Baby Boomer Travel & Other Fun Things

2011-11-01T06:50:00.003-06:00

Martha's Mirror, the sequel to Martha's Vine is now available on Amazon in both print and Kindle. It is also available in the westside Chapters store in TerraLosa in Edmonton, Albert.

Arwen's Waterfall

2011-03-29T21:28:00.001-06:00

Arwen's Waterfall
Originally uploaded by Sheree (aka Hadassah28)

Happy Snow Day!

2011-01-17T11:03:00.001-07:00

Greetings, Flickr friends!
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Sheree signed off & writing the Vine2)

Greetings from Edmonton, Alberta!

Martha's Vine: Book TEO

2011-01-08T18:50:00.001-07:00

Just another sparrow
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Sheree signed off & writing the Vine2)

My Enigma of the Glass

2011-01-08T18:41:00.001-07:00

My Enigma of the Glass
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Sheree signed off & writing the Vine2)

Light up ahead - UPDATE!

2010-11-30T20:07:00.001-07:00

Light up ahead - UPDATE!
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Sheree)

Martha's Vine Poster - Book Signing

2010-11-04T10:46:00.001-06:00

Martha's Vine Poster - Book Signing
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Sheree)

First book signing!

Cannot escape my camera by Anuj of Edmonton, Alberta

2010-09-25T08:18:00.001-06:00

Cannot escape my camera
Originally uploaded by A.N.U.J

Martha's Vine author, Sheree Zielke, is also a photographer and digital camera teacher. She and some friends attended a night burn held by the Edmonton firefighters. It's a training session for new recruits. Great fun.

Photo by Anuj of Edmonton.

UPDATE: Kindle edition holding. Print edition falling and needs your help. Tell OPRAH! Martha's Vine: How to get your FREE autographed copy

2010-09-15T08:24:00.001-06:00

UPDATE: Kindle edition holding. Print edition falling and needs your help. Tell OPRAH! Martha's Vine: How to get your FREE autographed copy
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28(Martha's Vine printed now on Amazon)

Tell Oprah about Martha's Vine!

Martha's Vine: How to get your FREE autographed copy

2010-09-13T11:49:00.001-06:00

Martha's Vine: How to get your FREE autographed copy
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28(Martha's Vine printed now on Amazon)

Find out how to get your very own copy FREE!

Beauty Untitled

2010-08-07T07:40:00.001-06:00

Beauty Untitled
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Sturgis! Lookout, I am on my way)

Martha's Vine: From misty concept to bestseller -- one step at a time

2010-08-05T22:44:00.001-06:00

Martha's Vine: From misty concept to bestseller -- one step at a time
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Sturgis! Lookout, I am on my way)

Happy 23rd, David

2010-07-30T23:31:00.001-06:00

Happy 23rd, David
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (MIA BBL)

Any Danica Patrick fans in the house?

2010-07-24T19:39:00.001-06:00

Any Danica Patrick fans in the house?
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (MIA BBL)

Honda Indy Edmonton 2010

Martha's Vine: The Alberta setting complete with bikers

2010-07-19T22:03:00.001-06:00

Martha's Vine: The Alberta setting complete with bikers
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Martha's Vine on Amazon.com)

Okay, that was officially fun!

2010-07-02T16:53:00.001-06:00

Okay, that was officially fun!
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Martha's Vine on Amazon.com)

Edmonton firefighters in action...actually in-training action.

We DID it! Martha's Vine is for sale!

2010-06-17T18:50:00.001-06:00

We DID it! Martha's Vine is for sale!
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28

I mean it is NOW published.

We DID it! Martha's Vine is for sale!

2010-06-17T18:47:00.001-06:00

We DID it! Martha's Vine is for sale!
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28

It took a lot of energy...and a whole lot of angst, but Martha's Vine, my first novel, is not published and available to Kindle readers on Amazon.com.

European Roller -- Kruger National Park, South Africa 2010

2010-02-21T08:46:00.001-07:00

European Roller -- Kruger National Park, South Africa 2010
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28

Trip of a lifetime. South Africa 2010.

A person of interest . . .

2010-02-06T05:02:00.001-07:00

A person of interest . . .
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Going home ... SIGH...)

" 'Feed the birds,' -- that's what she cries -- while overhead, her birds fill the skies..."

2010-02-04T23:39:00.001-07:00

" 'Feed the birds,' -- that's what she cries -- while overhead, her birds fill the skies..."
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Enjoying London)

Victoria Palace Theater - Billy Elliot the Musical!

2010-02-03T09:57:00.001-07:00

Victoria Palace Theater - Billy Elliot the Musical!
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Enjoying London)

The Music of the Open Road - Africa Bound!

2010-01-04T07:54:00.001-07:00

The Music of the Open Road - Africa Bound!
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (My FIRST Novel is DONE!)

Off to Africa. In the middle of January. Is there anything finer?
Maybe.

~~Sheree~~

Railway to Heaven!

2009-09-21T09:42:00.001-06:00

Railway to Heaven!
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Grateful for patient friends)

Love train travel? Jump on an Amtrak, especially on the East Coast. A mini vacation on rails. Well worth the money spent.

Roll out those lazy hazy crazy days of summer!

2009-06-23T09:09:00.001-06:00

Roll out those lazy hazy crazy days of summer!
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (the open road is calling again)

A new look at Christmas ornaments.

Wishing you all a wonderful summer!

Blessings,
Sheree

The WalkinMan's Tree - A Tale in Two Parts - EXPLORED!

2009-06-04T07:50:00.001-06:00

The WalkinMan's Tree - A Tale in Two Parts - EXPLORED!
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Part 2 at WalkinMan's Site)

Do you like the works of authors like Tolkein and Lewis? Then you might enjoy The WalkinMan's Tree, by Sheree Zielke. Photo by Fred SanFilipo.

Blessings,
Sheree

A Mother's Day Lamb-ent

2009-05-08T21:01:00.001-06:00

A Mother's Day Lamb-ent
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28 (Intentions good; brain faulty)

Are you a mother or a grandmother facing a Mother's Day full of grief? Here is an image just for you.

To see the whole story, please visit my Flickr site:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/97705796@N00/3512770726/

May you be blessed this day.

Happy Mother's Day!

~~Sheree Zielke~~

"It's all over, little one. Time to go." (The warehouse is empty.)

2009-04-01T08:40:00.001-06:00

"It's all over, little one. Time to go." (The warehouse is empty.)
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28

We have closed down our warehouse once filled with theatre props and costumes. TIme to move on to new adventures.

Blessings,
Sheree

Howling Blood Ships in the Night!

2009-03-13T07:03:00.001-06:00

Howling Blood Ships in the Night!
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28

Superstitious about Friday the 13th? Wondering where this day got its reputation. How does Friday the 13th tie to Christianity and Christ? Click on the picture.

Blessings,
Sheree

Photoshop, Travel, Photography and People: Travel Blog #9: Terror in St. Lucia

2009-01-28T12:03:00.000-07:00

Photoshop, Travel, Photography and People: Travel Blog #9: Terror in St. Lucia

"For her gift was unworthy of Him"

2008-12-23T20:38:00.001-07:00

"For her gift was unworthy of Him"
Originally uploaded by Hadassah28

Wishing all grandparents and grandkids out there a blessed season filled with joy and love. No matter what the circumstances.

Be at peace,
Sheree Zielke

Yellow Fever Vaccine -- I have survived!

2008-10-25T18:52:00.006-06:00

It's been just over a week now since I subjected my arm to a Yellow Fever vaccine shot. The spot is still a little tender, but all the rest of the symptoms disappeared (after intensifying) in just under 5 days.

