God who saved baby and mom in a miracle....later let the family go broke and dad go to prison. Hooray for omnipotence!
Coltyn Hermanstorfer, Tracy Hermanstorfer Christmas Miracle Recovery Still Awes Family
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
Amazon patents procedure to let recipients avoid undesirable gifts
...Amazon is working on a solution that could revolutionize digital gift buying. The online retailer has quietly patented a way for people to return gifts before they receive them, and the patent documents even mention poor Aunt Mildred. Amazon's innovation, not ready for this Christmas season, includes an option to "Convert all gifts from Aunt Mildred," the patent says. "For example, the user may specify such a rule because the user believes that this potential sender has different tastes than the user." In other words, the consumer could keep an online list of lousy gift-givers whose choices would be vetted before anything ships.
Amazon's idea has raised the ire of the Miss Manners crowd, which thinks the scheme rather uncouth. After all, receiving an e-mail notification of a forthcoming gift - and thereby being able to check its price - is hardly the same as unwrapping the item at home.
Click here to read the rest of the story.Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Sally Ann bans Harry Potter and Twilight toys | Canada | News | Toronto Sun
The Salvation Army says it refuses to distribute Harry Potter and Twilight toys collected for needy children because they're incompatible with the charity's Christian beliefs.
The policy has alarmed a Calgarian who volunteered to sift through a southeast warehouse full of unused, donated items and was alarmed when he was told by Salvation Army officials that the two kinds of toys are "disposed of" and not given to other charities.
"I asked if these toys went to another charitable organizations but was told no, that by passing these toys on to another agency for distribution would be supporting these toys," said the man, who wouldn't give his name due to his occupation.
The man called himself an admirer of the Salvation Army and was impressed by the massive quantity of toys collected in city malls, schools and police stations through the Toy Mountain campaign.
But he questioned why the charity would be sifting out Harry Potter and Twilight toys, which involve sorcery and vampire themes, respectively.
"I was told to withhold a six-inch Harry Potter figure, but when I picked up a plastic M-16, I was told, 'That's for the 10-year-olds,'" he said.
"I was shocked...war-themed toys and toys from TV shows and movies with far more violence than Harry Potter and these were considered appropriate toys?"...
Click here to read the rest: Sally Ann bans Harry Potter and Twilight toys | Canada | News | Toronto SunSaturday, December 11, 2010
Saturday, December 4, 2010
FAITH HILL - A BABY CHANGES EVERYTHING LYRICS
FAITH HILL - A BABY CHANGES EVERYTHING LYRICS
Am I the only one who finds this song totally suspicious? Basically it's a Christmas song that talks about Mary being a teenage mother scared and unprepared for parenthood, but happy at the outcome. The moral of the story, of course: A baby changes everything, you will be happier as a teenage mother.
So, what the heck is this? A fundie pro-lifer attempt to get teens to avoid abortions? Yet the lyrics promote getting pregnant out of wedlock.
Yes, I know they eventually identify the family as the Holy Family, but the underlying message is clearly about teenage pregnancy being a great thing. They were illegal immigrants too. Will the fundie teabaggers be promoting illegal immigration too?
Am I the only one who finds this song totally suspicious? Basically it's a Christmas song that talks about Mary being a teenage mother scared and unprepared for parenthood, but happy at the outcome. The moral of the story, of course: A baby changes everything, you will be happier as a teenage mother.
So, what the heck is this? A fundie pro-lifer attempt to get teens to avoid abortions? Yet the lyrics promote getting pregnant out of wedlock.
Yes, I know they eventually identify the family as the Holy Family, but the underlying message is clearly about teenage pregnancy being a great thing. They were illegal immigrants too. Will the fundie teabaggers be promoting illegal immigration too?
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Faux African American Barbie?
Before I start my rant, let me say I am a lifelong fan of Barbie. When I was little, I wanted to be Barbie when I grew up. Not the blond hair, but the boyfriend, convertible car, multiple careers, jet setting, and Malibu home.
When adults would tell me I would be a mother when I grew up, not a career woman, I'd point out how wrong they were, as evidenced by Barbie's life. My mother, whose main dream for me involved being in a kitchen without shoes and chronically pregnant, was maddened by this. Eventually she took away my Ken doll so I'd stop playing "career girl with boyfriend". I just borrowed my neighbor's Planet of the Apes doll, which in some aspects prepared me for actual dating.
Then there was Growing Up Skipper, Barbie's younger sister who would grow boobs when you cranked her arm. My mother returned it to the store once she realized what the doll did.
Barbie's had more than her share of criticism if you ask me. The folks who think she's a bad role model, she's too grown up for a young girl's toy, and her measurements are impossibly unrealistic.
But today I found something that's just a hot mess: African American Blow Dryer Barbie. I don't know what they're thinking over at Mattel.
You can check her out in all her glory here.
Notice anything odd? As in, she's not African American? Are we back in the 1920s when it was preferable to be light skinned? Very disappointing, Mattel.
When adults would tell me I would be a mother when I grew up, not a career woman, I'd point out how wrong they were, as evidenced by Barbie's life. My mother, whose main dream for me involved being in a kitchen without shoes and chronically pregnant, was maddened by this. Eventually she took away my Ken doll so I'd stop playing "career girl with boyfriend". I just borrowed my neighbor's Planet of the Apes doll, which in some aspects prepared me for actual dating.
Then there was Growing Up Skipper, Barbie's younger sister who would grow boobs when you cranked her arm. My mother returned it to the store once she realized what the doll did.
Barbie's had more than her share of criticism if you ask me. The folks who think she's a bad role model, she's too grown up for a young girl's toy, and her measurements are impossibly unrealistic.
But today I found something that's just a hot mess: African American Blow Dryer Barbie. I don't know what they're thinking over at Mattel.
You can check her out in all her glory here.
