Squidoo : Lenses by mysticmama

Top 10 Tarot Decks

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:50:32 -0600

There are literally thousands of different tarot decks, so choosing the right deck for yourself can be overwhelming, especially for a beginner. A great majority of the decks available are novelty decks, and even though some of these are breathtakingly beautiful or whimsically fun, in reality they are of little use for doing actual tarot card readings. These novelty decks are also very difficult for beginners who are still trying to learn the basics. I have been a student of the Tarot for over 30 years now, I've been doing Tarot reading professionally for over 25 years & teaching tarot for over 20 years. I personally own well over 100 decks of Tarot cards, though I only actually use around 10 of those decks for actual tarot card reading. I am often asked which deck I personally use and which deck I recommend...So here is my Top 10 list of the best Tarot decks and why.

Secrets for making Incredible Hamburgers

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 17:19:31 -0600

Everyone loves a great hamburger! They can say that "hot dogs" along with apple pie and baseball are the great American pastimes, but it's McDonalds, Burger King and Wendy's that are on every street corner in America, not hot dog stands. There is a McDonalds franchise (or 20) in almost every Country on Earth. They even made a movie called "Super-Size Me" that showed the harmful effects on the human body that happen if someone only ate McDonalds for 30 days in a row, and even that couldn't even slow down the world's consumption of hamburgers! The popularity of Fast-Food burger joints proves that even bad burgers are good... but, why settle for less than the best? I've known the secrets to making fantastic hamburgers for years, just ask my husband. Making an "Incredible" hamburger is an art. I realized that just a few month ago when my recently married middle son showed up on my doorstep with 3 pounds of ground beef and a bag of buns. He confessed that he was at his wits end, that he had been trying for months to make a burger as good as Moms but just couldn't do it. He handed me the meat and buns and asked if he could just watch me make a burger from start to finish, so he could finally make a great burger himself. So here it is folks, I'm going to let you all in on the secrets to making Incredible Hamburgers!

Fairy Tattoo Designs

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:32:20 -0600

Fairy tattoos are among the most popular of all tattoo designs. Fairies are magical and beautiful and fun, it's no wonder that so many people decide on fairies when making a tattoo choice. Fairies come in all shapes and sizes, and it's fun and easy to find the perfect fairy tattoo to match your personality. As a henna tattoo artist, I do a lot of fairy tattoos. Some are playful little sprites, some are womanly and beautiful and some are even dark, scary and evil looking. Finding the right fairy tattoo for your personality is the most important thing to do before you actually take the plunge and get the fairy permanently tattooed onto your body. Lets take a look at some of the great possibilities there are when considering a fairy tattoo.

Maine Coon Cats

Sun, 27 Mar 2011 08:10:38 -0600

Maine Coon Cats are one of the most popular cat breeds in the World. These gentle giants of the cat world are extremely smart and easy to train, but it is their gigantic size and sweet nature that makes them the most wanted cats on the planet. I personally had never even heard of Maine Coon Cats until I adopted a kitten, that just happened to end up being a Maine Coon. This photo is of my first Maine Coon Cat, Kitty Wompuss, who has now passed over the Rainbow bridge & is very missed. He is the reason I fell in love with this incredible breed. Kitty Wompuss was extremely smart, and just beautiful. I now have my 2nd Maine Coon named Scrapper and he is another example of how wonderful, gentle & smart this cat breed is.

Best Gifts For Teenage Boys

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:35:58 -0600

Teenage boys can often be the hardest people to shop for on your list. They're no longer little boys, but also not quite men. As a Mom who raised 3 sons and the only girl in a house full of brothers growing up, I think I can help you out. Buying for your own sons is a bit easier than say buying for a nephew, grandson, cousin, ect... because our kids tend to tell us what they want for gifts. So the best place to get information about what a teen boy wants is to ask his parents or siblings. Sometimes that isn't an option, especially if your purchasing gifts to donate to a charitable organization, so here you will find lots of great gifts just about any teenage boy will love.

All About Henna Tattoos

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:55:19 -0600

Henna has been used for body art for thousands of years. It is said that the ancient Egyptians used henna to decorate the bodies of the dead for their journey to the afterlife. There are even mentions of henna in the bible. Henna tattoos are an important part of many customs in the Eastern world, especially in Africa, India and Arab countries, where henna is used for many holidays, weddings, and other rites of passage. Using henna for body art is relatively new to the Western world, but gaining in popularity right along with the popularity of permanent tattoos. One of the funnest aspects of henna tattoos is that they are temporary, so you can use henna to see how you would like a tattoo before you get a permanent one, or just enjoy having different tattoos every couple of weeks with henna!

Potluck Party Guide

Sat, 28 May 2011 13:43:01 -0600

Personally, I think all parties should be potluck! It's fun for all, guarantees variety, and best of all, it makes having more parties, more often, more affordable, for everyone! I come from a very large family, we had over 300 people at our last family reunion. When you come from a really big family, potluck is the only way to go. We do potluck for everything from baby showers, to funerals, and every other event in between. As a little girl I would help my Grandma make food for all the family parties. By the time I was a teen, I had a dozen of my own specialty potluck recipes. As the mother of 3 son's I've made sure my boys can cook & participate by bringing their own "dish to share" for family & work potlucks. Now I will share with you some of the tips and tricks I have learned over the years, along with some of my best potluck recipes!

How To Make Pet Memorial Stepping Stones

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 23:37:59 -0600

Losing a pet can be just as heart breaking as losing any other member of your family. When Kitty Wompuss died our family was devastated, even our dog Koko was visibly grieving. We looked online and at local garden stores for a memorial stone, but just couldn't find anything that we liked that was in our price range. Then a really nice clerk at my favorite garden center told me how to make one myself using quick concrete. Making a personalized stepping stone memorial was very cathartic and helped me work through the grieving process. The memorial stone was very easy to make and was a project that my husband and I could work on together. This project would be a great way to include children and help them feel like they are saying goodbye to their pet with the family.

Habanero Heat Hot Sauce!

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:01:15 -0600

Do you have a hot sauce junkie in your house? Habanero's are some of the "hottest" peppers on the planet, and my hubby is a habanero addict to the max. For years we've searched for the perfect and hottest habanero hot sauce, only to come up empty handed time and time again. The commercial sauces that use "capsicum" or pepper extract, have a weird chemical taste that over-powers the flavor of the peppers, making the really hot sauces taste bad. The habanero sauces that don't use pepper extract, seem to all contain sweetening agents like carrots or fruit juice that also take something away from the natural habanero flavor. Over the years we have tried just about every habanero hot sauce on the market, but just never could find one that captured both the true heat and flavor of the habanero pepper. So being the cook that I am, I accepted the challenge and began experimenting with creating the perfect habanero hot sauce. After many trials and errors, that included the creation of a sauce that is almost identical to "Orange Crush" which is one of the better habanero sauces, (and I'll also include that recipe) I finally came up with the best, the hottest, the most flavorful habanero hot sauce recipe ever!

Deep Fried Hamburgers

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:47:50 -0600

My husband saw a TV show about deep fried hamburgers and just had to have one. The show spotlighted Dyer's in Memphis Tennessee. Since we live in Minnesota, that seemed like a long way to go for a hamburger. So, I went online in search of a recipe and instructions on just how to make these artery clogging burgers. After a wee bit of trial and error, I was able to make deep fried burgers that are amazingly delicious. Since we've never actually eaten a Dyer's burger, I don't claim that these are the same, but they sure are yummy!

Zodiac Symbol Tattoos

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:41:11 -0600

One of the things that I like most about zodiac symbol tattoos, is that they stay relevant forever. Unlike name tattoos, your birthday never changes...the love of your life just might. Zodiac tattoo designs come in lots of fun styles for every taste. Some are colorful, some cartoon like and some are works of art. Zodiac symbols are versatile and it's easy for a tattoo artist to adapt a design you like, to make it personal and one of a kind for you. On this lens, you will find lots of different zodiac tattoo designs for every astrological sign. So if you have been looking for horoscope tattoo ideas...you have come to the right place!

