06.23.2009

Greetings! I am flattered that you are sitting at your computer reading this when it's so warm and pretty outside! I'm happy to announce this issue we have a new columnist. My bff Terrie is going to be doing a column with things for and about kids called Mommy Moments. She has two daughters, Alyssa, 9 and Hailey, almost 8, so she has lots of mommy experience. Hope you enjoy this issue. Until next time... ~Toni


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(I have decided to start listing birthdays and anniversaries, so if you have one you want included just send it to me by the Friday before the issue date it needs to go in.)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY WISHES TO:

my mom on June 23
Alyssa on June 23
Brittany on June 23
Lib on July 1
Sue on July 2
Marianne on July 3
Toni (yes, me...I'm not too shy to toot my own horn...lol) on July 3
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~Mommy Moments~

Here is an easy pizza recipe that I fix for my girls quite often.
I use soft tortilla shells, pizza sauce, whatever topping you like, bake it just until the cheese is melted and the edges are lightly browned. You can also do this in the microwave, but of course, my girls prefer it baked.

Here is a site that has all sorts of fun food ideas for kids. Enjoy!
http://www.easy-kid-recipes.com/index.html

Here are a few sites that have fun kids games.
http://www.funbrain.com/
http://www.candystand.com/

Here you can check to see if you can take your kids to bowl for FREE :)
http://www.kidsbowlfree.com/
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New Mexico

--Santa Fe is the highest capital city in the United States at 7,000 feet above sea level.

--Each October Albuquerque hosts the world's largest international hot air balloon fiestal.

--The Rio Grande is New Mexico's longest river and runs the entire length of New Mexico.

--The world's first Atomic Bomb was detonated on July 16, 1945 on the White Sands Testing Range near Alamogordo. North of the impact point a small placard marks the area known as Trinity Site. The bomb was designed and manufactured in Los Alamos.

--White Sands National Monument http://tinyurl.com/knm8d4 is a desert, not of sand, but of gleaming white gypsum crystals.

--New Mexico is one of the four corner states. Bordering at the same point with Colorado, Utah and Arizona.

--More than 25,000 Anasazi sites have been identified in New Mexico by archeologists. The Anasazi, an amazing civilization who were the ancestors of the Pueblo, where around for 1300 years. Their great classical period lasted from 1100-1300 AD.

--1/4 of New Mexico is forested, and the state has 7 National Forests including the Nation's largest, the 3.3 million acre Gila National Forest which includes the Gila Wilderness.

--In 1950 the little cub that was to become the National Fire Safety symbol Smokey the Bear was found trapped in a tree when his home in Lincoln National Forest was destroyed by fire. In 1963, in Smokey's honor, the New Mexican legislature chose the black bear to be the official state animal.

--The Navajo, the Nation's largest Native American Group, have a reservation that covers 14 million Acres.

--At Lake Valley, miners discovered silver in veins so pure that the metal could be sawn off in blocks, instead of having to be dug out by traditional methods.

--To test the latest rockets White Sands Missile Range was created on the same land where the first atom bomb had been exploded.

--After WWII Los Alamos and Albuquerque had many new laboratories. Hundreds of highly educated Scientists and Engineers moved in the state. New Mexico soon had a higher percentage of people with Ph.D.s than any other state.

--Two important aspects of New Mexico's economy are scientific research such as the nuclear energy research carried out at Sandia National Laboratories and mining of natural resources such as oil, natural gas, uranium, potash, copper, coal, zinc, gold and silver.

--Since New Mexico's climate is so dry 3/4 of the roads are left unpaved. The roads don't wash away.

--During the height of the so-called lawless era of the late 1800' when Lew Wallace served as territorial Governor, he wrote the popular historical novel Ben-Hur. First published in 1880, it was made into a movie in 1959 starring Charleton Heston.

--Cimarron was once known as the "Cowboy capital of the world". Some of the old west's most famous names, such as Kit Carson and "Buffalo Bill" Cody lived there. A quote from the Las Vegas Gazette illustrates how lawless Cimarron was. "Everything is quiet in Cimarron. Nobody has been killed in 3 days."

--Roswell the states 4th largest city was founded in 1869 when a professional gambler established a lone store on the cattle trail.

--Moon Rocks can be found at the International Space hall of fame that is located in Alamogordo.

--Tens of thousands of bats live in the Carlsbad Caverns. The largest chamber of Carlsbad Caverns is more than 10 football fields long and about 22 stories high.

