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Wed, May 22 2013, 18:10:42 PDT

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• Co-worker annoyances -- kgp, 16:44:24 01/23/13 Wed
  I like my co-workers a lot but one thing annoys the heck out of me. One of them does not close her mouth when she eats and I can hear her smacking and chewing every time. She's completely unaware of how loud she is.
  
  What workplace irritation do you put up with?
  

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  • High Schoolers in general, elementary school teachers turned principals who think a word wall will solve all retention issues (along w/ a good bulletin board), and two only children in the dept who revel in living up to all the only child stereotypes. Myself and the other only try not to point out that WE don't have to be prima donnas just b/c we were only children.... (NT) -- shellb, 16:46:35 01/23/13 Wed
  • I work with someone who positively gloats when someone else makes a mistake. No matter how minor the error he just loves to point the error out and make them feel uncomfortable. I don't know why he does it. He's very good at his job, but like all of us he does sometimes make mistakes too. He once got very excited and started getting very animated when he thought I'd lost an external hard drive as I couldn't find it in the cupboard where it's normally stored. When I did find it (it was stuck behind some box files) he actually seemed disappointed that I had actually found it and it wasn't lost. I've seen him like a dog with two tails when a fellow member of staff put an incorrect date on a document. He couldn't wait to tell everyone. He just makes himself look silly. I'd expect better from someone as clever as him, but he does delight in others making mistakes (NT) -- albion, 02:37:55 01/24/13 Thu
    • Ugh...how annoying, and yes, he made himself look like an a$$. I had a similar former co-worker who thrived off of gossip. He would get so excited when someone would talk about one of our co-workers, he had a nervous twitch of jerking his head upward like pulling his neck out of a too-tight collar, and he would do this like crazy whenever there was gossip going on. It was really sad to see him thrive off of it. (NT) -- Reilly, 05:35:55 01/24/13 Thu
  • I worked with one a$$ who had to correct everyone's pronunciation and grammar. On two other jobs, I worked with women who had moved to our town from the "big city." They were always going on and on and on about how horrible our area is and how much they hated it. Never grasped that we all live here because WE LIKE IT. (NT) -- 'becca, 04:43:02 01/24/13 Thu
  • People who MUST talk; like they couldn't get air unless words were coming out of their face. Sometimes a body just needs to sit quietly during the short break allowed and recharge. I don't care what color your toenails are, what got stuck in your teeth during lunch etc. etc. (NT) -- Wee, 05:34:58 01/24/13 Thu
    • Many years ago I worked with someone who never shut up and shared every though that crossed her mind. She drove me to distraction. I'd be on the phone to a customer and she'd come into the office and start talking to me and ignore that I was talking to a customer. She's also do the same if I was on the shop floor helping customers. In many ways she was very pleasant, and was a kind lady. Out of work I would have liked her very much, but in work she just never stopped talking and was very distracting. (NT) -- albion, 14:30:57 01/24/13 Thu
  • I work alone as a personal chef, and am most of the time very happy about that. When I worked in offices and airplanes I tolerated a lot of habits, but the one thing I couldn't tolerate was laziness and sloppiness. That lip smacking and chewing with an open mouth thing does drive me crazy, though. I use to have a sous chef and she chewed like this. I once told her she sounded like a cow chewing its cud. She said, "How rude!", and I thought a similar thought. ; ) I have a client's little 5-year old girl who sits in the kitchen and smacks like this too. I may have also told her that she sounded like a cow, but she thought it was funny and kept smacking. (NT) -- Reilly, 05:42:24 01/24/13 Thu
    • One thing that annoys me is gum chewing - I watched parts of the Inaugural Parade because a friend's DD was in one of the bands, and was horrified to see Prez Obama chomping on gum like there was no tomorrow! I have heard since that he's a closet smoker so it was probably nicotine gum but still. I"m so sick of seeing people chomping away all the time. The worst is in church, I mean really you can't go for an hour? Luckily I work from home and the dogs don't complain about my annoying habits, I know I have them, ha ha! :) (NT) -- MaryC in KY, 07:39:14 01/24/13 Thu
      • I don't chew gum, the reason being my PE in high school used to say in her best school marm voice that 'ladies who chew gun look like cows chewing the cud'. Not much of what she said stuck with me, but you'll rarely see me chewing gum. (NT) -- albion, 14:22:48 01/24/13 Thu
  • At work it's when other agents are in their offices near mine and they talk o.n the phone, loudly, without shutting the door!!! Sometimes even with my door shut it's very distracting. In general it's when people yawn without covering their mouth and (the WORST) when people wear flip-flops and drag the heel of their shoe with every damn step. It makes me NUTS. (NT) -- Sorcha (), 21:55:43 01/24/13 Thu
  • People who need noise constantly. Whether it's talking, a radio or whatever. This isn't exclusive to work, I feel the same in my car or at home - IMO it is such a relief to just turn the damm sound off. (NT) -- jayn, 08:23:07 01/25/13 Fri
  
  

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• Tofu recipes needed. I know I can look up on the internet, but I've never eaten this before and would like some tried and trued recipes. -- conmama, 09:03:34 01/23/13 Wed
  I have high cholesterol, I think partly genetic and part diet. I can't take statins, and went off Welchol about 4 months ago due to it making me lose hair. Fortunately, I started eating avocados and nuts on a regular basis and it is not any higher than when on the welchol. However, I still need to lower it. I've been reading about soy products and are willing to give it a try and thought someone has some recipes. Thanks
  

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  • Welchol made you lose hair? Is that a usual side-effect? I take Welchol and often have problems with losing excessive hair but never blamed it on the Welchol. Tell me more, please? (NT) -- CathyS, 09:14:56 01/23/13 Wed
    • Inside... -- conmama, 09:33:55 01/23/13 Wed
      • Also, my total cholesterol was up to 272 before I started on the med. It brought it down to 222, then 6 months later it was back up to 242. Stayed 242. I went off the Welchol and, like I said, started eating an Avocado once a week, and eating one ounce of walnuts in my oatmeal every day. My cholesterol (this month) was 243. I think the food is having the same effect as the drug. That's why I want to start eating more cholesterol lowering foods and eliminated sat fats more than I do. I exercise regularly and am not heavy. My diet is not horrible, but could be better. (NT) -- conmama, 09:41:08 01/23/13 Wed
      • CathyS, one more thing. My hairdresser is on a Statin and started lossing her hair. When I went for my well check up this month, the nurse told me to start lipofen. I went to look and it's easy to find that one of the side effects of that one is....yep...lossing hair! I think I'm going to stay away from these meds, especially since that problem effects me..so nice to be the less than 1%. (NT) -- conmama, 09:44:55 01/23/13 Wed
  • Try Omega 3 Fish Oil and Niacinamide. Be careful if you start Niacin to take low doses to begin with as they can cause a flush. Maybe some of the vegetarians around here can help with the tofu. I'll refrain commenting!! Good luck! (NT) -- CarolE, 09:24:42 01/23/13 Wed
    • I tried Fish Oil. It makes me dizzy, can you believe that? I think I need to eat it in food instead of supplements. (NT) -- conmama, 09:37:17 01/23/13 Wed
  • Tofu is virtually tasteless, so it is very good to mix it with a sauce that is very savory. I use it in stir-fry, being sure to add it at the very last. It tends to fall apart it stirred too much. With a nice soy-based sauce and some pepper flakes and maybe a bit of green onion and cilantro, it's great. Also soy milk makes a great smoothy, as it takes on the fruit flavors. Have fun with it. (NT) -- Melina, 09:32:34 01/23/13 Wed
    • Thanks. I as reading about the different textures: silken, soft and firm. Which would be used in smoothies? Also, I read that the soft can be used with eggs to make egg salad (in place of mayonniase). So, you can take the firm and just dice it up and it blends with things: salads, etc? (NT) -- conmama, 09:36:12 01/23/13 Wed
  • Here's one I love, it's a ground beef substitute recipe. I use it for tacos, chili, spaghetti with "meat sauce", very versatile. Inside >>>>>>> -- Cait, 09:44:06 01/23/13 Wed
    • Thanks, but i'm confused. Where is the tofu? Do you put that in the sauce, with the beef substitute? (NT) -- conmama, 09:52:39 01/23/13 Wed
      • Sorry, it's not a Tofu recipe, just meat free, I'm not a hug Tofu fan but I have found some varities I like. I just prefer this recipe and thought I'd pas it along :) (NT) -- Cait, 05:22:00 01/25/13 Fri
  • Raw oatmeal! Skinnytaste has an excellent recipe for oats in a jar that she says helped her brother lower his cholesterol without meds. We really like it and you make it the night before so for breakfast its ready to go except for adding a bit of crunch if you want it. I'll put a link inside. -- BetsyGvoy won't let me sign in!, 10:56:08 01/23/13 Wed
  • 1. Soymilk is used in a smoothie, but I guess you could use tofu to boost protein. 2. There is no "beef substitute", tofu is used in place of meat. The firm tofu works best in a stir-fry and should be soaked after cubing in a bit of soy sauce, tamari, etc. before tossing in the pan. (NT) -- Melina, 12:34:25 01/23/13 Wed
  • I sed to make a skillet dinner using tofu, sweet potato and apples >> -- kgp, 13:56:33 01/23/13 Wed
    • This sounds delicious...I'm definitely giving it a try! Thanks. (NT) -- conmama, 08:45:10 01/24/13 Thu
  • This is not an answer to your question, but is related. The Kashi breakfast cereals are soy-based, and high in protein and fiber. We especially like the GoLean Crunch and the two hot cereals. The serving sizes are smallish, but the high protein/high fiber combo really keeps me full. The fiber is both soluble and insoluble. The soluble will bind w/cholesterol in the body and carry the cholesterol out. (NT) -- Lady Cate, 04:51:16 01/24/13 Thu
    • i';ve been reading about this. I typically eat Quaker Oat instant oatmeal for a year now, and it hasn't helped really. Now I've discovered I've been eating the wrong kind. Steel Cut Oatmeal has the nutrient that binds to cholesterol to be carried out of the body. The recommended amount is 1/2 cup each day, at least 5 days a week. It's twice as many calories as rolled oatmeal, but I think it's worth it! (NT) -- conmama, 08:47:22 01/24/13 Thu
  
  

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• Pitbulls -- Lady Elizabeth, 20:32:35 01/16/13 Wed
  Might open a can of worms here and I think I am in the
  minority. How do you feel about pitbulls or pit mixes?
  Do you would you own one? CAN they be trusted? Would you
  take the chance on one? I for one am not a fan of the breed. Everyone has their favorites. (lab) and YES I have seen some
  nasty labs and even poodles. I am just a little sick of
  everyone defending pitbulls and rescuing them. They are over
  bred and in bred. I don't want to see dogs put down but then again I don't want to see kids mauled and most of what you do see and hear about are pits! People say you can't judge a dog by it's breed. I think breeds have tendencies. Hounds track, terriers bark and dig, bassets sleep alot. If I am wrong why are most if not all of the seeing eye dogs, goldens, labs, and german shepards. Please do not jump all over me. I love dogs more than most people. My favorite animal. Just want some opinions.
  

