Minggu, 13 Februari 2011

Today's Obsessions

Today's Obsessions


7 Facts on Valentine’s Day …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 11:59 AM PST

7 Facts on Valentine’s Day …

Doves, love birds, hearts, teddy bears and cupid are in the air as Valentine's Day is approaching us. Yes, the love is in the air. Stores are already stocking up on Valentine's Day gifts. Many of us are anticipating it, while others are hoping it will go away. For those of you that are in the mood for some Valentine's Day facts, I am here to give you 7 facts on Valentine's Day …

7. Medieval Times

The girls during the medieval times enjoyed eating bizarre foods on Valentine's Day. They did this in order to dream of their future spouse. I always thought this was a cute fact.

6. Flowers

Seventy three percent of the individuals that purchase flowers on Valentine's Day are men. While twenty percent of the people who purchase flowers are women. Hey, it's okay for a woman to purchase flowers. Many women purchase flowers for their mothers.

5. Women Sending Themselves Flowers

Have you ever heard of women sending themselves flowers on Valentine's Day. I watched a show not too long ago where a woman in an office kept sending herself flowers to her office. Her workers were surprised that someone was sending her so many flowers. Here's an interesting facts for you: About fifteen percent o the women who live in the United States send themselves flowers on Valentine's Day.

7 Places to Buy Video Games …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 11:36 AM PST

7 Places to Buy Video Games …

Are you tired of spending too much for retail priced games? Let me give you some places we buy our games from for cheaper than most priced stores. These places are legit and serve their purpose well. Here are the 7 Places to Buy Video Games …

7. Ebay

If you can't find a game that is old or hard to get, you should go here. They have a large selection of auction video games that have a suitable chance for a good price. One good tip to remember is to make sure they have good feedback, before buying from anyone on eBay.

6. Craigslist

This another good place to find cheap bulk games or even wholesale. People want to get rid of their stuff for some reason or another. They also sell their stuff quiet cheap when they are in need of money. One tip to watch for is to avoid meeting at their houses or somewhere quiet. Make sure they want to meet at a public area, like Walmart, grocery store or even mall.

5. Flea markets

In Florida there are flea markets that allow people to sell their stuff like a garage sale. This place you will find tons of cheap games that sometimes the owners don't know what they are. My husband finds many rare games from the flea market that cost more than the value they sell if for. Perfect place to buy video games for a cheap price, but watch out for their condition and make sure it's not burned software.

8 Restaurant Delicacies You Can Make at Home …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 10:58 AM PST

8 Restaurant Delicacies You Can Make at Home …

Did you ever run across a delicacy you adore in a restaurant, and wished you could make it at home? That happens to me all the time – and it’s surprisingly easy to find a way to make your favorite restaurant foods right in your own kitchen. Mind you, these are just the things I’ve always wanted to make, but here are 8 restaurant delicacies you can make at home.

1. Creme Brulee

Image source: s3prod.weheartit.netdna-cdn.com

Creme brulee is actually really easy to make, especially in its standard form. You only need heavy cream, a vanilla bean (or just plain vanilla), raw or vanilla sugar, eggs, and water. The hard part comes with actually baking the custard, but you just have to practice and find out which method works best for you.

2. Spinach Artichoke Dip

Image source: 3.bp.blogspot.com

Okay, I admit it, the spinach artichoke dip at Applebee’s, of all places, is actually what got me interested in making this – and it’s actually really easy as well. The best part is that you can make it as thick or as thin as you want it. All you need are marinated artichokes, frozen spinach, minced garlic, Romano and Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, half and half or cream, and sour cream. Basically all you do is mix and bake!

3. Lettuce Wraps

Image source: thekneadforbread.com

Have you ever had the lettuce wraps at P. F. Chang’s? Crazy delicious, right? That recipe is floating around all over the internet! Now, I will say that it’s kind of complicated, simply because it involves way too many ingredients to list, plus you also have to make the sauce. However, it’s worth it just to have that yummy goodness right on your own table.