It looked like my husband was going to get off scot-free, but oh no, the vaccine had him it its sights, too; it just took a few more days to get going. He went through the aching muscles, the sore arm, and a little more. His aching extended right up and down the left side of his body (same side as the needle site) and included his finger tips. But, like me, all symptoms mercifully disappeared after a couple of days.

Having read a recent update by Health Canada about increased occurrences of Yellow Fever in Brazil and the possibility of death, my husband and I are both very glad to have gotten the shot, in spite of the side effects.

Now we have the possible side effects of Malarone (malaria drug) to look forward to. We've already been hit with the expense. Ouch. Nearly $70 for 12 measly pills.

Worried about your own Yellow Fever shot? Here's a great Yellow Fever PDF link.

And here's a travel report on Brazil for Canadians.

And for the complete lowdown on Yellow Fever and all it entails, try this Canadian government site.

Wishing you safe and happy travels,
Sheree

Flickr River - An endless stream of photographs!

2008-10-25T18:50:00.003-06:00

If you haven't tried posting to FLickr and using some of the toys associated with this popular photo-sharing site, you are missing out.

Sheree

I have survived the Yellow Fever vacine! I think!

2008-10-17T09:27:00.004-06:00

Well, the news looks good. It would seem I am not going to die. It just felt that way.

It is now 3 days after my Yellow Fever vaccination and I am faring much better. The tenderness in my armpit and the underside of my arm is very faint. That's after last night, when everything on me hurt. At one point, it felt like a giant vice grip had closed across my back, making my breathing somewhat labored, not difficult, just heavy.

Today all seems fine. Except for the minor tenderness. And a tiny stomach upset.

I'm not sure if all is well because the advisory sheet says all side effects will be seen in 5-10 days. Have I experienced all that I am to experience? Or is there more to come?

Stay tuned.

Cheers,
Sheree

PS The above picture is called "Emerald Portal."

Yellow Fever Innoculations! Should you or shouldn't you?

2008-10-16T10:27:00.006-06:00

We are headed for the Amazon in the new year. Booking the trip was the easy part, but getting the Brazil visa and all the necessary shots, well, that's quite another affair. And, unfortunately, because of all the diseases spread by nasty Amazonian mosquitoes, a Yellow Fever shot is a must.

Because I am dealing with the side effects of a Yellow Fever shot, I thought I'd share.

I think the worst part is the anxiety. According to the health nurse who gave us our shots, there is only a 5% chance of being one of the very unlucky few who can actually die from the shot. But because the Yellow Fever shot is composed of a live virus, we must wait out the 5-10 day incubation period, so I have to await the final outcome.

My husband got his shot the same day and apart from a little tenderness in the first few hours following the shot, he seems to be one of the lucky ones who will experience no side effects.

But I am not so lucky.

I take no drugs at all, of any kind, not even an aspirin, so I am very sensitive to anything new being introduced into my body.

At first, I experienced a slight soreness in the injection area. No big deal, I just made sure I didn't lie on my arm. But today, I am experiencing much more. Pain and tenderness runs under my arm, through the muscle below the injection site, and all through my armpit, my lymph nodes, and up into my neck muscles. This is not good; I teach a class today.

But I will tough it out. We'll see if this is just a passing thing. I truly hope it is.

Cheers,
Sheree

Alberta Autumn Celebration

2008-10-06T02:02:00.001-06:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Summer has Rusted into Fall Here in Alberta

2008-10-06T01:22:00.006-06:00

Time to batton down the hatches here in western Canada. We've just been treated to record-breaking heat this past week, and the most glorious paint palette Nature could ever provide, but we know snow is just over the horizon.

The air is crisp and clean, with the pungent hint of woodsmoke and tree sap. It's almost intoxicating to take a walk through the woods, or a local garden center.

Thought I'd share some of the color surrounding us.

Cheers,
Sheree Zielke

Canadian? Get off the main highways to truly explore this great country!

2008-08-22T11:42:00.005-06:00

Better hurry if you want to experience the real history behind our great country, because urban sprawl, industry, and the decay of time is fast eating up those wonderful old farmhouses, those abandoned gas stations, those old restaurants and architecturally elegant theatres found in tiny rural towns.

"For Sale" signs have been posted with abandon, old farmhouses sit silently, their wooden boards graying with age, and once fashionable stone facade buildings are crumbling into dust.

For a more in-depth look at a recent trip we took along HWY 39 West in Alberta, click HERE.

Get a taste of our disappearing Canadian heritage (along with your children and grandchildren) before it disintegrates into the unforgiving passages of time. Get off the main highways, and spend a day exploring the country roads of Alberta, or Saskatchewan, or Manitoba, or . . . whatever province in which you happen to abide.

Take a camera. The photo opportunities are endless. I promise.

For more pictures of our disappearing heritage, check out my Flickr site.

Wishing you safe and happy travels,
Sheree Zielke

Route 66 - Time Travel Adventure & Fun Especially for Baby Boomers!

2008-08-06T07:41:00.008-06:00

You've heard about Route 66, you might have even traveled the road as a kid, sweating it out along with your parents and siblings as you made your great summer escape as you ate up the miles along one of North America's oldest (now rarely used) roadway.

Also known as "The Mother Road," Route 66 can still be traveled, but you will have to leave the freeway if you want to step back into time, if you want to re-experience the feelings you once had as a kid as you zipped by inviting motel, tourist attraction, diner, and Burma-Shave signs.

Does anyone out there still remember the funny sayings that were posting along Route 66 that ended in the famous Burma-Shave sign? Those signs still exist, at least along the stretch of roadway between Kingman and Seligman, Arizona. Reading them now, in middle age, will make you feel like a kid again.

Recently, my husband and I flew into Vegas, but we had plans to explore farther afield than the strip. And we did. Twice in fact. The lure of Route 66 was so great, that after the first day trip, we knew that a second one was definitely in order.

We also traveled an original stretch of Route 66 that took us from Needles, California into Oatman, Arizona, where wild burros roam freely through the tiny town.

The kids, especially those kids past the age of fifty, will love a visit to Oatman; and if you travel the stretch between Oatman and Kingman, you will see the wreckages of old cars from the 40s and 50s that didn't quite make the turn.

Route 66 truly is time travel. Be careful though; like the thousands of bikers that consider Route 66 a "great ride," you, too, might fall under its magical spell. Eat at one of the vintage diners, like Mr. D'z in Kingman or the Snow Cap in Seligman, spend an hour in the Kingman museum, or simply stand in the middle of nowhere, in the blazing 100 degree sun, with desert and mountains stretching out forever, with nary another car in sight.

Historic Route 66, stretching from the Santa Monica pier in California to the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, is a worthy side trip, or a destination in itself. Whether you are in search of a nostalgic step back in time, or you have never traveled the road but you like to get off the beaten path, find an original piece of Route 66. And make plans to drive it.

Start by checking out some of the web sites dedicated to the preservation of Route 66 (there are many) like
http://www.kingmantourism.org/option,com_chronocontact/Itemid,60/, then gas up your car, pack a picnic lunch, remember the bottled water, and be sure to take your camera. Route 66 is a definite must, regardless of the price of gasoline.

Be sure to spend a little cash in the diners, the old motels, and the souvenir shops, those struggling businesses, many still in their original vintage incarnation, that are striving to keep themselves and the spirit of one of America's oldest and most beloved pieces of history, alive.

For more on my trip to Vegas and Route 66, check out my journal entries at http://blog.picajet.com.

Cheers,
Sheree Zielke

Staten Island Ferry - A Great Way to Sightsee for FREE!

2008-07-20T19:29:00.001-06:00

Make a Smilebox photobook

Day trip to Philadelphia from NYC via Amtrak is a great idea!

