Laurel A. Rockefeller
Laurel A. Rockefeller was born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska. A natural singer-songwriter from an early age, Laurel's interest in physics and astronomy were inspired by both early visits to Lincoln's Hyde observatory and by the 1977 release of George Lucas's "Star Wars" which caught her imagination alongside with Arthurian legends and medieval songs and tales.
During her freshman year at the University of Nebraska, Laurel discovered the work of J.R.R. Tolkien, inspiring her to write her sonnet "Why Bilbo?" which the American Tolkien Society published in 1991. More publications followed as Laurel's skill for writing increased with her education and life experience.
Today, Laurel is mostly known for her non-fiction work, particularly for Yahoo Voices where she is published on everything from history, science, politics, and religion, to reviews on everything from movies to the best places to find great food and wine.
The Peers of Beinan is Laurel's first science fiction series.
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During her freshman year at the University of Nebraska, Laurel discovered the work of J.R.R. Tolkien, inspiring her to write her sonnet "Why Bilbo?" which the American Tolkien Society published in 1991. More publications followed as Laurel's skill for writing increased with her education and life experience.
Today, Laurel is mostly known for her non-fiction work, particularly for Yahoo Voices where she is published on everything from history, science, politics, and religion, to reviews on everything from movies to the best places to find great food and wine.
The Peers of Beinan is Laurel's first science fiction series.
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University of Nebraska-Lincoln, BA in Writing, Psychology, History-ChinaInterests
world religions, science, physics, parrots, history, politics, music, fashion, green living, blindness,Motto
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Displaying Results 1 - 140 (of 140) for All Content
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Clothing Provocation: Why People Think Suggestive Clothing Suggests SomethingSagging pants are especially popular with males under the age of 25. But the "trend" is a sexually suggestive, originating from prison sexual displays. A discussion about the messages clothing conveys to others.
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In Dorothy's FootstepsThis week legendary Star Trek writer Dorothy "D.C." Fontana turned seventy-four years old. Forty years after her "Journey to Babel," women around the world benefit from the courage and imagination of Star Trek's brightest star. -
Pain After Sandy: Five Months After the Super Storm, Southern Brooklyn Still RecoveringFive months after super storm Sandy, Brooklyn is still suffering. Some of the hardest hit areas were Sheepshead Bay, Manhattan Beach, and Coney Island where today, many businesses are still closed. A Sheepshead Bay success story: The El Greco Diner.
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Best of the Midwest: Chicago, Omaha, and Lincoln Restaurants for Residents and TouristsI love great food. Whenever I travel, I want to enjoy fine dining at a reasonable price, no matter what I'm in the mood for. These Chicago, Omaha, and Lincoln (Nebraska) restaurants all get five stars for their price, quality, and selection.
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World Building: the Costs and Benefits of Writing Outside of the BoxWorld building takes imagination. As the author of the Peers of Beinan series, I discovered the hazards and the benefits of creating a whole new world of my own. From research to writing, an exploration of the process of making your story your own. -
K-cup (pod) Coffee Verses Drip Coffee: a Cost ComparisionPod style coffee makers are all the rage right now. They promise convenient high quality beverages brewed at home. But are they better than drip coffee makers? A look at the actual costs of brewing your morning coffee. -
Challenging Einstein: Uniformity and the Cosmological Constant in NatureEinstein's general relativity is often interpreted through the cosmological principle and cosmological constant. Yet these presume a spherical view of the universe and big bang I find defies the most basic observations of Nature. -
Realistic New Year's Resolutions: Making Diet, Weight Loss Resolution Goals WorkYear after year one New Year's resolution makes the top five list: weight loss. More than any other area of our lives, we are obsessed with changing the numbers for our bodies. Here are some ways to make a lasting change this year. -
Getting the Most Out of Telephone Customer ServiceEveryone speaks to telephone customer service representatives. Whether it is to address a specific problem or just update information, a live person on the phone helps us with our lives. Here are four tips for making your next call more successful. -
Photos: Blizzard Continues to Central PennsylvaniaThe Midwest Blizzard is now a Pennsylvania blizzard as Johnstown and the Laurel Highlands continues to suffer over six to eight inches of snow in just four hours with more predicted in the forecast. -
First Person: No Snow Relief for Johnstown, Pa., ResidentsJohnstown Pennsylvania residents received no snow reprieve for Christmas, 2012 as the Midwest Blizzard reaches Flood City, covering the area in snow, sleet, and ice.
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Ten Myths About Blindness and Sight LossWalking down the street as a blind person can be dangerous. It's not the traffic or obstacles in my path. It's people around me stereotyping my sight issues. Here are ten incorrect assumptions about sight loss you need to know are wrong. -
The Hobbit: A Long Awaited, "unexpected" Journey Back to Middle EarthA review of Peter Jackson's The Hobbit from the perspective of a character-driven science fiction author. Pros and cons of this first of three Hobbit films from the viewpoint of a true Tolkien fan.