--Taos Pueblo is located 2 miles north of the city of Taos. It is one of the oldest continuously occupied communities in the United States. People still live in some of its 900 year old buildings.

--New Mexico's capital city Santa Fe is the ending point of the 800 mile Santa Fe Trail.

--The City of Truth or Consequences was once called Hot Springs. In 1950 the town changed its name to the title of a popular radio quiz program.

--New Mexico was named by 16th century Spanish explorers who hoped to find gold and wealth equal to Mexico's Aztec treasures.

--Native Americans have been living in New Mexico for some twenty thousand years. The Pueblo, Apache, Comanche, Navajo, and Ute peoples were in the New Mexico region when Spanish settlers arrived in the 1600s.
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This is a pretty interesting site. Gives decorating ideas from things found at the dollar store.
http://www.dollarstorestyle.com/
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~What I've been reading~

If you like to read true crime books, you will want to check out Columbine by Dave Cullen. I feel like the author interjects his opinions from time to time on certain subjects. Other than that, the author shows you the true and entire story you didn't hear in the media. Cautions: there is bad language and lots of details that aren't for the faint of heart.
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Save Lukewarm Water for Plants

While waiting for hot water from your sink to get hot, place a milk jug under the faucet to collect water. Use this water to water plants, pets, etc. You'll be surprised with how much water you've collected.
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~Tips from Cheryl~

No More Sticky Rice
To prevent rice from sticking to the pot when it's cooking, spray the bottom with and sides with nonstick vegetable spray before you add water or rice.

Reusing Aluminum Foil and Plastic Bags
After you've used it, clean with a damp sponge and wipe from the center to the edge (this will flatten it). Let dry. Clean zipper bags with lots of soap and hot water, rinse well and dry before reusing

Sugar Shaker
Pour granulated sugar into a salt shaker or recycled Parmesan cheese shaker. It will be so handy when you want to sprinkle sugar on pie crust tops, cereal or homemade donuts. You will have good control of how much you add.

Freeze Extra Tomato Sauce
If a recipe calls for just 2 or 3 ounces of tomato sauce or canned tomatoes, save what's left. Pour into ice cube trays, cover and freeze. You will have individual cubes on hand to pop into future dishes.
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~Marie's Laughter~

Mrs. Sullivan and her little daughter Patty were outside the church watching all the comings and goings of a wedding. After the photographs had been taken, everyone had driven off to the reception, and all the excitement was over. Patty asked her mother, “Why did the bride change her mind, Mommy?

“How do you mean, change her mind?” asked Mrs. Sullivan.

"Well", said the child, “she went into the church with one man and came out with another!”
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Head over to http://www.nophonetrees.com or http://www.get2human.com where you can type in the name of a company you're about to call, and instantly find out which special series of numbers will connect you without having to go through the voicemail menu.
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~More tips from Carol~

--In a pan, where you've overcooked your food, is not going to be an easy clean up unless you have some ammonia. Simply pour in a capful of ammonia and then fill your pan with a little bit of water. Bring it to the stove and let it boil. Once it boils just push it all around, and look how easy it comes off.

--Something you should always have handy in your laundry room is a simple bar of soap. It works great to take out make-up stains. Simply wet the soap. Once the water reaches the shirt with that soap on it, the cleaning power will be released and it'll be "clean as new".

--Cleaning the microwave: No one likes those food particles that accumulate on the door and inside. So, take a couple cups of water and put it in the microwave for a couple of minutes. Now, what happens is that the water starts to boil and it starts to steam. All the steam inside the microwave loosens up those food particles. Wait until this is done and watch how easy it is to clean up.

--Cut a lemon in half and just rub it on your cutting board. It'll help disinfect and sanitize it. And for tough stains on plastic or light colored surfaces, simply cut your lemon in half, squeeze on some of that lemon juice and let it sit for about 20 minutes. Rinse with water and its good as new.

--Scuff marks on the floor, crayon marks on the floor and even on the walls: Simply take a sponge, dampen it a little bit, and dip it in some baking soda. Rub away; no more scuff marks and crayon marks to worry about.


--Dusting tip: Use a little fabric softener and mix in a bowl with some warm water. Because it helps keep things static free, it is great for dusting off glass tabletops, TV monitors, even your stereo equipment. (Note from Toni: if you use this on electronics I'd be really careful and not get the cleaning cloth very wet)


--You know when you're moving your furniture around and you find those indentations? Here's a good way to get rid of them. Take a little chip of ice before you go to bed and just put the little chips in the indentation marks. Let it soak through overnight. In the morning, after its dry, the bristles start to come back up. Use a fork to fluff. Indentations marks be gone.

