Squidoo : Lenses by susannaduffy

Ancient Roman Recipes

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:50:49 -0600

There was a lot more to Ancient Roman food than exotic dishes served by slaves at orgies. Lavish feasts were commonplace among the rich, but ordinary people ate ordinary meals, very similar to what we eat today. The Romans dined on roast pork in spicy sauces, snacked on cheese with dates and nuts, ate omelettes with mushrooms and enjoyed desserts of cheesecake and figs in custard. Apicius, a popular Roman chef, produced an ancient cookbook which can still be used today allowing any of us to throw together a meal very much like that eaten by the ordinary people, the plebians of Rome. And, if you're feeling adventurous in the kitchen, you can also reproduce the more exotic offerings which once graced the table of Emperors. :Publicity Still from Quo Vadis

101 Chicken Wing Recipes

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:51:19 -0600

Is there anything easier to cook than Chicken Wings? Not only are they easy to make but you can prepare chicken wings the day before you cook them. When you're planning a barbecue, marinate the chicken wings overnight and, if you've been invited to a BBQ, the wings are easy to transport too, There are so many different ways to cook chicken wings that it may be hard to narrow it down. This page features 101 of the best chicken wing recipes come and find your new favourite recipe. Picture courtesy of rick on Creative Commons.

Dublin Coddle Recipe for Saint Patrick's Day

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:51:47 -0600

I remember Dublin Coddle from my childhood. Coming in the door from school, I would be hit by the awesome smell of bacon and pork sausage and my stomach would rumble in anticipation. When I bake a Dublin Coddle now, I can't keep the guests or the grandchildren out of the kitchen. It's a simple dish to prepare, a slowly cooked casserole that looks after itself in the oven. Or make it in your crockpot, even easier. Add Guinness for an extra touch of blarney and serve on St Patrick's Day. coldporridge.com

The Ultimate Clean House Schedule

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:52:16 -0600

Cleaning the house is a daunting task. I don't care how many 'labour-saving devices' you have around the home, they don't really save much in the way of your labour. To keep the monster mess under control, you have to be organised. I hated to wake up and look around the house and see all the chores that I had to do. No matter what I did, they never seemed to get any better! Until one morning when I knuckled down and made a schedule. Let me share it with you.

Tell a Fairy Tale Day: February 26

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:48:56 -0600

Once upon a time fairy tales were read to small children at bedtime but these days parents are often too busy, or too tired. What a loss for both parent and child! Tell a Fairy Tale Day is a good start, an occasion to sit down and read the fairy folk stories which parents have read to children for a thousand generations. Take your children into the realm of fairy-story which is, as Tolkien tells us, filled with all manner of beasts and birds, shoreless seas and stars uncounted, and beauty that is an enchantment. image : picture this patty

Homemade Chocolate Molten Lava Cake

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:52:49 -0600

For someone with a sweet tooth it's a challenge to name the best dessert, but chocolate molten lava cake comes pretty close. Topped off with a big scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, this ganache filled mini cake satisfies even the pickiest of eaters. Since I can't afford to go out to eat just to consume this dessert, I found many ways to re-create it at home. There are many variations to suit any taste and they are all delicious. Grab a fork and let's get baking! Picture courtesy of barisione.

Mocha and Chocolate Victoria Sponge for Valentine's Day

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 06:49:30 -0600

Nothing beats a classic Victoria sponge cake, it's a timeless and easy traditional sponge recipe. But how about a Coffee and Chocolate sponge? The Victoria Sponge cake is named after Queen Victoria, apparently she liked a little slice with her afternoon tea. I do too.. Make a classic sponge with these adult flavours for Valentine's Day. It's the simplest of sponge cake recipes, quick to make and fit for a Queen! susanna duffy

How to Host an Ancient Roman Murder

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 16:53:24 -0600

Hosting an Ancient Roman Murder is a fabulous, fun-filled way to entertain your friends with an event they will talk about for ages. Invite your friends for a Murder in Ancient Rome. Dress up as an Emperor, a rich Roman widow, a centurion or whatever you want, let your imagination loose .Here's a lovely chance for a truly terrific party - with these first hand tips for costume suggestions and authentic ancient dishes for the modern kitchen.

Best Books on the Legend of King Arthur

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:08:40 -0600

From the faraway days of Britain come the stories rooted in ancient Celtic and Germanic imagination, stories of the strongest, the bravest and the best. Tales that have been told and endlessly retold, tales of a chivalrous knight, a powerful warrior and a just and intelligent leader. We have shaped his image to suit our shifting sense of morality, but was there ever a 'real' Arthur? I believe so. There are many in interpretations of Arthur in literature, many are the stories of early Britain, and of the Chieftan, the High King or the Dux Bellorum who held back the Saxon tide for a short moment in history. From early childrens' books which told of the Knights and the Round Table, to more modern novels of Morgan le Fay, Mordred and Merlin, these are my favourite books, well-thumbed, dog-eared, standing forever on my bookshelf. Simply the best books on Arthur, King of Britain.

1920s Fashion

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:09:41 -0600

There's something about the Haute Couture fashions of the 1920s that really appeals to me. Changes were taking place in society at that time, with women starting to throw off much of the bondage that had kept them in the 19th century. Was it this that made the decade exciting? The world had altered after those terrible four years of the Great War - old values were upturned and the rigid class structure was crumbling rapidly around the edges. There was a new world sense of liberation and the empowerment of women had begun. This showed in the fashions of the time. Women got out of their whalebone corsets and moved into more feminine and natural styles.- styles which were sleek, soft, clinging to curves, and more aware of the body than ever before.

The Great Dragon Boat Race

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:39:13 -0600

I've fallen in love with Dragon Boats! On the afternoon of the first day of April 2012, I'll be down at the Melbourne Docklands, watching the dragon-boat racing championships. The solid beat of drums will accompany frightening-looking dragon heads, the crews will give their gallant best and the boats will stab through the water to reach the finish line. And I'll be there!

Caramel Cupcakes

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:11:44 -0600

I have a secret passion for caramel (perhaps not so secret) and one way to ensure I get my caramel hit is with these luscious caramel cupcakes. You'll love them too, take my word for it. Imagine a warm gooey caramel centre covered with a sweet and fluffy caramel frosting. You'll be proud to share these with your friends and family but make sure to hide a couple away for yourself. I make cupcakes with my small granddaughter, but not caramel frosting. Caramelising sugar needs your full concentration, I don't recommend this recipe for children in the kitchen. Picture courtesy of little blue hen on Creative Commons.

Demeter the Mother from Tales of the Ancient Greeks

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:15:07 -0600

Demeter, the ancient Greek Goddess of Agriculture, is perhaps best known for the abduction of her daughter Persephone, but she is much, much more. She has a powerful message for modern times. The ancient story of Demeter and her daughter Persephone has been used to explain the cycle of the seasons, but a closer examination reveals insights on living and dying, loss and reconciliation, and, importantly, on suffering and healing. Myths can be read as symbols, and can be used as working templates for modern times. Indeed, this may have been just the way they were used in bygone days. The ancient tale of Demeter helped me recover from the death of a child and gave me the strength to pick up my life again. I'm sure it's been used in this way for thousands of years.

Make Delicious French Crepes

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:13:53 -0600

Crepes are more than just thin pancakes, they're the ultimate in sophisticated desserts and surprisingly simple to make. You mix up a thin liquid batter and drop it onto a lightly-buttered, hot frying pan. You then tilt the pan to spread the batter over the cooking surface, and let it cook to a golden hue. Voila! You have crepes! Fill crepes with just about anything. Chocolate sauce, strawberries, bananas, whipped cream, maple syrup, fruit spread, cream cheese, you're limited only by your imagination.

Tristan and Isolde a Legendary Love Story

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:16:15 -0600

Valentines's Day is dedicated to lovers. In these modern times we celebrate with chocolate and roses, send cards to our Beloved and remember the old stories. One of these old stories is that of Tristan and Isolde, often held up as an example of true and perfect love. All the ingredients for a satisfactory narrative are present; the lightning bolt of desire, the inevitable tragedy, ritual sacrifice, the denial of satisfaction and the purity of renunciation. Essentially, we are told, this is a story with profound religious meaning. Be that as it may, Tristan and Isolde is a ripping good yarn! The Old Old Story - John William Goddard

Creative ways to Cook Liver

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:14:27 -0600

Rule One : Never tell them it's liver! My kids ate liver for years without ever knowing, I would just disguise a liver dish and call it another name. I don't know why children take a dislike to it without ever trying a mouthful, surely we've been eating liver for a million years? Over the years I developed numerous ways of cooking liver so that the end product in no way resembled the raw beginning. Here are some of my successful recipes. I call them Creative Liver Cook-ups. susanna duffy

The Ten Top New Years Resolutions for 2012 - Trying to Improve

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:36:42 -0600

The same Top Ten New Year resolutions crop up every year. Why? It's obvious. Because they're just so hard to keep! I have trouble keeping my resolutions, but this time I'm determined to finally do better. Success is not an accident, it begins with a well-conceived plan. You can and will achieve more in the next year than you have in the past ten with a disciplined plan of action. By investing your efforts into a New Years Resolution, you give yourself a launch pad for starting your new year and your new life. My list includes many of the items listed below, but this Lens is not about my New Years Resolutions, but the Top Ten Resolutions.

Do You Know How to Find a Fairy?

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:18:41 -0600

If you know how to find a fairy, please let us know. Many a Sunday, Claudia and I have set off searching for signs of fairy life. We explore far and wide, in all the likely places, examining hints from fairy story books. Fairies prefer a particular habitat and so we keep a sharp lookout for any fairy-friendly spots As a child I looked everywhere for fairies but never could I find one, now Claudia is on the fairy quest too. One day we'll find a fairy.

Cupcake Decoration Supplies - 25 Different Themed Cupcake Picks

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:16:52 -0600

Cupcakes! Who doesn't love a cupcake? The revival of the cupcake came with Sex and the City, cupcake bakeries sprang up overnight and millions of cooks across the world took to whipping up pastel confectionery delights. Now people want to know How can I make a different cupcake? Make some different cupcakes, whip up a batch for different friends with a focus on their hobbies and likes. They'll thank you for the appetising cupcakes decorated with their favourite leisure activities and fun games. image : Kathleen Waters

Arthur's Women from Tales of King Arthur

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:20:34 -0600

The tales of King Arthur are legendary His achievements of courage and endeavour are exciting stories passed down through generations, and songs are still sung of Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. But who sings the songs for the Women of Arthur? The most well known woman in the Legend of Arthur is Guinevere, Arthur's Queen, who is said to have caused the downfall of Camelot. Another is Morgan le Fay, his half sister. His mother, the often-overlooked Ygraine, appears briefly at the beginning, her only part is to give birth to Arthur. There are also mystical women, such as the Lady of the Lake. We also meet ordinary women in Arthur, women who are not Queens or great women of magic. Love seems to always bring them tragedy, like Isolde of Ireland, or Elaine the Fair, whom Tennyson immortalised as the Lady of Shalott. But when the feats are recounted and the stories retold, what do we say of the women in this story? The portrayals of these women tell us much more about the attitude of the storytellers than about the women themselves.

Shark Teeth

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:17:29 -0600

One of the most enduring success stories from evolution is that of the shark. They're older than dinosaurs, 200 million years older, and the story of their continued survival is an epic tale. From Wobbegong to Great White, the sharks we see today are the end result of hundreds of millions of years of evolutionary adaptation. While sharks are certainly ancient, there's nothing at all primitive about their modern descendants. Today there are over 400 species of these highly-specialised predators, with sharp teeth, strong jaws, streamlined bodies, and powerful senses. Who isn't afraid of sharks? oregon attractions

Basic, Easy Frittata Recipe

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:21:14 -0600

Are you looking for a basic, easy frittata recipe? Then you're in the right place! I love cooking frittatas. They're so easy, the ingredients don't cost a lot, and frittatas have lots of protein and vitamins and minerals. What more could you ask from a recipe? If you have a cast iron skillet (or a pan that can go both on the stove and in the oven), eggs, and a few other ingredients, than you're ready to make a delicious frittata. Good for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and snacks, you may never cook anything else ever again! cobalt.

The Secret Life of Trolls

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:15:43 -0600

The truth about Trolls is ugly. Yes, ugly. For Trolls are ugly, malicious creatures who will never be anything but the enemies of mortals. These fearsome, baleful and evil minded creatures are from the mythology of the wild northern lands, fiendish giants related to Ogres. You may read of a Troll here and there who is not quite as spiteful as the rest, you may hear whispers of a Troll who seemed friendly enough to humans, but pay no attention! Trolls are not friendly, they are nasty vicious beings and the only way to treat a Troll is to run .. as fast as you can! And never look back! \John Bauer Museum

Best Books of Norse Mythology

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:18:06 -0600

The Norse myths are peopled with all sorts of fantastic beings - gods and giants, elves, dwarves and dragons! Like all mythology, if we pay close attention to what the stories are saying, we learn a great deal about what our ancestors thought was important in life. Their myths tell us about their perception of the spiritual universe. The world as they saw it. Let's look at the best books on the mythology of the North, the legends of the Nordic world and the Sagas of ordinary people who understood the great Northern Gods.

Living in Luxury in Ancient Rome

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:25:58 -0600

How satisfying it must have been to live in Ancient Rome in the first few centuries of our era. But only if you were rich! For a rich Roman was fabulously wealthy, as is to be expected in an imperialist society based on slavery. Sumptuous homes, imported fabrics, great works of art, excellent entertainment, the finest of food imported from all over the Empire and that very essence of wealth - time.on your hands. Some of the many luxuries enjoyed by well-to-do Ancient Romans were theatre-going, gym workouts and delicious dining in beautiful surroundings. People haven't changed in a couple of thousand years.

Ancient Beer the Oldest Recipe in the World

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:22:19 -0600

If you look at a field of wheat and a loaf of bread, you wouldn't guess that one came from the other. But we've known about the relationship for at least 10,000 years. Bread really is the Staff of Life Beer is liquid bread, and in ancient Sumer, beer making and bread making were different sides of the same coin. The Sumerians left us a recipe, on a clay tablet, for making beer. t's the oldest recipe in the world.

Japanese Paper Art and How to Fold your Own

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:23:08 -0600

Origami, the art of paper folding, has been popular since the early seventh century, The word is Japanese, literally meaning to fold (oru) paper (kami) and the beauty of Origami transcends any barrier created by language. Perhaps you first saw this magical technique as a child, did you make one of the famous paper Peace Cranes in school ? Seeing an ordinary piece of paper turn into some type of creature or toy is fascinating. How is it done? In only a few minutes you will be folding paper before you know it. Here's how to make a few simple items and directions to more intricate Japanese Paper Art. Warning : Once you get started it's very hard to stop!

Top 10 Snowboard movies

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:41:16 -0600

Do you think I'm crazy for wanting to have a snowboard? My children think so.Where I live it doesn't even snow! In Australia there are only a few places to find snow and that's for about three weeks of the year. It doesn't stop me from wanting to take up the sport myself. If I can't snowboard myself then at least I can watch movies with lots of snowboarding. Here are the Best 10 Snowwboarding movies. wikimedia

Pyramus and Thisbe a Legendary Love Story

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:34:04 -0600

The Story of Pyramus and Thisbe is the oldest love story in the world. It's a story we still tell - and it's a tragedy. It's a familiar tale to all of us although we may not instantly recognise the names of the ancient lovers. You know it very well, it's the story of young lovers whose union is thwarted by their opposing parents and whose lives end in double suicide based on a misunderstanding. Two, by themselves, each other, love and fear, Slain, cruel friends, by parting have join'd here. John William Godward

The Truth about Redheads

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:38:33 -0600

Redheads are relatively recent in evolutionary terms, only being with us for about 20,000 years but, in that short time, a whole body of superstition has built up around them. In Ireland if a traveler happens upon a woman with red hair, he must go back and start his journey all over again. In Corsica, if you pass a redhead in the street you must spit and turn around. During the Spanish Inquisition red hair was evidence that its owner had stolen the fire of hell and had to be burned as a witch and a Russian Proverb warned "There was never a saint with red hair". Perhaps the most common myth is the alleged bad temper of a redhead. The highest percentage of natural redheads in the world is in Scotland (13%), followed closely by Ireland with 10% and roughly 40% of the Scots and Irish carry the recessive redhead gene. Did the fiery-tempered superstition originate in the ancient Queen of Ireland, Macha Mong Ruad? Portrait : Juana de Castilla, by Juan de Flandes. 1496

I love Inspector Montalbano

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:33:59 -0600

I have a passion for a handful of fictional detectives. Salvo Montalbano is one of them. He's a terrific detective, smart, suave and constantly keeping ahead of his media-dazzled superiors. Montalbano sees to the heart of a case almost intuitively, much the same way as he approaches his food, concentrating fully on each tiny factor as well as the overall picture. Il Commissario is as committed to finding the ultimate meal as he is to solving crime. His character summarises much of what is stereotypical of Sicily and, although there's very little of the Mafia, there's lots of delicious regional food.

The Secret Life of Leprechauns

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:55:23 -0600

There is much nonsense spoken of leprechauns, some mistaken, some misguided and some deliberately misleading. Many are the tales of intoxication, wild revelry and, I'm sorry to say, malicious damage to livestock. But this is all tittle tattle, when did you last see a drunken leprechaun chasing chickens? In truth, leprechauns are hard-working cobblers, turning out exquisite shoes for all manner of sprites. If you happen across an industrious little fellow at the bottom of a garden hammering out a shoe, look closely - for he may be a leprechaun. Step quietly, for leprechauns will avoid humans, knowing us to be foolish and greedy. BamJam

The Ultimate Cucumber Sandwich

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:03:38 -0600

For afternoon tea you must have cucumber sandwiches. Not just any old cucumber sandwiches either. It may sound simple to put together the three essential ingredients of bread, butter, and cucumbers, but there's more to making a cucumber sandwich than you think. Just as there's an art to a proper afternoon tea, there's an art to the ultimate cucumber sandwich. The cucumber sandwiches must be good enough to serve to the Queen Of England.

The Roman Emperors

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 21:51:29 -0600

When asked for the name of a Roman Emperor, most people will answer Nero but there were 147 rulers whom we call Emperors. Like all rulers some of these men were, on the whole, good for the Empire and some were, on the whole, bad. Let's look at these Emperors in chronological order with some short information on each one. Image : Ciaran Hinds as Julius Caesar in Rome, HBO

Home Made Steamed Puddings

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:44:49 -0600

There's nothing snobbish about a steamed pudding. It doesn't give itself airs. The allure of the steamed pudding is its simplicity. A simple pudding can often outshine a more exotic production. Served with ice cream or custard, the honest home-cooked taste of your own pudding will make any meal memorable. It's so easy to steam a pudding, it takes no great culinary skill and you don't need any special tools. Just a pudding bowl.

The Secret Life of Dragons

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 04:14:05 -0600

In the world of fabulous creatures, the dragon is unique. No other beastie has appeared in such a rich variety of forms nor in so many places. Are they mythical, allegorical, or did they really exist? Among the oldest of mythological creatures, dragons appear in the traditions of many different cultures - back to the beginning of our time. He is often portrayed as the first creature to roam the universe just after the Creation. The Dragon is the frontier between our world and beyond! draconika

My Stuttering Life

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:00:49 -0600

G'day, my name is Susanna, and I stutter. I bet you didn't know that. Not many people do. I've been faking clear speech for some time. It's not easy and takes fierce concentration. When I get home and kick off my shoes I relax and stutter away the evening with family and friends. So what am I doing on stage in local theatre productions? Why have I been a radio broadcaster for over 20 years? How come my daily life revolves around Public Speaking? I pretend that I don't stutter and almost always get away with it. I use a combined approach of mental strategies and breathing techniques. Because anyone, even a stutterer, can fake it.

Pepperoni Soup

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 06:58:10 -0600

You can make a meal of soup at any time of year but there's something really special about a bowl of hot soup in winter. Soup is both comforting and filling, a hot, savoury bowl can help take the chill off the colder evenings. A quick and easy way to feed your family is a tureen of soup with lots of crusty bread. There's no better comfort food, no matter what soup you prefer. Any soup warms you up! One of my favourites is pepperoni soup. It just makes me feel warm and cozy. cafe porridge

Ned Kelly - Australian Legend

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:14:58 -0600

Ned Kelly is Australia's most famous bushranger, a folk hero who became a legend during his own life. The Kelly Gang rose from petty horse thieves to Australia's most wanted outlaws but Ned had the hearts of the common people. Controversy still rides over his original conviction, and his execution on November 11th, 1980 is remembered across the country to this day. Ned has been memorialised by painters, writers, musicians and filmmakers, books have been written and songs have been sung in his memory. Ned is part of the mythology of 'the bush' - the perceived cradle of mateship, equality, and the masculine virtue of fearless strength. To be as game as Ned Kelly is high praise indeed.

Make a Pretty Pink Cake

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:02:47 -0600

Instead of using food dyes and colouring, the cake is transformed into a pink masterpiece with jelly crystals. I've heard of cakes made with a pink lemonade mix but I'm not even sure where to buy the mix. Jelly crystals do the job beautifully, giving a pink-on-pink colour, moisture and a definite touch of sweetness.. It's not just little girls who appreciate a pink cake. I do, and so will you.

Best Books on the Trojan War

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:10:30 -0600

The story of Troy has been told over and over in a thousand ways. I grew up with the walls of Troy more real than my own backyard fence. Indeed the backyard fence was the wall of Troy and I was always Kassandra, wailing piteously, when all I ever wanted to be was Hector. There's a huge range of novels about the Trojan War, the events leading up to it, and the men and women whose lives were affected by it, so it's difficult to find a book that doesn't feel stale and predictable. Would you want to tackle such a subject? No author can spring surprises when we already know the outcome. The book has to be good to hold our attention. This selection of accounts from different viewpoints are all entertaining, suspenseful and very very good. And all on my bookshelf.

Bucephalos the Bad Tempered in Tales from History

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:00:04 -0600

Was there ever a horse like Bucephalos? This magnificent creature, the war horse of Alexander the Great, carried his owner across the known world from victory to victory. Bucephalos was as black as a crow's wing at midnight in mid-winter. He was eighteen hands high, with a long powerful neck, proud majestic head and was admired for his strength and beauty by all who saw him. Ah yes, he was known across the battlefields as a magnificent horse, a horse of great courage and great strength. What is less known, however, is that Bucephalos was a cantankerous nag.

Best Waterproof Video Camera

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

Many people have Waterproof Video Cameras on their wish list. I certainly have. I want to take high definition videos underwater so I've been looking for a good waterproof video camera. I think I've found the very best deals in water proof video cameras. From the Kodak Playsport water proof camera to the Sanyo line of water proof video cameras, these cameras don't cost an arm and a leg.. From an underwater video of stromalites in Shark Bay

What is it with Beards?

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:07:11 -0600

The beard must be the most contentious feature of a man's face. It's certainly the most fascinating. It's nothing more than the sign of the adult male, or is it? Like the thick cartilage which surrounds a man's larynx, it appears in puberty and is classified as a secondary sexual characteristic which only means that women have neither an Adam's Apple nor a beard. (Most women, anyway). But there's something about this perfectly natural growth on the face that causes diverse and drastic responses. In some communities the beard denotes a high social status, it can be an outward sign of a religious belief, or it can signify rebelliousness, a willful indifference to the status quo. While to some people a beard may convey an impression of wisdom and knowledge, others see this as mere slovenliness, is there any middle ground?

Water Dragons of Australia

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 03:21:57 -0600

Our dragons may not be as big as the ones you read about in old legends but they're a good size just the same. They don't guard treasure hoards or devour maidens although they will consume lots of insects and the occasional frog. Australian Eastern Water Dragons are lizards. Shy little fellows who hang about on creeks, dams and rivers, keeping out of the way of predators and avoiding people as much as possible. wikimedia commons

Old Fashioned English Steak and Kidney with Dumplings Casserole

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:05:22 -0600

Some days just call out for steak and kidney Steak and kidney is an English dish with a filling of diced beef steak and kidneys in a thick sauce. Usually found in a one-crust pie, steak and kidney is easy, filling and delicious when made in a casserole. You get all the flavour and eating experience of a steak and kidney pie without going to the bother of actually making a pie. In this recipe, the steak and kidney is cooked with some dumplings flavoured with fresh parsley.

Zen

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:13:14 -0600

I like to get stuck into a good crime mystery and I thoroughly enjoy Inspector Zen. My favourite fictional detectives in modern times are Italian but whereas Montalbano is in Sicily, Zen is most decidedly in Rome. And what a Rome it is! The ancient Roman politicians would recognise it. The wheels within wheels of intrigue, scandal and political corruption. A Rome in which connections mean everything, men scramble for favours and where Aurelio Zen fights crime, despairs of bureaucracy and frets about his mother. image :wikipedia, under fair use

The Punishment of Sisyphus : Tales of the Ancient Greeks

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:24:09 -0600

The ancient Greeks called Sisyphus the 'craftiest of men' but to us, he is the symbol of futility. Sisyphus had a particularly arduous task and not just difficult, but boring and meaningless. Through Eternity he had to roll a huge boulder to the top of a hill. It took Sisyphus all of the day to do this, toiling up the steep, tree-hung incline and it exhausted him utterly. Each evening, as the first stars appeared, Sisyphus would reach the crest of the hill. And each evening the boulder would plunge back down to the bottom again.. . Sisyphus :Titian, 1549

Help! I've been plagiarised!

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:12:04 -0600

You've just discovered that someone has stolen your content. All that hard work you put in, the research and the sweat, casually ripped off your site by an unscrupulous thief. These thieves don't just steal your hard work, they steal your traffic and they steal your income. Don't let them get away with it! There are professional ways to deal with thieves, here are some steps to take when your content has been stolen. Big Stock Photo

Pegasus - Tales of the Ancient Greeks

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:26:51 -0600

Pegasus, the white winged horse, is the result of a close encounter between Medusa the Gorgon, and Poseidon the dishonourable God of the Sea.. When Perseus slew the Gorgon, blood flew out of her head and mingled with the foam of the ocean and Pegasus was born. With a slash of his hoof, the winged horse created the Hippocrene, the sacred spring of the Muses which still gushes forth its sparkling waters on Mt. Helicon today. And that may have been the last we heard of Pegasus if it were not for human jealousy and distrust. image : wikimedia commons,

Dangerous Jellyfish - Wildlife Australia

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:35:06 -0600

Lots of people are afraid of sharks in Australian waters, although the prospect of being attacked by a shark is only slightly more probable than the chances of a meteorite falling on your head. It's unlikely you will be taken by a crocodile either. Sydney Funnel Web Spiders and Redback Spiders have caused human deaths, but not since anti-venoms were made available in 1981. And if you're lucky enough to see a snake - it's only a friendly Aussie saying G'day, just don't try and pick it up But you can, very easily, be fatally stung by a harmless looking jellyfish.

The Secret Life of Fairies

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:27:39 -0600

My great grandmother warned me about fairies. Some are kind, and beautiful, she said, while others are hostile to mortals. Fairies are not little Tinkerbells at the bottom of your garden, they are spirits of nature, minor deities of the natural phenomena. They are the energies in earth, air, fire and water. There are many facts that you should know about Fairies, that you must know about Fairies, including how to recognise the most common Fairies you may happen to meet in modern times. Most especially, you should be aware of Changelings!

Freya, the Lady, from Mythology of Scandinavia

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:07:58 -0600

I have always loved the Lady. I didn't know her name until I was 15, but she was with me before that. Perhaps all of us are born with a hard-wired impulse to hero-worship, a longing to believe in something greater than our mundane existence, an ability to suspend belief. All I know is that the day Freya fell out of a school text book, I knew her. And I had found her name. It wasn't the concept of divinity I found, but the abstraction of Freya, the reflection of steadfastness, a source of courage and self discipline in an intensely feminine form that was absent in the Virgin Mary of my Catholic childhood. Be true to yourself, said Freya. I would have done better to remember her words.

Dogs in Mythology - Tales from the Ancient World

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:30:05 -0600

Psychopomps are Guides of Souls, Ushers of the Dead, particular spirits, angels, animals or deities whose responsibility is to escort the newly-deceased souls to the afterlife. Psychopomps appear in many and diverse forms, but no form has more impressed us than that of the Dog.

What's So Hot about Feet?

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:30:30 -0600

Take a look at your feet. Seriously, take a good long look at them. Your feet have carried you around for longer than you can remember, they automatically start working when you start walking and how often did they get a holiday? We never really consider our feet until something goes wrong. photo : woodleywonderworks

Vietnamese Prawn Soup - Pho Tom

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:21:13 -0600

Vietnamese Pho is tangy and fresh, with wonderful flavour and amazing health properties at the same time. For instant zing tuck into a bowl today! It's not at all hard to make, in fact it's incredibly easy. So easy you'll wonder why you haven't been making it before. All the ingredients for this tasty shrimp soup are either already in the Western kitchen or readily available in the supermarket. The only ingredient you may not have to hand is black wood ear mushroom. Can't find any? No worries, use button mushrooms instead. Susanna Duffy

Poseidon, Lord of the Sea from Tales of the Ancient Greeks

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:36:56 -0600

Poseidon was the second most powerful god of the Olympians and yet another example of the dysfunctional male divinities who plagued Greece with their childish and boorish behaviour. Despite his lamentable ways (or perhaps because of them), Poseidon held great power and significance for the Ancient Greeks. The temples to honour Poseidon were usually situated by the sea, and you can always identify him from the crowd of other heavily-stubbled Olympians by his trident. This trident was made for him by the Cyclopes and he uses it to stir up the waves and command the winds, usually to the detriment of human interests.

Old Fashioned Caramel Cake Recipe

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:34:01 -0600

Caramel cake is an absolute classic! It's fairly simple to make and 100% delicious. If you're like me, a fan of caramel but can't stand how it gets stuck in your teeth, caramel cake is the way to go. It's perfect for any occasion from an anniversary party to an after Christmas dinner dessert. Your family will thank you every time you make this mouthwatering cake. Cafe Porridge

Laksa a Taste of Malaysia

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:22:04 -0600

It's delicious, it's addictive, it's rich, slightly sweet and strongly spiced. It's laksa! Even the name is delightful. It rolls off your tongue and tempts your tastebuds. Try it. So what exactly is laksa? It's a coconutty broth with lemongrass and galangal and diced Vietnamese mint piled with tofu and poached seafood and chilli and sambal - and, and, anything else you want to put into it. .... all combined with fat egg noodles and skinny rice vermicelli. Said to be the creation of long-ago Chinese migrants to Malaysia, this mouthwatering meal in a bowl traveled down from Malaysia, through Indonesia, to end up as one of Australia's favourite dishes. Take one spoonful, and you will immediately understand why.

