Sam Carter
Sam is a video producer, singer-songwriter, freelance test knitter, and freelance writer from upstate NY.
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- 20,211
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- 134
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- Contributor since
- 6/2/2010
Education/Experience
high school diploma, intense writing study as a young writer, website creation and maintenance (including content & blog posts)Interests
writing, reading, young adult novels, guitar, folk music, Christianity, the Bible, knitting, yarn, vegan food, vegan recipes, cooking, baking, veganism, health & wellness, eating disordersMotto
The things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are unseen are eternal.Favorites
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Displaying Results 1 - 134 (of 134) for All Content
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5 Ways to Enjoy Junk Food -- Without the Junk!Junk food can be fun to eat, but often comes packages with a host of undesirable ingredients. Try these organic and natural alternatives for a better snack experience.
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Vegan Valentine's Day GiftsNeed a Valentine's Day gift for the vegan in your life? They're easier to find than you think.
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5 Alternative Valentine's Day ActivitiesHate Valentine's Day? Sick of popular media's lists of ways for singles to "enjoy the day?" Try these activities to defy convention and beat the V-Day blues.
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Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS) -- an OverviewWhen people think of eating disorders, the "big" names like anorexia and bulimia most often come to mind. But millions of people suffer with the borderline and sub-clinical symptoms of Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified--also known as EDNOS.
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5 Reasons to Ditch DairyThe dairy industry spends millions of dollars a year on ad campaigns touting the health benefits of milk and dairy products. But these ads often ignore the real impact of dairy on both our bodies and the environment.
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Healthy Updates of Classic Kid's CerealsWhen the craving for sugary kid's cereal strikes, you don't have to skip out because of the high amount of sugar or "garbage" ingredients. Instead, try these healthy updates of old favorites.
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The Dangers of Laxative AbuseProlonged use and abuse of laxatives in any form can be deadly. The symptoms are severe and the addiction is real.
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5 Timeless Christmas MoviesNot all Christmas movies are created equal. Some fall flat the first time around, but a special few endure season after season.
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4 Great Vegan BlogsThose looking for help in following a plant-based, cruelty-free lifestyle can find it in the blogosphere. These four vegan blogs offer fantastic content for new and seasoned vegans alike. From food to fashion, it's all just a click away.
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Meatless Holiday Main DishesWhether you're feeding vegetarians or are just sick of turkey leftovers, a meatless main dish for your next holiday celebration can be a lifesaver. These alternatives to meat dishes are delicious and satisfying enough for even the pickiest guests.
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Vegan Peanut Blossom CookiesPeanut blossoms are the quintessential Christmas cookie for many people. But without an alternative to Hershey's Kisses, can vegans still enjoy this tasty treat? With Baker's chocolate and a little imagination, it can be done!
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4 Kid's Activities that Stand the Test of TimeWith the sea of electronic children's entertainment out there today, it can be easy to forget about the simpler pleasures. These four activities can return kids to a simpler place and allow their imaginations to run wild.
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"Bad" Foods RevisitedIs fat making you fat, or is it the carbohydrates? Many common dietary myths are just that: myth. Knowing the difference can aid in achieving overall health.
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Recipe: Vegan Chocolate Swirl Shortbread CookiesWhen the craving for crispy, buttery shortbread attacks, this vegan version of a plain/chocolate shortbread swirl cookie is sure to satisfy.
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Eating Disorder Recovery: When Others Don't UnderstandMany people don't understand eating disorders, and this can lead them to make potentially hurtful remarks. Learning to deal with these is an essential part of overall eating disorder recovery.
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Thank God It's Over! -- What to Do After NaNoWriMoComing to the end of National Novel Writing Month can leave you feeling stunned and a little lost. That's the best time to take a step back and reward yourself for a job well done.
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Staying Sane Through Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year'sHoliday stress can ruin your enjoyment of days like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's. This year, take a step back and preserve your sanity so that you can enjoy the holidays again.
