The poinsettia is the plant you love to hate. It wouldn't be Christmas without the poinsettia's bold red (or other colors), but you keep your fingers crossed and pray that the plant will make it through the long holiday season. Here are a few tips on keeping this temperamental and temporary houseguest happy.
Steps:
1.
Place your poinsettia in a sunny window. These plants require bright light - the more, the better.
2.
Keep soil evenly moist at all times. Even a day without adequate moisture is enough to make poinsettias drop their leaves.
3.
Provide a constant source of humidity by filling the overflow saucer with gravel. Water seeping through the pot will evaporate from the gravel.
4.
Turn up the heat. Poinsettias are native to Mexico, where it is hot during the winter.
5.
Keep the temperature as close to constant as you can, day and night. Decreasing temperatures cause leaves to drop.
6.
Fertilize weekly with half-strength liquid houseplant fertilizer, or use a slow-release food when you first bring your poinsettia home.
Tips:
Pronounced "poin-set-e-uh" by the professionals.
If leaves begin to drop, increase humidity and reduce water.
Poinsettias make wonderful compost at the end of the holiday season.
Monday, November 28, 2005
Most of us live a significant portion of our lives in and around our homes, whether those homes are single-family residences, condominiums, town houses, or apartments. We fill these places with the necessary and unnecessary stuff of our lives. Losing the home and/or the stuff would be catastrophic.
Consider these guidelines when buying homeowner's insurance:
Insure your building for 100 percent of its replacement cost new.
Buy a Home Replacement Guarantee that will rebuild your home even if the cost exceeds your insurance amount. Buy the guarantee without a percentage cap.
Buy liability limits equal to your automobile liability limits.
Choose the highest deductible for which you receive adequate premium credit.
Buy Special Perils coverage for building and contents, which covers any accidental loss not caused by a handful of excluded causes.
Don't just accept the standard coverages for detached structures and contents that come with the policy. Make sure that the dollar amount for those two coverages will fully replace what you own.
Read your policy. Discover what kinds of personal property are excluded or subject to dollar limits. Buy the optional coverages you need to eliminate those restrictions.
Read your policy liability exclusions. Buy the optional coverages you need to cover anything you're doing that is excluded.
If you bring work home, buy the optional business liability endorsement to cover injuries to the occasional delivery person.
If you have a home-based business, don't buy the restrictive home-business endorsement. Buy the business owner's policy instead.
Buy the optional sewer backup coverage. And buy federal flood insurance if you're exposed to flood or heavy rains.
Consider these guidelines when buying homeowner's insurance:
Insure your building for 100 percent of its replacement cost new.
Buy a Home Replacement Guarantee that will rebuild your home even if the cost exceeds your insurance amount. Buy the guarantee without a percentage cap.
Buy liability limits equal to your automobile liability limits.
Choose the highest deductible for which you receive adequate premium credit.
Buy Special Perils coverage for building and contents, which covers any accidental loss not caused by a handful of excluded causes.
Don't just accept the standard coverages for detached structures and contents that come with the policy. Make sure that the dollar amount for those two coverages will fully replace what you own.
Read your policy. Discover what kinds of personal property are excluded or subject to dollar limits. Buy the optional coverages you need to eliminate those restrictions.
Read your policy liability exclusions. Buy the optional coverages you need to cover anything you're doing that is excluded.
If you bring work home, buy the optional business liability endorsement to cover injuries to the occasional delivery person.
If you have a home-based business, don't buy the restrictive home-business endorsement. Buy the business owner's policy instead.
Buy the optional sewer backup coverage. And buy federal flood insurance if you're exposed to flood or heavy rains.
Medicinal Foods
Excerpted from Food--Your Miracle Medicine, by Jean Carper. Copyright 1993 by Jean carper. Published by HarperCollins Publishers, Inc.
Jean Carper is a nationally syndicated newspaper columnist and author of seven books, including "The Food Pharmacy"
The best prescription for living longer may be right in your kitchen.
It's true -- the foods that are best for you can act like medicine, boosting your immune system and warding off illnesses such as cancer and heart disease. But because foods are exceedingly complex packages of chemicals and compounds, they don't deliver a single biological punch, as do pharmaceutical drugs designed to accomplish a specific purpose. Instead, the right foods can have a much broader effect on a variety of health problems. Eat these foods raw or lightly cooked. (Cooking destroys many of their most protective chemicals.) And remember, no matter how beneficial these foods may be, they're no substitute for a doctor's care.
Apple. Reduces cholesterol, contains cancer-fighting agent known as antioxidant. High in fiber, helps prevent constipation and suppresses appetite.
Asparagus. A super source of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant. In studies, glutathione has been shown to act against at least thirty carcinogens.
Avocado. Can help prevent clogging of arteries; dilates blood vessels. Lowers cholesterol. Its main fat, monounsaturated oleic acid, acts as an antioxidant, slowing the buildup LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. Also one of the richest sources of glutathione.
Banana. Soothes the stomach. Strengthens the stomach lining against acid and ulcers, and lab tests show that bananas can act like antibiotics. Very high in potassium, thus may help regulate high blood pressure.
Barley. Long considered a heart medicine in the Middle East. Reduces cholesterol levels and contains antioxidants that may help prevent cancer.
Beans. (including navy, black, kidney, and pinto beans, and lentils) Studies show that eating a half cup of cooked beans daily may reduce cholesterol levels as much as 10 percent. Also helps to regulate blood-sugar levels. Very high in fiber. Bean consumption is linked to lower rates of prostate and breast cancer.
Bell Pepper. Super-rich in antioxidant vitamin C. Therefore, a great food for fighting off colds, asthma, bronchitis, respiratory infections and cataracts, as well as angina, atherosclerosis (damaged, clogged arteries) and cancer.
Blueberries. Act as an unusual type of antibiotic by keeping infectious bacteria from attaching to the lining of the urinary tract, helping to prevent recurring urinary tract and bladder infections. Also contain chemicals that curb diarrhea.
Broccoli & Cauliflower. Abundant in antioxidants. Broccoli is rich in anticancer agent such as vitamin C, beta carotene and quercetin. Both broccoli and cauliflower are considered effective in helping to prevent lung, colon, and breast cancers. These cruciferous vegetables can speed up removal of estrogen from the body, perhaps helping to prevent hormone-related cancers such as breast cancer. Rich in fiber. Compounds in broccoli also help prevent ulcers.
Brussels Sprouts. Possess some of the same powers as their cruciferous cousins broccoli and cabbage. Packed with antioxidants and other cancer-fighters including indoles, chemicals that may help protect against colon cancer.
Cabbage. Contains numerous anti-cancer and antioxidant compounds. Seems to suppress the growth of colon polyps, a precursor to colon cancer; in studies, eating cabbage more than once a week cut men's colon cancer odds by 66 percent.
Carrot. A super source of beta carotene, the antioxidant reputed to help prevent numerous health problems, including heart attacks, cancer, and cataracts. One study showed that the beta carotene in a daily cup of carrots slashed stroke rates in women by 40 percent and heart attacks by 22 percent. One medium carrot's worth of beta carotene daily may cut lung-cancer risk in half, even among formerly heavy smokers.
Celery. Celery compounds have been shown to lower blood pressure in animals. High in certain anticancer compounds that have been shown to detoxify carcinogens, including cigarette smoke. tests also show celery may act as a mild diuretic.
Chili Pepper. Revs up the blood clot-dissolving system, opens sinuses and air passages, and acts as a decongestant. Most of its pharmacological activity is credited to capsaicin, the compound that makes the pepper taste hot. Capsaicin is also a potent painkiller, alleviating headaches when inhaled. Putting hot chili sauce on food may even speed up metabolism, burning off calories.
Cinnamon. A strong stimulator of insulin activity; thus, potentially helpful for those with adult-onset diabetes. Also seems to help prevent blood clots.
Clove. Long used to dull the pain of toothache. Contains compounds that act like aspirin.
Collard Greens. Full of antioxidant compounds, including lutein, vitamin C and beta carotene. In animal studies, collards inhibited the spread of breast cancer. Collard-green consumption, like that of other green leafy vegetables, is associated with low rates of many cancers.
Corn. High in anticancer compounds called protease inhibitors, corn may help fight cancer and act as an antiviral agent.
Cranberries. Like blueberries, help prevent recurring urinary tract and bladder infections. Also believed to be effective in inhibiting viruses.
Dates. High in natural aspirin. Also high in fiber; have a laxative effect. Dried fruits, including dates, are linked to lower rates of certain cancers, especially pancreatic cancer.
Eggplant. Eating eggplant may lower blood cholesterol and help counteract some of the detrimental effects high-fat foods have on the blood. Lab tests show that eggplant also seems to act as an antibacterial agent and as a mild diuretic.
Garlic. A proven antibiotic that has been shown to kill bacteria, fungi, and intestinal parasites. Also shown to lower blood-cholesterol levels, seems to act as an anticoagulant. Garlic also contains multiple anticancer compounds, antioxidants, and immune-system boosters. A good cold medication, garlic also acts as an effective decongestant and anti-inflammatory agent.
Ginger. Used for centuries in Asia, ginger is a proven anti-nausea remedy. Also, relieves the inflammatory pain and swelling of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Grapefruit. Contains a pectin that's been shown to lower blood-cholesterol levels and blood pressure in animals. High in antioxidants, especially disease-fighting vitamin C, grapefruit may help prevent stomach and pancreatic cancer.
Grapes. A rich storehouse of anti-cancer compounds, red grapes are high in the antioxidant quercetin. Red-grade skins also contain resveratrol, which seems to lower bad-type LDL cholesterol.
Kale. An amazingly rich source of antioxidant compounds. High in beta carotene, and contains more lutein than any other vegetable tested. Kale is a member of the cruciferous family and contains anticancer chemicals called indoles, which may help prevent estrogen-linked cancers.
Melon. (cantaloupe and honeydew) May help prevent blood clots. Orange melons, such as cantaloupe, also contain high levels of beta carotene.
Mushroom. Esteemed in Asia as a heart medicine and cancer preventive. Tests show that compounds in Asian mushrooms, such as shiitake, may help inhibit cancer as well as viral diseases, and can lower cholesterol levels. One study showed that fresh or dried shiitake mushrooms cut cholesterol by up to 12 percent when eaten daily.
Mustard. (including horseradish) Helps relieve congestion from colds and sinus problems, and acts as an antibiotic. Revs up metabolism: One study showed that ordinary yellow mustard seemed to increase metabolic rate, helping to burn more calories.
Nuts. High in the antioxidant vitamin E., nuts help prevent cancer and heart disease. Almonds have a high concentration of oleic acid, which may help reduce cholesterol and protect arteries. Brazil nuts are extremely rich in selenium, an antioxidant linked to lower rates of both heart disease and cancer. And walnuts contain ellagic acid, another cholesterol-reducer.
Oats. Oats can help lower cholesterol and stabilize blood-sugar levels. Compounds in oats also seem to suppress nicotine cravings.
Onion. Including chives, shallots, scallions, leeks) Containing exceptionally strong antioxidants, onions have been shown to help prevent cancer in animals. The onion is a rich source of quercetin, a potent antioxidant known to inhibit stomach cancer. Onions may also help prevent atherosclerosis and blood clots, and even high fight bacterial and viral infections.
