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WHAT MOM WANTS vs. WHAT MOM GETS

Thinking of sending flowers for Mother’s Day? A new survey says your mom may prefer a massage to posies. The survey by the cash-back shopping site Ebates shows that 48% of U.S. moms crave a spa day more than a bouquet. The survey found what men want to give mom may not necessarily be what she really wants. The No. 1 present American men think moms want for Mother’s Day is flowers (72%). However, the No. 1 gift moms actually want is a spa day (48%).

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There's a new article on the DR. OZ website about the top dieting myths people still believe.  Here are his top three, and why they're not true.

#1.)  Eating Fat Makes You Fat.  It does if you eat A LOT of fat, especially saturated fat.  But things with fat in them also make you feel full faster, which makes you eat less overall.  Obviously that doesn't mean you should go eat a box of Cheez-Its.  But things like seafood, walnuts, and olive oil are all great sources for HEALTHY fat.

#2.)  You Burn More Fat if You Exercise on an Empty Stomach.  It SEEMS like it makes sense, but a recent study showed that it doesn't actually make a difference.  You burn the same amount of fat whether you've eaten or not.  But if you DON'T eat before you exercise, you'll have less energy, which means your workout won't be as intense, and you'll probably burn fewer CALORIES.

#3.)  It's Harder for Women to Lose Weight Than It Is for Men.  It actually IS true in the short term.  Men have more muscle mass, so it's easier to lose the first few pounds.  But after that, studies have shown it's just as hard for men to lose weight as it is for women.

                       
STEVE:  Being a Dad is the most rewarding thing in the world, no doubt about it. Ozzie is 3 years old already! Time is flying! I was born and raised in the state and now call Maribel home with my wife of 13 years Lesley and the aforementioned son Ozzie. I've been with STAR 98 for almost 13 years - first as the midday host and now as the morning show host. My free time (not that I have much anymore) is spent surrounded by family and friends. I still love to play softball even though I am 37 now.  Boy, do I feel the age catching up with me on occasion. I love to go up north in the summer and am a big fan of all the Wisconsin sports teams.  Go Brewers!!  I'm thinking of becoming an ordained minister and will do the officiating for Laura and her man if they ever set a date.  Thanks for listening and feel free to drop me a line anytime at steve.davis@cumulus.com

 LAURA:  When it comes to shoes or shopping, I'm your girl!   I was born and raised in Ohio, graduated from Denison University (Granville,OH), and moved up to Wisconsin about 7 years ago.  I love a good Packer victory, but my heart will always belong to the Browns & the Buckeyes.  Like Steve, I'm a parent,too....except my little ones use a litterbox.   I adopted Hannah Baby & Mr. Paddington Fuzzybottoms from the Humane Society, and couldn't imagine life without them!   I never miss American Idol or Dancing with the Stars, and if I could get away with wearing leg warmers on a regular basis, I "totally" would!  If there is a great mystery novel out there, I've probably read it!   If you have a favorite recipe, I'd love to whip it up!    Despite what it looks like to the naked eye, I DO NOT have a shoe problem.   It's perfectly normal to have hundreds of pairs.  And if you ever come over to visit, don't be alarmed...just about everything I own is PINK!   And it's pretty exciting to now be engaged!   Adam popped the question in the sub-zero weather in Cleveland at the Browns game in December of 2010 in the "Dawg Pound", but we don't have a date set just yet.  Ok, to be fair: "I" haven't set a date.  He would do it tomorrow, but this planning stuff is too much for my indecisive mind to handle.  So stay tuned....
I'd love to hear from ya: laura.mckenna@cumulus.com


THE Q&A FOR S&L:


PICK TO WIN AMERICAN IDOL?
STEVE:  Jessica Sanchez
LAURA:  Hollie Cavanaugh


PICK TO WIN DANCING WITH THE STARS?
STEVE:  MARIA, MARIA.  Oh, how I love thee!
LAURA:  I'm pulling for Donald, but I really like Katherine, too!


3 THINGS YOU CURRENTLY CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT:
STEVE:
1. Cell Phone
2. Pizza
3.  Baseball hat

LAURA:
1. The Idiot's Guide to Feng Shui book
2. Lotion (I fried in the sun the other day)
3. Bike seat cusion thingie (if not---OUCH!!!)


BESIDES STAR98, WHAT'S THE BEST JOB YOU'VE EVER HAD?
STEVE: Driving a truck for Coke.
LAURA:  Decorating cakes at DQ or working at the bank.


FAVORITE BOARD GAME?
STEVE: Monopoly
LAURA:  Encore


4 THINGS ABOUT YOU THAT SURPRISE PEOPLE
STEVE:
1. I have flown a plane.  "As a pilot myself..."
2. I am a sucker for Romantic Comedy movies.
3.  I'd rather watch Packer games from the comfort of my own living room than in the stadium.
4.  Each afternoon, I lay my clothes out for the next day.

LAURA: 
1. I can speak Chinese.   Ni hao!
2. I go crazy if my bed isn't made immediately after I wake up.
3. I HATE peanut butter & jelly sandwiches. And bananas.  It's a consistancy thing.
4.  In college, I won a "Name That Tune" game show in 1 note on the "country" category.


4  FAVORITE MOVIES?
STEVE:
1. The Shawshank Redemption
2. A Beautiful Mind
3. American Psycho
4. Elf (for a holiday film)

LAURA: 
1. The Breakfast Club
2. Legally Blonde
3. Primal Fear
4. The Secret of NIHM (for an animated flick)


FAVORITE MALE ACTOR & FEMALE ACTRESS?
STEVE:  Vince Vaughn & Alyssa Milano
LAURA:  Ryan Reynolds and Gosling & Reese Witherspoon (with Sandra Bullock a close 2nd)


HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER?
STEVE:  We were high school sweethearts.  Lesley couldn't resist!
LAURA:  A fix up, sort of.  It's actually a long, fun story (go figure). But Adam's relative was the land-lord of a former co-worker and the rest is (a twisty & turny) history!


