The Truth About Ice Cream

· It takes 12 lbs. of milk to make just one gallon of ice cream. Wonder how they fit it all in one carton?

· The U.S. enjoys an average of 48 pints of ice cream per person, per year, more than any other country. Maybe we should make ice cream the fifth food group!      

· It takes an average of 50 licks to polish off a single-scoop ice cream cone. Challenge your family to a Lick-a-Thon, and see who finishes first!

· The biggest ice cream sundae in history was made in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, in 1988, and weighed in at over 24 tons. You can't order that in an ice cream parlor!

· In 2003, Portland, Oregon bought more ice cream per person than any other U.S. city. Looks like everyone else has a lot of catching up to do!

· The ice cream cone's invention is linked to the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis. An ice cream vendor reportedly didn't have enough dishes to keep up with the demand, so he teamed up with a waffle vendor who rolled his waffles into cones! (Adopted From http://www.icecream.com/funfacts/funfacts.asp?b=105)

Want To Live To 100? Sleep

Your chances of reaching age 100 could be better than you think – especially if you get some additional sleep and improve your diet.

New research from United Healthcare looks at centenarians and baby boomers, asking the former about the “secrets of aging success” and evaluating whether the latter are taking the necessary steps to celebrate a 100th birthday.

The primary findings: Many boomers are embracing lifestyles that could lead to a long and rewarding life – with two exceptions. More than seven in 10 centenarians – 71% – say they get eight hours or more of sleep each night.  By contrast, only 38% of boomers say they get the same amount of rest.   And when it comes to eating right, more than eight in 10 centenarians say they regularly consume a balanced meal, compared with just over two-thirds (68%) of baby boomers.

The report – “100@100 Survey” – begins with some startling numbers. As   of late 2010, the U.S. had an estimated 72,000 centenarians, according to the Census Bureau. By the year 2050, that number – with the aging of the baby-boom generation – is expected to reach more than 600,000. Meanwhile, an estimated 10,000 boomers each and every day – for the next decade – will turn 65.

How to reach 100? Centenarians point to social connections, exercise and spiritual activity as some of the keys to  successful aging. Among surveyed centenarians, almost nine in 10 – fully 89% – say they communicate with a family member or friend every day; about two thirds (67%) pray, meditate or engage in some form of spiritual activity; and just over half (51%) say they exercise almost daily.

In each of these areas, baby boomers, as it turns out, match up fairly well. The same percentage of boomers as centenarians – 89% – say they’re in touch with friends or family members on a regular basis. Sixty percent of surveyed baby-boomers say spiritual activity is an important part of their lives, and almost six in 10 boomers (59%) exercise regularly.

Again, sleep and diet are the two areas where baby boomers come up short. Not surprisingly, the one area where boomers are more active is the workplace. Three-quarters (76%) of surveyed baby boomers say they work at a job or hobby almost every day; that compares with 16% of centenarians.

Finally, researchers turned to cultural affairs and asked centenarians and boomers to identify – from a list of 14 notable people (including President Obama, singer Paul McCartney and actors Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts) – their preferred dinner guest. The top choice among centenarians and boomers alike: the comedian Betty White. (Adopted From http://www.smartmoney.com)

Can't Get A Credit Card? Here's Another Option.

In this economy, if you have no credit or bad credit, establishing a good financial reputation can be a dubious and intimidating prospect. But without credit, financing for  a car, home or college loan is almost entirely out of reach.

"It is sort of like a Catch-22," said Yahoo! finance expert Farnoosh Torabi. "You need credit to establish credit."

So, how do you handle this credit conundrum? Torabi offers a few credit-making tips   for those starting over or just starting out:

Get a secured card - Go to a local credit union and inquire about a secured credit card. A secured card is a credit card backed by a balance that you maintain in a savings account. Start with a small credit line of $500 to $1,000.

Use the card - Take the time to establish a record by borrowing against the account. Use the card like a credit card—small purchases at grocery stores or department stores are ideal.

Pay your bill - Make sure you pay off the entire balance of your card each month. This activity is reported to credit agencies and will show creditors that you are responsible and worthy of graduating to a real credit card. (Adopted From http://news.yahoo.com)

Recipe Of The Month: Vegetable Pasta

Ingredients:

• Colored rotini pasta (12 oz pkg.)
• Bring water to boil with 2 T olive oil and add pasta. Cook to al dente.
• Add:  ½ red onion sliced thinly
• 8 oz can of whole medium black olives
• Broccoli florets
• Cauliflower sliced thinly
• Small summer squash diced
• 8 oz. mozzarella cheese

Directions: Mix:  With your favorite Italian dressing to your taste. Add:  fresh parsley. Best:  refrigerated for two hours or overnight. Most of your favorite vegetables from your local farmers market could be substituted; such as:  tomatoes, mushrooms, etc.

