Below Stairs by Margaret Powell
The memoirs of a kitchen maid. Margaret Langley was born in an age that was so different to today. She came from a family of seven children and when she was thirteen left school to go to work. She had to – to help the family finances. This book tells about her early years and in particular, her life when she entered domestic service as a kitchen maid. She worked in a laundry until she was fifteen but then began work as the most...
About Gemstones: Sapphires
Sapphire History and Description. Sapphire is one of the most romantic gemstones in the world. For generations, this stone has been the choice of royals and clergy because it symbolizes truth, sincerity, nobility, and faithfulness. In Ancient Rome and Greece, Kings and Queens believed this stone protected its owners from envy or harm. Clergy tended to wear the gemstone because it was thought to be the color of Heaven. Followers also...
Looking at Paintings (5) – The Big Skies of Yorkshire
Painting skies successfully in oil or watercolour is tricky. Not many artists can capture successfully the range of colour, grandeur and rapidly changing nature of Yorkshire skies, which, as you would expect a Yorkshireman to say, are the grandest of them all. And, thus, only a Yorkshire artist could do justice to them. But here are four Yorkshire artists – two now dead, and two very much alive – who have done it. Bertram...
Skylanders Superchargers Review
Skylanders Superchargers Review. Activision released the first version of Skylanders in 2011, and the franchise has grown in popularity since then. Just in time for the holiday shopping season, the newest version, Skylanders’ Superchargers has been released. The latest installment was released September 20, 2015, and is already getting rave reviews from grade school boys and girls and parents too. The reason so many people are falling...
Four Faces of Stress
Four Faces of Stress Here are just four causal faces of stress, as seen by artists (photographs taken by me from books in my collection). (1) Fear Hilary Paynter’s wood engraving, titled ‘Stress’, catches the anguish of the rats as they cower together. The rats express their fear in individual ways. Some sink to the bottom of the pile, their eyes closed or glazed over in submission, whilst others huddle together for protection. One...
Did Alice de Janzé murder her lover?
Did Alice de Janzé murder her lover? I’m inclined to think that she did. But read about the case below and let me know what you think. Alice was American and a wealthy heiress. She was born in 1899. She lived a scandalous life, which ended when she took her own life t the age of only forty two. She was incredibly beautiful. Surviving photographs of her do not do her justice. in those days, rich American families often arranged...
Adventure Tours South America
Adventure travel means going on a responsible and sustainable adventure holiday with companies that have brilliant track records for respecting the places they take you to and the people who welcome you. I urge you to take a minute to look into this kind of travel because it may inspire you to do something different! You don’t have to get involved in daring and dangerous things, you just need to want to see and experience the real...
What to Expect when you Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium
Spend the Day at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Last week I was lucky enough to make my second trip to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located in Clearwater near the Clearwater Marina. This aquarium is unique because it is a rehab and rehabilitation hospital for marine life. The hospital has been open since 1972, in a former waste treatment facility, but didn’t gain national attention until...
Salmon for Dinner, Heart and Brain Healthy
Salmon for Dinner, Heart and Brain Healthy. Lucky for me, salmon is one of my favorite fish. I love it baked, grilled, sautéed, whatever. Since it is considered one the the top foods for brain health, I eat it often. It is also great for heart health. Since improved blood flow surely aids both, you can see why it would be a good choice. It’s interesting, though not surprising, that most of the top 10 foods are on the same list. Nuts,...
The Kelly Kettle: Planet Friendly Outdoor Cooking
The Kelly Kettle: A Victorian invention, great for outdoor and emergency cooking. Because we live in hurricane-prone Florida, I like to keep an alternative cooking source available for times when there are power outages. But what I dislike is the buying, usage and disposal of gas (or other energy) cannisters. That’s why the Kelly Kettle is just perfect for me – or for anyone who wants to cook outdoors, or simply boil water...
Raspberry Coffee
Berry Flavored Coffee. Spruce up your cup of coffee with a raspberry flavor. I recently tried Raspberry Butter Crunch coffee by Door County here in Wisconsin. It was fantastic tasting. I added a little chocolate creamer. I was hooked! What a way to start your morning with an awesome tasting coffee. Another raspberry flavor by Door County is Chocolate Raspberry Truffle which I’ve tried too. What a toss up between the two. Both...
Superhero Gift Ideas for Dad
Is your Dad or your Husband your Superhero? I’m a very lucky girl, both my dad and my husband are truly great men, fantastic fathers, and important parts of my life. I often liken both of these men to my favorite superheroes. My dad is stoic and alot like Thor, my husband is a big guy and reminds me a lot of the Incredible Hulk. Except, he doesn’t have a crazy, angry side. In honor of my favorite real-life superheroes, I...
Skybell Doorbell: An Essential for Home Security
See who’s outside your home – from your phone. Someone knocks at your door or rings the bell. Who is it? Find out right away on your phone with the Skybell. You might be feeding the baby, bathing your toddler, showering or concentrating on cooking a complicated dish for dinner. Or it may be that it’s night time, you’re alone and want to know who’s out there before you go to the door. Is the person...
