Articles

Here are the correct words to one of the most famous Christmas songs recorded. People sometimes get the gifts confused. Enjoy!On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to meA partridge in a pear treeOn the second day of Christmas my true love gave to meTwo turtle dovesAnd a partridge in a pear treeOn the third day of Christmas my true love gave to meThree french hensTwo turtle dovesAnd a partridge in a pear treeOn the fourth day of Christmas my true love gave to meFour calling birdsThree french hensTwo turtle dovesAnd a partridge in a pear treeOn the fifth day of Christmas my true love gave to meFive golden ringsFour calling birdsThree french hensTwo turtle doves and a partridge in a pear treeOn the sixth day of Christmas my true love gave to meSix geese a layingFive golden ringsFour calling birdsThree french hensTwo turtle dovesAnd a partridge in a pear treeOn the seventh day of Christmas my true love gave to meSeven swans a swimmingSix geese a layingFive golden ringsFour calling birdsThree french hensTwo turtle dovesAnd a partridge in a pear treeOn the eighth day of Christmas my true love gave to meEight maids a milkingSeven swans […]

If your latest hair appointment went from small talk to serious flirtations, maybe it’s time to ask out your stylist.Here are 15 reasons to date a hairdresser:1.Your date can help you with that bad hair day.2.Your date’s career depends on him/her being stylish and on-trend. You won’t have to worry about sloppiness.3.Hairdressers are great listeners, acting as sounding boards for many of their clients.4.Your date has likely played relationship therapist for many customers and will have an interesting perspective on love and what makes relationships work.5.After a long day at the salon, your significant other will really appreciate putting his/her feet up. How to earn brownie points: offer a little TLC.6.Hairstylists have to make small talk with all sorts of people from all walks of life. Your date won’t have a problem engaging in conversation with your parents, friends or coworkers.7.Hairdressers are dependable and trustworthy. They keep clients’ secrets, stealthily cover up grey hair, and style hair for important events like weddings.8.Because hairdressers work in the customer service industry, they go above and beyond to treat everyone well. Your date will likely tip waiters and cab drivers generously.9.Job security. Hairstyling is considered a recession-proof career. Even during tough times, people […]

(BPT) – Nearly everyone has more than one special person in their life. Whether it’s a neighbor who lets the dog out, the friend who watches the kids in a pinch or a colleague who makes Mondays a little more bearable, loved ones make our days better. A simple thank you or a small thank you gift can go a long way in showing those people just how much you appreciate them.A recent survey revealed that most people do have multiple “loves” in their lives. In fact, significant others aren’t the only ones who get Valentine’s Day gifts these days. This survey, which was commissioned by Rich Products, a leading provider to foodservice, in-store bakery and retail marketplaces, showed that Valentine’s Day now extends way beyond that one special person. Forty four percent of people said that they purchase gifts for multiple people on Valentine’s Day. When asked to identify their “other loves,” friends were at the top of the list; and surprisingly, among their favorite gifts were fresh baked goods ranging from cookies, cupcakes and other sweet treats. –So to sweeten your relationships all year round, small thank you gifts are both welcomed and appreciated. And keep in mind […]

A giggly game of Trivial Pursuit and a tall margarita. After nine years of marriage, that is how my husband and I last expressed our love for one another. It is important to say I Love You with both passion and frequency. And we can say it not only with our words but with our actions, with our facial expressions and body language, even with our thoughts. Lasting intimacy comes from an everyday appreciation and a reverence for the daily moments we spend in the company of one another. Here are 50 simple ways you can demonstrate the depth of your love. (I have used the words he and she interchangeably here. The following ideas are not gender specific.) 1. Write down fifty favorite memories of your life spent together so far. Invite your partner to add to the list, as well as to share special ideas for the future. 2. Leave a message on her voicemail with a silly, romantic poem. (Roses are red, violets are blue . . .) 3. Make a CD featuring the songs that have been important in your relationship. Slip it into the CD player of her car. 4. Bring homemade cookies or brownies to his office with a simple […]

Yesterday was my marriage anniversary and my husband and I were reflecting about the day we got married, and what has kept us together. So, I will like to share with you some of the things that maintain our relationship running.If you noticed I wrote on our relationship because our marriage is not perfect. I do not believe there is such a thing. Yes we do get along, share some of the same ambitions and at the moment we do not have any major marital problems. Disagreements we have them all the time but, hey my brother and I were raised in the same household and it is actually weird whenever we agree on something; Let alone someone who grew up in a totally different environment. Here is a list of the little things that keep us together:Maintaining good humor! My husband like many hates to get up on the mornings however, he likes it when I also get up with a big smile and just talk to him about general stuff over a cup of coffee while he gets ready. It is surprising but, most of our best conversations arise at this time.Patience: Do I need to say more? […]

Being one of the most highly discussed and controversial cancer issues is the topic of lung cancer, and the amount of people afflicted with the disease every year, as more deaths from cancers seems to increase steadily as time goes on. Though this topic may seem as though it has been talked about to death, that is no excuse to dismiss lung cancer, and especially if you are a smoker or have a family history of this particular disease or any record of cancers in your background. With this information, maybe you will find yourself a more properly informed person, and will allow you to handle the topic of cancer better. Lung cancer is the number one cause of death among men and women in the United States, there are two main types of lung cancer, and a smaller percentage are affected with small cell as opposed to non-small cell cancers with both varieties arising from epithelial cells of the lungs. With the symptoms of lung cancer ranging from a cough that wont go away, chest pain and hoarseness, shortness of breath, and recurring infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia. It is extremely difficult to detect lung cancer early, and if lung […]

