Showing posts with label Lifestyle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lifestyle. Show all posts

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Michelle Hickman Texas

Michelle Hickman Texas
A Texas mom is upset after she says she was harassed and embarrassed at a Target store while nursing her baby. Now, a bigger protest is schedule for Wednesday.

Noah Hickman was hungry, but his mom says that might have well been a crime.

"It was a breast feeding issue. They had a problem with me nursing in public," said Michelle Hickman. Michelle and Noah were in the Target in Webster and she sat on the floor in the women's clothing section to nurse.

"I had this big blanket over me," said Michelle.

She says she was offered a dressing room, and when she said no, the harassment and humiliation started.

100 breastfeeding flash mobs

100 breastfeeding flash mobs
Nursing mothers are planning "nurse-ins" or breast-feeding flash mobs for 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, at Target locations in at least 35 states, according to a story by TIME.com.

The nurse-in follows a recent demonstration at the Somerset Collection in Troy. Eleven nursing mothers turned out for the Somerset demonstration and were asked to leave — not because of a ban on breast feeding, but because organized demonstrations aren't permitted at the mall.

Friendswood resident Michelle Hickman tells KHOU she was shopping at the Target in Webster on Nov. 29, when her 4-month-old son, Noah, became hungry and fussy. She sat down in a remote part of the women's clothing section, covered up with a large blanket and began breastfeeding. Two female Target employees harassed Hickman, and even after a later phone call to corporate headquarters, Target refused to apologize.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

34 Stocking Stuffers Under $25

34 Stocking Stuffers Under $25

Buddy Bottle Opener

This shiny, happy tool sits well in the hand, looks smart on a bar cart , and pairs perfectly with a fancy six-pack
Ship Shape Pencil Case
A sturdy vinyl replacement for the now ink-smeared version the kids got in September
Bicycle Clips
These wire-sculpture fasteners give a stack of receipts a more carefree spin.
Dreamstate Neoprene Mask
Red-eye regulars will value these witty, comfy black-out shades.
Slim Sonic
For those who can’t bear to be separated from that machine-clean feeling, a lightweight, packable option
Key-Shaped Silicone Key Chains
Buy one for the husband who’s always losing his keys—or the teen psyched to get her first set
Bobbi Brown Classic to Go Palette
The ultimate after-work kit: three perfect lip colors and a trio of eye shadows in a pack-of-gum-size case
Sir Kensington’s Spiced Ketchup
Infused with chipotles, cilantro, and lime, it will give your brother’s famous burgers a kick.
Hunting Camp Soap
An update on the stuff your grandpa might have used, this hardworking bar has a clean, nostalgic scent
Predict a Pen
Jokesters and high-powered decision makers will value the succinct, earthy wisdom of this portable oracle
Mystery Drinking Game
Far classier than beer pong, this gizmo is ideal for the  frat boy on your list.
Victorinox Tomo Knives
All the essentials, including scissors and nail file, in a two-inch techno-bright holder
Talking Mustache
The mustache says “Well, hellooo there” in a skeevy-bar-dude voice. You might want to order it in bulk.
Pocket Day Pack
A featherweight zip-shut knapsack that tucks into a tiny pouch. Perfect for sweaty post-workout wear. Available in five colors
Helvetica Playing Cards
This graphic deck featuring the beloved font will win the hearts of design aficionados.