--When you spill cooking oil on your kitchen floor. Here's how to clean it up: First clean up any glass if it's a glass container. You want to cover the oil with a thick layer of flour and let it sit for a few minutes because the flour will absorb the oil. Then, just sweep up the flour-oil mixture into a dust pan. And, for those really thick oil spots, you might have to use a paper towel actually to "scrunch" it into the dust pan. Then throw it all away. Then just use some glass cleaner to get any of the remaining oil off the floor and there you have it. Fresh and Clean! Probably cleaner than it was before you dropped that oil.
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At http://digital-photography-school.com/ you'll find tips such as: You can give the impression of a thinner tummy by rotating your upper body slightly at the waist. And make thighs look narrower by crossing one leg in front of the other. One last tip, ask the person photographing you to hold the camera slightly above eye level and point it down if you have a double chin.
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more state Preambles from Regina:

--Massachusetts 1780, We...the people of Massachusetts, acknowledging with grateful hearts, the goodness of the Great Legislator of the Universe In the course of His Providence, an opportunity and devoutly imploring His direction ..

--Michigan 1908, We, the people of the State of Michigan , grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of freedom establish this Constitution.

--Minnesota, 1857, We, the people of the State of Minnesota, grateful to God for our civil and religious liberty, and desiring to perpetuate its blessings:

--Mississippi 1890, We, the people of Mississippi in convention assembled, grateful to Almighty God, and invoking His blessing on our work.

--Missouri 1845, We, the people of Missouri, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and grateful for His goodness . Establish this Constitution....

--Montana 1889, We, the people of Montana, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty establish this Constitution ...

--Nebraska 1875, We, the people, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom . Establish this Constitution..

--Nevada 1864, We the people of the State of Nevada, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, establish this Constitution...

--New Hampshire 1792, Part I. Art. I. Sec. V Every individual has a natural and unalienable right to worship God
according to the dictates of his own conscience.

--New Jersey 1844, We, the people of the State of New Jersey, grateful to Almighty God for civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.

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Such a cool idea! This is a free webside that lets you quickly track every gift you've given and received, complete with a search box, so you can take 5 seconds to make sure you're not giving the same gift you did last year. You can also get free email reminders.
http://www.giftelephant.com/
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Here is a recipe that Lib sent in for us:

VEGGIE BURGERS

2 CUPS DICED ONIONS
2 CUPS DICED MUSHROOMS
2 GREEN PEPPERS DICED
2 CANS CHICK PEAS OR PINTOS MASHED
1 SMALL CAN TOMATO PASTE
1 CUP MOZARELLA CHEESE GRATED.
2 CUP CARROTS, SHREDDED
2 EGGS
1 or more TEASPOONS EACH OF CUMIN, CAYEENE,DILL, GARLIC POWDER
3 TEASPOONS DIJON MUSTARD
2 CUPS BREAD CRUMBS

Chop and sauté onions, mushrooms & peppers. Combine all ingredientsand make patties. Grease pan and bake at 350º for 20 minutes. Flip. Bake 10 more minutes. Great done on the barbeque or fried. Good with barbeque sauce. Freezes well.

(Add the spices to the veggies as you fry them - gives better distribution.
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You know you've had that carton of eggs in your fridge for weeks (or maybe months). Are the eggs still safe to eat? How about the jars of capers or marmalade that you bought for that recipe and haven't used yet? http://www.stilltasty.com is a website devoted to answering the question: Save it or toss it? It provides shelf life info for thousands of foods, answers questions, and provides info on topics related to food safety.
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More real celebrity names:

Billy Idol -- William Board
Marty Ingels -- Martin Ingerman
Burl Ives -- Burle Icle Ivanhoe
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Firefly Watch is recruiting volunteers to devote just 10 minutes each week to monitor firefly numbers in their back yard. Details and instructions are available at https://www.mos.org/fireflywatch/
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The unusual town names list is mighty short this week...

Papa, Hawaii
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Did you know? Though Hawaiians use the word "aloha" for both "hello" and "goodbye", the literal traslation is "love".
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Hello everyone from Phyllis!