8 Non-Verbal Ways Men Use to Express Their Love …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 10:33 AM PST

8 Non-Verbal Ways Men Use to Express Their Love …

A man doesn't have the need to say "I love you" every half an hour, right? In fact, sometimes we even think they wouldn't even remember to tell us that if it wasn't for us to remind them. However, they do tell us how much they love us every day, they just use non-verbal signs we often fail to read. So, here's how men demonstrate love:

1. They hold our hand and hug us in public

Next time you go out with friends have in mind what I've just told you and you'll see. He won't make a big deal out of this so the chances are you never noticed this before. He'll take your hand or casually put his arm around you without even stopping to take a breath before continuing the conversation he's having. Yes, it doesn't sound like much but this is not an automatic movement – this means he didn't zone out or forgot you're sitting next to him. He's thinking that you're probably bored because he's doing all the talking and this is his way to make it up to you and show you that he didn't leave you all alone.

2. They remember things we told them

He remembers you told him to take out the trash, your broken hairdryer is fixed even though you didn't ASK him to do it but merely commented the hairdryer just died. If you ever commented you like hoop earrings or animal prints, he'll do his best to remember that and use that information the next time he goes shopping for a gift. The thing he has chosen for you might not be what you had in mind but, hey, you got to give a man some credit for remembering something you said and probably completely forgot about by now.

3. They dress up the way we like

He knows you love the way that blue shirt fits him and he'll probably wear it the next time you two decide to dress up and go out somewhere special. He'll definitely ask you what to wear and gladly accept all suggestions. Ask him if you want, he'll tell you that his only preoccupation is for you to like his outfit.

8 Ways to Wear Florals in Winter …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 10:17 AM PST

8 Ways to Wear Florals in Winter …

I love wearing floral prints in winter, not just because they're pretty and feminine, but also because it's a reminder that someday, in the not too distant future, spring will be here, and with it warm weather. It's tricky to wear florals in winter though, because so many of them are too light or lightweight. But if you know where to look, there are always gorgeous florals, from frocks to leggings and everything in between, all perfect for wearing in winter. Here are just a few. Here are 8 ways to wear florals in winter (even in Michigan).

1. Fresh Flowers Dress

Fresh Flowers Dress
Price: $74.99 at modcloth.com
What better way to add florals to your winter wardrobe than with this gorgeous maxi? It's made of soft rayon with a cotton lining, a black background and pretty pink and peach flowers. Layer under a long, soft cardigan, leggings, and heeled lace-up boots for winter, then wear it with black sandals all summer long.

2. Flowers in the Wind Cardigan

Flowers in the Wind Cardigan
Price: $64.99 at modcloth.com
In the middle of winter, nothing makes me happier than a warm, cozy, stylish cardigan. They're so perfect for adding a layer of warmth over blouses, long-sleeved tees, and maxi dresses, and this one's no exception. It's made of drapey rayon with bright, beautiful floral embroidery in red, orange, blue, and green on both lapels.

3. Petal Please Shorts

Petal Please Shorts
Price: $29.99 at modcloth.com
If we can wear skirts in winter, with leggings or tights, then why not these sweet little pleated shorts? They're made in the US of rayon (so they're dry clean only) and feature a tiny, spring-inspired floral print against a black background.

8 Reasons To Stay Happily Unmarried …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 10:16 AM PST

8 Reasons To Stay Happily Unmarried …

Even though times have changed, and living together is socially acceptable, people still choose to get married. There's no reason why they shouldn't, if it's what they really want. However, choosing to be in an unmarried relationship is equally valid. Here are 8 reasons to stay happily unmarried.

1. It's Just As Good

Unless you have particularly strong religious feelings (which I don't), an unmarried relationship is just as valid morally as a marriage. How can anyone say that your relationship is not serious because you haven't been through a legal ceremony?

2. Marriage Is Great … If You Want To

The best (and maybe only) reason for getting married is that you really want to be married. Not everybody does. For some people, it really doesn't mean anything beyond being 'a piece of paper'.