Notice anything odd? As in, she's not African American? Are we back in the 1920s when it was preferable to be light skinned? Very disappointing, Mattel.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Inflatable Religious Decorations
You know it's coming--Inflatable Yard Decor Season. Yes, right now it consists of ghosts and pumpkins, but pretty sure it will be Santa and reindeer.
I was wondering if they come in a Jesus model, so I did a Google Image Search for "inflatable Jesus". What I found was good for several full-on belly laughs. I give you Inflatable Jesus:
Here, Jesus has lost both his legs in a terrible skiing accident and they've been replaced with a double row of ginormous teeth. With shrunken legless children situated in their cavities. Holding hands, of course.
If Joseph was a clown, this is exactly how Jesus would have looked. He's got killer abs, swollen toes, and a strange Flintsone-esque shorts.
I am pretty sure these are the same ladies I saw on 9/11/02 posing with Ground Zero in the background, smiling. They really don't pay attention to what they're posing near. They just want pics for their MySpace page.
At first I said to myself, "Of course this is a joke." But then I realized there are actually people who make nativity scenes out of marshmallows and haunted houses with a Revelation Hell theme, without intending a joke, so it could be for real. Which would make it even more hilarious.
The makeup is a nice touch.
This is presumably from a nativity scene. Or Charlie Brown's newborn brother napping on a yellow mattress while people....what are they doing, exactly?
Oh.my.gawd. I SO want this one! It has wormy looking hay, a very evil looking Santa, and an odd red tree, all in one creche scene. Is there anything it does NOT have?
I have to stop now. My sides hurt.
I was wondering if they come in a Jesus model, so I did a Google Image Search for "inflatable Jesus". What I found was good for several full-on belly laughs. I give you Inflatable Jesus:
I am pretty sure these are the same ladies I saw on 9/11/02 posing with Ground Zero in the background, smiling. They really don't pay attention to what they're posing near. They just want pics for their MySpace page.
The makeup is a nice touch.
I have to stop now. My sides hurt.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Thursday, October 14, 2010
America's True History of Religious Tolerance | History & Archaeology | Smithsonian Magazine
Smithsonian has a fascinating article about America's *real* history of "religious freedom". Click the link to read it--worth the read.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Amazon.com: Sterling Silver GOD'S WATCHING YOU Talking Pendant ©: Watches
Why oh why would anyone want a necklace that says, "God's watching YOU"? Click the link to see the product. Oh my. Some people are really screwed up!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
HOW SPRAWL IS LENGTHENING OUR COMMUTES AND WHY MISLEADING MOBILITY MEASURES ARE MAKING THINGS WORSE.
The secret to reducing the amount of time Americans spend in peak hour traffic has more to do with how we build our cities than how we build our roads....Click the title to read a very interesting report.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Amazing!!!!!1!
Time for a bitch session. An amazing bitch session.
I can't take it. Stop already. Knock, knock. Who's there? Shh. And a big preemptive shhh!!
Stooooooooooop saying the word amazing every 5 seconds!! I mean it, world. My head is about to explode. Stop!!!
Does the entire planet have such a limited vocabulary that everyone has to use the same adjective for everything?
Don't even get me start about how inappropriate its usage is. E.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g. i.s. n.o.t. a.m.a.z.i.n.g.
Examples: "You look amazing!" (What happened to great, nice, etc.?)
"That's amazing!" (From a cooking show I just watched.)
"You're kind of amazing." (That's the biggest gagworthy misuse of all. Mainly because it's used in a show perpetuating belief in imaginary invisible silent beings--The Ghost Whisperer. Why is this misuse? Because, in contrast to all other usages of the word, the context here makes it the understatement of the century. Not only do these beings exist and give a damn about what goes on here on Planet Earth, only one woman can communicate with them. And that's only "kind of" amazing?)
I've caught myself accidentally uttering the word, and I wanted to stab myself in the eye out of pure disgust.
I can't take it. Stop already. Knock, knock. Who's there? Shh. And a big preemptive shhh!!
Stooooooooooop saying the word amazing every 5 seconds!! I mean it, world. My head is about to explode. Stop!!!
Does the entire planet have such a limited vocabulary that everyone has to use the same adjective for everything?
Don't even get me start about how inappropriate its usage is. E.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g. i.s. n.o.t. a.m.a.z.i.n.g.
Examples: "You look amazing!" (What happened to great, nice, etc.?)
"That's amazing!" (From a cooking show I just watched.)
"You're kind of amazing." (That's the biggest gagworthy misuse of all. Mainly because it's used in a show perpetuating belief in imaginary invisible silent beings--The Ghost Whisperer. Why is this misuse? Because, in contrast to all other usages of the word, the context here makes it the understatement of the century. Not only do these beings exist and give a damn about what goes on here on Planet Earth, only one woman can communicate with them. And that's only "kind of" amazing?)
I've caught myself accidentally uttering the word, and I wanted to stab myself in the eye out of pure disgust.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
'99.9pc certainty' of Noah's Ark discovery on Mount Ararat | News.com.au
News flash! Noah's Ark has been found.....again!!!1!
I wonder if evidence of animals will be found on the Ark. You know, an elephant's hangnail, penguin poop, and a tiger tooth. Maybe some of Big Foot's fur for good measure.
I wonder if evidence of animals will be found on the Ark. You know, an elephant's hangnail, penguin poop, and a tiger tooth. Maybe some of Big Foot's fur for good measure.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Brother and sister who didn't know they were related are to marry... despite knowing union is illegal | Mail Online
They know they are half brother and sister, but they're marrying (illegally) anyway.
Not only is my skin crawling, but my stomach is flipping with a wave of light nausea and indigestion.
I'm sorry, but yes you can help who you love. Love is a behavior, not just a feeling. It's a voluntary act.
Not only is my skin crawling, but my stomach is flipping with a wave of light nausea and indigestion.