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  • They terrify me. (NT) -- Conmama, 03:03:48 01/17/13 Thu
  • I wouldn't want one, but that's not just a temperament issue--it's becauase I don't find them appealing visually. Same thing for german shepherds. Some friends of mine had a shepherd and she was a sweetie, but I'm not fond of the look. Guess I wouldn't want a Chinese Crested either! (NT) -- Susannah, 04:36:34 01/17/13 Thu
  • Stats from Wikipedia...see inside -- conmama, 05:07:23 01/17/13 Thu
    • This is a sobering story. I would want, however, to see the percentage of pitties in the overall dog population. If they are a high percentage in the population, they will be a high percentage in the negative statistics. Also, I don't tend to trust Wiki. Its contributors tend to be partisan, so perhaps this author has an axe to grind. (NT) -- beccabee (), 08:37:49 01/17/13 Thu
    • Those statistics are HORRIBLY skewed and flat out wrong. They all come from the same site, run by a woman who has a huge anti-pit agenda. I actually read the entire 100+ page government report on those same "statistics" a few months ago and the government report stated that the majority of the dogs that were said to be pit bulls were actually undetermined breeds but the media is the main cause of them having been labeled pit bulls and of COURSE when the media puts that out it's never retracted. They would rather villify a breed and sell sensationalism. Those are not statistics, they're lies. (NT) -- Sorcha, 22:57:00 01/24/13 Thu
  • I think it's bad owners...and not a bad breed when it comes to Pit Bulls. My friend adopted a pit bull puppy recently and he is the cutest, sweetest dog on the planet. (NT) -- CarolSR, 05:12:14 01/17/13 Thu
    • We adopted one in 2011 and I can say the same about it. Historically, pitbulls were a sweet and friendly breed. It was in the sixties and reaching a peak in the 80s that they were bred for fighting and many of the rescues from fighting tended to revert to their original nature. For a reference I would recommend I'm a Good Dog: Pit Bulls, America's Most Beautiful (and Misunderstood) Pet," by Ken Foster. (NT) -- beccabee, 05:18:01 01/17/13 Thu
      • (NT) -- closing font?, 05:46:58 01/17/13 Thu
        • Thanks Dear! (NT) -- beccabee, 07:21:42 01/17/13 Thu
  • Unfortunately, it is not always bad owners that is the cause. My boyfriend's family are people who adore animals, dote on them, and have had just about every type of dog at one point in their life. They had a pitbull who was sweet and loving to them, and attacked their neighbor hurting him badly. Same boyfriend has an ex-wife who keeps the pug they shared while married. Her brother's pit bull was playing with the pug recently and it turned violent, grabbed the pug by the neck and swung it around ripping his neck to shreds. The pug amazingly survived, but it was a long and slow recovery. Sad, but I think there is something innate. Perhaps we need to stop breeding them and just let them mate with muts. (NT) -- Reilly, 07:06:19 01/17/13 Thu
    • I think the statistics reported says it all about this breed. (NT) -- conmama, 07:50:53 01/17/13 Thu
      • That was a sobering story. I would want, however, to see the percentage of pitties in the overall dog population. If they are a high percentage in the population, they will be a high percentage in the negative statistics. Also, I would want to know if the Wiki contributor has an axe to grind. By its very nature, Wiki is partisan. (NT) -- beccabee, 14:11:01 01/17/13 Thu
  • My ex husband brought home a pitbull ridgeback mix. It was a horrible dog. I ended up kicking them *both* out. Seriously, I think a lot of problems are inherent in the breed and while I admire people with the patience to rescue them, I think the dogs shouldn't be bred. (NT) -- LizT, 07:53:30 01/17/13 Thu
  • One of Diana's dogs was attacked by a dog and if I'm not mistaken, it may have been a pit bull. If you go to her facebook site, there are some videos of the puir wee thing. (NT) -- Lady Lukkarinen, 09:57:12 01/17/13 Thu
  • Our neighbors have one and I find it too hyperactive. It's a sweet dog but not well trained and I'm not a fan of slobber from any breed. I also know someone who bred them and his were sweet dogs. I just am not drawn to them. (NT) -- kgp, 11:24:27 01/17/13 Thu
  • One of our neighbors got a shelter puppy, thought it was all black lab, and it was a pit bull mix...... we were really worried. And this was because of information I read off of a pit bull web site. Turns out it was just fine and its sweet, stays in the yard. My nephew has one also. I really think its how it was raised as a puppy. I think the breed has a bad rap, but you cant deny all the reports of maulings and the like. Its more about the owners than the dogs. I havent met one in person. (NT) -- M&M, 13:58:28 01/17/13 Thu
    • Yikes.... I just read conmomma's piece about the ones in her family. (NT) -- M&M, 14:00:26 01/17/13 Thu
  • I think they are overbred. Whether for fighting or family pets, there are just way too many of them. If you look at rescue websites, many of the dogs they are trying to find homes for are pits or pit mixes. Same with the shelters. I have to believe there is a reason so many of them end up in shelters and rescues. Inside for my brothers story of his pit >>> -- JenK, 17:00:51 01/17/13 Thu
    • I do have to say though, how a dog is raised makes a big difference. So does the fact of how the dog is bred. If they are overbred and are inbred, the dogs can end up not quite right in the head. But they also had that problem for a while in the 80's and 90's with St. Bernards and them being inbred too much. (NT) -- JenK, 17:02:18 01/17/13 Thu
  • Personally, I'm intimidated by them. I do believe it is how they are bred and raised that makes them vicious. I had neighbors who had pits in the apartment and did use them to fight. One morning the idiot was walking his pit off leash (which is illegal) and my DH took our dog out, that dog came from no where and attacked my dog who was minding his own business. My dog recovered physically but was tramatized to say the least. Those guys eventually were evicted and good riddance. I'm not judging all by the actions of a few but personally don't think I could own one. (NT) -- LadyGrace, 07:36:14 01/18/13 Fri
  • We have a pitt bull mix. When we got her the owner, who did puppy rescue said she was a chocolate lab mix. She might be, but as she grew we realized she was mostly pitt bull. To us she is a sweetie. She has some of the funniest quirks like jumping straight up in the air and sitting and perching on our fence post to watch people walk by. She isn't overly friendly to others though. She seems suspitious of them, but eventually warms up to visitors. I personally think they reflect their owners. They get a bad name because they are a muscular breed. We have 2 other dogs. One a border collie-lab mix and the other a German Shep/lab mix. The border collie is our old man and very quirky and skittish. I think Cocoa the pitt learned her anti-social behavior for him. (NT) -- Tam, 13:02:48 01/18/13 Fri
    • My pittie is terrified of the cat and the Yorkie. (NT) -- beccabee, 16:03:26 01/18/13 Fri
  • They're a banned breed in the UK, and there's reasons for that. I'm sure there are fabulous pitbulls out there, but I would never have one, or trust one, especially if it was a pure breed. I may, of course, be tainted by where I live, i never liked Staffies until I got to know some, now I think they're fab. (NT) -- Margy, 14:32:29 01/18/13 Fri
  • I consider myself a dog lover, but there are 2 breeds that make me nervous: Chow-Chows and Pit Bulls. I would not own one, and I would not like to spend a lot of time around one. I am aware that that is largely an unfair denouncement. Dogs are individuals, and I'm sure there are some great pits out there. I am not in favor of breed restrictive legislation, however. (NT) -- Nifty, 16:35:18 01/18/13 Fri
  • My neighbours had a pit bull for many years. He was the nicest friendliest dog anyone could ask for. When their ds was born the dog sniffed himn a few times then ignored him, and the normal toddler-dog stuff (tail pulling etc) didn't bother dog at all. He rarely barked and I don't think I even once saw him growl or act in any threatening way. A few further away neighbours tried to put a petition to have dog put down and those of use closer all rallied to quell it, unlike the ever-so-friendly golden retreiver who bit my ds (owner denied it was possible but I saw it happen, since ds wasn't hurt I dropped it, just stayed away from that dog). Dog has passed, and his owners miss him a lot. I don't really care one way or the other, but that's my story. (NT) -- jayn, 06:41:59 01/19/13 Sat
    • My former boss had a married son and DW who adopted a beautiful little baby girl. They had her about 3 months when their formerly very mellow golden retriever suddenly attacked her. She was in her father's arms when the dog attacked - clamped onto her face and it took both parents to pry the dogs mouth open and off of the baby. She required multiple surgeries and will continue to for many years. I was shocked that it was a golden retriever - normally such a calm and loving dog. I guess it can happen. (NT) -- CathyS, 19:07:24 01/19/13 Sat
      • I have a Golden, and my vet says that when a Golden comes along that has its "wires crossed", he'd take a vicious pit bull over a vicious Golden, all day long. The bad ones are very few and far between, but when they're bad, they're BAD. (NT) -- ScarlettO, 19:44:34 01/19/13 Sat
        • They had that dog for more than six years and it was always mellow and sweet. At the time of the attack, the baby was sleeping in her father's arms - wasn't crying or even laughing. Needless to say, after that totally unprovoked attack, the dog was put to rest. (NT) -- CathyS, 06:55:31 01/20/13 Sun
  • I have a pit, a pit mix and a mastiff (bully breed) mix. I am very active in dog rescue and fostering, I am a huge animal activist and I very actively speak out against BSL - Breed Specific Legislation. I know this is going to go long >>> -- Sorcha, 00:02:11 01/25/13 Fri
  
  

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• My DD has asked for pearls for her next birthday, and I wonder if someone could shed some light on the difference between freshwater and cultured pearls. Of the two which one is a naturally occuring product? I'm hoping to pick some up for her duty free but need to know which of the two are genuine. Thanks so much for any information you can give me. Hope you're all having a good week. -- Lad\y Lukkarinen, 09:43:03 01/23/13 Wed
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  • I believe that any type of pearl is created when a bit of irritant gets into an oyster. Cultured pearls are made when a person takes an oyster and inserts a grain of sand, then returns the oyster to the water and lets it work. Fresh water pearls are made essentially the same way, but with a different sort of oyster and fresh vs salt water. FW pearls are smaller and irregular while cultured pearls are round and what we think of as 'real' pearls. All oyster produce pearls but in the wild they are often genuine pearls that are not attractive in either shape or colour, while with cultured the result is more controllable - I guess it's like any farming, man can control and guide, but nature does the work. Fresh water pearls can be as expensive as cultured, sometimes more so if they are really good,but they are generally less expensive. I received a string of good quality cultured pearls for my own 16th birthday and they remain one of treasures to this day. (NT) -- jayn, 10:00:01 01/23/13 Wed
  • The new trend in freshwater pearls is for them to be round like saltwater ones. The irregular ones are also known as Baroque pearls, I think. Hard to tell the difference these days. (NT) -- kgp, 10:24:33 01/23/13 Wed
    • I love the Baroques. Absolutely love them. (NT) -- beccabee, 10:45:01 01/23/13 Wed
  • LL, the Bay frequently puts their jewellery on sale, usually for a short period of time like just the weekend. I got a beautiful string of slightly pink large pearls for 1/2 price, about $125 last year. I Love THEM, even more than the more expensive string my DH gave me our first year together. (NT) -- PD, 09:05:25 01/24/13 Thu
  • Pearls will be cultured. Because pearl divers depleted the natural oyster population so severely the hunting of natural pearls was made illegal. Pearls are formed when a small piece of mother-of-pearl is inserted into the oyster and it then begins to form layer after layer of nacre around the irritant, creating the pearl. During the formation dyes are often injected, giving a wide variety of colors. The most valuable pearls are perfectly round and matched in color and size. To see some really beautiful examples stop into a jewelry store and ask to see some Mikimoto pearls, if they carry them. The irregular shapes of the baroque pearls are much more readily available in large quantities which is why you do often see them & they are reasonably priced. You should be able to find her some lovely pearls for a very reasonable price. I hope this answers your question, I will check back to see if you have any more. Not trying to be a know it all, I managed a fine jewelry store for 10 years! (NT) -- Sorcha (), 22:19:12 01/24/13 Thu
    • Also, cultured pearls can be either salt or fresh water pearls. The salt water pearls tend to be the more valuable, but they are still all cultured (man-induced growth). (NT) -- Sorcha, 22:35:27 01/24/13 Thu
  
  

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• Does anyone have a paint sprayer? -- M&M, 08:19:36 01/22/13 Tue
  I have some projects coming up and I would really like a nice sprayed finish on the pieces...
  
  ...anyone have a cheap one they can recommend that works pretty good? :)
  

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  • Good luck with that M; the thoughts of the clean-up give me nightmares. You are going to need a compressor, perhaps you can rent the equipment. (NT) -- PD, 08:42:03 01/22/13 Tue
    • Scotty has a compressor :) and..... he has his garage partitioned off so I can cover a whole spot with newspaper so it shouldnt be bad. Now cleaning out the paint sprayer I would imagine is a joke and half. (NT) -- M&M, 10:27:14 01/22/13 Tue
  • You will need to practice on something - it is so easy to get drips with a sprayer. (NT) -- beccabee, 09:10:55 01/22/13 Tue
  • I wish you lived closer. My dad has one or two, and he could even give lessons. While he's been a teacher for over 40 years, he painted barns as a teen and has done home construction/remodeling his entire life. I'll e-mail and see what brand sprayer he recommends. (NT) -- Lady_Jane, 09:42:52 01/22/13 Tue
    • Thanks Jane! (NT) -- M&M, 10:28:17 01/22/13 Tue
  • I'm looking forward to hearing about your adventures with a paint sprayer! We are planning on buying one soon as well. Absolutely everything in my house needs to be painted, and after the total re-do of my office I am NOT painting the entire interior of this house without one. Especially my kitchen cabinets. (NT) -- Sorcha, 22:34:05 01/24/13 Thu
  
  

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• All pearls will be cultured. Because pearl divers depleted the natural oyster population so severely it was made illegal. Cultured pearls are formed when a small piece of mother-of-pearl is placed into the oyster and it begins to form layer after layer of nacre around the irritant, creating the pearl. During the formation dyes are often injected, giving a wide variety of colors. The most valuable pearls are perfectly round and matched in color and size with a very thick nacre. To see a beautiful example stop into a jewelry store and ask to see some Mikimoto pearls, if they carry them. The irregular shapes of the baroque pearls are much more readily available in large quantities which is why you do often see them & they are reasonably priced. You should be able to find her some lovely pearls for a very reasonable price. I hope this answers your question, I will check back to see if you have any more. Not trying to be a know it all, I managed a fine jewelry store for 10 years! -- Sorcha, 22:28:34 01/24/13 Thu
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  • I have absolutely NO IDEA how this appeared here AND down below the post I was answering at the same time!!! (NT) -- Sorcha, 22:29:41 01/24/13 Thu
  
  

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• Was anyone able to watch the Oprah/Lance Armstrong interview? -- beccabee, 04:19:42 01/19/13 Sat
  I wasn't able to see it and I am curious if he ever apologized to his children?
  