Bob Marley’s American Connection
Andy Royston re-traces reggae legend Bob Marley’s days living in Delaware in the 1960s and how it influenced his music. When Bob Marley left his new bride to fly to America it felt like history repeating. Bob Marley’s mother Ciddy had married captain Norval Marley, on Friday, June 9 1944, a pipe stuffing white superintendent for the crown lands. She was just eighteen; He was at least three years her father’s senior....
Descendants’ Other Costume Ideas
In the summer of 2015, a new generation of villains was introduced by Disney. In the movie Descendants, a musical fantasy film, viewers of all ages finally got to meet the children of their favorite villains; including Mal, the daughter of Maleficent, Carlos, the son of Cruella de Vil, Jay, son of Jafar, and Evie, the daughter of the Evil Queen. With over 6.6 million views and through the roof ratings, children everywhere are sure to...
Who Killed Elsie Frost: Latest News
In September 2015 there were further developments in the almost fifty year old case of the murder of this fourteen year old schoolgirl. Elsie’s brother and sister, along with the Wakefield police and aided by the BBC, have been looking into this unsolved case. (You can read the details here). Elsie was murdered in the middle of the afternoon on a Saturday in October in 1965. She was a quiet and happy young girl and despite...
Stylish Shawls
Stylish shawls from around the world: Essential wardrobe items. I honestly don’t know how I would manage without my selection of shawls, scarves and sarongs. They are so useful and versatile and can instantly transform outfits, from casual wear to formal dress. They come in such a huge variety of colour, styles and weights too. Heavier scarves can warm you on cooler days or evenings yet lightweight versions are ideal for...
Apple Slice Cut-Out Designs
Did you know you can make designs in apple slices? I’d never really thought of that until I saw it while looking for some apple recipes. I just have to share it, plus I had to try it. When I found out you could make designs in slices the photo I found was of Halloween. As the fall season sets in, these apple cut-outs will be great. The fall seasons are perfect for for doing these since the apples are fresh off the trees. Who...
The Bose SoundLink Mini Bluetooth Speaker Creates Big Sound Anywhere it Goes
When I asked my husband what he wanted for Christmas this year, he didn’t hesitate for more than a minute before he said a Bose SoundLink Mini Bluetooth Speaker. I was actually very impressed that he came up with such a great gift idea so quickly. Usually, he is very indecisive or says something like “you know what I like.” After doing a bit of research, I understand exactly why the hubby wants this popular...
Make Everyone Laugh with the “I Pooped Today” T-Shirt
The I Pooped Today Shirt is Hysterical. My husband and I have fun senses of humor. In fact, we often like to surprise each other with funny, and sometimes outrageous gag gifts. While my husband is usually better at this than I am, I was able to get him with this hilarious t-shirt. Although I am not usually into bathroom humor, I did get a kick out of watching his face as he read the t-shirt for the very first time. The t-shirt...
Natural Attractions in Las Vegas
Discover the natural side of Las Vegas. When you think of Las Vegas, what immediately comes to mind? It’s probably not the natural wonders of Nevada. But read on – the area’s experts at Las Vegas Power Pass have assembled all the information you need to make the most of the local natural wonders. Spring Preserves To be found at: 333 S. Valley View Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89107 The Springs Preserves are located on an...
Mary Astor: Scandal
Mary Astor’s diaries. Mary Astor was a gorgeous actress in the Golden Era of Hollywood. Yet like many of the actors of the time, she was involved in a juicy scandal. In total she was married four times. The first marriage was to a movie director names Kenneth Hawks. Less than two years later he was killed in an air crash. He was in a plane during the shooting of aerial scenes when two of the aircraft collided. Understandably she...
Art Matters : Paris Street, Rainy Day
Andy Royston meets an old friend unexpectedly on a Chicago street. I thought I knew Gustav Caillebotte. I know that he was a rich man who was able to retire from work as a lawyer and indulge in his love of art and of impressionism while still in his 20s. Freed from having to worry about the bills, or even sell his work, Caillebotte lived in the newly developed 8th arrondissement district and painted realistic and impressionistic...
Visit London’s Hidden Secrets
Visit London’s secrets – under the ground. Going to London? Are you planning to visit all the usual tourist haunts? Hmm, isn’t that just a little boring?Do something different; explore a side of England’s capital that even many Londoners never see – life below the city. When other tourists are flocking to see the usual suspects, be original. Visit Churchill’s wartime bunker, explore historic...
Artwork with Quotes: Home Decor
Decorate with typography: Wall quotes. When you’re choosing artwork for your home – or to give as a gift – there are many factors that you’ll take into consideration. So why not try wall art with motivational (or funny) quotes? They’ll make you smile or improve your day and there are so many to choose from. There’s something to suit almost every occasion, and they also look terrific adorning your...