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Streamlining Health Care: a Simple Solution to Washington's Biggest MessAmerica is in a desperate struggle over health care. With rising health care and insurance costs, it seems like nothing can solve this mess -- especially coming out of Congress. The solution lies in simplicity -- and common sense.
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Mulling Over Wine: Three Favorite Recipes for Your Happy HolidaysFor over one thousand years one beverage has made our holidays more bright: mulled wine. Whether your favorite is hundreds of years old, a family traditional choice, or a nuanced mulled riesling, there is something for everyone this holiday season.
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Falling Behind: America’s Disinterest in Math, Science Blocks Jobs from Coming HomeCompanies like Apple want to bring jobs back home. There's just one problem: Americans lack the skilled work force companies like Apple need. A look at math, science, jobs, and our attitude towards science study.
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God / the Devil Made Me Do It: Religion and Personal ResponsibilityA stranger offered me a ride during hurricane Sandy. Along the way, she preached her evangelical Christianity with words about God being in control of her life -- or the devil making her choose badly. A discussion about personal responsibility. -
Paying Writers, Artists, and Musicians Last: Why How You Shop for Media Makes a DifferenceWriters, artists, and musicians make their living through royalties on their works. Yet it's these creators who are paid last in the publishing, music, art, and motion picture industries. How you shop affects how much money they make. -
A Sense of EntitlementGeneration Me has grown more and more selfish over the past thirty years with its focus on self gratification and increasingly rude behavior. At the core of this attitude is the sense of entitlement, of "deserving" with minimal effort.
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An Alternative to Our Legal Marriage - Divorce Merry-go-roundA look at legal marriage, legal divorce, and what could be a better way to navigate issues arising from the dissolution of marriage. -
High Turnover Rates: the Correlation Between Corporate Culture and Customer RetentionEvery company wants to grow their business. But what is most forgotten is the way that corporate culture shapes customer satisfaction and repeat business. The companies with the highest employee turnover rates have the fewest loyal customers. -
You Are on Your Own, Kid: the Myth of Success Through Self-EfficacyThe 2012 election cycle has raised the issue of self-efficacy and financial success. Republicans advocate a strong correlation between the two, that talent, intelligence, and drive are enough to succeed. But is it? My life as a balance sheet. -
Fear-Based HealthcareI am on the verge of bankruptcy over a brief ER visit in March. With a bill hundreds of dollars more than I can afford after years of unemployment, my life is on the brink. But was this visit necessary or fear-based? A look at healthcare.
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How Food Allergies Have Made Me a Better CookMy allergy to onions can be life-threatening, requiring constant diligence every time I cook or order from a restaurant. From scratch cooking greatly reduces exposure, but can be daunting for most people. Here's how I've weaned off processed foods.
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The “Radical” Notion of Direct, Supported EvidenceI was raised with "because I said so" in response to my incessant question, "why?" Authority-based arguments are popular, especially in parenting. But the scientific method is different, demanding evidence in support of every axiom. A personal story.
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Unplugging for Better HealthAmericans today are much less healthier than 100 years ago. What changed? Electricity. In previous generations our ancestors cooked, cleaned, and maintained their property without plugging in. Unplugging is easier than you think!
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First Person: Today I Published My First NovelNovels are the stuff writers love to be made of. Yet changes in the publishing industry mean independent publishing is the new and best way for new authors to publish. Here is my personal story of going from daydreams to publication using Smash Words.
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A Culture of SuperiorityAmerican culture is a culture of superiority. The rich feel they don't need to pay the same taxes or play by the same rules as the rest of us. We look down on those different from us and especially those who have fewer possessions or money.
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The Economics of Domestic ViolenceWhy women stay in domestic violence is a mystery to those who have not lived it. What most don't realize is that the answer is money. With lower pay rates than men, most women are trapped by insufficient incomes to leave abusers.
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Chocolate and Vanilla Egg Crèmes: Brooklyn’s Best Kept SecretBrooklyn residents have known about egg cremes for decades. This chocolate or vanilla soda made from Fox's U-Bet syrup is a Brooklyn tradition rarely served anymore outside of New York City. Try this recipe for the egg creme and you'll wonder why!
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Cans and Bottles and Trash, Oh My!In the 1970s, nearly all beverage containers were sold with bottle deposits attached. Most customers returned bottles for a deposit refund. Today, we throw alarmingly high numbers of bottles in the trash. But bottle deposits can work today.