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  • I am so entirely sick of this I don't have words for it. (Until 2 weeks ago I didn't know who Lance Armstrong was except for beinganother spoiled celebrity forced on a world who doesn't care by a truly obnoxious and pushy publicity company. I had an idea he was an athlete but didn't know the sport. Come on, news media, there are real issues facing your country and the world, lets focus on something important and stop giving air time to people who don't deserve it. (NT) -- jayn (), 06:45:11 01/19/13 Sat
    • I agree with you. My interest was because it seemed like he was bemoaning losing his money and his titles and awards, but I didn't hear anything about disappointing his poor children. (NT) -- beccabee, 09:04:14 01/19/13 Sat
      • He is a bully. Thanks to the people who stripped him of his medals and showed him for the snake he is. He would have continued to lie for the rest of his life if he hadn't gotten caught. I can't believe he has the audacity to say he still wants to race in the future! (NT) -- Judie, 12:13:34 01/19/13 Sat
  • I didn't watch the interview. There are no words to express how uninterested I am in Lance or Oprah or anything they have to say. (NT) -- shy gal, 07:32:32 01/19/13 Sat
  • The heading on my news homepage says he became emotional when discussing admitting doping to his son. I didn't read it further and although I intended to watch it, I forgot to record the first part then realized I really didn't give a crap for two reasons. First, although his accomplishments outstanding and inspirational and deserving of all the attention he received, I just never, ever liked the guy. I found him so arrogant and could never be a fan. Then it all turns out to be a lie (cancer survival and Livestrong notwithstanding) and it all makes sense. Second, I lost so much respect for Oprah when she publicly destroyed James Frey for duping her. Where was her compassion there? And did she destroy Lance or any other cheating athlete she has interviewed the same way? No. And here's a woman who preaches living your authentic life and then photoshops herself down five dress sizes on every magazine cover. What a crock. (NT) -- Jodi YoB, 08:42:42 01/19/13 Sat
    • Amen to that. Never liked the woman. If every author who wrote fabrications, with the complete collusion of their publishers, were excoriated on chat shows, the hosts would all never have time to interview anyone else! Oprah is the personification of Self Righteousness Run Amok. (NT) -- Lemora, 10:05:48 01/19/13 Sat
    • Jodi - I wish somehow your message about James Frey and the double standard of it all could get to her!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I agree totally. Don't care about Lance Armstrong and he should be treated like any other defrauding jerk! (NT) -- Judie, 10:16:30 01/19/13 Sat
      • Ya, double standard is right. I was a fan of hers until she did that to him publicly. It was horrible and I felt ashamed for her. And she loves to quote Maya Angelou all the time and one of them is, "when people show you who they really are, believe them the first time". No shit, Oprah. I felt dragged over to the dark side. *g* (NT) -- Jodi YoB, 16:13:16 01/20/13 Sun
    • ITA Jodi. (NT) -- Tam, 17:10:30 01/22/13 Tue
  • I admit to cheering him on in his Tour de France days. I don't feel duped because while I find it unfortunate that he and the majority of his sport do this, he did bring to the forefront a sport that little knew or cared about and raised a lot of money for cancer research. As for the interview and Oprah, can't stand her, won't watch her by choice and his actions, while deplorable may finally change the way of things for cycling. I try to see the positive in it. I'm still a fan of 'Big George' Hincapie (with or without doping, he completed 17 tours de France-amazing accomplishment) and the sprinters. (NT) -- TracyAnn, 10:43:07 01/19/13 Sat
  • I didn't watch the Oprah interview but saw snippets of it on other shows. I'm disgusted with Lance! I was one who cheered him on back in the day. My ds was diagnosed with testicular cancer 15 years ago and we both took hope and inspiration from Armstrong. It wouldn't be so bad if he just doped but to hear about all the people he took down with law suits and how he treated his former friends when they finally told the truth. Even now he shows no remorse. It's deflating when a sort of personal hero figure turns out to be such a lying despicable human being. (Lucky Sharyl Crow didn't marry his sorry ass;-) (NT) -- M.F., 02:03:17 01/20/13 Sun
  • Any book with "Oprah's Book Club" on the cover is the kiss of death for me. (NT) -- beccabee, 04:40:44 01/20/13 Sun
    • I must be in the minority, but I have to disagree. I've read a number of books from her book club and enjoyed almost every one. Some I never would have picked up. I have a hard time being negative about a person who is trying to be a positive influence on people's reading habits and lives. (NT) -- Lady_Jane, 10:20:50 01/20/13 Sun
      • oooooops (NT) -- beccabee (), 14:23:26 01/20/13 Sun
        • I'm with you, 'becca. I had a friend pass along several Oprah picks to me, and MAN were they depressing. I finally said, No more! (NT) -- SueW, 17:56:57 01/23/13 Wed
    • I appreciate Oprah but have also had bad luck with her literature picks. The two or three I picked up were too depressing. (NT) -- kgp, 13:58:54 01/23/13 Wed
  • Slightly off topic, but I recommend the book Bright Sided which exposes and skewers the whole culture of relentless positive thinking. Oprah is part of the problem. (NT) -- LizT, 07:19:08 01/20/13 Sun
    • Now that looks interesting. Imagine how angry a disabled bipolar person like me gets when some a$$ says, "Just think positive!" (NT) -- beccabee, 13:34:15 01/20/13 Sun
    • When I was a kid in the 1950's, the 'du jour' book was "The Power Of Positive Thinking" by Norman Vincent Peale. Adlai Stevenson quipped, "I find Paul appealing and Peale appalling." (The reference was to the Gospel of Paul.) Author Ishmael Reed caricatures OW as Okra Hippo in a book, the name of which I've forgotten. (NT) -- Lemora, 23:14:36 01/20/13 Sun
  • I'm curious if his doping may have contributed to his cancer? I'd like to see if there will be any studies done in regards to it. Not downplaying cancer at all, nor am I saying he caused his own cancer, just a curious mind here. I didn't watch the interview either, mostly because I can't find the OWN channel on my tv since I never watch it. TMZ did a nice sum up of the interview and I got my info from there. (NT) -- LadyBelle, 18:26:56 01/20/13 Sun
    • LadyBelle I had the same thoughts as you! We watched the first part because my DH is a cyclist and wanted to see "how" Lance came clean. Our best sum up was that we were glad he did not point fingers at anyone else and took the responsibility and did not name any other names like blaming the doctor or other teammates. He just kept repeating he did it and it was his fault and his responsibility and he was not going to blame anyone else. THAT I respect even if I don't respect what led to the confession. (NT) -- BetsyG, 10:03:46 01/21/13 Mon
  
  

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• Cheap and (mostly) healthy dinner ideas -- JenK, 07:44:10 01/15/13 Tue
  I'm in need of some assistance. My DH's paycheck is smaller now (as is the case with many people in the new year) and our already very thin grocery budget is now almost impposible to find anything healthy and cheap. We can no longer afford meat. 3-4 chicken breasts are now $6-$8, ground beef that is leaner is now $5-$6 for a pound. We are eating mostly pasta (which normally I would love but can't stomach now and it's causing me to gain weight). Does anyone have a recipe that is at least sort of healthy and is cheap that they would be willing to share? I'm trying to do my grocery list and am sitting here frustrated and in tears because everything is over our budget of now $100 a week to feed a family of 4 that includes lunches for my 7 year old to take to school. I'm mostly eating cereal for lunch and my 3 year old is eating a lot of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. My DH takes leftovers if we have any, otherwise it's a bologna sandwich. Idea would be greatly appreciated.
  

