food or bad cooks, the restaurant has went downhill since the last time we were there about six months ago.The same day, my parents went to breakfast at Bob Evans. Mom said that they had a hard time eating their meal, since it was undercooked and just overall bad. My bill at Cracker Barrel was $25.00. Mom's bill at Bob Evans was also $25.00. This is ridiculous. $50.00 for four people to eat crappy meals? For $50, four people can eat a large home cooked breakfast, lunch, and dinner. So with the antics of these restaurants, I am just going to stock my fridge and pantry and stay in my own kitchen and save money for a rainy day.

What makes girls age faster

2008-01-26T23:08:00.000-05:00

There are certain factors that make girls age faster: sunlight, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, stress, and make-up. When avoiding these factors, the aging process is slowed down and true natural beauty is dominant. Here is the list of what makes girls age faster.

Ultimate guide to growing healthy long hair

2008-01-26T23:07:00.001-05:00

Beautiful, healthy, long hair is an asset most women would love to have. It takes time and work to achieve the results, but in the end, it’s well worth the effort. With experience of having long hair and growing it out twice within the last five years, there are some tips one should know in order to achieve the goal. Here is the ultimate guide to growing healthy long hair.

Valentines Day and the seven deadly sins

2008-01-26T22:35:00.000-05:00

Valentine’s Day is usually thought of as a romantic holiday to spend with your significant other and share gifts, but is there more to it? Does this erotic holiday evoke more than feelings of love and warmth? Yes, and that is the seven deadly sins.
The seven deadly sins are lust, gluttony, greed, sloth, wrath, envy, and pride. All of them are a part of the holiday. One person alone may not feel all of these sins on Valentine’s Day, but someone somewhere experiences at least one of them on the celebrated day of love. Here’s the breakdown.

Reasons to Love Winter

2008-01-26T22:33:00.000-05:00

The five top reasons everyone should love winter. Here.

Proper Cleaning of Hairbrushes and Combs

2008-01-26T22:32:00.000-05:00

It doesn’t take long for a new brush or comb to look old. A clean hair brush is imperative for healthy looking hair. Brushes, combs, and picks easily collect hairspray, gel and other hair products. As hair utensils are frequently used, they also retain dead skin cells from the scalp. Here is the best way to clean your brushes, combs, and picks.

Finding trendy clothes for tall women

2008-01-26T22:29:00.000-05:00

Not all women have the gift of being tall. Many people would love to be taller. However, being a tall woman isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be. The main issue is clothing. How to find the trendiest styles for tall women.

Raise happy children in an unhappy world

2008-01-26T22:28:00.000-05:00

There are many unfortunate events occurring in the world today from poverty to abuse and from wars to murder. Children who are subjected to these tragic occurrences can develop depression. How does a parent keep their child happy in a not so happy world? Here is your answer.

Give an original Valentine's Day gift

2008-01-26T22:26:00.000-05:00

There are many store bought gifts one receives on Valentine’s Day, but nothing says love like a homemade gift made by a loved one. There are many easy, simple options for creating a one-of-a-kind present. Plan ahead and keep it simple for a truly rewarding outcome.

Pamper Mom on Mother's Day

2008-01-26T22:22:00.000-05:00

THE guide for husbands everywhere! Every woman expects to be pampered on Mother’s Day. Most men do not know the best way to indulge his wife. This will help every husband give his wife the best Mother’s Day she has ever experienced.

Children love making Valentine's Day Gifts

2008-01-26T21:55:00.000-05:00

Children love making these crafts for Valentine’s Day. With simple supplies found around the house, the can create awesome gifts for very cheap. Under adult supervision, help children make the items on this list for a fun-filled Valentine’s Day.