Total page views: 192,592
Published Content: 152
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On AC since: 10.26.07
Bio:
I am a speech communications professor who dabbles in writing and research.
Education/Experience:
M.A. in Interpretive Speech/Drama; B. S. in Secondary Education with concentrations in History and Speech/Drama
Motto:
"Never use the word 'impossible' seriously again. Toss it into the verbal wastbasket." -unknown
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In this "plugged in" generation, learn to turn off the electronic babysitter and give your child the freedom to play imaginatively.
We often alter our homes to fit the needs of the members living there. But have you considered altering your home to meet the needs of its smallest inhabitants?
Only children can be some of the brightest and sweetest children who grow into well-adjusted adults. There are some obstacles that parents will face raising an only child but the benefits from identifying and overcoming them far outweigh it.
If you are looking for an inexpensive and quick way to makeover your kitchen or bathroom, try a tin backsplash for a regal look.
Fifth Disease is a common childhood virus but is rarely heard of unless someone contracts it.
Premature infants overcome many obstacles based on how early they were born. Each child will have unique issues but there are some things that other parents of preemies and I have found to be common with our children.
There is a delicate balance in dealing with premature infants. One has to be very careful not to over stimulate or under stimulate this tiny new life. Little things that we would never think about in a normal situation became very big to us.
If you do not have a home that is ideal for growing household plants, consider buying an African Violet. These hardy, flowering plants can handle more than you would think.
Professional wedding photographer, Alison Beyer, has some suggestions for brides who are looking to save money and still have an amazing wedding.
While some old standbys will soon be returning, midseason also promises to bring some interesting new shows to the TV viewers. From dark soaps to kitschy comedy, TV networks are scrambling to fill viewing schedules.
In a move that was sure to upset both traditional conservative Evangelicals and liberal Democrats, president-elect Obama chose Pastor Rick Warren of Saddleback Church to give the inaugural invocation.
With the economy the way it is, budgets are tighter this holiday season. Here are some options for inexpensive yet high quality jewelry gifts.
Stage direction can be tricky but if the biggest obstacles can be overcome, you will have a great start in your special corner of the world.
Here are some simple guidelines to follow if you find yourself needing to direct a play or program with no prior experience.
It stands to reason that in a poor economy, marriages will feel even more stress. And what better way to combat it than taking a few moments to agree to some New Year's resolutions or goals with your spouse.
There is a growing number of Americans who are forgoing alcohol on New Year's Eve for varying reasons. Here are some great non-alcoholic drink recipes for your party.
Do you dread the thought of having to socialize during the holiday season? Here are some tips to help ease you through it and hopefully find a way to enjoy it more.
Last minute scrambling for a white elephant gift can be eliminated with these simple tips.
From classical to classic rock, find a perfect New Year's anthem for your life.
If you have not yet explored the iTunes application store, you are in for a treat! Here are some of the best free applications for your iPhone or iTouch.
Christmas is a special season for families because of our traditions. There is one that our family continues each year and signals the start of the joyous holiday season for us.
In these tight times, it may be difficult to come up with inexpensive gadget for your techno geek. Here is a list of some of the best iPod and iPhone and Amazon Kindle accessories.
President-elect Obama hopes to start a second round of stimulus checks in early January. But will the benefits outweigh the cost?
If you are looking for new theme for the Christmas tree decor, look no further for inspiration than royalty.
From the Trans-Siberian Orchestra to Bing Crosby, these are the best Christmas CD offerings for the holiday season.
Thanksgiving is always a special time in our household. But I think the time leading up to the meal is even more important because we truly bond while waiting.
This Christmas many consumers are looking for a unique but practical gift to give a loved one. Brookstone offers many choices at very reasonable prices.
Have you recently bought your first home? Not a handy person? If you live anywhere long enough you will discover that handy or not, you will have to learn how to fix minor household messes. This guide will help you prepare for these problems.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge resort can be an exciting place for your family's next trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.
President-elect Obama comes to the presidency with a unique background and at a unique time in history. Hopefully he will find a balance that will earn him a place in history as a statesman, not just the first African-American president.
Discover how Pillsbury's frozen Grands! Cinnamon Rolls stack up against the old stand-by refrigerated rolls.
With so much to see and do at Walt Disney World, here are some suggestions of must see attractions for you and your preschool or kindergarten aged child.
What is your viewing pleasure? With so many options for TV, sponsors have to find new and creative ways to advertise.
Thanksgiving is a special time in our busy lives to stop and enjoy family time around the table. And it is one of the most opportune times for families to reflect on their blessings.
On or about October 5, 2008, Joe Biden will announce his resignation from the race as Barack Obama's vice presidential running mate. He will cite health reasons and quietly withdraw.
So how do you choose the best worker using a temperament? Depending on what your company needs, here is a look at the four basic temperaments and how you can use them to your advantage.