3. Legalities

Obviously married couples have more legal rights than unmarried couples, but this need not be a problem. An unmarried couple can sort out issues concerning children, inheritance rights etc. with a trip to a lawyer.

8 Things You Should Splurge On. …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 10:11 AM PST

8 Things You Should Splurge On. …

Saving money seems to be on everyone's minds, especially with the holidays just getting over. I feel there are times when it's best to save money and times when you need to splurge on something. I don't believe in spending tons of money on something that is unnecessary. I have certain things in mind that I feel people should be free to spend a good deal of money on. I've made a list below of 8 things you should splurge on. See if you agree!

8. A good mattress

Photo Credit: awinner

Who wants to sleep on a lumpy or thin mattress and wake up with aches and pains every morning? Investing in a good mattress right from the start will save you from having to spend money for a replacement mattress in a year. A really good mattress set should last you at least 10 years.

7. Underwear

Photo Credit: hexteam2

There's nothing worse than having to pick my underwear out of my rear end every time I stand up. Quality underwear will save you the chafing and the embarrassment that comes along with cheap underwear. I think you can probably lump bras into the underwear category too. Cheap bras aren't worth messing with at all. Toss it in the trash and buy yourself one that doesn't cut off your circulation or ride up every time you wave good-bye.

6. Your mental health

Photo Credit: Hôtels Villegia

If you find that you need to take a day at the spa to maintain your sanity, then by all means spend the money. I don't think there should be any compromise when it comes to making sure you are in good mental health. Sign up for a yoga class, hire a personal trainer, buy some relaxing music, or whatever it takes to help you keep a level head.

7 Reasons NOT to Have an Affair …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 09:46 AM PST

7 Reasons NOT to Have an Affair …

It seems every few days we're learning of some public official's or celebrity's affair. Years ago, these affairs could mean the end of their political career, or their celebrity endorsement deals, but now marital disloyalty is almost commonplace, not nearly as shocking as it used to be. Some of us, stuck in an unhappy or less-than-exciting marriage may be tempted to have an affair, since we see so few repercussions in the public arena, but that's just such a bad idea. First of all, we don't see the terribly painful side effects of those revealed affairs, but believe me, they're there. The fall-out from an exposed affair can be devastating, altering the course of the rest of your life! So before you sneak off with that hottie from the marketing department, or your daughter's soccer coach, here are some things to consider. Here are 7 reasons NOT to have an affair.

1. It's illegal

Did you know that cheating on your spouse, or helping someone else cheat on their spouse, is actually illegal? In some states, it's even possible to sue the other man or woman for alienation of affection. Why risk breaking the law, or being sued in civil court? Don't cheat, and don't help someone else cheat.

2. It's immoral

Every organized religion recognizes the sanctity of marriage, and most often include a religious ceremony in addition to the civil one we need to be married. Why risk your immortal soul or your karma for a tumble in the hay?

3. It's dishonest

No-one's perfect, but we like to think that at least in most cases, people are honest. We trust our politicians and public figures, which is why it's so disappointing when we learn they've had an affair. The bottom line is, we don't like dishonesty, so why would we want to be dishonest ourselves? Remember, when you married, you took vows, promises, so don't be so hasty to break your word.

10 Uses For Rubbing Alcohol …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 09:34 AM PST

10 Uses For Rubbing Alcohol …

So, let me guess, your bottle of rubbing alcohol is in the medicine cabinet, stored with all the other medications for cuts and scrapes and muscle aches. It’s in a boring, plain bottle, and isn’t much to see. But did you know that its uses are far vaster than just those dealing with medical cleansing? Yes! Read on for 10 of the many uses alcohol has!

1. It Cleans Mirrors!

It Cleans Mirrors!
Photo Credit: š†µ× ª.]<.ª Cyß3Rr

Have you ever had one of those mirrors with those awful, stubborn streaks that you can’t seem to get off? Try a bit of alcohol on a soft cloth! You can also carry this cleaning on to your bathroom faucets and sink! There, you’re sanitized and shiny!