Color Apeel Crayons
Dense, waxy china markers deliver saturated color.
Happy Socks
Show your shoes-must-be-removed-at-the-door aunt that you’re setting the bar a little higher when it comes to style. Choose from a variety of colors and patterns.
Mints in a Can
Boring ’ol mints? Maybe—or maybe not. Surprise that office Secret Santa with what’s inside
Cow Talking Bag Clip
Sneaky snackers will be forced to come clean with a chip click that moooos when opened
Seven Sins Soaps
A Christmas miracle for last-minute shoppers. Divvy up these seven soaps or bestow the entire set on someone especially naughty on your list
Basil Saddle Cover
This waterproof seat protector is a dream for the practical rider with a stylish side.
Simson Flat Tire Repair Kit
Another flat tire on your bike? A pocket-sized kit  will have you ready to provide your own roadside assistance
Clown Whistle
Cue the clowns! Festivities ringing in 2012 call for cheery faces and high-pitched sounds
Lodge Logic Guitar Skillet
Rock the oven: A sturdy cast-iron guitar skillet bakes up fine cornbread, biscuits, and other recipes.
Sticky Tie
Simply stick on an adhesive tie and your little guy will be dressed and ready for his morning...err, playdate. Available in five styles
Animal Crayons
There’s a lion, a bear, and even a bunny in this crew of multicolored scribbling tools.
Emergency Cuff Links
Even the most pulled-together dude occasionally encounters a fashion 911. He can tuck this slim stainless-steel card into his wallet, then pop off a pair of cuff links when needed
Blithe and Bonny Lip Balm Pots
A handy secret weapon for the lip-gloss addict out for a night on the town.
Floppy Disk Sticky Notes
These sticky notes will have your coworkers wondering if you’re stuck in the ’80s
Kidrobot Pop! Super Shiny Mini Series Blindbox
Bright, shiny, and 100 percent surprising. No one—not even the gift-giver—knows which of 21 different balloon animal figurines hides inside.
Monkey Tea Infuser
This cheeky monkey infuser will take that cup of chamomile to whimsical heights
Tweets & Status Updates for All Occasions
Subtle solution for that Facebook friend who overshares or the sister-in-law who doesn’t quite get the 140 character limit. #thankuslate
Bubble Bag Set
Bubbles-on-the-go might be the greatest gift for any multitasking parent

Boskop Lunchbox


The brown bag is perfectly utilitarian, but lunch is so much more exciting when you pop open this fruity surprise. Available in red or green.

2011 most overused buzzwords

2011 most overused buzzwords
Are you highly motivated? A creative, innovative thinker with a successful track record in effective problem solving? What about your organizational and communication skills? Do you have extensive experience maneuvering a dynamic workplace?

If any of this sounds familiar, then you've probably used one of the top 10 overused professional buzzwords in the United States in 2011, according to career-networking site LinkedIn.


The site culled its top 10 list from 135 million member profiles worldwide, finding that "creative" was the most overused word globally and in the United States. After that, the list goes:

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Bing Back of Hair



Bing Back of Hair

Bing Back of Hair, looking back: the hottest hair of 2011. The Best Hair Of 2011. Best Of 2011 All right, roll call: So far we've shown you the best shoes, the best nails, and even the best makeup, but, girl, we need to talk about that HAIR. From Evan Rachel Wood's dramatic change from shoulder-length waves to a choppy, textured pixie to Katy Perry's slow-but-steady transition from black to pink (!!!), 2011 was filled with epic tonsorial moments that definitely merit mention in our countdown. Some would say we've got the best HAIR RIGHT HURR. Others of us would say that it's corny to say stuff like that out loud. Others still would say that this is a free country and naysayers can suck it. ANYWAY: hair.



RETRO WAVES AND VICTORY ROLLS


It's one thing to spot a gal sporting '50s pin curls or a Marcell waved blonde bob, but it's a whole other ballgame when stylized 'dos look modern. Rihanna's twin Victory Rolls are offset by the casual cascade of bright red curls down her back. Kelly Osbourne's perfected the Marilyn Monroe waved bob with the ideal degree of structure and softness, but the thing that prevents it from becoming too slavish an homage is her rock and roll dark roots. Katy Perry sported a barrel-curled bang that's a fantastic throwback to '40s style but with the contemporary edge of a bright pink palette.
RAPUNZEL PONYTAILS


These undulating ponytails were the hair DUH moment of the year. How is it that applying multiple elastic bands every few inches along a ponytail can end up looking so awesome? Some of our fave cascading ponytails were seen on Olivia Wilde (who looked lovely and gamine under heavy bangs), Lady Gaga (extra kudos for using her hair as a rubberband), and Kat DeLuna (who slicked it back on top but kept it messy on the bottom). So easy, so breezy, so worth the countless "ouchless" rubber bands that will populate the bottom of your purse...