2008-07-06T04:01:00.003-06:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Cheers,
Sheree

New York City - Fourth of July Celebration 2008!

2008-07-05T07:57:00.002-06:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

New York City - Where do they get those big building covers?

2008-07-02T06:09:00.005-06:00

It's been nearly a year since I've been back to this massive city. And one of the first things I noticed is all the building blankets wrapped around buildings under construction.

Where do they get those things? Some even have been artistically painted to look like a real building. There sure are a lot of buildings under construction or repair.

Anyway, the weather is hot and humid. The subway is like a sauna, but it's New York City and I love it.

Some fast facts:

**Smoking is prohibited in New York City - yes, in the entire city except for some special restaurant sidewalk areas. Some people assume this means you can't smoke anywhere in the city, but that's not true. You can smoke while walking outside, but forget lighting up in any public buildings like restaurants, bars, office buildings, and dining halls. Public transportation like the NYC subway and the Staten Island ferry are off limits, too.

**Cab fare between midtown Manhattan from the LaGuardia airport is about $30 to get there, and about $40 to get back. Time of day and heaviness of traffic will change that rate. A ride from the JFK airport to midtown is set at a flat rate of $45. The toll charges are included in these figures, but not the tip.

**Trans-fats have been outlawed in New York City - you should see all the healthy fruit options now available in Central Park. Another thing NYC has done is insist that restaurants post the calorie count in their foods. You'll think twice about that morning pastry listing at nearly 500 calories.

**Buy your really good food in Whole Foods - you'll find this huge grocery store at Columbus Circle, kiddy corner to Central Park West. Oh, I know of another location and that's just across the street from Union Square Park.

Time to go exploring.

Cheers,
Sheree

It's 11:30 at night and I've just had my tiny nail scissors taken away - It must be the Edmonton airport!

2008-06-30T23:28:00.003-06:00

Please forgive the typos (if there are any) - I am seeing out of one half-shut eye. It's late, I am tired, and a child has been screaming for the past 15 minutes. Please Lord. Not on my plane.

Just cleared customs and "forfeited" my teeny weeny nail scissors because the tips were pointed, and Canada doesn't allow teeny weeny nail scissors through security. They have no idea how many security checkpoints I have come through with those teeny scissors, including Canada ports. I am such a renegade.

Tomorrow, I wake in Montreal. And then grab a quick flight into New York City. It should be a great adventure - with all the Fourth of July happenings!

Oh good, somebody had the merciful decency to take the chld elsewhere. Might just catch a bit of sleep like the guy behind me who is snoring like some weird bubble machine.

Cheers,
Sheree

http://blog.picajet.com

Arthur Frommer Online: Some reflections on the rise in airfares, and our own responses to those increasingly heavy costs

2008-06-25T07:55:00.000-06:00

Arthur Frommer Online: Some reflections on the rise in airfares, and our own responses to those increasingly heavy costs

Independence Day Fireworks - New York City!

2008-06-08T07:13:00.004-06:00

I am off to NYC soon. I have vowed to take in every major holiday celebration in the Big Apple. My husband and I have already done several, including Christmas and St. Patrick's Day, but now it's time for the 4th of July.

But with millions of people all vying to participate, especially in the Macy's fireworks show, how does one find the best seat in the house?

For tips, try my Picajet Travel blog.

Cheers,
Sheree Zielke

PS I also write travel features for a Baby Boomers site.

Wishing you safe and happy travels,
Sheree

Phlash :: gophila.com - The Official Visitor Site for Greater Philadelphia

2008-06-06T22:18:00.001-06:00

Phlash :: gophila.com - The Official Visitor Site for Greater Philadelphia

Time to go adventuring again. This time we're off to NYC to celebrate July 4th, but we've added a side trip to Philly via Amtrak train.

Once there, we'll avoid the more expensive options, and take the Phlash.

We've already got our tickets to one of the hottest new events: National Geographic's "Real Pirates."

What fun!

Cheers,
Sheree

2008-05-09T09:09:00.001-06:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

New Orleans: Hang out on Bourbon Street and miss the point

2008-04-15T15:02:00.004-06:00

Just got back from a trip to southern Texas, and then a jaunt over to New Orleans.

We stayed in the Iberville Suites in the French Quarter (I heartily back this hotel - pristine, great service, great staff). The Suites allow convenient access to everywhere, including Bourbon Street, without being in the middle of the chaos.

Here are 10 things you must do if heading to New Orleans, Louisiana:

Go to the other side of the French Quarter, away from Canal Street and visit the jazz clubs and restaurants on Frenchmen Street.
Visit the city's many cemeteries; take a guided tour, or just go on your own. The Canal Street streetcar will take you to the Irish cemeteries at the end of the line.
Get away from Bourbon Street; this is a crowded place for those without a life.
Ride the streetcars, everywhere. Buy a 3-day pass in the Jax Brewery (in the ice cream shop on the main floor). Get a window seat, and enjoy the breeze.
Eat at Mother's restaurant in the Central Business District on the other side of Canal Street.
Eat seafood gumbo from a tiny street deli on Royal Street.
Walk Royal Street.
Take a goofy ghost tour; see Nicholas Cage's haunted house.
Eat lunch on the doorstep of Brad and Angelina's place on Gov. Nicholls Street.
Take a Gray Line bus Katrina tour -- it's an eye-opener.

For more in-depth information on visiting New Orleans, try these articles:

Cheers and happy travels,
Sheree

Texas and New Orleans - What a Pair!

2008-03-29T00:48:00.003-06:00

It's time once again to hit the road. This time we'll spend a week in southern Texas, in the Brownsville area, and then head east to New Orleans. We'd like to see how the Big Easy is doing nearly 2 1/2 years following Hurricane Katrina.

We expect to spend time at the Gladys Porter Zoo, South Padre Island, the Alamo, Matamoros, Mexico, and all the ghosts and graveyards we can stand in New Orleans.

Yes, we are booked for the tackiest touristy thing we can possibly do - but sometimes these wacky adventures are great fun. One is a daytime jaunt, the other a nighttime adventure.

We're stayng at the Iberville Suites; the reviews looked promising and the price was excellent.

80th Academy Awards! Like Flushing a Toilet!

2008-02-25T09:40:00.010-07:00

Watching the Oscars is a little like flushing the toilet, isn't it?

Great urgency leads up to the grand elimination (and the Academy Awards show is an elimination event -- just ask the losers), there's no telling how much time it's actually going to take to complete said event, and then finally the highly popular event draws to a close. Flush!

And that's it for another year, or bowel movement. But I admit it, I like going to the bathroom nearly as much as I like watching the Oscars.

I often wonder what it would be like to be a public participant in this self-aggrandizing Hollywood hoopla. But then again, do I really want to go to all the trouble?

Um, my couch will do for now. Why sit in the rain when I can sit in a warm dry house instead, where I can even vote on the newest Dove commercial (sheesh!).

Here's my take on last night:

The 80th Academy Awards highlights:

The Host: Okay, I was a little skeptical on Jon Stewart as host, but he was okay. Stewart was suave, smooth, easy-on-the-eyes, and he was funny. His Hilary Clinton joke was spot on. And I loved when he brought back one of the young foreign Oscar winners whose acceptance speech was cut short. Classy move, Jon!

The Show: The 80th Oscars seemed to be a cleaner, firmer version when held up against the mirror of past years. Maybe writers should go on strike more often. The musical numbers were kind of blah, but there were some cute unexpected bits of entertainment like John Travolta dancing his way onto the stage, and the spoof with the two look-alike guys (can't remember there names) filling in for Halle Berry and Dame Judi Dench (refreshing and funny).

