Some of the tips that helped land job interviews ten years ago just don't work anymore. Here are six outdated resume rules you should ignore.
#1.) Your Resume Can Only Be One Page. Two-page resumes are common now. If you're young and don't have much experience, stick to one page. Otherwise, two's fine.
#2.) Your Resume Should List Every Job You've Had. Actually, this was NEVER a good tip. Your resume should make you look as qualified as possible. So if you dressed up as a toy soldier outside FAO Schwarz 10 years ago, and it has nothing to do with the job you're applying for, don't list it.
#3.) Putting "References Available Upon Request" at the Bottom. Hiring managers already assume that if they want a reference, you'll provide one. So writing it out just takes up an extra line and makes you look old.
#4.) You Should Have an "Objective" at the Top of Your Resume. Companies don't care about it anymore. And if it doesn't perfectly fit the position you're applying for, it might actually hurt your chances. Some people list their career highlights or skills where the objective used to go. Or you can just leave it out.
#5.) You Should Be More Formal When You Write Your Cover Letter. These days, the best resumes and cover letters are somewhat conversational. And if you're too formal, you either sound stiff or dishonest.
#6.) A Few Days After Submitting Your Resume, Make a Follow-Up Phone Call. A phone call used to be the only way to make sure your resume got there. But now, getting an extra phone call in the middle of work can be annoying. So as long as you send it to the right email address and remember to attach the file, you're fine. And if you DO need to contact them again, do it over email.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Seven Things That Are Actually Getting Cheaper:
It seems like just about everything costs more than it used to. And prices for everything from coffee and bacon, to rent, health care, and used cars have hit all-time highs. But according to "Time" magazine, here are seven things that are actually getting cheaper.
#1.) Pools. Sales of in-ground pools have dropped 75% since 2004. And it's caused what "The Wall Street Journal" called, quote, "one of the most dramatic discounting eras ever seen." If you're in the market, most companies are offering big discounts, and throwing in extra stuff for free.
#2.) IKEA Products. By cutting the cost of materials, transportation, design, production, and marketing, IKEA is lowering prices on everything by two to three percent this year. And they're also doing the same thing NEXT year.
#3.) Volkswagens. Most cars are getting more expensive, but in the last two years, Volkswagen has lowered the base price of both the Jetta and the Passat. Last year, they dropped the price of the Jetta by about $1,700 to $15,995 And the 2012 Passat starts at $19,995, which is $7,000 cheaper than the 2011 model. Although, according to car experts, the new models aren't quite as good.
#4.) Real Estate. Homeowners aren't happy about this one, but it's great if you're planning to buy. In the last few years, housing prices have decreased by one-third, which is even more than they did during the Great Depression.
#5.) Solar Panels. 66% more Americans had solar panels installed in the first quarter of 2011 than in 2010. And it's partly because the price of solar panel equipment has dropped 15% over the last year.
#6.) 3-D Televisions. Last July, a 50-inch 3-D television cost about $900 more than a regular 50-inch TV did. But right now, the 3-D version is about $400 more.
#7.) Going Into Space. A company called SpaceX is developing new rockets that will make space travel one-third to one-half cheaper. But it'll still cost about $100,000 per person. So . . . start saving now?
#1.) Pools. Sales of in-ground pools have dropped 75% since 2004. And it's caused what "The Wall Street Journal" called, quote, "one of the most dramatic discounting eras ever seen." If you're in the market, most companies are offering big discounts, and throwing in extra stuff for free.
#2.) IKEA Products. By cutting the cost of materials, transportation, design, production, and marketing, IKEA is lowering prices on everything by two to three percent this year. And they're also doing the same thing NEXT year.
#3.) Volkswagens. Most cars are getting more expensive, but in the last two years, Volkswagen has lowered the base price of both the Jetta and the Passat. Last year, they dropped the price of the Jetta by about $1,700 to $15,995 And the 2012 Passat starts at $19,995, which is $7,000 cheaper than the 2011 model. Although, according to car experts, the new models aren't quite as good.
#4.) Real Estate. Homeowners aren't happy about this one, but it's great if you're planning to buy. In the last few years, housing prices have decreased by one-third, which is even more than they did during the Great Depression.
#5.) Solar Panels. 66% more Americans had solar panels installed in the first quarter of 2011 than in 2010. And it's partly because the price of solar panel equipment has dropped 15% over the last year.
#6.) 3-D Televisions. Last July, a 50-inch 3-D television cost about $900 more than a regular 50-inch TV did. But right now, the 3-D version is about $400 more.
#7.) Going Into Space. A company called SpaceX is developing new rockets that will make space travel one-third to one-half cheaper. But it'll still cost about $100,000 per person. So . . . start saving now?
Monday, July 25, 2011
Here are the 25 Signs You're Getting Old:
A new survey in England came up with the 25 signs YOU'RE GETTING OLD. Ready to see how many of them apply to you? If the answer is "a lot," you're not alone: About 60% of the people surveyed said they were showing plenty of signs from the list. And a decent number of those people were in their 20s. Here are the signs:
#1. You fall asleep in front of the TV . . . #2. You wake up feeling stiff . . . #3. You groan when you bend down . . . #4. You're shocked by sexual music videos . . . #5. You hate noisy bars and restaurants . . . #6. You think teachers, cops, and doctors look really young . . . #7. You grow more ear hair and nose hair . . . #8. You struggle to use technology . . . #9. You forget people's names . . . #10. You don't know any of the top 10 songs on the radio. #11. You choose clothes and shoes for comfort, not style . . . #12. You start driving slower . . . #13. Your tastes change and you like "older" drinks, like sherry . . . #14. You complain more . . . #15. You misplace things more often. . .#16. You think your coworkers keep getting younger . . . #17. You take mid-afternoon naps . . . #18. You complain about all the garbage on TV these days . . . #19. Your ears get bigger . . . #20. You like going for a nice Sunday walk . . . #21. You're losing your hair . . . #22. You go on vacation to a place that doesn't allow kids . . . #23. You develop an interest in gardening . . . #24. You like being carded for alcohol . . . #25. You know your alcohol limit, and cut yourself off.
The survey also found that the majority of people say SIXTY is the age when someone can officially be considered "old."
#1. You fall asleep in front of the TV . . . #2. You wake up feeling stiff . . . #3. You groan when you bend down . . . #4. You're shocked by sexual music videos . . . #5. You hate noisy bars and restaurants . . . #6. You think teachers, cops, and doctors look really young . . . #7. You grow more ear hair and nose hair . . . #8. You struggle to use technology . . . #9. You forget people's names . . . #10. You don't know any of the top 10 songs on the radio. #11. You choose clothes and shoes for comfort, not style . . . #12. You start driving slower . . . #13. Your tastes change and you like "older" drinks, like sherry . . . #14. You complain more . . . #15. You misplace things more often. . .#16. You think your coworkers keep getting younger . . . #17. You take mid-afternoon naps . . . #18. You complain about all the garbage on TV these days . . . #19. Your ears get bigger . . . #20. You like going for a nice Sunday walk . . . #21. You're losing your hair . . . #22. You go on vacation to a place that doesn't allow kids . . . #23. You develop an interest in gardening . . . #24. You like being carded for alcohol . . . #25. You know your alcohol limit, and cut yourself off.
The survey also found that the majority of people say SIXTY is the age when someone can officially be considered "old."
