FREEBIES of the Day - 2/07/07

Skincare product samples. yNs Med Spa offers a 6 ml size program of 4 products as a trial offer for you to evaluate, commitment-free - shipping included. No Cost or Obligation. For your free samples , click here!

Idbenone Cream sample from Advanced Skin Solutions. They use only the finest ingredients in their products and they have a money back guarantee for your purchases. For your free skin cream, click here!

Free Spiru-tein shaker cup from Naure's Plus. This is meant for their energy drinks, but they have so many uses. You can even use them to make pudding. For your free multi-purpose shaker cup, click here!

Software giveaway of the day - Post2Blog. This is a desktop editor and gives you some great features. For your free software, click here!

Game giveaway of the day - Tetramino Challenge. If you love Tetris, then you will love this game as well - they are very similar. For your free game, click here!

Free horse posters, trading cards and bookmarks from horsefacts.org. If you are a horse lover, you can get some great artwork for free. For your free posters, etc., click here!

Free energy drink sample from Extreme Energy. This is the healthy energy drink. My husband tried it and it did give him a little boost for a really early work morning. To try your free energy drink sample, click here!

Cross Stitch mentor kit from DMC. If you love crafts and love teaching others, this is great for you. They send you numerous cross stitch samples and you help others to learn. For your free cross stitch kit, click here!

Sherri's Helpful Hints

SHOE CARE TIPS

• The appearance of old scuffed and worn brown leather shoes can be improved by the application of scratch polish sold for use on polished wooden furniture.
• To clean suede shoes - instead of using a wire suede brush which takes off the top layer of the leather try using masking tape.
• To clean nubuck leather use a very fine sandpaper - brings it up like new.
• To clean patent leather shoes rub in petroleum jelly and leave for a while to soak in, the buff up with a soft clean cloth. This will not only keep them shiny but also prevent them cracking.
• To keep leather soft and supple, apply a little castor oil and leave to dry, then clean in the usual way. Castor oil is also useful for waterproofing the underneath of leather soles.
• If crepe soles become sticky, put talcum powder on them and this will resolve the problem.
• Boot zippers getting stuck - run a lead pencil down the zipper and they will run smoothly.
  

CLOTHING HINTS AND TIPS

• If clothes are creased after travelling, hang them up by the shower and the steam will help remove creases.
• When pressing a silk tie, never press from front as the seam will make an impression on the front of the tie will be difficult to remove. Place a piece of card inside the tie, turn face down, cover with a cloth and press. Remove card and there you have it.
• Clean dirty white shoes and handbags by dabbing with cotton wool and nail polish remover.
• When velvet clothes become shiny and/or "seated", spray item with a fine mist, brush up against the pile with a nail brush and leave overnight. It is probably safest to test this on a hem first.
• Use a piece of white chalk to remove marks from white material.
• When hanging up trousers place one leg behind hanger and bring through over hanger from back to front. Take second leg through hanger from front to back. This will lessen the creasing and keep then firmly on the hanger.
• To prevent jacket bottoms from turning up, cover an old coin with material and insert inside hem, this will weigh it down and prevent the edge from turning up.
• Snags in woollen clothing can be hidden by taking a needle and thread and making a loop. Put needle down through material next to snag, place the offending snagged wool through the loop of thread and continue to pull the needle through to the back of the material. This will pull the snag through to the back of the garment where it cannot be seen.
  

Christian Quote of the Day

Salt, when dissolved in water, may disappear, but it does not cease to exist. We can be sure of its presence by tasting the water. Likewise, the indwelling Christ, though unseen, will be made evident to others from the love which he imparts to us.

... Sadhu Sundar Singh

RECIPE of the Day - 2/06/2007

This is one of my husband's and daughter's favorite pies. It is nice and chocolatey; smooth and rich. The whipping cream adds an extra richness and makes for the perfect finishing touch. Just add some chocolate curls or non-pareils and you have a very nice presentation.

CHOCOLATE CHIFFON PIE

9" graham cracker crust

1 env. (1 tbsp.) unflavored gelatin

1/2 c. sugar

1/2 tsp. salt

1 1/3 c. water

2 (1 oz.) squares unsweetened chocolate

3 eggs, separated

1 tsp. vanilla

1/4 tsp. cream of tartar

1/2 c. sugar

1/2 c. chilled whipping cream

In saucepan mix gelatin, 1/2 cup sugar, salt, water and chocolate. Cook medium heat, stirring constantly, until chocolate melts. Remove heat. Beat egg yolks slightly, stir chocolate mix slowly into yolks. Return mix to pan. Cook medium heat, stirring constantly JUST until mix boils.

Remove from heat and chill in refrigerator, stirring occasionally until mix mounds when dropped from spoon. Stir in vanilla. Beat egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Add 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time until stiff and glossy.

In chilled bowl, beat cream until stiff, fold into chocolate mixture; fold into meringue. Pile into shell. Chill 3 hours until set. Garnish with whipped cream.

FREEBIES of the Day - 2/06/07

Prilosec OTC sample from WalMart. This product says it can stop heartburn with just one dose. Now that's something you could use after eating some really spicy Texas chili. For your free sample of tummy relief, click here!

Desperate Housewives Forbidden Fruit fragrance sample from Coty. This is actually a pleasant scent - I had my doubts! For your free fragrance sample, click here!

Dove Ultra Clear Smooth Cashmere deoderant sample. This is a great deoderant that keeps you dry and smells really good. You don't have those annoying white marks, either. For your free deoderant sample, click here!

Free Noxzema 4 blade shaver. I don't know if you have tried a razor with 4 blades, but they do a wonderful job. Your legs don't get nicked, no razor burn - just smooth, silky legs. For the men out there, you get a very close shave and your face is nice and smooth. For a tremendous razor for free, click here!

Charmin Fresh Mates 10 count sample pack. These are flushable moist wipes that you can take with you anywhere. Have you ever been to a public restroom and there were no rolls of toilet paper anywhere? Well, there you go. For your free sample, click here!

