OTTE / BENNER FAMILY REUNION DEVIL'S LAKE, MICHIGAN AUG. 2009

MUST HAVE PHONE #'s TO PUT IN YOUR CELL!

Got a cell phone? Then consider putting these must-have phone numbers on speed dial. I found these thanks to Rodale Publishing.

Put your family on ICE. That stands for ‘In Case of Emergency.’ Paramedics recommend programming ANY emergency contact in your cell phone after the word ICE, as in “ICE-wife” or “ICE-dad.” The idea is that if you get into an accident, police can use your phone to quickly notify someone.

Another must-have number to put on speed dial is: 1-800-GOOG-411. That’s 466-4411. It’s a Google service that lets you request information just as you would on a web browser. Ask for ‘Italian Restaurants,’ and you’ll get a list of spaghetti and meatball joints within the area code you’re calling from! The best part is that Google won’t charge you – unlike some other 411 services.

The next number to program on speed dial is: 866-411-SONG. Ever been driving around, and you hear a song on the radio that you’re dying to know the name of? Call this number, and hold your phone up to the speaker for 15 seconds. The service will I.D. any song within it’s database of 2-and-a-half MILLION tunes. Then you’ll be sent a text message listing the title and artist. It’ll even give you an option to download the song onto your phone!

Next, if you’re always trying to hail a cab, then program this number on speed dial: 800-TAXI-CAB. This is a free referral service that connects you with the closest taxi company within any metro area in North America. They’ll also hook you up with a shuttle service if you’re stranded at the airport.

If you’re traveling overseas, you must have this number on speed dial: 800-752-6096. That’s a language service that will connect you to one of 170 different translators. Want to know what “la personne la plus futée dans le chambre” means? Then get a French translator on the phone to tell you it means you’re the smartest person in the room! Beware, they’ll charge you $3.95 per minute for that privilege.

WHOSE THE GREENEST OF THEM ALL?

Although the EPA has not established official criteria for ranking the greenness of a city, there are several key areas to measure for effectiveness in carbon footprint reduction. These include air and water quality, efficient recycling and management of waste, percentage of LEED-certified buildings, acres of land devoted to greenspace, use of renewable energy sources, and easy access to products and services that make green lifestyle choices (organic products, buying local, clean transportation methods) easy.
Mother Nature Network's editorial team rounded up their top 10:

10. Austin, Texas
Carbon neutral by 2020 - it's an ambitious goal, but according to the U.S. Department of Energy, Austin Energy is the nation's largest provider of renewable energy, which makes its goal to power the city solely on renewable energy within reach. As the gateway to the scenic Texas Hill Country, acreage in Austin that's devoted to green space includes 206 parks, 12 preserves, 26 greenbelts and more than 50 miles of trails.

9. Chicago
The Windy City has embraced land sustainability far longer than you may think. In 1909, pioneering city planner Daniel Hudson Burnham created a long-range plan for the lakefront that balanced urban growth, and created a permanent greenbelt around the metropolitan area. This greening of the city continues through the Chicago Green Roof Program. More than 2.5 million square feet of city roofs support plant life - including Willis Tower (formerly called Sears Tower) and the city hall building. Also, about 500,000 new trees have been planted.

8. Seattle
The unofficial coffee klatch capital of the country is also sustainable-living savvy. More than 20 public buildings in Seattle are LEED-certified or under construction for LEED certification. Through an incentive program, residents are encouraged to install solar panels on their homes for energy conservation. Sustainable Ballard, a green neighborhood group and sustainability festival host, offers ongoing workshops about how to live in harmony with the environment.

7. Berkeley, Calif.
A great place to find an abundance of organic and vegetarian restaurants is also on the cutting edge of sustainability. Berkeley is recognized as a leader in the incubation of clean technology for wind power, solar power, biofuels and hydropower.

6. Cambridge, Mass.
In 2008, Prevention Magazine named Cambridge "the best walking city." Thoreau's Walden Pond can be found in nearby Concord, and education powerhouses Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University are located here. In 2002, city officials implemented a major climate protection plan and today most city vehicles are fueled by B20 biodiesel or electricity. All new construction or major renovations must meet LEED standards. And a project called "Compost that Stuff" collects and processes organic waste from residents, restaurants, bars and hotels.

5. Eugene, Ore.
Known as the Emerald City for its natural green beauty, this baby boomer haven and second largest city in the state has been doing the "green" thing since the 1960s. In 2008, after only one year of service, the Emerald Express, a hybrid public transit system, won a Sustainable Transport award. Cycling is the preferred mode of transportation, made possible by the 30 miles of off-street bike paths and 29 dedicated bike routes, which total a whopping 150 miles of smog-free travel throughout the metro area.
4. Oakland, Calif.

Residents of this port city have access to an abundance of fresh, organic food, much of which is locally sourced. It's also home to the nation's cleanest tap water, hydrogen-powered public transit and the country's oldest wildlife refuge. Oakland also plans to have zero waste and be oil-independent by 2020, and already gets 17 percent of its energy from renewable sources.

3. Boston
It's hard to think of this city without also thinking of tea - as a commodity, not a drink. Boston ranks high among the urban green elite. Sustainability efforts include a "Green by 2015" goal to replace traditional taxi cabs with hybrid vehicles, recycle trash to power homes, use more solar panels and use more electric motorbikes for transportation. The city's first annual Down2Earth conference was held in 2008. It's designed to educate residents about how to live the most sustainable lifestyle.

2. San Francisco
Declared by Mayor Gavin Newsom to be America's solar energy leader, this vibrant city of cultural tolerance was a 1960s icon and epicenter for the Summer of Love. But in addition to peace, love and solar power, there's also an innovative recycling program with an artist-in-residence at the recycling facility. The artist uses his work to inspire residents to recycle and conserve. San Francisco is also the first U.S. city to ban plastic grocery bags, a concept that supports its effort to divert 75 percent of landfill waste by 2010.

THE WINNER!

1. Portland, Ore.
The city of microbrewery mania and home to megastore Powell's Books - one of the few remaining independent booksellers in the country - is No. 1 in sustainability. Declared the most bikeable city in the United States for its 200 miles of dedicated bike lanes, Portland certainly makes forgoing gas-powered travel easy. And for lessons in DIY sustainable food sources, classes are available for container gardening and cheese making, or beekeeping and chicken-keeping.

4 WAYS TO BOOST YOUR SELF-ESTEEM!

If you've recently been dumped or fired, then your self-esteem probably took a serious hit. Self-worth is a fragile thing, but repairing it can be easier than you think. Here are four ways to boost your self-esteem . . .

#1.) DO A GOOD DEED. It can be something big like helping a friend move, or something small like giving directions to someone who looks lost. The more you help out, the more helpful you'll feel.