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Slow Cooker Asian Tomato Beef
Spend just 10 minutes putting this recipe together earlier in the day, and come home to a tender beef and broccoli dish that's as good as a restaurant entrée.
Ingredients: 2 cans (10 3/4 ounces each) Condensed Tomato Soup, 1/3 cup soy sauce, 1/3 cup vinegar, 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 boneless beef round steak (3 to 3 1/2 pounds), cut into strips, 6 cups broccoli florets, hot cooked rice
Directions: Stir the soup, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, black pepper and beef in a 3 1/2-quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir in the broccoli. Increase the heat to HIGH. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Serve the beef mixture with the rice. This recipe may also be cooked on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours.
Ingredients: 2 cans (10 3/4 ounces each) Condensed Tomato Soup, 1/3 cup soy sauce, 1/3 cup vinegar, 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 boneless beef round steak (3 to 3 1/2 pounds), cut into strips, 6 cups broccoli florets, hot cooked rice
Directions: Stir the soup, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, black pepper and beef in a 3 1/2-quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir in the broccoli. Increase the heat to HIGH. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Serve the beef mixture with the rice. This recipe may also be cooked on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours.
Tipping 15% Isn't Enough Anymore. Here's What You SHOULD Be Tipping:
If you're going out for dinner . . . or even picking up dinner to bring home . . . here's a guide from the magazine "LA Weekly" on what constitutes an acceptable tip these days. Basically, they say 15% isn't enough anymore, and you should almost always leave at least 20%, even when you order delivery. But here are more specific things the article says.
#1.) Baristas. When you're at Starbucks, a dollar in the jar is pretty much the standard. If you order a coffee and a scone, that's about 20%. But if you just order a coffee and the barista makes it correctly, you're still supposed to leave a buck.
#2.) Bartenders. A dollar a drink. But "LA Weekly" says if you're at a trendy place that charges $15 for a Red Bull and vodka, you should leave two.
#2.) If Your Waiter Is Also the Owner of the Restaurant. Still leave 20%. It doesn't change the fact that he's doing the same thing a normal waiter would do. And small business owners aren't always swimming in money.
#3.) Picking Up a To-Go Order. If there's a tip line on the credit card receipt, and all the person at the register did was package up your food, 10% is enough.
#4.) Valets. At least two dollars, but three if you really like your car.
#1.) Baristas. When you're at Starbucks, a dollar in the jar is pretty much the standard. If you order a coffee and a scone, that's about 20%. But if you just order a coffee and the barista makes it correctly, you're still supposed to leave a buck.
#2.) Bartenders. A dollar a drink. But "LA Weekly" says if you're at a trendy place that charges $15 for a Red Bull and vodka, you should leave two.
#2.) If Your Waiter Is Also the Owner of the Restaurant. Still leave 20%. It doesn't change the fact that he's doing the same thing a normal waiter would do. And small business owners aren't always swimming in money.
#3.) Picking Up a To-Go Order. If there's a tip line on the credit card receipt, and all the person at the register did was package up your food, 10% is enough.
#4.) Valets. At least two dollars, but three if you really like your car.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Six Office Supplies That Can Fix a Wardrobe Malfunction:
Most people have had some kind of clothing malfunction at work before, like a stain or a rip. But the next time it happens, you don't have to look like an idiot all day, or wait until you get home to deal with it. Here are six office supplies that can fix a wardrobe malfunction.
#1.) To Loosen a Stuck Zipper, Use a Pencil. The graphite in a number-two pencil can act like lubrication. Just rub it across the teeth of the zipper a few times, and it should help loosen it up.
#2.) If You Stain Your Shirt, Use Dry-Erase Board Cleaner to Clean It. The main ingredient is rubbing alcohol, which can remove small stains. Just blot the stain using a paper towel, and be careful you don't get it near your eyes. But test it on a hidden part of your clothing first, and make sure it doesn't cause the color to run.
#3.) Use a FedEx or UPS Packing Pouch to Remove Pet Hair. If you realize your shirt has cat hair all over it, take the paper strip off a packing pouch so the stick part is exposed. Then put the pouch on like a glove, and run it over your shirt a few times. If you don't have a packing pouch, you can do the same thing with a regular piece of packing tape.
#4.) If a Hem Rips, Use a Stapler to Fix It. It seems weird because it'll leave little holes in your clothes. But pins do the same thing, and people use pins on clothing all the time. So if a hem or a seam rips, just staple it back together. But make sure you use a staple remover later when you take them out. Otherwise you'll rip the fabric.
#5.) Use a Sharpie to Fix a Scuffed Shoe. You'll need the right color, but you CAN use a Sharpie on shoes. Just don't use it on clothing or it'll stain.
#6.) If You Lose the Back to an Earring, Use an Eraser. You could also just not wear earrings for the rest of the day. But if you absolutely MUST, a piece of eraser can hold the earring in place. It won't even turn your skin green the way earrings with nickel do.
#1.) To Loosen a Stuck Zipper, Use a Pencil. The graphite in a number-two pencil can act like lubrication. Just rub it across the teeth of the zipper a few times, and it should help loosen it up.
#2.) If You Stain Your Shirt, Use Dry-Erase Board Cleaner to Clean It. The main ingredient is rubbing alcohol, which can remove small stains. Just blot the stain using a paper towel, and be careful you don't get it near your eyes. But test it on a hidden part of your clothing first, and make sure it doesn't cause the color to run.
#3.) Use a FedEx or UPS Packing Pouch to Remove Pet Hair. If you realize your shirt has cat hair all over it, take the paper strip off a packing pouch so the stick part is exposed. Then put the pouch on like a glove, and run it over your shirt a few times. If you don't have a packing pouch, you can do the same thing with a regular piece of packing tape.
#4.) If a Hem Rips, Use a Stapler to Fix It. It seems weird because it'll leave little holes in your clothes. But pins do the same thing, and people use pins on clothing all the time. So if a hem or a seam rips, just staple it back together. But make sure you use a staple remover later when you take them out. Otherwise you'll rip the fabric.
#5.) Use a Sharpie to Fix a Scuffed Shoe. You'll need the right color, but you CAN use a Sharpie on shoes. Just don't use it on clothing or it'll stain.
#6.) If You Lose the Back to an Earring, Use an Eraser. You could also just not wear earrings for the rest of the day. But if you absolutely MUST, a piece of eraser can hold the earring in place. It won't even turn your skin green the way earrings with nickel do.
Monday, July 18, 2011
What Do Your Fingernails Say About Your Health?
If you know what you're looking for, the current state of your fingernails can tell you a lot about the current state of your health in general. Here are five things about your nails that can tell you how healthy you are.
#1.) The White Part Under Each Nail. At the base of your nails, there should be a little white showing. If there is, it's a sign your thyroid is healthy. But if most of your fingers DON'T have white showing at the base, your thyroid might be weak, which can lead to depression, mood swings, and thinning hair.
#2.) White Spots Under Your Nails. It's a sign you have a zinc deficiency, which can cause diarrhea, impotence, hair loss, loss of appetite, and also weaken your immune system. You can get zinc from oysters, sesame seeds, dark chocolate, and peanuts.
#3.) Ridges. Your nails should be relatively smooth on top, but If they're made up of ridges and you can see a bunch of parallel vertical lines, it's a sign you're not getting enough iron. If the ridges run horizontally, it's a sign you're not getting enough vitamin A or vitamin C. You can get vitamin A in dark green vegetables. And obviously citrus fruit is a good source of vitamin C.
