A Girl with a Love of life Living life and Having Some Fun Adventures With Her Man
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
THE BEST MAC AND CHEESE
By Julia Bainbridge, BonAppetit.com
We have embarked on a taste test tour of your favorite supermarket foods. We nibble, we score, and we share the results with you to help you avoid the paralysis that can come with Brand Choice Overload.
Today's topic: macaroni and cheese.
What a bummer. We were looking forward to this taste test, reminiscing late-night binges on Annie's or good old Kraft. Okay, maybe we don't have the most accurate memory of those late-night binges for one reason or another. But we were still surprised when this taste test evoked a unanimous feeling: Store-bought mac and cheese just isn't very good. Nearly all of the brands we tested were plastic-y and lacked a satisfying bite. We believe--strongly, in this case--that homemade mac and cheese is better than boxed. Still, as we've said a million times, it's good to know in a pinch how things stack up in the aisles of your local grocery store.
More from Bon Appetit:
Bon Appetit’s 31 All-Time Favorite Holiday Cookies
Bon Appetit’s Top Cookbooks from 2010
Our Favorites for Flavor
#1 Joe's Diner Mac 'n Cheese
Nutrition (prepared): One serving (1 cup/198g) = 360 calories, 15g total fat, 40mg cholesterol, 590mg sodium, 42g carbs, 3g sugars, 16g protein, 8% vitamin A, 0% vitamin C, 20% calcium, 8% iron, 1g fiber.
Ingredients: Cooked elbow macaroni (water, enriched semolina [durum wheat semolina, niacin, ferrous sulfate, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid]), milk, cheddar cheese (pasteurized cow's milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes, annatto [color]), havarti cheese (pasteurized cow's milk, cheese culture, salt, rennet, calcium chloride), imported gouda cheese (pasteurized cow's milk, cheese cultures, rennet, salt, carotene [color]}, imported swiss cheese (part skim cow's milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes), flour (beached white flour, enzyme, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), butter (pasteurized cream, salt, annatto [color]), rice starch, salt, spices.
Cost: $2.99 for a 14-ounce box at Trader Joe's in New York, NY
Blind Tasting Notes: "Good cheese flavor"; "Tastes like the cheese is more authentic/less synthetic".
#2 Kraft Velveeta Shells and Cheese
Nutrition (prepared): One serving (4 ounces/112g) = 360 calories, 12g total fat, 20mg cholesterol, 940mg sodium, 49g carbs, 4g sugars, 13g protein, 4% vitamin A, 0% vitamin C, 20% calcium, 10% iron, 2g fiber.
Ingredients: Enriched macaroni product (wheat flour, niacin, ferrous sulfate [iron], thiamin mononitrate [vitamin B1], riboflavin [vitamin B2], folic acid); cheese sauce (milk, whey, water, canola oil, milk protein concentrate, sodium phosphate, salt, contains less than 2% of lactic acid, sodium alginate, oleoresin paprika [color], natural flavor, cheese culture, enzymes, annatto [color], sorbic acid as a preservative).
Cost: $3.79 for a 12-ounce box at Gristede's in New York, NY
Blind Tasting Notes: "Noodle has good bite"; "Hint of pepper"; "Yay".
#3 Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Dinner Deluxe
Nutrition (prepared): One serving (3.5 ounces/98g) = 320 calories, 10g total fat, 15mg cholesterol, 900mg sodium, 45g carbs, 3g sugars, 12g protein, 2% vitamin A, 0% vitamin C, 15% calcium, 10% iron, 1g fiber.
Ingredients: Enriched macaroni product (wheat flour, niacin, ferrous sulfate [iron], thiamin mononitrate [vitamin B1], riboflavin [vitamin B2], folic acid); cheese sauce mix (milk, whey, water, canola oil, milk protein concentrate, whey protein concentrate, salt, sodium phosphate, contains less than 2% of lactic acid, sodium alginate, sorbic acid as a preservative, oleoresin paprika [color], annatto [color], natural flavor, cream, enzymes, cheese culture).
Cost: $3.79 for a 14-ounce box at Gristede's in New York, NY
Blind Tasting Notes: "Not bad." Not bad.
Nutritionist Sandra Frank's Picks
"None of the macaroni and cheese products tested is low in sodium or fat. Three of the thirteen products tested are considered high in fiber."
#1 Lean Cuisine Macaroni and Cheese
Nutrition: One serving (1 package/283g) = 280 calories, 6g total fat, 15mg cholesterol, 570mg sodium, 450mg potassium, 43g carbs, 5g sugars, 14g protein, 0% vitamin A, 0% vitamin C, 20% calcium, 8% iron, 1g fiber.
Ingredients: Blanched macaroni (water, semolina, wheat gluten), skim milk, water, cheddar club cheese (cheddar cheese [cultured milk, salt, enzymes], water, salt, annatto color), 2% or less of cheese flavor (cheddar, granular, semisoft and blue cheese [cultured milk, salt, enzymes], water, sodium phosphate, whey, vinegar, salt, citric acid), modified cornstarch, cheddar cheese (cultured milk, salt, enzymes), rice starch, bleached wheat flour, salt, potassium chloride, cheese flavor (cheddar cheese [cultured milk, salt, enzymes], water, salt, enzymes, cultures, phosphoric acid, xantham gum), cheese flavor (cheddar cheese [cultured milk, salt, enzymes], water, salt, disodium phosphate, natural flavors), spices, cultured whey, carrageenan, yeast extract, annatto color, natural flavor.
Frank's Comments: "Lowest in fat and one of the lowest in calories, sodium and cholesterol."
Cost: $3.99 for a 10-ounce box at The Food Emporium in New York, NY
Our Assessment: This ranked in the middle. Comments varied, so the consensus is: Not bad, not good. "Pretty good: moist, rich"; "Bland and plastic-y"; "A little too squishy".
#2 Annie's Homegrown Macaroni & Cheese
Nutrition: (as packaged) One serving (2.5 ounces/71g) = 270 calories, 4g total fat, 10mg cholesterol, 530mg sodium, 47g carbs, 5g sugars, 10g protein, 2% vitamin A, 0% vitamin C, 10% calcium, 4% iron, 2g fiber.
Nutrition (prepared): One serving (2.5 ounces/71g) = 280 calories, 14g total fat, 10mg cholesterol, 540mg sodium, 48g carbs, 7g sugars, 11g protein, 2% vitamin A, 0% vitamin C, 15% calcium, 4% iron Preparation: This as-prepared nutritional information was put together by Annie's, assuming that the cooks would add 1/4 cup lowfat milk. That's what we did. (Ours was organic milk).
Ingredients: Organic wheat macaroni, cheddar cheese (cultured pasteurized milk, salt, non-animal enzymes), whey, buttermilk, salt, cream, natural flavor, natural sodium phosphate, annatto extract for natural color.
Frank's Comments: "A close second. The lowest in cholesterol and sodium and one of the lowest in calories."
Cost: $2.39 for a 6-ounce box at The Food Emporium in New York, NY
Our Assessment: Although the comments were unfavorable, this certainly wasn't the worlst out of the bunch. It ranked #7. "Bitter, almost"; "Kinda dry"; "Fake taste, and congealed fast".