Hermes, Messenger of the Gods from Tales of the Ancient Greeks

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:39:22 -0600

Hermes, God of the Crossroads, is also the god of trade, profit and commerce, of story telling, quick thinking, magic, illusion, and trickery. You will also hear that among his many talents and honours, he is the God of Thieves. But Hermes himself is no thief, nor does he actively encourage antisocial activities, he is more the patron of cunning. It's this devious street-smart aspect that marks him as the God of Guile and therefore held in esteem by orators, poets, politicians, thieves and liars. A much more important aspect is his influence over boundaries and of the travelers who cross them. As the Messenger of the Gods he moves effortlessly from one place to another. And so he is cherished by those who come to a crossroad.

Antarctica

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:18:05 -0600

There's a price to pay for Antarctica. You have to work hard to get there. Everyone who goes to this most isolated continent, scientists, support workers, government officials or determined tourists must 'earn' Antarctica, by making an often-difficult and costly voyage at predetermined times of the year. Ice and weather, not clocks or calendars, determine the itinerary and the timetable of all travel here. There are no luxury hotels, no chauffeured limousines, no pampering. What you get is vast and breathtaking scenery in a rugged remote continent at the bottom of the world. The last untouched place on the planet. Big Stock Photo

Cuddly and Creepy Australians

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:17:02 -0600

Have you ever cuddled a koala? They're warm, furry and they smell beautiful! Plenty of other animals can be cuddly too, or at least look cuddly, like this Tasmanian Devil who, besides being a bit on the nose, has extremely strong teeth and jaws. Australian animals have spent a long, long time separated from the rest of the world - on a life raft as it were - evolving in isolation for roughly 45 million years. Being so long separated from the rest of the large land masses allowed different evolutionary paths, and the Marsupials took the front seat. There are all sorts of creatures in Australia, like mammals which lay eggs. Some are cuddly and some are creepy. Come and meet a few.

Looking for Gold - Travel Victoria

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:24:51 -0600

Gold! It's been worshipped, plundered, fought over and traded for thousands of years. In the Victoria of 1851 gold was literally oozing from the ground in almost inexhaustible quantities. Wealth was everywhere, and fortunes were being made. It was gold that created the growth and power of Melbourne over its rivals and it was Victoria's goldminers who introduced Chartist principles such as male franchise and secret ballots to the politics of Australia.

The Destruction of Roman Pompeii

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:42:39 -0600

You could read a thousand books to learn of Life in Ancient Rome - or you could look at the legacy of Pompeii. The houses and public buildings of Pompeii show us all too vividly what it was like to live, and to die, in a Roman town. Pompeii was destroyed, completely buried, during a catastrophic eruption of the volcano Mount Vesuvius which took over two long and terrifying days in the year 79. The eruption buried Pompeii under 60 feet of ash and pumice, and it was lost for nearly 1,700 years before its accidental rediscovery in 1748. Today Pompeii gives us an extraordinarily detailed insight into the life of a city at the height of the Roman Empire. It tells us about the people who once ruled the known world - they were just like us.

Halloween Egyptian Costumes

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:11:22 -0600

Probably the most well known image of an Ancient Egyptian Goddess is that of Bast, a woman with the head of a cat. What does she have to do with Halloween? The ancient Egyptians celebrated the Feast Day of Bast on October 31. It was a happy festival, with street parties and all sorts of merry making. And that's the connection with Halloween, the date, the parties, and the opportunity to dress up in some Egyptian costumes. Here are some easy Egyptian Costumes and Accessories to make or buy.

Apples in Mythology from Tales from the Ancient World

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:13:48 -0600

Eve is reported to have bitten into an apple, or perhaps it was a quince. Hera gave some apples to her husband for a wedding gift, or maybe they were lemons. And everyone knows about Golden Apples, they're such a familiar element in legends and folk tales. Usually, a hero has to retrieve them to marry the King's daughter, fulfill his destiny, liberate those held in thrall, or generally to save the world from evil.

Leap Year Day

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:30:13 -0600

According to astrologers, those born under the sign of Pisces on February 29 have unusual talents and personalities reflecting their special status. They would certainly need some talent in avoiding disappointment, it must be hard to celebrate a birthday only once every four years. These days, most Leapers hold their birthday festivities on 1st March - so much easier

How to Pretend you've been to Australia

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:37:52 -0600

Sick and tired of friends with their endless tales of exotic travels? Pretend you've been to Australia. It's easy enough to do. Hang a few Australian landscapes around, wear an Australian shirt, play some Australian music and serve up an Australian meal. You picked up the recipe somewhere on your travels through the Outback, didn't you? Don't forget to address your friends as Mate.

Three exotic fruits you must try before you die

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:26:08 -0600

I must eat more fruit! We need five or six pieces of fruit each day to keep our bodies fit and our brains working well. I get nowhere near that, perhaps that's why I feel like I'm slowing down. To bump up my fruit intake I've been trying new and exotic fruits and discovered the wonders of three delectable fruits growing almost on my own doorstep. Why not try these tropical fruit delights? Even if you don't live in the tropics,, the modern wonders of refrigeration and fast transport can bring even the most exotic tropical fruit to your table.

I want to Decorate a Cake like a Pro

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:25:26 -0600

I want to decorate a cake, if not like a skilled professional at least like a gifted, artistic amateur. Can I do it? How do real cake decoraters do it? Cake decorating skills come with practice I'm sure and having the right tools, but where does the inspiration for beautifully decorated cakes come from? Photo : Jamie Anderson

The Unusual Celebration of Thorrablot

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:17:09 -0600

You just can't beat a good Celebration - the anticipation, the gift-giving, the music and the mouth-watering traditional foods to mark the special occasion. Thorrablot is no exception. The Icelandic Midwinter festival extends from 19 - 25 January, the old month of Thorri, and originally honoured Thor. You don't have to wave a hammer about to have a good time and, even better, you don't have to actually eat the traditional food. image : Thduke, wikipedia

Legendary Lovers

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:28:14 -0600

Everyone in the world understands Love. It's an emotion that unites us across the ages, it knows no barriers of geography nor does it touch only the chosen few. Each and every one of us has been moved by Love. The stories of Great Lovers, of Star-Crossed Lovers, and of Love which conquers all are part of our vast human heritage. At all times, in all places, we tell the tales of those whose Love transcends time and place. It's the tragic chronicles of heartbroken lovers which we remember more readily than those which end happily. For, not only do we understand Love, we understand a bruised and bleeding heart. But how well do you know these pairs of Lovers, from history, mythology and literature? . Big Stock Photo

Dionysus, the Dual God, from Tales of the Ancient Greeks

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:38:26 -0600

Loud-roaring Dionysus, the son of Semele and of Zeus, is said to have invented wine and spread the art of tending grapes. A handy god to have around indeed. He is not just the god of wine, but of the madness which can follow a few days of binge drinking and consequently of all madness. Dionysus is a strange concept - he stands somewhere between man and woman, human and god, for he has a complex dual nature. On the one hand, he is the god of agriculture, and also the patron god of the Greek stage. On the other hand, he represents the outstanding features of mystery religions, of ecstasy, and spiritual intoxication. It's this connection with spiritual euphoria, a condition close to physical inebriation, which makes Dionysus a fascinating and elusive deity.

Yowie - Beware!

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:19:12 -0600

When you walk in the thickly-forested areas of South Eastern Australia, keep an eye out for Yowies. Watch your back in remote mountains too. You can't mistake him if you see him, a Yowie is over seven foot tall, covered with thick dark brown hair and bearing a marked resemblance to a gorilla. If you're unsure if what you've just seen is a Yowie or a particularly large orang utan, check the feet. Yowies have enormous feet. cryptomundo

Adorable sock monkey fabric, ribbons, and notions

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:32:22 -0600

Fabric that is patterned with sock monkeys is fun to sew! It's colourful and versatile. It's especially nice to use for children's crafts such as bedding and quilts since it has such a delightful classic toy theme. When used for children's clothing, it can be eye-catching and adorable. Your kids will love anything made with these fabrics!

The Priestess of Delphi - Tales of the Ancient Greeks

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 21:13:15 -0600

The ruins of Delphi have been sacred since at least the Bronze Age. From this sanctuary on Mountain Parnassus, the Priestess (Pythia) delivered her oracles on what is, and what is to be in somewhat cryptic utterances. The ruins are now little more than a plinth of stone supporting a few Doric columns, but once Delphi was the very centre of the universe and ruled all Greece. For this was Omphalos, the navel of the world.

Pink Power Tools: Great Gifts for Women

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:41:52 -0600

It's important for women to do it for themselves, particularly when it comes to being handy round the home. Do you wait for your better half to fix things in the house? It's better to be one of the new breed of self-sufficient woman who doesn't call for help to slot together IKEA furniture, hang a picture or fix the leaking tap. I didn't even know how to hold a hammer until my fortieth birthday - you should see me now. I have power tools! Pink, of course. It's incredibly empowering for women to use tools instead of playing the damsel in distress. Learn to do it yourself. Get practical, girls! Image by mscitykitty on Flickr.

The Beauty and Benefits of Sunflowers

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:19:39 -0600

You can't mistake a sunflower. It's impossible to mistake a sunflower. It's a distinctive, golden-flowering plant, Helianthus annuus, full of seeds which contain a yellow, sweet oil. Apart from the golden beauty, sunflowers are incredibly useful. The valuable edible oil has more Vitamin E than any other vegetable oil, the flowers yield a yellow dye, and the seeds are eaten dried or roasted. What more benefit can a plant be? How more lovely is this flower, with such a bright golden beauty that has captured the sunshine of a hundred sunny days.

Sicilian Eggplant Caponata

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:36:11 -0600

I've fallen a little in love with eggplants. And maybe a little in love with Inspector Montalbano too. The books and TV series aren't just smart and witty detective mysteries, they're also a tribute to the glories of Sicilian food. And so we come to the eggplant, or aubergine, and a dish which is waiting for Montalbano when he comes home for lunch. Caponata. It's somewhere between a salad and a stew. You can pile caponata on top of fresh crusty bread for a perfect lunch. Use more liquid and pour it as a sauce over pasta for a hearty vegetarian dinner.. Serve on its own in a bowl with bread to dip on the side, or on small serving-size pieces of Italian bread. Susanna Duffy

Kookaburra - Wildlife Australia

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:27:37 -0600

He who laughs last, laughs longest and in the case of the Kookaburra it's true. A Kookaburra also laughs the loudest. The sound of the kookaburra is synonymous with Australia and it's been suggested that our style of speech, even our alleged 'accent', is influenced by being exposed to this boisterous bird since birth. Be that as it may, but without the kookaburra our days would surely be tinged with drabness and how would we know that the morning had broken? For in the Dreamtime, when Googoorgaga the kookaburra laughed, it was a signal to the Sky Spirits to light the great fire of the sun in the morning, and the signal to put it out again at night.

Old Fashioned Corned Beef

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:09:41 -0600

How I love corned beef! It was a rare treat when I was a child for we grew up on lamb. Our diet was lamb, mutton and more lamb, broken only by fish on Fridays and poultry at Christmas. My Nanna cooked Corned Beef with golden syrup, My Aunt Kathleen with beer, my Mum served it with parsely sauce and I like to roast it and slice thickly for sandwiches. However you like to cook Corned Beef, however you like to serve it, it's all the same good solid corned beef which fortified my ancestors. It's the English equivalent of the French pot-au-feu. A classic.

Will the Kraken Wake?

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:47:29 -0600

No Sea Monster was as terrifying as the Kraken!. Its monstrous size often caused it to be mistaken for an island but, when curious mariners drew near, the islands would erupt into a seething mass of multiple heads, horns and waving arms that could grasp and sink even the largest of ships. Horrified sailors spoke of the Kraken reaching its many arms up as high as the top of the main mast of a sailing ship. The beast would attack a hapless vessel, wrap its arms around the hull and slowly capsize it. Those unfortunate souls who couldn't escape would be eaten by the monster. It was also said that when the Kraken submerged, it could suck down a vessel into the whirlpool it created. Save us from the Kraken!

I love Mushrooms!

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 03:57:28 -0600

Seneca, first century Roman philosopher, hated mushrooms. Emperor Claudius was poisoned by them, as was Pope Clement VII. The Normans praised their aphrodisiac qualities and the ancient Egyptians decreed them to be food for royalty alone. These days truffles, porcini, morels, crimini, ceps, portabella, black Chinese, yellow chantarelles, cinammon caps, hon-shimeji and their cousins are no longer seen as either the food of gods or of devils. A mushroom is a healthy wholesome and altogether delicious treat Big Stock Photo

Find and Befriend your Muse

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:31:43 -0600

What inspires you? What nurtures your creativity? What fuels your visionary gift and where does it come from? Truly, the source of creativity has been a mystery ever since our earliest times. The ancients attributed the miracle of inspiration to a divine source, to the nine Muses, daughters of Zeus, the Lord of Olympus, and Mnemosyne, the goddess of memory. These Muses presided over song and poetry, as well as over the arts and sciences So the Muses are the daughters of memory, and of a god. Their name, akin to the Latin mens and English mind means 'a reminder', since in the earliest times the poets, having no books to read from, relied on their memories. Refresh your own memory, look inside yourself at your source of inspiration and find your Muse.

I am addicted to cigarettes

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 23:14:32 -0600

It's very easy to give up smoking. Take my word for it. I've given up thirteen times Every day I battle my addiction to cigarettes, I go to bed wanting a smoke and when I wake up I'm still craving. Last year I managed to stop for some weeks at a time but the craving is powerful and as I write this I could kill for a smoke. Now in 2012 I have bought 2 packets since New Year's Day and I despair of ever stopping! What's wrong with me?

Robert Burns Night Menu

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:18:13 -0600

For more than two hundred years, people have been getting together in January in memory of Robert Burns, the Bard of Ayrshire and Scotland's favourite son. These get-togethers are in the form of a dinner, or supper, around the time of Burn's birthday on 25 January. I'm told they're highly popular in South Island, New Zealand. This year I'm holding one. Portrait of Robert Burns 1787 : Alexander Naysmith

Best Whodunnits in Ancient Rome

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:48:06 -0600

Some of the best fictional detectives do their sleuthing in togas. The challenge in historical fiction is not just to deliver a decent novel - a difficult enough task, but to be accurate to the historical time period and about the ways people lived, how they ate, and spoke, and the ways in which men and women interacted. To weave an historical mystery following the established whodunnit formula is close to genius. These four sleuths are from Ancient Roman times. Gordianus and Decius, from the days of the Republic, and Falco, from the first century, are typical gumshoes (or gumsandals), cynical investigators who would have been quite at home with Sam Spade and Philip Marlowe. The fourth detective is Libertus, a logical puzzle solver in Roman Britain, and a man who would enjoy a cup of tea with Miss Marple.

Poached Salmon and Leeks

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:30:57 -0600

Fish lovers go for salmon in a big way but even people who aren't fond of fish like salmon. We have been advised to eat one or two fish-based meals each week, but how many of us do that? Lots of us are missing out, perhaps in the mistaken belief that fish is difficult to prepare Is Salmon hard to cook? Far from it! Salmon is the super-easy super-food.

How to Make Strawberry Jam

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:44:05 -0600

Straight from your own kitchen, home-made jam has a gorgeous fruity flavour, a clear bright colour and it's full of plain old fashioned goodness- goodness that goes beyond the taste. You've made the jam and you know exactly what's in it. It's your jam. If you've never made jam, then you won't know how ridiculously easy it is. You won't know the pleasure of spreading berry jam over a warm scone and admiring the vibrant colour before biting into the sweet richness of your own making. It's a great experience. When was the last time you tasted home made jam?

Make a Red Velvet Cake for Valentine's Day

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 23:23:24 -0600

The simply amazing Red Velvet Cake has been a hit with everyone for years . It's not just the flavour of Red Velvet Cake, it's the amazing look of it. An appeal that 's second to none! When you want a cake to tempt any sweet tooth, you can't go past this classic image : kimbelykv

Traditional Sicilian Pasta alla Norma

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:22:24 -0600

I'm a great fan of Inspector Montalbano, the fictional detective created by Andrea Camilleri. Montalbano loves his food and there's always a mention, in almost every chapter, of the fine Sicilian dishes he enjoys. So I had to try cooking some of these recipes myself! I've made Pasta con le Sarde (pasta with sardine sauce) many times and told my dinner guests it's an Ancient Roman recipe (the fish sauce is my excuse) and had much success with Caponata (eggplant salad), but I've never tried Montalbano's beloved Pasta alla Norma. This traditional Sicilian eggplant pasta dish was a first for me.

How to have a Hip 60th Birthday Party

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:34:56 -0600

Planning a 60th birthday party? Why not make a big occasion like this a load of fun. Go for a hippie party, let your hair hang down and relive some crazed days of your youth. It's easier to have a friend or family member to help out but if you want to have a party for yourself, then make sure that you have your finger on the operations. Don't let anyone else suggest a formal, over-dressed etiquette-heavy affair even if it's said to be elegant. It's your party. Tie Dye if you want to! TrendyDingetjesenDatjes

Vietnamese Grilled Pork

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 04:16:29 -0600

Vietnamese Grilled Pork is no different to cook than any other recipe for grilled pork except for the marinade. The sauces, spices and marinades are what makes Vietnamese cooking different from all others. The marinades for Vietnamese grills may be simple, but your guests will find them exotically different. These recipes for Vietnamese style pork on the barbecue include pork sirloin, diced and skewered, and pork chops in a spicy marinade.

The Secret Life of Unicorns

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 22:47:55 -0600

Do you believe in unicorns? The enchanting Unicorn has universal appeal as a symbol of all the magic, enchantment, and power of the Realm of Faerie. He is of the mysterious, magical world of dreams and reflects all which is pure, chaste and honourable. The death of a unicorn is the death of innocence. But is the Unicorn from Asia, or is he European? How can you tell the difference? When was a unicorn last sighted? Where can I find a unicorn and do I have to be a fair maiden? Everything you wanted to know about unicorns but were too shy to ask.

Vietnamese Chicken Soup - Pho Ga

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:34:18 -0600

In Vietnam, a bowl of pho is often breakfast. In Australia it's often lunch. Whenever you choose, pho is a delicious and healthy soup any time of day. The traditional main ingredient of pho is beef, but this is a wonderfully adaptive soup and can be made in many different ways. This recipe, Pho Ga is easily made in the Western kitchen with chicken breasts, chicken broth and fresh herbs. Once the bowl is put in front of you, you can spice it up more to suit with bean sauce or chili sauce and squeeze in a few lime wedges. Dig in with a pair of chopsticks in one hand (to lift up the noodles to cool them off) and a spoon in the other (to lift the noodles to your mouth).

The Beauty and Benefits of Calendula

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:40:15 -0600

Do you have a calendula plant in your garden? The bright cheerful calendula, or marigold, is native to Mediterranean countries but is now grown as an ornamental plant throughout the world. It's cultivated in the kitchen garden for the flowers. You dry these for teas and broth. Used for medicines since historic times, calendula is making a comeback in the modern first-aid kit and used as beauty care in numerous products. I use calendula salve to hasten the healing of the little cuts and burns I pick up in the kitchen. I just love calendula for its sunny golden beauty. Indeed, just to look at a bed of blooming marigolds comforts the heart and spirit. Try it. wikimedia commons

Dingo, ancestor of all dog breeds - Wildlife Australia

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:23:56 -0600

The mother of all dingoes was most probably a single pregnant female. An intelligent animal, she trotted across the landbridge from Indonesia to Australia about 5,000 years ago and made a home for herself close to the people who inhabited the great Southern Land. Her descendants are the last ancient living link between the wolf and the domestic pooch. Now they are threatened with extinction. While the dingo may occupy a sacred place in the Dreamtime stories of indigenous Australians, much of the broader population still holds the view that it is a cunning creature, a cold-hearted hunter, merciless baby-snatcher. This is a terrible unwarranted misconception.

Diarmuid and Grainne a Legend from Ireland

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:07:48 -0600

The tale of the Pursuit of Diarmuid and Grainne is an epic story of wilful love, broken trust, relentless passion and ultimate tragedy. Like all such stories which live a long life,and this story is at least seventeen centuries old, it concerns a love triangle. A familiar triangle, the old king, his young wife, the trusted knight. The three involved in our story are the great Fionn mac Cumhaill, the beautiful but headstrong Grainne, and the noble young warrior, Diarmuid Ua Duibhne. It's a saga of magic, sorcery, murderous mayhem, bloody vengeance, relentless pursuit and a final act of treachery. In other words, a love story.

Ancient Roman Chicken a la Fronto

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 20:10:01 -0600

I often dream of living in Ancient Rome. As a wealthy matron of course, not as an ordinary citizen or an over-worked slave, but living in luxury as one of the elite. In the absence of a time machine, I instead stage dinner parties with food based on Ancient Roman recipes and encourage my friends to wear fancy dress as they dine on my cheesecake, fig-stuffed pork and my savoury chicken. All cooked first century style. This is my version of Chicken a la Fronto, so named for a Roman author of a lost treatise on agriculture. He won't mind at all that I've put my own take on it. John William Goddard 1896

Fred Hollows, Hero

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:12 -0600

Fred Hollows was an inspiring man. A passionate man. An opthalmologist at a prestigious Sydney hospital, he helped set up the first Aboriginal Medical Service and launched a national programme to combat eye disease in Aboriginal Australians. By the 1980s, Fred had extended his campaign for treating avoidable eye disease in some of the world's poorest countries. Today there are more than one million people in the world who can see -- because of Fred Hollows .

Ides of March

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 19:02:17 -0600

What happened on the Ides of March? In modern times we know this as the date Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BCE. Perhaps not the happiest of days in history but, regardless of the outcome of that particular day for Julius, it's a good enough time to raise a toast to the legacy left to us by the people of Ancient Rome. An excellent time for an Ancient Roman meal .. purplepeanut

What to do with Plums

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 20:33:37 -0600

Plums, with their tart skins and juicy fruit are delicious eaten raw with the stone removed, but you can cook up plums too. Plums can be poached, boiled, baked, grilled, pan-fried or microwaved. Plum jam is a perfect way to preserve the dark flavour. Serve plums with ice cream, custard, fresh cream, over breakfast cereal, and in fruit salad. Plums also turn into tangy sauce, chutney, tapenade, pate and sherbets, mixed into cakes or breads and cooked in tarts and pies. .

Zeus the Philanderer from Tales of the Ancient Greeks

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:18:28 -0600

Zeus was the supreme God of the Ancient Greeks, and the ruler of Olympus . He had titles like Lord of the Sky, Cloud-Gatherer, Rain-God and Zeus the Thunderer. He was mighty, glorious, awesome, wise and mythology's most well-known philanderer. Through this less than noble behavior of the noblest one of all, he became father to numerous children. His encounters with any passable female, god or mortal, who caught his lustful eye have been described as love affairs but they were, without exception, unwanted by the lady concerned. There are numerous tales which recount the insatiable lust of the ruler of Olympus, but his one true love was Ganymede, the most beautiful boy in the world.

Buy Audio Books for Children

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 05:06:18 -0600

Audio Books for Children are a great way for young readers to hear their favourite stories on the go. Put the audio books on their mP3 players for them to carry with them. Quick as a flash the kids are listening to classic childrens' tales. A perfect way to take their books on car trips, airplane flights or just to listen on a long summers day. Audio Books for Children make excellent gifts for young readers. Image Credit: Amazon

Beowulf and Grendel the Movie

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:14:54 -0600

Beowulf and Grendel takes you into a world of fable and myth, a world where men, larger than life, stride along the border of light and dark, beset by evil dreams and dark vengeance. On the edge of waking and dreaming is the Hero, holding back the monsters of the night. It's a tribal tale told round the fire. Safety ends where the firelight ends - beyond is the dark in which all terrors dwell. Is what we see and hear true? Is this a story to entertain and thrill while we quaff our beer, as did the ancient Danes, before we pass into sleep? Without a hero to guard us, the lurking fears of the night creep upon the sleeper and bring on a cold sweat. Anything which is not recognisably our neighbour is dangerous, no stranger can be trusted. We are transported to another world, and the otherworldly landscape of Iceland lends an appropriate touch of dark fantasy to this modern retelling of Beowulf, the oldest epic poem in the English language.

The Green Man

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:07:01 -0600

He is the Green Man, Cernunnos, the Horned One, Jack in the Green, Green George and the Old Man of the Woods. He is the archetypal male essence, the thrusting life force, the potent initiator whose body is wild nature itself, the vitality of the forest merging with man, and many other things besides.

Ancient RomanToilets

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:29:35 -0600

The Ancient Romans were skilled sanitation engineers and they had something that the modern world didn't achieve again till the seventeenth century. Toilets. If you came along with me on a time-travel trip to first century Rome, you would find the toilet arrangements perfectly acceptable. Apart from the lack of privacy. Pardon? No Privacy? In our modern times,going to the toilet is most definitely a private matter but communal latrines were perfectly acceptable to the Ancient Romans and they used this opportunity for a little old fashioned networking.

Best Books on Greece and Greek Mythology

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 06:17:41 -0600

Something happened in the islands of Greece a few thousand years ago. Maybe a stray meteorite was to blame, spilling onto the plains of Attica in an invisible cloud of interstellar dust carrying the secrets of lost solar systems. Improbable? It's a nice thought anyway. How could you explain the sudden proliferation of intellectual leaps which characterise the nature, and the glory, of Ancient Greece? For such a small place it certainly made an impact. Our whole western philosophical tradition is based on the way that the Ancient Greeks thought. Our practical life, from dawn till dusk, is still managed from an Ancient Greek view.

Recipes for St Patricks Day

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:29:06 -0600

Make a special dinner for St Patrick's Day and decorate your house to suit your table. Serve potato soup, corned beef, colcannon and soda bread. Finish your meal with Irish Coffee. All you need for an Irish look is a green tablecloth and napkins. Make up some green cutouts of shamrocks for your walls and lucky Irish mobiles to hang from your doorways. Now, find a large rock to place near your doorstep and make a sign which reads Blarney Stone : Kiss for the Luck of the Irish big stock photo

How about some new lyrics for the Australian National Anthem?

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:53:57 -0600

When I was a child the Australian National Anthem was God Save the Queen and protocol demanded we all stand as it was played. I was glad to see the back of that tradition of playing the British Anthem as our own - although I do miss the fun of defiantly remaining seated. When the idea of changing the anthem to something more "Australian" was suggested, there was a terrible fuss. I still can't believe the outcries of rage from the conservative elements. I've nothing against the British Anthem per se (and I'm glad they've dropped the verse about Down with all Catholics) but why was it the Australian Anthem too? These days we play God Save the Queen when she's actually present - or her representative is attending some official function. Advance Australia Fair is now our anthem but I reckon the lyrics need updating again..

Gone With The Wind Dolls

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 21:14:53 -0600

You don't have to be a millionaire to dress a doll like Scarlett O' Hara. That's just one reason why collecting dolls dressed from Gone With The Wind are so appealing. Even though they aren't practical in modern society, the outfits worn by the cast were extraordinary. The most memorable is the Curtain Dress, the gorgeous green gown which Scarlett and Mammy made out of the drapes. That dress, and the other costumes, can now be brought into your home by collecting the beautiful dolls made in the likeness of the characters. Tonner Dolls have the officially authorised Vivien Leigh likeness and, like all the Tonner highly collectable dolls, she's very much in demand.

Slow Cook Smoked Mozzarella Fonduta

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:55:08 -0600

I love anything with cheese and fondue is no exception. Fondue isn't a Swiss recipe, nor is it French, it's Alpine. Melted cheese is also traditional to northern Italy where it's called fonduta. This mozzarella cheese fonduta is made in a crock pot instead of in the oven. Serve up this creamy, smokey, spready dip with fresh crusty bread and you've got a winner. Big Stock Photo :

Where was Camelot? Tales of King Arthur

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 01:35:27 -0600

At Camelot, it is said, Arthur established a brilliant court with the Knights of the Round Table, the greatest and most chivalrous warriors in Europe.. Camelot, the starting point of the Quest for the Holy Grail, is at the very centre of the Arthurian legend. But where was Camelot? In the twenty first century we aren't looking under stones for missing medieval castles and lost kingdoms. We understand that life in the early sixth century was not like that portrayed on the silver screen, that the turreted keeps and delicate towers of poetic imagination are fairytale and Arthur himself is no majestic monarch- in- residence. Still, we have been looking a long time for Camelot.

Fast And Easy Vegetable Lasagna Recipe

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 17:45:03 -0600

Have you ever tried a Vegetable Lasagna Recipe? Lasagna is popular with all age groups but kids and teens really go for it in a big way. Let the teens cook it themselves. With healthy vegetables and the richness of cheese, this lasagna will go a long way when served just with salad and some crusty bread. Susanna Duffy

The Great Australian Pavlova

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:03:51 -0600

The Pavlova was first created in 1925 by Chef Herbert Sachse of the Hotel Esplanade in Perth, Western Australia, to celebrate the visit of the legendary Russian ballerina, Anna Pavlova. It has been suggested (only in New Zealand) that this enticing dessert was originally created in the North Island of New Zealand, but let me assure you that the Pavlova is definitely an Australian invention. In no way do I call the New Zealand Claim an outright cold-blooded lie - I merely point out that New Zealanders are grossly misinformed. It's an understandable mistake, the Kiwis across the Tasman are constantly claiming Australian inventions, innovations and inspirations as their own. Now, let me introduce you to that most delightful Australian dessert, the perfect Pavlova.

The Sweet Song of the Sirens

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:30:16 -0600

In bygone Greek myth the Sirens were Naiads, lovely Nymphs of the Sea, who lived on the island of Sirenum Scopuli surrounded by sheer cliffs and sharp-toothed rocks. Approaching sailors were entranced by their glorious singing, and the lyric voices caused men to sail onto the cliffs and drown. From the sea-drenched crags around Sirenum Scopuli, the Sirens would sing their wondrous songs entrancing and luring sailors ever closer till the boats were shattered on the sharp teeth of the underwater rocks and the men, senseless, were sucked down forever into the depths. Only two ships ever escaped the Siren Song, the Song of Death, one boat steered by the Argonauts off to find the Golden Fleece and the other captained by the shrewd Ulysses.

Should I stop wearing lipstick?

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:04:59 -0600

Once upon a time I couldn't wait to wear lipstick and look older. Now I think that wearing lipstick makes me look too.old. Sometimes I l look at myself in the mirror and wonder who that old lady can be, but I still reach for my lipstick and start smudging it over my mouth. Should I keep on wearing lipstick? Is it drawing attention to the inescapable fact that I'm neither a young lass nor a smart 40 something professional woman with a flair for fashion? Does it make me look old?

