Z.J. Ascensio
Z.J. Ascensio began writing professionally in 2005. Since then, she's been published on various websites (Yahoo! News and Movies and USA Today Educate among them) covering a wide range of topics from dating and relationships to disease control and prevention. Though still a student, Z.J. is regarded as a gifted writer, excelling in her study of anthropology at Murray State University.
Z.J.'s first writing project was penning letters to government officials on behalf of an adult education program. She chose to make writing her career after witnessing firsthand the power of words.
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Z.J.'s first writing project was penning letters to government officials on behalf of an adult education program. She chose to make writing her career after witnessing firsthand the power of words.
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Displaying Results 1 - 140 (of 140) for Yahoo! Voices
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Topics to Avoid with Your Elementary School Aged ChildSometimes knowing what your child really understands and what will cause confusion is difficult. Here are four topics likely to seem clear to parents, but will probably only confuse your elementary schooler.
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The Effects of Photo Manipulation in the MediaBy airbrushing and manipulating images of already attractive people, the media are elevating the standards of beauty to an unhealthy and impossible level. -
How Not to Handle Your Teen's ProblemsThis article outlines a few common parental behaviors that will, more likely than not, lead you right into trouble; and therefore, should be avoided when handling your teen's problems. -
3 Green Programs to Start in Your Child's SchoolWhile California schools can now be nominated for the Department of Education's new Green Ribbon Award, your child's school may seem incredibly far from such a goal. Bring it a bit closer by suggesting these three programs. -
The Types of Love in 'Cinema Paradiso'"Cinema Paradiso" is both charming and emotional, using different kinds of passions to perpetuate the story and draw the viewer in. -
Five Tips for Staying Green This WinterMaintaining an eco-friendly lifestyle in the wintertime doesn't have to be expensive or very difficult. Here are five easy and affordable tips for staying green this winter.
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10 Tips for Keeping Your Kids Active This WinterThe winter weather may pose a challenge to your children's physical activity, but it can still be managed.
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Giving a Speech: Fighting Your Fear of Public SpeakingFear of public speaking is a common phobia. As a student or professional, however, you will likely find yourself needing to deliver a speech before an audience. Here are some tips to get past the nervousness and build confidence. -
Christmas Superstitions to Find Love This Holiday SeasonIf you're a single woman looking for love this holiday season, maybe some Christmas magic can help you out. If not, it still makes for fun reading! -
Rabies and Camping: What You Need to KnowRabies is a fatal virus that is transmitted through the bites of infected animals. Find out which animals are likely to be infected, which are not, and what you should do to prevent infection while camping in the United States. -
A Fictive Life of Sticks and SandAbout a liar
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Save Money: Whiten Your Teeth at Home NaturallyOver-the-counter teeth whitening products are often very expensive even though the active ingredient, hydrogen peroxide, is relatively cheap. By using a baking soda/hydrogen peroxide paste, a person should notice whiter teeth in about a week. -
Pimps Are Not Cool; They're a ProblemPimps are abusers. They use women, men, and children for profit; enslave them through abuse; and do not deserve to be recognized as heroes or elite criminals -
William Dean Howells's 'Editha' in a Historical ContextThe history behind William Dean Howells's 'Editha' and how it applies today. -
Trobriand Cricket: An Example of SyncretismColonialism introduced the game of cricket to the indigenous Trobrianders in an effort to suppress their traditions. They instead responded by melding the game with their customs to better preserve them for future generations.
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The Start Up: Things to Consider when Starting Your BusinessStarting a manufacturing business is not as easy as one may think. There are many things to take into consideration. This article explores a few. -
Compare and Contrast: Ballet and Modern DanceThis essay points out some of the over-looked similarities between Ballet and Modern Dance while keeping their vast differences in mind.