#3 365 Organic Three Cheese Macaroni
Nutrition: One serving (1 tray/255 g) = 370 calories, 12g total fat, 30mg cholesterol, 760mg sodium, 45g carbs, 0g sugars, 20g protein, 2% vitamin A, 15% vitamin C, 25% calcium, 15% iron, 5.1g fiber.
Ingredients: Cooked organic macaroni (organic durum wheat semolina), organic pasteurized milk, organic cheeses (cheddar [organic raw milk, cheese cultures, sea salt, microbal enzymes], parmesan [organic raw milk, sea salt, cheese cultures, microbal lipase, microbal enzymes], part-skim mozzarella [organic pasteurized partially skimmed milk, sea salt, microbal enzymes, cheese cultures]), water, organic canola oil, sea salt, organic locust bean gum, annatto color.
Cost: $3.19 for a 9-ounce box at Whole Foods in New York, NY
Pride and Prejudice LDS Version
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Its only
It's been 18 months and 14 Days
Bobby can't get him a job
Repo man's gonna take his van I hear
Bobby's giving up on God
He needs a hand up and not a hand out
But hey, everybody's gotta suffer
Don't worry, don't worry
It's only my brother
Where is that poverty line
I've never really seen it
Look around I'm doing fine
I'm not really sure I believe it
On the other side of town schools are falling down
But me I'm riding in style
Don't worry, don't worry
It's only a child
There's a homeless woman with a shopping cart
Living on the street
Lord knows she can't come in here where the pretty people meet
We're all dressed in our Sunday best
And she smiles when she sees us
Don't worry
It's only Jesus
There's a face in the mirror
A man that I can be
Lord, won't you open my eyes
Won't you help me see
A hungry child needs more than a piece of bread
Brother needs a job to get ahead
And the homeless need a place to lay their head
And as much as I've been giving
I could never give enough
Don't worry
It's only love
It's only love, it's only love
We're gonna make it together
Walking hand in hand
Falling down to our knees
It's where we'll make our stand
You can never give it all away
You can never give enough
Don't worry, don't worry, don't worry,
It's only love
When you're lonely, cold and empty
Only one thing to fill you up
And it's only, and it's only, and it's only
It's only love
Please think of other this time of season.- ME
Yahoo info
I am sorry my life is not that interesting at this moment that is why you keep getting all these things from yahoo. Some of my life soming soon i promise.
Energy Wasters in Your Home from yahoo
Your Energy Bill Breakdown
Energy doesn't come cheap.
According to Maria Vargas, spokesperson for EnergyStar, a division of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), energy bills can differ depending on the size and location on your home, but the average household spends $2,200 a year. The good news is these costs can be cut dramatically.
Energy Star, a program started in 1992 to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy costs for consumers, offers suggestions for how to reduce your annual electric costs by a third. In other words, you can save about $700 a year on electricity. Last year, Vargas points out, Americans saved about $17 billion on energy bills and reduced green house gas emissions by nearly the equivalent of 30 million cars.
[See 3 New Ways to Save on Gas]
Using data compiled by EnergyStar, MainStreet breaks down your energy bill and identifies the biggest wasters to help you save money (and reduce greenhouse gas emissions!) this winter.
HVAC Systems
CarbonNYC
"If you really want to cut back on your energy use, you need to focus on heating and cooling your home," Vargas says. That's because these two categories combined account for 46% of your overall electric bill. While most homeowners can't afford a complete overhaul of their homes' heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, some changes can increase energy efficiency and include:
• Installing a programmable thermostat, which lets you set temperatures for specific times of day. These devices can save about $180 each year on energy costs.
• Change air filters regularly. The harder your HVAC unit has to work, the more energy it eats away. Filters should really be changed out monthly, especially during the summer and winter months when the HVAC unit has a heavy workload. If you find this tedious, EnergyStar suggests changing filters a minimum of every three months.
• Seal your heating and cooling ducts, especially those running through the attic, crawlspace, unheated basement or garage, as that improves the efficiency of your HVAC unit by as much as 20%.
Water Heater
aresauburn
According to EnergyStar, your water heating system accounts for 14% of your energy bill. Monetarily speaking, the average household spends $400-$600 per year on water heating. To reduce this expense, lower standby losses, such as heat that escapes the water heater and seeps into the surrounding basement area, as well as the amount of hot water you use in your home.
When set too high, or at 140 degrees Fahrenheit, your water heater can waste anywhere from $36 to $61 annually in standby heat losses, and more than $400 thanks to overall consumption. Lower that expense by bringing the heater's thermostat to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
Lights Out
DieselDemon
In EnergyStar's breakdown, lighting accounts for 12% of bill, but it also represents one of the easiest fixes. In fact, by simply replacing five of your standard incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs, you can save $70 a year.
Hot Stuff
Editor B
Appliances only account for 13% of electric bills, so naturally, most people don't upgrade to an energy efficient toaster. Still, if you are committed to reducing the amount of energy you use, you need to focus on larger appliances that use a heat coil, such as a refrigerator or washer and dryer. To do that, make sure that your fridge's filters are cleaned regularly, and consider using only cold water to wash laundry loads. That can save $30 to $40 each year.
But don't be too stingy, Vargas says. Replacing a major appliance, like a refrigerator that is 10 to 15 years old, may help you save in the long term as new technology is constantly subject to federal standards that adjust every year.
Energy Vampires
striatic
Any appliance or device that sucks up energy when it's plugged in, despite being turned off, is one of these money-draining culprits. According to EnergyStar, this includes most electronic devices, especially those that use some sort of display, like a television, laptop or DVD player.
Slaying energy vampires won't lower your energy bill significantly — electronics only account for about 4% of the total cost — but it's important to keep them in mind, as they consume 75% of the electricity used to power home electronics and appliances.
Powering Down
Mark Florence
The best way to eliminate this phantom menace is not only to turn energy vampires off, but unplug them. This may be easier said than done, but unplugging a laptop in between uses isn't particularly problematic. However, doing so with your television would require you to wait for the cable to reboot every time you wanted to watch a program.
As an alternative, EnergyStar suggests plugging your television and/or DVD player into a power strip and then turning that off when your television is in stand-by mode. Put your computers on sleep mode, or manually turn off the monitor inbetween visits, as opposed to utilizing a screen saver, which, contrary to popular belief, does not reduce energy output. Also, make sure you unplug a battery charger of adapter as it continues to draw energy even when the product no longer needs it.
Put Stand By on Stand by
The final 11% of your electric bill comprises devices that don't exactly fit into any particular category. This includes dehumidifiers, external power adapters and video game consoles, which are all considered energy vampires.
An Xbox 360, for example, if left on the draws approximately 1,000 kWh/yr. The PS3 draws 1,300 kWh/yr. According to EnergyStar, these values drop dramatically when users routinely turn the device off after use, lowering annual energy levels down to 110 and 120 kWh/yr, respectively. Since it costs about 12 cents per kWh/yr in the average residential home in the U.S., it costs $120 if to leave your Xbox plugged in for the entire year.