June is almost done, and we'll be celebrating the 4th of July soon. Typically on the 4th of July, we go see fireworks or cook out on the grill.
The 4th of July is the anniversary of the day when the Continental Congress adopted the final draft of the Declaration of Independence, in 1776. Independence Day was made an official holiday in 1783. In 1941, Congress declared it a federal holiday.
Here is a list of the ten best places in America to go watch fireworks:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8379793/
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July 1
The first adhesive postage stamp was offered for sale in 1847.
The United States Post Office started using 4 digit zip codes in 1963.

July 2
Amelia Earhart disappeared over the Pacific Ocean in 1937.

July 3
Congress created the United States Veterans Administration in 1930.
Singer Jim Morrisson of the Doors died at the age of 27 in 1971.

July 4
Thomas Jefferson died in 1826.

July 5
The first bikini was debuted in Paris in 1946.

July 6
Louis Pasteur successfully tested an anti-rabies vaccine in 1885.

July 7
Readers Digest was founded in 1922.

July 8
Florentz Ziegfeld introduced his "follies" in 1907.

July 9
Louisiana and South Carolina were re-admitted to the Union in 1868.

July 10
Wyoming was the 44th state to enter the Union in 1890.

July 11
President John Quincy Adams was born in 1767.

July 12
Congress authorized the Medal of Honor in 1862.

July 13
Alabama was re-admitted to the Union in 1868.

July 14
Billy the Kid was shot by Sheriff Pat Garrett in 1881.
President Gerald Ford was born in 1913.

July 15
Georgia was re-admitted to the Union in 1870.
Billy the Kid died at the age of 21 in 1881.
The Boeing Company began in Seattle Washington in 1916.
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The ruby is the birthstone for July.
The water lily is the flower of the month.
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Here's a great use for all that junk mail you get...make paper beads with your kids!

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Paper-Beads
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Memory Lane
Do you remember drive in movie theaters? The first drive in movie theater was opened in 1933 in Camden, NJ. Drive in movie theaters peaked in popularity in the 50's and 60's with over 4,000 theaters in the U.S. But in the 80's with the cost of land rising and the popularity of VCR's, many drive ins started to close, until there were less than 750 left by the mid 90's.
For some reason, the decline of drive in movie theaters has stopped. Here are a couple of cool websites to tell you more about the history of drive in theaters, and to tell you if there are still any open in your area.

http://www.driveinmovie.com/mainmenu.htm

http://www.driveintheater.com/
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Alternative drive in theaters:

http://mobmov.org/
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Smiling is contagious, you catch it like the flu,
When someone smiled at me today, I started smiling too.
I passed around a corner, and someone saw my grin,
When he smiled I realized I'd passed it onto him.

I thought about that smile, then realized its worth,
A single smile, just like mine, could travel round the Earth.
So if you feel a smile begin, don't leave it undetected -
Let's start an epidemic quick, and get the world infected.
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Save money when dining out with your kids-
http://www.frugalliving.tv/free-stuff/kids-eat-free.html
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Legacy Locker
This site isn't free, but its worth checking out.
http://legacylocker.com/
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Spring and summer can bring unpredictable weather. From severe thunderstorms, flash floods, hurricanes and tornadoes, the weather can be dangerous. Here are some tips to get you through weather emergencies;

BUILD A PREPAREDNESS KIT:
Include at least one flashlight for each family member.
Also include a battery operated lantern for lighting bigger areas.
Include a battery operated radio.
Don't forget to include extra batteries in all sizes.
Remember to add specialty batteries for things like hearing aids, glucose monitors, etc.
When you 'spring forward' each year, take the time to check the batteries in your preparedness kit. (This is also a good time to check the batteries in your homes smoke alarms.)
Be sure to put your kit in a place that is easily accessable.

DEVELOP A PLAN:
Locate the safest places in your house to go to in the event of a disaster. But remember that some times your safest place might not be at home, but somewhere else in your community.
Determine escape routes from your home, and places to meet.

PROTECT YOUR HOME:
There are 4 critical areas to reinforce and protect; roof, shutters, doors and garage doors.
Make trees more wind resistant by removing damaged limgs that could post a threat to your property during a storm.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS TO HAVE FOR AN EMERGENCY:
Water; FEMA says each person should have a supply of one gallon of water per day for 3 days.
Food; enough to last 3 to 7 days.
Non-electric can opener; so you can open your food when the power is out.
Paper plates and plastic utensils.
Blankets and pillows.
First aid kit, including your prescriptions.
Pet care items.