Orange. A complete package of cancer-inhibitors, including antioxidants such as vitamin C. Specifically tied to lower rates of pancreatic cancer. Because of their high vitamin C content, oranges may also help ward off breast and stomach cancer, asthma attacks, atherosclerosis, and gum disease. Some studies show that vitamin C deficiencies may also inhibit fertility in some men.
Parsley. Rich in antioxidants, parsley can help detoxify carcinogens, including those in tobacco smoke. Parsley also acts as a diuretic.
Plum and Prune. Compounds in these fruits may act as antibacterial and antiviral agents. High in fiber, these fruits work as laxatives.
Potato. (white) Contains cancer-fighting protease inhibitors. Also high in potassium.
Pumpkin. Extremely high in beta carotene.
Raspberries. As do other berries, raspberries help fight infections, and may help prevent some cancers. Also help curb nausea.
Rice. (white and brown) Like other seeds, contains anticancer protease inhibitors. Effective against diarrhea. Rice bran helps lower cholesterol levels and may help prevent formation of kidney stones.
Soybeans. Rich in compounds that act like hormones and thus seem to ward off cancer, especially estrogen-linked breast cancer. High soybean consumption may be one reason rates of breast cancer and prostate cancers are very low among the Japanese. In studies, soybeans lowered blood cholesterol levels substantially. And animal studies showed that soybeans seem to deter and help dissolve kidney stones.
Spinach. As with other green leafy vegetables, consumption of spinach is linked with lower rates of cancer. A super source of antioxidants, including folate, beta carotene and lutein, for example.
Strawberries. Rich in antioxidant vitamin C as well as high in fiber. Studies show that compounds in strawberries act like antiviral agents. And other studies link regular strawberry consumption to lower rates of all types of cancer.
Sweet Potato. A blockbuster source of beta carotene. One half-cup of mashed sweet potatoes is higher in beta carotene than a medium carrot. Also high in fiber.
Tea. (including black, oolong, and green tea) Tea acts as an antibactial, anti-ulcer agent, cavity-fighter, even an anti-diarrheal agent. In animal studies, tea and tea compounds seemed to inhibit various cancers. Tea drinkers appear to have lower risk of atherosclerosis and stroke.
Tomato. A major source of the antioxidant lycopene. tomatoes are linked to low rates of certain cancers, including bladder cancer.
Watermelon. Like the tomato, watermelon contains high levels of lycopene and glutathione, an antioxidant and anticancer compounds.
Wheat. High-fiber wheat bran has formidable anti-cancer potential. One or two daily servings of wheat-bran cereal has been shown to suppress pre-cancerous polyps that can develop into colon cancer. In women, wheat bran also appears to prevent breast cancer by diminishing supplies of estrogen circulating in the body.
Excerpted from Food--Your Miracle Medicine, by Jean Carper. Copyright 1993 by Jean carper. Published by HarperCollins Publishers, Inc.
Jean Carper is a nationally syndicated newspaper columnist and author of seven books, including "The Food Pharmacy"
The best prescription for living longer may be right in your kitchen.
It's true -- the foods that are best for you can act like medicine, boosting your immune system and warding off illnesses such as cancer and heart disease. But because foods are exceedingly complex packages of chemicals and compounds, they don't deliver a single biological punch, as do pharmaceutical drugs designed to accomplish a specific purpose. Instead, the right foods can have a much broader effect on a variety of health problems. Eat these foods raw or lightly cooked. (Cooking destroys many of their most protective chemicals.) And remember, no matter how beneficial these foods may be, they're no substitute for a doctor's care.
Apple. Reduces cholesterol, contains cancer-fighting agent known as antioxidant. High in fiber, helps prevent constipation and suppresses appetite.
Asparagus. A super source of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant. In studies, glutathione has been shown to act against at least thirty carcinogens.
Avocado. Can help prevent clogging of arteries; dilates blood vessels. Lowers cholesterol. Its main fat, monounsaturated oleic acid, acts as an antioxidant, slowing the buildup LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. Also one of the richest sources of glutathione.
Banana. Soothes the stomach. Strengthens the stomach lining against acid and ulcers, and lab tests show that bananas can act like antibiotics. Very high in potassium, thus may help regulate high blood pressure.
Barley. Long considered a heart medicine in the Middle East. Reduces cholesterol levels and contains antioxidants that may help prevent cancer.
Beans. (including navy, black, kidney, and pinto beans, and lentils) Studies show that eating a half cup of cooked beans daily may reduce cholesterol levels as much as 10 percent. Also helps to regulate blood-sugar levels. Very high in fiber. Bean consumption is linked to lower rates of prostate and breast cancer.
Bell Pepper. Super-rich in antioxidant vitamin C. Therefore, a great food for fighting off colds, asthma, bronchitis, respiratory infections and cataracts, as well as angina, atherosclerosis (damaged, clogged arteries) and cancer.
Blueberries. Act as an unusual type of antibiotic by keeping infectious bacteria from attaching to the lining of the urinary tract, helping to prevent recurring urinary tract and bladder infections. Also contain chemicals that curb diarrhea.
Broccoli & Cauliflower. Abundant in antioxidants. Broccoli is rich in anticancer agent such as vitamin C, beta carotene and quercetin. Both broccoli and cauliflower are considered effective in helping to prevent lung, colon, and breast cancers. These cruciferous vegetables can speed up removal of estrogen from the body, perhaps helping to prevent hormone-related cancers such as breast cancer. Rich in fiber. Compounds in broccoli also help prevent ulcers.
Brussels Sprouts. Possess some of the same powers as their cruciferous cousins broccoli and cabbage. Packed with antioxidants and other cancer-fighters including indoles, chemicals that may help protect against colon cancer.
Cabbage. Contains numerous anti-cancer and antioxidant compounds. Seems to suppress the growth of colon polyps, a precursor to colon cancer; in studies, eating cabbage more than once a week cut men's colon cancer odds by 66 percent.
Carrot. A super source of beta carotene, the antioxidant reputed to help prevent numerous health problems, including heart attacks, cancer, and cataracts. One study showed that the beta carotene in a daily cup of carrots slashed stroke rates in women by 40 percent and heart attacks by 22 percent. One medium carrot's worth of beta carotene daily may cut lung-cancer risk in half, even among formerly heavy smokers.
Celery. Celery compounds have been shown to lower blood pressure in animals. High in certain anticancer compounds that have been shown to detoxify carcinogens, including cigarette smoke. tests also show celery may act as a mild diuretic.
Chili Pepper. Revs up the blood clot-dissolving system, opens sinuses and air passages, and acts as a decongestant. Most of its pharmacological activity is credited to capsaicin, the compound that makes the pepper taste hot. Capsaicin is also a potent painkiller, alleviating headaches when inhaled. Putting hot chili sauce on food may even speed up metabolism, burning off calories.
Cinnamon. A strong stimulator of insulin activity; thus, potentially helpful for those with adult-onset diabetes. Also seems to help prevent blood clots.
Clove. Long used to dull the pain of toothache. Contains compounds that act like aspirin.
Collard Greens. Full of antioxidant compounds, including lutein, vitamin C and beta carotene. In animal studies, collards inhibited the spread of breast cancer. Collard-green consumption, like that of other green leafy vegetables, is associated with low rates of many cancers.
Corn. High in anticancer compounds called protease inhibitors, corn may help fight cancer and act as an antiviral agent.
Cranberries. Like blueberries, help prevent recurring urinary tract and bladder infections. Also believed to be effective in inhibiting viruses.
Dates. High in natural aspirin. Also high in fiber; have a laxative effect. Dried fruits, including dates, are linked to lower rates of certain cancers, especially pancreatic cancer.
Eggplant. Eating eggplant may lower blood cholesterol and help counteract some of the detrimental effects high-fat foods have on the blood. Lab tests show that eggplant also seems to act as an antibacterial agent and as a mild diuretic.
Garlic. A proven antibiotic that has been shown to kill bacteria, fungi, and intestinal parasites. Also shown to lower blood-cholesterol levels, seems to act as an anticoagulant. Garlic also contains multiple anticancer compounds, antioxidants, and immune-system boosters. A good cold medication, garlic also acts as an effective decongestant and anti-inflammatory agent.
Ginger. Used for centuries in Asia, ginger is a proven anti-nausea remedy. Also, relieves the inflammatory pain and swelling of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Grapefruit. Contains a pectin that's been shown to lower blood-cholesterol levels and blood pressure in animals. High in antioxidants, especially disease-fighting vitamin C, grapefruit may help prevent stomach and pancreatic cancer.
Grapes. A rich storehouse of anti-cancer compounds, red grapes are high in the antioxidant quercetin. Red-grade skins also contain resveratrol, which seems to lower bad-type LDL cholesterol.
Kale. An amazingly rich source of antioxidant compounds. High in beta carotene, and contains more lutein than any other vegetable tested. Kale is a member of the cruciferous family and contains anticancer chemicals called indoles, which may help prevent estrogen-linked cancers.
Melon. (cantaloupe and honeydew) May help prevent blood clots. Orange melons, such as cantaloupe, also contain high levels of beta carotene.
Mushroom. Esteemed in Asia as a heart medicine and cancer preventive. Tests show that compounds in Asian mushrooms, such as shiitake, may help inhibit cancer as well as viral diseases, and can lower cholesterol levels. One study showed that fresh or dried shiitake mushrooms cut cholesterol by up to 12 percent when eaten daily.
Mustard. (including horseradish) Helps relieve congestion from colds and sinus problems, and acts as an antibiotic. Revs up metabolism: One study showed that ordinary yellow mustard seemed to increase metabolic rate, helping to burn more calories.
Nuts. High in the antioxidant vitamin E., nuts help prevent cancer and heart disease. Almonds have a high concentration of oleic acid, which may help reduce cholesterol and protect arteries. Brazil nuts are extremely rich in selenium, an antioxidant linked to lower rates of both heart disease and cancer. And walnuts contain ellagic acid, another cholesterol-reducer.
Oats. Oats can help lower cholesterol and stabilize blood-sugar levels. Compounds in oats also seem to suppress nicotine cravings.
Onion. Including chives, shallots, scallions, leeks) Containing exceptionally strong antioxidants, onions have been shown to help prevent cancer in animals. The onion is a rich source of quercetin, a potent antioxidant known to inhibit stomach cancer. Onions may also help prevent atherosclerosis and blood clots, and even high fight bacterial and viral infections.
Orange. A complete package of cancer-inhibitors, including antioxidants such as vitamin C. Specifically tied to lower rates of pancreatic cancer. Because of their high vitamin C content, oranges may also help ward off breast and stomach cancer, asthma attacks, atherosclerosis, and gum disease. Some studies show that vitamin C deficiencies may also inhibit fertility in some men.
Parsley. Rich in antioxidants, parsley can help detoxify carcinogens, including those in tobacco smoke. Parsley also acts as a diuretic.
Plum and Prune. Compounds in these fruits may act as antibacterial and antiviral agents. High in fiber, these fruits work as laxatives.
Potato. (white) Contains cancer-fighting protease inhibitors. Also high in potassium.
Pumpkin. Extremely high in beta carotene.
Raspberries. As do other berries, raspberries help fight infections, and may help prevent some cancers. Also help curb nausea.
Rice. (white and brown) Like other seeds, contains anticancer protease inhibitors. Effective against diarrhea. Rice bran helps lower cholesterol levels and may help prevent formation of kidney stones.