To lower these costs, unplug the devices when you are not playing and only resort to stand-by mode as, well, a stand-by. Energy Star estimates that stand-by power accounts for more than 100 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) of annual U.S. electricity consumption, and $11 billion in annual energy costs.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Your most gorgeous skin ever from yahoo
Our facial skin is one of the first things people notice about us, yet—when our lives get super busy—it's also one of the first things we neglect. Sure, makeup can cover up imperfections, but having a genuinely pretty, natural glow really isn't as difficult to achieve as you'd think. For most folks (barring serious medical skin conditions like eczema) a simple, well-thought-out, 10-minute daily skincare routine is all you need to look great. And no worries if you can't squeeze it in during time-crunched mornings. Manhattan dermatologist Eric Schweiger M.D., says an evening skin regimen is actually much more important to maintain. These four easy steps will help you achieve a flawless face in next to no time.
Step 1: Cleanse
Dr. Schweiger says there's no need for a fancy, expensive makeup remover, so cut down on time and your beauty budget by thoroughly washing with a gentle cleanser that removes products and oil but doesn't over-dry.
Time spent: three minutes
Step 2: Moisturize
No matter what your skin type, you should slather on a light lotion to your face and neck every night. For this, Dr. Schweiger says to look for oil-free products that are also fragrance-free.
Time spent: two minutes
Step 3: Apply retinoids
"Of all the anti-aging and photo damage correction products on the market, retinoids have the most scientific evidence," explains Dr. Schweiger. He says retinoid creams, either prescription or over-the-counter, can be the most beneficial. "Retin-A, Renova, and Tazorac have been shown, in one month or two, to decrease fine lines and wrinkles." Three times a week use a pea-size amount on your face, and once or twice a week apply the cream under your eyes to banish those dark circles. Retinoids should always be applied at night since they can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Time spent: three minutes
Step 4: Hydrate
"Toners are not necessary—they over-dry the skin and can actually increase oil production, and then the cycle is hard to break," says Dr. Schweiger. But he does suggest a final application of moisturizer after the retinoid cream to prevent redness and flaking, especially in the winter when skin is drier.
Time spent: two minutes
Really, that's it! Ten minutes of devoted attention is all your face needs before bed. If you follow these steps every evening, an a.m. quick rinse with face wash and a light SPF will get you out the door and on your way to a gorgeous glow.
Monday, December 13, 2010
What Car Mechanics dont want you to know from yahoo
You don't need to change your oil every 3,000 miles.
Here's a secret that mechanics don't want you to know: You really don't need to have your oil changed every 3,000 miles.
It's a waste of a precious resource -- not to mention money -- to take your car in every 3,000 miles or three months, experts say. On average, most cars don't need an oil change for 7,500 miles.
"The oil change itself is a loss leader," said Austin Davis, whose family has been in the car-maintenance business in Houston since 1937. He's the author of "What Your Car Mechanic Doesn't Want You to Know" and has a website called MyHonestMechanic.com.
"Most repair shops will lose money or at best break even on a $25 to $28 oil change," he said. "The whole idea is to get you to also buy an air filter, rotate your tires or buy something else while you're there."
[Click here to check auto rates in your area.]
Complaints about auto repairs consistently rank among the top 10 grievances filed to state attorneys general, according to the National Association of Attorneys General. In 2008, the latest figures available, auto repair complaints ranked No. 6 on the list.
Because car manufacturing has become so sophisticated and less reliant on human intervention -- more computers and technology are producing and installing parts, for example -- the car-repair business isn't as robust as it was 10 and even five years ago.
"The easiest way to make up for money that you're losing or to increase profits is to turn up the up-sell button on all your services," said Philip Reed, senior consumer-advice editor for Edmunds.com. "Mechanics want you to get brake jobs earlier than you need them or change oil filters more frequently."
Sometimes, however, we are our worst enemies when it comes to explaining what is wrong with the car and giving away too much information. "Never reveal your budget," said Mr. Davis. "If there's steam pouring out of the hood of your Mercedes, don't tell the guy 'I hope this isn't going to cost me $2,000.'
"He'll be thinking, 'How about $1,995,'" he said.
There are no hard-and-fast rules about maintaining cars because they're all different. But experts do agree on this rule of thumb: Use your car manual as your guide. It will tell you at what mileage mark the oil should be changed or the transmission fluids flushed and what intervals that maintenance should follow as well as a host of other upkeep tips.
"If there's a conflict between what the owner's manual recommends and what the dealer recommends, follow the owner's manual," said Reed. "The manufacturer made the car; they should know what it takes to maintain it and keep it running."
[The Ugliest Cars of 2010]
Pay attention too to the warranty packages. Cars known for dependability will guarantee parts for as many as 70,000 miles. That's almost the equivalent of driving around the earth three times.
"Cars today are just so well made that the failure rates of parts is close to nil," Davis said.
But long before it does come time to turn the keys over to a mechanic, find one that is trustworthy enough with which to build a long relationship.
"If you develop a relationship with your mechanic, you're much less likely to be ripped off," said Brandy Schaffels, content manager for the TrueCar.com website. "They'll go out of their way to help you." She had a mechanic who built an air-conditioner compressor by hand at a substantial savings to buying a new one.
"If your instinct tells you that what they're telling you doesn't sound right, double-check it with another mechanic," she said.
Go in prepared. Edmunds.com has a plethora of educational and how-to categories on its site. Davis compiled a maintenance schedule for a variety of cars. See the list here.
Schaffels also recommended purchasing a device that can plug into the car's port and diagnose why the check-engine or brake light is on; that part is available at do-it-yourself car-parts stores.
Other sites such as MotorTrend.com, 2carpros.com and 10w40.com can expand a car novice's vocabulary and know-how as well.
Here's a primer that will help you from getting scammed by mechanics.
[Best Deals on Cars Right Now]
"Be wary of inspections," Davis said. A 40,000-mile inspection package at $400, for example, will call for a check on everything from the oil and brake pads to the door hinges.
"You pay them $400 to tear your car apart and look for additional repairs to sell you," Davis said. "That's a great business model right there."
You don't need to replace or flush transmission fluids until 25,000 to 30,000 miles. Some cars won't need the transmission fluids touched for 50,000 to 60,000 miles and some manufacturers are moving toward using fluid that will never needs to be replaced.
Look at the brake pads yourself before committing to new pads and think about changing them yourself. "It's a really well-kept secret that changing a brake pad is pretty easy," Reed said. "People get freaked out with brakes thinking that if they don't do it correctly, the car won't stop. If there's a problem with your brakes, you'll know right away."
Don't fret either if the mechanic says the brakes are about 50% worn down. They don't need to be replaced until they're 85% to 90% worn.
Ask for the replaced parts. Some states may require that the old parts are given to car owners with the itemized bill. But know what you're getting. Davis said he once gave an established customer an old air-conditioning compressor rather than the water pump he replaced to make the point. "We had a nice discussion about what a water pump is, what it does and what it looks like," he said.