For more safety tips, visit
http://www.energizer.com/preparedness/Default.aspx
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A website for gardeners, with fun things for kids each month:
http://gardeningtips.org/
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Awe inspiring views of earth from space:
http://www.environmentalgraffiti.com/featured/20-amazing-images-of-earth-as-seen-from-space/12526
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Easy Meatball Casserole

18 oz package of frozen meatballs, thawed
16 oz package frozen peppers and onion mix, thawed
2 cups chunky pasta sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Combine meatballs, peppers and onions mix and pasta sauce in a 2 quart glass casserole, and mix well to combine.
Top with cheeses.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until casserole is bubbling and cheese has melted.

Makes 6 servings.
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To find out when your favorite singers or bands will be touring your area, go to:

http://www.songkick.com/
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Just for fun:

http://lsdex.ru/interactive-psychedelic/interactive-kaleidoscope/
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Here's a site where you can enter various sweepstakes:

http://www.prizey.net/
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Cool Pick for kids:
This weeks Cool Pick website is

http://funschool.kaboose.com/index.html
This site is just chock full of activities for kids, ranging in ages from preschool to middle school! From games to downloadable coloring pages, there is sure to be something that your child will like. So the next time your son or daughter complains of being bored, send them to FunSchool!
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For weather buffs, here's a site that will show you the lightning strikes within the U.S. within the last hour.

http://www.strikestarus.com/

06.09.2009

Hi everyone! I know by the calendar summer hasn't arrived yet, but as far as I'm concerned, it's summer now! I'm lovin it! So let me share what I have so we can all get back outside and soak in some rays! ~Toni
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West Virginia Day celebrates West Virginia’s admission to the United States of America on June 20, 1863. Although observed unofficially since 1863, the anniversary of statehood became an official state holiday in 1927. If June 20 falls on a Sunday, West Virginia Day is observed on Monday June 21.

West Virginia's early history from 1609 until 1863 is largely shared with Virginia, of which it was a part until Virginia seceded from the Union in 1861. The delegates of the 40 western counties opposed secession and formed their own government, which was granted statehood in 1863 as West Virginia.

Celebrations in honor of the holiday include games, barbecues, concerts, art festivals, historic displays, exhibitions, guided tours, and reenactments of Civil War battles. Most state offices, schools, and libraries are closed for the holiday.
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~Marie's Laughter~

There's this little guy sitting inside a bar, just looking at his drink. He stays like that for half-an-hour.Then, this big trouble-making truck driver steps next to him, takes the drink from the guy, and just drinks it all down.The poor man starts crying. The truck driver says: "Come on man, I was just joking. Here, I'll buy you another drink. I just can't see a man crying." "No, it's not that. Today day is the worst of my life. First, I overslept and was late to an important meeting. My boss, outrageous, fired me. When I left the building to my car, I found out it was stolen. The police, they said they could do nothing. I got a cab to return home, and after I paid the cab driver and the cab had gone, I found that I left my whole wallet in the cab. I got home only to find my wife was in bed with the gardener. I left home and came to this bar. And when I was thinking about putting an end to my life, you show up and drink my poison ..."
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Being on dial up I have not actually checked this site out, so I'm hoping it's helpful and fun. You can watch DIY and instructional videos here for a wide array of topics. http://www.5min.com/
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~Tips from Cheryl~

Lawn Mower Safety Getting ready for summer lawn care? Be aware of the following: Do not disconnect safety controls; they are there to protect you. And don't add fuel to the mower when it's running or if the engine is still hot. Always be mindful of the fact that gas and gas fumes are extremely flammable.

Pretty Way to Serve Melon Don't just slice honeydew or cantaloupe or watermelon as you normally do. Instead scoop out with a melon baller or ice cream scoop and make an attractive pile of melon balls.

Computer Keyboard Dirty Crumbs and dust in your keyboard? To remove, unplug and turn keyboard upside down over a trashcan and gently shake out all the crud that's stuck in and around the keys. Then wipe off keys with a lightly damp microfiber cloth (don't over-wet because you don't want liquid dripping into the keys).

Keep Cheap Paper Plates Handy They can be used in so many ways: as a dustpan, cutting board, throwaway spoon rest. In the microwave, they can serve as a spill-catcher or put over top of food to avoid splatters.

