I'm Veronica, and I have been creating lenses on Squidoo since July of 2008. I am now a "Giant Squid 100"! I have graduated from Rocket Moms too! My Favorite topics are Native American Art and Culture, The Paranormal, Recipes, and Grandma lenses. I also create custom built lenses I'm on Twitter: squidliterate Digg: vbright "If winning doesn't matter-why do we keep score?" http://www.squidoo.com/lensmasters/vbright105 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:19:40 -0600 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.squidoo.com/nativeamericanartandculturesn There are Four branches to the Sioux Tribe: The Teton (native name; Lakota) is the oldest Ancestral branch and includes; Ogalala, Brule (sicangu), Hunkpapa, Miniconjou, Oohenonpa, Itazipco (Sans Arcs), and Sihasapa. The Second branch is the Santee Sioux, (Dakota) which includes; Wahpeton, Wahpekute, Sisseton, and Mdewakanton bands. There is only one band in the Yankton Branch (Nakota) and that is the Yankton The Yanktonai Sioux is the Fourth Branch (also Nakota) consisting of: Assiniboine bands (the Assiniboine separated from the other bands, probably in the 1600s, and assumed a distinct identity), Yanktonai, and the Hunkpatina The Bands settled in Nearby, but separate area's of the land. What is now known as South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Wyoming and Montana. Because I am most familiar with the Teton, or Lakota Sioux, most of the artwork and stories will be what I have learned from them. arts-and-design Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:16:43 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/top-10-places-to-visit-in-south-dakota South Dakota has got to be my favorite place in the US. There is just so much history there and as far as natural beauty, it has everything; mountains, plains, hills, and forests. I travel to South Dakota several times a year normally and I never, EVER get sick of going there. There isn't much of the State I have not been to but admittedly, the Black Hills are what draw me back again and again. If you plan to be in South Dakota, here is a little guide on what I think are the best parts of the state. Some are Americana and some are scenic wonders but they are all great spots to visit. For a personalized Tour, Itinerary or Lesson Plan, visit Paha Ska Tours travel-and-places Wed, 18 Jan 2012 02:57:31 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/brianharnois While it's true that Brian did his share of goofing up, he also was all too often the whipping boy of the rest of the crew. While it may be little known, Brian helped establish Ghost Hunters. He was with the original crew. He always showed respect to Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson, the "Stars" of the show. Even when Brian was being called on the carpet, which happened far too often, he never snapped back. NEVER. Obvious from the beginning, Brian had some quirks. Apparently, not being completely honest with his boss was one of them. He could be a little odd at times, but people came to love him. The rest of the Crew on Ghost Hunters were relentless in dogging Brian. Hmmm, I wonder if that had something to do with his being less than honest? People who were brand new to the show were often seen and heard complaining about and mocking Brian. It seems to me that Brian was singled out as the outcast. Those of us who have followed Ghost Hunters since the beginning, however, came to like Brian, quirks and all. He was a likeable fellow, who tried to be very helpful to everyone. We knew he had issues...so? I have found in my outside research that a good many people are wondering about, and asking about Brian Harnois. Perhaps he figured more into the ratings of Ghost Hunter than the rest of the crew had anticipated. culture-and-society Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:27:36 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/cockroaches-facts-and-myths Cockroaches are considered pests by some, and appetizers by others! Although many people do not like the sight of roaches in their homes, they are still fascinated by the little (and sometimes not so little) creatures. It has been said that cockroaches have survived through millions of years, and even a nuclear blast would not kill all of them. I guess we may as well accept the fact we may see one from time to time. There are many myths and legends and interesting stories about roaches. I wanted to find out what was fact, and what was fiction about these sturdy little creatures. pets-and-animals Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:40:50 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/amish-friendship-bread-starter Amish Friendship Bread is a wonderful tradition that I have enjoyed for years. It is a tradition between friends. Amish Friendship bread starter and recipe's take a little time, 10 days for the starter, but it is worth it. Called by some a Sourdough, this is also many times a sweet bread, it depends on which recipe you use. This is the recipe I first started making back in the day. Since then, I have developed my own recipe. More on that later.Either way, if you don't already make it, you should consider starting this wonderful tradition. It consists of making a bread "Starter" then when completed, giving it away, with instructions on how to prepare it. How you distribute your Friendship bread starter is up to you. It can be a simple housewarming gift, or a gesture of friendship for a new neighbor. It can also be made into a thoughtful and elaborate gift. . food-and-cooking Wed, 18 Jan 2012 03:03:21 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/how-to-pack-a-chemo-bag Chemo can be a frightening experience, especially the first treatment. Although the medical staff has probably explained as best as they can on what to expect, each person is different and may react differently. Besides that, when it comes to chemo, everyone fears the worst. Not long ago, my BFF and hand picked sister had surgery and discovered she had cancer. Seeing as how it was one of the most frightening days of my life, I can only imagine how she felt. I was with her on the day the doctors talked to her about the cancer and treatment. Right then, I told her I would accompany her on her chemo treatments and do whatever I could to help her. When I left the hospital that day, I told her I was going to pack a chemo buddy bag, and she would pack her chemo bag. After doing a LOT of research and using some of my own creativity, I also came up with a chemo buddy bag. My friend called and told me that in her chemo bag, she had some crochet materials and some reading material. From there, I began to decide what to put inside the chemo buddy bag, and also what to bring to her to add to her own chemo bag. My friend also began creating Kicking Cancer Chemo bagschemo bags for sale, which she packs with things she knows to be helpful!. Everything is packed into a heavy canvas bag with her Logo, which was created by Cathy Colona Rogers. healthy-living Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:49:55 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/JHawes Jason Hawes is quickly becoming the King of Ghost Hunting. Not because he finds the most ghosts, but because he doesn't! He co-stars in his own paranormal reality show called "Ghost Hunters." He is a Paranormal Investigator and the Co-founder of TAPS. Jason Hawes and his show have me as a fan (and that is NO easy feat!) Combining being a Ghost Hunter, and being a Roto Rooter Plumber, Jason and his partner, Grant Wilson shift gears easily from one role to the other. From cleaning drains to investigating paranormal activity Seen currently on Wednesdays, on the Sci Fi Channel, fans anxiously await the start of the new season. The new season starts September 3rd. Blogs are abuzz with the news of yet another popular Ghost Hunter Season culture-and-society Tue, 19 Oct 2010 05:41:33 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/pine-ridge-reservation-or-prison-camp It seems so easy for people to sit back and "judge" the Native American based on lies taught to them in school, or just plain ignorance. There is so much misinformation out there about Native Americans in general, let alone the diplorable conditions on the Pine Ridge Reservation. How do I know? I know because I have been there, many times. I have seen, first hand the conditions and I have spoken with many of the people on and off the reservation. I have studied up on the facts and investigated so called "charities" that help these people. I've done my homework and I've cared enough to find out first hand. I am not a rich white woman. There are times when my own family has had lean pickings for dinner, but Lord willing I will continue to help in any way I can and urge you to learn the facts for yourself. Teen suicide on the reservation has always been high. It averages about 159% of the national average. This year, it is even worse. While my friend and I was visiting a family on the reservatrion in June of 2010, the elder received a phone call that a teen they know had attempted suicide. This, apparently, is not an uncommon event for them. Unemployment is above 80% on Pine Ridge and the average life span for the people is 49 years.. You read that right, 49 years. I have written articles across the web and I am LIVID over some of the ignorant responses I get. If nothing else, people need to be informed before they make any decisions about anyone, let alone the Lakota Sioux on the Pine Ridge Reservation. I want to dispell some of those myths with FACTS and also give information on organizations that I have thoroughly checked out that really do help. Most of the truly helpful organizations help the Lakota to become self sufficient as best they can. Now, I'm going to say something that many who have Native American issues as a cause will not say. "Some Natrive Americans ARE lazy and lack ambition, let alone any of the tradition that their people once knew. They pull the race card for convenience sake and nothing more." However, this is the case in any society and is exemplified by our own "white" society who, by the way, has every advantage available to them. On the other hand, among those who live on the Reservation, there are those talented, ambitious individuals who just need a chance to grow. lThat being said, pleased consider the following FACTS about the people of Pine Ridge Reservation. UPDATE Jan 2012: A couple of classes from the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota have produced a video you simply MUST see! This lens was reviewed at Squidoo lens reviews. nonprofits Sat, 28 Jan 2012 06:41:12 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/legend-of-white-buffalo *Original Artwork by Selfridge Gallery The legend of the White Buffalo goes back about 2,000 years. Told through the generations of the Ogalala Sioux tribe. The story is told at many Council Meetings, Sacred Ceremonies, and by Storytellers. As many Stories and Legends, there are several variations, but all have the same theme; Communicating with the Creator through prayer, and with clear intent of Peace, Harmony and Balance for all things living in Mother Earth. The Legend tells about how the people had lost the ability to communicate with the Creator. The Creator send White Buffalo Calf Woman to teach the people how to pray with the pipe. Seven Sacred Ceremonies were given along with the pipe to ensure a future with Harmony, Peace and Balance. culture-and-society Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:46:33 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/paranormal-activity-and-pets Have you ever noticed that when a storm is approaching, your pet will act differently? Pets are often known to quit eating and change their behavior when their owners are sick and/or in the hospital. Dogs have been known to starve themselves to death after a death of a Master. Yet, to say that Animals have the ability to see and hear the Paranormal is absurd to some. Not to me. I've seen it in action. I believe