Put chalks marks on car tires before having them rotated. Tire rotation is important because it keeps the wear and tear on the tires even and it extends the life of the tires. With all the turning, stopping and parallel parking, the front tires wear out substantially quicker than the back.
When you have them rotated, you are swapping the front tires for the back, not side-to-side or criss-crossing. But it's tough to tell if the tires have been actually changed unless you put chalks marks on them -- say, FL for front left, RR for rear right, etc.
Tire rotations are directly tied to certain mileage marks. There's a 5,000-mile minimum by some manufacturers, but 7,500 miles is the average. Some tires don't have to be rotated for as many as 20,000 miles.
Beware of the check-engine light. It's another profit center for a lot of dealerships and garages. The check-engine light is a sensor that is telling you that something is amiss in the car. It doesn't mean the car will self-destruct or die suddenly on a highway.
[Best Resale Values for 2011 Cars, Trucks]
"Probably the most common cause of the check-engine light is that the gas cap is not on tight enough," Reed said. The sensor has responded to the extra oxygen going through the gas line and it will go off once the cap has been tightened or the entire tank has been used.
Many mechanics will offer free diagnostic tests to tell you why the check-engine light is on. Consider that another red flag.
"Mechanics can tell you anything once the check-engine light comes on," Reed said.
Ask the mechanic to show you the problems. If the transmission fluid is not pink, but a dark brown, it's time to change it. If it's gritty because of accumulated pieces of metal and plastic, changing it could cause the transmission to slip further. If the dip stick for the transmission smells like barbeque sauce, then there are problems.
"Don't be afraid to ask them to explain these things to you," Davis said.
Keep a precise record of repairs and check them before you bring the car in. Schaffels said she used to keep a log of every tank of gas she purchased, where the mileage stood, what she paid for the gas and how the fuel economy tracked.
"If your vehicle's fuel economy has changed, it tells you that something needs to be adjusted," she said. It could be as simple as putting air in the tires to replacing rotors or plugs.
Know your car. Listen to how it starts and stops, how the wheels and brakes sound when you turn corners or come to quick stops. How does the motor hum? Does it rattle anywhere? Know how your car sounds when it's running well so that you know what sounds bad when it's not
[Car-Buying Traps to Avoid]
"If you know what it sounds like when it's not running well, that makes it easier for the mechanic to fix the problem," Schaffels said.
Communicate well. The worst thing you could do is throw the keys on the counter and tell the mechanic to figure out what is wrong with the car. Let him know what your problem was, what the sound was you were hearing and from where.
"Give the mechanic enough information about the problem so that he's not spending hours and your money to figure the thing out," Davis said. "You don't walk into your dentist and say, 'I'm pretty sure it's that tooth. Just go ahead and pull it.'"
Be nice. Your car breaks down on your way to work the day of the huge presentation. You're angry and desperate. It's not the mechanic's fault, so don't direct your frustration at him. It could end up costing you. Davis's father charged a 10% penalty premium for customers who were rude to him or his employees because of car breakdowns.
Copyrighted, MarketWatch. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of MarketWatch content is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of MarketWatch. MarketWatch shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.
Here's a secret that mechanics don't want you to know: You really don't need to have your oil changed every 3,000 miles.
It's a waste of a precious resource -- not to mention money -- to take your car in every 3,000 miles or three months, experts say. On average, most cars don't need an oil change for 7,500 miles.
"The oil change itself is a loss leader," said Austin Davis, whose family has been in the car-maintenance business in Houston since 1937. He's the author of "What Your Car Mechanic Doesn't Want You to Know" and has a website called MyHonestMechanic.com.
"Most repair shops will lose money or at best break even on a $25 to $28 oil change," he said. "The whole idea is to get you to also buy an air filter, rotate your tires or buy something else while you're there."
[Click here to check auto rates in your area.]
Complaints about auto repairs consistently rank among the top 10 grievances filed to state attorneys general, according to the National Association of Attorneys General. In 2008, the latest figures available, auto repair complaints ranked No. 6 on the list.
Because car manufacturing has become so sophisticated and less reliant on human intervention -- more computers and technology are producing and installing parts, for example -- the car-repair business isn't as robust as it was 10 and even five years ago.
"The easiest way to make up for money that you're losing or to increase profits is to turn up the up-sell button on all your services," said Philip Reed, senior consumer-advice editor for Edmunds.com. "Mechanics want you to get brake jobs earlier than you need them or change oil filters more frequently."
Sometimes, however, we are our worst enemies when it comes to explaining what is wrong with the car and giving away too much information. "Never reveal your budget," said Mr. Davis. "If there's steam pouring out of the hood of your Mercedes, don't tell the guy 'I hope this isn't going to cost me $2,000.'
"He'll be thinking, 'How about $1,995,'" he said.
There are no hard-and-fast rules about maintaining cars because they're all different. But experts do agree on this rule of thumb: Use your car manual as your guide. It will tell you at what mileage mark the oil should be changed or the transmission fluids flushed and what intervals that maintenance should follow as well as a host of other upkeep tips.
"If there's a conflict between what the owner's manual recommends and what the dealer recommends, follow the owner's manual," said Reed. "The manufacturer made the car; they should know what it takes to maintain it and keep it running."
[The Ugliest Cars of 2010]
Pay attention too to the warranty packages. Cars known for dependability will guarantee parts for as many as 70,000 miles. That's almost the equivalent of driving around the earth three times.
"Cars today are just so well made that the failure rates of parts is close to nil," Davis said.
But long before it does come time to turn the keys over to a mechanic, find one that is trustworthy enough with which to build a long relationship.
"If you develop a relationship with your mechanic, you're much less likely to be ripped off," said Brandy Schaffels, content manager for the TrueCar.com website. "They'll go out of their way to help you." She had a mechanic who built an air-conditioner compressor by hand at a substantial savings to buying a new one.
"If your instinct tells you that what they're telling you doesn't sound right, double-check it with another mechanic," she said.
Go in prepared. Edmunds.com has a plethora of educational and how-to categories on its site. Davis compiled a maintenance schedule for a variety of cars. See the list here.
Schaffels also recommended purchasing a device that can plug into the car's port and diagnose why the check-engine or brake light is on; that part is available at do-it-yourself car-parts stores.
Other sites such as MotorTrend.com, 2carpros.com and 10w40.com can expand a car novice's vocabulary and know-how as well.
Here's a primer that will help you from getting scammed by mechanics.
[Best Deals on Cars Right Now]
"Be wary of inspections," Davis said. A 40,000-mile inspection package at $400, for example, will call for a check on everything from the oil and brake pads to the door hinges.
"You pay them $400 to tear your car apart and look for additional repairs to sell you," Davis said. "That's a great business model right there."
You don't need to replace or flush transmission fluids until 25,000 to 30,000 miles. Some cars won't need the transmission fluids touched for 50,000 to 60,000 miles and some manufacturers are moving toward using fluid that will never needs to be replaced.
Look at the brake pads yourself before committing to new pads and think about changing them yourself. "It's a really well-kept secret that changing a brake pad is pretty easy," Reed said. "People get freaked out with brakes thinking that if they don't do it correctly, the car won't stop. If there's a problem with your brakes, you'll know right away."