FAVORITE DESSERT?
STEVE:   Hot Fudge Sundae!  But it has to have a cherry and NO NUTS!!!
LAURA:  Ooey Gooey Caramel Pie from O'Charley's


FAVORITE APPETIZER TO ORDER AT A RESTAURANT?
STEVE:  Mozzarella Sticks
LAURA:  Spinach Artichoke Dip or Bloomin' Onions


FAVORITE BREAKFAST FOOD?
STEVE:  Fruity Pebbles or Count Chocula
LAURA:  I feel so adult-like compared to Steve's breakfast choice, haha!!  I'd say Pumpkin Pancakes.  Yummmmm!  Or oatmeal with a bunch of fruit and nuts mixed in.


HIGH SCHOOL MASCOT?
STEVE:  Vikings!  Denmark, baby!
LAURA:  Bears!  The Leetonia Bears (in Ohio).  And my senior year, I won the try-out to be the bear at the football games.  Yeah, that's right, we had to try out!


FAVORITE SEASON?
STEVE:  Spring- more sun, warmer temps,the smell of spring!
LAURA:  Fall- football season, caramel apple suckers, and the chill in the air!


FAVORITE HOLIDAY?
STEVE:  Christmas
LAURA:  Christmas for me, too.   Followed by Halloween.  I love costumes!


ALL TIME FAVORITE REALITY SHOW CONTESTANT?
STEVE:  Kendra Wilkinson
LAURA:  Trista & Ryan


FAVORITE QUOTES?
STEVE: 
"It is what it is."  Just kidding.  I hate that one.
"If you laugh, you think, and you cry, that's a full day. That's a heck of a day. You do that seven days a week, you're going to have something special." -Jim Valvano (coach and sportscaster)
"How ya like them apples?"  That's what I love to tell Laura every chance I get.
LAURA: 
"One shoe can change your life.  Just ask Cinderella." -unknown
"Whoever said orange was the new pink was seriously disturbed." - Elle Woods, Legally Blonde
"In thinking, keep to the simple.  In conflict, be fair and generous.  In governing, don't try to control.  In work, do what you enjoy.  In family life, be completely present." -Lao Tzu
"Sometimes you have to be apart from people you love, but that doesn't make you love them any less.  Sometimes you love them more." -Nicholas Sparks, The Last Song
"If things don't turn out the way you hoped, just remember, you made memories.  And when you look back, you can laugh.  Or cry.  But I recommend the laughter." -me
 

Want to see Steve & Laura's pictures?   Click here!

#1.)  Don't Work in Silence.  According to a recent study in the "Journal of Consumer Research", people who work with a level of noise equal to what you'd hear in a coffee shop come up with more innovative ideas for solving problems.

 

#2.)  If You Get Frustrated, Don't Take a Break.  When you're figuring something out, first the left side of your brain starts looking for the most logical answer.  If it can't find one, you might feel like stepping away and coming back to it later.

But if you push through, the right side of your brain starts coming up with more CREATIVE ways to solve the problem.  The switch from left to right is usually what causes a "eureka" moment.

#3.)  Make Sure There's Something Blue to Look At.  Studies have shown that the color blue brings to mind peace, tranquility, and open space, which can put you in a more creative mood.

You don't have to repaint the walls though.  Even a blue picture on your desk can help. The WORST color for creativity is red:  According to research from the University of British Colombia, it makes people think about danger, mistakes, and caution.


 

#4.)  Pretend You're a Kid.  Instead of just being purely creative, adults tend to worry too much about what other people will think.  So you end up constantly second-guessing yourself.

In one study, people came up with twice as many creative solutions after they were told to pretend they were seven years old, and write an essay about what they'd do with a day off from school.

THE MAN'S BUCKET LIST
The search engine Bing did a survey on the top things men put on their 'bucket lists' . . .

#1.)  Travel the world.

#2.)  Live in another country.

#3.)  Have kids.

#4.)  Learn a new skill. 

#5.)  Drive a Formula One race car.

#6.)  Record an album.

#7.)  Get your work/life balance just right. 

#8.)  Open a bar or restaurant.

#9.)  Settle down and get married.

#10.)  Appear in a blockbuster action move, like "Braveheart".

#1.)  If He Owns a Dog.  It means he's loyal, and he's probably okay with commitment.  Because as far as pets go, a dog is as close as it gets to having a kid.

#2.)  If He Owns a Cat.  It means he's more likely to be sensitive but the list doesn't really explain WHY.  They just say cat-owning guys tend to take a lot of pictures of their cats, and post them on Facebook which a guy with a dog would NEVER do?  It could also mean he's not ready for the commitment that comes with taking care of a dog or a kid or even a girlfriend or wife.

#3.)  If He Has a Fish Tank.  He might not be very open about his emotions, and might not enjoy cuddling up with things including YOU.  On the other hand, he might just have allergies.

#4.)  If He Has a Parrot.  This doesn't make a ton of sense, but they say it might mean he's an egomaniac because he likes having a pet that can learn all the dumb lines HE thinks are funny.  OR he might just like birds.

#5.)  If He Has a Rabbit.  It means he's still clinging to his childhood because he always WANTED a rabbit but couldn't have one.  Again, it might mean he's not ready to commit, because he's not mature enough yet.

#6.)  If He Owns a Rodent.  Like a rat, a mouse, a hamster, or a guinea pig- it might mean he has a dark side.  And there seems to be a theme here, but it means he might still be a "boy" and not a "man."

#7.)  If He Owns a Reptile.  Like a snake or an iguana, he probably likes FEELING tough, but he might not BE that tough.  OR he got it years ago because his frat brothers thought it was cool.  And now he can't bear to give it away.  If that's the case, he could be more sensitive than you think because it's pretty tough to get emotionally attached to something that smells with its tongue.

IS THIS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL FACE IN THE WORLD?

Mathematically, they say she does have the best features.

She's 18-year-old Florence Colgate of Kent, England, and she's a blonde-haired, blue-eyed student who works at a stand that sells French fries.  She was picked from more than 8,000 candidates in a contest to find the PERFECT FACE.  Here's why she was chosen:

Her face is almost perfectly symmetrical, which is a sign of beauty.

