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Nutty Brown Rice Salad

2011-07-24T19:21:00.002+05:30

Highlighting garden fresh parsley, seasonal vegetables, heart healthy walnuts and whole grain brown rice, this salad is a perfect balance of taste and nutrition.

And because it stores well in the fridge, double the recipe for an easy-to-pack lunch, a last minute dinner, or for a snack throughout the day.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups brown basmati rice
3 1/2 cups water
1 cup carrots, chopped
1/2 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, sliced
1/2 cup zucchini or summer squash, chopped
1/2 cup green bell peppers, chopped
1/2 cup red bell peppers, chopped
1/2 cup snow peas, destemmed and chopped
2 1/2 cups parsley, chopped
1/2 cup walnut pieces, toasted
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
1/2 tablespoon walnut oil
salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

Directions:

In a large saucepan, bring rice and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and set timer to simmer for 40 minutes.
Meanwhile, steam vegetables for 10 minutes separately.
When rice and vegetables are finished, let rice cool to room temperature, then mix vegetables and rice together. Stir in parsley, walnuts, oil and vinegar, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Chill at least 2 hours before serving.(Optional)

Red Rice Salad

2011-07-24T17:35:00.002+05:30

A colorful and tasty vegetarian salad.This hearty vegetarian dish is made with red and white rice which creates a colorful and delicious Mediterranean salad.

Ingredients:

1 cup white basmati rice, rinsed thoroughly (¼ cup veggie oil, ½ tsp salt and 1½ cups water for cooking).
1 cup red rice, rinsed thoroughly (¼ cup veggie oil, ½ tsp salt and 2½ cups water for cooking)
1 of yellow, green and orange bell pepper, sliced into ½ inch thick slices, 1-2 inch long
1 red onion, sliced into ½ inch thick slices, 1-2 inch long
½ cup cilantro, chopped 1/3 cup olive oil
3 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 garlic cloves, grated
¼ tsp cayanne pepper
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

Directions:

Heat veggie oil in a small pot, add white rice, salt and stir. Add water and stir. When boiling, cover pot immediately and cook on simmer heat for 15 minutes. Heat veggie oil in a small pot, add red rice, salt and stir. Add water and stir. When boiling, cover pot immediately and cook on low-simmer heat for 60 minutes. Add yellow, green and orange peppers into a large bowl. Add red onion, cilantro and set aside. Into a small bowl, add olive oil, lemon juice, dijon mustard, garlic, cayanne pepper, salt and black pepper. Whisk well. When white and red rice are cooked, transfer both into a large serving bowl. Add sauce into salad and mix well. Transfer salad onto rice, mix well and serve.

Note: Do not open lid while cooking rice

Italian Fried Steak with Roasted Pepper Pesto

2011-07-24T17:31:00.001+05:30

Top crispy breaded steak with a sauce of blended roasted red peppers and Romano cheese for a fast and delicious meal.

Ingredients

1/2 cup seasoned fine dry bread crumbs
1/2 cup grated Romano or Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 Tbsp. water
1-1/2 lb. beef cubed steak
Olive oil
1 12-oz. jar roasted red sweet peppers, drained
2/3 cup fresh basil leaves.

Directions

1. In a shallow dish combine crumbs and half the cheese. In another shallow dish, beat together egg and water. Cut meat in 8 equal-size portions; lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper. Dip in egg mixture, then crumb mixture; press lightly to coat.

2. In a 12-inch skillet heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Working in two batches, cook steak, about 5 minutes per side, adding more oil as needed. Remove to a serving platter; cover to keep warm. Carefully wipe skillet clean.

3. Meanwhile, for sauce, in blender or processor combine drained peppers and remaining cheese. Process until nearly smooth. Finely chop 1/2 cup of the basil; set aside. Transfer pepper mixture to hot skillet and heat through. Remove from heat. Stir in finely chopped basil. Pour sauce over steaks. Sprinkle with remaining basil. Makes 4 servings.

Nutrition Facts

Calories425
Total Fat (g)21
Saturated Fat (g)8,
Monounsaturated Fat (g)9,
Polyunsaturated Fat (g)1,
Cholesterol (mg)130,
Sodium (mg)645,
Carbohydrate (g)15,
Total Sugar (g)1,
Fiber (g)2,
Protein (g)43,
Vitamin C (DV%)2.58,
Calcium (DV%)19,
Iron (DV%)28,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Herbed Salmon

2011-07-24T17:18:00.002+05:30

Ingredients

1 lb. skinless salmon fillet, cut into 4 portions
1 lemon
1 Tbsp. snipped fresh dillweed
1 Tbsp. snipped fresh tarragon or lemon thyme
1 Tbsp. snipped fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley or bias-sliced chives
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
2 Tbsp. butter, softened
Lemon peel and fresh herbs (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Rinse fish; pat dry. Shred 1 teaspoon of peel from lemon; set aside. Juice half the lemon. In a small bowl combine lemon peel, snipped herbs, salt, pepper, and butter; stir to combine. Spread evenly on the salmon.

2. Heat a 12-inch nonstick oven-going skillet over medium heat. Add salmon, herb side down. Cook 3 minutes or until golden brown. Turn salmon; pour lemon juice over. Place pan in oven and cook 3 to 7 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

3. Transfer to serving plates; drizzle with pan juices. Top with additional shredded lemon peel and snipped fresh herbs. Makes 4 servings.

Nutrition Facts

Calories294
Total Fat (g)21
Saturated Fat (g)7,
Monounsaturated Fat (g)6,
Polyunsaturated Fat (g)5,
Cholesterol (mg)78,
Sodium (mg)401,
Carbohydrate (g)3,
Total Sugar (g)1,
Fiber (g)1,
Protein (g)24,
Vitamin C (DV%)47,
Calcium (DV%)3,
Iron (DV%)4,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Moon Tattoo : Meaning

2011-07-18T14:35:00.000+05:30

Moon Tattoo Designs - One of the Twelve Symbols of Sovereignty (imperial authority), the moon is a symbol of heaven. The moon is representative of the passive principle (Yin) to the sun's active principle (Yang). The moon in heraldry is always borne as a crescent, usually with the cavity turned upward. In Western astrology The Moon is said to represent the feeling nature of the individual. It is used to characterize the inner child within us, as well as the past and how we have been as individuals rather than how we are now.

In ancient Egypt, we find the earliest written records of the moon's influence in the lives of humans. Before Sun worship, the Egyptians worshipped the moon. Isis was not only a symbol of Moon, she was Goddess, too. In ceremonies and processions, her headdress was a moon with a pair of cow's horns symbolizing motherhood, since Isis was also the representative of Nature. The ancient Egyptians also portrayed the moon as a cat, not because of any physical resemblance, but because both were lights in the dark - the cat could see at night, and the moon shed light in the night sky.

The Assyrians held the moon to be the supreme deity, while Moon worship existed in Ancient Greece, Babylonia, India and China. The belief was based on the observation of how the moon's phases affected the growth and decline of crops, and of animal and human life. Little wonder then that the power of the Moon was seen as divine. Because the cycles and phases of the Moon are so predictable, the Moon played a prominent role in the earliest concepts of time and calendars, and the Lunar Calendar was used by many cultures to plan religious ceremonies around, and to time the planting and harvesting of crops.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the Harvest Moon, is the full moon that occurs nearest the autumnal equinox on September 23, and usually takes place in late September or early October. This Full Moon was often closely associated with the fall harvest of grain and other crops, hence its name and many celebrations took place at this time of the year. During the period of the Harvest Moon, the retardation (later rising each night) of the moon is at a minimum, because of the relation of the moon's path to the horizon. On several nights in succession the moonrise is at nearly the same time, and there is full moonlight almost from sunset to sunrise if the sky is unclouded.

The Hunters Moon was the name given to the first full moon after the Harvest Moon. It often signaled the period when animals that migrated, either herd animals or birds, began to be hunted in earnest for food stores for the winter ahead. Like the Harvest Moon, the Hunters Moon is very bright and on cloudless nights it was said a good hunter could track his prey as if by daylight. Because the Hunters Moon was bright enough to hunt by, it was also occasionally referred to as the Blood Moon.

The expression "once in a Blue Moon", symbolizes rarity. A Blue Moon is the third full moon in a three-month calendar season that has four full moons, or the second of two full moons occurring in the same month. These are events that do not happen within a relatively long period of time.

To honor the moon, Greeks built temples dedicated to Diana, or Artemis, as she was known to the ancient Greeks. For the Celts, Morgana was the Moon goddess. The Mayan Moon goddess was the patroness of pregnant women. In aboriginal cultures, Grandmother Moon is seen holding her generous, round bowl. In Japan they do it differently -- the moon was associated with the male god, Susanowo, brother of the Amateratsu, the goddess associated with the sun.

Astrologers point to the moon as the ruler of the emotions, characterized by fickle changes and fluctuations. Both East and West associate the moon with the mother, nurturing, and the home. It is universally associated with water and tides and the female cycles of menstruation. The moon looks outwards, shining its light on others, which has become synonymous with the traditional feminine principles of care-giving and comforting others. Receptivity and melancholy are also seen as 'moon aspects' but in no way associated with any dwindling of power. In China, the moon is the Yin (feminine) principle, and in Indian astrology, the moon represents the mind. It is still customary among women in Central Africa to bathe their newborn infants in the light of a full moon.