Fiber Starter Kit from Metamucil. They give you samples of their fiber wafers, powder, capsules with calcium and a booklet to help you incorporate more fiber into your diet. For your free kit, click here!

Free kid's activities and crafts, safety information, cleaning ideas, etc. from Arm & Hammer Baking Soda. They have a lot of information for you for free. To get creative with your kids or get some useful information for your home, health and safety, click here!

Free Peterbilt key chain from Peterbilt Truck Care. This is a red oval keychain with the Peterbilt name in silver. You can hardly have enough key chains (kind of like calendars, I suppose) For your free keychain, click here!

Daffy Definitions

I came across some very interesting definitions to everyday words and phrases. I hope you enjoy this daffy compilation.

Abundance - A baker's exercise (A-bun-dance)

Arbitrator - A cook that leaves Arby's to work at McDonald's.

Avoidable - What a bullfighter tries to do.

Baloney - Where some hemlines fall.

Band-Aid - A fund to help a band.

Burglarize - What a crook sees with.

Cadillac - Lack of cattle.

Cookout - The cook's day off.

Counterfeiters - Workers who put together kitchen cabinets.

Cowhide - Game of Hide and Seek played by cows.

Dieting - The penalty for exceeding the feed limit.

Eclipse - What a Cockney barber does for a living.

Feather Brained - Fuzzy headed.

Flying Saucers - The wife is on a rampage.

Good-bye - A bargain.

Gossip - 24-hour teller.

Hatchet - What a hen does to an egg.

Headlight - A dizzy spell.

Heavy Duty - Loading an elephant.

Hence - An enclosure around a hen yard.

Heroes - What a guy in a boat does.

Ideal Person - A card player that wants to deal everytime.

Illegal - A sick bird.

Installment - Putting a horse in a stall.

Laughing Stock - Cattle, horses, sheep and hogs responding to a good joke.

Left Bank - What the robber did when his bag was full of loot.

Life Jacket - A special coat that lasts a lifetime.

Lip Service - Applying lipstick.

Little Dipper - A small boy diving.

Long Jump - When the cow jumped over the moon.

Matchbook - A book about matches.

Megaphone - A very large telephone.

Mohair - What bald headed men need.

Moth Ball - A special social event for moths.

Network - The process of making nets.

Over Leap - When the cow jumped over the moon.

Overloaded - An elephant riding a bicycle.

Oyster Bed - A place for an oyster to sleep.

Paradox - Two physicians.

Period - A comma that curled up and went to sleep.

Pharmacist - A helper on the farm.

Piggyback - A lost pig is back home.

Pigment - A mint plant grown to feed hogs.

Pineapple - An apple that grew on a pine tree.

Polarize - What penguins see with.

Polite - A light on a pole.

Polygon - A parrot that got away.

Primate - Removing your spouse from in front of the TV.

Quarterback - Change when you pay for a 75¢ item with a dollar bill.

Refuse - Replacing a burned out fuse.

Relief - What trees do in the spring.

Remind - A brain transplant.

Retire - Replacement of tires.

Rock Music - A lullaby sung in a rocking chair.

Roman - A person that never settles very long in one place.

Scorekeeper - Someone that knows the score but keeps it to himself.

Showoff - The show has been cancelled.

Selfish - What the owner of a seafood store does.

Subdued - Like, a guy who, like, works on one of those, like, submarines, man.

Sudafed - Brought litigation against a government official.

Sunny - A bright boy.

Sunburn - What you basked for.

Sweater - A person that freely perspires.

Time Keeper - A guy that didn't return your watch.

Tireless - Have a car but have no tires.

Tooth Picks - The choices many dentists give patients to select their artificial teeth.

Touch-Me-Not - A person with a severe sunburn.

Travelers Aid - A soft drink for tourists.

Vegetarian - An old indian word meaning "bad hunter."

Vitamin - What you do when someone comes to the house.

Well Done - A water, gas or oil well is completed.

Weekend - A book with a blah ending.

Whether - Unpredictable weather.

Wildlife - Living it up!

Woodchuck - Throwing a heavy pole, post or other item made of wood.

Workout - An outside job.

Writer - One who corrects a wrong.

Year Book - A book that takes a year to read.

Zero Hour - Time kept by a "cuckoo" clock.

Sherri's Helpful Hints

Here are some tips to help you control the clutter and make your child's bedroom inviting and organized:



ORGANIZING YOUR CHILD'S ROOM

• Use storage space wisely. Store clothing and toys in boxes underneath your child's bed.


• Make the most of vertical space by installing shelves (however, don't install them too high up for your children to safely reach.) In addition to storing toys on shelves, buy some large plastic crates to store toys in as well. You could always buy a manufactured toybox, which often feature various shelves and cabinets for maximum storage.


• Try a hanging net to store all your child's stuffed animals.


• It's a good idea to implement activity centers around your child's room. This will help both you and your child in knowing where each item should be kept. There can be a reading area, an art area, an area for dolls or cars, a game area, and so on.


• Another great way to help your child keep their rooms clean is through the use of color coding. Buy drawers or shelves in bright primary colors, then place a colored sticker to match on each one of your child's toys. Your child can look on the bottom of the toy to see which shelf, drawer or cabinet it belongs in.


• Clear zipper-close sandwich bags can be great for storing small items like stray game pieces, marbles, dominoes, and other tiny items that can easily be misplaced. Because the bags are clear, it is easy for your child to know what is inside.


• If you have limited space and multiple children, try bunk beds. Today's bunk beds are designed to be perfectly sturdy and safe. However, it's a good idea to let older children have the top bunk and assign the bottom bunk to younger siblings. You will be surprised at the amount of space a bunk bed will save you compared with two traditional beds.


• Get kids into the habit of cleaning their room on a regular basis. Let them put away their own toys and laundry, and give them feather dusters to eliminate dust on their shelves and toys. Although many kids will complain about cleaning, taking responsibility for keeping their rooms clean can increase their sense of maturity and self-confidence.
  