This letter has been shared with me and I wanted to share it with everyone. This is the reality of what our Soldiers are living with in Iraq. They need us more than ever and we as a nation need to be there for them. I will warn you that some of this letter is graphic!God Bless America! God Bless Our Soldiers!A soldier’s letter from IraqBy Pat MinelliCreated 05/27/2007 – 1:23pmEditor’s note: Jonathan Schulze of Prior Lake, who committed suicide after returning home from serving his country in Iraq, wrote the following letter home in 2004. His mother shared the letter with us. It was written while he was in Iraq. 6/27/2004Dear Friends & Family,Sorry I have not written for over a month now. I lost some very good friends and it has been very difficult for me to deal with. You might have heard on the news on April 6th and 7th that our battalion was involved in fire fights that lasted 4-6 hours each day during the afternoon. We lost 16 of our fellow marines in 2 days. One of them, Staff Sgt. Walker, my drill instructor from boot camp, was hit very close to me. I knew him […]

A lways put God first in your life. B e a true friend and you will have many friends. C ount and thank God for your many blessings daily. D iscipline yourself. Decide to make your life count. E dify and encourage others consistently. F ollow great leaders and then become one. G ive liberally and joyfully of your talents and means. H ave an attitude of gratitude. I nvert any negatives thrown your way. Turn them into positives. J ourney through life one step and one day at a time. K eep written goals set ahead. Make specific plans to accomplish them. L ove and forgive everybody. M aximize your strengths and minimize your weaknesses. N ever, never, never give up! O pen the door wide when opportunity knocks. P ractice patience. Promote peace.. Q uit bad habits by replacing them with good habits. R ead God’s Word and other profitable material every chance you get. S hare the Gospel whenever and wherever possible. T ake time to appreciate everything and everyone God has given to you. U se your God given common sense. V isualize your dreams and stretch to reach for them W atch, listen and pray without ceasing. X amine your motives on a regular basis. Y ield to the Holy Spirit when He prompts you. Z oom in on God’s […]

This is basically the part which is located on the front corner of your vehicle in order to light the road ahead. Mostly, they come in sealed beam construction type which is the kind wherein the filament, reflector and lens are combined altogether into a single airtight unit. It is made in such a way that installation and removal will simply be done because of several prongs that fit into a wiring socketAmong the well known type of halogen headlight is the halogen style because of its excellent illumination ability. You can as well adjust its screws for you to change the direction of the beam. But due to technological advancement, it has transformed ordinary kinds of headlight into something that is able to provide brighter illumination set within legal boundaries. When the moment arrives when you need to replace a headlight on your vehicle, an Aftermarket headlight is an affordable alternative which can give you the same value that your factory installed unit has given you. This is a quality replacement part created in the same strict industry standards as the original so you don’t have to worry about not getting the same reliable service that you once enjoyed. Aftermarket […]

Nearly 8 percent of the American population suffers from one form of diabetes or another. Americans are the worlds biggest consumers and that also goes for their food. Obesity is one major health problem in the United States right now. Obesity has long been a factor involved in the development of diabetes and one way of stopping the increasing number of diabetic patients is through proper diet. Preventing a disease is always better and more economical than going for the cure. Below is a simple guide to eating for diabetic patients. You Are What You Eat Carbohydrates Foods rich in carbohydrates have the greatest effect in blood sugar levels in the body. They maybe classified either as simple or complex carbohydrates. Examples of complex carbohydrates are those found in starches such as corn, pasta, flour or potatoes. Fruits and sugars contain simple carbohydrates. A gram of carbohydrate is equivalent to four calories. Recommended diet for diabetic patients is that their carbohydrate intake should only provide 50 to 60 percent of their calorie intake in a day. Complex carbohydrates found in fruits and vegetables are preferred over starch heavy foods. Studies suggest that replacing simple carbohydrates with complex fiber sources lower […]

For years, drivers have been hearing about changing their motor oil every 3,000 miles, but times have changed, and the ‘3,000-mile mantra’ may or may not apply to you and your car. (ARA) – For years, drivers have been hearing about changing their motor oil every 3,000 miles, but times have changed, and the ‘3,000-mile mantra’ may or may not apply to you and your car. The 3,000 mile oil change is a conservative approach to maintaining your vehicle that, according to General Motors, dates back to 1968. It’s also an oil change interval that continues to be encouraged by the automotive oil change industry. Automobile manufacturers cite modern oil and engine technology as the reason why oil change intervals can be extended. Numerous factors come in to play in determining the oil change interval you should follow including: The car you drive and the way you drive it, oil and filter selection and whether your vehicle has an oil life monitoring system. Every automobile manufacturer establishes recommended oil change intervals for each model they manufacture. Oil change intervals are now between 5,000 and 7,500 miles for many new cars. You should follow your car manufacturer’s recommendations on oil change intervals while the car is […]

Are you grieving over the loss of a loved one? Whether you are around friends, family, acquaintances, or strangers, understand that grieving is a natural and normal part of life. If you are grieving and are having trouble being with others, here are a few ways to better deal with your loss.  1. Grieving is a natural part of life – we grieve when we lose something we love.  -For some reason, in the West, we deal with grieving, death and dying, as unspeakable subjects. It is as though we think if we don’t talk about them, they will go away.  -But they don’t go away because they are inherent in life; the cycle of birth and death rages on.  -Every death – the death of a loved one, the losing of a job, the ending of a relationship, even though it might have been dysfunctional, – summons up every other death. Judith Rossner says in her book August, “After the first death, there is no other.”  2. There is no “normal” time frame to stop grieving – the grieving stops when you are done mourning.  -If you surrender to the natural process of grieving, you will move through grieving […]

(ARA) – With national home prices still 30 percent below 2006 levels, homeowners are looking for affordable ways to boost the value of their homes without breaking the bank. Repairing or replacing the roof is one of the most noticeable improvement projects homeowners can take on. And although the effect of a new roof is stunning, the price tag doesn’t have to be. Going back to the basics when it comes to getting a new roof can employ the “genius of ‘and,’” according to TAMKO Building Products President and Chief Executive Officer David Humphreys. “It’s a way of describing how you can successfully achieve two or more goals that might not seem compatible,” Humphreys says. “For example: you can add value to your home and save money doing it.” This is possible in roofing through the reliability, durability and affordability of the traditional asphalt shingle. Reliability And when it comes to roofing, the standard asphalt shingle could be the fastest path to a new roof, while still maintaining reliability, durability and affordability. Asphalt shingles have more than 150 years of proven severe weather durability as a roof covering. But as a waterproofing agent, asphalt’s history goes back much farther. Kent Blanchard, vice president of roofing manufacturing for TAMKO […]