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A Survivor’s View of the Jerry Sandusky ScandalThe role of Joe Paterno, Graham Spanier, and other Penn State officials in covering up Jerry Sandusky's molestation of several youth was recently exposed in the Freeh Report. In trying to protect the Penn State, they facilitated abuse.
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A Lack of Privacy: Sexual Preferences, Coming Out, and Issues of Basic Individual PrivacyRecently, journalist Anderson Cooper became the latest celebrity to publically declare his homosexuality. Our society hypocritically seems obsessed with homosexual sex lives while leaving alone most heterosexuals. Privacy is lost in our world.
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Mythologizing America, Patriotism, and HistoryWe all love to celebrate American liberty and virtue during national holidays. In our ardor, we talk about unity, freedom, and equality from our Founding Fathers. But history reveals these are all myths.
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Lughnasagh 2012: Remembering the HungryLughnasagh (aka Loaf Mass) is the first of the three Celtic Wiccan harvest festivals. Our 2012 celebrations are met with an epic of hunger in America. As the rich become richer, more and more Americans will celebrate the harvest with nothing for dinner.
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We Need to Free Teachers: How Micro-managing Teachers is Undermining American EducationAmerican students are failing to learn. Beginning in the 1990s and accelerated by "No Child Left Behind," government micro-managing of classrooms has taken control away from teachers, forcing them to teach to the test instead of to competence.
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Merida’s “Brave” New WorldIn Disney-Pixar's new movie "Brave" Queen Elinor and Princess Merida face the most impossible challenge of all: communicating with each other. Beautifully Celtic and featuring exquisite stone circles, "Brave" conquers new ground for an animated feature.
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The Myth of Perpetual Trauma"You need help" is often the first thought that comes to mind when you hear someone survived domestic violence and/or a sex crime. Yet these assumptions are often wrong; surviving is the best teacher and refines inner strength and wisdom.
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The Liberal Who Tried to Be ConservativeI was raised Evangelical Church and a die-hard Republican. So why am I a Wiccan Democrat today? A brief exploration of my road from conservative to liberal, red to blue, far right to left-center, and Evangelical to Wiccano.
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Medieval Militias: a Brief History of England and Europe's Primary Defense ForcesA brief history of the militia as the primary defensive force in medieval and renaissance England. Rooted in ancient Germanic traditions, English monarchs encouraged private citizen competence with weapons over use of expensive and brutal mercenaries.
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Living History UnhinderedLiving with sight loss is a challenge. But sight loss does not need to diminish a person's enjoyment of living history activities. From dancing to thrown weapons and beyond, it takes only a minor adjustment for the visually impaired to enjoy the SCA.
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Distinguishing Between History and TheologyA recent Gallup poll shows 46% of Americans believe in Creationism. This view blurs the line between history and theology. But history and theology are distinct disciplines. A discussion of the historian's craft and evaluation of primary source materia
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A Boston Fourth to RememberIn 2008 my companion and I took Acela to Boston for a memorable 4th of July filled with tours, great dining, and special "Harborfest" events. From Beacon Hill to Faneuil Hall and the Old State House, we enjoyed an educational historic vacation.
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Echoes of a Lost FriendA poem about the people we lose along the way and the echos we hear in years to come of what we had, what we lost, and what our hearts tell us still may be.
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When He-Man and She-Ra Are Not Even Safe for Kids to WatchHe-Man and She-Ra are two classic animated programs for children 8-15 that empower them to make wise choices. But what happens when a local station airs advertising for prostate cancer drugs (with diagrams) with She-Ra? A discussion of kid's programming.
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The Beauty of Katherine Jenkins: Dancing with the Stars Runner Up is More Than a Great DancerMost Americans first became aware of Welsh mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins in the spring of 2012 when she danced on ABC's "Dancing with the Stars." As beautiful a dancer as Katherine is, her music outshines even her dancing!
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Bride Quest: Our Pursuit of Weddings Instead of Healthy MarriagesWe are all raised with fairy tale romance and "happily ever after." But few of us spend nearly as much time thinking about the realities of marriage and what sort of man will be a good husband compared with the time we dream about our "perfect" wedding.
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Parrots and Popinjays: a Brief Look at the Role of Companion Birds in Medieval EuropeToday the pets of choice are cats and dogs. But in the middle ages, most animals were kept for practical considerations. Only the beautiful and often vocal companion birds (parrots, finches, pigeons/dove) broke up the monotony of our lives. An overview
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The Line Between Legislation and EndorsementPeople too often equate legal rights with endorsement for particular life choices like marriage, abortion, child-rearing, and reproductive health concerns. The strong line between legal rights with the government and (dis) approval of behaviors.
