School Year Resolutions for You and Your Teenager

School Year Resolutions for You and Your Teenager

Mark Gregston, Heartlight Ministries

 

Like New Year's resolutions, the start of the school year is a perfect time for parents and teenagers to make resolutions together in regard to goals, responsibilities, and expectations.

Think about what you and your teen hope to accomplish and how you will interact this year. That starts by reviewing your household rules to make sure they are still age-appropriate. And be sure to develop concrete plans to shore up and maintain your relationship with your teen, even as they get busier with school and after-school activities.

Make one of your goals to meet with them regularly, at least once a week. Make it a requirement to get together at a restaurant or coffee shop; or better yet, go have some mutual fun together. You'll find that every time you meet with your teen you'll learn something new about them, and your relationship will blossom.

A number of things happen in the first few weeks of school; so I recommend that you double up your one on one meetings during the first month. Listen to what your teen has to say about their new teachers, their schedule and their peers. Perhaps they are already being bullied by someone, so it could be that they need to be quickly moved or the school officials told about the bullying. Getting it right in the first few weeks is critical, since you can still make changes in their schedule or classes before they get too far into the semester, and before they become discouraged.

Communication Means Listening

When you get together, your teen may never have a long discussion with you; it may just be the "instant message" version. But listen carefully, because what is said will probably be short and you'll have to do some reading between the lines. Repeat back what you think they said, or ask a few quick questions to clarify what they meant. This will signify that you are really listening and wanting to understand them.

If your teen is a boy, keep in mind that boys will clam up if a parent expects them to look them in the eye when they talk. My friend Bill Ziegler, a middle school principal and frequent guest on our weekly radio program, says, "Boys communicate better when we're side by side, versus face to face." I find that boys also seem to process life while they are involved in an activity of some sort. So you'll be most successful if you can find something fun to do together, all the while interjecting thought-provoking questions to keep the conversation going.

For girls, too, conversation naturally comes out of having fun together. Talking less during these activity times may be difficult for a parent, but when it comes to getting teenagers to open up to you, you can't shut up too much. And be sure to prevent distractions during your time together. Don't bring along friends or siblings. Don't go to their regular hangout, where they'll likely run into their friends. Don't allow iPods or cell phones. And by all means, don't announce the activity is for the purpose of having a talk. Just leave the space open and available while you are with them, to see what happens next. Then zip your lip, be quiet, and practice listening.

School Is More Stressful Today

School has become a much more demanding environment for our kids these days. The pressures are significant to perform for others; socially, academically or athletically. So, take care in reviewing your teenager's schedule. Don't allow them to over-commit their time to school or other extra-curricular activities, including those at church. Adults will recruit them to commit to every spare second in their day to sports, clubs, music, or youth group, if you allow them. It's up to you to help your teen prioritize their schedule, while giving them permission to cut out some things if it appears they are taking on too much. If they are unwilling to confront the people who are pushing them into a state of being over-committed, ask your teen's permission to speak to them yourself.

Other kids will under-commit and avoid involvement in anything but what's required. So you may need to help them by asking them to at least try out for a sport or a club or other activity that will broaden their horizons, give them a new skill, or put them in the company of a positive peer group. Remember, one of the most important things you can do for your teenager is to help them find a positive peer group - so do whatever it takes.

Is Your Home a Place of Rest?

Finally, but no less important, be sure to take a close look at the environment in your home. Is it a place of rest for your teen, or does it just add to their stress? Having reasonable rules and chores won't cause stress; it is when there is poor communication, excessive lecturing, bickering, and fighting. So, pick your battles wisely and major on the majors. Set aside the minor issues, especially during the first few weeks of school. When your teen gets home after school, allow they some time to kick back and find some rest, even if it is just playing a video game or going for a walk. They need to unwind, just like you do when you've had a stressful day.

I hope you use this time near the beginning of a new school year to recharge and regroup. Watch for signs of problems with your teen, especially during these first few weeks. If they get off course, it will likely be now as they are dealing with new teachers, new or suddenly "grown-up" peers, new pressures, and possibly a transition to a new school.

Originally posted September 15, 2010.

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"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoºWalt Disney ºoº  

How Likable are You?

How Likable are You?

Posted By Todd Smith On January 25, 2010 @ 03:45 In Achievement,Likability |

One of the most important keys to living a happy, healthy and fulfilling life is your ability to build meaningful relationships. While there are many factors that influence the relationships you have with others, being a likable person ranks near the top of the list. Likable people are those who do the little things to connect with people.

The Importance of Being Likable

All the great teachers of personal achievement from Napoleon Hill to Anthony Robbins have talked about the importance of creating a likable personality. Dale Carnegie's famous book How to Win Friends and Influence People was one of the best books I have read on the subject.

Generally speaking, people who have a likable personality enjoy greater success both personally and professionally. The logic is simple; people are subconsciously drawn to people who are likable.