Tattoos On Burn Scars

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 01:02:46 -0600

Well, that is exactly what we wanted to know. So I got on line, of course, and started searching google. I tried all kinds of different words & sentences that included, tattoo, burn, scar...you get the idea. Well, there wasn't much info out there, and what we did find was mostly forum Q&A's. Which of course all had different answers, no real info, no photo's of a tattoo on a scar, and no real description of the tattooing on scars process. So, if you have been considering getting a tattoo on a scar or grafted skin, then here are some real answers that will show you the process, with photos, to help you decide if you are ready to get a tattoo to cover your scars. Plus Lots of cool info about our tattoo artist Mr. DANG

How To Leash Train Your Cat

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 23:41:40 -0600

Many people falsely believe that cats are too independent to be leash trained. The truth is, that cats like to go on walks with their humans just as much as dogs do and can be easily trained to wear a harness and walk on a leash. In today's dangerous World, it just isn't safe to let our beloved cats roam free outdoors. Dangers from busy traffic to wild animals, all pose a threat to your cherished pet's safety outside of your home. Unlike dogs, cats are not easily trained to stay within the confines of a fenced yard, so leash training is a great way for you and your cat to enjoy nature together. As a life long cat lover, I have successfully leash trained all of the cats I've had in the last 16 years. It really is much easier than most people think. Here I will share with you all the tips and steps you will need to successfully leash train your cat as well. Photo of my 2 cats ~ 23 pound Maine Coon, Scrapper & Boo~Boo Kitty who is a tiny full grown 2 & 1/2 pounds.

A Twilight Valentine's Day

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 14:58:26 -0600

Twilight gifts are perfect for Valentine's Day! From posters to t-shirts to beautiful twilight jewelry...Your favorite twilight fan will love these fun & romantic twilight gifts all year long. Here you will find the coolest twilight gifts on the web!

Converse High Tops

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:44:00 -0600

They may not be the best athletic shoes, but Converse high tops have become one of the best loved sneakers around. I have been sporting "Chucks" ever since I was a kid, a long time ago. As an adult, I've been collecting these fun sneakers for years and now have over 100 pairs. The coolest thing about Converse high tops is they just keep getting cooler every year. From wild colors to hand painted designs, there really is no limit to the variety offered by these sneakers.

Fairies, Fairies Everywhere

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:37:38 -0600

By the time we are very small children, we are exposed to the idea of fairies. From the tooth fairy to fairy Godmother's to cute little flower fairies, as children we are surrounded by fairy tales, folklore and fun, The reality that most of us as adults still believe in fairies or at least want to, just shows how lovable these legendary creatures are. Fairies come in all kinds of varieties. Some are tiny while others are gigantic, some are cute and some are downright ugly. There are good fairies, bad fairies, magical fairies and evil fairies. Sometimes it boggles the mind just how many different fairy tales, legends, stories and myths there are! No matter what, everyone loves fairies and the proof is in the multitude of fairy related thing people can buy, collect or just appreciate. Here is just a small sampling of all the fun fairy stuff available.

Skulls And Bones

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 22:11:37 -0600

Since the beginning of time, we have been fascinated by human bones. Halloween is filled with images of skeletons, skulls and bones. The ever popular skull and crossbones has been used by Pirates, Bikers, the Military, Fraternities, and even Sports teams as a part of their insignias. The symbol is also used to identify poisons, and to warn people of danger. Even Yale University is said to have a secret society called Skull and Bones.

St. Patrick's Debate

Sun, 27 Mar 2011 08:14:47 -0600

St. Patrick's Day has always been a holiday of conflicting emotions for me. You might think that it would all just be fun and parties for an Irish girl like me, but that right there is part of the problem. Growing up with the stereotypes of the Irish being people who like to get drunk and then fight, can be funny at times, but also offensive. All of my male relatives are not cops or drunk priests and we rarely eat cabbage and I've never had green beer. My mother was a Murphy and my father is a Quinn, I am 3/4th Irish and 1/4 French. My Grandma Murphy was full-blooded French-Canadian, but every St. Patrick's Day she was 100% Irish by marriage, and had 50 years worth of St. Patrick's Day Parade buttons to prove it.

Kitchen Fairies

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:45:17 -0600

No, not the scary little fairy cooking worm bugs for dinner. I love the adorably cute little fairy figurines. Kitchen fairies sit in nooks and corners of your kitchen and brighten everyones day. Kitchen fairies are playful and mischievious little sprites that liven up any kitchen decor. Kitchen fairies are precious little fairy figurines that no one can ever get enough of...and who would even want to...the more the better!

Janis Joplin

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:44:23 -0600

Janis Joplin was the female voice of the Flower Power Generation. Born in Port Arthur, Texas on January 19, 1943, Janis was greatly influenced by blues artists Bessie Smith, Odetta and Leadbelly. After years of feeling like an outcast in Texas, Janis got her big break in 1966 when her old friend, Chet Helms asked her to come to San Francisco to join the a relatively obscure group called "Big Brother and the Holding Company. During the Sumer of Love in 1967, Janis and Big Brother performed at the Monterey International Pop Festival. When Janis sang Big Mama Thornton's "Ball and Chain" the music world took notice and the rest is history.

Easy Homemade Pizza Rolls

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 13:12:05 -0600

Everyone loves pizza rolls! They're practically a staple for teenagers, and great for parties and snacks. Homemade pizza rolls are super easy to make and taste way better than the frozen supermarket ones. Homemade pizza rolls give you the ability to control what goes into them, so no nasty preservatives or mystery meat. They also make an impressive appetizer, perfect for football parties or any occassion.

The First Rap Song

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:45:57 -0600

Rap music is definitely not everyone's cup of tea...still finding the origins of any type of modern music is always a fun and interesting journey. Modern Rap and Hip-Hop music can trace it's roots deep into America's sometimes ugly past. Rap music has it's roots intermingled with the roots of Blues music...both are deeply rooted in the spirituals and work songs sung by slaves. Music historians believe that "the Blues" were being "rapped" as early as the 1920's. As early as the 1950's, Jazz musicians were performing songs called "jazz poetry" which eventually inspired "beat poetry." So what was the first Rap song? More than likely early versions of what later became modern day Hip-hop predate the ability to record music. So just for giggles, lets check out some of the earliest recordings that helped to inspire modern Rap music.

Aspergers

Tue, 24 May 2011 15:37:56 -0600

To keep it simple, Aspergers is a type of high functioning Autism. The Scientific, medical & mental health communities seem to enjoy debating whether or not they should keep the name "Aspergers" or change it to a high functioning level on the Autism spectrum. They also seem at odds as to whether to call it a syndrome or a disorder, and whether or not it should be treated as a disability, something that needs to be cured, or just acknowledged as a personality difference. Personally, as an adult who spent the first 45 years of my life not knowing that I had Aspergers and struggling to live in a world where I just never quite fit in, I'm just glad to have some understanding as to why I've always been the odd duck. For me, learning that I have Aspergers was a relief, like a heavy weight had been lifted, and I finally had permission to just be me. Of course, nothing in life is ever really that easy, since my diagnoses I've found that half the battle of having Aspergers is trying to explain to people what it is.

Sambusa!

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:57:19 -0600

If you have never had sambusa you really are missing one of the great culinary delights on the planet. I had never heard of it either, until I worked a job where I had lots of Somali co-workers and the Islamic holiday of Ramadan rolled into my world. During Ramadan Muslims fast from sun up until sun down, then they pray and share a feast every day for like a whole month. I don't claim to be an expert on Ramadan or Islamic tradition or anything like that. All I know is that my Somali friends shared that feast with me every night during Ramadan and it was wonderful! Oh the taste treats for a foodie like me, I was in heaven. I got to try lots of new things like goat meat, which is actually delicious especially in the spicy tomato sauce the Somali stew it in. I was surprised because I won't even eat venison or lamb because they just taste too gamey to me, but goat is very similar to very lean beef. It really is very tasty. Still the stand out in the crowd of culinary delights was the Sambusa. Delectable triangle shaped meat pies, that accompanied every meal. It really was love at first bite, and I just had to learn how to make them myself. Now they are a favorite in my family all year round. Sambusa also known as Samosa in many parts of the world is just the perfect fast food. They really should have like a Sambusa Hut on every corner instead of all these burger places, because Sambusa rocks!

Meet Stephanie Plum

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:37:08 -0600

Stephanie Plum is the spunky, accident prone main character in author Janet Evanovich's series of hilarious "female bounty hunter" books. In the series centered around Trenton, New Jersey, Stephanie Plum starts out the series as a recently unemployed person who takes a temporary job at her cousin Vinnie's bail bonds company as a bond enforcement agent. From that moment on the fun begins. Stephanie seems to attract trouble, is clumsy and accident prone in a "Lucille Ball" kind of way and still somehow seems to luck into solving every case. Surrounded by a cast of colorful and crazy characters, Stephanie Plum is a fictional character that all women can relate to.

10 Best Things About Minnesota

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:04:30 -0600

Minnesota is the land of 10,000 lakes, though actually there is more than 15,000 bodies of water (including ponds, streams, rivers, etc...) and 11,842 lakes that are 10 acres in size or more. As you can guess, all this water makes Minnesota a very muggy state in the summer heat, but it also makes it a great state for fishing, boating and lakeside fun.