Party Like it’s 1989 – Ryan Adams covers Taylor Swift
They’re not cover songs. They’re reimaginings of my songs, and you can tell that he was in a different place emotionally than I was. There’s this beautiful aching sadness and longing in this album that doesn’t exist in the original. Taylor Swift When Ryan Adams let it slip that he was contemplating doing a cover album of Taylor Swift’s 1989 album it was hard to figure out if he was serious. He’s played a few curve balls...
Throwbowl: The Dog Water Bowl and Pet Toy
For your dog: The water bowl that converts to a fetch toy. What a neat idea. When you’re out and about with your dog, carry this lightweight, collapsible drinking bowl with you so that he or she doesn’t get dehydrated. Then,once your pet has had its fill, quickly convert the bowl to a frisbee-type toy that your dog will enjoy. There’s no need to carry more than this one ingenious item to keep your dog healthy and...
Fishbowl: By Bradley Somer
Review: Fishbowl by Bradley Somer. Ian is an adventurous goldfish and one day he leaps out of his bowl ……. wait! Don’t click away. I don’t read novels about goldfish either (as a general rule) but if you stop reading now, you could miss finding out about a novel that is without doubt one of the best I’ve read this year. Ian belongs to Connor and lives in a bowl on the balcony of the Seville. The Seville...
The Dangers of Preservatives For People and Pets: Part I
The Dangers of Preservatives For People and Pets: Part I. By Stacey J Nelson Ph.D. AKA ‘Tweedlesmom’. He/She is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are their life, their love, their leader. He/She will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of their heart. You owe it to him/her to be worthy of such devotion…” Author unknown A few days ago the local television news in Florida aired a story about a...
Arts and Crafts for Kids: Weaving with a Pegloom
When my son was about 5 years old we began to teach him how to weave with a loom the main reasons why we did this were to help him develop his fine motor skills and his hand eye co-ordination. The loom we used was just like this Harrisville Designs Pegloom. I am a special needs teacher and I have used many toys with children of all ages to develop all sorts of educational skills. Weaving is an activity that any young child will...
Tougher than Tough – The Original Rude Boys
In the light of the 2014 exhibition The Return of the Rudeboys at London’s Somerset House, Andy Royston looks back at Jamaica’s original rude boys and the music they inspired. Rougher than rough, tougher than tough, Strong like lion, we are iron Rudies don’t fear no boys, rudies don’t fear – Derrick Morgan Rude bwoy is that person, native, who is totally disenchanted with the ruling system, who generally...
Small Spaces: The Master Divided Pan
Perfect for cooking in small spaces. I promise you, it’s not very often that I get excited about a kitchen appliance, let alone a humble pan. But this is simply brilliant. Such a simple idea but so very good for cooking in small spaces. My kitchen is truly tiny and this is a fabulous solution. I imagine that it would be great if you cook in a boat or RV too. And think how useful this can be for camping trips.The pan only needs...
An Electric Kettle That will Impress all Your Neighbors!
When I was a child my mum didn’t have an electric kettle, instead she used a special round shaped kettle with a whistle at the end of the spout. She would put that on the stove, and when the water boiled the whistle sounded like an alarm. Many times it actually shot across the kitchen like a bullet! My dog used to chase after it, and it was always a battle to see who could retrieve it first him or us! Sadly, a more modern electric...
A Very Handy Booster Car Seat
I swore by my booster car seat that was just like this Graco Backless TurboBooster and here’s why: When my son was just eight weeks old we took him to Italy to meet his grand parents for the first time. It was a quite a nerve wrecking thing to do because traveling with such a young baby brings up many challenges. I remember being scared of flying with my precious, innocent bundle, and when the air hostess gave us a strange...
Organise your Entryway
Create an organised entrance to your home – even in small spaces. The most perfect and organised homes have beautiful entryways with a place for everything. But you can still have an organised, tidy and useful system in your home even if you live in a tiny space. All you need is a shelf or two and a little imagination and you’ll be just as efficient as those people who have perfect hallways. Having a special place to keep...
Star Wars Gifts
It doesn’t seem to matter that 30 + years has gone by since the beginning of the Star Wars epidemic! It doesn’t seem to matter that the little boys, that were so taken with the likes of R2D2 and C3PO, Luke Skywaker and all the rest of the crew, first catapulted onto the Silver Screen are now in their 30s and 40s. By Christmas of this year, there will be a whole new generation of kids, who love Star Wars and won’t be able to get enough...
Herb and Plant Growing Kits
Planet-friendly gardening indoors or out. I have found some wonderful ways to grow herbs or plants with these fabulous kits. They are marvellous way to give to friends as a gift – or a splendid way to treat yourself to fresh herbs or exciting garden (or patio) flowers and plants. What’s even better is that these items are all sustainable and planet-friendly. Take for example, the basil growing kits you see on the right....
Salted Caramel Cookies
When I saw this limited edition flavor by Betty Crocker I couldn’t resist making these. I got the package and took them home to make. Package mixes are really easy. Generally all you need is stick butter, eggs and maybe some water. This recipe only called for the butter and eggs. Just make as directed on the package. You can’t go wrong. When I tried the cookies when they were done I loved the flavor. A very simple flavor of caramel in...