OMBRÉ


Ombré color schemes began inching up celebrities' coifs back in 2010, but mostly we were talking brunette roots that faded into blonde tips. This year, ombré was taken to a whole OTHER extreme with dazzling colors and more dramatic blonde-to-brunette contrasts. Nicki Minaj's blonde coif transforms from highlighter yellow to tangerine orange into bubble gum pink. That's right—she's sporting not one, but FOUR colors on a single wig head of hair. #jealous. Beyoncé's strands start out as a rich honey blonde and transform into a deep chestnut brown for a high contrast gradation while Jessie J rocked jet black with bright red tips. We give her bonus points for matching her red-and-black hair to her red-and-black outfit because, um, that's THOROUGH.


TEXTURED MICRO 'DOS


It takes a glut of gumption to chop off your locks—especially if they've been a part of your look since forever ago. We give these girls their proper dues for not only taking the hair plunge, but styling their short strands in the most cop-worthy manner. Ginnifer Goodwin has been a master of shorter styles for a couple of years now, but her razor-cut pixie frames her heart-shaped face beautifully. However, it was Evan Rachel Wood who underwent the biggest transformation this year—going from shoulder-length curls to barely there hair. Here, she slicks back the sides and leaves all the volume on top for an '80s-inspired lift. Carey Mulligan's deep side-parted pixie looks as elegant as it does '60s mod-chic with strong brows and enormous doe eyes completing the look.


BLUNT BANGS, BRIGHT HAIR


Short blunt bangs are cyclical, but this year they came with a twist—super bright 'dos. Katy Perry, Jessie J, and Lady Gaga all flaunted thick, straight-across bangs in hyper-saturated hues. Katy and Lady Gaga paired their extra short fringe with long strands while Jessie J kept her fire engine red bob close to her chin with bangs just brushing her brows.


MILKMAID CROWNS AND FRENCH BRAIDS


Who DOESN'T love a braid?! From fishtails to milkmaids to reverse cowgirls (wait, that last thing is something else ENTIRELY), we've seen multiple versions of the schoolyard mainstay. Rihanna, Elle Fanning, and Kim Kardashian showed off some stellar looks: Rihanna's waist-length side braid was our favorite of the year. (BOOM. Yup, declarative statements FTW.) The braid starts at her temples, meets in the back, slides along her shoulder to snake down her bodice in a red masterpiece. Elle Fanning wore a romantic updo that's completely mimic-worthy with a bit of messiness thrown in for good measure. Kim Kardashian also sported a plait that began as a French braid to keep her side-swept bangs out of her eyes and ended in a side braid that kept her piecey layers tucked in as she served food to the needy on Thanksgiving. As you do...


HIGH, TIGHT, AND SOMETIMES-TO-THE-SIDE PONY


There's nothing we adore more than a great, FIERCE ponytail. Iggy Azalea is the queen of the slicked-back tail—she always wears them high and tight. Plus, she gets extra points for tucking the rubber band under a strand. Bip Ling proves that a high ponytail doesn't have to be severe. She wore hers a little off to the side with a cute, white bow for an extra girly touch. Lady Gaga wielded a super-thick side pony with chunky, blunt-cut layers throughout. INTENSE. Plus, can you imagine the wicked headache you'd get carting that thing around? Total dedication, as usual.


BEACHY WAVES


Every year, the sea salt-misted, slightly crunchy beach wave comes back in style for being awesome. Soft, effortless curls look great on human beings. Pure scientific fact. Some of our favorites blessed the heads of Jessica Simpson, Demi Lovato, and Beyoncé. Jessica's piecey golden waves looked like she came straight from the beach—not overly curled and slightly messy. She even pulled part of her hair back for a twist on the traditional look. Demi pulled her hair half up but left side-swept bangs for a more glamorous take while Beyoncé's blonde locks are curled away from her face for a fresh, layered look that makes her cheekbones look ridic.