pets, (and babies for that matter) are very attuned to the Paranormal. Probably more-so in their own house, as that is "their" territory, and they are by nature, protective. No one can deny that animals have exceptional capabilities. The number of animals who have found their way home from hundreds of miles away, and after many years...coincidence? I think not. I wanted to take a closer look at pets, and how they can detect Paranormal Activity. I already knew from personal experience that it is possible. I decided to delve deeper. pets-and-animals Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:54:30 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/moving-to-la-jolla Moving to La Jolla could very well be a dream come true. It is a picture perfect little town along 7 miles of coastline in Southern California, with upscale homes and businesses. Those who already live there have discovered the joys of living and working in a place where tourists long to visit. In La Jolla, modern technology and nature coincide, making it a great place to call home. Discover the many shops, hotels, schools and job/business opportunities along with some information on the area in general. Discover why La Jolla just may be the perfect place to live and work. Photo-Jenina2008 used under creative commons license travel-and-places Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:56:15 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/miniatureshoecollection No one would have ever believed I would one day have a miniature shoe collection! I would not have believed it myself, but once I got started...I just couldn't stop. Miniature shoes come in a variety of materials, and can be different sizes. Mini Shoe collecting has got to be one of the most fun activities there are. Once you see how many styles and designs there are, you will keep wanting more. hobbies-games-toys Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:44:32 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/personalized-retro-valentine-candy-boxes Make Valentines extra sweet this year by giving a personalized box of retro Valentine Candy. You can choose to fill any of the cute, reusable boxes with candy from the 50s, 60s, 70s or 80s. How cool is that? Your beloved (or casual crush, for that matter) would be delighted to enjoy the treats that were popular back when they were young. So, how do you choose which box to get? Pick the decade in which the individual would have been 10 years old. If your honey was born in 1966, go with a Valentines Gift box from the 70s. You can choose either a 2 or 4 pound box. Examples of the types of candy from each decade are listed below. To make this deal even sweeter, you can get 20% off of all Valentines day retro candy boxes with the code vday12! holidays-and-celebrations Sat, 04 Feb 2012 20:46:01 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/lakota-sacred-rites For the Lakota Sioux, there are seven Sacred Rites which are observed. These rites stem from generations of legend and tradition. Each is a beautiful tribute to the people and the tribe. Each of the Sacred Ceremonies involves the Peace Pipe, which was given to them by the White Buffalo Calf Woman. When she presented the pipe, and a small stone to the people, she taught them the first rite, The Keeping of the Soul, and told them the other six rituals would be revealed to them Please remember that these ceremonies are Sacred to the Lakota. My Article is meant in respect to these Rites. Spirituality of Native Americans cannot be bought and Sold, just as Christianity, or any other Sacred Sect cannot be bought and sold. Symbols of the Ceremonies are, in my opinion, similar to symbols of any religion, but the sacred rites themselves, cannot be bought. culture-and-society Sat, 27 Aug 2011 02:47:49 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/fun-halloween-pajamas Who doesn't love to dress up on Halloween? Mom, Dad, and the whole family can not only get great costumes, but warm and cozy pajamas all rolled into one! Hey, think about it; if the folks imbibe just a little too much, they can already have their PJ's on when they fall into bed. Seriously, the little ones can go out on their trick or treat haunts and be all ready for sleep when they get home. Besides that, these Halloween pajamas can be worn all year long. That means they are fun and functional. Cool beans! Ok, so even if you don't wear them as costumes, these Jammies are mighty cute! holidays-and-celebrations Sat, 04 Feb 2012 10:46:20 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/ghotshows I focus on the show "Ghost Hunters" This show can actually be considered entertaining AND educational. Ghost Hunters obviously investigate haunting, but they also explain equipment used and other aspects of their work. Not being much of a Television watcher, I was surprised to become a regular fan of this show. Not only for the fact that their first objective is to "debunk" any claims of the paranormal, but also because you get rather fond of the team on the show. When the show first started, the mostly did homes of people who called in and asked that their house be checked out. Now, as they have become more reputalbe, they are asked into places such as the Stanley Hotel! (That was a great episode, by the way) Coming up on the New season (Sept 3) Here is some information on the show and the crew. New Update 03/2010 down at the end of the lens! entertainment Sat, 14 Jan 2012 21:20:39 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/chip-coffey Chip Coffey (some spell it "coffee") has been featured several times now in the show "Paranormal State". He also had several appearences on Ghost Hunters. He is a famous Psychic and Medium with an impressive line of credits to his name. Chip Coffey also has an interesting Personal history which he shares proudly in his public websites and pages. (More on those later) Why am I writing about Chip Coffey? As my readers know, I have written several Paranormal Articles now, and among them have been a few of the "stars" and crew members of these shows. My readers also know my past experiences with the Paranormal. Chip Coffey truly strikes me as genuine, and I do not say that about many Psychics. Chip Coffey and I also have a lot in common, as I have found in my research. Besides all of that, I find Chip Coffey worthy of an Article and my time. I also feel that there are many people interested in the man, his gifts, and his life UPDATE 03-29-10 I continue to try to contact Chip Coffey for an informal interview. If he has seen this lens at all, he knows that many of you appeal to him directly. I would think he would like to address that. I can understand his being hesitant to do interviews, but this is a squidoo lens and I am a Rocket Mom for goodness sake! What does he think I am going to do--stalk him? I still like Chip Coffey's persona and overall, I believe in what he is doing. Here's hoping he grants his fans a little information. UPDATE 10/13/10- I hear tell that Chip googles his name to find anything written about him, so he no doubt has seen this lens. He also vocally scolds any articles on him that he disapproves of. I am going to assume that Mr. Coffey does not oppose to this lens although I would still LOVE just a short, informal (and respectful) interview with him. Thanks Chip Coffey! culture-and-society Tue, 26 Oct 2010 18:44:06 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/fun-gifts-for-elvis-fans Elvis became an international sensation in 1956. This handsome man from humble beginnings would stir the hearts of women through more than one generation. He had a longstanding singing and acting career as women around the world fell in love with his voice, his hips and of course, his southern charm. From 1956 to 1977 Elvis rocked the world for many women. Everyone knows at least ONE Elvis fan or fanatic! I think it is statistically impossible not to know at least one person who enjoyed Elvis Presley-a lot. If you need to find a gift for one of them then you know that you want to find something besides the old standby "Elvis Tee-shirt". Here are some ideas for some great gifts for the Elvis fan. entertainment Sat, 04 Feb 2012 10:31:30 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/easy-peach-cobbler This is a recipe for Peach Cobbler that is so easy, so quick, and so delicious, you'll be making it often! This recipe is made with 5 ingredients! A Peach Cobbler easy as baking a cake! In fact, you will be using cake mix in this peach cobbler recipe! For a unique Peach Cobbler Recipe, read on, it is a little different than the cobblers you may be used to, but Oh So Good! food-and-cooking Fri, 27 May 2011 02:03:37 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/wheretofindsiouxart If you are looking for Sioux Art, you should buy Authentic Native American Sioux Art. Not much makes me angrier than seeing "Native American Art" stamped "Made in China." The Sioux are a Proud people who create some unique and beautiful hand crafted items. Some of the proceeds from sales of their art go to help their own families, and people. Pine Ridge Reservation is a Sioux Reservation. If you have never been there, I can tell you that it is like visiting a third world country. Pine Ridge Reservation has some extremely talented artists. Sioux Artists are not limited to the Reservations, however. There are some unfortunate Native Americans who, out of desperation, end up selling their valued crafts to the pawn shops and getting only a fraction of their value. Thankfully, there are some organizations, and shops that do give back to the community as well as credit the artists who offer the talent. I've been working with the Sioux for a long time, and I have come to discover some diamonds in the rough when it comes to Native American Art Shops. arts-and-design Sun, 21 Aug 2011 19:26:22 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/paha-ska-black-hills-tours Many people are aware of the fact that South Dakota is rich in history. Mount Rushmore is a National Monument that thousands of people visit every year. The gold rush brought fame and history to the area, as did the famous gun slingers of the old west. Besides that, there is a fascinating historical tale to be told on and about the area and also the Pine Ridge Reservation. Great men and Chief's such as Black Elk, Red Cloud and Crazy Horse are all Native American names with which we are familiar, but have you ever heard their story and the history from the Native American Point of view? Have you even wondered about their legends and stories and how they came to be? If you are answering yes to any of these questions then you should seriously consider taking a tour with Paha Ska Black Hills Tours A few years ago I booked a tour of the Black Hills through one of the touring companies and paid several hundred dollars for it. It was a standard "drive through" sort of tour which came with little interest or excitement other than the obvious wonders of Mount Rushmore and The National Forests in the area. I found it fairly interesting UNTIL the following year when I went on a tour hosted by one of the most knowledgeable and interesting people who lives in the area. This was what was to become Paha Ska Black Hills Tours and it was by far THE most interesting tour I had ever been on. travel-and-places Thu, 04 Aug 2011 03:14:14 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/pineapple-dream-cake This really is a dream of a Pineapple cake, with coconut (although you could leave that off, if desired) I love to experiment in the kitchen, and often I will take a recipe that I have, or have always known, and adapt it a little, which results in a new creation. I love desserts with fruit, and Pineapple is one of my favorites, so I whipped up this treat and it became part of my "favorite" collection. This Pineapple cake recipe starts with a basic yellow cake mix, and transforms into a dreamy dessert! food-and-cooking Tue, 24 Jan 2012 04:22:20 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/ecommerce-software-and-shopping-cart-solution