I'm sorry, but yes you can help who you love. Love is a behavior, not just a feeling. It's a voluntary act.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Yes We Can!! DIY Canning Fresh Foods for Winter | greenopolis recycling rewards
Conservation includes conserving what you’ve grown — like canning those nice organic veggies and fruits you worked so hard to produce this summer — or the seasonal surplus from the farmer’s market. ...Yes We Can!! DIY Canning Fresh Foods for Winter | greenopolis recycling rewards
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
YouTube - Neil Tyson talks about UFOs and the argument from ignorance.
Another great video about logic and skepticism!
YouTube - Neil Tyson talks about UFOs and the argument from ignorance.
YouTube - Neil Tyson talks about UFOs and the argument from ignorance.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Vatican Gives Darwin a Big Birthday Hug, Leaving Creationists on the Fringes | 80beats | Discover Magazine
Some religious leaders may take issue with Charles Darwin and what he represents, but the Vatican has announced that it is officially on board with evolution. A leading official declared yesterday that Darwin’s theory of evolution was compatible with Christian faith, and could even be traced to St Augustine and St Thomas Aquinas. “In fact, what we mean by evolution is the world as created by God,” said Archbishop Gianfranco Ravasi [Times Online]. Both St. Augustine and Thomas Aquinas recognized that life changes slowly over time, Ravasi said, and that was a step towards comprehending evolution.
The Vatican’s effort to show that science is not incompatible with religion will culminate in a conference on evolution next month, organized to mark the 150th anniversary of Darwin’s landmark publication, On the Origin of Species. The Vatican has backed away slightly from its original proposal to completely ban discussion of intelligent design at the event, which organizers called “poor theology and poor science”. [Instead,] Intelligent Design would be discussed at the fringes of the conference at the Pontifical Gregorian University, but merely as a “cultural phenomenon”, rather than a scientific or theological issue, organisers said [Times Online]. ...Vatican Gives Darwin a Big Birthday Hug, Leaving Creationists on the Fringes | 80beats | Discover Magazine
Thursday, June 17, 2010
The Truth About Your Food
...What's Really In …
SUBWAY 9-GRAIN WHEAT (6")
210 calories
2 g fat (0.5 g saturated)
410 mg sodium
Okay, so you're probably not in the habit of ordering a la carte bread loaves at Subway, but there’s a good chance you've eaten at least a few sandwiches built on this bread. The good news is that Subway actually delivers on the nine-grain promise. The bad news: Eight of those nine grains appear in miniscule amounts. If you look at a Subway ingredient statement, you'll find every grain except wheat listed at the bottom of the list, just beneath the qualifier "contains 2% or less." In fact, the primary ingredient in this bread is plain old white flour, and high-fructose corn syrup plays a more prominent role than any single whole grain. Essentially this is a white-wheat hybrid with trace amounts of other whole grains like oats, barley, and rye.
So outside of the nine grains, how many ingredients does Subway use to keep this bread together? Sixteen, including such far-from-simple ingredients as DATEM, sodium steroyl lactylate, calcium sulfate, and azodiacarbonamide. But here's one that's a little unnerving: ammonium sulfate. This compound is loaded with nitrogen, which is why it's most common use is as fertilizer. You might have used it to nourish your plants at home. And Subway does the same thing; the ammonium sulfate nourishes the yeast and helps the bread turn brown. What, did you think that dark hue was the result of whole grains? Hardly. It's a combination of the ammonium sulfate and the caramel coloring. Seems like Jarod might frown on that sort of subterfuge.....The Truth About Your Food
SUBWAY 9-GRAIN WHEAT (6")
210 calories
2 g fat (0.5 g saturated)
410 mg sodium
Okay, so you're probably not in the habit of ordering a la carte bread loaves at Subway, but there’s a good chance you've eaten at least a few sandwiches built on this bread. The good news is that Subway actually delivers on the nine-grain promise. The bad news: Eight of those nine grains appear in miniscule amounts. If you look at a Subway ingredient statement, you'll find every grain except wheat listed at the bottom of the list, just beneath the qualifier "contains 2% or less." In fact, the primary ingredient in this bread is plain old white flour, and high-fructose corn syrup plays a more prominent role than any single whole grain. Essentially this is a white-wheat hybrid with trace amounts of other whole grains like oats, barley, and rye.
So outside of the nine grains, how many ingredients does Subway use to keep this bread together? Sixteen, including such far-from-simple ingredients as DATEM, sodium steroyl lactylate, calcium sulfate, and azodiacarbonamide. But here's one that's a little unnerving: ammonium sulfate. This compound is loaded with nitrogen, which is why it's most common use is as fertilizer. You might have used it to nourish your plants at home. And Subway does the same thing; the ammonium sulfate nourishes the yeast and helps the bread turn brown. What, did you think that dark hue was the result of whole grains? Hardly. It's a combination of the ammonium sulfate and the caramel coloring. Seems like Jarod might frown on that sort of subterfuge.....The Truth About Your Food
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Jesus cremated
MONROE — Charred remnants remained this morning, June 15, of the large Jesus statue iconic to Interstate 75 that was destroyed following an apparent lightning strike during a thunderstorm late Monday night. ...
Before:
After:
I'm in constant amazement that anyone could actually believe these sorts of statues are approved by an omniscient God who gives a damn about statues. How do people justify the obvious inconsistency of their beliefs, I wonder?
And more importantly, why? Reality is so much cooler.
Before:
After:
I'm in constant amazement that anyone could actually believe these sorts of statues are approved by an omniscient God who gives a damn about statues. How do people justify the obvious inconsistency of their beliefs, I wonder?
And more importantly, why? Reality is so much cooler.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Cancer death puts homeopathy in dock | The Australian
A homeopath told a patient with rectal cancer to avoid mainstream medicine because alternative treatment alone could cure her, an inquest was told.