Soybeans. Rich in compounds that act like hormones and thus seem to ward off cancer, especially estrogen-linked breast cancer. High soybean consumption may be one reason rates of breast cancer and prostate cancers are very low among the Japanese. In studies, soybeans lowered blood cholesterol levels substantially. And animal studies showed that soybeans seem to deter and help dissolve kidney stones.
Spinach. As with other green leafy vegetables, consumption of spinach is linked with lower rates of cancer. A super source of antioxidants, including folate, beta carotene and lutein, for example.
Strawberries. Rich in antioxidant vitamin C as well as high in fiber. Studies show that compounds in strawberries act like antiviral agents. And other studies link regular strawberry consumption to lower rates of all types of cancer.
Sweet Potato. A blockbuster source of beta carotene. One half-cup of mashed sweet potatoes is higher in beta carotene than a medium carrot. Also high in fiber.
Tea. (including black, oolong, and green tea) Tea acts as an antibactial, anti-ulcer agent, cavity-fighter, even an anti-diarrheal agent. In animal studies, tea and tea compounds seemed to inhibit various cancers. Tea drinkers appear to have lower risk of atherosclerosis and stroke.
Tomato. A major source of the antioxidant lycopene. tomatoes are linked to low rates of certain cancers, including bladder cancer.
Watermelon. Like the tomato, watermelon contains high levels of lycopene and glutathione, an antioxidant and anticancer compounds.
Wheat. High-fiber wheat bran has formidable anti-cancer potential. One or two daily servings of wheat-bran cereal has been shown to suppress pre-cancerous polyps that can develop into colon cancer. In women, wheat bran also appears to prevent breast cancer by diminishing supplies of estrogen circulating in the body.
Thursday, November 24, 2005
How to Deal with Impossible People
Steps
Recognize that impossible people exist, you will eventually encounter them. There isn't a thing you can do about it. The first step is all about facing reality: If you think you might be dealing with an impossible person, you're probably right. When in doubt, proceed as instructed below. The headaches you save will be your own.
Be aware that some people simply aren't compatible. Sometimes, a person who gets along with everybody else quite well is an impossible person for you. Most relationships between people contain many shades of gray, but some people simply mix as well as oil and water. It is common to hear your impossible person proclaim that "Everyone else likes me." This is an attempt to shift the blame to you, so don't buy it. It doesn't matter how this person interacts with others. The fact is, the way they interact with you is terrible. Blame never changes the facts.
Understand that it's not you, it's them. This can be surprisingly difficult, considering that impossible people have complete mastery of blaming skills. If you're dealing with an impossible person, you're probably being told on a regular basis that every conceivable thing is your fault. It isn't. As the saying goes, "It takes two to tango." Chances are, the more often they blame you, the more they are actually at fault. Keep in mind that this is not to be used as a way to blame them. Blaming is what impossible people do, and they do it well. Instead, you are only facing the facts, for your own sake. That being said, here's a simple way to tell: If you accept responsibility for your own faults and resolve to improve yourself, it's probably not you. Remember, impossible people can do no wrong.
Realize that you cannot deal with impossible people the same way you deal with everyone else. In some ways, they need to be treated like children. Give up all hope of engaging these folks in any kind of reasonable conversation. It will never happen, at least with you. Remember what happened the last fifty times you tried to have a civilized discussion about the status of your relationship with this person. Chances are, every such attempt ended in you being blamed for everything. Decide now to quit banging your head against a brick wall.
Protect your self-esteem. If you have regular dealings with someone who tries to portray you as the source of all evil, you need to take active steps to maintain a positive self-image. Remind yourself that this person's opinion is not necessarily the truth. Understand that oftentimes, impossible people are particularly "Fact-challenged." If the attacks have little basis in fact, dismiss them. You can't possibly be as bad as this person would like you to believe you are. Do NOT defend yourself out loud, however. It will only provoke the impossible person into another tirade.
Guard against anger. If it helps, consider the fact that your anger is actually a precious gift to the impossible person. Anything you do or say while angry will be used against you over and over again. Impossible people tend to have amazing memories, and they will not hesitate to use a nearly endless laundry list of complaints from the past against you. Five years from now, you could be hearing about the angry remark you made today (which you didn't even mean). Impossible people will seize anything that provides them the opportunity to lay blame like it was gold.
Keep your cool. When the impossible person becomes hysterical (and they probably will, as this is a common trait among them), immediately "Turn off" any serious consideration you had been giving them. What they are saying now should be considered gibberish. As they say, "In one ear and out the other." If at all possible, simply remain silent through the whole tirade. If that requires too much discipline on your part, make sure that anything you say tends to agree with them. Humor them. Don't ask them to calm down, because you are just inviting further bombast (such as "Why should I calm down?! Look what you've done this time! You're lucky I'm not angrier than I am!").
Give up self-defense. Understand very clearly that you cannot beat these people. They're called impossible for a reason. In their minds, you are the source of all wrongdoing, and nothing you can say is going to make them consider your side of the story. Your opinion is of no consequence, because you are already guilty, no matter what. If you tell them that you gave a million dollars to charity, they will say that you did it because you have a guilty conscience. If you tell them you discovered the cure for cancer, they will tell you that you just wanted the attention. There is no winning. Nothing you can do will be good enough. Anything positive you say about yourself will be interpreted as boorish bragging or self-justification, and you will be promptly "smacked back down to size" by a litany of negative comments and accusations. Impossible people view it as their sacred task to make sure you don't get the idea that you are worth anything, and they will act accordingly.
Understand that eventually, you and the impossible person will have to part ways. Whether they are a friend, a boss, a parent, a spouse, or whatever else, the time to leave is coming. Maintaining a relationship with an impossible person is, literally, impossible. If you can't (or won't) make a physical departure immediately, make a mental one. In your mind, you've already left the relationship. The only thing left to do is wait for physical reality to reflect that fact.
Avoid letting the impossible person make you into a "clone" of them. If you aren't careful, you could find yourself adopting many of the behaviors of the offender. Eschew blame entirely by understanding that this is just the way the other person is. It is the way nature made them by means of their environment, upbringing, and experiences in life. They have no more choice about being themselves than you have about being yourself.
Be a manager. Until it is over, your task in the relationship is to manage the impossible person, so that they do less damage to you. As a manager, your best resources are silence (it really is golden), humoring the other, and abandoning all hope of "Fixing" them. Impossible people do not listen to reason. They can't, they won't, and even if they could, they wouldn't. You can't convince them that they have any responsibility for the problems between you. They don't recognize (or try to improve) their flaws for a very logical reason; they don't have any flaws. You must understand and manage this mindset without casting blame and without giving in to anger. It's far easier said than done, and you will slip from time to time, but as time goes on, you'll become a better manager.
Realize that impossible people engage in projection. Understand that you are going to be accused of much (or all) of this behavior yourself. If your impossible person gets a look at this text, to them it will look like a page about you. Prepare yourself for the fact that the impossible person's flaws and failings will always be attributed to you. Remember, in their minds, you are at at fault for everything! They will have an endless supply of arguments to support this, and if you make the mistake of encouraging them, they will be more than happy to tell you why YOU are the impossible person, and how ironic it is that you are under the mistaken impression that it is them.
Tips
If you think you might be an impossible person yourself (or you have become one with regard to the other person), realize just how awful you are being and try to improve yourself. Then again, if you are really an impossible person, you won't even recognize yourself here. To you, this page will be all about "the other guy." For the incorrigible impossible person, everything is always about "the other guy." If you're reading this page and thinking "Hey, that sounds just like (insert name of person you blame for everything)," you're probably one of the people we are talking about here (although you could never admit it).
If nothing else helps, resolve to treat your experiences with impossible people as valuable life lessons. Realize that after dealing with them for a while, getting along with everyone else will be a cakewalk. You are getting a free education in how to deal with the most difficult people out there. Although it is unpleasant now, the lessons you learn are going to be invaluable later in life.
It may also help to call a spade a spade and realize that you are dealing with an emotional abuser. More helpful information can be found in literature on that topic.
If you're having trouble coping, seek therapy. Keep in mind that therapy doesn't always involve sitting down in front of a psychiatrist or psychologist. Do that if you need to, but don't hesitate to create your own forms of therapy as well. Journaling can be good, or (for example), you may even find therapeutic value in writing or editing a WikiHow about dealing with difficult people. ;)
Consider responding with kindness. Be kind and friendly to them. Now, don't wait on them hand and foot, they will immediately take advantage of this, but treat them like you would a good acquaintance or a friend. Everyone wants attention from others, and usually these people couldn't get any positive attention during the course of their life, so they instead act like a jerk to receive negative attention, but at least people now notice them. If they are wanting friendship, but don't know how to get it, and you are friendly to them, then they will appreciate what you are doing, and, best case scenario, they will change. If they are just a natural jerk who loves to make others mad, then what you are doing will enrage them because they can't figure out how to make you mad, eventually they will leave you alone.
Some impossible people will see your kindness as a willingness to do any favor they ask. When this happens, kindly and regrettfully say no, citing your reasons for denial. DO NOT LIE. Better to be vague about your reasons. Lying, if discovered, will exacerbate your problems with this person.
Warnings
Do not make impossible people angry; although they (of course) "have no temper" and are "reasonable to everybody," the fact is that if you enrage them, they will blow their stack like you can't believe. Your own moments of frustration with them will pale in comparison. Don't give them a reason. Instead, treat them like patients or children, but do it subtly (in such a way that they can't lash out at you for being "condescending"). This takes practice, but it is a skill worth developing.
If for some reason, you are able to convince impossible people with irrefutable evidence that they (and they alone) are at fault, then there is a possibility that they will completely "crash" in the other direction, expressing the belief that if they are not 50% right, then they must be 100% wrong all the time. This is a coping mechanism of theirs which attempts to encourage others around them to feel sympathy for them and build them back up.
Never tell others how you feel about this person. If the person, to whom you tell about the impossible behaviour of this impossible person, shares the same views as you have, then it is quite possible that this person might spread the chat you had with him/her. Then, when it reaches the ears of the impossible person in this case, regardless of the media by which this knowledge reaches him, he will make every possible attempt to degrade your image, because he will know who started it.
NEVER confront an impossible person with the fact that they are the chief source of the problem. Keep it to yourself, or you will unleash a flood of denial and blame.
Be careful with non-verbal gestures, as they may bring about misconceptions.
Do not attempt to make any physical contact with the person; a mere pat on the back may aggravate even the most mild-mannered impossible person.
Don't show this page (or any other similar advice) to impossible people in an attempt to convince them of how difficult they are. Again (and it bears repeating), you can't convince them of diddly-squat. Any attempt whatsoever to do so will only result in you getting blasted with another tirade, which will create more resentment against you and compound the problem.
Steps
Recognize that impossible people exist, you will eventually encounter them. There isn't a thing you can do about it. The first step is all about facing reality: If you think you might be dealing with an impossible person, you're probably right. When in doubt, proceed as instructed below. The headaches you save will be your own.
Be aware that some people simply aren't compatible. Sometimes, a person who gets along with everybody else quite well is an impossible person for you. Most relationships between people contain many shades of gray, but some people simply mix as well as oil and water. It is common to hear your impossible person proclaim that "Everyone else likes me." This is an attempt to shift the blame to you, so don't buy it. It doesn't matter how this person interacts with others. The fact is, the way they interact with you is terrible. Blame never changes the facts.