2. Electronic Cleaner

Electronic Cleaner
Photo Credit: Jonathan Gayman | Photographer

Forget the over-priced air you can buy, or the expensive electronics cleaners – buy alcohol. It isn’t harmful to your electronics because it evaporates so quickly. You can use it to clean your cell phone (inside and out) your keyboard, MP3′s and IPods, whatever! And it’s super cheap!

3. It’s a Natural at Degreasing!

It's a Natural at Degreasing!
Photo Credit: ericsantosdmd

Soak a cloth in alcohol and wipe down your stove, teapot, vent and anything else that’s greasy in the kitchen. You can also use alcohol to shine up your Chrome appliances to keep them looking their best!

7 Things to be Serious About …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 09:32 AM PST

7 Things to be Serious About …

I live in a world filled with laughter and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Of course, there are times when I need to be serious about certain things in life. Not everything can be a joking matter. I try to stay optimistic and light-hearted about most things, it’s how I maintain my sanity. I can’t worry about everything, but there are at least 7 things to be serious about that I’ve listed below. Your list might be a bit different than mine, but I bet there are at least a couple that are similar.

7. Your Job

A bit of seriousness is needed to maintain a good job. It doesn’t have to be the type of occupation that will make you rich and famous, but it is still important to hold on to whatever type of employment you can. Joking around and slacking on the job won’t impress your employer much. Unless you’re a comedian, putting too much emphasis on humor in your workplace might land you on the unemployment line.

6. Your Car

I take caring for my vehicle very seriously. I can’t simply hope that it will get me from one place to the next. I need to make sure to have the oil changed regularly, maintain the proper level of fluids and pressure in the tires, as well as keep an ear open for strange noises that may arise. Making sure that my car is in good working order is no joking matter.

5. Your Future

Not everyone has their entire future planned out to the very last detail. Some people might joke about being a bum the rest of their lives, but I bet deep down inside they are still making plans for themselves. I may not know exactly where I will be in 5 years, but I try to make sure that anything I do between now and then won’t be detrimental for my or my family’s future, whatever it may entail.

8 Statement Designer Bags… Without Making a Statement …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 09:22 AM PST

8 Statement Designer Bags… Without Making a Statement …

I don't know about you, but I prefer my designer handbags without all those flashy designer logos. I think it's a reflection of the current minimalism trend that is taking the streets by storm. I'm talking about bags that have simple, clean designs and are all still pleasing to the eye. It's understated elegance at its best.

1. Chloe Aurore leather duffle bag

Chloe Aurore leather duffle bag
Price: $1800 at net-a-porter.com
This black leather duffle-style bag has me in a tizz. For starters, it's just beautiful to look at. The design is structured, yet smooth and the gold hardware adds that extra bit of detail. The Chloe trademark padlock is a welcome, discreet addition to the design.

2. Proenza Schouler small keep all

Proenza Schouler small keep all
Price: $1150.00 at lagarconne.com
If you're after a black bag, then look no further. This is possibly the ultimate all-black hand bag. Everything from the stitching to the lining to the metal clasp is black. This bag is so sleek and simple in design, it can easily be unisex. It doesn't matter if you're male or female, if you've got this bag on your arm, you're sure to be damn stylish.

3. Mulberry Bayswater bag

Mulberry Bayswater bag
Price: $1150.00 at lagarconne.com
This is probably one of the most classic designs out there. It has been on my lust list for as long as I can remember. What appeals to me most about it is the fuss-free design. The handles on the top are perfect for carrying or slinging over the nook of your elbow. It also comes in a range of different colours and leathers, but the classic tan is by far my favourite.

10 Signs That He’s Just Not Into You …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 09:10 AM PST

10 Signs That He’s Just Not Into You …

There is nothing worse than crushing on a guy only to find out that he wasn't ever really into you in the first place. It can be heart breaking and embarrassing, especially if everyone else noticed his lack of interest before you did. Here are ten signs that will alert you that he's just not that into you.