Perth's Penelope Dingle, the wife of prominent Perth environmental and nutritional toxicologist Peter Dingle, agreed to be treated with alternative therapies and refused to have surgery to remove the cancer soon after she was diagnosed in 2003.
Instead, she adhered to a strict diet and regular homeopath treatments before becoming so unwell she had to have emergency surgery to remove a bowel obstruction.
By this stage, the cancer had spread and two years later, in 2005, Dingle died from complications of the cancer.
Giving evidence at Dingle's inquest yesterday before West Australian Coroner Alastair Hope, her sister Toni Brown said seeing Dingle in 2003 was like watching "somebody being tortured"....
Cancer death puts homeopathy in dock | The AustralianWednesday, June 9, 2010
Stop senseless killing for jewelry
Coral jewelry is made by sawing off a piece of an endangered animal's body.
I may start a petition to stop this unethical greedfest.
In the meantime, check this out: http://www.icran.org/pdf/CoralMiningIssueBrief.pdf
I may start a petition to stop this unethical greedfest.
In the meantime, check this out: http://www.icran.org/pdf/CoralMiningIssueBrief.pdf
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Why would Elton John sing at Rush Limbaugh's wedding? - CNN.com
(PEOPLE.com) -- Elton John may have seemed like the last person expected to perform at Rush Limbaugh's wedding over the weekend.
Limbaugh, 59, has made a number of colorful remarks about gays that have sparked outrage -- and kept his conservative credentials intact....Why would Elton John sing at Rush Limbaugh's wedding? - CNN.comFriday, May 28, 2010
Louisiana physicist has proved God's existence
"It's a perfect example of the cognitive dissonance possible in the human psyche and why the idea that science and religion can be compatible is a dangerous one. Science suffers when scientists forgo the strict standards of the discipline and take giant leaps of faith, as Tipler has done, in order to give scientific credence to supernaturalism."
Louisiana physicist has proved God's existence
Louisiana physicist has proved God's existence
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
First-ever sighting of Jesus in a lung
Honestly? This is so sad.
They're claiming a lung tumor looks like Jesus. Obviously it's NOT Jesus.
.
.
.
.
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It looks nothing like the picture of him in Turin. :D
They're claiming a lung tumor looks like Jesus. Obviously it's NOT Jesus.
.
.
.
.
.
It looks nothing like the picture of him in Turin. :D
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Friday, April 9, 2010
This Essay Breaks the Law - NYTimes.com
• Elevated homocysteine is linked to heart disease.
• Elevated homocysteine is linked to B-12 deficiency, so doctors should test homocysteine levels to see whether the patient needs vitamins.
ACTUALLY, I can't make that last statement. A corporation has patented that fact, and demands a royalty for its use. Anyone who makes the fact public and encourages doctors to test for the condition and treat it can be sued for royalty fees. Any doctor who reads a patient's test results and even thinks of vitamin deficiency infringes the patent. A federal circuit court held that mere thinking violates the patent. ...http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/19/opinion/19crichton.html?_r=3&scp=8&sq=michael+crichton&oref=slogin
• Elevated homocysteine is linked to B-12 deficiency, so doctors should test homocysteine levels to see whether the patient needs vitamins.
ACTUALLY, I can't make that last statement. A corporation has patented that fact, and demands a royalty for its use. Anyone who makes the fact public and encourages doctors to test for the condition and treat it can be sued for royalty fees. Any doctor who reads a patient's test results and even thinks of vitamin deficiency infringes the patent. A federal circuit court held that mere thinking violates the patent. ...http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/19/opinion/19crichton.html?_r=3&scp=8&sq=michael+crichton&oref=slogin
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Right Wing Violence
Right Wing Violence - Google Maps
Right Wing attacks due to health care reform
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven...Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth...Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
"They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth...
"Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses...
"Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
--Jesus
Right Wing attacks due to health care reform
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven...Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth...Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
"They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. But go ye and learn what that meaneth...
"Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses...
"Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
--Jesus
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Poo-free: I didn't inhale
K, so it's not going as well as I had hoped. I admit it.
I had forgotten all about hair color! I am not willing to give up coloring my hair. I'm too young to go gray! No way!
After coloring I used the conditioner in the kit because....well, I don't know. Maybe I need a media literacy class...maybe I fell into the advertising trap...but I feel I need conditioner after coloring. Need, not want.
So...since then I've been mixing 2 tablespoons of baking soda with a little water and a small amount of shampoo...pouring it over my head, letting it soak for a few minutes, then rinsing it out with hot water and the vinegar regime I mentioned earlier.
I'm significantly reducing the amount of 'poo I'm using, which is better for me and the planet. My hair is pretty much normal, maybe a tad healthier too. Not bad.
I had forgotten all about hair color! I am not willing to give up coloring my hair. I'm too young to go gray! No way!
After coloring I used the conditioner in the kit because....well, I don't know. Maybe I need a media literacy class...maybe I fell into the advertising trap...but I feel I need conditioner after coloring. Need, not want.
So...since then I've been mixing 2 tablespoons of baking soda with a little water and a small amount of shampoo...pouring it over my head, letting it soak for a few minutes, then rinsing it out with hot water and the vinegar regime I mentioned earlier.
I'm significantly reducing the amount of 'poo I'm using, which is better for me and the planet. My hair is pretty much normal, maybe a tad healthier too. Not bad.
Mine Co. Had 57 Safety Violations in March - The Daily Beast
Regarding the mine fire that recently killed a number of people in West Virginia: "Massey incurred 57 safety infractions just last month, including for refusing to develop a new ventilation plan. ABC News adds that the Massey subsidiary that operated the Upper Big Branch Mine, where the blast occurred, 'was fighting many of the steepest fines, or simply refusing to pay them.'”