#2.) MAKE A RESOLUTION . . . AND KEEP IT. If you resolve to clean out the bedroom closet, you'll get organized . . . which will boost your self-esteem . . . AND you'll get a boost just from making a commitment and sticking to it.
But make sure you resolve to do something that's realistic. If you end up starting something you can't finish, it won't do your self-esteem ANY good.

#3.) BECOME AN EXPERT. Pick something you're interested in . . . it can literally be ANYTHING . . . then dig in. Whether you read up on cooking, Photoshop, or the American Revolution, becoming an "expert" on something will really boost your ego.

#4.) GET PHYSICAL. It's not for everyone, but some people get a real boost in self-esteem by doing things that are physically challenging . . . like training for a 10K or going white-water rafting. If you're less daring, try a bike ride or a brisk walk instead.

R.I,P. MICHAEL JACKSON!!!!!!

MICHAEL JACKSON

1958 - 2009

My heart is truly broken over the loss of Michael Jackson today. I've been watching CNN for the last couple of hours and crying off and on. I remember having such a huge crush on Michael Jackson. I was enthralled by him. I thought he was the coolest person on the planet. When "The Victory Tour"came to Texas, you had to buy 4 packs of tickets. My mom said the 4 tickets were $100.00 and that, at that time, that was a lot of money. We begged and pleaded to go. I got to invite a friend and my brother, Kenneth, got to bring my cousin. We got to decorate our parents station wagon and I remember just being so excited and feeling so cool that I was getting to go see Michael Jackson live! When we got there and the lights came on and Michael was there on the stage, I remember balling my brains out and screaming from the top of my lungs, "I love you Michael"! THE BEST CONCERT! There were fireworks at the end of the show! The entire stadium was filled with an indescribable energy. When we got out of the concert, my parents had huge smiles on their faces. They knew how happy we were and they got to see the fireworks show from outside. They mentioned how electric the vibe was for them, even from the parking lot. They said there were Michael Jackson impersonators dancing and singing! It was fantastic. In grade school I would play the song, "Ben" over and over again and in high school I would listen to "Rock with You", "Beat It", "Billie Jean", "Ebony & Ivory", etc........ in my room on my tape player and just stare at the ceiling. I wore white socks and penny loafers........Just remembering......the glove.....the moonwalk...... We Are The World....so many fond memories. He was truly great. What saddens me so much was the last part of his life and all of the controversy. He was such a lonely man. R.I.P. Michael Jackson!

I think Michael Jackson was really hot in this video! Not to mention it was a great song!

CLICK HERE

Faraday's Kitchen Store is holding a "Mom and Me" Cooking Class this weekend in honor of Mother's Day

Faraday's Kitchen Store
http://www.faradayskitchenstore.com/
512-266-5666

"Mom and Me"
Hands-on Cooking Class for Kids!
Saturday, May 9th- 9:30 to 11:30 am
(Mother's Day Weekend)

Chef Jerry Pizzitola will lead a fun and exciting session for Moms and kids together, as you both learn to make some delicious treats that kids love! Menu includes: Cheese Quesadillas; Freshly Made Texas Salsa; Spaghetti and Meatballs with Marinara; The Ultimate Hot Fudge Sauce; and Homemade Ice Cream Sundaes. You'll learn how to make each dish, how to be safe in the kitchen and other tips and tricks to make cooking together fun. Kids will be able to participate hands-on with the chef during some portions of the class.

Class will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 am, and is open to children from 7 to 13 years old with a parent. The cost for this class is $40 per person.
Call 266-5666 TODAY to reserve your spots!


ALL MOTHER'S DAY WEEKEND- All Moms will receive a
FREE spatula when they come in to Faraday's!

Saturday May 2nd is FREE COMIC BOOK DAY!!

Get a free comic book today! SERIOUSLY! ABSOLUTELY FREE.
To find out more info, go to www.freecomicbookday.com

Also, check out Hugh Jackman talking about it! My boys are so excited to get their free comic books. This is a really cool thing.

KENDRA SCOTT SAMPLE SALE!!! BEAUTIFUL, AMAZING, INCREDIBLY PRICED JEWELRY!

KENDRA SCOTT who is an amazing jewelry designer from right here in Austin, Texas is having another one of her SAMPLE SALES that you DO NOT WANT TO MISS!

This is a benefit for Lifeworks!

Friday, May 1st, 10am-6PM
Saturday, May 2nd 10am-2pm

Kendra Scott Design is located at The Penn Field Design Center
3601 S. Congress Ave., B201

http://kendrascott.com/

MIKE SUPER, MASTER ILLUSIONIST, IS AT THE PARAMOUNT TONIGHT AND TOM. NIGHT. GET YOUR TICKETS!

Carey and I had an awesome opportunity to be at The Paramount today with "The Phenomenon" winner, Mike Super. Watch the video as he attempts to predict today's Austin American Statesman front page headline! BTW, he predicted what it would be 2 weeks ago and it's been under lock and key! If he doesn't get it right, then everyone who has purchased a ticket to see his show, gets in free! No pressure right? Watch this!

2009 Austin Song Contest! Go online and vote for your favorite

The Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau recently launched the 2009 Austin Song Contest to find that one special song about Austin that they could utilize in their various promotional campaigns. Over hundred entries later, five finalists have been chosen:

“The Austin I Like” - Lynn Daniel
“Nobody Ever Wants To leave” - Ryan Harkrider
“Austin Sound” - Clark Perry
“You Found A Star” - Jimmy Shortell
“Austin Rocks!” - Patricia Vonne and Rosie Flores

Check out all the songs and vote on ACVB’s website -- voting ends at midnight on May 5th.
The winner receives a $1,000 cash prize, a Gibson Songwriter guitar, and some opportunities to further their career, no doubt. The victor will be announced at the ACVB’s Annual Luncheon at the Hilton Austin on May 8th.

MAKE YOUR RESUME STAND OUT!

If you’re looking for a job these days you need to impress a computer program before you can impress a hiring manager! There is something called an Applicant Tracking System. That’s a database that human resource people use to store résumés. According to LiveCareer.com - a website designed to match people with the right job – this database is used by about 8 out of 10 employers.
Here’s how it works:
When an HR person is looking to fill a position, they search the resume database using certain keywords, and no matter how qualified you are, if your résumé doesn’t contain them, the person doing the hiring won’t know you exist. So, here’s how to make sure you get noticed:
Create a keyword list. Look at several job descriptions for positions you’re interested in. The most important words will be at the top. They’ll also appear more than once and be listed as “required” skills.
Add the keywords from your list to a "Summary of Skills" section at the top of your résumé. Let’s say you’re looking for a job as an executive assistant. Make sure you include the words, Microsoft Office, travel arrangements, scheduling, and organization.
Work those words into the rest of your résumé. You want to repeat them as often as you can because many tracking systems rank applicants by the number of specific word hits. Also, use different forms of the same word. So, if you have a Masters of Business Administration, use the abbreviation MBA at least once in your résumé. That way, your bases will be covered if the HR person types either term into the search box.
Remember, you can’t get the job unless you get an interview, and to get an interview, you need to make sure your résumé gets noticed. So, identify the keywords for the job you want - and use them often.

