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Ross Martinez Profile and Articles
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1). A Perfect Deck Starts With Redwood
There are many good reasons that redwood decks are popular among today's homeowners. Not only do they provide an area for enjoying the outdoors, they also add to the value of a property. In fact, research shows that owners can recoup 100 percent or more of the original investment in an outdoor deck when they sell their home.
Your redwood deck can be as simple or complex as you care to make it.
2). A Sticky Situation for Do-It-Yourselfers
Though people have been stuck on duct tape for decades - using it for everything from short-term home repairs to creative fashion fixes - advances in the tape world are now getting repair gurus out of even stickier situations.
Originally green and called "Duck" tape, this kind of tape was first used by soldiers in World War II for repairs and to keep moisture out of their ammunition cases.
3). A Woman's New Best Friend
Imagine walking into a restaurant and having all eyes on you. Like most women, I love attention, but recently I got more attention and compliments than I knew how to handle.
During a casual dinner with friends, my sparkling white gold two-carat Moissanite earrings stole the show.
One dinner companion whispered, "Those are the most beautiful diamond earrings I've ever seen.
4). Add Flavor to Meals Without Adding Carbs
With all of the low-carbohydrate and no-carbohydrate frenzies lately, you should be aware that adding a dry seasoning blend of quality herbs and spices to your recipes will boost flavor without adding carbohydrates or calories.
I believe in making food exciting - an emotional experience - with bold, but not overpowering, flavors to enhance what you are cooking so the first bite tastes as good as the last.
5). Alcohol: Health Benefit or Health Risk?
We've all heard the news about the potential heart-health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption. It's no wonder such stories grab headlines. They're the nutritional equivalent of the classic media formula of "man bites dog." As for the rest of us, we celebrate by raising a glass to our health.
But whenever I hear one of these reports, I wonder whether it actually ends up doing more harm than good.
6). Bad Breath? Medicine May Be the Culprit
If a thorough brushing and a breath mint are ineffective in your fight against bad breath, you may have a serious condition that, if not looked into, could cause detrimental effects to your teeth, mouth and gums.
This condition is called xerostomia. More commonly known as dry mouth, medications are one of the most common causes of the disorder.
According.
7). Billionaire to Build Homes For Battered Women
There was no press release, no entourage, no announcement at all when legendary businessman David H. Murdock, owner of Dole Food Co., walked into the housing authority offices in his home county of Ventura, Calif., to offer to build affordable housing for victims of domestic abuse on county-owned land.
Murdock's help would provide as many as 200 one-, two- and three-bedroom units for battered women and their children.
8). College Bound? 6 Tips For a Pain-Free Move
Moving away to college, with all of your possessions in tow, is more than just a headache. It also can be a pain in the neck, back and legs.
Constant lifting and carrying heavy items can overwork your muscles and leave your body stressed, fatigued and in pain. W.F. Young Inc., the maker of Absorbine Jr. pain relief products, offers the following tips to help you alleviate the aches and pains of moving.
9). Confused About Car Care? Some Guidelines to Follow
Car care can be intimidating, often because people don't know what to check on their vehicles - or when to check it - to keep them in good working condition.
A recent survey by the Car Care Council found that 38 percent of cars had low or dirty engine oil, more than 50 percent had low tire pressure and an alarming number of vehicles had not been properly maintained.
10). Conquering the Effects of Aging
No one looks forward to wrinkles, low energy and other effects of aging on the body.
When searching for their "fountain of youth," the biggest mistake that people make is buying an anti-
aging cream and calling it a day. But the key to delaying the effects of aging is to change your lifestyle.
According to the National Institute on Aging, exercising regularly is the first step in fighting the effects of aging.
11). Cook Eggs, Don't Boil
Chopped, sliced or wedged, hard-cooked eggs are the basis of egg salad and add protein and a happy glow to tossed and composed salads and casseroles. Chopped yolks and whites comprise Eggs Goldenrod and Polonaise Sauce. Whole hard-cooked eggs become comforting, familiar deviled eggs or zingy, newly rediscovered pickled eggs. Simply sprinkled with an herb or more fancily coated in sausage for Scotch eggs, hard-cooked eggs are nature's own hand-held snack food.
12). Could Your Home Withstand a Fire?
In December 2004, a fire destroyed three townhouses and damaged a fourth in Lorton, Va., just south of the nation's capital. Investigators later determined that faulty wiring had sparked the blaze.
Raul Castillo, a spokesman for the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, said that fire marshals digging through the rubble uncovered an anomaly in the internal wiring at the back of one of the townhouses.
13). Crack Open a Miracle
Crack open an egg and you find a wealth of nutrients. Because eggs contain a wide variety of nutrients compared to their calorie count (75 per Large egg), they're called nutrient dense. Eating nutrient-dense foods helps us satisfy our nutrient needs without excess calories. The nutrient density benefit of eggs is especially important for older adults and anyone who is overweight.