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Compare and Contrast: Hawaiian Hula Kahiko and Native American DanceA comparison of these two traditional dance forms. -
Team Management: Handling Problem EmployeesManagers must approach problem employees with care, especially in a team environment -
A Response to Douglas Sirk's Imitation of LifeIn the 1959 film Imitation of Life Sarah Jane Johnson is an African American woman who can "pass" for white. However, the film punishes her for this instead of using it as an opportunity to illustrate how color is only skin deep. -
An Examination of Racist Themes in Eugene O'Neill's The Emperor JonesThe Emperor Jones indulges in debasing racial stereotyping that, whether intentional or unintentional, only served to reinforce erroneous beliefs widely held by the white American audience in the 1920's. -
Critique: North Korean Mass Games Children's DanceWhile one can't deny the talent and dedication these young children display during the North Korean Mass Games, the performance is disturbing when one considers the situation in North Korea today and the motives for the spectacle. -
Compare and Contrast: Indian Bharata Natyam and Japanese NohA comparison of these two traditional forms of performance. -
Lessons from Jack London's The Law of LifeThis essay will explore London's tale by explaining its attractiveness to a broad audience; by detailing Koskoosh as a character; and by illustrating some The Law of Life to which London introduces the reader, both explicit and implicit.
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Self Deceit and Idle JustificationA man tries to justify his infidelities and life choices to himself and the reader, all the while never attaining, improving, or learning anything at all. -
Tips for Getting Children Ready in the MorningMornings are difficult in many households. Here are a few tips to ease the stress of getting up early. -
Seven Excellent Children's Books Recommended by a ChildWho better to recommend reading material than a member of the target audience? Book critic in-the-making, Sonora, recommends these seven stories. -
The Poisonous Snakes of TennesseeTennessee is an ideal state for an outdoor vacation, but it's also home to several snakes, four of which are venomous. Use this guide to learn which snakes should be avoided and where they're found before you set off on your hike. -
My Most Magical Christmas MemoryChristmas is always magical through the eyes of a child, but one particular Christmas will live in my heart forever.
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Dark Musicals: Harsh Sacrifices for Personal GainsIn both reality and fiction, a person may think they know what they want, but later discover what they desired came at too high of a price. These are a few musical movies that deal with the subject of harsh sacrifice for personal gains.
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Best Winter 2010/2011 Events for Kids at Land Between the LakesThere's plenty to do for children visiting the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area this winter. Here are five of the best LBL winter 2010/2011 events for kids. -
Review: Maiden Alley Cinema in Paducah, KentuckyMaiden Alley Cinema in Paducah, Kentucky, is an independent theater that brings the very best non-mainstream films (foreign, classic, domestic independent) to Paducah.
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Alternatives to Giving Pets as Christmas GiftsA puppy or kitten may seem like an ideal holiday gift for children, but after the novelty wears off, new pet owners often find themselves unprepared for the responsibility. Instead of giving a live animal on a whim, consider these alternatives. -
Coping with Sibling Rivalry Among ToddlersSibling rivalry in the toddler stage is a normal occurrence, not a sign that your children are "bad" or don't love each other. Still, it's a problem that must be addressed. Read for some tips to cope with toddler sibling rivalry. -
Five Games to Improve Concentration and Attention Span in ChildrenSometimes concentration takes practice. Inattention may concern parents, but not all instances of inattention are ADD/ADHD related. Before resorting to medicine, try these fun games to help stimulate your child's attention span.
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5 Reasons to Visit Paducah, KentuckyFrom a beautifully renovated downtown, to street festivals, arts, and film, there's plenty to see and do in Paducah, Kentucky. -
Tips for Raising Strong and Empowered GirlsBeing a girl in our society is tough. If you want your daughter to develop a positive self-image and independence, you must cultivate this behavior from an early age. Here are some tips to help you along the way. -
Amazing Treehouse Hotels in AmericaOn your next vacation, live your childhood dream of spending the night in a luxurious treehouse high above the ground. Check out this article for some of the best treehouse resorts in the United States -
Five Compliments You Don't Necessarily WantWhile compliments tend to be good things, there are some types of compliments that can actually have the opposite effect. Here are five compliments that are better off avoided. -
The GiftSeveral months after her husband's mysterious disappearance, a woman receives a gift on Christmas Day. -
Thanksgiving Safety Tips for ParentsIt's important to have your children involved in a family-oriented holiday like Thanksgiving, but there are a few essential safety tips to keep in mind if you want your Thanksgiving to remain a joyful one. -
Mesa Verde National Park: Travel Guide for FamiliesMesa Verde National Park in Colorado can be an exciting and educational experience for families. Read this article for tips and information prior to your Mesa Verde visit. -
The Best American Thanksgiving GetawaysThanksgiving can be more than just food. Here are some of the best places in America to have a unique Thanksgiving experience. -
Demand Justice for Teens Sexually Assaulted by Juvenile CounselorJuvenile counselor Tony Simmons found guilty of raping and abusing teenage girls while in the court house, but only gets probation while the young girls serve jail sentences for minor crimes.