Hank Williams - Country Music Legend

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 16:06:06 -0600

His life was short, he wasn't on reality TV and he had been a recording artist for just six years, yet Hank Williams is considered internationally to be one of the most influential country music artists of all time. Over half a century since his death, who among us doesn't know the foot-tapping "Jambalaya", the pain of "Your Cheatin' Heart," or the universal heartbreak in "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry". Hank was found dead in the back seat of his Cadillac on New Year's Day 1953. He was just 29 years old.

Beef Wellington for Two

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 16:42:08 -0600

Beef Wellington is simple enough to put together - this recipe is a pushover for the beginning Cook. It looks classy, elegant in its individual serve, with some fresh herbs to garnish and served with baked potatoes and french beans. Or just serve it up with a big bowl of crisp green salad.and a glass of dry red wine. cafe porridge

Is it Plagiarism?

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:55:58 -0600

If you have to ask if you're plagiarising, then you most probably are plagiarising. Intentional thieves, fraudsters and cold blooded scammers know perfectly well what they are doing, but there are some people who have literally no idea that plagiarism is wrong, or even what plagiarism is. Plagiarism is using someone else's words, sentences, or ideas and passing them off as your own without giving credit to the original source. The word plagiarism is from Latin, and you can understand the significance if you look at the meaning the ancient Romans gave to plagiarus. It meant to plunder, to loot, or to kidnap. Let's be clear. When it comes to creating a lens, plagiarism and copyright violations are against the Squidoo Terms of Service. Big Stock Photo

Loki the Trickster from Mythology of Scandinavia

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 04:28:51 -0600

In the old Scandinavian Mythology you will come across Loki, the Trickster, a puzzling and complex character. You either love him or hate him, it's hard to find a middle ground. He is involved in numerous pranks and jokes but often, while setting up comical situations, bad things happen and tragedy ensues. For instance, his nasty role in the Death of Baldur, best-loved of all the gods makes it hard to feel fondness for Loki!. The role of Trickster, the Deceiver, is necessary in mythology, you find him, or her, in so many of the world belief systems and the Northern Deceiver is Loki.

Old Fashioned Toffee Apples become Gourmet Candied Apples

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:05:20 -0600

When I was small my grandmother made toffee apples for special occasions. She produced these gorgeous, sticky, jaw-breaking confections for birthdays, Christmas, St Patrick's Day and sometimes just for no reason at all. We didn't particularly care what day it was. We only cared about those yummy apples on sticks coated with gooey red toffee. These days, the red toffee apple has been replaced with candied apples and often these are dipped in caramel or chocolate with fancy toppings like crushed peanuts, chocolate chips and sprinkles. Some days I pine for an old-fashioned toffee apple, the same as I had in childhood. So I make some! You can too, in less than half an hour.

Sicilian Arancini, Montalbano's Croquettes

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:21:40 -0600

As an avid fan of Inspector Montalbano, the fictional detective created by Andrea Camilleri, I'm intrigued by the Sicilian dishes ever present in the novels. This year I'm going to master some Sicilian recipes, so lovingly detailed by Camilleri that I simply must try them. These little balls are Arancini, deep- fried rice croquettes coated with breadcrumbs, filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and peas. The Sicilians have been making them for a thousand years.

Sour Dough French Toast

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:41:56 -0600

French toast is one of my favorite recipes. You can have it for breakfast, brunch, or whenever. It has so many variations and ways to be prepared that the possibilities are endless. I like mine the old fashioned way with maple syrup and a little powdered sugar on the top. The difference is that I like to use sourdough bread for my toast. It gives it a better flavor and holds up better than sandwich bread. Here is my easy recipe along with a few extras. jspatchwork on wikipedia

Five Things to do with Brussels Sprouts

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:32:21 -0600

When Brussels Sprouts are in season it's easy to run out of ideas for cooking these little green vegetables. It seems like every day you're dropping them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until just tender, draining the pot and then tossing the sprouts with.butter and chopped fresh dill. How many times can you stir-fry quartered brussels sprouts with chilli? Here's 5 more ways to cook them, 5 more things to do with Brussels Sprouts. image : wikipedia

I love Quince!

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 06:58:02 -0600

The quince has fallen out of favour in modern times and there are plenty of people who wouldn't recognise a quince if it were served up on a plate. What a delight waits for them! The quince was once sacred to Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love. The ancient Greeks said it was the Fruit of Paradise in the Garden of the Hesperides, the mythical Eden sought by Hercules somewhere past Egypt. I bet it was! A quince is a perfect fruit to grow in the garden of a goddess. There's something essentially paradisial about a bowl of quince with vanilla ice cream. Just heavenly! There are a number of exciting and exotic ways to cook a quince. Perhaps even erotic - but I don't want to go into that particular aspect of the quince. (I merely remind you to remember Aphrodite) Let's have a look at a few of the many ways to enjoy a quince. Susanna Duffy

Claudia goes to Pompeii

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 23:58:53 -0600

Who isn't awed by the dramatic story of the destruction of Pompeii? It's not just the disaster itself which can still reach to us across almost two thousand years, it's what that catastrophe has left behind. The ruins of Pompeii give us a vivid picture of life, disaster, and death in a Roman town. Melbourne Museum had a wonderful exhibit, A Day in Pompeii, a thrilling collection which brought us the story of daily life in the ancient city. More than 270 priceless objects were on show, most never seen before in Australia. Too good for me to miss! My granddaughter, weaned on my tales of the Ancient Romans, couldn't contain her eagerness to accompany me.

Rendang aTaste of Indonesia

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 07:05:02 -0600

Do you rendang? It makes a startling change from the old Irish stew that hangs around in my childhood memories. I don't know if the alleged Irish stew was ever eaten in Ireland, they probably get stuck into rendang themselves in the Emerald Isle. Rendang is a mild meat curry - but it's really nothing like curry at all. It's basically a beef stew spiced up with galangal root, lemongrass, kerisik, lime leaves, and coriander seeds.

Kupe the Navigator - Legendary Hero

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 07:00:12 -0600

Five thousand years ago, the first voyagers set out from Southeast Asia into the most forbidding ocean of all. They crossed a vastness greater than all the seas combined, an endless expanse larger than the whole land area of our planet - the awesome and majestic Pacific. Their descendants, superb sailors and navigators, were masters of the boundless waters. One of these fearless seafarers was Kupe the Navigator, who sailed out from Hawaiiki, mythical ancestral homeland of the Maori, and discovered the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Te Kete Ipurangi

The Smith of the Gods from Tales of the Ancient Greeks

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:18:39 -0600

Unlike the other gods of ancient Greece, Hephaestus was not divinely handsome and beauteous of limb. To put it plainly, he was downright ugly. His feet were misshapen, his complexion hideous, he was so grotesque it was said that his mother threw him over a cliff when he was born. Perhaps it wasn't his mother, Hera, at all, but his father, the mighty Zeus, who did the throwing but, in any case, he was hurled down all the way from lofty Mt Olympus. He landed on the Island of Lemnos where he grew to be a master craftsman and the God of Smiths.

Minted Lamb Rack Classic Roasts

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 01:36:27 -0600

Lamb rack is a particulary flavoursome cut and, when combined with fresh herbs and a simple salad, is the perfect meal for two people . Lamb is one of my favourite foods of all, but when it's presented with the mint glaze it looks really classy on a plate. Just follow these four simple steps to making a minted rack of lamb and the end result will have your dining table looking like a restaurant.

Leprechaun Watch for St Patrick's Day

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 16:59:34 -0600

You can have the Luck of the Irish without being in Ireland. Any reason to have some holiday fun is a good reason, even you aren't Irish. You may not be lucky enough to watch a parade on St Patrick's Day, but you can always listen to some good Irish music and have some good Irish drink like Guinness, Irish Whiskey or the very lovely Irish Cream. Pin a few shamrocks to your jacket or tie some green ribbons in your hair, for you mustn't forget to wear green, the lush green of the soft hills in Ireland. Top is all off with your own personal leprechaun on your wrist for extra Irish luck. And make your friends green with envy!

Bast the Beloved from Tales of Ancient Egypt

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:41:38 -0600

Bast is the protector of cats, women and children and holds the mysteries of the cat in her power - those magnetic animals with such strong power to fascinate or repel. For the cat is identified with Bast and she is most recognised for her portrayal as a woman with the head of a cat. Cats were sacred to Bast and to harm one was a great crime. To those in her favour, Bast gave great blessings, but her wrath was legendary, she was an avenging Goddess who punished the enemies of Egypt. Her worship was widespread, and her city, Bubastis, was once the capital of Egypt. When a cat curls up with its head touching its tail, it forms a circle, the symbol of eternity, the symbol of the goddess in whatever form she has chosen image : Istanbul Archaeology Museum

Banjo Paterson, Bush Poet

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:15:48 -0600

Banjo Paterson, the well-loved Australian poet, is known chiefly for his 'Waltzing Matilda'. It's our unofficial anthem. Small children read his poems at school and advertisers know the very real power of his verse. He vividly captured the 'feel' of the Bush, the vision splendid of the sunlit plains extended, And at night the wond'rous glory of the everlasting stars and for city-bound Australians, even those with no childhood memories of camping under the ti-tree or curled up in a sleeping bag beneath a mighty Murray Red Gum, Banjo evokes a deep nostalgia for a way of life that is now, forever, in the past.

Vintage Knitting Patterns for Dolls

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:47:39 -0600

Looking for some knitting patterns for dolls of the 50s and 60s? Look no further. You'll find in here some patterns for dolls' clothes, knits that are pre-Barbie and well before the Bratz. Three outfits with patterns in the public domain, designed for the 1950s 'Fashion Doll', and three patterns you can buy online. wikimedia commons

The Secret Life of Elves

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:26:07 -0600

Elves are often misunderstood.They are seen as haughty and even arrogant but, as the longest-lived sentient race, they are merely distant from those worldly affairs which hold such great import for mortals. It must be remembered that Elves were wrought from light at the very beginning of the world and will live until it ends. It's this quality of long life that gives them such patience and tolerance. Some commentators go so far as to say that the Elves harbour no grudges against humans, but the truth is that Elves merely understand that an offending mortal will die relatively quickly and there's no need for revenge. But all the same, tread lightly round the Elves, don't annoy them in the slightest. .Not for a minute.

Rosemary Sutcliff Teller of Stories

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 01:34:40 -0600

Rosemary Sutcliff was first and foremost a great storyteller and said of herself that she belonged to the minstrelsy. With her impeccable historical research, thrilling tales and her own poetic and rich prose, she has gifted us with books which are already considered as classics and will be read for many years to come Sutcliff is considered mainly a childrens' author. However her books have a wider appeal, addressing as they do complex and elemental themes in an intricately woven and foreign background. Some are definitely for adult readers. She was writing on the morning that she died on 23rd July 1992.

The Curious Town of Coober Pedy

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:10:05 -0600

Nothing but dust, heat, flies and more dust. No water, scarcely anything green to rest your eyes from the orange and ochre of a stony, treeless desert. It gets to 52 degrees Celsius, 126 Fahrenheit, in Summer and it's always cold at night. Out here, in the middle of South Australia's barren Outback desert where a few thousand people burrow underground to survive, is one of the most unusual holiday destinations in the world. Welcome to Coober Pedy.

Maisy Mouse Soft Toy

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:46:01 -0600

My little granddaughter loves Maisy. I get as much pleasure as she does watching the animated series about Maisy, the friendly, whimsical mouse with an insatiable curiosity and a "can do" approach to life. Maisy constantly explores the world around her; a vibrant, colourful version of our own world. Her child-like outlook offers a unique perspective on a world that combines reality with magical fantasy - the world of a young child. In Maisy's world every day is a new adventure.

The Irish Harp

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:10:32 -0600

The Harp that once through Tara's halls The soul of music shed, Now hangs as mute on Tara's walls As if that soul were fled. So sleeps the pride of former days, So glory's thrill is o'er, And hearts, that once beat high for praise, Now feel that pulse no more. No more to chiefs and ladies bright The harp of Tara swells: The chord alone, that breaks at night, Its tale of ruin tells. Thus Freedom now so seldom wakes, The only throb she gives, Is when some heart indignant breaks, To show that still she lives. Harper Oona McOuat

Lamb Shanks

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:49:01 -0600

Lamb Shanks have changed remarkably since my mother cooked them. The lamb shanks themselves are still the same, it's the ingredients and method of cooking that my mother wouldn't recognise. Shanks were once classed in the frugality basket but, although they're still great value for money, you can produce a gourmet meal from this old favourite.

The Progress of Arthur from Tales of King Arthur

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 01:36:08 -0600

It's no surprise that the Legend of Arthur lives on - it's a human story, as old as our history, moving, inspiring and a classic tear-jerker. A man who dreamed of peace and order, who fought a powerful enemy against great odds and won years of respite for his community. A man whose life was marked with tragedy and wild misunderstanding, with a wife who didn't love him, a best friend who betrayed him and a son who killed him. A man who yet managed to be an ideal king. You find the same story in great literature and in any television soap opera.

On the Trail of the Tasmanian Tiger

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:04:28 -0600

The Tasmanian Tiger or, to give him his real name, the Thylacine, is said to be extinct. Be that as it may, each year there are at least a dozen unconfirmed sightings in remote areas. As recently as 1995 there were many reports of a Tasmanian Tiger seen in the Pyengana region of eastern Tasmania . That's close enough for me to believe there are still a few thylacine left and I am determined to spot one. I've camped out at Pyengana, searched diligently for traces of thylacine, kept quiet and still in a hide by waterfalls for days on end but have not, as yet, seen any sign of this elusive creature. One day I will see a Tasmanian Tiger. I feel this in my bones, but that could just be the aches from camping out in the damp.

Dolphins of Monkey Mia

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:06:24 -0600

No one can ever forget Monkey Mia. I certainly can't. The tiny resort town of Monkey Mia on the shores of Shark Bay in Western Australia is famous for its dolphins. One Summer I spent a week enjoying incredible conversations each day with dolphins, but then everybody talks with the dolphins in Monkey Mia. Dolphins that swim up to greet you and bump your legs as if you're an old friend.. For more than forty years the bottlenose dolphins have been visiting and interacting with us, and we still don't know why. It seems they just enjoy the friendly contact! Accommodation has been built right on the famous beach so visitors can spend a couple of days exploring this unique area.

Medieval Royal Recipes Tudor Mince Pie

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:09:18 -0600

Once upon a time the English mince pie, known as Christmas Pye, was a large dish filled with various meats. Knights returned from the Medieval Crusades with spices never before seen in England and these were gradually added to mince pies until over the years meat was fully replaced by the spices. Let's make some " Ryschewys close and fryez", mince pies fit for the King. The Ryschewys is the pasta parcel filled with a spiced fruit and nut paste, to "close and fry" tells you what to do with them. .Here's a recipe, from the Royal kitchen, for these spicy little fruit pies. Yorkshire & Humber Grid for Learning

Lamb Loin Classic Roast

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 15:42:04 -0600

Loin of Lamb makes one of the finest and sweetest lamb roasts. It's the most tender part of the lamb, and chops cut from the loin are the lamb equivalent of porterhouse steaks. Versatile loin requires little cooking time and can be prepared quickly and easily. In this recipe we prepare a simple stuffing of bread crumbs, pork mince and herbs but you can accent the flavour by choosing your own stuffing mix, such as rosemary and balsamic vinegar. Ask your butcher to bone the loin completely and to leave it untied.

Ring Of Claddagh | Meaning Of Claddagh Ring

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 18:21:45 -0600

Ring Of Claddagh originates from Claddagh Co. Galway Ireland and was originally given as a sign of, Love, Loyalty and Friendship. Ring of claddagh was first produced in the 17th century during the reign of Queen Mary the II, although elements of the design originate from the roman era! The ring of claddagh is made up of three distinctive features the hands, the heart and the crown and they mean the following, The Hands - means friendship The Heart - means love The Crown - means loyalty There are three traditional ways to wear the ring of claddagh too and they are as follows. 1. If the claddagh ring is worn on the right ring finger with the heart pointing away from the body it means the wearer is not in a relationship. 2. When worn on the same finger with the heart pointing the other way it means the wearer is romantically involved with someone and unavailable. 3. If the ring of claddagh is worn on the left hand wedding finger it means that the wearer is engaged or is married, as this ring was often used as a wedding or engagement ring in Ireland. The ring of claddagh has many stories attached to it so please read on to discover what some of these are.

Menopause Matters

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:45:22 -0600

Your family wears you down, your work suffers, your body won't obey you, your temper is on a short leash and tears are just around the corner. Things seem to just get out of control nowadays and what are you told? It's that dreaded M word. Big deal. Living with the Change doesn't mean you're on the way to a nursing home. Don't throw in the towel, keep it handy for a quick mop of your face! And look forward to PMZ! Post Menopausal Zest, the best thing since underwired bras.

I want to play the Uilleann Pipes

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:11:36 -0600

I have a near fatal obsession with pipes. I love all the pipes (and all the drums), the Great Irish Warpipes, the Scots lowland pipes and the Great Highland Bagpipes, the Breton Veuze, the Galician Gaita and the Italian Zampogna. But the most beautiful, the most haunting of all are the lovely Uillean Pipes of Ireland. Their harmonic structure is different from other pipes, they're sweeter and quieter, to be played indoors. They can lilt, tap out a reel or accompany a singer. They can whirl you into a dance and they can also stop you dead with a heartbreaking lament. In the Uillean Pipes I recognise the cry of the exile. I want to play the Uillean Pipes. It's on my Bucket List!

Nessie, Beast of the Loch

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 02:56:26 -0600

Is there a Loch Ness Monster? Could this poor wee beastie be a left-over from the last Ice Age? Known fondly as "Nessie", Niseag, this plesiosaur-like creature is said to be under a long, deep lake near Inverness, Scotland. Even St Columba met Nessie, (although in less than pleasant circumstances) and he seized the moment to practice a little Christian conversion. Perhaps I will never meet Nessie, that fabulous beastie in the depths of the Loch, but. I would love to. It's on my bucket list.

Indonesian Spicy Chicken

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:37:31 -0600

My Three Favourite Recipes for Indonesian style chicken, easily made in any kitchen, by any level of cook and guaranteed to spice up your life! Indonesian food is one of the most vibrant and colourful cuisines in the world, full of intense flavour and varied textures. It's as diverse as the Indonesian culture, with culinary influences from China, Europe and India. That's why it's so rich in flavours and, unlike food from anywhere else, as much about the aroma as the taste. It's spicy, delicious, brightly coloured and richly scented.

Greek Style Lamb Classic Roast

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 03:34:00 -0600

Greek food is a wonderful mix of oriental and European dishes, cooked using different methods with fresh ingredients, easy to make and delightful. My Australian hometown is the second largest Greek-speaking city in the world and Greek food has been part of my life since childhood. I don't know how authentic our 'Greek Food' is after at least sixty years of maturing far from home, but it still tastes wonderful. Our weather is similar to Greece, and the foodstuffs favoured by Greek immigrants thrive in our Mediterranean climate. This Greek style lamb uses lemon, oregano and oil for a fresh and flavoursome taste.

Should we change Australia Day to Invasion Day?

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:36:39 -0600

Australian indigenous leader Mick Dodson, who was awarded the nation's top honour as Australian of the Year has called for a debate on the Jan. 26 Australia Day holiday that commemorates the arrival of British settlers in 1788. "I think we should have a conversation" about the date, Dodson said in a ceremony outside Parliament House. For indigenous Australians, the landing of the first fleet on Jan. 26, 1788, is the day their "world came crashing down," and Australia Day is known to many Aborigines as Invasion day. The Indigenous people, who have been in Australia at least 60,000 years before Europeans settlement, make up about 2 percent of the population. The life expectancy for indigenous Australians is 17 years shorter than the national average and they suffer poorer health and much higher rates of imprisonment. The naming of Dodson as Australian of the Year came almost a year after Prime Minister Rudd delivered an apology to the Stolen Generation of Aborigines who were forcibly removed from their families between 1910 and 1970 to be assimilated with the white community. Dodson campaigned for many years for the apology. Is changing the name of Australia a more sincere demonstration of apology?

The Passing of Arthur from Tales of King Arthur

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:18:45 -0600

Did King Arthur die or is he only sleeping? Arthur's mysterious departure is one of the most intriguing of Arthurian legends, either King Arthur is still alive in Avalon and awaiting his moment to return, or he was killed in battle. What happened to Arthur? Did he die and was buried? Was he placed in a tomb which vanished in a mist? Was he taken to Avalon to be healed of his wounds? Some say that Arthur was turned into a raven, a royal bird strongly associated with myth and legend in Wales and the West Country. I like to think that Arthur, the Once and Future King, Rex quondam Rexque futurus has joined the other Sleeping Heroes, and will return to help Britain in her darkest hour.

Mars the Military God from Tales of the Ancient Romans

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 03:32:47 -0600

Mars is a Soldier's God, bold and brave. Mars, the Roman warrior god, son of Juno and Jupiter, husband of Bellona, lover of Venus, was the most prominent of the military gods worshipped by the Roman legions. In the great golden city of Rome, Mars was second in importance to the great Jupiter himself! Many believed him to be father of Romulus, the legendary founder of the city, and reasoned that all Romans were descendants of Mars. Mars is still with us today. Martius, the month of March, is named after him. So is the fourth planet from the sun and a bar of chocolate, but we know him mainly as the God of War.

Irish Dance Showcase

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:20:04 -0600

For many centuries, Irish culture was systematically suppressed and outlawed. During that time much was lost and, for those of us scattered in lands distant from Ireland, our music, songs and dance are the portals we use to return and embrace our heritage. Irish Dance is a rich weave of solo and social dance forms which reflect that heritage. Irish Dance keeps traditions alive, bonds a community in strange lands and celebrates Irish culture. I love to see the children dancing, just as I danced those many years ago. The sight swells my heart.

The Beauty and Benefits of Violets

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:21:36 -0600

Don't go looking for roses and walk, unseeing, past the violets. It's hard to imagine how anyone can resist a posy of sweet violets, viola ordorata, so appealingly delicate with their velvety purple petals and clean, sweet perfume. Apart from their ethereal beauty, sweet violets are also a popular culinary item as they add wonderful colour and a very light, nectar-like flavour to salads and cake decorations. From classical times, violets have been cultivated for wine, perfume, medicinal purposes and used as decorative garlands and wreaths. Apart from anything else, violets are just beautiful!

Slow Cooking Basics for Safety in the Kitchen

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:16:44 -0600

Slow cookers are enjoying a return of popularity .. for very good reasons. A long cooking time lets you start the evening meal before leaving for work. Reduce the washing up to save time and water with this truly one pot cooking method. However, before you start using a slow cooker, there are a few basic safety rules to follow.

Antique Doll Furniture

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:32:39 -0600

My granddaughter has a pink, plastic Barbie House. She likes to walk her dolls through the rooms while I like to move the furniture around and make curtains for the windows. The plastic is easy to wipe down, but I often think of my childhood wooden dollhouse with bricks painted on the chimney and real linoleum on the kitchen floor. I still love dollhouses. But how I love the antique dollhouse furniture!

St. Patrick's Day Penguin T-shirts and gifts

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:30:05 -0600

What do Penguins have to do with St Patrick's Day? Why, everything! Even a penguin can be Irish once a year. St Patrick's Day is when any man, woman, child or penguin, can bring out the green and celebrate one of the most popular holidays in the world. If you love penguins and collect penguins - you should have one for St. Patrick's Day, right?

Delicious Cadbury Creme Eggs Easter candy

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:55:32 -0600

Cadbury Creme Eggs are egg-shaped hollow chocolate shells filled with a cream-like sugar filling that resembles an egg yolk. The first filled eggs were produced by Cadbury in 1923, but it wasn't until 1971 that the Creme Egg assumed its current form. Over the years the line has expanded to include eggs in varying sizes, and flavoured eggs such as Caramel Eggs, Orange Creme Eggs, and Mint Creme Eggs have been produced for different markets. Cadbury Creme Eggs remain one of the perennially popular Easter treats for Easter baskets.

Easiest Macaroon Recipe Ever!

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:44:18 -0600

How do you define a Macaroon? Are they cakes, cookies, chewies or candies? Some people claim a Scottish chocolate bar to be a macaroon while others point to meringues, or to carajitos. Do you draw the line at Turkish Acibadem kurabiyesi? In my book, Macaroons are sweet, chewy, moist and marvelous, coconut and milk biscuits. I made them as a child, now I make them with my small granddaughter, still using the easiest Macaroon recipe ever. Susanna Duffy

Best Bacon Fritters Recipe

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:49:41 -0600

When it comes to a good hardy breakfast you can't beat bacon. There are so many ways to cook bacon, either smoked or unsmoked, that it's hard to pick the most tasty. I still like the old style bacon and eggs but sometimes I splash out and make some bacon fritters, a delectable savoury dish that really brings oomph to breakfast. Here's an excellent recipe for bacon fritters. I really enjoy these and bet you like them too! Photo By wikimedia commons

Echidna the Monster Mother of Mythology

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 03:19:48 -0600

Somewhere in the world, every eight seconds, a mother is throwing her hands in the air and declaring that her child is a little monster. But for Echidna it was the literal truth! Echidna may have been called the Mother of all Monsters but her children numbered no more than a dozen or so, and many were exemplary offspring and a pride to any parent. They may still roam the earth in the quiet unseen places, waiting the day when a new Hero will come to challenge them. What the bleep do we know? Image : AnneMarie Fahmer

Cooking with Saffron

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:19:52 -0600

I love saffron. The difference that a pinch of saffron thread can make to a dish is little short of miraculous and it's a tiny indulgence that I buy occasionally without feeling guilty. So what happens when I receive a birthday gift of a whole precious ounce? Simple - I will be cooking with saffron for a whole year! wikipedia

Christmas in Australia

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:02:44 -0600

Christmas is a splendid time of year in Australia. December and January are at the very height of our beach season, and we love to head for the beach and relax. The Christmas holidays stretch over the longest days of our long summers. The holidays bring the tinny sound of Christmas Carols broadcasting incessantly to the shopping centre, but also the wonderful open-air Carols by Candlelight, when thousands of families take a picnic rug and a cardigan to attend a big sing-along on Christmas Eve in Melbourne. But there is still the sound of Christmas Past, the crackling of cellophane behind closed doors, the click of bat on ball from the children playing cricket in the park and, everywhere, the ceaseless buzz of the cicadas.

Traditional Sicilian Pasta with Cauliflower

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:22:00 -0600

I saw this dish, pasta with cauliflower, in an episode of Inspector Montalbano and it went by so fast I hardly had time to take it in. Fortunately it's so simple to put together that my first attempt was enthusiastically received by my dinner guests. I've never used cauliflower like this before but I certainly will be in future. Inspector Montalbano prepared his lunch with sparaceddu, but I didn't have any of this green cauliflower so I just used the ordinary white variety.. In Sicily, cauliflower seems to also be broccoli, but whatever you want to call the vegetables is neither here nor there. This pasta dish is delish.

I want to sleep in a castle

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 05:07:02 -0600

I want to sleep in a bedroom just like this one in Neuschwanstein Castle, where Ludwig II of Bavaria grabbed forty winks after a day's hunting. I wonder how it would be to crash out in a royal four poster every night. Could I feel a pea under that thick mattress like the Princess in the fairy tale?

Get to Know Africa Group

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:54:11 -0600

Get to know Africa as a place of culture, a place of art and a place of heart. And, in some areas, a place of need. Straddlling the equator and spanning numerous climates; Africa is the only continent to stretch from the northern temperate to southern temperate zones. Once Europeans called Africa "The Dark Continent" for the mysteries inside this huge landmass, but there are no more secrets. Come and Get to Know Africa!.

I, Claudius : Classic Books

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 06:26:31 -0600

The Claudius Novels are superb, timeless classics, and if you haven't read them yet, you have missed one of the great works of the 20th century. These two novels by Robert Graves on the Roman Emperor Claudius make up what has to be the greatest fictional biography ever written. Graves moves effortlessly through the Julio-Claudian dynasty, and what was formerly an almost impossible maze of plots, counter plots, assassinations, power grabs, the complexities of the Roman political system and a cast of thousands is rendered into a gripping and readable story.

The Real Patrick, Patron Saint of Ireland

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:09:13 -0600

Patrick must be the best known of all Patron Saints with parades, parties and craic in his name being celebrated across the globe. Many of the stories traditionally associated with St. Patrick, including the famous account of his banishing all the snakes from Ireland, are false, but why let the truth spoil over a thousand years of good storytelling? Patrick is the patron saint and national apostle of Ireland and credited with bringing Christianity to the Emerald Isle. But history has been kind to Patrick, very kind indeed. image : All-Merciful Savior

Easy Chicken Kiev Recipe

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:17:35 -0600

Chicken Kiev is a wonderfully simple dish. It's not a heavy meal and, when accompanied by a green salad, makes a delightful lunch Chicken Kiev are boneless chicken breasts pounded and rolled around cold garlic butter with herbs, coated with breadcrumbs and either fried or baked. Are they Ukrainian? .Perhaps, they're called after the capital of that country, Kiev, but wherever they originated, they're delicious and a lot easier to make than you think. If you're looking for an easy Chicken Kiev recipe then you've come to the right place. I hope you enjoy it. Photo By wikimedia commons

The Frog Goddess

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:02:26 -0600

Ask anyone for the name of an Ancient Egyptian Goddess,and the answer will be Isis. But Isis was on her throne in heaven and the ordinary people had more approachable deities for everyday affairs. In ancient Egypt religion was very much like it is in our modern times, It was personal, and not everyone worshipped in the same way or prayed to the same god. Women called on Bast, the Protector and also on Heket the Fertile with her life-giving powers, she who was manifested on earth in frog form. The power of her fertility was seen everywhere, in the germination of the grain, in the pregnant animals and in the millions and millions of tiny frogs which sprung up on the river banks overnight

I want to see the Cherry Blossom Festival

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 23:37:08 -0600

A popular Rite of Spring for the Japanese people is the traditional Hanami celebration or cherry blossom party. It involves sitting under a blooming cherry tree. The cherry tree, sakura, is native to Japan, and every time I look at the tiny cherry blossom in my garden I long to see the real thing in its country of origin, in Spring, at the Cherry Blossom Festival. Every year the Japanese people track the sakura zensen, the cherry blossom front, as it moves northward. One year I will follow it myself. learn japanese language online

Cherry Cheesecake Pie

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:17:11 -0600

A cheesecake. is wonderfully versatile. Served on a pretty plate, it's ideal for a special occasion. Served on a red or heart-shaped plate it's the centrepiece for a Valentine's Day dinner - and here's the cherry on top Make a cherry cheesecake with just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time. Quick, simple and irresistibly scrumptious! Big Stock Photo

Darwin, Gateway to Asia

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:18:07 -0600

In the Top End of Australia, one of the last remaining wild regions of the world, is Darwin, a thriving modern city with a relaxed multicultural lifestyle in the laid- back tropics. Darwin is Australia's gateway to Asia. It's a beautiful city, with a tropical climate, small population and the relaxed atmosphere that goes with it. If you visit Australia you must get up to Darwin, you'll fall in love with it, as I have. Sitting up on a low bluff overlooking the harbour which leads out to the Timor Sea, Darwin has a population of only 122,000 but it's one of our most modern and multicultural cities. Darwin has been almost entirely rebuilt twice, once due to Japanese air raids during World War II and again after being devastated by Cyclone Tracy in 1974.

