scraps of life

Goldfish

2011-02-11T08:31:00.000-08:00

The common goldfish is the only animal that can see both infra-red and ultra-violet light.

10 Foods That Can Help You Sleep

2011-01-09T08:21:00.000-08:00

Trying to get more shut-eye? Take a look at your diet. Eating the right foods in the hours before you hit the hay may help you fall asleep faster, say experts, and even improve the quality of your sleep. Keep reading for your get-sleepy grocery list, and remember to stop noshing two hours before bedtime to give your body enough time to properly digest.

Almonds

“Almonds are a winner,” says Jacob Teitelbaum, MD, medical director of the Fibromyalgia and Fatigue Centers, and author of the bestselling book From Fatigued to Fantastic! “They contain magnesium which promotes both sleep and muscle relaxation,” he says. “And they have the added benefit of supplying proteins that can help maintain a stable blood sugar level while sleeping, and help promote sleep by switching you from your alert adrenaline cycle to your rest-and-digest cycle.” Try this bedtime snack: Have a tablespoon of almond butter or a 1-ounce portion of almonds to help your body relax. Photo: Shutterstock

Tea

Yes, avoiding all caffeine in the evening hours is key, but some decaf varieties can help get you into sleep mode, says Dr. Teitelbaum. “Chamomile tea is a very helpful and safe sleep aid,” he says, adding that green tea is another good choice. “Green tea contains theanine, which helps promote sleep. Just be sure you get a decaf green tea if drinking it at bedtime.” Experts recommend trying a 1-cup serving of the hot stuff. Photo: Thinkstock

Miso Soup

You love to order this comforting, broth-based soup in Japanese restaurants, but keeping a few 8-ounce packs of instant miso soup at home may be key when you’re having trouble falling asleep, says Stella Metsovas, CN, a nutritionist in Laguna Beach, California. Here’s why: Miso contains amino acids that may boost the production of melatonin, a natural hormone that can help induce the yawns. Bonus: Research shows that warm liquids like soup and tea may also relieve cold symptoms, helping you sleep better when you're feeling under the weather. Photo: Shutterstock

Find out 9 surprising facts about your dreams and what they mean.

Banana

Worried about falling asleep tonight? Have a banana before bed, says Saundra Dalton-Smith, MD, an internist and the author of Set Free to Live Free: Breaking Through the 7 Lies Women Tell Themselves. “Bananas are an excellent source of magnesium and potassium, which help to relax overstressed muscles. They also contain tryptophan, which convert to serotonin and melatonin, the brain’s key calming hormones." Try this tasty and incredibly simple bedtime smoothie: Blend one banana with one cup of milk or soy milk (and ice, if desired). Pour and enjoy! Photo: Shutterstock

Dairy

Yogurt, milk and cheese do contain tryptophan, notes Dr. Dalton-Smith, but also have a surprising sleep-inducing nutrient: “Calcium is effective in stress reduction and stabilization of nerve fibers, including those in the brain." That means a serving of your favorite Greek yogurt before bed can not only help you sleep, but also help you stop worrying about the weird thing your boss said earlier at work. Photo: Thinkstock

Oatmeal

You eat it for breakfast, but could a bowl of warm oatmeal help you get more rest? Yes, says Stephan Dorlandt, a clinical nutritionist based in Southern California. “Think about it,” he says. “Oatmeal is warm,soft, soothing, easy to prepare, inexpensive and nourishing. It’s rich in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, silicon and potassium—the who's who of nutrients known to support sleep.” But go easy on the sweeteners; too much sugar before bed can have an anti-calming effect. Instead, consider topping your bowl with fruit, like bananas (see above). Photo: Shutterstock

Hard-Cooked Egg

If you have trouble staying asleep at night, it may be because you didn’t eat a pre-bedtime snack high in protein, or perhaps your snack was too high in simple, high-sugar carbohydrates, like cake and candy. “The problem with simple carbs is that they can put you on a ‘sugar roller coaster’ and drop your blood sugar while you're sleeping, causing you to wake at 2 or 3 in the morning,” says Dr. Teitelbaum. A better bet? “Eat an egg, cheese, nuts or other protein-rich snack instead,” he says, “so you can not only fall asleep, but stay asleep.” Photo: Shutterstock

Edamame

Craving a salty snack before bed? Turn to lightly salted edamame, says Dr. Dalton-Smith—especially if you’re dealing with menopause-related symptoms. “The natural estrogen-like compounds found in soy-based products can be very beneficial in controlling those nighttime hot flashes that can disturb your sleep,” she says. If it’s crackers and dip you’re craving, try making this easy edamame recipe: In a food processor, blend together 2 cups of shelled, cooked edamame with 1 tsp salt, a drizzle of olive oil and 1 clove garlic (optional) until smooth. Photo: Thinkstock

Cherries

Oddly, a glass of cherry juice may be an effective way to fall asleep faster, says a team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and University of Rochester. In their study, they found that cherries, particularly tart cherries, naturally boosted the body’s supply of melatonin, which helped people with insomnia. While the jury is still out on how much juice or how many cherries are needed to make you sleepy, experts say sipping a glass of cherry juice (available at most natural foods stores) or having a serving of fresh, frozen or dried cherries before bedtime couldn’t hurt. Photo: Thinkstock

Cereal

There’s no need to feel guilty about having a small bowl of cereal before bed, especially if it’s a low-sugar, whole-grain cereal. Not only is it a healthy snack (make sure you top it with milk to give your body the protein it needs), but it may also help you snooze. “Complex carbohydrate–rich foods increase the availability of tryptophan in the bloodstream, increasing the sleep-inducing effects,” says Dr. Dalton-Smith. Bonus: Top your bowl with a sprinkling of dried cherries (see above) for extra help catching your zzz's. Photo: Thinkstock

Lake Balinsasayaw

2010-11-18T19:02:00.003-08:00

Travels

2010-11-16T16:45:00.001-08:00

BALANAN, Siation, Negros Oriental, Philippines

Health Benifits of Beer

2010-05-08T04:44:00.001-07:00

Health benefits of Beer

Who ever thought there would be health benefits to drinking beer? Well, there are, and scores of them!

Beer and its magnificent research
Studies have revealed that beer can produce the same benefits as drinking wine. Whether you prefer ales, lagers, stout, bitter or wheat beers, studies show that one drink a day for women or up to two drinks a day for men will reduce your chances of strokes, heart and vascular disease. It’s no secret that the stroke is the 3rd leading cause of death in the U.S. and the leading cause of serious, long-term disabilities.