Speed reading is a technique that can be utilized by anyone in society and can be quickly learned if you follow a few simple guidelines. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a method of photographic memory.
The wristlet, a popular checkbook sized bag, has been redesigned as the Vera Bradley All-in-One Wristlet. However, the original wristlet was also redesigned as well. So some Vera enthusiasts are wondering which wristlet is the better deal.
The Democrats, fresh from a triumphant national convention, fell hard when the media coverage shifted quickly from rehashing Obama's acceptance speech to the brand new look of the Republican ticket.
Sarah Palin is no stranger to trailblazing moves. She is the youngest and first female to ever sit in the highest office in Alaska. She is an unlikely choice for John McCain but may very well give him the key to the Presidential vote.
With John McCain's pending announcement of a vice-presidential running mate coming today, pro-life advocates are glued to the news. For most of us, this will be a determining factor in how we vote...or if we vote.
Alaska, our 49th and largest state, has a rich history and a beauty unlike any other state in the Union. "North to the Future" embodies this last frontier state.
Ditat Deus is one of only 7 state mottos that reference God. Arizona has a unique take on the motto with beautiful land that has enriched the state's tourism industry.
According to presidential hopeful, Barack Obama, a child born alive due to a botched abortion should be left to die since bringing in a doctor for the child would cause unnecessary stress on the mother.
Star of "Samantha Who?" and Emmy winning actress, Christina Applegate shares her exciting new diagnosis.
Freedom of speech is not a right offered by the Chinese government. And now, foreign protestors, such as Olympian Amanda Beard, are finding that out.
Alabama's state motto is a simple but bold statement that exemplifies the spirit of the people. Defending and maintaining rights have been at the core of Alabama for years.
Handbags for the eco-conscious and sophisticated woman.
Money magazine's list of best places to live in the U.S. left out a notable Southern gem: Birmingham, Alabama.
It is not a class that anyone wants to go to but speech can be the most beneficial class you will ever take.
It has never been a secret that animals bring a certain joy to people. Take a look around you. How many people do you know own pets? But what we may not know or take for granted is that animals are also uniquely gifted to aid in therapy situations.
Sometimes you luck out, and the birthday boy or girl is registered at your local Toys 'R Us, but most of the time you are on your own. Here are some ideas for unusual, but enjoyable gifts for children.
Turn onto the backstreets of my town home neighborhood, and the beauty of the Old World style homes will pleasantly surprise you. The community is small, and the landscaping is fresh and well-maintained. The neighborhood looks like a dream.
You expect political controversy from your opponent. But what happens when the political storm falls closer to home?
Jamie Lynn is a very unusual teenage mom. She may have glowing reports of motherhood but how many regular teens can say the same?
The American consumer still values customer service and that same customer service is currently at an all time low with many companies. In this current economy, why are these companies not trying to keep loyal customers?
If you are headed to your soldier's Army graduation or to visit, here are a few tips for preparation.
This is the age of going "green." Environmentally friendly ideas have never been so relevant or cost effective. Alas, with every good thing comes a reason why you should not do it.
It was a sweltering hot June day. But we patiently waited in the bleachers to see our soldier's beret ceremony. It was a proud moment for the men who had just completed nine very intense weeks of training.
Pixar and Disney's latest film, Wall•E, is a film suitable for the whole family. With quirky humor and adorable antics, you will quickly fall in love with the tiny robot who helped save Earth.
Every parent goes through a time of wanting their child to stay little because those are truly precious moments.
You will hear a lot of freebies being tossed around on a cruise ship shopping show. After five trips around the Caribbean, I decided to sit in on one of these shows. You know the old saying - if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.
Cruising can be a wonderful family experience, but it can also have pitfalls. Here's how to avoid some of those issues and have a fun time.
A diaper cake is a perfect way to give a custom, personalized gift that stands out from the sea of little T-shirts. It is also a great way to be eco-friendly, in that everything you use can either be reused or is a part of the actual gift.
Joe Scarborough, of MSNBC's "Morning Joe" is awaiting the birth of his child, possibly premature. With so many variables in premature births, here are a few things you can do to prepare, if not plan, for your child's birth.
It is almost time for the 2008 Summer Olympics. But will The People's Republic of China be able to overcome a dark secret?
Our days seem to run the gamut of possibilities. My daughter, currently an only child, is three years old and awash with cleverness and mischievousness.
For Christian moms who like to read, here are a few suggestions for the perfect Mother's Day gift.
From remembrance jewelry to flowers, there are some wonderful ways you can honor a mother who has lost her child.
With summer quickly approaching, our thoughts turn to grilling and outdoor eating. Here are a few great summertime dishes to accompany your favorite grilled dinners.