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  • Jen, do you use websites like CouponMom to get coupons for grocery items? They can save a ton of money. My mom was the best at stretching a dollar with five kids in the 50s and 60s; she used regular ground beef in dishes, cooked and drained off the fat. (You can also rinse it after cooking). She made hamburger gravy to put on top of pancakes that was awesome, made like chipped beef with milk, flour, etc. She'd buy the least expensive pot roast and cook it with veggies and it would last for two or three meals. I'm sorry; it's frustrating trying to plan on a very limited budget but try those coupon sites and product websites for special offers and discount coupons. (NT) -- JudyL, 08:14:19 01/15/13 Tue
    • JudyL, I've checked those sites before but we don't have ink in our printers to print the coupons. (NT) -- JenK, 08:54:20 01/15/13 Tue
      • I can relate. I have been buying greeting cards because I don't want to spend the money on new print cartridges. (NT) -- beccabee, 09:25:52 01/15/13 Tue
      • Can you save the coupons to your phone? (NT) -- Patricia, 10:21:54 01/15/13 Tue
  • Eggs are econical and good source of protein as well as a versatile component in recipes. Legumes are really cheap and easy to prepare; don't buy the canned, buy dry and soak them. Cooking from scratch can save so much money. DH and I calculated the other day that the $34 pizza that gives us 2 meals ordererd out I can make for $11. Visit your library and get books on grains, legumes and breadmaking; you will learn new skills and save money as well as eat better! The other good thing to make is soups; hearty and filling with, if you like a small amount of meat. I make soup every week and alternate with salads for lunch. (NT) -- PD, 08:20:36 01/15/13 Tue
  • Eggs are fantastic protein, using them for frittata is my favourite way and you can add loads of different veg. Chicken pieces are usually loads cheaper than breasts and make lovely casseroles. Or an old favourite of jacket potatoes with cheese and butter and maybe bacon? (NT) -- Em, 08:40:50 01/15/13 Tue
  • Can you sign your son up for free or reduced lunches at school? (NT) -- conmama, 08:48:03 01/15/13 Tue
    • conmama, our daughter does't qualify for the program. My DH makes "too" much. We are in the "lost"group. We aren't poor enough to get government assistance. We fall into the group that makes too much for help but we don't make enough to make ends meet. Go figure. If anyone has recipes, that would be very helpful. That's actually my reason for posting. (NT) -- JenK, 08:58:28 01/15/13 Tue
      • I know Chili is simple, but here's my recipe. I still have my grocery bill in my wallet, so have the exact price of items...see inside.... -- conmama, 09:42:14 01/15/13 Tue
        • I disagree about cereal...many peole have said before that it's the most expensive breakfast but I have never found that. $10 for cereal feeds my 4 kids breakfast for a week (and it's where they get their milk),,,if I did eggs and toast for the 4 of them every day it would cost me about $15 (NT) -- Ceilidh, 12:26:09 01/15/13 Tue
          • That may be true. I"m comparing small kids to my two teenage boys, who go thru a box a day. At $3 average a box, that's $21 per week just for breakfast. (NT) -- conmama, 14:27:16 01/15/13 Tue
            • Oh we go through at least 4+ boxes a week...but I buy generic, on sale, with coupons or warehouse boxes...works out to about $10 a week...I spend the same on 4 gallons of milk for the week...and they only get it for breakfast too. (they have milk with lunch at school) (NT) -- Ceilidh, 15:24:39 01/15/13 Tue
  • Laura's Lean beef generally runs $4/lb. Also, you can purchase a whole chicken with skin on, or even just breasts with skin on that is cheaper. Chili is a good, inexpensive meal that can last for 2 days for a family of 4. You can also talk to the butcher at your grocery store and find out when they typically put certain meats on sale. Our store has just started a program where you can download coupons onto the card the store has that reduces prices of items. (NT) -- conmama, 09:01:24 01/15/13 Tue
  • Eggs. We eat a LOT of eggs. We get five dozen at Walmart (yep, it's what we can afford) and that helps with protein. Let me know if you want some good, cheap egg recipes. <3 (NT) -- LindaT, 09:16:19 01/15/13 Tue
    • I'd love some egg recipes Linda. Aubrey loves eggs, Em is picky and eats them when she feels like it :) (NT) -- JenK, 11:34:04 01/16/13 Wed
    • Linda, do you make the Israeli dish Shakshuka? http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2010/04/shakshuka/ It's delicious and something when I have some spaghetti sauce (best with gr beef in it) leftover, I will just throw the sauce in a casserole dish, crack the eggs in it and bake it until set. Sprinkle with Parmesan, if you like. (NT) -- Reilly, 04:21:15 01/19/13 Sat
      • Reilly, this sounds like something my Sicilian sister-in-law makes but I have no idea what she called it. She sometimes added a layer of seasoned breadcrumbs. It was delicious. Thanks for the memory. (NT) -- CathyS, 06:31:40 01/19/13 Sat
  • We have a lot of rice dishes here because my DH can handle them well. I use Jasmine rice or white rice and use canned chicken or beef stock instead of the water. Take one chicken thigh or one sausage or half a pound of ground beef for the protein and your favorite vegetables. What I do is brown the meat, add seasonings, add vegetables and cook thoroughly and then put in the broth and the rice and cook it all together. It is a cheap one dish meal. (NT) -- beccabee (), 09:29:24 01/15/13 Tue
    • Thanks Beccabee! I'll try that one... my DH would love it. (NT) -- JenK, 11:35:01 01/16/13 Wed
  • JenK, try almond butter as an alternative to peanut butter. Two favorite dishes make a protein complement: rice and beans (one of my favorites) and potato cabbage curry: stir fry potatoes, chopped cabbage, curry powder in some oil. I like to add mustard seeds. You can also add meat, onions and garlic. A good cookbook with cheap, healthy meals is Frances Moore Lappe's "Diet For A Small Planet." Raw sunflower seeds are loaded with nutrients. Sprinkle them on things. (NT) -- Lemora, 09:38:29 01/15/13 Tue
    • Thanks Lamora... Aubrey can't have almond butter and we tend to stay away from nuts. She is allergic to cashews and with it being a tree nut, we tend to not eat any tree nuts in our house. She loves peanut butter though and is ok with peanuts. Can't send her to school with it though cause she eats at a nut free table. (NT) -- JenK, 11:36:55 01/16/13 Wed
  • check the sale sections in the meat dept. They often put meat at greatly reduced prices if it is about to expire but it is still good. Freeze it right away if you're not going to use it that day. Also day old bread is often reduced. Ask the produce manager what they do with produce about to be taken off the shelves. Sometimes they will save some for you. The dairy section also has older products reduced. Dried legumes are very cheap and very nutritious. I can make a big pot of lentil soup for pennies and it is good for you and filling. (NT) -- J, 10:17:21 01/15/13 Tue
    • Lentil soup...I also put cook in with the lentils the following: chopped up carrots, onion, small potatoes and ham if I have any around. Make som corn bread to go with it. (NT) -- conmama, 10:21:41 01/15/13 Tue
  • Also tunafish or egg salad make cheap and healthy sandwiches if you all like these. (NT) -- J, 10:21:48 01/15/13 Tue
  • 80% lean beef (the fat stuff *g*) is $2.59 a pound at Trader Joe's (the cheapest place around here)...and up to $3.50 at other stores. Where are you people buying your ground beef?? ;) Buy the fat stuff and drain it...I had an aunt who would cook it...drain it...RINSE it in water (eww) and then heat it back up. I put 1 lb of beef in my macaroni/hamburger /tomato soup casserole...only 1 lb in my chili (with 4 cans of bean and 2 cans of tomato sauce)...and often less than a pound in my enchilada casserole. Stretch it...you can do it hon. We don't eat meat every day...never have. The only meat in my freezer is typically ground beef...sometimes a bit of chicken. I should send you my Lazy Chicken recipe...uses bone-in chicken thighs which are the cheapest cuts I think. (NT) -- Ceilidh, 12:33:02 01/15/13 Tue
    • Thanks Ceilidh! Those sound like meals my picky family will eat. (NT) -- JenK, 11:39:22 01/16/13 Wed
  • Do you have access to Food Network? Melissa D'Arabian has a whole show based on dinners for 4 for $10. Website info inside >>> -- kgp, 13:00:56 01/15/13 Tue
    • Gonna check out this site! Thanks!! (NT) -- JenK, 11:40:26 01/16/13 Wed
  • I've been meaning to try a lentil soup too, Jen. On the subject of soup, perhaps a split pea with ham? I agree with the egg suggestion; if I think of anything else, I will FB you. Hugs. (NT) -- ErinD, 13:36:05 01/15/13 Tue
  • I am sorry you're having such a hard time making ends meet! ALDI is about the best place to get inexpensive food here, but I don't know if you have one near. Someone even wrote a cookbook with dishes entirely made of ALDI items - no idea if this helps. I often do some "all in one pan" dishes, where I use rice or potatoes and add veggies of the season which are less expensive and sometimes ground meat. Jacket potatoes with herb spiced curd are a favorite in my house just like mashed potatoes with apple sauce. (NT) -- Oatcake, 13:46:54 01/15/13 Tue
    • Did you take a look at www.cheapcooking.com? (NT) -- Oatcake, 13:56:39 01/15/13 Tue
    • We have ALDI in MIchigan - I'd say it's highly likely they're in Ohio too. (NT) -- ScarlettO, 17:16:29 01/15/13 Tue
  • Buy whole chicken (cheaper by the pound than chicken breasts) when it's on special and learn how to cut it up; it's easy. Those of, ahem, a certain age remember when this was the only way chicken was sold and what we did (and still do) to it. Freeze the backbone in a bag and add scraps and bones, cooked or not to it, doesn't matter. When the bag is full make your own stock (zillions of recipes online). It's much more nutritious than plain water to make soup and wrings out the last nickel's worth of value from the chicken. Buy a cheaper grade of ground meat, on special, and after browning it, drain the fat. When you buy the leanest grade, you are paying for the convenience of not having to drain the fat after it's browned. Why? Buy beans in bags and follow the soaking directions before using them in recipes. (NT) -- Joyce Mc, 14:32:28 01/15/13 Tue
  • I recently made lasagna (1 lb. gd turkey, 1 box lasagna noodles, 1 lb. shredded cheese, 1 gal of milk to make ricotta, 1 pkg. cream cheese, 3 jars sauce, onions, spices)every item bought on sale and it lasted my family of 4 for 4 meals. Total cost was about $18, so a little over a $1 per person. Meat is rarely served here as a 'main dish' - it's in casseroles, in pastas, with beans and rice, etc. I very, very rarely buy anything not on sale and when it's cheap I buy lots and freeze it. For instance pork loin goes on sale for less than $2/lb frequently - it's cut up and turned into stir fries, casseroles, etc. If we have company I might roast a whole one. Whole chickens are stewed and made into chicken and noodles, the breasts saved out for casseroles later. It CAN be done, but you have to commit to only buying on sale and making meals that stretch. Good luck with it, I know it's been a rough road for you, Jen. Hugs and a kid friendly, cheap chicken and noodle recipe inside.>>> -- Maria, 16:27:55 01/15/13 Tue
  • We do a lot of soups, especially because they can be frozen and saved for later dates, and with noodles, are very filling. Inside for a couple of family favs >>> -- LadyStormwing, 19:25:23 01/15/13 Tue
    • Thanks!! (NT) -- JenK, 11:45:22 01/16/13 Wed
  • The advice for draining the ground beef is wise. Don't just tip the pan to drain it - actually dump it into a strainer/colander and give it a stir. You will be amazed at what comes out. Also, the chicken thighs are good - buy them skinless or peel off the skins before cooking. Stretching meat with rice, noodles or vegetables is a good way to make it go farther. A simple stir fry can be made with chicken, pork, or beef - sliced thin - and a bag of frozen vegetables. Season with garlic, soy sauce and thicken with corn starch if desired. Serve with rice and you've got dinner. Faster than most meals and a good way to get kids to eat vegetables they might not usually care for. Slice two oranges in thin half-circles and each person get half an orange - it makes a nice refreshing palate cleanser after dinner and replaces dessert. inside > > > > > -- CathyS, 20:44:54 01/15/13 Tue
  • Thought of another cheap dinner - Potato Soup with Ham, again, it makes a big pot, freezes well and is a good comfort food meal for this cold weather! Recipe inside. >>> -- Maria, 03:53:38 01/16/13 Wed
  • Stew. Brown your stew meat in oil, add water, beef broth or bullion, can of tomato paste, sauce, whatever you have in the house, potatoes, celery and carrots, I also add green beans and mushrooms. I season the meat heavily when I brown it and then add a bay leaf when its cooking. Ive also read people buy the cheaper ground beef and then run hot water through it. Jen I feel for you, I grew up in a family of 8 and my dad never gave my mom money so she was the master of cooking on the cheap. (NT) -- M&M, 06:58:59 01/16/13 Wed
  • Oh and Jen.... buy that high fiber pasta and you shouldnt put on weight with it..its a bit more but less than meat. (NT) -- M&M, 07:00:44 01/16/13 Wed
    • Thanks M&M! We switched to wheat pasta. Is this the same thing? (NT) -- JenK, 11:47:30 01/16/13 Wed
      • I dont care for the taste of wheat pasta and prefer the high fiber white stuff. *g* (NT) -- M&M, 14:14:14 01/16/13 Wed
        • It's made by Barilla - my favorite pasta company. If you catch the sales it's $1 a box! (NT) -- Maria, 17:26:14 01/16/13 Wed
        • Ohhhh, hahaha!! I was wondering how the queen of white bread loved whole wheat pasta but it's the high fibre white you like! It's taking me a very long time to like whole wheat pasta but my kids prefer it so that's a good thing, I guess. Blech, I say, but glad they do. (NT) -- Jodi YoB, 18:20:01 01/16/13 Wed
  • I use ground turkey for things like spaghetti sauce and chili. It's cheaper than beef *and* has less fat. (NT) -- LizT, 07:27:04 01/16/13 Wed
  • I just made a cheap Italian Wedding soup - very hearty. You can probably add whatever veggies you want. Essentially you just sautee a finely chopped onion in a pan until soft, pour in 8-10 cups of chicken broth, make some meatballs with ground beef/an egg/a couple tbsp of breadcrumbs/spices and add to the pot of boiling broth. Chop up some kale finely (it's not pricey and it has a ton of nutrients in it) and toss that in after 10 minutes of boiling. Add a pasta or couscous (israeli couscous is my favourite because it doesn't get mushy and it expands a ton so it is very hearty). Stir in some parmesean cheese (the store bought kind in a plastic container works the best), if you have it. Done! (NT) -- AngieC, 08:09:01 01/16/13 Wed
  • Many of these recipes are calling for chicken or beef broth. You can buy the canned or carton of broth at the supermarket, but, I have found that some of the products at Dollar Tree are just as good. So, the chicken broth is a quart container for $1. Much less expensive than the supermarket. Also, dry soup mixes like chicken noodle and onion soup are only $1 a package there - and sometimes have 3 envelopes in them instead of the 2 you get from Lipton. inside > > > > -- CathyS, 10:06:37 01/16/13 Wed
    • I like the Lipton soup mix garlic and herb for potatoes - cut into wedges, drizzle with olive oil, toss with your hands, add an envelope of the soup mix and about three tablespoons of cornstarch (makes them crispier) then toss again. Roast at 400F until crispy about 20-25 minutes. I like to put them on parchment paper so they don't stick. Also I use an envelope of it in the 3# package of ground turkey for turkey burgers, along with finely chopped onion and red pepper - I always get "yums!" on the turkey burgers! (NT) -- Maria, 17:30:52 01/16/13 Wed
  • Trying to think of recipes..but just wanted to give you a huge hug (((((((((((((JenK))))))))))) (NT) -- MaryJ, 10:55:19 01/16/13 Wed
  • One other thing I thought of, since I've started seeing seeds in the stores - do you garden? Even a couple of tomato plants and some lettuce in pots would supplement your table and it's a fun learning activity for the kids. (NT) -- Maria, 22:25:03 01/16/13 Wed
  • Women's Day magazine used to have a menu planner feature to get the most out of your budget. That might be in your public library. (NT) -- kgp, 13:51:32 01/17/13 Thu
  • I am relly late to the conversation, but wanted to join in too :) One good tip is to always buy what is in the season. The difference in prices of veggies and fruits can be big. It is also an environmental choice. We eat a lot of veggies, soy and fish since three of us don't eat meat at all and my son really does not eat fish either. Soy is inexpensive and a good source for protein. It is also lean. My favourite is lentil soup for which>> -- Wilhelmiina, 03:22:21 01/21/13 Mon
  
  

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• TGIF Lallybroch. What's happening in your neck of the woods this long weekend, for some? -- Lady Lukkarinen, 05:39:32 01/18/13 Fri
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  • Central Florida Highland Games Saturday, then off to Miami so my daughter can meet one of her favorite authors on Sunday. On the road all weekend! (Thankfully, Monday is a down day!) (NT) -- LindaT, 06:29:45 01/18/13 Fri
  • Bit of a panic here as DH is having surgery Tuesday, fitted in from a cancellation, so we are trying to finish up the storage for my studio. Then rearranging EVERYTHING, akkkkk and waiting hand and foot on DH. (NT) -- PD, 07:45:52 01/18/13 Fri
    • Good luck to DH and calming vibes to you hon. (NT) -- LL, 08:24:02 01/18/13 Fri
    • (((((((the DH))))))) (NT) -- beccabee, 12:57:16 01/18/13 Fri
    • ack good luck to ya PD! (NT) -- BetsyG, 16:02:24 01/18/13 Fri
  • Going to see Broken City this afternoon and then a stop at Moe's SW Grill for dinner (date day). Nothing special on the weekend. Watch the AFC and NFC playoff games and cook something Sunday...not sure what yet, have to go "shopping" in the freezer! Have a great weekend Lallyland! (NT) -- CarolE, 09:48:14 01/18/13 Fri
  • DS is coming home from college to work on a car, and we're having friends over Saturday for dinner. Not sure what I'm going to feed them yet........ probably pork loin. :) So, today I'm cleaning and writing checks and trying to get at least a few corners of clutter cleaned up! (NT) -- Maria, 10:18:48 01/18/13 Fri
  • 4 - YES I said 4 day weekend for us! I have Friday off, + Monday's MLK Holiday. As far as plans... A little sewing, a little bread making, and Monday - a quilt show. =) (NT) -- Donna Mc, 11:06:08 01/18/13 Fri
  • Homework for the most part and trying to avoid getting sick. Dance concert Saturday night; church sometime this weekend. (NT) -- Lady Allison, 12:02:05 01/18/13 Fri
  • Unpacking from our trip, laundry, cleaning, bills, and AFC/NFC championship games on Sunday. Go Patriots!!! (NT) -- LP, 12:19:18 01/18/13 Fri
  • Have to give the Bichon and the Lhasa girls haircuts so they look decent for getting their shots on Monday. Depending on how squirmy they are, this will take an hour or so. Then BATHS. (NT) -- beccabee (), 12:56:03 01/18/13 Fri
  • Since I am finally over the flu for the most part, we are going to the movies. Otherwise lots of cleaning and organizing. I think we'll rearrange the FROG (finished room over the garage) (NT) -- Tam, 13:04:12 01/18/13 Fri
  • Depending on the snow, Flyball competition on Sunday. Watching though, not taking part, cos Pablo is mostly retired now. DH is racing Rico though. (NT) -- Margy, 14:34:13 01/18/13 Fri
  • I'm in Munich, putting furniture together, installing lights on ceilings, buying more furniture, washing bedlinen and towels, looking up TVs and dishwashers online... but this week-end I'll be doing it with DS#1 and maybe a friend of mine. (NT) -- Patricia, 15:20:34 01/18/13 Fri
  • Nothing, nothing amd more nothing. (NT) -- LadyDuBois, 15:42:58 01/18/13 Fri
    • That's my kind of weekend; hope you enjoy the nothing :) (NT) -- MaryJ, 19:44:42 01/18/13 Fri
  • church budget meeting tomorrow at 7-effing-30 AM. (NT) -- kgp, 17:32:00 01/18/13 Fri
  • Saturday loading the uhaul and Sunday moving from northern Michigan to southern Louisiana!! (NT) -- Carrie R, 03:55:42 01/19/13 Sat
    • Carrie I didn't realize this actually happened for your family! I remember you asking about it! Good luck! (NT) -- BetsyG, 07:04:37 01/19/13 Sat
    • Wow that's quite a move! Good luck in your new home! (NT) -- Maria, 10:23:45 01/19/13 Sat
    • Good Luck with your move. (NT) -- LisaW, 12:38:04 01/19/13 Sat
    • WOW!! Talk about culture shock!! Good luck, safe travels and Happy landings! (NT) -- CarolE, 20:33:01 01/19/13 Sat
  