We will be looking at what it takes to select the right ecommerce solution for your company. Below we will go into details on what to look for in shopping cart. We will discuss the "Major ecommerce components", which should be included in any good software package (If the software package you're looking at doesn't support the major components then walk away and look at the next solution) and the "Important ecommerce components", which are not all needed, so you can pick and choose the right one's for your needs. We will also discuss costs, and what influences the cost variation inecommerce software and ecommerce shopping carts. Finally we will give you some recommendations on what companies to look at and review. internet Thu, 02 Feb 2012 04:45:15 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/wilmaflintstone The long suffering, yet cheerful wife of Frederick J. Flintstone. Wilma was an inspiration to women everywhere. The Stone Age wife to a grumbling, bi-polar, loud but lovable Fred. The world first learned of Wilma Flintstone in 1960, when the animated cartoon "The Flintstones" debuted on September 30 of that year. It was love at first site as Wilma played the dual role of loving housewife and Stone Age Women's Libber! Wilma's best friend was Betty Rubble, who lived next door with her husband Barney (and later their Son, Bamm Bamm) They were both pretty smart cookies for being cave women! Wilma had one weakness...Credit Cards. Who can forget Wilma and Betty rushing out to the Flintmobile yelling "CHARGE IT!" Those two and their shopping! We followed Wilma, and the crew through 166 episodes from 1960-1966. For those of us who grew up with the original showings, to those who have caught the past 40 years in re-runs, it brings back wonderful memories. entertainment Fri, 16 Sep 2011 15:07:56 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/taps-ghost-hunters-season-5 The season premier of Ghost Hunters was a success. The team is noticeably smaller, and everyone seemed to get along and have fun The Paranormal Investigators of TAPS went to Iron Island Museum in Buffalo, NY. Present were Jay, Grant, Tango, Steve, Kris, and Kris. TAPS seemed to work smoothly and without interruption to set up the equipment. (How much of that was editing, we'll never know) The Ghost Hunters captured several interesting events on camera and on EVP. It is rare to actually have them catch it on camera. All in all, great opener. I tried not to, but I even liked the women on the crew. I miss Donna, but Kris did very well, both of them did! For updates as of February 11, 2009 check below! entertainment Thu, 14 Oct 2010 17:04:14 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/native-american-zodiac Native American culture is saturated with spiritualism. Animals; all nature really, ,is core to the spiritual culture as well as Native American Zodiac. Each person is thought to have a spirit guide, usually in the form of an animal, which travels with, and guides us through our life journeys. The Native American zodiac incorporates an actual guide in lieu of checking the paper each day to learn our fate. Although Europeans had brought astrology and the zodiac into the forefront, Native Americans had discovered the wonders of the cosmos as well. In fact, they were able to tie all of nature into unity when it came to astrology, and not just the stars. In fact, the zodiac, and the animals which represent each sign encompass the realms of spirituality, medicine and personal growth in the Native American Culture. It all ties together in a beautiful and fulfilling way which has long been known and understood by the Natives, but is now being studied by non-Natives as well. culture-and-society Wed, 31 Aug 2011 19:18:31 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Cooking-with-applesauce Fall is here, and apple harvests are ready. Many people go out and pick apples this time of year to make up batches of homemade applesauce. Don't worry that you will have too much Applesauce, there are hundreds of ways to use it up! Still others buy applesauce, and find they have some left over. Not to worry, we've got you covered as well Applesauce is one of those great foods that can be used in many different ways. You can use applesauce as a substitute for oil, in recipes. Applesauce can be made into decorations for the holiday season! Here are some useful suggestions on using up applesauce, just because, or so it doesn't go to waste! food-and-cooking Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:49:23 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/road-trip-2011-across-nebraska-on-i80 Our yearly trip to Keystone South Dakota took us once again to the historic and scenic sights of Interstate 80 west bound through Nebraska. There are actually several different ways to cross Nebraska to get up to the Black Hills, and we have tried just about all of them at one time or another. No matter how many times we go, we always seem to find something new and interesting along Interstate 80 across Nebraska, and this was no exception. travel-and-places Sat, 14 Jan 2012 21:27:41 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Nebraskatouristinfo A lot of people are worried about traveling these days due to the rising cost of gasoline. Whether you live in or around Nebraska, or just want a great place to visit, You've come to the right place! Omaha and Lincoln Nebraska have plenty of fun, history, excitement and history for you to enjoy travel-and-places Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:58:08 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/a-squid-angel-tells-it-like-it-is First and foremost, whoever reads this must know that I have LOVED Squidoo since I first joined. I joined to enhance and enjoy my writing skills and share things that I loved. I have learned more from Squidoo than I have from probably every other site I've belonged to, and that is because of the wonderful people at the Forums and at Squidoo. I became a Squid Giant, then an Angel Squid and I'm here to lay it all out for you as to what THIS and possibly OTHER Angels look for in a lens. Update: I am now in my second tour of being a Squid Angel. I still feel the same way as I did when I originally made this lens squidoo-community Thu, 09 Feb 2012 15:55:59 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/chocolate-love-cake This cake is also known as Italian Love Cake. There are many variations of it, like most recipes, but this is my favorite. This is an extremely moist cake, and if not eaten within a couple of days can get a little moist on the bottom. More often than not, the cake is long gone before that happens! If you love Chocolate, If you love Cake, if you love a sweet (*but surprisingly not too rich) cake, you will love this! Simple to make, and starting with basic cake mix (You'll find I lean toward those recipes) you'll have a delicious dessert in no time! I tend to be a "Paula Deen" type of cook in that I believe "I am your cook, not your Doctor" so baker beware! food-and-cooking Tue, 10 Mar 2009 18:44:28 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/dream-catcher-jewelry Dream catcher jewelry has fascinated people since they first learned of the legend from the Native Americans. Modern pieces often include a fetish along with the dream catcher, giving them dual symbolism. If you're looking for something for yourself, or a thoughtful gift, dream catcher jewelry may be the way to go. The legend says that the night is filled with spirits. These spirits are able to give many powers, and come to us in dreams. When a dream catcher is hung, the good dreams and spirits are able to pass through, but the bad dreams or spirits get tangled in the web. fashion-and-beauty Sat, 27 Aug 2011 02:10:24 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Haunt_speaks In hauntings, there are Three major types of "manifestations" that can occur. Spirits can appear as orbs, mists,(or shadows) or apparitions. NOTE: Each of these three types can be called an anomaly, which is something seen on photograph, video, or recording that cannot be explained. Let's examine each one. Fact or fiction? Who is to say, but You decide and I'll share my views. culture-and-society Mon, 12 Jan 2009 01:51:34 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/hobo-meals-camping-recipes While Hobo Packets are a handy and delicious way to create individual meals over a campfire, they can also be baked in an oven, or even in a crockpot! These are really fun for kids to do, and lend themselves to experimentation as well. Hobo meals can be made any time of year, and are great ways to get rid of leftovers. Some Hobo Meals and Hobo Packets can be frozen, which makes them uber convenient. What's not to love about Hobo Meals? They are convenient, fun, versatile, economical and they taste great! Grab a few squares of tin foil (aluminum) and let's make some Hobo Meals! Did you know there is a "Hobo Day" in South Dakota? Yep, you can read about it HERE food-and-cooking Wed, 29 Jun 2011 20:35:38 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/askgrandma I've been in the "parenting business" for 28 years now. I've done so well, I've been promoted to "Grandma". I made a lot of mistakes over the years, but I did manage to learn a few things as well. Grandma's have learned where to find the free stuff, the fun stuff, and we have a lot of tips on keeping children happy, and busy! Personally, I never got along with my Mother. My Grandma was another story all-together! I worshipped her. She was laid back, yet could be fiesty, she would let us experiment in cooking, she played baseball with us! She was super-cool. Grandma's house was a haven. That is what I want my home to be for my Grand babies. A fun, safe haven. Contained in this Article you will find loads of things to keep your Grand Kids happy and comfy while at your house. This will be a compliment to my "Club Grandma" blog. Enjoy! parenting-and-kids Sat, 25 Apr 2009 00:18:56 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/hire-a-writer-for-your-squidoo-lenses If you are long on ideas for lenses, but short on time, I can help! I am a freelance writer with over 5 years experience, been writing on Squidoo for over 3 years, and recently have begun creating copy for other lensmasters to use on their sales or personal lenses. Many, in fact most Squidoo lensmasters are excellent writers. The creation of sales lenses, however, takes a lot of concentration which often leaves little time for writing good copy. If you would like to put together your lenses and have the copy ready for you to publish, give me a shout and I will get to work on it for you. It's as simple as that! You can find out more at Omaha Writers Group squidoo-community Mon, 06 Feb 2012 07:20:57 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/my-painting-of-black-elk-by-paha-ska-salway It is difficult to say exactly why this is such a valued possession to me. Black Elk was in his own right a great man, but the painter of this portrait was also a wonderful man; Paha Ska Salway. Paha Ska Salway was a dear, dear man who happened to be a friend of mine. He was given the name "Paha Ska", which means "White Hills" by Ben Black Elk (who was the son of Black Elk). I was given this painting by Paha Ska's widow although I knew Paha Ska before he passed away. The intertwining of the stories is part of why the painting is so special to me. arts-and-design Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:05:12 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/calico-beans-crockpot-recipe Calico Beans made with my recipe, is hearty enough for a meal.  It includes plenty of meat, beans, and great tasting ingredients.  This is a Crock Pot recipe, but you need a little prep work first.  This is similar to a "Ham and Beans" and "Baked Beans" mixture that will tantalize your taste buds! My family absolutely loves it when I make Calico Beans.  It is great to make any time of the year, because you are using the Crock Pot.  