#4.) Black Lines. If there's a thin, black line under your nail, it might just be a "splinter hemorrhage," which is caused by trauma . . . like hitting your finger with a hammer or slamming it in a door. In that case, it'll just grow out within a few months. But it could also be a sign of heart problems or even cancer. So if one shows up and it's not the result of trauma, get it checked out.
#5.) Dark Fingernails. Cigarettes and using too much nail polish can turn your nails yellow. But yellow nails can also be caused by diabetes, lung problems, arthritis, lupus, and liver disease. And not having enough B-12 in your diet can also make your nails darker. B-12 is found in fish, meat, and dairy products.
#1.) The White Part Under Each Nail. At the base of your nails, there should be a little white showing. If there is, it's a sign your thyroid is healthy. But if most of your fingers DON'T have white showing at the base, your thyroid might be weak, which can lead to depression, mood swings, and thinning hair.
#2.) White Spots Under Your Nails. It's a sign you have a zinc deficiency, which can cause diarrhea, impotence, hair loss, loss of appetite, and also weaken your immune system. You can get zinc from oysters, sesame seeds, dark chocolate, and peanuts.
#3.) Ridges. Your nails should be relatively smooth on top, but If they're made up of ridges and you can see a bunch of parallel vertical lines, it's a sign you're not getting enough iron. If the ridges run horizontally, it's a sign you're not getting enough vitamin A or vitamin C. You can get vitamin A in dark green vegetables. And obviously citrus fruit is a good source of vitamin C.
#4.) Black Lines. If there's a thin, black line under your nail, it might just be a "splinter hemorrhage," which is caused by trauma . . . like hitting your finger with a hammer or slamming it in a door. In that case, it'll just grow out within a few months. But it could also be a sign of heart problems or even cancer. So if one shows up and it's not the result of trauma, get it checked out.
#5.) Dark Fingernails. Cigarettes and using too much nail polish can turn your nails yellow. But yellow nails can also be caused by diabetes, lung problems, arthritis, lupus, and liver disease. And not having enough B-12 in your diet can also make your nails darker. B-12 is found in fish, meat, and dairy products.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Creepy doesn't begin to describe these.....
"Harper's" magazine has printed excerpts from some of the letters people wrote to CASEY ANTHONY while she was locked up. Here are some of them:
My name is Leon. I’m doing a twenty-year bit for involuntary manslaughter, tampering with evidence, abduction, and abuse of a corpse. It sounds worse than what it really is.
I’m Bill. I’m a member of the Illiana Paranormal Society. We are ghost hunters, and I’m an investigator. Well, I will tell you more later. I first want to know if you want a new friend.
I don’t know if you know any Natives, but if you don’t I would be honored to be your first Native American friend! I’ve been to Miami a lot of times to the Seminole reservation. I believe it’s called Hollywood. The place where Anna Nicole Smith died.
I can understand what you are going through. My brother died when he was twenty-four, and things were kind of suspicious. Then my father wouldn’t even give me any of my brother’s ashes. But the point is I feel for you.
I wish the media would quit being so mean to you. I heard where you collected skull drawings, and the media is like, she is evil. This is sad because thousands of people like skulls. It does not mean something is wrong with them.
I’m homeless in Florida. I take a dog (Doberman) and panhandle to make you money. Probably me and the dog will go to Orlando next month and hold a sign for you. Probably saying, casey did not kill her daughter. This will be dangerous. Have to have the dog with me.
My name is Sara. I’m a twenty-four-year-old mother of two beautiful children. I was working for the Postal Service for four years but recently got laid off due to the economy taking a crap. I am engaged, have been since ’05. I kept setting the date and then not following through because of my old work schedule. Now I guess I have the time. Ha-ha.
I am sure you get a lot of mail from many diffrent types of people. I am deffnantly diffrent. I am 31 years old. I have 3 children, 2 alive and one past. My oldest past away 12 years ago. I am still not over it. She died of crib death at the age 3 months. Unfortionantly I never finished high school. I can not spell very well. So please bear with me. My heart gose out to you. Not only as a greaving mother. As somebody who has been fucked by the Florida cops.
I wanted to write and tell you, you did great in court. You held your head up and smiled. What do you use on your hair to make it so shiny? It’s beautiful. Mine looks like shit.
I’d like to ask you a general question. I’m kind of quiet and reserved, but I’d like to become more outgoing, and I’ve noticed as your case is going on that you’re pretty outgoing and liked to go out and have fun at parties and stuff. I know most people say that wasn’t a good lifestyle, but I’d like to become more like that in general.
Hey! I am writing you a letter because I figured being in a cell twenty hours a day is probably the loneliest thing ever. People are sayin’ it’s stupid to write ’cause you seem like a full-of-yourself bitch and won’t reply. I hope they are wrong.
How have you been? I’m sorry it’s been a while. I have been very busy looking for a job, fighting to keep my marriage, and struggling to pay bills. I feel so bad always talking about myself, but you don’t write back, so I’m unsure what you’d like to talk about. Well, just wanted you to know I haven’t forgotten you.
My name is Leon. I’m doing a twenty-year bit for involuntary manslaughter, tampering with evidence, abduction, and abuse of a corpse. It sounds worse than what it really is.
I’m Bill. I’m a member of the Illiana Paranormal Society. We are ghost hunters, and I’m an investigator. Well, I will tell you more later. I first want to know if you want a new friend.
I don’t know if you know any Natives, but if you don’t I would be honored to be your first Native American friend! I’ve been to Miami a lot of times to the Seminole reservation. I believe it’s called Hollywood. The place where Anna Nicole Smith died.
I can understand what you are going through. My brother died when he was twenty-four, and things were kind of suspicious. Then my father wouldn’t even give me any of my brother’s ashes. But the point is I feel for you.
I wish the media would quit being so mean to you. I heard where you collected skull drawings, and the media is like, she is evil. This is sad because thousands of people like skulls. It does not mean something is wrong with them.
I’m homeless in Florida. I take a dog (Doberman) and panhandle to make you money. Probably me and the dog will go to Orlando next month and hold a sign for you. Probably saying, casey did not kill her daughter. This will be dangerous. Have to have the dog with me.
My name is Sara. I’m a twenty-four-year-old mother of two beautiful children. I was working for the Postal Service for four years but recently got laid off due to the economy taking a crap. I am engaged, have been since ’05. I kept setting the date and then not following through because of my old work schedule. Now I guess I have the time. Ha-ha.
I am sure you get a lot of mail from many diffrent types of people. I am deffnantly diffrent. I am 31 years old. I have 3 children, 2 alive and one past. My oldest past away 12 years ago. I am still not over it. She died of crib death at the age 3 months. Unfortionantly I never finished high school. I can not spell very well. So please bear with me. My heart gose out to you. Not only as a greaving mother. As somebody who has been fucked by the Florida cops.
I wanted to write and tell you, you did great in court. You held your head up and smiled. What do you use on your hair to make it so shiny? It’s beautiful. Mine looks like shit.
I’d like to ask you a general question. I’m kind of quiet and reserved, but I’d like to become more outgoing, and I’ve noticed as your case is going on that you’re pretty outgoing and liked to go out and have fun at parties and stuff. I know most people say that wasn’t a good lifestyle, but I’d like to become more like that in general.
