Squidoo : Lenses by lisadh

Elf Yourself, Become an M&M or Turn Into a Simpsons Character

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:28:09 -0600

Elf yourself! Become an M&M. Turn yourself into a Simpsons character or South Park character. Or star in your own animated e-card. There are plenty of ways to have fun (and waste time!) online. Find out about popular sites and then create your own virtual alter ego online.

Help End World Hunger

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:04:21 -0600

More than one billion people - approximately 1/6 of the world's population are hungry. And every day nearly 16,000 children die from hunger and related causes. We have the resources to feed the world. We just need the will. Learn about global hunger and what you can do to help. All proceeds from this page are donated to A Day of Hope, a non-profit organization that provides food to need families in Stanislaus, California. Photo by Lisa Howard

97 Social Bookmarking Sites with Google PageRank

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:30:41 -0600

Social bookmarking is a great way to save pages you like and help others find articles, blog posts, lenses and sites you create. But what sites should you use? This list of bookmarking services can help you decide.

20 Unique and Alternative Gift Ideas

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:14:55 -0600

If you've been looking for a unique gift for a special someone and are frustrated because you can't find anything at your local super mall, here are some ideas to get you going. From fair trade to far out fun, these gifts are sure to be tops on your recipient's list. (Image by Mizunoryu on Wikimedia Commons)

Gay Marriage: Arguments Against California Proposition 8

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:33:06 -0600

For a short time in 2008, California law allowed same-sex couples to marry. About 18,000 gay couples were legally married after the California Supreme Court made it possible, but Prop 8, a November 2008 ballot measure, revoked that right. It was passed by 52% of the voters. Since then, there has been an ongoing legal battle over the constitutionality of the ballot measure. The California Supreme Court upheld the proposition on the grounds that voters have the right to amend the constitution, but a federal judge later declared it unconstitutional. Federal Judge Vaugh Walker, however, stayed his own ruling. Rather than allowing gay marriages to resume immediately, the judge declared that no same-sex marriages could occur until both sides had a chance to appeal. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on February 7, 2012 that Judge Walker was correct and Prop. 8 is unconstitutional. However, the appeals court left Judge Walker's ban in place. So California has currently declared Prop. 8 to be unconstitutional, but gay marriages are still not being allowed. This page was created before the original vote on Prop 8 and still contains arguments against the initial ballot measure. Prop 8 was the most costly ballot measure in the country at the time it was passed, and emotions ran high on both sides of the debate. The main arguments in favor of the proposition were centered around the effects proponents said it could have on education and religion. The main arguments against it - which are presented here - were centered around equality and whether it would really have the detrimental effects on education, religion and traditional marriage that proponents predicted. This page asks you to think about the question of fairness and equality, and separation of church and state. Please read the excerpts from the California Supreme Court decision and the state Education Code and watch the related videos. Then see if you think California made the right decision. NOTE: This page was created before the Prop 8 ballot measure was put to the voters in Nov 2008 and still contains information about the ballot fight.. But it has been updated to include information about the continuing legal battle for gay marriage in California. You'll find updates near the bottom of this page. (Image credit: Lisa Howard)

Under Desk Exercise: Get Fit While You Work

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 22:32:42 -0600

When I started spending long hours at my desk, I started noticing a corresponding increase in my waist line. And when I started working from home, it only got worse, since my morning "commute" no longer even included the short walk from the parking garage to my office and back again. I've recently been trying to add fitness back into my regime with under-desk cardio machines and some simple exercises. Since I'm still stuck at a desk most of the day, I've been trying to get out more during lunch and try under-desk exercise while I'm pounding the keyboard. Here are some tips and tools I've been discovering. (Update: I've given up under-desk exercise in favor of my new FitDesk exercise desk/bike. I love it!)

Toothpastes Without Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:49:02 -0600

If you're someone who gets canker sores, the secret to fewer outbreaks could be as simple as switching to toothpastes without sodium lauryl sulfate. This surfactant, which is found in industrial cleaners like car wash soaps, engine degreasers and floor cleaners, is also found in most toothpastes. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is great for making things foam. But it's also great at causing skin irritations and canker sores. So if you're looking for a way to avoid those painful mouth sores, keep reading to learn more and to get an SLS-free tooth paste list.

How to Write a Love Letter

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:38:27 -0600

In the age of email, instant messages, text messages and voice mail, the time-honored tradition of handwritten love letters could easily be forgotten. But if you're seeking a way to profess your love to someone special, there's no better way than sending a love letter. Sure, you can buy pre-written love letters, but why not try creating your own first? Here are some tips and ideas to get you started. (Image: love letter photo � Librakv)

Send Free Photo ECards

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:28:14 -0600

Why settle for a generic electronic card when you can create something more personal? Get creative with these sites that offer free photo greeting cards that you can personalize with your own digital photos, text and music. Add a photo to these free photo e-cards and have fun!

Who Invented Chocolate? The Sweet History of Chocolate

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:36:48 -0600

Who was the inventor of chocolate? Well, you could give credit to many people, from the Olmec, Maya and Aztec civilizations that discovered the cacao bean, to the Dutch inventor who created a press to make cocoa powder, to the Englishman who invented the world's first eating chocolate. From there, other chocolate inventions followed. Along the way, people kept finding new ways to enjoy chocolate. Today, you can buy anything from single chocolate bars to large chocolate gift baskets to enjoy this delectable treat. (Image from Amazon)

Unique Star Wars Gift Ideas for Kids, Men and Women

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:44:17 -0600

The nice thing about buying gifts for Star Wars fans is that there are plenty of options for Star Wars gifts. But if your favorite fan already has all the standard products - shirts, costumes, lightsabers, books, building sets and action figures - what do you choose next? Here are some unique Star Wars gift ideas that you won't find at the local superstore in the toy aisle. From Princess Leia perfume to the Tauntaun sleeping bag, you'll find plenty of gifts for your favorite fan.

How to Use IRS.gov Free File to e-file Your Taxes

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:33:56 -0600

IRS.gov is the official site of the Internal Revenue Service and has helpful information for every taxpayer. If you're eligible, you can also use their Free File service to e-file your federal taxes online at no cost. Here's how.

What is Dissociative Identity Disorder/DID (formerly Multiple Personality Disorder)?

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 00:21:30 -0600

Dissociative identity disorder is a condition in which two or more "personalities" take control of a person's behavior. A number of DID cases have been documented in medical literature and have been dramatized in award-winning movies and TV shows such as "Sybil," "The Three Faces of Eve" and "United States of Tara." It's now estimated that up to 1% of the population may have DID, but it's still a controversial diagnosis. I created this page in honor of someone very close to me with DID. I hope this lens will help to enlighten and educate people about the condition.

The Lorax Toys and Gifts

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:39:00 -0600

"The Lorax" is a Dr. Seuss story originally published in 1971 with an ecological message about saving our planet. An animated movie starring Danny Devito as the voice of The Lorax is being released on March 2, 2012, the birthday of Dr. Seuss. Here are some great Lorax toys, shirts and gifts for anyone who is a fan of The Lorax and the message he brings about protecting the environment.

Women Presidents and Prime Ministers

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:36:33 -0600

Who was the world's first woman president? Isabel Peron of Argentina earned that title more than three decades ago, but she can't claim the title of the world's first elected female head of state. That position was filled in 1960, and since then dozens of countries, from powerful nations like England and Germany, to smaller countries like Lithuania and Rwanda, have elected women to the top post. Read on to find out which countries have had female leaders. (Image: German Chancellor Angela Merkel by Aleph via Wikimedia Commons)

Romantic Quotes for Valentine's Day Or Any Day!

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 13:10:04 -0600

Do you need some inspiration for your a Valentine's Day card for someone special in your life? These romantic quotes will help you find a multitude of ways to say, "I love you" on Valentine's Day or any day of the year.

3 Places to Create Twilight "Face in Hole" Pictures

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:35:00 -0600

So you're not Kristen Stewart and people don't immediately imagine your face when they think of vampires and werewolves. But that's no reason you can't appear in a movie poster with Edward, Jasper or other members of the Cullen family. It's easy to create "Twilight" face-in-hole pictures that let you share the limelight with your favorite "Twilight" characters. All you need to do is upload a photo. Here are three sites that will help you in your quest to become a vampire!

Cars Lightning McQueen Diecast, Toys & More

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:34:23 -0600

In the Pixar films Cars and Cars 2, Lightning McQueen is the star race car. In the first movie, McQueen dreams of becoming the first rookie to win the Piston Cup, and in the second movie he is in a race around the world against cars from many nations. Read on to learn more about the Cars star and see the many faces of McQueen as shown in the popular Disney Cars diecast line and other products.

Mattel Pixar/Disney Cars Checklist

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:33:19 -0600

If you collect Disney cars, this checklist will help you make sure you have all the individual Mattel Disney Pixar CARS diecast vehicles released since the Cars movie came out in 2006. Collect them all before the Cars 2 movie comes out so you'll be ready to add more great vehicles to your collection soon!

Waterproof Shockproof iPhone 4 Case

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:38:02 -0600

Looking for a waterproof shockproof iPhone 4 case? If you've got an iPhone, you probably have it loaded with songs, photos, music and personal information that you don't want to lose. A waterproof iPhone 4 case just makes sense. With a waterproof iPhone case, you won't need to worry about dropping your phone in the toilet, swimming pool or mud puddle, and getting one that is shockproof can also protect it from every day falls on hard surfaces. Here are some choices for a waterproof shockproof iPhone 4 case.

AdSense Ready WordPress Themes

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 18:49:32 -0600

So you're starting a blog and need a theme? If you want to make money, you may want to consider using an AdSense-ready theme to increase your profits. These WordPress themes are designed to maximize your earnings from Google AdSense by choosing the best sizes and placements of the ad units. You don't need to guess where to put the ads to get the best conversion rate because the work has been done for you! This page includes some templates that can help you start you on your way to profitable blogging. Many of the themes shown here are available free of charge, while a few others are premium themes available for purchase.

Disney Cars Mattel Diecast Collectibles

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:28:50 -0600

Since the release of the Disney Pixar Cars movie, Mattel's Disney diecast cars from the movie have become popular collectibles. New models are being released all the time featuring various characters from the movie, and more have been released Cars 2. Here are some of the many models available now, as well as rare, hard-to-find and limited edition Pixar cars diecast.

How to Write Family Christmas Letters

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:21:26 -0600

Love 'em or hate 'em, family Christmas letters have become a part of our culture. Each year, millions of people send and receive these annual updates. Here are some tips on how to write Christmas letters your readers will enjoy, as well as some links for Christmas letter paper you can order online and Christmas letter templates you can download and use immediately.

Gift Trees: Plant a Tree in Someone's Name

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:31:59 -0600

When I was a little girl, my mom planted a pine tree in our side yard. Today that tree towers well over 100 feet, and I love to drive by the old house just to see it. Planting gift trees in someone's name is a great way to commemorate an important event, whether it be a celebration, a memorial or a holiday like Christmas. You can plant it yourself or support an organization that is helping the planet through tree planting. You'll be giving a gift that keeps on giving. Learn more below.

Inspirational/Motivational Posters

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:46:38 -0600

Sometimes you just have one of those days (or weeks, or months!) when nothing seems to be going right and you just need a "pick-me-up." Inspirational/motivational posters are a great way to boost your spirits or inspire you to keep going, do better, or overcome the obstacles ahead. The images are always stunning, and the quotes and messages will make you feel good. Here are a few of my favorite motivational/inspirational posters.

Beautiful Snowflakes and Snow Crystals

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:18:39 -0600

Most would agree that a snow-covered field is a beautiful sight. But deep within that snow lies a symphony of microscopic beauty in each of the individual snowflakes and snow crystals. In 1885, Wilson Bentley became the first person to photograph a single snowflake, and since then people around the world have been able to marvel at the simple beauty of these tiny works of art. This lens celebrates the beauty of snowflakes and snow crystals. (Public domain snow flake photo by Wilson Bentley on Wikimedia Commons)

Pictures of Diaper Cakes

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 11:53:58 -0600

if you're planning to make a diaper cake for a baby shower, looking at pictures of diaper cakes can be very helpful in giving you ideas. The photos here show examples of what you can do with one-, two-and three-tier cakes for boys or girls. Take a look and be inspired!

Try an Eco-Friendly Sunscreen: Ocean Corals and Your Skin Will Thank You

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:39:24 -0600

Each summer, beach lovers all over the world head to their favorite sandy shores slathered in sunscreen that is supposed to protect us from skin cancer, wrinkles, and other dangers of exposure to the sun. But the lotions and sprays we apply to protect our skin may very well be killing our oceans - and may not be saving us from the dangers we're trying to avoid. Fortunately, there are eco-friendly biodegradable sunscreens that are healthy for both our planet and our bodies. Here's what you should know about sunscreen, oceans, skin cancer and choosing a sunscreen that's right for you.

Pixar Cars: Radiator Springs

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:17:20 -0600

Radiator Springs is the fictional town on Route 66 where Lightning McQueen, a rookie race car, finds himself stuck in the Disney/Pixar movie CARS. The town is not based on a single location, but is based on real areas along Route 66. In 2001directors John Lasseter and Joe Ranft, along with others from the creative team at Pixar, toured parts of Route 66 to get inspiration for the film and help them create Radiator Springs. If you're a CARS fan, read on to learn more about Radiator Springs.

Tooth Fairy Letters Will Delight Your Kids

Sun, 05 Feb 2012 14:31:17 -0600

Most young kids in the US know about The Tooth Fairy - she's the fairy who brings money while you sleep if you place a missing baby tooth under your pillow. But did you know she also leaves Tooth Fairy letters? Instead of just leaving money when she takes the tooth, the Tooth Fairy sometimes likes to encourage kids to brush and floss, or to congratulate them on the lost tooth in a letter. If a tooth is really special, she might even leave a special Tooth Fairy certificate. Kids love getting these special messages from the Tooth Fairy!

Funny Costume Ideas for Halloween 2011

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:15:47 -0600

Halloween is the only time of the year when adults are not only allowed, but actually encouraged, to act a little childish and play make-believe. So live it up! Here are 10 funny costume ideas you can make at home and 10 funny costumes you can buy online. You're sure to find something to put a smile on everyone's face.

How to Download Album from Facebook

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:29:10 -0600

Sharing photos is one of the most popular ways people use Facebook, but once you upload your images, Facebook doesn't offer a way to easily download them again. Fortunately, other services make it easy to download an album from Facebook. If you want to download Facebook photos, here are three easy ways to get your own photo albums, and even get copies of photos in which you're tagged. Two of the services will help you download album from Facebook for free, while the other will help you download Facebook photos and comments and turn them into a photo book you can keep.

Free Animated Christmas Cards

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:30:28 -0600

Many sites used to offer free e-cards, but it's getting harder to find them. Even Amazon stopped offering free electronic cards. But you can still find high-quality free animated Christmas cards online at the sites below. Some of them offer all-free cards all the time, while others have a selection of both free and premium cards, and some only offer premium cards, but you can send them at no-cost if you sign up for a free trial membership. Happy holidays!

Disney Pixar Cars 2 Movie

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 18:49:19 -0600

Disney/Pixar released Cars 2:World Grand Prix on June 24, 2011. The film was originally scheduled for release in 2012, but was moved up a year. Brad Lewis, who produced Ratatouille, will take over as director from John Lasseter, who is now the Chief Creative Officer of Pixar and Disney, and Lightning McQueen and Mater will be taking a trip around the world.

Grooming Yorkshire Terrier

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:16:04 -0600

Grooming your Yorkshire Terrier is an important part of keeping him or her feeling and looking great. Yorkies' long hair can become matted easily, so frequent grooming is necessary. You can take your dog to the groomer regularly to keep him or her looking and feeling great, or you can learn Yorkie grooming techniques at home. Here are some tips to get you going.

Free Christmas Card Templates

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:42:06 -0600

The web has made it easy for do-it-yourselfers to find great templates for almost everything, including printable Christmas cards. So why not save some money and make your cards a bit more personal by creating your own this year? If you don't know how to get started, here are some tips on what to do and where to go to find a variety of holiday templates. Happy printing!

Free Pumpkin Carving Patterns

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 01:32:25 -0600

Is your Jack-o-lantern a simple grinning pumpkinhead? Turn him into something wild and creative with free pumpkin stencils you can find on the web. Below you'll find a list of sites offering free stencils, as well as information about tools and books that can help you create great-looking pumpkins, some videos to inspire you and some history about jack-o-lanterns..

Funny Valentine Gifts for Men

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:32:47 -0600

We all know the traditional Valentine gifts - red roses, chocolates and maybe a romantic dinner on the town. But who says you can't have fun, too? If you're looking for some funny Valentine gifts for men, this page can help you out. You'll find a selection of funny Valentine's Day gifts that are great if you want to celebrate the holiday with a new boyfriend without being too "mushy and sentimental" or just to have fun with your long-time best friend and love of your life. Funny Valentine gifts for men are good gag gifts on their own or fun when combined with a more romantic gift, too. Take a look at these funny Valentine gifts for men and see what's right for the man in your life.

Corazon Aquino

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:15:50 -0600

Corazon Aquino was the first woman president of the Philippines and a Nobel Peace Prize nominee. She served as the president of the Philippines from 1986 to 1992 after her bloodless "People Power" revolution led to the ouster of former ruler Ferdinand Marcos and swept Aquino into office and made her a global symbol for peace and democracy. In 1986, TIME Magazine named her Woman of the Year. She stepped down from the presidency in 1992, but continued to be active in politics. In early 2008, she announced she had colon cancer and was undergoing treatment. She died at age 76 on August 1, 2009.

Over the hill? 40th Birthday Gift Ideas

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:41:22 -0600

Is someone you know turning 40? Have they gone over the hill or are they still climbing? Whether you're helping them celebrate or joining in the commiseration, here are some 40th birthday ideas that will help you give them a gift they'll remember.

Create a Personalized Valentine Card Online

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:52:37 -0600

Are you looking for a way to create a unique, personalized Valentine card for someone special? You can create your own photo Valentine's Day cards online in just minutes with the help of some sites that help you to customize your own greetings. Whether you're looking for a romantic or sexy Valentine card for your significant other or something fun and light-hearted for your family or friends, you'll find the perfect card that you can personalize with your own text and photos. The best part is you can make your own personalized Valentine Day card for free. (Image from Smilebox, A Love Story card)

How to Write Business Christmas Letters & Cards

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:30:22 -0600

At the end of the year, it's customary for businesses to send holiday greetings or letters to clients, vendors, and other business associates. But what should you write that will sound professional and sincere without offending anyone's religious sensibilities? Here are some ideas for writing business Christmas wishes for your cards and letters.

How to Santa Yourself

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 01:21:00 -0600

It all started with Elf Yourself. Office Depot started the now-wildly-popular site that allows you to add your face to a dancing elf, and now animated holiday cards that let you to add your face to dancing characters are all the rage. But if you've had your fill of dancing elves and want to move up a step, here are some places where you can Santa yourself.

Free Summer Movies for Kids

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:09:42 -0600

Looking for something to do with the kids this summer? Many movie theater chains offer free (or pretty darn cheap!) summer movies for families. Although more chains are now starting to charge nominal fees for their "free" summer movie programs, you'll still find great deals. Some theaters even throw in the popcorn! So grab the kids and get ready for some cheap fun. Here is a list of some movie theater summer programs and what to expect. (This page currently has information for summer 2011. Check back soon for 2012 movie updates.)

Waterproof Shockproof Digital Cameras

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 00:29:56 -0600

Many people enjoy rugged outdoor sports, but most cameras aren't designed to go surfing in the ocean or mountain biking in the mud or climbing on a freezing cold mountaintop. Those aren't the sort of locations you'd want to take your camera phone or nice SLR that can could be ruined with a little sand or water in the camera. So what's an outdoor person to do? Thankfully, manufacturers are coming up with waterproof shockproof digital cameras that can go just about anywhere. Today's models can offer amazing resolution (up to 16 megapixels), cool features such as built-in GPS, one-touch HD video recording, and even 3D photo images. It all depends on how much you want to spend, and what features you need. Here's a list of some waterproof shockproof cameras currently available.

Lightning McQueen Toys Your Kids Will Love

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:43:39 -0600

Lightning McQueen is the star of the Disney/Pixar movie Cars and Cars 2. In the first movie, he's a rookie race car who gets lost in the small town of Radiator Springs off Route 66 while enroute to the big race-off for the Piston Cup trophy. In Cars 2, he takes on the World Grand Prix. Thanks to the popularity of McQueen and other movie characters, retail merchandise for Cars has been widely successful. Here are just a few Lightning McQueen toys to keep your little Cars fans happy.

Fun Photo Editing Online

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:32:32 -0600

You don't have to be an expert with PhotoShop to create great photo effects with your digital pics. Several services make fun photo editing online a breeze. You simply upload your photo, click a few buttons, and your image is magically transformed into a fun new artistic creation. Then you can save it, send it, or share it. Whatever you do, you'll definitely have fun transforming your photos into fun new images at these sites.

Jacques Cousteau

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:52:08 -0600

He may have been the most famous undersea explorer of our time. At the time of Jacques Cousteau's death, CNN remembered Captain Cousteau by saying, "For millions of people who see the ocean only through the porthole of television, the voice of the sea had a soft French accent." Indeed, Cousteau brought the undersea world to millions through books and films, and also helped thousands to enjoy the undersea world themselves as the co-inventor of the Aqua-Lung, which was the precursor to modern scuba diving equipment. He also helped others bring the beauty of the ocean back in pictures; Cousteau was the person who envisioned the Calypso camera, the underwater camera that was later acquired by Nikon and became the famous Nikonos underwater cameras. In these ways, Jacques Cousteau was responsible for bringing the beauties of the ocean to the general public. (Image from the book Jacques Cousteau: Conserving Underwater Worlds (In the Footsteps of Explorers), available on Amazon)

Romantic Valentines Chocolate Gift Ideas

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:27:38 -0600

Looking for a romantic Valentine's gift? If your special someone is a chocoholic, surprise him or her with a romantic Valentine's chocolate gift. From chocolate dipped wine and strawberries, to chocolate roses and games, these romantic chocolate gifts are sure to be a hit for any special occasion for two. (Image: personalized chocolate Valentine cake available from Flowers Fast.)