The space between her pupils is just under half of the width of her face, which is supposed to be the perfect scientific ratio for attractiveness.

The distance between her eyes and mouth is about a third of the measurement from her hairline to her chin . . . again, that's supposedly the ideal ratio for a beautiful face.  She's not wearing much makeup and she's had no work done.  But does she have the most beautiful face in the world? 




 

#1.)  Shampoo Your Eyelashes.  Pollen clings to them, then slowly makes its way into your eyes.

But researchers at Long Island Hospital in Brooklyn found that washing your eyelashes with baby shampoo twice a day can reduce redness, itching and puffiness by as much as 90%. 

#2.)  Eat Yogurt.  Scientists in Italy found that two cups of plain yogurt a day can prevent flare-ups and reduce symptoms by 40% or more.

The "good" bacteria in yogurt helps your body produce more anti-inflammatory proteins.  Those proteins help your immune system stay calm when it encounters pollen or other things that might cause an allergic reaction.

 

#3.)  Drink Iced Tea.  The antioxidants stop your body from producing a major allergy trigger called "immunoglobulin E". 

Black OR green tea is fine.  Try to drink at least 24 ounces a day.

#4.)  Wear Clothing That's All Cotton.  The reason dust clings to your TV screen is because the screen builds up a static charge that pulls in dust particles while they're floating around in the air.

Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon do the same thing when they rub against each other.  Which means you could walk around outside for a few hours without touching anything but still be COVERED in pollen.

Cotton and linen attract about half as much.

#5.)  Avoid Certain Foods.  In PEAK allergy season, the proteins in some foods (including apples, carrots, zucchini, celery, and tomatoes) can make allergies even worse.

It's called "cross-reactivity," and affects about one-third of people who have issues with pollen.  If you don't WANT to give up those foods, just make sure you cook them.  Heat breaks down the specific proteins that are responsible for it.

In the top 10 cars for both genders, there aren't many luxury cars.

The top 10 cars for men having affairs are:  Toyota, Ford, Chevy, Honda, BMW, Dodge, Nissan, Jeep, GMC, and Mercedes.

And the top 10 cars for women having affairs are:  Honda, Ford, Toyota, Chevy, Mercedes, Nissan, Chrysler, Dodge, BMW, and Volkswagen.

 2,000 women were surveyed to figure out the qualities that make up the "PERFECT MAN."   Here's what they found:

Physical.  Six feet tall.  Muscularly toned and athletic.  Brown eyes.  Short dark hair.  Smooth chest.  Clean shaven.  Good fashion sense, but gets ready in 17 minutes or less.  Wears jeans and a v-neck sweater.

Habits.  Non-smoker.  Prefers beer over wine or cocktails.  Admits when he looks at other women.  Eats meat.

Education, Career, Money.  College degree.  Earns more than you- approximately $76,000-a-year.  Drives an Audi.

Hobbies.  Loves shopping.  Watches football.  Can swim and ride a bike.  Knows how to change a tire.  Has a driver's license.  Likes dramas and reality shows.

Other Emotional Stuff.  Calls his mom twice a week.  Says "I love you" only when he means it.  Is sensitive when you're upset.  Has a good sense of humor.  Wants a family.

1. Your folks have aged well. That's right, check out mom and pop. First degree relatives can give you the strongest sense of how you'll age, since genes direct the cellular functions that have an enormous impact on appearance. "We inherit the rate at which our cells turn over, how quickly damage is repaired, and how much collagen is produced," says Shamban. More specifically, the sequences of DNA attached to the ends of chromosomes known as telomeres-which allow cells to divide without losing genetic coding-are thought to be inherited. "Recent genetic studies suggest that those with longer telomere sequences live an average of five years longer with healthier-looking skin than those with shorter sequences," says Shamban. Though take note: Environmental factors like smoking, sun and lack of exercise are thought to be among the biggest threats to the breakdown of telomere coding overtime, no matter what your genetic background.

2. A baby face. In a society where angular, chiseled features are often glamourized, experts say it's actually the round-faced among us who will reap the richest anti-aging benefits. Scientists refer to a baby face as a "neotenous" facial structure, which is characterized by large round eyes, round cheeks, a large curved forehead, a small jaw, a small, short nose and features that are located lower down the face. When viewed next to peers in older age, the neotenous-faced will stand out with a fuller, angelic shape reminiscent of childhood. "Folks blessed with this facial type will keep looking young beyond their youth," says Shamban.

3. High cheekbones. There's a reason great bone structure is beloved; it creates the shape of an upside-down "triangle of youth" that dermatologists often refer to as the greatest subconscious indicator that a person is young. With age, jowls and other features can droop, turning that triangle bottom-heavy and making you look old. However, with high cheekbones supporting your face, that triangle shape won't droop as much, nor as soon. "Look at Sophia Loren, Eartha Kitt, Bo Derek, Linda Evans, Lena Horne and Raquel Welch," says Montclair, New Jersey derm, Dr. Jeanine Downie. "They're all great beauties with very high cheekbones who aged so gracefully." And unlike poreless skin or a tight booty, those cheekbones will stay with you for a lifetime. Color us jealous!

4. Strong teeth and bones. In the same way that high cheekbones provide solid structure for your face, a set of full teeth and a strong bite can provide age-defying facial support by maintaining the upside-down "triangle of youth" into older age, says Waldorf. With the passage of time or less-than-auspicious genes, teeth can wear down to a shorter length and move inwards, resulting in a sunken look, thinner lips and more wrinkling around the mouth and cheek area. Straight, square-shaped teeth will maintain a sharper jawline as you age, providing uplifting support for facial features. Strong bones perform the same support structure for the body, with diseases like osteoporosis and anorexia rapidly accelerating age. "Keep your bones healthy with weight-bearing exercises and eat a calcium-rich diet to look younger longer," advises Waldorf.