Hey! I am writing you a letter because I figured being in a cell twenty hours a day is probably the loneliest thing ever. People are sayin’ it’s stupid to write ’cause you seem like a full-of-yourself bitch and won’t reply. I hope they are wrong.
How have you been? I’m sorry it’s been a while. I have been very busy looking for a job, fighting to keep my marriage, and struggling to pay bills. I feel so bad always talking about myself, but you don’t write back, so I’m unsure what you’d like to talk about. Well, just wanted you to know I haven’t forgotten you.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Four Things You Might Be Doing Wrong in the Bathroom:
If you think you know what you're doing in the bathroom, think again. Here are four things you might be doing wrong.
#1.) Don't Flush With the Lid Up. You might not see it, but it splashes tiny droplets of water all over the place. And that water is filled with germs and bacteria.
#2.) Don't Store Your Toothbrush on the Sink. Germs can still make it to your toothbrush from the shower or the toilet . . . even if you flush with the lid down. So you're better off storing it in the medicine cabinet.
#3.) Don't Drink Water From the Showerhead. The showerhead is a breeding ground for bacteria that can make you sick. And the water itself isn't safe, because bacteria can also grow in your hot water heater.
#4.) Don't Use the Same Contact Lens Case for More Than Three Months. You've probably heard this before, and you still don't do it. But you should throw your case away every three months, because bacteria builds up on the plastic. And it can transfer to your lenses and cause eye infections.
#1.) Don't Flush With the Lid Up. You might not see it, but it splashes tiny droplets of water all over the place. And that water is filled with germs and bacteria.
#2.) Don't Store Your Toothbrush on the Sink. Germs can still make it to your toothbrush from the shower or the toilet . . . even if you flush with the lid down. So you're better off storing it in the medicine cabinet.
#3.) Don't Drink Water From the Showerhead. The showerhead is a breeding ground for bacteria that can make you sick. And the water itself isn't safe, because bacteria can also grow in your hot water heater.
#4.) Don't Use the Same Contact Lens Case for More Than Three Months. You've probably heard this before, and you still don't do it. But you should throw your case away every three months, because bacteria builds up on the plastic. And it can transfer to your lenses and cause eye infections.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Four Small Changes That Can Make You a Lot Healthier:
Oprah's show might be off the air, but her website is still churning out advice. And there's an interesting article right now about small changes in your life that can make you a lot happier and healthier. Here are the top four:
#1.) Brush Your Teeth With Your Other Hand. Using your non-dominant hand stimulates the production of a protein called BDNF that can improve your long-term memory, and even put you in a better mood. (--BDNF stands for "brain-derived neurotrophic factor.") According to Professor Moses Chao from the New York University School of Medicine, quote, "When you're depressed or under stress, your brain's production of BDNF plummets." One of the things antidepressants do is raise your BDNF level. Obviously, using your opposite hand to brush your teeth won't raise it THAT much, but it can help.
#2.) Don't Drink Unfiltered Coffee. More and more studies are finding that unfiltered coffee . . . like the kind you get from an espresso machine or a French press . . . can raise your cholesterol level. Researchers think it's because unfiltered coffee has more terpenes, which are compounds found in coffee bean oil. Just so you know, a regular cup of coffee at a place like McDonald's or Starbucks is filtered.
#3.) Eat an Apple 15 Minutes Before Lunch. Researchers at Penn State had one group of people eat apples, while a second group got the same number of calories, but in the form of applesauce and apple juice. And the ones who ate the apples consumed an average of almost 190 fewer calories at lunch. It's because a whole apple has more fiber and more nutrients. Plus it just FEELS like you're eating more. To make the study fair, they even had to take the peels off the apples, because otherwise the apple-eaters would have gotten WAY more fiber.
#4.) Eat an Ounce of Walnuts a Day. The average American's diet has a lot of fat and a lot of carbs. And most people don't realize it, but a bad enough diet can damage your liver and lead to cirrhosis . . . even if you've never had a drink. So in a perfect world, you should be eating more fruits, vegetables, fish and whole grains. But one of the easiest ways to improve liver function is to eat an ounce of walnuts a day. They help protect your liver because they contain omega-3s.
#1.) Brush Your Teeth With Your Other Hand. Using your non-dominant hand stimulates the production of a protein called BDNF that can improve your long-term memory, and even put you in a better mood. (--BDNF stands for "brain-derived neurotrophic factor.") According to Professor Moses Chao from the New York University School of Medicine, quote, "When you're depressed or under stress, your brain's production of BDNF plummets." One of the things antidepressants do is raise your BDNF level. Obviously, using your opposite hand to brush your teeth won't raise it THAT much, but it can help.
#2.) Don't Drink Unfiltered Coffee. More and more studies are finding that unfiltered coffee . . . like the kind you get from an espresso machine or a French press . . . can raise your cholesterol level. Researchers think it's because unfiltered coffee has more terpenes, which are compounds found in coffee bean oil. Just so you know, a regular cup of coffee at a place like McDonald's or Starbucks is filtered.
#3.) Eat an Apple 15 Minutes Before Lunch. Researchers at Penn State had one group of people eat apples, while a second group got the same number of calories, but in the form of applesauce and apple juice. And the ones who ate the apples consumed an average of almost 190 fewer calories at lunch. It's because a whole apple has more fiber and more nutrients. Plus it just FEELS like you're eating more. To make the study fair, they even had to take the peels off the apples, because otherwise the apple-eaters would have gotten WAY more fiber.
#4.) Eat an Ounce of Walnuts a Day. The average American's diet has a lot of fat and a lot of carbs. And most people don't realize it, but a bad enough diet can damage your liver and lead to cirrhosis . . . even if you've never had a drink. So in a perfect world, you should be eating more fruits, vegetables, fish and whole grains. But one of the easiest ways to improve liver function is to eat an ounce of walnuts a day. They help protect your liver because they contain omega-3s.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
The Truth Behind Five Popular Infomercial Products:
You've seen infomercials for a million products. And if you've bought any of them, you know they almost always suck. So "Good Housekeeping" thoroughly tested five of the most popular products you've seen on TV. And here's what they found.
#1.) The Shake Weight. It's supposed to sculpt your arms in just six minutes a day. "Good Housekeeping" found that the DVD workout actually takes about 9 minutes . . . which still isn't too bad. And more importantly, it worked. But a second group of people worked out with two-and-a-half-pound dumbbells for 30 minutes a day, three days a week. And they actually got better results.
#2.) The ShamWow. It's supposed to hold 12 times its weight in water. And believe it or not, it's true according to "Good Housekeeping". They found that it actually holds THIRTEEN times its weight. But the more they washed it, the less absorbent it got. And even though it was good for cleaning electronics, a regular towel was better for most spills.
#3.) The MagicJack. It's the thing that plugs into your computer and uses your Internet connection so you can have a phone line for just $20 a year. And it works. But the sound quality isn't as reliable as a landline. Plus, it has issues with 911, and the police can't automatically find your address when you call from it. So "Good Housekeeping" says it's a great option for a SECOND phone line.
#4.) UGlu. You might not know this one, but the slogan is, "The strength of super glue. The convenience of tape." So, in other words, it's extra-strong double-sided tape. "Good Housekeeping" tried it on 14 different materials, including metal, plastic, wood, and fabric. And most things stuck together really well, even if they got wet. The only thing that made the bond weaker was heat. Overall, they say it's good for small fixes. But it can't hold as much weight as it's supposed to, so it's not very good for big jobs.