Regardless of your career path, you can improve your brand and increase your value to the market by becoming a more likable person.

Evaluate Yourself

So, being honest with yourself, on a scale of 1-10, how likable are you? If your friends and business colleagues or your spouse and children were to rank your likability on a scale of 1-10, what would they say?

Answer these questions honestly to identify the areas where you can improve:

* When speaking with other people, are you genuinely engaged and interested in what they have to say?

* Does your smile communicate an authentic interest in the other person?

* When people are speaking, are you patient? Do you let them finish before responding?

* Will you get in the back seat of the car so your friend can sit in the front seat?

* Do you remember people's names?

* Do you accept responsibility when you are wrong?

* Do you say please when asking people to do something for you, even if they are being paid to do it?

* Do you offer your sincere appreciation to those who have done something to help you, even if it's within their job description?

* Are you friendly in your e-mails?

* Are you complimentary of others when they are deserving of one?

* Do you encourage others when given the opportunity?

* When having dinner at a friend's home, will you pitch in and help do the dishes?

* Do you practice humility?

* Do you listen more than you talk?

* Do you offer a heart-felt apology when you have hurt someone without making excuses?

* Do you make people feel comfortable when they are around you?

* Do you try to maintain a positive attitude at all times?

This is just a short list of the actions we take on a daily basis that will determine whether people view us as likable. The great news is 100% of these things are within your control.

There is Always Room For Improvement

In thinking about this lesson over the past week, I have been extra intentional about doing the little things to be more likable. For example, I have been friendlier to the store clerks where I shop and have been more encouraging and complimentary of my own children. While I have known about the importance of being likable for many years, this past week has been a humbling reminder that there is always room for improvement and I am no exception.

Start By Doing the Easy Things

If you want to create a more likable personality, here is the key: you must be INTENTIONAL about doing the little things that will make you a more likable person. Let me offer you the same challenge I made my 16-year-old son this week.

Jake works at a local grocery store where he normally just focuses on doing his job. Four days ago I challenged Jake to go out of his way to be friendly. The first day he went out of his way to be friendly to two customers. On the second day, ten customers, the third day thirty-four customers and the fourth day fifty-four customers. Get the picture?

As a result of this simple challenge, he is standing taller, walking with a bounce in his step and taking more pride in the person he is becoming. In fact, I can't recall any period of time in his life where I have seen his self-confidence grow more than in this past week. The store manager even noticed and told him what a great job he was doing.

Will you accept my challenge? Will you focus on becoming a more likable person?

What are some of the things that make people likable? Post your ideas in the comment section below.

People have choices. They will always choose to associate with someone who is likable. Are you?

About the Author: Todd Smith is a successful entrepreneur of 30 years and founder of Little Things Matter. To receive Todd's daily lessons, subscribe here. All Todd's lessons are also available on iTunes as downloadable podcasts. (Todd's podcasts are ranked #27 in America's top 100 podcasts and #1 in the personal and development field.)

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

One of the Most Powerful Things you can say

One of The Most Powerful Things You Can Say

Posted By Todd Smith On June 4, 2010 @ 03:45 In Likability |

One of my favorite quotes comes from the extraordinary public speaker, Robert Cavett.  Robert said, "Three billion people on the face of the earth go to bed hungry every night, but four billion people go to bed every night hungry for a simple word of encouragement and recognition." My heart goes out to those who are starving to be noticed, valued and appreciated.

In yesterday's post I talked about the importance of recognizing and encouraging yourself because you can't expect to be recognized or encouraged by others.  Very few people make the effort to say positive and uplifting things to others but those who do stand out like the light of a freight train in a dark tunnel.

When you encourage others, you lift their spirits, enhance their self-confidence and add fuel to their motivational fire. Perhaps more than anything you give them hope and inspiration. Wow, if simple words of encouragement can do so much to enhance someone's life, why don't we all do more of it? How long could it take? 10 seconds?

The power of a compliment

I went fishing a couple weeks ago with an acquaintance of mine. I really don't know Kevin very well as he is a friend of one of my friends.  Kevin greeted me with a huge smile and said, "The last time I went fishing with you, you said one of the nicest things anyone has every said to me."  A little surprised, I asked him what he meant.  He explained that I paid him a huge compliment when I told him how well he fought and eventually caught that 55-pound Amberjack.

Wow! I didn't remember giving him this accolade but he remembered! Not only did he remember; he remembered it 10 months later.  Who would have thought such a little unintentional statement would make such a lasting impression?

Recognizing and encouraging others

While I have my theories about why most people find it difficult to pay someone a compliment or take the time to give a person some positive reinforcement, the point is they don't. The crazy thing is, it is something we can do in less than 10 seconds, but yet has the potential to make a lasting impression.

How about taking the time to make someone's day? Be intentional about looking for the good in others and telling them what you see. Even the people who you think don't need to hear an encouraging word, need one.  In fact, they may be the people who need to hear it the most.