The H1N1 virus has attacked the world with unprecedented vengeance during and after April, 2009.The trail of disease started off in Mexico and then spread in many countries around the world. The H1N1 virus is more virulent than the H5N1 (avian flu) virus that had spread a couple of years ago. The issue with H1N1 is that it has started spreading from humans to other humans which lends much more teeth to its viciousness. There are many countries, like India and other nations that have started detailed and methodical screening of all passengers coming in from swine flu infected countries to arrest its spread and prevent local populations from becoming infected. In developing countries, where healthcare facilities are limited, the consequences of any spread of this virus could indeed be disastrous, putting at risk the huge number of poor and illiterate people who do not have access to vaccines or medicines. Vaccines have traditionally used killed viruses to act on the viruses and counter the same. This is similar to the process developed by Jonas Salk way back in 1955 in dealing with the polio virus. It may be noted that even the world does produce influenza vaccines, more than 500,000 […]

(ARA) – The baby boomer generation makes up an estimated 76 million people – roughly one-fourth of the U.S. population. This means that either you or someone you love is part of this aging group. According to Eye on the Boomer, a recent survey by the Ocular Nutrition Society, almost as many baby boomers say they worry about losing their vision as those that say they worry about having heart disease or cancer. What’s more, 78 percent of those surveyed ranked vision as the most important of the five senses. Yet, more than half of the survey respondents ages 45-65 said they don’t typically have a recommended annual eye exam, and even fewer are aware of important nutrients that can play a key role in eye health. Experts recommend that disease prevention, including lifestyle modification, attention to dietary intake and vitamin supplementation must become a greater focus of primary vision care. Studies indicate that proper nutrition promotes healthy eyes, however many American diets are found to be deficient of the critical nutrients that help protect eye health. “If people are at risk for heart disease they typically make lifestyle modifications,” says Dr. Jeffrey Anshel, president of the Ocular Nutrition Society. “This survey […]

(ARA) – Ready to give your bathroom a facelift, but can’t decide what changes to make? From tubs to toilets to tile, the sky is the limit when it comes to bathroom renovations, even if budget is not. Whether you are planning some small do-it-yourself changes, or a major overhaul, here are some fresh ideas for bathroom remodeling that will help you build the smart, stylish, and functional bathroom of your dreams. Start living large Feeling crowded in a small bathroom? For a small-budget fix-up, replace your old space-wasting vanity with a smart open-design style that maximizes storage, while visually opening up the room. If your project is major and you are opening the walls, replace your floor-mounted toilet in favor of a wall-mounted toilet, such as Porcher Solutions Dual Flush toilet, which stows the water tank behind the wall. The Porcher Solutions toilet is water-wise, as well as space-savvy, and the EverClean surface inhibits the growth of stain and odor causing bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface. Focus on your faucet If you have a small budget, making a simple change like updating a bathroom faucet and accessories can still have a dramatic impact on the style of the room. Faucets with the […]

Below is a list of area hospitals and clinics.Cancer Center of Southeast TexasDr. Joseph KongDr. Danny ChowDr. Ernest Hymel8333 9th AvenuePort Arthur, Texas 77642(409) 729-8088www/setexonc.comMemorial Herman Baptist Hospital3080 College StreetBeaumont, Texas 77701(409) 835-3781www.mhbh.orgCHRISTUS Hospital-St. Elizabeth2830 Calder St., Beaumont, TX 77702-1809Phone: 409.892.7171 Fax: 409.924.3959www.christushospital.orgCHRISTUS Hospital-St. MaryP.O. Box 36963600 Gates Boulevard, Port Arthur, TX 77642 Phone: 409.985.7431Fax: 409.989.1033www.christushospital.orgCHRISTUS Hospital-Jasper Memorial Hospital1275 Marvin Hancock Dr., Jasper, TX 75951-4985Phone: 409.384.5461Fax: 409.383.0622www.christushospital.orgSoutheast Texas Gastroenterology Associates 950 North 14th StreetBeaumont, Texas(409) 833-5555 www.setga.comBeaumont Bone & Joint Inst3650 Laurel StBeaumont, TX (409) 924-4900Biotronics Kidney Ctr-Beaumont2755 Liberty StBeaumont, TX (409) 839-8204Dubuis Hospital-Beaumont2830 Calder St # 4Beaumont, TX (409) 899-8154 Endoscopy Center Se Texas950 N 14th St # 200Beaumont, TX Minor Care Ctr 3939 Dowlen Rd # 19Beaumont, TX (409) 892-7171 / 833-5555 

Key Points:•As a single person, it’s normal to have fears and concerns about dating, new relationships, and sexual intimacy; however, these concerns should not keep you from dating if you choose to do so.•Although it can feel awkward and difficult at times, talking with a dating partner about your concerns can help relieve difficult feelings, such as anxiety.The physical and emotional changes experienced during and after cancer treatment can change dating and sexual relationships for single adults. Starting new relationships can be stressful for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for single adults with cancer or a history of cancer. Many single cancer survivors avoid dating because they fear being rejected. The possibility of rejection is real, but it’s important to not a let a fear of rejection stop you from dating altogether. Here are some tips on talking to a date about cancer, starting new relationships, and talking about sexual intimacy.Talking to a date about cancerDeciding when to tell a new date about your cancer experience can be especially challenging. Some cancer survivors may feel that:•Talking about their diagnosis and treatment is too personal to share with someone new•Their experience may scare away a potential partner•Not telling a […]