#5.) The Nuwave Pro Infrared Oven. "Good Housekeeping" says it's only worth paying $150 for one if you don't have a REGULAR oven. On average, they say it cooks things 50% faster than a conventional oven does . . . mostly because you don't have to preheat it. But it tends to dry the food out, and it isn't good when you want to reheat something.
#1.) The Shake Weight. It's supposed to sculpt your arms in just six minutes a day. "Good Housekeeping" found that the DVD workout actually takes about 9 minutes . . . which still isn't too bad. And more importantly, it worked. But a second group of people worked out with two-and-a-half-pound dumbbells for 30 minutes a day, three days a week. And they actually got better results.
#2.) The ShamWow. It's supposed to hold 12 times its weight in water. And believe it or not, it's true according to "Good Housekeeping". They found that it actually holds THIRTEEN times its weight. But the more they washed it, the less absorbent it got. And even though it was good for cleaning electronics, a regular towel was better for most spills.
#3.) The MagicJack. It's the thing that plugs into your computer and uses your Internet connection so you can have a phone line for just $20 a year. And it works. But the sound quality isn't as reliable as a landline. Plus, it has issues with 911, and the police can't automatically find your address when you call from it. So "Good Housekeeping" says it's a great option for a SECOND phone line.
#4.) UGlu. You might not know this one, but the slogan is, "The strength of super glue. The convenience of tape." So, in other words, it's extra-strong double-sided tape. "Good Housekeeping" tried it on 14 different materials, including metal, plastic, wood, and fabric. And most things stuck together really well, even if they got wet. The only thing that made the bond weaker was heat. Overall, they say it's good for small fixes. But it can't hold as much weight as it's supposed to, so it's not very good for big jobs.
#5.) The Nuwave Pro Infrared Oven. "Good Housekeeping" says it's only worth paying $150 for one if you don't have a REGULAR oven. On average, they say it cooks things 50% faster than a conventional oven does . . . mostly because you don't have to preheat it. But it tends to dry the food out, and it isn't good when you want to reheat something.
Monday, July 11, 2011
The Top Five Things That Annoy Your Boss:
I know it's Monday, so your enthusiasm for making Employee of the Month probably isn't as strong as usual. But if you're trying to get in good with your boss, "Cosmopolitan" magazine has a list of the top five things that annoy employers. And they're all things that actual bosses complained about to "Cosmo".
#1.) Constant Use of the Word "Like." It can prevent you from GETTING a job, and apparently it has the potential to get you FIRED too. But at the very least, it makes you look dumb.
#2.) Texting Them Outside of Work. Even if it's work-related, it's usually not appropriate to text your boss unless it's urgent, and you don't have access to email. On the other hand, if they text YOU about something work-related, you should definitely reply.
#3.) Chatting Online. As you'd expect, they hate this one, which is why a lot of companies block websites like Facebook. And if you're instant messaging or chatting on Facebook all the time, you boss will eventually notice.
#4.) Asking Questions You Could Easily Answer Online. If you might be able to find the answer online, at least look for it before you ask your boss. Because when they Google it and find the answer immediately, you'll feel like a moron.
#5.) Not Proofreading Emails. Typos can make you look really dumb, and everyone makes them . . . even geniuses. So make sure you proofread anything you send your boss, or a client.
#1.) Constant Use of the Word "Like." It can prevent you from GETTING a job, and apparently it has the potential to get you FIRED too. But at the very least, it makes you look dumb.
#2.) Texting Them Outside of Work. Even if it's work-related, it's usually not appropriate to text your boss unless it's urgent, and you don't have access to email. On the other hand, if they text YOU about something work-related, you should definitely reply.
#3.) Chatting Online. As you'd expect, they hate this one, which is why a lot of companies block websites like Facebook. And if you're instant messaging or chatting on Facebook all the time, you boss will eventually notice.
#4.) Asking Questions You Could Easily Answer Online. If you might be able to find the answer online, at least look for it before you ask your boss. Because when they Google it and find the answer immediately, you'll feel like a moron.
#5.) Not Proofreading Emails. Typos can make you look really dumb, and everyone makes them . . . even geniuses. So make sure you proofread anything you send your boss, or a client.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Holy bacon price hike, Batman!
Bacon prices hit $4.77 a pound in May and rumor has it, it could reach near $6 a pound in the next few months. Why the price increase? Corn is pricey - it hit a record high in June - which means smaller herds and fewer mouths to feed. So what can you to right now to make sure you don’t run out of bacon when the price spikes?
•Freeze it. I normally do this with bacon anyway, storing several individual servings in a freezer bag. Then it's handy for breakfast or as a key ingredient in my favorite recipe for made-from-scratch baked beans.
•Buy the low-cost "bacon ends and pieces." packages. They won't have uniform thickness, but you can adjust cooking time.
•Check the bulk-buying prices at the warehouse stores.
•Eat less of it. Really, it's not good for you.
•Use Bacon Salt as a substitute, Mr. Baconpants blogger Jason Mosley (who is amazingly thin in his blog photo) recommended to Perman. Might have the taste but won't have the crunch.
•Freeze it. I normally do this with bacon anyway, storing several individual servings in a freezer bag. Then it's handy for breakfast or as a key ingredient in my favorite recipe for made-from-scratch baked beans.
•Buy the low-cost "bacon ends and pieces." packages. They won't have uniform thickness, but you can adjust cooking time.
•Check the bulk-buying prices at the warehouse stores.
•Eat less of it. Really, it's not good for you.
•Use Bacon Salt as a substitute, Mr. Baconpants blogger Jason Mosley (who is amazingly thin in his blog photo) recommended to Perman. Might have the taste but won't have the crunch.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Don't serve boring hot dogs this 4th of July. Serve jazzed up hot dogs!
If you're looking for a new way to serve hot dogs, you won't wanna miss our fun jazzed up hot dogs and their recipes below. And as a bonus, we've got a recipe for Amish Hmburger BBQ submitted by one of our facebook friends and trust us, it's AWESOME!
*Thanks to Stauffers of Kissel Hill Supermarket for the groceries!
Jazzed Up Hot Dogs
You’ll need:
1 package of Hot Dogs
1. Place hot dogs on grill, in microwave, or boil until cooked.
2. Time to jazz up the hot dogs (don’t worry- it doesn’t take long!)
To make the Texan:
1 can of hot dog chili
1 package of shredded cheddar cheese
1 white onion (diced)
2 jalapenos (Sliced)
Directions: Place cooked hot dog on open bun. Spread a table spoon of hot dog chili over hot dog. Spread a 1/2 teaspoon of diced onions over top of the hotdog. Lay the sliced jalapenos the length of the hotdog. Last sprinkle cheese on to of hotdog and enjoy!
To make the Memphis:
1 can of hot dog chili
1 package of bagged cole slaw
Directions: Place cooked hot dog on open bun. Spread a table spoon of hot dog chili over hot dog. Sprinkle coleslaw to taste on top of hotdog and chow down.