Do you have a spouse or significant other who needs a few words of encouragement?

Do you have a child who aspires to win a race or be accepted to a certain college?

Perhaps your friend is down in the dumps and a word of encouragement from you is all they need to change their mood.

Remember, what you give, you get in return.  When you begin to look for the good in others, it's only natural they will begin to look for the good in you.

My challenge to you

When you see people working hard to reach a goal, take 10 seconds to encourage them.  If you have seen progress in their pursuit, tell them what you have observed.  Your words of encouragement may be just what they need to keep their dreams alive.

Phrases like "You're doing great job", "keep up the good work" or "you rock!" will go a long way in making a difference in someone's outlook.

Make sure your words communicate your genuine feelings.  While the words themselves are powerful, the feelings behind the words are what will be remembered.

Here is my double challenge to you.  Before going to bed tonight, will you find three people to encourage, recognize or compliment?  Just three!  Will you do it?

If you want to see how your words can impact others, watch the award winning film with more than 3.5 million You Tube views called Validation.  It is the BEST short film I have ever seen.  If you can't watch it now, save this post and return to it when you have 17 minutes.  If you have children, watch it with them.

When you look for the good in others and tell them what you see, you will lift their spirits, enhance their self-image and make a lasting impression.

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

36 Ways to Make a Positive Impression in Less Than 10 Seconds

36 Ways to Make a Positive Impression in Less Than 10 Seconds

Posted By Todd Smith On May 3, 2010 @ 03:45 In Communication |

There are literally hundreds if not thousands of little things we can do to raise the bar in our professional and personal lives. So many of these things are easy to do and can be accomplished in less than 10 seconds. They just require an intentional effort.

What is CRITICAL to understand is that your ultimate success, fulfillment and happiness will come from doing the little things that matter.

As entrepreneur and best selling author Harvey Mackay said, "Little things don't mean a lot. They mean everything."

Here is a short list of 36 things you can do in less than 10 seconds that will make you a better person, enhance your self-image and improve the quality of your life.

1.  Make it a point to say the words "I love you" to the people in your home every single day.
2.  Offer a friendly authentic smile- a great smile radiates warmth, puts people at ease and makes you likable.
3.  Make comfortable eye contact- your eyes send messages; establishing and maintaining eye contact with people demonstrates confidence, respect, and genuine interest.
4.  Use someone's name – everyone likes to hear and see his or her name.
5.  Acknowledge people- smile and say hi to the people around you.
6.  Express your appreciation- say "thank you" to everyone who does something for you even if they are paid to do it.
7.  Be unselfish and put others first- it could be as simple as holding the door open for someone.
8.  Offer a word of encouragement- sometimes this is all a person needs to build confidence and take the next big step. This is big!
9.  Accept responsibility when you are wrong- it's the sign of a person with character.
10.  Be friendly- it lifts the attitude of others and is the #1 factor in being likable.
11.  Maintain a positive mental attitude- your attitude is a choice and that choice is 100% within your control.
12.  Be kind and considerate- to people you know as well as strangers.
13.  Be like a dog and be the first to greet people- it helps new people entering the room feel more comfortable and demonstrates your interest in them.
14.  Offer people you meet a warm greeting- this will set the tone for the entire encounter.
15.  Say please- make it a habit to use the word please EVERY TIME you ask someone to do something for you even if they are paid to do it.
16.  Get up and walk into the other room to speak to someone, rather than yelling.
17.  Put the toilet seat down.
18.  Turn your head and cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough.
19.  Improve your body posture- poor posture is an indication of low self-esteem.
20.  Say goodbye- make a good last impression.
21.  Offer a proper handshake- a good, firm handshake demonstrates confidence and makes a good impression.
22.  Give someone a hug- a hug is a sign that you really care for the other person.
23.  Proof your email, text or post- this is an important component of portraying a professional online brand.
24.  Click the LIKE button on someone's Facebook post- it's an easy way to demonstrate interest.
25.  Turn off your phone in meetings- even though your phone may not make sounds, your eyes and attention will be diverted from the other people in attendance and your lack of attention demonstrates disrespect.
26.  Repeat your phone number twice when leaving a voicemail- speaking slowly and repeating your phone number will make you stand out.
27.  When scheduling appointments use the other person's time zone- this avoids misunderstandings or missed opportunities.
28.  Speak with life and energy in your voice- no one likes to be around people who are "dead, dull and lifeless."
29.  Walk with a bounce in your step- it's evidence of an energetic attitude that ultimately leads to success.
30.  Turn off the notifications that are bugging those around you.
31.  Write things down- it prevents you from forgetting things that are important.
32.  Say something positive to others about another person- reverse gossip.
33.  Congratulate your opponent- good sportsmanship is evidence of leadership.
34.  Introduce yourself- be proactive and introduce yourself to people whom you have never met.
35.  Look for the good in others and tell them what you see- you have the ability to bring out the best in people, especially when they may not know it themselves.
36.  Hold in that fart- the pain will go away in less than 10 seconds.