First, let me state at the outset that I am not necessarily writing here about the best mathematically ordained Video Poker machines, but am writing instead about the best kinds of machines to play in a regular casino, for short slices of overall probabilities, under actual playing conditions of in-casino play, and under the often-inevitable situations of less-than-always-perfect play.Deuces Wild Video PokerThis is a Video Poker game which employs the use of the “2” value card – called a “deuce” – as a “wild” card. Being “wild” means that the deuce cards substitute for all other symbols, thereby allowing you to get many more winning combinations than or regular Video Poker. But beware! Although you will get many more pays, you will also not get nearly as much for them as you would on a Video Poker machine which does not use the deuce cards as “wild”.However, this game is by far among the best Video Poker games you can ever play. There are several reasons for this. First, the fact that you do get many more pays means that you will be able to play longer for less. And, depending on your skill level and choice of machine program, […]

If you’re a fan of little bits of trivia, or a fan of bingo, or both, you might be interested in learning a little bit about the origins of bingo and its evolution into the games we know today. This article takes a look at important events in bingo history, purely for your entertainment.The origins of bingo. Bingo can be traced to Italy, where it began in the 16th century. The date given for the first ever bingo game is sometime in the 1530s, played in a weekly Italian tournament called “Lo Giuocu del Lotto del D’Italia”. This game is still played every Saturday in Italy. The first bingo game was the 90 ball variety instead of the 75 ball variety we play in North America.The game was eventually picked up by the French, who perhaps believed that the name gave a little too much glamour to the actual game because they shortened it to “Le Lotto”. It was widely played among wealthy Frenchman from 1779 onward.The Germans take Le Lotto to a whole new level. The educational potential of bingo was first realized by teachers in Germany, who began using the game to teach children basic concepts in math, […]

(ARA) – Women may be known as the more talkative sex, but when it comes to certain sensitive health topics their lips are sealed – even with their closest friends. Nearly 40 percent of women with symptoms of bladder weakness have never discussed the problem with anyone, according to a recent survey.  In fact, nearly half of women who actually experience symptoms of bladder weakness – leakage or loss of urine – do not even acknowledge having the condition, and more women would be more willing to discuss sensitive issues such as mental health and infertility than bladder weakness, according to Bladder Talk, a North American survey sponsored by TENA – a leading brand of bladder protection products.  Dr. Lauri Romanzi, a board certified gynecologist with more than 20 years of experience in women’s health, offered additional insight into the survey results. “Women often try to cope with private or embarrassing issues such as bladder weakness on their own. This hesitancy to discuss the condition makes it seem rarer than it actually is – but in fact, one in four women older than 40 suffers from bladder weakness. The good news is there are exercises and products that can help […]

Learning more about lung health can be like a breath of fresh air. So sit back, inhale deeply and take our quiz. (See answers at bottom.)1. Which two foods contain vitamins that may improve lung health and could be used to treat the symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?a) beans and riceb) carrots and liverc) oranges and salmon2. Carrying too much fat on this part of the body could affect your breathing:a) thighsb) upper armsc) waist3. Around what age are your lungs typically at their best?a) 15b) 20c) 304. You’ll find it easier to breathe if you can control your:a) temperb) financesc) time spent on the phone5. Dust mite allergies cause sneezing and watery eyes, and in severe cases can lead to asthma. The best way to wash dust mites out of fabrics and clothing is to use:a) more laundry soapb) hotter waterc) fabric softener6. Most people know that smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer. What’s No. 2?a) air pollutionb) radonc) sunspotsANSWERS1. Answer: C. Studies suggest that eating one serving per week of vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges can help lower risk of lung disease. Research also suggests that people with higher levels of vitamin D […]

There are three possible scenarios involved in that question: 1. Stay where you are and renovate 2. Move to an existing house and renovate 3. Build a new house for you to move into There are numerous considerations, not the least of which is how you feel about your existing location. That word – LOCATION – should be your primary focus. Do you prefer to remain where you are, or not? Is staying where you are an option, or are you forced to relocate due to a job change, or other issues? If you wish to stay where you are, there’s no reason to read this article. Remodeling and/or expanding the place where you now live is the least expensive alternative – by far. Your aggravation levels will increase during the construction, but they will do that with either of the other choices as well. If it gets to be too much, you can move to a motel for 2 months, eat dinner out every night, and still come out cheaper than either option 2 or option 3. If you want to be in your present home, case closed. So let’s assume you have to move, and we’ll concentrate on option 2 vs. option 3. There are […]

Camping is an exciting event and one of the best ways to spend time outdoors. Read more on benefits of camping. There is a lot of beforehand preparation required when you go for camping. The very first thing that you need to do is, to make a list of things that you have to take with you to the trek or the camp. With the camping supply list, it will be easier for you to make further preparations and will reduce the hassles related to camping. Without a camping supplies list, it is quiet stressful and confusing when it comes to the things that are to be taken with you. Camping checklist will make a perfect camping holiday possible for you. Here is a list that is sorted according to the type of camping that you are opting for vacation, backpacking or RV camping.Camping Supply List – RV campingRV camping in this section is refers to all sizes of recreational vehicle. There are a few things that are needed to be checked a few days before the departure. These things include checking the weather of the place where you are about to go for RV camping. There must be an […]

Let me start off by saying, that this is not an article about how to stop smoking. In a way, it is quite the opposite. Whether it is a pipe, cigar, or cigarettes, some of us have found that we are smokers. Maybe you have attempted to quit, and maybe you haven’t cared enough to try. Either way, the truth remains, “I am a smoker.” If this sounds familiar, then you I write this for you.It came to me one afternoon, when I was trying to fight off a sore throat, and I held my pipe in my left hand, and searched for my lighter with my right… I shouldn’t be doing this. I have had this sore throat for a week, and I can’t stop smoking. Well, the truth was the truth, and I really didn’t have intentions of stopping… Slowing down, yes; stopping, no. Though this moment was quick, it was important, as it was then that I accepted my fait. And more importantly, was now able to balance the scales. Smoking makes you look old, smoking causes cancer, smoking smells, smoking makes your teeth yellow, and a million other STOP SMOKING ads rushed through my head… I accepted them all… Ok, […]