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SnowfallA man who's lived in isolation for five years tries to leave his home to introduce himself to the woman he's loved from afar. -
A Sweet Southern Belle: Halloween 2010This Halloween Sonora was a Southern Belle. Here are some photos of her dress and make up we took before trick-or-treating. If you're looking for a unique and beautiful little girl costume idea, this is a fun one!
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The Lure of the Jack-O-LanternsAfter a day of Halloween hiking, a traveler sets up camp for the night. But strange cries for help lead him off his path and into the dark woods. Will the flickering lights guide him back to safety? -
How to Help Your Teen Prepare for the ACTACT test prep can be tough on a teen. By using these tips and resources parent's can help lighten their child's load.
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Haunted Places in and Around Weakley County, TennesseeWeakley County and surrounding areas in Northwest Tennessee play host to some exciting ghost stories. What you learn about these chilling West Tennessee haunts may surprise you. -
Scary True Stories: Unexplained Paranormal EventsHalloween is a time for horror and fright, but most Halloween entertainment is fantasy. Here are some terrifyingly true and unexplained events for a real Halloween scare. -
The Smiling Soul StealerShe was told in a dream that he was coming for her, but everyone knows dreams aren't real, right? -
Breast Cancer Awareness: Mammogram Questions Answered by Margaret Keuffer, RTRMMargaret Keuffer, a registered technologist in radiography and mammography, answers some frequently asked questions about mammograms to help spread breast health education for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.Also published on: -
Things to Consider when Buying Your Child's Halloween CostumePicking out your child's Halloween costume can be a lot of fun, but there are a few things to keep in mind if you want your family's holiday to be an enjoyable one. -
Easy Rocky Horror Picture Show Costume IdeasDressing up "Rocky Horror Picture Show" style always makes for a good time, but budget and time restraints may not allow for the creation of many of the film's costumes. Here are some easier alternatives to many of the popular choices. -
Unsexy "Sexy" Female Halloween CostumesHalloween costume designers try to make even the most innocent things sexy, but occasionally their attempts fail resulting in awkward outfits that don't come across as sexy. -
Pop Culture Halloween Costumes: Scary Celebrity StylesThere's nothing more frightening that Hollywood this Halloween. Use these costume ideas to capture the look of your favorite trend. -
Green Treats for Halloween Trick-or-TreatersYou don't have to alter your green lifestyle because it's Halloween. Instead, share these organic and earth friendly products with the neighborhood trick-or-treaters -
Halloween Haunted Houses in HoustonHouston, Texas, is home to some of the best Halloween Haunted Houses in the country. Here are five frightening attractions that are great for a scare.
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Land Between the Lakes: Where the Buffalo RoamImages of the Bison that inhabit the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. For more information, visit http://www.lbl.org/ -
Kentucky Lake at Land Between the LakesKentucky Lake as seen from Boswell Landing in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. For more info on LBL, visit http://www.lbl.org/ -
Trick-or-Treat Alternatives for Halloween FunThe tradition of Halloween trick-or-treating may cause some parents concern, but there are other ways to celebrate the holiday without visiting strangers and loading up on candy.