The Red Carpet: Officially, the red carpet is not part of the Oscars show, but it's a must-see pre-show. It can be a dull stupid affair, with stupid questions, and even stupider and bored answers. But an unexpected dance between Ryan Seacrest, Jennifer Garner, and Gary Busey added a touch of spice and total bizarre-ness to the event.

What was up with Busey? I was as grossed out as Garner. Someone needs to take Busey aside and give him lessons on proper starlet and has-been etiquette. No kissing on the neck, Busey, especially married starlet mothers. I can only imagine what hubby, Ben Afleck, had to say.

The Winners: Kudos to Marion Cotillard, Daniel Day-Lewis, Javier Bardem, and the shorter Cohen brother; his "I have nothing to add to my first speech" speech was very funny. His brother had spoken so long, that the short brother was only able to say, "Thanks," before the get-off-the-stage music came up.

Tilda Swinton (Best Supporting Actress) would get my nod, too, but that speech was just plain weird. Did she want that Oscar or not? And will she really give it to her American agent for his birthday?

The Losers: Laura Linney, what a doll, so gracious, even in loss. Viggo Mortensen, on the other hand, resorted a bit to his hardened Eastern Promises character -- displeasure clouded his face.

The Memorable Moments:

Here they are in no particular order:

John Travolta's hair. Is it just me? Or did John look like a 60s Ken doll?
Daniel Day-Lewis's escort. If that dress had been any more loaded with crystal flowers, she would have needed more than those little red bows to hold it up. Weird design.
Tilda Swinton's hair. Whoa, I understood that red was the color of the day. But talk about a flaming shock of red hair.
Tilda Swinton's weird acceptance speech. Did we really need to know that her agent's buttocks matched Oscar's butt? And how does she know what her agent's bum looks like anyway?
Daniel Day-Lewis. What an "ACTOR" thing to do, kneel before the pseudo Queen (Helen Mirren) for a good dubbing. Cute, Daniel.
Marion Cotillard. I could hear the sound bites being cut across the world when she thanked the "angels" in Los Angeles for her award.
Ditto for Javier Bardem. Perfect sound bite when he mentioned his character's "horrible haircut."
Oh and lastly, Gary Busey. I suspect, if you check out YouTube.com, Gary's antics will be the subject of several videos. Poor fellow.

That's it, the Oscars are over for another year.

Flush!

Powder Your Baby with Poisons!

2008-02-05T07:56:00.000-07:00

Once again, scientists have finally caught up with Grandma's folk knowledge: Corn starch on your baby's bottom is the best medicine; the man-made stuff is poison.

One of the world's most identifiable scents is now linked to reproductive development issues in male babies: baby powder.

Researchers at the University of Washington have raised the red flag on all those cute sweet-smelling baby lotions, powders, and shampoos. Their new studies show that artificial chemicals, like phthalates, are actually harmful to our infants; some can even upset the reproductive development in our little boys.

The new study was published in Pediatrics, a respected medical journal. Besides the pamper products, the researchers say the damaging chemicals are found in many vinyl baby items, too.

They have no idea how the boys become exposed to the chemicals, except that they do.

Moms might miss the intoxicating scent of baby powder, but corn starch is cheaper anyway.

Thanks, Grandma!

Read more about this issue HERE.

For more information on phthalates, try this site.

"Phthalates are a family of compounds made from alcohols and phthalic anhydride. They are oily, colorless, odorless liquids that do not evaporate readily."

http://www.phthalates.org/whatare/index.asp

Cheers,
Sheree

The Oscars! Does anyone really care?

2008-02-01T11:32:00.000-07:00

Here we go again. The Oscars!

Another self-aggrandizing Hollywood event. More formally, the Academy Awards.

Does anyone really care? Does the world really need another hyped-up "look-how-wonderful-we-are-but-oh-really-you-shouldn't-have" awards show?

Sure. I mean, why not? The Academy has been hard at it since 1929. Why stop now?

I love the Oscars; my husband can barely tolerate them. But then he just doesn't get it. I mean where else can one watch such unabashed decadence, preening and parading? It's all so, well, foreign. And untouchable. Like exquisite jewels set into a monarch's crown.

It's like watching a car accident you simply can't tear your eyes from. It's captivating in all its pomp and circumstance.

And there's Ellen DeGeneres, all fresh and giggly, and so watchable. But wait, where's Ellen? And who's this Jon Stewart guy? I don't know about this. Ellen is a tough act to follow. Just ask Ellen.

As to the winners, does anyone really care?

Probably not. At least, not really. But we still want to know who will win this elitist popularity contest. Be honest, now. You still turn your ear to the TV entertainment news, and your eyes to the email alerts and the newspaper headlines, the next day.

And then there's knowing what brilliance, what memorable words will drip from the lips of the "and the oscar goes to" recipient (it's inappropriate and politically-incorrect to call them a "winner." Wouldn't want to rough up the sensibilities of these sensitive super stars, would we?)

And what's with the picks for oustanding performances, etc? George Clooney in Michael Clayton was good, but neither the actor nor the movie was that good. It'd be a hoot to see Juno take the coveted Golden Boy, but that's not likely to happen.

And somebody was really asleep at the wheel when Sean Penn's Into the Wild was forgotten as a nominee. Did the academy even watch that movie? But there is good news, somebody really got it right with Tilda Swinton's performane in Michael Clayton. She was mesmerizing.

And when is the big day, you ask? February 24, 2008.

ENJOY!

I'm just in it for the Oscars "best dressed" and "worst dressed" list. Somebody is sure to mess up. Wear the wrong color, the wrong shoes, the wrong jewels, or just the wrong clothes. A lot of that goes around. And I'll be waiting for it, drool dripping from the corners of mouth. Just like some of those groupie TV entertainment "reporters."

As to the best dressed on the red carpet, I am sick to death of seeing the Desperate Housewives cavorting in their pencil thin bodies entombed in rich swirls of fabric. So, Mr. Camera Man, just pan them, okay.

Focus on Tommy Lee Jones, instead. Now that's a face from which legends are created. Go, Tommy!

Cheers,
Sheree

When Arthur Frommer speaks -- it's usually great advice!

2008-01-30T08:08:00.000-07:00

Photo by Sheree Zielke

(Can you figure out what the above photo has to do with New Zealand?)

*******************

I subscribe to Arthur Frommer's blog. His knowledge and advice has always been insightful, and timely. Here's one of his latest blogs, which I felt worth sharing.

But before checking out Arthur's blog, check out mine (I am also a travel writer); I just returned from an extensive tour of New Zealand, and Australia.

Be sure to leave a comment when you visit my travel blog.

Travel stories and advice when travelling to New Zealand and Australia!

******************

And here's Arthur's blog:

Arthur Frommer Online: Roe Gruber's Escapes Unlimited has held the line on air-and-land packages to Central America, South America, and Asia -- let's support her!

******************

As to the above photo, visitors can partake in an Antarctic storm at the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch. It's very cold; visitors are provided with parkas and rubber boots for their 2 minute adventure. Great fun for all ages.

Cheers,
Sheree Zielke

Open Letter to the "Security" Inspector at the San Francisco International Airport

2008-01-24T15:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Sir or Madam,

I was on United flight 770 from Auckland. That was January 20, 2008 at exactly 12:14PM. I am sure you don't remember my luggage, but...

While I can appreciate you had to inspect my suitcases for "the protection of myself and my fellow passengers," was it necessary for you to help yourself to my 2005 Jewelstone Chardonnay, through the course of your duties, as well?

Why the Jewelstone? I was looking forward to drinking this New Zealand 2005 Mission Estate "Wine of the Month."

Perhaps you thought I wouldn't miss it? Ah, but I am a wine lover; I both count and list the wines I import. Before packing them. Trust me. I missed it.