5. Thick hair. Flowing, thick locks of hair have long been an evolutionary signal of health, as a well-nourished body and diet rich in nutrients like biotin are necessary to grow a crowning head of hair. And as such, we subconsciously view hair as a signal of vitality, or lack thereof. "People with thinning hair look older than people of the same age who have thicker hair," observes Downie. And if you look to politics, adds Downie, Americans haven't voted for a bald candidate since incumbent Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956, when he campaigned against fellow bald contender, Adlai Stevenson, perhaps suggesting that too much perceived age can render you unelectable. After all, it was John F. Kennedy- his youthful hairline and dashing tan symbolic of his progressive agenda-who arose from the first televised presidential debate against the more tenured Richard Nixon.

6. Facial symmetry. "Genetic facial patterns play a huge role in determining the overall pattern of aging," says Omaha, Nebraska dermatologist, Dr. Joel Schlessinger, who points to even facial portions and features as key to aging more slowly. Facial symmetry has long been identified with standards of beauty, and the reason finds its roots deep in evolutionary psychology. "Left-right symmetry in growing embryos requires very close control on each side to keep them in sync," says Ian Stewart, Ph.D., author of Why Beauty Is Truth: The History of Symmetry. As babies develop in the womb and through childhood, stressors such as toxins, disease and emotional trauma can affect symmetrical growth. As a result, adults with higher facial symmetry show a strong resistance to stressors they may have encountered growing up. Time and gravity can also cause sagging, pigmentation and wrinkling that emphasizes asymmetries in the face, making the complexion look less and less even with passing years. So if you begin with strong symmetry, the marks of age will take longer to look apparent on your face.

7. Olive-to-darker skintone. The greater amount of melanin in deeper skintones can preserve the youth of your skin longer- but there's a catch: "You burn more easily with lighter skin, which can potentially give you more fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage later on," says Downie. "If you take care of your darker skin, it's an advantage to you as you age, but if you don't wear sunscreen, you're no better off." This caveat is illustrated by skin cancer statistics in African Americans, which comprise a rare one to two percent of all cancers in this group, yet the death rate is most fatal, since many assume natural protection, and aren't diagnosed until it's too late. Today, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the melanoma survival rate for African Americans is 77 percent, as compared to 91 percent for Caucasians.

5 SURPRISING THINGS THAT CAN CAUSE A HEADACHE

Obviously things like your kids and your job can give you a headache.  In fact, ANY kind of stress can.  But here are a few headache triggers you might NOT know about.

#1.)  Warm Weather.  And not just because of allergies.  One recent study found that for every nine degrees warmer it gets, your chance of having a severe headache increases by 7.5%.

#2.)  Cheese.  It's a major migraine trigger for some people, and the culprit is a compound called tyramine.  The longer a food ages, the more tyramine it has.  Some of the WORST cheeses for people with migraines are cheddar, parmesan, blue cheese, and Swiss.

#3.)  Cold Cuts.  Processed meats have tyramine too, plus additives like nitrates, which can ALSO cause headaches.  But not usually migraines.  Most migraines are only felt on one side of your head at a time.  But headaches caused by food additives tend to affect BOTH sides.

#4.)  Strong Smells.  I'm not sure how "surprising" this one is.  But even NICE smells can trigger migraines.  The most common causes are paint, perfume, and certain types of flowers.       

#5.)  Working Out.  Strenuous exercise (including sex) can cause exertion headaches that can keep coming back for MONTHS.  It's also referred to as a "jogger's headache."   And with sex, it's sometimes called an "orgasmic headache", which SOUNDS good, but isn't.

A new study found that WAITERS and WAITRESSES are actually in the BEST SHAPE of any workers because they're in constant motion: a server takes an average of 23,000 steps during a shift.  It's recommended to take 10,000 steps a day, so servers are getting more than double that.

The rest of the top five fittest workers are nurses, retail staff, farmers, and stay-at-home mothers.

Office workers are in the worst shape of any workers.  People who work at call centers are in the second-worst shape.

#1.)  Replace the Hardware on Your Doors.  New doorknobs and hinges cost about $5 each, but they can make a big difference.  According to Stephen Fanuka, the host of "Million Dollar Contractor" on the Do-It-Yourself Network, it's like putting chrome on your car.  The difference is, new doorknobs look fine on a 20-year-old door. But chrome on a 20-year-old car just looks stupid.

#2.)  Re-Grout the Tiles in Your Bathroom.  RENOVATING a bathroom can cost thousands of dollars.  But scraping out the old grout and replacing it costs almost nothing, and it makes the whole bathroom look cleaner.  It takes some time and effort, but you can do it for as little as ten bucks.  

#3.)  Paint One Wall in Your Living Room.  Leave the other three walls white, but take the main wall people see, and paint it your favorite color.  It makes the whole room feel new, and you basically just have to buy a gallon of paint and a roller . . . which cost as little as $25.  Think about doing it to your bedroom, too.

#4.)  Change Your Light Switches.  Being able to fine-tune the lighting in a room lets you control the atmosphere. So think about replacing your normal light switches with dimmer switches.  They cost about five to $15 each.

#5.)  Get Rid of Your Doorbell.  It's old-fashioned compared to an intercom (especially a VIDEO intercom) which costs about $200.  And if you don't want to mess with your electrical system, you can get a wireless one.  If that seems out of the budget, again, go with hardware.  Install a new shiny door knocker instead.  It will jazz up the look of the door.

4 FOODS TO EAT FOR A HEALTHY SMILE
 

1. Yogurt

A major cause of bad breath, plaque, and gum disease is a buildup of bacteria. But research has found that 6 ounces of plain, sugar-free yogurt a day might help knock out germs between teeth. "The good bacteria in yogurt may help fight bad ones in your mouth," says Christine D. Wu, Ph.D., a professor of pediatric dentistry at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry. It even works for toothbrush-averse kids: Those who eat yogurt four or more times a week tend to get fewer cavities, according to one study. To sweeten the plain kind, stir in some honey, which also contains compounds that inhibit bacteria.