As you can see, each of these tips is easy to do. They don't require any formal education or financial investment. We can begin to incorporate them into our lives this very minute. All we need is to be conscious of them and be willing to take 10 seconds to do them.

Let me encourage you to print out this list and put an asterisk beside the ones you are committed to working on. Track your results and see how you do.

This is just a small sampling of the things we can do in less than 10 seconds to make a positive impression on others. What are some other simple things we can do in less than 10 seconds? I look forward to reading them in the comments section below this post.

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

Grace

This happens to me all the time. The feeling of being "off" some days.

What an awesome thing to have someone do this for you even when you were the one that dropped it. There are angels everywhere.

 

I hope you are blessed today with one.

 

Grace
by Sandi Patty

It was an interesting day. I hadn't felt "on my game" if you know what I mean; I felt clumsy and out of sorts.

I left home in Oklahoma City to travel to Women of Faith. It seems like wherever I am traveling I have to go through Atlanta. Bill Gaither used to tell this joke: "When you die and go to heaven, you'll have to go through Atlanta first."

I arrived at the Atlanta airport and searched the screens for my next flight's gate. Realizing I had a bit of extra time, I decided to stop and get some coffee at Seattle's Best. Perhaps this would wake me up and help me feel a little less "off."

I placed my order and as I waited, I reached for a coffee cup sleeve only to knock all 100+ of them onto the airport floor. I bent over to begin to gather them up. The nice lady handed me my coffee―at which time I dropped it and it exploded all over the same floor. I felt horrible and began to get napkins to sop up the mess. One of the workers came out with a mop and bucket and began to clean up BOTH my messes.

I quietly slithered away and began to head to my gate thinking to myself, "Just get to the gate and sit down. Just don't touch anything else".

As I was trying to sneak away, I heard a voice behind me saying, "Ma'am? Ma'am?" I didn't want to think he was talking to me because honestly, I thought if he was talking to me he would probably scold me for being so careless. Finally I couldn't ignore him any longer since he was right behind me.

He was out of breath from running and said to me, "Ma'am? Why don't you come on back . . . come back and have one on us." I almost cried right there in Atlanta airport. I followed him back and they fixed me another mocha "on them" and he quietly said to me, "Ma'am, believe me, this happens all the time. It's no problem. Just enjoy your drink and have a nice day."

I've been thinking all day about that phrase "Come on back and have one on us." That's really how grace should feel. When we mess up and make mistakes, when we are having an off day, God isn't standing by ready to shake his finger at us in rebuke. He chases after us and probably says, "Believe me; I see this all the time. Come on back and have one on me."

I love that about our God.

Come to me, all who are weary (and having a bad day) and rest….on me! —Matthew 11:28

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

Zucchini Recipe

 From Leanne Ely - Love her.

Zucchini - The Ultimate Summer Squash

by Leanne Ely, C.N.C

Today's Focus is on ZUCCHINI

I am lucky enough to have some zucchini planted in my garden and it's going crazy. I've had about 4 zucchini so far and YUM, delish! Here are some things you need to know about zucchini:

 

1) massively low in calories-one large zucchini is only 16 calories!

2) plenty of phyto nutrients including beta-carotene, B vitamins, a little vitamin C and plenty o' potassium!

Here's Today's TRICK:

To change things up, I grate my zucchini, sauteing it in garlic and olive oil, topping it with a little freshly grated Romano cheese and fresh ground pepper. Nice side dish and almost rice-like or pasta-like in texture.

Here's a TIP:

Small to medium sized zucchinis are most tasty. Look for a smooth, unblemished skin and nice dark green color. Tasty zucchs skin should feel soft, but the zucchini itself should be hard and not squishy (that means its past its prime, yuck!).

And Your RECIPE (from Saving Dinner the Vegetarian Way):

Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Serves 6

2 1/4 cups orzo
2 medium zucchini, quartered lengthwise and thinly sliced
15 Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
6 green onions, thinly sliced
2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
1 large tomato, seeded and cubed
1 1/2 green bell pepper, seeded, deribbed and chopped
1/2 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
4 cloves garlic, pressed
1 1/2 teaspoons oregano
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh dill, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
6 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
3 tablespoons mayonnaise

Prepare orzo according to package directions; Drain and rinse under cold water. Drain again very thoroughly. Place in a large bowl. Stir in the zucchini, olives, green onions, celery, tomato, and green bell pepper. In a small bowl, beat together the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, dill, salt and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss to coat well. Sprinkle on the feta cheese and toss again. Add the mayonnaise and toss gently. Chill at least for 2 hours and bring to room temperature before serving.