To make the Los Angeles:
1 cucumber diced
1 avocado (Julienne)
2 plum tomatoes (sliced)
¼ cup of ranch dressing
½ teaspoon of celery salt
Directions: Open bun. Place to slices of avacdo on both top and bottom of the bun. Spread diced cucumber on bun in between the two slices of avocado. Lay two slices of tomato side by side on bottom of the bun. Sprinkle celery salt to taste. Place the hotdog in the bun. Top of the dog with a tablespoon of ranch dressing and serve.
To make the Kansas City:
1 package of bacon
1 bottle of BBQ sauce
Directions: Cook bacon till crispy. Crumble up cooked bacon and set aside. Place cooked hot dog on open bun. Spread BBQ sauce to cover the entire hot dog. Sprinkle crumbled bacon over to of hot dog and smile!
Amish Hamburger BBQ
(Special thanks to WARM 103.3 FB friend Judy Eckman for this YUMMY recipe!)
You’ll need:
2 lb ground beef
1 large onion peeled & chopped
1 cup ketchup
3 Tablespoons brown sugar
3 tablespoons vinegar
3 teaspoons yellow mustard
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon parsley
1 teaspoon chopped garlic or garlic powder
Directions: Lightly brown the hamburger then add chopped onion. Continue browning until meat is no longer pink & onion is soft. Add remaining ingredients & cook on medium heat, stirring often until meat is thoroughly cooked & sauce is thick & bubbly. This should take about 1/2 hour. Or you may brown the meat & onion then combine all ingredients in a crockpot & cook on low approx. 4 to 5 hours. Serve on your favorite rolls with your favorite cheese slice on top of the BBQ ! Very good sweet & sour BBQ! Taste even better the next day.
*Thanks to Stauffers of Kissel Hill Supermarket for the groceries!
Jazzed Up Hot Dogs
You’ll need:
1 package of Hot Dogs
1. Place hot dogs on grill, in microwave, or boil until cooked.
2. Time to jazz up the hot dogs (don’t worry- it doesn’t take long!)
To make the Texan:
1 can of hot dog chili
1 package of shredded cheddar cheese
1 white onion (diced)
2 jalapenos (Sliced)
Directions: Place cooked hot dog on open bun. Spread a table spoon of hot dog chili over hot dog. Spread a 1/2 teaspoon of diced onions over top of the hotdog. Lay the sliced jalapenos the length of the hotdog. Last sprinkle cheese on to of hotdog and enjoy!
To make the Memphis:
1 can of hot dog chili
1 package of bagged cole slaw
Directions: Place cooked hot dog on open bun. Spread a table spoon of hot dog chili over hot dog. Sprinkle coleslaw to taste on top of hotdog and chow down.
To make the Los Angeles:
1 cucumber diced
1 avocado (Julienne)
2 plum tomatoes (sliced)
¼ cup of ranch dressing
½ teaspoon of celery salt
Directions: Open bun. Place to slices of avacdo on both top and bottom of the bun. Spread diced cucumber on bun in between the two slices of avocado. Lay two slices of tomato side by side on bottom of the bun. Sprinkle celery salt to taste. Place the hotdog in the bun. Top of the dog with a tablespoon of ranch dressing and serve.
To make the Kansas City:
1 package of bacon
1 bottle of BBQ sauce
Directions: Cook bacon till crispy. Crumble up cooked bacon and set aside. Place cooked hot dog on open bun. Spread BBQ sauce to cover the entire hot dog. Sprinkle crumbled bacon over to of hot dog and smile!
Amish Hamburger BBQ
(Special thanks to WARM 103.3 FB friend Judy Eckman for this YUMMY recipe!)
You’ll need:
2 lb ground beef
1 large onion peeled & chopped
1 cup ketchup
3 Tablespoons brown sugar
3 tablespoons vinegar
3 teaspoons yellow mustard
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon parsley
1 teaspoon chopped garlic or garlic powder
Directions: Lightly brown the hamburger then add chopped onion. Continue browning until meat is no longer pink & onion is soft. Add remaining ingredients & cook on medium heat, stirring often until meat is thoroughly cooked & sauce is thick & bubbly. This should take about 1/2 hour. Or you may brown the meat & onion then combine all ingredients in a crockpot & cook on low approx. 4 to 5 hours. Serve on your favorite rolls with your favorite cheese slice on top of the BBQ ! Very good sweet & sour BBQ! Taste even better the next day.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Four Common Health Myths People Still Believe:
Okay, you're probably seen a bunch of these, but The Oprah Magazine "O" has a list of health myths you shouldn't believe. And there are a couple you might not know about.Myth #1.) Hand Dryers in Public Bathrooms Are More Sanitary Than Paper Towels. It makes sense, because you can dry your hands without touching anything. But it's a myth, because a study found that jet dryers make your hands dirtier because of bacteria INSIDE the machine. And they make the entire bathroom dirtier too, because the air can blow germs more than six feet.
Myth #2.) Sitting Too Close to the TV Will Hurt Your Eyes. You probably know this one's not true. But what you might NOT know is that it USED to be true . . . kind of. When TVs started getting popular in the 1950's, they gave off 100,000 times more radiation than modern TVs do. So sitting too close to the television WAS bad for your health. But not specifically for your eyes.
Myth #3.) Warm Milk Will Help You Sleep. It could in theory, because it has tryptophan, the same stuff that's in turkey, and every other meat. But milk only has trace amounts of it, and eggs and cheese even have more. Still, you'd have to eat about seven egg-and-cheese sandwiches before you'd start feeling tired. So if warm milk DOES help you sleep, it's only because of the placebo effect.
Myth #4.) Hydrogen Peroxide Is Good for Cleaning Cuts. If your mom used it when you were a kid, you probably hated it because it stung. And it turns out you didn't need to go through all that pain. Because according to a study in "The Journal of Trauma", hydrogen peroxide slows down the healing process, because it inhibits the growth of new tissue. Instead, you're supposed to wash cuts with soap and water, then use an antibiotic like Neosporin.
Monday, June 27, 2011
The 7 Rules of the Men's Room
Ok, so obviously I'm not a dude, but these made me crack up and I had to share with you:
Rule #1 - The Buffer Urinal
You never, ever, ever, select a urinal directly next to one already in use, not when there's a choice anyway. If there are three urinals to choose from, pick one on the outside. Leave the center one for the guy who may actually die if he doesn't get to the bathroom. If both outside ones are in use and only the center one is available, wait. One of the other guys will be done soon.
Rule #2 - Announce Your Presence
If you are using a stall and have the place to yourself, it's one thing. But as soon as you hear the door open, you need to make your presence known. Am I suggesting that you say 'hi' and introduce yourself? Absolutely not. No way. Instead, do a little cough.
Rule #3 - Ignore My Kid
This should go without saying. I shouldn't even need to put it here, but, inevitably, there is a guy every weekend who breaks this cardinal rule and feels the need to comment about the fact that my kid either a) really has to go or b) "made it."
Rule #4 - No Eye Contact, No Talking
Don't be the guy who walks into the bathroom and tries to strike up a conversation or says something like, "Whew, it smells like Big Foot's tomb in here!" Even if it were funny, the situation does not call for comedy. If there is, for some extreme reason, an occasion that necessitates inter-personal communication, eye contact is strictly prohibited. Stand, stock still, eyes forward like a Marine on inspection. When entering and exiting, keep your eyes down.
Rule #5 - Clean Up After Yourself
If you dribble on the seat, leave a mess of water and soap around the sink or miss the waste basket with an errant paper towel, pick it up. This isn't elementary school, this is a men's room. You're an adult.