Tattoo Art

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:43:48 -0600

That may seem like a silly question at first, but tattoo art is very different from the art of tattoos. Most tattoo artists, like myself, are Artists first and just chose tattooing as our artistic medium. Some of the most amazing artwork I've ever seen has been done by tattoo artists, sometimes in the form of an actual tattoo, but also using paint, air-brush, colored pencil or just pen and paper as the media of choice. Creating Artwork on paper or canvass is much easier than creating art on a human being's actual skin. It's okay to make mistakes on paper, but when you create art on someones body, no mistakes are allowed. As a Henna tattoo artist I live with much less pressure than permanent tattoo artists. If someone doesn't like my tattoos, it's easier for me, because it will go away in a couple of weeks. Permant tattoos last a lifetime, so the permanent tattoo artist always has that in the back of their minds.

Forever Roses

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 17:34:53 -0600

Roses have been a symbol of love for hundreds of years. The only problem with real roses is they eventually die. The beauty of forever roses is that they last forever. There are lots of different kinds of forever roses. From silk roses to rose jewelry, a forever rose will tell the one you love that your love will last forever. Forever Roses come in lots of different styles and make a wonderful romantic gift that lasts a lifetime. You can get gold dipped real roses, hand blown glass roses, even roses made out of delicate feathers. Forever Roses are beautiful and never wilt. Forever roses make a wonderful romantic gift that stays as beautiful as the day you give it ~ forever.

Agates

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:10:08 -0600

Some of my fondest childhood memories are of agate hunting walks with my grandma. To this day I just can't resist searching for agates in parking lots, river banks, parks or even just along side any road. Agates have always been my favorite stones, mostly because agates come in so many different colors and varieties. Only as an adult did I start to realize the wonderful history, mythology and healing properties of stones. Agates have a wonderfully rich history, laced with fun mythology and very useful healing properties. Welcome to the wonderful world of agates!

Karen Moning Fever Series

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:34:34 -0600

If you thought all fairies were cute and sweet, Karen Moning's Fever Series will change that concept forever. The Heroine of the Fever Series, MacKayla Lane travels to Ireland in search of her sister Alina's killer only to find herself swept into a world where evil Faeries are trying to take over the human world and only she can stop them.

In A Flash - Our Burn Injury Story

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:52:29 -0600

Poof!...in a flash, that's how long it takes for someones world to come to a crashing halt. For us it happened at 6:58 pm on August 6th 2002. For us it started with an argument over lasagna on a very hot day and a dead Robin that did a kamikaze on the garage window. The argument prompted my hubby to go back to that day's work site to get a few more hours of painting done. The dead bird prompted me to stay home that night instead of going to bingo. I admit it, I'm a superstitious Irish girl. In my family when a bird flys into a window it is considered a bad omen of the death of someone in the family...it didn't help, that during the argument we had, my hubby Scott, waved the dead bird around singing "I'm gonna die!" in an effort to make me mad by making fun of my superstitious nature.

House On The Rock

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:03:43 -0600

For over 60 years, the House on the Rock has been a majestic work in progress. It all began in 1945, when Alex Jordan decided to build a man-made retreat as awe-inspiring as the view from the rock upon which the house would eventually be built. Over the years the House on the Rock has evolved to include amazing displays and unfathomable collections that never fail to amaze. You can visit the house on the rock dozens of times and still find something you missed last time. The house on the rock located in Spring Green, Wisconsin, is only a 4 hour drive from our house in St. Paul, Minnesota. It makes a wonderful weekend trip and we try to visit once a year.

Manwich Meatloaf

Sat, 08 Jan 2011 23:35:38 -0600

Everyone loves meatloaf. When I think comfort food, meatloaf is the very first thing that comes to mind. For my family that means my Manwich meatloaf recipe. This recipe is the one most requested by family and friends. It's easy to prepare and turns out delicious every time. So, if you love meatloaf, you're in for a treat. Here I will share my special Manwich Meatloaf recipe so you and your family can enjoy it as much as my family does.

Amazing Amethyst

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:12:14 -0600

Okay, I admit it...I think all rocks are amazing! They are beautiful and when you consider how old even the tiniest pebble is...it really is awe inspiring. Throughout history humankind has been enraptured by stones and minerals. People consider gold and diamonds to be the most precious and valuable substances on Earth, when they are in all reality just a pile of rocks. Amethyst is considered a semi-precious gem in todays world, and has a long and colorful history. It has long been revered by humans for it's beauty as well as it's metaphysical properties.

Best Grateful Dead Gifts

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:36:44 -0600

The Grateful Dead have been bringing great music to fans for over 40 years. If you have any Dead Heads on your gift list, here you will find lots of great Grateful Dead gift ideas. Along with lots of fun Grateful Dead information, videos & more.

Prismacolor Colored Pencils

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:37:37 -0600

As a visual artist, I have tried a lot of different brands of colored pencils and Prismacolor pencils are by far the best. These pencils deliver the quality fine artists demand, never waxy, these pencils blend color easily without the smears and smudges that other brands create. I can create high quality drawings that look like oil paintings, which is something I've never been able to do with any other colored pencils. Seeing is believing, and the art produced by these wonderful pencils really does say it all.

Tarot Card Decks

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 02:18:04 -0600

There are literally thousands of different kinds of tarot card decks available. So how do you choose the one that is right for you? That very much depends on what you plan to use your tarot cards for. If you're just beginning to explore the whole "tarot" thing, then my advice is to start with a Rider-Waite type deck. These have all the classic symbolism and are very easy to use decks. If you want a tarot deck solely for personal use and meditation, then there are hundreds of decks created just for that purpose. Choose one that reflects your personal interests and spiritual beliefs. If you're an old pro and tarot card deck collector like me...buy them all!

Coping With Pet Loss

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 23:46:29 -0600

Our pets are members of our family...pet loss can be just as heart breaking as losing a human member of the family...sometimes even harder, because our pets love us unconditionally and all of our memories about them are good. When our cat Kitty Wompuss died, our entire family was devestated...even our dog was miserable. If you are feeling overwhelmed with grief, please know that you are not alone...and that your feelings are a normal part of pet loss. Here you will find some of the things that have helped my family deal with the loss of our furry family member.

Lead Belly

Sat, 05 Mar 2011 14:48:43 -0600

No other American musician has inspired as many other musicians as Huddie "Leadbelly" Ledbetter. Said to have been born sometime in January of 1888, Leadbelly's amazing musical skill earned him a pardon from prison in 1925. Leadbelly's first trouble with the law was in 1915, when he served time on the Harrison County chain gang for carrying a pistol. Even though his talent as a musician earned him a pardon in 1925, he found himself once again in jail in 1930. Three years later he was discovered by by musicologists John Lomax and his son Alan Lomax when they visited Angola Prison Farm for the Library of Congress. On August 1, 1934 the Lomaxes petitioned Louisiana Governor O.K. Allen to grant Leadbelly an early release. Prison records state that Leadbelly was eligible for early release due to good behavior anyway, and that the Lomaxes request had nothing to do with it.

Starting Over After 40

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 01:18:57 -0600

Starting over at any age can be really scary, whether it's starting a new career, going back to school, getting divorced or even getting married. Major life changes often blindside us and turn our World upside down, so we all know how hard it can be to get through life's unexpected ups and downs. Making the choice to initiate a major life change ourselves can be terrifying. Just the thought of having to start over from scratch after the age of 40 can be absolutely paralyzing. I have unfortunately had to start over in my life countless times, and contrary to what one might think, it never gets any easier. My name is Bambi and this is my story about starting over again after 40.

Sock Monkeys

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:46:56 -0600

Regardless of if you're young or old, sock monkeys are just a whole lot of fun! They now can be purchased in just about any color or style, from very tiny to 4 feet tall. Still, my favorite will always be the tradition Rockford Red Heel Sock Monkeys. Here you will find all kinds of Sock Monkeys & Sock Monkey fun!

A Tribute to Chili

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:07:01 -0600

What I love most about Chili, is that no two people make it the same way. Chili comes in so many varieties it makes your head spin. Everyone has their own "secret recipe" and their own way to serve it. One of my favorite vacation activities, is to drive around some little town in search of a greasy little diner. You know the place, they have stools at the counter, booths with red pleather seats and the whole place smells like fried onions. I love to go in and order a cup of chili. I never get the bowl, just in case it's really bad chili, and sometimes it is. Other times, it is fantastic, and no matter what, it is always a one of a kind taste sensation. It's just so much fun to taste test all the various ways people make chili. Sometimes it had weird beans, sometimes spicy, sometimes kind of sweet and sometimes it's chunky tomato soup. No matter how many places you go, you will never get the same cup of chili twice. This lens is a celebration of that spicy stew, we all love and know as Chili!