The mythical werewolf knows better than anyone about the power of the moon. We are endlessly fascinated by terrifying tales of its transformation into a lupine creature under the influence of the full moon. In different parts of the world, the moon is the star of many tales of romance and lunacy. Kissing someone under a Full Moon is considered to be a lucky portent for the length and strength of the relationship. The Bushman of Africa has the story of the moon and the rabbit, with the rabbit as mischief maker and the moon representing Eternity. In the West, being 'moonstruck' refers to the belief that madmen have been stricken by the moon's power. The word Lunatic emerged from that association.

The Moon is also closely associated with the many animals that come out at night, particularly to hunt. Wolves, coyotes, panthers, jaguars, leopards, owls, bats and many other creatures that go bump in the night have all been associated with the Moon. In some Native American cultures it is thought that wolves and coyotes are 'howling' at the Moon when they make their familiar cries that are actual territorial boundaries.

The plains and craters of the moon, their various shapes and shades, have been interpreted by different cultures as either 'the man in the moon', or in some cases, the 'rabbit' or 'buffalo', etc. With the advent of scientific investigation, man's view of the moon began to change. Some of the first philosophers and astronomers to challenge the old beliefs were imprisoned, or worse, for their new theories. After the invention of the telescope around 1608, the moon acquired a different image and shed some of its supernatural mystique. Interest in its more material and physical aspects - cheese, anyone? -- grew rapidly over the centuries, until the day the moon had a visit from the Man on the Earth, Neil Armstrong, in 1969.

Sun and Moon Tattoo : Meaning And Designs

2011-07-17T21:42:00.009+05:30

The moon is also important in Asian culture, because the moon (Yin) balances the sun (Yang). In the Yin Yang philosophy, the entire universe in kept in balance because for every object, element, or force, there is a counter balance. For good, there is bad. For dark, there is light. For cold, there is heat. For feminine, there is masculine. The moon, specifically, represents Yin, being feminine and passive. In Chinese Yin Yang tattoos, there must also always be balance. The sun would be designed with the moon, because they compliment each other and keep each other in balance and harmony. These tattoos would likely also feature other Yin Yang symbols, like water and flames. Even outside of Asian culture, the sun/moon tattoo design is a common motif. In most societies, the sun and moon are opposites, as day is to night and male is to female. There is something intriguingly complete about the sun combined with moon. This tattoo design seems all encompassing, uniting seemingly disparate celestial bodies and everything they stand for.

Sun and Moon Tattoo:Designs:-

Sun Tattoos:Meaning and Designs

2011-07-17T21:23:00.007+05:30

Sun Tattoo :- Meaning

The most common symbol of the sun is a circle with the sun's rays emanating from the perimeter. A dot or point in the center of a circle symbolizes the blending of male and female forces. The sun is usually seen as a masculine symbol and the moon and the earth as feminine symbols, hence you will often the Sun symbolically paired with the Moon or the Earth. For many millennia the Sun was believed to be at the center of the Universe, around which all other heavenly bodies radiated. The Sun was a symbol of both royal and divine powers, adopted by both secular and religious authorities.

As a tattoo design and symbol, a Sun represents fertility, vitality, passion, courage and eternally renewed youth, light and knowledge. When looking at some of the popular tattoo designs, note the following, in various cultures in the history of man, the Sun was represented by the following; an Eagle, an Eagle with a Serpent, a Winged Serpent (Dragon), a Falcon (Egyptian God Horus), Phoenix, Swan, Lion, Ram, Cock or Bull. The Sun could be further represented by the Heart symbol, A Rosette or Rose, the Lotus, the Sunflower and the Chrysanthemum.

Sun Tattoo :- Designs

Business Ideas for Kids

2011-07-16T23:16:00.002+05:30

Business activities for kids are much more than simply methods of earning some cash. They contribute to kids' development of problem-solving skills, social and communication skills, financial responsibility, self-confidence, and other skills which would be beneficial when they grow up. There are several easy business ideas for kids, which can be used for starting a remunerative, as well as interesting, business activity. Children can take up simple business activities according to their capability to handle work. For those who are searching for commercial or online business ideas for kids, read on.

Some Business Ideas for Kids

Lawn Cleaning and Outdoor Services
Outdoor jobs are a great option for kids who do not like monotonous work. During the spring season, this job normally includes pulling weeds, tilling, sowing, and planting. In the autumn season, this work comprises of gathering leaves and putting down mulch, whereas during winter, it may include shoveling snow. With some number stencils, a can of bright-colored paint, and a brush, kids may provide door-to-door services in painting house numbers on drives. Read more on jobs for teenagers.

Errand and Assisting Services
Kids can opt for providing a general errand service such as picking up groceries or posting letters in the post office. They can also choose to work as party assistants or garage-sale assistants, or any similar profile. The services which are expected from such small jobs are needed largely in event planning. Kids can certainly get a lot of experience regarding talking to people, and organizing things properly.

Car Wash
This is the best alternative for children with a lot of energy and willingness to earn money, but with no desire for planning. The things they would require is access to a parking lot, sufficient water, car soap, sponges, etc. For attracting customers, they can distribute handbills in their locality. This is a great way for making some good pocket money.

Pet Sitting
The loving behavior of children with pets can be used for starting a pet sitting business. This is a great business, especially in summer time when people are away from home on a vacation and do not prefer to take their pets along or put them in a kennel. Kids have the option of starting this business which includes feeding, walking, washing, and grooming dogs and similar pets, or feeding and taking care of fish. Read more on summer jobs.

Arts and Crafts
If your kids are good at arts and craft, they can opt for selling their work. They can arrange for a stand in a busy area or ask around at smaller craft shops to determine if there is any possibility to sell their finished crafts on consignment. If kids are experts in making crafts, they can make products that are more likely to sell, like beaded jewelry, handmade greeting cards, candles, soap, etc.

Golf Caddie
If you stay near a well-used golf course, and your kids are interested in learning golf, they can get in touch with the club administration department to check if they can work as caddies. This work involves a lot of physical stress, so ensure that your kids are capable enough to handle it.

Creating Presentations on the Internet
The Internet technology is the best way to make easy and fast money. Creating online presentations is one of the most considered online business ideas for kids. There are many children nowadays who create online presentations which can be used by other school students and even small businesses. Kids can become virtual assistants by offering such facilities.

Online Research
Most of the online marketing professionals do not have time to research new content for their websites. If children are knowledgeable enough and well-versed in using the web, they can use their free time to conduct such online research and get paid on an hourly basis. It is a very good idea for parents to set up a website which offers all types of services that are provided by their children. These are just a few ideas, but the list of business ideas for kids goes on. There are may other alternatives such as starting a lunch delivery service and gift box service, or arranging puppet shows, clown acts and face painting, or looking for sponsorship. It is suggested to encourage kids to search for jobs at an early age, so that they get a good exposure to the business world and can use their experience in future endeavors.

How to Start a Business for Kids

2011-07-16T23:12:00.002+05:30

A business is not merely a venture that can be taken up by adults. It is in fact one of the most effective things that can be tapped into by kids as well, not only for the purpose of earning money, but also for acquiring the required skills in life. In this following article we will look into the ways by which a business can be started.
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I'd immediately picture a huge venture with sprawling offices. Everything smelling of newly opened plastic and cupboards and cabinets in teak wood. That's what the word business made me think of. And then I realized - that's not what a business is about at all. Business is something that does not depend on the size of the office or the kind of copier machine one has. It is a venture, no matter how big or small that leads to earning profits through the offering of goods or services. And a business, it does not really depend on the venue from where it takes off, but rather on the kind of things that you do with it to earn that profit.

Getting to the factor at hand - A business is not something that can be looked into by adults alone, but can be taken up with the same ease by kids as well. In fact, with kids starting their own businesses, it gives them an opportunity to learn certain valuable traits in life like learning how to be independent, taking decisions, thinking creatively, developing the ability to think of ideas for growth, studying the market and learning to deal with problems and more. With the factor of profit making playing an important role as well, learning how to start a business for kids takes up the prime role. In the following sections, we will look through the varied factors that have to be considered when it comes to learning how to start a business for kids.

How to Start a Small Business for Kids - Things to Consider

While starting a business might seem all exciting and challenging, one can't just get up and about and start a business. Here are some of the factors that need to be considered so that you can be assured that the business will be a profit making venture that the kid will enjoy working it rather than be forced at it.

List of Skills
Unless you have a product that you have invented and now only need to sell, you'll have to think of the kind of business that you can start out with. And how will ideas simply make way out of thin air? They won't. So what we do instead is help garner certain ideas by introspecting about what can be done. Sit down and write out a list of things that you're good at. Let it seem silly while you do the exercise. Just make sure that you've gotten all the ideas that you can think of down on paper. This draft is necessary so that the ideas that will not get you anywhere can be discarded after careful consideration.

The Demand and Supply
So you might have great skills that you can put to use to earn that extra money, but all this is futile if it cannot be given the shape of a business that is going to earn you profits. For example, you might be great with kids and you might think of starting your own babysitting services, but there might not be any kids to babysit in the area that you will work in. Thus the business has to correspond with what can and cannot be done.

The Finances
Usually, most businesses will require some form of financial backing. Does the idea that you want to convert into a business require major finances, and if it does - do you have them? Or can you arrange for them? Without an answer to this, there can be no going ahead.