Lamb Forequarter Classic Roast

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:56:13 -0600

The lamb forequarter, poor cousin to the lamb leg and loin, is a wonderful versatile cut, and you can use the neck, shoulder, gigot, shank or make mince. Usually I ask my butcher to bone the forequarter, and press it down as flat as possible. Then I spread herbed stuffing, pull the flap over tightly and secure with skewers. But the forequarter itself is delightful when roasted just as it is. This recipe uses a glaze of mustard and redcurrant jelly. Bon appetit!

Vortigern, the Worst King of the Britons

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 23:43:45 -0600

Vortigern is remembered in legend as one of the worst Kings of the Britons. He has been called the man responsible for the demise of the Britons in the 5th century by inviting the Saxons to settle in Britain as mercenaries. We hear about Vortigern in the Story of Arthur. Tales are told of his 'enemy' Ambrosius, of Merlin, and prophecies, and of several dark secrets about long-forgotten hill-forts in Wales. We remember Dinas Emrys and the fighting Dragons. But Vortigern is remembered chiefly as the King who "gave Britain away".

I want to Spend a Summer in Sicily

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:22:51 -0600

Before I kick the bucket, I will spend a summer in Sicily. A Sicilian summer, of course, which corresponds to my winter. The weather in Sicily is very much like my own, I won't freeze to death or swelter in impossibly high temperatures, it may just be cooler and balmier than my own summers. Whatever the weather, I need three good months to walk around this jewel of an island.

All About Arthur Headquarters

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:51:17 -0600

The King Arthur we know as the Legend of Britain is a composite of early legend, medieval romance and Hollywood. It's a great story, no wonder we have been telling it for fifteen hundred years. It all takes place in the fifth century. Rome has left the island of Britain, taking her legions back to defend the Imperial City itself from wave after wave of barbarous hordes. The Romano- British are left to face similar barbarian invasions on their own. Fragmented into small squabbling groups, the last defenders of civilised society in the West must surely be defeated. But a leader emerges, a chieftain who brings the tattered remnants together and, with brilliant strategy, holds back the Saxon Horde for generations. A wonderful story. And one which has lasted down the ages

Lamingtons, little Australian Sweet Cream Sponges

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:31:21 -0600

I grew up with lamingtons.They're incredibly popular in Australia. Lamingtons are responsible for the peculiarly Australian phenomen of the Lamington Drive, a communal effort by a school or community group to make lamingtons in mind-boggling quantities. You don't have to make lamingtons for hordes of sponge-starved stangers, a dozen is enough to get you hooked. There are three iconic Australian dishes, Roast lamb, Pavlova and the lovely lamington. It takes a little time to master the lamb and the Pav, but every primary school child can make a lamington.

Valentine's Day Decorations for Busy Cooks

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:52:16 -0600

Valentine's Day.is a special occasion. To set a romantic atmosphere, brighten up the house for good cheer or just as a good excuse for a party, Valentine's Day fits the bill. Anything hearts and roses is fine, but a meal is the real heart of Valentine's Day. A specially cooked meal in a room decorated with Valentine's Day images. Make a special meal, it doesn't have to be fancy but when you carefully prepare the meal, keep a picture in your mind of who will be eating it. Bake in some love. . image : desktop nexus wallpapers

The Progress of Merlin from Tales of King Arthur

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 01:36:29 -0600

Merlin, the wise and mighty wizard and prophet, is the most prominent Celtic element in Arthurian Legend. He has the powers of a great Druid, for he originates deep in the mythic past of the Welsh. In later literature Merlin's most prominent gift is that of prophecy. "Since I, Myrdin, am next after Taliesin, / Let my prediction become common." As the Arthurian saga develops, so does Merlin, changing from an aloof, druidical character into a more human, magical being, though always retaining traces of his Welsh origins.

Melbourne Cup Day

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:10:37 -0600

On the first Tuesday in November Australia stops for a horse race. The Melbourne Cup has become ingrained in the Australian culture, a race built on dreams, on hard luck and triumph, and generally regarded as the most prestigious "two-mile" handicap in the world. But the Melbourne Cup is more than just a horse race. It's a world class event with the best in entertainment and showcasing fashion at its finest and its wildest. And it's where the grandest horses with the bravest hearts become legends.

Legends of Arthur and Britain

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 01:37:05 -0600

The Legend of Arthur is used by each generation to reflect changing views on the world. The Legend changes and grows as each society changes and grows. Who was King Arthur? Well, to begin with, there was not one Arthur, but many. There was an historical Arthur, or, if you prefer, a folkloric or mythological Arthur who came to be mistaken for a living person. Christopher Snyder : The World of King Arthur Arthur, be he Celtic Warrior, Romano-British General, Scottish Nationalist or Christian King is still the most widely known figure from the semi-mythical past. Call him myth, call him folklore, call him what you will. To me he is the stuff of faraway childhood, a voice from forgotten ancestors, a Hero. Arthur sleeps in mystical Avalon, till the day when he will return to lead his people.

I Love Red Handbags

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 04:56:11 -0600

A Red Handbag is a necessity in every wardrobe. No fashion item could be more versatile. The rich vibrant colour is bold, sexy and fun on a young woman and dramatically elegant for the mature woman. It livens up any outfit, casual or formal, from jeans and sweater to the classic black frock. It turns an outfit from plain to chic. Simply put, a lady can't get by without a red handbag.

Odin, Father of the North

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:32:31 -0600

Odin, the Norse god of wisdom. war and magic, is called Allfather for he is indeed Father of the Gods and he played a central role in myths about the creation and destruction of the world. In the beginning, he killed the primal frost giant Ymir and from his bones formed our universe. He arranged the heavens for the gods, the middle world for humans and dwarfs, and the underworld for the dead. Finally he created the first man and woman from an ash tree and an elm tree To travel the world without being recognised, he wears a huge wide-brimmed hat which he pulls down over his head against the wind. (If you look quickly at his face you will see he has just one eye). At times, Odin Allfather will cross the Rainbow Bridge and mingle with men in our world of Midgard.

Homemade Pound Cake

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 16:07:18 -0600

Once you made a Pound Cake with a pound each of four ingredients: flour, butter, eggs, and sugar We don't have to use a pound anymore, the quantity of the ingredients can change as long as they're all the same weight, the ratio must be the same; 1:1:1:1. A Pound Cake on its own is tasty enough but over the years, toppings and other additives make this old-fashioned favourite a very versatile cake. Picture courtesy of theogeo on Creative Commons.

Best Waffle Recipes

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:53:09 -0600

Who wants a fresh homemade waffle for breakfast? Waffles are best when they're slightly crunchy on the edges and soft in the centre.. Slathered in butter and maple syrup, they're perfect on the breakfast plate. Better still, you can eat them at any time of the day. A natural for breakfast and delicious for lunch. You can even make an evening meal with waffles. Let's just state the obvious...waffles are great! Image :wikipedia

Peter Berresford Ellis

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:26:43 -0600

How do you begin to describe Peter Berresford Ellis? You could start by saying he is an historian, a biographer, a novelist and short-story writer but, above all, he is a scholar. An eminent Celtic scholar. He's certainly a prolific writer. Berresford Ellis has now published over 90 books, roughly 100 short stories and numerous academic papers. His work has appeared in over 20 languages. As `Peter Tremayne' he is best known for his international best-selling Sister Fidelma Mysteries, set in 7th Century Ireland and featuring a popular sleuth who solves her cases in accordance with the Brehon, the ancient Irish law system.

Ten Best Dinner Sets for Four under $55

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:34:32 -0600

Whether you're having the in-laws over for dinner or a casual afternoon meal with friends, serve the food in matching dinnerware. Forget those mismatched plates! There are plenty of stylish dinner sets at a reasonable price for four people. You don't have to entertain twelve dinner guests to create an elegant table, a table setting for four is scope enough to set a welcome. Here's your chance to show a bit of personality by mixing and matching textures, patterns, and colours.

The Amazing Career of Helen Mirren

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:20:15 -0600

Helen Mirren has been a star of the stage and screen for over 40 years and the winner of almost every major acting award. From 1991 to 2006, she starred in the award-winning TV series Prime Suspect, and in 2006 she won the Best Actress Oscar for her role in Stephen Frears' film The Queen; she had been twice nominated before - for The Madness Of King George (1994) and Gosford Park (2001). Mirren's return to the stage - already a cultural highlight of 2009 - was one of the most ground-breaking. On June 25 her performance in Phedre a 17th-century French tragedy, was beamed live from the National Theatre in London to 50 cinemas around the country and, within 24 hours, to a further 100 all over the globe.

Children of Loki - Scandinavian Stories

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:56:36 -0600

Loki had two sons who fought each other so badly they turned into wolves and slaughtered each other. These were the children of loyal Sigurn, who cared for her husband when the gods punished him for the death of Baldur. He had more children than this, fearsome and frightening, who play a major role in the way the worlds are run. Both the world of the gods and the world of men. It's Angrboda, the Giantess, who is the mother of his best known children. And what dreadful children they are! Big Stock Photo

The Divine Feminine

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:11:06 -0600

Recognition of the Divine Feminine comes from these points 1. God is rooted in patriarchal concepts of dominance. 2. Early Goddess oriented civilisations were destroyed by aggressive Indo-European tribes who worshipped aggressive sky gods. 3. These newer world religions were monotheist, Judaism, Islam and Christianity, with one god who was male, and took shape in the Iron Age when men dominated societies in Europe and the Middle East. Many prefer the term goddess spirituality, avoiding the term worship which distances the Divine into a remote, hierarchical separation. Let's take a quick look at some of her forms .....

Beowulf, Ancient Hero

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 15:57:59 -0600

In the face of danger and adversity they display impressive courage for the greater good of all. They are Heroes. We have always had heroes and Beowulf, great Scandinavian warrior of the sixth century, is the ultimate hero. He is not just any hero, but one of epic proportions. He displays courage, strength, loyalty, courtesy, pride and compassion . He travels great distances to prove his strength at impossible odds against supernatural demons and beasts. But Beowulf is not a comic book invention. You won't see him on television. The story of Beowulf was spoken out, ringing in rhythmic beats, as people sat together telling tales a thousand years ago.

Cheesecake Baking Tips

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:20:40 -0600

Easy Cheesecake Baking Tips Want to make cheesecake recipes like the pros do? There are hundreds of different cheesecake recipes from sweet and simple to lavishly elaborate, but the essential ingredient in any cheesecake is cheese. Soft cheese such as ricotta, quark, philly or neufchatel. There are plenty of simple, quick and easy recipes for cheesecake, but for an authentic taste, it must be baked!

Marge Simpson should not pose for Playboy

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 21:27:13 -0600

Marge Simpson should not pose for Playboy! What on earth was she thinking? What kind of an example is this to give women of her generation? Forget the young women, they don't hold Marge in the same esteem as we women of slightly more maturity do. Just when we began to feel comfortable in our flat-heeled shoes, loose, flowing blouses and elasticised waists, we are confronted by one of our own posing for racy photographs. Solidarity is cast aside and all concept of Sisterhood cops a mighty smack in the face. Where's your pride in your vintage womanhood, Marge?

Going bananas about vintage retro sock monkeys

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:55:32 -0600

A sock monkey is a stuffed toy in the shape of a monkey that is made from socks. The first sock monkeys were made during the Arts & Crafts movement in America in the early 1900s by enterprising women with spare socks, and soon they became a much-loved staple of children's nurseries everywhere. Most vintage sock monkeys found today were made from the 1950s onward, with the majority being from the 1970s. Older sock monkeys simply did not hold up well to years of being loved.

Kelly Country - Travel Victoria

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:53:16 -0600

Up in the north east of Victoria is Kelly Country, where the bushranger, Ned Kelly, roamed and the Kelly legacy lives on. But there's more to Kelly Country than Australia's greatest legend- the northeast of Victoria is a favourite destination for lovers of food, wine and beautiful scenery. There are five wine regions up here - Rutherglen, Beechworth, Alpine Valleys, King Valley and Glenrowan - as well as artisan brews. Take your pick of luscious muscat, vibrant Italian varieties,sparkling whites and rich ales from craft breweries.

Knit a Vintage Cushion Cover

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:36:28 -0600

I love the concept of the Vintage Knit. In a fast paced world of ready-made and largely disposable garments, accessories and soft furnidshings, the idea of taking time to produce something unique is immensely appealing. Making something for your home is a truly rewarding experience. Here's a vintage knitting pattern for a cushion cover. Choose any colours you wish. "Among all good housewives of any civilised country, knitting is reckoned an indispensable accomplishment. Her Majesty the Queen has herself set an example of this industry"..

Ancient Rome On Five Denarii A Day

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 06:27:25 -0600

Off to visit Ancient Rome? No one travels without a guidebook and Ancient Rome on Five Denarii a Day is an excellent and informative travel guide. It's also a highly entertaining read. The guidebook is for budget travellers, you can't paint Ancient Rome red on five denarii but you can have a comfortable and exciting vacation in the capitol of the Ancient Roman world. There's plenty of advice and indispensable tips on how to get around Rome. Learn the best way to get to the Games, to the thriftiest marketplaces, where to find the brothels and the temples. Apart from the usual how, what, where and how much, this handy guide describes the mores and manners of the natives, so that you don't offend anyone. There are pointers on what to do and what to see and - more importantly - what to stay away from. Nota bene : Time machine and travel sickness pills not included

Pork and Red Cabbage Classic Casserole

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:56:59 -0600

Whether it's grilled chops, roast legs or braised ribs, pork has been popular since Ancient Roman times. You can't go wrong with a nice piece of pork. But why overlook the pork neck? It's a sweet, flavoursome cut and in the climate of ever escalating food prices, a frugal choice for a family dinner. Cooked slowly in a casserole with red cabbage and apples, this pork neck is modeled on a family recipe from the 1930s. The garlic is a later addition to the ingredients. I don't think my grandmother would have recognised a garlic if she stepped on one. Try this pork and red cabbage casserole for a frugal, delicious meal that cooks itself.

Demon Ducks of Doom

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:14:58 -0600

A lot of people think Australians make up stories to pass the time. That may or may not be true. But the Demon Ducks are true. The Demon Duck is dromornis stirtoni, weighing over 500 kilos and nearly 3 metres tall, indeed the biggest bird that ever lived. Commonly known as Stirton's Thunder Bird, this huge flightless bird lived in subtropical open woodlands in Australia during the late Miocene, roughly 6 million years ago. His closest relatives were waterfowl and so he's nicknamed the 'Demon Duck of Doom'. Australian Museum

Ingredients for Vietnamese Cooking

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:21:45 -0600

Fancy some Vietnamese food and not sure what ingredients you need? Nothing special really, just fresh herbs and these few spices and you're ready to rock. Like any travelling ethnic or regional recipes, the cuisine of Vietnam has been adapted to suit Australian conditions and ingredient availability. Modern Australian cuisine is a fusion of multicultural culinary influences and our Asian neighbours have had a major impact on the formerly English cooking style once rampant in the Australian kitchen. wikipedia

My Hula Hoop was the Best Toy Ever

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:52:25 -0600

How I loved my Hula Hoop! Mine was bamboo, a pre-plastic classic and I do wish I had it now. The Hula Hoop was an Australian idea that became an international phenomenon and had more hips swiveling than Elvis Presley could ever imagine. Where are the Hula Hoops of Yesteryear?

Three Great Train Journeys of the World

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:36:51 -0600

You just can't beat a train holiday. The romance and sheer relaxation of it all is superb. Why go through the hassles involved with driving your car around when you can sit back in comfort and gaze out the window at the scenery unfolding before you? Return to the opulent days of deluxe rail travel aboard a sumptuous air-conditioned compartment through India, be a little more adventurous and steam across the Russian continent, or steep yourself in the romantic past of the iconic Orient Express. Here are three Great Train Journeys you must experience in your lifetime

Port Phillip Bay : Travel Victoria

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:54:33 -0600

I can't imagine not living close to the vast expanse of Port Phillip Bay. It's Australia's largest tidal lagoon and covers around two thousand square kilometres with a maximum depth of over 30 metres. It's surprisingly shallow, almost an inland sea, and it has only a narrow 3 and 1/2 kilometre-wide entrance. Every year millions of people enjoy its vast coastline, world-class swimming beaches and coastal parks. Long before the network of roads grew around the perimeter, people crossed the Bay by steam and sail. Now they sail, and dive, for recreation.

A Town like Alice

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:11:33 -0600

You'll find Alice Springs in the very heart of the Outback .It's not a city, but a town of just 28.000 people, and the largest town in Central Australia. It may be small, but Alice is the starting point for some absolutely amazing destinations for hikers and 4 wheel drive adventurers. There's no town like Alice.

Guest Book Etiquette

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:10:06 -0600

Yes, there are a number of ways to sign a Guestbook on Squidoo, and not all of them are polite. Part of your journey through Squidoo is networking, making friends, picking up fans and generally being a part of the broader community. When you find a lens which interests you, leave a comment in the Guestbook. There's a specific etiquette to signing a Guestbook so that you pick up friends, not annoyed lensmasters. There's more than one way to set up your own Guestbook too. Make it easier for commenters, not for spammers.

Beef and Bok Choy Classic Stir Fry

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:57:37 -0600

Here's a quick crunchy lunch of beef and bok choy. Remember, to cook stir fry you must, like the boy scouts, be prepared! Prepare everything you need before you start. Stir frying is fast; you won't have time to chop the bok choy while the beef is cooking. Make sure that your ingredients are all cut approximately the same size - bite size. Stir-frying uses high heat, so all the pieces of food must be small enough to cook through without burning. Once you get your wok hot ..... you can't stop!

The Secret Life of Ghouls

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:10:29 -0600

Ghouls are not just any ordinary old cannibalistic, flesh-eating or creepy monsters. If you thought so, you would be wrong. You're probably confusing Ghouls with other types of the Undead, usually the mindless varieties of vampires and zombies who populate old cemeteries in the dark of the night. A Ghoul is an entirely different species, not as dangerous perhaps, but distinctly dire and dreadful all the same.

Top Ten Best Historical Detectives on Kindle

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 21:23:20 -0600

Do you like historical fiction? I certainly do, especially novels featuring a murder mystery. There are some wonderful fictional detectives deducing and deducting away in various centuries and I try to read every one which appears. Once this was fairly simple to do as only a handful of authors produced books of this nature. Now I'm thrilled to see more and more of them writing historical detective mysteries. Thank heavens for Kindle! I couldn't afford to indulge my reading habit if I had to buy the printed books! Here's my Top Ten List of historical detectives solving complex plots and spanning 2.000 years of murder most foul.

I love Honey!

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:13:03 -0600

Ancient peoples used honey for medicines, intoxicants, metallurgy and magic. There's still magic in this sweet elixir made, wonderfully, by Nature from nectar. Honey was once regarded as sacred for its wonderfully sweet properties and only the rich could afford it. We once gave honey to the Gods in the hope of gaining favour, and also to embalm our dead. Athletes in the Ancient Olympics drank lots of honey in water to enhance their sports performance and we still use it as an energy source to maintain optimal blood sugar levels for some hours. Honey raises your blood levels of protective antioxidant compounds, a daily dose will promote general well-being as well as giving you an instant energy hit . It's also one of the oldest and most effective beauty aids ever. I wash my hair with honey to keep myself blonde without chemicals. I have honey almost every day for antioxidant reasons, but mainly because it tastes wonderful and I love it!

Menagerie of Mythical, Magical and Legendary Creatures

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:58:31 -0600

A fantastical menagerie of mythical and magical creatures. Some of the beasties are real and legendary animals, such as Bucephalos the war horse of Alexander the Great, some are disputed like the Monster of Loch Ness and some spring straight from mythology, like Echidna the Mother of Monsters. Along the way we meet dragons, unicorns, brownies and the not-so-friendly fairies of the Otherworld.

Finding Seashells on Port Phillip Bay

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:16:38 -0600

Sea Shells fascinate me. I've been picking them up since I paddled as a child with a bucket and spade on the beaches of Port Phillip Bay.. Every beach has different shells, every shell has its own story. The Bay is huge, a tidal lagoon over two thousand square kilometres, 773 square miles, almost an inland sea, with lots of flat, shallow beaches. I love to walk along the sandy beaches, the pebble beaches, the swampy wetlands, the ti-tree and the mangroves on the foreshore. Once I used to collect seashells to carry home but now when I find them, I record the details for an important Shell Survey.

Zucchini Recipes

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:28:53 -0600

To me it's zucchini, to others courgette. Whatever you call it, zucchini can be cooked in a hundred ways in a hundred dishes. Zucchini can be steamed, boiled, grilled, stuffed and baked, barbecued, fried or shredded raw for salads You can bake zucchini into a bread, add it to cake mix or souffle, cook it up in soup, make into pancakes, deep fry as tempura or use as a filling for quesadillas. And how do you fancy Zucchini with Chocolate? How versatile can you get?

Vietnamese Beef Soup - Pho Bo

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:05:54 -0600

To make authentic Pho Bo, you should make the beef broth yourself, but I know a shortcut. You can make a delicious Vietnamese beef soup with a can of beef broth, a can of beef consomme and some good quality boneless beef sirloin. It's simple enough, and quick enough, for any novice cook to whip up and the choice of garnish will inspire a seasoned veteran of the kitchen.

Meteorites, collecting a piece of heaven

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:28:42 -0600

I've been fascinated by meteors since I saw The Blob at my local film theatre. The year was 1959 and the fear of invasion from outer space was very real to me. Just 10 years later a large meteorite fell about 80 km away from my town and, the skies being clear on that Spring night, I watched horror-struck with visions of a gelatinous creature oozing from the space rock. These days I'm not afraid of meteorites, in fact I collect bits and pieces of them. Collecting meteorites is a a fascinating hobby. Buying meteorites is an investment American Museum of Natural History

I love Olives!

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:16:42 -0600

Homer called olive oil liquid gold and, at the time that he was busy composing a tale on the Trojan War, the olive trees were so sacred that anyone who cut a tree down was condemned to exile or to death. It's not a crime anymore, but it would be criminal not to include some nutritious, delicious olives in your diet. Your heart will thank you.

Slow Cook Potato Soup in the Crockpot

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:59:16 -0600

Make delicious potato soup in your slow cooker crockpot while you're out all day. This is an 8 to 9 hour recipe, cooking gently away while you're at work. Come home, add a cup of milk and get the soup bowls down from the cupboard. As soon as you lay the table, your pleasingly palatable potato soup is cooked to perfection.

Holidays and Festive Celebrations

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:27:39 -0600

You can't beat a good celebration! Whether it's your own birthday or a national holiday there's always something special in the air. Here's my list, my collection, my lensography of holidays and celebations. Like any other list, it's continually growing.

The Humble Hot Cross Bun

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:19:16 -0600

When I was a child, Hot Cross Buns were the big highlight of Easter. The little buns and the big lunch of lamb on Easter Sunday overshadowed the novelty of an Easter Egg or two On Good Friday we would gather in the kitchen, waiting for the buns to come out of the oven. If I close my eyes I can smell them still. Those buns churned out by the Hot Bread chains are mass produced and frozen before they reach the outlet. As for supermarket buns, the less said the better. Why not try making your own? susanna duffy

What's Cooking in My Kitchen?

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:15:14 -0600

I'm happy to spend time in my kitchen. I have good appliances, a trusty gas cooker, sharp knives and lots of light. I keep my pantry stocked with the basics and buy my fresh foods from Queen Victoria Market. The fish is straight from the sea on Tuesdays at the Queen Vic, the same time as the cheeses are flown in from King Island and Tasmania. Truckloads of vegetables always arrive from the Latrobe Valley on Thursdays. With fresh food easily accessible and the Market a short bus trip away, it would be a crime not to enjoy cooking. All I need is a maid to keep my kitchen clean. cafe porridge

Ratatouille Recipe

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:23:02 -0600

If you asked me what was for dinner and I answered 'vegetarian stew' would it sound as impressive as Ratatouille? Does 'French Vegetable Pot' sound better? French cooking conjures up images of white-coated chefs and blue-ribboned haute cuisine, but ratatouille is a peasant dish from Provence prepared with the fruits of Fall. You make ratatouille with a variety of fresh vegetables, tomatoes, zucchini, eggplants, capsicums - bell peppers, onions and garlic. It's a refreshing way to use up lots of tomatoes in the early autumn. Ratatouille is easy to prepare, but it's not a quick dish to throw together just before the guests arrive. Each vegetable should be cooked slowly and separately before combining them all in one pot towards the end of the cooking time. You can enjoy ratatouille hot or cold, as an appetiser, main course or as a chunky sauce over pasta, rice, couscous and noodles. Tell everyone it's a traditional French dish, originally from Nice. - ratatouille nicoise. .

Enjoy an Ancient Celebration this Easter

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:19:37 -0600

Easter began in an ancient celebration from our past, a celebration originally belonging to an almost forgotten goddess. Her name was Ostara. You will recognise her name in our modern English word for Easter itself. Ostara was associated with the Sacred Hare, a powerful creature who is still with us, although transformed into an innocuous bunny with a basketful of chocolate eggs. thorskegga

Membrillo and how to make it

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:27:49 -0600

Membrillo is a deep red, beautifully flavoured, quince paste. It's not difficult to make, what it takes is care and concentration. A lot of people won't take the time to prepare quinces, we're so used to fast fixes in the kitchen, but if you want to produce a delightful membrillo one afternoon, the rewards are overwhelming. Quince has a remarkable taste. It's sweet, yet tart. You can't really describe it till you've tried some. And the aroma! Your house will fill with a wonderful, old-world fragrance of honey, pear blossom and baked apples. You may have to lock your doors to keep the neighbours out.

Family Costumes for Halloween

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:17:08 -0600

Involve the whole family in a theme costumed event this Halloween, grandparents included. A fun activity like dressing up together creates a strong memory in even the smallest child and all the family will treasure this special time. Whether the costumes are cheap or costly, purchased or homemade, simple or sophisticated, dressing up as a family is an experience everyone will remember long after the last apple has been bobbed. A great way to cover family members of any age (or of any shape) is to choose costumes that tell a story. Pick a fairy tale and have kids, parents and grandparents dress up as different characters from the fairy story. One popular fairy tale is Little Red Riding Hood, even the smallest child knows that story.

Chocolate Cherry Cake

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:30:49 -0600

Chocolate cherry cake is a recipe that we see regularly in my home. It's a simple cake, either made in one sheet or as an extravagant three layer masterpiece. The recipe is the same. The look of the chocolate cherry cake is up to you. Try this chocolate cherry cake recipe and let your creativity go wild. image : torbakhopper

World's Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:56:21 -0600

There is nothing nothing better than the smell of homemade cinnamon rolls in the morning. Simply tasting the sweet, warm glaze is enough to make my whole day. The flaky texture of the roll is filling and satisfying especially when washed down with coffee My recipe for fresh, homemade cinnamon rolls is a little big time consuming, but well worth the effort. Anyone who tastes them will feel the love you put into them, and they will be sure to ask for another one. They are well worth the effort...I promise. Give my homemade cinnamon roll recipe a try this weekend and share a little love. grongar

Saturnalia, an Ancient Roman Festival at Christmastime

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 03:33:19 -0600

Everyone loves a holiday. The Ancient Romans were no exception and Saturnalia was the most popular holiday of the Roman year. From December17 to January 3, there was a period of semi-lawlessness with dispensing of punishments suspended and courts closed, business stopped and all wars had to cease. Families gathered together to share the spiritual renewal in the symbolic rebirth of the Divine and to welcome a new year. People shared feasts with friends, overindulged themselves, gave gifts, and decorated their homes with festive greenery. Io! Saturnalia!

Atlas the Perfect Pasta Maker

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:10:03 -0600

There's something really special about fresh pasta. Pasta that you have just made yourself. I use an Atlas Pasta Machine, and I can recommend it for sure! Making your own pasta is simple. Newer Cooks will make enticing, nourishing meals in no time, For those of you who have spent years handrolling pasta, forget it! I can't understand why I took so long to get myself a machine.

My Favourite Charity - Big Cat Rescue

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:00:17 -0600

The beauty and spirit of a wild creature calls to all of us, and surely the most beautiful and independent of mind is the Big Cat. The Big Cats are not found just in the last remaining pockets of natural habitat scattered around the globe, but in a paddock, or cage, near you. There are people who own these wild creatures and cruelly confine them to circus acts, use them as promotional gimmicks or raise them for slaughter to turn into fur coats. Why would anyone have a Big Cat for a pet? It's impossible to care for a wild animal once it has grown to adulthood. Big Cat Rescue rescues exotic cats who have been abused, abandoned, bred to be pets, retired from performing acts, saved from slaughter and provides a permanent home for them. The sanctuary is home to the most diverse population of exotic cats in the world, with 16 species and subspecies of wild cat represented among more than 100 residents. These include tigers, lions, liger, leopards, cougars, bobcats, lynx, ocelots, servals, caracals and others, many of whom are threatened, endangered, or now extinct in the wild.

The Secret Life of Brownies

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:29:13 -0600

Brownies are good-natured little fellows of the fairy order. They appear only at night to perform kind and helpful deeds and to enjoy a little harmless prank or two while weary households sleep. Brownies never allow themselves to be seen by mortals. For this reason, it is impossible to take a photograph of a Brownie. If you manage to snap off a quick shot of the little chap scrubbing your kitchen table or sweeping the ash from the grate, your camera will cease to function - forever. If you are foolish enough to offend your own household Brownie in this manner, he will leave. And never come back!

The lush and lovely Huon Valley of Tasmania

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:08:07 -0600

Tasmania is different from the rest of Australia, it's greener, wetter and much colder. It's a tiny little place, only about the size of Ireland, and sits roughly 150 miles off the southeast corner of the mainland, directly south of Melbourne. I love it here, in the cool temperate rainforest. It's a bit of a shock if you're used to warmer parts of Australia, but remember to pack the strong sun-block cream. The sun is fierce in Tasmania no matter the season. The Huon Valley is in Tasmania's Far South, the most southerly point in Australia. Next stop - Antarctica!