Drops for tired and dry eyes – app that prompt rests from the screen
Do you suffer form tired and dry eyes because of your computer? Do you experience that awful headache, that strained feeling, or the pulling behind your eyes. I did so I decided to look into what, if anything, could be done to improve matters. To get immediate relief I bought these eye drops. They had great reviews so I gave them a try. I used these lubricant eye drops for about 3 months and I can report that it has really made a big...
The Matador Pocket Blanket: So Very Handy
You won’t realise just how essential this item is until you own one. Then, you’ll wonder how on earth you managed without it. This thin but sturdy and waterproof blanket folds up into its own pouch and takes up such a tiny amount of space that it’s an essential to keep in your purse, bag or glove compartment. When will you use this simple but genius product? On the beach. It takes up hardly no space in your beach bag...
Maple Bacon Cookies
The bacon craze for cookies is here! Sounds interesting, huh? Quite the combination! As I was walking around in the store one day I saw a cookie mix flavor called Maple Bacon. It said ‘Limited Edition’ on the package plus the mix is by Betty Crocker. I’m not the biggest fan of bacon so this was going to be something new to try for sure! Although, bacon in my cookies? When I got home I read the instructions. They are made...
The Harrods Bear
Commemorate a special year with the Harrods Bear. Has this year been special for you? It may be that you were married or engaged, you may have had a baby or a grand-baby – or it might just have been a happy year that you want to commemorate, either for yourself or for a loved one. If that’s the case, then you need to meet the little guy you see pictured on the right. Meet Benedict, the 2015 Harrods bear. Harrods, the...
Wall Art Decals Make Homes Beautiful
These RoomMates Peel & Stick wall decals are absolutely brilliant. Here’s a story about how I first came across amazing decals/ wall stickers: My best friend and husband gave me such a surprise when I had my baby. We had a small spare room for the baby but because I knew it wouldn’t be using it for the first few months I decided to wait to decorate it until after the baby was born. We thought that would be wise because we...
Songs For New York – 21st Century
Andy Royston concludes his three part Songs for New York with a look at Millennial recordings featuring this great city. You can read part one here, and part two here. New York is to the nation what the white church spire is to the village – the visible symbol of aspiration and faith, the white plume saying this way is up. EB White Here Is New York, 1949 Now you’re in New York, these streets will feel brand new, the lights...
Stylish Invitations
Stylish invitations for your celebration. When you’re inviting friends to join you for a special celebration, be sure to select the best and most stylish invitations. Chances are that you’ll be busy planning your party, get-together or wedding – there’s so much to think about – so make life easier for yourself by ordering stunning invitations online. In this wonderful selection you’ll see invitation...
Why I Love Our Playmobil Pirate Ship
I bought a Playmobil Blackbeard’s Pirate Ship over 20 years ago for my sister’s son who was turning 6, and it was the best toy ever! He played with it for many years and later his little brother took over the helm! After he played with it for my sister passed it back to me when my own son was 4 years old. It had gone full cycle, and after a lot of use from 2 children and their friends, the Blackbeard’s ship was still looking...
Decor: Selecting Frames for Your Artwork
Choosing frames and mats for your artwork. Changing the look of your room can be expensive. But you can dramatically alter the way your space looks simply by switching out the artwork. And similarly, you can change the look of your favourite paintings, drawings or photographs simply by the way they are framed. See how framing options can change the look of just one artwork. Let’s take this fabulous black and white framed...
The Inspiration of Popeye the Sailor Man and A Spinach Sandwich
The Inspiration of Popeye the Sailor Man and A Spinach Sandwich. In 1929 on January 17th, the comic strip of Popeye first debuted in King Features. Apparently it appeared on the comic strip Thimble Theater, but before long became its most popular cartoon. Orginally created by Elzie Crisler Segar, since his death in 1938 several other writers continued the comic strip. It appeared daily until 1994, when it was went to Sunday only...
Unbiological Sister Necklace from So Simply Quaint Review
Sisterhood is an amazing blessing which I’m lucky enough to share with three amazing women. My sisters are there for me in the worst of times and the best of times. While not everyone is as blessed as I am to have sisters, almost every woman is graced with an Unbiological Sister. These sisterly women aren’t related to you by blood, but are there for you nonetheless. To honor the friend in my life who is my “fourth sister,” I sought...
Mini Trampoline: Keep Fit for Little Ones
Children need exercise during the winter months and a mini trampoline is a toy that they can bounce on all day, and the really nice thing about them is that they can be used indoors. They are suitable for an average sized living room or bedroom and they can be taken into the garden of course. Grandma bought our son mini trampoline on his 3rd birthday. It was a square very colorful, lightweight one, perfect for a rainy day – or...
What’s wrong with having red hair?