Test Driving the Business
The idea makes way and everything seems to fall in place, but there has to still be that factor wherein one has to check whether the idea can work when out there. Start out the business and check whether it is getting you the required profits. Whether the time, energy and money required to carry the business through is bringing about the required profits and satisfaction. Sometimes a business just does not take off. In which case, there has to be newer ideas to improve the business or the ability to take up a completely different business altogether.

Advertising
Advertising is another important factor that needs to be factored in where a business is concerned. Unless there is proper advertising done, people will not be aware of your business and there can be no scope of profit. The simplest ways of doing this is through word of mouth, and/or flyers, pamphlets and advertisements in papers.

Even though one may take all the necessary steps to come up with a great business plan, it is to be understood that there will be certain elements that might not be accounted for. In that direction, one has to be prepared to make mistakes and learn from them. Similarly, there has to always be a thought process running of how best one can improve the business and bring in more innovative ideas.

Business Ideas You Can Use

Here are a few business ideas for kids that one can look into when it comes to starting ones own business. You'll find that certain ideas provide for an answer on how to start a business for kids with no money:

Buying notebooks, mobiles or any other stationery item at the wholesale rate and selling them for a profit.
Selling water, caps and other refreshments at parks or outdoor places. Especially during the summer.
Tutoring kids in subjects that you're good at. This is one of the best businesses that you can start out on.
Selling homemade greeting cards.
Making items from shells and other natural materials and selling them at stores.

Now that you have a fair idea of the steps that go into starting a business and a brief look at some of the ideas that you can use, hopefully you have gotten a basic idea of what you can do and how to go about starting out. All the best with your plans.

How to Start a Sole Proprietorship

2011-07-16T23:06:00.001+05:30

A sole proprietorship is the simplest form of a business model and is not subjected to much of federal or state regulation. A sole proprietorship has many advantages as business is owned by just one person. He controls almost all business activities and has an unlimited liability. He pays some amount of tax and retains all the profit to himself.

One should think of starting a sole proprietorship business if an individual is looking at having a small business and wants to have the entire control of the business. The start-up costs would be less, and the owner can retain all the profit but he has to bear the losses too. A sole proprietor's business and personal assets are liable to the creditors in case if he defaults. A sole proprietorship will cease to exist when the owner retires or dies.

Starting a sole proprietorship is most suitable for a simple business structure, where the market for the goods or services offered by the sole proprietor is local and small. Risk involved in this business is not very high and some manual skill would be required. For e.g.: Jewelery making, hair-cutting, tailoring and repair shops. They are creative and personalized jobs where a customer's needs are paid close attention. Look at different business legal structures like a limited liability company and partnerships to determine which business legal structure suits you the best.

You can choose to start your sole proprietorship by either buying an existing business or taking up a franchise or starting a new business all together. Let's see how -

• Research
Decide which business do you want to run, once you have decided what you are going to be best at, research on your future competitors, market growth, marketing strategies and insurance you would need.

• Get Training
If you think you need some amount of training before you start off your business, then there are many small business counseling, mentoring and training programs through out the country. Get a short training or seek counseling to gain clarity about your business.

• Make a business plan
After you have decided what business you want to set up, your first step is to make a business plan. This is going to act as a check list for you. Start with describing your business type, future scope of business, loans applied to or needed, capital equipments required, etc.

• Business Location
Find a good location for your business place. For ex: If you want to start up a food joint, take a location where more number people hang out and where there will be more demand for your services. Also analyze the parking space and delivery access in your business location.

• Finance - Loans, Grants and Funding
The Federal, State and the Local Government's offer various finance programs with low rate of interest and scientific and economic development grants to help the small business start and grow. You can study the Micro-loan program, 7(a) Loan Program, and the CDC/504 Loan Program and choose any of these programs to finance your business.

• Register Your Business Name
When you are registering your business name for a sole proprietorship, your full name will be the legal name of your business. The legal name of your business will be required while filling all the official documents.

• Get Your Identification Numbers
You will need to apply for an EIN i.e. Employer Identification Number. This is used to identify your entity and it is a Federal identification number. Similarly, you will also need to obtain permits required by the State. For e.g.: You will need to obtain a Sales Tax Permit if you are going to be involved in selling products.

• Register your State and Local Taxes
You will need to file in taxes depending on what you are liable for. Income Tax, Self-employment Tax, Estimated Tax, Social Security and Medicare Taxes, Income Tax Withholding and, Federal Unemployment (FUTA) tax, are taxes that you could be liable to. You will also have to register for the following taxes.

Business Tax Registration
General Tax Information and Forms
Workers' Compensation Insurance
Unemployment Insurance Tax

Note this could change depending on your location.

• Get Business License and Permits
You need to obtain business licenses and permits depending upon your business type. For e.g.: You will need the following licenses and permits if you are located in California.

Tax Registration
Business Licenses
Local Permits
Incorporation Filing
Doing Business As
Employer Requirements
Withholding Taxes
I-9 Form
New Hire Reporting
Insurance Requirements
Workplace Posters

You can visit the Small Business Administration website for the list documents needed, depending on your business type. Get all the documents sorted in time by making a checklist to prevent last minute hassle.

This article will help you in decision making and planning out your business model. It will work as a checklist for you when you are about to put your business plan in action. To take your business a long way you need to do some prior market research to forecast the scope of your business. Maintaining a reserve for unforeseen business shocks will make your business shock proof and stable. It is also important to understand the economic and market conditions to understand how changes in these factors will affect your business and industry. However, the key for a successful business of any form lies in being open to changes, being creative and innovative, adapting to the needs of this fast pacing generation.

Boys Mind Vs Girls Mind

2011-07-16T23:00:00.003+05:30

Poor Vs Rich

2011-07-16T22:55:00.004+05:30

Difference Between Poor And Rich
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Power Of Google

2011-07-16T22:52:00.004+05:30

WATCH THE POWER OF GOOGLE
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Different Types Of Love

2011-07-16T22:48:00.004+05:30

How To Stay Young And Happy

2011-07-16T22:27:00.005+05:30

Tasty Trios

2011-06-25T22:35:00.002+05:30

Ingredients

1 pint vanilla, peach, and/or mango ice cream
24 1-oz. disposable plastic shot glasses

Directions

1. Line 15x10x1-inch baking pan with waxed paper. With miniature ice cream scoop (#60, about 2 teaspoons); scoop ice cream and place in prepared pan (you should have 24 small scoops). Cover loosely; freeze at least 2 hours. Prepare desired combinations below. Serve at once. Makes 8 servings (3 treats per serving)

2. Peach: Peel, pit and coarsely chop 2 small peaches; toss with 1 tablespoon sugar. Divide mixture among 8 plastic shot glasses. Top with scoops of vanilla ice cream and toasted coconut chips*.

3. Popcorn: Divide 1/2 cup popped popcorn among 8 plastic shot glasses. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons purchased caramel ice cream topping. Top with peach or mango ice cream and additional popcorn.

4. Pear Ginger: Divide 3/4 cup coarsely crushed sugar cookies among 8 plastic shot glasses. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons finely chopped crystallized ginger. Top with vanilla ice cream and slivers of fresh pear.

Nutrition Facts

Calories97
Total Fat (g)5
Saturated Fat (g)3,
Cholesterol (mg)16,
Sodium (mg)34,
Carbohydrate (g)13,
Total Sugar (g)12,
Fiber (g)1,
Protein (g)2,
Vitamin C (DV%)3,
Calcium (DV%)5,
Iron (DV%)1,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Mandarins and Ice Cream Cake

2011-06-25T21:59:00.001+05:30

Ingredients

1/3 cup butter, melted
1-1/2 cups crushed purchased spiced biscotti (about 6 oz.)
1 pint vanilla ice cream
1 8-ounce carton mascarpone cheese
1 pint orange sorbet, softened
1/2 cup orange marmalade
1 11-ounce can mandarin orange sections, drained, or 6 to 8 clementines or tangerines, peeled and cut into segments

Directions

1. Line a 2-quart square baking dish with foil, extending foil over edges of dish. In a medium bowl stir together the butter and biscotti crumbs. Spread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Press firmly to form an even crust. Place in the freezer.

2. In a chilled bowl stir ice cream to soften. In another bowl stir mascarpone cheese to soften. Slowly add the softened vanilla ice cream to the mascarpone, stirring well after each addition (mixture may look slightly lumpy). Spoon into crust-lined dish and spread evenly with the back of a large spoon. Freeze about 1 hour or until firm. Spoon sorbet on top of the vanilla ice cream and spread evenly with the back of a large spoon. Cover and freeze 4 hours or until firm.

3. Let frozen mixture stand at room temperature for 10 minutes. Lift from pan using foil. In a small saucepan cook and stir marmalade just until heated through. Stir in citrus sections.

4. To serve, cut ice cream mixture into 9 squares. Top each square with some of the citrus mixture. Makes 9 servings.

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe 9 servings
Calories420
Total Fat (g)27
Saturated Fat (g)15,
Monounsaturated Fat (g)8,
Polyunsaturated Fat (g)1,
Cholesterol (mg)87,
Sodium (mg)152,
Carbohydrate (g)43,
Total Sugar (g)20,
Fiber (g)2,
Protein (g)9,
Vitamin C (DV%)40,
Calcium (DV%)6,
Iron (DV%)3,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Blueberry Sauce

2011-06-25T21:52:00.001+05:30

Ingredients

2/3 cup sugar
1 tsp. cornstarch
1/4 tsp. salt
1/3 cup water
1 tsp. lemon juice
4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries

Directions

1. In saucepan combine sugar, cornstarch and salt; stir in water and lemon juice and mix well. Add blueberries. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until mixture is slightly thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir 2 minutes more.