Cigar Box Banjo

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:41:06 -0600

A Cigar Box Banjo is a primative hand made banjo that uses an old cigar box as the resonator. Many early cigar box banjos consisted of only one or two strings that were attached to the ends of a broomstick that was inserted into the cigar box. Cigar box banjos are most commonly seen in jug bands along with other homemade instruments like the washtub bass and cigar box guitars. The best part about cigar box banjos is that they are just a whole lot of fun!

Heart Shaped Gifts

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 15:00:40 -0600

The heart shape has been the symbol of love for generations. Nothing says I love you quite as much as a heart shaped gift. Whether it's fine chocolates or a heart shaped pendant, the message of love is clear with heart shaped gifts. Heart shaped gifts aren't just for Valentine's Day. A heart shaped gift brings love every day of the year. Heart shaped gifts are perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, or just to say I love you. Heart shaped gifts are timeless and cherished forever. Here you will find the perfect heart shaped gift to say "I love you" to your special someone. As well as lots of great heart shaped gift ideas for every day of the year.

Best Dragonfly Gifts

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:27:55 -0600

Do you have someone on your gift list that absolutely adores Dragonflies? Then you have come to the right place. Here you will find all kinds of fun & magical Dragonfly themed Gifts. I love Dragonflies, they're magical & beautiful.

Randy Moss Greatest Wide Receiver Of All Time

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:49:01 -0600

Randy Moss started his NFL career in my home State with the Minnesota Vikings in 1998. I have to admit that I really wasn't much of a football fan until the first time I saw Randy Moss work his magic on the field. That year Moss was made NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year for his rookie year record of 17 touchdown receptions and the third highest receiving yardage of 1,313, he was also a Pro Bowl starter that year. Over the years since then, we have watched Randy literally grow up both on the field and off. We've rolled our eyes at his antics, frowned on his bad boy years and celebrated his successes as he's matured.

Top 10 Scary Movies

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 22:04:36 -0600

Everyone has different things that they consider scary. I don't like stinging insects like bees, but think snakes are cool. Others may be deathly afraid of snakes, but has no fear of bees. Because we all fear different things, we all have different ideas about what makes a movie scary. I personally think most slasher movies are more funny that scary and tend to think thrillers and movies about things that can really happen, are much scarier. Here you will find my top 10 choices for movies that I consider truly frightening.

Understanding the meaning of Tarot Cards

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:38:13 -0600

Tarot cards are mysterious, obscure and can be really hard to understand if you're just learning. Trying to sort out which deck to use and what book to buy, when you're just getting started, can be enough to make anyone give up before they ever really start. If you've always wanted to learn to read tarot cards and don't know where to start, then you are in the right place! Also, If you've already got a deck or 4 of tarot cards and a half dozen books that all say totally different things and you're ready to start pulling your hair out! Then, YES! you are finally in the right place!

Mr. Kitty Wompuss, tale of a Maine Coon in Minnesota

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 23:54:17 -0600

Hello, My name is Mr. Kitty Wompuss, but I also answer to Big Boy, Mr. Magoo and Lil' Thumper. I live in Minnesota with my mommy and daddy and a big love puppy pit bull named Koko. I don't remember where I was born, but when I was little I ended up all alone and scared out in the woods. Some people found me and fed me and took me to live inside where it was warm, but I was in a foster home with a lot of other cats that where mean to me, so I really don't like other cats very much. Then one day my mommy came to the foster home and took me to my real home. It was scary at first, there was a big scary dog that thought I was a squirrel and wanted to eat me. Now I know that I was just little and scared and that Koko would never eat me, she's a big sweetie pie and lets me sleep in her big bed.

Jug Band Music

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:47:03 -0600

A jug band is a musical group where at least one of the musicians plays the jug and the other members use a variety of traditional and homemade instruments. Popular instruments in a jug band often include: the washtub bass, cigar box guitar and/or banjo, washboard, spoons, stovepipe and comb & tissue paper (kazoo). In the early days of jug band music, guitar and mandolins were sometimes made from the necks of discarded guitars fastened to large gourds. The gourds were flattened on one side, with a sound-hole cut into the flat side, before drying. Banjos were sometimes made from a discarded guitar neck and a metal pie plate. Early jug bands were often made up of African American vaudeville and medicine show musicians. With roots in the south, they played a mixture of Memphis blues (even before it was called the blues), ragtime, and jazz music. The history of jug bands is very much related to the development of the blues. The most important thing about jug band music is that it really is a whole lot of fun!

Tarot Card Explanation

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:51:15 -0600

There are 78 cards in the tarot deck that are comprised of 22 cards called the Major Arcana and 56 cards called the Minor Arcana. I acquired my first deck of tarot cards when I was only 9 years old, well over 30 years ago, as a Christmas gift from my Grandma Quinn. Of course she had thought they were just a colorful children's card game, and had no idea what they really were. I've loved the tarot ever since. I love collecting different decks, I even have a "Lord of the Rings" deck. I've been reading the tarot cards for myself, family, friends and professionally for over 30 years. I have probably read over 100 books on the subject, taught tarot reading classes and workshops and even designed my own deck. Why do I keep studying about a subject, that with over 30 years of study, you would think there was nothing more to learn? Well, because there simply is no such thing as an easy tarot card explanation.

Bambi

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:17:55 -0600

Bambi the deer has been a part of my life ever since the day I was born. This cute little fictional deer made famous by the Disney cartoon is my namesake. The name "Bambi" comes from the Italian word "bambino" which mean child, little child and/or baby. Shortened to Bambi it is a term of endearment. Bambi the deer was a boy deer, though from my experience most people named Bambi are female.

Hemp For Him

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:03:01 -0600

Now you can help save the planet and get that hard to shop for fella a great hemp gift at the same time! Hemp products for him are the right choice for Father's Day, Birthdays or any special occassion. Hemp products have come a long way in the last few years and now look & feel as great as they are for the planet.

Food On A Stick

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:57:43 -0600

The Great Minnesota Get-Together has become famous World wide for it's dazzling display of Food on a Stick. This year the Minnesota State Fair will proudly boast that there are 78 different places where you can indulge on your favorite foods on sticks. In 2009 Minnesota State fair-goers can dine on everything from Aligator on a stick to watermelon on a stick and everything in between.

Fresh Garden Salsa

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:58:30 -0600

As summer starts to fade many of us find ourselves with more tomatoes than we know what to do with. Of all the tomato uses possible, making fresh garden salsa is a favorite at our house. You can grow just about all of the ingredients needed right in your own backyard garden. The best fresh salsa's don't even require an actual recipe and can be made to please every taste preference from mild to OMG!

Collecting Hot Wheels

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:42:25 -0600

Collecting Hot Wheels is a fun hobby for people of all ages. There is just something about these cool little cars that gives you a little thrill, especially when you find your dream car and can actually afford to buy it. I guess growing up the only girl in a house full of brothers and then only having sons has rubbed off on me, because I have well over a thousand Hot Wheels cars and just can't resist buying cool new ones I find.

Best Gifts For Travelers

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:36:53 -0600

Do you have someone on your list who loves to travel or lives in an RV full-time? Shopping for someone who lives a full time RV lifestyle can be kind of tricky. They don't have a lot of extra space for lots of stuff, so they're pretty picky about what stuff is worth the amount of space it uses. Finding the perfect gift for a full-time traveler requires keeping their need to use minimal space in mind. Finding gifts for people who travel a lot for business or fun is a lot easier, but space is still the big issue. Here you will find lots of great gift ideas that are perfect for the travelers on your list.

Amy Brown Fairies

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:13:31 -0600

The amazingly creative mind of Amy Brown has brought us an incredible new world of modern Fairies. These are not our grandparents fairies, no these fairies are wild and sexy...playful and adventurous...vivacious and sometimes just a little naughty. These are free-spirited grown up fairies that are incredibly beautiful and fun. Let me introduce you to the magical world of Amy Brown Fairies!

Romantic Cookware

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 19:12:00 -0600

Creating wonderfully romantic meals is easier than ever if you just have the right romantic cookware. Romantic cookware can help set the mood for all kinds of romantic meals that put that extra sizzle to everything you cook. Romantic cookware also makes a great gift for weddings, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, anniversaries and even Valentine's Day. Here you will find everything you need to bring that extra romantic flare to everything you cook.

Hemp For Her

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:02:39 -0600

Hemp isn't just for Hippies anymore! With green living, global warming and more people working to save our planet, hemp products are more popukar than ever before. Here you will find all kinds of fun and fashionable gifts to make her smile and save Mother Earth at the same time!