My Seal Video!

The Seal concert was off the hook! Check out my video

Seal April 28th at The Bass Concert Hall! WOW!

Hey you guys! Last night I went with a couple of friends, Katherine and Kim, to see Seal at The Bass Concert Hall. It was truly a spiritual experience. He sounded amazing! He looked amazing and I had sooo much fun! I also got some incredible pictures. I can't believe I took these with my camera. (Wasn't supposed to bring a camera in so I was ducking and hiding from one of the ushers telling people to put their cameras away) HA!!!!!!!!! I also took some video..I went C-R-A-Z-Y when he played the song of the same name cuz it's my all time favorite! I will post those soon to youtube.

We now have a BridgetandCareyShow youtube site! Yea!!!!!!

Just go to www.youtube.com/BridgetandCareyShow

xoxo,
Bridget

MOMS & DADS!! LOOK THIS IS FOR THE KIDS!!!!!

Hey Kids- many of you have set up lemonade stands – but here’s an opportunity to be a part of the City’s first-ever Lemonade Day, learn some great business skills and get serious about earning some money!

On May 3, students all over the city will set up lemonade stands – and you’re invited to participate and learn how to build a successful business.

It’s free – all you have to do is register at www.lemonadedayaustin.org. You’ll receive a backpack full of information including an Entrepreneurs Guide that provides the tools you need for success! Go to www.lemonadedayaustin.org or call 512-431-7770 for more information.

Cutest Dog Carriers EVER! Check these out!

I was at the Wiener Dog races in Buda last weekend! (VERY FUN!)

I took my little mal-shi, Zuko, and we had a blast. My friend who owns http://www.barkplaceboutique.com/ had a booth with the most adorable pet stuff and I ended up buying Zuko the most adorable stroller. Yes, I am talking like a baby stroller but it's for your furry little friend. It zips up so they can't jump out and for little guys like my dog, it's perfect for long walks around the neighborhood or even going to the mall! :) ha ha

So, I was wandering around with Zuko and came across these dog carriers that I had never seen before that were just precious. A mom and daughter own the company and they have only been up and running for 6 weeks. They took a picture of Zuko and so I hope to post it soon. I ended up buying a zebra stripe carrier. Zuko loves it....I was so surprised, but he does! They are so incredibly cute. Go to http://www.ruffliferiders.com/ to find out how to get one. They also have a real cute leapord print carrier and a trendy circles carrier. Very hard to choose. May have to purchase more in the near future. These carriers are meant for dogs 15lbs. and less.

Too much fun!

EARTH DAY FREEBIES!

Big thanks to Renee, one of our listeners, for telling me about a very cool website where we can all get some earth day freebies! Check it out! http://www.savingwithshellie.com/ Renee also told me she gives all kinds of great advice. She does coupon matchups for local stores and lists all kinds of freebies. One of the things she's been doing is this Spring Cleaning for Less series that she does on Fridays where she tells you how to clean your house with what you already have so you don't have to buy expensive cleaners. It's fabulous.

Also, here's another site with even more eco-friendly loot!

http://thisislifeinaustin.com/

HOME REMEDIES FOR YOUR PET! YOUR BFF!

Here’s the scenario: Your dog walks into the house, and you see he’s got an oozing sore near his ribs, or his face is swollen, or he starts vomiting! What do you do? Well, before you rush him to the vet, try some of these pet home remedies first! These come from emergency veterinarian Justine Lee, and Prevention magazine.

Emergency #1: Fido’s got a painful, oozing sore somewhere on his body – also known as a “hot spot.” These sores are usually triggered by an insect bite, and they’re mostly harmless. Except when Fido tries to lick where it hurts. Because all that licking traps moisture around the sore, which promotes infectious bacteria to grow! The fix? Remove as much fur as possible from the area using a pair of grooming clippers. Then clean the hot spot gently with a gauze pad, and attach a funnel collar over Fido’s head – so he can’t lick himself. Next, apply an even mixture of water and apple cider vinegar to the sore and let the area dry. Do this two or three times a day, and the sore should heal itself. However, if it doesn’t improve within two days, see a vet.

The next emergency: Rover comes in from the back yard with a swollen, puffy face. Chances are he’s having an allergic reaction to an outdoor plant, or your neighbor’s chemically treated lawn. Believe it or not, a single dose of over-the-counter antihistamine – like Benadryl – may reverse the swelling. You should also give your dog a bath using mild soap, since he may be reacting to an irritant on his skin! If the swelling doesn’t go away within a few hours, or if Rover has trouble breathing, get to the vet.

One last emergency: Your dog suddenly starts vomiting. This is actually the most common reason owners bring a pet to the ER, but in most cases, your dog simply has an upset stomach! Dr. Lee says whatever you do, don’t feed him again for at least 12 hours. Let him drink water to help flush out his system and try adding a child’s dose of Pepcid AC to his water dish. However, if the vomiting doesn’t stop, or your dog becomes too lethargic to eat or drink after 12 hours, you need to call the vet.

MAKE YOUR DATE LIKE YOU IN 90 SECONDS OR LESS!

THIS IS FOR BOTH SEXES!
Floss your teeth.
If you want him/her to pay attention to you-- notice the color of his/her eyes. This will keep your pupils focused on his/hers.Eye contact is crucial and a subliminal way to show that you're a sane friendly person.
If you want her to like you right away-- Mirror her. If she scratches her nose, rub your eye. We gravitate toward people like us.

CHEAP DATE IDEAS IN AUSTIN!

Check out http://www.sneakysunday.com/ and then click on Hotels/Leisure
You will see a link for Cheap date ideas right here in Austin. Pretty Cool.

Also, thanks to one our wonderful listeners who provided a list of 101 great things to do in Austin!
Click here to check it out!

Casting Call for Curvacious Ladies Looking For Love!

From the executive producers of "The Bachelor"...........More To Love!!
Are you confident, curvy and genuinely looking for love?
Click Here for information on how you could get on the show More To Love!

More To Love will air this summer on Fox!

BEACH WEDDINGS NEED JEWELS BY JAN

Spring is here and that means being able to finally give your feet some well deserved fresh air after being crammed into boots all winter long. Indie designer, Jan Hansen of Jewels By Jan, designs fabulous footless sandals that will have you ready for spring break or the perfect beach wedding in an instant.