2. Transfer to bowl; cool. Serve at room temperature. Or cover and refrigerate 1 hour or up to 2 days. If chilled, let stand at room temperature 30 minutes before serving. Makes 3 cups.

Nutrition Facts

Calories72
Total Fat (g)0
Saturated Fat (g)0,
Monounsaturated Fat (g)0,
Polyunsaturated Fat (g)0,
Cholesterol (mg)0,
Sodium (mg)49,
Carbohydrate (g)18,
Total Sugar (g)16,
Fiber (g)1,
Protein (g)0,
Vitamin A (DV%)0,
Vitamin C (DV%)8,
Calcium (DV%)0,
Iron (DV%)1,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Sangria Peach Compote with Ice Cream

2011-06-25T20:15:00.003+05:30

Ingredients

1/2 cup dry white wine
1/3 cup honey
2 cups peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced, or one 10-oz. bag frozen peaches
1 Tbsp. butter
1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
1 tsp. finely shredded lemon peel
1 Tbsp. brandy
1 Tbsp. Cointreau
1 Tbsp. chopped mint or basil
Vanilla-bean ice cream and/or purchased shortbread

Directions

In a small saucepan, bring wine, honey, and peaches to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, until fruit is softened and mixture slightly thickened, about 10 minutes. Swirl in butter; remove from heat. Add lemon juice and zest, brandy, Cointreau, and mint. Serve with ice cream and/or shortbread. Makes 4 servings.

Nutrition Facts

Calories326
Total Fat (g)11
Saturated Fat (g)7,
Monounsaturated Fat (g)1,
Cholesterol (mg)33,
Sodium (mg)59,
Carbohydrate (g)48,
Total Sugar (g)44,
Fiber (g)1,
Protein (g)3,
Vitamin C (DV%)13,
Calcium (DV%)7,
Iron (DV%)3,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Lotus Flower Tattoo:Design And Meaning

2011-06-25T19:14:00.005+05:30

Lotus Flower Tattoo Meaning

A lotus flower tattoo is one of the most popular flower tattoos, may be second only to the rose. It is essential to know more about the flower to understand the meanings associated with it. The lotus is one of the most important flowers in the East or the Asian countries because of its religious symbolism. We find references of the lotus in Hinduism as well as Buddhism. It is believed that Brahma, one of the supreme Gods in Hinduism was born out of a lotus blossom. The lotus in Buddhism represents the Buddha's nature. Similarly, according to the ancient Egyptian culture, the lotus was the first flower in the universe and hence, depictions of the lotus are found in several monuments. Therefore, those following Asian religions have a lotus flower tattoo engraved on their body.

Secondly, one of the other significant lotus tattoo meaning is that as the flower is found in mud, it represents rise from hardships and struggle. It means awakening to reality or transformation to beauty. The lotus flower is one of the powerful symbols of rebirth in the East and West. It also stands for beauty and strength. The lotus is found in different colors like red, pink, blue, etc. and each has a meaning of its own. When talking about the red lotus tattoo meaning, note that it stands for love, passion and symbolizes the heart. As we see, red lotus meanings are very much similar to those of a red rose. On the other hand, if you are wondering what is the blue lotus tattoo meaning, then this flower tattoo represents wisdom, intellect and knowledge.

Apart from the prominent meanings of the lotus flower tattoo, there are several other symbolisms associated with this flower. They include:

# Similar to other flower tattoos, the lotus flower represents beauty, gracefulness, etc.
# People who have experienced a significant change in the course of life usually go for the lotus tattoos as it stands for drastic life change.
# The lotus flower tattoo is also a symbol to remind people that beauty comes from within and natural beauty is simply incomparable.
# Koi fish and lotus tattoos are also popular Japanese tattoos. Koi and lotus tattoo mean that as the koi fish always swims upstream and as the lotus flower always grow upward towards the light, one should always be optimistic and persevere to gain success!
# Lastly, the lotus flower tattoo also stands for the quality of moving on above the depth and hence, represents individuality.

Lotus Flower Tattoo Designs

Tattoos with Meaning Behind Them

2011-06-25T18:59:00.002+05:30

The art of tattooing has been prevalent since time immemorial and it has now reached mainstream society. Using the body as a canvas for showcasing personal beliefs has led people to seek out tattoos with meaning behind them. In the past tribes used tattoos to mark warriors or fellow tribesmen. Tattoos are also used to pledge loyalties to certain belief systems or school of thoughts. In modern days tattoos are infamously associated with gang affiliations and the FBI maintains a database of gang related tattoo designs. On a lighter note rock stars and film stars have taken this art form to the general masses as the population tries to emulate their icons. The popularity of tattoos can be vindicated by the popularity of TV shows about tattoo artists like 'LA Ink' and 'Miami Ink'.

Tattoos with Meaning Behind Them

One of the interesting things about tattoo meanings is that it changes according to color, culture, and design of the tattoo. An example of this is the dragon tattoo, in eastern culture a dragon symbolizes wisdom, prosperity and in the western culture it represents evil and violence. Here is a brief look at some of the interesting tattoo designs and their meanings.

Wolf Tattoo
The wolf tattoo meanings change according to the culture. In Native American culture the wolf was considered as a symbol of loyalty, courage and strength. The Romans also revered the wolf and considered it as a sign of power and the Greeks also considered it sacred. However in the Celtic and Chinese culture the wolf is looked down up on and considered to be a bad omen.

Dove Tattoo
There are different dove tattoo meanings and the most famous is that it symbolizes peace. Depicting two doves together is symbolic of two peoples feelings for each other. A dove tattoo with a palm branch is considered as a new chance at life. This is one of the tattoos with history behind them and has been extensively used by people who propagate harmony and peace.

Star Tattoo
If you looking for star tattoo meanings, the nautical star tattoo represents the will to create your own way of life. You could also get a nine point star known as the Nonogram which represents stability. For those with a streak of the dark side can get a pentagram star pointing downwards to portray devil worship.

Butterfly Tattoo
This is one of the tattoos with meaning for girls, because of the feminine design. The butterfly tattoos meaning vary from independence to symbolizing beauty and grace. In Greek mythology a butterfly depicts the journey of a soul. The frailty of the creature can also be translated into the delicate nature of our existence.

Claddagh Tattoo
This is one of the tattoos with meaning of love, the claddagh tattoo design is a heart held by two hands and a crown on top. It is said to be design of the ring made by young man for his true love when he was taken as a slave. The claddagh tattoo represents enduring love and devotion, it also symbolizes undying commitment and the spirit of friendship. The tattoo design can also be seen without the crown but the claddagh tattoo meaning doesn't change with or without the crown, it still represents true love.

Flower Tattoo
There are several flower tattoo design and the flower tattoo meanings change according to the flower. Here are some of the different flowers used in tattoos and their meanings.

Red Rose - Love and Respect
Yellow Rose - Friendship
White Lilly - Innocence
Sunflower - Loyalty
Hibiscus - Purity

Some of the other tattoos with meaning behind them are red Koi fish tattoos which symbolize strength, and Zodiac tattoos where in each sign has a specific meaning and characteristics assigned to it. People also use different tattoo lettering styles to write words or phrases that have a deep personal meaning attached with the letters to get a meaningful tattoo.

Poppy Flower Tattoo:Meaning and Designs

2011-06-25T18:44:00.003+05:30

Meaning of a Poppy Tattoo

When we think of poppy, the first thing we all think about is Morpheus, the Greek god of dreams, from whom the name of the drug Morphine has been derived from. Morphine is made from poppy seeds.

The poppy flower is the emblem of the Greek goddess, Demeter, which is a bright red flower depicted along with barley. She is believed to be Zeus's elder sister, which may explain why the poppy was Zeus's favorite flower.

The poppy flower has since time immemorial signified eternal sleep or death, the sleep is eternal because of the opiate that the poppy plant yields. The correlation of death with poppy, is because of its spectacular shade of red and the color of blood.

#The Egyptians used this flower as a part of their funeral and burial ceremonies.
#For the Romans the poppy flower symbolized everlasting beauty, fertility, supernatural powers and wealth.
#While in classic mythology the poppy represents resurrection after death. In USA, UK, Australia and New Zealand plastic poppy flowers are worn in honor of veterans who died in the Flanders Fields during World War I.
#The poppy flower represents loyalty between lovers in Chinese mythology.

Poppy Tattoo Designs

Butterfly Tattoo:Meaning and Designs

2011-06-25T17:18:00.005+05:30

Butterfly Tattoos Meaning

The foremost butterfly tattoo symbolism is beauty and grace. The beautiful colors and patterns on the wings of the butterflies are undeniably beautiful. It is for this very reason that the butterfly tattoo is popular among women. Secondly, as the butterfly starts its life as a caterpillar and goes through a lot of changes after being a butterfly, it becomes a symbol of change and metamorphosis. Therefore, if you have experienced some sort of change in your life at anytime, the butterfly is the best for you. Freedom is yet another butterfly tattoos meaning. Many people believe that as the butterfly freely soars in the sky, it signifies freedom and independence. As a butterfly itself is very delicate, it also symbolizes fragility of life and impermanence. Similarly, as the butterfly goes from flower to flower for collecting food, it also becomes a symbol of instability on earth.