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'Sister Wives' Investigated for Bigamy, and Other Reality Star Legal IssuesStars of the TLC show "Sister Wives" are under investigation for felony bigamy. However, this isn't the first time reality show stars have gotten themselves into a legal mess.Also published on:- Yahoo! US News
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Lady Gaga's VMA Meat Dress to Become Beef JerkyFor those wondering what would become of Lady Gaga's controversial VMA meat dress, here's your answer: beef jerky. -
Katy Perry, Cleavage, and Sesame Street. Oh, My!Katy Perry's Sesame Street video was pulled for showing too much cleavage, but she isn't the first and won't be the last star to be dubbed indecent by the American public. -
Close Encounters of the Infant KindEver since Sharon adopted her new daughter, strange and unexplainable things have been going on. Could her baby be responsible? -
Activities for Singles in Nashville, TennesseeThough Nashville's good for romance, you don't have to be coupled to enjoy a trip to Tennessee's Music City. -
Swimming Attractions in Pigeon Forge, TennesseeEven swim lovers can have fun in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Here are three of the area's best water parks and swim attractions. -
RegretA young woman suspects her neighbor of kidnapping and is faced with the decision of whether or not to act on her suspicions and report him. -
ButterfliesA surprising sight on our visit to the woods, my family and I stumbled upon wild milk thistle that was attracting butterflies from all over the forest. Read more about it here: http://thelandofanoz.blogspot.com/2010/09/butterflies.html -
September 8th: International Literacy DayInternational Literacy Day is a day to celebrate the gift of reading while keeping in mind that we still must work to spread literacy to everyone on the planet.
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Tarsiers: The Misfit PrimatesTarsiers just don't fit in! See what makes this little primate a taxonomic problem. -
Five Unique American BeachesMany beaches brag gorgeous vistas, abundant sunlight and the beautiful blue ocean, but these American beaches offer just a little more. -
Five Alarm Clocks More Annoying Than Your OwnBeing torn from your dreams by an alarm clock has to be high on the list of most annoying every day things. But it could be much worse...
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Six Amazing Cat FactsCats are fascinating animals. Check out this article for some extraordinary feline facts. -
Green Ways to Go Back to SchoolMake your child's return to school a little greener with these tips.
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Ten New Uses for that Old ToothbrushJust because you can't use it for dental care doesn't mean it can't be useful. Hang on to that old toothbrush and recycle it with these 10 ideas.
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Ten Natural Skin Care TipsMany of the popular skin care products contain harsh chemicals that can damage your skin and the environment. Here are some simple and natural alternatives.Also published on:- Yahoo! US Your Wisdom
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Some Areas Improving After Flooding in West Tennessee, Others Getting WorseMadison and Gibson counties are improving since the weekend's storms. However, the situation in Dyer county remains awful. It has now been declared a national disaster area. -
Five of the Best Websites for Cat-Related EntertainmentCats are cute, funny and have taken over the Internet! If you don't believe me, check out these five websites and see for yourself.
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Storms Devastate West TennesseeThis is my account of the storms that flooded and devastated the Jackson, Tenn., and surrounding areas in West Tennessee, the region I call home -
Tornadoes Cause Additional Damage to Already Devistated West TennesseeAfter severe flooding during the earlier part of May 1,2010, tornadoes and strong winds further damaged the region that night and into the early morning hours of May 2, 2010.
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Severe Thunderstorms Cause Flash Floods in Jackson TennesseeFlash flooding from a severe storm system has affected Jackson, Tennessee, and surrounding areas this morning. -
The Gravel RoadA dusty Tennessee back road can be so much more than it seems. -
How the Neolithic Revolution Laid the Foundation for SocietyThe Neolithic Revolution, mankind's development of agriculture,set the course for the creation of modern society and government. This is evident by looking at the early complex societies of Mesopotamia and ancient India. -
Three Awesome Viral VideosWhether fascinating, weird or simply hilarious, the Net's viral videos are always worth a watch. Check out these three favorites featuring spray paint, sheep and fonts. Yeah, I knew that would lure you in. -
The Age of Love: Exploring Teen RomanceFirst in the monthly "Tough Questions About Love" Series. Eleven women tackle difficult questions on the topic of teenage love. -
Are You Too Giving in Your Relationship?Love is a give and take deal, but sometimes we get in a position where we're giving too much. This causes stress and perception issues in the relationship. Find out what to do about it. -
Skipping ClassBecause some days you're just not in the mood... -
Five Relationship Lies in the Twilight SagaJust because something seems romantic in fiction doesn't mean it would be the same in reality. Here are five behaviors in Stephenie Meyer's 'Twilight' Saga that wouldn't be romantic in real life.