14). Dairy: Diet Boost or Boomerang?
Adequate calcium intake has long been recommended for stronger bones. But lately, calcium has been scoring headlines for its possible link with weight loss. While I hope this news will be a boon to dieters, I'm afraid it could also boomerang.
Why? It panders to the fantasy that eating certain foods will make you lose weight. Wrong. Eating fewer calories than you burn will make you lose weight.
15). Devil Up an Angelic Appetizer
Deviled eggs have earned their niche in the finger-food hall of fame. One of the reasons they're so popular is that they can be varied in so many ways. For your next barbecue, patio party or picnic, why not go beyond the traditional filling flavorings of mayo, mustard and pickle relish? Experiment with a little taco sauce and chili powder or Parmesan cheese and pesto to create your own signature deviled eggs.
16). Discover Your Kitchen Personality
What kind of cook are you? Do you prefer to get up early to prep the evening meal? Are you simply too crazed to even think about dinner until after work? Or are you one of those who are able to find a balance in between?
These are some of the questions I ask in "Kitchen Life," my new book in which I quiz readers to help them determine what kind of cooks they are.
17). Distilling the Truth About Bottled Water
Since the tap water scares of the early 1990s, intense marketing campaigns have convinced consumers that bottled water is the only safe alternative to the tap. But do-it-yourself options like home water filtration systems are generally more convenient and less expensive than bottled water, which costs consumers $22 billion per year.
A closer look into.
18). Do We Need Eight Glasses of Water a Day?
Do you know where the idea of drinking eight glasses of water per day came from? Neither does anyone else.
Yet many nutritionists, weight-loss experts and general health gurus claim we must drink that much every day.
I certainly tried to do it. I would drink coffee in the morning, then maybe force down a glass of water. By the time I had sweet tea with lunch, I was not thirsty but would try to choke down two more glasses of water in the afternoon.
19). Don't Forget to Drink Your Fruits and Veggies
Remember the scene at the dinner table when you were a child? Negotiating with your parents on how many bites of peas and carrots you had to take in order to leave the table was most likely a constant struggle.
Unfortunately, people don't always grow out of this negative attitude toward fruits and vegetables. Studies show that the average American consumer eats only three servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
20). Dread Moving? Tips to Help You Move Smartly
On the list of life's biggest stress-inducers, moving is right up there near the top. We all hate it: the last-minute rush to pack your possessions into boxes; the dread that you won't remember the "safe" place where you put your valuables; the inevitable breakage and leakage.
But moving doesn't have to be a blood pressure booster. Here are some tips for a low-stress move, from the experts at Pak Mail:
* Plan strategically.
21). Eating to Ease Arthritis Pain
Do aches and pains have you out of joint? Concerns culminating in the withdrawal of several selective Cox-2 inhibitors, like Vioxx, have many arthritis sufferers turning to the supplement aisle in search of relief.
Could diet and exercise provide more reliable solutions? Here's a roundup of recent research into those foods that help support healthy joints:
* Pineapple: Bromelain is an enzyme that can help ease joint pain and relieve muscle soreness.
22). Embracing Life When Losing a Loved One
Five years ago my husband Walter, a devoted father and legendary Chicago Bears running back, succumbed to cancer. Not a day goes by that I don't miss him. But since his passing, I've realized there are many ways to embrace life before and after the unthinkable happens.
Preparing for death is not something we're instinctively ready to do, but the truth is, every family faces loss.
23). Eye-Opening Facts About Stress
You look at the clock. It's 1 a.m. You've been trying to sleep since 11, and you're still awake. Your mind races. Your muscles are tense. You think you'll never get any rest. Sound familiar? If so, you are one of 60 million people in the U.S. who suffer from some form of insomnia.
A recent survey by the National Sleep Foundation indicates that 58 percent of adults in America experience insomnia at least a few nights a week.
24). Fight Cancer With These 10 Foods
More than a third of all cancers could be prevented by changes in diet and exercise. One of the most important things you can do to reduce your risk is lose excess weight - and one of the best ways to lose weight is through a filling, fiber-rich diet including plenty of fruits and vegetables.
But that's not the reason why the National Cancer Institute recently approved the dietary guidance: "Diets rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of some types of cancer and other chronic diseases.
25). Get Published: New Guide Gives Advice From the Pros
Have you ever wanted to write a book? Whether you have a great idea for a cookbook, a science-fiction novel or children's story, transforming it into reality requires a lot of discipline and some good insider advice.
The American Association of Publishers and Publishers Weekly report as many as 150,000 new titles are published annually in the United States.
26). Getting Your Credit Report Is Easy and Will Soon Be Free
Obtaining a copy of your credit report is easy and, thanks to Uncle Sam, it soon will be free.