What’s interesting is that it was proven that those who drank one beer a week compared to those who drank one beer a day experienced no variance in reducing stroke risks. It is said that light to moderate drinkers will decrease their chances of suffering a stroke by 20%. A researcher at the Texas Southwestern Medical Center reported that those who consume moderate amounts of beer (one to two a day at the most) have a 30-40% lower rate of coronary heart disease compared to those who don’t drink. Beer contains a similar amount of ‘polyphenols’ (antioxidants) as red wine and 4-5 times as many polyphenols as white wine. At times pregnant women were also allowed to have beer during their pregnancy to facilitate the baby and help him slide out easily from the mother’s womb.

Alcohol has also been attributed of its ability to increase the amount of good cholesterol (HDL) into the bloodstream as well as help to decrease blood clots. As a conditioner too, beer has excellent results on adding up to the shine of your hair. As it contains vitamin B6, which prevents the build-up of amino acid called homocysteine that has been linked to heart disease, you're sure to have a healthy hear too.

Some interesting facts for you to ponder upon.

* Beer is nutritious if consumed in moderation
* That beer is fat-free and cholesterol free?
* Beer has a relaxing effect on the body thereby reducing stress.
* It can help you sleep better
* It helps prevent heart disease and improves the blood circulation
* It has proven to have positive effects on elderly people. It helps to promote blood vessel dilation, sleep, and urination.

On an average beer contains the following:
0mg of cholesterol
0g of fat
13g of carbohydrate
25mg of sodium protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus and vitamins B, B2, and B6

The health risks of beer
Ever heard of the ‘beer belly’? In a German study, Gerard Klose said ‘dangers begin to emerge in men measuring more than 94 centimeters around the middle, and become "really risky" at a girth of 102 centimeters’. ‘Too much fat’, he said, ‘makes diabetes, certain forms of cancer and heart disease a distinct possibility’.’

It’s no secret that high levels of fat accumulated on the body is unhealthy and can cause serious illness over time. An article in the London Times reports that fat that collects around the internal organs to form the typically male beer belly will also find its way into the bloodstream and in turn, raise your cholesterol levels. This leads to heart and vascular disease and strokes. So its best to drink in moderation. Cheers to that! Hic!

Source: http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/12-23-2004-63330.asp

Benifits Of Walking

2010-04-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

Some Basic Benefits of Walking

Just think. You can leave that couch behind, get great exercise, improve your health and fitness...and start to feel great again. The benefits of walking are all for free! Just by putting one foot in front of another. As some of the young 'uns say these days-'How good a deal is that!
Need more reasons? When you walk, you reduce your blood pressure and improve your cardiovascular functions. Heart health is huge in enjoying a healthier lifestyle. That alone makes it worth getting back out there doesn't it?
When you walk, it has a positive impact on your weight and age-related illnesses. It helps build muscle strength and endurance and ...maintain healthier bones and joints. Result? Fewer aches and pain.
More benefits of walking! Your stress level is diminished and...you've slowed down the aging process. You leave the extra baggage in the 'caboose' behind! Very sweet indeed!
And...your renewed energy gives you the urge (and ability) to start doing more outdoor activities with your family and friends. Maybe your grandkids.
Off the couch and well on your way to adding the fun back into your life. At the end of the day, that's what it's all about, isn't it?
Enough benefits of walking for now? Almost ready? Let's Start Walking?

Just before you do though it's time to ...

See Your Doctor Or Health Professional First!

Have you noticed that we really love the walking part? Great!

There's a couple of parts we must defer to the experts on though.

First you need to check with your doctor or health professional and let him or her know you want to start this new walking program. Get your 'green light' so you can be on your way to enjoying the many benefits of walking!

While you're there, you need to talk also about eating healthy and following a really good diet! Get specific diet and nutrition guidance designed just for you.

Got your 'green light'? Great!

Now you're ready. Let's Start Walking!

Or you're welcome to discover...

A Few More Benefits Of Walking*

Controlling Your Weight

Natural Anti-Aging

Maintaining Your Blood Pressure

Walking is Good For Your Brain

Walking Reduces Risk of Breast & Colon Cancer

Walking Helps Prevents Type 2 Diabetes
Heart Health

Walking Helps Alleviate Symptoms of Depression

Walking Improves Fitness

Walking Improves Your Daily Physical Functioning

Walking Is Good For Your Bones

*Special Note: References to studies cited in the following were sourced from MedicineNet.com, part of the WebMD network, Archives of Internal Medicine, Canadian Cancer Society, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, American Journal of Preventive Medicine, Journal of Epidemiology. Specific references are included where available.

Controlling Your Weight

Weight loss by walking! A great way to control your weight. You daily walking actually burns calories and you feel the difference. Those calories burned walking actually increase as your walking distance and speed increases.

You gain a new sense of energy. It's the start of your walking journey to be the best you can be!

Natural Anti-Aging

Fitness walking gives you great cardiovascular exercise, gets your heart rate up, reduces cholesterol, builds muscle and burns fat. You feel better and you're happier. Add those all up and you're enjoying natural anti aging and slowing the aging process!

Regular walking also increases your overall health by boosting your circulation, keeping your energy level up and your spirits high. You look and feel younger longer!

Walking in the sunshine helps your skin produce vitamin D, a vitamin essential to good health. Recent studies in both Canada and the US show that this essential vitamin can lower cancer rates, risk of death and risk of osteoporosis in people over 50.

Walking helps shape and tone your legs and butt, slims your waist and helps you sleep better. Your stress level goes down as you spirit goes up! More reasons to put a big smile on your face. You do age more slowly!

You just gotta love those benefits of walking now don't you!

(Return to More Benefits)

Maintaining Your Blood Pressure

A new study* shows that even if you do a little bit of weekly exercise, it's enough to lower your blood pressure and improve your overall fitness.

Thirty minutes of walking three times a week. Nine easy ten minute walks throughout the day and week.

Either way it's enough to have a healthy effect on your blood pressure. Works great on your measurements around the waist and hip too. Soon you'll be saying bye bye to some of your 'caboose'!

*Tully, M. Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, Aug. 13, 2007; vol 61: pp 778-783

Walking is Good For Your Brain

In a study* on walking and cognitive function, researchers studied women who walked at an easy pace for at least 90 minutes each week. They found the women had significantly better cognitive function and less cognitive decline than women who walked less than 40 minutes per week.

Think about that!

*114th Annual Convention of the American Psychological Association, New Orleans, Aug. 11, 2006.

Walking Reduces the Risk of Breast and Colon Cancer

Women who walk briskly for between 75-150 minutes per week, had an 18% decrease in risk of breast cancer compared with inactive women.

Many studies show that exercise also helps prevent colon cancer. In individuals that had developed colon cancer, the benefits of exercise appeared to continue - both by increasing their quality of life and reducing their mortality.

Those are certainly powerful benefits of walking aren't they?

Walking Helps Prevents Type 2 Diabetes

The Diabetes Prevention* program showed that walking 150 minutes per week and losing just 7% of you body weight can reduce your risk of diabetes by 58%!

