jedmassiveflooding 07 - Palestine Road 25Nov09.flv

The heavy downpour caused massive flooding in Jeddah. The floods damaged houses and other properties. Cars stalled and were eventually submerged in flood waters. People who were stranded for several hours took refuge inside buildings. Last week the Saudi city of Jeddah was afflicted by heavy rains that lasted only a few hours but caused massive flooding and the deaths of more than 500 people. To lessen the embarrassment, official reports shrank the number of flood-related deaths to just over 100. Many Saudis are asking how such a catastrophe could occur in one of the world's richest countries and in its second-largest and most cosmopolitan city. This was the most severe nature-related calamity that the world's largest oil exporter has seen in the past 50 years but the real reason for the death and destruction that occurred last Wednesday is endemic corruption in the Saudi government. Jeddah is a great example of corruption. This city of more than 4 million people still lacks a sewage system and treatment facility. The rain that fell last week had nowhere to go but to flood the streets and neighbourhoods, creating havoc and death in its path. Hundreds of bodies were swept in the current and up to 11000 people may be missing in the sea, according to a report two days ago by the Saudi newspaper al-Yaum. This figure may be inflated but the number of the missing and dead surely ranks in the hundreds, and could turn out to exceed a thousand. For comparison, hurricane Katrina in ...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8fWBHMlUP8&hl=en

6 Green Living Steps For a Healthier Family and Cleaner Home

Obviously, you are interested on how to make your family go green (because you are reading this article). I'm sure you're concerned about their health and our nature of course. It's actually our responsibility to help our nature, likewise on how nature is helping us with our daily needs.

Going green has become the trend these days not just for the sake of having something new to introduce to the public since we all have this responsibility to maintain the safety of this planet. With all the threats that we are imposing due to the harmful chemicals that we're using in our home cleaning and the like we really should be doing some things that could repay or help rebuild Mother Earth. So while it is not yet too late, we should now make our decent move to save this planet.

Sometimes it's hard for us to aid our family to go green. Actually its not that simple for kids to memorize all of those things, but keeping them informed all the time will make them more aware of their surroundings and the cleaning product they are using (I actually scare my kids with all types of disease they can get when they are using these unnatural stuffs).

Let's start with our homes. And by following these simple tips and steps, you can be assured of a cleaner and healthy home for your family:

1. By simply separating degradable from those biodegradable, we can help our nature; especially separating those with chemicals will reduce toxic waste. Also, avoid using these commercial cleaning products. Yes they can clean your home properly and disinfect your dishes and other items but it will also increase your exposure to chemicals.

2. Use natural cleaning products as an alternative. It's the best way of cleaning your house. These natural cleaning products are cheaper and you can also get the same results like you were using those commercial cleaners. You can make one or buy some; it depends on how busy you are.

3. Reduce the use of electricity. Just unplug unused appliances or switch off light or replace your bulbs with energy efficient bulbs. It may cost more but it will last for years. This way, you are not only saving mother earth but also saving money from electricity bills.

4. Another thing to remember is to recycle old items. This way you can help reduce the use of valuable natural resources. But if you don't have time to recycle just support recycled products or buy eco-friendly furniture.

5. Joining community projects such as reforesting or even planting at your garden or backyards help in rebuilding our nature. Also, supporting these green cleaning products will build better future for the next generations.

6. The last but not the least is sharing. Share what you have learned and spread it to everybody. Disseminating information properly can be of use. For example; you can buy janitorial cleaning products in bulk and sell them so that more and more people will use these kinds of products. You can even earn money this way while helping save our nature.

We should be a good example for others especially to the young ones. Being responsible in everything we do is a must. Remembering these and practicing it everyday will encourage people to do the same thing.

In Depth with Steven Pinker pt. 4/18

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brIEW1tG2s4&hl=en

Pressed Flowers - Handcrafting Cards and Scrapbooks From Nature

Dried flowers have been used decoratively since prehistoric times. Early Japanese art used pressed flowers and leaves to create scenes of landscapes and gardens. Pressing flowers flat while drying them, however, seems to have become popular in Western culture during the Renaissance (14th-17thcenturies). This was a time of rebirth for the arts and the sciences, and botany, the study of plants, became a popular hobby. Plant classifications were developed and soon even amateurs were pressing and cataloging the herbs and flowers in their gardens. The Victorians, of course, raised it to an artform.

Today, pressed flowers can be beautiful natural decorations for notecards, greeting cards, scrapbook pages and other crafts. Yes, you can buy a commercial flower press, if you think you are going to get into pressing in a big way. For the rest of us who want to press flowers occasionally, there is this simple "home-made" version method.

Pick several delicate flowers at the peak of their bloom, as well as some leaves.
Lay a piece of blotting paper on top of several sheets of newspaper on a flat surface. (For very succulent flowers, use more newspaper to absorb the moisture).
Place the flowers and leaves on the blotting paper without overlapping them.
Cover them with another sheet of blotting paper and several more sheets of newspaper.
Place heavy books, phone books, or a bowling ball on top.
Let sit for 3-4 weeks in a cool, dry place. Check the flowers every few days for the first week, and once a week after that. With tweezers, carefully peel the flowers from the blotting paper and reposition them to prevent them from adhering. Replace the newspapers at the same time.
After four weeks, the flowers should be stiff and dry and the paper should feel dry. If not, leave them for another week.
Now, your dried, pressed flowers are ready to embellish greeting and note cards, scrapbook pages, or other crafts. Use tweezers to handle and position them on your surface. When you like your arrangement, glue them down with white glue using a small paintbrush, being sure to glue all edges. As they dry, press them under a piece of wax paper and a heavy book for a day to prevent curling. You can protect your final work with a spray of clear polyurethane, a coat of decoupage medium, or laminating.

There is a quicker, easier method for making pressed flowers using your home microwave oven - if you are "pressed" for time!

The Nature Of Assets

Legal ownership is not the only criterion for classifying something in accounting terms as an asset; for instance, someone buys an item on hire purchase but does not become the owner of that item until the full purchase price has been paid. Nevertheless, the item is still recorded as an asset together with the corresponding obligation. Similarly, although a lessee never becomes the owner of the item leased, he may record that item as an asset providing that the corresponding obligation is also shown.

In an accounting sense 'ownership' usually implies 'legal ownership', but there are exceptions; an interest in a tangible or intangible object, or a right to value, combined with the right of possession and the right of use also constitutes an asset for the interested party.

If a person is the owner of the value or economic benefit arising from a specific source, then that source is an asset for the person concerned and he is the economic owner, although he may not be the legal owner. In such case accounting substance should take precedence over legal form in ascertaining the most suitable accounting procedure.

The chief function of accounting is to determine profits. The generation of income, however, requires capital investment in order to provide the facilities needed by an enterprise to operate continuously and indefinitely.

Historically, expenses that are incurred by not allocated as a cost during a period are deferred costs. From an accounting point of view, they represent an asset. If these costs can be recovered within a year, they are current assets and if they are recoverable over a longer period they are fixed assets.

This classification of assets is essential for determining profits and also to show the enterprise's position at a specific time, in other words, the composition of its assets and the nature of its obligations. The purpose of acquiring fixed assets is to use them to generate income. They are not acquired for the purpose of resale. The fixed assets must produce goods that generate income, or in other words, they must be used in the business' operations.

The largest category of fixed assets in accounting terms is tangible, such as buildings, machinery and vehicles. Land that is not subject to depreciation or depletion through use, since it is never 'consumed' is also considered as a tangible fixed asset. When evaluating buildings, machinery and vehicles these assets are subject to depreciation that must be apportioned annually as a cost. Natural resources that, through use, are also subject to depletion, such as mines, oil and gas wells and plantations are also considered as tangible fixed assets.

Another group of assets is intangible fixed assets such as patents, copyrights, trademarks' and goodwill. Deferred expenses and debits such as the preliminary expenses of a company are also considered in accounting terms as intangible fixed assets.

Finally, the last to be considered as an asset are external assets also known as investments. These include fixed period investments earning a fixed income, investments in ordinary shares of other companies, sundry investments such as pension funds, housing schemes and insurance policies and, lastly, investment properties.