Valentine's Day Gifts For Boys

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:52:55 -0600

Arts and Crafts make great Valentine's Day Gifts For Boys as well as building sets and table games. Find the themes he likes such as Spiderman, Batman, Star Wars and more. Games, building sets, activity books and art supplies make great Valentine's Day gifts for boys of all ages. These show some of the styles you can buy and click though to see a wider selection. Don't Miss the best Valentine's day gifts for boys. Photo Credit : A Big Kiss For You! Gift Box on Amazon

Sirimavo Bandaranaike, First Woman Prime Minister in the World

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:50:34 -0600

Long before Margaret Thatcher became one of the most powerful women in the world, before Angela Merkel became a household name and even before Indira Gandhi and Golda Meir took the helm of their countries, Sirimavo Bandaranaike made history in 1960 by being elected prime minister of Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon).

Robotic Toys for Kids

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:32:37 -0600

Robot toys are hot, thanks to the success of movies such as Iron Man and to innovative products such as Wow-Wee Robosapien and others. Robotic toys are cool! Here are some of the top RC robots and related robotic toys.

Santa's Nice List

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:31:28 -0600

How many times have you told your children they better watch out, they better not cry and they better be on their best behavior because Santa is watching? The fear of not making Santa's Nice List has undoubtedly kept untold numbers of kids from misbehaving for decades. Nobody wants to be on Santa's Naughty list! If you want to encourage your kids to stay on Santa's good list and reward them for their good behavior, here are some fun ways to do it. Image: photo-personalized Nice List certificate from Letters to Kids from Santa.com

How to Write a Letter to Santa Claus

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:47:40 -0600

Christmas is a very busy time of year for Santa Claus. He has to get the sleigh ready, make sure the elves have finished all the toys, and check his list twice to be sure he hasn't forgotten any good girls and boys. But in the midst of all this chaos, he always makes time to read letters from children. That's because Santa knows kids sometimes change their minds, and he wants to be sure he's bringing the right gifts on Christmas Eve. If you want to be very sure Santa knows what your kids want this year, help them write a letter to Santa with these tips.

Matryoshka: Russian Nesting Dolls

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:20:48 -0600

Matryoshka nesting dolls are known by many names - matryoshka dolls, Russian nesting dolls, babushka dolls, matrioshka, matroshka, matreshka, matryushka and stacking dolls are just a few. The wooden nesting dolls first became popular at the end of the 19th century, when Sergei Maliutin was inspired to sketch a wooden nesting doll after seeing a Japanese doll representing the Seven Gods of Fortune. Maliutin designed a Russian version, which was carved in a toy workshop in the town of Sergiyev Posad. Today matyroshka dolls are created in hundreds of designs, from Disney nesting dolls to world leader nesting dolls, and many other fun creations. (Image of Matryoshka Russian nesting dolls from Amazon)

Personalized Chocolate Candy Gifts

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:32:55 -0600

Tired of giving the same old gifts? Try personalized chocolate candy for a sweet treat your gift recipients will love! From personalized M&Ms to personalized candy bars, there's something here for every chocoholic.

Sites to Help You Sell Your House Online

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:50:28 -0600

Whether you've decided to sell your house yourself or are working with a Realtor, you can increase the chances of selling your house by making sure it gets as much exposure as possible. These sites will help. And they're (almost) all free. (Psst! Realtors, these sites can also help you market your clients' properties - and help you stand out in the crowd of real estate agents.)

The First Hot Air Balloon

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 02:10:12 -0600

Three barnyard animals claim the honor of being the first creatures to soar into the skies in a hot air balloon. A sheep, rooster and duck were the only passengers in the first hot air balloon flight that took place in France in the late 1700s.

If The World Were A Village of 1000 People...

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:45:28 -0600

In 1990 a professor at Dartmouth College wrote an article that began with the words: "If the world were a village of 1000 people..." Professor Donella Meadows then proceeded to list statistics about the make-up of the world's population and the distribution of the world's wealth and resources. Meadows probably never imagined this simple article for her column called "The Global Citizen" would one day be widely circulated on the Internet and around the world, updated and even turned into a children's book. But the statistics, when boiled down into simple numbers that anyone could understand, are compelling reading and make it easy for everyone to grasp the inequities in our small world village.

Get a Free Santa Message Video

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:30:31 -0600

Santa may still be low-tech in some ways (after all, he hasn't replaced his reindeer-drawn sleigh with a high-powered rocket yet), but he finally has entered the digital age by offering personalized video messages straight from the North Pole. Yes, through the power of the Internet, your kids can get a personalized Santa message video online. And in keeping with Santa's centuries-old tradition of magically bringing toys for free, these videos are completely free of charge.

Lionel Polar Express Train Set

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:31:27 -0600

The Lionel Polar Express train set brings to life the magic from the wonderful children's book by the same name. This simple story about a boy who takes a train ride to the North Pole and gets a bell from Santa Claus has a wonderful message for children and adults. The classic book is great to read out loud, and it's even more fun to bring the magic to life with a Lionel Polar Express train set and the additional figures and cars you can collect and add to the set each year. All aboard!

Seafood Watch - What are the Best Fish to Eat?

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:50:31 -0600

If you don't know whether to choose salmon or sea bass, farmed or wild, Seafood Watch can help. This program of the Monterey Bay Aquarium helps educate consumers about which fish and seafood are the most sustainably harvested. The program publishes several well-known regional guides with recommendations on which choices to eat or avoid, and makes the information easily accessible in convenient pocket guides you can slip into a wallet or purse.

Free Santa Claus Phone Number: Get Free Santa Calls

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:20:28 -0600

What's Santa's phone number at the North Pole? It's now easy to find. Google Voice has set up a free voicemail service for Santa Claus so anyone can call him toll-free and leave a message. It's fun and it's free, and even though Santa is too busy getting ready for the Christmas holiday to answer the phone personally, you can also arrange for Santa to call you back with a personalized message.

Sackboy Plushie, LBP Shirts and Other LittleBigPlanet Gifts

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:46:48 -0600

LittleBigPlanet, known to fans as LBP, is a popular game for PS3 and PSP. If you've got a LBP fan on your holiday list, here are some gifts featuring the star of Little Big Planet - Sackboy (and Sackgirl, too). Have some fun with these Sackboy plushie dolls, Sackboy T-shirts and other gifts - and don't forget about the release of LBP2 in January.

Santa Letter Template

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:31:34 -0600

Back in the old days, before Santa letter templates existed, Santa Claus had to write and send all his letters by hand. But the world was a much smaller place. Today, Santa Claus often needs the help of parents who can print Christmas letters from Santa at home. It's easy, cheap, fast and a lot of fun for Santa's helpers. All you need is a Santa letter template, which is just a pre-formatted letter from Santa that is ready for you to personalize. You simply pick your design and add in your child's name and other information. You'll save money and have fun doing it!

Valentine's Gifts For Boys

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:52:32 -0600

This is the best place to buy Valentine's Gifts For Boys this year! The most popular best rated and most requested gifts for boy on valentines and the best valentine cards for boys. The cards with boys in mind and the gifts they are sure to love. Give him valentine designs for boys (baseball, video, music, sports and dinosaurs). You can find the fun designs and games boys like and some fun accessories for their most popular games and toys. Photo Credit : Amazon.com

How to Create Free Printable Santa Letters

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 18:42:46 -0600

Even Santa needs a little help! Here's some advice on how to help the Jolly Old Elf send a Santa letter to your little one, complete with a postmark from the North Pole. Read on to learn how to create your own free printable Santa letters for kids.

Disney Cars 2 Characters

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:47:55 -0600

The sequel to Disney/Pixar's Oscar-nominated hit movie CARS was released June 2011. Lightning McQueen, Mater and most of the gang from Radiator Springs returned to the big screen for the World Grand Prix race, which will be full of fun new characters, including arrogant new race cars, super spy cars and even some villains. Here are some of the main characters making their debut in Cars 2. (Cars 2 Poster available from All Posters.)

Personalized Books for Kids, Teens and Adults

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 01:39:35 -0600

Personalized children's picture books have been around for a long time, but toddlers aren't the only ones who can enjoy starring in their own book these days. Now older children, teens and even adults can star in their own novels, from classic tales to romantic novels. Here are some sites that can help you become the hero or heroine of your own tale, or create a gift book for someone special.

Where to Buy Toys with Free Shipping

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:47:14 -0600

Free shipping is one of the best things about shopping online, and it can save you both time and money. But if you're only looking at the large toy chain stores, you might be missing out on some deals. You can find toys with free shipping at a variety of online stores. Below I've listed some toy stores that offer your usual brand name items, as well as places that offer specialty toys such as educational, wooden or organic toys or toys made in the USA. And all these stores offer free shipping with a minimum purchase or a coupon. I've included some information about each store. Happy shopping!

Matt Groening

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:02:41 -0600

Sure, you're heard of Bart, Homer, Lisa, Marge and Maggie Simpson, and all the characters from The Simpsons. But how about Matt Groening? Doh! He's the guy who brought them to life. Learn more about the man who created The Simpsons, the longest-running animated series in TV history, as well as favorites such as Futurama.

Car Reindeer Antlers and Nose and Other Christmas Car Decorations

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:31:34 -0600

During the Christmas season, you don't have to look far to find holiday decorations. Homes, offices and shopping malls get decked out with lights, ornaments, Christmas trees and yard decorations, and in many towns you'll see decorations on the street light poles, too. But if you're driving down the highway.... well, you're not going to find much Christmas cheer there. Even folks who have elaborate decorations at their home don't always dress up their car for the occasion. Well, bah humbug! Stick some car reindeer antlers and nose on your car to bring the joy of Christmas to the roads. Or if that's too elaborate, consider a Christmas antenna ball or magnet. It's easy to decorate your car for the holidays, and fun, too!

Diaper Cake Directions

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:59:19 -0600

Diaper cakes make great baby shower gifts and are a lot of fun to make. You can buy cakes online, but why spend so much money when you can find diaper cake directions and make your own? It's fun, it's easy, and makes a great gift. Here are some resources to get you started!

Times of India Newspaper

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:47:49 -0600

The Times of India may not be as well known in the English-speaking world as The Wall Street Journal, USA Today or the UK's Daily Mail, but when it comesto circulation, this paper beats them all. The Times of India has been certified by ABC (the Audit Bureau of Circulation) as being the world's largest-selling broadsheet newspaper printed in English. With more than 2 million papers sold daily, The Times of India is going strong.

Nightmare Before Christmas Characters

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 23:56:43 -0600

The Nightmare Before Christmas is a 1993 stop-action movie about a skeleton from Halloween Town who wants to take over Christmas. It's based on a poem by Tim Burton, who co-wrote the screenplay, and the film features some frighteningly strange characters. Unlike traditional holiday movies that feature huggable stars like Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Nightmare Before Christmas offers some creepy and grotesque new holiday favorites such as a boogie monster filled with creepy crawly things, a mad scientist who can open his head and expose his brains, and a rag doll that can sew her own body parts back on. Keep reading to learn more about The Nightmare Before Christmas characters such as Jack Skellington, Sally, Doctor Finklestein, the Mayor, Santa Claus, Zero, Lock, Shock, Barrel, and Oogie Boogie.

Allahabad Kumbh Mela

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:22:10 -0600

Every 12 years, millions of people descend on the city of Allahabad, U.P., India to bathe in the sacred waters of the Ganges River. They come for the world's largest and longest-running gathering of humanity, the Allahabad Kumbh Mela. Pilgrims believe that if they bathe in the Ganges (or Ganga) River during the weeks of the Kumbh Mela festival, all their sins will be purified. I attended the Maha Kumbh Mela in Allahabad in 1989 and would love to go again. The next Maha Kumbh Mela festival in Allahabad will be held in January and February 2013. Here's more about this amazing festival. (Photo from the 1989 Allahabad Maha Kumbh Mela by Lisa Howard.)

Solar Swimming Pool Covers Do More Than Heat Your Pool

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:16:43 -0600

When my family moved to a hot area of northern California, we decided the only way to tolerate the 100-degree summer days was with a swimming pool. But it wasn't until after we bought the house that we discovered the pool had no heater! Fortunately, we had already looked at the benefits of solar swimming pool covers. We now use a solar pool cover to keep our pool warm throughout the swimming season. The cover itself is inexpensive, it allows us to swim in pleasantly warm water (we like the pool about 88 - 90 degrees!) from May - September, and it also cuts down on water and chemical costs. Solar pool blankets do a lot more than keep your pool warm.

Indira Gandhi

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:06:22 -0600

Indira Gandhi was India's first female prime minister and part of a family political dynasty that included her father, Jawaharlal Nehru, who was India's first prime minister after the country gained independence from the British in 1947. She served four terms before being assassinated by one of her own bodyguards. Her son, Rajiv Gandhi, and her daugher-in-law, Sonia Gandhi also later served as prime minsters.

Best Toys for 5 Year Old Girl

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:35:31 -0600

What are the best toys for a 5-year-old girl? Obviously, it depends on her taste, your budget, and a variety of other factors, but if you're looking for products that have won awards, received great reviews from other parents and kids, or are bestsellers, here's a list that will get you started on your gift shopping. Keep reading to find great toys for 5-year-old girls for Christmas, birthdays, and other special occasions.

Best Waterproof Headphones

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:37:00 -0600

Are you looking for waterproof headphones for your mp3 player or smartphone? Waterproof ear buds and headphones are great for working out, taking to the beach or swimming pool or just running in the rain. The selection of waterproof headphones below have been picked because of their sales popularity and positive reviews from customers who have actually bought and used these devices. Take a look at the choices below and find the best waterproof headphones for you. Image credit: Philips SHQ400/28 Neckband Headphones

FitDesk Exercise Desk Bike

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:49:51 -0600

For busy people, finding time to work out is often a challenge. But many of us spend hours every day on the computer, in front of the TV or playing video games. FitDesk desk bike was invented just for people like us because it allows you to exercise WHILE you're working or playing, thereby eliminating the struggle to find time in a busy day to work out. This is the only piece of exercise equipment I've ever owned that I haven't gotten bored with after about two months. I love it!

Need a Dog Lover's Gift? Ideas for the Perfect Present

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:53:20 -0600

Nearly 40% of all US households have dogs, according to estimates from the United States Humane Society. That's a lot of dog owners! So if you've got a dog lover on your gift list this year and need some inspiration for your shopping trip, this list of dog lover's gift ideas will help you out. Whether your gift recipient has a mutt or a pedigreed pooch, there are plenty of presents out there for folks with canine companions.

3 Sites That Offer Free Easter Bunny Letters

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:16:29 -0600

When Peter Cottontail comes hopping down the Bunny Trail this spring, will he be bringing a special Easter Bunny letter for a child in your life? Letters from the Easter Bunny are fun for kids, and they're easy to create, if you've got a color printer at home and a few minutes of time. The websites detailed below offer templates that allow you to print your own personalized letter at home in just minutes. So get hopping and read more about sites that offers free Easter Bunny letters. (Image copyright American Greetings)

Lorax Halloween Costume

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:21:47 -0600

"I am the Lorax! I speak for the trees!" If you want to speak for the trees or just have some fun this Halloween, try a Lorax Halloween costume. Based on the hit movie from Universal Pictures, a Lorax costume is a great Halloween outfit for tree huggers or anyone who loves the Dr. Seuss character. This page shows products currently available (before the release of the movie) and will be updated as more Lorax costumes become available. {image: Lorax accessory kit from BuyCostumes.com)

Christmas Birthday Cards and Gifts

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:21:52 -0600

My birthday is three days after Christmas. There are both advantages and disadvantages for those of us born on or near the biggest holiday of the year. For instance, I never had to go to school on my birthday and later when I went to work for a company that closed down between Christmas and New Year's, I never had to work on my birthday either. On the down side, your birthday can often get lumped into the "other" big celebration going on. This page offers Christmas birthday cards and gifts for anyone celebrating their birth on or near Christmas. Some people enjoy receiving "Christmas birthday" cards, while others would prefer a simple birthday greeting without mention of that "other" occasion. But whatever you do, don't write "happy birthday" at the bottom of a Christmas card!

The Grinch and Max the Dog

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:39:11 -0600

In "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," the green, grouchy Grinch starts out hating everything and everyone. But his sweet dog Max is just the opposite - cheerful, fun-loving and ready to try anything. Who wouldn't adore this lovable mutt? He's cute, cuddly and never seemingly bothered by the abuses heaped on him by the evil Grinch. If you're a fan of the Grinch's Max the Dog, read on to learn more about this amazing cartoon canine.

Fun USB Gadgets and Toys

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:41:32 -0600

Forget about basketball hoops for your wastebasket and Dilbert stuffed dolls for your desk. Those are desk toys for the last generation. Today's desk toys are cooler, more interactive, and a lot more fun. Welcome to the world of USB toys and gadgets, where accessorizing your desk goes beyond sticking a bobble-head doll next to your phone.

Disney Princess Merida from Brave

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 02:27:47 -0600

Disney Princess Merida is the lead character in the upcoming Disney/Pixar movie "Brave," to be released in June 2012. A courageous and skilled archer who is determined to make her own path in life, Princess Merida is granted an "ill-fated wish" by a witch and then must discover true bravery to undo a curse. Princess Merida's starring role in the film marks the first time a Pixar movie has featured a female protagonist. She will join the line of other popular Disney Princesses, such as Snow White, Cinderella, Pocahontas, Belle, Tiana, and all the others. (Image of Princess Merida � 2011 Disney/Pixar)

Fun Halloween Candy Buckets

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:40:15 -0600

Today's Halloween candy buckets aren't what they used to be. When I was little, we used to trick or treat with small orange pails shaped like pumpkins. Not very exotic, for sure! But take a look at the trick or treat pails available now. Forget about plain ol' pumpkins and bags. Today's kids can haul their stash in style with Halloween candy bags and buckets featuring their favorite superheroes, movie characters or sports teams, or plush bags with cute shapes for toddlers. They're not just functional bags to hold your candy - they're costume accessories. Check it out.

Free Funny Christmas Cards

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:19:26 -0600

During the holidays, people tend to get sentimental, and most Christmas cards reflect this reality. They show peaceful scenes of winter snow and peaceful scenes of people gathered around warm fires drinking egg nog. Is it all a little too "Kumbaya" for you? Then check out these free funny Christmas cards. They toss out all those peaceful, reflective thoughts and throw in a lot of humor and irreverence.

Gift Ideas For Military Men

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:32:59 -0600

One of the most difficult gifts you will ever buy is for the man who has everything. The next most difficult gift to buy is for the man who sacrifices everything on a daily basis. These Gift Ideas For Military Men will be unique and thoughtful so he knows you have taken the time to understand he rarely thinks of himself and is honored to serve his family and his country. The gifts for military men need to be extraordinary and most of all new and innovative, something that is evidence of freedom of thought and creativity. Photo Credit : Amazon.com

Epson v600 Review for Slide Scanning

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:35:48 -0600

Are you looking for an affordable but high-quality slide and photo scanner? I purchased the Epson v600 scanner to digitize a collection of more than 1000 color slides, as well as years of color and black and white negatives. I love it! For the price, you can't beat this USB scanner. This is my Epson v600 review for scanning 35mm slides - what I like, what I don't like and why. I've also included images so you can see what actual output from the scanner looks like, and well as Epson v600 reviews from other owners and a video showing a side-by-side comparison with the Epson v600 photo scanner and its main competitor, the CanoScan 9000F. If you are thinking about getting a film and slide scanner, I hope my Epson v600 review can help you decide if it's the right piece of equipment for you.

Funny Gift Ideas for Boyfriend

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:43:43 -0600

Need some funny gift ideas for a boyfriend? These funny gift ideas for guys are great for birthdays, Christmas or any time you want to make your special guy grin. Don't want to scare him off with a sappy, romantic gift after you've just been dating for awhile? Give him a funny gift instead. Want to have some fun on his birthday? Pick one of these funny gift ideas for boyfriends. Need to get back at him for the gag gift he gave you? These gifts will help you out. If you need funny gift ideas for boyfriends, you've come to the right place.

Star Wars Potato Head Toys

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:52:11 -0600

Check out the new Star Wars Potato Head characters. Mr. Potato Head has been around since the 1950s but this spud has gone galactic. Darth Tater, the first Star Wars Potato Head toy, was released in 2005 and proved so popular that others have followed. In 2009, three new Star Wars spuds were added to the line and are being offered through sale through Disney theme parks. Here's a look at all of Mr. Potato Head's Star Wars looks.

India Holi Festival

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:05:52 -0600

Holi is a spring festival celebrated throughout India. Originally called Holika, the festival is marked by large bonfires and a celebration in which people spend the day throwing colored powder or colored water on each other. Holi is celebrated on a lunar cycle, so the date for festivities changes each year. In 2012, Holi will be on March 8. (Photo shown here is of me in Allahabad, India, after celebrating Holi in 1988.)

Romantic Decorations for Valentines Day

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:52:40 -0600

Feeling like there's not enough love in your house? Spruce it up with some Romantic Decorations for Valentines Day. Show your loved one you care by setting up some Romantic Decorations for Valentines Day and they are sure to love it. Image courtesy of Amazon

Eco-Friendly Toys for Toddlers

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:35:49 -0600

Are you looking for eco-friendly toys for toddlers? Some manufacturers are now offering green toys made from safer and/or more sustainable materials. Depending on the manufacturer, these toys might be made of sustainable bamboo or rubberwood, organic cotton fabric, or recycled plastics, and the toy may come in a package that is more environmentally friendly. Green toys are available for all ages. Here's an example of some of today's eco-friendly toys for toddlers.