When did red hair become wrong? What’s wrong with having red hair? Truly, I want to know. In recent years, this has become something of a prejudice – since when did people start discriminating against people with lovely red locks? Of course,I’m biased. My maternal grandmother had red hair so therefore I, and four of my cousins, also do. So why is it now subject to phrases like ‘the red-haired stepchild’?...
WowWee Roboquad For Kids Who Love Robot Toys
When my son hit 13 his WowWee Robotics Roboquad came into its own. This is a fantastic toy for sophisticated teenagers not younger children. We bought it for him as a Christmas present when he was only 8, which was a mistake because he was too young. So, the worse thing happened, it sat in his bedroom for quite a while, motionless. He didn’t really know how to play with it and so he ignored it. I had made a big mistake in buying him a...
Create responsive Amazon ads
How to create responsive Amazon ads. In September 2015 Amazon released a new ad creation system which looks fabulous and is even easier to use that previously. You no longer have to wade through Amazon.com searching for products and copying and pasting several codes. All you need to do is go to the Amazon Associates homepage and click the link on the top navigation for ‘native shopping ads’. See below. There are various...
Why is Everyone Talking about the HuMn Wallet?
The amazing HuMn wallet. Isn’t it remarkable that the basic design of wallets has hardly changed over the years? Until now, that is. Today, people are raving about the lightweight, slim and convenient design of the HuMn. Today, when we can carry around an iPhone that more or less runs our lives, why are we still using old, bulky wallets? Now that the HuMn is available, there’s no need. This light device will hold your...
Oven Roasted Vegetables With Delicious Creative Dressings
We swear by eating lots of vegetables in my household because we know that doing so is the best way to maintain a healthy state and equip our bodies with everything they need to fend off all sorts of illnesses. Oven roasted vegetables just happen to be one of my favorite ways to prepare vegetables when I make any sort of roast dinner. I have found a wonderful website that proves my theory. It belongs to Micheal Gregor MD who is a...
Homemade Folgers Cappuccino
If you’re someone who loves cappuccino like me then you’ll love this easy homemade version you can make yourself right in the comfort of your own kitchen. I found this easy cappuccino recipe you can make with Folgers coffee which is my favorite brand. All you need to use is your coffee pot, saucepan and electric mixer. Of course you’ll need milk and coffee. I don’t own a French press so making this with coffee...
Top New Suspense Thrillers, Part 2: Ben Coes, Author
Top New Suspense Thrillers, Part 2: Ben Coes, Author. Ben Coes and Dewey Andreas This is the first author in our series on the top new writers of suspense thrillers. “ Newer” is perhaps a better word, since this excellent author now has five bestsellers now published with his latest, Independence Day. Newer as compared to Vince Flynn, Tom Clancy, and Brad Thor. Ben Coes is first since his character Dewey Andreas is one of...
Quick and Easy Recipes: Delicious Langoustine with Hollandaise Sauce
Have you ever eaten langoustine? Mmm … they are my favorite seafood followed closely by smoked salmon. If you’re looking for quick and easy recipes that will impress your family and friends then langoustine should be on top of your list. First Some Facts about the Langoustine: Langoustine are also called the Norway Lobster, Dublin Bay Prawn or a Scampi It is actually from the lobster family The largest langoustine can...
Berlin’s beloved Ampelmännchen
Andy Royston tells the story of Berlin’s best loved street characters – the Ampelmännchen. Angels over Berlin My own first visit to the city of Berlin came after the re-unification of Germany, at a time when the city was going through a period of great changes. I wanted to visit the city before too much of the ‘old’ east had been wiped away, and see some of the city that I knew from my favourite film of the...
Teddy Bears
Uncle Klaus’ Bear Family: Every Family should have one Uncle Klaus! My uncle Klaus, is a one of a kind, but I’m sure others have someone like him in their families too! Our history goes back quite a long way, and every once in a while, I get a note in the mail (snail mail) with some old pictures and a little story attached to it. It always has something to do with our time together and is a memory that he holds dear. On my part,...
Start Walking for Fitness
The first Wednesday in April has been designated National Walking Day, but you don’t have to wait until then to get started. Walking is an activity that can be done every day, whether indoors or out. This article will focus on walking indoors. Sometimes the weather isn’t quite what we want it to be, and sometimes the timing fits better just to go ahead and walk inside. You don’t even need a lot of room, and it can also be more...
Mackerel Recipes: How to Make Delicious Smoked Mackerel Pate
Smoked mackerel has a strong flavor and therefore makes a delicious paté that my family really enjoys. In my house we try to eat as much oily fish as possible because it is very good for you and we think that paté is one of best mackerel recipes around! It is an oily fish and therefore is a very rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Although fish is very good for your health, unfortunately it seems that much of it contains toxins, so...
Holiday Apartment in Liguria, Cinque Terre, Italy
Holiday Apartment in Liguria, Cinque Terre, Italy. If you’re looking for an authentic rural Italian holiday then this is it! You can rent a perfect holiday apartment in an ideal setting for nature lovers, walkers, or cycling. Italy has also has some wonderful rural areas which are perhaps its best kept secret. From the Alps in the north down to Mount Etna in Sicily, it is a country of mountains, hills, forests, wonderful...