The meaning and symbolism of butterfly tattoo designs is also related to spirituality and psyche. According to the Greek culture, a butterfly symbolizes the journey of a soul. The soul takes birth, travels through the journey of life, dies and is reborn. It was even believed that the butterfly takes the human soul from earth to the heaven. Thus, every butterfly around, carries a human soul with it. In ancient times, it was even believed that the butterfly had magical powers as it transformed from a caterpillar to a beautiful butterfly. The butterfly is also a symbol of free spirit.

Bled Island

2011-06-25T16:48:00.005+05:30

Bled is known for the glacial Lake Bled, which makes it a major tourist attraction. Perched on a rock overlooking the lake is the iconic Bled Castle. The town is also known in Slovenia for its vanilla-and-cream pastry called kremna rezina ("cream slice") or kremšnita.

Naturopath Arnold Rikli (1823–1906) from Switzerland contributed significantly to the development of Bled as a health resort in the 2nd half of the 19th century. Due to its mild climate, Bled has been visited by aristocratic guests from all across the world. Today it is an important convention centre and tourist resort, offering a wide range of sport activities (golf, fishing, horseback-riding) and is a starting point for mountain treks and hikes especially within the nearby Triglav National Park.

A small island in the middle of the lake is home to the Assumption of Mary Pilgrimage Church; visitors frequently ring its bell for good luck. Human traces from prehistory have been found on the island. Before the church was built, there was a temple consecrated to Živa, the Slavic goddess of love and fertility. One can get to the island on a traditional wooden row barge called Pletna. The island on Lake Bled has 99 steps. A local tradition at weddings is for the husband to carry his new bride up these steps, during which the bride must remain silent.

International Symbol Of Marriage

2011-06-24T19:10:00.004+05:30

International Symbol Of Marriage

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Businessman Jumps From His Office

2011-06-24T19:02:00.003+05:30

Police was investigating the mysterious death of a prominent businessman who had jumped from a window of his 9^th story office.

Nancy, his voluptuous private secretary could offer no explanation for the action but said that her boss had been acting peculiarly ever since she started working for him, a month ago.

"After my very first week on the job," Nancy said, "I received a raise. At the end of the second week he called me into his private office, gave me a lovely black nightie, five pairs of nylon stockings and said, 'These are for a beautiful efficient secretary.'

"At the end of the third week he gave me a fabulous mink stole. Then, this afternoon, he called me into his private office again, presented me with this fabulous diamond bracelet and asked me if I could consider making love to him and what it would cost him."

"I told him that I would and because he had been so nice to me, he could have it for just 500 bucks, although I was charging all the other guys in the office one thousand. That's when he jumped out the window."

Marketing gets tougher

2011-06-24T18:30:00.002+05:30

Marketing gets tougher

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The Haircut

2011-05-29T17:42:00.003+05:30

Before The Haircut

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After the haircut
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Chocolate-Hazelnut Ice Cream Sandwiches

2011-05-28T23:15:00.002+05:30

Rich chocolate ice cream is coated with toasted hazelnuts and sandwiched between chocolate wafer cookies covered in a chocolate-hazelnut spre.

Prep: 25 minutes
Freeze: 3 hours

Ingredients

16 chocolate wafers
1/3 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
1 premium chocolate ice cream
1/3 cup chopped toasted hazelnuts

Directions

1. Spread flat side of each wafer with hazelnut spread; set aside. Scoop 8 ice cream balls, about 3 tablespoons each; keep in freezer until ready to assemble.

2. To assemble sandwiches, remove ice cream balls from freezer; let stand 1 minute to soften. Place 1 cream ball on each 8 hazelnut-spread wafers. Top with remaining wafers; press gently together.

3. Sprinkle edges with nuts. Place sandwiches on baking sheet lined with waxed paper; freeze 3 hours or until firm. To store, freeze up to two weeks in self-sealing plastic bags. Makes 8 sandwiches.

Nutrition Facts

Calories215
Total Fat (g)12
Saturated Fat (g)3,
Monounsaturated Fat (g)4,
Polyunsaturated Fat (g)1,
Cholesterol (mg)14,
Sodium (mg)127,
Carbohydrate (g)26,
Total Sugar (g)13,
Fiber (g)1,
Protein (g)4,
Vitamin C (DV%)1,
Calcium (DV%)4,
Iron (DV%)6,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Bananas Foster Gelato

2011-05-28T22:57:00.003+05:30

We've put a summer spin on a time-honored dessert recipe. Serve it with fresh banana slices and warm caramel sauce.

Ingredients

2/3 cup packed brown sugar
5 egg yolks
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1-3/4 cups whole milk
1/4 cup whipping cream
2 ripe bananas
1 tsp. lemon juice
2 Tbsp. dark rum or 1/2 tsp. rum extract
1 tsp. vanilla
Sliced bananas (optional)
Caramel-flavored ice cream topping (optional)

Directions

1. In medium mixing bowl beat brown sugar, egg yolks, and cinnamon with an electric mixer about 4 minutes; set aside.

2. In medium saucepan heat and stir the milk, cream, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until just simmering. Slowly stir about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture. Return all egg yolk mixture to saucepan. Heat and stir constantly (do not boil) until mixture thickens. Remove pan from heat and place in bowl of ice water; stir 2 to 3 minutes to cool.

3. Mash the 2 bananas with the lemon juice. Stir into thickened mixture along with rum and vanilla (mixture may appear slightly curdled). Transfer to large bowl. Cover; refrigerate overnight.

4. Freeze in 1-1/2- or 2-quart ice cream freezer according to manufacturer's directions. Serve with sliced bananas and caramel topping. Makes about 8 (1/2-cup) servings.

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe about 8 (1/2-cup) servings
Calories198
Total Fat (g)7
Saturated Fat (g)4,
Monounsaturated Fat (g)2,
Polyunsaturated Fat (g)1,
Cholesterol (mg)147,
Sodium (mg)180,
Carbohydrate (g)28,
Total Sugar (g)25,
Fiber (g)1,
Protein (g)4,
Vitamin C (DV%)5,
Calcium (DV%)10,
Iron (DV%)3,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Ice Cream Pops

2011-05-28T22:53:00.002+05:30

These frozen ice cream balls from pastry chef Gale Gand are the perfect two-bite treat.

Ingredients

ice cream
chocolate hard shell-style ice cream coating, such as Magic Shell
toasted coconut

Directions

1. Freeze a baking sheet.

2. Insert lollipop sticks into small scoops of ice cream and place on frozen sheet. Freeze overnight.

3. Dip into chocolate hard shell-style ice cream coating such as Magic Shell. Immediately sprinkle with toasted coconut. Return to freezer until serving time.

Strawberry Blender Breakfast

2011-05-28T18:28:00.000+05:30

Make this fresh fruit drink for breakfast or for a delicious snack, anytime.

Ingredients

2 cups frozen unsweetened whole strawberries
1-1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup plain yogurt
2 envelopes vanilla-flavored instant breakfast mix
2 tablespoons honey

Directions

In a blender container combine strawberries, milk, yogurt, breakfast mix, and honey. Cover; blend until almost smooth, stopping the blender and stirring as necessary. Pour into three or four 8-ounce glasses; serve immediately. Makes 3 or 4 servings.

Nutrition Facts

Calories244
Total Fat (g)3
Cholesterol (mg)11,
Sodium (mg)186,
Carbohydrate (g)43,
Fiber (g)3,
Protein (g)11,
Vitamin A (DV%)54,
Vitamin C (DV%)126,
Calcium (DV%)37,
Iron (DV%)24,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Chocolate-Marshmallow Ice Cream Sandwiches

2011-05-28T18:21:00.004+05:30

Fill these decadent chocolate cookie sandwiches with marshmallow crème and Twix bar ice cream.
Ingredients

10 miniature caramel Twix bars
1 2-layer-size chocolate cake mix
2 eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
2 cups chocolate ice cream
2/3 cup marshmallow creme

Directions

1. Unwrap Twix bars; place in resealable plastic bag. Seal and freeze 2 hours.

2. Meanwhile, to prepare cookies, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In mixing bowl combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and water. Beat with electric mixer until combined. Drop dough by well-rounded teaspoons onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake about 10 minutes or until tops are set. Cool 1 minute on cookie sheets. Remove cookies; cool completely on wire racks.

3. Spoon ice cream into large bowl. Let stand 10 minutes to soften slightly. Meanwhile, using flat side of meat mallet or a rolling pin, crush frozen Twix bars. Stir into ice cream; return to freezer until ready to use.

4. Spread marshmallow creme on flat sides of half of the cookies; place, creme side up, on a shallow baking pan. Using a small ice cream scoop, place some ice cream mixture onto flat sides of remaining cookies. Place on same baking pan, ice cream side up. Loosely cover and freeze for 2 hours or until firm.

5. Gently sandwich cookies together. Serve immediately or wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze in freezer container for up to 1 month. Makes about 14 sandwiches.

Nutrition Facts

Calories288
Total Fat (g)11
Saturated Fat (g)4,
Monounsaturated Fat (g)4,
Polyunsaturated Fat (g)1,
Cholesterol (mg)37,
Sodium (mg)292,
Carbohydrate (g)45,
Total Sugar (g)30,
Fiber (g)1,
Protein (g)4,
Calcium (DV%)10,
Iron (DV%)9,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Husbands Are Really Innocent.....!