COUPONS! GREAT DEALS! LOOK HERE!

I get emails all the time asking about where I have heard about great deals or coupons online. Well, I have compiled a few places I havce found online. I hope you save mucho dinero!

-Bridget

1.) Click Here for coupons you can print out and use anywhere, from Woman's Day

2.) Go to CouponCabin.com. It's easy to sign up and there's no spam. Enter your e-mail address on their home page, and every Monday you'll receive that week's deals. Currently, there are great coupons for Home Depot, Radio Shack, Target, Foot Locker, Lord & Taylor, Sports Authority, American Apparel, Sears, K-Mart, Dell and lots more. There are lots of web sites that will e-mail great deals to you...Coupon Cabin is my favorite. It's simple and easy to read and use.

3.) http://www.slickdeals.net/

7 WORST CASE LAUNDRY ISSUES AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT THEM

So I was doing some reading online when I came across this priceless article. I'm sad to say, though, it's a little too late for my beautiful blue and black striped blouse with a white collar. The collar turned pink and I washed the shirt dozens of times. I tried all sorts of concoctions and ended up pitching it. That really hurt. I saw this article and it mentioned a couple of different solutions when your clothes turn pink. Save this and file it so if you have a laundry disaster, you can refer to it. That's what I did. Talk to you on Tuesday. I'll be back from a mini vacation.

Bridget


by Mary Ellen Pinkham, Everyday Problem Solver

Below, you'll find examples of both household remedies and commercial recommendations. (In a couple of cases Mary Ellen even suggests some of her own products, which she developed because they solved problems for which there were no other solutions, and I continue to feel they're the best way to go.)

1. White clothes are pink

Solution 1: Rit Color Remover. This product is specifically meant to remove dye color that's been transferred to washable white fabrics. Where to find: Fabric stores and drug-store chains.

Solution 2:1. Place the clothing item on a stack of paper towels and spray the stained area with WD-40. Leave it for five minutes, then repeat on other side.

2. Rub in liquid dish washing detergent, placing fresh towels underneath as color is absorbed.

3. Wash with chlorine or oxygen bleach, whichever is appropriate, and rinse with warm water.

2. Crayons melted in dryer

For the dryer drum:

1. Scrape off as much wax as possible with a credit card or other non scratchy tool.
2. Use a blow-dryer held about 6-8 inches from the drum to create enough heat to melt the wax, and wipe away what you can.
3. Spray WD-40 or Goo Gone on paper towels, and wipe it again.
4. Use a little liquid dish detergent and warm water to wash out the dryer. To be very sure the wax is cleaned out, before you use the dryer on a normal load, first dry a load of rags for 30 minutes.

3. Wool sweater shrunk

Solution: Not guaranteed, but this is worth a try. Soak the sweater for a few minutes in a bucket of water to which you've added a couple of capfuls of hair conditioner. The hair conditioner will loosen up the fibers enough so that you can lay the sweater on a dry towel and gently pull and stretch it back to shape. Allow to dry thoroughly.

4. Stained lingerie

Solution: Apply a solution of three percent hydrogen peroxide to the stain, let it bubble up, rinse. Repeat until the stain is gone. If that's not working, and/or if you've got a set-in, dried stain on items that have already gone through the washer and dryer, try Mary Ellen's for Those Days. It works on whites and colorfast items like magic.

5. White fabric with yellow stains

Solution: Yellow stains are very tricky and can be caused by a variety of reasons. Sometimes the whiteners and brighteners used in the manufacture of a white item simply turn color. Or, as in the case of underarm stains, the fabric itself has been damaged. Both situations are irreversible. Sometimes white linen items can be salvaged. If you've tried bleach without success, check out Mary Ellen's Formula One for Set-in Stains—it's good for white and colorfast items. Over the years, women have written to tell me it even removed stains on old christening gowns. Also, you'll avoid yellow stains on white fabrics if you never store them with plastic coverings (such as dry cleaning bags).

6. White fabric looks dingy

Solution: First soak the item for half an hour in a quart of warm water with a tablespoon each of ammonia and liquid dish washing detergent. Rinse, and then soak it in a quart of warm water mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar. Finally, rinse well and dry.

7. Clothes are wrinkled

Solution: Return everything to the dryer, put a damp towel into the load and re-dry. Or press garments with a pressing cloth dampened with diluted white vinegar.

HIPPITY HOPPITY EASTERS ON IT'S WAY!

The Easter Bunny is a revered tradition at Barton Creek Square and Lakeline Mall, and this year is no exception. Everyone is invited to visit the floppy-eared friend who will be in the mall offering professional photos between March 20 and April 11.

THE ADOPTION POEM

Once there were two women who never knew each other..One you do not remember, the other you call mother. Two different lives, shaped to make your one…

One became your guiding star, the other became your sun.

The first gave you life and the second taught you to live it.

The first gave you a need for love and the second was there to give it.
One gave you nationality, the other gave you a name.

One gave you a seed of talent, the other gave you an aim.

One gave you emotions, the other calmed your fears.

One saw your first sweet smile, the other dried your tears.
One gave you up…that’s all she could do.

The other prayed for a child and God led her straight to you.


And now you ask me through your fears, the age old question unanswered throughout the years….Heredity or environment …which are you the product of? Neither, my darling..neither..just two different kinds of love.

- Author Unknown

<---My beautiful birth son. 18 yrs. old


-Bridget

HOW SMART IS YOUR DOG?

<---- MY SUPER SMART DOG, ZUKO!

If you’re like most dog owners, you think you’ve got the smartest pooch on the planet. Still, have you ever wondered why some dogs can herd sheep, and rescue people from avalanches while other dogs can’t even seem to master “sit” and “stay?” Then here’s an IQ test to help you figure out if your pup’s the canine equivalent of Albert Einstein. I got this from MSNBC. Just remember, don’t do the tests all in one day. Your dog might get confused and overwhelmed – and wonder why you’ve suddenly gone crazy.


• There’s the towel test. Take a large towel or blanket, and gently put it over your dog’s head. If he gets free in less than 15 seconds, he’s sharp. If it’s longer than a minute, give him an “E” for effort.
• The next doggie IQ test: The bucket trick. Put three buckets next to each other, and let him watch while you put a dog treat or his favorite toy under one. Then, turn the dog away from the buckets. After a few seconds, let him find the treat. If he immediately goes to the correct bucket, that’s a sign of intelligence. If he has to check all three buckets – well, he can still get by on his looks.
• Then there’s the favorite spot test. Rearrange the furniture while your dog’s out of the room. If he comes in and goes directly to his favorite spot, he’s an “A” student. If he picks a whole new area to snuggle down, he’s an average student.
• The final dog IQ test: Go for an unexpected walk. Pick a time you don’t normally walk your dog and while he’s watching, quietly pick up your keys and grab his leash. If he immediately gets excited, he’s bright. If you have to walk to the door before he catches on, well, he still gets to go for a walk. You can keep the test results between you, your dog, and his favorite tree.