What Are UFOs?

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:50:57 -0600

Since the dawn of mankind, people have looked to the skies in awe and wonder. Ancient civilizations worshiped the sun and moon as if they were Gods. Humankind has long debated if there is other intelligent life elsewhere in the cosmos. People have been claiming to have seen UFOs since long before air travel was even possible. In our modern world UFOs are often written off as being meteors. weather balloons, secret military aircraft, or weather anomalies. Still. every year there are UFO sightings that cannot be explained. What are these unexplainable unidentified flying objects?

Iowa City Zombie March

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 19:33:29 -0600

Each year,with Halloween just around the corner, the zombies walk through Iowa City to raise funds for charities. Iowa City is home to one of the biggest Zombie Walks in the U.S., but Zombie Walks are popping up all over as a fun and unusual way to raise funds for charity. 2009 was the 4th Zombie March in Iowa City, and over $1,700.00 were raised for charities like Iowa City's Table to Table, which helps feed homeless and hungry.

Tarot Secrets Revealed!

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:51:48 -0600

For hundreds of years the tarot has been shrouded in mystery. Although that air of mystery is part of the thrill, the time has come to reveal the truth. Unfortunately, the sense of mystery that makes the tarot so exciting, also gives the tarot a bad name. Scammers, crooks & charlatans all have used this sense of mystery to profit and con people out of money. These "fake" psychics and fortune-tellers, want people to believe that only they can read the tarot cards, in order to keep running their money making scams. As someone who has studied & read tarot cards professionally for over 25 years, I can say that I personally am appauled by these scam artists, and the time has come to remove the mystery from tarot cards. Here you will find the truth about tarot cards & about learning to read tarot cards, as well as some warning signs to look for when getting a professional tarot card reading.

In Case Of Emergency

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:48:00 -0600

Are you prepared for sudden disasters or emergencies like fires, Earthquakes, floods, or worse? As the wife of a severe burn injury & flash fire survivor, I know first hand that disaster can strike suddenly & without any warning. Having a plan in place for emergencies can often make the difference between life and death. Having an emergency backpack filled with all of the things you absolutely can't live without, is one of the best ways that you can always be prepared for any emergency.

Carrot Cake

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:40:43 -0600

I searched for years, trying to find the best carrot cake recipe. I baked dozens of sub-par, dry and just so-so carrot cakes using recipes others claimed were fantastic. Sometimes I had to wonder if these people even had tastebuds. Carrot Cake is a hit or miss cake in the first place. I've known far too many people who've experienced one bad carrot cake, and refused to even ever try it again. Ahhh, but once you've had even just a bite of a truly excellent carrot cake...you can never go back, you're a fan for life. The really incredible carrot cakes I had eaten, all came from people who absolutely refused to give up the secret recipe. It drove me insane! So after years of carrot cake failure, I took 10 of the best carrot cake recipes I had tried and started comparing them. I noticed little differences here and there, and being the creative cook that I am, I started working on creating my own perfect carrot cake recipe. It took me over a year to get all of the ingredients just right, but I now consistently make a carrot cake that even my hubby, the carrot cake hater, absolutely loves.

How to Have a Great Wedding For Under $100.00

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:05:25 -0600

Okay...I admit that my hubby and I got married almost 14 years ago, and that our wedding might actually cost about $150.00 if we did the same thing today. Still we had a wonderful wedding and reception in 1995 for just under $100.00 total cost. Now if you have been dreaming of a big fairy tale princess wedding ever since you were 5 years old, then this probably isn't the right place for you. But...If you need to throw a wedding with a hundred or more guests and want to have a really fun and beautiful wedding without breaking the bank...then you are definitely in the right place!

Funny Kittens

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:00:28 -0600

This is Scrapper the crabby Kitten. We adopted him from the Humane Society when he was 8 weeks old and he is a very funny kitten. He is a ball of energy, but he is also a very verbal kitten and he complains all the time. He also always looks cranky, which is pretty funny. His best friend is our elderly Pit Bull who has the patience of a saint when it comes to her kitten. Scrapper loves to terrorize poor Koko, but she loves every minute of it. This lens is full of cute and funny kitten stuff to help support the Humane Society.

I love Hemp

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:21:58 -0600

Commercial grade hemp has been grown for thousands of years for the many uses of it's fiber, seeds & oil. It grows easily in abundance with little need for pesticides or herbicides, making it one of the most productive and safest crops on Earth. Hemp can be used to make fabric, building materials & food products. Hemp is the answer to many of the ecological and economical problems of our Planet. Here you will find a variety of hemp products & facts about the many uses of hemp.

Grilled Steak Secrets

Sat, 28 May 2011 12:28:56 -0600

Grilling steaks that taste better than anything you can get at the best steakhouses is a lot easier than you ever imagined. Once you know the secrets, you will be grilling steaks so delicious that your friends and family will never want to visit a steakhouse again. Here you will find all of those secrets, along with some great recipes, grilling tips & serving suggestions.

Ways For Artists To Make Money Online

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:43:13 -0600

There are lots of great opportunities online for an artist to make money. Being an artist that is now over 40 years old, I remember the days when artists all were literally starving. The internet has really changed that. No more lugging canvases to coffee shops and galleries, just to get rejected. No more showing your art in dark and smokey bars, where everyone is too drunk to see it and the lighting is terrible. Now all I have to do is put images of my art on my home computer and join an art gallery site...and like magic...my art is seen by thousands of people with the click of a mouse. Let me share with you some of the fantastic sites I use to show and sell my artwork.

Best Hummingbird Gifts

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:37:32 -0600

Do you know someone who just loves hummingbirds? Finding just the right gift for the hummingbird lovers on your list just got easier. Here you will find all kinds of hummingbird gifts to make any hummingbird lover smile.

Build A High Quality Lens

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 15:55:30 -0600

In the long run, knowing all of the SEO, html & lens promotion tricks in the world is all just useless information if the lens you've built is a low quality lens. The real secret to Squidoo success is creating high quality, informational & entertaining lenses in the first place. High quality lenses are easier to promote & have greater lasting power. Here you will learn what a high quality lens is & how to build one.

I Blame Menopause

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:22:59 -0600

Like women don't already have enough to deal with throughout life? My kids are grown up and not in jail...I did a good job...so what is my reward? Menopause! It's just not fair, I gave birth to the children and dealt with years of monthly cramps and PMS, only to be rewarded with...Mood Swings... Hot Flashes!... Night Sweats!... Memory Loss!...Weird Hair Growth!

Woody Guthrie

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:44:39 -0600

Woody Guthrie was known as "the voice of the common man" during his musical career. Guthrie spoke up for the downtrodden and fought social and political injustice through his personal brand of folk music. He revolutionized the music industry, by using his music as a form of activism. Since then countless musicians have followed his lead, using music as a platform for protesting injustice. Woody Guthrie taught us all the power of music could go far beyond simple entertainment, but that it could in fact spark the fires of change and move mountains.

Fun Retro Gifts

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:00:06 -0600

Retro gifts are a fun way to bring a smile to the face of even those hard to shop for people on your list. What could be more fun than a gift that brings back fond memories of days gone by? Plus retro gifts are just plain fun. There are so many wonderful fun retro gifts to choose from, that it's easy to find just the right gift. Retro gifts are also a great way to share something fun from our pasts with younger generations. Here are some of my favorite retro gifts.

Cooking Tips For Tiny Spaces

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:45:21 -0600

I live full-time in a 26 foot RV and my kitchen is very small, but that doesn't mean that I can't still cook great meals and so can you. I absolutely love to cook, so having a tiny kitchen wasn't going to stop me and it shouldn't stop you either. Whether you live in an RV, a dorm room or a tiny arpartment, here you will find lots of great tips on how to use your tiny space wisely & still cook fantastic meals.

Jacob Black Gifts

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:51:36 -0600

The Jacob Black character in the twilight series is a big part of what keeps the books interesting. If it had just been Bella and Edward living happily ever after, the series would have pretty much ended with the first book. Jacob is the son of Billy Black, who is Bella's Dad Charlie's best friend in the books. Billy Black is one of the tribal leaders of the neighboring Quileute tribe in La Push, near Forks, Washington. In the books, some members of the Quileute tribe have the magical ability to transform into wolves to protect the tribe from vampires. Because the Cullen's return to Forks, Washington, Jacob is a part of the next generation of descendants to acquire this ability. Jacob's fun and sunny personality, which is the total opposite of Edward, is what keeps things interesting and makes us root for Bella to choose Jacob.