By dinner time, your meal is ready, and trust me, your family will be waiting!  Try serving this with some Corn bread for an extra treat. Since I learned to cook by my Grandmother, I am basically a "pinch of this", "dash of that" type of cook, but I try to estimate as best I can.  I've given the recipe to many people and have not heard any complaints! Even better, that means it is safe to adjust the recipe to your taste, and budget.  I like to use mostly canned beans, but I also use fresh Pinto beans.  You can make this either way and it will be fine. These are also sometimes called Cowboy Beans food-and-cooking Thu, 11 Dec 2008 22:51:44 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/strawberry-fluff-dessert This quick and easy dessert is refreshing and nutritious. I went to an upscale restaurant recently only to discover that what I had ordered for dessert was something I'd been making for years! I assure you it can be made much more cheaply than it can be bought! You will need only 3 ingredients for this tasty recipe. Of course, the ingredients include Strawberries and Bananas! This is probably one of my lower fat, lower sugar recipes. What can I say? I learned to cook old school. I know you will love it! food-and-cooking Sun, 05 Oct 2008 02:51:57 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/all-things-winnie-the-pooh Winnie the Pooh has actually been around since the first world war. He is based on a real bear named Winnie that belonged to a Candadian soldier named Harry Colebourn (He named the bear Winnipeg). He bought a baby bear from a hunter who had killed its mother. Harry loaned the bear to the London zoo. It was there that Christopher Robin (son of author AA Milne) first saw and fell in love with Winnie. Christopher renamed his teddy bear from Edward Bear to Winnie the Pooh. Milne began to write a series of books about his son, Christopher, along with Winnie and the other stuffed animals belonging to his son (Eeyore, PIglet, Kanga and Roo). The Winnie the Pooh books were extremely popular throughout the years with young and old alike. In fact, Walt Disney's daughters so loved the character that it inspired the now famous Winnie the Pooh films. Over the years, the books, films and cartoons featuring Winnie the Pooh have become tradition in many households and have been translated into many different languages. What's not to love about that "silly, willy, nilly old bear"? Indulge in your love of Winnie the Pooh. He is available in so many places and in so many delightful products that it would be a shame not to! Take a look at some of the wonderful things inspired by the beloved Winnie the Pooh.. entertainment Sat, 11 Sep 2010 13:39:11 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/life-and-death-in-the-ghetto My 17 year old daughter came rushing in this afternoon saying "Ma, I need the computer, quick! Angelo was killed!" My heart sank. Angelo was a 17 year old young man from "da hood". I feel comfortable saying that because it is where I raised two of my kids. I worked there, lived there...it was a reality. I guess it should have come as no surprise that my daughters would be attracted to the "gangsta" type. My oldest is with an ex gang banger and my youngest has always dated gangsters, save maybe two. My youngest, the 17 year old had her first taste of what it is like to be a girlfriend of a gang banger when she was 13. Her boyfriend, Dooney, was choosing gangs. Apparently, he chose the wrong one (even though most from that particular neighborhood or block choose the same one). As a result, he was shot 9 times in the back as he left his home and started walking up the street. No one in our family will ever forget that night. Ever since then, the many times that I have heard "______ was shot!" or "_____ was killed!", I think of the Mother who is left crying and wondering why. Having buried a child and a step-child, I still can only imagine the futility that mothers of these kids must face. It is a reality, folks. Young people are dying and for no good reason. It may not happen in your neighborhood, but it happens. culture-and-society Wed, 10 Nov 2010 15:57:05 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/iso-20000 What is ISO 20000? ISO 20000 is the international standard for IT Service management. There are two parts to the standard which include:: ISO/IEC 20000-1 ( the 'Specification for Service Management) and ISO 20000-2 (Code of practice for Service Management) Why ISO 20000/ ISO for IT The target audience (for ISO/IEC foundation training) includes employees of both internal and external service providers, who play a role or have an interest in ISO/IEC 20000, even if such an organization is not (yet) certified. The ISO/IEC 20000 Foundation Certificate is particularly aimed at this wider audience. In addition, for customers considering requesting their service providers to become ISO/IEC 20000 certified, they can get an insight into what can be expected of their service providers. The ISO/IEC 20000 Foundation Certificate is a prerequisite for the other qualifications within the ISO/IEC 20000 qualification program. Once this has been achieved, further study and certification in ISO 20000 Lead Auditor and/or ISO/IEC 20000 Lead Implementer Training can be done. Each course of study and objectives are listed below. business-and-work Tue, 09 Aug 2011 12:06:16 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/tween-halloween Halloween falls on a Saturday this year. (Or at least it did when I first wrote this!)What a great time to let your tween have a sleepover! These can be really fun! Since most Teenagers now have cell phones, skip the formal invitations, have them call their friends. If you prefer to send invitations, (Aren't we the ambitious one?) try Evites,where you can send a free online invitation. You can send a Halloween template, or create your own! Remember to have some sort of theme (Besides Halloween) before you send your invites. The best solution for that, is pajama costumes. More on that below. Be sure you have plenty of your own gruesome treats ready for the party. Get those earplugs ready (so YOU can get some sleep that night). You want the party to be fun, but don't stress yourself, the fun part for you should be planning this, so relax and enjoy! Now let's really start planning! holidays-and-celebrations Fri, 14 Oct 2011 02:04:42 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Thankgiving If you ask someone "What is Thanksgiving," the answers you get will depend largely on whom you ask! I think by now, we are all aware that The first Thanksgiving isn't exactly what we read in our school history books. I would first like to give you the true account of the first Thanksgiving, and then we will move on to some menu ideas for a perfect holiday. Most of my readers know I am a friend to the Native American People. I have spent a lot of time hearing their stories, and learning their ways. Thanksgiving, to the American Indian is not much of a celebration. Thanksgiving represents the beginning of the end for the Great Nations. For most of us, however, Thanksgiving has become a tradition of "giving thanks" for our blessings. Over the years, this has evolved into a virtual feast in most homes. Traditional dishes are always good, but I'd like to throw in some Native American Dishes as well. Enjoy! holidays-and-celebrations Tue, 30 Aug 2011 05:45:22 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/better-homes-grandmas Grandparents have the awesome ability to make amazing differences in children's lives by doing what comes naturally. My most precious memories of Childhood are about being at my Grandma's house. It helped shape who I am. Grandparents are at a time in life when they have pretty much explored the "excitement" of life. They have had extensive experience with children, including making mistakes. Grandma and Grandpa can look at the big picture and in fun, subtle ways, bestow that knowledge and wisdom on the children. We are more "laid back" now, and the children sense that, they enjoy that. Grandparents are part of the "Team". If the child has Mom and/or Dad, then they are in the team. Aunts, Uncles, other family members, often part of the team. Believe it or not...friends can be part of the team. You may be the Leader of the team (raising your Grandchildren), or you may be a helper and cheerleader (kids stay at your house weekends, etc.) No matter what position you hold on the team, you will have a profound impact on your Grandchildren. Remember that as our Grandchildren grow, Our relationship with them changes. Teenagers aren't much into spending much time at the Grandparent's home. Enjoy the little ones while they still think Grandma's house is cool! parenting-and-kids Sun, 05 Sep 2010 00:25:13 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/packagefromsanta Christmas is, and should be a magical time. It is a time for children and adults to enjoy giving, sharing, and love. For small children, it is fun and heart-warming to add to the Christmas magic by letting them enjoy some parent assisted "tell-tale signs" that Santa really does exist. Most families leave out cookies and milk for Santa, but there is even more that can be done to add magic to the holiday. Here are seven ways that adults can help make this the best Christmas ever for the special children in their lives. holidays-and-celebrations Sun, 11 Dec 2011 13:33:19 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/childrens-bedtime-routine Children who adhere to a reliable and consistant schedule are often more apt to give you less trouble at bedtime. Bedtime Routines are very important, and can even be fun for the Children. The younger you can get your child into a bedtime routine, the better. Children will not take long to begin to feel tired as soon as your "ritual" starts each evening. I learned this the hard way, but now, having Grand Children, I think I have mastered the art of Bedtime Routines for Children. parenting-and-kids Sun, 02 Nov 2008 23:31:12 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/advent-calendars-1 Advent Calendars have been a tradition in many homes since the beginning of the 19th century. They help children to count down the days until Christmas and help them understand the concept of time. There are many types of advent calendars. In fact, children can even create their own, which adds to the fun and excitement. Advent calendars are available in religious and some are secular. Here are some ideas for advent calendars for the special child (or adult!) in your life. hobbies-games-toys Sat, 17 Sep 2011 13:48:38 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/recessionsoup You can possibly argue if we are, or are not in a recession, but the fact remains; everyone likes to save money and most everyone likes soup! The beauty of making a huge stock pot of soup is that you can freeze what you don't use, and enjoy it at another meal. Another wonderful thing about soups is that you can adapt them so easily. Saving money while you cook is as easy to learn as it is to do. You will begin to dream up your own thrifty soup recipes as time goes by. So, let's get started, shall we? food-and-cooking Sat, 02 Jul 2011 23:26:50 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/the-lewis-and-clark-trail-through-nebraska Setting off to discover uncharted territory, Lewis and Clark had been told to expect volcanos and woolly mammoths. While they did not find those, they did find some 300 animal species that had never been seen before. They also met with 50 Indian tribes along the way. They had hoped when beginning the expedition that the Indians would be friendly but they remained armed, just in case. They were stunned when they had traveled the first leg of their journey (From May 21, 1804-July 31, 1804) covering over 600 miles without having encountered one Indian. That was about to change. It was through Nebraska and Iowa that Lewis and Clark began to learn about the Indians and they met with many tribes in the area. Since Lewis and Clark