Are You The Average Woman?

-163 pounds is the average weight of a woman
-133 pounds is the average woman’s goal weight.
-16% of women say they’ve been treated badly because of their weight.
-10 times is the average number of attempts a woman has tried to lose weight.
-63% of women step on the scale at least once a week.
-57% of women say they’d rather be rich than stay at their dream weight forever

MENTAL MINUTE

Got a minute? Try this quick mental workout: Close your eyes and walk to different objects in the room. Doctors say that this mental exercise helps the brain because you're using visualization, memorization, short-term planning and long-term planning. Try walking across the kitchen and opening the fridge door, with your eyes closed. As you walk, imagine what the room has looked like all those hundreds of times you've walked this same path with your eyes open. You might be surprised how well you do. Closing your eyes too scary? Try doing it with your eyes open but walking backward.
Source: Chicago Tribune

SHRED THAT!

Do you really need to shred all your bills, bank statements, and junk-mail credit card offers? Absolutely. In more than half of the 10 million cases of identity theft reported annually, the victims knew the thieves. All someone needs is access to an account number to go on a QVC binge, free of charge. Thieves also love Dumpster diving. If you don’t shred, the bad guys can grab your private info. Invest in a crosscutting shredder: Paper shredded into strips can be taped back together.

WIPE OUT THE 10 WORST GERM HOT SPOTS

You may scrub your toilet and countertops until they shine, but when it comes to the war between you and germs, consider yourself outnumbered. Germs (the catchall name for bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms) are everywhere — at home, in the office, even in your car. Luckily, about 99 percent of them can't harm us. But the other 1 percent can be annoying, uncomfortable, or downright scary: Most of these pathogens are either viral or bacterial and can cause everything from a runny nose to a potentially life-threatening infection.

You may think you know the obvious places that germs propagate — the doctor's office, the soles of your shoes — but many more germ-friendly locales are completely unexpected yet no less dangerous. We uncovered a host of surprising new spots where germs like to lurk, and offer easy solutions to keep you and your family safe and healthy.

The kitchen faucet
That metal aeration screen at the end of your kitchen faucet reduces water flow, which is good for the environment, but not so much for your health: Running water keeps the screen moist, an ideal condition for bacteria growth. Because tap water is far from sterile, if you accidentally touch the screen with dirty fingers or food, bacteria can grow on the faucet, explains microbiologist Kelly Reynolds, PhD, an associate professor of community environment and policy at the University of Arizona College of Public Health. Over time, bacteria build up and form a wall of pathogens called biofilm that sticks to the screen. "Eventually, that biofilm may even be big enough to break off and get onto your food or dishes," she notes.
Keep it clean: Once a week, remove the screen and soak it in a diluted bleach solution — follow the directions on the label. Replace the screen, and let the water run a few minutes before using. The garbage disposalThat raw chicken or spinach you're rinsing for dinner is often loaded with harmful bacteria, which can make the young, the elderly, or anyone with a compromised immune system seriously ill. In fact, there are often more than 500,000 bacteria in the kitchen sink — about 1,000 times more than the average toilet has.
Although the metal part of the disposal produces ions that can help kill germs, they still love to grow on the crevices in and around the slimy rubber stopper. That means your disposal can become party central for bacteria, contaminating whatever touches it — dishes, utensils, even your hands. Keep it clean: At least once a week, clean the disposal's rubber stopper with a diluted bleach solution — soap and water aren't enough. The welcome matIt serves to greet not only your guests but also all the bugs on the bottoms of their shoes. One study found that nearly 96 percent of shoe soles had traces of coliform, which includes fecal bacteria. "The area near your front door is one of the dirtiest in the house," says Reynolds. Once bacteria plant their stakes in your mat, anytime you walk on it, you give them a free ride into your home. Keep it clean: Spray the doormat once a week with a fabric-safe disinfectant (such as Lysol Disinfectant Spray). Leave shoes at the door, and avoid resting bags and groceries on the mat, too.
Your vacuum cleaner"Vacuums — including the brushes and bags — are like meals-on-wheels for bacteria," says Charles Gerba, PhD, professor of environmental biology at the University of Arizona. "You suck in all this bacteria and food, creating an atmosphere for growth." A recent study by Gerba and his team found that 13 percent of all vacuum cleaner brushes tested positive for E. coli, which means you could spread it around the house each time you use the appliance. Keep it clean: Change your vacuum bag frequently, and do so outdoors to avoid the cloud of bacteria that filters into the air. (Vacuum bags that feature antibacterial linings are best, and are available for many major brands.) Clean the cavity of a bagless vacuum with diluted bleach and let it air-dry.

A dish towel
You know a sponge can harbor nasty germs, but a recent study of hundreds of homes across the United States found that about 7 percent of kitchen towels were contaminated with MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), the difficult-to-treat staph bacteria that can cause life-threatening skin infections. Dish towels also rated tops for dangerous strains of E. coli and other bacteria. We often use towels to wipe up spills, says Reynolds, then reuse before washing them, which spreads germs.Keep it clean: Stick to paper towels to clean countertops, and save the dishrag to dry just-washed pots and plates. Change towels or launder at least twice a week in hot water and bleach.Your car's dashboardIn tests of 100 vehicles from across the United States, the dashboard was found to be the second-most-common spot for bacteria and mold. (Food spills were number one.) The researchers' rationale: When air — which carries mold spores and bacteria — gets sucked in through the vents, it's often drawn to the dashboard, where it can deposit the spores and germs. Because the dashboard receives the most sun and tends to stay warm, it's prime for growth.Keep it clean: Regularly swipe the inside of your car with disinfecting wipes. Be more vigilant during allergy season — about 20 million Americans are affected by asthma, which is caused in part by an allergic reaction to mold.Soap dispensersSoap that harbors bacteria may sound ironic, but one recent study found that about 25 percent of liquid soap dispensers in public restrooms were contaminated by fecal bacteria. "Most of these containers are never cleaned, so bacteria grows as the soap scum builds up," says Gerba. "And the bottoms are touched by dirty hands, so there's a continuous culture going on feeding millions of bacteria."Keep it clean:: Be sure to scrub hands thoroughly for 15 to 20 seconds with plenty of hot water — and if you have an alcohol gel disinfectant, use that, too.Restaurant ketchup bottleIt's the rare eatery that regularly bleaches down condiment containers. And the reality is that many people don't wash their hands before eating, says Reynolds. So while you may be diligent, the guy who poured the ketchup before you may not have been, which means his germs are now on your fries.Keep it clean: Squirt hand sanitizer on the outside of the bottle or use a disinfectant wipe before you grab it. Holding the bottle with a napkin won't help — they're porous, so microorganisms can walk right through, says Reynolds.The refrigerator sealA University of Arizona survey of 160 homes in three U.S. cities found that the seal around the fridge tested positive 83 percent of the time for common molds. The mold can spread every time the refrigerator door opens — exposing anyone who's susceptible to allergies and potentially contaminating the food. Keep it clean: Wipe fridge seals at least once a week with a diluted bleach solution or disinfectant.