Family Therapy - Cognitive, Narrative, and Psychoeducational Interventions

The Peterson family on May 5th 2007 took the initiative to gain therapeutic services for their troubled son David. Throughout the therapeutic process, all family members became actively involved. Three primary family therapeutic approaches for treatment were eventually chosen by the therapist with the application of three interventions within each approach. The approaches included; Cognitive Behavioral approach, Narrative Based Therapeutic approach, and a Psychoeducational Therapeutic approach. These purposely chosen constructs were applied to the Peterson family system and with their help the Peterson family was able to assist their son David with his behavior issues.
Agency Context

The current agency, in which the Peterson family sought assistance, was the Summit Agency. Summit is an inner city agency located within the college district of Philadelphia. It is a high end agency that specializes in helping families and individuals with problematic behaviors and circumstances. Much of the clientele within the Summit Agency could be considered mid to upper class. The agency is primarily funded by direct payment from clients who are seeking highly qualified PhD. and Masters level clinicians to assist with their family issues and by private donations given by local university professors and staff.
Presenting Problem

The presenting problem according to the Peterson family has been clarified by Mr. and Mrs. Peterson as the behavior of their 16 yr. old son David. For the last two months David has been acting out in school and been disrespectful at home. Rule breaking, disrespecting teachers, and detentions have remained consistent parts of David's behaviors. This type of behavior for the Peterson family is unacceptable and has resulted in the Peterson family seeking assistance for their son's behavior. Mr. Peterson worries that if David's behavior continues, many may think that David is a real trouble maker; thus effecting his academic life and possibilities of going to college in two years. Mrs. Peterson is concerned about her son and wants his negative behaviors to cease. She feels that when he acts out in school this causes tensions within the household; especially between herself and her husband. Both Mr. & Mrs. Peterson seem to agree that they argue more and have greater difficulties on the weeks and days in which David gets in the most trouble. In sessions, David makes statements like, "I don't care about school, because you guy's don't really care about me." David, in session seems angry. He seems to be very sensitive and seems to desire more attention and time with his parents. He states that he believes no one listens to him and that the only reason he is at the Summit Point agency is because his mom & dad just want to change him. Both, Mr. and Mrs. Peterson want David to just behave at school and at home in order for him to obtain a good education and be regarded as a good young man. David states that if his parents would not work so much, he may have some time with them, and not feel so lonely. David also states that when his parents are angry, they seem to take things out on him; thus making him more frustrated and angry.
Demographics

Mr. Peterson is a 50 year old white male. Mr. Peterson is an educated man with a PhD in literature from the University of North Carolina, for which he takes great pride. Mr. Peterson could be described as having an opinionated egocentric personality, quick witted, and some how seems to respond with some type of literary quote within every response to family and friends. Mr. Peterson does not emphasize a religious preference or identity and could be considered one who maintains an upper middle class life style. Although Mr. Peterson has published a few literary works, none have been significantly successful, and this seems to be a source of pain and loss of self esteem for Mr. Peterson.

Mrs. Peterson is a 46 year old white female. Mrs. Peterson also graduated from the University of North Carolina with a PhD in literature. Mrs. Peterson seems to be a smart, pleasant person that makes references to having hobbies; such as playing tennis, biking and shopping. Mrs. Peterson does not declare a religious preference, but does say she believes in God. Mrs. Peterson has published two novels and takes great pride in their success.

David is a sixteen year old white male. He has no history of mental illness or notable behavior problems. David attends high school within the tenth grade at Highland High School. David does not consider himself to be a religious person, but does love the latest Eminem Rap CD, loves to skate board, draw, and enjoys watching horror movies. David does seem to be a sensitive young man, and at times makes efforts to express his feelings and clearly express any noticeable changes to pictures and other items within my therapeutic office; thus indicating a heightened sense of observational ability.

Treatment Plan

The current treatment plan (see figure 1.1) consist of one primary goal and intermediary objectives through a Cognitive Approach to assist in modifying David's current behavior issues. Thus far, over the past month and a half I have met with the Peterson family every week and attempted to assist David and his family with these objectives and goal with no progress. I believe that with the current information I can develop suggestions, and inform my practice by linking new strategies and intervention objectives from family therapeutic approaches to assist in solving David's difficulties.

GOAL: To decrease David's problematic behaviors

- Send home weekly progress report

- When David receives poor behavior reports he is grounded from skate boarding and other activities he enjoys

Figure 1.1

The current suggestion and decision to link family therapy approaches to this circumstance is to assist with significant issues. In retrospect, the interventions although practical, placed much of the responsibility and process upon David rather than a family oriented intervention. It was found that many times David would not even bring home his weekly progress reports for review. It was also founded that the use of negative reinforcement strategies was not effective due to David's already tattered self image. After further interactions with parents it was discovered that they rarely complimented David on what he does right, and they admitted to criticizing him at times. With this information I believe that it would be wise to now integrate a positive reinforcement plan that would assist with promoting good behavior and increasing self esteem. I feel that suggesting the use of strategies to assist with David's parents in regards to their relationship and the scape goating behaviors David describes may be beneficial. I believe that David's parents would also benefit by gaining parenting skills and education. The prior treatment plan did not allow David to experience for himself the roles of others or allow him to identify thought and feeling patterns. I believe that with the understanding of David's personality and his obvious intelligence and sensitivity, utilizing strategies that assist with thought identification may be beneficial. The newly suggested treatment plan is as follows;

Goal One: To decrease David's problematic behaviors

- To increase David's awareness of how his behavior affects others

- To assist David in identifying thoughts, feelings, behaviors, beliefs

- To assist David's parents with better parenting and relationship skills

Figure 1.2
Strategies for Change - Cognitive Approach

During session discussion I would ask David, how he thought his behavior at school made others feel and what impact his behavior had on others. After his response I feel that the "Critical Moment" Cognitive Behavioral approach intervention that I learned at the University of Michigan School of Social Work may be effective (Personal Communication, R. Tolman, October, 2006). I would suggest that a role play should be utilized with David and his parents. I would ask David to identify any time or circumstance in which he interacted with a teacher negatively and when the interaction concluded with a negative consequence for David. The circumstance I would request of David must have ended with him thinking that he should have responded differently. I would ask him to express to all of us his detailed story from beginning to end. After he expressed his story I would ask David and his parents if there were more positive responses David could have utilized that were not disrespectful. David and his parents would have good ideas regarding what David's response could have been and they would share these ideas. After sharing their ideas, I would request that David play the role of the teacher, and I then ask his father to play the role of his son David. I would ask David's father to make sure that in his response, as he acted like David that he would include the newly agreed upon positive response. As both would act out the role play, David would state the words of his teacher within the past interaction and his father would do his best to repeat what David had stated was spoken during the interaction, except for the addition of the positive statement that David should have said. After the role play, I would request a role reversal. This time David would play himself, stating what his father had stated with the positive response attached to his interaction. His father would play the teacher, and at the conclusion David would hopefully begin to understand both roles of those involved. It is hypothesized that this role reversal may change David's perceptions.

The second intervention that I believe would be helpful in allowing David to identify his thoughts and feelings and how they effect his behavior would be to utilize during the session a dry erase board in order to draw the "circle of identification" (Becvar & Becvar, 2000). This circle could indicate the process of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I feel that the utilization of this type of intervention may work well, considering the known information regarding David's love for drawing and visual acuity. I would suggest to David to express a time when he was disrespectful or acting out against his parents or teachers. That specific episode would be the focus in which we would identify his thoughts, feelings and behaviors to that circumstance. As a therapist I believe that as we identify his thoughts and feelings during this episode and address whether or not they were positive or negative, or whether they were realistic or distorted; at the center of David's response could lie schemas about himself and others that may not be healthy or functional for his life. It will be the goal of this intervention to address those negative schemas that may be assisting in negative responses, and purposely inserting positive collaborative thoughts created within our sessions.

Due to suspected negative reciprocity and the development of negative schemas within the family system, regarding David's consistent behaviors, it would seem to be beneficial to utilize a third cognitive approach. I feel that it may be beneficial for the Peterson family to utilize a thought, feeling, and behavior journal for all members in the family (Becvar & Becvar, 2000; Lawson & Prevatt, 1999). It would be expressed to the family that on each page of the journal there should be two headings; "What did David do today", and "How did I feel about what David did today." I believe that this could allow the family over a number of sessions to come to a realization of how they are perceiving their son, and how David perceives himself in a qualitative manner. Identifying these schemas, thoughts, and feelings may be beneficial for assisting in cognitively reconstructing the family systems perception and expectations of David's behavior.