The new findings also show people don't need to run marathons or try starvation diets. Just walk! Seven percent weight loss is a reasonable goal don't you think?

That's a pretty easy way reduce your diabetes risk.

*Medical Author: Ruchi Mathur, M.D.,Medical Editor: William C. Shiel, Jr, MD, FACP, FACR

Heart Health

As you walk more and pick up momentum, you start to feel different...fitter and stronger! With this improvement you also improve your cardiovascular function and reduce the possibility of a heart attack. Walking strengthens your heart!

If you're a female who walk three hours or more a week, you reduce your risk of a heart attack or other coronary event by 35% compared to women who did not walk.

If you're a retired male who walks less than a mile a day, your risk of heart attack is nearly twice that of retired men that walk more than two miles per day!

Stop and think about how many friends or family have had a heart attack. Would reducing that possibility be one of the huge benefits of walking for you

Walking Helps Alleviate Symptoms of Depression

Walking for 30 minutes, three to five times a week for 12 weeks reduced symptoms of depression by 47% (as measured using a standard depression questionnaire).

It also gets you outside to get your daily dose of vitamin D. Your spirit is lifted.

No need to worry about meeting any grumpy walkers on your walks. Walkers are happy people! They're happy to stop and chat a bit before moving on.

You've found a fun way to meet new friends. That's one of the very special benefits of walking for sure!

Walking Improves Fitness

Walking just three times a week for 30 minutes can significantly increase cardiorespiratory fitness. Walk tall, look ahead, and swing your arms. Your circulation is improved. Your breathing is improved. You feel the spring in your steps!

Yup. Pretty soon you're a whole lot more fit and hooked for life!

Walking Improves Your Daily Physical Functioning

Research shows that walking improves your fitness and ability to carry out the activities of daily living. Things like dressing, bathing, grooming, personal hygiene. It has also been shown to help in the prevention of disabilities in older folks like us!

It helps you keep your balance. It keeps you stronger and more flexible. Everyday physical activities becomes easier. When it's easier it's sure a lot more fun!

Walking Is Good For Your Bones

Research shows that postmenopausal women who walk approximately one mile each day have higher whole-body bone density than women who walk shorter distances. It also shows that walking is effective in slowing the rate of bone loss from the legs.

Source: http://www.50plus-fitness-walking.com/benefits-of-walking.html

Latest Fashion 2010

2010-04-15T18:04:00.001-07:00

Source: Google.com

Microscopic Sculptures

2010-03-13T18:24:00.000-08:00

Great things come on small packages! Micro Sculptor Willard Wigan is the only person in the world who can create what can only be described as ‘micro art‘.

Artist Wigan uses a tiny surgical blade to carve his microscopic figures out of rice, grains of sand, and sugar, which are then displayed on items such as pinheads, the tip of an eyelash or even a grain of sand. One of his works is a boxing ring with a Muhammad Ali figure that fits on the head of a match.

In an interview with BBC, Willard tells us:

JJ: How old were you when you found out you had this talent?

WW: I was 5 years old. I had learning difficulties and found things difficult. I came from a poor family and wasn’t pushed. I was just told to ‘try hard at school’. That was 42 years ago, and since it’s been an obsession.

JJ: How difficult is it to create the miniature art?

WW: Let me tell you, it’s very difficult. Every movement I make is so small. I have to control my breathing and heartbeat — it’s not easy! I usually work at night and have to make sure the dog isn’t around.

JJ: What’s your favorite piece of work so far?

WW: I like the Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs piece, just because I had to fit so much into the head of a pin. It’s also quite a fun work of art, only 3 times bigger than a blood cell.

JJ: What’s been your biggest achievement in life?

WW: That would be the mini model of The Last Supper. It had TWELVE disciples and Jesus — it was a real challenge

JJ: What would you say to any aspiring artists in any form?

WW: “Be original! Be creative! Be individual and make your mark…”

Willard Wigan is from Birmingham England, born in 1957. The Willard Wigan exhibition at The Mailbox in Birmingham is open for the public to view Monday to Saturday 10am — 8pm, and on Sunday from 11am — 5pm.

It’s been rumored that Willard Wigan may soon be retiring.

Source:http://www.lifeinthefastlane.ca/mind-blowing-microscopic-sculptures-by-willard-wigan/art

MORE IMAGES:

Amazing Pilot Without Arms

2010-03-11T17:10:00.000-08:00

Source: http://www.whatsthelatest.net/for-the-records/jessica-cox-pilot-arms/

Jessica Cox suffered a rare birth defect and was born without any arms. None of the prenatal tests her mother took showed there was anything wrong with her. And yet she was born with this rare congenital disease, but also with a great spirit.

She’s psychology graduate; can write, type, drive a car, brush her hair and talk on her phone simply using her feet. Ms Cox, from Tucson, Arizona, USA, is also a former dancer and double black belt in Tae Kwon-Do. She has a no-restrictions driving license, she flies planes and she can type 25 words a minute.

The plane she is flying is called an Ercoupe and it is one of the few airplanes to be made and certified without pedals. Without rudder pedals Jessica is free to use her feet as hands. She took three years instead of the usual six months to complete her lightweight aircraft licence, had three flying instructors and practiced 89 hours of flying, becoming the first pilot with no arms.

Health Benifits of Apple Cider Vinegar

2010-03-06T18:32:00.001-08:00

Source:http://www.homeremediesweb.com/apple_cider_vinegar_health_benefits.php

What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is an effective natural bacteria-fighting agent that contains many vital minerals and trace elements such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, chlorine, sodium, sulfur, copper, iron, silicon and fluorine that are vital for a healthy body.

Natural Apple Cider Vinegar is made by crushing fresh, organically grown apples and allowing them to mature in wooden barrels. This boosts the natural fermentation qualities of the crushed apples, which differs from the refined and distilled vinegars found in supermarkets. When the vinegar is mature, it contains a dark, cloudy, web-like bacterial foam called mother, which becomes visible when the rich brownish liquid is held to the light. The mother can be used to add to other vinegar to hasten maturity for making more Apple Cider Vinegar. Natural vinegars that contain the mother have enzymes and minerals that other vinegars in grocery stores may not have due to over-processing, over-heating, and filtration. For this reason, it is recommended that you purchase only Natural Apple Cider Vinegar, with an ideal acidity (pH) level of 5 to 7.

What are the Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar?