Don't fret either if the mechanic says the brakes are about 50% worn down. They don't need to be replaced until they're 85% to 90% worn.
Ask for the replaced parts. Some states may require that the old parts are given to car owners with the itemized bill. But know what you're getting. Davis said he once gave an established customer an old air-conditioning compressor rather than the water pump he replaced to make the point. "We had a nice discussion about what a water pump is, what it does and what it looks like," he said.
Put chalks marks on car tires before having them rotated. Tire rotation is important because it keeps the wear and tear on the tires even and it extends the life of the tires. With all the turning, stopping and parallel parking, the front tires wear out substantially quicker than the back.
When you have them rotated, you are swapping the front tires for the back, not side-to-side or criss-crossing. But it's tough to tell if the tires have been actually changed unless you put chalks marks on them -- say, FL for front left, RR for rear right, etc.
Tire rotations are directly tied to certain mileage marks. There's a 5,000-mile minimum by some manufacturers, but 7,500 miles is the average. Some tires don't have to be rotated for as many as 20,000 miles.
Beware of the check-engine light. It's another profit center for a lot of dealerships and garages. The check-engine light is a sensor that is telling you that something is amiss in the car. It doesn't mean the car will self-destruct or die suddenly on a highway.
[Best Resale Values for 2011 Cars, Trucks]
"Probably the most common cause of the check-engine light is that the gas cap is not on tight enough," Reed said. The sensor has responded to the extra oxygen going through the gas line and it will go off once the cap has been tightened or the entire tank has been used.
Many mechanics will offer free diagnostic tests to tell you why the check-engine light is on. Consider that another red flag.
"Mechanics can tell you anything once the check-engine light comes on," Reed said.
Ask the mechanic to show you the problems. If the transmission fluid is not pink, but a dark brown, it's time to change it. If it's gritty because of accumulated pieces of metal and plastic, changing it could cause the transmission to slip further. If the dip stick for the transmission smells like barbeque sauce, then there are problems.
"Don't be afraid to ask them to explain these things to you," Davis said.
Keep a precise record of repairs and check them before you bring the car in. Schaffels said she used to keep a log of every tank of gas she purchased, where the mileage stood, what she paid for the gas and how the fuel economy tracked.
"If your vehicle's fuel economy has changed, it tells you that something needs to be adjusted," she said. It could be as simple as putting air in the tires to replacing rotors or plugs.
Know your car. Listen to how it starts and stops, how the wheels and brakes sound when you turn corners or come to quick stops. How does the motor hum? Does it rattle anywhere? Know how your car sounds when it's running well so that you know what sounds bad when it's not
[Car-Buying Traps to Avoid]
"If you know what it sounds like when it's not running well, that makes it easier for the mechanic to fix the problem," Schaffels said.
Communicate well. The worst thing you could do is throw the keys on the counter and tell the mechanic to figure out what is wrong with the car. Let him know what your problem was, what the sound was you were hearing and from where.
"Give the mechanic enough information about the problem so that he's not spending hours and your money to figure the thing out," Davis said. "You don't walk into your dentist and say, 'I'm pretty sure it's that tooth. Just go ahead and pull it.'"
Be nice. Your car breaks down on your way to work the day of the huge presentation. You're angry and desperate. It's not the mechanic's fault, so don't direct your frustration at him. It could end up costing you. Davis's father charged a 10% penalty premium for customers who were rude to him or his employees because of car breakdowns.
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Back to school
Back to school after missing a week of school. Sucks chemisry homework, math and i have to read a whole book for language arts, make up at least two tests goodness gratious. Take your vitamins and dont use other peoples makeup so you do not get pink eye or a bad cold
Friday, December 3, 2010
Sophias Heart
Please donate to sophias heart it is a charity that danny gokey started for his wife who passed away they give away scholarships and much more they sell some cute things too Check it out
http://www.sophiasheart.org/store.php?catID=1
Thursday, December 2, 2010
LIke thats a bad thing
This is one of my favorite songs by danny gokey
"Like That's A Bad Thing"
Say I like to push the limit everyday I'm livin' like it was my last
They say I'm proud of my scars
Each ones got a story got guts and glory down to an art
Say I know what it's like to see life flash before my eyes
Like that's a bad thing
I don't know about you
But I was put here to live and love
So what if I don't do it like everybody else does
They say I'm out on the edge
I'm to willing to risk every bone every breath
They say all I am is a crazy dream
Like that's a bad thing
So my hearts been broke
So I keep on fallin it's nothin but all in when I let go
I wear it on my sleeve
They call me a fool
Cause I still believe
Like that's a bad thing
I don't know about you
But I was put here to live and love
So what if I don't do it like everybody else does
They say I'm out on the edge
I'm to willing to risk every bone every breath
They say all I am is a crazy dream
Like that's a bad thing
I don't know about you
But I was put here to live and love
So what if I don't do it like everybody else does
They say I'm out on the edge
I'm to willing to risk every bone every breath
They say all I am is a crazy dream
Is a crazy dream
Like that's a bad thing
Like that's a bad thing
"Like That's A Bad Thing"
They say I drive real fast
Say I like to push the limit everyday I'm livin' like it was my last
They say I'm proud of my scars
Each ones got a story got guts and glory down to an art
Say I know what it's like to see life flash before my eyes
Like that's a bad thing
I don't know about you
But I was put here to live and love
So what if I don't do it like everybody else does
They say I'm out on the edge
I'm to willing to risk every bone every breath
They say all I am is a crazy dream
Like that's a bad thing
So my hearts been broke
So I keep on fallin it's nothin but all in when I let go
I wear it on my sleeve
They call me a fool
Cause I still believe
Like that's a bad thing
I don't know about you
But I was put here to live and love
So what if I don't do it like everybody else does
They say I'm out on the edge
I'm to willing to risk every bone every breath
They say all I am is a crazy dream
Like that's a bad thing
I don't know about you
But I was put here to live and love
So what if I don't do it like everybody else does
They say I'm out on the edge
I'm to willing to risk every bone every breath
They say all I am is a crazy dream
Is a crazy dream
Like that's a bad thing
Like that's a bad thing
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Life
Life is moving quickly. LIfe moves slow. life is changing in a glance.Life is moving so fast i cannnot belive it. My life is changing for the better. I am making new decicions in my life and its hard but we can all can make it thru if we just have a little faith. Just give a little love. Pay it forward and just give it your all. -me
Friends
Friends are like cupcakes they dont last forever. Friends are like green apples they can be sweet of sour. Friends are like snow they can melt away so fast. If you think i am right well you are wrong. If they are anything like what i am saying they are not real friends are they.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Being a sister
Being a sister is the best feeling on the planet. Being called sis is the best feeling in the world. Getting a warm hug from a big brother is the best feeling in the world. Being in a room full of family is the best feeling in the world. this is dedicated to my big brothers whom i love with all my heart and miss dearly.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Feeling Full ? Look what i got from yahoo.