Narrative Approach

It could be suggested that in an effort to speak about the behaviors within sessions one should seek to reduce parental "problem saturation" regarding discussions of David's behavior (Lawson & Prevatt, 1999). It could be hypothesized that due to the constant criticism and negative perceptions that David's parents have expressed regarding his behaviors, utilizing an externalization technique would be beneficial (Lawson & Prevatt, 1999). As the therapist I should ask two sets of questions; questions relating to how family members feel about David's behavior and after a series of questions regarding the families reactions to David's behavior I would ask the parents if there was ever a time in which David did not act disrespectful or behave in a negative manner (Prevatt & Lawson, 1999). All family members could then begin to identify the negative behaviors as external events in which they could seek to collaborate and work against (Prevatt & Lawson, 1999). This would seem to be an effective intervention, especially for David who has been indicated as having low self esteem and has been identified as possibly being the scape goat within the family system.

After a thorough expression of different perspectives over a number of sessions, as the therapist I would suggest to the parents to write a letter to their son. Within the letter I would ask them to express their commitment to helping David. I would express to the parents to write positive statements of affection for David and let him know that they validate his feelings. This would lend to decreased fault finding and negative reciprocity (Lawson & Prevatt, 1999). This process I believe would assist David in reducing his feelings of isolation and enhance his commitment to working against the externalized problems.

Furthermore, a third intervention that may be effective would be for myself as the therapist to write a final letter of prediction (Lawson & Prevatt, 1999). This letter would be written in a way that expressed a strengths base perspective and a positive message of hope in regards to family commitment and David's behaviors.
Psychoeducational Approach

As the therapist I would pursue concepts and processes consistent with educating the Peterson family. I would identify concepts that may be effective considering the educational level of the parents and David, as well as the families strengths and ability to utilize problem solving and communication concepts (Becvar & Becvar, 2000). Considering the suspected scape goating behaviors of Mr. and Mrs. Peterson, I feel that teaching Mr. and Mrs. Peterson better ways of communicating their own problems rather than projecting them upon David would be beneficial. I believe speaking with Mr. and Mrs. Peterson about active listening skills, practicing the communication ball technique (speaker holds the ball / listener waits their turn) would allow the Petersons to work on their listening skills. I feel that this would work well for the Petersons considering their educational level and willingness to learn.

Another intervention I would implement to enhance communication with the educational system would be to teach parents how to implement a home/school communication system (Foley, 2007). This system includes maintaining a chart that is marked by teachers and parents to indicate behaviors, moods, and activities that were completed during the day (Foley, 2007). The construction of this system creates effective communications between school staff and parents (Foley, 2007). As the therapist I would ask the Petersons to construct this system as instructed and then within one session evaluate the process and express the ideas to David. Emphasizing also to David that good reports will bring good rewards. Educating Mr. and Mrs. Peterson regarding follow through and consistency regarding the communication system would be very important.

Due to the educational levels of the Peterson family, as a therapist I would suggest interventions such as parental skills groups within the community or the use of parenting resources and educational programs within sessions. It is hypothesized that the Petersons would welcome any educational information regarding more effective parenting. Recommending web sites, books (Love and Logic) and therapeutic games to enhance a child's communication and self esteem would be possible interventions for the Peterson family. These psychoeducational interventions would assist with the third objective of the treatment plan, regarding the need to obtain greater parenting and relationship skills.

Conclusion

The difficulty I identified within the first treatment plan was that only one approach was utilized and it was not an eclectic process with at least three approaches and multiple interventions. I believe that the eclecticism should be a priority due to the nature of the problem and multiple systems involved. I felt as if in order to reduce David's negative behaviors the interventions should be creative, connected to problem solving objectives and address the entire family system.

I believe that utilizing a cognitively based approach would be an important part in identifying the negative beliefs and schemas David may have about himself as the roots of his low self esteem. By increasing David's abilities in negative thought identification, David will be able to purposely insert positive thoughts through cognitive restructuring (Becvar & Becvar, 2000). Gaining parental involvement with journaling may also be a wonderful intervention, considering that Mr. and Mrs. Peterson are writers and may give interesting and creative reflections.

What may be a concern is that David's parents could identify externalizing a problem through a Narrative approach, as a way of David not taking full responsibility for his behavior. Considering their past negative reciprocity of his behaviors and the parents' attitudes and expectations, it would be important to emphasize the significance of such a perspective.

David stated that his parents do not listen to him. Also admitted by his parents, they tend to argue more when David gets in trouble. The chosen Psycho educational approach would seem to be an effective approach. This approach I feel would assist the Petersons in gaining valuable communication skills and greater parenting strategies for David. I feel that communication building strategies would assist with what David stated as "no one listens to me." Considering the Petersons income level, community influence and positive attitude towards education, suggesting that they gain involvement in a parenting and or communications group would be an excellent intervention strategy.

I feel as the Petersons therapist that the utilization of these three approaches and choosing them according to their specific circumstance and family dynamics that they will prove to be more effective. I feel that these approaches contain all the elements that are needed to enhance the skills and reduce the problems that were chosen by the Peterson family.

Note to Reader: All participants in this article and the agency are fictional: any relation or connection to real circumstances is clearly coincidental.

L. J. Riley Jr. BSW, LLMSW
______________________________________

References

Becvar, D. S., & Bacvar, R. J. (2000). Family Therapy; A Systemic Integration. (4th edition). Needham Heights; Ma: Allyn & Bacon Publishing.

Foley, S. (2007) Psychological Testing for Social Workers; The Notes.

Lawson, D. M., & Prevatt, F. F. (1999) Casebook in Family Therapy. Belmont; CA:
Wadsworth Publishing.

Bert Sugar Interview: Primo Carnera Kills Klitschko

The legendary historian goes gaga over the awesome nature of the fight. Listen to how he carefully sugarcoats what was witnessed February 23rd. More at www.boxingconfidential.com



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKfQQAhuCRE&hl=en

Final Nightmare

Bowie and Musica become fugitives, fleeing from a trap set for them by Nova Satori. At the site of the SDF-1, amid the wreckage of the First Robotech War, they make a startling discovery concerning the nature of Protoculture.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5Nnt7an_Ug&hl=en

Goodbye Mike (Remembering Michael Jackson)

Mike.... My oldest friend. I have known you since my mom was rockin Off The Wall when I was in her womb. I remember rollerskating in the rink when I was in kindergarten (1982) and hearing Billie Jean for the first time. That moment was HUGE. You rode with me on our family road trip across the USA the WHOLE way. I had to have listened to all your albums to date an infinite amount of times on that trip. I remember seeing you do the moonwalk on TV for the first time and trying to copy it that night in my socks on the kitchen tiles. My brother always did it better than me. He used to be able to dance like you when we were kids and I always flipped out. I always knew you had a good heart man. You never would do ANYONE harm. I never doubted you. Ever. I always had your back even when everyone else was talking trash. I didnt care. You meant too much to me to say bad things. I know a lot of people will praise you and tell you how much you meant to them, but you really have no idea how important you are to me. Thank you forever my friend I cannot thank you enough. I wish I could have met you. That was always a dream of mine. But I will soon meet you in another place. When I get there you gotta show me how to get that muscle control so I can bust out a flawless spin to moonwalk combo. I Think this song (Human Nature) is one of your best. Its one of my top 3. I know a lot of young folks wont like it as much as I do, but I dont care. This song always gave me that tingle in my spine ...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wb_BpuGkeTo&hl=en

Horsemanship

LIRE DESCRIPTION SVP :) Vidéo que j'ai faite de Lénora, qui a une si belle vie avec ses magnifiques chevaux... Ça a été très méditatif pour moi de le faire ce p'tit film... j'y ai mis corps et âme... Lénora et ses chevaux ont été ma muse - et mes émotions, mon outil.... J'espère que ce petit montage vous emportera vous aussi vers cette chose si précieuse et ancrée en chacun de nous qui aimons et chérissons la nature, les animaux - mais surtout la tendresse, l'amour, la complicité, l'infinie bonne volonté et la patience de ces merveilleux et intrigants animaux que sont les chevaux... A REGARDER EN HD si vous pouvez ! et en grand écran... Je serais très reconnaissante pour tout commentaire. ( j'serais même super contente ! ^^ ) My latest video creation - of my friend Lénora and her equine family - I was very inspired - this video means a lot to me, I put a lot of myself into it - It brought back memories of my own horses and how amazingly harmonious and complete my life is with them in it... enjoy...