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Exploring the Animal Sciences in the Society for Creative AnachronismGentles in the Society for Creative Anachronism love animals. In five animal sciences, SCAdians explore the human-animal relationship. Aviculture, Animal Husbandry, Falconry, Equestrian, and Hound Coursing all provide enrichment for animal lovers.
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The Quid Pro Quo of Today’s Social EconomyLove is altruistic. Love puts no conditions on kindness. Yet increasingly, our society has become self-absorbed and selfish. We put conditions and limits on how and how much kindness we extend, even to those closest to us. A discussion.
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The Shampoo Challenge: My Experiment in Green Hair CareConventional hair care products coat your hair and pollute our drinking water and marine wildlife. But a simple solution of baking soda/water to clean and vinegar to condition works better than commercial products for less money and no ecological impact.
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Dignity, Integrity, and Love Conquers AllWe all people-please and tell lies to keep jobs and relationships. But lying backfires. Only through honesty and integrity can we rediscover who we are and receive love for who we truly are. Honesty's rewards.
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Justifying Sexual and Domestic ViolenceMental illness is a too-often used label used to justify rape and domestic violence, removing responsibility from those who commit these crimes. Recent research has revealed the person who hurt me was also hurt--but does this remove his responsibility?
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Lakemont Park Altoona: Cheep Amusement for a ReasonLakemont Park in Altoona, Pennsylvania is Blair County's pay-one-price amusement park and water park. With paddle boating, go-karts, and miniature golf for an extra fee, this park seems more fun than it really is. My review of the park.
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Milk is Not Just for Children: Healthy Benefits Make Milk a Choice Adult BeverageMost people associate drinking milk with children. But milk holds perhaps even more health benefits for adults than for children. With a low glycemic index, vitamin D, calcium, and protein, adults benefit by drinking more milk. Got milk?
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Four Ways to Re-connect with the Spirit of IndependenceJuly 4th is one of America's favorite holidays. But among the parties, the underlying history is too often ignored. Here are four ways you can re-connect to our revolutionary war history and better understand what we are celebrating.
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The Freezer is My Friend: How to Avoid Food Spoilage by FreezingMost of us probably assume the freezer is for meat, ice cream, and frozen prepared foods. But the freezer can save you serious money, particularly when cooking for just one or two. Foods that freeze well, okay, and not well!
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Unlocking the Latisse (bimatoprost Opthalmic Solution) CodeLatisse is the hottest beauty trend, offering thicker, fuller lashes without mascera. But few recognize Latisse as an off-label application for a long-established open angle glaucoma drug, bimatoprost opthalmic solution. Helpful information on Latisse.
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The Forgotten Cost of WarAs flag wave for another round of patriotic holidays, most forget about the true costs of war, costs that extend beyond money or lives lost. Veterans pay heavily for surviving combat in the form of disabilities, mental illness, alcoholism, homelessness
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No Gym Required: Three Lifestyle Changes for Real HealthProcessed and convenience foods, mega-corporate farming practices, and an over-abundance of home appliances have destroyed food quality and removed the exercise from home maintenance. Three tips for improving our health and quality of life.
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No Sight of Heaven: My Multiple Near Death ExperiencesNear Death Experiences stereotypically involve lights, tunnels, and divine encounters. My multiple NDEs were very different. These are some of my experiences of the space between life and death over multiple NDEs between 1972 and 1985.
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The 3 Best Walking Tours for Your Vacation/staycationWalking Tours provide tourists with an affordable way to explore during vacations and staycations alike. Three of my favorites are in New York City, Boston, and western Pennsylvania. Check out these when planning your next vacation.
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Swim Dressing: Skirted Suits Return as a Fashion FavoriteSwim dresses and skirted swim suits used to be ugly and worn primarily by women over the age of 50. Recent demand by professional women has changed this as they have demanded flattering suits that hide flaws and figure enhance.
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Shawls Around the WorldShawls are everywhere. We wear them as scarves, wraps, beach skirts, and weather protection. But there is much more than meets the eye with scarves. Worn around the world for millenia, shawls of one type or another connect us to one another.
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Staycation Workouts that Don’t Feel like ExerciseWe've all been told to exercise more. The problem is, it's not fun for most of us. But these three staycation ideas provide us lots of exercise without feeling like we are "working out." From zoos and gardens to fairs and golf, working out can be fun!
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My Worst Airline Check-In Experience EverOnline travel websites are supposed to make travel easier. But when one major site failed to book my seats on a set of flights from JFK New York to LNK Lincoln, NE, the result was a near missing my flight and all the complications therein.
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We’re Going to the Zoo!Most people associate zoos with children. But zoos offer adults romance, education, connection to nature, and, of course, fun! Adults should consider zoos as a great entertainment option and sponsors wildlife conservation.