Art and Film : Midnight In Paris
Andy Royston reviews a movie that fulfills the ultimate artists’ fantasy – going back in time to hang out with the greats. “If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.” Ernest Hemingway. “I have a tendency to romanticize Paris. When the lights come up and it’s almost midnight, everything...
Alphabet Posters for Kids
Alphabet Posters for Kids. Kids like color, coloring, and fun. Keeping that in mind, I have selectively chosen the following alphabet posters – keeping your kids in mind. Any of these can be used as a stand-alone activity, with the parent/teacher reading the chart to the child; and they can also be used in coordination with reading a short story, and finding a particular letter or word on the chart that sounds like a word in the...
Songs about New York : The Streets
Andy Royston continues his New York music odyssey – and takes it to the streets. Read Part One here. I regret profoundly that I was not an American and not born in Greenwich Village. It might be dying, and there might be a lot of dirt in the air you breathe, but this is where it’s happening. John Lennon People are working every minute. The machinery is always going. Even when you sleep. Andy Warhol Songs For New York –...
Pointillism is a Versatile Technique
Pointillism is a Versatile Technique Don’t have a steady hand, or the caffeine has kicked in? Don’t worry, you can still paint a picture! Just turn on some peppy music and pounce away. Have some aggression that you want to let out, and you still want to be productive? Don’t worry; you can still get out the canvas and paint. Put on some music with a heavy beat to it, and beat the canvas with paint markers! But you...
Windows 10: How to Take Screenshots
Taking screenshots is now quicker and easier with Windows 10. I can’t remember when the ‘PrtSc’ key first appeared on our keyboards but I never found it satisfactory, did you? The problem was that there was no audible beep or any popup to tell you that your screenshot had been taken.And it wasn’t really plain where that screenshot had gone. Windows 10 makes life much easier. You’ll still use the...
Why Do Cats Lie On Their Backs? Pic of the Week
Do you ever wonder about your cat and the things they do? I know I do since I’m still learning about having an indoor cat. My Cat Jazzy This photo you see of my Jazzy laying on her back is one of my favorites. She is so relaxed sunning herself by the deck door but she can be so funny when she lays on her back too. Every time I come down the steps in the mornings she runs down ahead of me and lays on her back all stretched out. Then...
Visible Learning and the Science of How we Learn. Hattie & Yates
A huge collection of research! In 2009 John Hattie published a book called Visible Learning, which is a huge collection of research about how to improve children’s learning. It talks about what really works in schools and has become a ‘bible’ for educationalists all over the world. Visible Learning and the Science of How We Learn is a follow on from this. Hattie got together with cognitive psychologist, Gregory Yates, and...
Handmade Grumpy Cat Wall Decoration: Free Tutorial and Pattern
“Grumpy Cat” I wanted to make projects with my new size 7 Aida cloth for myself and Christmas gifts. I found dozens of patterns. I saw the “Grumpy Cat” a few years ago and I decided that if I found a pattern, I would make that for myself. So my first size 7 Aida cloth cross stitch project is this “Grumpy Cat.” I ordered the size 7 Aida cloth when I found out it existed. I looked on Amazon as one...
Ice Cube has a BAD Day in Ride Along
My Personal Review of Ride Along Starring Ice Cube and Kevin Hart. I love comedies featuring police officers. I’m not sure why I find these movies so entertaining, but I do. In fact, some of my favorite comedies of all time include 21 Jump Street, Blue Streak, Miami Vice, Bad Boys, and many others. So, when I saw the previews for Ride Along, I was pretty sure it would be a movie that I liked. I mean with Kevin Hart and Ice Cube...
Betty Crocker Apple Crisp
I’ve made this apple crisp recipe for as long as I can remember. I have a Betty Crocker Cookbook that I’ve had for years. It looks quite worn but this is where this recipe comes from. Apple crisp is so easy to make. I love to fill my pan to the top with apples which means I don’t always go by the recipe in how many apples to use. Apples cook down and I like my crisp to be thicker not thin. I’ve never had a pan of apple crisp that...
Song Writing Success Story
A few weeks ago I entered some of my songs in the UK Songwriting Contest. This is one of the most important competitions in the music world, and gets thousands of entries from all over the world. The judges are really important people in the music world like Kipper Eldridge, Sting’s producer. Another one is Stuart Epps who has worked with Elton John, Robbie Williams, Led Zeppelin, and loads of others. It was set up with the aim...
The Wind in the Willows: Wonderful Family Book
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Graham is one of the best-loved children books ever. It is loved so much by so many because it’s a tale for child and adult alike that deals with universal themes. My sister bought this edition for my son when he was only 5 years old, and we have loved it ever since, and it has become our family book. So my son has grown up with the Wind in the Willows. When he was very young we read him the...