1. He avoids eye contact

Body language is an important way that people communicate without words. If he has a hard time looking you in the eye, he isn't connecting on a deep level. This is a major red flag!

2. He doesn't call

If a guy is really into you, he will want to talk to you. This means that you can expect an occasional call "just because." If he doesn't call, watch out!

3. He doesn't touch you

When a guy likes a girl, he typically looks for an excuse to touch her or to be physically close. If he backs away when you touch him or if he doesn't initiate contact, he might not like you.

7 Ways to Beat the Winter Blahs …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 08:38 AM PST

7 Ways to Beat the Winter Blahs …

Living in the Midwest, I grew to love winter. But most residents don't sharemy joy for the freezing temperatures and seemingly endless precipitation. Even worse, so many experience a deep mental depression from the lack of sunlight and warmth. While investing in a heat or sun lamp is one prescribed option, I have a few other ways to beat those inevitable "winter blahs."

1. Go Outside

Winter does NOT mean staying indoors for three or four months. There are a variety of fun outdoor activities to experience: skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. Make a snowman or have a snowball fight. Go for a run. Dress appropriately, and you'll realize that winter doesn't mean your life is on hiatus.

2. Make Hot Chocolate

This chocolaty prize makes all that winter outdoor business all worthwhile. A cup of hot cocoa made with real milk, melted chunks of chocolate, whipped cream and a bunch of gourmet marshmallows warms the tummy as much as the soul. My favorite twist: add a tiny spoonful of butterscotch pudding mix. TRUST ME.

3. Bake A Treat

If you MUST hibernate, spend it in your kitchen. Hey, we're in TONS of layers this time of the year anyway, so you might as well enjoy all those baked riches before bikini season hits. Whip up a few batches of cookies, make your own bread or try out some new slow cooker recipes. Bonus: since your oven has been on most of the day, your kitchen will be nice and toasty.

9 Amazing Roller Coasters That You Must Ride …

Posted: 13 Feb 2011 08:26 AM PST

9 Amazing Roller Coasters That You Must Ride …

A good roller coaster is an adventure seeker's dream come true. If you are an adventurer and a thrill seeker, here are some amazing roller coasters that you must ride. Some of these roller coasters are capable of giving you thrills that were previously reserved only for fighter pilots. Here are the top 9 roller coasters from around the world.

1. Kingda Ka

Located at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey, USA, this is currently the fastest and the tallest roller coaster in the world. It is 456 feet tall, has a 418 feet incline and drops at sheer 90 degrees. It reaches the awesome speed of 128 miles per hour is just about 3.5 seconds from starting point.

2. Steel Dragon 2000

Located in Nagashima Spa Land Amusement Park in Mie Prefecture, Japan, Steel Dragon has the longest track length of 8133 feet, 2 inches. Its tallest point is at 318 feet and it reaches the speed of 95 miles per hour. It has a drop of 308 feet from its tallest point.

3. Millennium Force

Located in Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio, USA, its tallest point is 310 feet and has a track of 6,595 feet. It has two stupendous 122 degree turns. The ride lasts for over 2 minutes and travels through two dark tunnels. I am sure this is one of the scarier rides on the list and definitely one of the roller coasters that you must ride.

7 Wii Games You Might Want to Play …

Posted: 12 Feb 2011 11:57 PM PST

7 Wii Games You Might Want to Play …

As I think I have mentioned before, I love my Wii (even though it’s not technically mine). I will admit, however, that I don’t play a lot of games on it. I’m weird about games, you see: once I find a favorite one, I play it to death – or at least until I beat it, if it’s beatable. And sometimes that takes a long time. So, based on that, these are just my recommendations of 7 Wii games you might want to play, too!

1. Just Dance 2

Just Dance 2
Price: $29.99 at amazon.com
I just got this for the Better Half for Christmas, and it is awesome! In the first place, I dance atrociously, so it’s definitely helping me out with my total lack of rhythm. In the second place, it makes a really great exercise! You get an awesome workout, but because you’re having fun making a fool out of yourself, you don’t really even notice you’re sweating until your done!