followed the Missouri river, they went back and forth from Nebraska to Iowa while on their journey. It is difficult to track their journey without mentioning both the Nebraska Lewis and Clark trail and the Iowa Lewis and Clark trail. culture-and-society Sun, 07 Aug 2011 04:21:50 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/calamity-jane-history Although Calamity Jane is one of the most recognized females of the Old West, she is also one of the most mysterious. That has been proven by the many different accounts of Martha Canary (AKA Calamity Jane), and the difficulty in obtaining any verifiable information. It is known that much of what has been said about Calamity Jane is the result of imaginative and sometimes exploitative authors and reporters. Still, she did play a prominent role in American History, if only in the imaginations and romantic beliefs of those who have admired her. culture-and-society Sat, 27 Aug 2011 15:32:09 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/wizard-of-oz-items In the midst of extreme financial hardship and the turmoil of a country at war, Frank Baum released "The Wizard of Oz" on August 35, 1939. A far cry from the war movies that ran rampant at the time, this movie offered hope, inspired imagination and restore a sense of whimsey for many people. For more than 70 years, this movie has won the hearts of every generationand continued to be a favorite movie throughout the years. Watching the movie is a tradition for many households and it normally shown on national television around Thanksgiving every year. Young and old alike can be heard humming and singing the many wonderful songs that fill this movie with the magic that is "The Wizard". entertainment Sun, 12 Sep 2010 19:43:42 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/hand-made-gift-ideas The economy is sluggish, but there is no need to neglect spreading holiday cheer. During past tough economic times, people have relied on hand made gifts to share with those they love. Hand made gifts are not just gifts, but gifts from the heart. Not crafty? Even a purchased hand made gift shows extra love and thoughtfulness. Hand made gifts express the spirit of Christmas in a very special way. entertainment Fri, 19 Nov 2010 01:27:56 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/vintage-retro Everything from the 30's through the 70's, I absolutely love. I'm not alone! With so many baby boomers, it's a pretty good bet there are many like me. Take a stroll back with me, through yesteryear, and revisit some of the everyday items and events that were part of our everyday lives! No Time machine needed, just a computer, and a love of things vintage and retro. You will see and read about things you haven't in a long time. I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I am enjoying writing it. entertainment Sun, 09 Aug 2009 01:06:41 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/creamy-macaroni-and-cheese Macaroni and cheese is a dish served year round. It is a favorite of millions of people and there are very few who have never tried this taste sensation. It is served in homes across the nation and many add their own special touches to add their own signature to the all time classic. We serve it so much here that we have pre-made packets ready so putting the dish together is a breeze and takes no time at all. You may want to consider doing this too. A little preparation before hand makes macaroni and cheese a much more do-able dish, any night of the week! food-and-cooking Fri, 24 Jun 2011 00:20:33 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/graveyard-cake-recipe Making a Graveyard cake is a Halloween tradition in my family! It seems there are many variations, but, of course, I think mine is the best! You can let your creativity flow with this one, and add some of your own "special effects". As you will find in my recipe lenses, I use two words very often; Easy, and Experiment! Graveyard cake does take a little time to assemble, but the finished product is worth it! Do Experiment, however, with the decorations, to make it uniquely yours! There is also a bonus "Kitty Litter Cake" recipe further down on the lens! food-and-cooking Thu, 13 Oct 2011 21:28:32 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/spongebob-squarepants-gifts-and-information Spongebob Squarepants was actually the brain child of Stephen Hillenburg in 1984, and became a reality when the show was aired on May 1,1999. By the year 2000, the show was enormously popular and has remained so ever since. The original set of characters each now has their own following. Mr. Krabs, Squidward Tentacles (Ya gottal love him!), Sandy Cheeks, Gary the Snail, and, of course, Patrick Star all join Spongebob in immense popularity. entertainment Mon, 22 Nov 2010 16:41:25 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/a-lens-built-for-you Squidoo is a unique venue on which you can create and enhance writing skills, HTML, social networking skills and much more. Although there are nearly 1.5 million lenses, only a handful of lensmasters have learned, or are learning the secrets to Squidoo success. I have invested a good deal of time with Squidoo, and have gained some valuable skills, a great job, and new friends along the way! I love squidoo so much, I convinced my employers to have me write Squidoo lenses for them. (Those lenses are under a different screen name) I was already doing freelance work for them, and the response to the lenses has been great! I will list some of the lenses I have created later in the lens. I have also branched out into accepting a limited number of Lens creation jobs. What I can and will do for you is also outlined below. Looking for ready made lenses for sale? I have those too! I also Barter Lenses. If you have a product you think I may be interested in having, let me know and we can talk about me building a lens in exchange for it. Lens and Hubpages Pack- Quality Lens and Hubpage for only $150! Visit Omaha Writers Group business-and-work Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:39:37 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/veebees-colossal-squid-group Lurking deep in the sea are those squid that stand out among the rest. They are the biggest and most unique of all squids in the ocean. They are called "colossal squids". If you are reading this; you are either about to become a part of, or are curious about the Colossal Squid Group which is part of the fabulous WiWon Team! WiWon's founder is Michelle Willow and she will undoubtedly have a lot of plans for all of us in the upcoming weeks. You will probably work harder AND have more fun in the next couple of months that you ever have at Squidoo! GO COLOSSAL SQUIDS! The power to become a Giant or Giant 100 is within YOU. I can encourage, assign, prompt and do some cheerleading but all of you are capable of making it to your goal. You have already proven yourself by choosing to work hard toward becoming a very elite group on Squidoo. Congratulations! squidoo-community Mon, 29 Aug 2011 23:07:09 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/candles-more On this, my 50th lens, I've decided to tell everyone about Creative Scentsations Candle Company. Why, you may ask? It is the only online company, besides my own, that I have ever gotten involved with. We have regular scented candles, smokeless candles, jar candles, votive candles, wax dipped stuffed animals and flower petals, tarts, tart warmers and much more. The prices are exceptionally reasonable, and the owner is someone who truly likes and cares about her representatives. Besides that, the scents are wonderful, the products unique, and Creative Scentastions is a company I would like you all to learn a little bit more about. If you like different, scents, you will love Creative Scentsations. Sit back, grab a cuppa, and just enjoy what I have to show you. NEWLY ADDED PRODUCTS UPDATED 10/09 being added Have a special order? We can get it done! business-and-work Mon, 18 Jul 2011 13:34:55 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/tea-time We always had 2 tea sets in our house as I was growing up. One was for family, and one was for guests and show. It was just how it was in my house, and I didn't think anything of it. My Father always referred to himself as Portuguese. Probably because he certainly had the coloring and features of the Portuguese. I didn't think much of it, until I was about 6 or 7 and we went "back east" to Massachusetts to meet his Family. I was expecting to see an olive complected woman with dark hair and eyes. Imagine my surprise when I saw my Grandmother for the first time. Red hair, blue eyes, not at all Portuguese looking! I kept looking around her, thinking my Grandmother must be behind this woman my Father was speaking to. Well, you'll never guess what she had in her hands. A tea cup and saucer. My father approached her and she leaned forward to meet his kiss and hug. I don't remember asking much at the time, because most of the rest of the Family I met were Portuguese, but when we got home, my Dad had some 'splainin to do! food-and-cooking Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:14:39 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/northeastnebraska Sure, we have our cows, and our corn, and we're darn proud of them too! There is much more to North East Nebraska though. Explore the history, the beauty and the hospitality waiting for you in this corner of our State! In Northeast Nebraska you will also find many Native American attractions. Since Macy is located here, you can find authentic Indian art, or learn the symbolism for Native American Art. travel-and-places Fri, 26 Jun 2009 01:20:36 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/cisco-systems-certification CISCO Certification programs and exams are available all in one convenient place. Whether you are looking for CCNA, CCNP, or CCENT, Knowledge Center Inc can help you on your way. Classes are available evenings, and CISCO bootcamp is also within reach. Over 50,000 IT professionals began their careers with the help of KCI. Affordable and convenient training, with the ability to take the CISCO exam right in our facilities. business-and-work Fri, 26 Aug 2011 23:36:04 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/thriftyshortcutrecipes There is something just as exciting as saving money, and that is saving time. There are shorcuts we can use for substitutes when baking, and there are quick, easy, kid and adult loving recipes found from items probably already in your cabinet (and freezer) There are times when those pantry items just must be used. There are many creative ways to mix together different boxed and canned foods. So let's get started: food-and-cooking Sun, 01 Jan 2012 22:54:40 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/farmville-vs-farmtown-on-facebook Spend any time experimenting with Facebook games and you will find that the two most popular of the farming games are Farmville and Farm Town. Both are great games in their own right, but some prefer one over the other. All farming games are not created equal and there are some big differences between these two Facebook games. While some choose one as the only farm game they will play, others, like me, play both and enjoy all of the fun of farming at Facebook hobbies-games-toys Sun, 17 Oct 2010 17:18:28 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/survival-guide-to-raising-teenagers To take from another author; It will be the best of times. It will be the worst of times. The good news is that you are on the short side of your parenting duties. You have already survived about 11-12 years of raising a child! Congratulations! Now buckle in, because it's going to be a bumpy ride. No matter how well you have raised them, your teenager will become unrecognizable in the mood and personality departments for the next several years. They will push every button (after all, they installed them!) and will work your last nerve until YOU begin to hatch plots to run away. Keep reminding