Understand that it's not you, it's them. This can be surprisingly difficult, considering that impossible people have complete mastery of blaming skills. If you're dealing with an impossible person, you're probably being told on a regular basis that every conceivable thing is your fault. It isn't. As the saying goes, "It takes two to tango." Chances are, the more often they blame you, the more they are actually at fault. Keep in mind that this is not to be used as a way to blame them. Blaming is what impossible people do, and they do it well. Instead, you are only facing the facts, for your own sake. That being said, here's a simple way to tell: If you accept responsibility for your own faults and resolve to improve yourself, it's probably not you. Remember, impossible people can do no wrong.
Realize that you cannot deal with impossible people the same way you deal with everyone else. In some ways, they need to be treated like children. Give up all hope of engaging these folks in any kind of reasonable conversation. It will never happen, at least with you. Remember what happened the last fifty times you tried to have a civilized discussion about the status of your relationship with this person. Chances are, every such attempt ended in you being blamed for everything. Decide now to quit banging your head against a brick wall.
Protect your self-esteem. If you have regular dealings with someone who tries to portray you as the source of all evil, you need to take active steps to maintain a positive self-image. Remind yourself that this person's opinion is not necessarily the truth. Understand that oftentimes, impossible people are particularly "Fact-challenged." If the attacks have little basis in fact, dismiss them. You can't possibly be as bad as this person would like you to believe you are. Do NOT defend yourself out loud, however. It will only provoke the impossible person into another tirade.
Guard against anger. If it helps, consider the fact that your anger is actually a precious gift to the impossible person. Anything you do or say while angry will be used against you over and over again. Impossible people tend to have amazing memories, and they will not hesitate to use a nearly endless laundry list of complaints from the past against you. Five years from now, you could be hearing about the angry remark you made today (which you didn't even mean). Impossible people will seize anything that provides them the opportunity to lay blame like it was gold.
Keep your cool. When the impossible person becomes hysterical (and they probably will, as this is a common trait among them), immediately "Turn off" any serious consideration you had been giving them. What they are saying now should be considered gibberish. As they say, "In one ear and out the other." If at all possible, simply remain silent through the whole tirade. If that requires too much discipline on your part, make sure that anything you say tends to agree with them. Humor them. Don't ask them to calm down, because you are just inviting further bombast (such as "Why should I calm down?! Look what you've done this time! You're lucky I'm not angrier than I am!").
Give up self-defense. Understand very clearly that you cannot beat these people. They're called impossible for a reason. In their minds, you are the source of all wrongdoing, and nothing you can say is going to make them consider your side of the story. Your opinion is of no consequence, because you are already guilty, no matter what. If you tell them that you gave a million dollars to charity, they will say that you did it because you have a guilty conscience. If you tell them you discovered the cure for cancer, they will tell you that you just wanted the attention. There is no winning. Nothing you can do will be good enough. Anything positive you say about yourself will be interpreted as boorish bragging or self-justification, and you will be promptly "smacked back down to size" by a litany of negative comments and accusations. Impossible people view it as their sacred task to make sure you don't get the idea that you are worth anything, and they will act accordingly.
Understand that eventually, you and the impossible person will have to part ways. Whether they are a friend, a boss, a parent, a spouse, or whatever else, the time to leave is coming. Maintaining a relationship with an impossible person is, literally, impossible. If you can't (or won't) make a physical departure immediately, make a mental one. In your mind, you've already left the relationship. The only thing left to do is wait for physical reality to reflect that fact.
Avoid letting the impossible person make you into a "clone" of them. If you aren't careful, you could find yourself adopting many of the behaviors of the offender. Eschew blame entirely by understanding that this is just the way the other person is. It is the way nature made them by means of their environment, upbringing, and experiences in life. They have no more choice about being themselves than you have about being yourself.
Be a manager. Until it is over, your task in the relationship is to manage the impossible person, so that they do less damage to you. As a manager, your best resources are silence (it really is golden), humoring the other, and abandoning all hope of "Fixing" them. Impossible people do not listen to reason. They can't, they won't, and even if they could, they wouldn't. You can't convince them that they have any responsibility for the problems between you. They don't recognize (or try to improve) their flaws for a very logical reason; they don't have any flaws. You must understand and manage this mindset without casting blame and without giving in to anger. It's far easier said than done, and you will slip from time to time, but as time goes on, you'll become a better manager.
Realize that impossible people engage in projection. Understand that you are going to be accused of much (or all) of this behavior yourself. If your impossible person gets a look at this text, to them it will look like a page about you. Prepare yourself for the fact that the impossible person's flaws and failings will always be attributed to you. Remember, in their minds, you are at at fault for everything! They will have an endless supply of arguments to support this, and if you make the mistake of encouraging them, they will be more than happy to tell you why YOU are the impossible person, and how ironic it is that you are under the mistaken impression that it is them.
Tips
If you think you might be an impossible person yourself (or you have become one with regard to the other person), realize just how awful you are being and try to improve yourself. Then again, if you are really an impossible person, you won't even recognize yourself here. To you, this page will be all about "the other guy." For the incorrigible impossible person, everything is always about "the other guy." If you're reading this page and thinking "Hey, that sounds just like (insert name of person you blame for everything)," you're probably one of the people we are talking about here (although you could never admit it).
If nothing else helps, resolve to treat your experiences with impossible people as valuable life lessons. Realize that after dealing with them for a while, getting along with everyone else will be a cakewalk. You are getting a free education in how to deal with the most difficult people out there. Although it is unpleasant now, the lessons you learn are going to be invaluable later in life.
It may also help to call a spade a spade and realize that you are dealing with an emotional abuser. More helpful information can be found in literature on that topic.
If you're having trouble coping, seek therapy. Keep in mind that therapy doesn't always involve sitting down in front of a psychiatrist or psychologist. Do that if you need to, but don't hesitate to create your own forms of therapy as well. Journaling can be good, or (for example), you may even find therapeutic value in writing or editing a WikiHow about dealing with difficult people. ;)
Consider responding with kindness. Be kind and friendly to them. Now, don't wait on them hand and foot, they will immediately take advantage of this, but treat them like you would a good acquaintance or a friend. Everyone wants attention from others, and usually these people couldn't get any positive attention during the course of their life, so they instead act like a jerk to receive negative attention, but at least people now notice them. If they are wanting friendship, but don't know how to get it, and you are friendly to them, then they will appreciate what you are doing, and, best case scenario, they will change. If they are just a natural jerk who loves to make others mad, then what you are doing will enrage them because they can't figure out how to make you mad, eventually they will leave you alone.
Some impossible people will see your kindness as a willingness to do any favor they ask. When this happens, kindly and regrettfully say no, citing your reasons for denial. DO NOT LIE. Better to be vague about your reasons. Lying, if discovered, will exacerbate your problems with this person.
Warnings
Do not make impossible people angry; although they (of course) "have no temper" and are "reasonable to everybody," the fact is that if you enrage them, they will blow their stack like you can't believe. Your own moments of frustration with them will pale in comparison. Don't give them a reason. Instead, treat them like patients or children, but do it subtly (in such a way that they can't lash out at you for being "condescending"). This takes practice, but it is a skill worth developing.
If for some reason, you are able to convince impossible people with irrefutable evidence that they (and they alone) are at fault, then there is a possibility that they will completely "crash" in the other direction, expressing the belief that if they are not 50% right, then they must be 100% wrong all the time. This is a coping mechanism of theirs which attempts to encourage others around them to feel sympathy for them and build them back up.
Never tell others how you feel about this person. If the person, to whom you tell about the impossible behaviour of this impossible person, shares the same views as you have, then it is quite possible that this person might spread the chat you had with him/her. Then, when it reaches the ears of the impossible person in this case, regardless of the media by which this knowledge reaches him, he will make every possible attempt to degrade your image, because he will know who started it.
NEVER confront an impossible person with the fact that they are the chief source of the problem. Keep it to yourself, or you will unleash a flood of denial and blame.
Be careful with non-verbal gestures, as they may bring about misconceptions.
Do not attempt to make any physical contact with the person; a mere pat on the back may aggravate even the most mild-mannered impossible person.
Don't show this page (or any other similar advice) to impossible people in an attempt to convince them of how difficult they are. Again (and it bears repeating), you can't convince them of diddly-squat. Any attempt whatsoever to do so will only result in you getting blasted with another tirade, which will create more resentment against you and compound the problem.
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
When cleaning out closets and drawers, ask the five W-A-S-T-E questions, and you're well on your way to an informed keep-or-toss decision.
Worthwhile: Do you truly like (or fit) the dress or shirt in question? Is that magazine article essential to your job? Does that fax cover sheet contain critical information? If the item isn't worthwhile, toss it out now. If it is, move on to the next four questions.
Again: Will you really use this item again, or is it just going to sit on a shelf or take up space in your files? Use it or lose it: If you don't foresee using something in the next year or if you haven't used it in the last one, clear it out.
Somewhere else: Ask yourself: Can I easily find this somewhere else? Can you borrow it from a friend or get a memo from a colleague? Can you get the details by making a phone call, going online, or at the library? Can you go to a local discount store if you need the item later? If so, you don't need to save it.
Toss: Many things have ways of slipping and sliding by the first three questions, so here's the acid test: Will anything happen if you toss it? If not, go ahead and toss it -- unless it must be legally retained.
This question often ends up taking people on a sentimental journey. Maybe something passed the first three questions because it had sentimental value, but the world wouldn't stop turning if you tossed it. This question is the toughest to judge because it can't be measured by anyone but you.
Entire: Do you need the entire thing? The whole magazine, document, or draft? Every piece of an outfit, even if you wear only the pants? Keep what you need and ditch the excess. Also, get rid of redundancy: Who really needs 17 black pens or a dot-matrix printer when you have a high-speed laser?
Worthwhile: Do you truly like (or fit) the dress or shirt in question? Is that magazine article essential to your job? Does that fax cover sheet contain critical information? If the item isn't worthwhile, toss it out now. If it is, move on to the next four questions.
Again: Will you really use this item again, or is it just going to sit on a shelf or take up space in your files? Use it or lose it: If you don't foresee using something in the next year or if you haven't used it in the last one, clear it out.
Somewhere else: Ask yourself: Can I easily find this somewhere else? Can you borrow it from a friend or get a memo from a colleague? Can you get the details by making a phone call, going online, or at the library? Can you go to a local discount store if you need the item later? If so, you don't need to save it.
Toss: Many things have ways of slipping and sliding by the first three questions, so here's the acid test: Will anything happen if you toss it? If not, go ahead and toss it -- unless it must be legally retained.
This question often ends up taking people on a sentimental journey. Maybe something passed the first three questions because it had sentimental value, but the world wouldn't stop turning if you tossed it. This question is the toughest to judge because it can't be measured by anyone but you.
Entire: Do you need the entire thing? The whole magazine, document, or draft? Every piece of an outfit, even if you wear only the pants? Keep what you need and ditch the excess. Also, get rid of redundancy: Who really needs 17 black pens or a dot-matrix printer when you have a high-speed laser?