Soothe Your Soul with Santana
Carlos Santana Fan for Life. My dad was a teenager in the 70s, a grown-up in the 80s, and a lifelong fan of rock ‘n roll music. As a result, I grew up listening to the greatest music ever created. For example, my childhood was filled with AC/DC, Black Sabbath, Rush, and Carlos Santana, of course. Why I Love Carlos Santana Carlos Santana and the band Santana have been on my top ten favorite bands list for as long as I can...
Crock Pot Apple Butter
This recipe is a combo of two different ones I found. It was the spices that I combined after looking at different recipes to see which one I liked the best. As I’ve found that I can make other apple desserts with my crock pot I figured I could make apple butter with it too. Boy was I right! This is so easy using a crock pot. Really it is. All you do is cut up the apples. Mix some of the spices with the apples then fill the crock pot...
Under the Covers – Woodstock
Andy Royston gets muddy listening to cover versions of Joni Mitchell’s iconic anthem from of the Summer of Love. “500,000 halos out shined the mud and history. We washed and drank in God’s tears of joy. And for once, and for everyone, the truth was not still a mystery.” Jimi Hendrix “There were a LOT of people there. It was more than a city of people – it was tribal. Fires were burning, smoke was rising,...
Review: The Secret Life of the Dyslexic Child by Robert Frank PhD
Dyslexic himself, Dr Frank is a teacher and psychologist so there is very little he doesn’t know about dyslexia. He has written this fantastic book, The Secret Life of the Dyslexic Child, and I highly recommend it to anyone who has ever asked the question ‘what is dyslexia?’ If you know dyslexic children as a teacher, parent, relative, or neighbor, then you will learn so much from this book. My husband is not dyslexic, but is a...
Windows 10: Using Microsoft Edge
Microsoft has made a great browser — at last. I’m not joking. For over twenty years – almost my entire internet life – I have genuinely hated Microsoft’s Internet Explorer. I mean, hated. So when I started using Windows 10, I fully expected to delete the supplied browser from my system in order to free up space. I’m so glad I didn’t. Believe it or not, it’s a splendid browser....
Make Your Own Gymnastics Mom T-Shirt
Save Money by Making Your Own Gymnastics Mom T-Shirt. If you are a gymnastics mom like me, or are looking for a gift for another gymnastics mom, check out these well-made rhinestone transfers. I love wearing my gymnastics gear to my daughter’s meets, and have spent many hours scouring the Internet for the perfect gear. However, I haven’t been impressed by the prices. So, when I ran across these affordable rhinestone...
Apple Crock Pot Dessert
Apple Crock Pot Dessert Recipe. Autumn is time of the year that apples are ready to pick and enjoy. I know I do since I grew up on an apple farm when I was younger. We had many apple trees always loaded with many different kinds. With those apples are all kinds of desserts you can make but I’d never made one using a crock pot before. So I looked up some recipes and thought I’d give it a try. I soon found that out that not only is a...
Very Useful Guitar Stands: A Great Gift for Guitarists
Guitar stands are a perfect gift for guitarists, but this one is even more useful because it’s a stand for cellists and French horn players too. Made by K & M Heli, it is a quality item at a fantastic price. The video below will tell you more about the product. I can tell you that I love them! We are the proud owners of 7 guitars and a full sized cello, which is wonderful, apart from the fact that we live in a small...
A Skip Hop Zoo Backpack is Great for Little Kids
Little Kids need Little Backpacks. My daughter is shorter than her classmates, which creates some unusual circumstances from time to time. For instance, when she was going to Kindergarten, she begged for a Jonas Brothers bookbag. (The band was still relevant at the time). I was so excited for her to start school and pick out her own school supplies that I didn’t think to have her try it on. Well, she struggled with that backpack...
Apple iPod Shuffle. Small But Big on Music
I was looking for a quality music product that would not break the bank – then I found the Apple iPod Shuffle, and my search was well and truly over. It is was Christmas gift for my son because he wants to listen to music everywhere he goes! I am a complete Apple freak, so I knew the product would be well made and just be awesome. But I was not expecting to find it quite so beautiful! It’s just so perfectly designed: It’s small,...
Tribute to Mum and Dad – Joan and Colin
Andy Royston celebrates his parents, Joan and Colin, Yorkshire born and bred. Inspired by Sam Monaco’s moving tribute to his own parents. The older I get, and the more people that I meet, I’m beginning to realize that I must be the luckiest man in the world. I didn’t think so when I was a kid, growing up in a small farming village at the heart of the South Yorkshire coalfields. I didn’t think that I was...
Windows 10: Using Multiple Desktops
Working more efficiently with virtual desktops on Windows 10. I have to report that I’m really enjoying using Windows 10 to date. At first, the upgrade seemed to be more cosmetic than anything (pretty is good!) but further exploration shows that you productivity can be hugely increased using various new features. The multiple virtual desktops feature is one of my favourites. You can access existing desktops or create new ones by...