Have ants but do not want to spray with chemicals? Need a good deodorizer? Have squeaky doors? Apply these simple tips using common household supplies.
Chivalry is dead, or so it appears in our culture. What has happened to this part of our society?
There is nothing that makes my heart swell with love and pride more than seeing my wonderful husband as a father to our little girl.
If you have not read Donald Pennington's interviews, you are in for a treat.
Joe Biden, former Democratic presidential candidate, is once more in the public eye. Could he potentially be chosen as a vice presidential running mate?
Kathleen Sebelius, the current governor of Kansas, is a potential running mate in the upcoming presidential elections. Who is she better suited to run with? In my opinion, the answer is clear: Barack Obama.
Stumped on what to say to mom in her Mother's Day card? From witty rejoinders to Bible passages, look here to find just the right thing to say.
I started looking for products and at magazines to discover how to make my eyes look refreshed. If your eyes look well rested, you appear younger.
Hate SciFi? Here are three shows that might just change your mind!
ABC's Grey's Anatomy is one of the shows that utilizes music most effectively. It only stands to reason because the writers have titled each episode after a song.
Prices on gas are at an all-time high and seem to be getting higher all the time. This makes a new car payment even more oppressive. Solution? Buy used!
Is the Perfect 10 really a hair color that is no drip, has a quick application, smells good, covers gray 100%, leaves your hair soft and shiny, and only takes 10 minutes?
One of the ways artists can showcase their talents to an even broader fan base is through television. This list highlights counts down my top ten picks for songs featured on House, M.D.
In a nation where women have fought to have equal rights with men, women certainly do not have equality in sentencing for sex crimes.
Heather Kennedy, a Long Island high school math teacher, is the most recent educator accused of being involved in a sex scandal with a student.
Barack Obama released his 2000-2006 tax returns on his website and is pressuring Hillary Clinton to do the same.
The show famous for being given a second chance has finally run out of chances.
Are your feet ready to be seen in your sandals? If not, it's time to invest in an inexpensive foot file that really works!
Easter is one of those holidays that seems to have no rhyme or reason as to calendar dates. If you're curious as to why it is so early this year, check this out!
This article reveals the mystery behind giving a good, honest critique. You can learn to be honest and straightforward with your assistance but be able to temper it with encouragement.
Nothing brightens a wedding more than those beautiful bouquets of flowers. But what do you do with them once the ceremony is over? Why waste the gorgeous and often expensive blooms- put them to good use.
"If you can't say anything nice...don't say anything at all." How often did you hear that when you were growing up? It is a nice sentiment but is it really the best route to take?
Gone with the Wind, Sneakers, and The Sound of Music hold my most favorite and memorable movie quotes.
As your child grows out of the short board books, here are some favorite stories for longer attention spans.
Here are your best bets for easy to use and browse, pre-made background and layouts websites for MySpace.
Old Navy carries stylish and often good quality clothing at decent prices. With a variety of styles and cuts, I found a pair of jeans that fit.
Traveling light has never been a strong suit of mine but I learned the need to streamline my packing, especially with regards to carry on baggage, once I traveled with a preschooler.
It is not often that you hear of a teenager who is captured by Sandi Patty's music. But I was that girl. The songs Ms. Patty sang were not just full of good lyrics but they were richly layered and meaningful.
Most medicine cabinets are stocked with two simple solutions for getting rid of acne.
In our current society, it seems to be a well known fact that at least half of all marriages will fail. A pastor in Tampa, Florida, is looking to change those statistics.
Ironing is not one of my strong suits. But on those rare occasions I need to iron, here is a fool-proof way to do the job.
If you are anything like me, gardening was always that mirage you just couldn't reach. Here are some household plants you can grow, even with a black thumb.
I thought I had it made in my career as a professor...then I had a baby.
Survivor: Micronesia kicked off its 16th season with yet another twist in the reality show game. This time, die-hard Survivor fans will face off against former castaways in the ultimate showdown of fans versus the favorites.
With all the resources in baby naming, there are some interesting ideas tossed out as truth. Here are 5 common misconceptions in baby naming.
The American Association for Retired Persons is arguably the most powerful lobby for one group of people in the entire United States. But what do we really know about this organization?
Common advice to public speakers can do more harm than good. Here are three areas to reconsider that "helpful" advice.
Old fashioned, tired, overused...I have heard all the excuses as to why one should not use the classic names. So if these names are so old fashioned, why have they been in use for so long?
Ask any parent. Naming a child is difficult at best, especially when you have two parents with different tastes trying to come up with the perfect name. Then add the middle name dilemma and the complications multiply.
Planning your dream wedding? If you are going to include a flower girl or ring bearer, you know that the potential for issues can pop up; more so than with an all adult wedding party.
It is very hard to believe that the Challenger accident happened twenty-two years ago. It is one of my earlier memories and one I cannot forget even to this day. I was a fourth grader at my local elementary school and was so excited for this day to come.