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Thoughts from Andy Rooney
I've learned...That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.That when you're in love, it shows.That just one person saying to me," You've made my day!," makes my day.That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.That being kind is more important than being right.That you should never say no to a gift from a child.That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way.That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold, and a heart to understand.That simple walks with my father, around the block on summer nights when I was a child, did wonders for me as an adult.That life is like a roll of toilet paper - the closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for. That money doesn't buy class.That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.That under everyone's hard shell, is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.That the Lord didn't do it all in one day - what makes me think that I can?That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.That love, not time, heals all wounds.That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.That there's nothing sweeter than sleeping with your babies and feeling their breath on your cheek.That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.That life is tough, but I'm tougher.That opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.That I wish I could have told my mom that I love her one more time before she passed away.That one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow, he may have to eat them.That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.That I can't choose how I feel, but I can choose what I do about it.That when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little fist, you're hooked for life.That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but that all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.That it's best to give advice in only two circumstances; when it's requested, and when it's a life threatening situation.That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.
I've learned...That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.That when you're in love, it shows.That just one person saying to me," You've made my day!," makes my day.That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.That being kind is more important than being right.That you should never say no to a gift from a child.That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way.That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold, and a heart to understand.That simple walks with my father, around the block on summer nights when I was a child, did wonders for me as an adult.That life is like a roll of toilet paper - the closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for. That money doesn't buy class.That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.That under everyone's hard shell, is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.That the Lord didn't do it all in one day - what makes me think that I can?That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.That love, not time, heals all wounds.That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.That there's nothing sweeter than sleeping with your babies and feeling their breath on your cheek.That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.That life is tough, but I'm tougher.That opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.That I wish I could have told my mom that I love her one more time before she passed away.That one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow, he may have to eat them.That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.That I can't choose how I feel, but I can choose what I do about it.That when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little fist, you're hooked for life.That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but that all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.That it's best to give advice in only two circumstances; when it's requested, and when it's a life threatening situation.That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.
Sunday, October 30, 2005
Subject: Fw: Sometimes we just need to be reminded> Sometimes we just need to be reminded!> A well-known speaker started off his seminar by> holding up a $20.00 bill. In the room of 200, he asked,> "Who would like this $20 bill?"> Hands started going up.> He said, "I am going to give this $20 to one of you> but first, let me do this.> He proceeded to crumple up the $20 dollar bill.> He then asked, "Who still wants it?"> Still the hands were up in the air.> Well, he replied, "What if I do this?"> And he dropped it on the ground> and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe.> He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty.> "Now, who still wants it?"> Still the hands went into the air.> My friends, we have all learned a very valuable lesson.> No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it> because it did not decrease in value.> It was still worth $20.> Many times in our lives,> we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt> by the decisions we make and> the circumstances that come our way.> We feel as though we are worthless.> But no matter what has happened or> what will happen, you will never lose your value.> Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased,> you are still priceless to those who DO LOVE you.> The worth of our lives comes not in what we do or who we know,> but by WHO WE ARE.> You are special- Don't EVER forget it."> If you do not pass this on, you may never know the> lives it touches, the hurting hearts it speaks to,> or the hope that it can bring.
Men Over 50 Men over 50 don't need reassurance. They often need Depends. Men over 50 are sure of themselves. It's their bodies that have serious doubts. Men over 50 are delighted to be seen with women in their 30s. Unless the women are wearing badges and uniforms, and have just slapped cuffs on you. Men over 50 no longer fight at the drop of a hat. They've learned it's hard enough to hit a toilet, much less an agile younger fellow who is kicking their butt. Men over 50 have seen it all. They ate and drank a lot of it, as their expanding waistlines prove. Men over 50 are sometimes tougher than nails. Bent nails, Rusty Nails, Toe Nails. Men over 50 like fast cars and loose women. What they actually have are loose cars and bad memories of fast women. Men over 50 like sizzling steaks and smooth whiskey. They usually need bran muffins and liquid fiber. Men over 50 like to sink their teeth in a challenge. Frequently, though, they are challenged to find their teeth in the
Friday, October 21, 2005
Teaching math in 2005.Last week I purchased a burger and fries at McDonalds for = $3.58.The counter girl took my $4.00 and I pulled 8 cents from my pocket and gaveit to her. She stood there, holding the nickel and 3 pennies. While lookingat the screen on her register, I sensed her discomfort and tried to tell herto just give me two quarters, but she hailed the manager for help. While hetried to explain the transaction to her, she stood there and cried. Why do Itell you this?Because of the evolution in teaching math since the 1950's:Teaching Math In 1950.A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5of the price. What is his profit?Teaching Math In 1960.A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5of the price, or $80. What is his profit?Teaching Math In 1970.A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is$80. Did he make a profit?Teaching Math In 1980.A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80and his profit is $20. Your assignment: Underline the number 20.Teaching Math In 1990.A logger cuts down a beautiful forest because he is selfish andinconsiderate and cares nothing for the habitat of animals or thepreservation of our woodlands. He does this so he can make a profit of $20.What do you think of this way of making a living? Topic for classparticipation after answering the question: How did the birds and squirrelsfeel as the logger cut down their homes? (There are no wronganswers.)Teaching Math In 2005.Un ranchero vende un carrete de madera por $100. El costo de la producciónfue $80. ¿Cuántas tortillas se puede comprar?
This Pastor Has Guts
Thought you might enjoy this interesting prayer given in Kansas at the
opening session of their Senate. It seems prayer still upsets some
people.
When Minister Joe Wright was asked to open the new session of the
Kansas Senate, everyone was expecting the usual generalities, but this is what they heard:
"Heavenly Father, we come before You today to ask Your forgiveness andto seek Your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we have done.
We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values.
We confess that we have ridiculed the absolute truth of Your Word and called it Pluralism
We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery.
We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare.
We have killed our unborn and called it choice.
We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable.
We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building
self-esteem.
We have abused power and called it politics.
We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition.
We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it
freedom of expression.
We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and
called it enlightenment.
Search us, Oh, God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free.
Guide and bless these men and women who have been sent to direct us to the center of Your will and to openly ask these things in the name of Your Son, the living Savior, Jesus Christ.
Amen!"
The response was immediate. A number of legislators walked out ! during the prayer in protest.
In 6 short weeks, Central Christian Church, where Rev. Wright is
pastor, logged more than 5,000 phone calls with only 47 of those calls
responding negatively.
The church is now receiving international requests for copies of this
prayer from India, Africa, and Korea.
Commentator Paul Harvey aired this prayer on his radio program, "The
Rest of the Story," and received a larger response to this program
than any other he has ever aired.
With the Lord's help, may this prayer sweep over our nation and
wholeheartedly become our desire so that we again can be called "one nation under God."
If possible, please pass this prayer on to your friends "If you don't
stand for something, you'll fall for anything."
Think about this: if you forward this prayer to everyone on your email
list in less than 30 days it would be heard by the world.
This really needs to go around the entire country
Thought you might enjoy this interesting prayer given in Kansas at the
opening session of their Senate. It seems prayer still upsets some
people.
When Minister Joe Wright was asked to open the new session of the
Kansas Senate, everyone was expecting the usual generalities, but this is what they heard:
"Heavenly Father, we come before You today to ask Your forgiveness andto seek Your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we have done.
We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values.
We confess that we have ridiculed the absolute truth of Your Word and called it Pluralism
We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery.
We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare.
We have killed our unborn and called it choice.
We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable.
We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building
self-esteem.
We have abused power and called it politics.
We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition.
We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it
freedom of expression.
We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and
called it enlightenment.
Search us, Oh, God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free.
Guide and bless these men and women who have been sent to direct us to the center of Your will and to openly ask these things in the name of Your Son, the living Savior, Jesus Christ.
Amen!"
The response was immediate. A number of legislators walked out ! during the prayer in protest.
In 6 short weeks, Central Christian Church, where Rev. Wright is
pastor, logged more than 5,000 phone calls with only 47 of those calls
responding negatively.
The church is now receiving international requests for copies of this
prayer from India, Africa, and Korea.
Commentator Paul Harvey aired this prayer on his radio program, "The
Rest of the Story," and received a larger response to this program
than any other he has ever aired.
With the Lord's help, may this prayer sweep over our nation and
wholeheartedly become our desire so that we again can be called "one nation under God."
If possible, please pass this prayer on to your friends "If you don't
stand for something, you'll fall for anything."
Think about this: if you forward this prayer to everyone on your email
list in less than 30 days it would be heard by the world.
This really needs to go around the entire country
Friday, October 07, 2005
What women say and what they MEAN
ARE YOU WILLING TO: This means you better do it. FINE: This is the word women use to end an argument when they feel they are right and you need to shut up. Never use "fine" to describe how a woman looks. This will cause you to have one of "those" arguments.FIVE MINUTES: This is half an hour. It is equivalent to the five minutes that your football game is going to last before you take out the trash, so it's an even trade.NOTHING: This means "something" and you should be on your toes. "Nothing" is usually used to describe the feeling a woman has of wanting to turn you inside out, upside down, and backwards. "Nothing" usually signifies an argument that will last "Five Minutes" and will end with the word "Fine".GO AHEAD (With Raised Eyebrows): This is a dare. One that will result in a woman getting upset over "Nothing" and will end with the word "Fine".GO AHEAD (Normal Eyebrows): This means "I give up" or "do what you want because I don't care". You will get a "Raised Eyebrow Go Ahead" in just a few minutes, followed by "Nothing" and "Fine", and she will talk to you in about "Five Minutes" when she cools off.LOUD SIGH: This is not actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A "Loud Sigh" means she thinks you are an idiot at that moment, and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here arguing with you over "Nothing".SOFT SIGH: Again, not a word, but a non-verbal statement. "Soft Sigh" means that she is content. Your best bet is not to move or breathe, and she will stay content.THAT'S OKAY: This is one of the most dangerous statements that a woman can make to a man. "That's Okay" means that she wants to think long and hard before paying you back for whatever it is that you have done. "That's Okay" is often used with the word "Fine" and in conjunction with a "Raised Eyebrow Go Ahead". At some point in the near future, you are going to be in some mighty big trouble.PLEASE DO: This is not a statement, it is an offer. A woman is giving you the chance to come up with whatever excuse or reason you have for doing whatever it is that you have done. You have a fair chance with the truth, so be careful and you shouldn't get a "That's Okay".THANKS: A woman is thanking you. Do not faint. Just say "you're welcome".THANKS A LOT: This is much different than "Thanks". A woman will say "Thanks A Lot" when she is really ticked off at you. It signifies that you have offended her in some callous way, and will be followed by the "Loud Sigh". Be careful not to ask what is wrong after the "Loud Sigh" as she will only tell you "Nothing".