Your cell phone
You probably put it down any place that's convenient, but consider this: Several studies on cell phones and PDAs found that they carry tons of bacteria, including staph (which can cause skin infections), pseudomonas (eye infections), and salmonella (stomach ailments). Many electronic devices are sheathed in leather or vinyl cases, which provide plenty of creases and crevices for germs to hide. Keep it clean: Use a disinfecting wipe a few times a week, and be conscious of where you rest personal items.

msnbc / Prevention

ERYKAH BADU AT SXSW 2009! Whoo Hoo!

Every year, a few standout late adds end up energizing the South by Southwest schedule. One of 2009's is Erykah Badu, who will play a free show at Auditorium Shores on Saturday.

With a new daughter at home and a sequel to "New Amerykah" due out this year, Badu returns to Austin with the Cannabinoids, a group of Dallas urban music all-stars.

So what are Cannabinoids? I'll let Erykah Badu explain. "They are a group of terpenophenolic compounds present in Cannibis sativa. Some of the cannabinoids make you hungry, some make you hallucinate, some make you sleepy. These are these little receptors that are present in this herb. So I was thinking we can create it with us. We can be the synthetic cannabinoids. And I came up with a group of names and did some research on cannabinoids, and these all have different jobs. For example THC is also known as the little brain and controls the heart rate, where hu-210 is kind of like a grey matter that controls thinking in the experience of getting high. So I wanted us to get high through this musical collaboration."

Ummmmmm................. okay! Wow! That's out there!

Decorating Your Home On A Super Tight Budget! (I'm There!)

I love,with a passion, to decorate my home so it really bums me out when I don't have very much money, like now. :( I am purchasing a new home and of course, I want some new things to put in it but I had to use my income tax refund for the down payment. Nuff said.... I've been on the hunt for some cool things at great prices. I thought I'd pass along what I've come across and really hope you will leave a post here if you have found some neat, affordable things too!

1.) Posters are waaaay too college. For a more stylish look, seek out one-of-a-kind pieces of artwork. Check out www.etsy.com, where artisits sell their original pieces for low prices. They have everything from sculptures to landscape paintings.

I have to thank the owner of Art Attack (Very cool, create your own art studio) at The Hill Country Galleria for the next couple of items on my list. Linda Rocks!

2.) Lamps say so much. I love colorful lamps for accent pieces. Not so much for lighting a room but to add to the ambience. To me, lamps can function like pieces of art. Check out this link to see a bunch of lamps. You can see a few of them hanging up in Art Attack. They are funky and very cool. Oh, and very affordable too! http://www.omgallery.com/index.php

3.) Dress up your walls! These sites offers decals in a variety of patterns. Modern, Classic, Circles, etc. Really great for people like moi! I change my mind a lot. You can just peel'em of when you want a new look! www.whatisblik.com or http://www.modernwallgraphics...com/

MONEY MYTHS THAT JUST WON'T DIE!!!

There is an awful lot of bad advice out there when it comes to managing your personal finances. Like rumors, these myths get told and retold as if they were true and spread like wildfire even though they are flat out wrong.

Money Myth No. 1: This is a Great Opportunity to Buy Stocks

If you believe that, I have some real estate in Florida (with just a little water on it) that's also a great buy. If your financial advisor is telling you that now is the time to buy, fire your broker. Are you kidding me?!

We know that you are desperate to make back some of your investment losses, but buying stocks in this environment isn't the way to do it. The bottom is nowhere in sight right now, and this is no time to invest new money -- don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

Money Myth No. 2: Everyone Needs Life Insurance

Think the insurance agents are behind keeping this money myth alive? Here it is in a nutshell: If you have someone who really DEPENDS on your income -- then, yes, you likely may need life insurance to help them maintain their standard of living if you're gone.

If you're single, retired or part of a dual income household with no dependents, you may not need life insurance at all. And, please, don't count on life insurance as a savings plan or as a source of "emergency money" that you can cash in down the road.

Money Myth No. 3: Credit Counseling Will Hurt Your Credit Score

No, no, NO! We're going to scream this one from the rooftops till we get through! Credit counseling will not affect your credit score one iota.

In fact, Fair Isaac (the company that calculates credit scores) does not factor enrollment with a credit counseling service into their scoring criteria. However, some lenders will see that "in credit counseling" notation on your credit report as a red flag, so you may have trouble getting new credit while you are in counseling.

Money Myth No. 4: Money Markets are FDIC Insured

A money market mutual fund is most certainly NOT FDIC insured. However, a money market DEPOSIT account -- which earns interest at a rate set (and paid) by the bank -- IS FDIC insured.

The fact that the names of these two vehicles sound similar may be the source of the confusion. Just suffice it to say that, basically, any deposit-type of account where your bank pays you interest is probably insured (but double check!) That includes any traditional type of bank account -- from checking and savings to CDs and IRAs. All of these are insured by the FDIC up to the limit of $250,000 per qualifying account.

Money Myth No. 5: You Get What You Pay For

Despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, this money myth won't die.

While it's true that sometimes there IS a link between price and quality, more often than not, you can get a great product at a great price if you shop around and/or know what to look for.

Take generic drugs, for example. They often use the exact same ingredients as their higher-priced name brand counterparts, and many are considered to be just as effective when stacked up against the big names. So why pay more?

Money Myth No. 6: Co-Signing a Loan is No Big Deal

Think co-signing a loan for a friend or relative is "not a big deal"? Think again.

Your signature is essentially telling the lender, "Sure, come after ME if my loved one defaults ... or even misses ONE payment. I'll take care of it!"

And, yes, this even applies to your own children. We know of one couple who co-signed a loan for their grown son -- one day, he just stopped making payments. Guess who's now making those car payments for him ... to avoid ruining their own credit?

Money Myth No. 7: You Don't Need a Will if You're Leaving Everything to Your Spouse

More than half of Americans die without leaving one. Big mistake.