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVRBtqaz9-4&hl=en

Camping - Fun For the Entire Family

Taking a camping trip can be a fun and affordable vacation if you enjoy the outdoors and nature. Camping offers your family the opportunity to explore the great outdoors and spend quality time together. There are no televisions, computers or other distractions to take away from family time.

State and national parks in the U.S. make camping easier with various facilities and maintained camp grounds. They have such services and amenities as garbage disposal, hot showers, guide maps, barbecue pits and first aid stations. Some have boat rentals, camper hookups and horseback riding. There are also things to keep the kids entertained and busy such as movie screenings, campfire sing-a-longs and other planned activities. Many have a convenience store which can come in handy if you forget something or need ice to fill up your cooler. Some also have cabins and hotels rooms for rent if you don't want to rough it.

There are many state and national parks and there's sure to be one in your home state within driving distance. Camping enthusiasts also fly or take long road trips to choice parks such as the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Yellowstone. Choosing your park is made easy with the use of the internet; most state parks have websites which have maps, amenities, fees and accommodations. Many also allow you to book campsites and check the weather report.

Once you've determined where you want to take your outdoor holiday it's important to book a camping space. In the summer and during pubic work holidays parks can be booked months in advance so plan early. If you show up at the campground without a reservation you may be lucky but most times you'll be turned away. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit parks during the week and go in the fall or spring when the weather is still nice but the kids are in school.

State parks charge entrance fees which go towards the upkeep of the park and its amenities and services. The charge is either per person or per vehicle and children under 16 years old are generally free. It is a nominal fee but if you're planning on camping a lot, it may be cost effective to purchase a state park pass which usually pays for itself in just three or four visits. There are discounts available to seniors over the age of 62. National parks also offer an annual pass that provides access to all federal recreation sites that charge an entrance fee.

When determining where to set up camp, some prefer to be in a more secluded location. Keep in mind that the more secluded you are the farther away the amenities. Families usually don't mind being in a more populated area so they are near the showers and restrooms and can socialize with fellow campers.

Camping is a fun way to enjoy the great outdoors and spend quality time with your friends and family. Make sure you plan ahead and book early especially during peak travel times.

Alaska Cruising - Now It's a Family Thing

If you're thinking about a family vacation to Alaska, and you're wondering if your
kids would enjoy a cruise to "The Last Frontier," wonder no more. Young family
members from tykes and toddlers through teens have a blast on big ships and small
as their vessels sail through the protected waters of Alaska's Inside Passage. Aboard
ship or ashore, there are lots of kid-friendly, parent-friendly, and grandparent-
friendly places to see and fun things to do.

It's true, only a short decade or two ago families with kids aboard Alaska
cruiseships were as scarce as Alaskan Dall sheep lambs in a grizzly bear's lair. But
the times have changed -- big time. Today you will find, in addition to the
traditional hefty contingent of seniors and near-seniors aboard each ship, a growing
number of families. Sometimes these groups are multi-generational, with gramps
and grandmas, moms and dads, and kids that range from gangly teens to babes
literally in arms.

The reason? Word is out that Alaska's attractions are sure-fire hits for travelers of
any age: attractions like humongous whales breaching full length out of the water,
grizzly bears chasing salmon along forest creeks and rivers, icebergs (sometimes as
big as a tour bus) crashing, splashing, and thundering off the faces of miles-long
glaciers.

Too, there are opportunities to mush in a dog sled behind a team of charging
huskies - after helicoptering to a lofty mountain-top glacier no less! Kids and
parents can ride bikes through towering forests or down mountain paths and trails.
They can also kayak among whales and sea lions. Whole families can fish for lunker
king salmon. Or try their luck at gold-panning in creeks and streams.

Newest craze for the young and the young-at-heart is riding a zip-line
through the upper canopies of towering spruce and hemlock forests in Ketchikan
and Juneau -- hanging safe and secure in a harness as they "zip" along a steel cable
some 130 feet or more above the forest floor.

Or, less daunting, while visiting museums up and down the coast families can
absorb the totemic culture and the history of Alaska's Native peoples. They can
learn about the period when Alaska was "Russian America." And they can view
mementos of the tumultuous gold stampede to the Klondike during the late 1800s,

No question about it, Alaska has something exciting to offer every family
member, regardless of age.

But what about life aboard the cruiseships? Will young people find the
experience dullsville?

Hardly. The mid- to mega-sized ships in particular are literally resorts afloat
with swimming pools, spas, snack shops, ice cream parlors, outdoor game courts,
video arcades, and movie theaters. Special staff members aboard these vessels --
with one exception -- include trained youth counselors. These crew members
arrange age-appropriate social activities, organize games and sports events,
supervise arts and crafts, take youngsters on shipwide treasure hunts, and generally
see to it that cruisers from tykes through teens enjoy their cruise as much as their
parents and grandparents.

Although smallship cruiselines in Alaska do not staff their vessels with special
counselors for young cruisers, the ships are no less family-welcoming. These
vessels can enter small bays and inlets where guests can view wildlife on close-by
forest shores, explore waterways by kayak or in spiffy powered Zodiacs, hike
remote island beaches, perhaps even stop for a natural hot springs dip in forested
surroundings.

One smallship cruiseline even schedules three Alaska cruises each year
especially geared for family travel.

Regardless of vessel size, and with only a couple of exceptions, cruiselines in
the Alaska trade actively court family cruisers. Few such travelers, young or old, find
the experience anything other than "cool." And they're not referring to the weather.

Following is a cruiseline by cruiseline summary of family programs and kids'
things-to-do on an Alaska cruise. The information was supplied by the cruiselines
or taken from company websites.

Large and Mega Size Cruiseships

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE's 2006 Alaska voyages aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival
Spirit offer youngsters age 2 through 17 a variety of continuous supervised activities
as part of the line's "Camp Carnival" program.

Included in the line's Alaska sailings are a number of "just for Alaska" projects
where kids can make their own dream catchers and totem poles and learn about the
region's fascinating Native Alaskan cultures.

The Carnival Spirit offers other kid- and family-friendly amenities as well,
including a spacious indoor play room featuring an arts and crafts center, a 16-
monitor video wall, climbing mazes, an outdoor play area, and a computer lab.

When it comes to dining, says Carnival, "Youngsters get the full 'Fun Ship'
treatment with expanded children's menus offering a variety of kids' favorites as
well as a daily junior special." The menus are included on the back of a coloring and
activity book featuring word finds, mazes, tic-tac-toe, crossword puzzles, connect-
the-dots, and other games.

Young cruiser age groups include 2- through 5-year-olds, 6 through 8, 9
through 11, and for teens 15 through 17 a program called "Club 02." (http://
http://www.carnival.com)

CELEBRITY CRUISES' "Family Cruising Program" offers young peoples' activities in
four age groups:

On any given day Ship Mates (for 3- through 6-year-olds) may enjoy a clown
party, treasure hunt, T-shirt painting, Legos, talent time, finger painting, dancing
games, summer stock theater, cartoon time, computers, play stations, musical
games, movies, ship tours, and ice cream sundae making.

Many of these same activities are on the agenda for older children as well, but are
undertaken on an older-age level.

Celebrity Cadets (for youngsters 7-9) might also include pool olympics,
scavenger hunts, charades, a fitness program, board games, relays, and team trivia.
Ensigns (for pre-teens 10-12) additionally enjoy karaoke, relay races, ship tours,
and pizza parties.

Admiral T's takes in two classes of teenagers, 13-15 and 16-17. Members can
frequent the Teen Club, engage in basketball tournaments, enjoy pool parties, and
help put on talent shows.

Celebrity vessels also offer a "Parents Night Out" program. On the two formal
nights of a seven-night voyage, Celebrity treats parents to free babysitting when
counselors take the children to a pizza party for dinner. (http://www.celebrity.com)

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE's "Club HAL" provides a variety of kid-friendly facilities and
age-appropriate activities. Programs for children ages 3-12 may be found aboard
2006 Alaska-bound ships Ryndam, Statendam, Zaandam, Zuiderdam, Oosterdam,
and Westerdam and for ages 5-12 aboard Volendam and Veendam. All eight ships
have a teen program for ages 13-17. (http://www.hollandamerica.com)

Club HAL activities are designed to be age appropriate. For example, daily
activities planned for children ages 3 to 7 may include arts and crafts, face-
painting, camp-out night, candy bar Bingo, outdoor fun, and a pajama party.