Grumpy Cat – Free Patterns and Tutorial Videos
Grumpy Cat AKA “Tardar Sauce” The Real Cat – FREE Patterns and Tutorial. Grumpy Cat Pillow and Wall Hanging. I loved Grumpy cat the moment I saw her for the first time on Facebook. I found many patterns and decided I had to make several projects with them! I made a pillow cover, a wall hanging and another smaller project which I will have a story on it soon. I added a border around the Grumpy Cat part of the pillow...
Four Faces of Happiness
Four Faces of Happiness What makes us happy? Here are just four faces of happiness, as depicted by artists whose work I admire. (Photos taken by me from books in my collection) Friendship The late, Beryl Cook, one of my favourite artists, captures a night out: a group of women friends unwind and have a good laugh together. The woman in the foreground, cracking-up with laughter, makes me happy every time I see it. To be able to relax...
Yo Yo Ornaments – Free Patterns
Yo Yo Ornaments – FREE Patterns. What is a Yo Yo? A Yo Yo is a cut out a circle of fabric that is gathered together around the edges with thread and pulled tight to make a tight circle. Using Yo Yos for Holiday Decorations I have seen Yo Yos since I was a little kid. I do recall that either I or one of my kids had one of the clowns made from the Yo Yos. I have been saving Yo Yo ideas from Pinterest for a year. I have decided to...
Make a Toy Cat
Cute Toy Cat. Print three copies of the cat pattern below so you can have a master copy, and two pattern pieces for each part of the cat except the nose. I also cut out extra pieces for the claws, since I always make at least a dozen of all projects. Words are in Russian, but you can see that the largest is the body, the larger of the two rectangles is the leg, the other the arm and the skinny one is the tail. Cut two of each piece,...
Art in the Blood by Bonnie MacBird
A new Sherlock Holmes mystery. Impossible? Not in the hands of Ms MacBird. Yes, here we have a new Sherlock Holmes adventure that even the most traditional Conan Doyle aficionado will enjoy. If you think that nothing could compare to the original Sherlock Holmes stories, then this book will surely change your mind. When this book landed on the review desk at JAQUO HQ, I too was dubious, but I can thoroughly recommend Art in the Blood...
A Dog’s (After) Life?
Schubert, the un-evil spawn of a now unfashionable puppy mill, neared his demise. A Boston terrier and a product of Pharaoh-like inbreeding, his days were numbered from the start. His hips were displaced. His tongue untowardly wry. His demeanor difficult, demanding. (Much like a Greek Ptolemaic dynastic.) Schubert’s healthcare cost a fortune. When he was a playful puppy–the expense of castration and tail cutting were but minor...
Best of British – Night Mail
Andy Royston celebrates Night Mail, one of the most influential documentary films of all time. “If you wanted to see what camera and sound could really do, you had to see some little film sponsored by the Post Office or the Gas, Light & Coke company.” J.B. Priestley For much of the time between the wars the General Post Office (GPO) was the largest employer in Britain. It was at the leading edge of business practice...
Watermelon Cake
Watermelon cake with vegan coconut whipped cream. My granddaughter had her 20th birthday in July. Her wish was to have a vegan dinner as that is the diet she and her boyfriend follow. So my daughter, her mother, decided to make an unusual cake for her made of watermelon and topped with whipped cream made from the cream part of the canned coconut milk. Here is the link for the various results from different brands of coconut milk when...
Family Histories, the Good, the Bad and the Beautiful
Family History. Sooner or later, everyone has that desire to know where they came from and how they ended up being where they are today. Now, for some of us, the desire ends up being a desire and it will never move any further. Others, will try to find out where they actually did come from, and start tracing back their family history. What is certain, is that everyone of us has a family history, whether we know what that is or not!...
Martha Washington Chocolates
Hand Dipped Chocolates. Now what are these Martha Washington Chocolates, huh? They are hand dipped chocolates. They are perfect for the holidays. These are such a favorite of mine. Memories….. My mom use to make these chocolates every year for the holidays when I was younger. Oh how I love them so much with that coconut sugary chocolate flavor. As I got older and didn’t live at home I’d still ask her to make them....
Songs about New York : From Broadway to Harlem
Andy Royston writes about the songs that made New York. Part One : From Broadway to Harlem To say that New York came up to its advance billing would be the baldest of understatements. Being there was like being in heaven without going to all the bother and expense of dying. – P.G. Wodehouse New York is an ugly city, a dirty city. Its climate is a scandal, its politics are used to frighten the children, its traffic is madness,...
Banana Recipes
Some of our favourite banana recipes. We know that not every food that we love is necessarily good for us. But bananas are something we can eat at any time, guilt-free. They can also be a delicious way to add more fruit – and therefore more goodness to the meals we eat or make for our families, especially when baking. They can be used for savoury dishes too – I like to add sliced bananas to a spicy curry at the last...
A Splinter of Wood Engravers
Wood Engravers. My aim in this article is to introduce you to the art of six contemporary wood engravers whose work represents all that is inspirational to younger engravers and collectors of this art form. I hope that this article will inspire you to find out more about modern wood engraving, particularly as book illustrations – the most readily accessible way of collecting wood engraved illustrations. A splinter of wood...
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