The best way to preserve the life of your carpet is by proper routine cleaning. Dirt in your carpet becomes rough like sandpaper. By stepping on the carpet, we grind dirt deeper into the carpet fibers, making tiny cuts that cause the carpet to wear out quicker. The following guide will give tips on preserving the life of new carpet longer. Vacuum the Carpet Regularly The most fundamental part of carpet care is vacuuming your carpet on a thorough and regular routine schedule. In fact, studies have shown that it actually take a full seven repetitions of vacuuming to eliminate all of the loose dirt from the carpet. The best vacuum to use when accomplishing this would be a less-heavy, upright vacuum cleaner. To fully clean the carpet, your vacuum cleaner should have strong suction and be equipped with a vibrating device to loosen dirt. Immediately Eliminate Any Carpet Stains Next to thoroughly vacuuming the carpet is cleaning any stains as soon as they are seen. The faster the stain is taken care of, the easier it is to get rid of. The longer the stain is ignored, the harder a time you will have to remove it. Using the correct cleaning materials is […]

(ARA) – Each year about 70 percent of Americans make a New Year’s resolution and most soon forget they ever made one. Time for a change? Why not resolve to give your old house a new look in the New Year? Start the new decade with a new attitude about your home’s makeover. * Here’s one you can stick to. Many home improvement projects can pay dividends and save energy. For example, in 2010, U.S. tax credits abound for energy-efficient upgrades like windows, doors, insulation, water heaters, roofing and certain appliances. * Paint a room to renew it. Apply new interior paint to brighten up your home and brush away the winter blues. Hot colors for 2010 include bright or warm yellows, lavender for bedrooms and slate or charcoal grays to replace tan and beige tones as popular neutrals. * Home built decades ago? American homes built before 1978 may include paint containing lead. Lead poisoning can pose a health threat, especially to young children. Contact your local health department for advice on lead paint removal or visit www.epa.gov/oppt/lead/pubs/leadinfo.htm. * Front and center. While you’re painting, remember the front door. A fresh coat of paint or polyurethane on a fiberglass or wood entry door […]

This checklist will help the groom in planning the most important day of his life. Feel free to print it out and give copies to those helping to plan your wedding (especially the Best Man). 6 Months Discuss wedding expenses and budget with fiancee and all parents. Who is paying for what? Start making out your guest list. Select your best man. Decide how many ushers you need (1 for every 50 guests), and select them. Check marriage license requirements for your State Arrange visit with minister/wedding officiant to discuss ceremony. Discuss honeymoon plans. If traveling abroad, make legal arrangements (passport, visas, inoculations etc). Visit wedding gift registry with fiancee. Why register? Ask questions about money matters before you are married 3 Months Complete guest list, give it to fiancee. Consult with fianceé and order wedding attire for self, best man, ushers and fathers. Arrange transportation (limousines, etc.) for wedding party to ceremony and reception. Complete honeymoon plans: buy tickets, arrange hotel, etc. Order wedding rings and engraving. Arrange to pay for bride’s bouquet Order boutonnieres for men, and corsages for mothers Check marriage license requirements for your State to see if you need an exam and blood test. 6-8 Weeks Plan rehearsal dinner with your parents. Consult with fianceé and arrange lodging for relatives and ushers from out of town. Select gifts for […]

Corvette history brings together two legends of automotive engineering and design. What began as a concept car became an American icon of speed with a devoted following.Concept Car RootsHarley J. Earl was GM’s chief designer in 1951. In the fall of that year, Earl began thinking about a sports car that would sell for around $2,000. He took his idea to Robert F. McLean, and a concept car was born. The concept car used the ’52 Chevy sedan’s chassis parts, but the drivetrain and cab were shoved toward the back of the car, so that it had a longer hood. The concept car had an inline six-cylinder engine, but the horsepower on the engine was jacked by increasing the compression ratio. The original transmission was a Powerglide automatic transmission, as GM was not sure that the manual transmission could handle the power output. The body was made from fiberglass in order to keep the costs down.GM planned to display their concept car as part of their Motorama exhibit in the 1953 New York Auto Show. Ed Cole, the chief engineer at Chevrolet, was so enthusiastic about the car, he began production on it before it appeared at the Auto Show. […]

(ARA) – Allie Schellhammer admits that she is changed for the better. When Schellhammer was pregnant, there was no doubt in her mind that she would use disposable diapers for her baby, Catherine, who is now 16 months old. Cloth diapers were a distant thought in this mom-to-be’s mind. “I grew up hearing stories about cloth diapers. We all thought they were pretty icky,” says Schellhammer. “I even talked about my diapering options with my doula, but I was set about using disposables.” For the first few months of Catherine’s life, Schellhammer used disposable diapers. But shortly thereafter, her perspective changed when her daughter began getting frequent and painful diaper rashes. Schellhammer says she felt so helpless and that’s when she knew it was time to re-investigate cloth diapers. “I spent a lot of time researching and talking to cloth diapering pros. I fell in love with the idea that cloth could not only help lessen the severity of my daughter’s diaper rash, but also that I could save money and save the planet from one more unnecessary disposable. It became clear that I needed to reform my diapering ways,” admits Schellhammer. Today, Schellhammer says that she has been a loyal cloth diaper user for […]

Now is the perfect time to look around your home and take stock of areas in need of repair or an inexpensive spruce up with the holiday season behind us and warmer weather still months away.“A simple change of paint color can rejuvenate a tired kitchen, warm a family or living room or help to create a restful bedroom. But, before opening that first can of paint, correct surface issues and make sure your walls are clean and sound. Good surface preparation coupled with top quality paint, brushes and rollers will help to insure a long-lasting and beautiful finish,” Debbie Zimmer, color and decorating expert with the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute explains.1. Foaming or Cratering—This occurs during the formation of bubbles and results in small, round concave depressions when those bubbles break during paint application and drying.Possible causes include shaking a partially filled can of paint, use of low quality paint or very old latex paint, applying paint too quickly or excessive rolling and brushing, using a low quality roller cover or wrong nap length or applying a gloss or semigloss paint over a porous surface.SolutionAll paints will foam to some extent during application: however, higher quality paints […]