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From Martin Luther’s Sola Scriptura to Modern Biblical LiteralismBiblical literalism has evolved since Martin Luther's speech at the Diet of Worms in 1521. A examination of Biblical Literalism, Martin Luther, reason, and the doctrine known as Sola Scriptura (only the Bible).
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A Reality Check on Weight, Clothing Size and Self EsteemDo we really need to lose weight? The media says so. But the media's ideal body is not healthy - as I learned after surging from an "ideal" size 2 to a healthy size 12 in 2011. A reality check on size, weight, and self esteem.
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'Ice Castles' and Sight Loss: Classic Film Confuses Neurological with Optical Blindness"Ice Castles" is a beautiful film celebrating love. But its depictions of sight loss falls dramatically short of the real experiences of the neurologically blind and visually impaired. Optical verses neurological sight loss explained and described.
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Breaking the Religious Code of Silence in Rape, Incest, and Domestic ViolenceA recent NY Times article reveals the consequences faced by Hasidic Jews for reporting sexual abuse. Yet sexual assault and domestic violence transcends religions. Religious communities often side with abusers and blame victims, blocking aid efforts.
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Employing the Differently AbledThe vast majority of "Disabled" Americans want to work. Stereotyped assumptions of helplessness prevent companies from hiring these "differently abled" workers. But differently abled equals innovative problem solvers companies need to grow.
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Classic Kitchen Tools for Greener CookingBefore electric mixers, blenders, food processors, and convenience foods, our grandmothers used hand-powered kitchen aids to help them make their meals from scratch. Hand-powered devices are greener, healthier, and frugal. Three top picks.
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Chamomile and Ginger: Two Herbs You Need to Consume More OfChamomile and ginger are two of the most common herbs in our cupboards. But most under-utilize them, underestimating their healing and health benefits. From food allergies to insomnia, it is time to give chamomile and ginger a second look!
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Why Wearing Your Correct Size Makes You Look and Feel Better in Your ClothesWe all want to wear clothes that make us look great. But the key to looking your best starts with wearing your correct size--not the size you are told by others to wear. Correct sizing makes our clothes lay properly--and encourages healthy habits.
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Olive Garden’s Principato Wines Among the Best of the House WinesFine wine is an important component to fine dining. House wines are typically relegated to the "adequate" label at most restaurants. A notable exception is Olive Garden's "Principato" label with three exquisite choices everyone can love.
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Defining EvilEvil is a big subject in religion, too often defined as deviation from a given religion's theology. Yet outside of religion, a clearer, more objective definition emerges. But evil can be overcome--through serenity and love.
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Screening Optometry: Five Questions to Ask Before You Schedule Your Routine Eye AppointmentOptometry is big business. With the flood of optical chains on the market, it is easy for companies to take short-cuts at the expense of your sight. Here are five questions to ask before you schedule your eye exam.
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Transcending Time: Historical Clothing Styles You Can Wear TodayHistorical fashion is not just for re-enactors at events. Some of the hottest looks are directly or indirectly historical. Check out these three looks direct from history that you can not only wear on the street, but look completely on trend wearing.
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A Lack of EmpathyIncreasingly since the 1980s our society has focused on self-reliance and self-interest at the price of social consciousness and empathy for others, enabling the greed-driven financial and housing bubbles triggering this recession. Empathy matters.
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Unemployment, Recession Stress, and StatisticsThe recession has taken a serious toll on our national mental health. Yet for all our despair, there is hope. A look at unemployment statistics from 1929-1941 compared with 2008-2012 statistics reveal there is more to hope in than you think!
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Natural and Common Sense Treatments for Carpal Tunnel and Repetitive Stress SyndromeCarpal Tunnel Syndrome and Repetitive Stress Syndrome are easier to treat at home than you realize. Here are some tips for avoiding and treating your carpal tunnel injuries.
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Equal Access for All: Why Pennsylvania Voters Should Support President Barack ObamaPresident Barack Obama supports disabled Pennsylvanians not only through equality-centric legislation, but through High Speed rail service. Better rail service increases employment for the disabled and decreases SSI dependence--and costs. Vote Obama.
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Witch in the City: Seven Tips for Adapting Polytheism to Urban EnvironmentsPracticing polytheism can be a logistical challenge--especially in cities where access to green spaces is more limited. But with a few tweaks, many of them for safety, you can worship as well in a city as you can in a rural setting.
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Medieval Beltane MusicBeltane is one of the British Isle's most enduring ancient festivals. Music is an essential part of Beltane celebrations. Here are three of the most enduring songs for Beltane and the coming of spring from the 13th and 16th centuries.
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“Quantum Leap” Guest Stars Who Shaped Science Fiction"Quantum Leap" featured not only the talents of the legendary Scott Bakula and Dean Stockwell, but the talents of dozens of guest stars who shaped these beloved stories. Many of "Quantum Leap's" guest stars were or became fixtures in science fiction.