Natural Apple Cider Vinegar is a wonderful natural cure for a number of ailments which usually require antibiotics and other medications that have a number of side effects. In particular, Apple Cider Vinegar has been known to:

* Reduce sinus infections and sore throats
* Balance high cholesterol
* Cure skin conditions such as acne
* Protect against food poisoning
* Fight allergies in both humans and animals
* Prevent muscle fatigue after exercise
* Strengthen the immune system
* Increase stamina
* Increase metabolism which promotes weight loss
* Improve digestion and cure constipation
* Alleviate symptoms of arthritis and gout
* Prevents bladder stones and urinary tract infections

Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar

Weight Loss

While it is not known why, many people claim that Apple Cider Vinegar promotes weight loss. Some theories suggest that ACV helps to speed up the metabolism, while others suggest that it burns calories. A number of nutritionists also believe that combining Vitamin B6 and Lecithin with Apple Cider Vinegar is highly effective for weight loss. A suggested remedy is to mix 2 teaspoons of ACV mixed with a glass of water and drink this before every meal or sip it slowly throughout the day

Bad Breath

Due to its acidic properties, Apple Cider Vinegar makes a wonderful remedy for bad breath or halitosis. Simply add 1/2 tablespoon of ACV into a cup of water and gargle the mixture in your mouth for 10 seconds at a time until the cup is empty.

Body Odor

Apple Cider Vinegar is an effective body odor remedy, since it can help adjust the skin's pH level which helps to eliminate odor-causing bacteria. For armpit odor, simply wipe them once each morning with undiluted apple cider vinegar (using a cotton ball). For foot odor, fill a pan with warm water and add 1/3 cup of ACV, then let your feet soak in this mixture for 15 minutes once per week.

Skin Problems and Infections
Acne

Apple Cider Vinegar is a natural cure for acne. Please refer to our Acne Home Remedy page for more information on how to treat acne with Apple Cider Vinegar.

Age Spots

Apple Cider Vinegar contains sulfur that fights the effects of aging, which makes it suitable for treating age spots. Visit our Home Remedy for Age Spots page to learn about an effective Apple Cider Vinegar and onion juice treatment for this condition.

Cellulite

Many women have found that Apple Cider Vinegar can help reduce the appearance of cellulite. Our Cellulite Home Remedies page contains details on how ACV can be used to treat this problem.

Stomach Problems

Constipation

Apple Cider Vinegar is frequently used as a natural cure for constipation. Please visit our Constipation Home Remedy page for more information on how drinking Apple Cider Vinegar can help cure this common digestive problem.

Diarrhea

There are various causes for diarrhea, and although it should not be left untreated, it is often a natural way for the body to rid itself of harmful compounds and ingested materials. Apple Cider Vinegar is a fantastic natural remedy for diarrhea since the high pectin concentration acts as a protective coating which soothes the irritated lining of the colon. A suggestion is to add 2 tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar to a large glass of water, and drink this 3 times daily while the symptoms persist.

Major Illnesses

Diabetes

Apple Cider Vinegar may help to control high blood sugar levels, which is why it is often used as a natural treatment for Diabetes. Visit our Diabetes Remedies page to learn more about how ACV can be used to treat this condition.

What are the Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar?

There are no major known side effects of Apple Cider Vinegar when used in moderation. However, drinking vinegars, acids or even lemon juices on a regular basis can lead to a deterioration of dental enamel. This can give your teeth a yellowish look and make them more sensitive to heat and cold. To prevent this, the vinegar should always be diluted with water or a pinch of baking soda should be added in order to reduce the acidity level.

Where and How to Buy Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar can be found in almost any natural health or nutrition store, or from a variety of online retailers such as Amazon.com (see links below). Look for ACV with a pH level of 5 to 7. Apple Cider Vinegar can also be found in capsule form which help eliminate the strong sour taste associated with the liquid vinegar.

The Most Beautiful Island In The World

2010-03-04T21:29:00.000-08:00

Bora Bora, The Romantic Island

Under a one hour flight from the island of Tahiti or Moorea, the island of Bora Bora, with a lagoon resembling an artist's palette of blues and greens, is love at first sight.

Romantics from around the world have laid claim to this island where the castle-like Mount Otemanu pierces the sky. Lush tropical slopes and valleys blossom with hibiscus, while palm-covered motu circle the illuminated lagoon like a delicate necklace. Perfect white-sand beaches give way to emerald waters where colored fish animate the coral gardens as they greet the giant manta rays. This could be easily be described as the center of the romantic universe, where luxury resorts and spas dot the island with overwater bungalows, thatchedroof villas, and fabled ambience.

Simply said, Bora Bora is the most beautiful island in the world.
Pora Pora - the ancient name, meaning "first born," came from legends describing this as the first island to rise when Taaroa,
the supreme god, fished it out of the waters after the mythical creation of Havai'i, now known as Raiatea. Although the first letter "B" does not exist in the Tahitian language, when Captain Cook first heard the name he mistook the softened sound of the Tahitian "P" for "B" and called the island Bola Bola.

Romance on Bora Bora
Truly, the most romantic island in the world. From the dramatic scenery to the privacy and amenities of the overwater bungalows, everything in Bora Bora equals a 10 on the romance scale.

Resorts have been welcoming couples for over 40 years and their special amenities have been fine tuned to perfection. From sunrise to sunset, each resort has designed their own blend of unique romantic experiences for their guests to choose from.

For The Visitor, The Majesty of Bora Bora offers:

- Enchantment from the neon-lit turquoise lagoon waters with unending days of exploration through snorkeling and diving.

- Excitement above the lagoon by outrigger canoe, Boston Whaler, wave runner, jet ski, and dramatic sunset cruises aboard a catamaran sailboat.

Source: http://www.tahiti-tourisme.com

The 5 foods you should eat every day

2010-03-03T17:36:00.000-08:00

#1 Leafy greens
Medical experts call them one of nature's miracle foods. Leafy greens like Swiss chard and kale are high in nutrients like folate and vitamins A and C that can lower your risk of cancer. Just one cup of dark, leafy greens a day could also prevent diabetes and high blood pressure.

#2 Nuts
Many nutritionists recommend nuts like almonds, cashews and walnuts because they're high in natural fiber. Fiber slows your digestive process, keeping hunger and unhealthy mid-afternoon snacks at bay. Goodbye vending machine runs!

#3 Onions
Studies show that consuming onions on a regular basis may reduce symptoms of asthma and the risk of developing stomach cancer. Add them to soups and stir-fry, and just remember -- the stronger the onion, the greater the health benefit.

#4 Whole grains
Refined grains, like white rice and pasta, have lost 90% of their nutritional value through the refining process. As if that weren't reason enough to choose whole grains like brown rice, quinoa and whole oats, a recent study showed that a diet rich in whole grains actually flattens your belly by reducing fat storage in your lower abdominal region.

#5 Yogurt
Making yogurt part of your daily eating routine can improve your digestion -- if you're buying the right stuff. Check that the label lists "active cultures" to make sure you're getting healthy probiotics, and pick a yogurt rich in vitamin D to prevent osteoporosis.