  

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• TGIF. What's on the agenda for the weekend? -- Lady Lukkarinen, 06:24:50 01/11/13 Fri
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  • I'm driving to Munich on Sunday and Monday, with a stopover near Geneva, where a good friend lives (one of the French hosers). Unfortunately, the bad weather that they had been forecasting for Friday and Saturday is a day late, so I'll probably have snow to deal with on Sunday and fog on Monday. Well, can't really help it. If it's too bad, I'll just stay where I am. I'm taking our young US workawayer with me, but she can't drive, that's why we're doing it in two days. DS1 will also be coming, haven't seen him since September and very much looking forward to it. Saturday will be spent packing and cooking meals for DH and DS2 to have while I'm gone. (NT) -- Patricia, 06:40:11 01/11/13 Fri
    • (((((((safety vibes for pat and family))))))) (NT) -- beccabee, 06:50:01 01/11/13 Fri
    • Sounds like a nice trip. Hope the weather is kind to you. (NT) -- Fiona, 10:17:38 01/11/13 Fri
    • Be safe Pat x (NT) -- Margy, 13:15:08 01/11/13 Fri
  • "Play date" with a GS this afternoon, tomorrow I have a Red Hat Tea Party and tomorrow night watching the Packers take on the 49'ers. Sunday, cookin' and chillin'. Have a great weekend Lallyland! (NT) -- CarolE, 07:11:49 01/11/13 Fri
  • I am going to see the PRINCESS DIANA exhibit! I loved her when she came on the scene, I love her still. I cannot WAIT to see her wedding dress!!!!!! (NT) -- conmama, 07:22:12 01/11/13 Fri
    • I saw the exhibit last June when it was here in Twin Cities! It was great! I went alone, so none of my family would be nagging to hurry up. Loved it! The curators said the exhibit I saw is one of the few places where there is enough room to spread her bridal train full-length (it's long!) even at Althorpe it is folded for space. I enjoyed the home movies & her school girl things - she grew up very near where my MIL grew up & DH's relatives still live. It was worth the price of the extra audiophone tour, too. Hope you have a good time, conmama! (NT) -- MaryJ, 11:20:49 01/11/13 Fri
      • It was wonderful! Her train was spead out not folded. If they did fold it, I wouldn't have known. It was in Louisville, KY. I would have liked so spend a little more time, I did fell a tad bit rushed, I was with my sister. I spent about 30 minutes in the gown room, loved the music they plays. I also really enjoyed the headphone...inside -- conmama, 08:47:04 01/13/13 Sun
        • The gown room was a favorite of mine, too. So glad you liked the exhibit. I was not ever a fan of her wedding dress (so that didn't disappoint me) but I was surprised in how tarnished (dark??) her wedding tiara looked at the exhibit - it looked so much better in the videos, to me. I loved seeing the clips of home movies too! Her gowns were so beautiful, I spent a longtime there, too. Man, her hips were narrow :) (NT) -- MaryJ, 19:10:39 01/19/13 Sat
    • I would love to see this exhibit. Do you know if it is coming to any Canadian Cities? (NT) -- LL, 12:19:59 01/11/13 Fri
      • Yes, just read that it will be in Edmonton, Canada from Feb thru June 2013. Hope you live close by! (NT) -- conmama, 11:05:28 01/14/13 Mon
    • I would love to see that exhibit! Enjoy... :) (NT) -- Patricia, 14:40:35 01/12/13 Sat
    • You'll love it! I saw it when it was in Grand Rapids, and it was stunning. The jewels section of the exhibit is breath-taking as well. I went alone for the exact reason listed above - I could take as long as I wanted! :) (NT) -- Lady_Jane, 18:35:53 01/12/13 Sat
      • That one portrait of her paternal grandmother looked just like her, didn't it? I loved the tiaras, especially the one at the beginning. I wish they had put home many carats were in them, though. (NT) -- conmama, 08:49:46 01/13/13 Sun
        • Yes, they certainly did. :) (NT) -- Lady_Jane, 10:29:48 01/13/13 Sun
    • I saw it too. My souvenir was a tea mug from her named china pattern. I enjoy using it often. (NT) -- AngieLass, 20:03:43 01/12/13 Sat
  
  

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• With all the talk of royalty in the posts, I'm surprised there hasn't been any mention of Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge's first formal portrait. Like or dislike? -- conmama, 08:37:50 01/16/13 Wed
  I wasn't crazy about it. He got some things right, but I didn't like how full her face looked or her mouth. He should have had a full smile or no smile. I thought it made her look cynical and older than she is.
  
  Her hair and eyes were pretty and a good likeness. Eyes up and hair...a like. Further down...a dislike.
  

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  • I saw only a very small picture of it so not too much to go on, but my overall impression was that it was very drab, so unlike the young woman. (NT) -- Florence (), 10:16:45 01/16/13 Wed
    • Yes, kind of like those slab faced royal portraits from times gone by. (NT) -- beccabee, 10:31:16 01/16/13 Wed
    • I thought--Maybe that's how she really looks at home, when she isn't smiling broadly for the camera or the public. (NT) -- Susannah, 11:49:32 01/16/13 Wed
  • A bit stern, I thought. But then it also reminded me of her face during her wedding ceremony which although some smiles and light moments, her face was all business and showed, I thought, he serious she was taking it. So, I guess that's her professional face and I guess okay for the future queen. She is much prettier than that though.. (NT) -- Jodi YoB, 11:49:05 01/16/13 Wed
  • I think it was like someone took a snapshot and then quickly painted it. It's ok. Really could have been better. (NT) -- JenK, 11:57:00 01/16/13 Wed
    • I agree, except they didn't even photoshop out the bags under her eyes. Come on, old royal paintings are said to look very little like the actual people because the actual people weren't all that pretty. Can't they at least take a pretty one and make her as pretty as she is? (NT) -- Reilly, 04:17:39 01/19/13 Sat
  • I don't care for the royal portrait of Kate at all. But I LOVE her style! Especially the simplicity of her wedding dress compared to Diana's which wore her, instead of the other way 'round. (NT) -- Lemora, 16:35:29 01/16/13 Wed
  • It looked too hazy and dark, and her face had a very pinched look. I don't think it showed her to advantage at all. (NT) -- Nifty, 16:49:38 01/16/13 Wed
  • The first glance I had of the photo I thought "what is wrong with her mouth?" It's not an "awful" portrait, but I dont think it captures her "spirit" correctly. (NT) -- CarolSR, 05:16:10 01/17/13 Thu
  • Her mouth is weird and they didn't even fix up the bags underneath her eyes. Her hair is the only thing that looks great in the painting. I have a feeling she loathes seeing it. ;) (NT) -- Reilly, 21:45:49 01/18/13 Fri
  
  

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• OK, am I the only one in the whole world who liked the Broadway show of Les Miz more than the movie? I think I might be. I liked the movie a lot, and would watch it again. It just didn't move me the same way. I can't figure out why I feel this way. Perhaps it's seeing a live performance, who knows? My favorite scenes were "Master of the House" and the final scene before it ended..those were more like a broadway musical, maybe that's why. -- conmama, 10:29:29 01/08/13 Tue
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  • I definitely liked the show better than the movie. The movie is almost like a whole separate entity to me. Except for the familiarity of the characters and the songs. I look at it the way I look at Harry Potter (or anything else that spans across different mediums): It enhances my experience and my love for it. But it doesn't replace it. ;o) (NT) -- LindaT, 13:03:49 01/08/13 Tue
    • Good analogy! And I'm glad I'm not the only one. (NT) -- conmama, 14:32:11 01/08/13 Tue
      • Thanks, conmama! ;o) (NT) -- LindaT, 08:30:14 01/09/13 Wed
  • Seeing a Broadway show live is such a different experience. I enjoyed the movie very much...but I don't think you can compare "movie actors" singing to stage actors who sing every night for a living. The vocal quality and range are so different. I've seen Les Mis multiple times and the music brings me to tears...especially "Bring Him Home." (NT) -- CarolSR, 17:02:12 01/08/13 Tue
  • p.s. - I would never buy the movie soundtrack... I would buy an original Broadway CD to hear the professionals. (NT) -- CarolSR, 17:03:36 01/08/13 Tue
  • Hm. I didn't like the Broadway show and won't go see the movie, but I loved the book! :) (NT) -- Patricia, 05:11:57 01/09/13 Wed
    • Pat, I was trying to have a conversation with the new French nanny about Les Miserables on Monday. I had just seen it and asked if she had seen it (trying to make stilted conversation with her limited English). She said that in France they don't have musical versions of it, only plays and lots of movie versions. But she is from Burgundy, so maybe they have the musical in Paris? I have not seen the stage version of the musical. I thought the movie was very well done, but I am not a huge fan of musicals, period. My mentality on that one is "when are these people going to stop singing and dancing and get back to the story"? ; ) Not realizing that Les Mis has no spoken lines, only singing, I had to quickly adjust my thinking on this one. (NT) -- Reilly, 05:28:37 01/09/13 Wed
      • I saw it in NYC 20 years ago and it didn't make any lasting impression on me. Only that I thought "huh? what was that? why would they make this musical?" Les Misérables is a serious book, a classic. It's as if they did a musical version of David Copperfield... it just doesn't make much sense to me. If I want to see a sad story in singing, I'll go to the opera. I believe musicals should be fun and I'd rather see some old Astaire/Kelly/Sinatra/etc. musicals on film again. The Misérables movie is coming here, too, but the reviews I've read are so horrible that I don't want to see it. We have lots of French musicals and some of the American ones come here, too. (NT) -- Patricia (), 05:43:39 01/10/13 Thu
        • I sort of agree. I thought it was very well done, but it isn't one that I would want to see multiple times. I'm glad I saw it on bigscreen, and I did enjoy it, but I don't have any great longing to see it again. Not even on stage, really. (NT) -- Reilly, 06:17:00 01/10/13 Thu
          • I loved the show and loved the movie. Seen it twice already and it only came out on Friday over here. Guess its all down to personal taste isnt it? (NT) -- Gwen, 06:07:15 01/16/13 Wed
        • Was thinking about what you said about David Copperfield but isn't that exactly what they did with Oliver Twist and that's massively popular? (NT) -- Gwen, 23:35:34 01/16/13 Wed
    • My DH doesn't even remember the show (been about 20 years), so that tells you how much of an impact it made on him. He reluctantly went to the movie with me. He said after 15 minutes, he thought he was going to actually have to leave he didn't think he could sit there and listen to the singing, but after a few minutes more he became intrigued with the story and ended up giving it a 9.5 out of 10. I was shocked. Anyway, you might enjoy the movie if you didn't the the show. (NT) -- conmama, 05:33:14 01/09/13 Wed
      • My boyfriend surprisingly gave it rave reviews, too. I was worried because he checked his watch a couple of times. But when I asked what he thought he said he said it was great to see some real talent in a movie, for once. I thought the vocal performances were pretty great for the most part. And Sacha Baron Cohen stole the show for me. I thought it was interesting that he was the only one who faked a French accent, while others faked British accents, and he was one of the few British actors in it. But then his character is meant to be sort of comical, so I guess he could get away with it. While if the other ones faked a French accent, it might come off unintentionally comical. (NT) -- Reilly, 06:29:56 01/09/13 Wed
  • I appreciated the extensive sets and settings you could get with the movie that are just not possible in the stage production. The realistic effects such as the sewer scenes and scrubbing the blood soaked streets the bad teeth and hair (when accurate) so moving! No you can't compare the vocal quality however some performances, such as Anne Hathaway's I Dreamed a Dream -even more moving due to the close ups and allowance for editing. IMHO (NT) -- BetsyG, 06:19:25 01/09/13 Wed
  • I saw the live version in London (UK) about three years ago. After 30 minutes I kept looking at my watch waiting for it to end. Maybe it's just me, I've seen other shows in London and prefer those which are more lively and happy. I loved 'We Will Rock You ' , 'Billy Elliot' and 'Dirty Dancing'. I'd see them all agin but not Les Mis. (NT) -- Kirsten, 14:25:20 01/12/13 Sat
  
  