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Ten Weird Posts on Craigslist.OrgCraigslist.org can be a very strange place. If you don't believe me, check out these ten weird posts. -
Ten Online Dating Mistakes Men Often MakeSo you took the plunge into the world of online dating, but so far you're just getting ignored? You may be making one of these ten online dating mistakes often made by men.
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MomFor my mother. -
Online Dating Scams: What They Are and How to Avoid ThemScammers have devised ways to manipulate the emotions of those seeking love online and use them for personal gain. Protect your heart and your wallet from these dating scams by arming yourself with the knowledge of what they are and how to avoid them. -
Five of the Best Futurama EpisodesNew episodes of Futurama will air this June on Comedy Central. Get back into the show by checking out these five awesome episodes! -
Cyberbullying and Your Children: What You Need to KnowToday's school bullies don't just disappear after the school bell rings. Cyberbullies have access to your child 24-7 via technology. Learn the signs of cyberbullying and what to do about it in this article. -
Tips for the New Students at the University of Tennessee at MartinThinking about attending the University of Tennessee at Martin? Here are some helpful tips to get you by at this tiny university in rural Northwest Tennessee. -
Going on a Road Trip? Here Are 10 Songs to Get Your Mind Off the RoadSometimes the last thing when need while traveling the road is to hear songs reminding us of being in the car. Here are some fun road trip songs that have nothing to do with driving. Isn't that a relief? -
For TrinMy sister will graduate from high school this May. She's brilliant, smart and I hope she knows I love her and I'm proud. -
Ten Beautiful Songs by Julie LondonJulie London's enticing voice brings these ten songs to life. Though many are covers of classic pop and jazz standards, London makes them her own. She's sensual, elegant, and definitely worth a listen. -
On Vacation 'til Tuesday'Cause it's my party, and I can leave if I want to. -
Three Science Lessons for Your 3rd-5th Graders This Earth DayTeach your 3rd-5th grade class about our planet and the importance of caring for it this Earth Day with these three science lessons. -
A Time for ActionSaving our planet is easier said than done. -
Above SuspicionA detective's investigation of a serial murder puts the woman he'd thought most innocent as the prime suspect, but is he really on the right path this time?
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The Bed of FlowersThere is love in every garden. -
Five Awesome Athletic Swimsuits for Men This SummerHey, Men! Want to swim in style but still get the benefits of an athletic swimsuit? Check out these five options. -
Another Exercise in FutilityAgain the night's wasted going in circles with you. -
Seven Weird Movies Everyone Must See OnceEven if your tastes are for more normal plots, there are some weird movies you can't pass by. Here are seven. -
Can't Touch This: Ten Cute but Dangerous AnimalsDon't judge a book by its cover, especially when it comes to wild animals. Just because an animal looks sweet and innocent doesn't mean it can't harm you. -
Welcome SpringA Haiku. -
Fight Food Cravings with These Healthy Snack SubstitutionsWhen evil unhealthy cravings set in, they can be difficult to handle. These healthy food substitutions will ward off such temptations should the situation arise. -
Attention Little Authors: Check Out the PBS Kids GO! Writing ContestPBS Kids GO! is, once again, looking for stories from kindergarten-3rd grade writers to win a laptop or another great prize in their writing contest. -
LeporiphobiaChildhood experience with the dreaded Easter Bunny -
Parents: Tips for Helping Your Child Prepare for the ACTAs a parent, you want your teenager do his or her best on the ACT test. How you can help may not be clear, though. Here are some tips to make helping your child a little easier.