  

SELECTING THE RIGHT TOYS FOR BABIES AND TODDLERS

• Do your own safety checks. Carry out more checks of your own. Think about the age of the baby and whether it is likely that baby will be biting hard because they are teething.
  Look out for toys that might break into pieces in a child’s mouth. Avoid anything that has lengths of cord or string more than a couple of inches long.


• Think ages and stages of development of your toddler. It can be tempting to buy your one year old a toy for an 18 month old. It's generally better to match a baby's age with the developmental age of the toy as baby will learn more. Younger children will be fast developing their motor skills and children over one will be into problem solving and more physical toys.


• Consider the toy’s lifespan. When looking at a potential toy for your baby, think about its uses. Can the baby toy be used in different ways to keep baby interested over a longer lifespan or is it one that can be handed on to someone else within a few months of purchase? Some toys evolve through three stages to keep baby interested when lying flat, sitting up and standing up.


• Read information about the toy first. When buying a baby toy read about the toy and understand what it's for. Babies go through many developmental stages and you want to make sure that the skills baby will learn from the toy are appropriate to his age.


• Don't buy toys for you. Even though you think that a baby toy is fantastic, research it. You might think a groovy play den is the best thing ever but your six month old might prefer his play mat. Babies love play mats because they appeal to their sense of discovery and exploration of the world around them. Play mats with strong defining edges play a big part in giving baby a sense of their own space and their own world. Playmats tend to have hooped rings above that have dangling animals or shapes – this also helps define baby's world as the real thing is just too big for them to take in.


• It's important to recognize that a toy may look particularly strange to you but it has been designed to appeal to a youngster. It is likely that toys for younger babies will have strong contrasting colours, faces, teething rings and lots of lights and music. Toddlers will find more fun in shape sorters, pop-up puzzles, ride ons and lift and learn puzzles. Three year olds will want to play more with physical toys, role play in play houses and draw and paint. If you can think about baby's world in simplistic terms you are already on the right road to choosing the perfect toy.

Different Baby Toys for Different Babies

Your baby will be growing now at the fastest rate. For the next two years you will see significant changes in the way baby reacts to you and interacts with others. There are lots of toys available today at all price ranges to help your toddler discover his world.

• Make sure you select a baby toy that is suitable for your baby's stage of development and do not assume that because your friend's baby loved a particular toy, yours will.


• Toy buying on the internet is a fantastic way of researching and purchasing toys that are right for you and your baby. If you do want to check something out go and see it in a shop first then order online for the best deal.
  

Christian Quote of the Day

The authority of Scripture is greater than the comprehension of the whole of man's reason.

... Martin Luther

RECIPE of the Day - 2/05/2007

My husband and I really love shrimp. Sometimes it's hard to find a good shrimp recipe that isn't breaded and fried in some way. This recipe is quite delicious and gives you much more flavor than shrimp scampi, but with the same buttery richness.

Herbed Shrimp in Garlic Butter

3 dozen shrimp, de-veined

1 tablespoon salt

1 teaspoon oregano

1 teaspoon thyme

1/2 cup butter

5 cloves garlic, pressed

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced

1/4 lb. sliced mushrooms

1/4 cup butter

Shell and de-vein shrimp, leaving tails on. Place shrimp in small bowl with salt, oregano and thyme. In a separate bowl, cream together butter, garlic and parsley.

In a small skillet, sauté mushrooms in butter. Brush seasoning mixture lightly from shrimp, allowing some to remain. Divide the shrimp among six individual oven proof baking dishes; top with sautéed mushrooms and drizzle with remaining butter from skillet. Spoon garlic butter mixture (as desired) on top of mushrooms.

Bake at 375°F. for 12 minutes or until done.

FREEBIES of the Day - 2/05/07

Free 8x10 or 10x13 portrait from Picture People. This is a printable coupon that you can take to one of their locations to get your free portrait. This coupon is good through Valentine's Day. For your free portrait, click here!

Your choice of tea sample from Zhong Guo Cha. They have wonderful tea, I received my sample and enjoyed it immensely. For a free sample of some very delicious tea, click here!

Soy Infant Formula sample from Member's Mark. This is the kind with lipids, DHA & ARA (most like breast milk). For your free formula sample, click here!

Game Giveaway of the Day - Bubble Odyssey. They have a free game every day. Some of them are $20.00 to buy, but you can download these games for free everyday. For your free games, click here!

Dozens of Christian books to choose from for free from Project Restore. They have some great books with very useful information. For your free Christian books, click here!

Cross with American Flag lapel pin. This comes from Crossed America and shows your belief in "One nation under God". For your free lapel pin, click here!

Free Fat Albert poster from Newspapers in Education. This is not the cartoon version, but the picture of the guy who played Fat Albert in the recent movie. For a free poster for the kids, click here!

Free water garden products from Jungle Pond. It is free to join Jungle Pond Partners and they give you free products, tips, advice and discounts on future purchases. For free products for your water garden, click here!

Sherri's Helpful Hints

NATURAL REMEDIES

• A relief for hay fever without the usual adverse side effects -
  a: avoid dairy products (substitute soya instead)
  b: try getting hold of locally produced honey.
• To relieve a sore throat pour 300mls of boiling water into a jug with a sliced lemon and a tablespoon of honey. Add a teaspoon of fresh sage if you have a headache or a half a teaspoon of ginger if you have a cold. Leave to cool and then strain. Take 2 teaspoons 3 times a day.
• As soon as you burn yourself liberally apply PURE vanilla extract to the spot and you won't develop a blister or experience any pain. It is important you use PURE vanilla not imitation.
• To stop mosquito bites use meat tenderizer - a white granular powder made from papaya derivatives (also called papain). Mix about 1 teaspoon of the tenderizer into 1 cup of water. Just dab onto bite and it will stop itching right away. This keeps well in a clean screw top jar.
• Grapefruit seed extract (available from health food shops) can be used for many things. Excellent preventative for diahrrea when traveling; it stops pain from stings and can also be used to clean objects and surfaces.
• Grow an Aloe Vera plant in your home and you will always have a handy cure for burns and other cuts. Cut a small piece of the leaf and split it, then apply the gel to the burn or wound. Also very good for sunburn.
  