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• So who is watching the current season of Downton Abbey? So far out of 2 episodes, I am feeling a little bit disappointed. I am not as excited as I was on seasons 1 and 2. Does anyone else feel the same way? -- LynnB, 19:28:57 01/15/13 Tue
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  • I'm watching. I've stayed pretty much unspoiled for the storylines, so I'm still interested in what's happening. Getting a little tired of the Bates in prison part, but the rest is ok. I'm not ready to give up on it yet. (NT) -- Rosemarie, 20:22:26 01/15/13 Tue
  • Keep going with it! It gets better, I promise! (NT) -- Em, 22:03:22 01/15/13 Tue
  • I like the first two episodes of Season 3. Please, just get Bates out of prison, let him stop being a martyr and settle down with Anna. That storyline is really getting tiresome. However, I am ambivalent about the rest of Season 3. (NT) -- Lemora, 22:09:32 01/15/13 Tue
  • I loved the Season Opener with Shirley McLaine. The banter between the two women were great, love all the zingers. I also loved the wedding, the one daughter coming back with the footman husband. How they handled that at the dinner. I think it was one of the best ever. Saying that, I also don't like the Bate's in prison storyline and they need to bring that to an end. My favorite Maggie quote that resonates from this last one "Vulgarity is no sustitute for wit". Love it! (NT) -- conmama, 05:14:30 01/16/13 Wed
  • I've been enjoying it - especially the Sybil & Edith storylines - but I feel like Shirley MacLaine is a bit miscast. Her interaction with the family seems off, as an American of that time, wouldn't she be pretty pleased to have titled family members? I like Matthew's mother alot, she keeps up with Maggie Smith. And yes, please give Bates a get out of jail card!! (NT) -- HollyC, 06:08:03 01/16/13 Wed
    • Yes! FREE BATES! (NT) -- LizT, 07:27:55 01/16/13 Wed
    • To be honest, I'm not sure what the American sensibilities were at that time towards foreign aristocracies. But I did love the banter in that show! Actually, what didn't ring true to me was the relationship between Shirley and her daughter Cora. It seemed as if they weren't related at all, there wasn't much talk between them let alone any affection. I thought that part could have been written with more interest. (NT) -- conmama, 08:35:36 01/16/13 Wed
      • I think Martha Levinson, as played by Shirley MacLaine, is more than a match for Maggie Smith's Violet Grantham any day. I think SM is very well cast. Remember, she's a parvenu, not born with a silver foot in her mouth. And I agree that Martha and Cora don't seem to have any relationship at all, let alone DNA in common, as portrayed in episode one. (NT) -- Lemora, 16:40:50 01/16/13 Wed
  • I'm enjoying it - my first time to see it in real time (watched other seasons on Netflix & DVD). Don't mind that Bates in in jail, but I hope they give a definite resolution as to what happened w/the ex; so far they are playing it as he could have done it, but not for sure. I'm enjoying all the banter. The storyline about Mary being angry w/Matthew about not taking Lavinia's money was slightly grating on me - glad that hasn't been dragged out. I just love Julian Fellowes' storytelling abilities (he also did Monarch of the Glen). (NT) -- MaryJ, 10:50:45 01/16/13 Wed
    • And it did seem a little contrived that Lavinia had actually gotten a letter out praising Matthew's honor as she lay dying. But I'm glad it freed him up to save Downton!! I was a little disappointed in Shirley MacClaine's protrayal, but absolutely love Maggie Smith and everything else about this wonderful show. (NT) -- Kathy in PA, 11:31:17 01/16/13 Wed
      • Julian Fellowes only was an actor on MOTG but he is a great storyteller :) (he did do Gosford Park) (NT) -- Ceilidh, 11:36:04 01/16/13 Wed
        • Well, I'll be...I always thought he was a behind-the-scenes person for MOTG - like producer or writer or director for some of the episodes...you learn something new everyday :) (NT) -- MaryJ, 13:06:22 01/16/13 Wed
        • Many years ago, Julian Fellowes acted on the stage in "Present Laughter," by Noel Coward. I don't recall the rest of the cast, but you can see it on YouTube. He couldn't have been more than 30, or younger. (NT) -- Lemora, 16:44:44 01/16/13 Wed
  
  

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• I need some help and I'm hoping that someone here can help me. I found my DH leather vest stuck at the back of the basement storage cabinet, (it's been there over 4 years), and the leather is as stiff as a board. I told my DH that is anyone could help me, I would find it here. What could I use to soften up the leather, without taking it to a leather cleaner. Please help. -- LynnB, 18:28:33 01/10/13 Thu
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  • You might try a google search for "leather softener." Seems like there are a number of products (or homemade concoctions you can mix...???...I dunno') for less than $10. Buyer beware....whatever you try, first try it in a small inconspicuous area. I know, I know, a vest generally doesn't have a small inconspicuous area, but maybe at the bottom of the armhole or if there is leather that is turned to the inside of the piece. (NT) -- Joyce Mc, 18:45:14 01/10/13 Thu
  • I've used "Leather CPR" on saddles, bridles, and other leather goods. It's one of the few products that cleans and conditions without making the leather greasy or slippery. Really easy to use, just wipe it on, rub it in, wipe off the excess. Available on Amazon, if you don't have a tack shop nearby. (NT) -- Rosemarie, 22:31:46 01/10/13 Thu
  • I can only tell you what my DH does and what I would definitely NOT advise: he puts duck fat on his leather jackets. The smell is rather overpowering for a few days and then it disappears. We eat a lot of duck and have the fat available all the time, he puts it on everything. Drives me mad. Like when my wooden kitchen counters are suddenly greased with duck fat instead of oiled with the special oil from Ikea... (But I have to admit, his leather jackets look great.) (NT) -- Patricia, 03:28:38 01/11/13 Fri
  • When the DH had a lot of leather he used mink oil. I didn't want to inquire how that was made. (NT) -- beccabee, 05:10:53 01/11/13 Fri
  • Yes go to a tack shop and get a leather cleaner or oil. If you have a Country Max near you they sell it. (NT) -- Lady Elizabeth, 06:01:24 01/11/13 Fri
  • Thank you for all the replies. I have to start looking into the responses. (NT) -- LynnB, 17:50:32 01/11/13 Fri
  • Would this be available at somewhere like Tractor Supply stores? I have a verra old (1950's) valise and purse of beautifully tooled leather that my father bought in the southwest when he was working out there putting up huge (100ft +) antenna towers. It's very dry and I'm afraid to put anything on it for fear it will ruin it. (NT) -- Maria, 19:05:06 01/11/13 Fri
  • Yes tractor supply should also have it. If I remember right it's called Neat's Foot Oil. (NT) -- Lady Elizabeth, 01:51:32 01/12/13 Sat
  • I need to respectfully disagree about Neatsfoot oil. After many years of saddles, bridles, reins, boots, etc, I've learned to use mink oil. Neatsfoot actually speeds rotting of the leather and while it looks good, it is deteriorating down inside. Can be tragic if it's eaten through your girth leather. (NT) -- Melina, 09:23:41 01/12/13 Sat
    • Wow, that's good to know! Thanks. (NT) -- SueW, 14:24:09 01/15/13 Tue
  
  

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• Another Holiday Question... -- DonnaC, 16:32:20 01/12/13 Sat
  Now it's the new year, everyone seems to be planning holidays.
  
  We are thinking of a trip to Hawaii (probably Oahu only), in about Sept-Oct. We are in Aussie, and need to know when school goes back in the US, so we can go shortly afterwards. Any other info would be helpful, I was there (and West Coast of the US Mainland) 30 years ago, but DH has never been there.
  
  BTW - this trip involves time travel - leave Sydney 6pm Wed, arrive Honolulu 1.00pm Wed (of course we lose a day on the way back). Can anyone help?
  

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  • Many if not most public school districts publish their academic year calendar online. I checked for the State of Hawaii official school calendar. They don't have 2013-2014 posted yet, but I got you a link to the current one (2012-1013). Students reported to school July 30 and finish up May 24. Should give you a general idea. Here's the link to the calendar. State of Hawaii School Calendar (NT) -- Joyce Mc, 18:14:58 01/12/13 Sat
    • Uh, let's make that current year calendar 2012-2013. (NT) -- Joyce Mc, 18:16:31 01/12/13 Sat
  • Love Waikiki!! We have been there twice. I would say US mainland schools return anywhere from the End of July through Labour Day, usually the first Monday in September. We are a 6 hr time change from Hawaii. I think the best way to adjust is to try your best to immediately start eating and sleeping on the new time. In your case it will mean going to bed when it feels early and not sleeping in too late. Enjoy! If you are spending some time at Waikiki eat some Calmari at Dukes and the Mai Tais at the Royal Hawaiian are fabulous...although $11 last time I was there. Lol (NT) -- Fiona, 07:02:17 01/13/13 Sun
  • Honolulu isn't my idea of a vacation (not really into big cities that much) but we took a loop drive, first heading SE, then north through Kailua to the northern tip of the island where the surfing is supposed to be spectacular in the winter months. We later returned to the north end of Oahu and stayed a few nights at Turtle Bay Resort and it was lovely. DH and I enjoyed the Big Island much more, since we like hiking, snorkeling and seeing all the different landscapes. I hope to go back soon, I really loved Hawaii! (NT) -- LT (Denise), 09:20:25 01/13/13 Sun
  • In Michigan, public schools start the first Tuesday of September. But - that's because a law was passed preventing schools from starting earlier, to preserve the last holiday weekend (tourism dollars.) In other states, though, schools may start the last week of August or even earlier. Bottom line: If you plan your trip for mid-September or later, you're safe. (NT) -- ScarlettO, 09:30:59 01/13/13 Sun
  • For sure they will be back in school before September. We attended a wedding on Oahu in August last summer and it's considered high time so your dates in September should be much cheaper but watch through October because there is another long weekend holiday in there where the prices go up I recall. We stayed in a new area called Ko Olina and it was peaceful and beautiful yet still close to Waikiki for the wedding and day trips. We have kids though and wanted the option of quiet. A week after we left the new Disney resort was opening up next door so that may have changed things a bit. *g* They have built four man made lagoons along the coast and Disney was sharing their lagoon with another hotel so where we stayed, on its own lagoon, should still be good. They were called Ko Olina beach villas and we rented privately through vrbo. (NT) -- Jodi YoB, 10:24:20 01/13/13 Sun
  • Been to Oahu and Maui and much preferred Maui. Beautiful!!! No huge cities! (NT) -- CarolE, 16:50:47 01/13/13 Sun
  • I would definitely include Maui, too, it's beautiful! We're also talking about a trip there, because we have friends who live on Maui part of the year. (NT) -- Patricia, 22:33:00 01/13/13 Sun
  • If you are only going to Oahu make sure you take a drive to the north part of the island where there are beautiful beaches. Waikiki is so built up like being right in the city.The beach there was surprisingly narrow. We have stayed at the Hyatt in Waikiki and also the Marriott at Ko Olina which is about 20 minutes from Waikiki, next to the new Disney resort. Maui is a prettier island. (NT) -- CarolSR, 06:14:49 01/14/13 Mon
  • If you have the option, here's another vote for Maui. I've stayed in the Kapalua and Wailea areas and loved them both. You can easily get away from resorts too and drive to wilder places like Hana,Paii or the Haleakala volcano area. If you do go to Oahu Hanauma Bay is really pretty, but I don't think there are places to stay near it, its more like you visit for a day for swimming. (NT) -- HollyC, 18:13:39 01/14/13 Mon
  • I loved Honolulu!!! The beach, the strip, the shopping & resturants. We did a day at Pearl Habour and Hanauma Bay for snorkling. They had luau's on the beach each night. It was great!! (NT) -- Cherie, 07:42:02 01/15/13 Tue
  • Thanks for all the input everyone. Mid-late Sept it is - and probably only Oahu for 1 week. We like to do things slow and relaxed, and have learnt to only go to one place (we do a lot of O/seas travel, but mainly to Asia). We will definitely do a 'round the island' tour, and all the 'touristy' things. If we go again, we would spend our time on Maui. Thanks people, DH was very impressed when I showed him all the responses! (NT) -- DonnaC, 14:16:45 01/15/13 Tue
  
  

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• "Carrotblanca" Looney Tune -- Lemora, 21:37:23 01/14/13 Mon
  Has anyone else seen this!? Bugs is Rick Blaine; Pepe La Pew is Louis Renault; Daffy Duck is Sam; Sylvester is Victor Laszlo; Tweety is Peter Lorre; and Penelope Pussycat is Ilsa Lund! Hilarious! Oh, and Yosemite Sam is Major Strasser, or General Pandemonium. This is the best "Casablanca" parody I've seen!
  

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  • Love it! Here's Looking at You, Kid (NT) -- LizT (), 07:16:07 01/15/13 Tue
  • Uh Oh. I think that should be Pepe Le Pew. (NT) -- Lemora, 09:31:23 01/15/13 Tue
  
  

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• Has anyone heard of BROADREACH programs from middle, high school, and college students? -- Tam, 19:52:39 01/04/13 Fri
  My DD, a high school junior, got a brochure from them that is AMAZING! It's also VERY expensive. The business address for them is out of Raleigh, NC.
  
  They offer summer programs that cater to Marine Biology. Most are a 3-4 week program such as:
  
  coasta Rica & Panama Primate Studies
  South Africa Wildlife Conservation
  Fiji & South Pacific Advanced Scuba
  
  But DD wants one of these:
  
  Coasta Rica Sea Turtle Studies
  Bahamas marine Biology
  Caribbean Marine Consercation
  Bellize dolphin Studies
  British Columbia Marine Mammal Studies
  
  All of these offer 3 college credits upon completion
  They all offer community service hours from 10 to 100, depending on program
  Then there are a variety of certifications offered from SCUBA, First Aid, to PADI Underwater Naturalist, etc.
  
  The brochurse is to die for!!!
  
  just wondering if anyone has heard of this company or know anyone that has gone through any of their programs. With it being out of the states, I worry about some of the locations.
  
  Any info would be awesome!
  