I wonder how the Tea Party feels now. "Deregulation is the answer!" :(
I wonder how the Tea Party feels now. "Deregulation is the answer!" :(
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Preview: Patented Genes - 60 Minutes - CBS News
If you aren't watching 60 Minutes right now, turn on the TV quickly! They are discussing the inability of people to access genetic testing to determine if they have severe genetic risk for certain types of cancer?
Why? A company patented the genes (!) so no test can be developed without their consent...and the price tag for their test? >$3000...making it inaccessible to those who do not have the cash or insurance coverage.
Now that's sick.
Why? A company patented the genes (!) so no test can be developed without their consent...and the price tag for their test? >$3000...making it inaccessible to those who do not have the cash or insurance coverage.
Now that's sick.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Poo-free: Help from the pantry
After giving the hot water method and its iteration a real college try and failing, I tried baking soda and vinegar.
I made a liquid using about 2 tablespoons of baking soda to 1 cup of water, poured it over my scalp, let it sit while I showered, then rinsed it off with lots of water.
I found doing this step alone makes for brittle hair like nothing I've ever experienced, so I tried a vinegar rinse. I mixed a half cup of apple cider vinegar with a half cup of water, poured it thoroughly through the hair, and rinsed with warm water again.
Why apple cider vinegar as opposed to other types of vinegar? I can't tell if there is a difference. I found the suggestion on a blog, and it works pretty well, so I'm sticking to it.
The result is....ta-da....clean hair! It doesn't feel quite as squeaky clean as shampooed hair, but it's as a close second as I've found so far.
I made a liquid using about 2 tablespoons of baking soda to 1 cup of water, poured it over my scalp, let it sit while I showered, then rinsed it off with lots of water.
I found doing this step alone makes for brittle hair like nothing I've ever experienced, so I tried a vinegar rinse. I mixed a half cup of apple cider vinegar with a half cup of water, poured it thoroughly through the hair, and rinsed with warm water again.
Why apple cider vinegar as opposed to other types of vinegar? I can't tell if there is a difference. I found the suggestion on a blog, and it works pretty well, so I'm sticking to it.
The result is....ta-da....clean hair! It doesn't feel quite as squeaky clean as shampooed hair, but it's as a close second as I've found so far.
Poo-free: Less is more
After the failure of the hot water method, I tried hot water plus a tiny amount of shampoo around the hair line.
The result was better than hot water alone. I didn't feel icky until the evening.
Better....but I still didn't want to have to wash my hair every day for an untold number of months while my scalp adjusts.
I began to realize how shampoo was actually harming my hair, though that wasn't the impetus for going poo-free. Right after cleansing, I realized my hair wasn't nearly as frizzy or dry as it normally was after shampooing. Interesting.
I've read claims that shampoo causes the scalp to react with an overproduction of oils, and the shampoo-free project has a long adjustment period as a result. There really does seem to be something to that claim.
The result was better than hot water alone. I didn't feel icky until the evening.
Better....but I still didn't want to have to wash my hair every day for an untold number of months while my scalp adjusts.
I began to realize how shampoo was actually harming my hair, though that wasn't the impetus for going poo-free. Right after cleansing, I realized my hair wasn't nearly as frizzy or dry as it normally was after shampooing. Interesting.
I've read claims that shampoo causes the scalp to react with an overproduction of oils, and the shampoo-free project has a long adjustment period as a result. There really does seem to be something to that claim.
Poo-free: Cold turkey
First, I tried to quit shampoo cold turkey. I rinsed my hair thoroughly with hot water only, and used no conditioner or styling products.
My hair and scalp are rather try normally, but they went into full revolt mode when I tried cold turkey. I typically washed my hair every 2-3 days before this little project.
The first day, it was ok in the morning. A little heavy, but tolerable. By the afternoon, it felt strange--as though my hair wasn't actually clean. Probably because it wasn't. It looked ok but felt icky. By the next morning, I looked like I was in the height of puberty and hadn't bathed for a week.
My hair and scalp are rather try normally, but they went into full revolt mode when I tried cold turkey. I typically washed my hair every 2-3 days before this little project.
The first day, it was ok in the morning. A little heavy, but tolerable. By the afternoon, it felt strange--as though my hair wasn't actually clean. Probably because it wasn't. It looked ok but felt icky. By the next morning, I looked like I was in the height of puberty and hadn't bathed for a week.
Going poo-free
I decided to try to stop using shampoo.
This is a big deal for me. My hair is my "thing". I've got lots of it, pretty healthy and shiny, with some natural curl. And I'm a 40-something woman whose other attributes are fading, shifting even more importance onto my hair. ;)
So why would I do this? Two reasons.
First, the environment. The chemicals in shampoo harm our water supply and animals.
Secondly, my health. My health usually is the top priority, but the case for shampoo causing disease is somewhat--but not totally--weak. Check out the Environmental Working Group's Cosmetics Safety Database.
Before I get into the health issues, let me just plug EWG. They are not full of hype. This is a group of scientists studying each ingredient in various beauty products and giving it a safety rating. EWG provides an invaluable service; we have no other mechanism to have this information. Fan them on Facebook. You will be really shocked at the things they uncover about cosmetics and other types of products, and glad to learn easy ways to avoid serious toxins. This is the group that discovered lead in lipstick a few years ago, and they continue to make impressive accomplishments.
So what's wrong with shampoo? It's simple--it's legal to use human carcinogens and other toxins in beauty products. Check out this list of ratings. And yep, your eyes aren't deceiving you. Some of the "natural" shampoos are rated as highly toxic.
I'm going to chronicle what will probably be a long process of titration from shampoo.
This is a big deal for me. My hair is my "thing". I've got lots of it, pretty healthy and shiny, with some natural curl. And I'm a 40-something woman whose other attributes are fading, shifting even more importance onto my hair. ;)
So why would I do this? Two reasons.
First, the environment. The chemicals in shampoo harm our water supply and animals.