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Creative Ways to Ask a Girl to the PromRemove the difficulty in finding a memorable and unique way to ask a girl to the prom. Here are ten prom invitation ideas worthy of lifelong memories. -
Invasion of the Body Snatchers: 12 Freaky Facts About ToxoplasmosisThe parasitic protozoan Toxoplasma gondii may be, without your knowledge, invading your mind at this very moment. If that's not disconcerting enough, read on to discover how this parasite may change us in ways we don't even realize. -
Ancient HistoryPainful memories are unearthed from a sad past when a woman revisits her home town for the first time in eight years. -
Get "Stuck at the Prom" with Duck Tape This Spring and Win Cash for CollegeThe 10th annual "Stuck at the Prom" scholarship contest will begin March 1, 2010. The couple with the best duct tape outfits wins! For contest rules and other information, read on. -
The VictimManipulation and riding the coattails of others leaves you empty in the end.
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ColdOn a winter walk, a women remembers the summer and time she'd shared with love now lost. -
Mary Had a Little LambEveryone knows Mary had a little lamb and it followed her to school, but did you ever wonder why? A rhyming piece of children's fiction I originally created for my daughter when she asked this same question. -
The ArrivalA woman feels anxious on the day she is to meet the man with whom she'd fallen in love via the Internet. Based roughly on a friend's experience. -
How to Impress a Geeky Girlfriend for Under $30Whether it's for a birthday, holiday, anniversary or just because, sometimes finding a gift to wow your girlfriend without blowing your budget is difficult. Consider these gifts when you need to buy for your geeky loved one. -
The Ladies' ManA humorous St. Patrick's Day Limerick -
Limericks: Have a Happy St. Patrick's Day!Fun St.Patrick's Day poem composed of three limericks. -
What Good Could Possibly Come Out of a Bad Date? 7 Good Things CanEvery cloud has a silver lining, even bad dates. Here are seven examples of good things that can result from a disaster date.
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She's Still Holding His Heart: Warning Signs He's Not Over His ExSometimes moving on is difficult to do. If your love interest displays these warning signs, he may not be ready to dump the love for his ex just yet. -
CollapseA future of isolated human beings relying solely on technology isn't as flawless as they think. -
The Fall of the Center of the UniverseDelusions of grandeur plague a woman's mind as she relates the events that lead to her imprisonment. Story incorporates the random word "lamentable" meaning regrettable or unfortunate. -
10 Applications to Enhance Your Facebook ExperienceFacebook is more than just a place to collect your old friends. Check out these 10 apps to make your Facebook experience more worthwhile. -
Safety Tips for a Mardi Gras Visit to New OrleansIt's all fun and games until someone gets hurt. Keep the fun and games going on your Mardi Gras celebration by practicing some simple safety precautions.
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Beautiful Pregnant SkinProduct recommendations and information on some of the common skin issues that arise during pregnancy.
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Mardi Gras Printables for ChildrenThese printables will help your child learn about Mardi Gras and have fun in the process.
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Fun President's Day Lessons for Your 3rd-5th Grade ClassLearning about the presidents shouldn't be a dry subject. Use these three fun lessons to spice it up!
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10 Vitamins and Minerals for a Healthy WinterFight seasonal depression, lethargy, dry skin and other winter ailments with these important vitamins and minerals.
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Myth or Reality? Avoiding Haiti Relief HoaxesSome of the things circulating the Internet about Haiti Relief efforts are nothing more than rumors. Learn about some of the myths and realities in this article.
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Getting Lucky on Valentine's DayA girl with the worst luck experiences a turn-around on Valentine's Day. -
A Little Bird Told Me: Twitter Gets PoliticalThe social networking website, Twitter, has proven to be a very useful tool in politics.
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The Lonely Old House on the HillAn abandoned home is more than it appears. -
For an Affordable Weekend Trip this Valentine's Day, Nashville is a Must!Nashville, Tennessee, is an amazing and romantic destination for you and your loved one this Valentine's Day, and you don't even have to break the bank!
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Let Forever Be Valentine's DayBecause when one is in love, all other moments seem irrelevant.