Chemistry Trivia

2010-03-02T17:24:00.000-08:00

Source: Sciensational.com

Chalk is made of trillions of microscopic skeleton fossils of plankton (a tiny sea creature).

Talc is the softest known substance.

There's enough gold in the Earth's crust to cover the entire land surface knee-deep.

Gallium is a metal which melts on palm of the hand, due to its low melting point (29.76 °C).

Each time lightning strikes, some Ozone gas is produced, thus strengthening the Ozone Layer in the Earth's atmosphere.

Mosquitoes like the scent of estrogen, hence, women get bitten by mosquitoes more often than men do.

Honey does not spoil.

The burning sensation we get from chilli peppers is because of a chemical called Capsaicin.

Health Benifits of Coffee

2010-02-28T18:32:00.000-08:00

Coffee: The New Health Food?
Plenty of health benefits are brewing in America's beloved beverage.
By Sid Kirchheimer
WebMD Feature
Reviewed by Michael W. Smith, MD

Want a drug that could lower your risk of diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and colon cancer? That could lift your mood and treat headaches? That could lower your risk of cavities?

If it sounds too good to be true, think again.

Coffee, the much maligned but undoubtedly beloved beverage, just made headlines for possibly cutting the risk of the latest disease epidemic, type 2 diabetes. And the real news seems to be that the more you drink, the better.
Reducing Disease Risk

After analyzing data on 126,000 people for as long as 18 years, Harvard researchers calculate that compared with not partaking in America's favorite morning drink, downing one to three cups of caffeinated coffee daily can reduce diabetes risk by single digits. But having six cups or more each day slashed men's risk by 54% and women's by 30% over java avoiders.

Though the scientists give the customary "more research is needed" before they recommend you do overtime at Starbuck's to specifically prevent diabetes, their findings are very similar to those in a less-publicized Dutch study. And perhaps more importantly, it's the latest of hundreds of studies suggesting that coffee may be something of a health food -- especially in higher amounts.

In recent decades, some 19,000 studies have been done examining coffee's impact on health. And for the most part, their results are as pleasing as a gulp of freshly brewed Breakfast Blend for the 108 million Americans who routinely enjoy this traditionally morning -- and increasingly daylong -- ritual. In practical terms, regular coffee drinkers include the majority of U.S. adults and a growing number of children.

"Overall, the research shows that coffee is far more healthful than it is harmful," says Tomas DePaulis, PhD, research scientist at Vanderbilt University's Institute for Coffee Studies, which conducts its own medical research and tracks coffee studies from around the world. "For most people, very little bad comes from drinking it, but a lot of good."

Consider this: At least six studies indicate that people who drink coffee on a regular basis are up to 80% less likely to develop Parkinson's, with three showing the more they drink, the lower the risk. Other research shows that compared to not drinking coffee, at least two cups daily can translate to a 25% reduced risk of colon cancer, an 80% drop in liver cirrhosis risk, and nearly half the risk of gallstones.

Coffee even offsets some of the damage caused by other vices, some research indicates. "People who smoke and are heavy drinkers have less heart disease and liver damage when they regularly consume large amounts of coffee compared to those who don't," says DePaulis.

There's also some evidence that coffee may help manage asthma and even control attacks when medication is unavailable, stop a headache, boost mood, and even prevent cavities.

Reducing Disease Risk continued...

Is it the caffeine? The oodles of antioxidants in coffee beans, some of which become especially potent during the roasting process? Even other mysterious properties that warrant this intensive study?

Actually, yes.

Some of coffee's reported benefits are a direct result of its higher caffeine content: An eight ounce cup of drip-brewed coffee contains about 85 mg -- about three and a half times more than the same serving of tea or cola or one ounce of chocolate.

"The evidence is very strong that regular coffee consumption reduces risk of Parkinson's disease and for that, it's directly related to caffeine," DePaulis tells WebMD. "In fact, Parkinson's drugs are now being developed that contain a derivative of caffeine based on this evidence."

Caffeine is also what helps in treating asthma and headaches. Though not widely publicized, a single dose of pain reliever such as Anacin or Excedrin contains up to 120 milligrams -- what's in a hefty mug o' Joe.
Boost to Athleticism

It's also caffeine -- and not coffee, per se -- that makes java a powerful aid in enhancing athletic endurance and performance, says physiologist and longtime coffee researcher Terry Graham, PhD, of the University of Guelph in Canada. So powerful, in fact, that until recently, caffeine in coffee or other forms was deemed a "controlled" substance by the Olympic Games Committee, meaning that it could be consumed only in small, designated amounts by competing athletes.

"What caffeine likely does is stimulate the brain and nervous system to do things differently," he tells WebMD. "That may include signaling you to ignore fatigue or recruit extra units of muscle for intense athletic performance. Caffeine may even have a direct effect on muscles themselves, causing them to produce a stronger contraction. But what's amazing about it is that unlike some performance-enhancing manipulation some athletes do that are specific for strength or sprinting or endurance, studies show that caffeine positively enhances all of these things."

How does this brew affect growing minds and bodies? Very nicely, it seems, says DePaulis. Coffee, as you probably know, makes you more alert, which can boost concentration. But claims that it improves a child's academic performance can be exaggerated. Coffee-drinking kids may do better on school tests because they're more awake, but most task-to-task lab studies suggest that coffee doesn't really improve mental performance, says DePaulis.

But it helps kids' minds in another way. "There recently was a study from Brazil finding that children who drink coffee with milk each day are less likely to have depression than other children," he tells WebMD. "In fact, no studies show that coffee in reasonable amounts is in any way harmful to children."

On the flip side, it's clear that coffee isn't for everyone. Its legendary jolt in excess doses -- that is, more than whatever your individual body can tolerate -- can increase nervousness, hand trembling, and cause rapid heartbeat. Coffee may also raise cholesterol levels in some people and may contribute to artery clogging. But most recent large studies show no significant adverse effects on most healthy people, although pregnant women, heart patients, and those at risk for osteoporosis may still be advised to limit or avoid coffee.

The bottom line: "People who already drink a lot of coffee don't have to feel 'guilty' as long as coffee does not affect their daily life," says Hu. "They may actually benefit from coffee habits in the long run."

In other words, consume enough caffeine -- whether it's from coffee or another source -- and you will likely run faster, last longer and be stronger. What's enough? As little as one cup can offer some benefit, but the real impact comes from at least two mugs, says Graham. By comparison, it'd take at least eight glasses of cola to get the same effect, which isn't exactly conducive for running a marathon.

But the harder you exercise, the more benefit you may get from coffee. "Unfortunately, where you see the enhancing effects from caffeine is in hard-working athletes, who are able to work longer and somewhat harder," says Graham, who has studied the effects of caffeine and coffee for nearly two decades. "If you a recreational athlete who is working out to reduce weight or just feel better, you're not pushing yourself hard enough to get an athletic benefit from coffee or other caffeinated products."