Rule #6 - The Proper Stance
Whether in a stall or at a urinal, keep your stance narrow and your positioning square against the target. In the stall, a wide stance could lead to unexpected touching. It's important at the urinal too. No one wants to touch boots while you're doing that.
Rule #7 - Don't Linger
Those who linger here are waiting for something. What? A chance to mug someone? A new friend? A visit from aliens? When it comes to the men's room, do your thing and move on. The men's room is not the place to stop and smell the roses.
Rule #1 - The Buffer Urinal
You never, ever, ever, select a urinal directly next to one already in use, not when there's a choice anyway. If there are three urinals to choose from, pick one on the outside. Leave the center one for the guy who may actually die if he doesn't get to the bathroom. If both outside ones are in use and only the center one is available, wait. One of the other guys will be done soon.
Rule #2 - Announce Your Presence
If you are using a stall and have the place to yourself, it's one thing. But as soon as you hear the door open, you need to make your presence known. Am I suggesting that you say 'hi' and introduce yourself? Absolutely not. No way. Instead, do a little cough.
Rule #3 - Ignore My Kid
This should go without saying. I shouldn't even need to put it here, but, inevitably, there is a guy every weekend who breaks this cardinal rule and feels the need to comment about the fact that my kid either a) really has to go or b) "made it."
Rule #4 - No Eye Contact, No Talking
Don't be the guy who walks into the bathroom and tries to strike up a conversation or says something like, "Whew, it smells like Big Foot's tomb in here!" Even if it were funny, the situation does not call for comedy. If there is, for some extreme reason, an occasion that necessitates inter-personal communication, eye contact is strictly prohibited. Stand, stock still, eyes forward like a Marine on inspection. When entering and exiting, keep your eyes down.
Rule #5 - Clean Up After Yourself
If you dribble on the seat, leave a mess of water and soap around the sink or miss the waste basket with an errant paper towel, pick it up. This isn't elementary school, this is a men's room. You're an adult.
Rule #6 - The Proper Stance
Whether in a stall or at a urinal, keep your stance narrow and your positioning square against the target. In the stall, a wide stance could lead to unexpected touching. It's important at the urinal too. No one wants to touch boots while you're doing that.
Rule #7 - Don't Linger
Those who linger here are waiting for something. What? A chance to mug someone? A new friend? A visit from aliens? When it comes to the men's room, do your thing and move on. The men's room is not the place to stop and smell the roses.
Some advice from a wise 30-something to you lucky 20-somethings:
1. Don't be afraid of making mistakes: But when you make them, own them. This means apologizing to whomever you offended/puked on/ditched/stalked/tagged in unflattering photos on Facebook.
2. Don't be afraid to incur some debt to go after your dream. To expand on this: taking out loans for grad school, putting your savings into making a movie, traveling around the country while you write that Great American novel-now's the time to do it. (Of course, running up $24,935.28 on a buffet of credit cards just to support your "artistic lifestyle" so you don't have to get a job or produce any actual work is a little more frowned upon.)
3. Stay in touch with your high school friends. The older you get, the more you'll want to stay friends with people who knew, not only the awkward, nerdy you, but where you're from.
4. Be proud of where you're from. Its part of what made you who you are today; regardless of the situation you escaped.
5. Be proud of who you're from regardless of the situation you escaped.
6. Siblings can be troubling at times, but if you're lucky, they will be there your entire life. Treasure them.
7. A word about eye cream: Yes. Wear it. Every night.
8. One word about Botox: No.
9. I hate to break it to you, but as your twenties progress, the way your body handles food and alcohol changes. And by changes, I mean becomes a bastard who hoards sugar, dairy and booze in cute little saddlebags in the upper thigh and muffin top regions.
10. While I'm breaking it to you: hangovers get much, much worse as you get closer to 30. Brace yo'self.
11. Go to your high school reunion. Blah blah, you hated those losers/that town/your ceramics teacher/that time of your life. And you are much more fabulous now. Right? Great. Now go show it off.
12. You’re going to be attending a lot of weddings in your 20s. A LOT. A few tips of the trade: a. Eat before you go (the food is usually terrible and/or hours away). b. Do not ask ANYONE you have been dating for less than 3 months to be your date for a wedding more than 3 months away. ESPECIALLY a destination wedding. Recipe for disaster. c. If you are in the wedding, do NOT hook up with any groomsmen at the rehearsal dinner/shower/bachelor(ette) weekend. d. As a bridesmaid, you will be forced at one point to wear a watermelon-colored potato sack as a dress. Grin and bear it gracefully.
13. Accept that your 20s is the time when your friends (and of course, you) are going to be changing at warp speed. Some will get married, some will have babies, some will move away, some will succeed in their jobs, some will fail, and some will get really, really famous. Be happy for everyone (or sympathetic if things go poorly). But, be supportive –- your time is coming and one day you'll need that support too.
14. That being said, know that sometimes the changes will be too much for certain friendships to survive. And this just happens. People drift/splinter apart and that's just life.
15. Don't be afraid to clean out the friendship closet yourself, either. If you find yourself dreading hanging out with certain people, or feel small/ashamed around them, or not good enough, then end it. End the friendship. No one needs that, especially not a fabulous 20 something like yourself.
16. Date everyone.
17. To clarify #16, date everyone within reason. This is the time to meet/date/make out with a bunch of different people. The world is completely open to you and the choices are limitless. Try to date people who are different from your normal "type."
18. Speaking of "types," get over having one. Your type is human. Date them.
19.This one is tricky: in relationships, be open to everything, but don't throw everything into the other person's boat too soon. Keep one foot on the dock.
20. Oh, what am I talking about? You're a 20-something. It's impossible to not set sail.
21. Just remember where your harbor is.
22. If someone you're dating makes you feel ashamed to be yourself, dump them immediately. ]
23. Believe in true love. It exists. It just takes a lot of searching to find it.
24. Don't settle for anything (or anyone) less.
25. Don't be afraid of getting older and leaving your twenties behind. One day, on the eve of your 30th birthday, you'll look back at the crazy, horrifying, giddy, exciting, sprawling mess that was your twenties and smile. You'll smile because of all you've learned, how far you've come and the fact that life is still exciting. Maybe even a little more exciting than before. Because you've got your wild, exuberant, sparkling thirties in front of you.
2. Don't be afraid to incur some debt to go after your dream. To expand on this: taking out loans for grad school, putting your savings into making a movie, traveling around the country while you write that Great American novel-now's the time to do it. (Of course, running up $24,935.28 on a buffet of credit cards just to support your "artistic lifestyle" so you don't have to get a job or produce any actual work is a little more frowned upon.)
3. Stay in touch with your high school friends. The older you get, the more you'll want to stay friends with people who knew, not only the awkward, nerdy you, but where you're from.
4. Be proud of where you're from. Its part of what made you who you are today; regardless of the situation you escaped.
5. Be proud of who you're from regardless of the situation you escaped.
6. Siblings can be troubling at times, but if you're lucky, they will be there your entire life. Treasure them.
7. A word about eye cream: Yes. Wear it. Every night.
8. One word about Botox: No.
9. I hate to break it to you, but as your twenties progress, the way your body handles food and alcohol changes. And by changes, I mean becomes a bastard who hoards sugar, dairy and booze in cute little saddlebags in the upper thigh and muffin top regions.