Don't make the all-too-common assumption that your spouse will automatically get everything -- the house, the car, your investments -- upon your death. Without a will, there's no guarantee. That goes especially if you have children and/or surviving parents. The law in most states will award one-third to one-half of your property to your surviving spouse and divvy up the rest between your children and your parents, if they're still living.

Money Myth No. 8: Your Debts Will Be Wiped Out When You Die

It's a sad fact: Your debts may live on long after you do. Sure, some of your creditors may choose to forgive your debts, but more often than not, they'll try and collect from your estate.

If you have a trustee, that person is legally obligated to contact and pay off any debts before distributing money or property to your heirs. But, even if you don't have a trustee, your creditors can still stake a claim against your estate.

Money Myth No. 9: You Need a Certain Amount of Money to Start Investing

Don't let this money myth rob you from investing in your future. Even if you can only invest a few dollars every month, you still have plenty of options.

As a first step, you can open an online savings account that pays interest. Or you can buy stock directly from a company, though a Direct Stock Purchase plan. You can also pick up a low-cost mutual fund for as little as $50.

Money Myth No. 10: The Lower Your Insurance Deductible, the Better

This one is completely backwards! The lower your deductible, the higher your premium.

For MOST people, the odds of an accident or a house fire or a serious illness are actually quite small. So a higher deductible (in exchange for a lower monthly premium) should benefit more people than not.

Household Items that moonlight doing other kinds of jobs!

Check Out the Secret Uses of Everyday Items to Help With Your Chores



You've got a pile of household chores to do and errands to run, and you're running a little short on cash.

Most people would be stressing, sweating their way from task to task, but not you. You're cool.

Why? Because "Good Morning America" and lifestyle expert Nancy Soriano have teamed up to bring together some of the most resourceful household tips and tricks to cut down on time and expenses using some familiar household items in some less-familiar ways.

Take note and complete those chores in no time and in a style that would make MacGyver jealous.


Cleaning With Alka-Seltzer or Coca-Cola
On the one hand, you've got a dirty toilet or pots and pans. On the other, you've got a can of Coca-Cola and Alka-Seltzer. No problem.

According to Soriano, you can drop two tablets of Alka-Seltzer in the toilet, wait twenty minutes, brush and then flush for a squeaky clean toilet. The phosphoric acid in Coca-Cola can also do the trick.

For pots and pans, pouring a thick layer of soda directly on pans with badly burned-on food and sprinkling on just a little water can help loosen the food. Leave it soaking overnight and scrub clean the next day.


Doing Double-Time Ironing With Aluminum Foil
Ironing can be time-consuming, but what if you could do it in half the time?

Sliding a sheet of aluminum foil under the ironing board cover can get that done. The foil reflects the heat from the iron so that both sides get heated and ironed at the same time.


Eat a Banana, Then Polish Your Shoes
Banana peels aren't just for comedic value anymore.

The banana might taste good, but the banana peel is where the fruit can really shine, literally.

After de-stringing the banana, it can be used to shine anything from leather shoes to household plant leaves. For a final touch, give them a nice buffing with a soft cloth or paper towel.

According to Soriano, one reason the banana peel works so well is because bananas contain potassium, an ingredient it shares with shoe polish.



De-Stink Pets and Repel Bugs with Dryer Sheets
After your dog or cat bounds inside after a rainy day or a nice swim, head him or her off at the pass with a dryer sheet. Scrubbing your pet down with one of these will keep that wet-animal odor down and your pet nice and dry.

Dryer sheets have also been said to repel bugs, especially mosquitos. Tucking some sheets in a picnic basket or under patio furniture could help make your afternoon in the countryside or barbecue more pleasant.


Rubbing Alcohol, Water and Newspapers for Clean Windows
Just because you have an empty spray bottle doesn't mean it's useless.

You can make a do-it-yourself cleaner by taking that spray bottle and pouring in a quart of water and then adding three tablespoons of rubbing alcohol. Spray the cleaner on a dirty window and use a newspaper to wipe it down.

Then sit back and enjoy a crystal-clear view.


Dry Your Clothes Faster With Tennis Balls
Tired of waiting around while your clothes spin and spin in the dryer?

Cut down on the time by throwing something new into the mix: tennis balls.

Tossing two or three tennis balls (clean ones) into the dryer with your clothes help the air and heat circulate, meaning your clothes get dryer even more quickly.

The tennis balls help for a full load of laundry or just one item.


Aspirin Helps Remove the Headache of Sweat Stains
The bad news is that sometimes work can give you headaches and sweat stains.

The good news is that, if you know what you're doing, aspirin can help both.

Dissolve two aspirin in a half cup of warm water and then apply to the stained fabric. Leave it alone for a couple hours and then wash.

By the time you're done, your headache should have subsided and your clothes should be stain-free.

Prince to release new CD set through Target

NEW YORK — Prince is coming to a Target near you.
The superstar is releasing a three-disc CD set through the retailer at the end of this month. The set will include two new albums — "LOtUSFLOW3R" and "MPLSoUND" — as well as a third by his new artist, Bria Valente, for the price of $11.98.
Prince is just the latest music legend to release new music exclusively through a major retailer. AC/DC and the Eagles were among the acts who sold millions of CDs through their partnership with Wal-Mart.
Prince has released his recent CDs through major labels, but they were one-album deals that gave him the flexibility to go elsewhere when the project was done. Last fall, he released a coffee table book of photos titled "21 Nights" documenting his record-breaking, 21-night run at London's 02 Arena in 2007. The book also included a CD of live performances.
"Prince has long been renowned as one of the world's most original and iconic musical artists," said Mark Schindele, Target's senior vice president of merchandising. "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to share his most recent work with our Target guests."
The CD set will be on sale at Target and its Web site on March 29.

Hmmm.... WONDER WHY?.................

- Why does your gynecologist leave the room when you get undressed?

- Why can't women put on mascara with their mouth closed?

- Why is it called Alcoholics Anonymous when the first thing you do
is stand up and say, 'My name is Peter and I am an alcoholic'?

- Why are they called stairs inside but steps outside?

- Why is there a light in the fridge and not in the freezer?

- Why does mineral water that 'has trickled through mountains for
centuries have a 'use by' date?

- Why do toasters always have a setting that burns the toast to a
horrible crisp no one would eat?

- Is French kissing in France just called kissing?

- Who was the first person to look at a cow and say, 'I think I'll
squeeze these dangly things here and drink whatever comes out'?

- What do people in China call their good quality plates?

- Why do people point to their wrist when asking for the time, but
don't point to their crotch when they ask where the bathroom is?

- Why is a person that handles your money called a 'Broker'?

- If quizzes are quizzical, what are tests?

- Why is it that when someone tells you that there are over a
billion stars in the universe, you believe them, but if they tell
you there is wet paint somewhere, you have to touch it to make sure.