Secondly, my health. My health usually is the top priority, but the case for shampoo causing disease is somewhat--but not totally--weak. Check out the Environmental Working Group's Cosmetics Safety Database.
Before I get into the health issues, let me just plug EWG. They are not full of hype. This is a group of scientists studying each ingredient in various beauty products and giving it a safety rating. EWG provides an invaluable service; we have no other mechanism to have this information. Fan them on Facebook. You will be really shocked at the things they uncover about cosmetics and other types of products, and glad to learn easy ways to avoid serious toxins. This is the group that discovered lead in lipstick a few years ago, and they continue to make impressive accomplishments.
So what's wrong with shampoo? It's simple--it's legal to use human carcinogens and other toxins in beauty products. Check out this list of ratings. And yep, your eyes aren't deceiving you. Some of the "natural" shampoos are rated as highly toxic.
I'm going to chronicle what will probably be a long process of titration from shampoo.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Monday, March 8, 2010
Jewish group declares lox unkosher because of parasite, causes uproar - NYPOST.com
Jewish group declares lox unkosher because of parasite, causes uproar - NYPOST.com
"The ban was announced last month when a small group of rabbis decided that a tiny parasitic worm, called anisakis, rendered its host fish nonkosher."
Read more: http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/bagel_lovers_tell_rabbis_don_pick_WMeEJTNKVCrC9XH2Jz0uHI#ixzz0hd9tKo2L
"The ban was announced last month when a small group of rabbis decided that a tiny parasitic worm, called anisakis, rendered its host fish nonkosher."
Read more: http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/bagel_lovers_tell_rabbis_don_pick_WMeEJTNKVCrC9XH2Jz0uHI#ixzz0hd9tKo2L
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Monday, March 1, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
New Report Says: Jenny McCarthy's Son May Not Have Had Autism After All « Hollywood Life
"Many applaud Jenny, who has never stopped fighting to help her son since his autism diagnosis in 2005. Others say her claims about immunizations have labeled “a menace to public health” by the Center of Disease Control."
I'm curious about that last sentence. Others say the CDC has labeled her "a menace to public health"? Others say? Don't investigative reporters check their facts?
"Many applaud Jenny, who has never stopped fighting to help her son since his autism diagnosis in 2005. Others say her claims about immunizations have labeled “a menace to public health” by the Center of Disease Control."
I'm curious about that last sentence. Others say the CDC has labeled her "a menace to public health"? Others say? Don't investigative reporters check their facts?
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Criminalizing human progress
Salman Rushdie, 1990: “The idea of the sacred is quite simply one of the most conservative notions in any culture, because it seeks to turn other ideas – uncertainty, progress, change – into crimes.”
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Are the teabaggers confused?
According to this article, the Boston Tea Party was not a protest against high taxes; it was a protest against taxation without representation. It states the protest occurred after the price of taxed tea was reduced to undercut the price of smuggled tea. In other words, they were revolting to pay higher prices.
According to the teabaggers' website, the purpose of their movement is to reduce taxes and government spending.
Am I missing something?
According to the teabaggers' website, the purpose of their movement is to reduce taxes and government spending.
Am I missing something?
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
The Mardi Gras king cake
The Mardi Gras king cake | Life and style | guardian.co.uk
I do not live in an area that celebrates Mardi Gras, but for some reason my supermarket had a few of these on sale the other day.
It looked like a bunch of cinnamon rolls smushed together with glow-in-the-dark lard frosting and some unidentifiable plastic things stuck on top. Shocked
I looked it up today on the Internet. Apparently it's some ill-tasting pastry with a plastic baby Jesus baked inside. It's your Lord and Savior and cake, all in one!
Many things come to mind.
A. How do you bake plastic inside a pastry? Is it a magic plastic?
B. Why baby Jesus? It's the time of year observing his death and resurrection, not his birth. Or would it be too creepy to have a adult bearded hippy god peeping out of your dessert? Creepier than an infant in a diaper?
C. Why do this at all?
D. Wouldn't the son of god prefer being baked into a tastier dish than this one?
E. Does the use of neon frosting give Jesus extra special honor?
I do not live in an area that celebrates Mardi Gras, but for some reason my supermarket had a few of these on sale the other day.
It looked like a bunch of cinnamon rolls smushed together with glow-in-the-dark lard frosting and some unidentifiable plastic things stuck on top. Shocked
I looked it up today on the Internet. Apparently it's some ill-tasting pastry with a plastic baby Jesus baked inside. It's your Lord and Savior and cake, all in one!
Many things come to mind.
A. How do you bake plastic inside a pastry? Is it a magic plastic?
B. Why baby Jesus? It's the time of year observing his death and resurrection, not his birth. Or would it be too creepy to have a adult bearded hippy god peeping out of your dessert? Creepier than an infant in a diaper?
C. Why do this at all?
D. Wouldn't the son of god prefer being baked into a tastier dish than this one?
E. Does the use of neon frosting give Jesus extra special honor?
Monday, February 15, 2010
Beamer Light Pen - Parveen Smith - Angelic Reiki & Aura-Soma Practitioner
Beamer Light Pen - Parveen Smith - Angelic Reiki & Aura-Soma Practitioner
Wait just a minute. I thought Kevin Trudeau was in prison?! LOL
Wait just a minute. I thought Kevin Trudeau was in prison?! LOL
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Saturday, February 13, 2010
http://www.randi.org/site/index.php/swift-blog/871-200-million-miles-a-one-foot.html
http://www.randi.org/site/index.php/swift-blog/871-200-million-miles-a-one-foot.htmlAwesome article about our bizarre disinterest in things that should be exciting and fascinating!