Bluegrass

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:38:56 -0600

Bluegrass music is a type of American roots music, that was inspired by immigrants, strongly rooted by Irish and Scottish immigrants who settled in Appalachia. Traditionally Bluegrass consisted of mostly stringed instruments, like the fiddle, banjo, mandolin, accoustic guitar, stand-up bass and a resonator guitar, popularily known as a dobro. Modern Bluegrass often incorporates electrified instrumens, drums, harmonica, autoharp, piano and/or accordian. Bluegrass first became popular in the mid 1940's, and though no one person can claim credit for inventing it, Bill Monroe and his band the Blue Grass Boys, are most responsible for it's name.

The Power Of Prayer

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 01:49:33 -0600

The definition of the word prayer is: The act of communicating with God. Yet my husband who claims not to believe in God, prays all the time. He gives thanks before every meal, prays for sick and injured people, and does all sorts of little prayers every day. Sometimes I tease him and ask "if you don't believe in God, who or what are you praying to?" He usually gives me sarcastic answers like "the aliens" or "MacDonalds", but he does admit to asking the universe for things, and that when he does, the Universe usually does bring it to him. I think a better explanation of what prayer actually is, would be when one focuses all of their thoughts & energy on to something specific. Regardless of what prayer is, or whom or what people pray to, the reality is that prayer often works wonders and miracles.

Broken Images Visual Poetry

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:39:20 -0600

During the summer of 2001 I created a series of mixed media collages that I still think of as visual poems. Unfortunately all of the original works got damaged beyond repair over the years, but I still have excellent scans of the originals. I hope you enjoy these visual poems as much as I enjoyed creating them. Thank you for visiting this lens Peace, Bambi

Best Gifts For Pancake Lovers

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:34:36 -0600

Do you have someone on your holiday gift list that is crazy for pancakes? Of course, who doesn't love pancakes? That is exactly why pancake gifts are perfect for just about everyone. There are so many fun gift ideas for the pancake lovers on your list & you will find them all here, along with lots of fun pancake tips, trivia & more.

Best Baked Bean Casserole

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:23:21 -0600

This easy to make and tasty baked bean casserole is perfect for potlucks, picnics and any share a dish get together. We actually like this so much that we usually keep a tub of it in the fridge all year long. We like to warm up a cup or bowl of this whenever we want a quick and easy meal. For parties and potlucks, we just put it in a crockpot, set it on warm and by the end of the party it's all gone.

Meanings for Tarot Cards

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:39:59 -0600

Well, then you are definitely not alone! It can be really confusing to figure out the meanings for individual tarot cards, especially with so much conflicting information out there. I have been reading tarot cards for over 30 years, and I know that I can help you get a clearer idea of how to interpret the meanings for tarot cards.

Flower Fairies

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:56:18 -0600

Doesn't the just hearing the word "fairy" just bring to mind magical little nymphs fluttering from flower to flower in a colorful spring garden? Fairies have served as the muse for artists for hundreds of years, and flower fairies are among every artist favorite. As an artist, I love to draw and paint fairies. They're fun, magical, playful and mischievious little beings that just always bring joy to people through art. In fairy mythology though, fairies come in many different types and varieties, some are beautiful, while others are dark and scary. Flower fairies are by far one of the most popular and fun types of fairies there are! This is one of my flower fairies. A Garden Fairy, By: Bambi Watson

Top 10 Musicals

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:48:45 -0600

Ever since I as a little girl, and I saw Julie Andrews twirling around and singing how the hills were alive with music, I was hooked. Over the years my tastes in music have changed again and again, yet I still love a really great musical, regardless of the musical style. I've always secretly wished that real life was more like a musical, and people would just burst into song whenever they had strong emotions. Because that's really what musicals are all about, the songs are moments of strong emotion, anger, heartache, excitement...all expressed with background music and spontaneous dancing...what could be better than that. So, I am one of the Squidoo Rocket Moms and we were given the assignment to either do an "about me" lens or a "Top 10 or 10 things about me" type of lens. This is one of 2 top 10 lenses I chose to make. It is my personal top 10 list of my favorite musicals. I hope you have lots of fun checking it out!

Cigar Box Guitar

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:41:17 -0600

The cigar box guitar is a primitive chordophone whose resonator is a discarded cigar box. Because the instrument is homemade, there is no standard for dimensions, string types or construction techniques. Many of the early cigar box guitars consisted of only one or two strings that were attached to the ends of a broomstick that was inserted into the cigar box. Other cigar box guitars were more complex, with the builder attempting to simulate a real stringed instrument, such as a guitar, banjo, or fiddle. No matter how a cigar box guitar is made...it's just really fun and cool!

Our Backyard Pond

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:43:48 -0600

This is our back yard a long, long time ago... back when the kids were small and that kiddie pool was our backyard pond. Over the 14 years that we have lived here we have slowly but surely built our backyard pond. It started out just as a really big hole. Not having any money to hire professionals, we built our pond ourselves with the most inexpensive materials possible. None of our ponds have had fancy pond liners, instead we have always used really big tarps. Over the years our one simple pond has grown to two ponds connected by a small waterfall. This spring we noticed some serious leakage going on and have spent the last couple of months remaking the big pond.

Best Butterfly Gifts

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:26:36 -0600

I love Butterflies, there's just something magical and fairy like about these beautiful & colorful insects. Do you have someone who loves Butterflies on your gift list? Here you will find all kinds of wonderful gifts to bring a smile to the face of anyone who loves Butterflies.

Mystic Squids

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:42:14 -0600

Mystic Squids is a Ning Group for lensmasters who are open to Alternative ideas, Spirituality & Metaphysical concepts. It's a fun gathering of like-minded Squids that are interested in personal & spiritual growth. A safe place to discuss topics like the Tarot, Astrology & Reincarnation. Mystic Squids is a mellow meeting place, so no assignments or work to do...just good friends sharing subjects we like. The rules are easy...All open minded Squids are welcome. All Squids are free to join as long as they agree to respect each other's ideas, opinions & beliefs in a non-judgemental & loving spirit. Judgemental & closed minded people will be banned. ~ Thanks Join Mystic Squids

Sounds Of Joy

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:49:19 -0600

Sounds of Joy is the name of my weekly post on the Squidoo Music Blog. Sounds of Joy is all about music that I personally feel is inspirational. Since I'm not a religious person, that mostly means music that makes me feel so good inside that I want to share that joy. I grew up in a family full of musicians & have been around the music Industry my whole life. Because of this, I like a wide variety of music both old & new. Each week I will share with you some of my favorite music.

A Catfish Tale

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:06:24 -0600

This is a short story I wrote in 2005 after many years of visiting the beautiful St. Croix River. I've often felt like I have wandered into a Stephen King story at times in and around that part of the country. There are little towns near the river that feel like time has forgotten them and I always thought the area would be the perfect setting for a scary story. There are dozens of little Islands on the St. Croix Riverway, though as far as I know none are actually haunted. The St. Croix River is a truly beautiful part of the American landscape and a wonderful place to canoe and fish. Copyright 2005: Bambi Watson

Learn to Read Tarot Cards

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:43:27 -0600

Then you are in the right place! My personal love affair with the tarot started over 30 years ago with the basic Rider-Waite tarot deck my grandmother gave me when I was 9 years old. I really didn't know anything more than what it said on the little pamphlet that came with the deck. I also had a vague concept that somehow I would be able to predict the future with my new "magic" cards. Remember that I was only nine years old at the time.

Squidoo Music

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:41:51 -0600

Squidoo Music is the collaborative brain child of mysticmama & drifter0658. Squidoo Music is a Crabbysbeach blog that celebrates the best of Squidoo Music lenses. We're having a party with lots of great music, and you're invited to come join in the fun!

pat mAcdonald and his Cigar Box Guitar

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:46:40 -0600

On his website he asks that his name be spelled in all lowercase letters except the A in mAc. Born on August 6th 1952 in Green Bay Wisconsin, he is most famous as the singer, guitarist and main songwriter for the Grammy award nominated band "Timbuk3" Currently pat mAcdonald is making a big splash on YouTube as the Bluesman who plays a cigar box guitar. * Photo by Resa Blobaum*

Thrill Rides

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:45:47 -0600

The rides are always a popular attraction at every carnival, festival and fair. Long before the first Amusement Park was built, people were enjoying thrill rides. Some of us just love the excitement of walking through the Midway and enjoying the cacophony of colors, lights and sounds. Others love the thrill of the rides. Always searching for the biggest, fastest, highest thrill ride. From Ferris Wheels to Roller Coasters, if you are looking for thrill rides, you're in the right place.