Try a Helmet Cam for a Hands Free Video Camera

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:34:49 -0600

Helmet cams make it easy to capture hands free video of your favorite sports and activities. Whether you're skateboarding, dirt biking, car racing, skydiving, or just hanging out at home, a helmet cam is a fun way to record the moment. Just strap it to your helmet, bike handles, skateboard, surfboard, etc. and you're ready for handsfree video fun. Keep reading to learn more about the options starting at less than $50, check out helmet cam prices and see videos shot from real helmetcams.

Letter from Easter Bunny is Fun for Kids

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:15:01 -0600

If the Easter Bunny visits your house in the spring, he probably brings Easter baskets filled with colored eggs, chocolate candy and perhaps some fun toys. Does he also write to your children to let them know he'll be hopping down the Bunny Trail to your home soon? A letter from Easter Bunny can be a great way to build up anticipation for a big egg hunt or can be a fun addition to an Easter basket. This giant rabbit's a busy rodent, but he's never too busy to send an Easter Bunny letter to an excited child.

Waterproof Shockproof Watch

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:36:07 -0600

Are you looking for a waterproof shockproof watch? These are great if you enjoy almost any outdoor activity because a waterproof watch can withstand rain and water, and the shockproof ability means you won't need to worry about knocking it. A waterproof shockproof watch is great for mountain biking, swimming, skiing, fishing, and other sports, as well as being perfect for everyday wear. Take a look at some of the current bestsellers to find the best waterproof shockproof watch for you. Image credit: Nautica Men's N14536 NST Chronograph Watch

How to Make Reindeer Poop

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:20:23 -0600

Candy reindeer poop is a fun and incredibly easy Christmas project for elementary school kids. Adults may not be wild about the idea of making reindeer poop, but kids love it! It's fast, fun and will make everyone smile.

Biography of Mahatma Gandhi

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:06:19 -0600

Mohandas K. Gandhi, who is best known to the world as Mahatma Gandhi, led the movement to free India from British rule, and was one of the world's greatest advocates of nonviolent resistance. He was was nominated five times for the Nobel Peace Prize but never won, an omission which the Nobel Committee has publicly regretted.

Snowman Soup Recipe and Poem

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:31:50 -0600

Snowman soup is a fun gift featuring a cup of hot chocolate with some marshmallows and other treats inside (the snowman pieces you'll be melting in your "soup") and a special poem to make it more fun. So making Snowman Soup doesn't require any great culinary skill. It's a fun and easy gift for Christmas or other winter celebrations. Here's the Snowman soup recipe and poem(s) that you can attach to the gift mug.

Star Wars R2D2 Toys

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:37:30 -0600

R2D2 is the lovable little droid featured in all of the Star Wars films. In various films, he pairs up with Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Luke Skywalker. These Star Wars R2D2 toys bring the magic of Lucas Films home in games, electronics, even writing utensils. If you're a fan of Artoo, you're sure to find something here to entertain and amuse.

Houndstooth Coats and Clothing

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 11:26:37 -0600

Houndstooth clothes, from coats and hats to shoes and scarves, are a sure sign of winter. The familiar black and white pattern, which is also known as dogstooth, is a fashion staple during the cold winter months. If you're looking to expand your winter wardrobe, here are some styles to keep you warm and in style.

Have Fun With An Inflatable Halloween Costume

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 13:58:33 -0600

It's hard to stand out at a Halloween party. After all, everyone wants to have the best costume. But if you want to be sure to make a BIG impression, then try an inflatable Halloween costume. You may not win the award for the scariest or sexiest costume, but you'll be sure to turn heads and get some laughs with these blow-up outfits.

Disney Duffy Bear Clothes

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:19:32 -0600

Duffy Bear is Mickey Mouse's teddy bear. He was handmade by Minnie Mouse and given to Mickey in a duffel bag, earning him the name "Duffy." The cute bear with Mickey Mouse images on his paws was originally available only for sale in the Disney theme parks, but he's now available through online stores as well, and he's got a complete line of Disney Duffy Bear clothes. If your Duffy the Disney Bear needs some new duds, you've come to the right place.

Santa Sample Letters

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:46:20 -0600

Sometimes the simplest things seem the hardest to write. So if you're having trouble with a Christmas letter from Santa, here are some Santa sample letters to help you get past your writer's block. You can use these examples to create your own magical kids Santa letters from Old St. Nick.

Mother Child Pendant

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:17:13 -0600

I got a silver mother-child pendant when my son was born that I wore every day until my daughter was born, and then I replaced it with a new pendant featuring two kids instead of one (shown here). I saved the original one to give to my son. This and my wedding ring are the only pieces of jewelry I never take off. I love my necklace so much that I created this lens showcasing other mother child pendants because I think they're the perfect gift for any mom to celebrate the birth of a new child, Mother's Day or a birthday.

Santa's Reindeer, Reindeer, Reindeer!

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:32:02 -0600

How many reindeer does Santa have? What are their names? And how do you make reindeer food? Read this lens to learn more about those famous flying Christmas reindeer! You'll find trivia, jokes, crafts, gift ideas and even a few videos. Have fun!

Halloween Costumes: Nightmare Before Christmas Characters

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 23:57:30 -0600

Traditional icons for Halloween include bats, cats, vampires, witches and ghosts. But if want a costume that says "Halloween" without resorting to one of those figures, how about going as one of The Nightmare Before Christmas characters? This popular 1993 movie produced by Tim Burton introduced the world to characters such as Jack Skellington, The Pumpkin King who wanted to trade places with "Sandy Claus, and Sally, a ragdoll brought to life by a mad scientist. Get in the mood for Halloween with these costumes!

Printable Easter Bunny Letters

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:17:27 -0600

When the Easter Bunny comes hopping down the Bunny Trail this year, make sure he leaves an Easter Bunny letter for your child. With the quality of today's inkjet and laser printers, it's easy to create great-looking printable letters from the Easter Bunny at home in just minutes. Your kids will love getting a letter from their favorite candy-giving rabbit, and you'll love seeing the expression of joy on their faces!

Christmas Candy Canes

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:21:46 -0600

It wouldn't be Christmas without candy canes, those ubiquitous red-and-white striped, hooked sticks of peppermint candy. Find out when and why they were invented, find books and DVDs about their legend, and find some tasty candy cane recipes.

Best Swimming MP3 Player

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:37:56 -0600

Working out with music is a great way to help pass the time, as well as provide a steady beat that can keep you motivated and moving. But what if your favorite sport involves water? Then you need a waterproof mp3 player. Here are some of the best swimming mp3 players. These waterproof mp3 players are made for swimming and other water sports so you can take them in the pool, to the beach, or even in the shower. You won't need to miss a beat with these swimming mp3 players.

Disney Cars Land at California Adventure/Disneyland

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:57:40 -0600

Disney Cars Land will be rolling into the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim in 2012. The new 12-acre expansion of Disney's California Adventure theme park is based on the popular Disney/Pixar film Cars and will feature a full-size version of Radiator Springs that guests can walk through, as well as three new rides that will be based on the movie. (Photo courtesy: Disney)

Duffy Bear: Disney's Newest Character

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:43:37 -0600

Disney's newest character recently made his way across the Pacific Ocean to the U.S. Duffy the Disney Bear has been a popular character at Tokyo's DisneySea for years, but in October 2010, he made his American debut at Disney's Epcot and California Adventure. Visitors to either theme park can now get their photos taken with a full-size Duffy Bear and buy stuffed bears to take home. Will he be as popular in the US as he is in Japan? Disney sure hopes so. (Photo courtesy Disney Parks Blog)

Personalized Disney Blankets

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:03:23 -0600

Staying cozy and warm on a chilly night is more fun with a personalized Disney blanket! This page will show you some of the personalized Disney blankets available to be customized with your child's name or even a photo of your child. Your kids will love snuggling with their favorite characters. Blankets come with a variety of images, showing Disney Princesses, Jack Skellington, Tinkbell, or Lightning McQueen, just to name a few of the Disney stars you can get on your personalized blanket. Your kids will love it!

The First Christmas Stamp

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:49:23 -0600

The first Christmas stamp issued by the United States Postal Service wasn't released until 1962, and it was so popular that the initial print run sold out quickly. As a result, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing had to work round-the-clock to meet the demand. It was the start of a holiday tradition. Since that time, the USPS has issued new Christmas postage stamps every year (except 2000) so postal customers can decorate their seasonal mail.

Easter Bunny Songs for Kids

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:14:49 -0600

Kids love Easter and they love music, too. So any great Easter celebration needs some Easter Bunny songs. Here are five fun songs that kids will love, from the well-known Here Comes Peter Cottontail to lesser known melodies such as 12 Days of Easter. Click the "play" arrow in each image to hear short samples from each one. Hoppy Easter!

Supreme Darth Vader Costume

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:33:21 -0600

If you're looking for the scariest costume for Halloween this year, forget about masquerading as Jason, Freddie, or the Grim Reaper. Instead, check out the Supreme Darth Vader costume. Molded from original Lucas Studio molds, it's the ultimate costume for Star Wars fans. But the scariest thing about it is the price tag. You'll have to have a big wallet if you don't want to be frightened off by this Star Wars Halloween outfit.

Personalized Gift Tins Make Great Gifts and Party Favors

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:41:26 -0600

Customized gifts and favors are always a great way to celebrate an occasion, and personalized gift tins are a good choice because they can be saved and used again to store candy, pills, or small treasures. But if your idea of a custom tin is a wedding favor with two names and a date printed on it, think again. You can now get personalized gift tins designed for everyday occasions such as birthdays and the holidays, and many can even be customized with your own photos. Whether you're buying for a baby shower, a graduation, a birthday, or just to say, "Thank you!" there's a personalized gift tin for every need and budget.

Where is Timbuktu?

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:07:17 -0600

Many people believe that Timbuktu is a mythical place, slang for the end of the earth. However, Timbuktu (also spelled Tombouctou) is a real city in Mali. It was the legendary center of trade in West Africa for at least two centuries and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Green Your Holidays with a Christmas Letter Template

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:22:00 -0600

If you're looking for ways to have a greener Christmas, consider using a downloadable Christmas letter template to help you with your holiday letter writing. Templates are environmentally friendly for a variety of reasons, including the fact that you'll never again have to buy a package with 50 sheets of paper when you only have 30 people on your mailing list. Read on to learn more.

Personalized Blankets for Kids

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:14:38 -0600

When it comes to gift giving, personalized gifts are always a great choice. They let the recipient know you've put some extra thought into the item to make it special, and people love receiving them. If they're something useful, they're even better. That's why personalized blankets for kids are such a great gift idea. You can get blankets personalized with your child's name, photo, or both. This page will show you some of the designs available today and help you find one that's right for your child or another little person on your gift list.

Christmas Freebies

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:33:27 -0600

'Tis the season for giving, and the Internet is a great place to find places giving out Christmas freebies. You can find all kinds of free things during the holidays, from free Christmas gift tags and printable holiday invitations, to free Christmas postcards and letters from Santa. There are even fun free things for kids, such as Christmas coloring pages. This is one of several pages that provide information about great Christmas free things you can get online. You'll find more freebies by visiting the other pages listed at the bottom.

Sylvia Earle

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:54:06 -0600

Sylvia Earle, often known as "Her Deepness," is a marine scientist, author, and former chief of the NOAA who holds the record for walking untethered on the sea floor at a lower depth than any other person. She has also been recognized by the Library of Congress as a Living Legend.

Where to Buy a Personalized Tooth Fairy Pillow

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:44:22 -0600

Are you looking for a personalized Tooth Fairy pillow for your son or daughter? The web is a great place to shop for these items because you can't usually find them in large retail stores, and you may not have the skills to sew your own. But when you shop online, you can search through a variety of stores and designs without ever leaving your living room. Here are some places that offer personalized Tooth Fairy pillows for kids.

The Easter Bunny

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:11:11 -0600

He's got big ears, big feet, and big baskets of candy. And every year he comes hopping down the Bunny Trail to bring festive colored eggs, chocolate candy and other goodies to little kids. Who doesn't love the Easter Bunny? Learn more about Easter Bunny history, find free coloring pages and learn how to get a letter from the Easter Bunny for your kids!

Make a Gingerbread House

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:41:54 -0600

Making a gingerbread house is a great Christmas craft for children and adults alike. This tradition started in Germany, but has spread around the world. Whether you use a kit or make it from scratch, gingerbread houses are fun for the holidays. Read on for recipes, tips and inspiration.

Couples Disney Costumes for Halloween

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 14:09:49 -0600

Over the years, Disney has given us some great duos, from classic couples such as Mickey and Minnie and Lady and the Tramp to newer characters like Jasmine and Aladdin or Jack Skellington and Sally. So if you're looking for adult couples costumes for Halloween, there are plenty of Disney costumes to choose from. Here are some great his and hers outfits. To get more info about these costumes, click any image.

Kodak Underwater Cameras

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 23:15:59 -0600

Kodak Underwater Cameras will capture your underwater photos and your memories in rich full color frame quality photos. Capture whatever you see during snorkeling and diving underwater with these top quality Kodak Underwater Cameras. Only The Best Kodak Underwater Cameras are featured below. So you can be sure you will only have the best of the best to select from while shopping from this page. If you are going on vacation or need a gift for someone who is, get one of these Kodak Underwater Cameras today! Image courtesy of Amazon.com

Portia Simpson Miller

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:50:16 -0600

Portia Simpson Miller stepped into the history books in 2006 when she became Jamaica's first woman prime minister, serving from March 2006 to September 2007. In 2006, Forbes Magazine ranked her #89 on their list of the world's 100 most powerful women.

Green Web Hosting Services

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:33:42 -0600

Using a green web hosting provider is a great way for webmasters to help the planet. Wind and solar web hosts offer affordable hosting with green benefits and competitive prices. Read below to learn more about eco-friendly hosting.

Kalpana Chawla

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:05:14 -0600

Kalpana Chawla was the first Indian-American woman in space and the first Indian-American to fly the space shuttle. She was one of seven astronauts killed in 2003 when the Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated upon re-entry to the Earth's atmosphere.

Easter Bunny Origin

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:14:43 -0600

What does a giant rabbit who hides colored eggs and candy have to do with the Christian holiday of Easter? And how did this big bunny become such an integral part of spring's biggest celebration? You might guess that some modern chocolatier invented the Easter Bunny as a way to commercialize the holiday and sell candy. But you'd be wrong. The Easter Bunny origin can actually be traced to pre-Christian traditions.

Romantic Valentine Gifts for Boyfriends

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:52:34 -0600

Need ideas for romantic gifts for boyfriends or husbands? You'll find them here. This page includes romantic gifts for boyfriends and husbands that are great for celebrating Valentine's Day, your anniversary, his birthday, or any occasion. Say "I love you!" with these romantic Valentine gifts for boyfriends or husbands.

Grinch Underwear for Men and Women

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 13:58:17 -0600

How The Grinch Stole Christmas is one of the most beloved holiday books and specials of all time, and the Grinch himself is still a favorite Christmas character who now appears on a variety of holiday merchandise, including - believe it or not - undies for adults. Grinch underwear for men and women? Yes, indeed. If you're a fan of the Grinch, now you can enjoy him all day long without anyone else being the wiser. Wear it to work. Wear it to school. Wear it to around the house. No one will know but you. So if you're ready to get your Grinchy green on, keep reading below for great Grinch underwear.

Go Scrooge Yourself for Christmas

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:38:25 -0600

Do you hate Christmas? Or at least all the hustle, bustle, long lines and crowded parking lots at the mall? Do you frequently say, "Bah, humbug!" and scowl when others smile at you? Then you may already be a Scrooge! But if you're not already a grouchy, grinchy old miser, you might have some fun pretending to be one - at least for a little while. Here are several ways to Scrooge yourself for Christmas. Just remember that at the end of the story, ol' Ebenezer turned out to be not such a bad guy after all.

That Famous Seattle Rain

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:37:23 -0600

Quick, what word comes to mind when you think of Seattle - rain? That's certainly one word that many people associate with Washington's largest city. But the Emerald City is not even among the top 10 rainiest cities in the United States based on the number of inches of rain that fall annually. So why is Seattle rainfall so notorious? It's all about the drizzle! But don't let that discourage you from visiting. Summer in this area is usually clear, dry and beautiful. In many ways, Seattle gets an undeserved bad rap about its rain. Come along and I'll tell you more. Photo credit: Chris Vlacho

Kids Animal Magazines

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 11:25:45 -0600

Kids love animals, so children's magazines that teach about wildlife are a great way to instill a love of reading in young kids. Your kids will also look forward to getting something fun in the mail every month. Animal magazines such as Ranger Rick, Zoobooks and National Geographic for Kids have fascinating facts, great photos and articles written just for children. But parents may learn something, too! If your kids love animals, check out these magazines.

Elf on the Shelf Gift Set and Other Elf Toys and Books

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:22:35 -0600

The Elf on the Shelf Gift Set is a cute rhyming storybook with an accompanying Santa's elf. The elf is a scout for Santa Claus, and every night he returns to the North Pole to report on who's been naughty and who's been nice. When the kids wake up, he's hiding in a new place each morning. It can be the start of a fun Christmas elf tradition for young and old alike. Read more below, or pick from one of the other elf toys shown here and start your OWN tradition.

Best Full Body Workout Home Gyms

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:37:34 -0600

Never waste your time driving all the way to the crowded gym just to wait in line to use the equipment again when you buy yourself one of the Best Full Body Workout Home Gyms. Work out your whole body with these Full Body Workout Home Gyms. These Full Body Workout Home Gyms are perfect for sports athletes or just home fitness lovers. Image Credit: Amazon

Romantic Gifts for Girlfriends on Valentine's Day or Any Day

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:53:11 -0600

Need some help finding romantic gifts for girlfriends? You've come to the right place. If you're looking for a special gift for the special lady in your life, you'll find some great suggestions here for romantic gifts for your girlfriend. No matter what your budget is, there's a gift idea here to help you celebrate Valentine's Day, her birthday, your anniversary or another special occasion with a romantic gift she's sure to love.

LEGO Darth Vader Clock

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:20:06 -0600

Are you a Star Wars fan who is looking for a fun clock to help you wake up in the morning or to put on your desk at work to help you count the hours? Then look no further than the LEGO Darth Vader clock. The Sith Lord clock is a giant LEGO minifigure that is poseable like other LEGO figures, but he can also help you keep track of time with a digital time readout. Just pop him on the head and the display glows red. You'll love being part of The Dark Side with this clock.

Steve Biko

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 23:58:25 -0600

Steve Biko was a South African anti-apartheid leader who died in prison in 1977 after suffering a brain injury due to a beating inflicted by Pretoria police. Today he is remembered as a symbol of the brave individuals who fought against apartheid and finally brought it to an end.

Susan Butcher

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:16:47 -0600

Neither cold, nor snow, nor miles of empty space could stop Susan Butcher and her dog sled team. She sled to fame by becoming only the second woman to win the Iditarod and the first person to win in four out of five sequential years. She was also the first and only person to ever take a sled dog team to the top of Mt. Denali, the highest mountain in North America.

Spode Christmas Tree China

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:22:33 -0600

Spode is well-known for fine china, and their Christmas tree dinnerware is a favorite every holiday season. In 2008, the company marked the 70th anniversary of the popular Spode Christmas china with a Christmas design featuring roses and mistletoe. If you're looking to add a festive touch to your holiday dinner table or want to add to an existing Spode collection, here are some places to get started.

Mother Child Figurines

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:28:16 -0600

Artists have been creating mother-child figurines for thousands of years, and today many people still enjoy this type of art. It makes a great gift for Mother's Day or for new moms, and styles range from traditional to contemporary. Here's a sampling of some of the mother child figurine styles available.

Tooth Fairy Quotes

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:18:50 -0600

The Tooth Fairy is a mythical figure who visits children at night to spirit away a tooth that has fallen out and to leave a gift (usually money) in its place. Most countries have traditions related to losing baby teeth, but The Tooth Fairy is not a worldwide custom. In some countries, the "fairy" is a mouse. In other countries, it's common to throw your teeth into the sky. In celebration of all these traditions, here are some Tooth Fairy quotes and other quotes about teeth.

Waterproof Camcorders

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:36:22 -0600

Whether you're swimming, snorkeling, surfing, skiing, or just hanging out near the water, a waterproof camcorder can help you capture the action without fear of ruining your video recorder. Although the first model was just introduced in 2008, waterproof camcorders are now available from several manufacturers who offer a variety of features and prices as low as $100.

Star Wars Shoes for Kids

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:33:08 -0600

Choosing the right footwear for your kids just got a little more fun with Star Wars shoes for kids. These shoes are designed with colors and patterns that match popular characters such as Boba Fett, Captain Rex, General Grievous and Darth Vader. Shoes were never this cool when we were young. And as if it weren't enough to feature characters from the popular franchise, these shoes light up, too.

Ventriloquist Terry Fator

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 11:17:04 -0600

Terry Fator is the amazing ventriloquist, singer and comedian who wowed fans and judges to become the winner of the 2007 America's Got Talent TV show. After winning the competition, he signed a five-year multimillion-dollar contract to perform in Las Vegas at The Mirage beginning in February 2009. That deal helped him make a 2009 Forbes list of the top-earning comedians in the nation. Fator came in at number nine, just behind Jeff Foxworthy.

Personalized Kindle Covers

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:34:22 -0600

Are you looking for a personalized Kindle cover to add character to your new ereader or tablet computer? A personalized Kindle cover is a great way to protect your electronic device. Depending on what type of cover or skin you choose, you can encase your device in a folding cover or simply give it a new look with a protective vinyl skin. Here are some examples of personalized Kindle covers. Image: Amazon Kindle Flower Of Fire skin by Decal Girl

Where to Buy Kids Prescription Goggles Online

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:21:00 -0600

With a swimming pool in the backyard, my family spends a lot of time in the water each summer. It's easy to drop by Wal-Mart or the local pool supply store to pick up new goggles and masks for my son whenever the old ones wear out or are lost, but my four-year-old daughter has been wearing glasses since she was a year old. So kids prescription goggles are a necessity. I can't just pick these up at the corner store, but they are easy to find online. If you're looking for prescription swim goggles for kids, I hope you'll find this information helpful.