"Tweens," the in-between travelers 8 through 12, may learn golf putting, attend
dance parties and theme nights, compete in on-deck sports events and scavenger
hunts, play arcade games, tie-dye t-shirts, or simply play ping-pong with a friend.

Teens 13-17 enjoy The Loft designed to resemble a New York artist's loft; there's
also The Oasis, a private deck where teens can soak up the rays then cool off in a
one-of-a-kind waterfall. The Loft and Oasis are currently available on 2006 Alaska-
bound vessels Ryndam, Statendam, Veendam, Volendam, and Zaandam. Teens will
especially enjoy the teen disco, dance lessons, arcade games, teen sports
tournaments, karaoke, trivia contests, bingo, play stations, movies and hot tub
parties.

On most itineraries, Holland America provides at least one full-time Youth
Program Director and one or more youth staff members. The ratio of Club HAL staff
to children on board is 1:30.

Additionally there's a wide variety of kid-pleasing food, including special
sandwiches, tacos, burgers, hot dogs and pizza. For the very young baby food, high
chairs and booster seats may be requested in advance of boarding. Baby-sitting
services are available for a small surcharge and special birthday parties can also be
arranged.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE notes on its web pages that the line's Kid's Crew and
Teen's Crew programs are filled with age-appropriate activities for youngsters 2
through 17. For Kid's Crew members aged 2-12, NCL offers everything from arts
and crafts to pajama parties. Teens Crew, for cruisers 13-17 provides options like
pool parties, a teen disco, a video arcade, and more.

But don't, says NCL, think of these programs as "babysitting." There's very little
"sitting" involved, notes the cruiseline. The programs are active, energetic,
educational and, most importantly, fun. (http://www.ncl.com)

PRINCESS CRUISES' junior cruisers (ages 3 to 17) can enjoy a boatload of exciting
onboard activities. All of the line's Alaska-bound ships have special kids and youth
centers staffed by counselors who put on a program of age-specific activities each
day. Group babysitting is available in the late evenings.

Among a number of programs for youngsters is one specific to Alaska. Produced
with the National Park Service, Princess' sub-teen "Junior Ranger" program is
designed to bring Glacier Bay and the Alaska wilderness to life for thousands of
children each summer. The program features interactive games, activity books, and
presentation by rangers. The corresponding "Teen Explorer" program features
similar learning activities geared for older youngsters.

In a cruise industry exclusive, the Los Angeles-based California Science Center
provides entertaining interactive activities. Princess youth staff have undergone
extensive training at the center, designed to enthrall young passengers with award-
winning science projects. Whale watching, building and racing sailboats, marine
biology studies and squid dissection are a few of the activities available.

The line's website notes that preteens are divided into two groups: Princess
Pelicans ages 3-7 and Princess Pirateers, 8-12. Both groups are entertained with
age-rated arts and crafts, discos, movies and cartoons, exclusive kids-only dining,
hunts, karaoke and lip-sync shows, afternoon ice cream parties, pizza parties,
backstage and galley tours, pajama parties, and T-shirt coloring.

Says Princess' website: "Our astounding teen centers are packed with Nintendo,
movies, karaoke, giant screen TVs, card and board games, ping-pong and juke
boxes." The site also notes that the Alaska-bound Sun, Dawn, Coral, Island, and
Diamond Princess ships also offer a toddler's play area. (http://www.princess.com)

ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL provides a young peoples' program called
"Adventure Ocean" serving and entertaining travelers 3 to 17 in five different
categories.

Youngest group (ages 3 through 5) are called Aquanauts and do finger painting,
building blocks, play dough, music activities, dot dancing, and "shape Bingo."
Explorers (6-8) have a Pirate Night, go on a backstage tour, enjoy nutty nicknames,
and engage in autograph hunts. Nine to 11-year-old Voyagers do karaoke singing,
have a Ga-Ga Ball, enjoy H20 Thunder Races, and do an art walk.

Navigators (12-14) play in sports tournaments, have pool parties, enjoy a college
night, engage in video games, and attend disco dancing sessions as well as a formal
night. Older teens,15-17 and called Guests, also enjoy dancing, pool parties, DJ
training, Battle of the Sexes, plus a formal night and a Survivor Series.

RCI's Edu-tainment programming offers:

Adventure Science, a blend of hands-on experiments and wacky entertainment
(example: Staggering Through the Stars, and a Wacky Water Workshop);

Adventure Art, the opportunity to exercise creativity with crafts;

Sail Into Story Time and Adventure Family. The latter is a free, onboard program
that allows children 3-11 and their parents to spend quality time together doing
projects that range from shipbuilding regattas to talent shows and scavenger hunts.
(http://www.royalcaribbean.com)

Mid-Size Vessels

RADISSON SEVEN SEAS CRUISES' youth program, "Club Mariner," provides adults who
want to share Alaska's wonders with their children or grandchildren a
complimentary children's program. "The program," says the company, "offers the
opportunity for every member of the family to experience Alaska in a meaningful,
enriching way."

The cruiseline's youth program is designed for three age groups: 5-9, 10-13 and
14-17. Throughout each voyage, trained counselors offer young cruisers the
opportunity to participate in a variety of interactive adventures focusing on Alaska.
Children will exercise their creativity with crafts while gaining knowledge about
Alaska's diverse wildlife, its unique geography, its indigenous crafts, and its rich
artistic heritage.

Kids will learn about whales, salmon, glaciers and totem poles. They might draw
and write about their adventures in their special Club Mariner scrapbook, bake
chocolate "moose" cookies, go whale watching out on deck or learn all about eagles,
dolphins, bears and sea lions.

Notes RSSC: "Club Mariner not only makes it easier for families to travel together,
it helps kids broaden their cultural and educational horizons. And they'll return
home knowing more about Alaska than all the other 49 states combined!" (http://
http://www.rssc.com)

SILVERSEA CRUISES advises that, due to the sophisticated nature of its cruises and
programs, the company does not encourage travel with young children. (http://
http://www.silverseacruises.com)

Smaller Ships

AMERICAN SAFARI CRUISES' Kids in Nature (KIN) cruises, include a luxury yacht as
the schoolhouse, an Expedition Leader/Naturalist as the teacher, and the wildlife-
rich waters of Alaska's Inside Passage as the laboratory. KIN convenes in Alaska
aboard the upscale 22-passenger yacht Safari Quest with the first of two seven-
night cruises from Sitka June 17. The voyage takes in various wilderness sites and
communities throughout Southeast Alaska. and ends in Juneau June 17. Another
seven-night Safari Quest sailing commences July 29 while an eight-night voyage
from Prince Rupert, B.C. to Juneau embarks June 26 aboard the equally luxurious
12-guest Safari Escape.

Activities abound for all ages: kayaking, hiking on a remote island followed by a
full-scale picnic, hopping shore-to-shore by Zodiac, viewing whales directly off the
bow or dolphins right below, collecting shells to study, and more. Kids and adults
alike are accompanied on a variety of personal-choice excursions while their yacht
is at anchor.

At the end of a cruise each child receives a Kids in Nature backpack filled with
mementos of their various explorations: a certificate of achievement signed by the
Captain and Expedition Leader, a tee shirt and cap, a pair of binoculars, disposable
camera and a typed list of all of the flora and fauna observed during the cruise. The
program offers kid-size pricing -- two kids under 12 for one adult fare.

Aboard other sailings during the season American Safaris Cruises' three yachts
offer very upscale amenities and cuisine best appreciated by sophisticated adults.
For these cruises the line normally discourages guests from bringing young children
and does not offer specifically child-oriented services. (http://
http://www.americansafaricruises.com)

AMERICAN WEST STEAMBOAT COMPANY advises, "We tend to cater to mature adults
and therefore offer no special programs to kids and teens." (http://
[http://www.americanweststeamboat.com])

THE BOAT COMPANY offers special rates for young cruisers traveling with parents:
50 percent off the usual fare if occupying a stateroom with a parent, 20 percent off
if occupying a separate cabin.