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Tips for Starting a Food BlogFood blogging is a growing trend that can be a lot of fun. These four tips can help new bloggers get started and begin to build readership.
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4 Food Combinations to TryIf you've never had peanut butter with your sweet potatoes or dumped orange juice in your chili, you're missing out! These four food combinations will tantalize your taste buds and turn dinner from "meh" to "mmmmm."
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Eating Disorder Recovery: Fighting with the ScaleOne of the most difficult parts of eating disorder recovery is developing a healthy attitude towards the scale. Learning to weigh yourself again can be frightening, but it can be done by taking a few small steps.
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What to Do when You Realize You Have an Eating DisorderEating disorders are real diseases that can rob you of your life. If you're suffering, don't wait to get help. Facing up to your disorder is the first step towards recovery.
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Kid's Christmas Crafts: Tissue Paper Photo WreathCreate Christmas memories with an adorable photo wreath! Great for spending time with the kids over Christmas break.
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NaNoWriMo: Getting Through the Last 20,000 WordsThe latter part of a NaNoWriMo novel is always the hardest, but there's no reason to feel overwhelmed. You can get to 50k without losing your mind as long as you approach the challenge in a reasonable way.
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Traveling with an Anxious DogAnxiety is a common problem for some dogs when faced with a trip in the car. By taking the time to be prepared and mindful of the travel environment, you can help ease the stress of travel for your pet.
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3 Fun Christmas Gifts for DogsOn Christmas, it's okay to spoil your dog a little. Give him a special treat with one of these great doggy gifts.
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5 Reasons to ExerciseRegular exercise is recommended for overall health. But why participate in something so many people find to be a chore? Five reasons not to put off your next workout.
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Vegan Food on a BudgetThe idea that being vegan is expensive is a myth! As long as a few smart shopping tips are followed, a healthy, plant-based diet can be perfectly accessible to those on a budget.
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10 Things I Wish I Knew at 15Ten things it might have been helpful to know at age 15.
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How to Start a Journal-Based RPGJournal-based role playing games offer a break from the stresses of real life and give players the opportunity to pretend to be their favorite fictional characters for a while. Here are six tips for starting your own RPG.
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Christmas Crafts for KidsWhen the kids whine, "I'm bored!" this winter break, give them something fun to do at home. Christmas crafts are a great way to occupy kids and spend quality family time together.
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National Eating Disorders Awareness WeekMillions of people suffer from eating disorders, but few get proper treatment. National Eating Disorders Awareness Week aims to bring these disorders to the public attention.
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Eating Disorder Recovery: Getting Through ThanksgivingHolidays like Thanksgiving that put a big emphasis on food can be difficult for those recovering from an eating disorder. But there are steps you can take to prepare yourself and deal with food-centric holidays.
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My Stove Just Died! What Do I Eat?When a major appliance dies or the electricity goes out, preparing a healthy meal can be a challenge. But with a little creativity, it's possible to enjoy delicious food even in the absence of a stove.
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5 Reasons to Participate in NaNoWriMoWhy do people around the world try to write a 50,000 word novel during November every year? Five reasons why it's not as crazy as it seems.
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How to Organize a Public Speaking EventGiving a talk or presentation on a subject can be a nerve-wracking experience. These tips can help you approach your next public speaking event with confidence.
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5 Stocking Stuffers for a Geek ChristmasBaffled as to what to get the geek on your Christmas list? Start with these bizarre and wonderful stocking stuffers!
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3 Yoga Poses for RelaxationStress is a part of life, but it doesn't have to rule your life! Practicing yoga is a great way to tame tension. Try these poses to get yourself started.
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3 Approaches to NaNoWriMoEvery Wrimo has their own style. Whether or not an approach works depends on personal preference and how much risk the author is willing to take with the story.
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3 Teas to TryWhen the weather turns bitter, it can be hard to stay warm. Try thawing from the inside out with a delicious cup of tea!
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The Importance of RestHard work can pay off, but too much can literally damage your health. The next time you have too much on your plate, consider these tips to relax and recharge.