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  • I have not heard of Broadreach, but my DD( high school sophomore) has gotten mail from Overland and National Geographic Student Expeditions. Everything in the catalog looks fabulous, but very expensive. It looks like they are marketing to college bound kids so the kids have something impressive to put on college applications. They are impressive programs and hopefully you can find some reviews online. (NT) -- MonicaW, 06:25:07 01/05/13 Sat
  • I haven't heard of that one, most of my teacher friends do travel through Explorica or EFTours, a couple have done CIEE. A cheaper, non-school based option is Rotary International's Exchange Program. I always hear good things about it. (NT) -- shellb, 13:21:15 01/05/13 Sat
  • I googled it, as we don't have anything like this here, and found some very (!) enthusiastic reviews. It does seem a bit more about the diving and the socialising than about the academic part, though. I'm not sure I'd want to pay that kind of money for that. Do colleges really require such trips? (NT) -- Patricia, 23:50:57 01/06/13 Sun
  • My niece is a biomedical science major in college and is going to work with the manatees in Florida. I think it sounds similar to this. If I find out what it is, I'll let you know. And I'll let you know if the results were amazing. She's so excited. (NT) -- Reilly, 07:13:37 01/15/13 Tue
  
  

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• The DH surprised me with at Christmas with a cruise for the two of us. We will be travelling for 7 days and visiting 3 islands. Has anyone here been on a cruise similar to this? Any tips or advice on what to pack and what not to do on a cruise would be most appreciated. -- Lady Lukkarinen, 09:14:11 01/10/13 Thu
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  • Is the cruise in the Caribbean? I was on a western Caribbean cruise a few years ago and wished I had brought more than one beach cover-up. If you plan excursions with snorkeling, there is often not enough time to change after being in the water, so you will need to wear your bathingsuit all day with a nice cover-up. Make sure both are comfortable for the a long day. Also bring hat and sunscreen. Otherwise, pack some sundresses or skirts and T's and enjoy yourself! (NT) -- LT (Denise), 09:28:21 01/10/13 Thu
  • um pack your stretchy pants, you're going to eat alot. (NT) -- Lady Elizabeth, 09:53:51 01/10/13 Thu
  • CathyS has an awesome packing list! I've never cruised but I keep telling people about the "over the door shoe holder" for the teeny bathroom that she recommends :) (NT) -- MaryC in KY, 11:15:22 01/10/13 Thu
    • That is what I was going to recommend. When we went on our first cruise 4 years ago, I joined cruisecritic.com. One of the tips was the over the door shoe holder. I bought one on sale at Target (20 shoes). OMG...it was so handy. there is barely any space in the bathroom for all your toiletres, makeup, etc for two of you. My DH even said what a fantastic idea that was. Almost every pocket was full of something. (NT) -- conmama, 05:14:14 01/11/13 Fri
  • ME too! We sail in February - Its Caribbean to Aruba! I'm so excited! (NT) -- BetsyG, 12:21:09 01/10/13 Thu
  • On your first day out find out where the ship's hospital is and actually go there to familiarize yourself with the route, don't just study the location on a map. Advice from a dear relative who takes four or five cruises a year. Best to rely on yourself if you need the services. He had reason to follow his own advice when his wife was struck with a serious illness while onboard. (NT) -- beccabee (), 14:02:57 01/10/13 Thu
    • Along with beccabee's great idea, check with your doc at home first to see what is recommended for seasickness. I did not & was sick as a dog the whole week of my honeymoon. One other bride we met on the cruise went to the ship's doc & got shot of something for her sea sickness, but she slept through everything. I stuck it out (not eating much because I nothing stayed down) & was able to enjoy every excursion off the ship. Would have been much better to research beforehand. Have a wonderful time - what a sweet present from your DH, (NT) -- MaryJ, 19:05:36 01/10/13 Thu
  • Most 7 day cruises have 2 "formal" nights when you get dressed up for dinner. "Dressed up" means different things to people..I saw everything from sundresses to floor length gowns. A nice cocktail dress would work. If your cruise is to a warm weather destination, during the day on board its casual shorts and swim attire. If you are not familiar with the islands you're visiting, you might feel safer taking group excursions booked through the cruise line. I've been on a number of cruises and enjoyed every single one! Pack light...the rooms are smaller than you imagine. :) (NT) -- CarolSR, 16:57:58 01/10/13 Thu
  • We have done 5 island cruises and loved every one. Bring a travel clock (no clocks in the rooms) and a power strip. There are no outlets in the bathrooms and the vanity outlets aren't sufficient for chargers, hair dryers, curling irons, etc. A purse with an over the body strap - you don't want to be hanging on to a purse everywhere you go. Your room attendant can be your best friend - ask for extra hangers, extra pillows, etc., and expect to get wonderful service that you will reward with a nice gratuity at the end of the cruise. Comfortable shoes - the ships are huge and you are always at the wrong end of the ship. (Important: Put anything you might need between the time you board and bed-time in a carry-on. Your luggage doesn't always get into your stateroom before dinner.). . . inside > > > > -- CathyS, 21:10:59 01/10/13 Thu
    • Cathy, DD and her Girl Scout troup are thinking of doing a cruise for their next big trip. She may want to pick your brain at bit at Fergus. :) (NT) -- Maria, 19:01:03 01/11/13 Fri
    • Thanks Cathy! I too am a member at cruise critic! Love the boards and advice! Lots of what I bought for my trip to Europe last year is getting a second use on our cruise ! May email you in the comimg week as my overload brain questions start kicking in! (NT) -- BetsyG, 06:56:39 01/12/13 Sat
  • I was also very concerned with seasickness and bought over the counter meds and the wristbands. What actually worked for DH and I were Ginger Pills purchased at Whole Foods. Whenever I started getting a bit nauseated, I took them immediately (so did he) and within 15 minutes we felt fine. We would continue taking them as directed that day. If I didn't need them, I just wouldn't take them. (NT) -- conmama, 05:17:41 01/11/13 Fri
  • No advice but how wonderful, I am so jealous. (NT) -- jayn, 05:32:26 01/11/13 Fri
  
  

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• Another Recipe Question -- LadyStormwing, 15:30:55 01/07/13 Mon
  I'm staying with a girlfriend and her two boys for a few days over the MLK long weekend (mostly 'cause I need to get out of Dodge). In return for her hospitality, I offered to cook dinner one night. They love pasta. Anyone have any fairly simple pasta dishes (preferably without tomato sauce) they can share that would be hits with a 2 and a 4 year old? They like chicken, too. Much obliged!
  

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  • mac and cheese! or my kids at that age loved swedish meetballs! I usually cheated an used the mix from McCormick seasonings (find it near the gravy packets) Little mini seasned meatballs creamy gravy searved over egg noodles! My kids loved it! (NT) -- BetsyG, 16:16:13 01/07/13 Mon
  • I made an enchilada pasta casserole a few weeks ago and it was GREAT! If you leave out the cayenne pepper it wouldn't be spicy at all, either. Link to the recipe is inside. I substituted ground turkey for the ground beef, and I will add another half can of enchilada sauce next time I make it, it was a little too dry (but still tasted GREAT). Link inside! >>> -- Sorcha (), 19:02:13 01/07/13 Mon
  • My kids fave baked pasta ----->>> -- Cherie, 20:15:24 01/07/13 Mon
  • chees and bacon pasta --- http://allrecipes.co.uk/recipe/17965/bacon-and-cheese-pasta-bake.aspx (NT) -- ali cat, 16:26:51 01/08/13 Tue
  • My favorite lately........ -- M&M, 07:45:16 01/09/13 Wed
  • Zite, alfredo sauce, grilled chicken (sliced) and peas. Cook you pasta, heat the Alfrredo with the peas. Top the pasta with the Alfredo Sauce, arrange the sliced grilled chicken, a little grated parm, and voila! You have a meal that pleases all ages (NT) -- LadyDuBois, 13:20:13 01/10/13 Thu
  
  

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• Flickr or Photobucket or ??? -- MonicaW, 16:48:17 01/05/13 Sat
  We had a great vacation and took a lot of photos and I want to put them somewhere on the Internet to share with family and friends (Lallypals included). Does anyone have an opinion or experience with PhotoBucket, Flickr or some other photo sharing company?? Pros and or cons would be appreciated. It needs to be easy as I am not a techno-geek. Just a regular geek. The photos are on my iMac.
  

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  • I used Google's Picassa because it allows me to share via a link; I've also used Shutterfly and had no problems with them either. I've viewed others' photos on Flickr, and they all are pretty similar - easy to use, easy to share, and free. :) Have fun! (NT) -- Lady_Jane, 18:01:04 01/05/13 Sat
  • Flickr is good unless you want the photos in a specific order. Gives me fits trying to do before and after photos on our business site. (NT) -- Colly, 20:26:15 01/05/13 Sat
  • I've always used Shutterfly and like it fine. ;) (NT) -- Maria, 22:59:45 01/05/13 Sat
  • Before Facebook I used Picasa - easy and free. (NT) -- Patricia, 15:23:17 01/06/13 Sun
  • Snapfish. (NT) -- CarolE, 20:09:08 01/06/13 Sun
  • Photobucket because they allow linking. I have used several of the other sites, like Picasa and Shutterfly and Snapfish and others. I don't dislike them and have photos at these sites now, I just find myself going back to Photobucket mostly. (NT) -- Marcie, 22:06:52 01/08/13 Tue
  • A lot of help we are, huh? :) (NT) -- Patricia, 05:15:12 01/09/13 Wed
  
  

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• Who do I call? I really have no clue - -- Traci_Mc, 15:36:13 01/04/13 Fri
  I currently have an electric stove/oven and want to switch to gas. When we moved in 10 years ago, we had our heating switched to gas and they installed the pipes so we could eventually switch the stove, dryer, and water heater to gas when we wanted to. My question is, who do I call to run the gas line up through the floor in the kitchen and hook up the stove? A plumber? The company that did the switch is a heating and AC company since they were installing a furnace. I doubt they would hook up a stove.
  
  Thanks!
  

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  • In my new home, the plumber hooked up the gas range. Your gas company may have a list of plumbers who do gas installations. (NT) -- Rosemarie, 15:46:06 01/04/13 Fri
  • Call whoever supplies your gas and go from there. Let us know because I may have the same situation in a couple of years...I hope! (NT) -- CarolE, 16:00:23 01/04/13 Fri
  • P.S. I LOVE my gas range! It does take a little getting used to, but the friend I stayed with before the move to the new house had a gas range, so I could practice. (NT) -- Rosemarie, 16:12:17 01/04/13 Fri
  • In Australia the trade course is Plumber and Gasfitter so I would go with a plumber for starters. (NT) -- astrokath, 21:20:29 01/04/13 Fri
  • Call a plumber. That's who did it for us when we changed to gas. Also, be sure you have a line that is big enough to handle future demands. When we bought this house there was no gas coming in. We got a line big enough to have gas heat, gas stove, gas fireplace and gas dryer. We haven't converted the fireplace yet and our electric dryer is still working great 14 years later so we are not using as much gas as we thought we would yet. I love cooking with gas heat. (NT) -- MonicaW, 05:25:45 01/05/13 Sat
  • Call the gas company. They have the trained licensed technicians who know exactly what this job entails. Other tradesmen may be good, and may even know how to do this, but it is too potentially dangerous to risk to someone whose main work is something else. Remember, if this job is done even a little bit wrong your house and entire neighbourhood could literally blow up - don't leave it to amateurs. And in Ontario, at least, any work done by a gas company contracted person is guaranteed and insured, backed by a large company (ie the gas comany). (NT) -- jayn, 06:10:59 01/05/13 Sat
    • I'm with Jayn. :D (NT) -- Judie, 11:13:01 01/05/13 Sat
  • I love my gas stove! Good choice. ;oD (NT) -- LindaT, 10:37:07 01/05/13 Sat
  • Gas stoves are the best. Still wish I had the one with the electric oven, though. Next time! (NT) -- CathyS, 11:34:54 01/05/13 Sat
  • I did this about ten years ago when we moved into this house...... you call a plumber! :) I was quoted 800 at the time ( they had to put a pipe to the stove) and then it didnt take as long as they thought it would so only paid 600. Some price on the job some price on time. I just couldnt imagine cooking on electric all the time. (NT) -- M&M, 17:01:05 01/05/13 Sat
    • Oh and just a wee note..... They had to cut a hole a ceiling, in the basement, and instead of us patching the hole, we just put an air vent over it looks better than a patch. Faster too *G* (NT) -- M&M, 17:03:29 01/05/13 Sat
      • now you give this wonderful TIP! AFTER dh has finally patched the hole in my kitchen ceiling its been there a year (we had a leaky shower pipe!) its really ugly and he got paint and plaster on the wall so now he has to paint the wall and the ceiling--its a mess! I think a vent would have been brilliant! still would have required a small patch but not the mess I'm left with now! Dang! (NT) -- BetsyG, 10:17:29 01/06/13 Sun
        • You know I had the same thing happen! And then it turned out it wasnt leaking there.......I was so pissed. The guy that repaired it did an okay job, but I think I could of done better. I did it in the basement once. *G* (NT) -- M&M, 12:31:58 01/06/13 Sun
  • Thanks everyone. Guess I need to go stove shopping! I grew up with a gas stove, but since I've been married, every house has been electric. I swear that's why my cookies never turn out as good as my mom's. Our basement is unfinished, so don't have to worry about any holes in the ceiling. (NT) -- Traci_Mc, 11:02:19 01/08/13 Tue
  
  

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• Opinions Needed -- Anon., 12:17:55 01/07/13 Mon
  Our DD is best friends with the daughter of a very popular doctor in our city. This family was away on vacation over the holidays and my DD told me about an instance that happened to this family regarding a bed bug problem in the hotel they were staying at. Their DD told ours all about what happened, she in turn told me. So, it is New Years Eve and we are having another couple over to eat and we get on the subject of hotels and I spill the beans about this family, that our friends know too. Well, yesterday my DD asked me if I had told our friends about what happened to this family because evidently our friend had an appt. with this Dr. and told him she heard about the bed bug problem. I lied to my DD because I was so ashamed. My question is, should I call them up and apologize for basicly gossiping about what happened to them? I never talk about them to anyone because I know he has a ton of patients and I'm so afraid of something like this happening. I never thought our so-called friend would say something to him.
  