The company's two vessels do not have separate personnel specifically assigned
to youngsters on board, but the line does try to accommodate the desires of each
passenger including kayaking, fishing, beach hikes, and other kid-friendly activities.
(http://www.theboatcompany.com)

CLIPPER CRUISELINE has no specific children's programs or staff for younger
travelers, but the nature of the company's routes and cruising areas
(including whale sightings, bears other wildlife, and shore excursions)
make it appropriate for family groups. Cabins can accommodate as many as three
guests; for larger groups two cabins would be necessary. (http://
[http://www.clippercruise.com])

CRUISE WEST offers a children's travel special aboard the Sheltered Seas Daylight
Yacht Tours. Travelers 12 and under sharing a cabin with an adult save 50 percent
on Family Adventure cruise fares. Youths 13 through 21 save 25 percent.

While many of the company's other cruises are of considerable interest for
families with children, activities aboard ship are not specifically geared for young
travelers. Cruise West is the largest of the smallship cruiselines serving Alaska and
offers cruising options of family interest from Southeast Alaska with its totems,
glaciers, national park lands and goldrush historical points of interest to
Southcentral's Prince William Sound and beyond to Arctic waters and even Russia.
(http://www.cruisewest.com)

DISCOVERY VOYAGES advises that cruises aboard the 12-passenger vessel Discovery
are "definitely family friendly" and, in fact, the company offers a 25 percent discount
for children 12 and under.

Notes a company spokeswoman: "Due to the intimate size of our vessel we do not
have specific youth directors but our staff (including Captain Dean Rand's daughters
Hannah and Heather, who grew up on board the Discovery) is diverse in working
with both adults and children as well as being naturalists and kayaking guides." The
company often works with agencies and outfitters who specialize in family trips.
(http://www.discoveryvoyages.com)

LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS welcomes voyagers young and old. And come September,
Archie Comics illustrator Stan Goldberg will join a shipload of other Lindblad
Expeditions travelers through the Inside Passage from Southeast Alaska to British
Columbia. His mission: to create the second in his "Little Lin" cartoon book series of
educational adventures for young people. (In his first book, Fun and Games With
Little Lin, released in 2005, child explorer Little Lin discovers Peru's Galapagos
Islands.)

ßIn his second work Goldberg's young adventurer will sail to Alaska and will
encounter glaciers, humpback whales, bald eagles, and all manner of other
creatures and their habitats along Alaska's and British Columbia's Inside Passage. In
future years, the Alaska-inspired Little Lin books will be distributed to all families
traveling aboard Lindblad Inside Passage cruises. (http://www.expeditions.com)

MAPLE LEAF ADVENTURES offers families the opportunity to view Alaska's glaciers,
whales, islands, bear hot spots, beaches, hot springs and towns aboard the classic
tall-ship sailing vessel Maple Leaf, a beautifully restored 92-foot sailing schooner
built in 1904.

The ship takes 9 or 10 guests. The vessel's on-board naturalist, chef and
experienced crew can customize the trip's itinerary, menu and activities to suit
family interests. Typical highlights include unparalleled proximity to ice bergs,
glaciers and wildlife, sailing a tall ship, and great camaraderie between guests and
crew.

Special activities for kids include sail training, fishing (with purchase of a fishing
license), hikes, and a customizable itinerary.

Accommodations are comfortable but not luxurious. Because berths are limited
to nine or ten passengers, it is possible for one or more families (two families of
five, for instance) to jointly reserve all the berths for one of the company's 11-night
Alaska voyages. Parents with teen-age children may reserve berths that are not
otherwise reserved with the concurrence of prior-booked adult passengers. (http://
http://www.mapleleafadventures.com)

State and Provincial Ferries

ALASKA MARINE HIGHWAY SYSTEM (Alaska ferries) is made-to-order for family
travel along Alaska's coast. Depending on vessel youngsters will find onboard play
areas for the very young, casual meals and snack bars for any age, movies, and
nature talks plus expansive glass-enclosed solariums. These are ideal for spotting
orcas (killer whales), humpback whales, playful porpoises and sea lions in the water
plus mountain goats on towering cliffsides, and (for the fortunate observer) the
sight of black and brown (grizzly) bears on passing beaches. Families with or
without vehicles may embark as far south as Bellingham, Washington or Prince
Rupert, British Columbia.

Larger stateroom-equipped vessels of the fleet are the Columbia (931
passengers), Matanuska (745), Malaspina (701), Taku (370), and Kennicott (748).
Depending on the season, one or two ships sail on weekly schedules all the way to/
from Bellingham while others turn around at Prince Rupert. (http://
http://www.FerryAlaska.com)

BC FERRIES demonstrates its kid-friendliness even before a family boards ship.
Computer-savvy children or their parents have only to surf the web to http://
http://www.bcferries.bc.ca/kidzone/establishing_shot.html and they will meet cartoon
characters Samantha ("Call me Sam") and Cal, two seagoing doggy characters who
introduce young viewers to three online activities - an electronic coloring book, a
"Match the Ferries" memory game, and a virtual bridge tour.

The 700-passenger provincial ferry vessel Queen of the North connects with
Alaska state ferries at Prince Rupert for frequent access to Southeast Alaska ports.
(http://www.bcferries.com)

Copyright (c) 2006 By Mike Miller -- All Rights Reserved

Create Your Own Garden Paradise Add a Fountain

Adding a water feature to your garden will look nice and give you
a place to relax. Sitting near a fountain to read or just listen
and enjoy nature is a wonderful thing to do to unwind. It can be
relatively inexpensive and easy to install a water feature.
There is not much maintenance either.

Being around water gives people positive energy, so fountains are
installed to give this natural feeling. If you practice yoga or
martial arts, the sound of the water can help with your
meditation. If you do not practice these, you will likely still
enjoy the mellow mental state that the sights and sounds will
provide to you.

You need to choose a fountain that will fit with the style of the
rest of your garden, patio or deck area and its decorations. It should look as if
it's supposed to be there, and not stick out or be too obviously
different. Since you can't try out the fountain by taking it to
your garden before choosing whether or not to buy it, you should
take a photo of your garden to the store to picture what it might
look like and to get input from other people.

Once you choose a fountain and place it in your garden, you'll
need to supply it with power. It will likely be far from the
house, and an extension cord would be unsightly across a yard
and into a garden. Luckily, stores such as home depot have
extension cords that are built to be buried. You will have to
build a small trench, but the end result will be well worth the
effort.

A fountain can add class and beauty to your garden, as well as
provide you with a place to relax and escape from daily stresses, and by
adding landscaping yard lights
let you enjoy the outdoors when darkness falls.

The price is very cheap, especially when you consider the
benefits that you will get from it. Gardens aren't just for
vegetables, they are haven and a place where you can be close to
nature.

Nature's Bee Pollen from New Zealand - The Best in the World

There are a lot of ancient text and writings about bee pollen and its benefits for human health. It has been long used by our ancestors in treating health problems and even in their daily needed nutrition. In the past where there were no known pollution caused by some inventions of various technologies, especially in the field of industries, the best pollens can be found anywhere in the world.

That's all in the past but how about the present? Can we still experience the valuable health benefits from bee supplements like our ancestors used to? The answer is yes and we can always find the best nature's bee pollen from New Zealand.

Why is New Zealand the only source of the best pollens in the world?

This is due to the fact that New Zealand is the only known country that has no pollution and minimal human inhabitants. Other countries are so dense in population, have high industry rates, have chemically enhanced farmlands, and most of all have heavy pollutions. Nature's bee pollen from New Zealand are collected by only the healthiest and heartiest bees in the world. They are at their tiptop shape to produce the best pollens known to mankind.

Other misleading claims of other countries that they have the best pollens cause some people to develop various diseases and even life threatening ailments. The pollens produced from other countries are said to be contaminated by the harmful effects of pollution. It contains heavy metals like lead which is one of the known poisonous elements for the human body.

Some chemicals and toxins from farmlands and household pesticides, insecticides, synthetic fertilizers and other things we use at home that contains chemicals causes pollution to our environment. These impurities affect the bees collecting the pollens because bees are known to be very sensitive from all the elements in their surroundings they come in contact with. If bees were exposed to these contaminants, they will only produce contaminated pollens with very low potency content.

There are some companies which use various methods in trying to eliminate these contaminants from the pollens they produce and manufacture but they can certainly do more damage to the pollens' low potency levels. When you're not careful enough to purchase the bee products from companies which collect their pollens from countries other than New Zealand, you are only putting your health and your life at risk.

These contaminated pollens will do you more harm than good. It may bring about a lot of dangerous disease development that could be fatal especially if young children are exposed to these kinds of pollens.