Dog Barking Control - Options Before Trying a Shock Collar

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:41:22 -0600

Dog barking control is a topic that many dog owners eventually have to address. Dogs bark. That's their nature. It's as natural to them as swimming is to fish. But excessive barking can become a problem, and many people immediately think a shock collar will be the answer to their prayers. But before you do that, here are some other options to try. (Photo credit: � Photographer: Willeecole | Agency: Dreamstime.com)

10 Places to Get Printable Santa Letters

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:21:51 -0600

Many companies offer letters from Santa Claus during the holidays, but why pay a lot of money to purchase from one of these sites when you can create your own printable Santa letters at home in just minutes? Here are 10 sites that make it easy to be one of Santa's elves. Whether you're looking for professional quality designs, free Santa letterhead, Santa letter templates that can be used over and over again, or Nice List certificates to add to the excitement, there's a site here to fulfill your Christmas wishes.

Funny Christmas Songs

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:30:45 -0600

Christmas carols are great, but sometimes "Silent Night" just doesn't fit the mood. If you want something funny and upbeat for your Christmas party, or just for listening to around the house, here are some funny Christmas songs sure to make you smile.

The Unicorn Pillow Pet, Blanket and Backpack

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:41:36 -0600

If you have young kids, you've probably heard of My Pillow Pets, the comfy stuffed animals that fold out to turn into pillows. They were one of the top 10 toys of 2009 and are still hot this year and have expanded their line to include backpacks and blankets, as well as new animals coming out. The unicorn pillow pet is perhaps the most popular animal in the line and can hard to find. Here's all you need to know about where to buy unicorn pillow pets and other plush pillows for kids.

Personalized Disney Vacation Shirts

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:26:26 -0600

For many families, a Disney vacation is a special treat that can't be enjoyed very often. Other families live close enough to one of the Disney parks to make it an annual event. But whether you live near or far, it's fun to commemorate your family vacation with personalized Disney vacation shirts. They're great for keeping track of each other in a crowd and for remembering your trip long after it has ended. If you're looking for Disney vacation T-shirts, this page can help you find some great options and get ready for your big event.

The Little Drummer Boy Music, Lyrics and DVD

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 13:16:32 -0600

The Little Drummer Boy is a popular Christmas song that was also the inspiration for a 1968 animated TV special by the same name. The song, written by Katherine K. Davis and later arranged by Henry Onorati and Harry Simeone, was originally written in 1941, but didn't become a hit until it was rearranged and released in 1958. Then it rose to #13 on the charts, even though it wasn't released until November. It's been a perennial holiday favorite ever since then. Read more about one of the best family holiday movies and Christmas songs.

Darth Vader Helmet with Voice Changer

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:19:15 -0600

Anyone can don a Darth Vader costume to look like the Sith lord. But now you can sound like him, too. This Darth Vader helmet with voice changer by Hasbro has Vader's signature electronic breathing sounds and says five phrases from the Star Wars movies. Wear it alone or add it to a costume for Halloween. It's sure to put a scare in little padawans everywhere.

Personalized Valentines Day Candy

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:19:08 -0600

Need some fun ideas for a Valentine's Day gift? How about some personalized Valentines Day candy? Add your own personal message to any of the Valentine candy gifts featured below to create a special gift for someone special. Personalized Valentine's Day candy is great for kids, spouses, significant others, and even friends. Make this Valentine extra sweet with some personalized Valentine's candy gifts.

How to Catch Santa at Home

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:20:29 -0600

For centuries, people have tried to capture Santa Claus as he makes his annual trip around the world. And so far, no one has succeeded. Let's face it - no camera shutter is fast enough to record those magic reindeer zipping at incredible speeds around the world, and Santa Claus himself is, well, elusive. You'd think that it would be easy to spot a big, fat guy in a bright red suit with clunky boots, but he somehow manages to sneak in and out of houses with the stealth of a ninja. He has evaded capture for centuries. Until now. Now you WILL be able to capture Santa when he comes to your house this year.

Beach Christmas Cards

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:40:26 -0600

Not everyone is dreaming of a white Christmas. Some people live year-round in sunny locations, while others abandon their frosty homes for a warm-weather vacation over the holidays. If you fall into either group and need some sunny holiday cards, here are some great beach Christmas cards available online.

Where to Order Disney Checks Online

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:48:51 -0600

If you're tired of boring bank checks and are a Disney fan, you may want to consider ordering Disney personal checks online. You can often get them for less money than the bank will charge you for dull checks advertising their brand name, and at least you'll have some fun images to look at while penning away your hard-earned dollars. Here are some sites that allow you to order Disney checks online and some examples of the fun designs you could be carrying around in your wallet.

Dog GPS Tracking Collars

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:45:08 -0600

A dog GPS tracking collar may be the answer to your prayers, if your dog is a canine cousin of Harry Houdini, able to escape all methods of containment, or if he's prone to wander off too far when you take him to the park. Several models are now available offering a variety of features for pet owners who need to find their lost dog, locate a pet that's wandered off too far, or pinpoint a hunting dog's location.

Disney/Pixar Cars 2 Toys and Games

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:55:51 -0600

The original Disney Pixar cars movie was a box office hit that also broke records with related merchandise. According to Wikipedia, the movie broke records for retail sales of merchandise based on a Disney�Pixar film, with an estimated $5 billion in sales. Now, with the release of Cars 2, new Cars 2 toys and games are hitting the shelves featuring both old and new favorites from the franchise. Here's just a sampling of the Cars 2 merchandise now available. (Image courtesy Cars 2: The Video Game by Disney)

Eco Christmas Gifts

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:12:31 -0600

Many people are trying to live a greener life. If you've got some earth-conscious gift recipients on your shopping list this year, these eco-friendly Christmas gift ideas will make your shopping a little easier. From fair trade and earth-friendly clothes, to handy household tools like flashlights and kitchen utensils, to decorative accessories and jewelry made from recycled products, this page will help you select great eco Christmas gifts for everyone on your gift list.

Create Personalized Disney Shirts and Gifts

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 02:04:00 -0600

Both kids and adults love the colorful fun characters of Disney. If you've got a Disney lover in your life, personalized Disney shirts can be a fun way to celebrate a birthday, graduation or any other special occasion. They're easy to create and you can add a special message to commemorate the occasion. Here are simple directions to create personalized Disney shirts, mugs, mouse pads and other products featuring your favorite Disney characters on Zazzle, and additional links to stores offering a variety of personalized Disney gifts.

Where to Buy Recycled Christmas Cards...

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 01:57:53 -0600

If you're looking for ways to reduce your environmental impact this holiday season, here are some places to buy eco-friendly recycled Christmas cards and some ideas for recycling and reusing the cards you receive. Have a green Christmas!

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Gifts

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:42:33 -0600

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is perhaps one of the most popular and well loved characters during the holiday season. Although the original story about Santa's reindeer with the bright red nose was written in 1939, many of us recognize the characters as shown in the 1964 animated TV special. Today you can buy a wide selection of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer gifts based on the animated show. There are Rudolph villages and trains, ornaments, Kurt Adler nutcrackers and other collectibles, as well as toys and games for kids. Whether you're young or old, there's a Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer gift for you. Check out what's available.

Grinch Face Shirt, Grinch Boxer Shorts and Other Grinch Gear

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:47:13 -0600

Two characters are synonymous with Christmas grouches - Ebeneezer Scrooge and the Grinch. Both of them have become popular in our culture, particularly the Grinch. If you're a fan of the classic Dr. Seuss story, which was made into one of the best animated family holiday movies of all time, you may want to celebrate the tale of the grumpy green guy who went good by pulling on a Grinch shirt, Grinch boxer shorts or other Grinch apparel. Here's a list of some Grinch gear to get you going.

Waterproof Cameras With GPS

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:41:22 -0600

There are many reasons to seek great Waterproof Cameras With GPS so you can have a traveling camera that knows where it is. The best part about these waterproof cameras is you can find them in such durable models you will not want any other type of camera ever again. They are suitable for the on the go photographer. Want to strap this camera to your surf board and catch some amazing shots while you ride the waves? How about taking it with you on a hike or mountain climbing? All the while you know it will be safe if you are caught in a rainstorm. On top of that, you can find models with durable features allowing for drops, extreme temperatures and much more. Photo Credit : Amazon.com

Tulsi, the Holy Basil Plant

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 02:00:13 -0600

Tulsi, or holy basil, has been used as a natural remedy for thousands of years in India and other parts of Asia. It is a common ingredient in many Ayurvedic remedies for common colds, headaches, stomach disorders, inflammation, heart disease, malaria, and some forms of poisoning. Tulsi has centuries of traditional lore to back up its status as an "elixir of life," but it's also got more recent scientific studies to show that it's helpful in reducing cholesterol and blood glucose levels, lowering stress, and reducing inflammation. It's an antioxidant, antibiotic, antiviral, antifungal, and adaptogen. And it's so amazing that the government of India is enlisting it in the fight to save the Taj Mahal from environmental pollution. Whew! Pretty impressive list of accomplishments for one small basil plant. Photo credit: Muhammad Mahdi Karim

Book Lover Gift Ideas

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:03:43 -0600

Finding a great gift for a book lover can often be as easy as walking into your local bookstore and picking up the latest mystery, romance or nonfiction title. But if you're tired of buying an actual book for every birthday and Christmas that rolls around, you still have plenty of book-related options. Here are some ideas for book lover gifts that are sure to please your favorite reader and give you some variety in your gift shopping.

Capture an Easter Bunny Picture in Your Home

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:17:16 -0600

Along with Santa and the Tooth Fairy, the Easter Bunny is one of the most elusive childhood characters. Catching a glimpse of him anywhere outside a shopping mall or Easter egg hunt is rare. Of course, rabbits do live underground, so perhaps it's not surprising that very few people have seen Peter Cottontail delivering his Easter goodies. But thanks to the magic of technology, you can now capture an Easter Bunny picture to show your child he really did visit your house.

Down Payment Assistance Grants

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 12:45:42 -0600

It sounds too good to be true, but it's not. You can get free down payment assistance grants to help you buy a house with no money down, and now's the perfect time to buy. Better yet, these programs aren't just for low income individuals. Intrigued? Read on. [NOTE: The programs listed on this page have all expired or have been forced to change due to federal changes after the housing crisis. The content on this page was accurate at the time of writing, but is no longer up-to-date. If federal regulations changes to once again allow these types of down payment assistance programs, this page will be updated. In the meantime, you may be interested in the information below on buying foreclosures or the books for first-time home buyers.]

Santa Letter Software

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:44:27 -0600

Are you looking for Santa letters to print at home? Instaletter is a great new way to create unlimited printable Santa letters and Santa's Nice List certificates (as well as letters from the Easter Bunny and others) for an annual subscription fee that is less than some companies charge for a single letter from Santa. If you're looking for high-quality printable Santa letters, check out this great new Santa letter software.

Stay in a Yurt!

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 17:09:02 -0600

Yurts were invented thousands of years ago by nomadic Mongols, but the circular homes are seeing a modern resurgence with campers. You can now live like a Mongol and stay in a yurt at private and state parks throughout the country.

Cool Christmas Cards

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:22:35 -0600

When you send your annual Christmas card to your friends and family, does it blend in with all the rest? Or does it stand out from the crowd? Here are some cool Christmas cards that won't get lost in the shuffle. These fun designs and shapes will add some pizazz to your annual card ritual. From personalized cartoon characters to shapes you never imagined, these cards are cooler than your average store-bought folded card. Photo credit: ornament Christmas card available from Pear Tree Greetings

Choo Choo Soul

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 22:21:27 -0600

Choo Choo Soul is a children's music act featuring singer Genevieve Goings as a singing, dancing train conductor and her partner D.C. as a train engineer. My daughter absolutely loves their short music videos on Playhouse Disney, so this lens is for her! Learn where to get the Choo Choo Soul CD and DVD and learn more about the history of Choo Choo Soul.

Is Santa Real? How Do You Answer the Question?

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:44:27 -0600

He flies through the air with magic reindeer, slides down chimneys to deliver toys to children who have been good, and somehow knows if you've been naughty or nice. Santa is the magical, benevolent, ubiquitous symbol of Christmas. He's everywhere. So of course children believe in him. But when your child asks the question, "Is Santa real?" what should you say?

The Amazing Compressed Air Car

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 13:38:51 -0600

They emit zero pollution, get over 100 mpg, and have a range of more than 800 miles. Could cars that run on compressed air be the future of clean transportation? (Photo credit: Zero Pollution Motors)

Wilma Rudolph, Olympic Athlete

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 12:56:39 -0600

Wilma Rudolph, the "Tennessee Tornado," was the first American woman to win three gold medals in Track and Field at the Olympics when she competed in Rome in 1960. I was only four when she accomplished this amazing feat, so I didn't know who she was when we ended up living in the same town in Tennessee more than a dozen years later. Although we lived just down the street from her for at least a year (until we moved) and although my brother played with her son, I never met her. But the experience did inspire me to read her autobiography (which was excellent!) and to create this lens in her memory.

Tooth Fairy Pillows, Boxes and Dolls for Kids

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:17:29 -0600

Does The Tooth Fairy visit your house? If so, you can make her job of finding that tiny little tooth much easier by slipping it inside a tooth fairy pillow, tooth fairy box or tooth fairy doll designed specifically to hold your child's missing tooth. She'll never again have to search frantically under a large pillow for a tiny object while desperately hoping not to wake the sleeping child on the pillow. With these containers, your child's tooth will be safely enclosed inside a pillow, box or pouch on a doll that can be placed at the end of the bed, hung from the door (for some small pillows) or placed on a dresser or night stand where The Tooth Fairy can easily find it. It makes her job easier, and kids love having a special place to keep their tooth and look for their reward in the morning.

Tooth Fairy Castle Box

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:41:39 -0600

Has The Tooth Fairy ever had trouble locating one of your child's lost teeth under a pillow? Let's face it - she's on a tight schedule, has plenty of houses to visit every night, and has to be super quiet while trying to rummage for that tooth under a pillow. Give her a break. Tooth Fairy pillows, boxes and dolls can make the Tooth Fairy's work much easier. No more scrounging under pillows to find a solitary little tooth! There are a variety of containers available online, but if you have a little princess who loves everything about fairies and castles, a personalized Tooth Fairy castle box is the perfect place for her to put her missing tooth at night before going to sleep.

Disney CARS Toon: Mater's Tall Tales DVD and Video Game

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:52:22 -0600

Cars fans, rejoice! Disney has compiled the wonderfully entertaining Card Toons: Mater's Tall Tales into a DVD that you can your kids can watch over and over. The DVD, which was released in November 2010 (just in time for Christmas!) contains all the wonderful Tall Tales, such as El Materdor, Rescue Squad Mater and Mater the Greater . Plus, there are also two new never-before-released tales: Cars Toons Mater Private Eye and Moon Mater. And if the DVD isn't enough to keep your little one(s) happy, there's also a Tall Tales video games for Wii.

Benazir Bhutto

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:52:22 -0600

When Benazir Bhutto was first elected Prime Minister of Pakistan at 35, she became the youngest chief executive in the world and the first woman elected ruler of a Muslim country in modern history. She served two non-consecutive terms, but later was convicted in absentia of corruption charges. In October 2007, she ended eight years in exile and returned to Pakistan to run for office. She was assassinated two months later.

Why Do We Hang Christmas Stockings?

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 13:34:17 -0600

"The stockings were hung by the chimney with care..." is a well-known line from Clement Moore's famous Christmas poem, "Twas the Night Before Christmas." But why do we hang stockings on Christmas Eve? Christmas stocking history can be traced back to very early times, and is also associated with legends about Saint Nicholas.

Free Disney Tickets on Your Birthday!

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 15:52:47 -0600

The good folks at Disney are giving you a good reason to celebrate your birthday with Mickey Mouse - free admission! In 2009, if you visit Walt Disney World in Orlando or Disneyland in Anaheim on your birthday, you can get free admission, provided you pre-register on their website. Read on to learn more about free Disney tickets and other free Disney goodies!

Personalized Skins for iPhone, iPod and Other Devices

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:10:12 -0600

Smartphones, laptops, touch pad tablets and handheld gaming devices have become an (almost) essential part of everyday life. But with more and more people carrying these devices, the crowd of look-alikes is growing. Why not make your phone and other handheld devices stand out with personalized skins? You get can personalized skins for iPhones, Androids and other smartphones, video game consoles like PS3, as well as handheld gaming devices, skins for your Kindle or other e-reader, and plenty of others. Depending on where you shop, you can select from a variety of artwork or create your own personalized skins from your own art or photos. Your personalized skin will protect your device from scratches or other damage, and with prices starting under $20, you can easily change skins when you're ready for a new look. Here's how to give your phone or electronic gadget a new personality.

Pet Friendly Hotels - Las Vegas

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:49:11 -0600

Vegas is known for its hotels shaped like pyramids and castles, offering replicas of famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty, or displaying lions and tigers and sharks, oh, my! And when it comes to pet friendly hotels, Las Vegas has accommodations that fit that bill, too. In fact, Caesar's Entertainment recently implemented a new PetStay program that has added some of the biggest hotel names to the list of dog friendly hotels in Las Vegas. So if you're traveling with your pooch to Sin City, you'll find plenty of places to bunk down for the night with Fido at your side.

Have a Disney/Pixar CARS Christmas

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:46:59 -0600

Put some reindeer antlers on Mater and a bright green lightning bolt on Lightning McQueen, and you've got the Christmas versions of the popular Disney/Pixar CARS movie characters. If your kids love CARS, they'll love the new diecast cars for the holidays, including Christmas Cruising Ramone, Decked Out Doc Hudson, Snow Day Sally, Holiday Hotshot McQueen, Reindeer Mater and Holiday Spirit Sheriff. For other great CARS Christmas gifts, check out the hardcover book, "Mater Saves Christmas," as well as CARS Christmas snow globes, stockings with Lightning McQueen or Mater and other gifts.

Christmas Stocking Holders

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:44:34 -0600

If you'll be hanging Christmas stockings out for Santa Claus to fill on Christmas Eve, you'll need a good hanger to make sure they stay in place until Old St. Nick arrives. These stocking holders are both fun and functional and will add some Christmas cheer to your home.

USB Cell and Other Rechargeable AA Batteries

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:40:59 -0600

Rechargeable batteries are better for the environment, but pulling out the charger each time you need to energize your batteries can be a pain. The solution? USBCell batteries! These rechargeable AA batteries have a top that flips up so you can plug your batteries into any USB outlet. Pretty cool, eh?

Romantic Valentine Gift for Him

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:41:58 -0600

Finding the perfect romantic Valentine gift for him can be tough. After all, you can't just send him a bouquet of red roses. But there are plenty of great romantic Valentine's Day gifts for men. If you're looking for a special gift for the special man in your life, you've come to the right place. This page has suggestions that will help you find the right romantic Valentine gift for him, no matter what your budget.

Free Donations

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 20:04:15 -0600

We don't all have the resources to donate money to good causes, but with a few clicks of your mouse, you can do a world of good.

Melissa Etheridge

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 12:12:25 -0600

Melissa Etheridge is many things - an accomplished singer-songwriter, a Grammy and Oscar winner, a gay activist, a lesbian mom, and a breast cancer survivor. Her music is a reflection of her life and our times. Life, love and politics - she covers it all from the viewpoint of a Kansas girl who made it big in music.

Funny Night Before Christmas Poems

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:23:15 -0600

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the land, all the writers were busy trying their hand, at penning a poem that would certainly make, everyone laugh 'til their funny bones ached... With apologies to Clement C. Moore, here are some funny "Night Before Christmas" parodies that attempt to get you laughing. If you don't laugh until your funny bone aches, you'll at least get a good smile from some of these alternate versions of the popular holiday poem.

North Pole Santa Video Will Keep Kids Believing

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:44:42 -0600

They say the best things in life are free, and when it comes to the free North Pole Santa video from Portable North Pole (PNP), they're absolutely right. This video may simply be the best Christmas freebie on the web because it is personalized, fun, and VERY believable. I've created several Santa videos for my kids on this site, and I enjoyed watching them as much as my kids did. But seeing their reactions was priceless! If you have kids who believe in Santa Claus, this video site is worth checking out. Photo credit:PNP

Get a Christmas Letter from Santa

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:35:01 -0600

Getting a Christmas letter from Santa is a magical experience for any child, and a lot of fun for parents, too. Today you can purchase a letter online or print your own Santa letters at home. Which option is best for you depends on several factors, including budget, time and printer quality. Here are some advantages and disadvantages to think about with each option and some services that will help you with either choice.

Funny Santa Hats

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:40:29 -0600

Santa's signature red hat with a fluffy white ball on the end is a common sight during the Christmas season. But why be normal? These funny Santa hats are sure to make you the life of any holiday party and bring smiles to the friends and family who see you in your fun new cap. And isn't that Santa's job - bringing smiles at Christmas?

The Grinch & Cindy Lou Who

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 15:14:31 -0600

Little Cindy Lou Who, was was no more than two, was the cute little Who who awoke to find the Grinch in her house in Dr. Seuss' classic story, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. That evil Grinch stole her candy cane (and everything else from the house), lied to her and sent her back to bed. Taylor Momsen played the character in the 2000 movie and June Foray voiced the character in the original 1966 TV show.

Personalized Disney T Shirts for the Family

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:41:05 -0600

Both kids and adults love Disney, and it's not hard to find Disney gifts for almost anyone. But what if you want your gift to be more personal? Then personalized Disney T-shirts for the family are a great idea. It's easy to create personalized Disney T-shirts and hoodies online with your gift recipient's favorite movie character(s) and your personal message. Whether you want to wish someone a happy birthday or just print their name on the shirt, you can create a gift that is sure to be treasured. Here's how to create your own personalized Disney shirts online.