Squidoo Music Awards

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:45:44 -0600

Squidoo Music is a blog that celebrates the best of Squidoo Music lenses. Our 7 amazing music writers are searching Squidoo for the perfect Squidoo Music lenses to showcase on the Squidoo Music Blog and we need your help. Here you will find out all about Squidoo Music & how you can submit your music lenses to be considered as a featured lens on the Squidoo Music Blog!

Bambi's Birthday Wish

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 23:49:02 -0600

The truth is that once we are all grown up, birthdays just aren't much fun anymore. You just keep getting older, and birthday cake and balloons just aren't as much fun as they used to be. Then I saw this idea of making a Squidoo Birthday lens for charity and I thought what a great idea. So this is my Birthday Wish lens.

Let's Write!

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:46:05 -0600

On September 15th, 2009, a thread was started on the SquidU forum as an experiment to see if a really long forum thread could be started on purpose. Instead of choosing a controversial subject or feel good "let's pat each other on the back" type thread, this thread was started as a fun word game. The rules were simple, each new post would be an addition of one word to create a story.

Rachel Morgan

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:42:34 -0600

Rachel Morgan is the heroine of Kim Harrison's Hollows Series. Rachel is a white witch, (at least at heart) who along with her best friends, living vampire Ivy Tamwood and Pixie Jenks, fights the bad guys of Cincinnati's paranormal underworld. As a fan of paranormal fiction, I just love this series. It's fresh and exciting with strong female characters that are easy to relate to. Rachel is funny and sweet and has her heart in the right place even if the bad guys keep forcing her to use Demon magic to keep the World safe. This series is just a really fun read, on par with Janet Evanivich's Plum series for action and humor, but with enough of a paranormal twist to make it a really interesting read!

Best Bumblebee Gifts

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:26:14 -0600

I love Bumblebees! They're big roly poly and very cute, plus they help polinate all the stuff in our gardens. Do you have a Bumblebee lover on your gift list? Then you have come to the right place! Here you will find everything any Bumblebee lover's heart could desire!

Metaphysical Mystic Mama

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:39:44 -0600

Yes, I admit mobius strips, quarks and mesons turn me on. I love physics! There I've said it...I am a total science freak and proud of it! People are usually surprised to find out that someone as Earthy as me, who reads tarot cards, does yoga and is a metaphysical expert, is actually a total science geek. What surprises me is that so many people consider the metaphysical to be spiritual, when it is so obviously scientific. Just for the record, no I am not a pagan, new age, wicca, religious in any way, shape or form. I am a science geek, I believe that particle physics proves the existence of a higher purpose or power (God if you prefer that term) I believe that the inter-connectivity of all energy, material and non-material is extremely spiritual.

Meet Scrapper ~ Our Humane Society Story

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 23:56:40 -0600

On July 6th 2009 our family lost our cat Kitty Wompuss when he was hit by a car. Our hearts were broken, but the loss was especially hard for our 12 year old Pit Bull Koko. We never realized how deeply a dog could mourn the loss of the family cat. Koko became terribly depressed, she searched daily for her Kitty, whining because she couldn't find him. She spent hours just staring at the door, waiting for him to return. We got so worried about her that we took her to the cabin in hopes of taking her mind off it. It worked for the week we spent at the cabin, but as soon as we returned home, Koko started looking for Kitty Wompuss again. We considered getting her a puppy, and still probably will in the near future, but thought it best to get her a new cat first. I was checking the different pet adoption sites, looking for another Maine Coon cat, when I saw Scrapper on the Woodbury, MN Humane Society site. As soon as I saw him I knew he was the one.

10 Books To Read

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:05:29 -0600

My favorite hobby is reading. As an artist, I do a lot of crafting and such, but I consider that to be work. When I just want to relax, I find a good book to get lost in. Books are the very best kind of magic. They take you on adventures and journeys. Make you laugh and cry and feel. They let you explore places you can't afford to visit, as well as places that only exist inside of books.

Mojo Nixon

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:17:21 -0600

Born Neill Kirby McMillan, Jr., on August 2, 1957 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Mojo Nixon is an always outrageous, out-spoken, psycho-hillbilly American roots music meets punk rock musician turned Satellite Radio personality. Mojo has a large cult following of very dedicated fans that love his loud and bigger than life persona. With songs like "Debbie Gibson Is Pregnant With My Two-Headed Love Child," "I Hate Banks," "Destroy All Lawyers," and "I Ain't Gonna Piss In No Jar," Mojo Nixon is off the charts and one of a kind!

Squidoo Blogging Communities

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 01:13:55 -0600

A blogging site is a interactive blogging website where like minded people get together to blog, share information, and support each other. Squidoo related blogging sites are a great way to promote your lenses, blog about your niche topics, and get help & support from other like-minded lensmasters. There are 2 different types of Blogging Sites. One is a Blogging Community, where one main site hosts many blogs...the other is a Community Blog, where many bloggers share the same blog.

Online Writers: 5 Habits of Successful Online Writers

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:48:24 -0600

All the marketers out there would like you to believe it's because you haven't purchased their e-book, product or "secret formula". Some people would like you to believe that it's because you don't know enough about "keywords" or SEO yet, but for a small fee they will be glad to sell you this or that product that will magically make you a millionaire overnight. All of those people are about to be really mad at me..lol! The reality is that successful writers of any type, online or off, write quality content and follow a simple formula that hopefully we all learned in grade school. So what is this simple formula? “I call it the 5 habits of successful writers.”

Iced Tea

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:24:18 -0600

There is just nothing else that can quench your thirst on a hot summer day like Iced Tea. When I was a kid Grandma would set the big gallon jars out in the morning and we'd all enjoy fresh sun tea with dinner. These days sun tea is a big no-no, due to the possibility of bacteria growth, but there is no reason for that to stop you from making Iced tea. The most important thing is to be sure to bring your tea to a boil as it brews, and then keep it refrigerated until served. With herbal teas more popular than ever before, making fun flavors of Iced Tea bring a whole new dimension to the Iced Tea experience.

Best John Lennon Gifts

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:38:00 -0600

Are you searching for the perfect gift for a John Lennon fan? As someone who has been a John Lennon fan my entire life, I would love to share with you what I think are some great gift ideas for John Lennon fans like me. The music and words of John Lennon have touched the heart & soul of fans more deeply than almost any other Musical Artist. Even now, some thirty years after his death, his music still strikes a chord. Here you will find my guide to the best John Lennon gifts around.

Wild Woman's Garden

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 12:10:12 -0600

Over the years I've tried all kinds of different gardening techniques, spent hundreds of dollars on fancy equipment and bug sprays, in the end a low maintenance organic garden is the one that suits me best. I admit it, I am the World's laziest gardener, I hate to weed so I just don't. In the spring my hubby turns my raised beds and I plant all the seeds and baby plants and from that point on we just let it go wild. The only maintenance we do is to turn on the sprinkler every other day or so, and pick what we want when it's ready to pick.

Mystic Mama

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:51:01 -0600

Hello, My name is Bambi aka: Mystic Mama I am a freelance writer & creative artist who lives full-time in my RV with my 2 cats, Scrapper & Boo~Boo kitty. We travel around the United States trying to live life to the fullest. I have reinvented myself many times over the years and I am currently enjoying the beautiful sunny weather in New Mexico & exploring what adventures I will try next in my life.

SquidU Forum Guide

Sun, 09 Jan 2011 21:02:14 -0600

The SquidU Forum is where all the cool Squids hang out. It's the place to say hello if you're new, get great lensmaking tips or just chat with other Squids about the weather. Whether you're looking for a place to promote your lenses or help with a technical question, there is a place for you at the SquidU Forum. SquidU Forum is the heartbeat of the greatest community on the web! This lens is your guided tour through the SquidU forum. From learning the rules to having fun, this lens will show you where to go & what to do when you visit the SquidU forum.

Mystic Mama Artwork

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:47:29 -0600

Hello, I am Mystic Mama aka: Bambi Watson. I've been creative since I was a little girl...my mom was very artistic, so I grew up in an environment that encouraged creativity. I've tried just about every type of artistic medium. I really like fabric arts like quilting and crochet. I tend to be drawn to the more traditional creative arts though, like drawing and painting. I've also been doing some basic graphic design over the last few years and I am now learning some of the vector graphic design. Wild Spirit By: Bambi Watson

Thank You a_willow!