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5 Ways to Avoid BurnoutOverwork can lead to burnout, a state of depressed disinterest in even simple activities. But avoiding burnout is possible if you take time to take care of yourself.
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Layman's Guide to Caring for an Elderly RelativeCaring for an elderly relative is a difficult job. It's easy to feel overwhelmed or burned out. But there are things you can do to ease the difficulty.
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How to Host a NaNoWriMo Write-InYou're hopelessly stuck on your novel, but the next regional NaNoWriMo Write-In is days away. What to do? Host a write-in of your own!
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3 Ways to Preserve Your Garden's BountyPreserving fresh garden produce is a great way to enjoy delicious home-grown food throughout the colder months. Try these tips and tricks for three common methods.
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Dining Out VeganVegan? Dining out? Worried you won't find anything you can eat? Try these tips for avoiding the dreaded iceburg lettuce salad.
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Vegan Advocacy at HomeBummed by the lack of vegan-friendly options in your home town? Get involved and bring veganism home!
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How to Make Zucchini PicklesIf you find yourself with too many zucchini, it's time to try something new! Pickling is a delicious way to preserve food that doesn't have to be limited to cucumbers.
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Have a Vegan Halloween!Although most commercial candy isn't vegan, it's still possible to enjoy a variety of delicious, cruelty-free treats this Halloween.
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Tasty Treats for a Vegan ChristmasDon't miss out on the festivities this Christmas just because you're vegan! Try these tasty alternatives to traditional treats.Also published on:
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Natural and Vegan Christmas CookiesHealth conscious? Vegan? Dealing with dietary concerns? You can still enjoy delicious Christmas cookies with just a few simple substitutions.
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Review: NY Capital Region Vegetarian Expo 2010For the fourth year running, the Albany Vegetarian Network invited the public to their Vegetarian Expo in upstate NY. This event serves to promote veg-friendly businesses and organizations as well as a cruelty-free lifestyle.
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3 Great Online Knitting MagazinesDying for something new to knit? Don't want to have piles of knitting magazines take over your house? Try these online knitting magazines!
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Decaf Coffee: The Swiss Water Process DifferenceMost decaf coffee is rendered decaffeinated through the use of chemicals. The Swiss water process uses only water and can make a difference in the final flavor of the brew.
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5 Vegan Thanksgiving Dishes to TryFive delicious ways to give your Thanksgiving a vegan makeover this year. Even the traditionalists in your family may want seconds!
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A Vegan's Guide to the HolidaysSitting around a table with a big, dead bird as the centerpiece isn't a vegan's ideal holiday. But it's possible to get through Thanksgiving and Christmas without butting heads with your omnivorous relatives.
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5 NaNoWriMo Tips: Hitting 50k Without Burning OutDo you find yourself flagging around November 15th every NaNoWriMo? Give these tips a try to help you push through.
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The 21-Day Vegan KickstartThree times a year, the Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine hosts the 21-Day Vegan Kickstart to help people transition to a plant-based diet. Participants learn to eliminate animal products and start on the road to better health.
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NaNoWriMo Support: Write-Ins, Municipal Liaisons, and MoreFeeling overwhelmed by NaNoWriMo? Find yourself a support network!
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Making the Most of a Barnes & Noble MembershipFor the bibliophile on a budget, sometimes buying new books is too expensive. A Barnes & Noble membership can help feed a book habit without breaking the bank.
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5 Dairy-Free Cheese SubstitutesThink you could never give up cheese? These delicious dairy-free substitutes might change your mind.
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5 Ways to Enhance Your KnittingReady to take your knitting beyond scarves and garter stitch? Here are five techniques to get you going.
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How to Tell the Difference Between the Paranormal and Plain Old DirtMany people claim to have captured ghost energy on film when all they've really photographed is dust. Learn how to tell the difference.
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Why "Good Fats" Are Nothing to Be Afraid OfThe idea that fat is "bad" has been ingrained in the public consciousness for decades. However, certain fats are essential to bodily health and should be included in the diet.