MEN'S SHAVING TIPS

• It's best to avoid shaving the very first thing in the morning. If possible, let your skin wake up a while. This allows any puffiness from fluids collecting in your skin during the night to recede. Then you will be able to get a closer shave.
• Use an exfoliant such as a facial cleanser or mild scrub to eradicate dead skin cells and open up the pores of your skin to prepare it for a close shave.
• Stubble should be wet with warm or hot water before shaving. This makes the hair shaft swell and allows the blade to cut the hair closely without cutting your skin.
• Thoroughly massage shaving cream into stubble. A vitamin and Aloe Vera based shaving cream or gel will provide a close, soothing shave and protect against razor rashes and burns.
• Use a sharp blade. A dull blade is responsible for many shaving cuts as it drags over your face and catches your skin along with the hairs of your beard.
• Rinse the blade often in hot water when shaving and use slow short strokes. Don't rush.
  Always shave in the direction that your hair grows on your face. Shaving against the grain can cause redness, rashes, razor burn and ingrown hairs.
• After shaving, apply an oil-free moisturiser to soothe and protect the face. If you prefer an after-shave, check the label for alcohol.

AVOIDING RAZOR BURN

The technical term for this condition is pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB) and the primary cause is shaving with a blade. Men with curly, coarse or even fine hair often experience razor burn or razor bumps after shaving because the hair curls back, punctures the skin and becomes ingrown. You could eliminate the problem by simply growing a beard or rarely shaving. But of course you many not want to do this and unfortunately, for many professional men this is not an option. Here are some tips to help you recover from razor burn:

• Prep your skin before shaving by using a face scrub to exfoliate and help lift the hairs from under your skin.
• Liberally wet your face and apply shaving cream. Wait 2-3 minutes before shaving. The use of a shaving cream that contains vitamins and Aloe Vera is preferable over brands which may contain skin irritants such as sodium laurel sulphate.
• Use a high quality razor and change the blade often. Dull blades are often the cause of skin irritations and shaving nicks.
• Shave in the direction the hair grows on your face.
• Do not pick at the bumps, as this tends to make them worse.

Christian Quote of the Day

At the Day of Judgment, we shall not be asked what we have read, but what we have done.

... Thomas à Kempis

RECIPE of the Day - 2/04/2007

My husband found this recipe for the most wonderful broccoli cheese soup I have ever tasted. We make this at least once every 2 weeks or so at our house. It is creamy, rich and delicious. I know you will enjoy this as much as we do.

CHEDDAR CHEESE BROCCOLI SOUP

4 heads broccoli, chopped

16 oz. Velveeta cheese, chopped

2 c. onions, chopped

4 c. water

2 cans cream of celery soup

2 cans cheddar cheese soup

1 can cream of mushroom soup

Mix chopped broccoli and onions and 4 cups of water and boil. Allow mixture to boil for 5 minutes. Pour 2 cans of cream of celery, 1 can of cream of mushroom and 2 cans of cheddar cheese soup into mixture. Stir and turn heat to low. Put chopped Velveeta cheese on top slowly while stirring.

FREEBIES of the Day - 2/04/07

Free pocket heart organizer and coupons from Nature Made Vitamins. This organizer helps you track your health information. Also, when you sign on with them, you can enter codes from Nature Made purchases to get free products as well. For your free organizer and coupons, click here!

Golden Monkey tea sample from Tea Chef. This sample is the finest chinese black tea available. I received the chestnut tea in the mail about a month ago and it was delicious. For a sample of really good tea, click here!

Viactiv Flavor Glides samples from WalMart. I have tried these and they are really good. They send you a calcium supplement sample that is coated with a vanilla flavoring and is easy to swallow. They also send you a multi-vitamin that is coated with a berry flavored coating to make it easy to swallow. Much better than the horse pills that seem to stick in your throat. For your free calcium and vitamin supplements, click here!

Free puppy kit from Eukanuba. They are a trusted brand for dogs and it always helps to have a welcoming kit for your new pet. For your free puppy kit, click here!

Alice's Shaping Spray sample from Alice Woodrum Salons. If you need a great product to keep your hairstyle looking salon new, this is for you. To get some terrific styling spray, click here!

Free sample of Youth Complex from Innovative Skincare. This promotes cellular regeneration and has vitamins and minerals to keep skin looking younger and healthy. For a free sample to help your skin stay younger looking, click here!

Game Giveaway of the Day - Styroteg. They have a free game every day. Some of them are $20.00 to buy, but you can download these games for free everyday. For your free games, click here!

Things to Ponder

There are just certain human behaviors that are very funny, yet predictable. There are also things that you just wonder about. Here are a few things I came across.

• Tell a man that there are 400 billion stars, and he'll believe you.Tell him a bench has wet paint, and he has to touch it.
• How come SUPERMAN could stop bullets with his chest, but always ducked when someone threw a gun at him?
• If it was only a 3 hour cruise, why did MRS. HOWELL have so many clothes.
• Why is it called a HAMBURGER, when it's made out of BEEF?
• Why does SOUR CREAM have an Expiration date?
• Why is LEMON JUICE mostly artificial ingredients.... but DISH WASHING LIQUID contains real lemons?
• How much deeper would the ocean be, if SPONGES didn't grow in it?
• Why buy a product that it takes 2000 flushes to get rid of?
• Why do we put SUITS in a Garment Bag, and put Garments in a Suitcase?
• Why doesn't GLUE stick to the inside of the bottle?
• Whose cruel idea was it for the word "Lisp" to have an "S" in it?
• What do little birdies see, when they get knocked unconscious?
• What's another word for synonym?
• Isn't it a bit unnerving that doctors call what they do "practice"?
• If the cop arrests a mime, do they tell him he has the right to remain silent?
• Why do people who know the least know it the loudest?

Sherri's Helpful Hints

FLORISTS TIPS

To keep plants watered while you are away for a few days, place one end of a pipe cleaner into the soil by the plant and the other end into some water. The pipe cleaner will gradually draw up the water.

To keep plants alive during a longer stay away. Place a towel in the bottom of the bath and add 1" of water. Place house plants on top of the towel. They will draw up the water while you are away.

Don't buy roses in tight bud as the chances are they will not open. Buds should be unfurling slightly.

Spray dried flowers with hair spray to prevent them from dropping.

To fluff up dried roses, hold rose head over a steaming kettle and gently tease out petals.

To remove dust from silk flowers, put some table salt into a paper bag, put flower heads into back and shake vigorously. Remove flower from bag and it will be dust free.

Poppies keep longer if you singe the stems over an open candle flame.

To revive dropping tulips or roses, wrap tightly in newspaper and put into water up to their necks. Leave overnight.

If your roses are wilting, cut 1cm off stem, wrap in paper, plunge stems into boiling water for approximately 10 seconds, then put into deep cold water.

The sap of the Euphorbia (of which the poinsetta is one) is an irritant - always remember to wash hands after handling.

Don't place flowers in direct sunlight, over radiators or on top of television sets. Keep in a well ventilated part of the room out of direct sunlight.

Don't place flowers next to fruit as fruit gives off a gas which prematurely ages flowers. Remove dead flowers as these also give off gases which affect the others.

Non-scented flowers last longer!

Lily stamens should be removed as soon as the bloom is sufficiently open as the pollen can damage fabric and polished wood surfaces.

If the flower head is too heavy and the stem is hollow, put a garden cane up inside the stem to support bloom.

Soak vases overnight in bleach to remove bacteria. Dirty vases shorten the life of cut flowers considerably.

To help when repotting plants into larger pots, place the current pot into the larger pot and push compost firmly into the gap between the two. Gently remove the inner pot which leaves the correct size hole into which the plant can be dropped.

COMPUTER TERMINOLOGY

BOOKMARKS - Words, pictures, web sites etc. that have been marked in order to enable immediate access from within a list in your browser.

BUG - An error in hardware or software that causes it to malfunction or crash.

CD ROM - Computer Disc Read Only Memory

CHIP - Abbreviation of microchip. A small piece of semiconductor material (usually silicon) soldered onto printed circuit boards, used to carry electronic circuits

CRASH - Stops working suddenly.

DATA BASE - Structured set of data/information held within the computer.

DESKTOP - What is on the screen after booting up.

DISK - Data storage medium e.g. floppy disk, hard disk.

EMAIL - Electronic mail. Messages sent between computers.

FILE TRANSFER - Accessing information from other computers via networks.

LAPTOP - A portable computer.

MIME - Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions. Standard for the transfer of binary email attachments.

MODEM - Device used to convert date from analogue to digital and back again e.g. between a computer and telephone line.

The term "modem" is an abbreviation for MODulator/DEModulator, and is a device that converts a digital signal (from the computer) into an analogue signal (audio in this case), which is sent through the telephone wires. At the 'other end' another modem receives the analogue signal, converting it back into a digital signal and back into the computer.

MOUSE - A device used to move the cursor on the screen.

MULTIMEDIA - An application combining text, graphics, motion video and sound.

NETWORK - Several computers linked together by cables, radio waves or telephone lines.

ON-LINE - Connected to a computer or network.

PC - Personal computer.

RAM - Random Access Memory

ROM - Read Only Memory. Information that cannot be altered.

SEARCH ENGINE - This is a piece of developed software to interrogate the Internet to locate and list Internet sites from a pre-selected search argument.

SOFTWARE - Programs and other operating information used by the computer.

SURFING - Accessing information from other computers via networks etc.

"Surfing" is in fact the act of interrogating and exploring the Internet via a search engine.

WEB BROWSER - Software used to gain access to the world wide web e.g. Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator.

Christian Quote of the Day

LORD, who hast taught to us on earth this lesson from above,

That all our works are nothing worth, unless they spring from love;

Send down thy Spirit from on high, and pour in all our hearts

That precious gift of charity, which peace and joy imparts:

The healing balm, the holy oil which calms the waves of strife,

The drop which sweetens every toil, the breath of our new life.

Without this blessed bond of peace God counts the living dead:

O heavenly Father, grant us this, Through Christ, the living Head.

Let all who love the Lord join hands to aid the common good,

And knit more close the sacred bands of Christian brotherhood.

Make all thy pastors one, O Lord, in heart, in mind, in speech,

That they may set forth thy pure word, and live the life they preach.

Let all hold fast the truths whereby a church must stand or fall;

In doubtful things grant liberty, show charity in all.

Thus shall we to our sacred name our title clearly prove,

While even our enemies exclaim," See how these Christians love."

... Charles Wesley

RECIPE of the Day - 2/03/2007

This is like making the ultimate enchilada, but in one pan and layered. You have really great ingredients and this is a very easy dish to make. The end result is a hearty meal that is quite delicious. This is perfect to warm you up on one of those cold winter nights.

Enchilada Casserole

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 16-oz. jar Chunky Salsa
1 16-oz. can Refried Beans
1 10-oz. can Enchilada Sauce
1 2.25-oz. can sliced ripe olives
10 6-inch corn tortillas, sliced in half
2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese, divided

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Cook beef, onion and garlic in large skillet until beef is browned; drain. Stir in salsa, beans, enchilada sauce and olives. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cook, stirring frequently, for 5 to 6 minutes.

Layer half of corn tortillas on bottom of greased 13x9-inch baking dish. Cover with half of meat sauce; sprinkle with 1 cup cheese. Repeat layers. Bake, covered, for 20 minutes. Remove cover; bake for additional 5 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is melted. Garnish with green onions before serving, if desired.

FREEBIES of the Day - 2/03/07

Free skincare samples and catalog from Chamonix. These products are all natural, they are really good for your skin. For your healthy skincare samples and catalog, click here!

Package of 3 Love Press books for free. They have books such as Darwinism Under the Microscope (new scientific evidence disproving Darwin's Theory), God's prescription for Spiritual Healing, etc. For your 3 free books, click here!

Free CD "Passionate Praise" from Mission Network News. You can hardly pass up a free CD. For your free passionate praise music, click here!

Earthrise Spirulina IL-4 sachet sample. They also send you a $3.00 coupon toward your next purchase of Spirulina IL-4. They say it is the best Spirulina product on the market. For your free sachet packet and coupon, click here!

Free Buell knit skullcap for those chilly bike rides. To get your free skullcap, click here!

Free Teacher Kit and classroom poster "We All Use Math Everyday". You do have to be a teacher and give the name of your school, district, etc. For your free teacher's kit, click here!

Sherri's Helpful Hints

Cleaning With Ingredients You Have Around the House

Baking Soda (Bicarbonate of Soda)

• Baking soda on a damp sponge removes grease easily from stove, back splash etc.Also works great for carpet deodorizing, just sprinkle onto carpet before going to bed and vacuum in the morning.


• Baking Soda can be used for many jobs around the house, scrubbing sinks, bath tub, stove, refrigerator and laundry. It leaves everything smelling nice and cleans just as good as any cleanser without scratching enamel.


• Also for keeping pipes clean under the sink - pour about one quarter cup of baking soda down the drain with about 1 cup of vinegar, this makes a chemical reaction, then pour some hot water down the drain. Hey Presto!


• Baking soda or Borax is also good for getting rid of unwanted insects, just sprinkle around cabinets and cupboards and other places the insects might run.
  

Alka-Seltzer

• 3 tablets down the kitchen sink followed by a cup of white vinegar. Leave for a few minutes then run hot water - cleans pipes.


• 4 tablets in the toilet will leave your bowl sparkling clean. Leave for an hour and then brush.


• 1 tablet in a cup of warm water. Drop in your jewelery (NOT PEARLS OR OPALS) and leave for a few minutes.


• To freshen up a thermos flask, fill the flask with water, drop in four Alka Seltzer tablets and let soak for an hour (or longer if necessary).


• To remove the stain from the bottom of a glass vase or cruet, fill with water and drop in two Alka-Seltzer tablets.

Dryer Sheets

• When cleaning dust and animal hair from free standing fans, window unit air conditioner filters or venetian blinds, use a dryer sheet. It not only removes dust and hair faster, but after prolonged use it creates a protective coating on the wires of the fan for even easier dust removal.


• Dust your television and computer screens with a used dryer sheet as this will reduce the static and prevent dust resettling.


• Clean shower doors with a used dryer sheet to dissolve soap scum.


• Collect animal hair by rubbing the area with dryer sheets, they will magically attract all the loose hairs.

Make-up and Beauty Tips

• The cost of lipstick is sometimes outrageous. Make sure you use every scrap. When the "tube" has been used down to the bottom, carefully remove what is left of the "wax", mix it with just a little petroleum jelly into a resealable container. Now you have lip gloss!


• If your foundation is too dark mix it with a little of your usual moisturizer on the back of your hand and it will lighten.


• Before applying a face mask cover your face with a piece of damp, fine gauze, making sure it completely smooth and touching everywhere on your face. Apply product. When mask is ready (usually about 10/15 minutes) peel off gauze, leaving skin clean.


• If your nail polish congeals try adding a few drops of nail polish remover to thin it out.


• If you can't get the top of your nail polish bottle? Hold it under a hot tap for 30-45 seconds, the heat will expand the top slightly making it easier to get off.


• Pop your eyeliner pencil into the freezer before sharpening, this gives a sharper point.

If you're concerned about what you're putting on your skin, you need to start by reading the labels on products you're thinking of buying. You'd be surprised at the moisturizers whose main ingredients include alcohol (a drying agent) and things like fruit acids whose main function is to remove minute layers of skin from your face. Additives like camphor, which smells nice but can be an irritant, may be found in skin cleansers, and even cosmetics that claim to be "unscented" are not actually free of added perfumes. In fact, most of them have fragrance added specifically to mask the smell of the other ingredients!

Natural beauty tips can keep your skin healthy by keeping you away from harmful products. One good rule of thumb for buying cosmetics is to buy only cosmetics with ingredients you recognize. Many women are allergic to the artificial colors, scents and flavors in everything from moisturizer to lipstick, and sometimes skin problems will just disappear once the offending chemical is removed from your makeup kit. Many companies specialize in making cosmetics out of natural ingredients like almond oil, beeswax, natural colors and essential oils. In general the simpler and shorter the ingredient list, the less likely it will be to contain inorganic chemicals. If you're looking for makeup without artificial colors, scents, added chemicals and who-knows-what, buy mineral make-up.

Christian Quote of the Day

There is a state of perfect peace with God which can be attained under imperfect obedience.

... John Owen

RECIPE of the Day - 2/02/2007

Here is another quick, easy recipe for you. This is really delicious with the bacon and onion with chive cream cheese. Be sure to use real butter, though, for a really rich taste.

Bacon Wrapped Chicken

6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves

1 carton (8 ounces) whipped cream cheese with onion and chives

1 tablespoon butter or margarine, cubed

Salt to taste

6 bacon strips

Flatten the chicken to 1/2-in. thickness. Spread 3 tablespoons cream cheese over each. Dot with the butter and sprinkle with salt; roll up. Wrap each with a bacon strip.

Place, seam side down, in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan. Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees F for 35-40 minutes or until juices run clear. Broil 6 in. from the heat for 5 minutes or until bacon is crisp.

FREEBIES of the Day - 2/02/07

Pep-G Guarana drink sample. This is supposed to be the natural energy drink. It comes in some really great flavors, too. If you need a little extra energy during the day, click here!

Free 2 week VIP pass to Gold's Gym. This is a printable coupon to take to the gym. From what I have heard, they have all the latest equipment and programs to really help you get in shape or stay in shape. For a freebie to help keep you fit, click here!

Free $20.00 coupon book "Save and Be Well" from Healthy Specials. These coupons are those that are geared more to your health needs and should be really good. For your free $20.00 in savings, click here!

Free sample of Arbonne or Beehive Bra Clips. No more safety pins, ladies! These hold the straps in place, without all the trouble. For your free wardrobe necessity, click here!

Freebies for expecting mothers or new mothers from Enfamil. They give you a diaper bag with an Enfamil feeding kit and samples, free pre and post-natal information as well as $60.00 in formula checks and valuable JC Penney portrait packages. This is a great deal. I received this special offer when I was pregnant with our daughter and they do give you a lot of samples and information. I still use the diaper bag as a tote. For your very useful freebies, click here!

Strange But Interesting Facts

• A rhinoceros horn is made of compacted hair.


• The shortest war in history was between Zanzibar and England in 1896. Zanzibar surrendered after 38 minutes.


• Elvis had a twin brother named Garon, who died at birth, which is why Elvis' middle name was spelled Aron; in honor of his brother.


• Donald Duck comics were banned in Finland because he doesn't wear pants.


• Stewardesses is the longest word typed with only the left hand.


• Shakespeare invented the words "assassination" and "bump".


• Right handed people live, on average, nine years longer than left handed people do.


• The sentence "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog" uses every letter in the english language.


• A snail can sleep for 3 years.


• American Airlines saved $40,000 in 1987 by eliminating one olive from each salad served in first-class.China has more English speakers than the United States.


• The electric chair was invented by a dentist.


• Cats have over 100 vocal sounds, dogs only have about 10.


• Our eyes are always the same size from birth, but our noses and ears never stop growing.


• Many hamsters only blink one eye at a time.


• In every episode of Seinfeld there is a Superman somewhere.


• If you have three quarters, four dimes and four pennies, you have $1.19.You also have the largest amount in coins, without having change for a dollar.


• Frank Lloyd Wright's son invented Lincoln Logs.

Sherri's Helpful Hints

Seasoning Substitutes

• Allspice: ¼ teaspoon each nutmeg and cinnamon (1 ml) + ½ teaspoon cloves (2 ml).
• Anise: Fennel, dill, cumin or caraway.
• Basil: Tarragon or summer savory.
• Bay Leaf: Thyme.
• Caraway: Fennel or cumin.
• Cardamom: Cinnamon or mace.
• Chervil: Parsley, tarragon or cilantro.
• Chili: Cayenne, pepper + cumin + oregano + garlic, to taste.
• Cilantro: Coriander leaf, celery leaf or parsley.
• Cinnamon: Allspice or cardamom.
• Cloves: Allspice, nutmeg or mace.
• Cumin: 1/3 anise + 2/3 caraway, or use fennel.
• Curry Powder: Combine and use amount called for 2 tablespoons each coriander, black pepper, cumin, red pepper, turmeric (30 ml), and 1 ¼ teaspoons ground ginger (6 ml). Or use a combination of allspice, cinnamon, fennel, garlic, mace and adjust to taste.
• Dill: Celery seed.
• Fennel: Anise or caraway.
• Mace: Allspice, cloves, nutmeg or nutmeg + cardamom.
• Marjoram: Oregano or thyme.
• Nutmeg: Allspice, cloves or mace.
• Oregano: Marjoram, rosemary or thyme.
• Parsley: Chervil, tarragon or cilantro.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Combine ½ teaspoon cinnamon (2 ml) + ¼ teaspoon each cloves and nutmeg (1 ml) + 1/8 teaspoon each cardamom and allspice (½ ml).
• Rosemary: Marjoram or oregano.
• Sage: Rosemary or oregano.
• Savory: Thyme.
• Sesame: Finely chopped almonds.
• Tarragon: Chervil or parsley.

How Do I Season...