ARE YOU WILLING TO: This means you better do it. FINE: This is the word women use to end an argument when they feel they are right and you need to shut up. Never use "fine" to describe how a woman looks. This will cause you to have one of "those" arguments.FIVE MINUTES: This is half an hour. It is equivalent to the five minutes that your football game is going to last before you take out the trash, so it's an even trade.NOTHING: This means "something" and you should be on your toes. "Nothing" is usually used to describe the feeling a woman has of wanting to turn you inside out, upside down, and backwards. "Nothing" usually signifies an argument that will last "Five Minutes" and will end with the word "Fine".GO AHEAD (With Raised Eyebrows): This is a dare. One that will result in a woman getting upset over "Nothing" and will end with the word "Fine".GO AHEAD (Normal Eyebrows): This means "I give up" or "do what you want because I don't care". You will get a "Raised Eyebrow Go Ahead" in just a few minutes, followed by "Nothing" and "Fine", and she will talk to you in about "Five Minutes" when she cools off.LOUD SIGH: This is not actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A "Loud Sigh" means she thinks you are an idiot at that moment, and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here arguing with you over "Nothing".SOFT SIGH: Again, not a word, but a non-verbal statement. "Soft Sigh" means that she is content. Your best bet is not to move or breathe, and she will stay content.THAT'S OKAY: This is one of the most dangerous statements that a woman can make to a man. "That's Okay" means that she wants to think long and hard before paying you back for whatever it is that you have done. "That's Okay" is often used with the word "Fine" and in conjunction with a "Raised Eyebrow Go Ahead". At some point in the near future, you are going to be in some mighty big trouble.PLEASE DO: This is not a statement, it is an offer. A woman is giving you the chance to come up with whatever excuse or reason you have for doing whatever it is that you have done. You have a fair chance with the truth, so be careful and you shouldn't get a "That's Okay".THANKS: A woman is thanking you. Do not faint. Just say "you're welcome".THANKS A LOT: This is much different than "Thanks". A woman will say "Thanks A Lot" when she is really ticked off at you. It signifies that you have offended her in some callous way, and will be followed by the "Loud Sigh". Be careful not to ask what is wrong after the "Loud Sigh" as she will only tell you "Nothing".
If Men Got Pregnant
Maternity leave would last for two years with full pay.There'd be a cure for stretch marks.Natural childbirth would become obsolete.Morning sickness would rank as the nation's number one health problem.All methods of birth control would be improved to 100 percent effectiveness.Children would be kept in the hospital until they were toilet trained.Men would be eager to talk about commitment.They wouldn't think twins were quite so cute.Fathers would demand that their sons be home from dates by 10:00pm.Men could use their briefcases as diaper bags.They'd have to stop saying, "I'm afraid I'll drop him."Paternity suits would be a line of clothes.They'd stay in bed for the entire nine months.Menus at most restaurants would list ice cream and pickles as an entree.Women would rule the world!
Maternity leave would last for two years with full pay.There'd be a cure for stretch marks.Natural childbirth would become obsolete.Morning sickness would rank as the nation's number one health problem.All methods of birth control would be improved to 100 percent effectiveness.Children would be kept in the hospital until they were toilet trained.Men would be eager to talk about commitment.They wouldn't think twins were quite so cute.Fathers would demand that their sons be home from dates by 10:00pm.Men could use their briefcases as diaper bags.They'd have to stop saying, "I'm afraid I'll drop him."Paternity suits would be a line of clothes.They'd stay in bed for the entire nine months.Menus at most restaurants would list ice cream and pickles as an entree.Women would rule the world!
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
YOU KNOW THAT YOU ARE GETTING OLD WHEN:
You find yourself beginning to like accordion music.
You're sitting on a park bench and a Boy Scout comes up and helps you cross your legs.
Lawn care has become a big highlight of your life.
You tune into the easy listening station...on purpose.
You discover that your measurements are now small, medium and large...In that order.
You keep repeating yourself.
You start video taping daytime game shows.
Your Insurance Company has started sending you their free calendar...a month at a time.
At cafeterias, you complain that the gelatin is too tough.
Your new easy chair has more options than your car.
One of the throw pillows on your bed is a hot water bottle.
Conversations with people your own age often turn into "dueling ailments."
You keep repeating yourself.
It takes a couple of tries to get over a speed bump.
You begin every other sentence with, "Nowadays..."
You run out of breath walking down a flight of stairs.
You look both ways before crossing a room.
You go to a Garden Party and you're mainly interested in the garden.
You find your mouth making promises your body can't keep.
You keep repeating yourself.
You find yourself beginning to like accordion music.
You're sitting on a park bench and a Boy Scout comes up and helps you cross your legs.
Lawn care has become a big highlight of your life.
You tune into the easy listening station...on purpose.
You discover that your measurements are now small, medium and large...In that order.
You keep repeating yourself.
You start video taping daytime game shows.
Your Insurance Company has started sending you their free calendar...a month at a time.
At cafeterias, you complain that the gelatin is too tough.
Your new easy chair has more options than your car.
One of the throw pillows on your bed is a hot water bottle.
Conversations with people your own age often turn into "dueling ailments."
You keep repeating yourself.
It takes a couple of tries to get over a speed bump.
You begin every other sentence with, "Nowadays..."
You run out of breath walking down a flight of stairs.
You look both ways before crossing a room.
You go to a Garden Party and you're mainly interested in the garden.
You find your mouth making promises your body can't keep.
You keep repeating yourself.
Monday, September 26, 2005
I LOVE SENIORS
WORKING PEOPLE FREQUENTLY ASK RETIRED PEOPLE WHAT THEY DO TO MAKE THEIR DAYS INTERESTING.I WENT TO THE STORE THE OTHER DAY. I WAS ONLY IN THERE FOR ABOUT 5 MINUTES.WHEN I CAME OUT THERE WAS A CITY COP WRITING OUT A PARKING TICKET. I WENT UP TO HIM AND SAID, "COME ON, BUDDY, HOW ABOUT GIVING A SENIOR A BREAK?"HE IGNORED ME AND CONTINUED WRITING THE TICKET.I CALLED HIM A NAME.HE GLARED AT ME AND WROTE ANOTHER TICKET FOR HAVING WORN TIRES.SO I CALLED HIM A WORSE NAME. HE FINISHED THE SECOND TICKET AND PUT IT ON THE WINDSHIELD WITH THE FIRST.THEN HE STARTED WRITING A THIRD.THIS WENT ON FOR ABOUT 20 MINUTES. THE MORE I ABUSED HIM THE MORE TICKETS HE WROTE.I DIDN'T CARE. MY CAR WAS PARKED AROUND THE CORNER AND THIS ONE HAD A "HILLARY IN '08" BUMPER STICKER ON IT.I TRY TO HAVE A LITTLE FUN EACH DAY NOW THAT I'M RETIRED... IT'S IMPORTANT AT OUR AGE.
WORKING PEOPLE FREQUENTLY ASK RETIRED PEOPLE WHAT THEY DO TO MAKE THEIR DAYS INTERESTING.I WENT TO THE STORE THE OTHER DAY. I WAS ONLY IN THERE FOR ABOUT 5 MINUTES.WHEN I CAME OUT THERE WAS A CITY COP WRITING OUT A PARKING TICKET. I WENT UP TO HIM AND SAID, "COME ON, BUDDY, HOW ABOUT GIVING A SENIOR A BREAK?"HE IGNORED ME AND CONTINUED WRITING THE TICKET.I CALLED HIM A NAME.HE GLARED AT ME AND WROTE ANOTHER TICKET FOR HAVING WORN TIRES.SO I CALLED HIM A WORSE NAME. HE FINISHED THE SECOND TICKET AND PUT IT ON THE WINDSHIELD WITH THE FIRST.THEN HE STARTED WRITING A THIRD.THIS WENT ON FOR ABOUT 20 MINUTES. THE MORE I ABUSED HIM THE MORE TICKETS HE WROTE.I DIDN'T CARE. MY CAR WAS PARKED AROUND THE CORNER AND THIS ONE HAD A "HILLARY IN '08" BUMPER STICKER ON IT.I TRY TO HAVE A LITTLE FUN EACH DAY NOW THAT I'M RETIRED... IT'S IMPORTANT AT OUR AGE.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Margarine was originally manufactured to fatten turkeys; when it killed the turkeys the people who had put all the money into the research wanted a payback so they put their heads together to figure out what to do with this product to get their money back. It was a white substance with no food appeal so they added the yellow coloring and sold it to people to use in place of butter. DO YOU KNOW...the difference between margarine and butter? Both have the same amount of calories. Butter is slightly higher in saturated fats at 8 grams compared to 5 grams. Eating margarine can increase heart disease in women by 53% over eating the same amount of butter, according to a recent Harvard Medical study. Eating butter increases the absorption of many other nutrients in other foods. Butter has many nutritional benefits where margarine has a few only because they are added! Butter tastes much better than margarine and it can enhance the flavors of other foods. Butter has been around for centuries where margarine has been around for less than 100 years. And now, for Margarine... Very high in trans fatty acids. Triple risk of coronary heart disease. Increases total cholesterol and LDL (this is the bad cholesterol) Lowers HDL cholesterol, (the good cholesterol) Increases the risk of cancers by up to five fold. Lowers quality of breast milk. Decreases immune response. Decreases insulin response. And here is the most disturbing fact.... Margarine is ONE MOLECULE away from being PLASTIC...This fact alone was enough to have me avoiding margarine for life and anything else that is hydrogenated (this means hydrogen is added, changing the molecular structure of the substance). You can try this yourself: Purchase a tub of margarine and leave it in your garage or shaded area. Within a couple of days you will note a couple of things: * no flies, not even those pesky fruit flies will go near it (that should tell you something) * it does not rot or smell differently because it has no nutritional value, nothing will grow on it even those teeny weenie microorganisms will not a find a home to grow. Why? Because it is nearly plastic. Would you melt your Tupperware and spread that on your toast? Share This With Your Friends.....(Butter them up!)
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
GOOD STUFF
He wanted a truck; she wanted a fast little sports-like carso she could zipthrough traffic around town. He would probably have settledon any beat upold truck, but everything she seemed to like was way out oftheir pricerange."Look!" she said. "I want something that goes from 0 to 200in just a fewseconds. Nothing else will do. My birthday is coming up sosurprise me!"He did just that.For her birthday, he bought her a brand new bathroom scale.Nobody has seen or heard from him since.
He wanted a truck; she wanted a fast little sports-like carso she could zipthrough traffic around town. He would probably have settledon any beat upold truck, but everything she seemed to like was way out oftheir pricerange."Look!" she said. "I want something that goes from 0 to 200in just a fewseconds. Nothing else will do. My birthday is coming up sosurprise me!"He did just that.For her birthday, he bought her a brand new bathroom scale.Nobody has seen or heard from him since.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
Fat Facts and Fallacies
Taste. That’s why we eat. Of course, it’s true that our bodies need nutritional fuel, but the real reason we eat is the pleasure we get from the way a food tastes. It’s nature’s way of seducing us into meeting our most basic needs. When we "taste" food, many things work together to create pleasure. Flavor, mouthfeel, aroma, temperature and texture combine with what we touch, see and hear.
For centuries, salad dressing has been a condiment used to make many foods taste better. But recently, it has gotten an undeserved reputation because they are such a popular source of dietary fat. But let’s face it. Salad dressings can make nutrient-rich, high-fiber and low-fat foods such as vegetables, turkey and tuna taste better. In fact, dressings used properly, in the right amounts, can make healthy, though sometimes bland, foods more appealing and still keep fat content at an acceptable level in each meal experience.
In fact, some dietary fat is essential, providing energy and helping the body transport and use certain vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K. And salad dressings are made from vegetables oils, which are excellent sources of unsaturated fats recommended over saturated fats by leading health authorities. In addition, there is now research that suggests foods rich in vitamin E, such as salad dressings, mayonnaise, margarine and nuts, may actually decrease the risk of coronary heart disease.
But, while a spoonful of dressing helps the nutrients go down, the most compelling reason healthy people continue to include small amounts of fat in their diet is the simple fact that fats taste good. Used in moderation, these condiments can make other more nutritional foods taste better. A variety of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, cheese and breads is the cornerstone of a balanced diet and the backbone of well-made salads and sandwiches. A serving of dressing can help build these foods into a meal that is far healthier overall than one loaded with saturated fat and very few, if any, key nutrients. (See Meal Comparisons chart below.)