That's welcome news since it's a good idea, especially before applying for a loan or other credit, to know where you stand by checking your credit report (which details how well you pay your loans, bills and credit card purchases).
Under legislation passed by Congress in December 2003 and new Federal Trade Commission rules, consumers can request a free copy of their credit report every 12 months.
27). How to Prepare for a Visit To the Emergency Room
You're headed to the emergency room. Somebody close to you is in desperate straits and all you want is for somebody to see them fast and make them well. Chances are that if the patient is not acutely ill, you're in for a long wait.
This occurs daily in almost all emergency rooms. You may not be able to avoid this unfortunate scenario, but there are some things you can do now to prepare yourself for an emergency room visit in the future.
28). How to Spice Up Your Next Salmon Dish
Salmon has become one of the most popular fish to serve. People love the taste, and salmon cooks quickly, making it a great option for both weeknights and weekends.
Besides convenience, salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, containing all the essential amino acids, making it a great source of nutrition for the young and old alike.
If you want to prepare salmon, remember to purchase the freshest fillets you can.
29). Keep Your Driveway Spot-Free
Concrete driveways and sidewalks take a lot of abuse. Look down and you're likely to find dirt, oil and even rust stains. But some simple tips can keep all the concrete around your home looking clean and new.
Most dirt and grime stains can be cleaned away with a power washer. Power washers are relatively inexpensive to purchase, or may be rented.
For oil and grease stains, spread a thick layer of cat litter over the grease to absorb grease or oil on the surface.
30). Laundry Tips From 'The Clothing Doctor'
The average American household does one load of laundry per day -; that's a lot of time in the laundry room. Many people take pride in the appearance of their families' wardrobe, but all that time in the laundry room might be a waste.
Here are some tips on when to spend time and when to save it while doing laundry:
Spend Time: Hand Washing
If you have to hand wash a garment, it is because it's delicate and needs special care.
31). Look Younger Without Going Under the Knife
If Botox, collagen injections or plastic surgery aren't on your top list of to-do's to help yourself look younger, read on. You don't need to take extreme measures to reveal a more vibrant you because there are many simple and natural ways to refresh your appearance and help you look younger.
One of the first things I recommend is to put your money where your mouth is, literally.
32). Messes Make Memories
Want some good family fun? Make a mess.
"Kids love a good mess and a mess is often a sign of a good time," says award-winning author Donna Erickson. Simple activities like playing in a big pile of leaves or splashing in puddles after an afternoon shower become family traditions that kids remember.
Families can enjoy endless indoor fun, too, without giving messes a second thought.
33). Missing Nutrients: Where Our Diets Fall Short
You don't need a sophisticated survey to establish that most Americans are overfed - a casual look around will suffice. What may not meet the eye is that while most of us are getting more than we need in terms of calories, refined carbohydrates, saturated fat and sodium, we're significantly malnourished when it comes to key nutrients.
The five most glaring deficiencies are:
* potassium;
* vitamin E;
* magnesium;
* vitamin A;
* fiber.
34). More Energy Is Within Your Reach
When you bring up the word "energy" in conversation, people respond. It seems as if everyone is looking for ways to increase his or her energy level and vitality. We need energy to succeed on the job, at home, in our social lives and to feel good about ourselves.
Sometimes we treat energy like an item we can't afford at an expensive store. But having more energy actually is as easy as 1-2-3.
35). Morning Bars Add Luxury to the Bedroom
Imagine waking up to the smell of fresh-brewed coffee, just feet away from your bed, or grabbing an ice-cold beverage and a late-night snack without ever leaving the comfort of your bedroom.
Forget the walk-in closet and the master bath; the morning bar is one of the hottest new home amenities. The typical morning bar includes a sink and faucet, small refrigerator, drawer dishwasher and small counter to hold appliances such as a coffee maker, espresso machine or even a microwave oven.
36). New At-Home Test Helps Design Custom Vitamins
If you're like most people, you are already supplementing your diet with vitamins or at least thinking about it.
But visit any health food or nutrition store and you are likely to see an overwhelming array of products, ranging from inexpensive multivitamins to highly specialized supplements that cost almost $400 a bottle. The choices can be daunting.
37). New Therapy Studied For Sickle Cell Anemia
Soon after her baby's 6-month birthday, Wanda Gougis' worst fears were confirmed. The doctor told her that her daughter, Juanita, had inherited what some other members of her family had - sickle cell anemia.
Instead of the normal cries for food or attention, Juanita cries out in pain. The infant faces repeated episodes of excruciating pain involving every joint and organ in the body.
38). New U.S. Guidelines: More Veggies, Fish, Whole Grains
The curtain is rising on the new U.S. dietary guidelines and it looks like fresh produce, fish and whole grains are going to be center stage.
