Denise McGrail
I live in a western suburb in the St. Louis Metropolitan area. I own The M.U.S.I.C Program which is a music and movement program for area preschoolers. I enjoy my job because it allows me to introduce children to music while helping explore their creative selves. At the same time I get the opportunity to unleash my creativity.
I have been writing for Associated Content for a few years, off and on. I enjoy this format because it gives me the opportunity to explore different topics and do something that I have loved since I was a little girl - writing.
I hope that my content touches people and makes them see both the serious and the light side of life. I also hope that my writing inspires people to find ways to fulfill their life-long passions and dreams.
In addition to everything mentioned above, in 2011 I fell in love with running. I know that sounds completely exaggerated and a little silly, but it is true. In the past year, I have gone from loathing running to making it part of my daily routine. I was a novice runner who completed her first 5K race in May with a sad time of 44:44 and by September I ran a race with a PR of 29:44. I also completed a half marathon in October. I would like to use Yahoo! Voices as an opportunity to write to an audience of beginning runners by sharing my stories and tips (like how bouncy balls work magic on your sore feet). I have a large group of running friends, all different levels, who continuously encourage me to expand my horizons and challenge what I believe to be my limits. I read blogs about running and have also started to mentor novice runners in my area to help them achieve their running and fitness goals.
This is a new direction that my life has taken. Running has become an obsession with me and I happy to have this forum to share my experiences. Happy reading!
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I have been writing for Associated Content for a few years, off and on. I enjoy this format because it gives me the opportunity to explore different topics and do something that I have loved since I was a little girl - writing.
I hope that my content touches people and makes them see both the serious and the light side of life. I also hope that my writing inspires people to find ways to fulfill their life-long passions and dreams.
In addition to everything mentioned above, in 2011 I fell in love with running. I know that sounds completely exaggerated and a little silly, but it is true. In the past year, I have gone from loathing running to making it part of my daily routine. I was a novice runner who completed her first 5K race in May with a sad time of 44:44 and by September I ran a race with a PR of 29:44. I also completed a half marathon in October. I would like to use Yahoo! Voices as an opportunity to write to an audience of beginning runners by sharing my stories and tips (like how bouncy balls work magic on your sore feet). I have a large group of running friends, all different levels, who continuously encourage me to expand my horizons and challenge what I believe to be my limits. I read blogs about running and have also started to mentor novice runners in my area to help them achieve their running and fitness goals.
This is a new direction that my life has taken. Running has become an obsession with me and I happy to have this forum to share my experiences. Happy reading!
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St. Charles Community College, St. Louis UniversityInterests
sports and fitness, running, children s issues, literature, social issues, entertainment, current eventsFavorites
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Displaying Results 1 - 46 (of 46) for Yahoo! Voices
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How to Become a Runner in 20 Days - Day 2You can start running by walking. Try this 15 minute challenge of run-walk intervals of 30 seconds each. Jeff Galloway, a world famous running expert, believe alternating running with walking can help you reach your running goals. -
How to Become a Runner in 20 DaysRunning is a sport that anyone can do and achieve superb results. Novice runners do not need to be scared to lace up their Nikes. Take this 2012 challenge for a fitter you in the new year!
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Faulty MemoryThey tell me that I will remember her again. The doctors, my family, friends. They repeat the same mantra as each day passes. "It is just temporary. A side effect." Trauma, brain injury. Key phrases repeated almost hourly when my frustration sets in. -
Earth Day 2011 - What Will You Be Doing?Earth day is a chance to be a part of keeping our planet healthy. Here are some simple activities for families and neighborhoods to make this Earth Day memorable and lasting.Also published on:
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6 Easy Ways to Brighten Your Days when the Weather is ColdIt doesn't take a tropical vacation to warm up and fight off the winter blues. A little creativity will trick your mind and body into thinking those cold, burry days of winter are a fleeting memory. -
Farmer's Markets in Your NeighborhoodFarmer's Markets are a way to give your family fresh, inexpensive produce. They also help sustain area farmers by offering locally grown produce. -
2011 5K Run/Walk Events in St. Charles County, MissouriGet revved up this spring and sign up for a 5K run/walk event. St. Charles County has several events to choose from for the beginners and the experienced. Support a local organization and promote a healthy lifestyle. -
Why I Choose Not to Participate in the Abortion DebateAt the National Right to Life March the pro-lifers will march with their values clearly defined while the pro-choice advocates rally back with judicial precedent on their side. But what about those of us who prefer to stand in the middle of the road?
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It's Beginning to Look like Christmas for Teachers Everywhere!Christmas break for a teacher is a time for rejuvenation and relaxation. There are many different ways that teachers define their perfect Christmas break. Here is mine.
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Toyota PriusA general overview of other hybrids on the market for the hybrid consumer.
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The Community Garden: Building Community Roots One Seed at a TimeAn informative piece that describes the function of a community garden and the benefits it has for the community.
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4th of July Celebration in Wentzville, MissouriWentzville, Missouri hosts an annual 4th of July celebration that features a parade, free swim, concerts and fireworks display. The 2009 events are featured in this piece.