=Cheryl says this tip is not a favorite of hers, but she's sharing just in case this would be something you would like...=

Have a Bit of Jam or Jelly Left? When you're reached the end of the jar and there's just small amount of jam or jelly remaining, don't throw it out. Instead make a fruity shake. Add milk, shake well and pour into glass.
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Head here and you can set up a text number and description for anything you're selling--free of charge. Just post the text message number on your For Sale sign and those interested can dial to instantly get detailed info about what you're selling, including price, description, photos, and contact info. http://www.forsalebytxt.com/
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In our continuing series of the Preambles of the 50 states:

-Hawaii 1959, We, the people of Hawaii, Grateful for Divine Guidance ... Establish this Constitution.
-Idaho 1889, We, the people of the State of Idaho , grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings.
-Illinois 1870, We, the people of the State of Illinois, grateful to Almighty God for the civil , political and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.
-Indiana 1851, We, the People of the State of Indiana, grateful to Almighty God for the free exercise of the right to choose our form of government.
-Iowa 1857, We, the People of the St ate of Iowa, grateful to the Supreme Being for the blessings hitherto enjoyed, and feeling our dependence on Him for a continuation of these blessings, establish this Constitution.
-Kansas 1859, We, the people of Kansas, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious privileges establish this Constitution.
-Kentucky 1891, We, the people of the Commonwealth are grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties...
-Louisiana 1921, We, the people of the State of Louisiana, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties we enjoy.
-Maine 1820, We the People of Maine acknowledging with grateful hearts the goodness of the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe in affording us an opportunity ... And imploring His aid and direction...
-Maryland 1776, We, the people of the state of Maryland, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberty...
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Looking for financial help? Whether you're thinking of starting a small business, going back to school or putting your child in daycare, you may qualify for a loan, scholarship or grant from the government. Just log on to http://www.govbenefits.gov/govbenefits_en.portal and fill out a short questionnaire, then you'll be pointed to all the federal and state programs that can help you reach your goal.
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Carol sent us these tips:
Removing ink from clothing: Sometimes this happens to us. You're writing something and your pen drops and you get a stain on your favorite shirt. Well, simply use hairspray. Spray it on and really saturate the area. Then blot it with either a paper towel or a cloth. Don't rub it. Just press really hard. Rubbing will only spread the stain. But just by pressing hard, see how the ink is already starting to get removed. Then just throw it in the wash and wash as you normally would.

Removing ink from the walls: Well, what you can do for that is also use a handy bottle of hairspray. Spray it on and wipe it right off. And what if one's fingers "do the walking" on your phone with a pen. Or a permanent marker. Look what happens when you use rubbing alcohol. Rub it around with a paper towel or cloth and it comes right off.

Baking soda can be used for so many things around the house. One thing I love to use it on is extra greasy pots and pans. For a really tough job, simply put a tablespoon of baking soda in with your regular dishwashing soap, And then go ahead and "scrub away". You'll notice how fast it cuts the grease. The next time you have a nasty bug bite, simply wet the bite a little bit, dab on some baking soda (rub it around, making a paste) and it will help relieve the itching.