yourself that this phase is normal and natural and that "This too shall pass". Here are a few tips and strategies that can help you in your time of need. Not every strategy works for every person but most people find at least one or two that they can use. parenting-and-kids Sun, 28 Mar 2010 23:27:22 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/parenting-what-my-parents-taught-me Once you reach the time in life when you are a grandparent you begin to think about the mistakes (and the good decisions) you made as a parent. You also begin to think about how you became the type of parent and grandparent you are. Obviously we learn a lot about our roles from those who were role models for us. As we get older we learn that our parents did the best they could and some were outstanding in some areas and lacking in others. (Sound familiar?) I'd like to share with you what my Parents taught me and what they failed to mention. While I'm at it I'll throw in some side thoughts as well! parenting-and-kids Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:53 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/top-stocking-stuffers-for-your-cat Here kitty, kitty, kitty! Take a look at all of the fun, interesting stuff there is to absolutely thrill your cat. We get to serve our cats all year, so giving them some special gifts at Christmas only seems fair. Cats NEED fun and exciting gifts. They also need treats and other goodies to satisfy their every whim. Let's take a look at some of the top stocking stuffers for your cat. holidays-and-celebrations Sun, 21 Nov 2010 04:46:37 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/nebraska_cornhuskers After several years of stumbling around courtesy of EX A.D (Athletic Director/Administrative Dimwit) Steve Pederson, Nebraska Football is back on track! If you have followed College Football at all, you know the Nebraska Cornhuskers. I was born and raised here. All we HAVE is College Football. There are Nebraska Fans in Every State in the US and even some fan clubs over-seas. For the first time in 4 years THIS Cornhusker fan is looking forward to the college football season. Dr. Tom is at his desk, Bo Pellini and Barney Cotton are out on the Field, and all is right with the world! sports-and-recreation Sun, 28 Jun 2009 06:21:05 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/residual-hauntings Anyone who watches enough shows about the paranormal has heard the words "residual haunting". There are two types of hauntings in general; intelligent hauntings are those in which the spirits are able to interact with humans and communicate in some way. Residual hauntings are "playbacks" of people and events which have happened in the past. It is similar to a video recording of spiritual energy. The apparitions seen in residual hauntings are unaware of human presence. culture-and-society Wed, 26 Jan 2011 20:37:49 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/the-christmas-pickle There are several different claims as to where the actual tradition started and what inspirted it. Over the years, the tradition itself has varied from family to family but one thing remains constant; it revolves around a glass pickle ornament that is the last one hung on the tree. While many are familiar with this tradition, others are not. Learn the different variations of the origination and the modern day practices of The Christmas Pickle holidays-and-celebrations Sat, 18 Dec 2010 21:22:16 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/road-warrior-nebraska-south-dakota If you've ever thought about taking a trip through Nebraska and up into South Dakota, I would recommend it. Yes, there are a lot of wide open spaces and corn fields (and cows...). But, there are many things to see along the way including a great deal of historic markers. Remember that on the trek west, Nebraska was well traveled. So was South Dakota, for that matter. I can't tell you how many times I have made the trip from Omaha, Nebraska to Keystone, South Dakota. No, I really can't because I've lost track and I have never tired of going there because there are many different scenic routes to take, places to see, eat, stay...Well, you get the idea. Here, we focus on taking I-29 North and I-90 West from Omaha, Nebraska to the Black Hills of South Dakota. travel-and-places Sun, 05 Jul 2009 04:03:41 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/increasing-product-promotion-with-blog-reviews One of the best ways to get your products noticed is through a blog review. Business both big and small use blogging reviews in order to showcase their products. It is basically, a smaller scale sweepstakes, with the business owners product as the prize! While big name companies do use this avenue to highlight and promote products, so do many small companies. Even Etsy owners have their products showcased in order to promote them! People do a lot of shopping online, so they turn to bloggers to give them honest reviews of what is available. Product promotion through blogging can mean a big boost in sales. Find out how other business and shop owners are increasing their sales through bloggers and product promotion. business-and-work Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:53:17 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/veronicabrigtstoc Well, to me they are works of art, anyway. I have been writing for more than 20 years, although the only thing published publicly was my Poetry. I love writing Articles, commentaries, reviews and informative pieces. Over the past several months, I have aquired quite a "resume" of Articles. Mostly on Squidoo, but other sites as well. I was recently honored to have achieved the rank of "Giant Squid". It was because of one of my lenses that I got the job I now have, which is being a content/ghost/freelance writer with a company, and also making Squidoo Lenses for Clients! It is my dream job. I owe Squidoo many thanks. I have separated my works into catagories, making them easier to find (I hope) Please leave comments, and let me know what you think. THANK YOU! squidoo-community Wed, 01 Dec 2010 10:55:18 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/meet-the-flintstones Hanna-Barbera had a hit on their hands with The Flintstones. With the Wacky but lovable Family the Flintstones. Wilma's natural good nature would sometimes turn sour over Fred's crazy antics. Wilma and Fred Flintstone and their neighbors, Barney and Betty Rubble had many an adventure from 1960-1966. The creativity of having the "animal powered" appliances which were used daily in the show is unmatched. Wilma's Mammoth powered Vaccuum cleaner, and the bird can opener are just two examples of the hilarity of the concept. The Flintstones are truly Cartoon Icons and a perfect example of timeless humor. Fred and Wilma Flintstone, after 40 plus years, are being watched by the youngsters of today. It's time to "Meet the Flintstones". entertainment Tue, 09 Sep 2008 01:17:15 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/veronicas-rocket-mom-lensography Because, like so many Squids, I am not satisfied with just one project at a time, I decided to see if I could complete Rocket Moms. That is, on top of becoming a member of the Giant 100 club, coaching a new group of future Giants and having somewhat of a life outside of squidoo. Well, I made the 100 club WOOT! and I am attempting to help those who are going for the next round of Giants. I started late with Rocket Moms but better late than never! Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you my Rocket Mom Lensography which completes the objectives outlined in the Rocket Mom group challenge. Thanks, Bonnie "Bdkz" for all of your help and for sticking with the rocket mom program even when it gets crazy! squidoo-community Fri, 27 May 2011 02:18:55 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/recipes-for-make-ahead-meals Meal planning can be a real chore at times. Most people have active busy lives and just don't have time to cook a good meal every night. However, with a little planning, you can eat better than you ever thought possible. Take one day out a week, or a month to plan out your meals and to cook and freeze them. Be sure you label each item well so there is no guesswork when it comes time to take your meal from the freezer! One of the best things about planning ahead is that it can save you so much money! We often buy and cook on impulse unless we have the meals planned out and ready to go. You won't plan the meals and freeze them just to leave them sit in there! This lens will be updated and new recipes added often food-and-cooking Mon, 22 Jun 2009 01:29:39 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Neighborhoodcoops Neighbors need each other! Co-ops are a great way to make utilize this. The Price of Gasoline has gone up, the price of food keeps rising, the economy is shakey, what is a person to do? Many people are finding the wisdom in what some families have known about a long time: Saving money with Neighborhood Co-ops (or neighborhood groups). This is not a hand out, it is a frugal way to conserve resources and time. Most often you will find neighbors excited about joining or participating in Co-ops. We are finding out that our best money saving resources are our family, friends and neighbors. Closer ties are once again becoming the norm. People are beginning to know their neighbors again, and befriending them. Co-ops are a great idea, and money saver. Start one, or two, of your own today! culture-and-society Wed, 12 Oct 2011 05:31:04 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/pier-39-sanfrancisco Nestled in by the Golden Gate Bridge, there is a stretch of paradise. Pier 39, along with Fisherman's Wharf,and Girardelli Square hosts an array of fun, shopping, dining, and beautiful sights. Street performers, even the Sea Lions lure tourists and locals alike into the charm of one of the premier Vacationing spots in California. Besides being a shoppers haven, it boasts a magnificent Bay View, Fine Dining, and incredible atmosphere. travel-and-places Fri, 19 Sep 2008 14:55:50 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Writers-Recipes After Starting the Recipe Contest, a lot of people told me I should put together a cookbook. Well, there were difficulties then, but I am now seriously considering doing that. Here is the thing...I will make this lens 100% charity. By adding your recipe, you consent to having your recipe published in a cookbook, or e-cook book. If done in e-book form, everyone contributing will receive a copy free. I am very community focused right now, and I want to include the Squidoo community. You do not have to make your lenses Charity, but that is what I am doing with this one. I hope many of you participate, as it should be fun! You'll finally have your name in print! lol This lens will take a lot of participation from you, the Squidoo community. Adding lenses, plexo and more. There is no need to vote on the lenses added. I will have final say on which recipes get into the book. (although, they probably all will). food-and-cooking Thu, 05 Jan 2012 09:20:16 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/papi How to choose a Dog and what to look for not only in the Dog, but the seller! Where you get your pet (purebred or otherwise) could influence how good of a pet he/she is. Mind you, I had never bought a "purebred" dog before, so the entire experience was new to me. My own personal experience with buying a Purebred Chihuahua. A funny, yet true Story of my Chihuahua, Papi, and how he came to be a member of our family. pets-and-animals Sat, 10 Sep 2011 00:51:14 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/squidinner-desserts-contest A few of us lensmasters put our heads together (OH NO!) and decided to come up with Squidinner Contests. There will be a contest, thus a lens, for each catagory. Breads, Soups, Casseroles, Main Courses, Appetizers and Desserts. It's simple, you add your recipe lens link in the plexo. You can add a recipe to each catagory if you