A pretty summery dish and sooooo good!!!

Save Money And Time: Housekeeping Tricks

• Start With Your Sink - If you only have 15 minutes to clean, pick the one chore with the most impact, and, that's your sink. It's inspiring to see quick progress, and it's also one of the top places in your home that attracts bacteria.
• Stay Up Top - While you're there, here's another time saving trick: clean surfaces before floors. This way you're not wiping crumbs or dust onto your clean tile or rug.
• Take Your Shoes Off - Next, believe it or not, 85% of the dirt on your shoes comes off in your home, especially in those first few steps. A no-shoes policy in your household can save you hours cleaning the rest of your home.
• Consider Steam Mops - The latest in housecleaning technology is the steam mop, which can save you time, effort and money on cleaning products, as it only uses heated water. The Good Housekeeping Institute tested 16 steam mops to find the best performing. Bargain pick: the Bissell Steam Mop Deluxe, which retails for around $70. It's great on ceramic tile, and tough on greasy stains.
• Time Your Chores - When it comes to cleaning, sometimes saving time means finding the time. Get to know how long your chores actually take, by timing yourself. If you know it's only seven minutes to mop your kitchen or just three minutes to clear your desk, you'll be far more likely to just do it.
• Double-Duty Dish Soap - Did you know dish soap can double duty as a carpet cleaner, and especially a stain remover? Dish soap contains all the ingredients necessary to get rid of stubborn food stains, especially grease.
• Go All-Natural - All-natural household ingredients are the most safe & economical way to clean. Use baking soda as a substitute for soft-abrasive cleaners. You can also use 100% uncut vinegar to clean tough odors, hard water stains & bacteria, such as on cutting boards. Or, use diluted vinegar with 50% water for general cleaning like windows and countertops.
• Compare Dishwashing Detergents - There are so many choices out there in dishwashing detergents from gels to powders and packs. Good Housekeeping tested over 35 kinds and found that for cleaning ability, convenience and bang for the buck, the Cascade  Complete Pacs is the top pick, especially for normal and heavy loads.(Adopted From shine.yahoo.com)

 

 

Vitamins For The Mind! - 3 Ways To Develop Your Money Consciousness

Money certainly doesn’t fix everything, but it can improve many things. Being conscious of  positive money traits will help you to be more likely to keep the money you have and to hopefully help it grow. Here are a few thought to ponder in relation to money that you might want to consider:

1. No one else will determine your future except yourself. Either you get up or sink down from where you are now. This can be determined on how you mold your thoughts. To be weak or strong, rich or poor, you decide your own fate. The effect of your thoughts eventually affect your life (and your money).
2. Take failure as a chance to get smarter and stronger, by learning from it. Don’t let failure defeat you. Get inspired by it and eventually, you will turn up a winner!
3. Be creative and open to new ideas. Sometimes, we are so used to doing what the majority are doing that we completely close our minds to new ideas. Take for instance on a hot summer day, you will drink something cold to cool you down. You wouldn’t think of drinking something hot because it will make you feel more hot and besides, a cold drink on a hot summer day is the common thing people do. But, did you know that drinking something hot on a hot summer day helps to make you perspire and take the heat out of your system thus making you feel cool, although this is not the standard that most people follow?

Just what does this have to do with creating wealth? Following set rules and procedures, and not deviating from that the majority are doing, discourages creativity. If you need to be different from the majority for the sake of financial success, so be it! (Adopted From: FreeArticles.com)

Things To Leave Off Your Résumé

Everybody knows that in most situations, less is more -- your accessories, eating  habits and especially your résumé.

Job seekers do themselves a disservice when they send out résumés with too much   information. Employers don't have the time or the patience to sift through irrelevant information like your hobbies, interests or how many grandchildren you have. Just stick to the basics and you're good to go.

Here are things to leave off your résumé and why:

·        Your picture - Why to leave it off: Unless a job posting specifically asks for your picture (and very few jobs will), don't include it just for fun. Not only are your looks irrelevant to your potential as an employee, but you're putting  employers in a bad spot. If they have a picture of you and choose not to hire you, it's possible that you could come back with a discrimination lawsuit.  In most cases, they'll throw your résumé away without looking at it, to avoid the issue altogether.