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Adventures in Window Sill Gardening: NK Lawn & Garden Kits Show PromiseNK Lawn & Garden window sill herb and salad mix kits help those who struggle with growing plants by providing an effective, all-inclusive system featuring an error-resistant planter and properly balanced soils for each seed mix. Helpful for "black thumb".
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Major and Minor Tools in WiccaStereotypical witches brew potions and ride on broomsticks. But the tools of Wicca transcend these stereotypes, enhancing worship and facilitating individual spiritual growth. Here are some of the most common tools in Wicca explained.
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Eating Kosher: Why You Don’t Need to Be Jewish to Eat a (Largely) Kosher DietGentiles should consider eating more kosher foods. With great taste, fewer by-products, more whole foods, and fewer hidden ingredients, eating kosher provides health and taste benefits you don't always receive from traditional gentile supermarket foods.
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Cancelled Before Their Time: Three Science Fiction Series that Were Axed in Their First SeasonSome of the best TV shows are cancelled before they finished their first seasons. Among the best science fiction series to not reach the end of season one are "Benji, Zax, and the Alien Prince," "Babylon 5 Crusade," and "Firefly." Series summaries.
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Best of the Online Pet StoresThe finicky preferences of our pets can be hard on the pocketbook. Shopping online can save a lot of money as we search for supplies our pets will embrace. Here are my top picks for online pet supply stores with the best prices
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Food Allergies and Picky Eating: Why We Should Not Ignore Aversions to FoodsFood allergies can be hard to detect, particularly to the most common ingredients in our foods. But by attending to picky eating, food preferences, and consistent aversions to foods, we can eat safer and healthier.
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Before 'The Civil War:' Must-See Ken Burns Documentaries from the 1980sFilmmaker Ken Burns is best known for his 1990 series "The Civil War." Before this critically acclaimed series, Ken Burns won an Academy Award nomination for 1981's "The Brooklyn Bridge" and continued to make must-see films throughout the 1980s.
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Catherine De Valois: Henry V’s Bride, England and Scotland's Unexpected MatriarchWe know Catherine de Valois as the "Kate" of Shakespeare's "Henry V." But there was much more to French princess and English Queen Catherine de Valois than her pretty face and son, Henry VI. She became matriarch to both Tudor and Stuart dynasties.
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Everyday Chinese Home-Style Chinese DinnersThe food most Americans associate with China is very different from the food prepared by Chinese families at home. For three years I was a full part of a family from Shanghai where I learned everyday Chinese cooking. Chinese food you can make at home.
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From Resurrection Sunday to Easter: How Ancient German and Christian Celebrations Merged at EasterWhen we think about Easter, we think of the Easter bunny, candy, flowers, new clothes, and sunrise services. Yet these traditions stem from pre-Christian German religious celebrations. Here is the story of how German culture merged with Christianity.
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Delivering on Hope for Women: Why I Still Support President Barack ObamaAs a woman of a minority religion, campaign 2012 has raised many issues of concerns as Santorum attacks issues important to women and Romney seems out of touch with normal folks. Obama is not perfect but stands to improve the lives of women everywhere.
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The Cockatoo is My Spirit Guide, Power Animal?Spirit guides are a classic facet of shamanism around the world. Yet for all my research, I never considered that cockatoos might be my spirit guide. Until I read a compelling article online. In this article, I explore cockatoos as possible spirit guides.
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Honoring Ostara, Easter: Simple Ways to Honor the Goddess of Spring and the DawnOstara, Easter is a Germanic holiday honoring the German goddess of the spring/dawn on the vernal equinox. But everyone, not just Wiccans, can take advantage of this holiday to commune with nature and pray. Here are some ideas for Ostara for all faiths.
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Prayer to Restore Nature's BalanceHumans have destroyed Mother Earth with deforestation, toxic crop fertilization, CO2 emissions, urban sprawl, water pollution, and beyond. As we celebrate Earth Day let us beg forgiveness for all we have destroyed--and endeavor to make amends.
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Quick and Easy Braised Chicken Fettuccine (No Onion)When you are on a budget, you need a chicken dinner that is quick, easy, and inexpensive to make. This onion free chicken and pasta dish takes less than 20 minutes to make, is low fat, and very flavorful.
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Recipe: Junk Free Home-Mixed Cockatiel, Conure FoodCommercial parrot diets are filled with junk seeds and fillers designed to drive down costs and drive up profits - at the expense of your bird's health. Here is my recipe for home-mixed parrot foods that omit the junk and optimize nutrition.