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:37:02 -0600

We Love You Michelle! You've been the best Team Leader we could have ever hoped for... You've cheered us on and held our hands... given us great advice and honest critique... you've listened to us and been our fearless guide... We appreciate all you've done & we are proud to be Willow's Wonder Squids ~ Thank You ~ The Wiwon Team

FLASH SCI-FI

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 17:50:52 -0600

Flash Sci-Fi is a type of Flash Fiction that specializes in the Science Fiction Genre. So, what is Flash Fiction you ask? Flash fiction is very short stories. In the case of the Flash Sci-Fi blog it is very short one post science fiction stories. These are super short stories that can be read quickly during breaks from work, or just while playing around on the web. Stories that only take minutes to read, but give as much satisfaction as a whole book. Flash Sci-Fi is the fast food of science fiction. Quick and easy, yet satisfying. Please check us out & see what you think.

Squidoo Support Sites Mentor

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:44:14 -0600

Because Squidoo has such an amazing & easy to use format for making web pages, more and more great support sites are popping up every day. Support sites are non-squidoo sites that are specifically designed to help Squidoo lensmasters succeed. There are many different types of support sites. Some are tools to help make lens making even easier. There are also lens promotion sites, community blogging sites, lens directories, RSS feed sites & even specialized Squidoo Support Groups. As Squidoo Support Sites Mentor, I am here to help you find the right support sites for you.

Hemp For Baby

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:02:16 -0600

Hemp is an all natural ecological and economical alternative to synthetic and plastic baby products. It's safer to our planet to grow and use hemp, even as a much safer alternative to most cottons. Here you will find a great selection of hemp and organic baby products to please every baby, Mommy and the planet.

How To Make A Great "About Me" Lens

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:06:23 -0600

Your "About Me" lens is your online bio, it tells the world who you are. It's the lens that establishes: * Your Brand * What you have to offer * What Your experience is and why you are the expert * Why people should trust you * Why people should care about you & what you have to say Your bio is one of the most important aspects of your online personality. Since the Internet is somewhat anonymous by nature, your bio is the only way that others online can get to know you on a more personal level.

Luis Royo Artwork

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:41:05 -0600

Luis Royo is quite possibly my favorite living artist, other than my son Travis Rogers of Course. I just love the dark fantasy world Luis Royo creates in his artwork. Born in Spain in 1954, Luis Royo is probably best known for his illustration in the movie "Heavy Metal" I discovered his work because of my interest in tattoo art and Tarot art, both of which, he has made a memorable mark on. I made this lens, mostly just for fun, because I really love Luis Royo artwork, and also to share my love of his art with others.

Top 10 Books

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:40:18 -0600

Stephen King once said "If you don't have the time to read, you don't have the time or the tools to write." I've always wanted to be a writer, because of how much I love to read. I read a lot, probably more than most people. I average 5 to 6 books / novels per week. Partly because I am a lifelong insomniac. I read before bed, usually the first or the second half of a book. Often, if it's a really good book, I read the whole thing. I'm partial to fiction, though I do read a lot of reference & resource books while doing research. My favorite fiction is the type that takes the reader on a journey, but I also love fast paced action. I tend to lean toward murder mystery type books, and though I do enjoy the newer genre of "romantic suspense" I could do without the graphic love scenes and usually skip over those parts. I'm of the opinion that less is more in that department, and think it detracts from the suspense of the story.

Hemp Household

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:03:23 -0600

Using product made out of hemp is a great way to help make our planet safer and cleaner for future generations. There are more and more products made from hemp everyday. Hemp products have also become much more stylish & fun...the new hemp isn't just for Hippies and Tree huggers anymore. Though I am an old Hippie Tree-hugger at heart and have been using products made from hemp for years...I know first hand how ugly and non-functional a lot of the first hemp textiles were. Today's hemp is softer & much more fun than hemp products from the past, as this lens will show you along with a lot of great hemp facts!

Freelance Writing Opportunities

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:58:07 -0600

Well, then you are definitely in the right place!

Best Claddagh Rings

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:27:32 -0600

This crown I give you ~ A symbol of my loyalty always These hands I give you ~ A symbol of my friendship always This heart I give you ~ A symbol of my love forever In love and friendship ~ This ring I give to thee

Life is Good!

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 11:59:03 -0600

This is one of my favorite photos of my husband Scott. It was taken on our wedding day, and yes, that is the judges actual seat and gavel in the actual courtroom where we were married. Those are also Scott's actual fingers holding that gavel, the fingers that were all amputated after his burn injury. The fingers he took for granted, would always be there. This lens is about real life, and all those little things we take for granted, those little things we don't even remember to be grateful for from day to day. Yes, life can be terribly harsh and hard, but we wouldn't grow very much as humans if everything was simple and easy. If life didn't have hard times, we wouldn't be able to recognize and appreciate life's good times. Thanks to all of life's challenges, we are able to grow and feel and laugh and cry and really be alive!

Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 20:46:56 -0600

According to the CDC around 1 in every 100 people in the World have an Autism Spectrum Disorder. I have Autism. I have what is sometimes called Aspergers Syndrome or High Functioning Autism, so it is very important to me personally that people learn more about Autism. As someone with Autism, I know how misunderstood we are. When I first found a video on youtube based on the book 10 things every child with Autism wishes you knew, I could completely relate. I think that every person with Autism wishes everyone knew more about Autism. What we need most is for people to understand us & accept us for who and how we are. The first step to understanding is to learn how we see the World around us.

The Best Of John Prine

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:44:55 -0600

John Prine is one of the greatest story telling folk singers of all time. Born on October 10th 1946, in Maywood, IL, He began playing the guitar at age 14. After serving in the Army and working as a mailman for 5 years, he began performing songs he had written at open-mic nights at a local club. After seeing John perform, Chicago Sun-Times movie critic Roger Ebert proclaimed John to be a great songwriter in John's first published review. John soon became a central figure in the Chicago folk revival, and was discovered soon thereafter by Kris Kristopherson. It's said that Kristopherson once said that John wrote songs so good that we'll have to break his thumbs. John Prine recorded his first album in 1971 and the rest is history.

True Blood

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 20:49:51 -0600

Then you are definitely in the right place. I was in love with the True Blood series long before HBO discovered it. I've read all of the Sookie stackhouse Novels multiple times. Charlaine Harris's Southern Vampire Mysteries are a rich tapestry of grown up characters for grown up vampire fiction fans. I was thrilled when I found out HBO was going to bring Sookie Stackhouse's world to life on television. The show does wander off some from the books, but the theme song alone was enough to get me addicted.

Heather426

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 17:01:40 -0600

Anyone who knows Heather, knows she loves Angels...but to me Heather is my Angel. Heather is usually one of the first people I tell whenever I start a new project, and I tend to start a lot of projects. Whatever I'm doing, she's always there, with a kind word and cheering me on. It always amazes me how many really sweet & nice people are friends of mine, but I'm grateful, because people like Heather really help me stay balanced and help me be a better person.

Everything Art Showcase

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:53:15 -0600

This lens is a showcase of the best of RocketMoms Lenses that Show off their skills in the Arts. Here you will find RocketMoms Lenses that feature their: Artistic Skills Photography Skills Crafting Skills Creative Writing Skills Journalism Writing Skills Poetry Writing Skills Graphic Arts Skills & More We Also Have links to Our Creative RocketMoms Zazzle, Cafepress, Etsy stores & more!

Dollhouse

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:51:35 -0600

Joss Whedon's Dollhouse once again shows his talent of combining just the right amount of fantasy with reality to give us a storyline that makes the impossible seem possible. The Dollhouse is located somewhere in Los Angeles, where the mysterious research group called the Rossum Corporation is not only experimenting on human beings, but also using them for financial gain. The human experiments known as "dolls" or actives, are people who are said to be willing participants, yet early on we are aware that they are actually coerced by questionable means. The dollhouse wipes out the dolls real personalities and memories, leaving their minds a clean slate, that can then be imprinted or "programmed" with any personality and persona. The dolls are then hired out, to extremely rich people, for any purpose the client chooses. These "engagements" can be anything from fulfilling the client's sexual fantasies to committing crimes for the client and everything in between.

Best Gifts For Mom

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:31:18 -0600

Mom is often the hardest person to shop for, yet also the most important person to find just the right gift for. What do you get for the person who gave you life, who kissed your boo-boos, and who always loved & believed in you. There comes a time when macaroni art and cheap drugstore perfume just doesn't express how much you appreciate all that Mom has done for you through the years. As a Mom, I know we would rather have you spend your hard earned money on the grandchildren or even yourself. As a daughter, I know we want to give Mom something that really shows how much we love and appreciate her. This is exactly why shopping for Mom can be so difficult. So, let's hear from all the Moms and find out exactly what kind of gifts Moms prefer. Practical versus Fun, Store bought versus homemade and frugal versus extravagant.

Best of Rocketmoms on Twitter

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 16:03:51 -0600

The RocketMoms are the smartest women on the web, and have a lot to say, and they have the tweets to prove it!