2. Fish

Add a healthy mouth to the long list of reasons to get more seafood into your diet. Harvard scientists have linked the omega-3 fatty acids in fish with lower rates of gum disease. Their theory? Omega-3 fats may dial down the inflammation (read: redness and swelling) that occurs when bacteria irritates gums.

3. Fruits And Veggies

Fiber-rich apples, celery, and carrots stimulate saliva, which contains antimicrobials that fight bacteria, says Timothy Chase, a cosmetic dentist in New York City. Plus, chewing crunchy foods helps massage and improve circulation in your gums, Wu says. And grab an orange or a grapefruit: Other research suggests that vitamin C may help keep gums healthy.

4. Cheese

Like milk, cheese is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, nutrients important for building strong teeth. There's even evidence that munching on some cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella could help neutralize the acids that strip away tooth enamel, and that means pearlier whites. So yes, you'll have the cheese plate.

• Use coffee filters to clean your mirrors and windows -- Paper towles can leave streaks and lint on the glass.  Coffee filters won't leave junk behind and they're just as cheap.
• Clean your microwave with a cup of water & baking soda -- Just mix it together and microwave it until it starts boiling.  It'll get rid of any weird smells that have been lingering and also make it easier to wipe down the inside.
• Use dryer sheets to clean your window blinds -- It creates an anti-static barrier that helps prevent dust from building up again.
• Use a denture tablet to clean your toilet-- Just drop one in and leave it for about 30 minutes.  If it's REALLY bad, leave it in there overnight.  After it dissolves, any stains on the inside of the bowl should come off easily with a toilet brush.

5 REASONS TO ALWAYS WEAR A SMILE

Psychologists call it the "facial feedback hypothesis."  Basically, the expression on your face is affected BY your mood . . . but it also directly AFFECTS your mood.  In other words, if you force yourself to frown all day, you're more likely to be miserable.  And if you force yourself to smile, you're more likely to enjoy yourself (even at work!!).  Here are five MORE reasons to smile:

#1.)  It Makes You Seem More Trustworthy.  In one study, participants were 10% more likely to trust someone if that person was smiling.

You obviously don't want to overdo it though, because CONSTANTLY smiling is just weird.
 

#2.)  It Makes People More Likely to Forgive You.  You shouldn't look HAPPY about making a mistake.  But research has shown that if you force a smile while you're apologizing, people are more likely to give you a break.

An embarrassed smile can be especially affective:  That's where you smile and look down at the same time.
 

#3.)  It Makes You More Insightful.  In one study, people who smiled during a test performed better on tasks where they had to concentrate on the BIG picture, not just individual questions.

In other words, smiling helps you see the forest (not just the trees).
 

#4.)  It Makes You More Approachable.  This one's not that surprising, but researchers found that when a man and a woman make eye contact at a bar, the guy only approaches her about 20% of the time.

But if they make eye contact and she SMILES, there's a 60% chance he'll walk over.
 

#5.)  It Might Add Years to Your Life.  Scientists at Wayne State University in Detroit looked at pictures of baseball players taken in 1952.  And the ones who smiled when they had their picture taken lived an average of seven years longer.

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THAT ARE ACTUALLY TRUE

Here's a quick, random way to make yourself INSTANTLY SMARTER.  Stop dressing in wear to work and start dressing like a SCIENTIST.

A study at Northwestern University in Illinois found that people who wore white lab coats, like scientists and doctors wear, performed BETTER on tests than people who didn't.   The researchers say that, apparently, dressing like a genius has the psychological effect of making you feel like one.

• Contributing Too little to Your 401(k) -- If you're putting only three or four percent into your company 401(k), you're behind. If you have any realistic chance of retiring in style, 10 percent is the bare minimum.
• Keeping Quiet at Raise Time -- According to one study, men are four times as likely as women to ask for a raise. Of course, if you don't ask, you don't get. And, all that silence costs you money.
• Carrying a Credit Card Balance -- Credit card balances are budget busters. Do whatever you have to do right now to get those balances to zero and start getting ahead of the game.
• Letting Your Significant Other Handle All Money Decisions -- If you're not participating in the budget process -- or at least checking in regularly -- you're vulnerable if your spouse mismanages the family finances. Things are even worse if there's a divorce or your spouse dies.

J.Lo's STUNT DOUBLE IS A MAN!

We're not sure which one should be more embarrassed by this.
Is it worse to be a man who looks girly?  Or a girl who looks manly?
Although, we don't think Jennifer could look manly if she tried!
 

Light smokers end up taking about 90 minutes worth of smoke breaks each week (about 18 minutes a day).  Heavier smokers end up taking FIVE HOURS worth of smoke breaks each week (about 60 minutes a day).

Over 47 weeks of work a year (that's a year minus three weeks of vacation and two weeks of holidays)  that means light smokers get an extra 70.5 hours worth of breaks----the equivalent of nine extra "vacation" days.

Heavy smokers get an extra 235 hours worth of breaks----the equivalent of 29 extra "vacation" days (or almost six weeks off)!

HOW TO GET THE PERFECT NIGHT'S SLEEP

Apparently, there are people out there who claim to ALWAYS get a PERFECT night's sleep.  Most people don't get enough sleep, can't sleep through the night, etc.  But maybe it's because your before-bedtime-schedule is whacked.
2,000 of those people who said they had awesome sleep were surveyed to figure out the average routine they follow to get such a perfect night of sleep.   Here's the result . . .
(you can adjust the times to fit your needs if you need to wake up earlier or go to bed later)

-You should finish eating dinner by 8:29 P.M., which gives you time to digest.

-Don't drink anything after 9:10 P.M., or you can ruin your night of sleep by going to the bathroom.

-After dinner, make sure you do something relaxing, like watching TV.

-Get into bed EXACTLY at 10:00 P.M., wearing comfortable pajamas.

-Spend 20 minutes reading.

-Turn off the light and you should fall asleep at 10:26 P.M.

-If everything went right, you shouldn't wake up until your alarm goes off at 6:47 A.M.