Per Serving: 546 Calories; 30g Fat; 14g Protein; 57g Carbohydrate; 4g Dietary Fiber; 2

8mg Cholesterol; 553mg Sodium. Exchanges: 3 Grain(Starch); 1/2 Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 5 1/2 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates. Points: 15

SERVING SUGGESTION: Serve with a simple caprese salad: sliced ripe tomatoes, layered with fresh basil leaves, sliced mozzarella and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Fresh ground pepper over the top finishes it beautifully.

Want more recipes for zucchini and other fresh veggies? Check out our Vegetarian Ebooks.

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

Patiently Waiting

Patiently Waiting

by Charles R. Swindoll

Read 1 Samuel 25:29–34

My, oh my, did David learn a lesson! "Blessed be God. He kept me from murdering this man—from doing evil. I don't have to fight that kind of battle, that's God's job. If vengeance is required, it is God's to do."

Three things strike me as I think about this incident in the life of David and our lives today.

Whatever you do when conflicts arise, be wise. If you're not careful, you will handle conflicts in the energy of the flesh. And then . . . you'll be sorry. What do I mean by being wise? Well, look at the whole picture. Fight against jumping to quick conclusions and seeing only your side. Look both ways. Weigh the differences. There are always two sides on the streets of conflict. Weigh the differences. The other part of being wise is to pray. Get God's perspective. He gives us the wisdom we need when we ask Him for it.

Take each conflict as it comes . . . and handle it separately. You may have won a battle yesterday, but that doesn't count when today's skirmish comes. You may have a great measure of patience today, but it makes no difference tomorrow when the attack comes again. God doesn't give you patience on credit. Every day is a new day.

Whenever you realize that there's nothing you can do, wait. Wait patiently. Impossible impasses call for a firm application of brakes. Don't keep going. Restrain yourself from anything hasty. Whenever possible, apply the brakes! Slow down. I've seldom made wise decisions in a hurry. Furthermore, I've seldom felt sorry for things I didn't say. David obviously learned this lesson well, for he writes in Psalm 40,

I waited patiently for the LORD; 
And He inclined to me, and heard my cry. 
He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay; 
And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm. (Psalm 40:1–2)

Psalm 40 never says that David's situation changed. It says David changed. When you wait, your situation may not change, but you will. In fact, you may discover that the reason for waiting was all for your benefit, because you're the one who needed to change.

Sent from my iMickey! 8(; - )
⁰●⁰. ⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰           

Nintendo and Star Wars

From the Techabob blog:

You can't go wrong with those 2 things. <3 them.

 

The History of Nintendo, Volume One: The Big N Gets its Start

Posted: 11 Aug 2011 06:10 PM PDT

Are you or a loved one a big Nintendo fanatic? Then you'll probably want to check out this new book that tells the history of the Big N from its earliest roots.

In The History of Nintendo, Volume One, author Florent Gorges (along with Isao Yamzaki) carefully documented the beginnings of Nintendo, dating back to as early as 1889, all the way through 1980.

The book is the first of a ongoing series, with 240 full color pages, and over 2,000 images of hundreds of Nintendo products over their first Century of operation. Every card game, toy and product that could be found is documented in the pages of the book.

From Nintendo's Hanfuda playing cards, to the awesomely cheesy Love Tester is covered in rich historical detail, with photographs to back up the story.

The publishers of the book, Pix'n Love Publishing were kind enough to share some scans of the interior of the book for us to post, and it really looks like a wonderful book for any serious video game or Nintendo fan.

 

Inside the covers, you'll also find some of Nintendo's early arcade games from the 1960s and 1970s, along with their first home video game systems, leading all the way up the the introduction of the Game and Watch series. You'll also discover things that you never knew Nintendo made, like baby strollers, slotless race cars, and even the Japanese version of Twister.

What you definitely won't find in Volume One are the NES, Game Boy, SNES, N64, Gamecube, NDS, 3DS or Wii, all released after 1980.  And since Volume Two is focused entirely on the Game and Watch series, you'll have to wait until (as yet unannounced) future volumes to get into Nintendo's real gaming hey-day.

You can order The History of Nintendo, Volume One now over at Pix'N Love's website for £24.99 (~$40 USD).

 

Star Wars Vegetable Carvings: Just What the Jedi Ordered

Posted: 11 Aug 2011 05:33 AM PDT

Sushi chef Okitsugu Kado is an avid practitioner of Mukimono – carving fruit and vegetables into attractive shapes for use as decorative garnishing. He's also a Star Wars fan and is a member of a Japanese Star Wars fan club. Combine the two and what do you get? Edible Jedi and Sith.

Awesome detail on Darth Vader's chest. Chef Kado typically uses carrots, white radish, sweet potatoes, pumpkins and sometimes a bit of food coloring to create his geeky garnishing.

Was Darth Sidious using Force Lightning or Force Webbing? Check out Chef Kado's blog to see more of his work. He has other geeky vegetable carvings, including Gundam and Pokémon.