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  • Sorry, I don't have any advice, but I wanted to send you a hug and tell you that I would have done exactly the same. How embarrassing... ((((anon)))) (NT) -- Patricia, 13:11:39 01/07/13 Mon
  • It's possible that someone else was the connection in "spilling the beans" because the daughter probably has lots of friends and probably shared the details with them all. Good luck with this one. Anyway -- even the best hotels can have bedbugs, as people move from one property to another they can take the little buggers along with them. It's not a horrible reflection on the hotel, just an unfortunate fact of life. (NT) -- JudyL, 13:31:03 01/07/13 Mon
  • Ya, I would call him or the wife up and apologize. But I don't think it's awful what you did. And really, bedbugs can be in any hotel so I think it's good to share info on them. Just say it was never your intention to gossip or embarrass them, more of a 'can you imagine how awful!' conversation between friends and a friend you thought to be more discreet. Don't worry too much, most of us could or have found ourselves in this position before. *g* As for your daughter, I would say the exact same thing to her. (NT) -- Jodi YoB, 13:47:51 01/07/13 Mon
  • I know it's shutting the barn door after the horse got out, but my dear Mom's great advice which is usually in my head. Do NOT say anything about anyone that you wouldn't want printed in the newspaper. (NT) -- Lady Elizabeth, 15:11:28 01/07/13 Mon
  • It's not as if you lied about them or said anything bad about them as people. You simply relayed an incident that happened "to" them. I really don't think that is anything to have to apologize about. Maybe next time , relay the story but leave out names. I don't consider this gossip. (NT) -- Colly, 15:52:58 01/07/13 Mon
  • My opinion: A call to the Doctor wouldn't be bad ... not necessarily to apologize for gossiping but for any inconvenience caused by sharing his business. The bigger thing I see here is that you lied to your daughter. No judgement... but here's a teaching moment. What advise would you give her if she came to you with this very same thing? She can learn from you still that no matter how old we get we still don't always choose wisely in a moment of embarrassment. But a quick "please forgive me for my dishonesty" also shows her how you have courage to admit your error and seek correction. Just my opinion. (NT) -- Shari of Houston, 04:26:20 01/08/13 Tue
  • Honestly...I would just let it all go, chalk it up as experience and not do it again. We all make mistakes, give yourself a break on this one. The other daughter probably told several people. I'd really just let it go and learn from it. I read a saying somewhere that I keep in mind before i want to gossip, because I'm surely not above it: "Everyone has a best friend who they know will not say anything". Even a good friend that I 99% trust not to tell a secret, may still tell her DH. Let it go, I think you might make matters worse by calling the doctor. They would never trust you again and it could impact the relationship between the girls, and even between them and your daughter. (NT) -- conmama, 05:54:33 01/08/13 Tue
  • I can totally see why you lied to your daughter, but I do think you might want to come clean to her at some point, as it will show her the nuances of when you do something harmless and it becomes a bigger deal than you ever intended. We've all been there! Once a friend of my daughter's relayed a situation a mutual friend had been in. When I saw the mutual friend's mother (a pretty good friend of mine) I commented in a very sympathetic way on what a pain to have to deal with this mess (the mututal friend was blameless in the whole retold story, nothing to be embarrrassed about). Next thing I know, the mother is calling the kid who told the story to my daughter and reading her the riot act about sharing confidential info. So then that girl is mad a my daughter who is furious at me. The mom is still very friendly to me, but since then I've tried to never relay anything my kids tell me to anyone as it seems you never know what will set someone off! (NT) -- HollyC, 06:48:45 01/08/13 Tue
  • Why are you expecting discretion from the friend you told when you weren't? You were wrong to gossip and you were wrong to lie; fess up to your daughter at the very least. (NT) -- PD, 07:30:27 01/08/13 Tue
  • Thanks everyone. Nothing else has been said and I just hope l don't run into either of the parents for a very long time. I don't know if our friend told him where she got the info from, so I'm hoping that maybe they think it was from somebody else. I have definitely learned my lesson...mums the word for now on. (NT) -- Anom., 07:43:26 01/08/13 Tue
    • Using iPad, meant Anon. (NT) -- Anon., 07:47:21 01/08/13 Tue
  
  

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• Season 3 of Downton Abbey airs on Sunday night in the US. Are you all as excited as I am? -- LP, 08:55:50 01/03/13 Thu
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  • We watched first and second season over the holidays. Which network is airing season 3? (NT) -- Lady Lukkarinen, 10:00:45 01/03/13 Thu
    • PBS on Sundays, 8 p.m. Mountain Time (NT) -- Rosemarie, 12:08:05 01/03/13 Thu
  • Yes! I've been rewatching my season 1 and 2. (NT) -- Rosemarie, 10:01:15 01/03/13 Thu
  • can't wait! (NT) -- BetsyG, 10:05:06 01/03/13 Thu
  • Yay! Thanks for the heads up! I only started watching this summer when I rented both seasons from the library so will be tough to wait out the week for new episodes as opposed to the marathon sessions I had with the DVDs! (NT) -- Jodi YoB, 10:19:55 01/03/13 Thu
    • Me, too! I watched both seasons back to back in under 2 weeks. So, 8 MT means 9 EST? That's my bedtime..oh no, do you think it will be ON Demand? (NT) -- conmama, 15:06:59 01/03/13 Thu
      • Check your local PBS listing. EST is 2 hours later than MST. (NT) -- Rosemarie, 16:34:02 01/03/13 Thu
        • Our PBS station is showing it at 9pm Eastern- I know because it's on my calendar now. And yes, I am excited! (NT) -- SueW, 09:19:24 01/04/13 Fri
  • I will DVR it but I want to watch season 1. I can't find it on our public station. (NT) -- shy gal, 16:50:03 01/03/13 Thu
    • If you do Netflix streaming they have season 1. (NT) -- Sorcha, 10:22:35 01/07/13 Mon
  • "Fresh Air's" critic, David Biancouli (sp?), gave Season 3 a rave review. (NT) -- Lemora, 17:51:18 01/03/13 Thu
  • I AM!! This will be my first season to watch in real time I'm very excited & will be so upset if I can't find it on my local PBS station. (NT) -- MaryJ, 19:23:33 01/03/13 Thu
  • Last year (I think), PBS had the just-shown episode up on their website for viewing within a day or two of broadcast. (NT) -- Rosemarie, 21:05:19 01/03/13 Thu
  • PBS is showing some of season two on Sunday prior to starting season 3 at least in my area. (NT) -- BetsyG, 06:51:00 01/04/13 Fri
  • My SIL attended a sneak peek (1 hour instead of the full 2) at a local movie theatre last night. Everyone was dressed in period costume. She said it was amazing! (NT) -- LP, 06:52:58 01/04/13 Fri
  • I cannot wait! We watched season 1 & 2 over the holidays on PBS, only missed 30 mins of a couple of episodes, so need to watch online the parts we missed. I would love to see season 3 in theater, and go in period costumes! I love the clothes, so elegant (the rich anyway!), but prolly would dress as common folk since that's what my ancestors were! My DH's family are decendants from the Howards, so his ancestors might have lived at Howard Castle! (NT) -- Natalie H, 08:06:45 01/04/13 Fri
    • Whew! Castle Howard is one of the most opulent homes in England! Look it up. (NT) -- Lemora, 18:28:54 01/04/13 Fri
  • It's a dramatic one! And we've just had the Christmas special which was also pretty exciting! (NT) -- Em, 10:42:24 01/04/13 Fri
    • I'm still getting over the Christmas episode Em. (NT) -- albion, 03:41:07 01/05/13 Sat
  • I can't wait for this to return! I'll have to DVR it because Once Upon a Time runs in the same timeslot, or maybe I'll DVR OUaT and watch Downton Abbey (NT) -- LadyDuBois, 06:14:14 01/05/13 Sat
  
  

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• I need a computer Guru! -- CathyS, 10:06:41 01/04/13 Fri
  I'm having a recent problem with my iPad. Just in the last few days - can't remember exactly when it began - the facebook app won't open on my iPad. I have rebooted the iPad multiple times - once leaving it off overnight. I have uninstalled/reinstalled the facebook app twice. I have searched (in vain) for settings that might have gotten turned off/on. Still can't access facebook on the iPad.
  
  When I tap the facebook icon, it appears to try to open, I get a bright white page and then it goes back to the homepage - all in two or three seconds.
  
  Any ideas, all you brilliant Apple users? DH suggested a drive up to the Apple store but I'm hoping I don't have to do that.
  

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  • Have you cleared out the 'cache' (I'm not sure if that's what you call it *g*)...you double click the home button...then hold down one of the icons at the bottom of the screen until they show up 'wiggling' with a minus sign at the top left...click them each one at a time and then go back to your regular screen. If there are a bunch there then it's slowing it down. (hope this makes sense...typing without glasses) (NT) -- Ceilidh, 11:27:56 01/04/13 Fri
    • I cleaned out the cache (thanks Chris), I updated the OS with my laptop, and I restarted it after letting it 'rest' for at least 30 minutes (my DS's cure for everything). So far . . . still won't open. Thinking back, I believe it stopped working about the time I did some app updates. Wonder if there is a system restore? (NT) -- CathyS, 16:51:09 01/04/13 Fri
  • Have you updated your operating system? It's possible that you have the latest version of the app that isn't compatible with an older version of the Apple OS. That's the problem with mine. (NT) -- AngieC, 12:00:17 01/04/13 Fri
  • I had trouble w/the ipad app for FB too. I just bookedmarked it on Safari & use FB that way - works perfectly for me & the page looks just like on my computer. The app had a different layout which I didn't like. Sorry I can't help you fix it, but i like just using it in my ipad browser. (NT) -- MaryJ, 13:37:29 01/04/13 Fri
    • That works. I just wish I could get to it with one button like it used to be. GRRRRRR! (NT) -- CathyS, 19:06:53 01/04/13 Fri
  • Mine did that for a while when an apple update wasn't compatible with the app....it eventually worked itself out...did you try syncing either through your laptop or the cloud? OR try logging out of facebook and log in again that could also help the app sync. (NT) -- BetsyG, 13:09:35 01/05/13 Sat
    • Of all the things I've tried, I'm not certain I've tried logging out and back in. I will when I go up to bed a bit later. Thank you. Fingers crossed that it works. (NT) -- CathyS, 19:32:09 01/05/13 Sat
  • What about deleting the app then re-downloading it? I would think it couldn't hurt..... (NT) -- ScarlettO, 07:13:37 01/07/13 Mon
  
  

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• TGIF hosers. What's everybody have planned for the weekend? -- Lady Lukkarinen, 08:42:03 01/04/13 Fri
  I'm going to be sure that all my chores are done and I am perched on the sofa with a glass of wine in hand for season 3 of Downton Abbey on Sunday evening. Have a great weekend and play safe.
  

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  • With any luck at all, wine, fire, and cuddles under a blanket. Time to decompress after the holidays. (NT) -- jayn, 08:51:46 01/04/13 Fri
  • Packing for our trip to Curacao & Aruba! (NT) -- LP, 09:39:07 01/04/13 Fri
  • working 8-8 on Saturday, Church & Laundry on Sunday, back to school on Monday. sigh. I really wish we could win the lotto so I could stay home, lol. (NT) -- shellb, 09:50:39 01/04/13 Fri
  • not much since we are broke and have no free sitter. :) Probably just doing things around the house. Hopefully rent a movie to watch after the little goobers go to bed!! (NT) -- JenK, 11:25:09 01/04/13 Fri
  • Tomorrow I'll have breakfast with my DD and niece and then browse decorating shops with my DD and spend the evening at home with DH and the kids, without any young workawayers (we have one leaving tomorrow morning and another one coming back on Sunday). On Sunday, lunch for a friend's birthday, then a meeting at my house with DS2's scout group and their parents (and eating kings' cake) and our adorable workawayer Ana who will come back after a few days travelling. (NT) -- Patricia, 13:39:19 01/04/13 Fri
  • Cleaning in the am and have friends coming over for pizza and the Packer vs. ViQueens..er, Vikings, playoff game. Sunday making chicken noodle soup and cornmeal muffins and just chillin'. Have a great weekend Lallyland! (NT) -- CarolE, 16:03:56 01/04/13 Fri
  • Laundry, laundry, laundry and adjusting to this time zone. Nagging the kids to get ready for school to start next week. (they had reading assignments which did not get done on our vacation) (NT) -- MonicaW, 05:33:30 01/05/13 Sat
    • How was it???? Did you have a good time? (NT) -- Patricia, 15:25:48 01/05/13 Sat
      • Yes! SO much fun and there is still so much more we want to do! My DH and I want to go back without kids to enjoy Paris together. Thanks again for all your tips! When I get the pictures sorted out I'll share them. (NT) -- MonicaW, 05:05:45 01/07/13 Mon
  
  

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• What's My Line 1950-1966 -- Lemora, 14:54:16 01/05/13 Sat
  I've been watching this show on You Tube. I began watching in diapers with my parents since before I can remember. Arlene, John, Kitty, Dorothy, Bennett, et al were The Grown Ups. I could go on and on about what this show means to me and how great it really was. I'm posting here in case anybody knows, or knows how to find out what happened to the show's props and furniture: Where the panelists sat; where John & the guests sat; the black board; the flip cards with the dollar amounts on them. Can you imagine what those signatures on that board would be worth had they been saved, rather than erased each time? The book by the producer doesn't say, as far as I know. There is no info as to whether the Smithsonian has any of this, say, like Julia Child's kitchen. So, I'm wondering if anybody knows, or knows how to find out. I'm afraid no one realized the significance of the show, at the time, and it got tossed or recycled. Thanks if you know.
  

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  • I found an online TV museum which apparently has shows in different venues in Los Angeles. Their WML artifacts include a board game from the 1950's called What's My Line? I never heard of that! Has anyone ever seen or played it? And they did save some of the blackboards with autographs. Can't find info about anything else from the show. (NT) -- Lemora, 15:29:34 01/06/13 Sun
  
  

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