(ARA) – A diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) often results in a patient feeling helpless and depressed about not being able to maintain a normal, active lifestyle. However, with a chronic lung disease like COPD, it’s particularly important, and tremendously beneficial, for patients to exercise and stay active. It is a misconception that people with COPD are unable to stay active post diagnosis. On the contrary, exercise can help patients feel less short of breath, strengthen muscles (including the heart) and can improve a patient’s mood, according to the National Jewish Medical and Research Center. COPD patients should always consult with their doctor to collaborate on developing an appropriate exercise program prior to beginning one. Done properly under a doctor’s supervision, exercise can increase energy levels, muscle strength, cardiopulmonary endurance and help with shortness of breath. Not to mention the additional benefits of losing weight and lowering blood pressure and blood sugar levels. If you have COPD and are overweight, the extra weight can make it even more difficult for you to breathe. Losing the weight by participating in a doctor-supervised exercise program will help to reduce the strain on your heart and lungs. Common activities include stretching, strength exercises such […]

Creative first dating is the art of making that second first impression. The first was your appearance, personality or perhaps humor that got you this far. Let’s see whether these 30 creative first date ideas can take you further to that date #2. Whatever you do, the goal is to make that first date memorable. Opportunities for first date distractions are many. The focus then should be away from any potential discomfort or moments of silence. And going on a first date that spills over to a group date is good, too. If you have the urge to ask them suggestions for your first date together, try not to. It reads that you are too lazy to think of something creative yourself. Tap into your city’s online tourist sites, city guides and newspaper entertainment section and also local television programs on things to do in your city. They can give you the heads up for concerts, comedy shows, poetry readings, lectures, galleries and other things happening. Men, know this: Unless a woman already knows you, going to places that are not so public might be uncomfortable for her on your first date. So plan wisely. 1. Travel for that drink. Go for a drive […]

Dancing is an essential component at most wedding receptions. We look forward to the couple’s “first dance” and the bride’s special dance with her father. It’s also a place to get loose and funky, if you’re a guest or a member of the wedding party.But what if the wedding planners decided to add some fun and surprise to the dance floor by adding fun activities there? This doesn’t mean a rousing version of the “Bunny Hop”, which, while maybe essential, is hardly unique. There are, however, many fun games and activities you can add to your dance floor activities that are sure to be a hit.Try a fun game of the “chicken dance”. Ok, so that doesn’t sound too original. But if most of your guests are just sitting at their tables, watching a few brave couples dancing, or just finishing their meals, you might want to get everyone up and having fun. Try this game.The DJ announces a number. Everyone looks under his or her chair, where there is a number. Depending on the number of guests at the wedding, there might be only numbers “1” and “2” or more, up to 5. So, say the DJ announces number “4”. Each […]

Dating a widow or widower is not necessarily just for people older than 60. Women in their 30s and 40s become widows every day due to accidents, or illness, etc. Since finding widows out in the dating world is really not all that uncommon, I thought I would put together a list of guidelines and things to think about if you are just starting to date a widow, or are simply contemplating whether to date a widow. There are definitely a number of issues to consider. Oh – and the flip side of all of this equally applies to women who may wish to date a widower.1) Where is she in the grieving process? Has she had the necessary time to properly grieve? Grieving must take place in order for her to move forward with her life … which includes new relationships. Some people grieve more quickly than others … which means for some, it might be a matter of months. Yet for others, it could take years. Give her the time she needs to heal, and don’t force a new relationship on her. If your relationship with her is right for her, then she’ll gravitate toward you naturally.2) Be […]

If you’re reentering the dating world as a senior — whether newly widowed, divorced, or just ready to finally settle down — there are a few things to consider when pursuing senior women.Dating Senior Women Consideration #1: She’s nervousFor the senior woman who’s rejoining the dating scene after years of enjoying the single life or the stability of a relationship, meeting new gentlemen can be intimidating. Self-doubt and nerves are a more significant factor than they were in her youth. Anticipate this by putting her at ease as much as possible.Choose a dating location that will make her feel safe. Arrange to meet her in a public space not far from where she lives. If the two of you met online, reassured safety is crucial. She may feel “too old for this.” Compliment her when appropriate, keep the tone of conversation light, and laugh. Acknowledge your own trepidations and embrace the dating adventure together.Dating Senior Women Consideration #2: She’s independentMany single senior women are looking for companions, not caregivers. They’re more than capable of taking care of themselves and making major life decisions solo. They lead rich lives filled with hobbies, their families and community involvement. Ask her about her […]

The dating world can be difficult to re-enter after losing a spouse. If you’re a widow(er), or you’re dating someone who has grieved the loss of a life partner, eHarmony users have some advice and wisdom to share on the subject of dating after loss.Dating AgainWe asked eHarmony folks to chime in on when they’ve found that widow(er)s are typically ready to date again. The responses were unanimous: it varies. There is no magic formula.See the advice from our own community!Each person and situation is unique. Some are ready to date again shortly after their partner dies. Others need more time. What’s perhaps most important is that the widow(er) is comfortable with the timeline and isn’t reentering the dating world because of the outside pressure to “get back out there.”Not Ready?Patience is key. For a widow(er) to be ready to enter a new relationship, he/she has to feel comfortable looking past their grief and focusing on loving a new individual. If the photos can’t come down, or the reminiscing is constant and weepy, more time is needed.Most widow(er)s have a support system of friends and family. Therapy groups offer additional networks of emotional care. You shouldn’t have to be responsible […]