Double Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:53:44 -0600

A very popular dessert in my house over the holiday season is chocolate cheesecake. I'm a great fan of cheesecake and I love chocolate. So do my guests. This double chocolate cheesecake recipe is made with a simple cookie crust and semi-sweet chocolate chips. What more could a sweet tooth ask for? This recipe takes over an hour to make so make sure you start it early. image : thebittenword.com

Navarin of Lamb Classic Casserole

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:57:20 -0600

Navarin (Navarin d'Agneau) is the French term for a rich mutton or lamb stew which has been cooked with root vegetables, usually including small onions and potatoes. A casserole is a perfect way to cook the whole meal in one dish in the oven, only stirring once or twice in 2 hours. In this easy to follow recipe, the lamb meat is lovely and tender and the sauce thick and comforting. .

The Glorious Egg

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:18:56 -0600

The glorious egg, with its deep links to Creation mythology, is one of the oldest symbols of life and rebirth known. Have you ever looked, really looked, at an egg? We are used to seeing the egg on our breakfast table, or ready to whisk in a bowl. Once a year we see the egg as made from chocolate and given as a gift for Easter. But the Egg is much more than that. It's a symbol of new life in cultures as far apart as Polynesian, Chinese, Phoenician, Egyptian and Greek. Many gods, demons and heroes have sprung from eggs. Look closely at an egg and you will see just what I mean. Big Stock Photo

Home Made Ginger Beer

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:08:20 -0600

Cool yourself with the fresh, spicy, yeasty taste of old fashioned ginger beer just like your grandmother made. Ginger Beer is super simple to make, all you need are some 2 litre plastic bottles, some sugar, ginger and yeast. Then just add water. Don't be nervous about using yeast, you only sprinkle a bit from a teaspoon into a bottle, and don't ever be hesitant about making ginger beer. In the old days of glass it was possible for mishaps to happen - like exploding bottles! Not any more, we have access to plastic. Lie back in your chair and admire your homemade ginger beer sparkling in the glass!

Easy Taco Rolls Recipe

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:19:25 -0600

Here's a quick and easy taco roll recipe the whole family will love! Taco meat mixture rolled up into flour tortillas and baked in the oven for a few minutes. Quick and Easy Taco Rolls Recipe! Mexican cooking has never been so easy! These easy taco rolls are simple to make. Cook extra ingredients and put it in the freezer for a super quick meal when you don't have time to hang over the stove.

Top Ten Tips to Beat the Hot Flash

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:18:24 -0600

It can certainly be embarrassing and mostly unpleasant. All of a sudden, out of nowhere, your temperature soars, you break out in a sweat all over, your face will drip, your glasses steam up and your smart outfit will transform into a crumpled, limp yet confining nightmare. If you're fair-skinned like me, your face and neck decide to get bright red too. You feel so uncomfortable that you can't think properly -- nothing matters except cooling down! Hot flashes can happen several times a day and are worse at night, they're not called night sweats for no reason. At one stage I would wake up at least three times each night, thrashing about on soaked sheets. There are plenty of ideas for helping with the hot flash, from artificial hormones, drugs, herbal treatments, vitamins and particular food choices, but my top ten tips to beat the hot flash are simple, ordinary actions you can take every day. Hang in there, it will soon be behind you.

Irish Set Dancing

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:21:46 -0600

Traditional Irish music and dance is pre-Christian, and it's still with us today For most people, the image of Irish Dance is Step Dance, the performance dance made popular by Riverdance, but Set Dance is the style I grew up with, joining my parents and neighbours in the old church hall on Friday nights. At one such a dance, when I was fifteen, I met my future husband,

Lamb with Rosemary Classic Roast

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 03:02:30 -0600

I can think of nothing better than sitting down to a dish of sweet roast lamb, crisp on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. Roasting is a dry heat cooking method, with no liquid added to the meat as you cook it, so it's a perfect way, surely the best way, to cook naturally tender lamb. In this recipe, the roast is seasoned by making small incisions in the surface of the meat and pushing slivers of garlic and sprigs of herbs into the slits. You can do this just before you begin roasting or, for a more intense flavour, add the seasoning the day before.

Ancient Roman Novels on Kindle

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 21:25:45 -0600

I love the Kindle editions of books! I can get my dose of historical novels - especially my Ancient Roman novels so cheaply. Stock up on swashbuckling adventures, outstanding military history, murder, romance and the glory and gore that was Rome Now you can do it cheaply and conveniently with your Kindle,

My Lenses Module

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:56:43 -0600

The My Lenses Module is a little beauty. It pulls in your lenses automatically with just a couple of clicks and keeps your lens freshly updated automatically. You can choose which lenses appear in the My Lenses Module by sorting them according to a Category or according to a Tag. You can sort them into appearance by lensrank, by alphabetical listing or (my favourite) by updates. Depending upon which filter you use, the My Lenses Module will automatically refresh when you update a lens, when lensrank changes or when you make a new lens. i can has cheezburger?

Free Fairy Fantasy on Kindle

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 07:19:17 -0600

I loved my fairytale books as a child, if I close my eyes I can recall them so clearly with the entrancing stories and bewitching illustrations - including The Spurned Suitor to your left. They're mainly out of print now but I discovered a treasure hoard of them, free for your Kindle. While browsing, I also found some newer fairy tales, of dragons, and heroes, unicorns and monsters, all perfect for my grandchildren. . illustration wikimedia commons

I Want to Tango!

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:54:53 -0600

I'm told that the tango is the easiest of all the ballroom dances to begin dancing, and to begin dancing well. This is because the basic rhythm is slow-slow, an easy walking pace. Be that as it may, I know I could never master the Tango. I have trouble enough with a simple waltz. But for once, for just once in my life, I want to stride onto the dance floor and knock everyone dead with a controlled, yet passionately wild, tango . I want to sway sinuously with the grace of a panther. I want the spectators to swoon at my dazzling display I would need a stunning dress of course, an hour with the hairdresser and a virile, handsome partner. Antonio Banderas will do.

St Patrick's Day in Australia

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:07:48 -0600

St Patrick's Day in Australia was a big event when I was a child. A special church service, and a special dinner too. The best part of the day was the family get together with story-telling, music and dance and all of us wearing something green. These days, I grab the opportunity to make a a traditional Irish meal and to visit one of the Irish venues in Melbourne or I jump on the train to celebrate St Patrick's Day in Ballarat. the beast

Slow Cook Pot Roast

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:28:05 -0600

If you haven't cooked with tougher cuts of beef before it can look pretty daunting, but don't pass it by! Tougher meat has more flavour. Slow cooking in the crockpot melts the tough connective tissue between the muscle fibres, leaving tender meat you can flake apart with a fork. This is my mother's old recipe for pot roast adapted for my slow cooker.

Recipes for Easter

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:49:49 -0600

Whatever we feel about Easter, it's an occasion for laying the table with some special, and possibly sumptuous. food. The traditional meal is one of lamb and of celebratory breads and cakes. Here's an Easter Menu from my own kitchen. inazuman

How the Frog made the Flood

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:04:41 -0600

In the Dreamtime, a terrible drought once swept across the land. The leaves of the trees turned brown and fell from the branches, the flowers drooped their heads and died, and the green grass withered as though the spirit from the red mountain had breathed upon it with a breath of fire. All the creatures in the land met together in a great mob to discover the cause of the drought.

It must be Winter - My Tree Dahlias are in Bloom

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:22:17 -0600

I always know when Winter starts. When I wake up to see the fat pink blossoms of my tree dahlias in their full splendour. Winter is a lovely time of year in Melbourne. Time for scarves and woolen caps outdoors, for lighting a fire in the evenings and settling down with a basket for the knitting, and a basket for the cat. Winter is time to admire once again, the big wobbly flowers of the tree dahlias.

I love Greek Mythology and so will you

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 03:03:33 -0600

In the isles of the Aegean, and of the Ionian, there is no river, no mountain ridge, no rocky crag, that is untouched by the tales of the Ancients. Philosophically, artistically, scientifically and politically, the Greeks reached an astonishing level of sophistication. The legacy of their rich mythology endures to the present day, and I love it. Here's my collection on Greek mythology.

Downunder Dinkey-Di

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:11:48 -0600

Australia isn't a faraway uncharted continent, most people these days realise that we are not a country in Europe and that we definitely have nothing to do with Austria. Our actors and athletes are fairly familiar and we are mainly understood when we speak. But forget the furry animals for a moment, overlook the Opera House and have a look at the lesser known, bizarre and curious aspects. If you can answer these questions you're dinky di. Explore the inexplicabilities of dinkey di Arcania Australiana for odd historical and hysterical idiosyncrasies to get the. fair dinkum dirt on Downunder. Fair crack of the whip Digger, this is true-blue trivia!

Tennessee Waltz

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 17:00:24 -0600

What makes the Tennessee Waltz so beautiful? The song is beautiful to me for its warm memories of childhood. My mother played that record, 78 rpm on shellac, and danced around holding me up high, singing along with Patti Page. But it's not just simple sentimentality that endears Tennessee Waltz to so many people. Patti Page recorded Tennessee Waltz as the B side of a 1950 Christmas disc and since then it's been recorded more than 300 times, and won the BMI's 3,000,000 Airplay Award - the equivalent to 17.1 years of continuous playing! In 1965, Tennessee Waltz became the fourth official song of the State of Tennessee.

Afternoon Tea and Scones

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 17:25:41 -0600

For a delightful afternoon tea, serve up some home made scones and fill your house with the smell of fresh baking. Scones should be enjoyed straight from your oven, with only the briefest of pauses to add fresh, creamy butter and a dollop of jam. And, if you're like me, some clotted cream.

Retro knitted sock monkey hats and mittens

Sun, 15 Jan 2012 16:07:51 -0600

As if sock monkeys weren't cute enough by themselves, kids and kids at heart can wear a sock monkey hat when it's cold out! These sweet hats will surely keep your head warm even in the worst weather. Many have added ear flaps for extra warmth. For those skilled at knitting and crocheting, you can even get a pattern to knit your very own sock monkey hat. Wouldn't it be fun to choose the yarn for it?

Roast Vegetable Pie

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 17:56:08 -0600

Cheese always goes well with vegetables. One delicious way to blend the cheese with the vegetables is to bake up a pie, a warm hearty pie for the cooler months. This recipe uses roasted vegetables, a flavoursome hommous and the excellent Cypriot cheese halloumi, all in a light golden pie crust. I use frozen puff pastry sheets for this veggie pie but I've included a video which demonstrates how to make fabulous pastry. So simple it's startling! susanna duffy

Why Movember?

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:12:50 -0600

You may well ask why I appear as a witch too. This is a photo of me taken (curiously enough) on Halloween. It seemed a good photo to carry the addition of a moustache. But why am I sprouting a moustache? The moustache is in honour of the Movember Foundation charity. During the month of November, men choose not to shave in the moustache area. I can't grow a moustache but a bit of image manipulation and, voila, I have a full grown mo!

Animals in Chinese Astrology

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:58:09 -0600

What's your Chinese Astrology Sign? Which animal are you? Legend tells that the Buddha summoned all the animals to come to him before he departed from earth but only twelve came to bid him farewell and, as a reward, he named a year after each one in the order in which they arrived. Tradition says that the animal ruling the year in which a person is born has a profound influence on personality - the Animal that Hides in your Heart. In order the animals are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Boar. Which animal hides in your heart?

I want to swim in a Giant Pool

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:24:51 -0600

I learned to swim about the same time I learned to walk. At least, I learned to dog paddle and to stay afloat in the water. It was a necessary skill for any child living close to a beach. Those childhood days on the beach are gone now, and I prefer to swim in pools with no danger of jellyfish or the occasional hungry shark. Before I kick the bucket I'm going to swim in the giant pool near near Valparaiso, Chile.

Angels love Animals

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:00:11 -0600

During my time as a Squidoo Angel, one of the greatest pleasures was finding lenses that brought an instant smile to my face. Lenses that would otherwise have slipped under my radar. The best of these were the stories of animals, of pet dogs and cat companions. Of elephants and other magnificent beasts in their daily struggle to survive against their deadliest enemy - us. I found stories told with love for these household friends, with respect and compassion for the creatures of the wild and it was truly a blessing for me to read them. Some of them brought tears to my eyes. Here are some special animals, blessed by a Squidoo Angel.

Penguin Chat

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:13:36 -0600

What language would they speak? Do the Patagonian penguins speak Spanish? Penguins of course, are birds, and have their own secret code for conversing with each other but often their actions can look so, so ... human. Have you ever looked at a photo and thought of a funny saying, or caption, that would go with the picture? Here's your chance to write the caption to a photo! Be creative and post your own. Give me your idea what these penguins are saying, write your own captions. No penguins were harmed during the building of this lens.

The Significant Hat : Historical Tales

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:06:18 -0600

Hats are not merely to keep off the sun and the rain, Hats send all sorts of signals, they mark a social rite, portray a religious belief, define the status and occupation of the user and announce the extent of authority. Kings and Heroes wear hats, as do the Gods.

How to be a Good Angel

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:01:09 -0600

So you're an Angel now, but that's not the end of it. How can you be a Good Angel? There's a lot more to being an Angel than wearing a pair of shiny wings and a big smile on your face. You now have to take up your Angel Duties. It's a big responsibliity and you have to adjust your online hours to suit your workload. Here's a quick run through for newer Squidoo Angels who really want to be Good Angels.

Golly, what happened to Gumboots?

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 23:04:26 -0600

Once upon a time all gumboots were uniformly dull. What else could be expected from a pair of rubber boots? Always in serviceable black, the boots were made to protect your feet from mud and slush, not to be paraded up and down the town as a fashion item. As long as they kept our feet dry, that's all we asked. Gumboots were made for practicality. For splashing in puddles, for sliding in sludge and for snail hunting at midnight with a torch. They were good and faithful servants. Sturdy, trusty and true. But gumboots have changed! You could say they've come of age. Image : Sandra Horsburgh

Prizes, Medals and Shiny Things

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:32:02 -0600

This page about my awards from Squidoo is short and sweet. My list of squid prizes is short, yes, but very very sweet. My prized recognitions are the Lens Of The Day award, I can never get over the thrill of seeing them! As for the Purple Stars, I wish I could frame them and hang them in my office wall. Maybe I should print them off? Big Stock Photo

The Beauty and Benefits of Dandelions

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:21:57 -0600

Do you remember playing with Dandelion Clocks? We used to tell the time by counting how many puffs it took to denude a dandelion - is this something everyone did? Dandelion seeds are carried away by the wind and travel like tiny parachutes, often miles away from the parent plant. We also believed that if we could blow away all the seeds in one breath then maybe our wish would come true. We would have been better off eating the dandelions instead of puffing at the filamentous achenes for the common dandelion has absolutely wonderful health benefits.

New Year Customs and Traditions Old and New

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 19:47:21 -0600

Whatever the custom, whatever the country, no matter when or where we live, the New Year signifies a new start, a new life. We take the opportunity to throw out the mistakes of the past year and start anew. We wish each other good luck and promise ourselves to do better in the coming twelve months. Church bells ring, car horns blare, people shout, sing out loud and throw confetti at the stroke of midnight to drive away evil spirits. Happy New Year!

I want to see the Standing Stones of Calanais

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:04:51 -0600

When Standing Stones are mentioned, it's the great majesty of Stonehenge that comes to mind, not a wind-scoured island at the northwest edge of Europe I want to go to the chain of the Outer Hebrides, once an integral part of the Viking world and ruled by the Lordship of the Isles. I want to see all the windy, rocky places, full of peatmoss and mystery. I want to visit the misty Isle of Lewis, and see the Standing Stones of Calanais. desktop wallpaper

Golden Butternut Squash Soup

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:26:37 -0600

Butternuts are beautiful! They must be the sweetest-tasting squash of all time, the golden goodness of the butternut keeping the sun captured from harvest to table. You can serve up these bright beauties in many different ways but I like butternut soup best. It's tasty, tempting and all round easy entertaining. Butternut Squash is good for you too! franksteiner

Bennoti Cappuccino And Espresso Maker

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 02:41:26 -0600

Consumer reviews and information about the Bennoti Cappuccino And Espresso Maker, includes pricing, pictures, and online ordering information. Get a real cup of Italian coffee. A true cappuccino you make yourself in an instant.

All Legends and Lore Headquarters

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:24:04 -0600

'All Legends and Lore', a group to highlight lenses which focus on the fabulous - world mythology, ancient beliefs, tall tales and true, folklore, fairy, fable and the lost and forgotten stories from our legendary past. For Readers Browse our collection grouped into geographical regions or individual stories under the spotlight in their own section. We have stories from the hot winds of Egypt, the frozen lands of Skandinavia, and everywhere in between. We feature the best lens each month and special features of unusual interest. For Lensmasters If you have a legendary topic or mythical tale, you're very welcome to add your lens. Please read the Submission Guidelines

Vuvuzela!

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:41:38 -0600

We've all learned a new word - Vuvuzela - and what a glorious word it is too! It's an incredibly handy and wondrous addition to English. Use it as a noun, an adjective or a verb, what more could you want from the name of a musical (?) instrument? It must be common enough in South Africa but we didn't know of it until the FIFA World Cup 2010, now all of us can vuvuzela with the best of them! OK, so it sounds like a maddened elephant, but who cares? It's South African after all.

Voices from the First World War

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:14:20 -0600

The First World War was a terrible and tragic start to a new century. It was called The War to End All Wars but it did nothing of the sort. On the contrary it laid the framework for the next World War. There were 35 million civilian and military casualties. This is a collection of sayings from those who were really there at the time of the First World War. The Germans' quotes are represented by beginning with a red letter, whilst the British Soldiers' quotes start with the colour green. Image : Australians on the Western Front

I've Been Everywhere, Man

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 07:51:18 -0600

Did you think Johnny Cash wrote I've Been Everywhere, Man? No he didn't, although he recorded a cracking good rendition. Perhaps you thought it was Hank Snow, or maybe Asleep at the Wheel.. 'I've Been Everywhere, Man' was written by an Australian, Geoff Mack, in 1959. It was a popular hit for a young, and also very popular, singer named Lucky Starr. With the help of an atlas, Mack rewrote the song for Hank Snow in 1962. No matter what version you prefer, it's pretty darned difficult for anyone of normal vocal ability to actually sing 'I've Been Everywhere, Man' right through. Can you?

Council Of The Cursed

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:30:51 -0600

I'm thrilled with the latest Fidelma novel! Council of the Cursed. Sister Fidelma finds herself in tense situations where she has to use her wits, her deductive abilities and her knowledge of both law and human nature to solve mysteries which can decide the fate of peoples and nations. The historical element in these novels is very strong. I've learned a lot from the Fidelma novels, such as the surprisingly high legal status of women in Ancient Ireland. As mysteries the Fidelma books are challenging, as history they are informative, and as little bits of human melodrama they are truly engaging.

Old Fashioned Rhubarb Recipes

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:27:14 -0600

Are you guilty of having a rhubarb plant, untended, unloved and uneaten in the bottom of your garden? Have you seen bunches of rhubarb for sale and wondered what to do with them? Lots of people associate rhubarb with pies but there's a lot more to rhubarb than a pastry crust.. Rhubarb is an exciting sauce over chicken or seafood. gives spice to pancakes, zing to muffins and tart sweetness to a crepe. As jam it spreads on scones, as juice it gives a boost to white rum, and it's a heavenly sauce on ice cream. And a garden just isn't a garden without a big clump of rhubarb.

Minotaur - Tales of the Ancient Greeks

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:57:38 -0600

The story of the Minotaur is the story of Ariadne. It tells of her strange and dysfunctional family, of her monstrous brother, and of her suffering mother. To speak of Ariadne is to speak of Theseus, and of his quest to slaughter the Minotaur. The story of Ariadne is a tragic one, it tells of blood and betrayal, of broken trust and cowardly abandonment and it started on the glittering island of Crete, Land of the Labyrinth.

Cranberry Apple Pie Recipe

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:12:27 -0600

Is it that time of year again when apples are in season? Sometimes apples are everywhere, cheap and oh so plentiful, but how many ways can you cook an apple? Try adding cranberries to your apples, for a Cranberry Apple Pie This pie is simple enough to make with ready-made pastry and a can of cranberries, turns out lusciously moist and a very different and slightly tart way of presenting an apple pie.

Red Chinese Teapots

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:49:04 -0600

The Chinese were the first to discover the tea leaf some three thousand years ago, and have been drinking it ever since. The habit of drinking tea spread in the 6th century of our era to Japan and, by the 18th century, the rest of the world had caught up. Now tea drinking is widespread. There is an art to drinking tea but however you choose to taste your tea, you need a good teapot. A Chinese teapot. A red Chinese teapot Photo courtesy mrskyce

Peche Melba - Dessert for a Diva

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:06:51 -0600

Created from sweet sunny peaches, smooth vanilla ice cream and tart raspberry sauce, Peche Melba is a taste sensation. We like to think it's Australian, but the only connection is the name of our great singer, Dame Nellie Melba. This classic dessert was created by a French chef in London to honour an Australian. So it's more a multicultural contribution than it first appears. Wherever it started it makes no difference. Peche Melba is a Cook's delight. A pushover to prepare, stylish to serve and simply delightful to eat.

Carmen Amaya - Queen of Dance

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 03:14:42 -0600

There was no one like Carmen Amaya. Through her artistry and virtuosity, she effectively altered the history of flamenco dance forever. She crossed the traditional boundaries of flamenco with the fast and furious footwork usually reserved for the male dancer. Her only teacher was her instinct. Her school was the street. Amaya's artistry took her from humble and poor origins to win the admiration of the Queen of England, US President Roosevelt, and she captured the hearts of audiences all over the world. Flamenco today is deeply indebted to Carmen Amaya.

Halloween Costumes for a Pirate Family

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:25:35 -0600

You don't have to dress up as something scary for Halloween. Many of us don't want the youngest members of our family to be distressed in any way or dressing up in costumes unsuitable for their age group. Pirate Costumes can be worn by any member of the family, from toddler to Grandma without any fearful connotations. This Halloween, turn everyone into swashbuckling, scurvy pirates with costumes you can either purchase or easily make yourself.

Being Irish | Irish History

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 20:42:52 -0600

What does it mean to be Irish? Why do I perceive myself as being Irish? I'm an Australian but in my family we have never forgotten who we are. We remember where we came from and we remember why we ended up in this country. We don't hold grudges, 1847 was a long time ago. Now we live in a land of sunshine, cold beers and peculiar animals. It's a great place to be! The Irish made a deep and lasting impact on Australian society, on the Australian legal system, on Australian literature and on the Australian language itself. We're proud of our heritage. image : 'Emigrants leaving Ireland'. Henry Doyle

Footpath Gardens

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:30:48 -0600

Once we had lawn growing along the side of our footpaths, so-called Nature Strips, cropped as close as possible and a generally boring sight they were too. The last few years we have been indulging ourselves in growing all sorts of pretty or useful plants beside the pavement. Take a stroll around my neighbourhood with me and see what our nature strips look like now.

Gifts for Medieval Cooks

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 20:32:46 -0600

You don't have to live in the Middle Ages to be a Medieval Cook. You just need good tastebuds, an adventurous soul and the desire to produce cookery delights. Don't forget the end result of chemical-free healthy food! Select a gift that's designed for the Cook who likes to serve something different Detail from "Market Woman with Vegetable Stall" : Pieter Aertsen, 1567.

Baked Olive and Cheese Balls

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:55:41 -0600

Bake up a batch of Cheese and Olive Balls to keep your guests nibbling the appetisers. Make them the day before so, shortly before company calls, all you have to do is whip the balls out of the fridge and pop them on a tray in the oven. You can make a large amount fairly cheaply, the preparation takes minutes, and they're a tasty little treat of crisply coated olives that are most definitely cheesy! Serve on a beautiful platter to your guests or on a sturdy wooden tray for a teenage party. rogianesi

The Doll Doctor

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:14:19 -0600

Once upon a time there was a Doll Doctor in every neighbourhood. My father would take me on the bus, lifting me up and down the steps, to an ordinary suburban house with a large and welcoming sign on the driveway directing the passers-by down the back to the Doll Hospital. Following the directions we would arrive at the door of a weatherboard shed where my father would hoist me up again to pull the cord for the Emergency Bell. For many years I imagined all hospitals were like this. The Doll Doctor himself was a cheerful chap, with great patience for small children and a pair of brown eyes as bright as any of his patients. He cured my beloved Elizabeth Anne at least four times. Back in the 1950s, before toys became disposable items, our dolls lasted us through childhood. They were true friends. But not all Doll Doctors disappeared with the Barbie Invasion. In the hills outside of Melbourne, Sharon O'Brien finds those childhood friends and brings them lovingly back to life.

The Slow Cook

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:55:55 -0600

I'm a slow cook junkie. Unashamedly. I spent years cooking for a large family and, while that was rewarding while it lasted, my time is now my own. These days I cook when I want, what I want, for whoever I want and I get a meal on the table with as little fuss as possible. I love my slow cookers! Cooking a meal is as easy as throwing ingredients in a slow cooker in the morning then forgetting about it while I waltz off to do whatever I fancy. Take a walk on the river, read a book,,meet friends for coffee, the possibilities are limited only by my budget. Sometimes I just daydream. And at the end of the day dinner is ready.

Slow Cooking for Beginners

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:17:32 -0600

Your new slow cooker will often come with a recipe booklet. That's a good guide to start with as every make of slow cooker is a little different. The power settings can be a little different and size does matter. My best advice is to keep an eye on your cooker in the later stages of the cooking. Your recipe may require a little top-up of liquid or it may need to be dried out a little. You'll soon come to know your slow cooker well. Once you start cooking with the slow cooker, you'll be a convert.

How To Have The Best New Year's Eve Party Ever!

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:08:46 -0600

New Year's Eve is the one night where it's okay for the entire family to stay up all night and celebrate. Even the youngest members can be woken for 20 minutes to experience the festivity. Whether you're having an adults only party or a family friendly affair,here are some of the best ways to keep all of your guests amused and wanting to party till the early morning hours. Some games, a song, finger food and, before we forget, some fun crafts for the kids.

Queen Vic Market

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

Queen Vic Market may well be a tourist attraction in Melbourne and listed on the Heritage Register but it's my local store for fresh food. Seventeen acres of fresh food and only a short bus trip away! How lucky can I get? Come and join me for a morning's shopping at the Queen Victoria Market.

Eureka Stockade

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:13:20 -0600

The Battle at the Eureka Stockade was the most significant conflict in Australian colonial history. There had been other small and scattered rebellions, but the gold diggers of Ballarat shaped the character of the country, particularly in Victoria. I'm proud to be a descendant of two men who embraced the Spirit of the Stockade. wikipedia public domain

Great Australian Food

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:00:53 -0600

Once we lived on English food - it was all we knew. Meat, lots of meat, roast lamb, roast beef, lamb chops, grilled steak, marinated mutton and beef, lamb, lamb and more lamb. We had sausages and bacon for breakfast, lamb cutlets for lunch and at dinner we sat down to roast lamb and 'three veg'. And three veg it was too. Potatoes, pumpkin and something vaguely green that had been boiled in salted water for at least 20 minutes. Thank heavens for our wonderful migrants! Just after the Second World War we were blessed with the tastes of Italy and Greece, followed by food which was Lebanese, Turkish, Balkan, Hungarian and, in recent years, Vietnamese, Chilean, Chinese, Thai, Korean, Sri Lankan and Indonesian. Put them together and what have you got? Great Australian Food!

Kakadu, Ancient Wilderness

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:04:24 -0600

Kakadu National Park is a living cultural landscape, inhabited continuously by Aboriginal traditional owners for more than 50,000 years. You just won't believe Kakadu until you see it. Be prepared for the majestic sandstone escarpment which snakes its way for 500 kilometres through the east and south-east of Kakadu. Along the tracks to the sandy waterholes are Salmon Gums with pinkish trunks and deep burgundy grevillea. Many scattered sandstone boulders show visible signs of ageing: - the ripple marks of time and tide from 1700 million years ago. There are billabongs filled with whistling ducks, heron and kingfishers. You see peeling melaleuca paperbark forest, pink Wurrmarninj lotus lilies, river pandanus and buffalo grass a metre high. It's a magnificent place, but no words can truly describe the feeling of awe which Kakadu inspires. Probably the best time to be in Kakadu is during the tail end of the wet season when the floodplains are alive with life. That's April or May. image : amazing australia

Home Made Yogurt Maker

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:16 -0600

Lots of people make excellent yogurt in small quantities at home without a yoghurt maker. I make it myself when I have the time but I also have a machine that makes it for me. These days I prefer to whip up a delicious desert while I'm laying the table and not bother with an afternoon of sterilsing pots, spoons and glassware. Genghis Khan sustained his armies on yogurt in the 13th century and they managed very well indeed. It's not often that we get called upon to feed a horde of warriors but a hungry family can rapidly devour what seems like rations for hundreds. A yogurt maker and ice dream maker will make quarts of delightful treats almost by itself. All you have to is bring your imagination to the mix - and serve.

I love Food - My Life in the Kitchen

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:00:47 -0600

I seem to have a lot of lenses on food. Probably because I enjoy it so much. Once I cooked all the time for my growing children and grow they did .. they grew so big that they all left. Now they can cook for themselves, and I can cook just for the pleasure of it. It seems a simple thing, to prepare a meal for friends, but the sheer joy of preparing fresh food and serving it on a pretty plate on the garden is heaven-sent. In this lens I have grouped my food pages, I get peckish writing about food so you will have to excuse the crumbs on the page

Walhalla, a Country Town in Victoria

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:12:24 -0600

Like its mythological counterpart, Walhalla isn't easy to get into. It's hidden away in a steep valley among the dense forests of the Baw Baw mountains.. I find it hard to believe that this tiny hamlet once supported over 4,000 people, Today it has just twenty.permanent residents. Walhalla, once one of the richest mining centres in Australia, is nowadays another deserted gold town. wikimedia commons

Precious Photographs from the Past

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:09:13 -0600

Have you ever been asked what you would grab if your house caught on fire? I can tell you what I would run for first - because I did. My house burned to the ground in less than half an hour back in 1980. I scooped up my great grandmother's photograph album and threw it in my car. When I went back the few steps to get my own album, it was far too late and all I could do was release my handbrake and roll down the driveway to watch my house burn. I lost so many things that day. But I still have the old photo album from a woman I never knew.

Lovable Country Towns

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:07:48 -0600

I've always wanted to live in a little country town. As a child I dreamed of large red gums to climb, the bush to explore and my own pony in a paddock. Now I imagine an acre of organic vegetables and a dam stocked with yabbies. I could happily live in a little town, the drawback was always the isolation. But now internet access is everywhere and my friends just a mouse click away Batesford Pub : wikimedia commons.

