Mother & Daughter Ice Breaker Questions

Ice breaker questions can help mothers and daughters begin difficult conversations.

Mothers and daughters can have dynamic relationships, especially when it comes to communication. If mothers and daughters have expectations for one another, sometimes defensive or resentful communication can result. For example, advice can be mistaken for criticism, so it's important to phrase questions thoughtfully. Sometimes it takes a few ice breaker questions to ease into difficult, sensitive or embarrassing topics of conversation.

Expressed Interest

Ask questions that express an interest in the other person. Show that you take notice of you mom or daughter by acknowledging an observation. For example: "I saw that you were wearing some new jeans today. Do you know of any places where I can find good selection of clothes for this season?" Asking questions that show interest and care in the other person can help break down defensive barriers and open up communication.

Personal Examples

Break a barrier with you mom or with your daughter by relating a question to personal experience. The question can begin by you stating something about yourself, such as: "My girlfriends in high school were also hard to get along with sometimes. Have you tried to talk to your friend about what is on your mind?" If you share something about yourself first in a conversation, it helps to show your vulnerability in the conversation, which can help the other person open up.

Rhetorical Questions

You can break the ice with questions that are situational, rather that directed toward your mother or daughter. The hypothetical situation can refer to a fabricated situation or use alternate people as examples. State a question similar to this: "If you were going to move to a new place and accept a job opportunity, what factors would you consider to make the decision?" You can also use alternate people: "My friend, Kate, is nervous about going away to college. What advice should I give her to ease her inhibitions?"

Offered Support

Show your mother or daughter that you support her; no matter what questions or topics arise in a conversation, both people can feel comfortable. Show your support by asking an ice breaker question in this way: "You know I love you, no matter what. Is there anything that you want to talk about? Anything that will make this time easier for you? Is there anything I can do to help you through this?"

Tags: other person, questions that, about yourself, alternate people, breaker questions

Pineapple Tree Facts

Pineapples are perennial plants.

Pineapples do not grow on trees like most fruits, but as perennial herb that grows on the ground. Pineapple plants (Ananas comosus) grow up to 5 feet tall and 7 feet wide before they produce their large, spiky fruit. Pineapple is a peculiar plant that has many characteristics that makes it entertaining to grow as an indoor plant. Does this Spark an idea?

History

Christopher Columbus brought back the first pineapple to Spain in 1493. The Spanish thought the fruit resembled a pine cone and gave it the common name pine of the Indies. When the English managed to acquire the fruit they called it an apple because it resembled the sweet flavor of that fruit. Eventually, the Spanish and English names were combined into the single common name of pineapple.

Growth

Pineapple is a member of the Bromeliaceae family of plants, which includes many types of bromiliad flowers. Unlike most bromiliads, which are epiphytes and live high in the forest canopy, pineapples are terrestrial plants that grow only in light, well-drained soils. Pineapples have a tight rosette of long, stiff leaves with spiky margins and tips for protection. Fruits start to grow from a small central leader after the first year of growth. The pineapple fruit takes up to six months to ripen. During that time, the pineapple fruit grows and changes color from green to a bright gold color.

Grow Your Own

You can grow your own pineapple plant from the fruits that you buy from the store. Simply cut the top of your pineapple with a sharp knife. Remove the lower leafs and remaining fruit so that only the stem remains. Place the stem in a glass of clean water and place in a bright, warm location. Change the water daily and watch for root development. Plant the pineapple stem in a sandy-loam soil mixture when the roots are at least 2 inches long. Water regularly to maintain soil moisture until your pineapple plant establishes new growth. Apply a small amount of nitrogen fertilizer to help facilitate robust growth in the first year.

Fruit Facts

Pineapple plants produce a single fruit each year. Although pineapples cultivated for sale are usually harvested each year, in nature, when the fruits remain on the plant for longer periods of time, they can grow up to 20 pounds. Immature, unripe pineapples, on the other hand, are toxic and can cause serious mouth and throat irritation.

Tags: your pineapple, common name, each year, first year, pineapple fruit, pineapple plant

Spongebob Party Favor Ideas

Let children decorate yellow sponges as their own idea of SpongeBob Squarepants.

SpongeBob Squarepants has been a kids' favorite since 1999. This little yellow sponge cartoon character is a popular guy when it comes to children's' birthday parties and his friends are not far behind. After the themed-decorations, cake and invitations you can send home SpongeBob party favors with your birthday guests. Does this Spark an idea?

T-Shirts

Purchase several plain, yellow t-shirts at your local craft store. Put fabric paint and glitter on a table for the children to decorate their shirt. Let each child decorate his own SpongeBob Squarepants shirt to take home as a party favor. If the children are too young to decorate their own shirts you can decorate each one and hand them out as a party favor.

Spongebob in a Jar

You can make SpongeBobs in a jar and handed them out as party favors or the children can make their own. Fill several small, clean baby food jars or small glass jars with lids with half baby oil and half water. Add blue food coloring to make it look like the ocean. Let the children put glitter and beads in the jars. Print several small SpongeBob pictures (small enough to fit in the jar) and laminate them. Put a laminated SpongeBob in each jar and hot glue the lid shut. The kids' can take them as party favors.

Beach Pails

Send your birthday guests home with a party favor-packed beach pail. Purchase several beach pails and fill each one with a SpongeBob coloring book, small plastic ocean toys, SpongeBob fruit snacks or cookies and a sand art kit.

Starfish

Purchase enough starfish for each child at an arts and crafts store. Let each child decorate his own starfish to take home as a party favor. Allow the children to use paint, glitter and markers to decorate the starfish.

Themed-Party Favors

SpongeBob party favors are available online and at many party supply stores. You can buy favors such as SpongeBob-themed key chains, water games, stickers and candy to hand out or put in a pinata. SpongeBob pinatas are available at most party supply stores and you can fill them with these themed-party favors.

Sponges

If the children are old enough, give them each a yellow sponge to decorate. Place plastic eyes, markers, paint and glitter on the table. Let each child decorate her own SpongeBob and take them home.

Tags: each child, party favors, child decorate, each child decorate, paint glitter, party favor, SpongeBob Squarepants

What Serve As Side Dishes With Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi combines succulent shrimp with garlic, olive oil, white wine, lemon juice and basil or parsley for a simple, but elegant dish. Though it is usually prepared in a skillet, try grilling the shrimp first for a slight smoky flavor. Shrimp scampi is simple enough for a quick, weeknight meal, but elegant enough for a dinner party. Its light, lemony taste pairs well with fresh, roasted vegetables and light salads. Does this Spark an idea?

Traditions

Shrimp scampi is traditionally served over a plate of steaming pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine. For a change, serve shrimp scampi on its own, over rice or even over a perfectly grilled steak. Garnish shrimp scampi with lemon wedges and cut parsley.

Vegetable Side Dishes

Serve shrimp scampi with broccoli -- steamed or sauteed with garlic. Roast asparagus with a dash of lemon juice, olive oil and salt and pepper for a tasty side dish. Serve shrimp scampi over steak with roasted red potatoes. Pair shrimp scampi with a tangy Caesar salad.

Extras

Serve shrimp scampi with crusty rolls or slices of French bread to sop up the lemon and garlic sauce. An herbed flat bread would also be appropriate. Grilled pineapple with a bit of brown sugar and cinnamon makes a sweet, but tangy side dish. Try lemon pound cake with berries for dessert.

Considerations

When buying shrimp for shrimp scampi, buy large peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook shrimp only until it turns pink. Overcooking it can make it tough. Use fresh lemon juice and lemon peel for the best flavor.

Tags: scampi with, shrimp scampi with, lemon juice, shrimp scampi, Shrimp scampi, scampi over

Luau Party Activities

A hawaiian shirt is required dress for a luau.

A luau party can be a refreshing summer event; it can also help break up the cold darkness of winter. Festive party decorations, fresh fruit drinks, snacks and entertaining party games make it a gathering your friends will talk about for months. Take the time to structure some activities for guests of all ages to keep the party going and inspire some friendly competition amongst friends and family. Does this Spark an idea?

Limbo

The limbo is a traditional luau party activity and can be loads of laughs for party guests of all ages. Use a bamboo pole or long straight rod from a hardware store as your limbo pole. Get some Hawaiian music playing to start the dance. Guests line up and dance their way--bending backwards--under the limbo pole. The pole lowers after each round. The last person to clear the lowered pole wins.

Wildest Hawaiian Outfit

This party game starts with your invitation. Create a theme-related invitation that makes it clear that this is a luau party. Challenge each guest to come in her craziest Hawaiian gear. This includes hats, grass skirts and shirts. Once all the guests have arrived, have everyone vote for the most creative outfit.

Hula Contest

Play some Hawaiian music; challenge guests to a Hula-Off. Party-goers must keep their hula-hoop going throughout a song. Once they drop their hoops, they are out. The last hula-hoop still spinning wins.

Pineapple Bowling

Using real pineapples and real bowling balls, set up a pineapple bowling alley in your yard. Place six pineapples in the usual bowling pin configuration at one end of the lawn. Set up bowlers about ten feet away with a ball. Each bowler gets one turn, and the bowler with the most pineapples down in one-throw wins. Give players one test shot; that will allow them to get the feel for the game.

Relay Race

A relay race is fun for kids of all ages. Gather two Hawaiian shirts, two grass skirts, two straw hats, two sunglasses, two beach bags and two chairs. Place one of each item into the beach bags; divide the guests into two teams. Place the chairs at the end of the yard in front of each team. Team members must line up. When the game begins, the first player must dress in all the items, run to the chair and return; he must then take all the items off. Once done, the next player does the same thing until all team members have played. The first team to complete the relay wins.

Tags: luau party, beach bags, grass skirts, guests ages, Hawaiian music, limbo pole, some Hawaiian

Why Are Flowers Falling Off My Growing Tomato Plant

A tomato plant that already has a high percentage of fruit may abort some flowers.

Tomato plants sometimes drop their flowers without setting fruit--a problem called blossom drop. This frustrating condition can be caused by the wrong climate, stress, poor nutrition or a number of other factors. Does this Spark an idea?

Heat

Tomatoes are a hot weather plant and need plenty of sun and warmth. However, too much heat can cause them to drop their blossoms. According to the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, days over 85 degrees Fahrenheit and nights over 72 degrees will cause tomato plants to lose flowers. Some special "heat set" varieties are better at resisting hot climates.

Humidity

These plants require a humidity range between 40 percent and 70 percent, according to Rutgers University. If the humidity is higher or lower than this range, tomatoes do not pollinate correctly. In low humidity areas, dampen the plants' foliage during the day to encourage pollination.

Nutrition

Plants with too high or too low of nitrogen levels may drop their flowers. High nitrogen levels encourage leaf growth over flower growth, while low nitrogen encourages plants to avoid producing fruit.

Tags: drop their, drop their flowers, nitrogen levels, over degrees, their flowers

List Of Party Necessities

Party neccessities bring a celebration to life.

Whether it's for a birthday, a seasonal holiday, a bridal shower, or a religious celebration, parties are opportunities for family, friends, and loved ones to come together and celebrate. But planning the perfect party can be challenging. Party supplies are a necessity for any party, and without them, keeping a fun, celebratory atmosphere is much more difficult. Does this Spark an idea?

Food

In general people seem to be happier when presented with good food. There are many food options for a party; the most important thing to remember is that there needs to be something for guests to snack on. Homemade appetizers and snacks are great, and for those who may be busy with other party planning details, catering is also an option. And of course, most parties require a cake. Instead of a traditional cake, there may be ice-cream cakes, cookie cakes, cupcakes, or even pie.

Decorations

Festivities tend to look livelier with the necessary decorations in place. From streamers to balloons and from lighting to confetti, party decorations turn an ordinary home or venue into a place of celebration. Banners can also add to the celebratory decor, making the room look livelier and much more exciting. For surprise parties, it may be a bit difficult to put up decorations beforehand. If it can't be done, it may be a good idea to have a decorating team set things up shortly after the guest of honor arrives.

Utensils

Utensils are necessary for most parties to function. Supplies like paper plates, cups, napkins, and trash bags make clean-up much easier and things like tablecloths and disposable serving trays also help to minimize mess and to make the party run more smoothly. Ice and cutlery are also necessities, especially if plenty of food and drinks are being served.

Invitations, Favors, and Activities

An important party item is the invitation. Depending on the number of guests and the sort of party or celebration, invitations should be sent out a number of days or weeks ahead of time. Party favors also help guests to feel welcome and appreciated, and are great for securing return guests for other events. Finally it is important that there be some kind of activity to keep guests entertained, whether it be dancing, music, movies, or games.

Tags: also help, look livelier, most parties, much more, that there

Sweet Sixteen Cookout Ideas

It's possible to combine a cookout with a fancy dress theme Sweet Sixteen party.

A Sweet Sixteen cookout adds outdoor cooking and decorative elements to help celebrate this special birthday. Go super casual with a relaxed luau or camping theme (a good cool weather choice) or go for a more structured party theme by throwing a "Twilight" inspired costume party or a fancy dress gala under the night sky. Does this Spark an idea?

Luau Theme

If you have access to a backyard or neighborhood pool, a luau theme party will give everyone a chance to party island style. Encourage guests to wear Hawaiian style bathing suits, cover ups and shirts, and greet arriving guests with an "Aloha" lei. Have a live ukulele band or pre-recorded island music to provide ambiance. If possible, go whole hog and roast a pig over an open fire pit, serving the meat with rice, grilled vegetables and lots of pineapple. Serve festive non-alcoholic pina coladas with umbrellas floating on top and, if at night, light the party with tiki torches. Add old-fashioned limbo and hula lessons to the swimming and your guests will have the full luau experience.

Starry Night Theme

Decorate your backyard in sparkly silver and white -- balloons, candles, mirrored centerpieces, soft music and rhinestone studded cloth will help create a fancy, starlight reflecting atmosphere. Set the table for an elegant sit-down meal, complete with fine china and crystal. Ask guests to arrive in their most elegant attire and begin with a non-alcoholic cocktail hour, serving sparkling cider or grape juice for a festive touch. Serve crostini or pizzas as a first course, progressing to a main course of fish or filet mignon - all cooked on your outdoor grill. The "grown up" vibe of this party idea lends itself to conversation as an activity, so be prepared to offer some starters to get the group talking.

Camping Theme

Try to hold this Sweet Sixteen in a wide open space away from residential and commercial buildings. Set up tents to accommodate sleepover guests and make sure you have at least one bonfire area. If you'd like to keep the party inexpensive and environmentally friendly, have guests bring a covered dish to share as part of the community camping atmosphere. If adult chaperoning permits, encourage guests to bring sleeping bags for the full camping experience. Roast veggie hot dogs, make s'mores and, if the weather is nippy, serve hot cocoa or cider. Have your daughter's friends bring guitars and other instruments for campfire sing-alongs and close the evening with spooky ghost stories. In the morning, make sure to offer more warm beverages and breakfast to sleepover guests.

"Twilight" Theme

Consider a Sweet Sixteen that asks guests to dress as a favorite "Twilight" character. Set the mood in your backyard with a red, white and black color scheme, and play music from the movie over outdoor speakers. Apples are a "Twilight" must, so decorate and/or cook with bright red ones. If your daughter enjoys a rare steak, serve slightly bloody steaks fresh off the grill, alongside festive blood-red drinks. Vote for the best Edward and Jacob costumes and create some team games that pit "Team Edward" against "Team Jacob." Games that recall famous quotes from the book series, such as asking players to recall who said what, will test your guests' trivia knowledge.

Tags: Sweet Sixteen, fancy dress, guests bring, make sure, sleepover guests, your backyard

Sweet Sixteen Birthday Cake Design Ideas

The cake should enhance the theme of your birthday party.

At most parties, regardless of the occasion, the cake takes center stage. For a Sweet 16 party, this is especially true, so you want to make sure that your cake is a real standout. You need a cake that enhances and accentuates your theme, rather than introducing a foreign and new idea into the mix. Stick with your theme and your color palette, and your cake will be a hit. Does this Spark an idea?

Musical Theme

If your party has a musical theme, consider tasking your baker with creating a cake that looks like your favorite musical instrument. A guitar or a piano are fairly easy to make from a standard sheet cake. If you want a cake that has tiers, consider having a drum set constructed from fondant and frosting. Another option is to have a simple tier cake baked and iced in white, then decorated with a mock musical score along the sides.

Picture This

Many bakeries have the ability to print a photograph onto a cake using a special sugar printing process. If you used photo invitations to kick off your Sweet 16, it would only be fitting to have a cake that also features a picture of you. Use the same photo as your invitation, or a different shot from that same photo shoot. A cake with your image emblazoned on it will serve to pull the whole theme together.

Hollywood Theme

If you are going for a glamorous Hollywood theme for your Sweet 16, you need a cake that is equally glamorous. Order a cake that looks like a stack of film canisters, with a ribbon of fondant film cascading down the front.

If you don't have access to a baker who can pull off this look, then consider a sheet cake, iced and airbrushed to look like the Hollywood Hills. Using white letter candles that are available at any party store, write out the word "Hollywood" to mimic the iconic Hollywood sign.

Color Them Impressed

Even if your party doesn't have a specific theme, it is still possible to have an awesome cake. Stick with the colors of your party; have your baker alternate your colors in a diamond pattern, finished off with ribbon and silver candies. Your cake will look like it is wrapped in a beautiful piece of fabric.

Tags: cake that, theme your, your party, cake that looks, cake will, look like

The Best Vacations For Single Senior Citizens

Vacations for single seniors are a great way to meet people and experience new things.

There is an entire world at the fingertips of any single senior citizen. From Vermont to going back to school to touring the globe, vacation packages for single seniors take the stressful elements away from planning a vacation. Instead, single seniors have time to enjoy their hard-earned vacation and leave the planning to the others while learning about new places and meeting great people.

Wildflower Inn Vacation

New England has world-renowned foliage during September and October. The vibrant reds and oranges of the trees against the bright blue sky, and the mild, cool weather, make for a vacation to remember in this picturesque corner of the United States. The Wildflower Inn offers a vacation package for senior citizens who enjoy traveling and fall colors by combining the two in the Fall Foliage Midweek Explorers Package. The package includes a four-night stay at the Wildflower Inn in Lyndonville, Vermont, complete with a full country breakfast and afternoon snacks replete with famous Vermont Cabot cheese and apple cider. During the day, the staff provides maps of fall foliage tours in Northern New Hampshire, Southern Quebec and Vermont for individuals to explore at his or her leisure. The beautiful setting, tours and communal atmosphere of the Wildflower is a great way to meet other people, too. Prices start at $390 in the low season for a four-night package.

The Wildflower Inn

2059 Darling Hill Road

Lyndonville, VT 05851

1-800-627-8310

wildflowerinn.com

Senior Summer School

Senior Summer School provides seniors with the opportunity to go back to college. Seniors live and learn at one of four colleges, Loyola in Chicago, Appalachian State in Boone, North Carolina, University of Wisconsin Madison in Madison, Wisconsin or San Diego State University in San Diego. Seniors engage in six daily classes, extensions of the university in which the individual is attending, with college professors and local professionals, three or more field-trips to local sightseeing hotspots and evening entertainment including dancing, singing and talks by local historians. Both singles and couples attend the program and come away with many different friends and experiences to talk about! Accommodations include private suites in college residence halls, apartments or hotels, and exercise facilities, computer centers and recreational areas are available. Food is included and served cafeteria style. The program varies from two to six weeks. The AARP has reviewed the Summer School positively as a wonderful travel/educational combination experience.

Senior Summer School

P.O. Box 188

Madison, WI 53701

608-255-0263

seniorsummerschool.com

Semester at Sea

The Semester at Sea program is a study abroad program in which college and non-traditional students learn and travel together. Semester at Sea is a cruise around the world. Teachers, students and staff live on the MV Explorer, taking a wide array of academic classes during travel times and embarking on exciting tours and adventures while in port. Previous ports of call include cities such as Salvador, Brazil; Walvis Bay, Namibia; Cape Town, South Africa, and Chennai, India. The program lasts three to 3.5 months. Lifelong learners live, eat and travel with the students, thus making friends among other lifelong learners and with students.

University of Virginia

Semester at Sea

PO Box 400885

Charlottesville, VA 22904

1-800-854-4885

semesteratsea.org

Tags: Summer School, Senior Summer, Senior Summer School, single seniors, great meet

Restaurants In Hackettstown New Jersey

Restaurants specializing in Japanese, Chinese, Turkish and American cuisine can all be found in Hackettstown.

As part of Warren County, Hackettstown is a town located in the northwestern section of New Jersey. Home to candy manufacturer M&M/Mars, Inc. and Centenary College, Hackettstown is further characterized by its location in a valley running along the banks of the Musconetcong River. Ranked #72 in CNN Money's 2005 Best Places to Live survey, Hackettstown has restaurants serving all kinds of cuisine, from Turkish to Japanese and Italian. Does this Spark an idea?

Pandan Room Restaurant

The Pandan Room Restaurant in Hackettstown gets its name from the pandan, an Asian shrub that is used in many of the dishes in the restaurant. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, and selections can be ordered mild, medium, hot or extra hot. Appetizers include drunken shrimp, pandan chicken, a spring rolls medley, and vegetarian or pork dumplings. Featured soups include the Indonesian sour soup (sayur asam) in addition to sides, such as sticky rice and sweet potatoes. Pandan Room serves dinner entrées, such as bang-bang chicken and shrimp, masaman curry, lombok tilapia and pad siew.

Pandan Room Restaurant

100 East Moore Street

Hackettstown, NJ 07840

908-850-5999

pandanroom.com

Prickly Pear Restaurant

Since 2006, the Prickly Pear Restaurant has served contemporary American cuisine in Hackettstown. In addition to lunch and dinner menus, Prickly Pear has a number of prix-fixe options. Starters include appetizers, such as grilled filet mignon, crispy calamari salad, rare tuna flatbread and butternut squash risotto. Patrons can choose from over a dozen entrées, including braised lamb shank, paella, seafood rigatoni and wasabi-crusted rare tuna.

Prickly Pear Restaurant

80 Main Street

Hackettstown, NJ 07840

908-979-0003

pricklypearrestaurant.com

Fujiyama Japanese Restaurant

Fujiyama Japanese Restaurant serves fine Japanese cuisine in Hackettstown. Patrons can start off with soup and salad selections, from clam, clear, seafood or miso soups, to seaweed, avocado and baby spinach salads. With at least two dozen appetizers, choose among monkfish liver, eel sashimi, avocado salmon, shrimp tempura and yakitori. There are extensive entrée selections, including vegetable, tofu, chicken, salmon and other kinds of teriyaki as well as tempura, katsu, noodle dishes and a prolific selection of sushi rolls from the sushi bar.

Fujiyama Japanese Restaurant

1954 State Route 57

Hackettstown, NJ 07840

908-850-9400

finefujiyama.com

Tags: Pandan Room, Prickly Pear, Fujiyama Japanese, Fujiyama Japanese Restaurant, Hackettstown 07840

The Best Ways To Roast & Season A Pig

Pig can be roasted one of three ways.

Roasting a whole pig is a challenging task many cooks think is worth the time and effort based on the visual experience and gastronomic rewards. There are three preferred roasting methods and seasonings are usually minimal and packed into the cavity of the butterflied carcass. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Grilling Method

The grill needs to be big enough to comfortably hold the pig and is usually handmade from bricks, cinder blocks and heavy duty mesh grating. If using propane gas cylinders for fuel, you will need 40 lbs. and if wood is used, figure on 1/2 cord. The amount of charcoal you need depends on the size of the pig. Sixty pounds will suffice for a 75-lb. pig, 70 lbs. for a 100-lb. pig and 80 lbs. for a 125-lb. pig. When the fire is medium hot, sandwich the pig between two large pieces of mesh and place the pig about 1 ft. from the heat source. Keep the heat around 250 degrees Fahrenheit, turn the pig once during grilling, and allow between six and nine hours cooking time depending on weight. Remove the pig when the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Spit or Rotisserie Cooking

Attach and secure the pig to the rotisserie skewer per manufacturers' directions and place it about a foot above the fire. A 110-lb. pig will take between eight and 10 hours to cook. Maintain the heat at 250 degrees Fahrenheit and keep the pig constantly turning. The pig should be taken off the spit and left to rest when it has an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rock-Lined Pit

Dig a large hole 3 ft. deep with a diameter large enough to contain the pig, usually between 5 ft. and 7 ft. wide. Line the pit with rocks and ignite the fire. Make a pile of small rocks to heat while you prepare the pig. Place the pig on a large sheet of chicken wire and cut slits under its legs large enough to hold the hot rocks. Using tongs, insert the hot rocks into the slits and cavity of the animal. Tie the front legs together with twine or rope and then the rear legs. Secure the chicken wire around the pig so it can easily be moved. Cover the hot coals and rocks in the pit with leaves, grass or corn stalks. Place the pig on top, cover it with more vegetation and place a large piece of wet burlap on it. Place a big piece of canvas on the burlap and cover it with dirt or gravel to trap the heat and steam inside the pit. Allow four to eight hours cooking time for a pig between 75lb. and 150 lbs.. Occasionally check the internal temperature of the pig and remove it from the pit when the thermometer reads 160.degrees Fahrenheit.

Seasonings

For all cooking methods, generously season the cavity of the pig with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. You can also stuff the pig with whole chickens, Italian sausage links, sauerkraut, bread stuffing or any favorite food that holds up well to long, slow cooking. Sew the cavity of the pig shut to prevent the stuffing from falling out during cooking.

Tags: degrees Fahrenheit, internal temperature, chicken wire, cooking time, cover with, eight hours

Summer Party Decorating Ideas

Summer Party Decorating Ideas

Summer parties are fun, and the party space--whether indoors or out--is easy to decorate. Whether the party is for an adult or a child, continue the theme throughout with your decorations. If you visit a party supply or craft store, you should be able to find everything you need. Does this Spark an idea?

Beach/Tropical

The possibilities for a beach or tropical theme seem also endless. Hang a fishnet with a variety of seashells. Skirt your table with a "grass" skirt and trim with silk hibiscus flowers. Use foil, paper or inflatable palm trees. Use coconut shells as candle holders or put floating candles in the shapes of seashells or fish in a glass bowl of water, tinted blue with food coloring. Fill small sand pails with goodies for your guests.

Asian

Line the path to your patio with luminaries or pillar candles in hurricane lamps. String paper lanterns around your deck or patio. Use lots of gold and red in your color scheme. Mini Chinese take out boxes filled with treats make great party favors. Decorate your table with bonsai or bamboo plants, chopsticks, a papier-mache dragon, a bamboo table runner or place mats and paper fans. Prop paper parasols on their sides or attach to your deck railing.

Camp Out

Setting up for a camp-out party for teens or even younger kids is simple because nature does most of it for you. Create a fire pit in your backyard (supervise young children). Place logs around the campfire for seating. Set out lanterns or Tiki torches and don't forget some citronella to keep mosquitoes at bay. Small flashlights make great party favors. Cover the food table with camouflage fabric and use tin plates for serving.

Picnic

Dress up an ordinary picnic. Start with the traditional red checked gingham tablecloth. Use a picnic basket as your centerpiece and to hold napkins and silverware. Wrap your silverware in a napkin, tie with a pretty summery ribbon and tuck in a summer flower. For a summery centerpiece, fill a tin watering can with a large bunch of daisies. Cut a watermelon in half and scoop out the melon. Use both halves as ice "buckets."

Patriotic

Naturally for Memorial Day or the Fourth of July your decorations should be red, white and blue. Line the path to your party with small flags. Start with a plain white tablecloth and scatter red and blue star confetti. Fill a large clear vase with water colored blue with food coloring and add red and white carnations for your centerpiece. Suspend groups of red, white and blue foil streamers from your ceiling and attach a foil star at the bottom of each.

Considerations

If you are planning an outdoor party, always have a contingency plan in the event of rain. Parties for children should be supervised by an adult, particular if it involves candles, lanterns or a campfire.

Tags: table with, your table with, blue with, blue with food, Decorating Ideas, food coloring, great party

Tips On Decorating For A Luau Party

Luau party decor should be filled with vibrant colors and tropical flowers.

A lot of planning and decorations must go into setting the ambiance of a Hawaiian luau party. The party area should be filled with bold, bright colors and tropical flowers and fruits. Decorations can be found at department stores or party supply stores. In the invitations, tell guests to wear shorts, Hawaiian shirts, sun dresses, sarongs and flip flops to help set the mood of a relaxing, traditional Hawaiian experience. Does this Spark an idea?

Leis

Place leis of flowers around guests' necks as they arrive to the party, along with a cordial "Aloha" greeting. Leis can be handmade or purchased at a party supply store and can contain real or artificial flowers.

Flowers

Offer ladies a flower to place in their hair, and include tropical flowers throughout the party area. Place flowers behind the right ear if you are single and behind the left ear if you are taken, states The Hawaiian Luau (Resource 1). Popular flowers in Hawaii include the yellow hibiscus (the state flower), the pink cottage rose, the yellow ilima, the red ohia, the white kukui blossom, orchids and plumeria (Resource 3).

Straw Skirts

Decorate the luau with a lot of straw or grass skirting. Line tables, the bar and other areas with the skirting to create a tropical theme. Offer guests grass or straw skirts to place around their waists and try out hula dancing.

Drinks

Decorate drinks with colorful paper parasol umbrellas and straws, pineapple slices and flowers. Serve some drinks in hollowed-out coconut shells.

Fruits and Nuts

Hawaiian luaus are filled with the presence of tropical fruits (pineapples, bananas, mangoes, guava, passion fruit, coconuts and papayas), so be sure to include some on the buffet table to eat and for decoration. Macadamia nuts are also popular in Hawaii and can be placed in dishes throughout the party area or given to guests as party favors.

Table Décor

Spread Hawaiian-print sarongs, banana leaves, ferns or fish nets across tables. Arrange food dishes on top and scatter tropical flowers and sea shells on the table. Centerpieces can be created with an arrangement of sand, shells, flowers and candles. Intertwine shells and star fish within a net as it dangles down from the tabletop.

Art

Place tiki statues around the area and as part of table centerpieces. Hang pictures of Hawaii throughout the area for guests to enjoy. Ornate, decorated surf boards are also great party decorations.

Lighting

Line the party area with tiki torches, candles and white strings of Christmas lights to keep the party going when the sun goes down. Hang paper lanterns in vivid colors or flower patterns among the string of lights.

Other Decorations

Place tea lights inside clear bowls and let them float along freely in pools, along with tropical flowers. Other decorations can include palm trees and bamboo.

Tags: tropical flowers, party area, filled with, along with, colors tropical

Wavy Perm Hairstyles

Loose waves, ringlets and volume can be achieved by perming.

Modern perming techniques have moved on from the old-fashion "tight poodle curls" look. Thanks to newer product technology, the chemicals used to perm are no longer as harsh, and are less damaging to hair. A perm does not have to be only a full head of curls, but a combination of fuller-bodied roots or loose wavy ends. Although perming is less damaging than it used to be, those with heavily colored or lightened hair should avoid perming. Many perms typically last up to eight weeks, so maintenance visits to the salon may be necessary. Does this Spark an idea?

Body waves

For women who have limp, lifeless hair that lacks fullness and shape, a body wave perm will give you more "oomph." A body wave perm uses large rollers to achieve a style that has more volume and shape, rather than curls. This type of perm can relax the hair and, therefore, combat frizz. Several weeks before having a body wave perm, use a deep conditioning treatment once a week so your hair is in its best possible condition. Using specially-formulated shampoos and conditioners for permed hair will prolong your full-bodied style.

Loose waves

If you like to wear your hair in loose natural waves, or your hair is poker straight, a loose wave perm will bring your hair to life. Rather than tight ringlets, this perm gives you looser, natural waves because the rollers used are larger. Hair can be spot-permed in random sections for a more natural look, or permed at the ends for a slightly wavy effect.

Curls

A curly perm will give you a similar effect to using curlers every day. You may think of super-tight curls when you think about a curly perm, but you can actually achieve a range of different curls with different-sized rollers. Using a variety of sizes will make the look appear more natural. Larger rollers around the crown and front sections will give your hair more volume and frame your face.

Tags: your hair, wave perm, body wave, body wave perm, perm will, will give

Restaurants On The Broadwalk In Hollywood

Hollywood is in South Florida and draws tourists to swimming activities in the Atlantic Ocean and restaurants on its Broadwalk. This walking path runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean and runs by variety of seafood and international cuisine restaurants. Many of the restaurants on Hollywood's Broadwalk have open-air dining rooms with scenic views of the ocean. Does this Spark an idea?

Nick's Restaurant, Lounge and Raw Bar

The beachfront Nick's Restaurant is on the northern section of Hollywood's Broadwalk, only a few steps from the Hollywood Beach Theater. Seafood entrees include the fish and chips platter, steamed Maine lobster and linguini with clams and shrimp. Desserts include key lime pie and the Big Blitz, which is a Snickers cheesecake. The price range of entrees is $15 to $22, as of winter 2010. The restaurant has a vibrant atmosphere and the dining room has a stage for live music entertainment. Nick's is open every day of the year for lunch and dinner.

Istanbul Restaurant

Opened since 1991, Istanbul Restaurant is on South Broadwalk and faces the Atlantic Ocean. The restaurant's menu features Turkish cuisine, such as kuzu pirzola -- or lamb chops -- lamb shish kebab and sigara boregi, which is a pie with feta cheese and fresh parsley. Soups include tripe soup and red lentil soup. As of winter 2010, the prices for food is $10 to $20. The restaurant has a laid-back attitude and the front of the dining room is open to the outdoor patio area. A television is available for watching European and Turkish soccer matches. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner on Wednesdays through Mondays.

Sushi-Thai on the Beach

Situated on South Broadwalk, Sushi-Thai on the Beach faces the Atlantic Ocean on the corner of Broadwalk and Virginia Street. This Asian-influenced restaurant has a sushi bar with selections such as kani crab, saba mackeral and ebi shrimp. Thai specialties include panang curry with chicken, pork or beef and cashew nut shrimp. The price range for this restaurant, as of winter 2010, is $8 to $20 for specialities and entrees. Sushi selections run from $1 to $3 per piece. The dining room has Thai and Japanese-themed d cor; outdoor seating is available. The restaurant serves lunch on the weekdays and dinner is offered every night of the week.

Hollywood Grill

The Hollywood Grill, located on North Boardwalk, is within walking distance of local lodging, such as Angelfish Inn and St. Maurice Inn. The menu at this restaurant features European, Mediterranean and Armenian cuisine. One Armenian dish, khorovat, is a steak grilled on an open fire, while Mediterranean dishes include salmon kebab and sea bass kebab. The price range, as of winter 2010, is $25 to $35 for entrees. The restaurant has a trendy atmosphere and features plants and Armenian memorabilia on the dining room walls. Lunch and dinner is served every day of the week. The restaurant provides delivery and take-out services.

Tags: Atlantic Ocean, dining room, winter 2010, price range, faces Atlantic

The Best All Inclusive Honeymoon Places In The Usa

Choose one of many beautiful locations within the U.S. for your honeymoon.

Honeymoon getaways do not always require a passport. From the scenic Adirondack Mountains of New York to the tropical lagoons of California, the United States offers beautiful locations for honeymooners. When choosing a destination, consider an all-inclusive package. Staying at an all-inclusive resort will allow you to focus your attention on relaxing and spending time with your new spouse.

The Point, New York

Two-and-a-half hours away from the hustle and bustle of city life, The Point offers unbeatable seclusion and luxury. This five-star hotel, originally the home of William Avery Rockefeller, is located in the Adirondack Mountains in New York. Reservations are required, as there are only 11 guestrooms on the property. Each unique room is equipped with a lake view, a cozy sitting area with a stone fireplace, and handmade, rustic furniture. The all-inclusive nightly rates include meals, unlimited wine and liquor and unrestricted use of all sporting facilities, which vary according to season. Guests enjoy activities such as water-skiing, boating, fishing, and a complimentary round of golf at a nearby PGA course. All meals are planned in advance in accordance with each guest's dietary needs and preferences. Dinner, which is a formal affair, takes place in the Great Hall with the other guests. As of 2010, nightly rates range from $1,350 to $2,600 depending on the room you decide to book. If you are planning a destination wedding and would like your friends and family to join you at The Point, the entire property can be reserved at a rate of $26,062 per night. To maintain seclusion, the exact location of The Point is withheld until the time of complete prepayment.

The Point

P.O. Box 1327

Saranac Lake, NY 12983

800-255-3530

thepointresort.com

The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina

There are various packages available at this peaceful, cottage-style resort in South Carolina's Lowcountry. The area is known for its graceful landscape and is home to diverse wildlife. Located on the May River, the Inn is just between Savannah and Hilton Head Island. Each 1,140-square-foot cottage includes a fireplace, a plasma television, a steam shower and a screened-in porch. There are also larger cottage suites available, which are 1,340 square feet and have separate bedroom and living areas. The resort offers eight tennis courts, two croquet lawns and two bocce courts. Other outdoor activities include kayaking and fishing in the marshes, swimming in the pool or at a nearby beach, horseback riding and golfing. You can dine casually or in elegance as each of the four restaurants at the resort offers a unique atmosphere. If you prefer a night of privacy, in-room dining is always available. All-inclusive nightly rates range from $425 to $1,050 in 2010, depending on the selected guestroom, package choice and season. The honeymooners' package starts at $825 and includes complimentary robes, a three-course dinner, a full breakfast daily and a lovers' bath and couples' massage.

The Inn at Palmetto Bluff

476 Mount Pelia Road

Bluffton, SC 29910

843-706-6500

palmettobluffresort.com

Paradise Point Resort and Spa, California

This private tropical island features bungalows, lagoons and abundant, colorful foliage. Just minutes from San Diego, California, it is the perfect place to relax after an adventure-filled day at Sea World, Old Town or any other nearby attraction. The bungalow-style guest rooms include flat-screen plasma televisions, wireless Internet, private patios and contemporary furnishing. The resort features a full-service marina, tennis and volleyball courts, and a regulation-size basketball court. Guests also enjoy the resort's full-service luxury spa and its fine-dining seafood restaurant, Baleen San Diego. As of 2010, nightly rates begin at $190 and increase depending on season and package choice.

Paradise Point Resort and Spa

1404 Vacation Road

San Diego, California 92109

1-858-274-4630

paradisepoint.com

Tags: nightly rates, 2010 nightly, 2010 nightly rates, Adirondack Mountains, Adirondack Mountains York, beautiful locations, Diego California

Tablecloth Projects

A homemade tablecloth can be tailored to fit your home's decor.

With some creative inspiration, the possibilities of a tablecloth can be endless. Whether you have an old tablecloth lying around your home that is no longer used, or you simply fancy making your own tablecloth, there are plenty of ideas to try. With these projects, you can turn tablecloths into gifts or decorative pieces for your home.

Children's Project

Have children work together to decorate a plain tablecloth. Each child is given a small square to decorate using fabric markers and paint. The children can be guided by a theme or helped with stencils. The tablecloth makes a special keepsake for family celebrations and holidays.

Leaf Print

A leaf print tablecloth captures the natural beauty of autumn all year. Leaves are used to print patterns on tablecloth fabric. Create a leaf print border or cover the tablecloth with prints of different colors and sizes of leaves. Get a sponge brush, and gently paint the veined underside of each leaf with fabric paint. Place the leaf face down onto a plain, light-colored tablecloth. Cover the leaf with a piece of paper, and gently roll over the top with a rolling pin, keeping the paper steady so that the paint does not smudge. Lift up the paper and leaf carefully, then repeat with a new leaf and piece of paper. Wait 24 hours before heat-setting the paint with a medium-high iron.

Tea Towels

Tea towels can easily be sewn together to form a tablecloth.

Tea towels, needle and thread are all that is needed. Measure the table to decide on the tablecloth size and number of tea towels you will need. Pin the edges of the tea towels together so that a large rectangle is formed. Stitch the tea towels together, sewing the short sides first.

Festive Holiday

Measure the tabletop you want to cover and add an inch all around. For example, if the table is circular, measure the diameter. If the table is rectangular, measure the length and width of the top. Cut out the tablecloth top from red felt using these measurements.

Next, cut the sides from red felt. If the tabletop is circular, measure the circumference with an added one inch. If the table is rectangular, you will need to determine the perimeter: 2(length + width); you will add one inch to that figure also. Measure the desired drop of the tablecloth with an added half-inch.

The tablecloth drop should be measured from the table edge to a few inches from the floor. Hold the short ends of the red felt tablecloth sides in place using pins, before stitching with a half-inch seam to form a tube shape. Pin the top to the sides before stitching together with a half-inch seam and turning right side out, so that the stitching cannot be seen.

Measure and cut out desired festive tree shapes from white felt, and place evenly around the sides before securing to red felt with fabric glue.

Tags: your home, before stitching, circular measure, from felt, half-inch seam, leaf print

Wedding Anniversary Travel Ideas

Travel is a popular way to celebrate a wedding anniversary. When anniversary couples travel to places that are also commemorating special events, it becomes a double celebration. There are annual festivities that welcome the participation of visitors and, thus, provide anniversary and travel memories of a lifetime.

Hong Kong International Races

The Hong Kong horse racing calendar, which generally runs between September and June/July, offers some of the most exciting horse racing events in the world. Day racing and night racing take place in two spectacular settings: at the heart of Happy Valley on Hong Kong Island and in Shatin, part of the New Territories. The Hong Kong International Races are held in December, when the world's top owners, trainers, jockeys and horses visit Hong Kong to try to win the rich prize money.

December is one of the best months to be in Hong Kong because of the cooler temperatures. In addition to the races, taking in sightseeing, dining and shopping would make an unforgettable anniversary trip. If you can't make a trip in December, time a visit to coincide with some of the other special events. In June, travelers can attend a Chinese water festival such as the annual International dragon boat races, which pit international teams of champion rowers against each other.

Roman Spring

Few places could be more romantic for an anniversary trip than Rome, a city of scenic and historical pageantry, plus incomparable Italian cuisine and extensive choices in hotel accommodation. In late March, thousands of vases of azaleas adorn the famous Spanish Steps of the city to celebrate the arrival of spring. Easter and Holy Week in late March to April are also special events in the Italian calendar, with citywide celebrations centered at St. Peter's Square. Time a trip to take in selected special events.

Simultaneously explore ancient and living history in The Colosseum, The Pantheon, St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square, the artistic and architectural legacies of Michelangelo including the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, the Bridge of Angels, the Trevi Fountain, the piazzas and cobblestone streets. Rome is also called "the Eternal City," so as omens go, it is an ideal anniversary choice.

It is said that a visit to Rome lasts a lifetime in memories and that a coin tossed into the Trevi Fountain with a well-placed wish can lead visitors back to Rome before long.

City of Light

To be in Paris at any time is a treat, but to celebrate an anniversary there is an event to remember. Parisians are proud of their history and heritage, never more so than on July 14, France's National Day. A large military parade takes place along the Avenue des Champs-Elysees and fireworks light the night sky. Paris is, in fact, called the "City of Light" to mark its conversion to gas lamps in the 1800s. To witness the street lights flicker on along the Champs-Elysees towards dusk is a magical sight.

Watch the world go by at sidewalk cafés, try the delicious pastries and French bread that are Parisian trademarks, and sightsee at famous landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Arc de Triomphe. No visitor to Paris should miss the opportunity to ascend to the very top of the Eiffel Tower, all 1665 steps or 324 meters (more than 1,000 feet). For art lovers, there is The Louvre, the home of "Mona Lisa" among other priceless works of art.

Tags: Hong Kong, special events, anniversary trip, City Light, Hong Kong International

List Of Military Bases In Florida

Rockets at the Kennedy Space Center

Surrounded by water, balmy Florida has historically attracted the air and sea branches of the military, and hosts some well-known Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard bases.

Navy

US Navy Blue Angels, Pensacola, FL

The Jacksonville Naval Air Station is the third largest naval installation in the United States. Other major naval facilities in Florida are NAS Pensacola, NAS Key West, NAS Whiting Field, Naval Surface Warfare Center, NS Mayport and the Center for Information Dominance Corry Station. Whiting Field in Pensacola is the busiest naval air station in the world.

Air Force

MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa is home to soldiers, sailors and Marines as well as being a major Air Force base. The base supports several unified commands including the US Central Command (USCENTCOM), which oversees Middle East operations, US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) and the NOAA Aircraft Operations Center.

Patrick Air Force Base in Cocoa Beach manages unmanned rocket launches at Cape Canaveral AFS. Other important bases in the Florida panhandle include Eglin AFB, Hurlburt Field AFB and Tyndall AFB.

Coast Guard

The Coast Guard patrols offshore in Florida.

The Coast Guard has six sectors in the southeastern Seventh District, and four of them are in Florida: Sectors Jacksonville, Key West, Miami and St. Petersburg. Several smaller coast guard offices are located throughout Florida.

Army

The Florida Army National Guard is equipped and trained by the U.S. Army at Camp Blanding in northern Florida near Starke.

Tags: Coast Guard, Florida Army, Force Base, Whiting Field

Pit Fire Cooking

Cook over an open flame for a unique and delicious eating experience.

Pit fire cooking comes in many forms--but the basic concept is the same--cooking food over an open fire. This can be done at a campsite over a temporary bonfire type setting, or in the backyard over a permanent pit. All types of foods can be cooked over fire pits, as long as you have the right equipment, such as pots, pans or grill spits. After you build your fire pit, you can throw your favorite food over the fire, and grill it like you would on any other grill. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Dig a pit around eight to ten inches deep. Keep it at least eight feet away from any trees, and be careful not to dig up tree roots while you're making the pit. Make it no wider than your grilling rack, so that you can keep your food above the flames.

2. Surround the fire pit with rocks to prevent the fire from spreading.

3. Lay down crumpled paper in the pit. Put long, thin dead twigs over the paper for kindling. If possible, alternate the long, thin twigs into layers, much like a weaving pattern. Light the paper in two or three areas to start your fire.

4. Add larger pieces of dry wood, once a strong fire has been created by the kindling. Refrain from using pine or other light woods, as these tend to burn quickly, and leave a less desirable flavor in the food. Use oak, cedar or pecan wood instead.

5. Set the grill racks on the rocks that surround the fire pit. Lay your burgers, chicken or other meats on top of the racks to cook them. Check the meats for doneness frequently, but refrain from flipping as much as possible. The less you flip burgers, steaks or other meats, the more tender they will remain. Use a meat thermometer to check the inner temperature of the meat you're cooking.

6. Put pans directly on the fire itself, or on the grill rack. You can also hang cauldrons or kettles over an open fire to cook tea, coffee, soups or stews.

Tags: over open, food over, long thin, open fire, other meats, over fire

Mermaid Top Ideas

Create a mermaid top that reflects the personality of the costume wearer.

An underwater-themed mermaid costume can make a splash at a Halloween party. If the tail is already created or purchased, the top can be the main focus. You can find many different top options for a mermaid costume. These tops can be flirty, conservative or a mix of a few different ideas. Different mermaid top options include a seashell bikini, a decorated tank top, a fish-scaled corset and a conservative blouse.

Seashell Bikini Top

Many mermaids in movies and pictures wear a seashell bikini for the top. Create this costume by using an already created swimming suit top as the base. Start by finding a bikini top the desired color of the mermaid top. Next, match the color of the bikini top with shiny fabric in a similar color. Draw a seashell pattern on a piece of paper. Refer to photos of seashells for the correct shape. Cut the pattern out of the paper. Fold the shiny fabric in half and lay flat on a table. Place the paper shell pattern on the backside of the fabric and use a pencil to trace around the pattern. Trace two shells on the folded fabric, at least four inches apart. Insert sewing pins along the traced line of both shells, with the pins pointing in. Cut the shells out, leaving a half-inch of space from the traced line. When you finish cutting out the shells, use a needle and thread to stitch along the traced line of one of the shells, stopping at the end with a three-inch gap in the shell. Tie a knot in the thread and flip the shell inside out to hide the seams. Insert a small amount of craft stuffing into the shell and stitch the opening closed. Repeat this task for the second shell. When you have sewed and stuffed both shells, use a needle and thread to sew them on to each cup of the bikini top. Paint on shell details like ridges and indentations with glitter puffy paint and set aside to dry.

Embellished Tank Top

For costume wearers not wanting to wear a tiny shell-bikini top, a tank top can be embellished to become part of the mermaid costume. Start with a bright, solid colored tank top, like blue or purple. Next, use glitter puffy paint to paint designs on the tank top. These designs can be scrolls, swirls or sea themes like shells, seaweed and fish. Paint two shells on the tank top over the chest portion to resemble a shell-bikini top. Fill the shells in with a color of puffy paint that will stand out against the tank top color, like yellow or white. Outline the shells with a bright color like pink. Add tiny real seashells to the tank top as well. Find shells at the beach or purchase them from a craft store. If a you want a permanently wet look for the shells, paint them with clear nail polish and set them aside to dry completely. Use a hot glue gun to glue tiny seashells to the straps of the tank top or along the neckline. Use a hot glue gun to glue on large sequins to the tank top. Arrange the sequinsalong the neckline of the tank top, around the painted-on shells or in an original pattern created by the costume maker. Be creative when transforming a plain tank top into a mermaid top.

Elegant Scaled Mermaid Corset

Create a corset can be created into an elegantly scaled mermaid top. Find a corset that is either a bright color or a soft ivory. Next, purchase a glittery puffy paint that matches the color of the corset. Use trhe paint to enhance the corset with glitter, without drawing too much attention to a new color. Lay the corset on a table and insert newspaper in the middle of the garment. Draw on small fish scales, about one half-inch wide and one half-inch tall. Cover the entire front of the corset with fish scales. Allow the paint to dry. When the paint is dry, flip the corset over and paint half-inch scales on the entire back. Adorn the neckline of the corset with pearls, painted on using pearl white puffy paint. Allow the corset to dry completely before wearing.

Conservative Mermaid Blouse

Some people are comfortable wearing tiny tops to complete their mermaid costume, while others would prefer a more conservative approach to the costume.You can create a conservative mermaid top, using a blouse as a base. This can be a plain colored blouse or a brightly colored blouse. If it is plain, adorn it with decorations like shells, sequins and painted-on designs. A blouse made of fabric printed with sea creatures would be an eye-catching addition to the costume. To highlight the waist, loop a thick solid colored belt around it to wear over the blouse. Decorate with glued-on shells, painted-on designs and sequins. There are many ways to dress up a blouse to complete a mermaid costume while staying conservatively dressed.

Tags: mermaid costume, puffy paint, corset with, shells with, traced line

Progressive Dinner Party Games

Progressive dinner parties include good food and good times.

Progressive dinner parties bring friends and neighbors together so they can enjoy each other's hearth and hospitality. As diners travel from one house to another, sharing food and company, engage them with games that work with the progressive concept. Learn about your fellow diners - and maybe about yourself. Offer food-related prizes for winners who luck out or out-perform their companions. Does this Spark an idea?

Five-card Poker-No Draw

Play poker from one house to another.

Leave a bag with a full deck of cards at each of five houses in the progressive dinner party. Each diner draws a card at every house and does not show his cards along the way. Players show their hands at final house on the circuit. Standard poker hands apply. Award the best hand a homemade dessert or fresh-baked good.

Scavenger Hunt

Collect home items for a progressive dinner party scavenger hunt.

A progressive dinner party provides an opportunity to send guests on a scavenger hunt. Coordinate with diners in advance for ideas to place on a scavenger hunt list. Give diners a list of items to gather and activities to perform. Include things on a scavenger hunt, such as miniature soap, a pink wash cloth and a jar of horseradish, to name just a few. Ask guests to play hopscotch in front of one house and record it with a cell phone camera or video recorder. Give the winner(s) a gift related to a progressive dinner party theme. For example, if serving Mexican food, give winners a jar of homemade salsa or a bag of Mexican candy.

Truth or Dare

Meet your neighbors with Truth or Dare.

The game Truth or Dare usually offers chances for entertainment. Put a spin on Truth or Dare at a progressive dinner. Create a list of Truth questions and Dares in advance. Ask each invitee to suggest a question and a dare when they RSVP. Place a deck of cards in a bag. Ask guests to draw a card from the bag. (Divide the number of people to play at each house among the number of houses on the dinner circuit). The two or three lowest numbers play at each house. Include Truth questions, such as "Have you ever claimed that you cooked a food that you really bought?" Ask a dare, which might include knocking on a neighbor’s door and inviting her over for a drink or a snack.

Tags: dinner party, progressive dinner party, Truth Dare, progressive dinner, scavenger hunt, deck cards, dinner parties

What Men Wear To A Luau

Typical men's luau clothes are shorts and printed, short-sleeved shirts.

Historically, traditional men's garb for a luau included a loincloth called a malo and a kihei cloak made of leaves. Don't worry about findng these garments if you're attending a luau in Hawaii or elsewhere, though. The key elements of a man's luau outfit are relaxed fit silk or cotton shirts worn with casual shorts or linen pants. Take it easy at your luau with Hawaiian-style casual wear and open-toed shoes.

Shirts

A guy headed to a luau can't go wrong with what is traditionally called a Hawaiian shirt. This shirt is usually a silk button-down that includes bold, repeating patterns like hibiscus flowers or palm trees. To shake things up or avoid looking too much like a tourist, wear a camp shirt with double pockets or pleats down each side of the chest. A minimalistic approach features a solidly colored linen shirt. Try leaving the top three or more buttons undone and roll any long sleeves up to the forearm. Pair any of these options with a silk-screened t-shirt for a casual but styled look.

Shorts and Pants

A luau is a rare occasion where shorts are most appropriate for men. Choose a pair of shorts in any natural shade of white, tan, brown or green, or a wilder color if it matches your shirt. Unless it's a fancy affair, cargo shorts or board shorts are fine. If you'd prefer pants, wear a pair made of soft, natural fibers, such as a loose-fitting pair of chinos or linen pants. Fold up the hem twice for a beachy feel. In Hawaii, nights can be breezy or even chilly, so pants can be the best choice for some evening luaus.

Footwear

Men can wear flip-flops and sandals to luaus, but make sure yours aren't so rugged or sporty that they clash with the outfit. Black footwear is unlikely to match unless it specifically complements your shirt. Several Hawaiian companies offer stitched leather flip-flops for men that class up their look. With sandals, forget about socks unless you truly need them to protect your feet in an outdoor location. The best shoe options for luau outfits are casual leather slip-ons worn without socks.

Accessories

An authentic Hawaiian luau or a festive theme party lets guys indulge in accessories. You'll likely receive a lei at the party, but you can wear hemp or leather necklaces as well as bracelets. Sun-protective hats work too, such as fishing hats, panama hats or even cowboy hats. Short-brimmed fedoras with decorative bands can also work with Hawaiian shirts. Just make sure that you aren't wearing so many colors and patterns that your garments are competing and clashing; your accessories should tie your outfit together.

Tags: linen pants, make sure, your shirt

The Nutrition Of A Raw Meat Diet For Pit Bull Terriers

Feed a ground raw diet, or include whole bones.

Many pit bull owners involve their dogs in sporting and working events and contests such as Schutzhund, agility, weight pull and tracking. Good nutrition helps the dogs stay in excellent condition and build muscle tone. Raw meat or BARF (bones and raw food) diets have become increasingly popular since the 1993 publication of Dr. Ian Billinghurst's book "Give Your Dog a Bone." A raw meat diet may be especially beneficial to an allergy-prone breed like the pit bull terrier.

Features

Raw meat diets are based on the premise that dogs are carnivores, so they don't need grains or carbohydrates. There is no known dietary requirement for carbohydrates in the canine diet, according to Julio E. Correa, Extension Animal Scientist, Associate Professor, Food and Animal Sciences, Alabama A&M University. A raw diet emulates a natural carnivore's diet: raw meat, bones and organs. Some people feed vegetables with a raw meat diet, but they're not mandatory. The bones contain calcium and other essential minerals. Fat provides energy, while meat and organs give a pit bull protein and amino acids. Tom Lonsdale, DVM, author of "Raw Meaty Bones," says some table scraps are fine, as long as you avoid harmful foods like grapes, cooked bones and onions.

Types

There are many ways to feed a raw meat diet, and a variety of different meats should be included. Every meat has a different nutrient profile; for well-balanced nutrition, your pit bull needs both red meat and poultry. Many companies formulate freeze-dried and commercially prepared ground raw food; several brands are available at pet stores. Pit bulls, with their sturdy jaws, have no problem eating rather large bones, and it's cheaper to feed whole meat and bones. Meat and bones can be purchased from grocery stores and butchers. Unusual meats, for variety, such as green tripe, goat, mutton, duck or buffalo, are sold by raw pet food distributors.

Benefits

Benefits include smaller, virtually odorless feces; clean, healthy teeth and gums; improved skin; shiny fur; and lack of "doggie odor." Pit bull allergies can be improved or cured with a diet free of highly processed food and artificial ingredients. Those with working or performance pit bulls often choose to feed a raw diet to keep their dogs lean and muscular. Susan Wynn, DVM, writing for the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, states that breeds developed as working dogs may well have different dietary requirements than those bred as lap dogs.

Considerations

Many vets accept a raw diet, even if they don't endorse it; and two have written books recommending it. Dr. Wynn acknowledges that "freshness and variety" are important in dog nutrition and recommends that veterinary practitioners respect their clients' feeding practices. However, feeding whole bones can cause obstructions and broken teeth, and while most dogs handle the bacteria load well, they can be susceptible to food-borne illnesses. Unless you have a very cheap source for raw meat, such as farming or hunting, raw food costs are higher than commercial food costs. It also takes more time to obtain and feed raw meat, compared to pouring kibble into a bowl. If you have more than one dog, take care during feeding time. Raw meat is a "higher value" food than dry kibble, and some dogs will escalate resource guarding or food aggression around food. This is a training issue and not a nutrition issue, and easily managed with a little common sense.

Misconceptions

A common misconception is that raw meat gives pit bulls a "taste for blood" and makes them vicious. There is no evidence to support this claim. Pit bulls may be aggressive because of breeding, genetics or poor training, but not because of the food they eat.

Tags: meat diet, feed meat, food costs, their dogs, whole bones

Tropical Fish Games

You can use tropical fish as a theme for your party games.

If you are planning a tropical fish-themed event, such as a child's birthday party, games will help reinforce your theme. You can use a number of simple, classic party games that are inexpensive and easy to set up. Does this Spark an idea?

Beanbag Toss

You can easily create a beanbag toss that revolves around tropical fish. For the beanbags, use stuffed fish. You often find these at toy stores or party supply stores. You will need a minimum of three; however, if you want each child to have one as a party favor, purchase more. Each guest can then take turns throwing three fish at a time at a row of buckets, or plastic fish bowls, which are filled with candy and small prizes. For every stuffed fish that makes it into a bucket, the guest gets to choose one candy or prize from that bucket.

Pin the Fish in the Fish Bowl

Pin the tail on the donkey is a traditional party game that can easily be converted to a tropical fish theme. Instead of a donkey, draw a giant fish bowl shape on a piece of poster board. Draw a castle in the middle of the bowl and hang it on the wall. Blindfold the guests, in turn, and spin them around a few times. Give the guest a tropical fish sticker, which you can find at party supply stores, and then let them try and get the fish in the fish bowl. The child who is closest to the castle wins.

Pass the Fish

Similar to hot potato, the goal of pass the fish is to not be the one holding the fish when the music stops. Have the guests sit in a circle and hand one player a stuffed tropical fish or a rubber fish bath toy. Then play some tropical themed music, such as hula music. The players have to pass the fish around the circle as long as the music is playing. Turn the music off at random intervals and the child holding the fish is out. The rest of the guests continue to play in the same manner. The last player without the fish at the end wins.

Tags: tropical fish, party games, fish theme, holding fish, party supply, party supply stores

Top 10 Vacation Spots In Hawaii

Waikiki Beach is one of many vacation spots in Hawaii.

Hawaii is a dream vacation for many people. Honeymooners can find the magic in a Hawaiian sunset. History buffs can learn about the ancient Hawaiians by visiting a protected temple or take a tour of Pearl Harbor to pay respects to those fallen in World War II. Hawaii has luxurious resorts, world-class restaurants and designer boutiques. Get away from the cities and you can find secluded beaches and even a drive-in volcano. There is an island vacation spot to appeal to almost everyone.

Waikiki, Oahu

Waikiki Beach is the place that started it all. This is where Elvis crooned his hits in the movie "Blue Hawaii" and where Don Ho charmed tourists with "Tiny Bubbles." The wide stretch of sand is framed by Diamond Head Crater, Kapiolani Park and a row of iconic resorts. Of note are the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, known affectionately as the Pink Palace of the Pacific, and the Moana Surfrider, which opened in 1901 as the first hotel on Waikiki Beach.

Oahu Visitor's Bureau

733 Bishop Street, Suite 1250

Honolulu, HI 96813

887-525-6248

gohawaii.com

(ref 1, click on Oahu)

(ref 2)

North Shore, Oahu

This quieter, more rural part of Oahu is a magnet for surfers looking to catch and ride "the big one." It is also for those who want to just sit on the beach and watch the pros as they zip in and out of a giant wave curl. The waves are the biggest in November and December and that is when the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing is held each year.

Oahu Visitor's Bureau

733 Bishop Street, Suite 1250

Honolulu, HI 96813

887-525-6248

gohawaii.com

(ref 1, click on Oahu)

Poipu Beach, Kauai

Located on the sunny southern coast of Kauai, the Poipu Beach resort area is the largest tourist destination on the island. Miles of sandy coastline, golf courses such as the Kiahuna Golf Club and trendy eateries like Roy's Poipu Bar & Grill make this part of Kauai a vacation paradise. Watch the humpback whales spout off the coast during the winter season or snorkel with the Hawaiian green sea turtle in Poipu's warm clear waters.

Kauai Visitor's Bureau

4334 Rice Street, Suite 101

Lihue, HI 96766

800-262-1400

gohawaii.com

(ref 1, click on Kauai)

Princeville, Kauai

The northern part of Kauai is noticeably wetter, but it is this additional moisture that contributes to the lush, tropical beauty. Hollywood fell under the North Shore's charms decades ago when it used Lumahai Beach and the cliffs of the Napali Coast in the movie "South Pacific." More recently, "Jurassic Park" was filmed on the North Shore, with rain provided by Hurricane Iniki. In addition to golfing the courses at Princeville, movie tours are a popular outing on this part of the island.

Kauai Visitor's Bureau

4334 Rice Street, Suite 101

Lihue, HI 96766

800-262-1400

gohawaii.com

(ref 1, click on Kauai)

Kaanapali Beach, Maui

Sun, sand, waves and mega-resorts are all part of Kaanapali Beach. This was the first resort area on Maui and remains the busiest. Sheraton, Hyatt and Westin all have a presence on this beach. The Royal Kaanapali Golf Course lets you play on greens framed with palm trees and views of the open ocean. Between the end of November until early April it is possible to see humpback whales breaching just off shore.

Maui Visitor's Bureau (covers Maui, Molokai and Lanai)

1727 Wili Pa Loop

Wailuku, HI 96793

800-525-6284

gohawaii.com

(ref 1, click on Maui)

Wailea Beach, Maui

Wailea Beach is in many ways Kaanapali Beach's younger sister. Dryer, quieter and with even more sunny days than Kaanapali, the Wailea Beach resort area is also home to mega-resorts. The Four Season's Wailea is one of the most elegant properties on the island and the Grand Wailea is a fantasyland for adults and kids. There is an even better chance of seeing the humpback whales here as they play in the waters between Maui and Lanai.

Maui Visitor's Bureau (covers Maui, Molokai and Lanai)

1727 Wili Pa Loop

Wailuku, HI 96793

800-525-6284

gohawaii.com

(ref 1, click on Maui)

Lanai

Once a giant pineapple plantation with one tiny hotel in Lanai City, the island of Lanai is now home to two mega-resorts; the Four Seasons Manele Bay and Lodge at Koele. The Manele Bay is oceanfront and caters to families. The Lodge at Koele is in the middle of the island set amid pine trees and surrounded by an English-style garden. The island itself is magical. Lanai has uncrowded beaches, dirt roads that need four-wheel drive vehicles to negotiate and interesting places to visit such as Garden of the Gods.

Maui Visitor's Bureau (covers Maui, Molokai and Lanai)

1727 Wili Pa Loop

Wailuku, HI 96793

800-525-6284

gohawaii.com

(ref 1, click on Lanai)

(ref 3, almost to bottom)

Kohala Coast, Big Island

The Kohala Coast is a contrast of black lava landscapes covered with desert stubble and huge resorts dotting the coastline in their emerald-green, palm-studded glory. King Kamehameha built his Puukohola Heiau, one of the largest temples on the islands, on this coast. The Lapakahi State Historical Park, a 600-year-old partially restored Hawaiian fishing village, is also in this area. Both welcome visitors. This part of the Big Island is great for those interested in archaeology and Hawaiian history.

Big Island Visitor's Bureau

250 Keawe Street

Hilo, HI 96720

800-648-2441

gohawaii.com

(ref 1, click on Big Island)

Kailua-Kona, Big Island

Kailua-Kona is the tourist town on the Big Island's west coast. It is known for reasonably priced accommodations, fun pubs and restaurants and shops offering everything from pineapple-frame sunglasses to designer tees from Crazy Shirts. The Hotel King Kamehameha, built on the grounds of one of King Kamehameha's homes, is one of the largest properties in town. This hotel is right in front of the dock where sports fishermen bring their day's catch in for weighing. It is not unusual to see a lineup at the scale as people wait to see a giant marlin unloaded, wondering if it will be another record-breaker.

Big Island Visitor's Bureau

250 Keawe Street

Hilo, HI 96720

800-648-2441

gohawaii.com

(ref 1, click on Big Island)

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

A visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park can be almost ethereal. If you go early in the morning and stand at the edge of Halemaumau Crater, chances are you will hear: absolutely nothing. The phrase "silence is deafening" comes to mind. Kilauea has been steadily active for decades. The Information Center just inside the front gate can tell you where the volcanic activity is and how close you can get. Other sights within the park include the Thurston Lava Tube and the primeval tree-fern forest with plant species that have survived since the time of the dinosaurs.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

P.O. Box 52

Hawaii National Park, HI

96718

808-985-6000

nps.gov

(ref 4)

(ref 3, almost to bottom)

Tags: gohawaii click, Visitor Bureau, National Park, Street Suite, 1727 Wili, 1727 Wili Loop, 800-525-6284 gohawaii

Office Themed Party Ideas

Throwing a party in the office is a fun way to celebrate various events and holidays with your co-workers. When throwing an office party, it is important to choose a theme that fits the reason for the party. Birthdays, showers, retirements or promotions are easy parties with built-in themes. Remember, when throwing a party in the office it is essential to keep it appropriate and inclusive for all. Religious holidays can be tricky to celebrate in the office, so check with Human Resources before planning to celebrate different holidays. Does this Spark an idea?

Luau Themed Party

For a luau at work, a few decorations and treats will transport you and your co-workers into a Hawaiian daydream. To start, go to a party supply store and look for the following items: leis, a luau banner, drink umbrellas, flower strings and Hawaiian music. Food that would be appropriate for an Hawaiian office party include: fruit punch (orange juice, pineapple juice, splash of grenadine), fresh fruit salad or skewers, chicken skewers, and various salads. Guests can arrive to find the office decorated with flowers, Hawaiian music floating through the room, and colorful leis to wear. If an office is feeling playful, grass skirts could be brought for a hula contest!

Pirate Themed Party

A pirate party can be held for celebrations or work meetings. Items to be purchased from a party supply store include: inexpensive pirate hats, several plastic swords, hooks and eye patches, a pirate-themed banner, a black skull pirate flag and a CD of pirate music. Food that would be appropriate for a pirate-themed party include: grilled meat on skewers, rice pilaf and tropical salad. Another idea is to make treasure maps and have a scavenger hunt. To achieve the aged pirate-map look, dip the map in coffee and let dry, tear the edges and use a lighter to burn some of the edges.

Fiesta Themed Party

An office fiesta only requires a few decorations, music and food to create the illusion the office is a small town in Mexico. Items to get from a party supply or dollar store include: crepe paper streamers, a piñata, maracas, sombreros and CD of Mexican music. If you can't find the decorations for cheap, ask around at your office if anyone has Mexican flair to share. Food for an office fiesta can include: tacos, chips and salsa, guacamole and non-alcoholic margaritas. Guests can wear sombreros, mingle with delicious food and spicy music. Fill the pinata with treats and let co-workers all take a swing at it.

Making it Work

Making your office party work requires a team of dedicated individuals who will plan, pick up the supplies, and do the set up and cleaning. Designating a party-planning team early in the year will allow people the opportunity to get involved in the office as well as plan parties for the entire year. A party-planning team should have a calendar that lists all the employees' birthdays and other important events to celebrate. Taping a list of theme ideas to the back of the calendar will help team members keep track of the parties they have thrown and parties they could throw in the future.

Tags: Themed Party, office party, party supply, Food that, Food that would, from party, from party supply

Luau Wedding Shower Game Ideas

Greet each guest with a flower lei.

There is a long tradition of playing games at bridal showers, but they can be boring and predictable. A luau-themed wedding shower offers an opportunity to break out of the traditional mold and try some games that are more active and exciting. Serve tropical snacks and cocktails to get the party started and then let the games begin. Award prizes to the winners. Does this Spark an idea?

Banana Swinging Race

Tie a string around each guest's waist and tie a banana to the other end. The banana should be hanging down between each person's legs a couple of inches above the ground. Each guest has to swing their hips and bend their knees to get the banana to hit their egg and roll it toward the finish line. First player across the line wins.

Limbo

Limbo is a must at any luau-themed party. Crank up the Hawaiian surf music and see how low your guests can go. Up the stakes by playing water limbo. Turn on a hose and have guests limbo under the water stream. When you get wet, you're out.

Hula Hoop Contest

Provide hula hoops for a competition between your guests. Give out prizes to the contender who can hula hoop the longest, with the most hula hoops at one time, and whoever can complete an obstacle course while hula hooping. You can buy adult hula hoops, which will improve everyone's hooping skills and make the games more competitive.

Tags: hula hoops, each guest, your guests

Protocol For The Presentation Of Colors

Follow proper presentation procedures for U.S. Flag display during ceremonies.

The presentation of colors is a ceremony presenting or retiring a flag. The "colors" refer to a flag. A color guard, consisting of two honor guards and two flag bearers, presents or retires the colors. A Sergeant-at-Arms dictates the orders during the ceremony. Proper respect should be given to the colors at all times during the ceremony.

Officer's Roles

The presiding officer or designated appointee of an organization announces that the colors will be presented. Guests rise and the officer asks that the colors to be presented. The Sergeant gives the orders to the honor guard and flag bearers. He calls the group to attention before marching to the front of the room to face the appointed officer. The officer will signal that the colors should be presented, and the Sergeant gives the order.

Presenting the Colors on a Stage

The flag bearers carry the flags in a holster and march forward in step with the other bearers. The bearers stop marching at a designated spot and wait for a "halt" command from the Sergeant. The flag bearers proceed to the center of the stage where the flags will be placed. The honor guard remains behind the flag bearers. The flag bearer takes two steps forward and waits for the next flag bearer to step forward. The bearer faces left while the other bearer faces right. The flag bearers place the flags in stands and take a step backwards. The flags are placed on a stage to the right of a speaker, preferably at the same height as the speaker.

Presenting the Colors on the Floor

When a stage is not available, the flags must be placed in flag holders on the floor. The flags must be placed to the left of the speaker. The honor guard remains at attention while the flag bearers to march in a line toward the flag holders. One bearer then faces right while the other bearer faces left. The flag bearers place the flags in the stands and take a step backwards.

The End of Presentation

When the colors have been presented, the group faces the flags and stands at attention. Honor is given to the flag, whether it is a salute, standing at attention or removal of hats and placing hands over hearts. The Pledge of Allegiance is recited and the color guard retreats upon orders from the Sergeant.

Tags: flag bearers, bearer faces, flags stands, honor guard, that colors, bearer faces left, bearers place

When To Give A Baby Shower

The Baby Gift

The traditional ideas about baby showers are still well known and useful in many situations, but it has become much more acceptable to bend the rules in recent years. The type of party you're planning may dictate the best time to have it. It's not uncommon to be invited to party that's co-ed, online, or takes place after the birth. You should be open to changing plans in case the baby arrives early or there's a medical problem.

Ask the Expectant Parents

If you're throwing a baby shower for someone, ask her when would be a good time. Factors such as her work schedule and whether a good friend will be out of town may influence the date. You can approach the expectant father instead if you want it to be a surprise for her. However, you should only do this if you know that the woman loves surprises.

When to Give Traditional Showers

Baby showers are usually held a month or two before the due date on a weekend afternoon. This way it isn't a problem if the baby arrives a little early, and the parents will have to time to buy last-minute necessities that weren't gifted to them. Most couples know whether they're having a boy or a girl by that time.

You should also consider whether it's appropriate to give a shower at all. Traditionally, they are only done for the first child born in a family. The reasoning is that they should have baby gear left to use again for future children. However, it's becoming more acceptable to plan parties for second and third babies, because each one deserves a celebration--especially if it will be a different gender or there's a large age gap between the siblings.

When to Give Alternative Showers

Certain situations may call for an alternative type of celebration. Online baby showers are becoming more popular for women who are on bed rest or who live far away from most relatives. Gifts can be mailed to the expectant mom. She may open them on a web cam or take photos to post online. There are many games, like guessing the belly measurement, that can be done in a chat room. Virtual baby showers should also be planned around the eighth month of pregnancy, but it's easier to have them on weeknights.

Some people now prefer to have a welcoming party a few weeks after the baby is born. This option is nice for parents who don't find out the sex through an ultrasound, because it will be easier to choose gifts. It also gives friends and family an opportunity to meet the baby.

When to Send Invitations

Ask the expectant mom to review the guest list at least a month before the party, in case she wants to make changes. Invitations should be sent a few weeks prior to the baby shower. This gives guests time to plan.

Tags: When Give, baby arrives, baby shower, baby showers, becoming more, month before

Volcano Helicopter Tours In Hawaii

Explore both exctinct and active volcanoes by helicopter when visiting the islands of Hawaii.

Hawaii is located in the central Pacific Ocean and is an archipelago of eight principal islands. When visiting this tropical paradise consider exploring some of its volcanoes. Many helicopter charter companies offer exciting trips over many volcanic mountain ranges such as Kilauea, Hawaii's most active and youngest volcano. Not only can the helicopter get you close to the volcano's rim, it also allows you to view secluded and untouched protected landmarks.

Volcano Safari Tour

Safari Helicopters Hawaii offers a helicopter tour of the Big Island where passengers can view the famous Kilauea Volcano, which has been continuously erupting since 1983. The Volcano Safari Tour showcases the cinder cones, volcanic and lava activity and the lava tree forest.

The Volcano Safari Tour runs for approximately 45 minutes and takes passengers in an air-conditioned cabin that contains large viewing windows and communication equipment between the pilot and other passengers. Safari Helicopter Tours also equips its helicopters with onboard four-way video cameras that record the majestic beauty of your flight over the active volcano.

The Hawaii Experience

Paradise Helicopters offers a two-hour Hawaii Experience tour that takes passengers over five of Hawaii's 15 volcanoes. The main attraction is the famous Kilauea Volcano, including views of the white and black beaches where passengers can watch lava flow into the Pacific Ocean.

The tour travels over the rest of the Big Island and allows travelers to view hundreds of waterfalls, 2,000-foot valley walls and a variety of coastlines. Each helicopter is comfortably equipped with air-conditioning and can seat up to six people. Pacific Helicopters recommends passengers wear dark, comfortable clothing, as it will limit reflections in any photographs that are taken.

Pele Explorer

If you are searching for a shorter volcano tour, Sunshine Helicopters offers a Pele Tour that runs for approximately 35 minutes. The tour departs from Hilo and travels over the Volcanoes National Park, where passengers can view the Pele's Fountain, a river of lava that flows into the Pacific Ocean.

After viewing molten lava, the helicopter then takes passengers to a variety of waterfalls and coastlines that are on the way back to the airport. The Pele Tour ensures your comfort on the FX Star Black Beauty Helicopter, equipped with six seats and large viewing windows. Two passengers are able to upgrade their tour to allow them to sit beside the pilot and communicate in real time.

Tags: Pacific Ocean, Safari Tour, takes passengers, Volcano Safari, Volcano Safari Tour, where passengers, approximately minutes

Most Common Duty Sidearms In Washington

In 2003, Washington state troopers started to use the Heckler & Koch .40-caliber pistols but the agency found it difficult to access replacement parts for them. Handgun grip size was also a concern with these pistols. Handgun grip size varies from one individual to another and the agency was made to look for an alternative. The Smith & Wesson handguns were considered to be a good option for the agency. The Washington State Patrol has reported enhanced performance with the Smith & Wesson handguns during testing. The manufacturer conducts armored training and has incorporated experience acquired to come up with a suitable pistol designs for state troopers and personnel in correctional facilities in the state.

MP40

The Washington State Patrol uses Smith & Wesson's MP40 as its main duty sidearm because it is easy to get replacement parts for it. It is also used by the Washington State Department of Corrections and Washington State Penitentiary. According to the Washington State Patrol, its grip selection is interchangeable and this makes it a suitable option for state troopers. It is a .40 S&W caliber handgun with a 15+1 rounds capacity. The handgun offers enhanced sight radius and smooth trigger pull.

M&P9

The M&P9 is a 9mm caliber handgun designed for competitive, home protection and recreational use. It is one of the duty sidearms used in Washington. The M&P9 handgun has a capacity of 17+1 rounds. This handgun has a polymer frame and a stainless slide and barrel. It offers three interchangeable grip sizes.

M&P45

The M&P45 is also used by the Washington State Patrol as a sidearm. It is designed for home and personal protection, competitive, professional and recreational purposes. This handgun is a 45ACP caliber and has a capacity of 10+1 rounds. Its chassis is polymer reinforced and the pistol offers superior ergonomics. The design suits the needs of law enforcement and military personnel. The M&P45 design combines safety, versatility and durability.

M&P Compact .40 S&W

The Washington State Patrol uses the M&P Compact .40 S&W as one of its sidearms. This is a .40 caliber handgun with a capacity of 10+1 rounds. The handgun is suitable for personal protection, recreational and professional use. There are various versions of this compact handgun, including 375Sig, 9mm and 40S&W.

Tags: State Patrol, Washington State Patrol, Washington State, caliber handgun, capacity rounds