Seven herbs for indigestion
Common causes for indigestion include overeating, eating too quickly, fatty or greasy foods, too much caffeine, too much alcohol, too much chocolate, nervousness, and emotional trauma. Translation: The holidays.
Indigestion, also known as dyspepsia, is a term used to describe one or more symptoms including a feeling of fullness during a meal, uncomfortable fullness after a meal, and burning or pain in the upper abdomen; it may cause bloating, belching, and nausea. One thing is certain, it's no fun!
If that last wafer-thin mint has you cowering on the couch, you may want to try one of these natural aids for indigestion. Herbs have been used for millennia to treat any matter of ailments, and indigestion seems to be one woe that is well-suited for natural remedies.
Fennel / Fennel Seed
There is a reason Indian restaurants serve the fennel seed mix, Mukhwas, after dinner. Fennel seed has long been used to help fight gas, cramps, and acid indigestion, and to help ease spasms in the intestinal tract.
There is a reason Indian restaurants serve the fennel seed mix, Mukhwas, after dinner. Fennel seed has long been used to help fight gas, cramps, and acid indigestion, and to help ease spasms in the intestinal tract.
Fennel has a long history of use in both food and medicine. Traditionally, it is said to act as a carminative, which means that it helps the body expel gas and sooth indigestion. Fennel is also a common ingredient in "gripe water," a traditional (and very alcoholic, by the way) preparation used for treating infant colic.
Fennel leaves can be used to make tea. NYU Langone Medical Center says that a typical dose of fennel is 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons of seeds per day.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and has been a favorite since the Middle Ages for reducing stress and anxiety, abetting sleep, sparking appetite, and easing indigestion.
Lemon balm is a member of the mint family and has been a favorite since the Middle Ages for reducing stress and anxiety, abetting sleep, sparking appetite, and easing indigestion.
These days, lemon balm is commonly mixed with other calming herbs to help promote relaxation. Evidence suggests that lemon balm, in combination with other herbs, may help treat indigestion -- although just soothing the stress alone can sometimes help with dyspepsia.
To reduce indigestion, flatulence, or bloating, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends:
Capsules: Take 300 - 500 mg dried lemon balm, 3 times daily or as needed.
Tea: 1.5 - 4.5 grams (1/4 - 1 teaspoonful) of dried lemon balm herb in hot water. Steep and drink up to 4 times daily.
Tincture: 2 - 3 mL (40 - 90 drops), 3 times daily
Capsules: Take 300 - 500 mg dried lemon balm, 3 times daily or as needed.
Tea: 1.5 - 4.5 grams (1/4 - 1 teaspoonful) of dried lemon balm herb in hot water. Steep and drink up to 4 times daily.
Tincture: 2 - 3 mL (40 - 90 drops), 3 times daily
Turmeric
Turmeric is the little minx of the spice drawer -- super bright, spicy, and boasting a broad array of health claims. You may know it as the main spice in curry and the one which imparts that intense golden glow, but turmeric is also used for health remedies.
Turmeric is the little minx of the spice drawer -- super bright, spicy, and boasting a broad array of health claims. You may know it as the main spice in curry and the one which imparts that intense golden glow, but turmeric is also used for health remedies.
In traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric has been used to aid digestion and liver function, relieve arthritis pain, and regulate menstruation. It has also traditionally been used for heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhea, intestinal gas, and stomach bloating.
According to the NYU Langone Medical Center, turmeric's superpower comes in the form of the substance, curcumin, that, among other properties, may stimulate gallbladder contractions. One double-blind, placebo-controlled study showed that 87% percent of the curcumin group experienced full or partial symptom relief from dyspepsia as compared to 53% of the placebo group.
The National Institutes of Health recommends a dosage of 500 mg of turmeric four times daily for dyspepsia.
Ginger
Ginger has long been used as a medicine in Asian, Indian, and Arabic herbal traditions. In China, ginger has been used to aid all types of digestion disorders for more than 2,000 years. Fast-forward to modern medicine, and health care professionals still commonly recommend ginger to help prevent or treat nausea and vomiting. It is also used as a digestive aid for mild stomach upset.
Ginger has long been used as a medicine in Asian, Indian, and Arabic herbal traditions. In China, ginger has been used to aid all types of digestion disorders for more than 2,000 years. Fast-forward to modern medicine, and health care professionals still commonly recommend ginger to help prevent or treat nausea and vomiting. It is also used as a digestive aid for mild stomach upset.
Germany's Commission E has approved ginger as a treatment for indigestion and motion sickness. Curiously, while most anti-nausea drugs work on the brain and the inner ear, ginger seems to act directly on the stomach.
For most purposes, the standard dosage of powdered ginger is 1 to 4 g daily, divided into 2 to 4 doses per day. (To prevent motion sickness, you should aim to begin treatment 1 or 2 days before the trip and continue it throughout the period of travel.)
Artichoke Leaf
If you have ever wondered what in the world were those Italians thinking when they invented the artichoke aperitif liqueur, Cynar, here's you answer. In traditional European medicine, the leaves of the artichoke plant (not the leaves of the bud, which is the part that we eat) were used as a diuretic to stimulate the kidneys and as well as the flow of bile from the liver and gallbladder; which plays a starring role in digestion.
If you have ever wondered what in the world were those Italians thinking when they invented the artichoke aperitif liqueur, Cynar, here's you answer. In traditional European medicine, the leaves of the artichoke plant (not the leaves of the bud, which is the part that we eat) were used as a diuretic to stimulate the kidneys and as well as the flow of bile from the liver and gallbladder; which plays a starring role in digestion.
Over the past century, much research has been done looking into the traditional medicinal uses of the artichoke plant; conclusions suggest that the plant does indeed stimulate the kidney and gallbladder. In the mid-20th century, Italian scientists isolated a compound from artichoke leaf called cynarin, which appeared to duplicate many of the effects of whole artichoke. Salute!
In 2003, a large study evaluated artichoke leaf as a treatment for dyspepsia; artichoke leaf extract proved significantly more effective than placebo for alleviating symptoms of functional dyspepsia. Germany's Commission E has authorized the use of artichoke leaf use for "dyspeptic problems" -- they recommend 6 grams of the dried herb or its equivalent per day, usually divided into 3 doses. Artichoke leaf extracts should be taken according to label instructions.
Peppermint
Peppermint is often used to soothe an upset stomach or to aid in digestion. Because of its subtle numbing effect, it has been used to treat everything from headaches, skin irritations, and anxiety to nausea, diarrhea, menstrual cramps, and flatulence.
Peppermint is often used to soothe an upset stomach or to aid in digestion. Because of its subtle numbing effect, it has been used to treat everything from headaches, skin irritations, and anxiety to nausea, diarrhea, menstrual cramps, and flatulence.
Peppermint oil seems to be helpful for a variety of conditions that involve spasm of the intestinal tract. Most studies have involved irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), for which peppermint oil has shown considerable promise.
Peppermint relaxes the muscles that struggle with digestive gas and improve the flow of bile, which the body uses to digest fats. In studies on using peppermint to treat IBS, there seems to be a trend indicating mild effectiveness in the reduction of some symptoms, especially flatulence and abdominal pain and distension. However, if your symptoms of indigestion are related to a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, peppermint should not be used.