A survey by Vicks, the vapor-rub people, found that your mom may not be the best source of medical advice when you're sick.  Here are five myths that many moms believe, even though they're FALSE:

#1.)  Cover your head, because that's where you lose most of your body heat:  85% of moms believe it, but it just FEELS that way because your face is sensitive to heat.

#2.)  Get plenty of rest, and do NOT exercise when you're sick:  72% believe it.  While you need to get your rest, exercise can actually make you feel better.

#3.)  Cover your mouth with your hand when you sneeze:  49% of moms believe it, but then your hands are covered with germs.  Instead, cough into your elbow.

#4.)  "Starve a cold and feed a fever."  Or is it "feed a cold and starve a fever?"  Actually, neither.  You should always eat well and be hydrated, but 40% believe the myth. 

#5.)  If you go outside with wet hair, you'll get sick:  38% of moms think so.  Wet hair doesn't expose you to any more viruses than dry, but it will make you colder.

• Video Games -- Kids end up grinding through them quickly, which can get very expensive. Luckily, used games are everywhere at huge discounts.
• Cars -- While there's a risk of getting a lemon with a used car, new cars are just a horrible deal all around. They depreciate by thousands the second you drive them off the lot. So, settle on a used car and make sure to have it inspected by your mechanic before finalizing the deal.
• Books -- Used books can be purchased for pennies on the dollar. And, you're saving the lives of trees by reducing and reusing.
• Baby Clothes and Furniture -- Because baby stuff is used just for a little while and then becomes useless to the family, it can be purchased at dirt-cheap prices and most of it should be sturdy and clean.
• Weight-Lifting Equipment -- You can find remarkably cheap exercise equipment on Craigslist. Of course you'll want to watch out for rust and test out anything with a lot of moving parts. But if you're just looking for a bench and some heavy weights, there's no reason to buy a buy a shiny new set.

7 HABITS THAT MAKE YOU A HAPPIER PERSON

#1.)  Making Lists.  Writing down your goals, even DAILY goals, can affect your happiness in a big way.  Research has shown that staying busy, making a list, and crossing things off it make a big difference.  Just make sure your goals are realistic.  And don't have TOO MANY.

#2.)  Planning Vacations Two Months in Advance.  Maybe you've heard this, but a 2010 study of nearly 1,000 people showed that once you get back from vacation, your happiness level plummets.  But if you start planning your NEXT one, it goes back up and can boost your mood for a full eight weeks.  And you should also plan out your social activities four days in advance.

#3.)  Taking Naps.  It's not always an option (unless you work at Google, Ben & Jerry's, or Nike, where they allow it.)  But more and more research shows that a 10-minute nap every day, or every other day, can make you happier in general.  If you can't take a nap, just resting your brain helps.  Go for a walk, listen to music, meditate, or just sit back with your eyes closed.

#4.)  Exercising Every Day.  This one's pretty simple:  It creates a routine, which is good.  And once it stops making you sore, it makes you feel healthier, which generally makes you happier.

#5.)  Trying New Hobbies.  It gives you a chance to set new goals and meet new people.  Ideally, you should try a new hobby every three months.

#6.)  Getting Enough Sunlight.  Experts suggest getting at least 30 minutes of sunlight every day so you don't develop 'seasonal affective disorder.'

#7.)  Having Sex Regularly.  A 2004 survey of 16,000 people found that when people went from having sex once a month to having sex once a WEEK, their happiness level went up significantly.  It made them as happy as they said they'd be if they made an extra $50,000 a year.

Here are some simple, but powerful things you can do to improve the quality of your marriage:

• Touch each other often -- Have a good connection around non-sexual, physical touching, such as hand holding and kissing hello and goodbye.

• Say I love you to one another -- It's a small gesture that can keep your connection alive.

• Compliment your partner in front of other people -- Not only does it help your partner feel a deep sense of attachment to you, it's also good modeling for your kids.

• Have regular weekly dates -- Getting away from the madness of family "business" is rejuvenating and helps keep a balance between your relationship with each other and your relationship with the kids.

If you want to ramp up the romance on Valentine's Day, you may want to consider adding these foods to the menu. Since ancient times, people have believed that these foods get you in the mood ...
Oysters
Asparagus
Almonds
Avocado
Chocolate
Figs
Bananas
Basil
Garlic
Vanilla

Parents wanting to give their children a leg up in the workforce can start early by giving them a simple name like Michael, Tom, Jane or Mary, new research suggests.

A study by professors at the University of Melbourne and New York University revealed that people with simple, easy-to-pronounce names were more likely to be favored for a promotion at work.

The effect is not due merely to the length of a name or how foreign-sounding or unusual it is, but rather how easy it is to pronounce.

While President Obama may beg to differ, the research also found that political candidates with easy-to-pronounce names were more likely to win a race.

He studied the difference between chronic heel wearers, women who have worn heels for 40 hours a week for at least 2 years, and non-heel wearers. His research concluded that the heel wearers' feet, calves, muscles and tendons were severely damaged -- causing them to walk less efficiently even when wearing flats. As these women age they will be more susceptible to muscle and joint injuries as well as foot ailments.

FINDING THAT LONG LAST FRIEND FROM A FLIGHT

 4 WAYS TO FEEL YOUNGER

If you're starting to feel old, check out this list from Health.com.  According to them, if you do the four things on this list you'll actually FEEL a lot younger than you are.

#1.)  Go to Bed Earlier.  Obviously, more sleep equals more energy.  But you have to make it a habit.  Getting eight hours of sleep doesn't make a huge difference if you go right back to getting SIX hours the next night.  And since you probably can't wake up any later than you already do, going to bed earlier is the only way to make sure you're always rested.  After six straight weeks of getting eight hours a night, you'll have more energy, and the dark circles under your eyes will start to fade.

#2.)  When You Exercise, Focus More on Your Lower Body and Your Core.  Men in particular tend to concentrate on upper-body workouts, which are fine.  But if you're feeling old, try doing more lower-body exercises like squats, lunges, calf-raises, or just plain old running.  Stronger legs and a stronger core will make you feel lighter on your feet.