2011-05-27T20:18:00.004+05:30

Husbands Are Really Innocent.....!

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Where Is The Money?

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Show Me Your Pockets...

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I'll Not Give Her The Money,SheSpends All Of My Salary BOOOOOhOOOOO!

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Give Me Way.....I'm Going For Shopping.

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Thanks Sweetheart.............Byee:)

Strawberry-Mango Milk Shake

2011-05-27T18:20:00.001+05:30

Try this updated strawberry milk shake with a twist of mango. Since it uses two of the most popular fruits on earth, this milk shake is a surefire winner.

Ingredients

2 cups halved fresh strawberries
1 cup chopped mango
1-1/2 cups vanilla frozen yogurt
1/4 cup milk
Sliced fresh strawberries
Sliced mango

Directions

1. Place the 2 cups berries, chopped mango, frozen yogurt, and milk in a blender container. Cover and blend until smooth. Divide mixture between 2 tall glasses. Top each serving with strawberry and mango slices. Makes 2 servings.

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe 2 servings
Calories262
Total Fat (g)5
Saturated Fat (g)3,
Cholesterol (mg)17,
Sodium (mg)63,
Carbohydrate (g)50,
Total Sugar (g)41,
Fiber (g)5,
Protein (g)5,
Vitamin C (DV%)175,
Calcium (DV%)74,
Iron (DV%)4,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Strawberry and Sage Shrub

2011-05-26T18:13:00.000+05:30

This festive drink is great for any summer get-together. To take it to a party, tote the syrup, ice cubes, and champagne separately, then combine them at the gathering.

Ingredients

3 16-ounce packages frozen unsweetened whole strawberries or three 12-ounce packages frozen unsweetened red raspberries, combination of both
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup honey
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon finely shredded lemon peel
1/2 cup lemon juice
2 teaspoons whole pink peppercorns (optional)
1/2 cup fresh sage leaves or 2 tablespoons dried sage, crushed
4 to 6 cups ice cubes
2 750-ml bottles champagne or two 1-liter bottles club soda, chilled
Fresh sage leaves (optional)
Fresh strawberries or raspberries (optional)

Directions

1. In a 4-quart Dutch oven combine frozen strawberries, sugar, honey, water, lemon peel, lemon juice, and peppercorns. Cook, uncovered, over medium heat until mixture comes to boiling, stirring frequently. Remove from heat. Stir in sage.Let mixture stand, uncovered, for 1 hour.

2. For syrup, press strawberry mixture through a fine mesh sieve; discard solids (you should have 4 to 5 cups sieved syrup). Syrup may be covered and refrigerated up to 3 days.

3. To serve, combine the syrup and ice cubes. Slowly add champagne. Garnish with additional fresh sage leaves and fresh berries. Makes 14 to 16 servings.

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe 14 to 16 servings
Calories220
Sodium (mg)3,
Carbohydrate (g)41,
Total Sugar (g)33,
Fiber (g)2,
Protein (g)1,
Vitamin C (DV%)74,
Calcium (DV%)2,
Iron (DV%)4,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Stripey Strawberry Shake

2011-05-26T18:08:00.000+05:30

Here's a quick, colorful way to get your kids (or your spouse) to enjoy their calcium. The rich strawberry syrup that flavors the milk isn't mixed in, but rather used to decorate the glass for an eye-catching treat.

Ingredients

1 lb. strawberries, hulled and chopped (about 3 cups)
2/3 cup granulated sugar
4 tsp. cornstarch
2 Tbsp. water
Cold milk or chocolate-flavored milk
Vanilla ice cream

Directions

1. For syrup, in blender container combine strawberries and sugar. Cover; blend until smooth. Strain through sieve to remove seeds; place in saucepan. Combine cornstarch and water; whisk into strawberry mixture. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir 2 minutes longer. Remove from pan; cool. Makes 2 cups syrup.*

2. To make Stripey Shakes, pour a teaspoon of syrup down sides of glass, using 2 tablespoons total syrup for each glass. Fill glass with cold milk; top with scoops of ice cream.

*Test Kitchen Tip: Store remaining syrup in airtight container in refrigerator up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe 2 cups syrup
Calories257
Total Fat (g)11
Saturated Fat (g)6,
Monounsaturated Fat (g)4,
Cholesterol (mg)54,
Sodium (mg)138,
Carbohydrate (g)30,
Total Sugar (g)29,
Fiber (g)1,
Protein (g)10,
Vitamin C (DV%)29,
Calcium (DV%)32,
Iron (DV%)3,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Creative Wedding Cakes - Part 2

2011-05-25T20:42:00.012+05:30

Daisy Chain

Covered with a scrumptious Swiss meringue buttercream icing, this wedding cake is adorned with garlands of dainty white candied daisies.

A Delightful Cake

Stick to just two tiers for a smaller wedding. This cake was a mix of lemon and chocolate covered with a layer of fondant. To add a little detail to the cake, they tied gold ribbon around the bases and topped it with flowers.

A Wedding in Blue

Sheer blue ribbon and a minimal lily cake topper are the only embellishments to the three-tier white cake. Behind the main cake, several small round cakes in a variety of flavors are displayed on a make-it-yourself multilevel cake stand.

Scrolled in Chocolate

Elegant scroll designs and glossy fondant ribbons make this cake design perfect for an evening wedding. Clusters of chocolate-color cosmos, creamy white calla lilies, and fondant ribbons provide additional detail and a beautiful focal point.

Horizon Inspired

The color combination of yellow-orange calla lilies and blue hydrangea blossoms that adorn this cake can easily be incorporated into bouquets, boutonnieres, and other wedding floral arrangements.

Rose and Orchid Covered

A divine dessert and floral elegance combine to create a cake that is nearly too beautiful to eat. Red and green roses and two types of red orchids decorate the tiers.

Cake for Two

White dahlias, pink roses, and a cluster of hydrangea blossoms decorate this petite cake that the bride and groom will freeze to enjoy on their first anniversary. Be sure to remove the flower blossoms before freezing the cake.

A Wedding in White

A tall wedding cake deserves special attention to detail. The top tier features an elegant monogram while roses grace the spaces between the tiers.

Miniature Cakes

This might be a perfect cake for a small wedding, engagement party, or bridal shower. Miniature bundt cakes encased in a vanilla glaze are set on the bottom levels. The top tier is a larger cake and wedding topper of doves. Set extra cakes on silver trays to accommodate a larger guest list.

White-on-White

A wedding cake is a work of art with frosting in white-on-white. This cake table display was designed with everything from the backdrop of vintage doors to the family silhouettes set around the base of the cake.

Vintage Cake Topper

Flowing ribbons spill from multiloop bows set into the top layer. Small green buds add a bit of color to the black-and-white theme and help set off the vintage silver cake topper.

Wedding Windows

The tiers of this white-on-white concoction are adorned with a frosting monogram, gothic-inspired windows, artfully arranged greenery, black-and-white ribbon, silver nonpareils, and crystal beads.

Eiffel Tower Wedding Cake

For a Paris-themed wedding, wow your guests with this grand tower cake that serves 200.

Sweet Simplicity

Designed to perfectly fit the elaborate silver cake stand, these chunky square layers are embellished with cursive frosting script, then topped with a traditional cake topper and a few fresh flowers.

Initialed

Twin cakes sport jaunty frosting dots and are adorned with floral initials -- flower petals wired or glued to a wire form. This is an easy-to-make look that can be done at home for a smaller wedding, bridal shower, or reception.

Posh Penmanship

The tallest tier of this eye-catching white-on-off-white cake is adorned with a frosting monogram that declares the couple's union. This is the first time in the celebration that the two first-name initials are joined with the newly married couple's last-name initial. Fondant flowers, delicate scrolls, and fleur-de-lis designs set off the other layers in classic style.

Wings of Love

Topped by a modern mix of cake-safe fresh flowers and a jeweled pin, this multilevel cake features a motif of both real and frosting flowers.

A Classic Wedding Cake

Casual rose nosegays surround this pink cake with country charm.

Simply Artful

Cake decorating can be as simple as artfully placing a handful of your favorite flowers around the tiers of your confectionary delight. Here, a few sprigs of lavender freesia decorate the three-tier cake.

Minted Strawberries with White Wine

2011-05-25T17:58:00.000+05:30

Readers really enjoy this drink. As one suggested: "You can switch mint with basil leaves...and white wine with blush, or red wine...mmmm, just as delicious!"

Ingredients

6 cups strawberries
1 cup sugar
2 bunches fresh mint (1-1/2 oz.)
2 to 3 cups dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc
Fresh mint sprigs

Directions

1. Halve large berries; leave hulls on a few berries. Place berries in a large bowl; sprinkle with sugar and cover bowl with plastic wrap. Let stand at room temperature at least 1 hour, stirring once or twice.

2. Remove mint leaves from one bunch of mint. Stack 6 to 8 leaves together; roll the stacked leaves. Slice across the roll to create narrow strips. Repeat with remaining leaves. Add the shredded mint to strawberries just before serving.

3. To serve, evenly divide the minted berries and juices among 8 glasses; pour wine over berries until just covered. Garnish with mint sprigs. Makes 8 servings.

For a nonalcoholic version, use white grape juice instead of wine and reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons.