Nutrition experts agree: there are no "good" or "bad" foods. In fact, any food can fit in a healthy diet. According to the U.S. Food Guide Pyramid we should eat many different foods, in the right amounts every day: six to 11 servings of bread, two to four fruits, three to five vegetables, two to three servings of dairy products and two to three servings of meat or protein -- daily. Enjoy fats, oils and sweets, sparingly.
It’s all a matter of choice and, fortunately, we have more choices today when it comes to foods typically high in fat and calories. In addition to a larger selection of flavors in regular dressings and sauces, there are many new flavors of light, reduced-fat, low-fat and fat-free condiments now on the market. Many reduced-fat dairy, deli and bakery products are also available, making it easier to make trade-offs. So if you prefer a regular salad dressing on your Greek salad, use only one or two tablespoons or use low-fat feta cheese instead of regular feta cheese. If you like regular mayonnaise on your roast beef and Swiss sandwich, then substitute the low-fat versions of roast beef and cheese.
Taste. That’s why we eat. Of course, it’s true that our bodies need nutritional fuel, but the real reason we eat is the pleasure we get from the way a food tastes. It’s nature’s way of seducing us into meeting our most basic needs. When we "taste" food, many things work together to create pleasure. Flavor, mouthfeel, aroma, temperature and texture combine with what we touch, see and hear.
For centuries, salad dressing has been a condiment used to make many foods taste better. But recently, it has gotten an undeserved reputation because they are such a popular source of dietary fat. But let’s face it. Salad dressings can make nutrient-rich, high-fiber and low-fat foods such as vegetables, turkey and tuna taste better. In fact, dressings used properly, in the right amounts, can make healthy, though sometimes bland, foods more appealing and still keep fat content at an acceptable level in each meal experience.
In fact, some dietary fat is essential, providing energy and helping the body transport and use certain vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K. And salad dressings are made from vegetables oils, which are excellent sources of unsaturated fats recommended over saturated fats by leading health authorities. In addition, there is now research that suggests foods rich in vitamin E, such as salad dressings, mayonnaise, margarine and nuts, may actually decrease the risk of coronary heart disease.
But, while a spoonful of dressing helps the nutrients go down, the most compelling reason healthy people continue to include small amounts of fat in their diet is the simple fact that fats taste good. Used in moderation, these condiments can make other more nutritional foods taste better. A variety of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, cheese and breads is the cornerstone of a balanced diet and the backbone of well-made salads and sandwiches. A serving of dressing can help build these foods into a meal that is far healthier overall than one loaded with saturated fat and very few, if any, key nutrients. (See Meal Comparisons chart below.)
Nutrition experts agree: there are no "good" or "bad" foods. In fact, any food can fit in a healthy diet. According to the U.S. Food Guide Pyramid we should eat many different foods, in the right amounts every day: six to 11 servings of bread, two to four fruits, three to five vegetables, two to three servings of dairy products and two to three servings of meat or protein -- daily. Enjoy fats, oils and sweets, sparingly.
It’s all a matter of choice and, fortunately, we have more choices today when it comes to foods typically high in fat and calories. In addition to a larger selection of flavors in regular dressings and sauces, there are many new flavors of light, reduced-fat, low-fat and fat-free condiments now on the market. Many reduced-fat dairy, deli and bakery products are also available, making it easier to make trade-offs. So if you prefer a regular salad dressing on your Greek salad, use only one or two tablespoons or use low-fat feta cheese instead of regular feta cheese. If you like regular mayonnaise on your roast beef and Swiss sandwich, then substitute the low-fat versions of roast beef and cheese.
Sunday, April 24, 2005
Want a neat trick for making health-giving ginger easier to grate? Freeze it first. You'll be glad you did: Spicy, lively, fresh ginger has a way of waking up all the other flavors around it. Look for large, firm, buff-colored knobs when buying fresh ginger. Traditionally used in Asian cooking, it's making its way into all sorts of savory dishes and delivering loads of healthful antioxidant compounds. Ginger may also decrease your heart attack risk. A few studies have found that both fresh and dried ginger inhibits blood levels of thromboxane B-2, a compound that promotes dangerous blood clots. It also has a longstanding folk reputation as a remedy for nausea. Clinical studies have found it useful in treating motion sickness, as well as post-surgical nausea.
Saturday, April 23, 2005
Perks of BeingOver 50...* Kidnappers are not very interested in you.* In a hostage situation you are likely to be released first* No one expects you to run into a burning building.* People call at 9 PM and ask, "Did I wake you?"* People no longer view you as a hypochondriac.* There is nothing left to learn the hard way.* Things you buy now won't wear out.* You can eat dinner at 4 P.M.* You can live without sex but not without glasses.* You enjoy hearing about other peoples operations.* You get into heated arguments about pension plans.* You have a party and the neighbors don't even realize it.* You no longer think of speed limits as a challenge.* You quit trying to hold your stomach in, no matter who walks into the room.* You sing along with elevator music.* Your eyes won't get much worse.* Your investment in health insurance is finally beginning to pay off.* Your joints are more accurate meteorologists than the National Weather Service.* Your secrets are safe with your friends because they can't remember them either.* Your supply of brain cells is finally down to manageable
Thursday, April 21, 2005
As you know, misconceptions can be powerful, especially when more people believe them than not. Let's explore, and hopefully dispel, three misconceptions associated with the tarot.
The tarot is evil: Yes, in the hands of someone intent upon using it to do harm, the tarot is a devilish tool. But many tarot users are practicing Catholics, Jews, Protestants, Buddhists, Hindus, and Moslem Sufis. A tool is a tool: A knife can be used for slicing bread or for stabbing someone. The tool itself is not evil; the intention of the person working with the tool determines its use.
The tarot tells you about your future: The purpose of a tarot reading is to help you see your past and present thoughts, words, and behaviors more objectively. This sort of understanding can make you more aware of the potential results of your present thoughts, words, and behaviors. Remember that what you think, say, and do today helps to create tomorrow.
The tarot can tell you if your wife's having an affair: The tarot cards reflect you! If you're thinking that your spouse is having an affair, you'd better take a good long look at your reasons for thinking so. Have you been watching too many TV talk shows? Is your self-esteem in the toilet? Is your sex life nonexistent? Could you actually be projecting the affair you'd be having if your spouse treated you the way you're treating him or her? Remember: The tarot is a mirror that reflects your face!
The tarot is evil: Yes, in the hands of someone intent upon using it to do harm, the tarot is a devilish tool. But many tarot users are practicing Catholics, Jews, Protestants, Buddhists, Hindus, and Moslem Sufis. A tool is a tool: A knife can be used for slicing bread or for stabbing someone. The tool itself is not evil; the intention of the person working with the tool determines its use.
The tarot tells you about your future: The purpose of a tarot reading is to help you see your past and present thoughts, words, and behaviors more objectively. This sort of understanding can make you more aware of the potential results of your present thoughts, words, and behaviors. Remember that what you think, say, and do today helps to create tomorrow.
The tarot can tell you if your wife's having an affair: The tarot cards reflect you! If you're thinking that your spouse is having an affair, you'd better take a good long look at your reasons for thinking so. Have you been watching too many TV talk shows? Is your self-esteem in the toilet? Is your sex life nonexistent? Could you actually be projecting the affair you'd be having if your spouse treated you the way you're treating him or her? Remember: The tarot is a mirror that reflects your face!
Thursday, April 14, 2005
Anna P. Gordon
Longtime Avella resident
Anna P. Gordon, 91, of Avella, died at 5:55 a.m. Wednesday, April 13, 2005, in Donnell House, Washington.
She was born June 29, 1913, in Hahntown, a daughter of Charles and Frances Cheslukosky Petosky.
Mrs. Gordon attended St. Michael Roman Catholic Church, Avella, and Cross Creek Valley Senior Citizens.
She lived in Avella since 1933.
On February 3, 1934, she married John Gordon Jr., who died December 14, 1977.
Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Carl (Gloria) Manni of Atlasburg; a son, James F. and wife Marion Gordon of Avella; eight grandchildren, Denise Knowlton, Carla Acklin, Carl Manni, Jana Diamond, and James, Jeffery, Alan and Lori Gordon; 11 great-grandchildren, Billy, Darin and Alyssa Acklin, Blaize and Blaine Knowlton, John and Jacyn Diamond, Christina and James Gordon and Hannah and Hunter Gordon; and two great-great-grandchildren, Lauren and Kailey Acklin.
Deceased are a son, John Gordon III; four brothers, Walter, Frank, Julius and Alexander Petosky; and two sisters, Stella Circoloff and Pearl Rudnick.
Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday in Jerome A. Stefkovich Funeral Home Inc., 18 Campbell Street, Avella, where a blessing service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 16, with the Rev. Pierre G. Sodini officiating. Burial will be in West Point Cemetery, Avella.
Longtime Avella resident
Anna P. Gordon, 91, of Avella, died at 5:55 a.m. Wednesday, April 13, 2005, in Donnell House, Washington.
She was born June 29, 1913, in Hahntown, a daughter of Charles and Frances Cheslukosky Petosky.
Mrs. Gordon attended St. Michael Roman Catholic Church, Avella, and Cross Creek Valley Senior Citizens.
She lived in Avella since 1933.
On February 3, 1934, she married John Gordon Jr., who died December 14, 1977.
Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Carl (Gloria) Manni of Atlasburg; a son, James F. and wife Marion Gordon of Avella; eight grandchildren, Denise Knowlton, Carla Acklin, Carl Manni, Jana Diamond, and James, Jeffery, Alan and Lori Gordon; 11 great-grandchildren, Billy, Darin and Alyssa Acklin, Blaize and Blaine Knowlton, John and Jacyn Diamond, Christina and James Gordon and Hannah and Hunter Gordon; and two great-great-grandchildren, Lauren and Kailey Acklin.
Deceased are a son, John Gordon III; four brothers, Walter, Frank, Julius and Alexander Petosky; and two sisters, Stella Circoloff and Pearl Rudnick.
Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday in Jerome A. Stefkovich Funeral Home Inc., 18 Campbell Street, Avella, where a blessing service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 16, with the Rev. Pierre G. Sodini officiating. Burial will be in West Point Cemetery, Avella.
Sunday, April 10, 2005
CAT MASSAGE is good therapy for both of you - you and your cat will find it soothing. Touching your cat also brings you both closer together. Touching brings down the blood pressure and increases circulation. Massaging is also a good way to find any skin or hair problems, or even a lump while it is still very small and fixable. In fact, by the time you are through with the free instructions below, you can make any cat a friend for life!
To give a cat a massage:
Scratch behind his ear and you will have his undivided attention.
Rub the entire ear - even a little stroking on the inside of the tip.
Scratch the top of this head (between his ears).
Go on to his other ear.
Scratch the side of his face, below his whiskers.
Scratch under his chin.
Scratch the other side of his face.
(Even a cat you just met is now melting under your touch!)
Scratch his ears again, just a little.
Scratch the top of his head.
In a continuous and fluid motion, stroke from the top of his head down his entire back.
Stroke down his back only - several times - with your hand wide open to span across his entire back.
Stroke down his entire back and down the top of his tail - several times.
Stroke his entire tail (with your hand all the way around it) several times.
He is butter in your hands!
If he lays down, offering himself to you completely,take one leg at a time and stroke it from shoulder to paw. Stroke each leg several times.