#3.)  Break Out of Your Routine.  Even if you eat right and exercise every day, you'll start feeling old if you don't mix things up a little.  According to Caroline Adams Miller, author of the book "Creating Your Best Life", quote, "The brain craves novelty.  To feel younger, you have to stimulate it with new associations and new things."   And those things can be small, like getting your morning cup of coffee from a different place than usual, or trying a new route to work.

#4.)  Listen to an Album You Loved 20 Years Ago.  Researchers at Harvard University found that when they exposed people to movies, music, and memorabilia from their youth, they were happier and experienced fewer health issues.  Some of them even saw improvements in their vision and memory.

• THE EX WITH BENEFITS   He/she is someone you can't stand, but every once in awhile you happen to get together again.
• THE STALKER EX   Nowadays, thanks to social media, he/she has so many ways to keep tabs on you.  It used to be driving by your house at all hours or stopping by your local hangouts or workplace.  Now they can be more discreet--and even more intense.
• THE SAD EX   This ex has never really gotten over the break-up.  They may still have pictures of the two of you in their wallet or on their dresser.  The mere mention of your name brings on a flood of emotions--and tears.
• THE BITTER EX   This ex is intent on making your life miserable.  He/she is determined to make you feel their pain.
• THE ALOOF EX   He/she does not seem to realize that the relationship has ended.  You'll find this ex still showing up at your home and still making plans to get together.   Nothing about the relationship has changed for them, despite the fact that you want to check-out.
• THE EX WHO MOVED ON TOO QUICKLY   When it's been a day, and this ex has already latched on to someone new, you know they've moved on a little too fast.  This could be for a number of reasons:  a. They hate to be alone, b. They are trying to make you jealous, or c.  They were with this person waaaaay before your relationship ended.
• THE EX THAT THINKS YOU CAN STILL BE FRIENDS   You have plenty of friends, but this ex doesn't seem to understand that.  They still try to insert themselves into your life, into your circle of friends, and into your space when you'd much rather go your seperate ways.  Remaining friends usually just doesn't work.
• THE LOGICAL, APPEALS-TO-YOUR-BEST-INTERESTS EX    This ex is the rarest kind to find, but can be a diamond in the rough-patch of a relationship.  He/she agrees that you're just not compatible and that you both should go your separate ways.  Don't be surprised if you actually do remain friends with this type of ex. 

When you get to the dinner table with your friends or family, everyone puts their phone in a pile in the center of the table, face down.  As the phones buzz, beep, and ring througout the meal, no one's allowed to grab theirs to check on it.

Here's the catch:  
If someone can't resist the urge and grabs their phone, they lose!   They have to pick up the check, clear the table, do the dishes, etc.  You can make up the rules and guidelines to fit your situation!

The game was invented by a blogger from California.   The 20 year old named Stephie is getting credit for the game that is sweeping the nation.  She said, "The basic premise is to just get people open to the idea of staying active and attentive to one another."

Let us know if you play the game and the outcome!
Email:  Laura.McKenna@cumulus.com   (but wait until after dinner so that you don't lose the game)




 

10 RIDICULOUS LOVE SUPERSTITIONS

#1.)  Twist the stem of an apple while saying the names of the people you're interested in.  The name you're saying when the stem comes off is the one you'll marry.

#2.)  If someone sweeps over your feet while sweeping the floor, you'll be single the rest of your life.

#3.)  If a woman has hairy legs, she'll marry a rich man. (We told you these were ridiculous!)

#4.)  If a bride looks at herself in the mirror while wearing her veil before the wedding, the marriage will be unhappy.

#5.)  If a bride wants her husband to be faithful, she should sew a swan's feather into his pillow.

#6.)  If you get a knife as a present, it means your relationship will soon be severed.

#7.)  If you drop a pair of scissors, it means your lover's being unfaithful.

#8.)  When a woman burns bread or biscuits, it means her lover's mad at her.

#9.)  Think of your love interest when you have the hiccups.  If your hiccups stop, then they feel the same way about you.  If they don't, forget it. 

#10.)  We all know this one:  Pick the petals off a flower (usually a daisy) repeating the phrase, ''He loves me, he loves me not.''  The last remaining petal is your answer.

4 HABITS THAT IRRITATE YOUR BOSS
 

Most workers THINK they're great employees.  But you might be annoying your boss on a daily basis without even realizing it.  Here's a list from AskMen.com of the top four habits that irritate your boss.

#1.)  Not Showing Initiative OR Showing TOO MUCH Initiative.  You shouldn't wait to be told what to do, especially when it's slow.  And if you just mess around on Facebook until something comes in, it makes you look unmotivated.

#2.)  Making Excuses.  When you mess up, just admit it and try to learn from it.  Bosses hate it when you attempt to justify something you did wrong, even if you're telling the truth.

Obviously you have to EXPLAIN yourself.  Just don't try to shift the blame.  Explain what happened, take any steps you can to fix it, then move on. 

#3.)  Complaining.  Critiquing something about the company is okay . . . as long as you don't step on anyone's toes.  But a complaint is different.  Critiques are constructive.  Complaints aren't, which is why you should save them for happy hour.

#4.)  Asking Too Many Questions.  If you're new, you'll obviously need to ask more than usual.  But if it's a chronic problem, it makes you look like you can't do things by yourself , which means you probably won't get promoted.

Maybe you're just trying to be thorough, but companies generally value the people who are resourceful enough to figure things out on their own.

6 BREAKFAST FOODS THAT HELP FIGHT OFF A COLD
 

More people get sick this time of year than any other.  But eating the right things can help you stay healthy.  If you're a fitness nut, you might know this stuff.  But for the rest of us, here are six breakfast foods that help boost your immune system.

#1.)  Blueberries.  They have more antioxidants than any other fruit or vegetable, and also have vitamin C.  They're good for breakfast because it's easy to put them on cereal, in yogurt, or in a shake.