Father uses Bible to defend attack on son - National - NZ Herald News
Father uses Bible to defend attack on son - National - NZ Herald News
The Bible does say something like, "If you beat your son with a rod, he will not die." Another mistake made by the author. :(
The Bible does say something like, "If you beat your son with a rod, he will not die." Another mistake made by the author. :(
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Sunday, February 7, 2010
LOLWTF! This was advertised in an insert in my newspaper today.
Jesus and magnets together--can't go wrong!
I wonder why the one true omnipotent omniscient omnibenevolent spook in the sky needs a few lowly magnets to help him heal?
The ad says it's solid copper and has 3000 magnets, with lots of exclamation points!!! I count at least 9 exclamation points, more than a dozen different fonts, and waaaay too much capitalization going on. For example:
END YOUR PAIN! Penetrating Power Of Magnets! Soothing Power Of Copper! Healing Power Of Jesus!
The ad is complete with a creepy picture of long-haired hippy Jesus with an aura (oops--I mean halo).
Here's the online version.
COPPER MAGNETIC THERAPY JESUS BRACELET
PRODUCT DETAILS: JEWELRY : COPPER MAGNETIC THERAPY JESUS BRACELET
COMBINES THE MOST POWERFUL FORCES OF HEAVEN AND EARTH
Do you believe? Wear this solid COPPER MAGNETIC THERAPY JESUS BRACELET for the most powerful healing and comfort you’ve ever experienced! COPPER has been relied on for centuries to ease the pain of arthritis. MAGNETS are used therapeutically to ease muscle pain, tendonitis, bursitis, back pain, poor circulation and more. And faith in the miracles of JESUS can not only protect you from physical pain, but soothe your soul in times of stress! Fully adjustable to fit most wrists.
COMBINES THE MOST POWERFUL FORCES OF HEAVEN AND EARTH by Dream Products
Jesus and magnets together--can't go wrong!
I wonder why the one true omnipotent omniscient omnibenevolent spook in the sky needs a few lowly magnets to help him heal?
The ad says it's solid copper and has 3000 magnets, with lots of exclamation points!!! I count at least 9 exclamation points, more than a dozen different fonts, and waaaay too much capitalization going on. For example:
END YOUR PAIN! Penetrating Power Of Magnets! Soothing Power Of Copper! Healing Power Of Jesus!
The ad is complete with a creepy picture of long-haired hippy Jesus with an aura (oops--I mean halo).
Here's the online version.
COPPER MAGNETIC THERAPY JESUS BRACELET
PRODUCT DETAILS: JEWELRY : COPPER MAGNETIC THERAPY JESUS BRACELET
COMBINES THE MOST POWERFUL FORCES OF HEAVEN AND EARTH
Do you believe? Wear this solid COPPER MAGNETIC THERAPY JESUS BRACELET for the most powerful healing and comfort you’ve ever experienced! COPPER has been relied on for centuries to ease the pain of arthritis. MAGNETS are used therapeutically to ease muscle pain, tendonitis, bursitis, back pain, poor circulation and more. And faith in the miracles of JESUS can not only protect you from physical pain, but soothe your soul in times of stress! Fully adjustable to fit most wrists.
COMBINES THE MOST POWERFUL FORCES OF HEAVEN AND EARTH by Dream Products
Disincentive for organic farming
"Under our current system, it is more profitable for farmers to grow crops laced with chemicals than organic ones because they get larger government handouts from the Department of Agriculture’s Farm Subsidy program, more marketing assistance and stronger crop insurance programs.
If farmers do choose to grow organic crops, it costs them more. It’s not just that they don’t get the same level of subsidy support from the government. They are also charged a fee to prove that their crops are safe, and on top of that, they are charged another fee for the right to label their crops “organic.” As a result, organic farmers have a higher cost structure, while our taxpayer dollars subsidize the crops with the chemicals...."
If farmers do choose to grow organic crops, it costs them more. It’s not just that they don’t get the same level of subsidy support from the government. They are also charged a fee to prove that their crops are safe, and on top of that, they are charged another fee for the right to label their crops “organic.” As a result, organic farmers have a higher cost structure, while our taxpayer dollars subsidize the crops with the chemicals...."
Sara Palin caught using notes written on her hand!
Seriously? 60 Minutes did a piece on Sara Palin and Republican insiders said they couldn't get her to remember basics for debates and speeches, even after days of coaching. According to this video, she was caught using notes written on her hand!
Laura Silsby, a local missionary to Haiti, left trail of financial woes in Idaho | Local News | Idaho Statesman
Here's a list of legal issues related to the woman accused of stealing orphans in Haiti. She seems to have been absent the day in Sunday school when they taught that Christians are supposed to obey laws.
Laura Silsby, a local missionary to Haiti, left trail of financial woes in Idaho | Local News | Idaho Statesman
Laura Silsby, a local missionary to Haiti, left trail of financial woes in Idaho | Local News | Idaho Statesman
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Scientologists in Haiti: A Firsthand Account - Scientology - Gawker
Scientologists in Haiti: A Firsthand Account - Scientology - Gawker
Can Scientologists get any more despicable?
Can Scientologists get any more despicable?
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Sunday, January 31, 2010
The 10:23 Event
At 10:23am on January 30th, more than four hundred homeopathy sceptics nationwide took part in a mass homeopathic 'overdose' in protest at Boots' continued endorsement and sale of homeopathic remedies, and to raise public awareness about the fact that homeopathic remedies have nothing in them.
Political Asylum for Homeschoolers
Evangelical Christians Celebrate Victory over 'Embarrassed' Germany
By Christoph Titz and Carola Padtberg
A German couple who wanted to homeschool their children have been granted political asylum in the US. Evangelical Christians have welcomed the decision, claiming that Germany was trying to "coerce ideological uniformity" through its ban on homeschooling.
Christian fundamentalists have welcomed the decision by a US court to award a German family political asylum in the United States because the parents were unwilling to subject their children to mandatory school attendance rules in Germany....