Nutrition Facts

Calories170
Total Fat (g)0
Saturated Fat (g)0,
Monounsaturated Fat (g)0,
Polyunsaturated Fat (g)0,
Cholesterol (mg)0,
Sodium (mg)5,
Carbohydrate (g)33,
Total Sugar (g)29,
Fiber (g)2,
Protein (g)1,
Vitamin C (DV%)117,
Calcium (DV%)3,
Iron (DV%)14,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Iced Mocha

2011-05-25T17:34:00.000+05:30

Chocolate-flavored drink mix replaces high-carb sugar syrup in this easy twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

1 cup cold water

1/4 cup ground French roast or espresso roast coffee

1/2 cup fat free milk

2 tablespoons no-sugar-added chocolate-flavored drink mix (Nestle Nesquick or any other)

Ice cubes

Directions

1. Using a drip coffeemaker, add the water and ground coffee. Brew according to manufacturer's directions. Pour coffee into a glass measuring cup. Stir in milk and drink mix.

2. Serve coffee mixture over ice in chilled tall glasses. Makes 2 (about 6-ounce) servings.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving:

Servings: 2 (about 6-ounce) servings
Calories46
Total Fat (g)1
Saturated Fat (g)0
Cholesterol (mg)1
Sodium (mg)71
Carbohydrate (g)7
Fiber (g)1
Protein (g)3
Vitamin A (DV%)0
Vitamin C (DV%)0
Calcium (DV%)0
Iron (DV%)0

Citrus-Raspberry Cooler

2011-05-24T17:18:00.000+05:30

Club soda adds a bit of fizz to this easy cooler made of raspberry tea, orange juice, and lemon juice.

Ingredients

5 raspberry tea bags
2 cups boiling water
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups cold water
1/3 cup frozen orange juice concentrate (1/2 of a 6-ounce container)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 2-liter bottle of club soda, chilled
Raspberry Ice (see recipe below) (optional)

Directions

1. In a very large heatproof glass pitcher, pour boiling water over the tea bags. Let steep 5 minutes. Remove and discard the tea bags. Stir in the sugar until dissolved. Stir in the cold water, frozen orange juice concentrate, and lemon juice. Chill until serving time.

2. To serve, pour the club soda down the sides of the pitcher. Break up the Raspberry Ice (if using) and add to the pitcher or serving glasses. Makes 14 servings.

Raspberry Ice: Add water to a 13x9x2-inch baking pan to a depth of 1/4 inch. Arrange fresh raspberries and strips of lemon peel in the water and freeze until firm. Add more water until the total depth is 1/2 inch and freeze until firm.

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe 14 servings
Calories38
Total Fat (g)0
Saturated Fat (g)0,
Cholesterol (mg)0,
Sodium (mg)32,
Carbohydrate (g)10,
Fiber (g)0,
Protein (g)0,
Vitamin A (DV%)0,
Vitamin C (DV%)18,
Calcium (DV%)1,
Iron (DV%)0,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Magic Brew

2011-05-23T16:27:00.000+05:30

Concoct a thirst quencher with just three secret ingredients: yogurt, juice, and soda.

Ingredients

1- 8-ounce carton vanilla yogurt
1- cup orange juice
4 cups orange soda

Directions

1.Put the vanilla yogurt, orange juice, and 2 cups of the orange soda in the blender container. Cover blender with lid. Blend on high speed until combined. Turn off blender.

2. Pour the mixture into the ice cube trays. Cover the ice cube trays with plastic wrap. Put the ice cube trays in the freezer. Freeze for 6 hours or overnight.

3. Just before serving, remove the frozen cubes from 1 of the ice cube trays. Put the cubes in the blender container. Add 1 cup of the orange soda. Cover and blend on high speed until slushy. Turn off the blender. Pour into 6 glasses. Repeat with remaining frozen cubes and orange soda. Makes 12 (1/2-cup) servings.

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe 12 (1/2-cup) servings
Calories67
Total Fat (g)0
Cholesterol (mg)1,
Sodium (mg)22,
Carbohydrate (g)15,
Fiber (g)0,
Protein (g)1,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

What Will I Become

2011-05-23T00:51:00.004+05:30

What Will I Become.....
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A Scientist

A President

A Magician

A Doctor

A Cupid

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A Sofware Engineer

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A Chef

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A Filmstar

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A Fireman

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Or
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Swallow Tattoo Designs And Meaning

2011-05-23T00:26:00.005+05:30

Swallow tattoos have played a special symbolic part among various world cultures for thousands of years. Nowadays, these tattoos are still immensely popular and are often considered merely for the fashion and beauty aspect of swallow art. However, some of these designs have a deeper personal meaning as well.

Meaning of Swallow Tattoos

Since swallow tattoos have been an incredibly popular choice for body art fans, it naturally lends the question: What swallow tattoo meaning could apply to you?
The historic designs of swallow tattoos goes back hundreds of years and begins with the plight of sailors. When a crew was sailing a long distance on the ocean, typically 5,000 nautical miles or across the equator, the travels were often full of hardship, sickness, starvation, and quite commonly, death. One sign that their travels were nearing an end was the appearance of swallows. Because these birds never traveled far out to sea, their sighting meant that land was near and the long voyage was coming to an end. This fact led many sailors to start adopting swallow tattoo designs as a symbol of hope and a successful finish to a long journey. As a followup to this story, having a tattoo depicting 2 swallows indicated going on a very long journey (10,000 nautical miles or more) and a swallow tattoo with a dagger through its heart symbolized a memorial for a friend lost at sea.

A different anecdote describes swallow tattoos as a symbol of a mutiny that occurred on a ship called 'The Swallow'. Each of the 7 sailors described in this story had a swallow bird design on their chest to show their support for the mutiny.

As time passed, swallow tattoos have come to symbolize different meanings to different people. Some see the swallow art as a symbol of success or triumph. Others decide to get swallow bird tattoos to signify the return home after a long departure, such as a soldier coming back from war. Another popular meaning is that of freedom, as some people released from prison have chosen this bird tattoo as a sign of their entrance back into society. Yet another interpretation is for an everlasting love and loyalty, related to the fact that swallows mate for life.

When it came to the artistic depictions of swallow tattoos, it is interesting to note that for centuries humans bestowed upon these birds a symbolism of both good luck as well as bad. Therefore, by learning the origins of swallow art history, you can rest assured that the exact symbolic meaning you wish to convey is indeed the one that gets tattooed. Here are some examples of swallow art depictions from various cultures:

In ancient times, prior to swallow tattoos gaining prominence, the birds themselves were associated with the all-powerful gods, as well as the souls of the dead. For instance, according to Greek and Roman mythology, deities were able to change their form into a swallow. On the other hand, grieving mothers considered the bird to be sacred, as it was thought to carry the soul of their deceased children. Consequently, killing a swallow was deemed unlucky.

Similarly, an ancient Egyptian artwork depicts a swallow as it enters the underworld, however, Egyptian poetry made a departure to a more positive tone, describing the swallow as bringing the first sign of a new love.

The expression "one swallow does not make a summer" is derived from a fable by Aesop and is intended as an advice for being cautious and deliberative.
During the yearly pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, the swallow was considered to be the symbol of faith and steadiness.

In classical Chinese paintings, the swallow represented happiness and the arrival of spring, and was often depicted as part of the flowering peach branch. Additional portrayals show the bird as: daring, risk-seeking, and a symbol of change for good in the future.

Despite a mostly favorable characterization of swallows as representing lifelong partnership, in Japan, swallows symbolized unfaithfulness and were described in legends as flying through the house while carrying tidings of displeasure and bad luck from the gods.

Handling Stress in a Relationship

2011-05-23T00:20:00.003+05:30

A relationship is essentially a companionship. It provides us with a sense of fulfillment, support and contentment. To be in a relationship is to have the ability to relate to someone and be understood. However, when it becomes difficult to relate to one another, a relationship becomes an effort. We are engaged in multiple relationships at a time. They all go through phases, which need to be tackled with different perspectives. It is when we are not ready to accept a change of perspective towards a relationship, that stress begins to creep in. Handling stress in a relationship takes a toll that leads to the piling on of stress. Stress in a relationship gets in the way of thinking clearly and obstructs the ability to think with clarity. Take a few tips to handle stress in a relationship, to be there for your loved ones always and forever!

Ways to Deal with Stress in a Relationship
Below are a few ways to deal with stress in a relationship.

Accept and Analyze
Relationship stress is many a times ignored, under the garb of other pressures. The first move towards handling stress in a relationship, is to accept the stress. Having a laissez-faire attitude towards a relationship is the biggest mistake people make. Analyze the causes of stress in a relationship. Jot them down in a diary and keep it close to you. This will help you to observe the patterns of changes in a relationship. Read more about recognizing stress.

Talk it Out
Talking about your problems in a relationship is best way of stress relief. Sharing thoughts and sentiments is a way of getting rid of day to day stress. Stress in a relationship is a result of stress at work, home or troubles at different places. The obvious frustration at other places finds its vent at home with the people we care for, which makes handling stress in a relationship all the more difficult. For instance, a working mother may be too busy to bother about her child's homework, which is likely to lead to a emotional gap between the two. In such cases, one needs to find the time to sit down and talk it out with the people around.

Change Your Attitude
Discussions turn into arguments and the following silence never seems golden. Harsh responses towards family members and loved ones add to existing stress. If you change your attitude a tad bit towards the people, the situation will get better. One can control only one's behavior. Thus, to keep stress at bay, it's best to change your reactions and attitude. For instance, teenagers get rebellious against everything. As a parent, it's important to understand this phase, as they themselves went through this at some point of time. Don't try and befriend your child, but be a guiding light with optimism for your child.