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'The Bachelor:' Bad Girl Courtney Wins Bachelor Ben’s Heart, America LosesOn March 12 America was shocked when Bachelor Ben chose conniving Courtney over classy Lindzi. This choice reminds America of a similar Bachelor season when Vienna won Jake in what became a short lived relationship. My predictions for Ben/Courtney.
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'Our Last Best Hope' for Going Where No One Has Gone Before'Two of the most beloved science fiction series are Star Trek and Babylon 5. For all their differences, B5 and Trek are connected in one way: they share cast and crew members. Here are memorable actors and writers from the B5 and Star Trek universes.
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Seven Lessons My Cockatiel Taught Me About LifeSometimes your bird is better at living well than you are. Here are seven lessons my cockatiels teach me by watching them live and play - about adversity, food, sleep,learning, play, creativity, and social relationships.
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Zynga’s Castleville on Facebook: The Game You Cannot Stop PlayingZynga's Castleville provides a challenging pseudo-medieval role playing game experience that is personalized to the player and realistic in how quests are completed. From crops to animals to crafting to role playing, this game is the best game on Facebook
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Saint Patrick’s Day: Celebrating the Myth, Not the ManSaint Patrick's Day is a day for celebrating Irish heritage. Yet a closer look at the myths and historical records show Bishop Patrick was a wealthy Englishman motivated by negative experiences with Irish peoples to convert them to Christianity.
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A Tribute to My High School Grammar Teacher Mr. Hunter-PirtlePublic school teachers rarely receive the credit they so richly deserve. And so I write this thank you to one of my public high school teachers, Patrick Hunter-Pirtle, a man whose lessons extend well beyond his classroom in 1989.
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Home Economics Education: Teaching Practical Math, Science and LifeHome Economics is decreasingly offered in secondary education programs. Yet the value of Home Economics education transcends learning how to cook and sew; Home Ec teaches math and science in ways we all can understand.
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Bad News for Lady Healer Keelia of ElenimLady Healer Keelia is happy to be home after just giving birth to her daughter. Introducing the newborn to her big brother, she barely hears the breaking news cast: terrorism has just killed her husband, a top healer working halfway across Elenim.
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The Prince, the Knight, and the Bow of BalisterPrince Kendric of House Gurun is the secret descendant of first king Malvyn. After showing homage to an ancestral relic, he meets with his sister's suitor, Lord Knight Keltar, concerning Keltar's desire to solve his father's murder by terrorists.
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Love in the Light of DayCandlelight and roses are the promises of love eternal. And yet, for so many of us, the promises of happily ever after disappear in the light of our daily challenges, in the real world of problems.
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Silk Basics: Mommes and Fabric TypesSilk is a fashion mainstay, dominating formal wear and wedding gowns in particular. Yet there is more to silk than doupion. Measured in mommes, the combination of weight and weave decides how to use this most versatile of natural fibers for fabrics.
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Purim Celebrations for GentilesPurim is a very Jewish holiday celebrating survival in the face of genocide. Yet much of Purim celebrations cross religious and cultural boundaries - and to the core of who we are as people.
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My Brush with Abduction: How Independence and Common Sense Saved My LifeWe live in a time where child abduction is all too common and "free range parenting" is often frowned upon. Yet common sense and self-confident independence helped me ignore a would-be kidnapper's lures and ultimately saved my life.
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My Easter Memory with Grandma, 1981One of my best childhood memories was in 1981 when my family spent Easter with my maternal grandmother in North Loup, Nebraska and the Easter egg hunt held at the Methodist Church after the service.
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Modernized Elizabethan: Simplicity Pattern 3782Elizabethan gowns are all the rage for weddings, Ren Faires, re-enactments, and beyond. Rather than paying professionals, many home sewers choose Simplicity 3782 "Elizabethan costume" to make their own. An advanced theatrical pattern.
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My Favorite Spring Hobby: Picnicking with the BirdsMy favorite spring hobby is enjoying time out of doors with my birds on picnics. With a few simple precautions, it's easy to have fun in the sun with your parrot or other companion bird almost anywhere you enjoy a nice picnic.
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My Path Away from Prescription TopomaxMigraine pain affects 18% of women and 6% of men with higher incidents for traumatic brain injury sufferers, particularly when the injury occurs in adolescence. For four years, I took prescription Topomax, then switched to Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) in 2011.
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The Italian Village: Ebensburg’s Hidden GemWest-central Pennsylvania is not where you expect to find truly great Italian food. Yet Italian Village delivers with the best tasting Italian cuisine for the best value around. From salads to pizza to pasta and beyond, check out The Italian Village.
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A New Start in the Niobrara for Mr. And Mrs. O’MalleyIt's been many days on countless trains for Mr. Darcy and Mrs. Brigit O'Malley of County Mayo, Ireland. Yet they say a hard working Irishman can make a new start and an honest living in the Niobrara Valley, far from the racism of home.