wish. Links to the different contest lenses are below. We also have started a blog (which is getting hits like crazy) in which the winners recipe will be featured along with a link to their lens. Easy, right? So dig out those dessert recipes and post them in the plexo here! Winners will be judged by voting AND by a Special Guest Judge. There will be one winner per category, and then a "Grand" winner. Category winners will receive a badge and a write up in the Squidinner blog. The grand winner will receive a badge, write up and a 10 oz Apothacary Hot Apple Pie Candle NEW PRIZE: Promotional Bullet Pen Set The first round of contests will run from Midnight Sept 6-Midnight Sept 27. Chef Keem will be our Guest Judge food-and-cooking Thu, 30 Dec 2010 03:56:03 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Goosebumps-by-RL-Stine Since hitting the shelves and the airways, Goosebumps, by RL Stine has been a hit. Primarily with the tween and over crowd. Filled with good characterization, great plot, RL Stine keeps readers/viewers involved in the stories. Although teens and tweens seem to love the Goosebumps, the American Library Association has had it on it's top 100 books to ban. There are many, MANY children who would never have picked up a book, were it not for the Goosebump Series. Stine is published in America by Scholastic, the world's largest publisher of children's books, and they continue to inspire even the most reluctant children to pick up a book. His cliff-hangers virtually dare them to try to stop reading. books-poetry-writing Fri, 26 Aug 2011 03:25:50 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/5thingsilove_Fall_Winter The kids have gone back to school. We've celebrated the last of the warm weather holidays, which is Labor Day. Halloween is past us, and Thanksgiving approaches. This time of year moves quickly and soon the kids will be donning costumes, we will be buying turkeys, and digging out Christmas Decorations. You know it's true. This time of year goes so quickly. I have never been a Summer person. I don't like the heat. Ick. I absolutely love Fall and Winter. There are things I love to do, that I will only do in Cold Weather. Perhaps you share some of the same enjoyments? *Note: For those of you in California, and Florida, Fall is when you take down the green plastic plants and put up the brown ones. squidoo-community Mon, 29 Aug 2011 00:17:07 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/squidooingfordummies The first thing any "new squidooer" is going to want to do is make a lens. Don't worry about it being perfect! Don't worry about too much of anything. Write, explore and play with your options. Do NOT try to get into the advanced squidooing until you have at least written your first lens. I did that, and my heart sank to my feet. I was lost, and had a headache trying to keep up with what everyone was talking about! Write it, and they will come. I cannot stress enough that your first lens is not carved in stone. You will be able to re edit it as many times as you like. Have some fun! Squidoo really IS fun! squidoo-community Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:53:12 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/true-meaning-of-christmas As a forewarning to those it may offend; This lens mentions, even discusses Jesus Christ. Please keep this in mind should you decide to read further. Please also know that my intent is not to alienate anyone, but to bring us closer together. by a common goal; to help others. Also note: This lens talks about other beliefs and traditions, if you are Christian, and cannot deal with that, you may not want to read on! On December 25, each and every year, families around the world gather for what is supposed to be a time of celebration, peace on earth, and Spirituality. Let's look at the word "Christmas." Etymology: Middle English Christemasse, from Old English Cristes męsse, literally, Christ's mass (Merriam Webster) Yet, "Christmas," in it's accepted term, is a holiday celebrated by many who do not worship the Christ. This is basically because the Church took a day that was a long celebrated Pagan Winter Solstice Day. Christmas has come to symbolize even to many non-Christians in a broad sense, giving, family, and peace. Unfortunately, Christmas has also come to symbolize commercialism, and the general tone of "What do I get?" Let us remember what is the true meaning of Christmas, and how it can bring love and peace to even those who choose not to worship the Christ. holidays-and-celebrations Sun, 14 Nov 2010 09:14:01 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/dollhouse-houses-to-keep-or-give Dollhouses are beloved and awed by many today just as they always have been. Dollhouses are great for collectors, and as gifts for adults, boys and girls. They can be bought pre-built or ready to build depending on how much effort you want to put into the dollhouse. Either way, when they are built, they are ready to personalize, decorate and enjoy. One style of dollhouse could be decorated in so many different ways that it stirs the imagination just considering it. Once the wallpapering, carpeting and painting are done, they are ready to furnish. Each step of creating a dollhouse is a joy unto itself. Dollhouses are often kept as keepsakes and can be handed down through the generations but they also make thoughtful, wonderful gifts for anyone on your list. There are so many different styles that just picking one may be difficult. In todays market you can expect to find not only Victorian houses but barns, French Quarter houses, Country houses and much, much more. If you would like to skip right to the store and start browsing, feel free to Browse doll houses and doll house accessories Otherwise, please read on for more information and history on dollhouses. hobbies-games-toys Sat, 16 Oct 2010 00:07:39 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/chadron-nebraska Chadron is one of those towns that often gets passed by while traveling on the interstate. It is located in the panhandle of Nebraska and is primarily a college and farm town. Job Corps is also located in Chadron Nebraska. Both HWY 20 and HWY 385 run through Chadron which allows easy access to and from South Daktoa, Montanna, Colorado and the rest of Nebraska. Chadron Nebraska is, upon closer inspection, a friendly, charming city that deserves more than a glance from the interstate. travel-and-places Thu, 16 Sep 2010 01:44:40 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Nebraskaguidefortourists Nebraska has year round Hunting and Bird Watching activities. We also offer Tourists a wide variety of attractions and Historical sights Nebraska has more miles of River than any other State Cozad Nebraska is the 100'th Meridian where the Humid east meets the dry west. There are 5 Army Forts open to the Public in Nebraska: Atkinson, Kearny, Hartsuff, Sydney and Robinson. Nebraska has the Worlds largest Man Made Forest, the Halsey National Forest. Father Flanagam founded Boystown in Nebraska in 1917 Nebraska has 8 State Parks, 66 State Recreation Areas, and 9 Historical Parks It's 455 Miles across Nebraska There are walking trails in each section of Nebraska that cover hundreds of miles each! Yes, Nebraska is more than Cows and Corn (although we are darn proud of those too!) So, let me show you around. I am currently updating information on the Sandhills and Panhandle regions of Nebraska travel-and-places Fri, 24 Jun 2011 00:58:54 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/the-life-and-times-of-michael-jackson On June 25th 2009, the one and only King of Pop, Michael Jackson passed away. By now, nearly 24 hours later, there are probably thousands of blog posts and stories about Michael Jackson. People either adored him or loathed him. Personally, I did and do not fit into either of those categories. Michael Jackson was about my age and I grew up musically along with him. This is not necessarily a tribute to the man, nor is it intended to degrade his memory. Above all, at this time, we must remember that whatever we may have thought about Michael Jackson, he was someone's Son, Father and Brother. This lens contains facts about Michael's life and also my own thoughts. entertainment Fri, 03 Jul 2009 23:45:44 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/back-to-school-breakfast-recipes It's that time of year again when parents breathe a collective sigh and most children, a collective moan. For most parents, after the first week they are scrambling to come up with ideas for delicious "start the day" meals for their kids. Your worries are over because here is a huge collection of recipes and ideas for some great breakfasts. These delicious breakfasts are sure to start the kids off on the right foot and give them a great start to their day. They may even begin to look forward to breakfast. Cereal is fine on occasion but why not spend just a few minutes making a breakfast that is tastier and in most cases, more nutritious? food-and-cooking Sat, 15 Aug 2009 14:36:14 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/have-a-stupid-christmas Now, most people are probably wishing everyone a blessed Christmas, or a Happy/Merry Christmas...but not me. Oh, of course I want it to be all of that, but I also want you to have a stupid Christmas. In fact, I want to have a stupid Christmas too! Among other things, Christmas is a joyous and happy time, and of course, a time for gift giving. Well, if you have to choose gift after gift and try to make them unique, then you will want to try some of the items I have featured here. Dare to be different and have a STUPID Christmas! holidays-and-celebrations Sat, 13 Nov 2010 08:55:03 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/halloween-dog-costumes People love their dogs. Dogs love their people. That is why Dogs don't mind pleasing their people by dressing up in Halloween costumes, it brings the people such joy! I have a Chihuahua, so dressing him will be fun! There are costumes out there for every size dog though. I wish I had begun the Dog Costume Industy! Let's look at some cute dogs, and some possible costumes for them. Be sure you have your camera ready when you do put the dog's costume on! holidays-and-celebrations Wed, 12 Oct 2011 05:49:25 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/best-halloween-movies The best Halloween movies often have nothing at all to do with Halloween. They are created, in most cases, to scare the daylights out of people, and most do that very well. Truth be told, the stories could be centered around anything blood curdling, and they have a great chance of becoming one of the best Halloween movies. Some people enjoy a lot of "blood and guts" in a movie, and there are certainly enough of those to satisfy even the heartiest scary movie fan. Others enjoy suspense more than the goriness, so there are movies to suit them as well. There is also no shortage of movies geared toward and appropriate for children and pre-teens. Let's take a look at some of the Best Halloween Movies this year. holidays-and-celebrations Sat, 24 Sep 2011 01:11:45 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/why-the-casey-anthony-verdict-infuriates-the-public Out of sheer disbelief over the verdict of Casey Anthony, and the feelings it invoked, I felt compelled to share my thoughts on why the Casey Anthony verdict struck a cord with so many people, and why it infuriates the public in General. Casey Anthony was found Not Guilty on all murder and child abuse charges on July 5, 2011. The jury was rushed from the courthouse, as hundreds who stood outside wept, and hundreds of thousands who watched the events take place on television did the same. I'm not going to reexamine the evidence, but rather try to examine why people are so angry and hurt over this decision. It obviously deeply affected many people, myself included. The irony, the injustice, and the impact on the public cannot be ignored. culture-and-society Thu, 07 Jul 2011 20:53:36 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/my-recipe-and-foodie-lensography