If the rest of the recommendations follow such a promising preview, the new guidelines will be a step toward combating obesity and related ailments such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Data.
39). Nutrition Needs in the Golden Years
Many a proverb has been dedicated to how our attitudes and expectations evolve as we pass through life's seasons, but far less has been written about how our nutrition needs change as we enter the golden years.
As we age, we need fewer calories - about 10 percent less per decade from age 50 onward - but not necessarily fewer nutrients. With our bodies'.
40). Nutrition Zeroes or Heroes? Four Misunderstood Foods
While superfoods like blueberries, tomatoes and spinach have achieved the nutrition equivalent of celebrity status, other fruits and vegetables generate little excitement - and even confusion.
The researchers and scientists at the Dole Nutrition Institute took another look at several foods commonly regarded as "nutrition zeroes" and found out that some of them are actually "nutrition heroes.
41). Pave the Way to Your New Brick Patio
Need a new project? Get outside and build a new patio or sidewalk, even if you already have one.
Many patios and sidewalks are made of poured concrete. If you'd rather have something that doesn't look worn and dirty - and doesn't need to be power washed each spring - consider laying new brick pavers directly over the old surface.
"There are a number of advantages to doing it this way," says Laura Schwind, a registered landscape architect for Pine Hall Brick, the largest supplier of clay pavers in the United States.
42). Poll: Half Say Low-Carb Diets Not Worth Risks
Half of all Americans surveyed for the brand new "Dole Poll" said that no amount of weight loss from a low-carb diet would be worth the potential negative health impact.
According to the national poll of 801 adults, the possible side effects of a low-carbohydrate diet - such as high cholesterol, constipation, kidney stones and increased risk of some cancers -"tip the scales" against following such a diet for a full 50 percent of respondents.
43). Prepare Your Car For Mother Nature
The most recent Farmer's Almanac calls for a winter season that is unusually cold with plenty of snow. For drivers, that could mean some difficult and dangerous driving conditions.
First, be prepared for winter driving by taking your car to a certified automotive technician, like those at a Firestone Complete Auto Care. A vehicle checkup will help ensure that the engine, battery, exhaust system, heating and defrosting systems are all in good working order, and will make sure that the vehicle's main fluids are at the right level.
44). Put Snoring to Rest
Almost everyone can tell at least one joke about people who snore. But snoring's no laughing matter. According to The American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, severe snoring not only interrupts sleep, it can cause serious, long-term health problems, including obstructive sleep apnea.
For chronic snorers, the good news is that they're not alone.
45). Rare Coins: the Gift That Keeps On Giving
Who would have thought that the gift of a coin would end up being the best gift I've ever received?
I have many fond memories of my grandmother, but one such memory will stay with me for the rest of my life. When I was 10 years old, my grandmother gave me a silver dollar for Christmas.
To this day, I still have that coin. And from that little memento, I gained a lot.
46). Seniors Pay High Price for Gap in Benefits Coverage
Since the Medicare Part D drug benefit was unveiled, it has proven to be even more confusing and inefficient than its critics predicted. Even seniors who have been able to register for the program must still struggle with a $3,000 gap in benefits coverage and a hefty monthly premium.
Already the government has had to change the program: The Centers.
47). Serve Eggs Anytime
The popularity of breakfast foods is a good reason to keep dependable starters, such as eggs, bread and other staples, on hand. But why reserve them only for morning meals? Planning breakfast for dinner is a good way to serve up simple, satisfying evening meals without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
A strata is one easy-to-prepare dish that can go from breakfast to dinner with ease.
48). Shopping for Sheets? Don't Let Thread Count Mislead You
Sheet shopping has become something of a numbers game. And it's not the numbers in the price that are attracting attention, it's the thread count.
The higher that number, the softer the sheet, right? Not necessarily. Characteristics such as fabric and weave can add significantly to a sheet's quality and tactile appeal. In fact, in certain combinations, the fabric and weave can make a lower thread count feel softer than a higher thread count made of a different fiber in a different weave.
49). Solve the Dinner Dilemma
A study at Harvard Medical School showed that children who ate dinner more often with their families had diets of better nutritional quality than those who seldom had family meals. Children who often ate with their families were more likely to eat enough fruits and vegetables and to get more of the vitamins, minerals and fiber they need. Regular family diners were also more likely to eat less saturated fat and trans-fatty acids and less likely to eat fried foods and drink soda.
50). Step Up to Pampered, Healthy Feet
Are you one of the millions of American women who dislike their feet - feet that are dry, cracked and hidden from view?
If you've tried countless creams, medications or pumice stones with little or no relief, or can't afford weekly spa pedicure treatments, don't fret. Relief for your time-worn, cracked tootsies is in sight, right in the comfort of your home.
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