In today’s society it is rare to find a faithful man. Many women remain single because they have been hurt by fidelity issues in the past. This often causes women to deal with their trust issues in a different relationship. It is important to remember that each individual is capable of cheating, because we are human, but that does not mean that all men, or people are unfaithful. Specific behaviors are displayed by men who cheat on their lovers.A change in the pattern of communication can be an indicator of cheating. If a man speaks less about the events of his day than he has in the past, you may want to begin asking specific questions. A woman should be able to ask her husband about his agenda for the day, and then be able to contact him where he said he would be.The issue of infidelity not only tears relationships and families apart; this causes issues for the individual who was betrayed, in future relationships. Worse yet, unfaithfulness can affect the health of all persons involved. In stable relationships, some couples choose not to use protection, this habit can be disastrous if one decides to wander; due to the rising […]

Did this really happen?,. Why me? And What did I do to deserve this? Are just some of the questions which you might be asking yourself after you determined that your spouse has cheated on you. Then comes the time when you mentally hit yourself in the head for ignoring the signs, which should have been your clue that there is something dishonest with the relationship in the first place.After you discover that your spouse has cheated on you, it is the after-effect that is more complex to deal with.How People come to grips with CheatingIf you are the injured person who discovered that your spouse has been cheating on you, the first thing that you must realize is that individuals deal with this particular dilemma differently. Your reaction and the questions to come filling your head will depend on how the relationship went in the first place, as well as the situations surrounding the infidelity.There are individuals who will originally feel anger towards their spouse who cheated on them. For others, devastation and then feeling as if the world came crumbling down on them is the original response. Then, there are individuals who feel remorse or guilt, saying that […]

(ARA) – Tune in to your average home improvement show and you may get the idea that anyone can do demolition. Think again. Virtually every home remodeling project begins with demolition. Homeowners who do their own demo can save big bucks, especially on projects where professionals will finish the construction part of the job. But poorly executed demolition can damage parts of your home that you’d rather preserve – and end up costing you more than the remodeling project itself “There’s more to demolition than picking up a sledgehammer and swinging at the wall,” says Joe Skach, a demolition specialist and inventor of a pry bar system commonly used by contractors for demolition. “You need to know what to remove and how to remove it properly in order to keep the structures that you’ll need in place to complete your renovation.” Before you tear up a floor, open a wall or demolish a countertop, keep these basic do-it-yourself demolition tips in mind: * When removing siding from a home exterior, be aware of all lines coming into the house through the siding. Take care in these areas so that you don’t damage the home’s power source or leave yourself without cable or phone service. […]

(ARA) – Diabetes is becoming more and more prevalent in Hispanic populations in the United States, according to 2008 statistics from the National Institutes of Health. This trend has serious health implications because of the increased prevalence, the greater number of risk factors and the greater incidence of complications. In general, Hispanics are diagnosed with diabetes at twice the rate of Caucasian Americans, and about 7 percent have undiagnosed diabetes. More than 10 percent of Hispanics in the United States older than 20 have been diagnosed with diabetes, according to the NIH. Among Hispanics, diabetes prevalence rates are 8.2 percent for Cubans, 11.9 percent for Mexican Americans and 12.6 percent for Puerto Ricans. One of the most common questions people with diabetes ask is “Can we eat sugar?” The answer is “yes”, but in moderation. The recommended diet for people with diabetes has changed in the past decade. Diabetics now learn about and can enjoy less restrictive diets. Diabetes experts say that diabetics can include sugar as part of the carbohydrates allotted in their overall diets. However, diabetic diets still need to be personalized. Patients with diabetes need to consider their medication, age, height, weight, blood sugar levels, physical activity and carbohydrate intake recommendations […]

Other than tracing one’s own family history to find out whether any relations have diabetes, how can a person know whether he or she has diabetes without first having a medical check-up? This is the type of question people usually asked when they suspected that they might have diabetes. Like all diseases, diabetes does have its symptoms. In this article, I shall highlight the more common ones and relate my own experience to it. Like in all diseases, diabetes symptoms may resemble other diseases. So before I proceed to discuss about the symptoms, I would advise that if you or any of your family members even suspected that you might have diabetes, go for a medical check-up. Early detection will help a person to manage the disease better and to prevent it from becoming serious. One common symptom is frequent urination. Do not be confused if you tend to urinate more when you drink lots of water. For me, I did not realize that my frequent urination was due to diabetes. This was because I habitually drink about 3 to 4 liters of plain water in one day. So my frequent urination did not bother me as I thought it was due […]

(ARA) – A common complication of diabetes is the development of nerve damage, also known as diabetic nerve pain. This damage affects the nerves that allow patients to feel sensations such as numbness and debilitating pain – also called neuropathy.  More than 20 million people have diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. By the end of the decade, this number is expected to rise dramatically. When high blood sugar levels damage nerves, diabetic neuropathy can occur and eventually 40 to 60 percent of diabetics will develop diabetic nerve pain.  Mostly it affects the hands and feet, with mild to severe numbness, and sharp pain like pins and needles. Limbs feel alternately burning hot and icy cold, accompanied by pain and muscle fatigue.  Treating diabetes may halt progression and improve symptoms of the nerve pain, but recovery is slow. The painful sensations of diabetic nerve pain may become so severe it can lead to depression in some patients.  This chronic painful condition is often puzzling and frustrating for patients and physicians, as it is difficult to diagnose and seems to respond poorly to standard pain therapies. Countless people with diabetes have suffered from nerve pain for years.  Diabetic neuropathy sufferer […]

(ARA) – As cold weather sets in, thousands of retirees are making plans for a winter getaway. If you’re one of them, switch to direct deposit for your Social Security payments before you leave – it’s the safest, easiest way to receive your money.  “Each year, the U.S. Department of the Treasury receives more than 1.4 million inquiries regarding paper check-related problems,” says David A. Lebryk, commissioner of the Treasury Department’s Financial Management Service.  Yet, approximately 10.5 million Americans continue to receive their Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments by paper check each month. The Treasury Department’s Go Direct (R) campaign encourages senior citizens and people with disabilities to switch to direct deposit.  Increased safety, convenience and reliability  When there’s a problem with a Social Security payment, nine times out of 10 it’s with a paper check, not a direct deposit payment, says Lebryk.  Paper checks can be vulnerable to financial crimes like theft and fraud. In fact, the Treasury Department investigates more than 70,000 cases of altered or fraudulently endorsed checks each year, totaling $64 million in estimated value.  “In 2008 alone, more than 485,000 Social Security and SSI checks were reported lost or stolen and had […]

Some of us have never seen a $100,000 bill, and have no clue as to who or what is on it. Here’s a list of what you’ll find on the front and back of our paper currency. Note that the government no longer issues bills higher than $100. Bill Front Back$1 George Washington Seal of the United States$2 Thomas Jefferson Signing of the Declaration of Independence$5 Abraham Lincoln Lincoln Memorial$10 Alexander Hamilton U.S. Treasury$20 Andrew Jackson White House$50 Ulysses S. Grant Capitol Building$100 Benjamin Franklin Independence Hall$500 William McKinley Special Design$1,000 Grover Cleveland Special Design$5,000 James Madison Special Design$10,000 Salmon Portland Chase Special Design$100,000 Woodrow Wilson Special Design

(BPT) – To itemize or not to itemize, deductions, exemptions, interest income and capital gains – you have a lot to think about when you’re doing your taxes. While you’re preparing your return, don’t overlook a consideration that’s every bit as important as whether you owe or are due a refund – tax-related identity theft.Between 2011 and the end of 2013, the IRS says the agency caught and stopped 14.6 million suspicious returns, and doubled indictments and sentencings in fiscal year 2013. Criminals acquire taxpayers’ Social Security numbers and personal information through a variety of means – including data breaches, lost or stolen wallets or old-fashioned dumpster diving – and use it to file fraudulent returns in the hopes of getting a refund.“Tax identity theft is particularly insidious because it targets Americans during a vulnerable, hectic time,” says Trey Loughran, president of the personal solutions unit at Equifax. “The sheer volume of tax identity theft cases reported by the IRS is astounding. Consumers need to be aware of this growing problem and what steps they can take to help protect themselves.”Fortunately, certain steps can help Americans minimize tax identity theft risks:* Don’t wait to file. Filing early makes it less […]

It has been a long hard winter and one of the most anticipated events in the spring is wetting a line on open water. While ice fishing is fun and productive, there is nothing like being out in the boat after taking a few months off. What really adds to the open water fishing experience is the thrill of catching slab crappies.There are many fishermen who wait in the spring for the crappies to move in to spawn. Don’t get me wrong; if you find crappies on their spawning beds, the fishing can be fantastic! But why wait to the spawn when you can have your cake and eat it too. Crappie fishing right after ice out can be equally rewarding.The water temperature right after ice out will be very frigid. After a few bright warm sunny days the lakes ecosystem will start to come alive. Many crappies in the early spring will be found deep. These deep water spots typically will be the last spots the ice fisherman were having success. By using light jigs and minnows in these deep-water spots, chances are you will have good success. But if you are really looking for fast action think shallow […]

(ARA) – Tired of your boring bathroom, but don’t think you have the home improvement skills to update it? Stop doubting yourself and make some quick and easy changes that will dramatically improve the look and functionality of your bath, all without calling a contractor. Masterpiece mirrors Occupying a majority of wall space in most baths, plate-glass mirrors are functional, yet not very aesthetically pleasing. To solve this problem, add easy-to-install mirror frames, such as Mirrorscapes by Moen, which are available in five different styles and a variety of finishes to beautifully coordinate in your bath. All you need for this project is a measuring tape, marker, a saw and about 30 minutes. Mirrorscapes proprietary installation system makes transforming a plate-glass mirror quick, easy and secure. Installation templates perfectly position the mounting brackets, ensuring proper alignment of the frame straights and decorative corners. No angled miter cuts are necessary. “The system is nearly error-proof,” says Tim Bitterman, group product manager for Creative Specialties International. “The template pieces ensure perfect alignment, while the decorative corner frame pieces cover straight-end frame pieces – to disguise most cutting errors.” Pretty painting Adding color can dramatically transform any room, and luckily painting is an extremely simple project. However, success lies […]

(ARA) – After their homes, most Americans’ largest financial investment is their vehicle, so helping it stay in good working order for as long as possible is a high priority. In fact, the average age of a passenger car in North America has grown to more than nine years, according to R.L. Polk and Co., which indicates that motorists are looking for ways to help extend the life of their vehicle. Even so, today’s tight budgets leave some motorists reluctant to spend on services or maintenance that they think can be delayed, at least for the short term. However, compared to the cost of engine repair, spending a little today on the right maintenance routine performed by trusted service technicians using quality products makes sense. Mark Ferner, Pennzoil technical specialist and ASE-certified master mechanic, offers some simple, cost-effective tips for helping to protect the performance and longevity of your vehicle: Replace dirty air filters. A dirty air filter will restrict airflow to the engine, which may reduce power output. If the filter fails, it will allow unfiltered air into the engine, which can be abrasive inside an engine. To avoid these issues and help promote long engine life, check your engine’s air […]

The Electronic Cigarette was developed in China in 2004. It was designed to take the place of smoking tobacco cigarettes and cigars because, despite global smoking bans, many smokers just find it too difficult to quit altogether. There are numerous nicotine replacement products on the market, such as gum and patches, but these in no way replicate the smoking experience which has been proven to be a part of the addictive ritual of smoking. The e-cigarette is revolutionary in that it’s aim is to both deliver nicotine to user and simulate the experience of smoking a traditional tobacco cigarette. The Electronic Cigarette or e-cig, in most cases looks just like a traditional cigarette and is made of a mouthpiece that holds a nicotine cartridge, a heating element or atomizer, a battery and an LED at the tip of the device. The way e-cigs work is that they contain an airflow meter that is triggered when the user inhales on the device. This activates the atomizer and delivers the nicotine to the smoker by a short burst of vapor that is inhaled. The LED at the tip lights up showing that the battery is working and also making the device appear […]