POOR RHIANNA! HER PICTURE WAS RELEASED THIS MORNING ON TMZ

Go to www.tmz.com Wow! I had heard right after this happened to Rhianna, that
her face was horrific looking and IT IS INDEED! Someone had said she looked like she
had horns! I agree. There is now an internal investigation at LAPD as to how this
photograph got released.

10 STRANGE PREGNANCY CRAVINGS

The results of a survey conducted by Gurgle.com reveal 10 of the most common strange pregnancy cravings.

1. Ice
2. Coal
3. Toothpaste
4. Sponges
5. Mud
6. Chalk
7. Laundry Soap
8. Matches
9. Starch
10. Rubber

Other strange cravings that didn’t quite break the top ten include bricks, newspapers and raw sausages.

Here’s a bonus list for you today: celebrity cravings.

1. Britney Spears – reportedly craved dirt.
2. Victoria Beckham – smoked salmon.
3. Tina Fey – Entemann’s mini chocolate donuts.
4. Minnie Driver – olives.
5. Jennifer Lopez – salsa, M&Ms and orange soda.
6. Angelina Jolie – Reese’s Pieces.
7. Madonna – poached eggs.
8. Rebecca Romijn – lemonade and soy cream cheese.
9. Gwen Stefani – Tabasco and used it on everything.
10. Katie Holmes – cupcakes.

THE 3RD MOST COMMON PHOBIA IS THE FEAR OF FLYING

I am often fearful of flying. Someone told me about this web site not too long ago and supposedly it can really overcome your fear! Check it out! It's absolutely free!

http://www.fearofflyinghelp.com/

HOW A CAR CRASH ENDED A WOMAN'S FINGERNAIL RECORD

The Guinness World Record for longest fingernails was broken. Sort of.

Lee Redmond's fingernails had been growing since 1979 but they were broken off this week in a four-car pileup in Holladay, Utah.

According to Guinnessworldrecords.com, in 2008, the nails were measured at 28 feet 4.5 inches, with a thumbnail reaching 35 inches.

Redmond was a passenger in one of the cars in crash. She and at least two other people were taken to a hospital with minor injuries after she was ejected from the car.

OCTUPLET MOM HAS A WEB SITE

A Web site, thenadyasulemanfamily.com, has been created by a public relations firm. The ‘octuplets mom' hired the firm after her controversial birth.

A spokeswoman for the firm said, "We put the site together because of the massive public interest in Nadya and her family. We wanted to give people the ability to make donations and send comments to the family."

Donations have already poured in, including books, clothing, cribs, bedding and diapers. The spokeswoman for the public relations firm said, "Everyone wants to donate." No word on how much money they've raised so far.

THE BUCKLETTE IS THE BEST THING EVER!!!!!!

I stumbled across this awesome new product on the web. If you have ever played a game of "pocket Tetris" trying to get all your essentials to fit, or lost a purse during a night out you have to try this. It is called the Bucklette!

Here is the Bucklette's story...

The Bucklette was created and designed by Sandy Alexander, founder of Dessa Lea Productions.
While single and living in Center City Philadelphia, Alexander was always on the go. Frequently running from work to a night out, she learned a quick change of clothes and "just the essentials" were necessary — lipstick, money, ID and house key.

Alexander carried a "wristlet" or an "under-the-shoulder" bag, but it typically ended up sitting on a table, hanging off a chair or on the floor.

While at a restaurant one evening, a friend’s purse was stolen, inspiring Alexander to create an accessory that would free women from the worry and inconvenience of carrying "the bag."

And the Bucklette was born!

CLICK HERE to get your very own Bucklette!

What kind of nose should I get?

I have an extremely deviated septum and Dr. Driscoll is going to be correcting that for me as well as give me a little nose job in the process.

Here is an awesome website that will let you change your looks. Here is my picture. Have at it. Send it to me when your done at bridget@mix947.com

This is for forever! I have some anxiety about it but I've always wanted to get this done and NOW is my chance! I am just so undecided. Will you help pleeeeease? If they aren't ridiculous, then I will post them here on my blog! Thanks!

http://www.liftmagic.com/






Angelina Jolie's nose below! Jessica Simpson's nose below! OUCH TO BOTH!!

BUSINESS KEEPS GROCERIES GREEN WITH THE GRO-PAK!

Not only has the grocery bag gone green, it’s gotten more stylish. Three Austin women came up with an idea to take the reusable grocery bag to new heights.

The bag system rolls into one.
It’s a five-piece green system for getting your groceries home created by three Austin women.

The name of the company is Blue Avocado. The product is called the gro-pak.

The bag has a place for all of your grocery bag needs, with the intent to keep you organized.

When not in use, the big bag rolls up nicely. It’s perfect for folks who have all different reusable bags strewn around their cars.

The creators said the goal was to make a bag that is compact and fits all in one place.

“That really was the point of this -- to add a little organization so you don’t have 15 bags across the back of your car,” Melissa Nathan of Blue Avocado said. “Things fold up, there’s a place for everything. It’s a little bit stylish so you feel good walking out of the grocery store.”

The bag system includes a mesh veggie bag which can hold plenty of vegetables.

“You can just take your vegetables wash them under the sink and stick them right into the refrigerator,” Nathan said.

The pak includes the “Chill,” a messenger-style insulated bag that keeps items hot or cold for three hours.

Nathan said she can fit three gallons of milk and at least one tub of ice cream in her Chill.

The gro-pak came to fruition after the women surveyed about 300 people online.


The gro-pak creators Paige Davis and Melissa Nathan are sisters. Nathan and Amy George attended the University of Texas McCombs School of Business together.
“We knew a few things,” Paige Davis of Blue Avocado said. “It had to be functional – that’s the collapsibility of it. It had to have a fashion component – people wanted to feel good. And, of course, the green for us – and that’s where our carbon label and our partnership with Kiva.org really impacted that.”

Kiva.org is a micro-lending concept that gives loans to entrepreneurs in developing countries.

“To date, we’ve provided loans for over 20 women, micro-entrepreneurs,” Davis said.

But, that’s not where the gro-pak’s good stops.

“All of our products are made out of post-consumer material,” Amy George of Blue Avocado said. “The bags themselves – each of them has a label that shows you how many plastic bags you’re avoiding. We help the average shopper reduce by about 1,000 plastic bags per year.”

Just last year, Blue Avocado helped avoid the use of 3.5 million plastic bags.

Bags in more male-friendly neutral colors like gray and black are coming soon from Blue Avocado.

You can get the gro-pak at Whole Foods and Breed and Company locally or online.

Right now, Blue Avocado is offering a Valentine’s Day special on their Web site.

www.blueavocado.com

By: Rachel Elsberry News8Austin.com