Stroke anywhere else he will allow except his tummy, as this is usually seen as an invitation to play(undoing the calming effect of the massage).
You have made a friend for life!
To give a cat a massage:
Scratch behind his ear and you will have his undivided attention.
Rub the entire ear - even a little stroking on the inside of the tip.
Scratch the top of this head (between his ears).
Go on to his other ear.
Scratch the side of his face, below his whiskers.
Scratch under his chin.
Scratch the other side of his face.
(Even a cat you just met is now melting under your touch!)
Scratch his ears again, just a little.
Scratch the top of his head.
In a continuous and fluid motion, stroke from the top of his head down his entire back.
Stroke down his back only - several times - with your hand wide open to span across his entire back.
Stroke down his entire back and down the top of his tail - several times.
Stroke his entire tail (with your hand all the way around it) several times.
He is butter in your hands!
If he lays down, offering himself to you completely,take one leg at a time and stroke it from shoulder to paw. Stroke each leg several times.
Stroke anywhere else he will allow except his tummy, as this is usually seen as an invitation to play(undoing the calming effect of the massage).
You have made a friend for life!
If It Should Be
If it should be that I grow weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep
Then you must do what must be done
For this last battle cannot be won
You will be sad, I understand
Don't let you grief then stay your hand
For this day more than all the rest
Your love for me must stand the test
We've had so many happy years
What is to come will have no fears
You'd not want me to suffer so
The time has come, please let me go
Take me where my needs they'll tend
And please stay with me until the end
Hold me firm and speak to me
Until me eyes no longer see
The kindness that you did for me
Although my tail its last has waved
From pain and suffering I've been saved
Please do not grieve, it must be you
Who had this painful thing to do
We've been so close, we two these years
Don't let your heart hold back its tears.
If it should be that I grow weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep
Then you must do what must be done
For this last battle cannot be won
You will be sad, I understand
Don't let you grief then stay your hand
For this day more than all the rest
Your love for me must stand the test
We've had so many happy years
What is to come will have no fears
You'd not want me to suffer so
The time has come, please let me go
Take me where my needs they'll tend
And please stay with me until the end
Hold me firm and speak to me
Until me eyes no longer see
The kindness that you did for me
Although my tail its last has waved
From pain and suffering I've been saved
Please do not grieve, it must be you
Who had this painful thing to do
We've been so close, we two these years
Don't let your heart hold back its tears.
Thursday, March 24, 2005
Buy local produce.
It's not only a matter of hometown pride -- it's a way to maximize nutritional benefit. When produce in the grocery store has traveled a great distance, nutrients break down due to exposure to light, time, etc. Your next best bet is frozen fruit and vegetables; freezing preserves the nutrients.
It's not only a matter of hometown pride -- it's a way to maximize nutritional benefit. When produce in the grocery store has traveled a great distance, nutrients break down due to exposure to light, time, etc. Your next best bet is frozen fruit and vegetables; freezing preserves the nutrients.
Friday, March 18, 2005
Sunday, February 06, 2005
Friday, February 04, 2005
Egg Salad Sandwich Spread
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INGREDIENTS:
- 6 eggs
- 3 Tbsp. mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp. Miracle Whip
- 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/8 tsp. pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
PREPARATION:
In large saucepan, place eggs and add enough cold water to cover eggs by 1 inch. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. When water boils, immediately remove from heat, leaving cover on saucepan. Let stand for 15 minutes. Drain eggs and rinse under cold running water for 5 minutes. To easily peel eggs, hold under cold water and gently crack against sides of pan. This helps water get in between the egg and shell, making it easier to remove the shell. Then peel eggs and cut in half. Remove yolks and place in medium bowl. Mash until smooth with mayonnaise, salad dressing, salt, and pepper. Chop egg whites and add to egg yolk mixture with cheese. blend gently, cover and refrigerate tightly up to 2 days. 4-5 sandwiches
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Monday, January 31, 2005
FROM THE BRITISH NEWSPAPERS! > > > > 1) Commenting on a complaint from a Mr Arthur Purdey about a large >gas bill, a spokesman for North West Gas said, "We agree it was rather >high for the time of year. It's possible Mr Purdey has been charged for the > > gas used up during the explosion that destroyed his house." (The Daily >Telegraph) > > > > 2) Police reveal that a woman arrested for shoplifting had a whole salami >in her knickers. When asked why, she said it was because she was >missing her Italian boyfriend. (The Manchester Evening News) > > > > 3) Irish police are being handicapped in a search for a stolen van, >because they cannot issue a description. It's a Special Branch vehicle and >they don't want the public to know what it looks like. (The Guardian) > > > > 4) A young girl who was blown out to sea on a set of inflatable teeth was > > rescued by a man on an inflatable lobster. A coast guard spokesman >commented, "This sort of thing is all too common". (The Times) > > > > 5) At the height of the gale, the harbourmaster radioed a coastguard and >asked him to estimate the wind speed. He replied he was sorry, but he >didn't have a gauge. However, if it was any help, the wind had just blown >his Land Rover off the cliff. (Aberdeen Evening Express) > > > > 6) Mrs Irene Graham of Thorpe Avenue, Boscombe, delighted the >audience with her reminiscence of the German prisoner of war who was >sent each week to do her garden. He was repatriated at the end of 1945, >she recalled. "He'd always seemed a nice friendly chap, but when the >crocuses came up in the middle of our lawn in February 1946, they spelt >out 'Heil Hitler.'" (Bournemouth Evening Echo) > > > > A list of actual announcements that London Tube train drivers have made >to their passengers... > > > > 1) "Ladies and Gentlemen, I do apologize for the delay to your service. I >know you're all dying to get home, unless, of course, you happen to be >married to my ex-wife, in which case you'll want to cross over to the >Westbound and go in the opposite direction." > > > > 2) "Your delay this evening is caused by the line controller suffering >from >E & B syndrome: not knowing his elbow from his backside. I'll let you know >any further information as soon as I'm given any." > > > > 3) "Do you want the good news first or the bad news? The good news is >that last Friday was my birthday and I hit the town and had a great time. >The >bad news is that there is a points failure somewhere between Stratford >and East Ham, which means we probably won't reach our destination." > > > > 4) "Ladies and gentlemen, we apologize for the delay, but there is a >security alert at Victoria station and we are therefore stuck here for the >foreseeable future, so let's take our minds off it and pass some time >together. All together now.... 'Ten green bottles, hanging on a wall.....'." > > > > > 5) "We are now travelling through Baker Street... As you can see, Baker >Street is closed. It would have been nice if they had actually told me, so I > >could tell you earlier, but no, they don't think about things like that". > > > > 6) "Beggars are operating on this train. Please do NOT encourage these > > professional beggars. If you have any spare change, please give it to a > > registered charity. Failing that, give it to me." > > > > 7) During an extremely hot rush hour on the Central Line, the driver >announced in a West Indian drawl: "Step right this way for the sauna, >ladies and gentleman... unfortunately, towels are not provided." > > > > "Let the passengers off the train FIRST!"(Pause ...) "Oh go on then, >stuff > > yourselves in like sardines, see if I care - I'm going home...." > > > > 9) "Please allow the doors to close. Try not to confuse this with 'Please >hold the doors open.' The two are distinct and separate instructions." > > > > 10) "Please note that the beeping noise coming from the doors means >that the doors are about to close. It does not mean throw yourself or your >bags into the doors." > > > > 11) "We can't move off because some idiot has their hand stuck in the >door." > > > > 12) "To the gentleman wearing the long grey coat trying to get on the >second carriage - what part of 'stand clear of the doors' don't you >understand?" > > > > 13) "Please move all baggage away from the doors." (Pause..) "Please >move ALL belongings away from the doors." (Pause...) "This is a personal >message to the man in the brown suit wearing glasses at the rear of the >train: Put the pie down, Four-eyes, and move your bl**dy golf clubs away >from the door before I come down there and shove them up your a**e >sideways!" > > > > 14) "May I remind all passengers that there is strictly no smoking allowed > >on any part of the Underground. However, if you are smoking a joint, it's >only fair that you pass it round the rest of the carriage." > >
Tuesday, January 11, 2005
Caesar Salad
(serves 4-6)
1 head romaine lettuce
4 breadsticks
2 garlic cloves, mashed
1/2 c olive oil
1/2 t salt
1/2 t coarse black pepper
1/2 c 4C Parmesan Cheese
1 T capers
3 T wine vinegar
Optional: 6 anchovies
Wash romaine, break up and roll leaves in paper towels,
put in refrigerator. Break up bread sticks into crouton
size, place in mixture of garlic and 1/4 cup olive oil and
soak for 15 minutes.
Remove romaine leaves and break into bite size pieces.
Add salt. Toss.
Add pepper.
Toss. Add 1/4 cup olive oil, plus bread sticks and olive oil
mixture. Toss.
Add the wine vinegar. Toss.
Add capers. Toss.
Add 4C Parmesan. Toss.
(Add anchovies if desired and toss.)
(serves 4-6)
1 head romaine lettuce
4 breadsticks
2 garlic cloves, mashed
1/2 c olive oil
1/2 t salt
1/2 t coarse black pepper
1/2 c 4C Parmesan Cheese
1 T capers
3 T wine vinegar
Optional: 6 anchovies
Wash romaine, break up and roll leaves in paper towels,
put in refrigerator. Break up bread sticks into crouton
size, place in mixture of garlic and 1/4 cup olive oil and
soak for 15 minutes.
Remove romaine leaves and break into bite size pieces.
Add salt. Toss.
Add pepper.
Toss. Add 1/4 cup olive oil, plus bread sticks and olive oil
mixture. Toss.
Add the wine vinegar. Toss.
Add capers. Toss.
Add 4C Parmesan. Toss.
(Add anchovies if desired and toss.)
Thursday, January 06, 2005
God said, "Adam, I want you to do something for me." Adam said, "Gladly, Lord, what do You want me to do?" God said, "Go down into that valley." Adam said, "What's a valley?" God explained it to him. Then God said, "Cross the river." Adam said, "What's a river?" God explained that to him, and then said, "Go over to the hill......." Adam said, "What is a hill?"
So, God explained to Adam what a hill was. He told Adam, "On the other side of the hill you will find a cave" Adam said, "What's a cave?" After God explained, he said, "In the cave you will find a Woman." Adam said, "What's a woman?" So God explained that to him, too. Then, God said, "I want you to reproduce." Adam said, "How do I do that?" God first said (under his breath), "Geez....." And then, just like everything else, God explained that to Adam, as well.
So, Adam goes down into the valley, across the river, and over the hill, into the cave, and finds the woman.
Then, in about five minutes, he was back. God, his patience wearing thin, said angrily, "What is it now?"And Adam said ..........***********"What's a headache?"
Happy New Year!
So, God explained to Adam what a hill was. He told Adam, "On the other side of the hill you will find a cave" Adam said, "What's a cave?" After God explained, he said, "In the cave you will find a Woman." Adam said, "What's a woman?" So God explained that to him, too. Then, God said, "I want you to reproduce." Adam said, "How do I do that?" God first said (under his breath), "Geez....." And then, just like everything else, God explained that to Adam, as well.
So, Adam goes down into the valley, across the river, and over the hill, into the cave, and finds the woman.
Then, in about five minutes, he was back. God, his patience wearing thin, said angrily, "What is it now?"And Adam said ..........***********"What's a headache?"
Happy New Year!
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