Cayenne
OK, this one is confusing: Doesn't spicy food cause stomach aches? According to the folks at NYU, evidence suggests that oral use of cayenne can reduce the pain of dyspepsia! Counter-intuitive, at best, but apparently hot peppers don't actually inflame the tissues they contact; in fact, hot peppers aren't even harmful for ulcers. Rather, they merely produce sensations similar to those caused by actual damage.
OK, this one is confusing: Doesn't spicy food cause stomach aches? According to the folks at NYU, evidence suggests that oral use of cayenne can reduce the pain of dyspepsia! Counter-intuitive, at best, but apparently hot peppers don't actually inflame the tissues they contact; in fact, hot peppers aren't even harmful for ulcers. Rather, they merely produce sensations similar to those caused by actual damage.
Oral use of capsaicin seems to reduce discomfort in the stomach. In a double-blind study, individuals with dyspepsia were given either 2.5 g daily of red pepper powder (divided up and taken prior to meals) or placebo for 5 weeks. By the third week of treatment, individuals taking red pepper were experiencing significant improvements in pain, bloating, and nausea as compared to placebo, and these relative improvements lasted through the end of the study.
For treatment of dyspepsia, cayenne may be taken at a dosage of 0.5 to 1.0 g three times daily (prior to meals).
For these and all herbs, do not exceed dosage recommendations, and be sure to consult with your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking any medication.
Monday, November 15, 2010
What your favorite colors mean
This is an article that I found on yahoo and i thought that you might be interested about it.
Most of us have a favorite color. Maybe you’re drawn to sky blue because it makes your eyes stand out or you find forest green particularly comforting. Whatever the case, your preferred hue can reveal a lot about what makes you tick. And the same holds true for the people you date — you’d probably have a different impression of a date if he or she said, “My favorite color is yellow” versus “My favorite color is black.” That’s because color speaks a powerful, silent language. And I can help you understand it. I’m a success coach and best-selling author of Simple Spells for Love and other books, and I’ve studied color theory. So, look up your favorite color below — then, your date’s best-loved shade — and get some colorful insights that will benefit your romantic life.
Red
What it represents: Ah, the color of passion, anger and high blood pressure. Red is a primal color. It represents primal urges, like lust (“I must have you now!”) and fury (you know the phrase “seeing red,” right?). Yes, red is a commanding color: think of how stop signs get you to halt in your tracks and how you stand back when a red fire engine goes whizzing by.
Understanding people who love it: They act — sometimes without thinking — on immediate desires. In fact, they’re usually the poster children for immediate gratification. It’s up to you if you go for it... or proceed with caution
Orange
What it represents: OK, orange is not exactly the easiest color to wear and it’s not the most common favorite color, but guess what? Orange is as sensual as it gets. Orange is a mellowed red — and it takes primal, lusty urges and mellows them with a softer vibe. Orange is the color of early attractions, emotional responses, and inner magnetism. Oh, and one other thing: orange is also close to gold, the color of success and wealth.
Understanding people who love it: Someone who likes orange is alive with feelings, the ability to nurture, and can intuit a path to success. If your favorite color is orange, you don’t have an “off” switch when it comes to passion. This is all good stuff, but there’s nothing casual about the connections this kind of person usually forges.
Yellow
What it represents: Yellow is the color of the sun, vitality, power and ego... but it’s not a great indicator of romance. Watch out for self-centered, “me first” energy when someone prefers yellow to the rest of the rainbow.
Understanding people who love it: If yellow is your favorite color, temper your use of the word “I” when you’re interested in someone else. You can come across as too ego-centric otherwise. Now, if you’re dating someone whose favorite hue is yellow, make sure to jump in and share stories about yourself, since this person may not give you much room.
Green
What it represents: Here is the heart of the matter: green is the color of love. (It’s no coincidence that we make our money in the same color...) Green is the color of life and abundance — leaves, grass, plants — it’s all about growing, expanding, and living. So why don’t we give ferns instead of roses on Valentine’s Day? Because green is about expansive, humanistic love and acceptance, not bodice-ripping romance. What’s more, green is a nice-person color, a “do-gooder, be-gooder” kind of color. This person has a warm heart. Passion is probably in there somewhere, buried under their integrity and honor.
Understanding people who love it: If you love green, you put the greater good before your own good — but try a little selfish behavior once in a while.
Blue
What it represents: Blue is a color of clarity, communications and charm. And regardless of the shade, this hue says: “I like to be understood.” On the downside, under stress, a “blue” person can send mixed messages, have trouble making up their mind, or just space out during conversations.
Understanding people who love it: If blue is your favorite color, you never run out of anything to say — expression is your strong suit. And if you’re dating a “blue” person? The same holds true; you should always know where you stand.
Purple
What it represents: Purple evokes the energy of illusion, imagination and fantasy. Or should we say purrrrple? Purple tends to inspire coyness, romance, flirtation and teasing — it builds anticipation with a dash of playfulness. The downside of purple is unrealistic expectations. Is it easier to live in your fantasy world than the real world? Some purple-lovers prefer it.
Understanding people who love it: If you love purple, you can be an imaginative romantic or prefer imaginary romance, depending on how you feel.
White
What it represents: White is light — the combination of all colors. White symbolizes purity (the traditional bridal dress, the christening gown) and spirituality. There’s a simplicity to it, too.
Understanding people who love it: People who love white are probably clean and orderly. While white isn’t the sexiest color, it is certainly healthy.
Black
What it represents: Like white, black is a combination of all colors, but instead of purity, it represents the unknown, the unseen — mystery. Black basically holds back information... but there’s no denying that it has strong associations in our culture with “the dark side” and evil.
Understanding people who love it: If your favorite color is black, you are more hush-hush than high-strung in nature. The silence of this color lets others fill in the blanks. Black says, “I’m not telling you anything.” People who love black can be tough nuts to crack, but quite possibly worth the effort.
Astro-coach Barrie Dolnick helps people find love and happiness by understanding their stars and their karmic energy. She is the author of twelve books, including Enlighten Up! and KarmaBabe.
Most of us have a favorite color. Maybe you’re drawn to sky blue because it makes your eyes stand out or you find forest green particularly comforting. Whatever the case, your preferred hue can reveal a lot about what makes you tick. And the same holds true for the people you date — you’d probably have a different impression of a date if he or she said, “My favorite color is yellow” versus “My favorite color is black.” That’s because color speaks a powerful, silent language. And I can help you understand it. I’m a success coach and best-selling author of Simple Spells for Love and other books, and I’ve studied color theory. So, look up your favorite color below — then, your date’s best-loved shade — and get some colorful insights that will benefit your romantic life.
Red
What it represents: Ah, the color of passion, anger and high blood pressure. Red is a primal color. It represents primal urges, like lust (“I must have you now!”) and fury (you know the phrase “seeing red,” right?). Yes, red is a commanding color: think of how stop signs get you to halt in your tracks and how you stand back when a red fire engine goes whizzing by.