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Explore a Meat-Free Lifestyle with Meatless MondayThe Meatless Monday trend is more than just a fad; it's a realistic way to aim towards a healthier lifestyle and a healthier planet.
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Review: Local Harvest Festival in Albany, NYThe second annual Local Harvest Festival in Albany, NY featured some wonderful local businesses and farms. Were you there?
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5 Bible Verses to InspireFive Bible verses for the difficult times in life.
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World Vegan Day is November 1stNovember 1st is World Vegan Day, a day to celebrate the benefits and spread the word about the vegan lifestyle.
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New York State Sheep & Wool FestivalEvery October, the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY play host to one of the largest fiber arts festivals in the country: the New York State Sheep & Wool Festival.
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October is Vegetarian Awareness Month!A well-planned vegetarian or vegan diet is best for optimal health. Vegetarian Awareness Month is a great excuse to give meatless eating a try!
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World Go Vegan WeekCelebrated during the last week in October, World Go Vegan Week is a week for vegans to spread the word about living a compassionate, healthy lifestyle.
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5 Fantastic Sock YarnsSock knitters rejoice! Sock yarn is one of the most varied types of yarns out there. Here are five of the best to get you started. -
Why Try Hemp Products?Hemp is a versatile plant with a variety of uses. From fabric to food items, this sustainable resource is making a comeback.
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World Vegetarian DayOctober 1st is World Vegetarian Day, the perfect time for vegetarians to spread the word and non-vegetarians to give the veggie lifestyle a try!
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3 Books for Adventurous Sock KnittersReady to take sock knitting to the next level? These books can help you get there.
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5 Reasons to Choose Local Coffee Shops Over ChainsWhy go to a big chain coffee house when there are small, locally-owned shops to be found? These locations offer many things that their "big name" counterparts can't.
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Vegan MoFo: The Vegan Month of FoodNot only is October Vegetarian Awareness Month, it is also the Vegan Month of Food! All month long, vegan bloggers across the web dedicate their posts to promoting delicious, healthy vegan dishes.
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The Risks and Dangers of Colon CleansingColon cleansing may seem like a great way to clean the body and lose weight. But these "healthy" cleansing fasts have hidden dangers.
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Don't Apologize for Dietary Restrictions"Yeah, but would you eat meat if...?" What to do when people don't understand or refuse to accommodate your dietary choices.
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Ages, Puzzles, and Secrets: Why the Myst Series is Still Worth PlayingSince 1993, Myst has captivated gaming audiences of all ages. Even now, there are plenty of reasons to enjoy this innovative adventure game series.
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If It's Vegan, it Must Be Healthy: Dietary Pitfalls to AvoidPeople tend to hop on the bandwagon of the latest health trend without knowing all the facts. Learn about what really makes a vegan diet healthy, versus simply eating foods labeled "vegan."
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It's Not About the Food: Common Misconceptions About Eating DisordersMyths and misconceptions about eating disorders run rampant. Knowing the facts can help you help yourself or a loved one when an eating disorder is suspected.
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Too Thin: The Risks & Dangers of Being UnderweightWith society's focus on dieting and weight loss, the risks of being underweight are often overlooked.
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3 Delicious Diary SubstitutesA dairy-free diet doesn't have to involve self-deprivation. Many delicious and healthy alternatives exist for those who want or need to give up dairy products.
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Warning Signs of Laxative AbuseUse of laxatives as a weight loss aid is a prominent and dangerous problem. Learn to recognize the signs, get help, and break the cycle of abuse.
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4 Independent Coffee Shops Worth Visiting in Upstate NYSeveral amazing little coffee shops are nestled in the Upstate, NY area, including historic Caffe Lena. Check out these gems the next time you're upstate.
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Yarn Shopping on Vacation: 5 Tips for the Traveling KnitterYou know your local yarn shop like the back of your hand. But have you considered checking out the local shops while you're on vacation? -
Lactose Intolerant? 5 Ingredients to Watch Out ForObvious milk and dairy ingredients are easy to avoid, but some can hide on food labels and cause grief for those with lactose intolerance. Watch out for these five offenders.