You and your family's whole life and health depend on your will power to purchase only the best pollen in the world which is nature's bee pollen from New Zealand. By doing so, you and your family's health are ensured to experience the best health benefits from these pollens and even bring about longer life spans.

Cody Lundin Interview Part 2 with Don Harrold

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfaXsRn5ErE&hl=en

Fun Places For A Family Vacation

Planning a family vacation that is full of fun and excitement for all family members can be challenging with the many preferences of what to do and where to go. It's a good idea to narrow down your choices to those ideas that offer a variety of activities, sights, and attractions, that would be welcomed by all.

Fun places for a family vacation that provide a variety of things to do, places to see, can range from quiet relaxation to all out adrenaline rush, from rustic tranquility to the hustle and bustle of a metropolitan city. Here are some ideas that may be useful when planning your next family vacation:

Dude ranches - Dude ranches offer country experiences in the great outdoors. Full of the beautiful scenery and country hospitality, dude ranches vary from rustic, hands on, where guests can help with chores, to full scale resorts, some with spas. A wide range of activities can be found such as horseback riding, trail hikes, country dancing, and activities for younger children. Accommodations can be rooms, cabins, cottages, and even a tipi.

Theme parks - Thrill rides and water rides are the attractions here. There are many different games to entertain the younger and older kids, food for every taste bud, and shows that can be from comedy to live music. Some theme parks offer camping facilities for RVs and campers, tents, and cabin rentals.

Aquariums and marine parks - Discover a whole new world under the sea with a visit to an aquarium. Feed the dolphins and sea lions, watch dolphins and whales perform at a marine park. Take a tour of the behind the scenes care of the marine animals, learn interesting facts of the diverse marine life.

National parks - If something more relaxing and quiet is more appealing, national parks offer different environments such as desert and canyon, mountains, woodlands, wetlands, and beaches. Activities can be horseback riding, boating, kayaking, river rafting, snorkeling and scuba diving, along with hiking, backpacking, and wildlife viewing to name a few. Accommodations are camping, cabin rental, or nearby motels. You will find the most breathtaking scenery you may ever see, so plan on taking lots of photos.

By deciding on a family vacation that would accommodate the interests of everyone, your vacation will be fun filled, exciting, easy going, and most importantly, memorable, because everyone is sharing in each others interests as a family.

Camping and Outdoor Activities: Get Involved with Nature

Camping mixed with outdoor activity is a great way to get ourselves involved with nature. National Parks can provide an excellent backdrop for some of your outdoor activities. Activities such as hiking, fishing, cycling, horseback riding, white water rafting and kayaking, skiing, rock climbing and mountaineering are just a few of the sports you might want to include on your camping adventure

It's important when traveling to bring along the proper clothing. Always include some rain and windwear, a fleece jacket is also a good idea. A first aid kit and plenty of drinking water should always be available. Of course if you are planning on doing any outdoor activities in the winter you will need more clothing etc. Bring along your bicycles and hiking boots if you have them. Usually equipment rentals will be available for activities you don't generally do

Whatever outdoor activity you decide on pursuing, it's always a great idea to do a little research. Most of the National Parks you will be visiting have excellent web sites that you can look into and see what sort of hiking trails and activities are available. Information such as popular points of interest in the parks will also be available in travel books and park brochures. Depending on where you will be staying you can also research the area you will be visiting for information on bicycle rentals, kayak rentals and lessons, and boating. There will be different outfitters available in the area that may offer excursions and rentals through the park you are visiting.

One of the most convenient and popular camping activities is hiking trails. For some people a hike can consist of a simple walk around the park, while others prefer a much lengthier hike. Regardless of what sort of hike you will be taking, a little preparation will go a long way in ensuring a comfortable journey. Hiking trails offer highly scenic and incredible views of nature. Hiking is a wonderful way to view nature at its finest, as the parks really are preserving special pieces of our wilderness. Depending on what park you will be hiking, the trails will offer different ranges of difficulty levels. Many trails will lead to scenic vistas as easy hikes, while other hikes may be significantly more challenging and too steep for some.

Always be prepared for the weather when hiking. Carry a daypack with some water, a rain/wind jacket, a fleece/wool jacket or sweater, a first aid kit and some food. Good hiking boots are essential. On some of your hikes it is quite likely you will come across wildlife such as moose, black bears and grizzly bears, big horn sheep and deer. It is a good idea to know what you should and should not do when coming across animals. Parks often will have signs up if animals have been sighted in the campground.

Fishing is a wonderful way to enjoy the sport and see beautiful streams, ocean, lakes and rivers all over the United States. National Parks offer both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Check with the state fishing regulations for exact dates and detailed fishing information, including proper license requirements. Some fishing opportunities will require overnight backcountry use permits. It is always important to respect the park you are fishing in, in order to maintain the quality waters that protect the natural fish populations and food sources for bald eagles, ospreys and otters among others.

Cycling is an excellent and convenient way to explore the national park or area where you are staying. Bringing along bicycles allows you to just get up and go wherever you are. It is important to check beforehand as to where cycling is allowed. Most National Parks only allow biking on the paved and backcountry dirt roads throughout the parks. Most hiking trails do not allow bicycles. Most of your cycling through the parks will be done on the same roads used for cars. For this reason special caution should be used; stay alert and be visible using both head and tail lights along with reflective clothing. Look into the area where you will be camping. There may be trails available specifically for cycling.

Horseback riding might be a fun and exciting option while visiting a national park. Several parks offer gravel roads for horseback riding, certain parks also have horse rentals and guided excursions available. A list of stables and outfitters can be obtained at visitor centers, or checked through travel guides and brochures.

Whitewater rafting is one of the most unique and invigorating ways to visit a parks backcountry. Some of the most incredible National Parks may have river rafting excursions that travel through the park, the river rafting is usually offered by various companies and outfitters. If whitewater rafting sounds a bit too dangerous, perhaps a kayaking excursion through one of the splendid rivers would seem wiser. Imagine kayaking through one of the popular National Parks past geysers, hot spring and mud pots. Kayaking is a wonderful way to explore areas that are untouched by vehicle or foot traffic.

Cross country skiing is another popular way for the entire family to visit and see beautiful winter landscapes. Many parks have several excellent trails available for cross country skiing. Several National Parks will offer novice, intermediate and advanced trails for skiing. Cross country skiing is a wonderful way to experience the parks wilderness during the winter season. Snowshoeing trails may also be available in parks.

The U.S. National Parks offer some of the most incredible rock climbing and mountaineering pursuits in the world. Rock climbing and mountaineering are usually sports reserved for people with a bit of experience. Rock climbing and mountaineering can offer wonderful and different perspectives of the landscapes. Both sports demand having the proper equipment and knowledge for safety reasons. Many National Parks offer established climbing routes that will have a wide range of difficulty levels; usually no permits are needed, unless an overnight stay in backcountry is involved. It is important to check weather conditions beforehand and use caution, never climb alone.

What better way to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the world than with some fun outdoor activities. The options for outdoor activities are endless. Whether you decide to visit any of the amazing National Parks or choose to go camping in a favorite spot the list is limitless. Many of the activities you might be interested in will be available in the towns near the parks. Various outfitters and companies outside some of the popular National Parks will offer excursions that go into the parks. Whatever activity you decide to enjoy, it is always wise to do a little research to know ahead of time what to expect, always check what the weather conditions will be to avoid any dangerous situations.

Usher Gone to Soon Live Michael Jackson Memorial Los Angeles July 7th 2009

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WT3_6Xh5pn0&hl=en

Letting Nature Grow Your Garden

It is wisest to let Nature have Her way. Nature has her own agenda, and your life as a gardener will be easier if you bow to Her desires. Better to dance with the fairies than struggle with eliminating "weeds". What herbs already grow around you that you can use as teas and seasonings? Most areas are rich in such plants, both native and introduced. Many of them will be happy to grace your garden with very little effort on your part. Some will appear; others may want to be transplanted. Still others are simply there, waiting for you to notice.

For instance, pine trees. Pine needle vinegar is an exquisite treat that is easy to make. I call it homemade "balsamic" vinegar. Fill a jar with pine needles. (I prefer white pine, and pinyon pine is even better, but the needles of any pine are fine.) Cover needles completely with apple cider vinegar, filling the jar to the top and capping with a plastic lid or a piece of plastic wrap held in place with a rubber band. This vinegar, like most that I make, is ready to use in six weeks. Pine vinegar is rich in flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals. It helps keep the immune system strong, and strengthens the lungs as well. I love it on salads.