An Angel's Best of Halloween

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:13:46 -0600

We find the Best of Halloween on Squidoo of course! Halloween is a celebration after all, and what better way to celebrate than to search out the best that Squidoo has to offer. Every once in a while a treasure will appear, my searches reap results and I will come across a really different approach to the subject of Halloween or an even scarier movie to watch. Many of these blessed lens deal with costumes, but not your usual costume. Oh no, not at all. What about a cow? Perhaps a hot dog? Turn yourself into Elvira! Can't carve a pumpkin? Get some tips from the expert who's been "squishing pumpkin guts" since childhood. Create a gothic, gore-free Halloween setting with cheap, DIY Halloween props. More, more and more. Great lenses, bless 'em all! Image : Big Stock Photo

Eaters of the Dead

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:12:03 -0600

Eaters of the Dead is a retelling of the classic Anglo-Saxon epic poem Beowulf from the perspective of an Arab diplomat who ends up joining Beowulf's party to hunt the fearsome monster who has been ravaging the Northmen It is the year 922 and Ahmad Ibn Fadlan, ambassador to the King of the Volga Bulgars, finds himself on an odyssey of danger and adventure far from his home in civilised Baghdad. This story is based on an actual account by the Arab ibn Fadlan, who left us his journals. Like many personal accounts the story may be embellished but his travels, taken without the supernatural, are perfectly possible. ibn Fadlan is known by scholars for his unbiased reporting. Author Micheal Crichton takes this historical manuscript and weaves a frightening story of the Monsters of the Mist

Ulysses was a Rat

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 20:13:40 -0600

You've heard of Ulysses, one of the Greek leaders in the Trojan War and the man who advised the Greek army to build that wooden horse. But here's something you may not know, Ulysses was a rat! When the Emperor Huang Ti introduced the first cycle of the Chinese zodiac in 2600 BCE, it was a good many years after the elderly Ulysses had met his peaceful death, but the characteristics of the Rat Person fit Ulysses like a glove.

Is there something in you Irish?

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:36:16 -0600

There's certainly something Irish in me. Of my sixteen great-great grandparents, only three were not of Irish descent.. This isn't so surprising, one third of Australians are of similar stock. But you don't have to be Irish to delight in joyous music, exhilirating dance and lively conversation. What better time to revel in all things Irish than on St Patrick's Day? I bet there's something in you Irish! ClipArt & Crafts

Large Kites for Kids

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:25:57 -0600

There's nothing better on a warm and breezy Spring day than flying a kite! Large kites for kids come in many themes and lots of colour combination. Featured below are many of the best selling large kites for kids plus videos and links to tips on flying kites. Kite flying is a fun and enjoyable activity for the whole family to enjoy. So go ahead and buy some large kites for your kids today and enjoy the nice weather!

What to do with Fava Beans

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:57:34 -0600

Broad Beans, Horse Beans, Windsor Beans.or Fava, by any name they're beautiful beans. I like to double peel my fava beans. It takes a little longer but the end result is well worth it. Fava beans grow quite well in my garden, they're winter vegetables here in South Eastern Australia and the perfect time to cook good and wholesome meals for the family wikimedia commons

Yabbies with Garlic Butter

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:09:16 -0600

I grew up catching yabbies from the creek. With a net made from a bent clotheshanger and an old stocking, you could scoop up a couple of dozen yabbles in half an hour. My brother used a piece a meat tied to a couple of yards of string and Mum would have them on the table by teatime. These days, yabbies are not so easy to find in the local creeks but still taste just as scrumptious.

Home Made Passionfruit and PeachTrifle

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:33:25 -0600

Unexpected guests? Quick! What's a dessert you can whip up without fuss, a dessert to lay on the table that looks scrumptious as well as tasting scrumptious? Assemble an old- fashioned no-cook sweet dessert trifle almost on autopilot. Children love to make this dessert. They love to eat it too, so keep an eye on how much they're tucking away.

Roman Town - the Archaeology Game

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 05:33:50 -0600

Roman Town is more than a game; it's a hands-on learning experience that's fun for the whole family! In this game, you unearth the ancient town of Fossura,which was buried after the eruption of Mount Vesuvias in 79. You get to.dig out artifacts, put all the pieces back together, and even find the remains of buried residents.

Clunes, a country town in Victoria

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:59:15 -0600

My favourite part of Victoria is the Central Goldfields region. So much of who we are today was forged up here in the gold country, .Clunes population 900, is full of gold history, a vintage town and an idyllic destination for the weekend getaway, or just for a country drive day trip.

I want to be a Belly Dancer

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:17:52 -0600

When I was growing up I associated "belly dancing" with Hollywood classics like Son of Ali Baba and Kismet, in other words, with pretty girls in veils swaying their hips in front of Tony Curtis. I had no idea that belly dancing was one of the oldest social dances in the world. I didn't know it was an art form. And I didn't know that MIddle Eastern Dance could promote strength, vitality, sensuality and grace. That's exactly what I need!

Almond Sugar Cookies

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:11:17 -0600

Almonds make a delicious tasting biscuit or cookie that will grace any table. Serve them to guests for an elegant after-dinner treat or at kids' parties, I can guarantee they won't last long on the plate. This recipe originally included Splenda but, after reading more on artificial sweeteners, I've replaced this ingredient with sugar. Yes, real sugar. Sugar won't harm you if eat it in moderation

Home Made Apple Brown Betty

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:55:56 -0600

An apple brown betty is an easy to make simple dessert made from apples and sweetened crumbs. This apple brown betty recipe uses apple cider for extra zing. Granny Smith apples, with cinnamon and ginger, give you a sweet and tart dessert combination that has everyone asking for seconds. Add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a dessert that the entire family is going to love.

Fruitcakes are not just for Christmas

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:26:20 -0600

We tend to think of fruitcake as a holiday treat, but it's for any time of the year A properly made fruitcake with real dried fruit, fresh spices, doused with brandy and stored in an airtight tin will last for years. It would most likely survive a nuclear war. You should bake at least one genuine fruitcake in your life! Although an authentic cake is not to be undertaken lightly, the result is nothing short of heavenly. Commercial fruitcakes are only distantly related to the real thing image : Brett Jordan

Give Mythology to Children

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:01:38 -0600

Mythology is a gift from the past, and every child should receive it. You don't have to give them epic poems by Homer or any daunting collection from the 19th century, there are wonderful books for small children, and teens, to enjoy. You'll enjoy them too. It's not just the stirring stories you give a child, you open their eyes to the world of the past, to the ideals of former societies, to the diversity and the similarity of human existence. You give them a solid background of learning.

The Bats that haunt Halloween

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 07:52:04 -0600

Why, at Halloween, do we remember the bats? For thousands of years we have been fascinated with, and usually repelled by, these creatures of the night. Once bats were regarded as semi-divine, and appeared in ancient legends from the deep dark places of the earth. Now they feature in scary movies and Halloween is not Halloween without bats.

An Angel's Last Tango

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 21:49:43 -0600

It was an honour to be appointed a Squidoo Angel and I've really enjoyed my tour of duty. But all good things come to and end. Time to hang up the wings and take a rest from seeking out the best on Squidoo. I've found a number of excellent lenses in my search and these are the last that I'm able to bless. You'll find some gems in this collection, from a selection of flowered mousepads, how to take a good photograph of yourself and evertything you wanted to know about the under-rated Juniper Berry. Thanks to all the lensmasters who made my task so worthwhile and I wish all the very best to the new round of Angels chosen for the start of 2010. Big Stock Photo

Recipes for Every Day of the Week

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:01:42 -0600

Run out of ideas for tonight's meal? Many is the time that I've been fresh out of ideas for dinner. When I was a young mother I got myself into the habit of jotting down a rough weekly menu for shopping but that was no good if I couldn't think of something to cook!. I started to keep a list of what I had cooked from week to week. Which ones went down well with the kids, which ones were a hit with the man of the house. I still keep lists. These days I can keep them online.

Delicious chocolate eggs Easter candy

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:01:06 -0600

Chocolate eggs are a popular candy for Easter baskets. These eggs are either solid chocolate or a hollow chocolate shell filled with other sweets or nuts for a delightful surprise when bitten into. They are of a small size and covered in a colourful foil wrapper sure to delight the recipient. There are many companies which produce chocolate Easter eggs, Hershey's and Lindt being among the most common.

The Last Day of Pompeii

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 02:48:03 -0600

It was a day of doom on 24 August in the year 79, the very last day of Pompeii. When Mt Vesuvius erupted to cover the Roman town of Pompei in ash and pumice, all those trapped between the volcano and the sea.were killed. The documentary tells the story from the point of view of different inhabitants of Pompeii (and Herculaneum) whose names and occupations we know. Still from Crew Creative, wikimedia commons

Vegemite beats Marmite hands down

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 04:57:19 -0600

Vegemite beats Marmite any day of the week Vegemite is part of Australian culture, like beer. And rightly so. It's a by-product of the brewery, a mixture of yeast and spice additives, full of essential proteins and minerals, and a rich natural source of Vitamin B. Australians are raised on Vegemite. Great slabs of bread slathered with rich full-cream butter and a generous layer of Vegemite are the very backbone of childhood and it's not unusual to smudge a bit on a dummy (translation = pacifier). I can assure you this keeps the child quiet for a considerable amount of time. Whole armies have been fed on Vegemite, it lies behind the very bravery of our legendary Anzacs! Vegemite is a national icon and a mighty symbol of pride. For some it has deep significance as an ordeal of childhood through which only the fittest will pass. For others it's a patriotic duty. There must be many a research paper waiting to happen on Vegemite, not the least being its miraculous morning-after properties. If you have never tasted this black paste, wait till you have a hangover. You have a rare treat, and a cure, ahead.

Who would want to be a Mother?

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:13:07 -0600

Are you going to apply for a job as mother? You've done all the right things, read the pamphlets, googled for background information and spoken to retired staff. Now it's time to fill out your application for the job. You're feeling a little lost at the prospect of filling out those forms (in triplicate). Never fear, help is here. I've personally filled out half a dozen of these applications to be a mother and there are just five things to remember.

The Castle of Dracula

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:18:59 -0600

Close your eyes. Imagine Dracula's Castle. Do you see a mysterious, creepy fortress high in the mountains? In the mind's eye, Dracula's Castle is a gloomy medieval citadel, a fortified fastness complete with bats somewhere in a wild and remote country, just like the castle in the movies. There is a real Dracula's Castle, a 14th century fortress in central Romania, on the tip of the Southern Carpathian Mountains. But Vlad the Impaler has long gone, and nowadays Bran Castle lures guests only with the legend of Count Dracula

The Bats of Melbourne

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:15:33 -0600

Each evening I stand on my porch to watch thousands of bats leave their roost to feed on nectar and fruit in the suburbs. They pass so close I can hear their wings beat. During the day I walk along the creek to the river and marvel at the sheer numbers of these strange creatures hanging in the trees on the riverbank. How can they sleep upside down?

Charles Trenet

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:17:02 -0600

Charles Trenet, the 'Soul of Narbonne', was the last of the legendary French chanson singers. Chanson refers to French popular vocals, particularly romantic ballads, a popular musical genre in France from the 1880s until the end of World War II. Chanson is distinguished from the rest of French "pop" music by following the rhythm of the French language, and it's identifiable as specifically French. Many of the classic chanson singers were movie stars, such as Maurice Chevalier, while others, like Edith Piaf, were cabaret performers. Trenet's best known song is La Mer and it's as popular today as when he recorded it in 1946.

Island of Ghosts

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 01:37:47 -0600

In the Caucasus Mountains are the little republics of the Ossetians, places small enough, and obscure enough, to be almost forgotten by the world. But here, stories are still told of their ancestors, the Alans, and songs are sung of their greatest heroes, the Narts. Strangely, many of the stories told of the Narts have a sense of deja vu, we know these stories somehow, and they are especially familiar to readers of the legends of Britain and the hard years just after the Romans went home. How could modern Ossetians be telling stories that sound so much like the story of King Arthur? This novel contains the answer.

A Ghost of Ancient Athens

Sun, 04 Dec 2011 21:38:54 -0600

Ghosts have been around a long time and there are many Ghost Stories passed down through the ages. Some of these tales are extremely old. Pliny the Younger, a magistrate of Ancient Rome, is known for his hundreds of surviving letters, an invaluable historical source on Rome in the first century of our era. In one letter to the Emperor Trajan, Pliny wrote of a haunting in Athens. The story is placed somewhere about the time that Vesuvius erupted. The year 79 Let's listen as Pliny tells the story. Bust, Zeno of Citium, Musei Vaticani

The Goddess Headquarters

Sun, 11 Dec 2011 12:57:53 -0600

Welcome to our group page where we feature all aspects of the goddess. In this collection you can find perspectives from different cultures and different eras on goddess spirituality, and on the sacred feminine through the ages. Associated with the earth, the moon, and fertility, the goddess is usually described as an energy force inside every living and nonliving thing. The earliest evidence of human esoteric thought is found in female statuary. The "God Force" dates to 3,000 BCE. The "Goddess Force" dates to 30,000 BCE, which is why many say "My Goddess gave birth to your God." Submissions If you have a relevant lens you are welcome to submit your link. Please read the Submission Guidelines

Raw Thanksgiving Recipes

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:10:13 -0600

This Thanksgiving why not include more Raw Foods in your diet. Instead of making the Turkey the Main focus of the meal try adding a Waldorf Salad, Raw Pumpkin Pie, and even raw CheeseCrackers! Many Americans don't get the minimum 5 fruits and vegetables a day even with the traditional recipes of Thanksgiving... If a vegetable or fruit is served, it is usually served cooked and loaded with added fats. Below you will find common recipes like GreenBean Casserole, Mock Turkey, Cranberry sauce, Chocolate Pudding, Pumpkin Pie, and even a recipe for Cheese - Its that uses only 3-THREE ingredients!

Cooking with Celeriac

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 22:50:59 -0600

Celeriac, like all root vegetables, is the ultimate in comfort food. You cook celeriac as you would any of the popular root vegetables, roast them, mash them, simmer in a stew or blend them for soups. I love celeriac with potato, either mashed, or baked in a casserole. Celeriac makes great wedgies too! Here's my oven baked recipe, for creamy celeriac and potato casserole with cheese.

My Angel Blessings

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:08:40 -0600

Have you just received a cryptic comment in your guestbook about an angel blessing? That's because I've seen your work and recognise the merit in it. It's a way of letting you know that your efforts have been worthwhile and of encouraging you to continue creating lenses of this calibre. If you're relatively new to Squidoo, an angel blessing is to tell you that you are on the way to being a top quality lensmaster. Veterans are acknowledged for their contributions to Squidoo.

Vladi: The Best and Sexiest Black Cat Ever

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:06:53 -0600

Vladimir (Vladi to friends) is not only the best blogging cat ever and a groundbreaking cat lensmaster, he is much more. Vladimir is the sexiest lensmaster ever! Stroke that velvetty fur, listen to the warm throb of his purr, reach out and gently tap the delicate paw. One look into those soulful eyes and who can resist? There's no argument. Vladi is definitely the best ever!

Snap Circuits Electronics for Kids

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 20:26:55 -0600

Snap Circuit educational kits from Elenco are perfect for learning about electronics and a heck of a lot of fun. I wish these electronic kits had been available when I was a kid. I'm always looking for gifts suitable for my grandsons, but I know what the 12 year old is getting from me this year. A Snap Circuit 300! Big Stock Photo

Purple Power

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:26:45 -0600

What do you get when you cross cool blue with hot red? You get purple, the colour of royalty. Purple is a sign of power, nobility, luxury and ambition. It's associated with wisdom, dignity, independence, creativity, mystery, and magic. Purple is the color of good judgment. It's the colour of people seeking spiritual fulfillment and it's said if you surround yourself with purple you will have peace of mind. Whether wearing it, living in it, or creating with it, purple is a colour for the adventurous heart. And that's why I love my purple stars. crocus -wikimedia commons

Jane And The Unpleasantness At Scargrave Manor

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 06:30:58 -0600

Meet Jane Austen, Detective! Who would have thought it? Jane Austen discovering clues, sifting through evidence, unravelling nefarious plots and solving grisly murders. But, when you consider it, the same keen eye for observation that makes Jane's books such a joy to read would be invaluable to a sleuth. Stephanie Barron must have devoured all of Austen's novels. She writes in the Austen style which, from the opening paragraph, had me believing that I was indeed reading a hitherto unknown journal "discovered" in the basement of an old house. I love this book. I love the mystery, I love the characters and I love this closer relationship with Jane.

Butternut Squash Recipes

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:45:39 -0600

Pumpkins and squash are simply the most versatile and delicious vegetables around.. Traditionally associated with winter, they're now available at any time of the year. Already fairly sweet, butternuts get even sweeter when cooked and commonly have their sweetness enhanced with things like cinnamon, sugar, and nutmeg. Butternuts are also scrumptious when prepared as a savoury dish, with feta or a sharp cheese, garlic and sage. Brighten up your dinner table with some butternut side dishes or make a complete meal with these golden recipes

Getting on with Grief

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:57:23 -0600

People frequently ask me how I cope with the death of my son. Sometimes I want to scream at them. How do you think I cope? I get out of bed every morning, don't I? I don't know how they expect me to behave. I have even been asked if I still think of him. Do they imagine I have forgotten? As if a few years could wipe out the memories of that terrible phone call, the 3,750 km dash to the far north of the continent, the dreadful hours in the hospital, or the final heart-breaking goodbye. Oh yes, I still think of him. He still shows up in my dreams and, on waking, the relentless grief hits me again. How do I cope? How does any mother cope? Because we do, because we have no choice, because there is no other option.

How to Cook for Two

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:22:41 -0600

Cooking for Two can sometimes be more trouble than cooking for a tribe .I'm having to learn a new skill - how to cook for two. I've been so used to cooking for a large family and various assorted firends that I'm starting over in trying out meals for just two people. Here are some ideas for a dinner that's just the right amount for two. Bear with me while I test some more.

RED the Movie

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:15:59 -0600

I'm not a big fan of action movies (apart from fun sci-fi) but RED isn't your everyday action movie. It's a load of laughs, former CIA operatives turned old fogies, getting together to do some merry blowing-up and shooting-down of sinister nasties in dark glasses who are out to kill them..

Mother Of Kings

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:27:46 -0600

I loved Mother of Kings, a long family saga about (mostly) real people of the tenth century I was enthralled with the devious machinations of Gunnhild, the 'mother' from the title, and the manner in which author, Poul Anderson presents the material. Mother of Kings blends mythology and history into a dramatic, gritty and fascinating story that tells of Gunnhild, a real woman and Queen of legendary status. Gunnhild was the daughter of Gorm the Old, king of Denmark, says the 12th century Historia Norvegiae. She married Erik Bloodaxe, King of Norway and the Orkneys, in a dynastic union between two great houses. A powerful and rarely experienced look at the tenth century.

How To Make French Toast

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:56:52 -0600

French toast is a delicious breakfast dish. It's not the breakfast I recommend as a daily routine, rather as a small luxury for yourself. Sunday mornings are my French Toast mornings. It's quick enough to get together, just bread which has been soaked in egg and fried till golden. Then a leisurely coffee on the patio with the crossword. French toast, Hong Kong style, is my reward to myself for a hard week's work. wikimedia commons

Ballarat and Bendigo - Gold Towns of Victoria

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 03:00:47 -0600

In 1851 gold was discovered at Ballarat and shortly afterward in nearby Bendigo. The gold finds set off a gold rush similar to the California gold rush of 1849. The population of Victoria exploded as its focus went from sheep to gold. The two regional cities of Ballarat and Bendigo were built from the profits of gold, and have some of the widest avenues, beautiful boulevards and gracious buildings in Australia.

Gingerbread Man Cookies

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:59:55 -0600

One of my favourite things to do during the holidays is to make gingerbread houses with my grandchildren. The problem with that is they're far too pretty to eat. The solution to that problem is to make gingerbread man cookies. Gingerbread Man Cookies are easy to make with a simple cookie cutter, and the kids love decorating their individual people. Here's a basic gingerbread cookie recipe and a few decorating ideas.How about a simple royal icing recipe for dressing up your gingerbread men?.

Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:25:25 -0600

Biscotti is a twice-baked bread that bakes up deliciously crispy. This cranberry pistachio biscotti recipe is a popular dessert for the holiday season because of its red and green colouring but it's not just for Christmas It's a simple recipe which turns out a little softer than most biscotti mixes. The combination of dried cranberries and pistachios make a delightful treat for dessert at any time of the year. niki979

Optimise Lenses for Infolinks

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:57:10 -0600

Infolinks are described on the Squidoo dashboard as "text link ads". They link to your text using a double-underlined green hyperlink. Although they are linked to text, they are not usually text ads but usually show a small advert in a graphic window. Research by Squidoo HQ have shown that removing the Infolinks from the Intro modules of lenses substantially reduced the number of visitors who were clicking on the new adverts. They are therefore back to stay in Intro modules (unless you opt out of them altogether on that lens). If somebody clicks out from your Intro module they will not have encountered your own adverts. Income from Infolinks is shared with lensmasters via a pool: not on the number of clickouts from your own lens. Your personal income is therefore optimised by having the links on your lens but trying to get people to click on one of your adverts first. (Actually this probably also maximises the income for Squidoo itself).

Barmah, a country town in Victoria

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:20:08 -0600

Barmah is a tiny little town on the Murray River and right on the edge of the breathtaking Barmah State Forest. You'll find the world's largest stand of River Red Gum here, some of the trees are over 400 years old The population of Barmah is about 300 but that swells in the holiday season. I can't wait to get back to stay in the Barmah Caravan Park, now that the floods have rejuvenated the river. Caravan Park Photos

Alexander and Alestria

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:58:22 -0600

Alexander and Alestria is the story of Alexander the Great, who conquered the known world, and Alestria, Queen of the Amazons. Their love, extravagant and deeply passionate, erupts against an exotic backdrop of warfare and political turmoil. The story sweeps from Ancient Greece to Egypt, to Ancient Persia and deep into the mysterious kingdoms of India. These two lovers share a passion based entirely on fate rather than mutual regard. What else could they share in this mythic world of improbable events? Alexander and Alestria is a novel, improbability is par for the course. Author Shan Sa writes in a sporadic lyrical style, interspersing her poetic flights with some run of the mill paragraphs. All the same, I enjoy a little light reading and this romance novel whisked me away for some pleasurable hours. If you're ever marooned on a desert island .. send for Romance Novels.

The Story of Halloween

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

Our ancestors paid great attention to times which marked a change, a turning point from what-was-before to what-is-now. They believed these Turning Points in Time were endowed with Magic. They saw them as filled with portent. We still look at anniversaries in this way, and celebrate such turning points as significant birthdays, college graduations and other meaningful times when we change from one state to the other. But there are many more transitions. The time between one night and the new dawn, the meeting of sea and shore, the closing of an old year and the opening of the new, these times are made of mystery and magic. The turning of the year is the time when the veil between the worlds is at its thinnest, and the living can communicate with their beloved dead. One of these times is Halloween.. Big Stock Photo

The Ghost of the Brown Lady

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 04:19:23 -0600

When King George IV visited the stately manor of Raynham Hall In the early nineteenth century, he expected to be entertained as befitted his rank. He was royally wined and wined and conducted to the best bedchamber to spend a peaceful night. In the early hours, George woke suddenly to see a figure standing by his bed. It was a dim figure, and shadowy, a small woman in a brown dress, pale-faced and with her hair hanging loose and dishevelled. An icy chill which could not be dispelled by the generous fire burning in the grate struck the monarch. .Shrieking for his servants, he ordered them to immediately convey him safely away from the dreadful apparition, and from Raynham Hall, without delay. "I will not spend another hour in this accursed house, he cried, for tonight I have seen that which I hope to God I never see again".

Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 07:50:45 -0600

Cheesecake fan? You'll love this easy Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Everyone loves a slice of cheesecake but it can be tricky to make so, if you're in a hurry and can't wait, make these slices instead. You get the creamy texture and the rich flavour of cheesecake in a fraction of the time. Cheesecake bars travel well too, pop one in a lunchbox.

No Angel

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:08:28 -0600

No, I'm no angel. At least not in the sense I imagine angels to be. I would like to clear up a few points. Firstly, angels are sexless creatures. This just isn't true in my case, I'm definitely a woman. I did once read that angels are composed of ethereal matter, and thus able to take on whichever physical form best suits their immediate needs. Unfortunately I'm no shape-shifter either. If only this were so! The first thing I would do is to make myself a size 10 again. I'm no angel, but I'm a Squidoo Angel. But just what is a Squidoo Angel? Big Stock Photo

Square Off with the Duel Module

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 01:27:55 -0600

The Duel Module is a treasure when you want interaction from your readers. It's a simple module to use once you take it down into your workshop, open it up and examine it. Some lensmasters have difficulties with this module, but all it takes to master this little beauty is a clear idea of what the topic will be . More importantly, you must know just what it is that you're asking. Let's go through the Duel Module step by step. Basil Rathbone and Tyrone Power

Easy Ice Cream Sandwiches

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:11:08 -0600

Your children will love this Fast and Easy Ice Cream Sandwiches Recipe and you will love how easy they are to make! Watch the video recipes for even more ideas for this great tasting, kid friendly ice cream dessert! If your kids enjoy ice cream as much as mine do, you just can't go wrong with a fast and easy ice cream sandwiches recipe! After making this incredibly easy recipe for ice cream sandwiches, please consider leaving a comment and telling us how much you enjoyed this dessert!

Raw Food Family

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:23:37 -0600

Many people talk about "Raw Food' as if it's something weird, wonderful or just plain whacky. Raw Food is just food that you haven't cooked! Instead of starting your day with some cooked, processed food, have some fresh fruit instead. A couple of months ago I came across this little family on youtube. In the Raw Food Family, everyone eats fresh fruit and vegetables.

I want to walk the Great Wall of China

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:58:45 -0600

They say the longest journey starts with the first step. Physically speaking, I have to get to China first. Ever since I cheered on Olivia Newton John from my armchaiir as she walked the Great Wall of China, I've been determined to do the same. Olivia walked the Wall in 2008 to raise money for cancer vixctims and their families. No one will sponsor me, but I will make the walk just the same.

Elvis The King Headquarters

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:55:04 -0600

He only needs one name - Elvis, and he will always be the King. He was the vibrant young man who brought rock 'n roll to the masses in the 1950s. He thrilled us with a great sense of showmanship and held attention centre stage in a way that the big bands and 40s singers never did. Elvis had over 110 top 40 hit singles, starred in 33 motion pictures, and had fans numbering in the millions. No other performer has come close to this amazing record of success and critical acclaim. His talent, good looks, sensuality and great music made him one of the most important figures of twentieth century popular culture. .Elvis is still the King!

Epicure Headquarters

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:43:58 -0600

Welcome to Epicure, a collection of classy lenses on fine food. Not your everyday meal of tuna patties, but the very best in taste sensation from sweet delights to stupendous soups, presented by lensmasters who love good food. We have a delightful array of food to tempt you. From traditional roasts, fresh seafoods and exotic fruit to the exciting blend of wine and chocolate. We even have a gourmet sandwich! Come on, starch up that chef's hat, sharpen those knives and get down to some excellent instructions in delectable dinners. Our Cooks show you, step by step, how to achieve a truly first class result. Simply the best of Squidoo.

September Angel Blessings 2009

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:12:52 -0600

More Angel Blessings to go round! The best way to make sure I can remember which lenses blessed, is to keep a monthly list. This is not only to feature the lovely work which I found, but as a reminder to me to check back on these lenses - and to investigate newer creations from those lensmasters. This is the list of lenses which I have blessed in September of 2009 Big Stock Photo

Jaws, Claws and Big Roars

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:07:17 -0600

I love school holiday programs! Although my grandson, Tien, won't start school for a while yet, we enjoy all the available activities for kids. Both of us are fans of Scienceworks, with the themed exhibitions, interactive scientific displays and all the hands-on activities. Off we went to explore the Dinosaur exhibition at Scienceworks and I'm not sure which one of us enjoyed our day out more, Game Wallpapers

Amazon Spotlight Personal Review Module

Sun, 22 Jan 2012 17:43:25 -0600

All the Amazon Modules are good news for lensmasters but the Spotlight is a perfect way to showcase a product. You get a good sized image which makes the product more appealing and a chance to write your own opinion/review. Writing your own words carries conviction. When you tell us what you thought of a particular book, or movie, or pair of shoes, we pay more attention to you than to the text which comes straight from the publisher. Your opinion counts. A great way to make it count is in the Amazon Spotlight Personal Review.

S'mores Covered Apples Recipe

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 04:53:59 -0600

If you like S'mores then you will like this little treat, instead of caramel apples try s'more covered apples. There are many ways of making an apple a delightful taste. Like caramel apples they are easy to make and fun to eat. It is a treat that the children will enjoy and they can even help make them for they are as easy to make as caramel apples except they have marshmallows, chocolate and bits of gram cracker on them.

Watching Whales in Australia

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 05:05:02 -0600

We have 45 species of whales, dolphins and porpoises in Australia. All of these marine animals are beautiful enough to give you goosebumps, but surely the whale is the most magnificent. From June to October we can see the whales migrating from their summer feeding grounds in the Antarctic to the warmer waters of the Australian coast. wikipedia

Oatmeal Raisin Pancakes Recipe

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 04:32:30 -0600

Are you ready for some easy Over Night Oatmeal Raisin Pancakes? This Oatmeal Raisin Pancakes Recipe is one you can prepare the night before and put in the fridge for a quick and easy breakfast the next morning. Sometimes you're far too rushed in the morning to make a quality breakfast for the kids or you just want a warm oaty raisiny pancake for yourself, This is a perfect breakfast for two as well. I've included a video of this Oatmeal Raisin Pancakes Recipe to make it even easier.

A Day in Ballarat

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:24:05 -0600

Have you ever woken up one morning and decided to just get away for the whole day? I did. I turned my back on the fridge (which needs cleaning) on my backyard (which needs sweeping) and on the pile of work on my desk (which needs doing).. Stopping only to pack a scarf and a mystery novel in my shoulderbag, I shut the front door and took off for the day. .V Line is my respite. Fast, efficient and comfy trains. Cheap too! I took off for Ballarat, about 120 kilometres north west of Melbourne.

Are criminal charges for bushfire arson out of date?

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 16:46:45 -0600

Lighting a fire on any land in country Victoria during extreme weather conditions is an offense which can result in imprisonment for a term of 3 months to 2 years. The criminal charges relate mainly to property. Should we upgrade those charges to include all charges of murder? A murder is a willful killing, in which someone makes a conscious choice to kill someone else, while a manslaughter is an accidental murder. For example, someone who plans to use a car to kill someone would be charged with murder, while a driver who accidentally hits a cyclist would be charged with manslaughter. Premeditation distinguishes murder. It implies that the murderer was not acting from haste or violent rage, but from a place of cold, calculating hardness.