2. Glee Karaoke Revolution

Glee Karaoke Revolution
Price: $57.03 at amazon.com
Uhm, yes please. We actually don’t have this one yet, but I am dying to get it. The BH has turned me into a total Gleek, so I find myself listening to – and singing along to – the soundtrack for every new episode. All the time. I’d hang my head in shame, except it’s so much fun, I really can’t. I love karaoke anyway, so mixing that with Glee songs is just like the most genius idea ever to me. Naturally, those of you who are not Glee fans should probably pass on this one!

3. Cooking Mama World Kitchen

Cooking Mama World Kitchen
Price: $20.13 at amazon.com
I love all the Cooking Mama games, actually. But I’m such a klutz with my Wii controller that I hear the refrains of "You’re not mine!" constantly. This is one of those games that it takes me forever to beat, and I won’t stop until I’ve been successful. With practice, I am getting pretty decent on World Kitchen. Mama still doesn’t claim me a quarter of the time though.

7 Reasons I Love Stephen King …

Posted: 12 Feb 2011 11:50 PM PST

7 Reasons I Love Stephen King …

Stephen King is hands down one of my favorite contemporary authors – and it’s not just because I like the horror genre. In fact, to me, the horror in his books is secondary to King’s stories – the stories surrounding the stories, if you will, and his rather haunting prose. But I’ll explain more about that in the course of detailing these 7 reasons I love Stephen King.

1. His Prose

As I briefly mentioned, Stephen King’s way with prose is what really gets to me. For example, I just reread IT for, I don’t know, the millionth time or something, and as always, for me it isn’t Pennywise who makes the story – although he is wonderful and gruesome. Rather, it’s the bond and the love between Bill, Richie, Ben, Bev, Mike, Eddie, and Stan. The way King tells that story, all the little details, is beautiful. You see it again and again, such as in his short story, "The Body," and in Dreamcatcher.

2. His Imagination

If I am ever lucky enough to meet Stephen King, I will not ask him where his ideas come from. To me, the answer to that question is pretty self-evident: his imagination. From there the possibilities are endless, but to me, probing a writer about his or her imagination is like trying to get a great magician to reveal the secrets of his or her tricks.

3. His Sense of Humor

Mr. King is hilarious. There are parts in even his most gruesome books that make me laugh out loud. The humor is somehow better because it’s so often surrounded by such horrors, whether they are obvious, such as the s**t-weasels in Dreamcatchers, or subtler, as with old Mr. Dussander in "Apt Pupil."

7 Unusual but Fun Ideas for Valentine’s Day …

Posted: 12 Feb 2011 12:05 PM PST

7 Unusual but Fun Ideas for Valentine’s Day …

Valentine's Day is right around the corner. Before you know it, many will be doing something with the one they love. Some will be doing the traditional stuff, such as a dinner and a movie, while others will go for something that has more of a flare to it. By flare, I mean something unique – something unusual. Below, I am going to give you 7 unusual but fun ideas for Valentine's Day …

7. Sailing

Sailing the ocean blue together sounds exciting, right? If the weather calls for it, then this would be a great adventure for the two of you on Valentine's Day.

6. Skydiving

If you have a love for adventure and you know your lover has always wanted to do something on the dangerous side, then skydiving would be great. On Valentine's Day, the two of you can jump out of the sky. Oh yes, that is a rush.

5. 12 Days of Romance

On Day 1 – give 1 rose. On Day 2 – give 2 balloons that say "I love you. On Day 3 – give three romantic songs. On Day 4 – give four love poems written by you. On Day 5 – give 5 chocolate hearts. On Day 6 – give 6 red roses. On Day 7 – give seven cookies in the shape of hearts. On Day 8 – give 8 heart shaped candles. On Day 9 – give nine red heart shaped balloons. On day 10 – give 10 heart candies. On day 11 – give eleven reasons you love them. On Day 12 – give twelve ways to say "I love you."

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