Gift of the Magi by O. Henry

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:20:36 -0600

"The Gift of the Magi" is a short story written by O. Henry. In the classic Christmas tale, a young couple who can barely afford their one-room apartment each sells a precious possession to buy a gift for the other one. The story beautifully illustrates how physical possessions have little value in the grand scheme of things and pale in comparison to the value of love.

Christmas Letter Paper

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:35:03 -0600

There's more to choosing Christmas letter paper than selecting a pretty background design. This page gives tips on choosing the right holiday stationery for your needs, using downloadable MS Word Christmas letter templates for easy set-up and printing, and finding online stores that offer holiday letterhead. You'll also find more Christmas letter writing links. Have fun!

Digital Photography Backup: Save Your Pics!

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:40:51 -0600

If you're like one of the many millions of people who've abandoned the world of film and made the jump to digital photography, you probably have many important memories stored in your computer and maybe at an online photo sharing service, too. But if you hard drive crashes and you need to restore all your photos, how easy - and how expensive - will it be to recover all the images with the original quality? Choosing the right digital photography backup can save you time, headache and heartache.

Mary McAleese

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:18:12 -0600

Former law professor Mary McAleese is the first woman to succeed another as president, and is Ireland's current head of state. She took over leadership of the country from Mary Robinson. In 2008, she was ranked #74 on the Forbes list of most powerful women in the world.

Grandma Christmas Gifts

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 13:35:16 -0600

Whether you call her Grandma, Granny, Nana or some other name, grandmothers are special. So finding just the right present can be a labor of love. If you're looking for Grandma Christmas gifts for a special woman in your life, these suggestions cab help you find just the right gift. You'll find suggestions here for new grandmas and seasoned ones, too. Whether you're a teen, an adult or a parent, you'll find something here to help celebrate the special bond you have with your grandmother.

Meryl Streep as The Iron Lady

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:18:45 -0600

The Iron Lady is a dramatic movie slated for release January 6, 2012. Starring Meryl Streep in the title role as Margaret Thatcher, the "Iron Lady" who served as the British Prime Minister from 1979 to 1990, the movie looks at the life of the former PM and the price she paid for power. Even before the movie has been released, rumors are swirling that Streep gives another Oscar-worthy performance. The official movie synopsis describes the film as, "the story of a woman who smashed through the barriers of gender and class to be heard in a male-dominated world. The story concerns power and the price that is paid for power, and is a surprising and insightful portrait of an extraordinary and complex woman." (Photo credit: Pathe Productions Ltd.)

Tim Burton's Frankenweenie 2012

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:41:24 -0600

When it comes to creepy stop-motion movies, Tim Burton is the master. This year the master brings us Frankenweenie 2012, a full-length version of Burton's 1984 short film by the same name. Planned for release on October 5, just in time for Halloween, this stop-motion picture done in black and white tells the story about a boy named Victor who tries to brings his beloved dog back to life. (Frankenweenie logo courtesy Disney)

Gifts for Seniors Graduating

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:41:34 -0600

Find the perfect Gifts for Seniors Graduating this year. Looking for something spectacular to show that Senior graduating that you are proud of their achievements and accomplishments? Here is a selection of the perfect gifts for Seniors girls or boys. Find the perfect token of your affection for that special young man or young lady graduating. Gifts for graduates of the Class of 2012. Amazon Image Featured

Folding Exercise Equipment

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:40:55 -0600

Gym memberships can be expensive, and sometimes just getting to the gym to work out can be a deterrent to regular exercise. But finding space to put traditional workout equipment in your home can also be a challenge. So what's a person to do? One solution is to get folding exercise equipment. You'll save space, and when the mood strikes to work out, you won't have to drive to the gym go get fit.

I Love Crayola Crayons

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 22:02:12 -0600

I used to love coloring when I was a kid, and now that I'm a parent, I get to enjoy those wonderful Crayola crayons all over again. And now they have even more colors! When I was little, the big box of 64 crayons was the ultimate, but today's kids get to enjoy 120 colors, as well as a variety of Crayola brand toys.

How to Get a Santa Postmark from Santa Claus, Indiana

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:45:19 -0600

If you're looking for a way to make your holiday mail a little cheerier this year, think about getting a Santa postmark from Santa Claus, Indiana. The postmark itself is free, and you can send all your mail - from Christmas cards and annual family letters to Santa letters - through the Santa Claus post office to be postmarked and sent directly to its final destination. Sound fun? It is! Here's how to join the millions of people who've gotten a pictorial Santa postmark since the Indiana town began offering them in 1983.

Jesus Candy Cane Poem

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:46:48 -0600

Candy canes are a favorite treat at Christmas, and many people consider them symbolic of the real "reason for the season" - the birth of Jesus Christ. History doesn't support the idea that candy canes were created for this purpose, but the legend of candy cane has become quite popular. Poems and books have been written to explain how the candy cane became a symbol for Jesus. Here are three variations of the Jesus candy cane poem, as well as other information about Christmas candy canes.

Unique Ice Cubes from Novelty Ice Cube Trays

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:41:01 -0600

For your next party, give your normal ice trays a break and bring out some novelty ice cube trays for unique ice cubes that will dress up any drink. Whether you're having a costume party for Halloween, a birthday party for the kids, a dinner party for your office colleagues, or a party to celebrate any other special occasion, there are fun ice trays that will delight and surprise your guests. Here are some popular novelty ice cube trays.

5 Funny Talking Pet Videos

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:21:20 -0600

For cat and dog lovers, there is no shortage of YouTube videos to keep you entertained. There are videos of surfing dogs and scuba diving cats, pets playing the piano, puppies and kittens playing together, animals singing and on and on. I've wasted a fair amount of time enjoying many of these videos, but my absolute favorite YouTube pet videos are the ones featuring talking pets. I love 'em. I'm a big fan of Talking Kitty and have watched the Ultimate Dog Tease more times than I can count. The following 5 talking pet videos are some of my favorites. Three of them feature cats and two feature dogs. For some reason, there are more funny talking cat videos than talking dog videos on YouTube, so I had to scrounge around for a second dog video I thought was worthy of appearing on this page. I hope you enjoy the selection! (About the intro image. This is my cat Callie. She doesn't talk, but you can tell by the look on her face that it's only because she considers herself to be so superior to humans that she wouldn't even try to communicate with our lower species.)

Albert Einstein

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 12:54:52 -0600

Albert Einstein was one of the greatest thinkers of the 20th century. He is best known for his theory of relativity, which earned him the Nobel Prize in Physics. His warning to FDR about the potential for Germany to create an atomic weapon led to the creation of the U.S. Manhattan Project, but he preferred physics to politics, turning down the offer to become the second president of Israel.

USB Slide Converter

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:43:49 -0600

Choosing the right USB slide converter is an important first step to digitizing your old slides or negatives. If you make the right choice, you're likely to see results that look as good (if not better) than the original slide versus poor results that will make you wish you'd paid a company like ScanCafe to do the work for you. Below you'll find the best USB slide converter based on current customer reviews, as well as other options for film and slide scanners.

Pink Christmas Tree

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:45:20 -0600

Is pink the new green? If you're talking about Christmas trees, the answer could be yes, as retailers are discovering that for some people, plain ol' green just no longer cuts it. If you're one of the fashion trendsetters who likes pink Christmas trees, take a look at the options below.

How to Create Personalized USPS Stamps with Zazzle Templates

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:38:08 -0600

There are two ways to create your own personalized USPS stamps on Zazzle. The first is to create everything from scratch. The second is to use a premade template that has been designed for you to personalize. The advantage to using a template is that someone else has already done the design work, so all you need to do is add your customization. Some templates make it easy for you to add a photo. Others allow you to add your own text. And some allow you to customize both or either. Although there are a variety of postage stamp templates available on Zazzle, finding them isn't always easy. Not all "Zazzlers" give their products a name that makes it easy for users to know which ones have been created as templates to personalize, so to help you out, here are some of the best custom stamp templates available in several categories. Each of these designs will display a simple "Personalize It!" section where you can upload your own image or customize your text with ease.

How to Backup a Hard Drive

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:41:07 -0600

I recently learned the value of having a backup hard drive - and also having a backup to that backup. You never know when your hard drive is going to crash and take all your files with it. I learned - the hard way - that it can happen when you least expect it, and if you don't have your files backed up, you could lose everything. Fortunately, learning how to backup a hard drive is easy, and there are a variety of ways to backup your files. Some are even free! If you're still counting on good luck to keep your files safe, keep reading and you may save yourself some time and headache in the event of catastrophic hard drive failure.

Nikon COOLPIX AW100 - A Waterproof Camera with GPS

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 00:31:52 -0600

Camera phones and other digital cameras are great when you're taking shots in dry weather. But what if it's raining or snowing, or you're at the pool or beach where there's a lot of water being splashed around? Then suddenly your handy dandy camera isn't so handy. That's why manufacturers have started making a wide range of waterproof shockproof digital cameras that not only withstand water, but often come with many other cool features, too. The Nikon Coolpix AW100 is one of these cameras. A waterproof camera with GPS, it also can withstand freezing temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit, is dustproof, and can shoot HD video. Plus, it comes with the great quality that only Nikon offers. If you're in the market for a waterproof camera with GPS, take a look below for information and reviews.

Fish Tanks: Wall Mounted Aquariums and Bowls Take Less Space

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:08:06 -0600

Fish tanks used to require a fair amount of table or floor space. But with today's modern fish tanks, wall-mounted aquariums can be placed in almost any room, even if you don't have a lot of space. These slim aquariums can be hung in virtually any place where you'd hang a painting or other artwork. These aquariums aren't designed to have large schools of fish, and you won't find any big 100-gallon fish tanks that mount on a wall, but if you're looking for a small aquarium to display just a few fish and add a touch of elegance to your decor, wall mounted fish tanks are a great option. Here are a few designs to consider.

Christmas Card Greetings

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:21:44 -0600

Sometimes it's hard to come up with the just the right phrase for your Christmas cards and Christmas letters. Should you say "Merry Christmas and Happy New Year"? Or stick with "Happy Holidays"? Or how about something a little more interesting than either of those? If you need some help coming up with Christmas card wording, here's a list of Christmas card greetings you can use for your cards or annual holiday letters.

How To Save Money Buying Refurbished Products

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:41:26 -0600

What looks like an iPod, works like an iPod, but costs less than a regular iPod? A refurbished one! When you buy refurbished products, whether it's an iPod, a cell phone, a computer, or any other item, you'll save money without compromising on quality. Keep reading to learn more about saving money with refurbished and reconditioned products.

5 Great Gifts Under $5

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 11:07:49 -0600

If it's the thought that counts, then why do some many of us always seem to feel pressured to spend a lot of money during the holidays? Being frugal doesn't mean you're cheap or thoughtless. You can get some great gifts under $5. And your gift recipient won't even know you haven't spent much more! Here's a quick list of 5 gifts for under $5 that should help you save money and shop wisely. (Image credit: jmoneyyyyyy on Flickr)

Christmas Presents Mom Will Love

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 15:21:34 -0600

There are two ways people usually shop for Mom during the holidays. The first is to select traditional Christmas gifts people always give their moms, such as perfume, jewelry, a bathrobe, or a small kitchen appliance. The second way is to surprise her with something completely unexpected. You can also combine the two approaches and give a traditional gift with a fresh new twist. Whether you choose old, new, or a new twist on an old favorite, here are some ideas to get you started finding terrific Christmas ideas for mothers.

Pratibha Devisingh Patil

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:48:07 -0600

Pratibha Devisingh Patil, a a member of the Indian National Congress, stepped into the history books on July 25, 2007 when she was sworn in as the first woman president of India. Indira Gandhi can claim the title of the country's first female prime minister, but no woman had served as president until Patil took office.

100% Recycled Christmas Paper for Your Holiday Letters

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:44:40 -0600

Finding recycled Christmas paper at your local stationery or office supply store can be challenging. They may not always carry recycled stationery or, if they do, they might not have a good selection of designs, or the paper may only have a small percentage of post-consumer waste. What's an eco-conscious shopper to do? Read on to discover where you can buy 100% post-consumer recycled Christmas stationery in hundreds of designs.

Club Penguin Games and Toys

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 21:56:45 -0600

Club Penguin is an online game for kids between the ages of 6 and 14 that was originally developed by New Horizon Interactive and later acquired by Disney. Using cartoon penguins as avatars, players can waddle around, chat, play minigames and participate in other activities. It's an icy virtual world that offers fun features kids like, as well as safety features parents want. Now Disney offers Club Penguin figures, igloo playsets, card games, books and video games featuring the CP penguins. Look to see which ones include coins to unlock treasures online!

Creative Christmas Letter Ideas

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:38:27 -0600

Do you dread writing your annual Christmas letter? Is it a chore to put words to paper? Then forget everything you learned in high school about writing and just have fun! these creative Christmas letter ideas will help you break out of the humdrum holiday mold and create a letter you'll have fun writing and your recipients will have fun reading.

Isabel Peron

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:17:18 -0600

In 1974, Isabel Person of Argentina became not only the youngest Latin American head of state, but the first woman ever to become president of any country in the world. Her legacy as president, however, has been tainted by charges of human rights abuses during her term. She was toppled in a coup nearly two years after she came to power and held under house arrest for the next five years. In 1981, she was convicted of corrupt practices, but then paroled and later pardoned. She then went into exile in Spain. New charges were brought much later. In 2007 an Argentine judge issued an international arrest warrant on charges that the president allowed the Argentine armed forces to commit human rights abuses during her term, but Spain refused to grant an extradition.

My Favorite Free SEO Download

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 21:13:11 -0600

Traffic Travis is a great free SEO download tool that can help you find keywords to create the perfect niche, check your backlinks, spy on your competitors, and analyze the SEO effectiveness of any page. And the best thing about it - it's free! They say you get what you pay for, but in this case, you get a lot more. CNET Editors gave Traffic Travis 4.5 out of 5 stars and rated it "highly recommended." Whether you use organic SEO or ppc, this tool is worth checking out. It's my favorite free SEO download. Read on to see why and to get links to some other free SEO downloads.

Potty Training: One Day Method Actually Works

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 20:14:17 -0600

Potty training in one day IS possible. The concept was first introduced by the book, Toilet Training in Less Than a Day, which was published in 1976 by two psychologists, Nathan H. Azrin and Richard M. Foxx. Since then, millions of copies of the book have been sold. Does it work? According to a study on the effectiveness of various potty training techniques, the toilet training method introduced by Azrin and Foxx "performed better than the Spock method". Dr. Phil has also advocated a one-day potty training method. Ready to give it a try? Read on!

Fisher-Price Tough Camera is Built for Kids

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:40:00 -0600

Kids are fascinated by digital cameras. They love seeing the images in the viewfinder and replaying photos on the screen. It's no wonder they often want to use their parents' cameras. But parents aren't so thrilled about letting their little kids use their expensive equipment. So toy manufacturers have solved the problem by developing affordable kids digital cameras, such as the Fisher-Price Tough camera line. Learn more about this camera for little kids, as well as other digital cameras for children.

Hitachi Magic Wand

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 10:44:02 -0600

Personal massagers are a great way to deal with muscle pain and tightness. Whether you have back, shoulder or neck aches from working at a computer too much, are sore from a hard workout, or have a chronic problem, you can often find relief with an inexpensive handheld massager. The Hitachi Magic Wand massager has been a bestseller for three decades and can help soothe your aching body.

Disabled? Disneyland/California Adventure Ride is Easy for Wheelchair Users

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:17:49 -0600

Disneyland bills itself as "the happiest place on earth," and it's true that you have to be a real grinch not to enjoy this park. But if you're disabled, Disneyland can also be a bit of a challenge. The park has done its best to accommodate disabled visitors, but wheelchair users have always had to transfer to get on the rides. So I was thrilled to visit Disney/California Adventure this summer and discover that the new Ariel's Undersea Adventure in Disney California Adventure is fully wheelchair accessible. Yes, FULLY accessible. The queue has turns that are wide enough to negotiate in a wheelchair or electric scooter and - get this - you can ride your wheelchair or scooter ONTO the ride. Two thumbs up for Disneyland and this great ride!!

Celebrate Earth Day and Save the World with Peanut Butter and Jelly!

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:15:51 -0600

Ok, maybe you can't really save the entire world with PB&J, but opting for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich instead of a burger on Earth Day is an easy way to celebrate. And if you can do it once a week, you'll be helping to keep our planet green and healthy. It's amazing what a little PB&J can do. Read on to learn about the amazing powers of the good ol' peanut butter and jelly sandwich, from helping reduce global warming to saving water and much more!

Unusual Christmas Cards

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:40:40 -0600

Each year, Americans send millions of cards during the holiday season, and most of them are traditional folded greetings or flat photo cards with faces of smiling families. Want to break out of the mold this year? Here are some unusual Christmas cards that pop up, play music, fold out, simply look a little different, or can even double as Christmas tree ornaments or Christmas letters.

Karma Wilson, Author of Bear Snores On

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:08:07 -0600

Karma Wilson's debut book for children was "Bear Snores On." Since its publication in 2002, it has become wildly popular and Wilson had written several other books starring Bear and his friends, as well as a number of other children's books. I love reading these stories to my kids.

Solar Christmas Lights and Decorations

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:43:25 -0600

If you want to go green for Christmas, consider using solar Christmas lights in place of traditional lights. Solar lights can be used for outdoor decorations and don't require any electricity. Simply let the sun charge them up and then enjoy the show! Light up your yard with these solar decorations and lights, and get some ideas for lower-energy indoor Christmas lights

Darth Vader Gifts

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:19:05 -0600

Need a Darth Vader gift for your favorite Star Wars fan? These gift ideas are great for kids both young and old and feature everyone's favorite villain from the epic Star Wars series. These gifts are sure to bring a fun aspect of The Dark Side to your gift recipient's life.

Underwater Camera Cases

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:42:26 -0600

Underwater Camera Cases are a great way to protect your valuable camera and make it possible to capture amazing underwater photos. Or protect your camera if you are caught out in bad weather. The Best Underwater Camera Cases are featured below from across the web. Making it easy for you to shop for the best deals and prices on Underwater Camera Cases. The Best Underwater Camera Cases make great gifts for photographers. If you don't see an underwater camera case for your kind of camera, click thru any product below to search thru hundreds of The Best Underwater Camera Cases online. Image courtesy of Amazon.com

GPS Watches With Heart Rate Monitor

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 12:47:42 -0600

Keep track of your heart rate and location with these great GPS Watches With Heart Rate Monitor. You can stay healthy by keeping an eye on your heart rate with these GPS Watches With Heart Rate Monitor. Runners can track where they have been on their run and even plan routes out ahead of time with some of these great GPS Watches With Heart Rate Monitor. Image Credit: Amazon

Kindle Flip Cover

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:42:38 -0600

Whether you have a Kindle Fire, Kindle Touch, or Kindle Keyboard, a Kindle flip cover is a great way to protect your device. Flip cases are available in leather and synthetic materials and enable you to stand your Kindle in either a horizontal or vertical position, depending on which case you choose. All of them can add color and style to your Kindle device while helping to protect it. Here are some of the most popular Kindle flip covers currently available.

Florida Rentals: Pet-Friendly Places to Stay

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:07:19 -0600

Looking for Florida rentals? Pet-friendly options are getting easier to find every day, as travel websites are learning that many people like to travel with their pets and are adding options to simplify the search process. Plenty of Florida rentals accept pets, and you don't need to search specialty websites to find them. Mainstream vacation rental sites and hotel sites can help you find a place for you and your four-legged friend to bunk down.

Cool Pumpkin Holders and Pumpkin Stands

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:43:39 -0600

When I was young, carving pumpkins meant cutting out little triangles for the eyes and nose and carving a jagged smile, then putting the creation out with a candle inside. These days, people create pumpkins with images of witches, bats, and goblins, oh, my! These labors of love take time and effort and are fun to display. So why not give them the stage they deserve with some cool pumpkin holders? These stands and holders will help everyone enjoy your Halloween masterpieces!

The Mongoose - Fast and Furious

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:00:21 -0600

"Rikki Tikki Tavi" was one of my favorite animated TV specials when I was little, and today I am still fascinated by these furry little creatures who can take on a cobra. The animated special starring Rikki Tikki Tavi, a mongoose that defeats a cobra, was based on a story in Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book." The animated TV show was created by Chuck Jones, the animator behind other great animated TV shows and specials like "Looney Tunes," "Tom and Jerry" and "How The Grinch Stole Christmas."

Free Christmas Downloads

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 22:20:29 -0600

They say the best things in life are free, and that's certainly true during the holidays when most people are spending extra money on gifts. These free Christmas downloads may not save you any money, but they can add some holiday spirit at no cost.

Facts About Pumpkins for Kids

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 16:41:26 -0600

Did you know that pumpkins are the world's largest fruit? Or that early American colonists used pumpkin for the crust, not the filling? Or that U.S. farmers produce more than 1.5 billion pounds of pumpkin annually? Intrigued? Then read on. This page has plenty of other interesting facts about pumpkins for kids (and adults will enjoy them, too!).

3-D Skull Cake is Perfect for Halloween or Boys' Birthdays

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:42:10 -0600

Are you looking for a spooky fun cake for a Halloween party or a boy's birthday party? My son's birthday is in October, and he's a boy who likes creepy, scary things, so this year he decided he wanted a 3-D skull cake for his birthday. I'm no Cake Boss, but fortunately I found a skull cake pan that allowed me to create just the creepy cake he wanted. He loved it! And now that we've got the pan, the skull cake will be an annual tradition for Halloween at our house. Who knew such a creepy cake could be so easy and fun?