You usually find baby oil in, well, a baby's room. But, you know, you can use it all throughout your house--including the garage! The next time you're painting and you get paint all over your arm, simply use some baby oil and it'll come right off. It's a lot better than using your fingernails or some abrasive to "scrape" it off. Plus, it makes your skin feel smooth and it smells a lot better than turpentine. You can also use baby oil to remove tree sap from your hands if you're out in the yard working on your trees or even when you bring in your Christmas tree. Put on some baby oil and rub it around, And, ah, that "stickiness" is totally gone. Wash off your hands and you're "good to go". Baby oil also works well as an insect repellant and it smells a lot less much less harsh. Finally, if you get gum stuck in hair, put a little baby oil around the area and it'll come right out.
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Sign up here to get e-mail alerts any time a warning is issued for any medication you take.
https://www.consumermedsafety.org/medsafetyalert.asp
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This week we're learning about New Jersey:
--New Jersey has the highest population density in the U.S. An average 1,030 people per sq. mi., which is 13 times the national average.
--In November of 1914, the New York Tribune, cooperating with Mr. Bertram Chapman Mayo (founder of Beachwood) issued an "Extra" announcing: "Subscribe to the New York Tribune and secure a lot at Beautiful Beachwood. Act at once, secure your lot in this Summer Paradise now!" This was the greatest premium offered by a newspaper - nothing equal to it was ever attempted in the United States.
--In order to meet the increasing demand for his wire rope John Roebling opened a factory in Trenton, New Jersey in 1848. John Roebling, along with his two sons, Washington and Ferdinand, built a suspension bridge across the gorge of the Niagara River. They then built the Brooklyn Bridge plus many other suspension bridges in the United States.
--North Jersey has the most shopping malls in one area in the world with seven major shopping malls in a 25 sq. mile radius.
--Passaic river was the site to the first submarine ride by inventor John P. Holland.
--New Jersey is a leading industrial state and is the largest chemical producing state in the nation.
--The light bulb, phonograph (record player), motion picture projector were invented by Thomas Edison in his Menlo Park laboratory.
--Atlantic City is where the street names came from for the game Monopoly.
--Atlantic City has the longest boardwalk in the world.
--New Jersey has the largest petroleum containment area outside of the Middle East countries. --New Jersey has the tallest water tower in the world.
--The first tin-foil phonograph developed by Thomas Edison was crude, but it proved his point-- that sound could be recorded and played back. Thomas Edison had phonograph demonstrations and became world-renowned as the "Wizard of Menlo Park" for this invention.
--The first baseball game was played in Hoboken.
--The first intercollegiate football game was played in New Brunswick, in 1869. Rutgers College played Princeton. Rutgers won.
--The first Drive-In Movie theatre was opened in Camden.
--New Jersey has 108 toxic waste dumps. Which is the most in any one state in the nation.
--New Jersey has a spoon museum featuring over 5,400 spoons from every state and almost every country.
--Origin of name: From the Channel Isle of Jersey.
--In 1977, New Jersey voters approved legislation allowing legalized casino gambling in Atlantic City.
--Modern paleontology, the science of studying dinosaur fossils, began in 1858 with the discovery of the first nearly complete skeleton of a dinosaur in Haddonfield, New Jersey.
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Heading to the beach this summer? Check the water safety here to keep from getting sick.
http://iaspub.epa.gov/waters10/beacon_national_page.main
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New stamp release June 11

Anna Julia Cooper (Black Heritage)
As the 32nd inductee into the Black Heritage series, the Postal Service honors Anna Julia Cooper (c.1858-1964), an educator, scholar, feminist and activist who gave voice to the African-American community during the 19th and 20th centuries — from the end of slavery to the beginning of the Civil Rights Movement. The stamp features a portrait of Cooper created by Kadir Nelson, who based his painting on an undated photograph. Nelson worked under the direction of art director Ethel Kessler.
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Heading for the beach? You know you'll have sticky sand all over you, but what to do? Bring along some baby powder and sprinkle on sandy feet and legs just before heading home. Sand will brush off like magic.
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Make cut flowers last longer by putting them in 1 quart of lukewarm water with 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon bleach and 2 tablespoons lemon juice. This mixture balances the water's pH and kills bacteria.
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John and I used to use a lot of paper napkins. I knew using cloth napkins would save money, but all the napkins I'd see seemed rather pricey to me which seemed to defeat the whole purpose. And then it dawned on me to buy some plain white men's handkerchiefs. I got a pack of 13 for less than $4. And best of all, they're white so I can toss them in with other whites that I'm using bleach in and keep them nice and sanitary.
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Carol sent me a story about a place called the Shoe House located near York PA. You can see picture of this cool structure at http://www.jarrettsville.org/family/shoehouse.htm Also you can read about "Colonel" Mahlon N. Haines, known as the Shoe Wizard of York, who had the Shoe House built. Thanks for sending this to me Carol! I really enjoyed the pictures and the history behind it.
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Hello everyone! I hope the month of June has gotten off to a great start for you! I'm really enjoying the weather...it still hasn't gotten TOO hot here yet! Well, I have lots of websites, a recipe and other things to share with you so lets get right to it. ~Phyllis
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Coming in June...
The start of the Atlantic Hurricane season was June 1st
http://www.floridasmart.com/sciencenature/weather/hurricanes.htm

June 14 is Flag Day

Fathers Day is June 21st, which is also the first day of Summer.
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For a trip down Memory Lane, take a look at
http://www.wishbookweb.com/

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Here's a site to help you save a little money!
http://www.groceryshrink.com/index.html
The Grocery Shrink is a site where you can sign up for a free weekly newsletter full of money saving tips, recipes and more. When you sign up, you'll get an email with recipes to make your own cleaning products. Not only do these cleaning products save you money, they're also eco friendly!
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A funny site that shows you out dated books still on some public library shelves:

http://awfullibrarybooks.wordpress.com/
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Toothpaste...its not just for brushing your teeth with! Here are a few more uses for toothpaste that you might not have thought of:

1. It cleans the white rubber part of your tennis shoes. Paste (not gel) works best. Just get an old toothbrush, apply some toothpaste and scrub the rubber part of the shoe. Then use a damp cloth to get the toothpaste off and your sneakers will look almost as good as new.