An on-going trend in baby naming seems to incorporate Irish influence. Many parents these days, with or without Irish heritage, enjoy utilizing these beautiful names.
High blood pressure has been called the "silent killer" for good reason. Women who have been diagnosed with hypertension prior to pregnancy need to be aware of several things in dealing with a pregnancy.
In the wake of the wildly popular cable television show, Sex and the City, spin-off dramas are now making their way to primetime. But do these "Sex" wannabes have the stamina to make it through the first season?
In recent years, Blockbuster, the former video rental store king, has had to resort to new tactics to maintain their customer base.
I am a stay-at-home mom and live far from family so I do not often have the luxury of a babysitter. My little girl comes everywhere with me. Here are a few tried and true recipes for averting potential disaster in public with an ornery three year old.
Whether we like it or not, public speaking is a needed skill in our lives. Here are a few common mistakes public speakers tend to make and how you can avoid them.
Thanks to the striking Writer's Guild of America (WGA), annual awards ceremony, the Golden Globes, has been scaled back to almost nothing this year.
Philip Agee, a former CIA operative and outspoken critic passed away January 7, 2008. Agee was a controversial figure in the 1970's and was accused of betrayal. Who was this notorious man: traitor or idealist?
After a decade of marriage, I think I understand love better than when I was first married.
Have you ever wondered how Jack became a nickname for John? There are several names in the English language that have no apparent correlation with the standard nickname. Here are some of those names and how the nickname came about.
Everyone has heard of someone who knew a second cousin's best friend's wife who worked at a hospital where a baby was named Female (pronounced fa-MAL-lay). But did it ever really happen?
The fear of public speaking to this day still bypasses the fear of death. For most, it is the most feared thing in their lives. Here are a few ways to channel that fear into giving a confident impromptu speech.
Amazon.com's inventor, Jeff Bezos, came up with a remarkable new technology for digital reading material. This compact and very lightweight piece of technology has amazed me in so many ways and I believe it is going to change the face of reading as we know it.
It is rumored that the Twelve Days of Christmas was written during the Protestant Reformation in order to secretly teach Catholic catechism.
Temperaments, though they are something we are born with, don't have to be roadblocks in our life. In fact, our awareness of our shortcomings and strengths should motivate us to "be all we can be" in the body of believers.
Phlegmatic is the second of the introverted temperaments.
Melancholy is also known as the artistic temperament.
The choleric, though an extrovert temperament like the sanguine, is vastly different.
The first example from the Bible is the disciple, Peter, a true sanguine.
We hear a lot in today's society about therapy and trying to discover our "true" selves. But how does this figure into a Christian's life?
Music is a big part of American life and is extremely diverse. So how can we decide which albums are the best of 2007? For the purpose of this article, I have combined both objective (total album sales) and subjective sources.
This was a poem I wrote for my mom from my baby daughter. Along with the poem we presented her with a ruby heart pendant.
Psalm 32:7 "You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance."
Reading to children is so important and benefits them even when they are tiny.
With the influx of TV shows on DVD, you may wonder what DVDs you should buy for the family. Here are some different ideas for family friendly TV viewing.
John Kiriakou, a former CIA agent who participated in the first waterboard interrogation of an al-Qaeda suspect, has now condemned its usage.
Ornaments are an integral part of Christmas and what could be a better gift for a loved one or friend?
Lefse (lef-suh) is a wonderful treat and is usually made by Scandinavians around the Christmas holidays. Lefse can be made and used in a number of ways but for this recipe, I will be using the ultra-thin method, known as tynnlefse.
One of the loneliest battles as woman faces is secondary infertility or the inability to become pregnant following the birth of one or more children. So how does one help a friend or family member cope with this overwhelming diagnosis?
Secondary infertility is defined as a woman's inability to become pregnant following the birth of one or more children. And it is one of the loneliest battles a woman can face.
Looking for an inexpensive beach get-away? Try Sandestin Resort off-season.
Do you have problems wearing foundation make-up? Here's a revolutionary product that solves this problem.
Taking our cue from a mother kangaroo, this method of care promotes health in the tiniest of infants.
In my home, lefse making signals the beginning of Christmas.
Our family has a few Christmas songs that are essential to our celebration. As you read, think about what songs touch you.
Tired of losing luggage while traveling during the holidays? These simple tips can help you avoid some of the aggravation.
Are thank you notes required or an antiquated tradition?
The Birmingham Zoo is a great neighborhood attraction that has unique access to animals.
Not sure how to help parents of premature infants? Here are a few tips.
Tired of rotten attitudes during the holiday season? Here's how you can help.
Tired of feeling guilty and drained of cash? Use the SANTA method to avoid holiday charity guilt.
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