Almost everyone has favorite recipes, and here at Squidoo, you can always find new ones. It seemed only natural that since I have over 125 lenses now, that I begin to separate them into categories. I am hoping that you can perhaps try some of these recipes and they may become new favorites for you, too! Although I have to admit that I have a sister that beats me by far, I have been called a "Kitchen Cupboard Cook". I love to experiment with food and I also like to create inexpensive recipes. My cooking style falls somewhere between those two. You probably wouldn't believe how many ways I have made boxed macaroni and cheese. My children, however, prefer homemade mac n cheese, so I have learned to tweak that too. I also wanted to make more recipe lenses, so I figured starting a lensography may inspire me to do just that. I hope you enjoy my recipes and hope that you will share some of your own variations in the comment section. food-and-cooking Sat, 02 Jul 2011 23:47:14 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/veronicabright Born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, Veronica was the 4th daughter of John and Dorothy Constance. She was born on October 12, 1960. She attended a Catholic Grade School and Mercy High School, graduating in 1978. Basically an average student, Veronica excelled in English and Writing and would much rather have been doodling, building her little "towns" or writing rather than studying. She began her own family early and put herself into college to study in the medical field when her oldest daughter was 3. She spent several years in college before her child's illness caused her to leave. Veronica became a Medical History Investigator, a job she absolutely loved. When she had time, she wrote stories and poems. Having had 6 children and 6 step-children, time was precious! Veronica's Grandmother had been a columnist for the Portuguese Historical Society in Massachusetts and her Uncle had been an author. Writing was always a part of Veronica's life. Now, as a Grandmother, writing is first and foremost in her life (besides her Grand children, of course!) She has buried 2 children, is legally deaf and still maintains a keen sense of humor and passion to write. squidoo-community Fri, 24 Jun 2011 00:25:53 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/my-nebraska-and-black-hills-vacation-2011 If you missed it, our trek from Omaha Nebraska to this point was a long one, but one we know well. My friend,Rose and I make at least one trip a year to the Black Hills. The first part of this year's journey can be found Here One of the main purposes of this journey was to deliver goods to a family on the Pine Ridge Reservation that was adopted by my friend, Rose. In the picture, you can see that she packed plenty to bring them! travel-and-places Mon, 13 Jun 2011 08:38:39 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/the-paranormal-my-story Yes, I believe in the Paranormal. I don't have a lot of explainations for it, I don't know why I've experienced it, I just know I have. Now, without hesitation, I will be labeled "nuts" by some of you reading. Why? Because I believe in the paranormal do you assume I am not a logical, reasonable person? I am. Hang on to your hats, non-believers, because I'm a Christian, a Republican, a writer, and considered by those who know me to be very well grounded and even a bit on the conservative side! I experienced the Paranormal LONG before the Paranormal became a hot topic. I am a skeptic as well. I certainly don't believe most of the so called "proof" of paranormal activity I've seen. Follow along, as I reveal the How and Why of Becoming a believer. culture-and-society Mon, 12 Jan 2009 02:13:33 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/petsarepeopletoo Meet my Pet, Papi. He is in the picture with my old cat, Callie. Papi is a Purebred Chihuahua (albeit an 8 pound Chihuahua) who is tri-colored and has the most expressive face I've ever seen in an animal. Papi was named after "Big Papi" David Ortiz of the Boston Red Sox. Most importantly, Papi is a member of my Family and quite possibly one of my best friends! People get pets for a variety of reasons. Some want companionship, others want a play pal for their child, yet others just enjoy having pets around! More often than not, however, once that little critter gets into your house, he also gets into your heart! Ever since the days when animals first became domesticated, they have been an important part of the society and the family. Most know that Cats were revered in ancient Egypt, and often even buried with their Masters. Pigs were even bred to a size where they can be kept as pets, hence, the Potbelly Pig. Sadly, however, some animals began to be bred for selfish reasons, such as dog fighting. Most news stories about dogs these days, unfortunately, are about Pitt Bulls, and other dogs bred for the specific purpose of fighting. However, I know several people who keep these dogs as pets and family members, not fighters. For everyone who has had, or has a pet that is a member of their family, read on! I'll introduce you to some incredible animals and people! pets-and-animals Mon, 02 Feb 2009 18:38:10 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/isithaunted A look into the paranormal. A topic some people swear by and others dismiss without a second look. I am a skeptic. I try to find logical explainations for things, but sometimes, well, there just ISN'T a logical explaination. Is it ghosts, spirits, paranormal activity, poltergeists, or a mind trick? Could be any of these. With the increase of Paranormal Investigation shows, signs point to more and more people at least considering the possibility of spirits, or hauntings. I share my own first personal brush with the Paranormal as well. culture-and-society Tue, 02 Sep 2008 21:34:59 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Christmas-Themes Of course we all know the reason for the season, but many prefer a unique and festive or decorative theme to their holiday decorations. For some, the Victorian theme runs throughout the house, and on the tree. For yet others, the Angel and Santa Themes. There are, however, some unique and beautiful themes you can consider this Christmas, and many can even be put in your curio cabinet to enjoy year round after Christmas! Christmas decorating should be a personal and unique thing. Perhaps you have a traditional theme. Perhaps you want to start a traditional theme. You may be decorating a large tree (real or artificial) or you may be planning just a little table top tree. The trick is to make it very you, and very unique. Christmas is a time for festivity, so decorate, make your home inviting, as it is also a time for family and friend. Create some conversations starters, show off your favorite era, or character. If you are like most people, you will have more company throughout the Christmas season than any other time. Make the most of it! holidays-and-celebrations Wed, 12 Jan 2011 13:48:07 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/my-people While it occured to me that not many people may want to read about folks they don't even know, I still wanted a tribute to them. Most of them are not on Squidoo and some of them do not even have much of an online presence at all. To me, however, they are the reason I get out of bed in the morning, the ring to my laughter and the song in my heart even though I may not always tell them. These are the people who have made a huge impact on my life by just being, and being who and what they are. Salute, my friends, this is for YOU. squidoo-community Sat, 25 Dec 2010 11:37:23 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/best-bradford-exchange-christmas-gifts Bradford Exchange is known for their quality and beautiful products. They have a way of making Christmas even more magical than it already is. Whether you collect Bradford Exchange or want to find a magical gift for someone else, the most unique and awe inspiring of the Bradford Exchange collections can be found right here. holidays-and-celebrations Mon, 29 Nov 2010 18:38:28 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/christmas-giving-on-a-budget Whether funds are limited at your home, or if you just don't like going over board at Christmas time, there are many ways to have a wonderful Christmas and enjoy giving, even on a budget. Simple things do not equal cheap. In fact, some of the most wonderful gifts I've ever gotten were home-made. If purchases must be made, why pay a high price when you can get them inexpensively? Yes, you can be on a budget, or trying to save money, and still give wonderful gifts. holidays-and-celebrations Mon, 29 Nov 2010 04:05:39 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/five-perfect-gifts-for-divas We all know at least one. She is the star, the "it" girl, the girl who thinks of the world as her audience (or her servants) and is always ready for her close up. The diva is the leading lady and it's all about her. Now, you can show her just how special she is with a very appropriate Diva gift. Let her know that YOU think she is the star too with one (or more) of these perfect gifts for Divas. holidays-and-celebrations Sat, 27 Nov 2010 16:54:39 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/resolution--im-gonna-shine-in-2009 There have been such wonderfully positive changes for people recently. Many of the October group of Giant Squids have made positive career changes due in part or in whole by their experiences with Squidoo. Some of us got jobs or careers writing, others created their own products which they now promote and it's all good! While no one can promise that all of your dreams will come true, I do know that positive thoughts create positive results. This last year is my testament to that! Set your goals for what you want to accomplish in 2009, and you CAN do it! There is nothing magical about the New Year, the magic is in your thinking! I am living proof it can be done, as are many others right here on Squidoo and other places. I'd like to encourage you to "SHINE in 2009" and will be giving examples of those who have made dreams come true and strategies to do it. Be a part of the group that wants to "Shine in 2009" by reading and participating. It's going to be a GREAT year! squidoo-community Wed, 01 Dec 2010 10:56:53 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/a-thomas-kinkade-christmas There are very few people, particularly in the United States, who have not heard of Thomas Kinkade. It is my opinion, and shared by many that he is one of the most talented artists of our time. He has become a beloved painter whose work graces many entrances and living-room walls, mine included. The beautiful color, and intricate details of any Thomas Kinkade artwork is a thing of wonder. Many have marveled at his attention to detail and realistic portrayals. Thomas Kinkade artwork is among the most collected in the US. Once you've seen Kinkade artwork, you'll see why. holidays-and-celebrations Fri, 12 Nov 2010 19:23:22 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/freebies-free-stuff-and-reward-programs To be perfectly honest, finding the sites that truly offer freebies, surveys for cash and free samples are few and far between. People usually sign up with a variety of sites only to find out that one survey site only leads to a hundred more. Filling out personal information to "pre-qualify" you is virtually a waste of time. Freebies sites often come with a price also. Usually, you have to adhere to "program requirements" in order to receive anything free. Take heart, however, after literally months of research, I have found some good freebies sites and some wonderful blogs about freebies, surveys and other goodies. People do not want to waste time filling out surveys or personal information only to be led down a path of wasted time and effort. Read on to find out about REAL FREEBIES and opportunities for you. culture-and-society Fri, 05 Nov 2010 02:16:11 -0600