[via Obvious Winner]

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

Blood Pressure Info

Read this online at Yahoo Answers - I had to look up some info and thought this was interesting. I can never remember what the numbers stand for.

 

Blood pressure is given in two number, like "115 over 80" (115/80).

The TOP number indicates how hard your heart is pushing blood when it squeezes.

the BOTTOM number shows how hard your heart is working when it is "at rest".

if your arteries are clogged up with cholesterol, or if you smoke, then it takes more pressure to push the blood through the arteries and veins, so the numbers go up.

What is REALLY important is the bottom number. If that number is high (like more than 90) your heart is not getting a good rest between beats. That means your heeart is going to get tired soon -- and that means a heart attack.

Sometimes, arteries have little weak spots in them called ANEURISMS. If that top number is too high the aneurism might break. This wiil be painful, but if it is in your brain it is called a stroke.

"Good" numbers vary from about 100/65 to about 120/80. If the numbers are higher than this, you have high blood pressure and are in danger of a heart attack or stroke. If your numbers are lower than this, you are in danger of getting dizzy and passing out.

High blood pressure can be prevented!

The most important thing to do is maintain a healthy diet. Humans need ALL kinds of foods, including fish, red meats, eggs, and vegetables. you need to see a NUTRITIONIST to recommend a good, healthy diet. You just don't need a LOT of any one thing. A hamburger one a week is good for you! Hamburgers 5 days a week is not.

The second thing is exercise. Regular exercise (like running or swimmig or riding a bike) make the heart stronger, and makes it less susceptible heart attacks. Exercise ALSo help your body use excess bloodsuagr, adn so keeps youf rom being a diabetic.

You need to also avoid becoming overweight, but if you eat a proper diet and get good amounts of exercise, that won't be a problem.

You ALSO need to be sure that you do not become diabetic. Diabetes causes high blood pressure AND high cholesterol. But Diabetes can ALSO be prevented by eating properly nutritious meals and getting plenty of exercise.

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

22 Things you can do daily to improve your life

From http://www.lifeoptimizer.org/2007/10/18/22-things-you-can-do-daily-to-improve-your-life/:

 

There is no such thing as instant improvement in life. Instead, you can only grow yourself. And as you know in agriculture, growth can only happen little by little over time. Bare eyes won't be able to see the growth of a tree daily, but over the years it will grow to a big tree.

Similarly, you grow yourself little by little everyday. The things that you do daily may seem small and insignificant, but overtime people will be surprised to learn how much you have growth in life.

Therefore, to improve your life, the focus should be on the small things you do daily. The key word here is daily. If you do not have the persistence to do these small things consistently, you won't be able to see the results over the long term.

So here I'd like to share 22 things you can do daily to improve your life. Of course, you may not be able to do them all at once. Just start with the ones that benefit you most. Or, if you have done many of them, consider doing the ones that you haven't done yet.

Here they are:

1. Be observant of what is going on around you. Open your eyes and ears. This way a lot of fresh ideas will come to you.
2. Take notes of every idea that comes to your mind. Never let any idea goes uncaptured.
3. Try to learn something from the people you meet. Find something you can learn in their words, their attitude, or even their mistakes.
4. Bring a book or magazine wherever you go. This way you can use any gap time for reading.
5. Allocate a minimum of 30 minutes to read a book.
6. Meditate. It improves your clarity which in turn improves your effectiveness.
7. Take time to reflect on your day. What have you done right? What have you done wrong? What can you do to improve yourself?
8. Drink water a lot.
9. Exercise.
10. Read a collection of quotes. I like to use Random Quotations.
11. Choose a quote of the day to ponder and apply. Preferably, it should come from your personal list of quotes which contains the quotes that resonate most with you.
12. Take notes of every expense you make. This is an effective way to keep your finance under control.
13. Do something for the first time. Either find something new you have never done before, or find a new way to do something (e.g. taking a different route to work). This is to increase your mental capacity.
14. Effectively read online articles.
15. Use timer to help you actually do what you need to do. Actually doing is the key to productivity.
16. Learn to use a tool, either to improve your skill with a familiar tool or to learn a new tool. A good start is to learn the keyboard shortcuts of the software you usually use.
17. Take time to review your life purpose and goals, preferably before doing the main activities of the day.
18. Rise early.
19. Listen to educational or motivational audio program when you are doing activities which do not need full concentration. Examples of such activities are exercising, driving, and queuing.
20. Be grateful for your day. Being grateful helps you develop a positive attitude toward life.
21. Read a random article from Wikipedia to expose you to new things you may never know before.
22. Have fun. Having fun helps you be passionate about life.

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

Misc. Gadgets I like...

From Technabob Blog:

Very interesting items. I would like them all pretty please.