Fresh Perspective
Hectic lifestyles and pressure of life, makes our mindsets myopic. Married couples hit this phase within 3 - 5 years of marriage and begin to think of all the negative extremes. For example, long working hours makes a rift in the relationship, causing the either of the spouse spend a lot of time out of the house. This can lead to emotional infidelity and cheating. In such cases, couples may take recourse in extremities like divorce, instead of fighting it out. Read more about managing relationships.

Handling stress in a relationship is a part and parcel of growing in a relationship. Stress in a relationship teaches yhttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifou to be patient, loving and extra caring. Getting rid of a relationship, just because it a little stressful is the stupidest option, because everything you've done so far, including reading this article, is for the relationship. Then why give it up for a trivial cause? The question 'how to handle stress in a relationship' has a simple answer, love the people more than ever, who've helped you build the relationship.

Sparkling Red and Green Tea

2011-05-22T16:33:00.000+05:30

Combine green tea, your favorite juice, and sparkling water for a refreshing take on iced tea.

Ingredients

4 green Tea Bags
Juice Concentrate (Fruit Juice depending on Taste)
Sparkling Water or Club Soda
Berries and Lemon Wedge to garnish.

Directions

1. Bring 2 cups water to boiling. Steep 4 individual-size green tea bags in boiling water according to tea package directions. Remove and discard tea bags. Stir a 12-ounce can of frozen juice concentrate (such as cranberry-raspberry or apple-cherry) into tea mixture. Cover and chill mixture until serving time. To serve, fill a tall ice filled glass 1/4 full with the tea mixture..Top with chilled sparkling water or club soda. Garnish with a few fresh berries and lemon wedge. Makes 6 to 8 servings.

Nutrition facts

Calories124
Sodium (mg)48,
Carbohydrate (g)30,
Vitamin C (DV%)113,
Calcium (DV%)1,
Iron (DV%)2,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Is Facebook's 'Like' button spying on you?

2011-05-22T16:29:00.002+05:30

The Facebook "Like" and Twitter "Tweet" buttons that appear on so many websites do a lot more than just help you share content with friends.

The ubiquitous Facebook "Like" and Twitter "Tweet" buttons let web users share content with their friends and followers, but, unbeknownst to most, they also let the social-media sites track users — even when people don't click on them, according to a study done for The Wall Street Journal. Here, a guide to the buttons, and the privacy concerns they raise:

What do these buttons do?
Their primary function is to let users share items from across the web with their social networks. But they also place "cookies" on a user's computer, that allow Facebook and Twitter to know when a user visits a specific page. If you visit any web page with a "Like" button on it (like this one), Facebook knows about it. And the buttons "could link users' browsinghabits to their social-networking profile, which often contains their name," says Amir Efrati in The Wall Street Journal.

And it tracks you even if you don't click the buttons?
Yes. As long as you've logged into Facebook or Twitter once in the past month, your data is collected, even if you don't click the button. The tracking stops only when a user "explicitly logs out of their Facebook or Twitter accounts," says Efrati in the Journal.

How common are these widgets now?
The Facebook and Twitter buttons "have been added to millions of webpages in the past year," says Efrati. Facebook's widget appears on one-third of the 1,000 most-visited websites in the world, while buttons from Google and Twitter are on one-quarter and one-fifth of those sites, respectively.

Is Facebook using this data?
Facebook, Twitter, Google, and other "widget-makers" say they don't use the data to track users. And they say that the data is "anonymized" so that it can't be traced back to specific users. Facebook says it only uses the data to power targeted ads. The social network stores the data for three months, which is "substantially longer than the two weeks Google stores similar information," says Lee Mathews at Geek.com. Twitter says it doesn't use the data and deletes it "quickly."

What can be done to minimize this tracking?
"If you’re worried" about it, you should "log out of these sites after you’re done checking your email, tweeting, poking, or what have you," says Kashmir Hill in Forbes. "Yeah, you'll have to re-enter your password more often," says Linda Sharps at The Stir, "but it seems like you can have either convenience or privacy these days — not both."

Sources:Wall Street Journel,Forbes.

Peanut Butter Smoothie

2011-05-22T16:22:00.000+05:30

Make this nutty shake with either vanilla or chocolate ice cream.

Ingredients

1 cup vanilla or chocolate ice cream
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons peanut butter

Directions

In a blender container, blend together ice cream, milk, and peanut butter. Makes 1 or 2 servings.

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe 1 or 2 servings
Calories577
Total Fat (g)41
Saturated Fat (g)19,
Cholesterol (mg)95,
Sodium (mg)263,
Carbohydrate (g)42,
Fiber (g)2,
Protein (g)15,
Vitamin A (DV%)22,
Vitamin C (DV%)3,
Calcium (DV%)26,
Iron (DV%)4,
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Men Vs Women Purchasing Decisions

2011-05-22T00:52:00.002+05:30

Men Vs Women Purchasing Decisions

Life Lessons Kids Can Learn From Sports

2011-05-22T00:40:00.003+05:30

For children to become responsible adults, how you act after the game determines whether your kids truly win or lose. "Letting kids participate in sports gives them the opportunity to learn many valuable lessons," says Rick Wolff, co founder and chairman of the Center for Sports Parenting. "However, it's up to parents to help their children apply what they learn from sports to other areas of their lives."

Never Underestimate the Strength of Teamwork. Sports provide an opportunity for kids to learn to take turns, set goals as a team, and cooperate with other children to achieve those goals.It's this kind of emotional and social development that can easily carry over to how well your children work with their teachers, classmates, relatives, and anyone else they may encounter in life.

Bringing it home: Look for ways to encourage teamwork within everyday family life. Rather than focus on your children's individual tasks (cleaning their room), focus on the main goal (a clean house), then explain the part that each family member will play toward reaching that goal.

Everyone has something to offer. In team sports, it's rare that a star can perform every task well. For example, one child may bat well, another catch, another run the bases fast. Some kids may be more developed cognitively and understand the sport's strategy, while others may be more adept socially and instinctively know how to motivate other kids to play their best.

Bringing it home: "The next time your child makes a remark about someone's differences or weaknesses, immediately point out that person's strengths," says Bergen. If your child feels frustrated by her own shortcomings, remind her of the skills that come more naturally to her.

Bringing it home: The next time your child makes a remark about someone's differences or weaknesses, immediately point out that person's strengths. If your child feels frustrated by her own shortcomings, remind her of the skills that come more naturally to her.

Feedback doesn't mean failure. Good coaches know how to offer constructive feedback in an uplifting way. This can make kids more respectful and receptive when taking advice from others, even their parents.

Bringing it home: Skip the post-game analysis. Immediately going over all their mistakes only tunes kids out and can lead to resentment. Regardless of how well she performed, always praise your child for her effort and for the things she did right. Offering compliments that are too general, such as 'you did great today,' isn't practical because it doesn't point to anything specific that kids can understand. Once kids start talking about the errors they made, always keep the conversation positive. Acknowledge their failure by saying ?It's OK to be upset. You did your best and I'm proud of you.

Guide, but abide. You think you know exactly what activity your child would excel at -- and you might be right -- but don't let him feel railroaded. Even if your child's size, shape, or skills make him ideal for a specific sport or activity, explore a variety with him so he can see his options. Ultimately, let him make the final decision and do your best to support his choice.

Bringing it home: Children learn best from sports that fit their personalities and talents -- and from having your support all through the process. Knowing that you accept them -- regardless of how well they perform -- will give your kids all the confidence they need to succeed far beyond the playing field.

Sweet Wedding Cake Centerpiece

2011-05-21T23:01:00.003+05:30

This wedding cake will last a lifetime. Crafted from a stack of tins covered in patterned paper and topped with gemmed flowers, this quick and cute centerpiece is the perfect way to dress dining tables.

Materials

Tins in 6-, 8-, and 10-inch diameters
Patterned paper in coordinating colors
Pencil
Paper cutter
White die-cut floral paper
Hot-glue gun and glue sticks
2 yards of 2-inch-wide sheer ribbon
Daisy punch
Glitter paper in two colors to coordinate with patterned paper
Large and small adhesive gems

Instructions

Remove lids from tins. Using the tins as patterns, cut paper to wrap around the sides of the tins; hot-glue the paper in place. Cut a paper strip to wrap around the 10-inch tin lid; hot-glue in place. Carefully put the lid on the large tin.
From the center of the die-cut floral paper, cut a circle to fit the bottom of the 6-inch tin. Cut a ring 1-1/2-inch larger than the cut circle for the 8-inch tin. Cut a second ring 1-1/2-inch larger than the first ring for the 10-inch tin. Hot-glue the circle and rings to the tins' bottoms.
Hot-glue the tiers together.
Fold the ribbon in half; tie a double bow. Hot-glue the bow to the top tier. Trim the ribbon ends.
Punch out daisies from glitter papers. Press a large gem in the center of each daisy; layer with smaller gems where desired. Hot-glue daisies cascading down the tiers as shown.

Lemonade Ideas - 10 To Try

2011-05-21T18:33:00.008+05:30

Key Lime Lemonade

Here's a great way to use fresh mint from your garden. Stir limeade and lime slices into lemonade (to taste). Garnish with mint leaves.