I know for a fact wine is NOT defined as "hazardous materials," and I had taken great pains to pack my bottles properly, in consideration of the glass, and subsequent handling of my luggage. So, why was this bottle removed?

Perhaps you are a wine lover, too? Is that why you lifted one of my most expensive selections? I would prefer that thought -- the idea that you may have squirreled this wine away, taken it home, and enjoyed it over a meal of roast chicken and portabella mushrooms. That's a far better visual image than one where you popped my chardonnay open in some back alley, swigging it down, with spittle dripping from your chin. Refining the moment with a resounding belch.

I trust you enjoyed my wine; I wish you would drop me a line and give me your impressions of the taste. How was it on the nose, the aftertaste, and the initial first taste? I do hope you chilled the bottle properly first; it would have been a shame to drink it at room temperature.

Oh by the way, although I don't hold out much hope, I will be reporting this to Covenant Aviation Security management. I sincerely hope, when you are questioned, my wine doesn't turn sour in your stomach.

It would be a terrible waste of such a fine vintage.

I have your number. Thanks.

Cheers,
Sheree

Christmas for everyone -- not just the Christians!

2007-12-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

It just doesn't matter what religion you honor, or what nationality you are -- there is something about Christmastime that is appealing.

We (my husband and I) don't celebrate Christmas as such because it is too pagan, but we very much enjoy all the trappings. The parties are fun, the brightly colored lights are a delight, and some of the festive decorations are outstanding.

Eggnog and Appleton rum is a real treat, fruitcake with thick almond pasted icing is to die for, and the selection of reasonably priced gourmet chocolates is perfect for all the chocoholics in us.

The wild malls are intriguing, especially when you are not struggling to buy, buy, buy like the rest, and the music is heartwarming. Right from "Joy to the World" to "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer."

And who can resist watching "The Grinch" for the umpteenth time or belly laughing at Ralphie in his pink rabbit suit in "A Christmas Story?"

Whether you celebrate the birth of Christ (he wasn't born in December -- December 25th is actually the date of a Roman celebration, Saturnalia -- Jesus was probably born in February as that's when Herod held the census that drew Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem) or whether you buy into the Santa hype, or whether you just like the all the pretty trappings, or getting presents -- you will find something about the Christmas season to enjoy. Something to get excited over.

As a born again Christian today, I don't embrace much of the rituals and symbols acquainted with the Christmas season, but I do hold valuable and dear the memories of being an excited child of the 50s on Christmas morning. And I'll bet many of you do, too.

With that being said, here's a wish for happiness and the making of a new fond memory at this Christmastime, if not for you, then for a child dear to your heart.

And in all its political uncorrectness, I blatantly wish you a, "Merry Christmas" and all that means specifically to you.

Health and happinees in 2008!

Sheree

Honey, the best cough medicine!

2007-12-04T08:06:00.000-07:00

Aha, I knew it.

I have always believed that cough medicines did little or nothing to calm coughs at night. And now scientists have finally figured it out.

There is absolutely no need for a thick yucky syrup full of sugar and chemicals that can barely be pronounced. Instead, the lowly bee has produced nature's best cough medicine: HONEY!

As a Nana, I have always offered my grand kids my special "honey tea" to soothe their nighttime and daytime coughs. The tea is easy to make, easy to drink, and they like it.

It's so simple: 1/2 cup of very warm water, a big tablespoon of NON-pasteurized all-natural honey (buckwheat is best), and a spoon. Stir to dissolve the honey, and serve in a pretty cup. No child will balk at this flavorful and healthy cough suppressant drink.

Here's a link to the newest scientific findings.

(Remember, pasteurization destroys enzymes in the honey necessary for healthful benefits.)

Three cheers for collective consciousness and folk remedies!!!

Cheers,
Sheree

Grateful for Gracious Grandkids

2007-11-26T11:43:00.000-07:00

"So, Nana," my eldest grandson said with expectation in his voice. "Where should I sit?"

I turned and looked at him standing there with a bag of leftover cold pizza in his hand, the lunch I had just handed to him. I surveyed the kitchen, and then burst out laughing. The kitchen table, the island, everything was covered with some project-in-progress. I couldn't even send him to the dining room; that table was covered with my writing research, and a few more projects. We finally found him a spot on a couch where he obediently sat munching his pizza.

I adore my grand kids, but I adore more the fact that they love me just as I am, complete with my crazy craft projects and my dishevelled house. But then I am the same Nana who, on the spur of the moment, will drive 3 hours up and 3 hours back on a Sunday afternoon, just to take my grand kids to see a dinosaur museum in Drumheller. So, there is a little give and take.

Even with all my projects, my jobs, and my responsibilities--my grand kids rank high on my list of priorities. Amidst the blog writing, the teaching prep, the decorating job paraphernalia, the jewellery supplies, I still find time for impromptu piano lessons for my 10-year old granddaughter (everything I can remember from my lessons over 40 years ago -- isn't much, but it makes her happy), a Nancy Drew mystery PC game with my 7-year old grandson, a little tickle and tease for my 5-year old autistic grandson, a little sticker book time with my 3-year old granddaughter, and a little face time with my 12-year pizza eater.

Yep, thank God for grandchildren, especially the gracious ones! I am so glad they understand that Nana may have a messy house, and sometimes there might not be a place to sit and eat a meal, but there will always be love, even if we have to sit on the floor for a cuddle.

Cheers,
Sheree

Here's a funny take on teaching your grandchild about antiques, eBay, and garage sales.
http://www.helium.com/tm/227405/lucrative-return-think-maintained

******************

Elf Yourself! - Howl with laughter!!!

2007-11-22T09:42:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am supposed to be doing real work. But a friend of mine just sent this wild thing offered by OfficeMax. It's this crazy photo manipulation thing that you can do in minutes. You upload photos of yourself or friends, and then align their faces on the bodies of elves, or scrooge.

Once all the aligning is done, you can test your work of art. That's where the howling comes in. The faces of loved ones set on the bodies of dancing elves is just what the doctor ordered.

Go ahead. Elf yourself! I promise that you will LOVE this crazy Internet diversion.

Cheers,
Sheree

Baby Boomer Bloggists!

2007-11-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

Are you a Bloggist?

Have you thought about making your thoughts public? Well, not those thoughts? But I mean the ones that can be made public?

Have you got something to teach? Something to share? Do you make people laugh at your wry observations? Can you explain something difficult in simple terms?

If so, maybe you should be a bloggist. I know, you think it should be, "blogger." But blogger sounds so, well--ungainly. "Bloggist," on the other hand, sounds classy, refined. But whatever, blogger or bloggist--if you have something to say, it's time to try your hand at blogging.

It's so easy. Just find a blog site like this one. And fire away.

You'll have to do a little work to get your blog read. Like linking your blog to a "blog catalogue." Here's a Blog Catalogue. It's simple to register, simple to use, and they'll provide you with cute little link backs like the one showing below.

Really, it's easy. Just be sure to say something of interest to your reader, something that will help or intrigue a reader.

Cheers,
Sheree

Cutting through the Blog Smog

Baby Boomer Volunteer Travel: A More Rewarding Experience

2007-11-14T10:08:00.000-07:00

Many Boomers are still full of energy and ambition, they have great work ethics, they care about the world, and they have itchy feet. What to do with that combination? Take a "volunteer vacation," of course.

Retired Boomers, finished with the daily grind of 9-5, are setting their sights on something loftier than making their month-end sales goals; many are seeking out volunteer organizations that offer a unique adventure in an exotic locale. Like Global Volunteers.