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How to Properly Freeze Store Packaged MeatBuying meat in bulk and freezing it can save you money at the grocery store. This type of storage is safe and effective and only takes a small amount of time and planning.
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Emissions Testing in MissouriThe state of Missouri requires Missourians living in the St. Louis nonattainment area to pass an emissions test in order to license their vehicles. This article is a brief guide to the basics when getting an emissions test.
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Swimming Lessons for Your Toddler in O'Fallon, MOHave swimming skills is imperative to help reduce the incidents of drowning in backyard and neighborhood pools. Here are some area facilities that can provide the swim lessons that will give your toddler the basics.
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Baby Swimming Lessons in O'Fallon, MissouriIntroducing your baby to water can be exciting, but scary. For O'Fallon, Missouri residents and residents in the surrounding cities there are three wonderful choices for you and your baby.
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Gardening with Kids: The Pet AlternativeDon't have time for a pet or are unsure of how your child may take to the responsibility of owning a pet? Gardening with your child can be just as rewarding and fun as owning a pet.
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Best Summer Reads for KidsLooking for something for your child to read this summer? Here are some engaging titles for preschoolers to teenagers and those in between. -
How to Become a Community PhilanthropistThis article explores the many different ways the average person can be charitable and why being philanthropic is beneficial to a community.
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Moving Solutions for the St. Louis AreaIf you are getting ready to make a move, here is a guide to some area moving companies in the St. Louis area that may make your move go a little easier.
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Pediatric Dentist Practices in St. LouisDental care for children is a neccesity, but can sometimes cause anxiety in children and parents. This article examines some local pediatric dental practices that help alleviate many dental visit concerns.
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Horse Riding Lessons in Metro St. LouisThis article gives a parent information about horseback riding opportunities in the metro St. Louis area.
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Horse Adoption: A Better ChoiceThis article explores the benefits of adopting a horse from a rescue facility.
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Explore the Great Outdoors on Jekyll IslandJekyll Island, Georgia is a great family get-away that will bring your family up close and personal with nature and outdoor adventures. This small, unassuming island is filled with wildlife, recreation and memories that will last a lifetime.
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Perfect Kid Friendly Places for a Birthday Party in St. Charles CountyA review of different venues that are perfect locations for your child's upcoming birthday party.
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Children's Photographers Serving St. Charles CountyA review of 5 different photography studios that provide children's photography.
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Wearable Spring Fashions for Petite BodiesAn overview of some 2009 spring fashion trends that will work well on petite frames. -
Why I Do Not Votean editorial on the reasons I choose not to vote
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The Teen Buzz: The Latest on the Mosquito Ringtonea brief overview of the mosquito ringtone
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Wedding Insurance: Insuring Your Gown, Ring, Venue and MoreAn overview of wedding insurance coverages and how this can help you with your wedding planning.
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LeapFrog ClickStart My First Computer: Tech Toy ReviewThis article explores LeapFrog's newest product and discusses how it may benefit a preschooler ages 3-6.
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How to Make Your Own Website: Beginner Step-by-Step InstructionsA brief overview and step-by-step instruction on how to create a basic, beginning website for the beginner.
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How to Get Nail Polish to Dry FasterStop smudging and chipping your nails. Your manicure can look fresh and blemish free with these solutions.
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Children's Birthday Party Venues in Atlanta, GeorgiaA brief overview of 8 different venues in the Atlanta area for hosting children's birthday parties.
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Valentine's Day Recipes: How to Make Your Favorite Foods Red or PinkSimple recipies to put a little red and pink into your Valentine's Day.
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Tips for Starting Your Home Childcare BusinessThis how-to article offers valuable suggestions on how to start a home childcare business.
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The Best Hotel Chains for Your Budget and Your FamilyMy personal experience with different chain hotels during my travels in the United States.
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Mardi Gras Costume Ideas for Kids: DIY Craft IdeasMardi Gras celebrations can be family-friendly, too. If you are hosting a family Mardi Gras celebration, here are some easy to make Mardi Gras costumes for kids.
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Family-Friendly New Year's Eve Events in St. Louisa brief overview of St. Louis area family-friendly New Year's Eve celebrations and events.
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Common Skin Diseases in Children: Identification, Treatment and PreventionAn overview of four common childhood skin diseases: ringworm, lice, poison ivy and fifth disease.
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Where to Find Unique Gifts for Teenagers in Barrington, IllinoisGift ideas for the teenagers on your Christmas list.
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Me, Myself and My Irritable BowelLearn about my struggles with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and ways that I have learned to manage the symptoms in my daily life.
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Unique Holiday Gift Ideas for Teens in Columbus, OhioUnique gift ideas for teens in Columbus, Ohio. Highlighting several stores that have teen fashions and other merchandise.
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Unique Holiday Gift Ideas for Teens in Indianapolis, IndianaUnique Holiday Gift Ideas for Teens in Indianapolis, Indiana
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Product Review: Buji Buja Plaid Overnight BagBefore you go mad searching for the Buji Baja Plaid Overnight Tote, you may want to read this review.
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Evolutionary Themes in NBC's HeroesA closer look at some of the evolutionary themes of NBC's drama, "Heroes"