10. While I'm breaking it to you: hangovers get much, much worse as you get closer to 30. Brace yo'self.
11. Go to your high school reunion. Blah blah, you hated those losers/that town/your ceramics teacher/that time of your life. And you are much more fabulous now. Right? Great. Now go show it off.
12. You’re going to be attending a lot of weddings in your 20s. A LOT. A few tips of the trade: a. Eat before you go (the food is usually terrible and/or hours away). b. Do not ask ANYONE you have been dating for less than 3 months to be your date for a wedding more than 3 months away. ESPECIALLY a destination wedding. Recipe for disaster. c. If you are in the wedding, do NOT hook up with any groomsmen at the rehearsal dinner/shower/bachelor(ette) weekend. d. As a bridesmaid, you will be forced at one point to wear a watermelon-colored potato sack as a dress. Grin and bear it gracefully.
13. Accept that your 20s is the time when your friends (and of course, you) are going to be changing at warp speed. Some will get married, some will have babies, some will move away, some will succeed in their jobs, some will fail, and some will get really, really famous. Be happy for everyone (or sympathetic if things go poorly). But, be supportive –- your time is coming and one day you'll need that support too.
14. That being said, know that sometimes the changes will be too much for certain friendships to survive. And this just happens. People drift/splinter apart and that's just life.
15. Don't be afraid to clean out the friendship closet yourself, either. If you find yourself dreading hanging out with certain people, or feel small/ashamed around them, or not good enough, then end it. End the friendship. No one needs that, especially not a fabulous 20 something like yourself.
16. Date everyone.
17. To clarify #16, date everyone within reason. This is the time to meet/date/make out with a bunch of different people. The world is completely open to you and the choices are limitless. Try to date people who are different from your normal "type."
18. Speaking of "types," get over having one. Your type is human. Date them.
19.This one is tricky: in relationships, be open to everything, but don't throw everything into the other person's boat too soon. Keep one foot on the dock.
20. Oh, what am I talking about? You're a 20-something. It's impossible to not set sail.
21. Just remember where your harbor is.
22. If someone you're dating makes you feel ashamed to be yourself, dump them immediately. ]
23. Believe in true love. It exists. It just takes a lot of searching to find it.
24. Don't settle for anything (or anyone) less.
25. Don't be afraid of getting older and leaving your twenties behind. One day, on the eve of your 30th birthday, you'll look back at the crazy, horrifying, giddy, exciting, sprawling mess that was your twenties and smile. You'll smile because of all you've learned, how far you've come and the fact that life is still exciting. Maybe even a little more exciting than before. Because you've got your wild, exuberant, sparkling thirties in front of you.
Friday, June 24, 2011
How to make the PERFECT steak:
Nothing beats a juicy steak on the grill and chef John Macchia, Consumer Reports' grilling expert tells us how to do steak right. First- buy a large cut so you can butcher it yourself- you'll get a lot more for your money that way. Use a heavy layer of salt to season them and some cracked black pepper- both sides. Make sure your grill is clean and pre-heat it on high- you'll be cooking them on the high setting too. Cook your steaks for a minute and a half for each turn. When you see the juices coming out of the top of the steak- that usually means it's to temperature- that's a perfectly rare cooked steak. If you like it more cooked- continue the turns. The temp inside the steak should be at least 145 degrees- you'll need a meat thermometer to know for sure.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Five Questions That Can Protect You From Online Scams:
On average, the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center gets 25,000 letters about online scams every month. So to help make sure it doesn't happen to you, here are five important questions you should ask yourself before you buy anything online.
#1.) Have You Heard of the Business? There are lots of businesses you've never heard of, but if you search online and can't find any reviews . . . good or bad . . . it might be a scam. You should also just try Googling the name of the website and the word "scam" together, and see what results you get. Just because a website looks professional doesn't mean it is.
#2.) Are They Offering Something for Free? A lot of scams start with a "free" offer, but then you have to buy something else to get it. Some real companies do the same thing too, but it should at least make you suspicious.
#3.) Is the Price Unbelievably Low? If you feel like you're getting TOO good of a deal, be careful. Most scams look too good to be true because they are.
#4.) Do They Ask for Personal Information by Email? You should NEVER send credit card information, passwords, or social security numbers over email. And no legitimate business would ask you to.
#5.) Do They Accept Credit Cards? This is probably the most important one. Almost all credible businesses accept credit cards now especially if they're based online. So if they say you can only pay with cash or by money order, it's almost definitely a scam.
#1.) Have You Heard of the Business? There are lots of businesses you've never heard of, but if you search online and can't find any reviews . . . good or bad . . . it might be a scam. You should also just try Googling the name of the website and the word "scam" together, and see what results you get. Just because a website looks professional doesn't mean it is.
#2.) Are They Offering Something for Free? A lot of scams start with a "free" offer, but then you have to buy something else to get it. Some real companies do the same thing too, but it should at least make you suspicious.
#3.) Is the Price Unbelievably Low? If you feel like you're getting TOO good of a deal, be careful. Most scams look too good to be true because they are.
#4.) Do They Ask for Personal Information by Email? You should NEVER send credit card information, passwords, or social security numbers over email. And no legitimate business would ask you to.
#5.) Do They Accept Credit Cards? This is probably the most important one. Almost all credible businesses accept credit cards now especially if they're based online. So if they say you can only pay with cash or by money order, it's almost definitely a scam.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Three Surprising Things That Can Hurt Your Credit Score:
You probably know that once you pay your credit cards off, you're supposed to keep them open. Because closing them lowers your credit score. So you should keep them active . . . just don't use them. But here are three more things that can damage your credit score. And these three might surprise you.
#1.) Using Your Debit Card When You Rent a Car. It seems more responsible to use your debit card when you've got the cash to cover it. But if you do, a lot of rental companies do a soft credit check, which can lower your score. It's in the fine print on the rental agreement, and they won't even mention it. It happened to a writer for WalletPop.com, and her FICO credit score dropped by 14 points.
#2.) Saying Yes to a Department Store Credit Card. They usually offer ten or 20% off when you sign up for a store credit card. But to sign you up, they have to do a HARD credit check, which will definitely lower your credit score. And as you know, store credit cards have much higher interest rates. So there's no good reason to sign up for one.
#3.) Buying Furniture and Using the In-Store Financing. If you buy a couch from a furniture store, they'll offer to finance it. And they'll usually give you some deal so you don't have to make the first payment for a year. But when it comes to your credit score, a furniture store loan is seen as a last resort. And just signing up for one can lower your score.
#1.) Using Your Debit Card When You Rent a Car. It seems more responsible to use your debit card when you've got the cash to cover it. But if you do, a lot of rental companies do a soft credit check, which can lower your score. It's in the fine print on the rental agreement, and they won't even mention it. It happened to a writer for WalletPop.com, and her FICO credit score dropped by 14 points.
#2.) Saying Yes to a Department Store Credit Card. They usually offer ten or 20% off when you sign up for a store credit card. But to sign you up, they have to do a HARD credit check, which will definitely lower your credit score. And as you know, store credit cards have much higher interest rates. So there's no good reason to sign up for one.
#3.) Buying Furniture and Using the In-Store Financing. If you buy a couch from a furniture store, they'll offer to finance it. And they'll usually give you some deal so you don't have to make the first payment for a year. But when it comes to your credit score, a furniture store loan is seen as a last resort. And just signing up for one can lower your score.
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