Santa History: From Saint Nicholas to Santa Claus

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 13:35:45 -0600

Santa Claus is now a very familiar figure during the holidays, but the roly-poly, bearded man in a red suit we know today evolved over many years. The legend of Santa can be traced all the way back to a Christian bishop, Saint Nicholas, who lived in the fourth century. Learn more about Santa history and how the generosity of Saint Nicholas still inspires the legend of Santa Claus today. Photo credit: Jacob Windham

Khaled Hosseini

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:09:37 -0600

Khaled Hosseini is the masterful writer of "The Kite Runner" and "A Thousand Splendid Suns." Born in Afghanistan, the physician-turned-author made it to the New York Times bestseller list with his first novel, "The Kite Runner," which was turned into a full-length movie that is now available on DVD.

Miss Piggy

Sat, 24 Sep 2011 12:34:17 -0600

She's pink, she's opinionated and she's in love with a frog. Who could it be but Miss Piggy? She's a famous Muppet with a big attitude, a big charge card and a big appetite. Read here to learn more about one of the most famous pigs of all time.

Personalized Christmas Books for Kids

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 17:05:09 -0600

Personalized books make great gifts for kids because they enjoy seeing their name in print. You can now also get books that allow you to add a personalized voice message or add your own photo to the cover of a classic novel. These great customized gifts are even more fun when the story is about Christmas! Here are some great personalized Christmas books for kids.

A Christmas Story Leg Lamp Night Light

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 17:04:20 -0600

A Christmas Story is the quirky, well-beloved movie about a boy who wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. The gun may be the focus of Ralphie's efforts throughout the movie, but it is the silly leg lamp that has become an icon of the movie. You can buy leg lamps online to put in your front window during the holidays, but if you'd like something a little smaller that makes a great stocking stuffer and useful tool, you might prefer a much smaller "A Christmas Story" leg lamp night light.

How to Add AdSense to WordPress

Sat, 09 Apr 2011 12:02:16 -0600

If you're starting a new blog and want to make money, you'll probably want to include Google AdSense on it. AdSense is a popular way to monetize blogs, and WordPress is one of the most popular blogging applications out there. But AdSense isn't built into it. So how do you add AdSense to WordPress? Here are three easy ways to do it. Read about each method and see which one works for you.

Best Popcorn Poppers

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:58:26 -0600

You will want to discover the Best Popcorn Poppers for your next party or movie night. These are the best popcorn poppers for microwave, air popping, stove top, and electric dome poppers you can buy. Choose the style you would like and then the best of the best in that style. We have found the best popcorn makers and the best bargains. Make movie night special, add some extra fun snacks to a party, or pop up some snacks for any gathering of family and friends. Popcorn is a good source of many nutrients you will not get from some other snack choices. Photo Credit : Amazon.com

Intro to Wind Power & Wind Turbines

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:46:20 -0600

Solar seems to be the sexy energy source for folks wanting to reduce their carbon footprint or just save money on their energy bills. But wind power can often be just as - or even more - effective and cost efficient.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Trivia

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:35:38 -0600

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is the longest-running holiday special in television history, but Rudolph has a lot of other history behind him, too. Originally created in 1939 as a promotion for Montgomery Ward, Rudolph has been the star of his own comic book, was drawn by the popular kids' author and illustrator Richard Scarry, and appeared in another (now mostly forgotten) animated film directed by legendary producer Max Fleischer. What don't you know about Rudolph? Read on to learn more.

Lisadh Lensography

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:38:57 -0600

I started writing articles on Squidoo in 2007. I had no idea at that time how many nice people I'd meet here, how much money I could make for myself and raise for charity, or how addicting Squidoo would become. More than 300 pages later, I've discovered a nice supplemental income and some awards I never expected, including being nominated for the 2008 Giant Squid Awards, having two of my lenses chosen as Lens of the Day (Women Presidents and Prime Ministers and Unique and Alternative Gift ideas) and sometimes appearing on the Top 100 Rated Lensmasters. I've also had six lenses make it into the top 100, one that has received over 500,000 visits, seven that have received purple stars and one that has spent more than 250 days in the top 100. AND best of all, I've been able to donate more than $1600 from my Squidoo earnings to some very worthy charities, including Room to Read, the Polly Klass Foundation, A Day of Hope, Earthjustice and the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. I guess I must be doing something right. :-) I never planned to become addicted. But now that I've started, I'm hooked. My birthday is just after Christmas, which is my favorite holiday, so I have quite a few pages on that topic, but I also write articles about nearly anything and everything that crosses my mind. So here's my lensography that showcases some of the pages I've built so far. Enjoy!

Add a Fun Santa Postage Stamp to Your Holiday Mail

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 13:30:26 -0600

If you're looking for a way to make your Christmas cards or letters a little jollier or to make your kids Santa letters more convincing, Santa postage stamps might be what you're looking for. These days, you can find thousands of great, original designs on genuine US postage. From funny Santa cartoons to vintage art, holiday postage stamps are available in designs to please virtually everyone. To get a small sampling of some of the postage stamps available online, take a look at the designs here.

Pumpkin Poop Poem

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:30:18 -0600

I'm not sure when the idea of turning candy into funny "poop treats" by adding a silly poem became popular, but these days it's all the rage during the holidays. Of course there's reindeer poop during Christmas (and even a song to go with it!), but did you know there's also a pumpkin poop poem for Halloween, as well as one for ghost poop and scarecrow poop? Yep. So if you've got young kids and don't know what the heck I'm talking about, keep reading for a fun and easy way to make Halloween goodies your kids will love.

Where the Hell is Matt? The Guy Dancing Around the World

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 18:49:57 -0600

"Where the Hell is Matt?" is one of my favorites series of videos on YouTube. They make me smile every time I watch them. If you're not familiar with "Where the Hell is Matt," they're simple videos showing Matt Harding (a self-proclaimed "bad dancer") dancing around the world. What's special about that? Well, you just can't help but smile when watching Matt perform what Amazon calls an "awkward, limb-flailing dance of joy." Others apparently agree, because he's had over 75 million YouTube views, and thousands of people came out to dance with him in the sequels. Here's how a guy dancing around the world became sorta famous.

Santa Letter Paper, Envelopes and Stamps

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:48:29 -0600

Seeing your child's face light up when they get a letter from Santa Claus is a priceless moment for any parent, and you don't need to pay someone else to create the letter for you. With some fun Santa letter paper, you can make a great looking letter from Santa Claus.Your kids will love getting a personalized message, and you'll have fun creating something that your child will love to open. Here are some ways to get Santa letter paper online.

Golden Pond Water Plants in Loomis, CA

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 21:53:25 -0600

Looking for freshwater aquatic plants and water flowers for your backyard pond? Golden Pond Water Plants in Loomis, CA offers more than 250 varieties of water plants, including many water lilies. Visit us at Golden Pond Water Plants.

How to Exercise at Desk

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 22:02:42 -0600

Studies have shown that a sedentary lifestyle puts us at risk for diseases such as diabetes. But most of us are spending more and more time in front of computers, both at work and at home. So knowing how to exercise at your desk can help keep you fit and healthy. There are plenty of desk exercise techniques. You can do basic stretches and exercises that don't require equipment, use simple under-desk machines such as mini steppers or mini elliptical machines, or get an exercise desk/bike combo. Here are some choices to get you started.

Star Wars Gifts for The Holidays

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:50:28 -0600

Star Wars fans from Alderaan to Tatooine and all over the galaxy love to get gifts featuring their favorite Jedi Knights or enemies of The Force. If your favorite fan already has the requisite DVDs, lightsaber and books and is still hungering for more, here are some Star Wars gifts of the holidays to add to your shopping list.

Best SLR Digital Camera On Sale

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 23:20:17 -0600

These are the best SLR digital cameras on sale right before the holidays. Pick up the best performance SLR cameras. If you want those perfect shots by the Christmas tree then you need to purchase the best digital SLR camera. For under $500 you can have the best camera on the market. You can take those breath taking shots that you see in magazines with the best digital SLR camera on sale now. For just-in-time-for-the-holidays shopping, you might also want to look at Cyber Monday Cameras on Sale. Image credit:Nikon D3000

Buzz Aldrin

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 10:43:03 -0600

Buzz Aldrin is a former NASA astronaut who was the pilot of Apollo 11, the first lunar module to land on the moon, and he was the second man to ever set foot on the moon. Prior to joining NASA, he was an Air Force pilot who flew combat missions in the Korean War, and today he leads a company called Starcraft Boosters, Inc. that is developing next-generation space launch systems.

Get a Printable Halloween Boo Poem

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 13:59:47 -0600

You've been BOO'ed! That's the message that seems to be getting more common each year as neighbors leave gifts or treats on each other's doorsteps with a Halloween boo poem. If you haven't been the giver or recipient of a Halloween boo visit yet (which is apparently also called ghosting in some parts of the country), this page will provide the basic instructions on how to do it, as well as several variations of the Boo! poem so you can start your own neighborhood tradition. Happy haunting!

Eva Peron

Sat, 23 Oct 2010 00:05:32 -0600

Eva Peron was the First Lady of Argentina from 1946 until her death in 1952 and was the inspiration for the stage play and movie "Evita!"

Fun Christmas Cards: Dogs with Holiday Cheer

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 13:34:14 -0600

During the holidays, we see cards with a variety of images - Christmas trees, Santa Claus, nativity scenes, reindeer, and so on. But Christmas cards with dogs? Sure! Fido can be just as festive as the rest of us. The American Humane Society says 39% of all US households have at least one dog, so greeting card companies have come up with some designs sure to appeal to those folks who have canine companions. If you're a dog lover (or have a dog lover on your Christmas card list), take a look at some of these fun Christmas card dog designs. (Image: Mint Christmas Dog from CardStore.com)

Melissa Lawson

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:51:42 -0600

Melissa Lawson is the Texas mother of five with an incredible voice who defeated fellow contestant Gabe Garcia to win the 2008 season of Nashville Star, the NBC reality TV series that seeks to find new country stars. Her first single, "What If It All Goes Right," was released on iTunes in August.

Christmas Kitty: Cards and Gifts for Cat Lovers

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:34:29 -0600

Are you a cat lover or do you know one? Then celebrate the holidays with Christmas kitty designs on mugs, shirts, Christmas cards and other gifts, or curl up with a good Christmas cat book. Sure to please all the cat lovers on your Christmas list!

Darth Potato Head

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:53:32 -0600

Mr. Potato Head turned to the Dark Side in 2005. That was the year the Hasbro toy company released the first Star Wars potato head toy, Darth Tater. The Darth potato head figure included a lightsaber, cape, helmet, shoes, eyes, nose, teeth and other removable parts and was so popular that other characters later followed. Today you can get characters like Luke Frywalker, Spuda Fett Artoo Potato, and other Star Wars heroes and villains. But here's a tribute to the first Star Wars character to be turned into a potato - Darth Tater!

LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar for Christmas 2011

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:50:01 -0600

Looking for a great gift for LEGO Star Wars fans this Christmas? How about the limited edition LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar for 2011? You can count down the days with 24 Star Wars gifts, including eight minifigures, in this Advent calendar that includes 266 total pieces. LEGO set 7958 comes with plenty of fun for any LEGO or Star Wars aficionados.

Elf Food Groups

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 01:05:38 -0600

Life up at Santa's North Pole is a little different than life in most parts of the world. They've got magic flying reindeer, a secret toy factory that no one can see but Santa and his helpers, and little elves who must be immune to freezing temperatures because they wear flimsy hats that don't even cover their pointy ears and funny little shoes that can't be as warm as snow boots. It's obvious they don't follow the same rules as the rest of us. This includes food. We all know Santa can eat massive amounts of milk and cookies on Christmas Eve without ill effects. And elves, too, have their own dietary quirks. Here's a look at the four elf food groups.

Western Christmas Cards

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:52:46 -0600

Santa may prefer riding on reindeer, but most people prefer horses. Here's a selection of western Christmas cards geared toward folks who appreciate horses, cowboy hats, the Wild West, country music and all things western. You won't find any red-nosed reindeer here, but you will find plenty of cowboys and other western themes.

Tasty Banana Muffins From Scratch

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 13:09:19 -0600

Make a delicious dessert or a quick snack with these Tasty Banana Muffins From Scratch. Fill your house will the wonderful smell of banana muffins and fill the bellies of your family with these Tasty Banana Muffins From Scratch. These are amazingly moist banana muffins that make the whole house smell like a morning in the country. Every morning with these banana muffins is a bright and sunshiny day. Enjoy these moist and tasty banana muffins from scratch. (image credit)

Golda Meir

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 12:59:59 -0600

Golda Meir was the first (and, so far, only) woman prime minister to lead Israel and only the third woman in the world to hold the post in any country. She became PM in 1969, but resigned from the office in 1974 over discontent over her handling of the Yom Kippur War.

Dian Fossey

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 12:57:18 -0600

Dian Fossey devoted her life to studying the mountain gorillas of Virunga National Park in Rwanda. She was an outspoken advocate of the gorillas, a value that may have cost her life. She was murdered in 1985, but the movie "Gorillas in the Mist" starring Sigourney Weaver has immortalized her cause.

Best Christmas Toys for 6 Year Olds

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 13:36:57 -0600

Shop for the best toys for 6 year olds this Christmas. Shopping for the young children can be tough especially if you are not the parent of one. It can be hard to know what to get a child of this age when you are unfamiliar with what is age appropriate for toys and other gifts. Here is a selection of the best gifts for 6 year olds this Christmas. Choose from a large variety of the best Christmas gifts for 6 year olds. (image credit)

Is Your Pooch Ready for Dog Christmas Costumes?

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 13:17:55 -0600

People dress up for the holidays, so why shouldn't our pets? Dog Christmas costumes have become increasingly popular over the years, and you can now find an assortment of hats, bandanas and complete costumes to turn your favorite pooch into an elf, reindeer or Santa himself. But will your dog tolerate this type of dress-up as well as the Grinch's dog Max, who barely uttered a protest when the Grinch stuck reindeer antlers on his head? Here are some things to consider and some images of holiday costumes available for your favorite pet.

All About LEGO Batman Video Game

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 22:23:43 -0600

First there was LEGO Star Wars, and then LEGO Indiana Jones and now the Caped Crusader has joined the list of popular characters that have been turned into building sets and video games. In LEGO Batman, you'll find all your favorite Gotham City characters recreated in little brick figures for the video screen.

Christmas Stamps 2009

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 22:23:11 -0600

The United States Postal Service has been issuing special holiday postage stamps every year since it issued its first Christmas stamp in 1962. People love to decorate their holiday mail with these special stamps, and the post office has fueled the fun by issuing new stamps every year. In addition to a traditional Christmas stamp, the USPS also now issues postage celebrating winter, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Here's a look at the stamps issued by the Postal Service, as well as other official US postage you can buy for the holidays.

Gay Parents and LGBT Families

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 10:58:35 -0600

According to the 2000 U.S. Census, approximately 600,000 same-sex couples live in the United States and more than a third of these have at least one child. Of those LGBT parents, about half have two or more children. That means there are approximately 200-400,000 children in the United States currently being raised by same-sex couples, not including single lesbian or single gay parents. If you include single parents, research indicates that there may be as many as nine million children being raised by at least one gay or lesbian parent. This lens is for LGBT families looking for resources about families like ours.

Sally Ride

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 12:31:08 -0600

In 1983, Sally Ride became the first American woman in space. She was a mission specialist on the Challenger, the seventh space shuttle flight. She embarked on this career in 1977 and was one of the six women selected for a group of 35 new astronauts in 1978. Ride flew again in 1984 and in 1986 was part of the presidential commission investigating the Challenger explosion. She left NASA in 1987 to accept a fellowship at the Stanford University Center for International Security and Arms Control.

Waterproof Cameras For Kids

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:37:42 -0600

The nice thing about Waterproof Cameras For Kids is kids can not have the joy of taking pictures while at play in the pool or simply in an everyday setting. If you know kids , then, you know there is always water around them. So be on the safe side and make sure your child has a waterproof camera. Then, if your child is a serious underwater photographer you can find the underwater mask camera so it is a hands free waterproof digital camera. These are not toys. They are amazing fully functioning waterproof digital cameras for kids in designs kids will love. Photo Credit : Amazon.com

Angela Merkel

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:15:09 -0600

Forbes Magazine named her the most powerful woman in the world. Indeed, as the first female chancellor of Germany and only the third woman to serve on the G8, Angela Merkel is a lady with a lot of power.

Nelson Mandela

Mon, 05 Sep 2011 12:13:34 -0600

Nelson Mandela was held in prison for 27 years for his anti-apartheid activities before being released and getting elected president of South Africa. He has become a symbol of peace and nonviolence and is a winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. A humble man, he has said, "I am not a saint, unless you think of a saint as a sinner who keeps on trying."

Diaper Cakes for Baby Showers

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 12:57:42 -0600

Take a few dozen diapers, add some baby toys and bottles, stir in a lot of love and good wishes, and you've got yourself the perfect gift for an expectant mom. Diaper cakes for baby showers have become very popular because they not only make great centerpieces, but all the ingredients of the "cake" can be used when the baby arrives. They can also be personalized in almost any way. You'll find plenty of options on eBay and the web, or you can make your own.

Rocklin, CA (California)

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 22:22:30 -0600

For many people, Rocklin, California may be a place to gas up as they head up Highway 80 to Tahoe or Reno for the weekend. But for others, it's a wonderful place to call home. Located outside Sacramento, Rocklin is a great town for families. Welcome to our little part of the world!

5 Things I Want to Teach My Kids

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 20:29:43 -0600

Parenting is tough. I'm always worrying, praying and hoping that I'm doing a good job and that I'm teaching my kids the things they will need to know to grow into kind, thoughtful, responsible adults who celebrate and appreciate life every day. But what exactly is it I want them to know to accomplish that goal? Some days it seem like all I do is remind, reprimand, and refuse ("No, you can't do that" is a common refrain at our home.) So I decided to sit down and write some things I'd like my kids to know about life. It's not a complete list, and not nearly as poetically profound as I'd like it to be, but, hey, it was a good excuse to create another lens on Squidoo and post some pics of my kids.

Textbook Rentals Save Money and Trees

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:03:13 -0600

Why pay outrageous prices for a college textbook you'll only use for one quarter or semester? You can save money (typically 50 - 75% off the new price) and trees by opting to rent textbooks. It's easy, fast, and sure to save you money!

Star Wars Deluxe Vehicles

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 22:05:24 -0600

Find the best deals on Star Wars Deluxe Vehicles for your child. These Star Wars Deluxe Vehicles make great gifts for any kid on your list who loves Star Wars. Affordable Star Wars Deluxe Vehicles make perfect presents. Choose from the top selling, best reviewed and highly rated Star Wars Deluxe Vehicles and play sets. Image courtesy of Amazon

Michelle Bachelet

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:18:21 -0600

In 2006, Michelle Bachelet beat billionaire and former senator Sebastian Pinera in a runoff to become Chile's first female president. She was succeeded in 2010 by Sebastian Pinera. After her term as president, Bachelet was appointed as the head of UN Women by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on September 14, 2010.

Pleasanton CA

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:02:18 -0600

Drive east from San Francisco and over the Hayward Hills, and as you descend into the valley below, you will find Pleasanton. What was once a small town has grown into a thriving, affluent community. Its modern business park houses big buildings and big-name companies like Oracle and Robert Half, but the quaint downtown area with his early 20th-century architecture still harks back to an earlier era. Pleasanton's biggest claim to fame today may be as the home of former coach and NFL commentator John Madden, but it also once served as the background for the movie "Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm" and silent movies by Charlie Chaplin. We hope you enjoy this lens about Pleasanton.

Elmo Potty and Other Child Potty Training Seats

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 17:47:20 -0600

Colorful, interactive potty seats can make it more fun for kids to learn to use the potty. The Elmo potty chair is one popular option, especially because you can get related books, a DVD and even a Potty Time Elmo stuffed toy to go along with the chair. If your little one is a Sesame Street fan like my daughter, check out these child potty training accessories that will hopefully make the transition out of diapers an easy one.

Michelle Obama

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 11:48:56 -0600

Michelle Robinson Obama is a lawyer, mom and the wife of President Barack Obama. The couple has been married since 1992 and has two children.

Dean Koontz

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:09:43 -0600

Dean Koontz is one of my favorite authors. His novels are part horror, part suspense and even part humor. His characters always have witty dialogue. And he ALWAYS has a clever canine in the book. How many other horror/suspense novelists can say that?

Sacramento Children's Museum

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:22:27 -0600

Kids in the Sacramento area will have a new option for family outings at the end of summer, when the Sacramento Children's Museum opens. Located just outside Rancho Cordova, the museum will feature hands-on learning activities designed just for kids. (Image copyright Sacramento Children's Museum.)

Pumpkin Teeth For Your Jack-O-Lantern

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:28:34 -0600

Are you looking for something new and different to do with your jack-o-lantern this year? Do you like to have the coolest pumpkins in your neighborhood each year? Or are you just the opposite - someone who really doesn't like carving pumpkins, but you do it just for the kids? If any of these descriptions fits you, then you'll want to check out the latest accessory for your jack-o-lantern - pumpkin teeth. You just carve out the space and stick them in. Forget about trying to cut a mouth full of teeth on your design. Pumpkin teeth are much easier and you can clean them off and use them again next year. Sound interesting? Read on to learn more.

Silver Christmas Bells

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 15:14:23 -0600

During the holiday season, images of gold and silver bells are common - Salvation Army volunteers ring bells to collect money for charities, radio stations and shopping malls play songs like "Silver Bells" and "Jingle Bells," Christmas trees are decorated with bells, and stories such as "The Polar Express" celebrate Christmas bells. Here's a salute to silver Christmas bells and the wonderful sound and imagery they bring to the holidays.

Charles Schulz

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 15:52:20 -0600

He brought us characters like a dog who thought his doghouse was a Sopwith Camel, a boy who played Beethoven on a toy piano, and a kid who could never remember not to let Lucy hold the football while he was kicking. He was Charles Schulz, creator of the beloved "Peanuts" comic strip.