Easy Mustard Pork Chops Recipe

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:10:19 -0600

This Easy Mustard Pork Chops Recipe will have everyone asking for more. From prep to table in 30 minutes, the easy mustard pork chops recipe will quickly become one of the cook's favorites too! Try this Easy Mustard Pork Chops Recipe soon. I'm sure you'll agree that this is one of those recipes that will be instantly popular with your family. Image courtesy of Wikipedia Commons Pork Chop Dinner

Jormungand, son of Loki

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 06:44:30 -0600

You've heard about Loki, the Northern Trickster, and how you must beware of him. Loki is deadlier than his children, even deadlier than his son Jormangand. Jormungand was the second child of Loki and Angrboda. Kidnapped by the gods from his mother's hall, he was carried off to Asgard and from there cast into the waters that surround Midgard. There he lay until he grew so large that he spans the entire world, deep in the ocean where he bites his tail, and all humanity is caught within his coils. Thor and Jormungand were destined to meet three times.

Christmas Mourning

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:39:38 -0600

Christmas isn't happy for everyone. For some, it's a time of aching grief, remembering holidays of the past. For those who carry the pain of lost family and friends, Christmas is a cruel reminder of happier days, carefree days that belonged to an earlier life. It's hard to feel festive feelings when you're in sorrow. Prepare for how you're going to get through Christmas. By thinking ahead, talking with family members and making plans you can decrease some of the anxiety surrounding the holidays. Big Stock Photo

Halloween Hootenanny

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 07:52:49 -0600

For a fun family get together with small children, you don't want the little ones being too scared. Creepy music, scary costumes and other spooky stuff can be too much for the younger kids. Have a Halloween Hootenanny instead. The early Teens will appreciate it too. Give them a taste of the olden-days music that their parents and, heaven help us, their grandparents, enjoyed. On the audio CD, Halloween Hootenanny, you'll find folk music,rockabilly and even a macabre mambo. All good, clean, spooky fun

Potato and Leek Soup Recipe

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:02:11 -0600

Leek and potato soup is understandably popular. It's a tasty soup but one of the best things about it is the cheapness of the ingredients. You can grow your own potatoes and leeks easily too. Try a pot yourself, it's a great winter warmer and a fantastic comfort food that you can enjoy again and again. Photo By Jojof

The Lure of the Northern Legends

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:10:47 -0600

The Gods of the North were red-blooded and bloody-minded. They didn't waste their time lying around on silken couches in the balmy air of Mt Olympus as did their Greek counterparts. The Gods of Scandinavia came from harsh lands, they had real work to do, courage and honour was demanded, truth was all important and justice was swift. We can learn a great deal of how people lived in ancient times by the characters of their Gods.

Figgy Pudding Recipe

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:58:34 -0600

Figgy pudding isn't a pudding at all; it's really a cake. There are many recipe variations and ways of cooking figgy pudding. The most traditional way is by steaming it, which takes 3-4 hours but my recipe for figgy pudding is much simpler' and perfect for the less experienced cook. It's similar to a carrot cake spice-wise, but with figs, and it has a yummy, simple sauce to smother over the top. The next time you hear carolers singing "...bring us some figgy pudding...", give them a slice. image :Bellyglad

I Love Cheese!

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:55:15 -0600

There's something quite indulgent about the delicious labours of the ancient craft of cheese-making - the sheer enjoyment from a simple wedge of crumbly red cheddar or a sharp shaving of tart parmesan. Cheese tastes best in its country of origin and good cheese starts with the freshest milk, it's the fine milk quality in Australia that makes our cheese so delicious.

Spiced Apple Cider

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:59:31 -0600

One of my favorite, non-alcoholic, drinks to have at Christmas is spiced apple cider. It has a unique, spice flavor that I only ever enjoy during the holidays. Spiced cider is simple to make and is full of the best smelling spices I know. I try to make it at least once a week in December because my house ends up smelling so delicious! Let your family and friends enjoy this simple spiced apple cider recipe. Big Stock Photo

Christmas Dinner in Australia

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 07:53:18 -0600

This year I'm having an easy Christmas lunch. I won't be hanging over the hot stove, one hand basting and the other hand stirring gravies and sauces. An hour's preparation on Christmas Eve and I'll be ready for lunch on Christmas Day. Yabbies, glazed ham, potato salad and a green salad, crusty bread and all washed down with some chilled Mount Pleasant Semillon from the Hunter Valley.,

The Parody and Satire Group Headquarters

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:42:08 -0600

These days, a parody, send-up or spoof, is a work created to mock, comment on, or poke fun at an original work, its subject, author, style, or some other target, by means of humourous, satiric or ironic imitation. The most satisfying element of a good parody is seeing it mistaken it for the genuine article. Our group is dedicated to the principles that practically everything is funny and that laughter is the best medicine. We also believe that subtle comedy is best with tongue in cheek and a very dry delivery. No joke of the day stuff here! Must be G rated. The world is a stage, but the play is badly cast -- Oscar Wilde

Meatless Tortilla Pie Recipe

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:46:47 -0600

This Meatless Tortilla Pie Recipe features layers of flour tortillas alternately spread with black beans, pinto beans and picante sauce. For a hearty, satisfying meal, this Meatless Tortilla Pie Recipe can't be beaten. Add some cheddar cheese and you have a Meatless Tortilla Pie worthy of football parties, weekend lunches or a quick evening meal. Additional ingredients could be chopped green onions, jalapenos or even a spoonful of sour cream on top. Treat your family to this delicious Meatless Tortilla Pie Recipe and they'll be asking when they can have it again.

What Book will I Read? A Library Lensography

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 19:41:02 -0600

Reading is like physical exercise. You could call reading a workout for the brain. Whether we're reading a novel, a biography or a book on goldfish, we seek an elusive combination of pleasure, utility and intellectual stimulation, something to pique our curiosity and engage our minds. Do you wonder sometimes what book you can read nest? Here's my list of books in a range of genres. Alright, get your favourite chair ready or curl up on the couch. Have a lamp on behind, or to the side, so that you can clearly see you're reading. Arrange your necessities chocolates, coffee, chewing gum or whatever on a flat surface within hand's reach. Turn the first page ......

Cranberry BBQ Chicken

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 05:03:47 -0600

Looking for an Easy Cranberry BBQ Chicken Recipe? Look no further! This Cranberry BBQ Chicken Recipe has the easiest directions and will be on the table for the family to eat in no time! Make this delicious and Easy Cranberry BBQ Chicken Recipe for dinner tonight.

Dipping Sauce for Vietnamese Dinner

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 22:07:21 -0600

A Vietnamese dish is not complete without sauce. Sometimes you just need a Dipping Sauce, like one of these easy recipes. If you're just about to put the Spring Rolls on the table and one of your kids says Where's the sauce, Mum?, don't panic. You can whip up an express dipping sauce or keep a couple of bottles of ready made Plum Sauce or Sweet and Sour sauce in your cupboard. But nothing beats a fresh sauce that you've made yourself.

Making Spring Rolls an Easy Guide

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 21:32:06 -0600

Freshly cooked, light, crisp and crunchy Spring Rolls. Now there's a lovely appetiser for anyone's table! Spring rolls can be found in several Asian countries, most notably China, Vietnam, Singapore and Indonesia. There's a version of the Spring Roll in the Phillipines too. In Australia we can buy a food item called 'Spring Roll' from a fish-and-chip shop but they bear little, if any, resemblance to the real thing. Do yourself a favour, make some real Spring Rolls!

I want a Weber BBQ

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:09:12 -0600

I want a Weber! I had some friends over for an afternoon BBQ to celebrate my birthday and, wonder of wonders, I had the loan of a fabulous Weber BBQ kettle for the day. I'm well accustomed to throwing a few chops on the barbie, but that's always on an ordinary grill BBQ which I fire up with store-bought heat beads and stand there, over the heat, turning the meat over. With the kettle style, you can cook a roast! And the result is that great melt-in-your-mouth texture and flavour that only a charcoal/briquette fuelled BBQ can produce. The great strength of the Weber is as a slow roaster, but they can be also be used as a conventional grill and many people use them as smokers. This was my first foray into cooking with a kettle and now I'm definitely getting myself a Weber

The Journal of the Traveling Squid in Melbourne Australia

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:41:54 -0600

The Traveling Squid landed Downunder for an Australian Christmas Season in 2009. The Shirt seems to have started its journey in Spain. In any case it stopped over for some tapas and a cerveza or two. The trip through England and Ireland was distinguished by cold weather and it was a pleasant change to arrive in Australia for a spot of sunlight. Fortunately, no bushfires or floods threatened the fearless traveler. First stop in Australia was Melbourne and no visitor can go past the Old Melbourne Gaol, the last place in which Ned Kelly saw the light of day. Who can resist posing for a picture in a replica of the Ned Kelly Helmet? Our Traveling Squid certainly couldn't. There are more stopovers along the way to meet up with Downunder lensmasters before a flight across the Tasman to New Zealand. I was thrilled to welcome the Traveling Squid to Australia!

The Others

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:36:38 -0600

The Others gives me the creeps! It's a Ghost Story, a psychological thriller of a Ghost Story, and throughout the whole movie you have a sense of dreaded expectation. Set in 1945 on a fog-enshrouded island off the British coast, the film throbs with unspoken horror in an ominous setting with secretive characters and things that go bump in the night. A woman and her two young children live an unusually isolated existence behind the locked doors and drawn curtains of a secluded mansion. Three mysterious servants arrive and it soon becomes chillingly clear that there is something very wrong in this house.

The Princess Theatre

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:35:47 -0600

I love the Princess! It's a must-see for visitors to Melbourne. This beautiful Victorian lady was first built at the height of the Gold Rush in 1854 and subsequent owners have meticulously cared for the magnificent fa�ade, the domed mansard roofs, the cast iron filigree, the stamped metal ceilings and the marble expanse of the foyer and staircase. Magnificent! From the Mikado to Hairspray, Swan Lake on Ice to Jersey Boys, the Princess has seen some stupendous Opening Nights, graced by the resident ghost, sitting in his favourite third row seat in the Dress Circle. The Princess Theatre is a great cultural asset to my city of Melbourne.. wikimedia comons

Ten Best Summer Side Dishes

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:29:22 -0600

Summer is a time for cold meats and grilled fish, for barbecues and chilled desserts. But how about side dishes to balance the meal? It's easy to run out of ideas when the weather is hot, and often hard to think of anything beyond some leaves of iceberg lettuce. Forget those endless sides of cold pasta, here are some recipes anyone can cook for side dishes to go with your Summer meals. wikimedia commons

Angel Picks for Kitchen Home and Garden

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:24:55 -0600

I thought my time as an Angel would expire at the end of 2009 and I would lose the pleasure of blessing any more lovely lenses.But I'm now an Honorary Angel and I get to keep my wings a little longer. So I can continue to bless the best lenses, blog about them, lensroll them, make them favourites and post them in the forums as before. It's been a fantastic time spent in angel duties and I've learned more about Squidoo in this time than in my previous years as a lensmaster. I'm looking forward to more of the same. Big Stock Photo Thanks to HQ for giving me this opportunity, to my fellow Angels for their support, and very special thanks to the lensmasters who crafted these blessworthy lenses.

Charles And Mary Lamb

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:54:28 -0600

When Charles and Mary Lamb turned Shakespeare's plays into narratives for children, they opened a door into a world of wonder for untold thousands of young readers. I was one of them. Short, sweet, and simplified, their adaptations of great classic literary works brought the magic of the originals into the reach of everyone. They read like fairy tales, in the 19th century prose style with extra flourishes to convey the Elizabethan English, and to maintain the wonder. The Lambs provided a real feast of plain fare, and flavoured it with as many tasty tidbits of Shakespearean language as they felt the young reader could easily digest. There's still no better way to give the gift of Shakespeare to children.

Five Years of Squidoo

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:14:28 -0600

Richard Henry Dana only served Two Years Before the Mast but here I am, still sailing with Squidoo, after five years on, at times, turbulent waters.. I've had ups and downs with the Squidoo boat, some soaring highs but a couple of abysmal lows. At times I've been despairing, at other times cross, but the negative feelings were quickly scrubbed away by the warm support of the Squidoo Community. That's you. For Squidoo is a community. We create lenses for outside visitors, we learn how to be web savvy, we gain success in marketing but we are, at bottom, a community. A company of neighbours working to the same end. A league of lensmasters - and I can never forget that. The delightful sketch is from 'A Lonely Sea Monster' written and illustrated by the talented Deanna Molinaro.

My life is 92 per cent

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:40:17 -0600

I love Squidoo, but there's one thing I have to say about it. Just when I get the knack of writing pages on the platform it suddenly changes. Don't get me wrong, I'm not against change per se but moving the goal posts to another part of the field entirely can be a little over the top. We have a new goal to reach, our pages must be deemed 100% - so why are mine almost all at 92%? That's the story of my life - trying but never quite getting there. Graphic and inspiration from Pukeko

Baked Pears

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 16:20:42 -0600

In my part of Australia, we are known for our pears and for a couple of months each year my kitchen is swamped with them. Fresh pears are a versatile fruit, great for a snack, with cheese, in fruit salads, pies, cakes, and in curries. When I get tired of fresh pears, I poach or bake them. When you want to bake a pear, choose fruit which is drier, and better able to keep its shape when cooking. Bartlett pears, or Anjou, hold up to baking quite well.. susanna duffy

Mythic Tales, Lensography of Legends

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:06:46 -0600

Myths are metaphors. If you read a myth literally you will miss the point. You will miss its higher truth. Mythological narratives may or may not be based in fact. But is that really important? Tales of gods and monsters may seem as fairy tale to us, but they shaped the world of our ancestors and they shape the world we live in today. Over the long, long years since we first sat round the campfire telling our stories to the young , countless tales have been told. Some of them have lasted. Myths that fail to resonate with us, to inspire us, will just die out over time. The ones which last are those which persevere and project a timeless truth on our own journey .. for the journey of the mythic hero is the one we all make.

Caramel Apple Pork Chops Recipe

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:47:59 -0600

I'm very fornd of caramel and very fond of a piece of pork too. Add an everyday fruit and you have a winner. Pork Chops with Caramel and Apple. Pork chops cooked like this are above yummy! Take my word for it. Teenagers love this recipe too. Rich and meaty pork chops with just enough sweetness to add piquancy to the taste. Here's a recipe ihat's fast and easy to make, just right for busy times. You can whip this recipe up in no time and the children will. wipe their plates clean.

Sweet Potato Pancakes

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:47:43 -0600

Sweet Potato is a popular and versatile vegetable, rich in beta carotene, vitamins C and E, potassium and provide lots of dietary fibre. They're even fat free! You can cook Sweet Potatoes in a large variety of ways, but one of my favourite breakfast dishes is Sweet Potato Pancakes. Everyone loves these and it's a great way to get some vegetables into the grandchildren.

Homemade Swedish Shortbread Recipe

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:25:02 -0600

Treat your family to an old Swedish favorite with this Homemade Swedish Shortbread Recipe. This delicious Homemade Swedish Shortbread Recipe is a perfect snack for anyone and it goes with any meal during the day. (Image Credit)

Apple Biscuits Recipe

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 20:30:14 -0600

Here's another scrumptious biscuit recipe and this time with the versatile apple. Everyone loves apples but it's often hard to find another way to prepare them. Combine the apples with a biscuit and you have a real winner. Try these delicious Apple Biscuits and you won't be disappointed!

Traditional Greek Keftethes

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 07:07:57 -0600

If you have one of these simple and yummy Greek meatballs, you're having a kefte. But who can stop at one? Have two, or four, or more, and you're eating keftethes. If you're eating Turkish food, then you're eating kofte. It doesn't matter what you call them, they're easy and fast to make, delicious as a hot meal or snack, and absolutely fantastic cold. Serve with anything - tzatzik, potato salad, bean salad, coleslaw or fresh tomatoes. Pop them on a skere over the barbecue. Any way you serve them keftethes are scrumptious.

Tribute to Alistair Hulett 1951-2010

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 04:52:46 -0600

I first heard Alistair Hulett and his startling fusion of punk/rockabilly/Celtic folk in a Sydney pub sometime in 1980. Alistair moved from Glasgow to New Zealand in 1968. where he quickly became known in the folk music scene for his interpretation of the big narrative ballads. He came over to Australia a few years later, making his way round the folk clubs and festivals before going bush for several years. It was while in the bush that he began to write his own songs. In 1979 the Australian punk movement was in full swing. And so was Alistair Hulett.

Squid Groups

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 04:18:45 -0600

It takes more than a group to play a symphony - it takes a good group! As individuals, we make a commitment to a group effort, that's what makes a team work, it's what makes a society work. These are our squid groups, not just a collection of random lenses thrown together any old how, but cohesive teams with a united focus and a united front. Come on in, look around at our groups, see what challenges and contests we're up to at the moment, vote for your own lens or for someone else. Keep up to date and at the same time keep your group (and yourself) on top! (The nicest thing about working together is knowing that other people are on your side)

Healthmaster or JC Penny Blender

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:48:21 -0600

Do you judge a kitchen appliance on what it can do? Or do you judge it on what you actually do with it? How important is shelf space, cleaning time and price? The HealthMaster can do all sorts of fancy things but I don't care. I really only want my sorbets and smoothies. And a vegetable mush each day. My JC Penny Cooks Blender has served me well, turning out laksa paste and basil pesto, but I won't be getting another JCP. I've already bought myself a HealthMaster. An extravagant purchase yet I need to eat much more raw fruit and vegetables and emulsifying is the quickest way for me to get my daily dose

Christmas at Squidoo

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 14:44:19 -0600

Christmas is not just a date. It's a state of mind. A magical state, for there's certainly something magical in celebrating with family and friends and in the sheer joyousness of giving and receiving gifts. Our talented lensmasters here at Squidoo joyfully embrace the magic of Christmas. You can see it in their offerings of holiday food recipes, tips on frugal decorations, ideas for educational toys and collectible gifts, instructions for Christmas Tree displays, music and movies for Christmastime and even how to have a greener Christmas. Come and join us for Christmas at Squidoo! image : wikipedia

Wander Downunder Headquarters

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:22:43 -0600

Discover Australia from holiday destinations to dinners downunder and everything in between. Enjoy all the delights of Downunder, food, places, wildlife, celebrities, the bold, bizarre and beautiful. This Collection highlights Antipodean activities from downunder, anything and everything from Australia and Aotearoa.

Tofu and Vegetables Classic Stir Fry

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 05:07:48 -0600

Are you trying to eat healthier foods,and learn healthier ways to cook? Stir Frying is fast, healthy and delicious. It's really easy to throw a stir fry together - the name says it all, stir - and fry. To cook stir fry, you must, like the boy scouts, be prepared! Prepare everything you need before you start. Because stir frying is so fast; you won't really have time to chop the celery while the onion is cooking. Make sure that your ingredients are all cut approximately the same size - bite size. Stir-frying uses high heat, so all the pieces of food must be small enough to cook through without burning. Remember, once you get your pan hot ..... you can't stop.

Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 04:42:15 -0600

Not just coffee, but chocolate chips combine to make this Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake a crowd pleaser. Coffee cake recipes are really simple to mix together for a quick dessert. This Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake Recipe is one of my all time favorites. I included several cooking videos that makes this recipe even easier to fix. This coffee cake makes a really great tasting dessert. I hope you enjoy making this Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake Recipe. The beautiful coffee cake images are copyright free from wikipedia!

Pork Chop and Rice Casserole Recipe

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 02:55:02 -0600

Fast and Easy Pork Chop and Rice Casserole Recipe. Are you looking for the perfect recipe for those wonderful looking pork loin chops you just bought at the store? Try this Pork Chop and Rice Casserole Recipe. This is one that is very quick to put together and easy to clean up the mess! Casseroles are great in the freezer too. Maybe consider doubling the recipe and freezing a portion for later! Image courtesy of Wikipedia Commons Pork Chop Rice Dinner

Best Selling Skateboards For Girls

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 20:30:29 -0600

Skateboards for girls are very popular this season. Girls enjoy skateboarding as much as the boys do and there are many great looking skateboards for girls available to select from. Skateboards for girls come with great looking designs that girls will just love like the moxie teen skateboards or a barbie skateboard. Featured below you will find the moxie skateboards and many other skateboards for girls available this season.

Links Voting Plexo Module

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:25:01 -0600

Not only does the Plexo have a funny name, it acts a little weird at times. But don't be daunted! The Links Voting Plexo module isn't just about voting. You can use this module to Display a Link ListAsk for submissions With a little patience and a polish around the edges you end up with a well behaved and attractive module. Big Stock Photo

5 Minute Guacamole

Sun, 29 Jan 2012 03:13:32 -0600

This is one of the easiest guacamole dips to make. It only take 5 minutes from start to finish. It's a dip perfect for parties,snacks or to use on your favourite foods such as chicken, burgers, tacos or quesadillas. It goes really well with tortilla chips, pita bread and bread sticks.

Legend of the Werewolf

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 07:08:20 -0600

One of the most ancient and wide spread legends is that of the Werewolf. Right up until the 20th century, wolf attacks on humans were a common feature of life in Europe, and wolves were the most feared predators for the ordinary villager. The image of the fearsome wolf was projected into folklore as an evil shape-shifter. People believed in shape-shifters, just as they believed in witches. In the old days ignorance was rife and superstition reigned.

Cheese Pudding Recipe

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 19:21:33 -0600

What is a cheese pudding? A cheese pudding recipe is mainly made up of bread, eggs and cheese. It is a savoury pudding and is a very good comfort food. Cheese pudding makes a wonderful snack and is a great way of using up any bread you have that may be going stale. Stale bread is best for this pudding recipe, not mouldy bread. If the bread you are planning on using for this recipe is blue do not use it as it will not taste very good. On the other hand if the cheese you are going to be using is blue that may not be a bad thing. For this particular recipe I use cheddar cheese but a blue cheese may work just as well. The cheese puding is really easy to make and is really quick to make as well. This is such a simple recipe to follow that it would be a good recipe to teach a child to make. If you wish to teach your kid how to cook then this is a great recipe to start them off with. Photo From Joelk75

Cane Toads, Relentless Invaders

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:48:06 -0600

A pair of Cane Toads, one male and one female, can populate the whole of Australia's Top End in less than a year. That's 1,349,129 square kilometres - 520,902 sq miles. This warty Bufo marinus is a Giant Neotropical Toad, native to Central and South America and we don't want any of them in Australia. Cane Toad, go home! image : wikimedia commons

Chocolate Banana Cream Pie

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:27:25 -0600

Treat your family to an extra special dessert, a delightful Chocolate Banana Cream Pie. Put the pie on the table and it will instantly vanish. Make sure you get to have a piece yourself! Here's the recipe for the Chocolate Banana Cream Pie, and a video on how to make it.

Artistic Women Online Headquarters

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:20:05 -0600

Welcome to our online art portal profiling women artists of all media. Artistic Women Online brings together those who love art with the women who love to create it. Our group also provides advice, ideas and networking opportunities for women selling art online. If you have a lens on your own art, or on a woman artist, and you would like to join this Group, please first read the Submission Guidelines

Acknowledging Four Wonderful Women

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 05:52:26 -0600

Acknowledgment is the act of recognising, appreciating and expressing gratitude. Recently I read this reminder: "When an author writes a book, she writes an Acknowledgments section where she pays homage to and says thanks for all the people who helped along the way". This particular act of Gratitude and Acknowledgment is long overdue.

Plan the Christmas Dinner

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 07:25:35 -0600

How does Christmas come around so fast? Are you having a family dinner? If you're hosting a meal for six people or sixteen, plan and prepare as far ahead as possible. Unless you have a very large table and lots of space, eight people is the maximum number you can entertain to a sit-down meal, any more guests and it's easier to serve a buffet. But whatever you do, plan ahead. Even if Christmas Dinner is only for two Big Stock Photo

I want to Shape up in Shape Ups

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:48:25 -0600

One thing I really need for Christmas this year is a pair of Shape Ups so I can keep up my walking practice. I saw an ad on TV for these shoes and I knew straight away I wanted a pair. I needed a pair.. I'll be happy with only this gift in my Christmas stocking

Rufus, the Grade One Mascot

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:32:58 -0600

Rufus attends Coburg North Primary School where he enjoys his acclaim as the Grade One Mascot First Grade teacher, Jacinta FitzSimmons, allows Rufus to visit the homes of his classmates and, one special weekend, he came home with Claudia. This was an exciting event for Rufus and he was thoroughly thrilled with his sleepover in Claudia's new house. Part of his weekend visit was the Sunday Outing with Nanna Susanna.

Rocket Moms Downunder

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:39:21 -0600

RocketMoms are all over the place. You'll find us in many parts of the world and Australia is no exception. Here we are, not just the Southern Squids, but the antipodean red-hot Rocket Moms - and Mums! Below is the list of amazing lenses we have created for the RocketMoms Sessions of 2011. If you're one of the RocketMoms Downunder, add your lens to the appropriate session.

In Praise of the Red Beanie

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:02:01 -0600

The first hat was a beanie. A sort of plant fibre weave worn on top of the head, either to keep the head warm and relatively dry or to contain a mop of hair, paleo-style. Beanies are still worn for the same reasons today. I wear my knitted beanie as insulation against any slight damp rising from the river at dawn, and it compacts down to a convenient pocket size when the day warms up. My beanie hides tangles, knots and assorted stray hair bits, I can't do without my beanie in the morning. But it must be red! No other colour has the same cheerful effect. One day I hope to find a red beanie by Dior.

Pete Postlethwaite 1946 - 2011

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:15:21 -0600

There are times when the death of a stranger affects me deeply. I never met Pete Postlethwaite, I saw him only on a screen but I felt as if I knew him. His death hit me like a personal loss. He was more than a superb actor. I remember the roles he played of course, but there was a lot more to Pete Postlethwaite than the unforgettable characters he brought to life.

Delicious Molasses Sugar Cookies Recipe

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:10:10 -0600

Looking for the best molasses sugar cookie recipe? You've found the right place! Find sugar cookie ingredients and cooking instructions to make the perfect dessert for Christmas or any other occasion!

To HRT or not to HRT

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:08:02 -0600

I say that the risks of using HRT outweigh the benefits of HRT A number of years ago we were told that hormone replacement therapy was the miracle solution to the problems women encounter as we age. HRTwas going to prevent osteoporosis - no more curved backs and hip fractures, remove sudden hormonal fluctuations - no more hot flashes or mood swings. Heavens, it was even going to prevent wrinkles! But high levels of our own natural hormones can increase our risk of cancer. Medical treatment, including hormone replacement therapy, can also increase our hormone levels and increase our risk of cancer. The Million Women Study, funded by Cancer Research UK, the NHS Breast Screening Programme and the Medical Research Council, confirms that current and recent use of HRT increases a woman's chance of developing breast cancer and that the risk goes up with longer duration of use. Why take the risk?

Armchair Critics Headquarters

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:07:25 -0600

Movies Reviewed By Movie Lovers The Armchair Critics group is the place to find movie reviews, recommendations and rants. Whether it's good, bad or somewhere in between, the Armchair Critics know their films! We want you to know what to rent, what to avoid, and which films are worth buying for your collection. We also have some great movie trivia for anyone who loves a behind-the-scenes look at movies.

Make Money with Amazon Modules

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:05:54 -0600

There are a lot of great Amazon modules that Squidoo has designed just for you. Simple to use, and big money earners. But which one to choose? How can they work hard for you? Here are the three Amazon Modules which have brought me successful sales. 1. Amazon Spotlight Personal Review 2. The basic Amazon and 3. Amazon Search Big Stock Photo

Extreme Halloween!

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:54:47 -0600

Looking for an uttermost, intense, supreme and extreme Halloween? Some nifty budget notions and ideas that will make you a legend on your street? Get these outrageous do-it-yourself pumpkin designs, disgusting recipes and a horrible, creepy yard - impress your friends and horrify the neighbors! For the egg-throwing, toilet tissue-streaming, window-soaping teenager in all of us - look no further than the mischievous mind of Tom Nardone

Best House on the Block Tips and Tricks Headquarters

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:49:14 -0600

From frugal advice to D.I.Y home improvement projects, how to conquer clutter and crafty ideas to brighten your house with Smarts and Style. Looking for landscaping inspiration? Want to build a sundial? Browse our appealing and practical DIY projects, decorating designs and ideas to spark your imagination . Everything you need to create a beautiful home and have the Best House on the Block! Lensmasters, please read the Submission Guidelines

Sweet Potato Pie Recipe

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:46:49 -0600

Do you like Sweet Potatoes? I certainly do! There are a number of ways to enjoy this tasty vegetable and a Sweet Potato Pie is just one of them Feed your family with these nutritious vegetables, full of things good for you and your growing children. Got fussy eaters? Give them their veggies in a pie and they'll be pleading for more.

Ask a Charity Mentor

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:45:34 -0600

Is your non-profit one of the groups in partnership with Squidoo? I hope so, it's a great opportunity to use the internet as a poweful tool for a charitable organisation. If your savvy non-profit has just taken the first step in seizing the advantages of Squidoo, then you'll soon be hearing from a mentor. Citizen Squids work as mentors in specific areas to provide solutions and help lensmasters, Charity Mentors help you along the way by working with you on your first step - your 'About Me' lens. There are two Charity Mentors, I'm Susanna and I'm one of them. If you've joined us I'm happy to assist with your charity partnership needs. Welcome!

Wrap her in a Pashmina

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:43:43 -0600

If you are looking for gift ideas for women you have come to the right place. This page features the best selling pashminas this Christmas. Anyone would be delighted to receive one of these really elegant shawls. They are so verisitile, they can be worn casually or for a classy night out. Try one of these ultra-soft pashmina and you will will fall in love . Scroll through to see a wonderful selection of beautiful pashminas. image : wikipedia

October 2009 Blessings

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:43:00 -0600

Squidoo Angels have a great job. We search for the top lenses so that we can bless them. That little blessing will lift a lens up higher in rank, and deservedly so, for we only bless the best.. To keep track of the top lenses which I find, I have to keep careful note of them all and the easiest way for me to do this is to place them in a lens of their own. It means I can go back and visit them when I think a blessing has "worn off". Listed below are the treasures which I discovered in October. Is your lens in here? Big Stock Photo

About Susanna Duffy

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:38:29 -0600

I have a number of pages (lenses) on Squidoo, in various categories. Sometimes it's quite hard for me to find a particular one so I group them into collections (lensographies). Believe me, this makes them much easier to retrieve for further work. This is a list of those which reflect the personal part of my life and, like all lenses (much less lensographies), are continuing works in progress.

Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake Recipe

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:32:10 -0600

Have you been looking for a quick and easy breakfast recipe that everyone is sure to enjoy? Try my amazing Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake Recipe today! Everyone is sure to love it! For step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, check out my easy to follow recipe video that I have posted below! I hope you enjoy my recipe!