#2.)  Pumpkin Seeds.  They're loaded with zinc, which is an ingredient in a lot of cold medicines, like Zicam nasal spray.   And no, Laura, you don't stick the seeds up your nose!  You eat them: they work well in cereal, yogurt, and oatmeal.

#3.)  Eggs.  You're probably already eating them.  And that's good because they have a good amount of selenium, which is essential for your immune system. If you HATE eggs, you can also get selenium in milk or cottage cheese.

#4.)  Papayas.  An average papaya has more than three times the amount of vitamin C you need in a day.  And they also have beta-carotene, which is another immune booster.

#5.)  Lemons.  Too much sugar can weaken your immune system.  So using lemon whenever you can is better.  Just don't put it in your coffee or tea if there's already milk in it.  The acid from the lemon will make the milk curdle.

#6.)  Kiwi.  They're loaded with vitamin E, and one kiwi has more vitamin C than an orange.  Plus, pound-for-pound they have almost as much potassium as bananas.  And the antioxidants in kiwis are good for your respiratory system.

THE MOST & LEAST STRESSFUL CAREERS

CareerCast.com released their annual list of the most and least-stressful jobs in the 2012 Job Stress Report.  

#1.)  Medical records technician:  Average income is $32,350.

#2.)  Jeweler:  $35,170.

#3.)  Hair stylist:  $22,760. 

#4.)  Dressmaker/tailor:  $26,560.

#5.)  Medical Lab Tech:  $36,280.

#6.)  Audiologist:  That's the person who gives hearing tests.  They make $66,660. 

#7.)  Precision Assembler:  They make electronics.  Average salary:  $31,250. 

#8.)  Dietitian:  $53,250.

#9.)  Furniture Upholsterer:  $29,960.

#10.)  Electrical Technician:  $56,040. 

The jobs with the MOST stress are:

#1.)  Enlisted military soldier:  Average income $35,580

#2.)  Firefighter:  $45,250

#3.)  Airline pilot:  $103,210

#4.)  Military general:  $196,300

#5.)  Police Officer:  $53,540

#6.)  Event Coordinator:  $45,260

#7.)  Public Relations Executive:  $91,810

#8.)  Senior Corporate Executive:  $165,830

#9.)  Photojournalist:  $40,000

#10.)  Taxi Driver:  $22,440

Here's a rundown of the jobs a homemaker does -- and how much those jobs would be worth on the open market:

Grand Total -- $96,261 per year

Steve said that he has Ozzie by himself for a few hours every afternoon and is constantly on the move doing things with him and rarely can get anything accomplished.   "Kudos to anyone who can do half of this stuff.  They are priceless."

Many people have the same resolution: Get fit.

If you want to be the person in your circle who actually follows through on this resolution, stick by some of these handy tips and watch the pounds melt off:

• Get over your fear of being the fattest person at the gym: This is a silly reason to avoid the gym. There will be people there of all shapes and sizes trying to get fit for 2012, so join in and don't worry about what others think.

• Carve out the time: With work, kids, hobbies, boyfriends and a million other things, it's easy to tell yourself that there isn't enough time to work out. But it's important -- and important things deserve your time.

• Trade some cardio time for weights: Many fear that using some weight training will bulk them up so they look like the Incredible Hulk. But you'd have to use a ton of heavy weights (and possibly some steroids) to ever get close to that. So trade in some treadmill time for some weight training and burn that fat!

• Reward yourself: It takes about 21 repetitions for something to become a habit. So reward yourself when you hit lucky 21 by treating yourself to a new outfit, or new pair of running shoes, or some new songs for your workout playlist.

• EAT FRUITS & VEGGIES:  A recent survey found that senior citizens who ate a diet high in fruits & veggies when they were 30 years younger had lower risks of dementia.

• GET CULTURED: Participating in cultural activities and reading can also help.  Stay open-minded, curious, and creative with new ideas.

• TAKE CARE OF YOUR TEETH: It might seem random, but studies have shown people who have trouble with their teeth early in life were at a greater risk of Alzheimer's disease.

• GARLIC   Research suggests that eating a clove of garlic each day lowers your risk of bladder, colon, and stomach cancers.  It has also been proven to destroy  up to 89% of breast cancer cells on contact.
• CARROTS   Antioxidants from carrots, available in pill form of from the root veggie, are said to help fortify your body against cancer risk.
• BLACK PEPPER   A quarter-teaspoon of black pepper per day is believed to be enough to help destroy abnormal, potentially cancerous, cells.
• OREGANO   Just 1 teaspoon of dried oregano has as many antioxidants as 3 ounces of almonds, 1/2 cup of chopped asparagus, and 30 times more cell-protecting antioxidants than blueberries.  The main antioxidant in dried oregano has been shown to help fight the growth of bacteria.
  And POMEGRANITE JUICE!

• Hummer/Escalade/SUV: You're a thoughtless pig. Hopeless.

• Honda Civic -- You're practical, loving and smart. You're down to earth. A keeper.

• Minivan -- You're married, or recently divorced.

• BMW/Lexus/Infiniti -- You're either a real estate agent or have something to prove. You're also likely to cheat and frequent strip clubs.

• Pick-up truck -- You're an old-fashioned guy who treats the women in his life well.

• Toyota Prius -- You're smug and have a closet full of Birkenstock sandals.

• Subaru -- You're a rugged dude who loves skiing, boarding and biking.
   

• PEOPLE WITH BIG SMILES LIVE LONGER:  Researchers found that men who smile widely lived 4.9 years longer than those with average smiles--and 7 years than those who were not quick to smile at all.

• SMILES HAVE SUBLIMINAL POWERS:    People pick up on the smiles of other people so quickly that seeing a smiling face for just 4 milliseconds creates a mini emotional high.

• SMILES SPREAD THE LOVE:  When you smile at someone, they are likely to smile, and that person's smile reaches and average of two more people.

• REAL VS. FAKE: Real smiles and fake smiles are created by two separate brain commands, which means they really have nothing in common.  So, to spot a faker, check the eyes.  When someone is genuinely happy, their eyes crinkle and this reaction is something that they just can't fake.