Instead of lying around soaking up the sun on some congested overly-touristed beach, Boomers are finding great reward in teaching English in China, Greece, or Romania; helping to build a church; caring for impoverished children; or planting a garden. In addition, these special volunteers get to experience, first-hand, the unique culture and lifestyle of a foreign society.

It's as easy as picking a continent, an intriguing destination. Organizations like Global provide training and tips to assist Boomer volunteers to be as ready as they can be for their new adventure.

The volunteer vacation has received attention from a number of credible sources including Arthur Frommer and Newsweek magazine.

Remember, when volunteer vacationing, it won't be just your time and talents you'll be donating--like any other volunteering effort, you must foot the bill, too.

************************

Are you interested in becoming an "Ecotourist?" Here's an article that may intrigue you:
http://www.helium.com/tm/430174/getting-itchy-usual-travel

Looking for low-cost ideas for travel in Canada? Try this article:
http://www.helium.com/tm/304795/vacation-options-canada-diverse

Cheers,
Sheree Zielke

Travel Mementos - Tokens of our Travels

2007-11-07T05:59:00.000-07:00

Addicted Traveler - Must Cram Suitcase with Souvenirs
---------------------------------

Try these ideas instead!

As Baby Boomers, we already have enough stuff cluttering up our house--we don't really need more. But travel souvenirs are different.

My husband and I lovingly refer to the trinkets, the statues, the jewelery, the wall hangings, the ballcaps, the junk, we happen across in our travels...as garage sale fodder. The souvenir that attracts our eye, while visiting an exotic locale, soon loses its charm back home. And ultimately ends up being discarded for a pittance at a garage sale.

Here are a couple of ideas for souvenirs that don't take up too much space in the suitcase, and become beloved charming reminders of our travels back at home.

Try these suggestions:

Baby T-shirts: T-shirts are a staple on every continent. And T-shirts made for babies are cute, take very little room in a suitcase, and are imprinted with the city, town, or country in which they were purchased. Back home, treat them like wall art. Use thumbtacks, and tack them up in the family room, bedroom or den. Great for sparking memories of a beloved trip.

Postcards: Of course, you will mail a postcard or two to friends or relatives back home. But you've missed an excellent way to give yourself a great souvenir. Next time, buy some really interesting postcards (like a vintage atomic bomb postcard from the Las Vegas Atomic Testing Museum), jot notes about the day's events on the back, and mail it to yourself. Scrapbookers and journalers will love these mementos. And usually the postcards arrive after you've returned from your trip; these whimsical surprises provide instant travel flashbacks.

Rocks: The most easily accessed of all souvenirs. This is my cheapo husband's favorite type of memento. He has picked up rocks from wherever we have traveled. Now, in some cases, like Greece and Hawaii, you are NOT to take away rocks as souvenirs. But it's hard to take the advisory seriously when you are standing at the ocean's edge looking at millions of pebbles; who really is going to miss just one?

Liqueurs: If you like the taste of thick sweet liqueurs, these make really great souvenirs. My husband and I are fans of the tiny odd bottles like the imprinted ones sold at the gates to Pompeii, Italy. Choose from flavours like lemon, melon, tangerine--the price is right. Pop the bottles in a ziplock bag for tranisit, and they become perfect gifts back home. If you don't plan to drink them, sit them on a windowsill where they can catch the sunlight. Very pretty.

Hint: I had a bad cough while traveling; I bought a small Cherry liqueur and sipped on that. Perfect throat soother. And cheaper than actual cough medicine (which according to recent studies, don't work anyway).

Kid's Toys: All travel locations offer some sort of children's toys, like the pull-toy Pinocchios sold at Venice kiosks. These tiny mementos don't cost much, they take very little room in your suitcase, and they are easily displayed at home.

Photographs: A snapshot is still, handsdown, the very best souvenir. And with today's digital technology, there is no excuse for anyone not to take away a wealth of travel memories inside their clever little compact camera.

Remember to acquaint yourself with your camera BEFORE you travel, take extra memory cards, extra rechargeable batteries, your battery charger, and use your "scene modes" to get those difficult images like sunsets, snowscapes, and museum shots.

For more tips on using your digital camera, try this link. http://blog.picajet.com

Cheers,
Sheree

The Price is Right but is Drew Carey right?

2007-10-31T11:31:00.000-06:00

Drew Carey and Jeff Probst should switch TV shows!

As a Baby Boomer, I grew up with Bob Barker, the charismatic ex-host of the long-running TV game show, "The Price is Right." He retired in June 2007, at the age of 82, after logging 50 years in the business. So, it would follow that whoever replaced the suave Barker, would find his shoes very big to fill. Even a replacement as big as Drew Carey.

Carey is talented, very talented, but he should stick to comedy shows like his popular "Whose Line is it Anyway." He can even stay with his Power of 10 gameshow, but continuing as the host of Bob Barker's old show, is just not a great idea.

I was eager to see Carey host "The Price is Right." He sounded like a great choice, but within only a few shows, I found myself wanting to flip to another channel, even though I have always loved the gameshow.

Carey talks as though he has a pot boiling over on the stove. He mumbles, and stumbles, and delivers information so quickly that I can barely make out what he's saying. Today, I actually wondered if Carey was on some sort of behaviour-altering drug; you know, the kind that makes you talk too quickly. That was never the case with Barker, whose smooth, well-paced and clearly delivered words made the show a joy to watch.

Carey's rapid fire delivery may work for a comedy routine but it does not work on a gameshow, especially a show like "The Price is Right," where a clear explanation for the way the game is played, is essential. I get the feeling Carey can hardly wait for the show to be over. Barker always kept the show moving along right on time but he never resorted to speed-speak. So, what's up with Carey?

Carey's high velocity delivery is so annoying that I regularly find something else to watch. And I expect I am not alone in this. I predict we will be hearing about another casting call to replace Carey, for whatever publicity-approved reason dreamed up by the show's producers.

Note to "Price is Right" producers: Hire an unknown talent; give someone else a chance. But if you must have an establised name, then see if you can lure Jeff Probst away from "Survivor." That show is on its last legs anyway. Better still, trade Carey for Probst, because Probst does possess that mystical cool vibe that made Barker so popular. And Carey would be perfect for making fun of the lacklustre "survivors."

If you like game shows or playing board games, or you like celebrity gossip, here are some articles you might enjoy.

Boring bridal shower games? Try these tips:
http://www.helium.com/channels/673-Wedding-Traditions-Themes/knowledge/66687-great-bridal-shower-games

Mr. Money Bags: How to win at Monopoly:
http://www.helium.com/tm/243711/kahuna-money-monopoly-winwe

Celebrity gossip: Why is it so intriguing?
http://www.helium.com/tm/293133/celebrity-gossip-crane-necks

Cheers,
Sheree

Work Ethics -- Baby Boomer's vs. Today's Employee

2007-10-30T10:21:00.001-06:00

Work Ethics -- Do They Even Exist in Today's Work Environment?

I recently did some temp work during our civic election. I wrote the exam, attended the training workshop, and read the handouts. It was all fairly straight forward so I was stunned when I came across an advisory telling us we were not to wear our pyjama bottoms to the polling station.

What? Pyjama bottoms? Who needs to be told not to wear their pyjamas to work? I surely didn't, but I guess there are others who must be reminded how to dress properly for a business environment. How times have changed! As a Boomer, it's inconceivable to me that someone needs to be told not to wear their sleepwear to work.

But then the other day, my husband and I went to see a movie. Now we know it's getting extremely hard to find entry level staff, but this is ridiculous. The theatre was nearly deserted, food kiosks were either temporarily closed or shut down entirely. The lack of staff was evident, but the point was really driven home by the man who checked our ticket.