·        Interest and hobbies - Why to leave them off: Unless your interests and hobbies have something to do with the job you're applying for, there's no reason to include them. If you want to show how your passion for art would be an asset to a graphic design position, that's one thing. But telling employers that you love to skydive    on an actuary application is another. In general, make any applicable connections between your hobbies and the job in your cover letter. Better yet, save them for the interview when you're asked what you like to do outside of work.

·        Personal attributes - Why to leave them off: Similar to sending a picture with your résumé, your height,  weight, age, race or religion are all unimportant to an employer. Though it's illegal for employers to discriminate against applicants because of any of these factors, some will do so, regardless. Keep everything on your résumé pertinent to the job, and you'll be fine.

·        References - Why to leave them off: Many job seekers still include references on their résumé or they include a line that says, "References available upon request." This tactic is not as effective as it used to be. Wait to broach the topic of references until you're asked for them.

·        Minute details - Why to leave them off: Hiring managers don't need to know the details of every task you've ever done in every job you've ever had. It's just too much   information, and usually half of that information isn't relevant. Employers want to be able to see at first glance that you're a great candidate, so pick out those details that are most relevant to the job for which you're applying and omit the rest.

·        Negativity - Why to leave it off: Never put anything negative on your résumé. Don't include your reasons for leaving. If you left the position due to a layoff or you were    fired, for example, bring it up only if asked. Never write anything bad about a previous employer. Don't explain gaps on your résumé by stating that you were in prison for 10 years for killing your husband. Keep your résumé all positive, all the time.

·        A selfish objective - Why to leave it off: Employers are trying to determine whether you're a good fit for their organizations, so everything on your résumé should point to your experience. Employers would rather see a summary of qualifications that displays your accomplishments and background than a generic objective statement like "To gain experience in..." Adopted from http://msn.careerbuilder.com

Pet Photography Tips…

Pets fill very quickly their place in our hearts and families and we enjoy having their pictures framed on our desk or wall! However taking pictures of your best friend is not always easy. Pets, unlike humans, do not understand what we are trying to do and won’t just pose for the camera! Here are a few tips that will help you help you get the most of your photo session

• Use Natural Light - If possible always use natural light when taking your pet in picture. Avoid flash, as flash burst can, not only cause red-eye, but also frighten the animal. Instead try to go outside or, if it is not possible, in a room well lit by a large window.
• Keep the Eyes Sharp - Having sharp eyes is important in any kind of portraits photography. As they say, “Eyes are the Window to the Soul” and pets eye can be very expressive. So make sure to focus on your pet’s eyes and keep the tack sharp
• Go to Them - It is very important that you pet feels comfortable & at ease, so instead of forcing him to come to you go to him. Most important is to get down to his level; We all know how a dog looks when viewed from above, this is the way we always see them. Show  us the way they see the world! Sit on the floor or lie on your belly & remember to shoot from HIS eye level or below.
• Give Value to their Character - You know your pet better than anyone else, and a successful picture is one that conveys the character of its subject. If you have a lazy cat show him yawning, if your animal is of a playful type show him in action performing his favorite trick.
• Go Macro - Put on that long lens & fill the frame with your pet’s face & fur, close up shots often make beautiful animal portrait.
• Surprise Them - One of the most difficult things is to let your pet hold still. An easy trick   is to let him play quietly & once you have everything ready, let someone call for him or   whistle. This will surprise him & caught his attention and you will have a few seconds to   capture him in a nice & alert posture
• Be Patient - Pet photography requires a lot of patience. No matter how excited your furry friend is, if you are patient enough, he will end up by relaxing and you will have the opportunity to get a decent shot. Adopted From http://digital-photography-school.com)

Reel Partner Of The Month! - Wenclewicz Insurance

We shop 7 companies to make sure you are getting the best value for your insurance dollar now and in the future!