2. Is your iron gunked up? Non-gel toothpaste contains a very mild abrasive. Apply it to a cool iron and scrub with a washcloth, then use another cloth with a bit of water to rinse it off.

3. And if that diamond ring don't shine....use toothpaste! Use an old toothbrush and a little bit of toothpaste to make the ring sparkle again. Clean off the residue with a damp cloth.

4. Ewww...smelly baby bottle? Toothpaste can deodorize it. Just put a bit on the baby bottle brush, and scrub. Be sure to rinse well to get all toothpaste residue out.

5. Hang posters on the wall. Just put a little dab on each corner of the poster and a little dab here and there in between. Your poster will stick to the wall, and when you want to remove it there won't be any nail holes.

6. Speaking of nail holes...toothpaste can take care of those too! Just put a little toothpaste in the hole and let it dry. Then you can paint right over it.

Got any other uses for toothpaste to share? Send them to me and I'll put them in the next issue of the newsletter.
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Online white noise generator:
http://simplynoise.com/
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COOL PICK
.
This weeks Cool Pick website is

http://www.geocaching.com/
Geocaching (pronounced "geo-cashing") is "a high tech treasure hunting game." It is played all around the world by people with GPS devices. After you sign up and register for a free membership, you can search for hidden geocaches and then talk about it online with other treasure hunters, or even place your own geocache to be found. Geocaching is a great way to spend time together as a family, so check out the website to find all the information you'll need to get started.
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If you're planning a trip by bus, find the lowest rate at:

http://busjunction.com/
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Fun for kids
National Geographic has a website with lots of fun & educational things for kids such as the Wildlife Film Maker! Kids can make their own wildlife mini-film to share with their friends.
http://animals.nationalgeographic..com/animals/article/filmmaker.html
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Crockpot Sweet Potato Chili

2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2 inch chunks
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) tomatoes
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp chipotle chili powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup water
1/2 cup orange juice (if you don't have orange juice in the house, you can use another 1/2 cup water instead.)

Peel and cut up the sweet potato and put it in the crockpot.
Add onion, red pepper, tomatoes, garlic and seasonings. Pour in orange juice and water.
Cover and cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours.
Makes 4 servings.
ENJOY!
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Lots to read at

http://www.allyoucanread.com/
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If you're a fan of old radio shows, this site is for you:
http://www.radiolovers.com/
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I'm sure this has happened to almost everyone...you go to a movie and halfway through, you need to visit the restroom! But you don't want to miss anything. Here's a website to tell you when is the best time in the movie to make that quick bathroom trip!

http://runpee.com/#app=3e1a&e1bd-RunPeeID=0.0.0&b35-selectedIndex=0
So the next time you plan a trip to the movies, check out "Runpee" first just in case!
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Amusement Park Safety Tips

This is the time of year when most people go to amusement parks, so I thought I would include some safety tips in this issue of the newsletter.

1. Dress your kids in colorful, distinctive clothing. This will make it easier for you to not only keep track of them, but also make it easier to describe them should they get lost.
2. Designate a place to meet if you get separated. Pick something that can be seen from any point of the amusement park, such as a ferris wheel. Also, as soon as you enter the park, point out the park employees to your child and have them make note of what they are wearing. That way, if your child gets lost, he or she will know who to go to for help.
3. Don't forget the sun screen! And be sure to drink plenty of water so you don't get dehydrated.
4. Stay away from restricted areas. They are restricted for good reason! In August 2008, a man was hit by a roller coaster and killed after he went into a restricted area to get his hat which had blown off while he was riding the coaster. (Source; http://www.rideaccidents.com/
5. Pay attention to the warnings posted at each ride. These warnings are there to protect you. Usually they say the ride is not recommended for people under or over a certain height, or with certain conditions such as heart problems.
6. Sit properly in the seat of each ride. Keep your hands and legs inside the ride. Don't crowd people who are getting off the ride. If you are on a roller coaster with no floor, let your legs dangle. Don't kick them out in front of you or to the side.
7. If you see something wrong, like a broken restraint, alert a park employee right away.
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If you are losing weight and want to calculate your weight loss percentage, just go to

http://www.fitwatch.com/qkcalc/calculate-weight-loss-percentage.html
and fill in your starting weight and your current weight.
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Just for fun!
http://www.dialsongs.com/