I am a curious sort, and when I saw what our ticket-taker was wearing, I was going to ask him why he was dressed up. I did a double-take, and kept my mouth shut. The man wasn't dressed up; he had come to work in sweat pants, a hoodie, and a BATHROBE! I kid you not. A freaking BATHROBE!

It was his voice that really made me keep my mouth shut; low and disinterested, unfriendly to a chilling degree. As we walked away, I could feel the hairs on the back of my neck rise. "I expect to see him raise a hatchet out of the folds of his robe," I quipped to my husband, only half joking.

Have we taught this to our kids? To our grandkids? To be so totally self-involved and egotistical that nothing matters? Except personal slovenly comfort?

I suppose it could be argued that low self esteem, poor education, or low intelligence may account for this poor judgment. But really, we had all those things back in the 50s and 60s, too. Yet, we still knew the difference between clothing suited to rolling around in the backyard, or wearing to bed, or going to work.

Good Lord, what's next? No underwear while wearing a short skirt? Oh wait, celebrity girls already do that.

If you enjoyed this article, check out my other teen and business-oriented articles.

Need a raise? Butter up that boss:
http://www.helium.com/tm/291440/raise-showing-understand-positionyour

Teens -- How to get that job (tips from an entrepreneur):
http://www.helium.com/tm/377020/looking-first-summer-would

Blue Jeans and Butt Cracks -- The whole ugly story:
http://www.helium.com/tm/296716/jeans-hanging-crack-taken

Trade shows -- Dress for comfort and style:
http://www.helium.com/tm/291534/heels-sweaters-shirts-jeans

Cheers,
Sheree

Steak: Baby Boomer Style with Pizazz

2007-10-26T12:42:00.000-06:00

As Baby Boomers, with paid-off mortgages and retirement funds, if we want something, we can usually afford it, like steak. But even this favorite man-food can get tiresome.

Here's a suggestion to turn ho-hum steak into a tasty adventure.

Use your imagination, but remember the food rules. Meat, especially red meat, tends to go well with certain flavours: Red wine, garlic, onion, hot and/or sweet flavours, salt.
Once you've seared, seasoned as per usual, flipped your steak, and it's close (a few minutes) from being plated, pour some extra virgin olive oil into the frying pan, in the space alongside the steak.
Once the oil is heated, add sliced garlic (I use up to 12 cloves as we love garlic). Be sure your heat is set to medium high; you don't want to scorch the garlic -- brown it, yes -- scorch it, no.
Once the garlic is browned up a bit, add some chopped onion; not too much. Let that brown up a bit, too. If you've used good olive oil (low burning point), and your heat is set to medium, the garlic and onion will not burn; but don't walk away.
Add a little extra olive oil if necessary. Now make a decision as to the rest of the ingredients. This is where you get to show off your personality. Do you like hot? Then add a splash of your favorite hot sauce. Do you like sweet? Grab a 1/4 cup of your favorite jelly (not jam), and throw that into the pan. Do you like stronger seasonings? Go ahead, add a quick shot of something strong. I have used curry, nutmeg, and cumin among others. (If you use something like curry or nutmeg, dice up some apple bits and saute those at the same time you cook the onions -- that will allow the apples time to soften.)
At this point, I add splashes of leftover red wine, or a dessert wine, or port, or Worcestershire sauce, or soy sauce. It depends on what flavour I am craving, or what side dishes I might be serving.
It is imperative you let the ingredients cook together for a minute or two; they will cook down and become a lovely thick sauce of sorts. But you want your vegetables to keep a bit of crispness, so don't overcook.
Plate up the steak and pour all the sauce over the top. Allow the steak to rest, the sauce to thicken slightly. And serve.

Your stick-in-the-mud man will probably still opt for plain old steak seasoned with salt, pepper and garlic salt, but as in your sex life, you know that a little surprise every so often is good for what ails him.

If you are interested in other kitchen and cooking tips, try these articles.

Spices: Cooking with jasmine
http://www.helium.com/tm/325361/jasmine-blossom-jasmine-spice

Food preparation: Chopping like a pro
http://www.helium.com/tm/246801/knife-kitchen-grandmother

Recipes: Make delicious fluffy rice every time
http://www.helium.com/tm/246862/cooking-great-fluffy-every

Food budgets: Cooking for your family on a budget
http://www.helium.com/tm/244101/family-cooking-budget-possible

Oh, by the way, in case some party-pooper is trying to tell you steak is bad for you, read this article to them. And then chow down. Guilt-free.

http://babyboomeradvisorclub.wordpress.com/2007/06/26/your-steak-and-eat-it-too/

Cheers,

Sheree

Top Twenty Things to do While Waiting on the Airport Tarmac

2007-10-24T11:18:00.000-06:00

We've all been there, right. You're all settled in and ready for your big adventure. Maybe you are on the tarmac in Toronto, London, New York City, or Dallas, one of the bigger hubs with umpteen planes lined up like Canadians at Tim Horton's for their morning java.

Flying time is one thing, but tarmac time is quite another. You can't touch your kill-the-boredom electronic devices -- too dangerous (okay, but that's another blog). It's hard to get truly invested in a book, a sudoku puzzle, or a seatmate conversation. You look out the window, and you've just caught a glimpse of the planes ambling along in the queue way AHEAD of your craft. It's going to be a long wait.

Maybe these tips will help you bide your time. Or better, grab a pen and some notepaper, and make up your own silly list.

Top Twenty Things to do While Waiting on the Tarmac

By Sheree Zielke

Flip through the in-flight magazine, idly check out the movie titles
Rip out a page or two from the in-flight magazine, this is good for a giggle if seated by someone who thinks ripping a page out of magazine is horrific
Put the window shade up and down, especially if you are sitting in the aisle seat
Examine the contents of your purse, until the flight attendant tells you it must be "safely stowed in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you"
Glance at your palm pilot tucked into the seat back ahead of you
Examine your fingernails
Cough, and then use the sticky destroy-the-evil-germs hand sanitizer goop you managed to get through security
Play with the airflow dial, use your goop again (How is it that you feel like washing your hands after "washing" your hands with ths stuff?)
Look wistfully at your palm pilot, just a flick, you think, just a flick
Look out the window
Look out the other guy’s window
Flip your palm pilot open, close it
Do a half-finished crossword puzzle in the in-flight magazine, cheat and look at the answers
Shuffle your feet, wonder at what kind of filth is clinging to your socks
Stare longingly out the window as the plane continues its slow plodding up the runway
Think out loud, something like, "Hey, are we driving to Jamaica?"
Sigh
Check out your fellow passengers especially the guy with the hook nose
Huff
Open your in-flight magazine just so no one notices your palm pilot somehow turned on all by itself

Are you interested in other travel tips (more on the serious side)? Try these.

Avoiding seasickness like a pro:
http://www.helium.com/tm/315247/seasickness-steal-enjoyment-awaited

Keeping your passport safe while traveling:
http://www.helium.com/tm/432201/husband-frustrated-going-through

Choosing the right cruise ship for you:
http://www.helium.com/channels/358-Boat-Travel-Cruises/knowledge/59438-choosing-right-cruise

Cheers,
Sheree

How a Boomer's Legs Survive LONG flights!

2007-10-23T11:54:00.000-06:00

My husband and I travel like fiends; cars, planes, trains, trams, donkeys, cruise ships -- we don't care, so long as we get where we are going.

In relative comfort. In economy class. We've only ridden first class a couple of times by default (wish we could do that all the time). But relative comfort and economy class, on an airplane, are barely kissing cousins. Especially on very long flights. And especially when it comes to swollen legs.