We provide our clients the best value by: Developing a trusting relationship

          Explaining coverage options                           

          Prompt service

See Us First For: What our clients have to say…

“They are the definition of professionalism. My experience working with them has instilled  in me only the highest level of satisfaction & confidence in their work.”  Ken G., 26, Noblesville

“You’ve provided a great service. I appreciate your good customer service and news updates. This is the first time I’ve ever heard from my agent after they take out the policy.”  Muriel W., 57, Indianapolis

www.wenc-insurance

Call Us At: 317 405-8005

The condition of your home will have a huge impact on how fast it sells, & its eventual selling price. Preparing your home for sale can pay you huge dividends. Many fix ups cost very little & consist mostly of time & some elbow grease. For example:

• Clean the entire home thoroughly. Shampoo carpets, wash walls, clean sills, window screens & blinds. Clean out light fixtures & dust shelving. Be detailed!
• Clean the clutter - all closets, cupboards & cabinets. Make your rooms look as spacious as possible. Store unnecessary furnishing items that make your home look crowded.
• Arrange furnishing so that it is easy to walk through your home.
• Scale down the number of photos, pictures, portraits & posters hanging on walls. Make sure you patch all nail and screw holes.
• Keep your curtains and draperies open as a rule. You will want your home to show very light and bright. Find ways to screen any unappealing views.
• Clean your oven. Degrease it and keep it looking as good as possible.
• Make your kitchen shine. Remove clutter from counter tops and cabinets and store it. Keep your sink clean and clear of any dirty dishes.
• Clean your refrigerator, inside and out. Make sure that you do the simple things like putting an open box of baking soda in your fridge. Also, remove unnecessary clutter from the door.
• Keep scented candles burning in the kitchen and bathrooms. Pleasant fragrances will entice buyers to stay longer in your home.
• Keep bathrooms scrubbed and tidy with fresh soap and neatly hung towels. Try to color coordinate your bathrooms.
• Go through your entire home & touch up paint. Pay close attention to corners where there is traffic wear. Touch up baseboards, trim cabinets & cupboards.
• Make sure that your home is well lit. Put higher wattage bulbs in dark areas or corners. Keep all lights on during showings, even in mid day.   (Adopted From www.livinginsouthernoregon.com)

Reel Free Classifieds

$60 Pets 317-327-1397 They have over 100 pet options. Some highlights:

• Millie (Pointer Mix): She is a social girl who is interested in other dogs! ID: A181703
• Duncan (Collie Mix): Gentle and easy going and walks well on a leash.  ID:A185461
• Maura (Boxer Mix): Maura is a sweet and fun girl! She's affectionate and gives kisses! ID:A185161
• Raj (Shepherd Mix):  He is a little shy and timid, but getting more comfortable daily.  ID:A179503
• Skittles (Tiger Mix): She is a little frightened at the shelter and really loves to be held. ID:A181159

Reel Deals

• ENTERTAINMENT CENTER Solid oak, good condition, $99. (406) 850-3357
• DINETTE SET 5 pc, French Provincial, good condition. $98. Call (317)829-4427
• DEHUMIDIFIER GE, all digital. $99 Call(317) 402-6832. 
• Weight Bench 200 lb weights and 2 bar bells. $99. Call (317) 402-6832
• GOLF CLUBS Pull Cart, Umbrella & Misc., $35. Call (317)255-0322

Charity Events

• Sat, July 28, 2012, 8:00 AM. The Color Run 5K at White River State Park. A one of a kind experience about enjoying a color crazy day with friends and family. Begin in a white shirt and get pummeled with color each kilometer in the world's most colorful 5K. $35-45. 8 AM to 12 PM at Celebration Plaza. Info: 317-233-2434. www.thecolorrun.com/
• Sat, Aug 11, 2012, 8:00 AM. Eric Wells Memorial Foundation Benefit Ride in Pendleton.  Proceeds benefit the homeless children at Dayspring Center Homeless Shelter. There are 3,000 homeless children on a nightly basis in Indiana. $25 per rider, $10 passenger. 8 AM to 10 PM. Info: See Web site below or call 317-759-3557.
• Sat, Aug 18, 2012, 8:00 AM. Mike's Mentors Kids Fundraiser at Mike's Carwash. "The Works" carwash is $15 with 50% being donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana. All day on Saturday,  Aug. 18, at all Mike's locations. Info: See Web site below or call 317-472-3705.
• Sat, Aug 18, 2012, 6:00 PM. Indiana Youth Group Dinner and Dance at Fort Harrison State Park. In the State Park Conference Center. Indiana Youth Group celebrates 25 years of service to LGBTQ youth in Indiana. $60. Proceeds   benefit IYG programs. 6-11 PM. Info: See    Web site below or call 317-541-8726.
• Tues, Aug 21, 2012, 6:00 PM. Team in Training Preview Party at the Rathskeller Restaurant.  A preview party for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training program, an effort to help beat cancer. Free event. Info: See Web site below or call 317-860-3871. www.teamintraining.org/in