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Preparing Your Future Kindergartener for the First Day of SchoolThe prospect of entering kindergarten can be frightening for a child. Preparing your future kindergartener for school before he gets there helps ease the transition from home to school.
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Fitness Equipment for Home Fitness ProgramsYou can get a great workout at home without expensive home gym equipment. A few simple purchases will have you well on your way to meeting your fitness goals.
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Where to Buy Inexpensive School SuppliesNo matter what grade kids are heading to, there can be a lot of supplies to buy. Fortunately, many stores offer deep discounts on common back-to-school items each year.
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3 New or Unusual Foods Worth TryingTraditional Western diets often have a narrow scope when it comes to food choices. But the truth is, there are an almost endless amount of flavor combinations and food varieties to try!
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3 Reasons to Try Raw Food DessertsThe raw food movement has grown to include a variety of fresh, tasty food options, including desserts. Three reasons to give these delicious treats a chance. -
Eating Disorders: Are You at Risk?The first step toward recovering from an eating disorder is recognizing that you have one. Learn the signs, get help, and take your life back.
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5 Fibers for Vegan KnittersA lifestyle free of animal products doesn't have to mean the end of knitting. Great yarns made from plant-based fibers are popping up every day.
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Getting the Most Out of Grocery ShoppingThe price of everything is going up, but your grocery bill doesn't have to. Here are four tips to save money and time at the store.
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The Popularity of ABC's LOSTABC's twisty, in-depth plane crash drama proved that audiences are smarter than TV often gives them credit for.
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Paranormal Writings of David J. PitkinDavid J. Pitkin has spent years collecting true ghost stories all over the Northeastern US. His books combine these tales along with local history to provide a truly unique paranormal reading experience.
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Dealing with Small Pet Gender MistakesWhen buying or adopting a small pet, you can't always be sure of the gender you're getting. Learn how to best deal with these mistakes and ensure the health of your pet(s). -
Dos and Don'ts of Dealing with GhostsThere is a right way and a wrong way to deal with a haunted house. Learn the difference and keep yourself safe.
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Living in a Haunted HouseLiving in a haunted house can be exciting or terrifying. Regardless of the nature of the haunting, there are some simple ways to identify and deal with paranormal phenomena.
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Workout Review: Jillian Michaels' Banish Fat, Boost MetabolismWorking out at home? Ready to take your fitness regimen to the next level? Try this challenging DVD by fitness buff Jillian Michaels.
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5 Must-Read Books About FoodMany of us don't have the information necessary to make the best food choices. Getting that information from reliable sources is the first step toward overall health.
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3 Great Independent Bookstores in Upstate NYWhy visit small, local bookstores when there are big chains everywhere you go? Independent book shops offer a unique experience that their larger counterparts can't.
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The Joy of Lace KnittingLace knitting is a fun and rewarding experience. The skills involved are easy to learn and will help knitters yield beautiful finished projects.
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LUSH Cosmetics: An Environmentally-Friendly Body Care CompanyAn overview of the LUSH Cosmetics company, a 100% vegetarian body care company committed to zero animal testing.
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Dealing with Lactose IntoleranceLactose intolerance is a common, uncomfortable condition. Fortunately, it is easy to manage without having to worry about calcium or depriving yourself of delicious food. A few tips for dairy-free living.
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Book Review: The Kind Diet by Alicia SilverstoneAlicia Silverstone's overview of veganism should be taken with a grain of salt.
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The Dangers of Being "Too Busy" to Eat"I'm too busy" is a common mantra in today's society. But when productivity takes priority over personal health, there can be sweeping consequences.
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Great Places to Shop for Yarn OnlineLooking for just the right yarn, but can't find it at your local yarn shop? Try shopping online! Many unique and interesting yarn shops can be found just a click away.
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Taming Tofu-Phobia: The Many Uses of TofuThere's no need to recoil from tofu! This plant-based protein source can be prepared and enjoyed in a variety of delicious ways. Bust the tofu myth with these suggestions.