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The Camelot/Castle Pub: The Medieval Themed Restaurant That Isn’tEbensburg Pennsylvania's Camelot restaurant and Castle Pub is hyped as Ebensburg's medieval restaurant experience. But with minimal decor, poorly prepared food, and a smoke-filled environment, it's a poor choice for dinner.
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Fantasy Verses Historical Fashion: Renaissance Faire Dresses Fail the Period TestWe all love those beautiful ren faire and "medieval bridal" fashions we see on the web. Yet most of these gowns are more fantasy than history. Instead, re-enactors and brides should buy from and consult SCA costumers whose research is second to none.
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Spring Break 1999: Not a Dream in CaliforniaSpring break is supposed to be a great time for a vacation--if you have the time. In 1999, I won a trip to Napa Valley for spring break. I expected a California dream. Instead, poor maps and directions led to a California nightmare I never forgot.
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A Lack of Care: Avian Veterinarians Are Few and Far Between in PennsylvaniaProper medical care is essential for all companion animals. Yet outside of Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, very few Pennsylvanian practices provide care for avians and exotics. This endangers the lives of our birds, birds nature intends to live for decades.
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Love Me Love My Pet: The Importance of Animal Compatibility in RelationshipsAnimals are an important part of our family life. When our romances advance to the joining of households, differing companion animal preferences and styles greatly affect the quality of our combined lives, particularly when partners disagree on pets.
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An Evangelical’s Path to PolytheismIn the aftermath of my 1985 traumatic brain injury and near death experience, I found my spiritual path evolving from Evangelical Christianity to Wicca and polytheism. A life journey of religious discovery into unexpected territory.
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Sunflower Heads and Millet Sprays: Nature’s Foraging ToysForaging toys are the latets and hottest trend in companion bird products. Yet the best foraging toys are not the plastic and cardboard contraptions seen at pet stores, but food the way nature offers it: in sprays and flower heads.
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True Separation: Why a Genuine Separation Between Church and State is Essential to LibertyMany organized religious groups have grown political in recent years. Yet in touting the First Amendment, they ignore its text mandating no preference by the State and the need for true fairness regarding religion.
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The Joys and Challenges of Raising a Disabled ParrotWhen we bring home a new parrot, we often find ourselves raising a bird who has been physically or emotionally abused, a bird with trust issues. Yet raising a disabled bird is often far more rewarding than raising an able-bodied parrot.
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The First KingAfter tens of thousands of yen-ars of clan warfare, a humanoid race from a world orbiting a dying blue-white star ends their blood feuds. With the sun's death impending, the Great Council chooses an executive, a king, to guide them into the stars.
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Magic Has Consequences: ABC’s Once Upon a TimeABC's hit television series, Once Upon A Time, is more than just a bunch of pretty fairy tales. Instead, these stories teach important lessons about the consequences for our choices, especially when we resort to magical shortcuts.
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Psittacosis: Not a Death Sentence for Your BirdPsittacosis, Chlamydia psittaci, has historically been 100% lethal. But thanks to advances in avian medicine and with the help of an avian veterinarian, your bird can survive this highly contagious and deadly disease--just like my baby bird, Elendil!
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Review: the Iron Lady, Margaret Thatcher’s Story; Meryl Streep’s TriumphThe Iron Lady tells the story of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in a must-see bio-pic about this extraordinary woman. A working class girl with limited prospects, Margaret's determination to make a difference takes her to the halls of Parliament.
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Frugal Parrot Food: How to Buy Bird Seed for LessCompanion bird food for parrots, finches, canaries, and doves consists of a mix of fresh seeds, nuts, fruits, vegetables, and pellets. In this article, I cover tips and tricks for buying the seed/nut portion of your bird's diet on a budget.
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Goldy the Scarlet Macaw FledgesGoldy the Scarlet Macaw was born in the rain forest. Now old enough to start flying, she struggles with her first flight...and discovers the joy of being a macaw.
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Home-Spun Coasters: The Perfect Homemade Valentine GiftDrop spinning is one of the oldest textile techniques. With simple home-spun yarn, it's easy to make a classic gift your loved ones will cherish. Dye with food coloring and vinegar for a beautiful coaster that rivals anything bought in stores.
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Susan and the Calico CatTen year old Susan wants a cat. She and her mom find the perfect cat at the humane society and head home.
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Lughnasagh / Lammas Has Come - 2009Lughnasagh is the first of the harvest holidays. It is a "major" sabbatt celebrated with baked goods. Lughnasagh is also known as "lammas" or "loaf mass" in Roman Catholicism, where it was also adopted.