Iron Man Robot Toy

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:53:29 -0600

Are you looking for a gift for an Iron Man fan? Have you considered the remote-controlled walking Iron Man robot toy? With a wristwatch-style remote control, this robot can walk on hard surfaces, fire missiles and play sound effects on demand. He's tough enough for kids, but fun enough for adults. Here's more information and reviews on the Iron Man robot toy.

Digital Vivitar Underwater Cameras

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 16:56:30 -0600

These Digital Vivitar Underwater Cameras are perfect for your upcoming vacation! If you are planning on diving in the ocean and want to capture some of the amazing sea life and plant life in some amazing photos, these Vivitar Underwater Cameras are just what you need! Vivitar Underwater Cameras offer very rich details in vivid colors and lets you see the amazing creatures under the water in rich detail. These Vivitar Underwater Cameras will provide framing quality photos. Vivitar Underwater Cameras also make great gifts for anyone who loves to take photos and are active outdoors. These cameras are protected from the elements and will be perfect if you get stuck out in the rain! Image courtesy of Amazon.com

Trivia About Your Favorite Family Holiday Movies

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 11:10:05 -0600

Studio executives though A Charlie Brown Christmas would be a flop, and Dr. Seuss didn't want Boris Karloff to do the voice of the Grinch. Surprised? Read on to learn more trivia about some favorite family holiday movies, including Rudolph the Red -Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman and others.

Nikonos Underwater Cameras by Nikon

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:43:58 -0600

For years, Nikon's Nikonos underwater cameras set the standard for underwater photography. Rugged enough to go down to 160 feet and with legendary Nikon quality, Nikonos waterproof cameras were the dream for many scuba divers. Although Nikon stopped manufacturing these cameras in 2001, they remain a great camera for divers and are still popular on the secondary market, where you can buy at quite reasonable prices. These underwater 35mm film cameras are now a great bargain for anyone wanting a deep water camera without the cost of today's high-end digital cameras. (Image of Nikonos 5 by Rana on Wikipedia)

Golden Pond Water Plants, a Sacramento Area Aquatic Plant Nursery

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 11:49:50 -0600

Do you have a backyard pond? Do you live near Sacramento, California? Then be sure to check out Golden Pond Water Plants near Sacramento. This aquatic nursery in Loomis, CA offers more than 250 varieties of pond plants for sale. Plants are grown on-site, and you'll get helpful advice and find live exhibit gardens showing how to use your freshwater aquatic plants in your own water garden.

Make Your Own Christmas Collage Photo Cards

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 11:41:58 -0600

Almost everyone loves to send and receive holiday cards, and sending Christmas collage photo cards is a great way to make your greetings more personal. People enjoy seeing photos of your family. Fortunately, you don't need to spend a lot of money to get collage Christmas photo cards. You can print them at home instead. Here's how to make your photo collage Christmas cards at home in minutes using Picture Collage Maker Pro.

5 Pumpkin Seed Recipes

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:37:16 -0600

Don't throw away those pumpkin seeds! Many people discard the seeds after carving their pumpkins into jack-o-lanterns at Halloween, but pumpkin seeds make an easy and healthy snack. They're full of protein, nutrients such as iron and zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids and phytosterols that can help reduce cholesterol. Here are some pumpkin seed recipes to help you turn the insides of your pumpkin into a healthy snack. (Photo: Copyright inspire love and available on various products at Zazzle)

My Favorite Charlie Brown Christmas Song

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:50:59 -0600

When I was young, my two favorite Christmas shows were "A Charlie Brown Christmas" and "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." I loved the message of both shows and anxiously awaited them every year. I also loved the music. It took my years to learn the titles or lyrics of my favorites - which I knew only as the "Grinch theme song" and "the Charlie Brown Christmas song" - but now I can sing along. This page is a tribute to the music of A Charlie Brown Christmas Special, particularly the song, "Christmas Time is Here."

Save Money with a Costume Coupon Code

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 11:20:18 -0600

These days, everyone is looking for ways to save money, and when you're shopping online, one of the best ways to do that is to look for coupon codes. Many stores offer coupons that give you discounts or free shipping, and Halloween stores are no exception. So before you go looking for your Halloween costume, check out the costume coupon codes below and save some dough!

The History of the Poinsettia Christmas Plant

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 12:14:38 -0600

Thousands of years ago, the Aztecs used a plant they called Cuitlaxochitl to make red dye and ease fever. Today that same plant is known around the world as the poinsettia, a beautiful plant that produces bright red leaves during winter and is now closely associated with Christmas celebrations. How did this native plant of Mexico make the leap to world stardom? Read on to find out.

DTV Converter Box Coupons

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 20:02:32 -0600

Since January 1, 2008, the US government has been giving up to two free DTV converter box coupons per household to be used toward the purchase of digital-to-analog converter boxes. DTV, or digital television, replaced analog TV in February 2009.

Canon Underwater Camera Cases

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 17:46:33 -0600

Buy the best Canon Underwater Camera Case you can afford to protect your valuable Canon digital camera and capture amazing underwater photography during your next vacation! Need a gift for someone heading on vacation? Get them an Canon Underwater Camera Case for the digital camera so they can go snorkeling and capture some underwater photos of their vacation. Featured below are The Best Canon Underwater Camera Cases you can buy from around the world wide web. Image courtesy of Amazon.com

Refurbished Waterproof Camera

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:31:58 -0600

Getting a waterproof shockproof camera is a great way to capture photos at the beach, at the lake, at the swimming pool, or anywhere you worry about exposing your camera to the elements. There are many great waterproof shockproof digital cameras available today, including waterproof cameras with GPS and other features. So what's better than a waterproof digital camera? A refurbished waterproof camera. A refurbished waterproof camera has to meet the same standards as a new camera, but they are offered at lower prices. Here are some refurbished waterproof digital cameras to help you save money on the equipment you want. Image credit: Fuji Finepix XP10

Matryoshka Robot Nesting Dolls

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 17:18:43 -0600

Matryoshka nesting dolls are traditionally a set of handcrafted wooden dolls that fit inside each one, which each one decreasing in size. The folk art was created by a Russian painter and has since spread around the world. Today, you can get a variety of different kinds of matryoshka dolls. Matryoshka Madness is one company that is creating new designs, includjng a matryoshka robot nesting doll. Take a look at how an old art form is being transformed with new images.

Baked Lemon Pudding Cake

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:02:01 -0600

Make the perfect dessert tonight with this Baked Lemon Pudding Cake. Delicious and easy to make, this Baked Lemon Pudding Cake will compliment any dinner and fill all the bellies at the table, leaving them with smiles. Enjoy the bursting flavor of lemons from this wonderful pudding cake. There's nothing more palate pleasing than the best recipe for a homemade lemon pudding cake. Image Credit to Kristi Krafts

Christopher Pop-in-Kins, a Classic Christmas Shelf Elf

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 13:09:09 -0600

A couple years ago I bought my kids the Elf on the Shelf gift set because I thought the idea of an elf who had to report to Santa about the kids' behavior was a clever idea. But I didn't realize that another Christmas shelf elf had popularized this tradition about two decades earlier. Flora Johnson created her "hide and seek" elf known as Christopher Pop-In-Kins (because he "pops" in and out) back in 1984. Her handmade elves and self-published book sold well but were never a nationwide trend. Then along came Elf on the Shelf in 2005, popularizing the Christmas elf tradition. With the increased interest in elves who report on who's been naughty and who's been nice, Flora Johnson's Christopher Pop-In-Kins got an updated look and was joined by his sister Christina Marie Pop-In-Kins. This is how the Christmas shelf elf got started.

Chandrika Kumaratunga

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:15:52 -0600

You might say Chandrika Kumaratunga went into the family business. Her father and her mother both served as prime minister of Sri Lanka, an island nation in South Asia. In fact, her mother, Sirimavo Bandaranaike, was elected the world's first female prime minister in 1960. So when Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga was elected president of Sri Lanka in 1994, she was following in her parents' footsteps.

Average Commute or Extreme Commute?

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 01:02:49 -0600

A 2007 Gallup poll found that the average American spends 46 minutes commuting to and from work each day. But with the price of gas going up and up, many Americans are making adjustments to the daily trek. Here are some tips to save time, save money, save the planet, or save your sanity while commuting.

Disney/Pixar Brave Movie

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 11:43:38 -0600

"Brave," the Disney/Pixar movie that was originally scheduled to be called "The Bear and the Bow," will be released June 22, 2012. The animated film is about a female archer named Merida (voiced by Kelly Macdonald) who creates turmoil in her parents' kingdom and then sets out on a quest to set things right.

Citronella Bark Collars for Dogs

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:32:31 -0600

If you're looking for a humane way to stop dog barking, try a citronella bark collar. These devices work without inflicting a painful shock. Instead, when your dog barks, they emit a harmless spray of citronella, a scent which most dogs don't like. So they quickly learn the way to avoid this awful smell is to not bark. It worked for my dogs.

Printable Christmas Letter Templates Make Xmas Letters Easy

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 13:34:13 -0600

Are you looking for a simple way to make your annual holiday letter look great? Printable Christmas letter templates are easy to use and will help you create a fantastic looking update to send to your friends and family. If you can use Microsoft Word, you should be able to use a template to make a Christmas letter you'll be proud to send out.

Best Christmas Toys for 5 Year Olds

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:18:39 -0600

If you are looking for a selection of great toys to get a 5 year old this Christmas than you have come to the right spot. Perhaps you have no clue what to get a 5 year old at Christmas. When you don't have children of a certain age it can be hard to shop for what is age appropriate. With things constantly changing it can be hard to know what movie or cartoon character is hot at this time. The best toy for 5 years old this Christmas are here and sorted out for you. Enjoy this selection of the best Christmas toys for 5 year olds. (image credit)

Disney's Prep and Landing Movie on DVD

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:56:14 -0600

If you're a fan of Disney's Prep and Landing movie, the animated holiday special that first aired in 2009, get ready to celebrate. The Prep and Landing DVD is being released this year on November 22, 2011. Now you can add this Disney Christmas special to your collection of holiday movies. Image: Prep and Landing ornament

3 Reasons to Choose Santa Letter Templates

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:47:15 -0600

Few things are more exciting for kids during the Christmas season than the idea of Santa Claus, and getting a letter from Santa can be the highlight of a child's holiday. Many parents like the idea of writing their own Santa letter but are daunted by the task. Perhaps they don't know what to say or don't have the artistic skills to create a colorful background that looks as good as the pricey letters from the large Santa letter companies. Santa letter templates can help with both of these problems. If you're looking for an inexpensive way to create a great-looking letter from Santa for your child, they may be the answer you're seeking.

Get a Picture of Santa in Your House

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 17:03:37 -0600

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but when it comes to a picture of Santa in your house, this type of evidence is priceless. For years, the mysterious red-suited figure has defied attempts to capture him actually delivering gifts on Christmas Eve. He never arrives until everyone is asleep. Maybe your kids are among those who have attempted to catch Santa in the act without success, but now you can show your kids that Santa really exists, and you can prove it with a picture of Santa in your house.

Digital Canon Underwater Cameras

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 17:52:21 -0600

Digital Canon Underwater Cameras are one of the hottest must have accessories for anyone going to the ocean for vacation! Snap underwater photos like the pros with these Digital Canon Underwater Cameras. Capture professional quality underwater photos that will marvel your friends back home! Full, rich colors are captured like never before of the sea life, and plant life under the waters of the oceans. Digital Canon Underwater Cameras also make wonderful gifts for people who are taking a vacation. Send them off with a top quality Digital Canon Underwater Camera. Image courtesy of Amazon.com

Best Santa Letter Sites by Type

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:51:50 -0600

Not all Santa letter sites are created equal, as parents all have different needs and wants. Do you want a Santa letter site that offers plenty of background choices? One that lets you write your own text? Maybe one that's affordable if you have several children? Do you want someone else to do all the work or do you want to print your letter at home? There are websites that can help you accomplish all of these goals, but you need to know which ones offer what. These are my choices for best Santa letter sites by type.

Disney Store Promo Codes Online

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 21:49:42 -0600

If you're shopping online, promo codes for Disney Store can save you money. Promo codes, or coupon codes, are easy to use. If the link doesn't have a special code in it, all you need to do is click the link to activate your savings. If it does have a code in it, you will need to type that promo code on the checkout page before completing your order. Once you enter the code, the appropriate discount will be applied. Disney Store promo codes are great when shopping for everything Disney - from Disney Princess or Mickey Mouse gifts to Disney/Pixar CARS or Pirates of the Caribbean items. Both kids and adults love Disney! Use these Disney Store promotional codes to save today. Image credit: Mickey, Donald, and Goofy: Friends Forever on AllPosters

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 20:05:19 -0600

In 2001, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo became the second woman to be swept into the Philippine Presidency by a peaceful People Power revolution. She was re-elected in 2004, winning with one million votes over her closest opponent.

How to Find a Babysitter or Pet Sitter

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:39:09 -0600

Finding a babysitter or pet sitter to watch your children or pets can be tough if you don't have family or neighbors who can fill in when you're away. So if you're in the market for a responsible sitter, here are some tips to help you.

How to Create an Electronic Christmas Letter

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 13:09:43 -0600

Looking for creative Christmas letter ideas? How about tossing the traditional paper and envelope and going digital? You can create a great-looking electronic Christmas letter online in minutes and customize it with your own photos, music and text. Then send it instantly via email, post it to your blog or Facebook or burn it to DVD. You can even print it out and send it the old-fashioned way, if you're not quite ready to do away with the paper and envelopes. It's great for sending last-minute holiday letters. Here's how to create your own electronic Christmas letter online.

Harry Potter: The Tales of Beedle the Bard

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:09:38 -0600

Harry Potter fans, rejoice! Just when we were suffering from withdrawal with no relief in site, J.K. Rowling comes through with a new book, The Tales of Beedle the Bard. Sales of the book will benefit Rowling's charity, Children's High Level Group, which helps institutionalized children.

Jelly Belly Tours in Fairfield: Tour the Jelly Belly Factory

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:17:03 -0600

Don a paper hat with the Jelly Belly logo, put your taste buds on alert and get ready for a tour of the Jelly Belly Factory in northern California. This walking tour takes you around the factory and shows you all the steps in making a gourmet jelly bean. You'll get a birds eye view of the people and machines behind these tiny candies and walk away with a free bag of candy and some fun facts about these little treats. This article tells you more about Jelly Belly tours in Fairfield.

Make Your Own Happy Halloween Cards

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:40:46 -0600

Why send generic cards? These days it is incredibly easy to create or customize greeting cards online in minutes for virtually any occasion, including Halloween. This page will show you three ways you can create Happy Halloween cards with your own personal flair. Create digital cards you can email or save to DVD, customize traditional cards that are professionally printed and mailed to you, or create your own printable cards right from your computer. Each method has its pros and cons, but all with give you great-looking personalized cards to send to your family and friends to celebrate the spookiest night of the year.

Best Star Wars Christmas Ornaments

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 01:15:32 -0600

Are you looking for unique Christmas ornaments to decorate your home with this Holiday season? Star wars Christmas ornaments are very popular and are great for collecting. Star wars Christmas ornaments feature all the best characters from the Star Wars movies like Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader plus many others. If you are into Star Wars or know someone who is Star Wars Christmas ornaments make great gift ideas. Featured below are the best Star Wars Christmas ornaments of the Holiday season.

Personalized Christmas Angel Ornaments

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:46:19 -0600

Are you looking for personalized Christmas angel ornaments? Angels are a common symbol of the Christmas season, and there are plenty of great personalized Christmas tree ornaments available from many stores. This page has compiled some of the best so you can find the personalized angel ornament that's right for you. Whether you're looking for a gift or something to hang on your own tree, you're sure to find some great choices in personalized Christmas angel ornaments here.

Easy Chocolate Peppermint Toffee

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:43:16 -0600

I love to make cracker toffee. It only requires five ingredients, takes less than 15 minutes to cook, requires virtually no culinary skill (perfect for me!), and my kids love it. During the holidays, I add crushed candy canes to turn the normal chocolatey treat into an easy chocolate peppermint toffee that is great for dessert. If you're looking for an easy chocolate Christmas dessert recipe, give this a try.

Amazon Green is for Eco-Friendly Products

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:11:58 -0600

Amazon Green was launched in 2008 to promote eco-friendly products on the Amazon site. Rather than search the entire Amazon site for environmentally friendly options, customers who visit Amazon Green can quickly and easily find ENERGY STAR-qualified electronics, organic groceries and household goods, natural health and beauty products and other green goods.

Christmas Music Karaoke

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:48:39 -0600

Nothing livens up a Christmas party like a little karaoke. Who cares if you can sing? Part of the fun is listening to everyone else belt out off-key songs with reckless abandon and laughing along. And if you're lucky, you might even discover someone with a good voice. So whether it's an office party or a shindig at your house, lighten the mood with some good Christmas music karaoke. Here's a list of the bestselling CDs from Amazon to get the fun rolling.

Jenny Shipley

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:17:28 -0600

Before Helen Clark became PM of New Zealand, Jenny Shipley blazed the trail as the first woman prime minister of that country, serving as the National Party PM from 1997 - 1999.

Three Places That Send Cards Out For You

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 22:37:35 -0600

The Internet has made it easy to customize and order wedding invitations, birth announcements, Christmas cards, birthday party invitations, and other special occasion cards online. But up until recently, you still had to address each one yourself. No more! These days, if you shop at the right place, they will also send cards out for you - and you may only pay the price of postage. You'll save time, as well as saving money and energy by eliminating extra shipping to your door. What's not to love about that?

Best Tasting Italian Meatloaf

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:36:52 -0600

Finding that perfect something to eat is hard but cooking one of the Best Tasting Italian Meatloaf is easy! Tasty and filling for everyone at your dinner table, this Best Tasting Italian Meatloaf is sure to be talked about by everyone. Meatloaf is the original down home cooking dinner that all moms made back in the 1950's. Go back to tradition with an Italian twist with this amazing meatloaf recipe. (image credit)

Best Waterproof Camera 2011

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 23:47:08 -0600

If you're looking for the best waterproof camera 2012, you've come to the right place. This page will help you find the best rated and bestselling waterproof digital cameras available for purchase today. Whether you want something to take scuba diving, surfing, sailing or just swimming at the local pool, you can find the best waterproof camera for you. Take a look.

Homemade French Pastry Pie Crust

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 13:09:09 -0600

Check out this amazing Homemade French Pastry Pie Crust. Every pie has a beginning as a tasty pie crust so why not use this Homemade French Pastry Pie Crust to make it even more delicious. If you are in need of a pastry pie crust for your holiday recipes this is a very versatile recipe you can use. Strawberry pie and pumpkin pie taste wonderful, the possibilities are unlimited with this homemade pastry pie crust. (image credit)

Xmas Keeps Christ in Christmas

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:05:05 -0600

Xmas may not be the word you thought it was. Many people object to the word "Xmas" because they think it's taking "Christ out of Christmas." In fact, the very opposite may be true. Although Xmas is definitely an abbreviated form of Christmas, the origins of the word go back to the time when the word Christ was routinely abbreviated and symbolized by the Greek letter Chi. "Xmas" was never meant to be a secular replacement for the word Christmas. In its original usage, it was, in fact, a direct reference to Christ.

Most Popular Baby Toys 2011

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:54:53 -0600

These are the most popular baby toys for 2011 right before the holidays. If you want to pick up some of the best toys for babies and toddlers right now, this page has a quick look at the top sellers, with a closer look at some of the toys rounding out the top selling list of the most popular toys for babies. Image:Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes

Andrew Garfield, the Next Spider-Man

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 01:42:48 -0600

The Spider-Man films starring Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker/Spider-Man and Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson were box office hits, earning more than $2.5 billion worldwide and setting several box office records. All three of the films are on the list of the top 20 highest-grossing domestic films as well as the top 30 highest-grossing worldwide films. So it seemed inevitable that we'd see a Spider-Man 4 soon. In fact, the fourth installment was originally scheduled for release in 2011. But when movie director Sam Raimi pulled out, Sony decided to scrap the whole movie and reboot the franchise with a new director and a new actor playing Spider-Man. Andrew Garfield will be taking over the role previously played by Tobey Maguire.

Pet Friendly Vacations: Don't Leave Your Furry Friend at Home!

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 23:17:30 -0600

Everyone needs a vacation now and then, and if you have a four-legged member of your family, you might want to take him or her along for the fun, too. After all, what pet wants to stay at home in a kennel while their people go off for fun and adventure? Most cities have pet-friendly hotels, so you just need to do a little planning to find a place that will accept you and your pet(s). Here are some tips that will help you plan for your pet friendly vacation.

Green Floor Cleaning with the Shark Steam Mop

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:03:11 -0600

If you're looking for a way to clean your floors without using harsh chemical cleaners, the Shark steam mop is a great device. Unlike "steamvacs" that don't actually create steam at all, Euro-Prop's Shark mop is actual steam cleaner, ready to go in only 30 seconds, and able to kill germs and bacteria with nothing but heat and water. No nasty chemicals needed!

Gro Harlem Brundtland

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 20:05:39 -0600

Gro Harlem Brundtland was the first woman prime minister of Norway and the former director general of the World Health Organization.

Joe Biden

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:17:33 -0600

Senator Joe Biden of Delaware is Vice President of the United States, a two-time former presidential candidate and a long-standing Senator. He has served in Congress since first being elected in November 1972, just a month before his wife and daughter were killed in a car accident.

No-Carve Pumpkin Ideas

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 22:36:11 -0600

Carving pumpkins is a fun Halloween tradition, but it takes a bit of time and skill to create a great-looking jack-o-lantern. These no-carve pumpkin ideas are quick, fun and easy. If you have young kids who aren't old enough to carve (or don't like the goopy pumpkin guts), these ideas will allow them to participate in the fun of making jack-o-lanterns without requiring fine motor skills they haven't yet developed. As an added bonus, these pumpkin creations will last longer than carved pumpkins because you're cutting out large sections of the pumpkin and exposing it to the elements. Have fun!