But you can get other benefits from coffee that have nothing to do with caffeine. "Coffee is loaded with antioxidants, including a group of compounds called quinines that when administered to lab rats, increases their insulin sensitivity" he tells WebMD. This increased sensitivity improves the body's response to insulin.

That may explain why in that new Harvard study, those drinking decaf coffee but not tea beverages also showed a reduced diabetes risk, though it was half as much as those drinking caffeinated coffee.

"We don't know exactly why coffee is beneficial for diabetes," lead researcher Frank Hu, MD, tells WebMD. "It is possible that both caffeine and other compounds play important roles. Coffee has large amounts of antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid and tocopherols, and minerals such as magnesium. All these components have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism."

Meanwhile, Italian researchers credit another compound called trigonelline, which gives coffee its aroma and bitter taste, for having both antibacterial and anti-adhesive properties to help prevent dental cavities from forming. There are other theories for other conditions.

Trivia Time

2010-02-14T18:27:00.000-08:00

Source: Sciensational.com

Armadillos spend about 80% of their lives asleep.

The most poisonous snake in the world is Belcher's Sea Snake or the Faint-banded Sea Snake (Hydrophis belcheri).

Chameleons often have tongues longer than their bodies.

When the queen of a clownfish school dies, a male clownfish changes its gender to become female and takes her place.

The fungus Cordyceps is able to "mind-control" other insects like ants to climb plants and attach there to become its food.

Dolphins cannot stay long underwater because they breathe through their blowholes above water.

Some species of earthworm can have as many as 10 hearts.

The acceleration rate of a flea's jump is 20 times that of a space shuttle during launch.

The largest frog in the world is The Goliath Frog of Gabon in West Africa and can grow as big as 33cm long and up to 3kg heavy.

The Horseshoe crab has blue blood.

The lightest organ in the human body is the lung.

An ostrich egg is also the largest existing single cell.
The biggest egg in the world is the ostrich egg. It could take as many as 30 chicken eggs to equal its volume, and up to 2 hours to hard boil.

To avoid predators, a mother Slow Loris licks its offspring with poison before sending them off to search for food.

A kind of jellyfish (Turritopsis nutricula) upon reaching adulthood can transform itself back to childhood by converting its cells. It may repeat this to live forever.

The little Alaskan Wood Frog is capable of reviving itself back to normal life after staying completely frozen for months, during which its heart, brain and other organs stop functioning.

My Pet Kutton

2010-02-10T05:12:00.001-08:00

Kutton and Tarsier

This is my newest pet cat, Kutton. She was born last December 2009, same month when I saved her mother Tarsier, abandoned on one street of Dumaguete City. That was actually Christmas Day. I got her name from the word "cotton " because the fur around her mouth looks like cotton;) .. She's such a playful kitty! Takes my stress away!;)

The Top 10 Best Gadgets of Ces 2010

2010-02-09T04:26:00.000-08:00

by: Nick Mokey

ces-2010

Fresh off the CES 2010 show floor, we look at the top 10 best gadgets that stole our attention more than any others this year.

best-of-cesCES lives on. Despite slashed budgets, lower attendee numbers, and the lack of one show-dominating product, this year’s Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas has been one to remember. After returning home, recouping about 34 hours of sleep debt, and reviewing our experiences, we’ve rounded up the top ten items from this show that stand out as the best manufacturers have to offer. From 3D TVs to next-generation e-readers, these were the products that we can’t wait to see on store shelves in 2010.

Asus NX90

We never would have predicted that the perpetually budget-minded crew at Asus would team up with the no-expenses-spared audiophiles at Bang & Olufsen, but the lovechild of their oddball relationship is one to be admired. The 18-inch notebook features an extra-long form factor with side speakers that totally overlap the keyboard, a clean metallic design, and – for some reason – duals touch pads. Don’t laugh – they’re more fun and practical than you think, and Asus claims that eventually software will allow you to use them as turntables.

Toshiba Cell TVs

We knew from the first day of press conferences that this would be the TV to see at CES 2010. Besides using the same type of processor used in the PlayStation 3 and offering native 3D capability, Toshiba has packed it full of every feature we ever could have dreamed of (and some we probably wouldn’t have). A side-by-side video demonstration making last year’s stellar SV670 look weak pretty much sealed the deal for us on the series, although we’re still braced for prices that could suck the magic right out of our early infatuation.

Samsung LED 9000 Series

Just when we thought Toshiba’s “Touch of Color” design was getting a little stale, the company threw it away and produced this beauty, which has to be about the slickest HDTV we’ve ever seen. The set is as thin as a number two pencil, the bezel has been clad entirely in brushed metal, and the criss-crossed spider legs remind us of something from a museum. Oh yea, and like every high-end set this year, it will do 3D right out of the box.

Plastic Logic Que E-Reader

Ignoring the $649 price tag ($799 if you want lifetime data connectivity from AT&T), this will be the e-reader to own in 2010. The flat body reaches almost sci-fi-like thinness, and because the 11.6-inch screen has touch capability, the bezel is entirely free of buttons except for “home,” just like an iPhone or iPod Touch. Plastic Logic has also forged partnerships with over 300 newspapers and magazines to have their content specially formatted for the device to preserve the print-like formatting – an important aspect of those publications that is largely lost on other e-readers.

Panasonic 3D Camcorder

Panasonic’s 3D plasma sets get just as much credit as the other 3D TVs at the show, but we chose their 3D camcorder for our Best of CES round up simple because nobody else has shown one yet. While production-quality 3D cameras have been around for a while (see: Avatar), Panasonic will be one of the first to bring 3D video to the consumer level when this camcorder launches in fall 2010 for $21.000.

Spring Design Alex E-Reader

The Kindle-sized e-ink screen on the Alex may not scream of innovation, but the full-color touch screen below running Android certainly does, blurring the line between mini computer and e-reader. The Alex offers all the benefits of e-ink (smooth text, low power consumption), with most of the benefits of a smartphone (e-mail, Web browsing, calendar functions) as well. The size of the LCD screen also puts to the Barnes & Noble Nook to shame, and unlike our first Nook review unit, it actually worked!

Motorola BackFlip

The second Android-powered device on the list gets major props for its innovative design – the keyboard is actually on the rear, and flips over backwards for typing while facing the screen. Motorola also gives this potentially-flimsy design the build quality to feel rock solid, and some clever uses like table-top mode, which turns the phone into a makeshift alarm clock when you Motorola BackFlip

The second Android-powered device on the list gets major props for its innovative design – the keyboard is actually on the rear, and flips over backwards for typing while facing the screen. Motorola also gives this potentially-flimsy design the build quality to feel rock solid, and some clever uses like table-top mode, which turns the phone into a makeshift alarm clock when you position the screen 90 degrees to the base.