By Christoph Titz and Carola Padtberg
A German couple who wanted to homeschool their children have been granted political asylum in the US. Evangelical Christians have welcomed the decision, claiming that Germany was trying to "coerce ideological uniformity" through its ban on homeschooling.
Christian fundamentalists have welcomed the decision by a US court to award a German family political asylum in the United States because the parents were unwilling to subject their children to mandatory school attendance rules in Germany....
Saturday, January 30, 2010
http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/525347
This is an awesome device to teach the scale of the universe and it's contents.;)
This is an awesome device to teach the scale of the universe and it's contents.;)
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Pope whipped himself, "slept on the bare floor so he could practice self-denial and asceticism"
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20100126/wl_nm/us_vatican_johnpaul
Travolta Flies Jetload of Relief Supplies to Haiti - ABC News
This makes me sick.
A. Hasn't the Travolta family learned their lesson about the Scientology cult?
B. How about just doing a good thing for its own sake, instead of trying to pimp a tragedy for your own purposes?
Travolta Flies Jetload of Relief Supplies to Haiti - ABC News
A. Hasn't the Travolta family learned their lesson about the Scientology cult?
B. How about just doing a good thing for its own sake, instead of trying to pimp a tragedy for your own purposes?
Travolta Flies Jetload of Relief Supplies to Haiti - ABC News
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Attention Nonvegetarian Restauranteurs
2 rules, ok?
1. NO HIDDEN MEAT. Yes, I'm using all caps to YELL.
If you're selling a dish that contains meat, say so. Is that so hard?
And btw.....why does everything have to contain meat? I recently went to a party where every single dish contained meat, including dessert! And I recently went to a Mexican restaurant that didn't offer even one meat-free option! What the heck is going on?
Mexican cuisine has many meat-free dishes. You could have bothered to offer one. They say 10% of the population is vegetarian--you're ostracizing a good number of potential customers.
2. VEGETARIANS ARE HUMAN BEINGS AND HENCE NEED PROTEIN.
I don't understand how you can call yourselves chefs, cooks, even restauranteurs if you can't figure out how to make a vegetarian dish.
Here are some clues:
a. Making one of your meat-based dishes and removing the meat doesn't mean it's a balanced meal worthy of us giving you return business.
b. Replacing the meat with a half-pound of cheese doesn't cut it either.
c. Think beans. Think ethnic dishes. It's not too hard, folks.
1. NO HIDDEN MEAT. Yes, I'm using all caps to YELL.
If you're selling a dish that contains meat, say so. Is that so hard?
And btw.....why does everything have to contain meat? I recently went to a party where every single dish contained meat, including dessert! And I recently went to a Mexican restaurant that didn't offer even one meat-free option! What the heck is going on?
Mexican cuisine has many meat-free dishes. You could have bothered to offer one. They say 10% of the population is vegetarian--you're ostracizing a good number of potential customers.
2. VEGETARIANS ARE HUMAN BEINGS AND HENCE NEED PROTEIN.
I don't understand how you can call yourselves chefs, cooks, even restauranteurs if you can't figure out how to make a vegetarian dish.
Here are some clues:
a. Making one of your meat-based dishes and removing the meat doesn't mean it's a balanced meal worthy of us giving you return business.
b. Replacing the meat with a half-pound of cheese doesn't cut it either.
c. Think beans. Think ethnic dishes. It's not too hard, folks.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Evil + stupidity = Pat Robertson
Now he's making up history too.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5TE99sAbwM
This is just too evil and dumb for me to comment on. I have no words.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5TE99sAbwM
This is just too evil and dumb for me to comment on. I have no words.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Table manners--ick!
So last evening we went to a restaurant--not the fanciest, but fine dining sort where you don't act like an ape or read the newspaper at your table. Generally.
While waiting for our food I was treated to an unobscured view of a young simian consuming giant tortilla chips with mounds of salsa, all in one bite.
Gobs of salsa kept falling off his shovels, so he smeared the blobs around the tabletop and filled them back up, lowering his entire head to shorten the distance to his mouth.
He would stick about 3-4 bites' worth of food into his mouth at once. He had a tried and true technique whereby he'd put 2 bits in first, pause to unlock his lower jaw joint, then stick the rest in.
How he could do this without gagging, I haven't a clue. @ one point I believed he was going to need the Heimlich Maneuver, but I was sadly mistaken. (j/k about the last part)
I glanced over and his dad was downing a bucket-sized soda (fizzy drink) all in one gulp, reading the newspaper, and wiping the grease on it.
Then their food came, and it was like a train wreck I couldn't look away from.
They ordered deep fried, cheesy entrees and were consuming them faster than I have ever seen a human being eat.
Maybe they are professional speed eaters.
While waiting for our food I was treated to an unobscured view of a young simian consuming giant tortilla chips with mounds of salsa, all in one bite.
Gobs of salsa kept falling off his shovels, so he smeared the blobs around the tabletop and filled them back up, lowering his entire head to shorten the distance to his mouth.
He would stick about 3-4 bites' worth of food into his mouth at once. He had a tried and true technique whereby he'd put 2 bits in first, pause to unlock his lower jaw joint, then stick the rest in.
How he could do this without gagging, I haven't a clue. @ one point I believed he was going to need the Heimlich Maneuver, but I was sadly mistaken. (j/k about the last part)
I glanced over and his dad was downing a bucket-sized soda (fizzy drink) all in one gulp, reading the newspaper, and wiping the grease on it.
Then their food came, and it was like a train wreck I couldn't look away from.
They ordered deep fried, cheesy entrees and were consuming them faster than I have ever seen a human being eat.
Maybe they are professional speed eaters.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
25 Blasphemous Quotations
By Atheist Ireland | Published: January 2, 2010
Published by Atheist Ireland on 1 January 2010
http://www.atheist.ie/
Published by Atheist Ireland on 1 January 2010
http://www.atheist.ie/
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