Except maybe the PS3 controller - I don't have one of those - yet.

ePillow: Remove iPad Before Pillow Fights

Posted: 11 Aug 2011 05:22 AM PDT

Cases will make your iPad only so comfortable, if you have use the device for hours a day, let's say on a plane or at home. This is where the ePillow comes in. It's going to make resting your iPad on your lap quite easier.

The ePillow provides a special resting place for your iPad, ensuring that it won't tip over. It kind of reminds me of those pillows that included a trays to allow people to use their laptops for long periods of time. The main difference is that the iPad is quite lighter. Anyway, maybe it will make your iPad easier to use for your kids.

The ePillow sells for $29.95(USD) on the Veyl Products website, and it's available in either brown or black. Or you could just stick your iPad on a normal pillow or cushion – like many of us already do – and be done with it!

 

[via Gizmodo via DVice]

 

 

Pago: Want to Make Waiters Obsolete? There's an App for That

Posted: 11 Aug 2011 05:26 AM PDT

A new company has developed an app that effectively turns your smartphone into a waiter, barista, basically anyone who takes your orders and processes your stuff. The company is called Pago Mobile, and their app is called Pago, which means "payment" in Spanish.

Pago Mobile works with establishments – coffee shops, restaurants, dry cleaners, you name it – to integrate the app into their point of sale system. So when you fire up Pago, you'll see a list of shops. You can then browse their offerings, order and pay even if you're not actually in the store, and without waiting for someone to notice that you've had your hand raised for 15 minutes, desperate for food, or that you've gone hoarse trying to get the bartender's attention at the club.

Here's an interview that TechCrunch did with Pago Mobile founder and CEO Leo Rocco. Skip to 4:10 if you want to see a demo of the app:

Check out Pago's website for more info and for download links to the iPhone, Android and Blackberry apps. A Windows 7 version is coming soon. As of now, Pago only has ties with establishments in Mountain View, California and Las Vegas – prime spots to attract attention and investors. Frankly I'm surprised it's taken this long for something like this to be invented, but on the other hand it can't be easy to earn the support of hundreds, if not thousands of businesses. Overall I think Pago's a really neat app and will make customer's lives easier. The question is, what will happen when everyone is using Pago?

[via TechCrunch]

Blue Sky I'm Watch Syncs with Your iPhone

Posted: 11 Aug 2011 05:30 AM PDT

Smart watches are the way of the future, and the design studio Blue Sky have come up with the touchscreen I'm Watch, that syncs with your smartphone via Bluetooth. It works with iPhones and Android devices. Status updates are directly fed into one of the screens of the watch.

The watch allows users to write text messages, email, tweet, check up on Facebook status updates, etc. You can even make and receive phone calls, thanks to the built-in speaker. The watch has a square 240 pixel face that measures 1.5″. The watch has 4GB of storage and 64MB of RAM.

It comes in two flavors, the I'm Color series in red, yellow, blue green, pink, black and white which will sell for €249 (~$354 USD), while the slightly more ridiculous I'm Jewel series comes in gold, pink gold, white gold, titanium, or encrusted with diamonds for €600 to €15,000 (~$853 to $21,325 USD). The I'm Watch is currently available for pre-order on their website.

[via TechCrunch via designboom]

Flexible PS3 Controller for Hours of Awkward Gaming

Posted: 11 Aug 2011 05:00 AM PDT

Finding the normal PS3 controller a little too rigid for your liking? Maybe you want something that has a bit of a bend to it. Something that combines the bending properties of binoculars with Sony's controller.

Well, instead of modding that favorite pair of binoculars and slapping on two halves of a DualShock, just buy this cheap looking controller. It even gives you some extra buttons in the center, though what they are for we have no clue. After playing Call Of Duty with this thing for about a week you'll be ready for the wonderful world of hand cramping and arthritis that is sure to follow.

I looked around and I'm not sure where you would buy it (at your own risk), however you can get it wholesale here for $21.00 (USD) if you buy 1-5 controllers, or here for about $13, or lower in quantity.

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

Bike Guide Concept

From Technabob Blog:

I.WANT! Then I would go biking in a group and not worry about getting hit by a car.

I love to ride bikes just worried about the whole people not paying attention and killing me concept.

Paranoid much - YES!

Bike Guide Concept Is a Neat and Eco-Friendly Idea

Posted: 11 Aug 2011 04:40 AM PDT

All the cars lining up the streets don't make for a very pretty sight. The recent wave of erratic weather has also convinced me to start living a greener and more eco-friendly life, but you can't really take your bike or electric car with you while you're traveling – or can you?

Designers Kukil Han, Daehyun Kim, Bojoong Kim and Jihwan Yun came up with this really neat design that they call the Bike Guide Concept. Basically, visitors and tourists can rent out one of the bicycles to a pre-selected destination that the bus will take them to.