D-Link Boxee Box

The powerful HTPC software we cherished when it was in alpha is finally all grown up. We could take or leave the mirrored cube design of the Box, but the real innovation might be the remote: super-simple directional pad and media controls up top, full QWERTY keyboard on the bottom. How did no one think of this sooner?

Lenovo X100e

Lenovo’s earliest netbooks seemed more or less like rebadged versions of equally flimsy competitors, but the X100e actually feels solid enough to wear the ThinkPad name. Lenovo also reached for AMD’s Neo processor over the anemic Intel Atom, a high-res 11.6-inch screen, and a full-size keyboard that feels every bit as ThinkPad as the old X61 we compared it to. In fact, we might not pin it as a netbook at all, except for that glorious $449 price tag.

Kodak PlaySport

It should be no secret that we’re fans of Kodak’s Zi8 – in fact, we shot every last minute of our CES 2010 video coverage on them. The PlaySport uses the same proven guts and optics, but wraps them in a more durable, drop-resistant, waterproof case for dragging to all corners of the Earth without worry. We also think they’ve improved the interface this time around, and while durability has shot skyward, price has somehow plummeted even further to a wallet-friendly $149.

Zune Hd: Reviewed

2010-02-08T00:35:00.000-08:00

Microsoft’s new Zune HD is slowly becoming a solid competitor to the widely popular iPod Touch and while already in it’s 2nd generation, the Zune HD is still playing catch-up.

The weight and dimension of the Zune HD is just right. Out of the box, the Zune HD is pretty slim and light (40% lighter than the iPod Touch) with a glass front panel coupled with a single slender button at the bottom.

At the back is an aluminum plate, in brushed-metal finish, tucked with exposed screws. The construction is pretty solid and the design is more skewed to edge corners rather than curvy ones.

The navigation is really neat and fluid but needs some time to get used to. Instead of icons, the menu is composed of enlarged texts and some visualization. Playback controls appear with a single tap but you can play forward and back with a (horizontal) flick of a finger. Instead of a timeline, fast-forward control is activated with a sustained tap. Likewise, the volume can be controlled by tapping or flicking the screen up or down.

It’s got something going on with a number of pretty nice features the iPod Touch doesn’t have:

OLED Screen + HD Video-Out: Being able to output 720p resolution to your HDTV is a neat advantage. And OLEDs have better color range and viewing angle. True enough, the display doesn’t bend to a bluish haze when viewed at an angle (near the 180-degree angle).

HD Radio: Despite the very few HD radio stations here in the Philippines, the Zune’s HD Radio can pick up a wide range of FM stations at SD. Apple says they don’t want to put an FM radio tuner on the iPod Touch because they’re positioning it as a gaming device.

Wireless Sync: USB cable missing? The Zune can transfer and sync media files from your laptop or PC over WiFi. (If only it can also charge the battery wirelessly.)

Did I say the capacitive screen is multi-touch too — so the pinch, flick and other multi-gesture functions are there. Very handy when navigating the built-in web browser. The touchscreen is very responsive and snappy that it’s indistinguishable with the iPod Touch.

For those curious how the Zune HD fares against the iPod Touch in terms of specs, see comparative chart below:

As for sound quality, the Zune HD has a nice volume range while the bass is more solid and sounded fuller. The earphones that came with it is decent and though it’s not impressive, I thought it was better than iPod earphones. When used with an in-ear earphones (SoundMagic PL11), the audio quality (especially the bass) is even more prominent. What I appreciated with the basic Zune earphones is the length of the cord (about 1.5 meters

7-Day Diet

2010-02-07T22:46:00.000-08:00

Monday
Eat as much fruit (and juices) as you wish of any fruits, except bananas.

Tuesday
Eat all of the vegetables (and vegetable soup) that you wish.

Wednesday
A combination of Monday & Tuesday (i.e. fruit – except bananas, juices, vegetables, vegetable soups).

Thursday
Eat 5 bananas and drink 5 glasses of whole milk. Some versions say 8 bananas and 4 glass of milk.

Friday
Eat 4 steaks of meat (3 ounces each – beef/chicken/fish) with unlimited green vegetables.

Saturday
Eat 4 steaks of meat (3 ounces each – beef/chicken/fish) with unlimited green vegetables.

Sunday
Eat 4 steaks of meat (3 ounces each – beef/chicken/fish) with unlimited green vegetables.

Best Kept Secrets for Shiny, Strong Hair

2010-02-06T04:03:00.000-08:00

by The chicks at TotalBeauty.com, on Fri Jan 22, 2010 8:02am PST
203 CommentsPost a CommentRead More from This Author »Report Abuse
When you see a certain drugstore shampoo commercial where the woman (always, always) has amazingly shiny hair, do you find yourself yelling "fake!" at the TV? (Don't feel bad; I'm totally there, shouting at my TV with you.)
Turns out, it's time to stop the cynicism. You actually can have totally shiny and strong hair in real life (er, unless you live in one of these 13 worst-hair cities) -- you just need a little help. Check out the tips below or take this shampoo quiz, and don't be surprised when the shocked and awed looks start.

Shine Cocktail
Celebrity hairstylist Marc Townsend (he does Natalie Portman and January Jones' hair, among other goddesses) has the perfect recipe for shiny hair: The night before you need extra shine, mix a silicone-based shine serum with deep conditioner, apply to your hair (fine-haired chicks will want to skip their roots) and leave it on for 15 minutes (or all night if you don't have a deep love for your pillow cases). Rinse it out thoroughly and have your sunglasses on hand to shield your eyes from your hair glare.

Skip the Heat
It's tough, I know, but whenever possible avoid the blow dryer and flat irons. You'll minimize the damage and split ends, so your hair will be stronger and lay smoother (smoother hair reflects more light and looks shinier). Can't avoid it? Then use one of these 14 top-rated drugstore conditioners.

Get All Martha Stewart-y
For a cheap and easy hair and scalp conditioner, massage olive oil into your scalp and down your hair. Put a towel over your pillow and sleep with it in (try not to dream about Italian food too much). Rinse it in the morning. If you'd rather have a sweet dream, try this recipe instead.

Hubble sees Pluto changing color, ice sheet cover

2010-02-05T08:01:00.000-08:00

WASHINGTON – Spurned Pluto is changing its looks, donning more rouge in its complexion and altering its iceball surface here and there.

Color astronomers surprised.

Newly released Hubble Space Telescope photos show the distant one-time planet — demoted to "dwarf planet" status in 2006 — is changing color and its ice sheets are shifting.

The photos, released by NASA Thursday, paint a Pluto that is significantly redder than it had been for the past several decades. To the layman, it has a yellow-orange hue, but astronomers say it has about 20 percent more red than it used to have.