Recycled Business Holiday Cards

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 01:58:36 -0600

Is your business trying to go green? Or is your company part of an eco-friendly industry? If so, then your customers and colleagues will probably expect your holiday greetings to be green, too. But finding a card that's appropriate for business AND is recycled can be challenging unless you know where to look. Here are some online companies that offer recycled business holiday cards made with up to 100% post-consumer waste and created with up to 100% renewable energy, depending on your choices. (Recycled business holiday card shown here available from Pear Tree Greetings.)

Tips on Buying a Used Mobility Scooter

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 17:23:33 -0600

Mobility scooters have become more popular in recent years, and as the number of new sales have increased, the number of used scooters has also increased. That's good news for anyone who can't afford the sometimes-steep prices for some of the fancier models. Used mobility scooters can be a great bargain. Here are some tips for getting a good deal.

Funny Halloween Videos

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 14:14:59 -0600

Halloween is a time for spooks and scary stuff, but that doesn't mean you can't have a little fun with it. These funny Halloween videos run the gamut from an animated witch and singing kittens to a talking orange and real people playing a prank on their neighbors. There's something here for everyone, from kids to adults, but parents will want to screen these videos before letting their kids watch because some people may be offended by one or more of the videos shown here.

Family Halloween Movies

Sun, 23 Oct 2011 14:08:55 -0600

Kids love Halloween - the costumes, the candy and, yes, the fear factor. But Halloween movies with a lot of blood and gore are too scary for younger kids, tweens or even teens. Slasher movies weren't made for kids. But this list of family Halloween movies includes something for everyone, from the youngest to the oldest. Although they're not all directly related to Halloween - you won't find pumpkins and witches in all of these flicks - they all have a spooky theme appropriate for the holidays. You can enjoy any of these movies with your kids, but you may need to wait a few years before younger children are ready for some of them. Be sure to read reviews from other viewers before trying something that might be too frightening for younger kids. "Coraline," for instance, is a newer animated movie that might look deceptively innocent due to the animation, but it's definitely too spooky for most little kids. Likewise, Harry Potter and some of the other films listed here are also better suited to tweens and teens.

Harvey Milk

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:16:59 -0600

Harvey Milk was a San Francisco supervisor. He was the first openly gay elected politician in "any substantial political office," as TIME magazine put it. This would, perhaps, have been the thing people remembered him most for - until a crazed gunman ensured Harvey Milk's name would go down in history with Mayor George Moscone for another reason.

'Tis the Season for Christmas Lenses Headquarters

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 18:38:45 -0600

'Tis the Season for Christmas Lenses 'Tis the season for sharing your best and brightest holiday lenses, from gift giving ideas to tips on cooking the perfect turkey. If it's about the Christmas holidays or gift giving, you're in!

Pumpkin History

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:28:36 -0600

Have you ever wondered how the tradition of carving pumpkins into jack-o-lanterns originated? Or where the word pumpkin came from? Or where pumpkins were first grown? This page has answers to all your pumpkin history questions.

High School Graduation Gifts for Seniors

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 02:03:29 -0600

Graduating from high school is a once-in-a-lifetime special event and a major turning point in life, so of course you also want the gift to be special, too. This page has some suggestions for high school graduation gifts for school seniors that will help you mark the occasion with just the right sentiment you're looking for. (Class of 2012 keychain image from Zazzle)

Amazon Kindle Deal of the Day and Other Ways to Get Cheap Kindle Books and Apps

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 01:53:24 -0600

Like millions of others, I got a Kindle Fire for Christmas and immediately set out to fill it up. One of the best ways to get cheap Kindle books is to keep your eye on the Kindle Deal of the Day. The Kindle Deal of the Day offers a new discounted title every day, so you can fill your Kindle with great reading for less. But the Kindle Daily Deal isn't the only way to load your Kindle for less. This page will give you more information about Kindle Deal of the Day, as well as other ways to get cheap and free Kindle apps and goodies. Image: Kindle Fire courtesy of Amazon

Dev Patel

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:53:35 -0600

Dev Patel is a British actor best known for his role as Jamal Malik in the Academy Award-winning movie, "Slumdog Millionaire." The 2008 movie is based on the book "Q&A" by by Indian author Vikas Swarup.

Cute Christmas Animals

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 12:08:13 -0600

During the holidays, many people love to dress their pets in Santa hats or other holiday attire and watch movies featuring cute Christmas animals. Disney's Santa Buddies is a great example of both (cute dogs in Santa hats!). So I decided to look for other cute Christmas critters. Here's a very unscientific and completely biased list of some animals that make my list of the cute and not-so-cute. Take a look and see if you think I made the right choices.

Kokopelli

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 15:50:29 -0600

I love Kokopelli. The happy hunch-backed flute player has been a symbol of fertility and life for centuries, appearing in petroglyphs as early as AD 750. And he's still popular today! (Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons)

Help Plant Trees in India and Other Developing Nations

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:40:13 -0600

You can help plant trees in India and other developing nations around the world. Trees for Life (TFL) is a nonprofit organization that plants fruit and fuel trees in impoverished countries, helping poor people become self-sufficient. TFL's first projects were in India, where they still continue to plant many trees, but this movement now has spread to many other countries and now includes projects beyond planting trees. Find out how Trees for Life is helping to combat poverty and empower people. Photo by Lisa Howard

Mercedes Sosa

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 11:56:42 -0600

Mercedes Sosa, affectionately known as "La Negra," was one of the driving forces behind the nueva cancion movement of protest music in Argentina and Chile in the 1960s. During her lifetime, she performed with many legends, from Ray Charles to Luciano Pavarotti, and sang to sold-out crowds throughout the world. She also served as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador. She died at age 74 in October 2009.

Myrtle Beach Pet Friendly Hotels

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 22:07:35 -0600

Planning to take your pooch or pampered kitty to Myrtle Beach? Pet friendly hotels are readily available in this favorite South Carolina vacation destination, and it's easy to book your reservations online. Don't know where to look? Here are some tips on finding the right hotel for you and your pet.

Where to Get Free Shipping for Christmas Gifts

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:57:41 -0600

Shopping online during the holidays is a great way to avoid long lines at the mall and to get great deals. In many states, you won't pay sale tax on your online purchases, and when you combine this with free shipping for Christmas, you'll save both time and money when compared to shopping at a brick and mortar store. It's a great way to buy some or all of your holiday gifts. Here are some stores that offer free shipping before Christmas and carry enough variety for you to find something for everyone on your list. Image credit: Special Delivery puzzle by Springbok

Santa's Nice List Gifts

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 13:09:12 -0600

When Santa Claus makes his list and checks it twice, are your kids or grandkids on the Naughty List or the Nice List? If they've been naughty, Santa will surely be bringing coal, but if they've been good, Santa might just bring them a new Christmas tree ornament or sweatshirt proudly proclaiming their inclusion on the list. If you're helping St. Nick do his Christmas shopping this year, check out these Santa's Nice List gifts for all the good kids on the list.

Elizabeth Dole

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:16:30 -0600

Elizabeth Dole is currently a U.S. Senator who also holds the distinction of being the first female Secretary of Transportation. She was also the first woman to run the American Red Cross since its founder, Clara Barton, held that post in 1881. In 2000, she briefly ran for the Republican nomination for president.

"Churches" Shouldn't Picket Funerals

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 16:18:15 -0600

I've had it with the members of the Westboro Baptist Church, that group of people who like to picket at funerals. This week they announced plans to picket at the funeral of Christina Taylor Green, the 9-year-old little girl who was killed in the shooting spree that also took the lives of 5 others and left many others, including Congresswoman Gabby Giffords injured. Fortunately, Arizona passed emergency legislation to keep them away from that memorial. But they're still planning to picket at the funeral of the federal judge who was killed. The hateful behavior the members of this so-called church engages in, such as picketing at military funerals and other high-profile memorial services, should be considered a type of political speech, and the "church" should lose its tax-exempt status. So-called "churches" such as Westboro Baptist and the one in Florida that caused international chaos by threatening to burn a copy of The Koran, are making political statements, not religious ones. Fred Phelps, who heads the Westboro Baptist Church has been quoted as saying, "Our attitude toward what's happening with the war is [that] the Lord is punishing this evil nation..." Statements about war and the way the United States is run are political in nature, not religious, and picketing is a political activity. I'm not asking to silence these organizations. Although I certainly find their behavior and opinions appalling, I recognize their First Amendment right to be as stupid and evil and they like. But I don't want the IRS helping to support these people under the guise of religion. They should lose their tax-exempt status as churches and be reclassified as political organizations that have to pay taxes like other political entities. Photo source: Wikipedia

Jimmy Carter

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 20:11:18 -0600

Jimmy Carter was the 39th president of the United States and the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. Since leaving office, he has become a bestselling author and continued to work for peace and justice.

Veggie Tales Drummer Boy DVD

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:54:38 -0600

If you're looking for a fun, heartwarming DVD the whole family can enjoy this year, take a look at the Veggie Tales Drummer Boy DVD. Based on the classic Christmas carol, VeggieTales: The Little Drummer Boy, stars Junior Asparagus as the little boy who has no gift for the baby Jesus and discovers the true meaning of Christmas when he plays his drum for the Christ child. Filled with the trademark VeggieTales humor and songs along with important lessons, this new Little Drummer Boy DVD is destined to be a classic.

Barbara Walters

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:15:36 -0600

Barbara Walters can claim many firsts for broadcast journalism - the first woman to anchor the evening news on a major network, the first woman to earn a seven-figure salary in TV news, the first female co-host of The Today Show, among others. And if she keeps going, she just might be the first 80-year-old woman still hosting a TV show.

GPS Hands Free Calling

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:45:46 -0600

If you have a GPS system in your car or are thinking about getting one, you may be able to enjoy handsfree calling through this device while driving . It's easy to do and will mean you'll be able to drive more safely while talking on the phone. All you need is a Bluetooth-enabled phone and GPS device and a few minutes to set them up.

Christmas Gift Baskets For Kids

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:44:14 -0600

Looking for a Christmas gift for a kid? If you have a Grandchild,Niece, Nephew or another child that lives away from you Christmas gift baskets are a great choice for a gift. Christmas gift baskets are loaded with things kids love including candy and toys. Christmas gift baskets can be shipped to your desired address or delivered by yourself. Sending a Christmas gift basket is a great way to show kids that they are special and remembered this holiday season. Featured below are Christmas gift baskets for kids available in several sizes and with different items packed in them for kids to enjoy. Image source: Children's Christmas Gift Basket on Amazon.com

Hattie Caraway

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 00:11:58 -0600

"Silent Hattie" was the first woman senator in the United States and the first woman to preside over the Senate as acting president pro tempore. She was also the first woman legislator to cosponsor the Equal Rights Amendment. And she did it all back in the early to mid-1900s.

Best Christmas Toys for 4 Year Olds

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 17:03:36 -0600

Here is a selection of the best toys for 4 year olds this Christmas. If you are looking to shop for a 4 year old this Christmas and have no idea what to buy, here are some of the top toys for boys and girls. Shopping for younger children can be difficult if you don't have any that age. Here is the best Christmas toys for 4 yea olds this year. If you don't have four year olds it can be tough knowing what to get. Here are some ideas to help get you on your way to buying a great gift for a 4 year old this Christmas. (image credit)

Create a Free Video Letter to Santa Claus

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 17:02:45 -0600

Santa has gone high-tech. These days, you don't need to pull out a pen and piece of paper to send St. Nick a message. Now your kids can send a colorful video letter to Santa Claus in just a few minutes and have fun creating a letter that can include their photo or video, as well as information Santa will need to know for his Christmas Eve trip (like what toys your child is really hoping to find under the tree!). Here's how to create your own electronic letter to Santa for free.

Christmas Card Ornament with Photo Will Be a Keepsake

Sun, 18 Dec 2011 16:58:13 -0600

During the holidays, millions of greeting cards are sent to friends and family near and far. People generally open them, enjoy them, and then toss them. But your card doesn't have to end up in the trash. Rather than sending a plain folded greeting card or photo card this year, why not choose a Christmas card ornament with photo? These clever greeting cards are designed to be hung on the Christmas tree, and because you can personalize them with a photo, they make a great keepsake for years to come. They're fun, practical and personal.

History of Christmas Greeting Cards

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 01:03:48 -0600

Most of us enjoy receiving Christmas cards during the holidays, but have you ever stopped to wonder how the tradition of sending Christmas cards to family, family and colleagues began? The annual rite of sending holiday cards began in Victorian times in England. The tradition was popular from the beginning and has now spread around the world, with billions of cards sold and sent during the last months of each year. Though modern technology threatens to change the way we send cards - or eliminate the tradition completely - for now the Christmas cards tradition remains popular.

Delicious Rosemary Roasted Turkey

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:38:52 -0600

Feed your whole family with this Delicious Rosemary Roasted Turkey. Using only the finest ingredients, you can prepare yourself the most wonderful Delicious Rosemary Roasted Turkey in the world. This is a great recipe for anyone who is looking to do something a little less tradtitional at the holidays with their turkey. Pimp your turkey this Christmas with a great recipe for a Tasty Rosemary Roasted Turkey. (image credit)

City of Sacramento, California

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 20:17:29 -0600

The city of Sacramento, CA is the capital of California. Originally founded by John Sutter in 1839, it was a major commercial and agricultural center, as well as a terminus for wagon trains, stagecoaches, riverboats, and the Pony Express during the California Gold Rush. Today it is now a bustling city with a 2007 estimated population of 467,343.

Tree Tee Shirts

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:33:25 -0600

Are a tree hugger? Or looking for a gift for one? Tree tee shirts make great gifts because they're practical, can be used every day, and show your support for our natural resources. Trees provide oxygen, store carbon, give us shade and fruit, help prevent erosion and desertification and simply add beauty to our world. What's not to love? If you love trees, check out these tree tee shirts available online. Image: Tree Hugger T-shirt by treeteeshirts

Elf on the Shelf DVD and Blu Ray

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:44:14 -0600

My kids think that all movies must have toys associated with them, and all toys must have movies associated with them. So they and thousands of other kids will undoubtedly be excited this year to discover Elf on the Shelf, the popular Christmas toy and book, now has a movie. "Elf on the Shelf: An Elf's Story" will air on November 25, 2011 on CBS and the Elf on the Shelf DVD will be available to purchase the next day. Of course, if you can't wait that long to place your order, you can pre-order the Elf on the Shelf DVD or Blu-Ray now. Shhh! But don't tell the kids! Let them be surprised when An Elf's Story DVD shows up with their elf right after Thanksgiving.

Be a Frugal Shopper Online!

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 21:52:33 -0600

Shopping online is as easy as clicking a mouse, but do you know where the best buys are? If you want tips on saving money online, read below for helpful hints on getting new and used goods for less, buying refurbished products and using comparison shopping sites to get more for less.

Tis the Season! A Christmas Lensography

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 20:30:33 -0600

I love Christmas. I think it's in my genes because my birthday is between Christmas and New Year's So it's not surprising that when I started creating Christmas lenses I soon found I'd made more than I could keep track of without a little help. So here it is! Below are all the Christmas pages I've created, from funny Christmas songs, to how to write a letter to Santa, to tips on buying recycled cards and reusing your old ones. Merry Christmas!

L. Frank Baum

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 20:12:12 -0600

L. Frank Baum was an American writer best known for the book, "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," which was turned into a movie starring Judy Garland that went on to become one of the most loved and most viewed films of all time.

Jackie (Jacqueline) Cochran

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 15:35:33 -0600

During her aviation career, Jackie Cochran set more speed and altitude records than any of her contemporaries, male or female. In 1953, she flew past Mach 1 in an F-86 Sabre, becoming the first woman in history to break the sound barrier.

Dianne Feinstein

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:16:12 -0600

She became San Francisco's mayor after the deadly shootings of Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk, but it was Dianne Feinstein's own skill and hard work that carried her to the Senate.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3: A Waterproof, Shockproof Digital Camera

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 11:59:35 -0600

Are you looking for a waterproof, shockproof digital camera to take snorkeling or diving? Or perhaps a digital camera with built-in GPS to take hiking in the mountains? Or maybe you want a camera that can shoot 3D images. You can get all of these features in the Panasonic DMC-TS3 waterproof digital camera. This 12.1 megapixel little marvel is waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof, dustproof, and comes with amazing built-in features such GPS, a compass, and a barometer. All in one little package that's easy to carry around. Check below to learn more about this camera and read reviews.

Book Review: Ideas for Writing Creative Christmas Letters

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 11:56:43 -0600

Finally someone has written a book that celebrates the joys of Christmas letter writing and encourages others to get creative with their annual updates. Ideas for Writing Creative Christmas Letters (That People Are Actually Eager to Read!) by Janet Colbrunn is published by Baycourt Publishing. Here's my review of this great book.

Shannon Lucid, Astronaut

Sat, 22 May 2010 12:18:45 -0600

Shannon Lucid isn't a household name, but the NASA astronaut holds the women's record for the most flight hours in orbit, claims the title of the non-Russian with the most flight hours in orbit, and used to hold the women's record for the longest stay in space.

Plush Stuffed Grinch Doll

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:43:54 -0600

He may be a nasty,wasty skunk whose heart is full of unwashed socks and whose soul is full of gunk, but it's hard not to love the grouchy green Grinch from the classic Dr. Seuss tale, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. And now you can own your very own Grinch. Manhattan Toy makes a plush stuffed Grinch doll in three sizes, so every child (or child at heart) can have a Grinch of their own. If you're looking for a cuddly Grinch toy, you've found the right place.

Christmas Sing-A-Ma-Jigs

Sat, 17 Dec 2011 11:08:38 -0600

The Toy Industry Association gave Sing-A-Ma-Jigs its prestigious Toy of the Year Award in 2011, and all of these little toys that sing, harmonize and chatter are going to be popular this holiday season. And now that there are Christmas Sing-A-Ma-Jigs, your kids can enjoy playing with these toys that sing holiday carols. Christmas Sing-A-Ma-Jigs are available snowman, reindeer and Santa themes, and, like all Sing-A-Ma-Jigs, they can harmonize if you have more than one.

Everything Fun for Children Headquarters

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 20:15:07 -0600

Everything Fun for Children We're looking for lenses about great books for kids, fun crafts, exciting places to see, healthy activities, good games to play, party ideas, or tips on things to do on a rainy day. In other words, if it's fun for kids, you're in!

Funny Dentist Christmas Cards

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 01:32:31 -0600

During the holidays, many businesses send out cards to their customers and other business associates. Typically, the tone of business Christmas cards is very professional and, frankly, sometimes boring. They often have somber, muted colors rather than the bright reds and greens familiar during the holiday season, tend to avoid any images of Christmas figures such as Santa Claus or elves so they remain politically correct, and include business Christmas wishes designed not to offend. So what's up with these fun dentist Christmas cards? They're bright, colorful, lively, funny and even feature some familiar Christmas characters. Who knew dentists were such a fun bunch?

Olympus Waterproof Shockproof Digital Camera - The Stylus Tough 6020

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 22:07:26 -0600

It's not hard to find waterproof shockproof digital cameras these days. Everyone from Canon to Sony has models available, and all of them offer features such as being able to submerse your camera in water or knock it off a tabletop without worrying about it breaking. But the price range for these cameras varies a lot, from just under $200 to about $400. The Olympus Stylus Tough 6020 is near the bottom of the price range, but offers greater submersibility (down to 16 feet) and higher resolution (14 megapixels) than some of the other cameras that cost more. Read on to learn more about the features and get reviews from people using this camera.

Features of the Palm Pre Phone

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 20:03:44 -0600

PC Magazine has already dubbed the new Palm Pre phone "the most radical new phone since the iPhone." The smartphone was unveiled in Las Vegas at the Consumer Electronics Show in early 2009 and became available in June starting at $199.99 on the Sprint network (after rebate and service agreement). With enough cool features to make any technofile happy, the Palm Pre has been causing a buzz since the original product announcement. Intrigued? Read on to see what's new.

Dixie Chicks

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 20:02:02 -0600

The Dixie Chicks are the highest selling female group in history. In 2007, they swept the Grammys, winning five awards, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year and Song of the Year, as well as Best Country Album and Best Country Performance by a Duo or a Group. It was a sweet comeback victory for the trio whose career was nearly derailed by an anti-Bush comment.

Build Affiliate WordPress Sites - with No Technical Skills!

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 19:56:22 -0600

For years, big affiliate networks have offered datafeeds that allowed technically talented individuals and companies the ability to create niche sites using merchant datafeeds. If you were willing to pay the price to access the API and you knew how to program XML, you were in luck. But if you were a technically challenged little affiliate publisher, these lucrative affiliate datafeeds were just out of reach. No more! Datafeedr and BlogProfitz are making it easy for anyone to build great looking affiliate WordPress sites. And you don't have to be a geek to do it.

Geraldine Ferraro

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:16:45 -0600

She and Democratic running mate Walter Mondale were trounced in the 1984 elections by Ronald Reagan and George Bush, but Geraldine Ferraro still made history as the first woman to run as a vice presidential candidate on a major party ticket.

Elf on the Shelf: An Elf's Story DVD

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 12:00:38 -0600

Having a "scout" elf who visits during the holidays has become a popular Christmas tradition for many families since Elf on the Shelf was introduced in 2005. Since then, Elf on the Shelf, a children's book written by Carol Aebersold and her daughters, Chanda Bell and Christa Pitts, has sold more than 2 million copies. Now children who love the story of Santa's scout elves can get a chance to learn more about the Elf on the Shelf. "An Elf's Story" will be aired on CBS on November 25, 2011, and "An Elf's Story" DVD will go on sale the next day. Here's a sneak preview of what's coming.