My first experience with a long flight and subsequent discomfort came during a flight from Canada to Greece. I got off the plane in Athens, looked down at my legs, and swooned at the sight of the stumps sticking out below my skirt hem. My ankles were as thick as a fence post and my feet barely fit into my shoes (luckily I had a pair of open sandals with me).

What's worse is that it took 5 days for the swelling to go down. I thought my flying days were forever over, but 85 pounds later (lost it), some Internet research, and a little pre-planning, means I now fly at will, with only minor swelling.

There are many helpful sites on the Net offering pretty much the same advice: drink water, walk around, elevate legs -- you know the drill. All are very similar to this article from the Mayo Clinic: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/foot-swelling/HQ00722

The problem is that in longer flights, there is only so much walking you can do before the other passengers, and in particular, the flight attendants, get ticked off with your ramblings. And as to elevating your feet, well, I find the passengers in the seat ahead of me are rather put-off by my socked feet in their ear.

But really, where does an average size (well, okay, slightly more than average size) woman elevate her feet -- within the confines of an airplane seat in economy class?

As to water, we can't bring our own anymore, and if you weren't lucky enough to buy a bottle in the "safe" zone of your gate area, then you are at the mercy of your flight attendant, your rather stingy, pouty, miffed-because-you-asked-for-too-much service, flight attendant.

Here's my in-flight survival strategy:

First, detox your body for at least a day drinking only water with fresh-squeezed lemon juice added. If you can do this for 2 days, it's even better. No sense boarding the plane, already loaded with toxins.
Buy a miniature hard-walled picnic cooler with a handle. I found one by Igloo. It cost me a whole 50 cents at a garage sale. It measures a compact 11 inches X 7 inches X 6.5 inches high. It is solid and can carry other necessities like wet wipes, Nintendo games, notebook, pen, and allowable snacking foods, like nuts. I added a strap to the hard plastic handle so that it can be worn on my shoulder if necessary.

The beauty of this high tech device is that it resolves the real issue of swelling legs and that is pressure on the under-thigh area. For my height and leg length, the little cooler provides the perfect relief.

And what's more, when you get to your destination, especially if you get around by car, and you like quick impromptu picnics, you'll have the perfect little cooler.

Besides, carrying it when boarding your plane, will make you look more important, like you are transporting human organs. Well, except if you inscribed your name on the outside in wide-tipped black felt pen, like I did. Makes me look like I am mentally-challenged. Oh, well.

As soon as I get on the plane, I make sure I have the things I will need for take-off like the official "I'm-so-bored-right-now-I-could-eat-snot" items like a puzzle book, pen, paperback, magazine, journal, newspaper, (forget the electronic devices -- the Nintendo and the Palm Pilot -- you know they'll interfere with the plane's navigational system and crash the plane -- you know that, right? Sheesh!)
I always travel with a squishy (tiny bead thingy) horseshoe pillow for my neck. If I don't have one with me, I scavenge the overhead bins for a pillow or two. (Don't expect a flight attendant to get a pillow for you, let alone offer you this 25 cent luxury item. The last time I had the audacity to ask, I felt like I was asking for her first-born child, and a voluntary donation of her husband's sperm.)

As soon as you sit down, remove your shoes. Take off any tight socks and replace those with a soft fleece pair, or a special pair of long hose sold in Wal-Mart for diabetics. I am not talking about those miserable black leg girdles that necessitate the aid of a second person to get them up your calves; those are just nasty. No-no, I am talking about the long, white, soft, slightly stretchy socks sold to diabetics.

Oh, you never take a window seat. Only an aisle seat (if alone), or a middle seat (if your flying partner has the aisle seat). Who cares how many times you clamber over him or her when it's time to shake a leg; they are already used to your shenanigans; a stranger isn't so forgiving.
In flight, the very instant that seat belt light goes off, I undo my belt and get into any position other than a straight sitting-up position: One leg curled beneath, both feet on the cooler, both legs hooked over my husband's arm (he is very forgiving). When sitting normally, be sure to put a pillow or a rolled jacket under your thighs. This helps, too. But the best is still propping your feet on the cooler.
As the flight progresses, I ask for (and drink) all the water I can get my hands on. Thirsty or not, water is magic. You will pee like a pony, but your system will continually clear of toxins, and you'll have to walk to the bathroom.

If you are on a flight, with a really lazy flight crew, then go get your own water. They usually have a pitcher in the galley, with plastic cups. I think, in my case, the bleery-eyed flight person, was actually grateful that I took care of this need by myself.
Bathroom visits. I choose a time when the bathrooms are not busy. That way I can take my time, stretching, washing, and just generally have some space to myself. In addition, this is when I take care of dry sinuses. I run warm water into my hand, and then gently inhale. No, not enough to drown yourself, just enough to dampen your nostril linings. This really works well. No need for special spray bottles.
Walking and stretching. I have actually had some flight attendants "suggest" I should return to my seat, for no other reason, than because she said I should. Let me make one thing perfectly clear -- I am 1/2 a century old! No young whipper-snapper is going to tell me I can't walk and stretch. When the plane starts doing jelly rolls, believe me, I'll be happy to go back to my seat. Where I'll be nice and safe, in my seat belt, as we plummet into the great blue sea. Sheesh!
Eating. Avoid garbage foods. Opt only for whole foods like grains, nuts, and vegetables. Load up your body with the highly-processed white sugars and flours, and you will be loading yourself with toxins, toxins that will happily nestle in around your ankles.

And that's it -- that's how I survive long flights, how I arrive after many hours in the air with my legs nearly normal in size. My next long flight is a doozy - Calgary, Alberta to Auckland, New Zealand.

http://www.visualsbysheree.com/Australia%20&%20New%20Zealand%202008.htm

Cheers,
Sheree

Lifetime of Secrets

2007-10-12T09:59:00.000-06:00

I came across this video and book totally by accident. It is stunning, thought-provoking and intensely captivating.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6rTkp1dek4

What minds we have in this world -- those that post their secrets, and the mind that came up with the idea to gather and to journalize all those secrets into a book called, "A Lifetime of Secrets."

If you have ever had a secret, if you have ever shared a secret, if you have ever heard someone else's secret, this video, this book, is a must-see.

http://postsecret.blogspot.com/

Hello from a Western Canadian

2007-10-12T09:02:00.000-06:00

So, I said to myself, "Self, it's time to check out this blog spot thing." So, that's just what I did. Kinda cool.

And here goes...

If you are into travel, into photography, into writing, or if you are into taking pictures and writing while traveling, we may have something in common.

If you are a teacher, if you've ever been a student, if you have grand kids, if you are a grand kid, or if you like sunrises and sunsets, we may have something in common.

If you think most politicians are ridiculous, voters are ridiculous, and our world is run by fools put into power by ridiculous voters, we may have something in common.

If you think the drugs they advertise on TV (complete with side effects that are worse than the disease they've been engineered to treat) are mind-bogglingly stupid, we may have something in common.

If you believe in a majestic and powerful God, if you believe in marriage, if you believe in being in love, staying in love, and working to stay in love, we may have something in common.

If you prefer cats to dogs, if you love hearty soups filled with spices, if you want to lie down among golden trees heavy with the scent of autumn sap, if you love anything that glitters, and rainbows make your heart spiral into giddiness, we may have something in common.

And, well, if we don't have something in common, that really doesn't matter does it? Cause this is a blog, and I can write anything I want, and you can read anything you want. And that will suit us both. And that's something we have in common.

Have a nice day! (Stolen from that poetic genius, Jon Bon Jovi -- and isn't he just too hot-looking for his own good?)

Cheers,
Sheree

(Want to know more about me? See the sites below.)

http://www.visualsbysheree.com

http://www.boomersforever.com/Sheree%20Zielke%20-%20Biography%20.html