The pictures show icy frozen nitrogen on Pluto's surface growing and shrinking, brightening in the north and darkening in the south. Astronomers say Pluto's surface is changing more than the surfaces of other bodies in the solar system. That's unexpected because a season lasts 120 years in some regions of Pluto.

"It's a little bit of a surprise to see these changes happening so big and so fast," said astronomer Marc Buie of the Southwest Research Institute in Boulder, Colo. "This is unprecedented."

From 1954 to 2000, Pluto didn't change in color when it was photographed from Earth. But after that, it did. The red levels increased by 20 percent, maybe up to 30 percent, and stabilized from about 2000 to 2002, Buie said. It's not as red as Mars, however, Buie said.

Buie said he can explain the redness, but not why it changed so dramatically and so recently. The planet has a lot of methane, which contains carbon and hydrogen atoms. The hydrogen gets stripped off by solar winds and other factors, leaving carbon-rich areas on the surface, which tend to be red and dark.

The Hubble photos were taken in 2002 and the analysis took a few years. But why Pluto changed so quickly was such a mystery that Buie held off for years on announcing what he had found, worried that he might be wrong. However, since Pluto's moon Charon hadn't changed color in the same telescope images, he decided the Pluto findings weren't an instrument mistake.

His analysis also found that nitrogen ice was shifting in size and density in surprising ways. It's horribly cold on Pluto with, paradoxically, the bright spots being the coldest at about -382 degrees Fahrenheit. Astronomers are still arguing about the temperatures of the warm dark spots, which Buie believes may be 30 degrees warmer than the darker areas.

Part of the difficulty in figuring out what is going on with Pluto is that it takes the dwarf planet 248 years to circle the sun, so astronomers don't know what conditions are like when it's is farthest from the sun. The last time Pluto was at its farthest point was in 1870, which was decades before Pluto was discovered. Unlike Earth, Pluto's four seasons aren't equal lengths of time.

Buie's explanation makes sense, said retired NASA astronomer Stephen Maran, co-author of a book on Pluto. "Pluto is interesting and poorly understood, whether it qualifies as a planet or not," he said.

Hero Dog

2010-02-04T07:50:00.000-08:00

Hero Pet of the Year

by: Reader's Digest ( Joanna Powell)

Last October 2009, 13-pound ChiChi proved to be more than just a pretty face when he alerted his owners to two women in danger of drowning.

At 13 pounds, ChiChi might be most at home in a handbag. "He's so tiny, I can scoop him up with one hand," says Mary Lane of her energetic pet. "Most people see him and think he's useless."

But last October, the Chihuahua mix proved to be more than just a pretty face. Mary and her husband, Rick, were relaxing on the beach one afternoon while on vacation in North Carolina's Outer Banks. As usual, ChiChi was lying on his blanket in his own little beach chair.

"We had our noses buried in books," recalls Rick, "when suddenly the dog became extremely agitated. His bark was different from anything we had heard before. And he would not let us ignore him."

ChiChi ran back and forth in front of his chair, straining at his leash as if to run down the beach. The Lanes sat up to see two elderly women in the ocean, about 100 yards down the beach and 10 feet offshore. One was on her back, her head tipping under the waves. The other was frantically trying to keep her friend's head above the surface.

The Lanes rushed across the sand and into the surf. Rick waded to the woman in danger of drowning, while Mary held fast to the other one and pulled her up on the beach. "Then I went back to help Rick," Mary recounts. "The sand dropped off steeply, and a riptide was sucking the woman un-der. She was completely disoriented."

Still recuperating from recent knee surgery, the woman had been unable to turn over or push herself up. "Her friend had been in danger too," Mary says. "The waves were pushing her around. There's no way she could have held on much longer."

The women hadn't called out for help. "They were struggling so hard, there was no time for screaming," Mary recalls. But ChiChi had sensed danger nonetheless. "The dog knew. I've puzzled and puzzled over how."

Duty done, ChiChi was back in his chair, asleep, by the time the two women were on dry ground and the Lanes had returned to their blankets. The women were shaken but okay, and after the Lanes delivered them to their condo, they all said they'd see one another again during the week. The Lanes never did get their names.

As for ChiChi, he's a celebrity back home in Greensboro, North Carolina. His veterinarian has a local newspaper clipping hanging in his office about ChiChi, and the Lanes have ordered a special collar with the words "Hero Dog" embroidered on it. They hope it will bring a modicum of respect to Chihuahuas everywhere."

2010-02-04T07:17:00.000-08:00

19 Weight Loss Secrets From Around the World

By Joe Kita

We've collected ingenious tips from 18 countries, asking leading nutritionists and Reader's Digest's international editors to divulge the quirks of their cultures that can help us all stay lean. Plus, read the full results of our exclusive global weight loss poll and watch video of people around the world stepping on the scale.

2010-01-23T17:50:00.000-08:00

Avatar Mania

2010-01-23T17:43:00.001-08:00

Avatar is a 2009 science fiction epic film written and directed by James Cameron and starring Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Michelle Rodriguez and Stephen Lang. The film is set in the year 2154 on Pandora, a moon in the Alpha Centauri star system.Humans are engaged in mining Pandora's reserves of a precious mineral, called unobtanium, while the Na'vi, a race of indigenous humanoids, resist the colonists' expansion, which threatens the continued existence of the Na'vi and the Pandoran ecosystem. The film's title refers to the genetically engineered Na'vi bodies used by a few of the film's human characters to interact with the Na'vi.

Development on Avatar began in 1994, when Cameron wrote an 80-page scriptment for the film.Filming was supposed to take place after the completion of Titanic, for a planned release in 1999, but according to Cameron, the technology was not yet available to portray his vision of the film. Work on the language for the film's extraterrestrial race began in summer 2005, and Cameron began developing the script and fictional universe in early 2006.

The film was released in traditional 2-D, as well as in 3-D, using the RealD 3D, Dolby 3D, and IMAX 3D formats. Avatar is officially budgeted at $237 million; other estimates put the cost at $280–310 million to produce and $150 million for marketing.The film is being touted as a breakthrough in terms of filmmaking technology, for its development of 3D viewing and stereoscopic filmmaking with cameras that were specially designed for the film's production.

Avatar premiered in London on December 10, 2009, and was released on December 18, 2009, in North America to critical acclaim and commercial success. It grossed $27 million on its opening day domestically (in the United States and Canada) and $77 million domestically on its opening weekend.^[17] It opened two days earlier internationally and grossed $232 million worldwide in its first five days of international release. Within three weeks of its release, it had grossed over $1 billion worldwide, becoming the second-highest-grossing film of all time, exceeded only by Cameron's previous film Titanic. Due to the film's success, Cameron confirmed the possibility of two sequels.

source:From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia