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The Majestic Kelp Forests Of Catalina
Not many people realize that one of the most beautiful forests in California is the one under the water, just off shore. -That’s right, the pacific coast is home to one of the most beautiful kelp forests on the planet, and most people watch those beautiful sunsets without the slightest idea that the sun is setting on a whole new world under there. I just got back from a three-day live-aboard dive trip near Catalina, an island off the coast of Los Angeles. I was aboard The Sand Dollar, a dive boat that provides live-aboard diving excursions nearly 365 days a year. Before I get to the sights, let me…
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Feng Shui in the Garden
The garden is a wonderful place to introduce feng shui principles. Here you can create a tranquil oasis of peace and calm, and boost the overall feng shui of your home. There are a few key features to keep in mind when incorporating feng shui into your garden design. Houses are usually made of straight lines, so in the garden you can introduce soft, flowing shapes and curves. Paths or driveways should be gently curved to allow chi (or positive energy) to flow smoothy. If you do have a perfectly straight driveway you can soften the edges by planting shrubs or flowers. Feng shui is always concerned with balance.…
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Gluten-Free S’mores Monkey Bread
While spending a few minutes on Pinterest the other day, I stumbled upon a delicious looking recipe for S’mores Monkey Bread from recipesnobs.com. The pictures looked so delicious that I thought I would see if it would work as a gluten-free dessert. Not all recipes work well for a gluten-free swap, but I was thrilled with this one. I also used a gluten-free flour that I have found works well with a cup for cup exchange, so keep that in mind if you are not familiar with how your gluten-free flour will work in your recipe. Most do not work well. This recipe also calls for graham crackers, so I…
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Caramel Apple Salad
Fall is the perfect time for apples. Crisp red or green; I love them all. And I can’t think of anything better to go with apples than caramel. Dreamy caramel. Add a few snickers, and some vanilla pudding and viola; a dessert (or salad) that will compliment any gathering. Ingredients: 6 Snickers Candy Bars (regular size) 6 apples (any kind of apple that you love) 1 package Vanilla Instant Pudding (5 oz.) 1/2 cup milk 1 tub cool whip (12 oz.) 1/2 cup caramel topping (I make my own, but you can buy ice cream topping if you want) Instructions: Whisk vanilla pudding packet and 1/2 cup milk together. And…
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PBS Kids Cat in the Hat Christmas Special Airs November 21st
We are big fans of Dr. Seuss in this household so when I heard that PBS Kids is going to premiere the first-ever Cat in the Hat Christmas special this coming November 21st I immediately imagined sitting on the sofa, with the fire going, and snuggling with my six year old to watch this new show. The Cat in the Hat Knows a lot about Christmas follows the Cat, Nick and Sally on a journey around the world to help a lost reindeer find his way home in time for Christmas which is called Freezeyourknees Snowland (love Dr. Seuss’s imagination). On the way, the Thinga-ma-jigger breaks down, and they depend on a variety…
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Inspirational Mom: Maria Bailey of Mom Talk Radio
Maria Bailey created Mom Talk Radio, BlueSuitMom.com and many more programs that are aimed at and support moms. I came across her website last year and was impressed with the number of books she has written about this influential group that for many years went unappreciated by companies. Maria said it took companies to hear a hard fact for them to take notice of this powerful group: women influence $2.1 Trillion Dollars in annual spending! With the ability for women to have a voice via blogging, vlogging and You Tube, many companies are paying much more attention to moms these days and marketing directly to and through this segment. …