Whitsunday Islands - Travel North Australia

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:21:49 -0600

If you like white sands, palm trees, sparkling seas, isolation and perfect weather complete with five star resorts, you'll really like the Whitsunday Islands. The seventy four islands of the Whitsundays (only eight of them are inhabited) are strung along Australia's Queensland coast.and surrounded by one of the world's seven natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef. I wish I could afford to go there on a regular basis. The Whitsundays cater to celebrities who can afford the resorts. It's understandable, the Islands are simply beautiful and the resorts simply magnificent. You really have to see them to believe it.

Lovable retro sock monkey patterns and kits

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:03:55 -0600

Who doesn't like sock monkeys? They're goofy, they're squeezable, they're huggable, and you just have to love them! The very best kind of sock monkey is a handmade sock monkey -- especially one made just for you. It's easy to sew your own sock monkey from a pattern, and there are also sock monkey kits available both commercially and from fabric artists. With a little shopping around, you should have no trouble finding the sock monkey kit that is just right for you!

My Second Life in Second Life

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:21:16 -0600

So many people have jobs in Second Life, jazz musicians, artists, 3D builders, creators of virtual goods such as jewellery, clothing and shoes. It takes a special talent to design these amazing objects, a talent which I lack. Instead of trying to keep up with these designers and builders, I use the skills which I already have - creating ceremonies and public speaking. So I have the very best job possible in Second Life and I'm in constant contact with happy people. Happiness is contagious.

My Latest Updates on Squidoo

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:11:47 -0600

Thanks to the fabulous tech staff at Squidoo, we now have a wonderful way to display our latest work. A no-fuss, no-bother, quick and deadly module which takes all the hard work out of showing off our latest lenses. We can use this for our recently updated work too. Now that's going to save an hour a day at least. Goodbye to getting the URLs of whatever it was (if I can remember what they were), farewell to finding feeds and pasting them in, now it's all taken care of with one click and a couple of checkboxes. A big welcome to the 'My Lenses Module, the best thing since sliced bread! So here they are, my updated updates .......

Cheesecake Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:12:14 -0600

Combine the flavours of cheesecake and pumpkin in a handy cupcake.The result is wonderful! You make the cupcake mixture and pipe the cheesecake into the centre, shape, and pop in the oven for twenty minutes. A cupcake that's very different, with a sweet pumpkin taste and an exciting bite of cheesecake. vintage victuals

Make Yourself a Lens Now!

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:26:36 -0600

Squidoo is a free social networking site in which you build pages, known on Squidoo as 'lenses'. Squidoo is a revenue sharing community. It carries advertisements and shares the money with you. You can sell items from your lens with a mouse click. And you don't even need your own affiliate account!! There is no cost to you whatsoever to make a lens. What you gain is online exposure for yourself, for your hobby, for your business, for your group, for your organisation or your favourite charity. Come on, what's holding you back? Make a lens now!

How to Promote Your Book Using Squidoo

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:11:18 -0600

It's the rare author whose books just sell themselves. A lot of work happens behind the scenes to get books into the hands of the reader. And it's the smart publicist, literary agent or author who tests and uses a variety of book promotion tools to make their book stand out among the many choices with which readers are faced. Squidoo is an ideal platform for use in your overall book promotion plan thanks to its ease of use, authority with Google and variety of formats. If you are looking for a new way to promote your books and authors, let me show you a general strategy to get you started.

Best Horror Movies Of All Time

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 02:01:40 -0600

I know I do. The only problem now is finding the good ones. There's nothing worse than either renting, or buying a movie, only to find it's awful. Not only does it waste your time and money, but it also puts you in a bad mood. Well hopefully once you take a look at the movies on this page, you will find some new ones that look good for you. And you can bet that these ones will be good!

My Big Birthday Wish

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 04:37:50 -0600

It really does seem just like a couple of years back when I had a splendid birthday party the year I was seven. I can tell you the names of the children who attended, the dress I wore and how my little brother cried when he couldn't have more than one bowl of ice cream. How my Uncle Ernie wowed the crowd in his cowboy clothes, with his songs and lariat tricks and how my mother's hair shone gold as she leaned over to light the candles. Where did that time go? Now I'm approaching a big birthday and wondering why nobody warned me about the deadly speed of passing years. Sometimes I look in the mirror and I see a stranger. There ought to be a law. A law against getting old.

Rubicon

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:07:32 -0600

The last years of the Roman Republic were an amazing time in world history, one I've always found to be more relevant to us today than the eventual decline of the Empire. It was a society that seems strangely familiar to us in the 21st Century, a society powered by ambition and avarice. A society of smooth-talking career politicians who easily manipulated the gullible electorate, an expanding, self-corrupting bureaucracy, bribery, an ever increasing chasm between rich and poor, and the mind-boggling wealth that a handful of men reaped from military conquests and the new imperial possessions. Above all, the concentration of wealth and of military might in the hands of a few powerful families. Familiar, yes. Absolute power was too great to resist.

Why I donate 10% of my income to the Fred Hollows Foundation

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 01:21:38 -0600

When I donate to Fred Hollows Foundation my money goes to a non-government organisation which seeks to eradicate avoidable blindness in developing countries and to improve the health outcomes of Indigenous Australians. It's non political and, most importantly to me, it's totally secular The Fred Hollows Foundation works for a world where no one is needlessly blind. Millions of people in developing countries go blind due to lack of access to simple treatment and millions more stay blind due to lack of access to simple surgery. Often all it takes is a relatively simple 20 minute operation, which can cost as little as $25. For $25 I can restore someone's sight "Having a care and concern for others is the highest of the human qualities." ~ Fred Hollows

A Love Affair with Ancient Rome

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 01:25:16 -0600

Ancient Rome, no matter the particular era, is always fascinating. What people they were! Here we are, more than 2000 years later reading their novels, plays and military tactics. Names like Julius Caesar, Mark Antony and Emperor Nero are as familiar to us as the names of Hollywood celebrities. Their food intrigues me and I spend many hours experimenting with their recipes. My favourite time is the middle of the first century but I'm happy to read about the Republican days. I'm happy also to read novels from modern authors set in the days when Rome dominated the western world. The story of my childhood hero, Arthur of Britain, begins when the Romans marched away from that island in order to protect the golden city of Rome itself. Here's my collection on Ancient Rome

Secret Lives

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:57:30 -0600

You may think that you know about fairies. You may think you know about dragons, or brownies, or unicorns or some other wondrous legendary creature. You may even think that you know a lot about these elusive creatures of legend, lore and fantasy. In all likelihood you would be wrong. wikimedia commons

What I want for next Christmas

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:02:35 -0600

I want books for Christmas! There are many roots of this custom. There is St.Nicholas the anonymous benefactor, there is the tradition of Magi giving precious gifts to Jesus, there is the Roman custom of giving gifts of good luck to children during Saturnalia. The day of gift giving varies greatly in different Christian cultures and times: 6th December - in memory of St. Nicholas 24th December - Christmas Eve 25th December - Birthday of Jesus 1st of January - the New year 6th of January - The Epiphany, day of the Three Wise men, the Magi

Susanna Duffy on Squidoo

Sat, 14 Jan 2012 07:32:04 -0600

A little more about me than just my work. I enjoy creating pages on Squidoo (and making a little money from them too).. Squidoo gives me room to display my recipes, review my favourite books, record happy days with my granddaughter and to write short articles on my first love, mythology. Here I list my latest endeavours on Squidoo. , So this is truly a work in progress.

Scrambled Eggs for Twelve

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:44 -0600

You may not have to feed a cricket team very often, but when you do have to prepare a breakfast or brunch for a round dozen guests, give them this scrambled egg recipe baked in the oven. You can't make scrambled eggs on the stovetop for a lot of guests, but you can cook them comfortably in the oven.

Put your Blog on Kindle

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:59:45 -0600

How would you like to see your work on Amazon? Not all of us are novelists or factual writers churning out publications by the score, but now any blogger can be registered, and selling subscriptions, with the Amazon Kindle. It's incredibly easy. First you sign up for a blog vendor account . You need a separate account for this, your normal Amazon customer account won't work. All you need to do is fill out some basic information and add the RSS feed of your blog. Amazon takes care of the formatting and everything else. According to Amazon, your blog should be in the Kindle Store within 48 hours but there's a huge backlog. It may take a long time before your blog is approved.

Choose Melissa & Doug Toys

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:57:57 -0600

I was first introduced to Melissa & Doug's wonderful world of toys when I was visiting one of my fave toy stores. A very small old fashioned toy store that still carry vintage toys so I was surprised to see these new wooden puzzles, train sets and more that I wanted to play with! If you can believe it, Melissa & Doug started their business in Doug's parent's garage more than 2 decades ago! I just love stories like this. They continue to give us quality educational toys that I just can't stop buying. In fact, I always have to see what they come up with next. If you're looking for a great toy gift, these are some of my favourite Melissa & Doug's Toys that are sure to be a hit!

Visit Victoria

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 09:23:50 -0600

That's Victoria, down at the bottom of the map, and I live right down the very bottom south east corner of Victoria. It's a small state for Australia, the smallest on the mainland, just 237,629 square ktilometres but we make up for it by being the most densely populated.

I love Yoghurt!

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:56:44 -0600

You would be hard pressed to find any other food with such an illustrious history and popularity, while at the same time being so healthy and nutritious. It's almost like a secret, an Elixir of Life that's known to only the very rich. But yoghurt is no secret. Just ask Cleopatra - she took baths in it. Yogurt is wonderfully versatile. You can enjoy it on its own, used as a dip, as dressing on vegetables, as a sweet dessert, in soup, mixed as a sauce, frozen as a yoghurt icecream or mixed as a drink. It's a boon for weightwatchers, important to the lactose intolerant, a boost for bones, extremely cheap to buy and easy to make at home. If I could get a patent on yoghurt, I would be a multi trillionaire. Big Stock Photo

Blueberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Recipe

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:36:30 -0600

Who could possibly resist such a combination? I certainly can't. Here's an easy recipe for Blueberry Cheesecake Icecream. Make the cheesecake with Graham crackers and a cheesecake packet mix or a vanilla pudding packet mix. Just add blueberries and ice cream! jessicafm

Susanna Duffy

Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:59:03 -0600

My love affair with the Web began in the Southern Spring of 1997. Our romance is still hot! When I can be dragged away from my computer I'm a Funeral Celebrant, produce a syndicated talkback radio programme, direct and perform in community theatrical productions and blog a lot. The rest of the time I run a small business from home, Smooth Stuff I enjoy the company of animals and grandchildren, traditional Irish music and walking along the river each evening. to greet the bats

Retro and vintage sock monkey stuffed toys

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 06:57:22 -0600

Sock monkeys are the best classic toys! One hundred years later and still going strong with children today, that's impressive by any standards. There is something for everyone with sock monkeys! Older collectors can enjoy the original vintage and antique sock monkeys lovingly recovered from storage. Children can spend hours playing with the wide variety of retro sock monkeys being produced today. There are even toys with a sock monkey theme. How cool is that!

Coffee - Out or In?

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:32:13 -0600

Do you like to have your coffee at home, in peace and quiet? I sometimes plonk myself down, still wearing my apron, and enjoy a coffee with my shoes off. But I say that the most enjoyable way to have a coffee is to take off that apron, put my shoes on, run a comb through my hair and head up to the local coffee shop. Coffee out or in - what's your favourite?

Easy Grilled Vegetables for the Barbecue

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:47:24 -0600

It's so easy to grill vegetables on the BBQ. Often we're so wrapped up in getting the meat just right that we overlook the bassic vegetables which make up a tasty and nutritious meal. You can grill vegetables directly on the BBQ grill, in a mesh basket type of container or wrapped in foil. However you choose, grilled vegetables are a welcome addition to your outdoor meal. cafe porridge

Cafe Quince

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:31:12 -0600

Ask people for their favourite cafe or shop and almost always it turns out to be a local business, a distinctive little locally-run affair. I try to do all my shopping at the corner shops in my community and I'm incredibly lucky to have a little cafe literally just round the corner. My neighbourhood is small, with just over 3,000 people, a refreshing mix of bohemians and new professional people who arrived with the rapid gentrification of recent years. Everyone who lives here drops into Cafe Quince.

Balmain Bugs on the Barbecue

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 03:18:34 -0600

Balmain bugs aren't really bugs. They're small lobsters, slipper lobsters and are fished in shallow waters around Australia What makes them different from other lobsters is that they have a broad, flat body and no claws. You can poach, steam or grill the bugs, or serve them as a cold seafood platter with a light lemon mayonnaise, aioli or dill vinaigrette. My favourite way to cook Balmain bugs is on the barbecue. Here are a couple of Balmain Bugs which I bought at Queen Victoria Market

Best Gift Ideas for Tween Girls

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:30:43 -0600

Are you looking for gift ideas for tween girls? Here you will find a selection of the best gift ideas for tween girls this year. You are going to love these gift ideas so much. It's hard to find a good gift for a tween girl if you don't have one. Age appropriate gifts are always hard for people with kids of a different age because time changes so much. Here is a guide to help you shop for a tween girl this Christmas. I hope you enjoy your visit. Image credit: Image: Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

What to do with Apples in Season

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:57:15 -0600

In Australia, apples are available all year round, depending on the variety and where they are grown. My favourite is the Granny Smith, originally Australian, and first grown by Maria Anne Smith in Sydney in 1867. I especially love the crisp Granny Smiths from Tasmania, our most southerly and the coolest, state. Yet somehow there's always a time when dozens of varieties of apples appear in the market, cheap and plentiful and I can run out of ideas on how to use them up. Here's a list of my apple recipes.

I want to see history in Istanbul

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:30:12 -0600

Oh how I would love to visit Istanbul! Istanbul is a mega-city, the largest city in Turkey and 5th largest city in the world. I can't imagine a city with a population of 12.8 million, more than half the number of people who live in the entire continent of Australia. But it's the magnificent architecture that draws me to Turkey, and the rich, romantic past of Istanbul.

Australia - My Place

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:29:39 -0600

G'day from Melbourne, Australia, where I put these pages together while looking out the window at the kookaburras. I have a number of lenses on Australia, some dealing with the creatures who bound across this land, some highlighting the different places across the continent and some in honour of Australians that I personally feel are noteworthy. There are food lenses too, featuring not only foodstuffs and recipes which are uniquely Australian, but the food we have borrowed from other cultures and turned into something else again. Water is such an important resource here, it pervades our consciousness and directs our daily activities. The photo I'm showing you here is the creek at the back of my house, wonderfully swollen after much needed rain. Welcome to my lensography on Australia. Come in, take your shoes off, help yourself to a cold drink and browse through this collection.

Pumpkin Seed Recipes

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:32:43 -0600

Use all your pumpkins! Including the nutty, chewy pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin seeds are Nature's own little multi-supplement full of iron, zinc, calcium and magnesium and will help you prevent osteoporosis, reduce inflammation and fight depression. And they taste scrumptious too!

eee PC and me

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 07:50:10 -0600

I just love my eee! I love it for the quality of its build, for its tiny size, for its wireless capability, for its skype set-up with built-in camera and especially for its .92g weight. It's ultra-portable. I slip it into my handbag or into a side pocket of my backpack and don't even notice it's there. It's less than a kilo and sometimes I think my keys weigh more. My eee is my favourite accessory, coming in a close second to my red beanie.

There's a Hole in my Bucket List

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:11:48 -0600

There are a number of things I could, and would, do first thing tomorrow morning if I had the chance.. And if I had the money. That's the main drawback. Not enough money! But ito be serious about making a bucket list of things I must do before I kick the bucket. I'll have to include projects that are currently beyond my purse. After I wrote my bucket list, I realised I want, more than anything, to travel! The answer is to save.

How to Sing Jingle Bells

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:25:28 -0600

Most people know how to sing Jingle Bells but here's a variety of versions of the old classic. Since James Lord Pierpont published this happy little song under the title "One Horse Open Sleigh" in the autumn of 1857, it's been sung all over the world. Which one do you prefer? Big Stock Photo

Old Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:50:57 -0600

Here's a simple dessert recipe that everyone is sure to love. Make it for your family, your dinner guests or take it to a bake sale or the annual church pot luck. Everyone likes apples, and I've never met anyone who refuses a slice of apple pie. just wait till they set their eyes on these apple dumplings! When apples are in season I make this recipe frequently. Once you've tried it, so will you. image : wikipedia

Angel's Christmas

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:22:22 -0600

Christmas is a special time of year. Any time is a good time for blessing the best of Squidoo but it's even better at Christmas. In my travels I found some wonderful Christmas topics, ideas and all round cheering treasures for the Season. I also came across some super reading with great presentation on subjects not related to Christmas which just screamed out for a Squid Angel Blessing. I wish I could bless five thousand lenses for Christmas. In the meantime I would like to display, with great pleasure, these Christmas Specials.

Promising Lensmasters for 2010

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:14:50 -0600

Squidoo is a community. Like any community all members are different, and at various levels of skill. You can never tell by a first lens just how good a lensmaster anyone will turn out to be, but sometimes, something, someone will catch your interest. You see the spark of talent. You know that this particular person will be a valuable asset to Squidoo. It's a real thrill to find new lensmasters who will shine at the top of Squidoo in 2010. Here's a selection of lenses from the first nine sparkling newcomers whom I predict will go far in our community. You will have to agree with me that there's real promise here. Big Stock Photo

Ideas and Inspiration for Intermediate Lensmasters

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:27:45 -0600

Feeling at home in Squidoo now? You've made half a dozen lenses and you feel pretty confident about it all. You can handle the basic tools, your lenses are looking good and you know you can create a lens in an afternoon. When you reach the intermediate stage of Squidoo, you don't need the basic how-to tutorials for starting out. You don't need the very advanced tutes either. Now's the time to get some extra tools in your belt. Here are some practical tips on traffic, ideas for spiffy lenses and encouragement for venturing out into the Co-Brands. Big Stock Photo

What is the SquidU Council?

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:27:08 -0600

You must have noticed something very different in the SquidU forums. The Forums are now managed entirely by lensmasters with no intervention at all by the staff at Squidoo HQ. Members are doing it for themselves! How is this going to work? First of all, there are six of us, across two continents and two hemispheres, so we can cover the forums at all times. This means that you won't see those pseudo-brand-name-shoe links and other garbage spattered all over the place again. We''ll keep the forums spam-free for a start. Keep your eye on your forums - we will make a positive difference!

Angel Blessings August 2009

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:24:52 -0600

I like to keep track of what I have been blessing. This isn't too easy unless every lens is carefully recorded and even then I'm pretty sure that I've overlooked a couple of earlier blessings. This list is for those lenses which leaped out of the screen at me, top lenses, original and extremely well crafted in August of 2009. If you have a lens which you believe to be a good one, a great one, your best effort yet, then please leave a note for me in my guestbook lower down on this page. Big Stock Photo

One Hundred Blessings a Week

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:24:26 -0600

Maybe I can't find a hundred lenses each week to bless but I'm sure as all heck going to try! In the middle of June I vowed to spend an extra hour a day finding some lovely lenses I can bless. If you have a blessworthy lens and I haven't found it yet, leave a link in the space provided lower down on this page. I delight in discovering lenses which demonstrate Originality, Your Own Voice and Flair. What makes your lens different from all of the other lenses on the same topic? If you're writing on a topic that's very popular give it your own style, your own interpretation, your own pitch. Give it your own voice! Big Stock Photo

Melbourne Meet and Greet

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:23:46 -0600

Melbourne Lensmasters, new, old and in-training, let's get together on 10 June! We'll be part of the Worldwide Squidoo Meetup, a one-day-only, face-to-face, worldwide event. We'll have a cheap lunch in a cozy venue and a good old fashioned chin wag. If you're a seasoned lensmaster, come and meet your fellow squidooers. If you're just starting out, here's your chance to network. If you've been putting off taking that first step on Squidoo, come along and join us for lunch and you'll be buzzing to begin.

How To Get More Fans On Squidoo

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:05:06 -0600

Your fans are the people who visit your lenses and comment and 'like' your lens. They read your squidcasts because they like what you have to say. They have different motivations for joining your fan club. They could have read a lens you wrote and thought it was phenomenal. Maybe you helped them out in the forums and they wanted to say thank you. Maybe you already have 500 fans and they were jumping on the bandwagon.Whatever the reason, they think that their experience on Squidoo will be better because they became your fan. Don't disappoint them. Be a friend, try to be a mentor to your fans, and the rewards will follow.

History of Squidoo Lens of the Day

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:04:01 -0600

The Best of the Best Lenses So much great content, so little time to search them all. You can see the Top 100 sorted by lens rank and by category. But I thought if you had a specific interest it would be helpful to see the Squidoo Lens of the Day sorted by category or if you wanted to see how other lensmasters assemble their information. Since you never know where your next idea may come from, keep bouncing around Squidoo, but here's a good place to start.

Australians on Squidoo

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:00:25 -0600

It's a big wide world of Squidoo but Downunder Squids, although in the minority, are up there among the very best.. We'e a diverse bunch, like any other group of people banded together geographically, but we support each other in Squidoo. We share tips and advice, give critiques to each other and generally slap each other on the back. We get together on our Squids Downunder Support Group we blog at Squids Downunder.and have a Facebook page. Are you a Squid Downunder? Call in for a cuppa!

Rocket Moms again

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:59:50 -0600

Do you write online? Then you'll know for sure what I'm talking about. It's easy to run out of idea. It's easy to feel complacent. You need a frequent kick to stretch yourself further, to learn new things and find a few cartloads of ideas. That's why I appreciate the challenges from the RocketMoms.

Bookworms Headquarters

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:58:48 -0600

A bookworm is someone who loves to read! As early as 1599, people were referring to book lovers as bookworms. If you want to be pedantic, you can distinguish bookworms from bibliophiles, and argue that bookworms love books for their contents, while bibliophiles love books as objects. But plenty of bookworms collect old or beautiful books, and many bibliophiles greatly enjoy reading! As bookworms, we present to you our favourite books, books which have inspired us, thrilled us, educated us and books we love to curl up in front of the fire with. Come along, take your shoes off, get yourself a cuppa and share in our books. Submission Guidelines and What is a book review?

The Halloween Play

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:58:17 -0600

Is the whole idea of Halloween too scary for little kids? Is there a way to encompass this holiday, acknowledging the scary things (they are pretend) and not frighten your small child? Encourage your child to read about Halloween in a totally non-threatening atmosphere. The Halloween Play is a great little book about Halloween, about stagecraft, about teamwork and, above all, about conquering your fears.

Alphabet of Recipes

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:57:16 -0600

Sometimes I need to look up one of my own recipes.and here's a handy place for me to keep them. One of the happy things about using this platform, Squidoo, I can make my own little filing cabinet online and it's certainly an easy way for me to find what I'm looking for

Downunder Squids Club

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:56:46 -0600

We've been running this little Ning for Squids Downunder for 3 years. Last month I came to the conclusion that it was too much money to pay out and installed a forum on my domain instead. If I'm going to pay out money, I thought, I should pay for some forum software that I will actually own. Why pay the company who own Ning? But I'm beginning to think that I was wrong

Vladimir

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:56:06 -0600

Vladimir is a persnickety cat. He's also fussy, finicky and fastidious. I don't know why I put up with him. He arrived, unannounced, at my back door in September, 1992, and decided to stay. I'm glad he did, we suit each other well.

Music Central Headquarters

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:55:31 -0600

A Siren of Song is a woman whose music has thrilled audiences, ancient, modern, contemporary or olde worlde, be she a singer, composer or an instrumentalist. This group collection is named for the mythical Sirens, those lovely Nymphs of the Sea, who entranced sailors with their glorious singing. If you have a lens you would like to add to this collection, please read the Submission Guidelines before you post your link

Join me for lunch!

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:54:12 -0600

Join me for lunch at the Queensberry on the first Wednesday of every month This is a Squidoo Meetup but everyone, everyone, is welcome! You don't have to be a Squidoo member, all you have to be is someone who likes lunch in convivial company. You'll get that alright! Meet up for lunch at 2.00 pm. I look forward to seeing you there.

Starting Out on Squidoo

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:53:32 -0600

OK. You've signed up to Squidoo and now you're wondering what to do next. The first thing you should do is make a note of the email address you signed up with, and your password. Scribble it somewhere so you don't forget. (It's incredibly easy to forget passwords but you can always get another at any time but you must remember your email address) The second thing you should do is find your dashboard.

The June Melbourne Meetup

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:52:54 -0600

Australia is just to the west of the International Dateline, so lots of fabulous things come to us first. Like Christmas - and the first global Squidoo Meetup! The Squidoo Meetup was a one-day-only, face-to-face, worldwide event on June 10 which saw lensmasters from all over getting together. It's winter here in Melbourne so we chose lunch as the best time to meet and greet - and that we certainly did, under dark clouds moving up from the south west. A bit of wind off Antarctica didn't put a damper on our get-together!

Android is better than iPhone

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:49:47 -0600

Android is better than iPhone One of the biggest debates of 2011 has been which is better - Android or iPhone?. I reckon that Android is the way to go. First of all, it's Open Source, meaning that the code of the OS is available to everyone, resulting in fast bug finding, unlimited customisation and cheaper smart phones (as the manufacturers can get the Android OS for free). Next, Android has ten times better web browsing experience due to its Flash support. Android also has much larger number of mobile devices to choose from (90 and still growing) unlike iPhone (which only has ONE! OK, fine, it has four versions of the same phone, but you get my point). So, what do YOU think? Which is better?

Five Movies I love to watch again and again

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:48:01 -0600

Thank heavens for DVDs! I have a pile of movies that I watch over and over again - they never cease to thrill me. Good books can be read a half dozen times although I like to wait at least two years before I pick them up again. But movies are very different, the five I have listed here I have watched at least fifty times and I'm always ready to pull them down again the next day. Two of my favourites are musicals. The other three are fantasy but they all have fabulous soundtracks! Here they are, in no particular order

Signing up to Squidoo

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:47:25 -0600

Haven't signed up yet? You've heard about Squidoo, you've heard about lenses. A lens is what Squidoo calls a web page. It's a particular style of web page - it's a focused page, focused on one topic, like looking through a camera lens and zooming in to one particular bit. Websites have lots of pages, a lens is just one page only. When you create a lens you will be zoomed in on one topic. But first, let's go through the signing up process. .

Christmas Teddy Bears For Girls

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:46:12 -0600

Are you looking for a gift for a girl? Christmas Teddy Bears are the perfect gift for a girl. Christmas Teddy Bears have long been a Holiday favorite for girls. Christmas Teddy Bears are soft and plush making them very hug gable for girls. Christmas Teddy Bears are great for girls to collect each year and girls will look forward to holding their new Christmas teddy Bear. Featured below are the best Christmas Teddy bears for this holiday season and some Christmas Teddy Bears from the past that still are waiting for a little girls love.

I Love Theatre!

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:44:15 -0600

I do indeed love theatre. I love watching it, I love being part of it and I'm so fortunate to have fabulous theatre companies in my home town. A community theatre group can be small, performing in borrowed spaces, or a more permanent group with well-equipped facilities, but whatever size, they contribute to the social capital of my community. Melbourne can boast of some excellent community theatre companies. Let me introduce you to three of my favourites.

Jane And The Man Of The Cloth

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:37:51 -0600

Jane Austen chose the Dorset town of Lyme Regis for a pivotal passage in her final novel Persuasion and her affection for this area shines clearly in that posthumous publication. Austen scholars and avid readers alike have long been frustrated by the lack of knowledge about this period in Jane's life but, finally at long last, her extraordinary experiences in Lyme can now be shared with the world! Thanks to the "discovery" of the Austen Journals, unearthed in the basement of an old house, we now learn what really happened to Jane in that late summer of 1804.

Places to see in Australia

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:33:37 -0600

Planning a trip to Australia? Get some ideas from these tips about some of our top cities and, if you;re the adventurous type who likes to get off the beaten track, discover some of our more exotic destinations. From the major cities to the Tropicak Rainforest to Uluru to the Great Barrier Reef, get some authentic advice from the people who call Australia home free desktop wallpapers

Art and Design Headquarters

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:31:18 -0600

Good art and design enhance our lives. Whether it is the pictures on our walls, the wallpaper on our computer screens, beautifully designed furniture and other objects we use, they can all lift our spirits and make us feel better. If you have an informative lens on art, design, artists, designers, why not join this group? It can be on any kind of art: painting, drawing, sculpture, folk arts, etc, etc. The same for design: graphics, architecture, objects of any kind, cars, boats, and so on... I hope that you will visit other lenses in the group and, if you like them, give them your encouragement.

World of Blog, and how to join in

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 06:17:07 -0600

There's something about blogs. When the history books are written, these last few years will be known as the Blog Revolution. Since 1999, the number of blogs on the Internet has exploded from a few thousand to over 120 million. Anyone, literally anyone, can have a blog, and they're out there in their millions. Old blogs, new blogs, red blogs, blue blogs. Any sort of blog you want to imagine. Blogs can fall into two general categories. Personal Blogs: a mixture of a personal diary, opinion posts and research links. Business Blogs: a corporate tool for communicating with customers or employees to share knowledge and expertise. My favourite platform is WordPress , self-hosted, and I include my sources for the best themes that I've found and also my favourite plugins.

Harmony Has Extraordinary Taste

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:28:36 -0600

Harmony loves to stand out in the crowd. She's not just a Performer, she's a first class Entertainer. Or in other words, Harmony has great taste. If you, or someone you know, is like Harmony, these gift ideas are bound to be a big hit this year .Let these gift ideas, like Harmony, entertain you

Reuben Has Great Taste (it's inherited)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:28:13 -0600

Reuben is an actor, musician, and a popular blues vocalist in his hometown. He's a great friend of mine and I respect his taste. He reads widely from Noam Chomsky to Conn Iggulden, a broad spectrum of humour, adventure and politics. And don't forget the Asterix comics! He has a heap of friends, all ages, all cultural backgrounds and I'm always amazed at the diversity of his companions. Everyone likes Reuben. I like his taste in friends, I like his taste in music and I like his taste in books. I'll just say that, Reuben has great taste. So he should. He inherited it. (That's my story anyway) If you or someone you know is like my son, Reuben, these gift ideas are just right

Scott Cunningham

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 04:31:41 -0600

"Wicca is a joyous religion springing from our kinship with Nature", said Scott Cunningham, popular author of more than thirty books of both fiction and non-fiction. This was the first time that anyone spoke of Wicca in terms that I could understand. 'Kinship with Nature' certainly struck more of a bell than 'Religion'. I picked up a book by Cunningham out of curiosity and found he had the ability to express his perspective and experience in a clear and forthright way on subjects which once brought scorn, ridicule and contempt. It was all very simple. He believed that everyone's religion was deeply personal and invariably individual. Scott Cunningham is now recognised as one of the most influential and revolutionary authors in the field of natural magic.