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Quick Dinners for Vegans in a HurryBeing a busy vegan doesn't have to mean missing out on great food when you're in a hurry. These days, there are a variety of quick, delicious options for the busy vegan.
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5 Vegan Body Care Products Worth BuyingMany commercial body care products contain harsh chemicals or animal-derived ingredients. But more and more companies are beginning to swear off animal testing and offer vegan products.
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Orthorexia: When Healthy Eating Turns DangerousGood dietary choices are necessary to a healthy body. But when health becomes an obsession, it can be dangerous.
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How to Shop for Yarn OnlineAre you a knitter or crocheter without a handy local yarn shop? Never fear. The Internet offers a wide variety of places to find just the right yarn for your project.
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True Ghost Stories Vs. SensationalismHollywood exaggerates ghostly phenomenon in order to provide big scares for audiences. Real hauntings, however, are often very different.
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Book Review: 1,000 Vegan Recipes by Robin RobertsonWhen searching for the perfect vegan recipe for any time of day, look no further than 1,000 Vegan Recipes.
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3 Low-Cost and No-Cost Toys for Guinea PigsToys for guinea pigs don't have to cost money. Basic household items like paper and cardboard tubing make great entertainment for small, furry friends.
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4 Great Vegan Etsy ShopsFinding vegan products is easy on Etsy.com, the global handmade marketplace. 4 great shops to get you started shopping.
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Recipe: Cilantro-Lime Quinoa with Black Beans & KaleA tasty recipe packed with plant proteins and calcium. Try quinoa for the first time, or in a new way! -
5 Tips for Vegans in Omnivorous FamiliesBegin a vegan among omnivores doesn't have to be difficult. Five tips for avoiding vegan-vs-omni conflict.
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How to Start & Stick with an Exercise ProgramThree tips to make starting and sticking with a personal fitness program less intimidating.
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How to Blow-Dry Your Guinea PigGuinea pigs can get sick if they remain wet for too long after a bath. Knowing how to blow-dry your guinea pig's fur can help prevent this.
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Seitan: The Wheat Meat AlternativeFor those who find tofu too "scary", there's seitan--a high-protein, low-fat alternative to meat.
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Three Scientific Concepts that Drove the LOST PhenomenonWhat made LOST such a sweeping television phenomenon? The inclusion of quantum physics certainly didn't hurt.
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Book Review: Vegan Cookies Invade Your Cookie JarA brief review of the Vegan Cookies Invade Your Cookie Jar cookbook, including an overview of the recipes. -
Book Review: Vegan Fire & Spice by Robin RobertsonAn overview of vegan chef Robertson's book of spicy world cuisine.
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How to Gain Twitter Followers with Follow FridayA quick explanation of Twitter's "Follow Friday", and how it can help users gain more followers for their Twitter feeds.
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Book Review: The Dream of Perpetual Motion by Dexter PalmerA review of Dexter Palmer's debut novel, a disturbing odyssey through a steampunk version of our own twentieth century.
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Card Games Worth Playing: FluxxAn overview of the Fluxx card game, including card types, rules, and basic gameplay.
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Card Games Worth Playing: Killer Bunnies & the Quest for the Magic CarrotA quick overview of Killer Bunnies & the Quest for the Magic Carrot, a fast-paced, unusual card game.
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Advice for Writers Who Are Sick of AdviceSick of being told how to write? Break free from intimidating "advice" and learn to enjoy writing again.
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Samwise Gamgee: A Must-Hear Movie MonologueWhy Sam's monologue near the end of the Two Towers film is one of the best and most poignant in movie history.
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Book Review: The 30-Minute Vegan by Mark Reinfeld and Jennifer MurrayNew and seasoned vegans alike will love this book! Full of recipes that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, there's no excuse to not eat delicious, healthy vegan food every day.
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Book Review: Eating Animals, by Jonathan Safran FoerA brief, vegan review of Foer's informative book.