Understanding people who love it: They act — sometimes without thinking — on immediate desires. In fact, they’re usually the poster children for immediate gratification. It’s up to you if you go for it... or proceed with caution
Orange
What it represents: OK, orange is not exactly the easiest color to wear and it’s not the most common favorite color, but guess what? Orange is as sensual as it gets. Orange is a mellowed red — and it takes primal, lusty urges and mellows them with a softer vibe. Orange is the color of early attractions, emotional responses, and inner magnetism. Oh, and one other thing: orange is also close to gold, the color of success and wealth.
Understanding people who love it: Someone who likes orange is alive with feelings, the ability to nurture, and can intuit a path to success. If your favorite color is orange, you don’t have an “off” switch when it comes to passion. This is all good stuff, but there’s nothing casual about the connections this kind of person usually forges.
Yellow
What it represents: Yellow is the color of the sun, vitality, power and ego... but it’s not a great indicator of romance. Watch out for self-centered, “me first” energy when someone prefers yellow to the rest of the rainbow.
Understanding people who love it: If yellow is your favorite color, temper your use of the word “I” when you’re interested in someone else. You can come across as too ego-centric otherwise. Now, if you’re dating someone whose favorite hue is yellow, make sure to jump in and share stories about yourself, since this person may not give you much room.
Green
What it represents: Here is the heart of the matter: green is the color of love. (It’s no coincidence that we make our money in the same color...) Green is the color of life and abundance — leaves, grass, plants — it’s all about growing, expanding, and living. So why don’t we give ferns instead of roses on Valentine’s Day? Because green is about expansive, humanistic love and acceptance, not bodice-ripping romance. What’s more, green is a nice-person color, a “do-gooder, be-gooder” kind of color. This person has a warm heart. Passion is probably in there somewhere, buried under their integrity and honor.
Understanding people who love it: If you love green, you put the greater good before your own good — but try a little selfish behavior once in a while.
Blue
What it represents: Blue is a color of clarity, communications and charm. And regardless of the shade, this hue says: “I like to be understood.” On the downside, under stress, a “blue” person can send mixed messages, have trouble making up their mind, or just space out during conversations.
Understanding people who love it: If blue is your favorite color, you never run out of anything to say — expression is your strong suit. And if you’re dating a “blue” person? The same holds true; you should always know where you stand.
Purple
What it represents: Purple evokes the energy of illusion, imagination and fantasy. Or should we say purrrrple? Purple tends to inspire coyness, romance, flirtation and teasing — it builds anticipation with a dash of playfulness. The downside of purple is unrealistic expectations. Is it easier to live in your fantasy world than the real world? Some purple-lovers prefer it.
Understanding people who love it: If you love purple, you can be an imaginative romantic or prefer imaginary romance, depending on how you feel.
White
What it represents: White is light — the combination of all colors. White symbolizes purity (the traditional bridal dress, the christening gown) and spirituality. There’s a simplicity to it, too.
Understanding people who love it: People who love white are probably clean and orderly. While white isn’t the sexiest color, it is certainly healthy.
Black
What it represents: Like white, black is a combination of all colors, but instead of purity, it represents the unknown, the unseen — mystery. Black basically holds back information... but there’s no denying that it has strong associations in our culture with “the dark side” and evil.
Understanding people who love it: If your favorite color is black, you are more hush-hush than high-strung in nature. The silence of this color lets others fill in the blanks. Black says, “I’m not telling you anything.” People who love black can be tough nuts to crack, but quite possibly worth the effort.
Astro-coach Barrie Dolnick helps people find love and happiness by understanding their stars and their karmic energy. She is the author of twelve books, including Enlighten Up! and KarmaBabe.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
My best days are ahead of me
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Im Back and Better then Ever
Im now back and from this moment on i am improving my blog no more messing around. Look out blogger world shelbys back and better then ever.
Monday, July 26, 2010
NOooooooooooooooo Again
Exactly one month till i go back to school. This summer went by sooooo fast but at least i still have girls camp to look forward to. Stay tuned for those pics and more from this summer.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Goin Gooin and almost gone
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO summer is almost done. Augest 26 till the first day back. again may i say noooooooooooooooooo
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Days left of the school year
As of right now there are 6 A days and 7 B days left in this school year. it has gone by soo fast. It is hard to think I am going to be a junior next year only 2 more years of high school then collage here i come. Take these times to experience the now in life soon it will be all gone.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Giddy on up and giddy on out CHEERLEADERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That is all i have to say GIDDY ON UP AND GIDDY ON OUT FOR HECK SAKES PLEASE DO AS I SAY
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Monday, March 22, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Friday, March 12, 2010
Life is like..... 3
Life is like a puppy you will never know when it will sleep :) Life is like a computer you never know when it will shut down :) Life is like a piece of candy you never know when it will be sweet or sour :)
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Life is like...... 2
Life is like a piece of art you will never know how it will turn out. Life is like TV you never know what is coming up next. Life is like a Mani/Pedi it will get chipped but it is fixable. Life is like a pillow it is not always warm :)
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
New school new me
Ever sense i came to this school ( High School ) i feel like i have changed alot not just physically mentally. new relationships new ideas new point of view. Now that the school year is almost over I am proud to be me and the growing up I have done. Just wish that it was not almost over gonna miss Sean and all the great seniors i have met this year. And wish them well in all their doings. And I also hope that we will stay in touch with each other. I know I will try. I know I know what does this have to do W/ me changing They changed me not just the seniors but everyone including the teachers. I want to thank them personally for all of the stuff they have done me this year. And this also goes out to my leaders and the sisters in my ward the bishop my seminary teachers everyone in the whole world who has even met me because you have inpacted my life someway or another. Thank you not just thanx but THANK YOU :) LUVS
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New Baby :) and more all in the month of febuary
My sis inlaw is pregnant and i am so excited about it. Cannot wait to have a new neice or nephew. Congrats to my fam. travis you are going to make a great dad. And also my dad and step mom are moving what a month exciting stuff. hopefully it will be just as good this month. :) @---)--- luvs
Life is like.... Cheesy but fun to think about :)
Life is like a grape you never know when it gonna be sweet or sour. Life is like a back pack you can fill it up as much as much as you want but at one point it becomes to full and you have to take things out. More coming soon :)
Thursday, February 25, 2010
15 years
Today my school turns 15 this is an old school. It is weird to think that i am only 1 year older than it. We are having an assembaly today and I am guessing that is what it is for. DUH :) I hope that we are going to survive this 30 MILLION dollers in the hole thing is going to work out for us. Next year we are going to have over 2500 kids at this school and we are going to be the biggest school in the district and we need akll the teachers we can get. We are also going to have to have to have up t0 46 kids PER CLASS and maybe more. Please pray for this district and school. Because last night I found out that the bill to have the other district to pay our district the money did not pass.
LUVS ALWAYS s:) @---)--- Shelby Clara
LUVS ALWAYS s:) @---)--- Shelby Clara
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
MY MAN
I have this boy that was in my second period class wish he would get the hint that i like him or at least tell or show it in some way but the funny thing is i have his sis in my new second period :)
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