Once dropped off, you can bike away in the woods or in the trail that you've chosen before going back to the designated bus stop to go back home. Each bike would be equipped with an advanced navigation system to make sure that you don't get lost along the way.

Not only is it a unique and totally new way to discover a new city or place, but it's also eco-friendly because of the bike factor, and the single vehicle to transport riders. Make the bike guide bus a hybrid or electric car and the whole concept could be executed with no emissions.

Click to View Embedded Video Clip

[via Yanko Design]

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

TRON Clothing

From Technobob blog:

I should have just fwded the whole thing - everything is so cool.

I love Disney and hello TRON is Disney - Love this cool mod of clothing.

 

Sexiest TRON Costume Ever

Posted: 10 Aug 2011 08:49 AM PDT

This TRON costume is everything that I ever hoped and dreamed for in any TRON movie and yet, so much more. Beautiful scantily clad women with luminescent clothing. Yes, more of this in TRON please!

Etsy seller ArtificeClothing offers up all kinds of sexy clothing, but it is the TRON inspired pieces like the one shown above that catch your eye. This sexy geek-wear glows when it gets about 10 minutes of bright light exposure. They recommend charging them for an hour under bright light and they are then good for about 12 hours.

This item is listed for $105.00 CAD ($109.73 USD), but don't expect to get the whole get-up for that price. That money just buys you the underbust corset. You'll have to complete this outfit by buying all of the pieces.

[via Etsy]

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

Okami

From Technabob Blog:

OMG I saw this post and instantly knew my baby girl would fall in love. lol

Just.like.me.

<Squee>

Ultimate Amaterasu Cosplay: Ōkami Dog!

Posted: 10 Aug 2011 08:50 PM PDT

We've featured our share of cool video game costumes over the years, but cosplay for pets is a little less common. That doesn't mean that it's can't be just as awesome as human cosplay, like this animal costume inspired by Ōkami.

The guys over at Practical Evil dressed up Dante the Samoyed as the game's canine protagonist. Not only does he have the fiery shield and white wings, but he even has the facial markings of the game's dog (applied with dog-safe food coloring, of course.)

If you'd like to dress up your own pooch in the same Amaterasu get-up as Dante, head on over to Practical Evil for full details. Note that it probably won't look quite as good if your pup is a chihuahua or pekingese.

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

Monday, August 8, 2011

Lowe's Build and Grow

https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/

 

Two to sign up for - this Sat and one in 2 weeks.

 

I've been taking my son and he loves it. It helps the kids follow directions. Although, I must say that when I try to help him I always screw it up. lol So apparently I can't follow directions. DUH.

 

Go take your grandkids or kiddo's. They will have a blast.

 

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

Starbucks Treat Receipt

Jul 18, 2011
Starbucks Invites Customers to Take a Summer Afternoon Break

WHAT:    Starbucks Treat Receipt offers customers a refreshing afternoon break with their favorite Starbucks® cold beverage. From July 18 through September 5, 2011, customers who make a purchase in the morning can bring in their receipt after 2 p.m. and enjoy any Grande cold beverage (16 fl. oz) for just $2 (plus tax) at participating Starbucks stores* in the U.S. and Canada.

Customers can choose from an extensive selection of customizable, handcrafted cold beverage including delicious and refreshing iced coffee and iced tea beverages. For more information, visit www.starbucks.com.

WHEN:    Available starting July 18, 2011 through September 5, 2011

WHERE:     Participating Starbucks stores* in the U.S. and Canada (while supplies last)

ADDITONAL ASSETS AVAILABLE:
Images provided by Starbucks – go to news.starbucks.com to download.

 

 

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them." -  ºoº Walt Disney ºoº  

 

Seeker

SEEKER OF THE LOST

"For the Son of Man came to seek

and to save what was lost."

Luke 19:10

FROM THE FATHER'S HEART
My child, I love all My "sheep" the same. But if you strayed outside the gate, do you know what I would do? I would make sure the other sheep were secure for the night, and I would come after you. I would leave no stone unturned, no bush unsearched until I found you, folded you in My arms, and carried you back home where you belong. There are lost sheep all around you. Will you help Me find them and love them, too?

A GRATEFUL RESPONSE
I have been that lost coin, and I have also been the one sheep out of one hundred You found wandering outside the fold. You didn't write me off, kick me out, or lock the gate. You are a seeker of the lost. I'm so glad You looked for me and found me. Thank You for bringing me into Your fold.

SIMPLE TRUTH

While 10 percent loss of customers won't make or break most businesses, God spares no expense in trying to recover even one lost customer.

Sent from my iMickey! 8(; - )
⁰●⁰. ⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰.⁰●⁰           

Sunday, August 7, 2011

Love this app

Love this website/app

This reminds me of Stumbleupon. You pin the stuff you like.

Ads

I really like these Sweet N Low ads. I tend to clip and keep them. Adorable!

  

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Like

Beautiful tumblers! Ahhhhh!

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