Your home, like mine in the Catskills, offers rose hips and sumac berries for vitamin-C rich teas; spice bush leaves and berries to suggest the flavors of bay and allspice; and the roots of sweet clover to use as a vanilla substitute.

Grab a local field guide and go looking for all the plants that are native to your area. For example, if you live in the northern states like Minnesota, a great book is "How Indians Use Wild Plants for Food, Medicine, and Crafts", written in 1926 by Frances Densmore who collected information from the Minnesota Chippewa. There are many similar guides available.

Why use native plants? They are often hardy survivors and naturally adapted to the area, sometimes requiring less watering and care. Whether in the wilds or in your garden, Nature is ever-ready to provide you with all you need with little or no input from you. An abundance of edible and medicinal plants covers every inch of my garden - and I didn't plant any of them. With only a little help from me (I spread compost several inches deep on my gardens spring and fall, and keep them fenced against my goats and the marauding deer), my gardens grow: garlic mustard, chickweed, violets, dandelion, curly dock, nettles, burdock, wild madder, crone(mug)wort, wild chives, poke, catnip, malva, wild mint, bergamot, cleavers, motherwort, chicory, raspberry, goldenrod, creeping jenny, barbara's cress, evening primrose, milk weed.

The next best thing to letting Nature plant your herb garden for you is to put in perennials and let Nature take care of them. You will find the best plants for your area at a plant swap at a local church or school. Nurseries, especially the mail order ones, offer lots of different kinds of plants, but only a few of them will be both productive and carefree.

The most dependable perennial herbs are Echinacea, comfrey, elecampane, wormwood, and thyme, on the hardiest members of the aromatic mint family.

Cuttings of various mints are easy to come by and easier yet to establish. Chocolate mint and red bergamot are two of my favorites, but don't be choosy - accept any and all mint cuttings you are given. Perennial aromatic mints - including lemon balm, lavender, rosemary, thyme, sage, oregano, pennyroyal, and catnip, as well as spearmint and peppermint - form the "backbone" of most herb gardens. Just grow them in full sun in poor soil and don't overwater.

Anyone who has a comfrey plant will be glad to give you a "start" (a piece of the root). And, once put in, comfrey is a friend for life. Ditto rhubarb, whose root is a formidable herbal medicine.

Magazines offer gardening knowledge in small doses, and at appropriate times, instead of all at once, and this is usually more helpful than a book that tries to cover all seasons and all reasons. These are my current (spring 2002) favorites:

The American Gardener, a publication of the American Horticultural Society. Perhaps it is a bit more formal than I am, but it nonetheless has a down-home charm. Check out http://www.ahs.org or call 1-800-777-7931. When you join, you get the magazine plus the right to join in their annual seed give-away.

The Garden Gate is very practical and covers a wide range of topics in excellent detail: from plants to planters, to planting your feet so your back stays strong. Every page counts, as there is no advertising. You can subscribe at http://www.gardengatemagazine.com or call 1-800-341-4769.

The Gardener is another non-advertising production. It is unique in not using photographs. It is illustrated throughout in a variety of stunning styles. They offered me a credit worth $20 for plants or seeds with my subscription. Call them at 1-877-257-5268.

Herbals that include cultural instructions are good additions to your library.

Opening Your Wild Heart to the Healing Herbs by Gail /Faith Edwards is one of my favorites. I love Gail's voice. When I read the book I feel like a wise teacher is sitting next to me telling me how to use and how to grow herbs and trees, medicines and teas.

Steven Foster's Herbal Bounty is a classic on "The Gentle Art of Herb Culture." Unfortunately, it is now out of print, but you may be able to find one used. (c1984, Peregrine Smith Books). He gives detailed information on the culture, and medicinal uses, of over 100 popular herbs.

Park's Success with Herbs is also out of print but a book that I use constantly. Gertrude Foster and Rosemary Louden fill just under 200 pages with an incredible amount of information on growing and using (lots of recipes) an amazing variety of herbs.

Wild Women's Garden is one of a series of books that tell you how to grow and use herbs. This one focuses on herbs for women. Another, Serenity Garden focuses on herbs that are relaxing. A third, En Garden, is more general. Each book contains a postcard that you send in for free seeds so you can grow the plants in the book. Great info and great fun. The cost of the seeds alone is worth more than the price of the book. Jillian VanNostrand and Christie Sarles are the authors; published by Radical Weeds.

When you try too hard, it doesn't work. We learn to work with the slow interplay of Yin and Yang. We learn to be in harmony with nature's laws. Forcing things to fit or going against the grain is an unskillful way. We learn to be flexible like water. We use our intuition. We hold, energetically, a magical spot of ground and watch what grows. In Taoism they call it "Wu Wei". We walk in the "effortless", we dance with the fairies, moving in joyful flow with the undulating, magical greenery blowing in the breeze.

Wow! You have a garden! With patience, good weather, and the grace of the Goddess, you and Nature will create a thing of beauty.

Legal Disclaimer: This content is not intended to replace conventional medical treatment. Any suggestions made and all herbs listed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, condition or symptom. Personal directions and use should be provided by a clinical herbalist or other qualified healthcare practitioner with a specific formula for you. All material contained herein is provided for general information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Contact a reputable healthcare practitioner if you are in need of medical care. Exercise self-empowerment by seeking a second opinion.

Best Time To Get Pregnant - Mother Nature At Its Best

It is so nice that you have decided to bring new joy into your life. However, have you made sure that you both, you and your partner, are medically fit to be parents. Moreover, is this the best time to get pregnant? Pregnancy planning is something very important in today's world. If you have been taking pregnancy prevention pills then it is always better to wait for three months to ensure that your menstrual cycle becomes normal, before you take the plunge. If you find that, you or your partner has some deficiency, you must take proper treatment, before you plan your pregnancy, lest you confront desperation and frustration at a later stage. In most cases, women start taking vitamin B and folic acid supplements as soon as they contemplate pregnancy. Moreover, your physician invariably advises you to drop your habit of smoking, drinking alcohol and too much exertion to ensure a safe passage to pregnancy. Please do not be too concerned, normally you get the green signal after your first visit to the doctor.

The Main Symptoms

You must be anxious to know the best time to get pregnant. Well here it is. The ovulation period is the best time of month to get pregnant. During this period, the follicles release a mature ovum. This ovum passes into the uterus and remains there for about 12 hours. Usually, couples have sexual intercourse during this period, as the ovum is ripe for fertilization and enhances the possibility of a stable pregnancy. After 12 hours the ovum starts to degenerate which decreases the chances of pregnancy.

Women have a menstrual cycle of 28 days. The ovulation period, the best time to get pregnant, commences from the middle of the cycle. This is usually the best time of the month to have a sexual intercourse. As the woman's body is more receptive, it becomes easier to get pregnant during this period.

During the ovulation period, the basal body temperature increases by nearly 1.6 degrees. This also signifies that the best time to get pregnant has arrived. You should first keep a track of this period, for a few months, with the help of a basal thermometer, in case you decide to use this period of fertilization to have intercourse and get pregnant

The best time to get pregnant is the time when cervical mucous becomes wet, slippery and starts to stretch.
Sometimes when women feel uncomfortable in the area of abdomen, it is a signal that the ovulation period has arrived. This is the best time to get pregnant.

There are many other methods as well which indicate the best period to have sex, to increase chances of pregnancy. To determine when's the best time to get pregnant, many people use saliva tests, calendars and kits that predict the ovulation period.

Timing of sexual intercourse is not the only factor that determines or influences pregnancy. Sexual partners should be emotionally involved with each other to have better chances of pregnancy. Besides, both the partners should have healthy bodies and should be of reproductive age and ability. Some people say that the spring season is more productive than the winter season. Such people advise this period to be the best time to get pregnant.

So if you are keen on having a baby, purchase some good books on pregnancy and start your pre-pregnancy planning. Please understand that with this decision you are going to increase love between you and your partner. The arrival of the baby creates an unbreakable bond between you and your mate. So make sure that you both are involved with each other to enjoy this unique period of your life. Remember, you are the best judge to decide which period is the best time to get pregnant.

Gorilla Murders

Park rangers and a photographer come across the bodies of six murdered gorillas. Gorilla Murders : TUES JULY 1 10P et/pt : channel.nationalgeographic.com



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twiSBP6SHJw&hl=en