• Beans: chives, cumin, dill, marjoram, savory, thyme, sage, basil, onions, peppers, chili, cilantro
• Beef: basil, bay leaf, chervil, dill, marjoram, oregano, parsley, lemon, onion, rosemary, saffron, sage, savory, tarragon, thyme, cumin, peppers, cilantro, curry, chili, garlic, ginger
• Beets: basil, savory, thyme, caraway, cloves, ginger
• Breads: poppy seed, anise, caraway, sesame, rye, onion, dill, cumin, coriander, ginger, nutmeg
• Broccoli: oregano, tarragon, mace
• Cakes: vanilla, allspice, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, cinnamon
• Candy: cardamom, anise, poppy seed, cassia, coriander, fennel
• Cookies, Puddings, Pastry: mace, poppy seed, sesame, caraway, anise
• Cabbage: oregano, caraway, dill, ginger, mint, fennel
• Carrots: parsley, bay leaf, mint, oregano, rosemary, sage, thyme, marjoram, cloves, curry, ginger, chives
• Cheese: chives, sage, caraway, basil, sweet marjoram, thyme, tarragon, dill, cumin, parsley, onions, mint, chervil, peppers, chili, cilantro, anise, garlic, poppy seed
• Eggs: capers, chives, shallots, tarragon, thyme, rosemary, basil, chervil, dill, marjoram, oregano, parsley, chilies, saffron, sage, savory, peppers, cilantro, curry, onion
• Eggplant: basil, dill, marjoram, parsley, rosemary, thyme, sage
• Fish: basil, bay leaf, chervil, dill, marjoram, oregano, parsley, rosemary, saffron, sage, savory, tarragon, thyme, onion, tomato, chili, peppers, curry, fennel, garlic, mace, nutmeg
• Fruits & Drinks: cassia, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, mace, mint
• Lamb: basil, bay leaf, dill weed, oregano, mint, rosemary, saffron, sage, marjoram, thyme
• Pasta: lemon, parsley, rosemary, dill, onion, chervil, cilantro, oregano
• Peas: basil, chervil, marjoram, mint, nutmeg, rosemary
• Pickles: allspice, anise, cardamom, cassia, chili, cloves, dill, garlic, onion, ginger, mace, saffron, turmeric, tarragon, rosemary, fennel
• Pork: basil, dill, marjoram, onion, rosemary, sage, tarragon, caraway, coriander, curry, fennel, garlic
• Potatoes: bay leaf, chervil, parsley, mint, rosemary, tarragon, mace, chives
• Poultry & Game: basil, bay leaf, chervil, dill, marjoram, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage, savory, tarragon, thyme, curry, garlic, onion, ginger
• Rice: chives, cumin, oregano, parsley, saffron, savory, rosemary, thyme, shallots, capers, dill, caraway, cilantro, curry
• Salads: Basil, chervil, dill, marjoram, oregano, parsley, mint, saffron, savory, tarragon, thyme, capers, chives, onion, garlic, poppy seed
• Soups: basil, bay leaf, chervil, dill, marjoram, oregano, parsley, mint, rosemary, saffron, sage, savory, tarragon, thyme, onion, cilantro, cumin, chili, peppers, cheese, garlic
• Spinach: chervil, dill, marjoram, rosemary, tarragon, nutmeg, mint
• Squash & Sweet Potato: basil, rosemary, saffron, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cassia
• Tomato: basil, bay leaf, chervil, oregano, onion, parsley, tarragon, garlic
• Zucchini: marjoram, mint, saffron, thyme

Christian Quote of the Day

Theologically, we have been discovering anew that the Church is not an appendage to the Gospel: it is itself a part of the Gospel. The Gospel cannot be separated from that new people of God in which its nature is to be made manifest.

... Stephen Neill

RECIPE of the Day - 2/01/2007

This recipe is a new twist on an old favorite. The apple filling is drizzled with caramel syrup before topping with a nice crumb topping. As my daughter would say, "Good Stuff!"

Caramel Apple Crumb Pie

For Crust:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chilled butter or stick margarine, cut into small pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
3 tablespoons plus 1/2 teaspoon ice water
1 teaspoon cider vinegar
Butter-flavored cooking spray

For Filling:

1 tablespoon butter or stick margarine
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
9 cups sliced peeled Granny Smith apple (about 2 3/4 pounds)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons lemon juice

For Topping:

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons chilled butter or stick margarine, cut into small pieces
1/4 cup fat-free caramel sundae syrup

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

TO PREPARE CRUST: Lightly spoon 1 cup flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine 1 cup flour and salt in a bowl; cut in 2 tablespoons butter and shortening with a pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse meal. Sprinkle surface with ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time; add vinegar. Toss with a fork until moist and crumbly (do not form a ball).

Press mixture gently into a 4-inch circle on heavy-duty plastic wrap; cover with additional plastic wrap. Roll dough, still covered, to a 12-inch circle. Freeze 10 minutes or until plastic wrap can be easily removed.

Remove 1 sheet of plastic wrap; fit dough into a 9-inch pie plate coated with cooking spray. Remove top sheet of plastic wrap. Fold edges under; flute. Line bottom of dough with a piece of foil; arrange pie weights (or dried beans) on foil. Bake at 375 degrees F for 15 minutes or until the edge is lightly browned. Remove pie weights and foil; cool on a wire rack.

TO PREPARE FILLING: Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Combine 1/2 cup brown sugar and cinnamon. Add sugar mixture and apples to skillet; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; stir in 3 tablespoons flour and lemon juice. Spoon into prepared crust.

TO PREPARE TOPPING: Lightly spoon 1/4 cup flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine flour and 1/4 cup brown sugar in a bowl; cut in 2 tablespoons butter with a pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse meal.

Drizzle syrup over apple mixture; sprinkle topping over syrup. Bake at 375 degrees F for 30 minutes or until apples are tender. Cool on a wire rack.

Serving size: 1 wedge

Yield: 10 servings

Calories: 277 Fat: 8g Carbohydrates: 50g
Cholesterol: 16mg Sodium: 109mg Protein: 2g
Fiber: 2g % Cal. from Fat: 26% % Cal. from Carbs: 72%

FREEBIES of the Day - 2/01/07

Free cotton duffel bag from Pet Style. When you register with them, you can upload and share photos of your pet, participate in forums on pet topics, etc. For a really useful duffel bag for your stuff or your pet's stuff, click here!

Optimizer Blue Glasses from THX. These look like the ray bans you see on TV. For a free pair of optimizer glasses to improve your visual clarity, click here!

Dove Advanced Color Care shampoo and conditioner sample. There are two formulas: one for lightened or highlighted hair and one for darker colored hair. This is a great product; it worked really well on my hair (I went back to my natural color and put my hair through a lot to get it there!) For a hair sample that nourishes your hair, click here!

Free Pretzel and E-Card to your valentine from Auntie Anne's (The soft pretzel shop you see in the malls.) This is just another way to say "I Love You" to your true love. For a free love note and soft pretzel to the one you love,

click here!

Free phone number and voice mail. I have seen this advertisement for a while and it is a great deal. You can choose the area code you would like and you can also record a personalized message. This also has a caller ID feature, so you know who is calling. All of the voicemails are recorded and uploaded to your online account and you can access your messages by calling your number and entering a pin # or going online. For a really cool, free phone service,

click here!

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula with vitamin E sample. This is a great product; it makes your skin silky soft. For your free skincare sample, click here!

Coffee mug from ASD. They only send out a limited number of mugs per day, so visit the site early in the day if you can. For a free coffee mug, click here!