MEGA-SATURATED COLOR

You'd have to be completely oblivious (like to where maybe it's a gift) not to notice that a LOT of ladies opted for brightly hued hair this year. We've seen all sorts of noisy confections on our celeb's heads so of course we had to pick our favorites. Lady Gaga went through an aqua hair moment that we couldn't get enough of. Who knew that the seafoam green infamous for making bridesmaids look fuggo looks wonderful when paired with porcelain skin and red lips? Nicki Minaj took her pink and yellow hair color to the next level by twisting the two into one delicious-looking sherbet swirl. But of all the colors we've seen this year, we GOTTA give it up for Katy Perry because her cotton candy strands are actually real. Yeah, that's right, she went from jet black to pink to blonde all in a matter of months AND her hair still looks like it's in tip-top shape. *slow clap with a side eye*
OK, Great Fun  HAVE got to give it up to those ladies who turned their locks into sculptures. It takes serious dedication to tease hair into topiary-worthy styles, so props to Willow Smith, Kat Graham, and Nicki Minaj. Willow transformed her braids into a heart (awww) while Kat Graham took her strands to new heights in a futuristic, undulating beehive. Nicki sported an '80s sculpted perm that takes on a very Gumby-meets-The-Jetsons vibe. We love it all. Now if only we could get their hairstyles to shadow box. That would be pretty.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Gift ideas from across the U.S.


Gift ideas from across the U.S.
Buying American is easy to do this holiday season, with a diverse array of regional gifts available from sea to shining sea. From the kitschy to the sophisticated, the possibilities are endless.

American beer
This period of early-American history changed the nature of American beer. Although the industry is still dominated by large beer companies such as this one, microbreweries throughout the country produce craft beers, which can make an ideal gift.
American cheese
Cheeses from across the U.S.  make great gifts and are the perfect wintertime snack. A cheeseboard that features a range of delicious American cheeses is an ideal gift for any holiday party.
American clothing
Buying someone clothing is a gift that shows you understand his or her fashion sense. It can also be an opportunity to show off your own local fashions. Different parts of America specialize in different clothing  so you can choose an item unique to your area.
Tea and coffee
In a country that had a major rebellion over tea  that beverage as well as coffee are widely consumed. Whether you frequent a large coffee chain or make your own tea  there is a perfect gift out there for all tastes.
American cookbooks
The variety of regional cooking in the United States makes for ample cookbook offerings, from traditional to specialized. If you're buying a gift for a culinary whiz, a cookbook will encourage him or her to explore new dishes and styles.
Jewelry
America's natural resources provide unique metals and stones for creating jewelry distinctive to particular regions. The holidays are the perfect occasion for jewelry gift giving.
Kitchen items
If you know someone who is a keen cook, then kitchen accessories are the perfect gift. Depending on your budget and the tastes of the recipient, there is a gift of every shape and size that reflects where you're from.
American music
The enormous variety of musical styles throughout the United States means there is something for every taste. Although many genres can trace their origins to this style of music, there is a wide range of different options for the music fan.
Nicknacks
Nicknacks  refers to small ornaments or trinkets  which can be an inexpensive and fun gift. Most towns sell local nicknacks  that reveal the character of the area, so there is a broad range of gifts to choose from.
Novelty gifts
If you know someone with a great sense of humor, then getting a novelty gift is the perfect idea. There are all kinds of novelty gifts that will suit different personalities, all of which will show off where you're from.
Nuts and snacks
Because of its different ecosystems  America produces a wide variety of nuts and dried-fruit snacks. If you are looking for a healthy and delicious gift  nuts and snacks are the perfect option.
Outdoor gear
America is the land of the great outdoors. With so many outdoor activities to participate in, there's something for everyone on your holiday list.
American preserves, jams & jellies
With its numerous fruit-producing regions, the United States is a mecca for native preserves, jams and jellies.
Sausage
Sausages come in a range of flavors and meats  and are the perfect food for a cold winter evening. With so many different local types, even for nonmeat eaters  there is sure to be one for every taste
Sports team merchandise
Sports franchises exist in almost every major city in the country. While some cities, such as this one, have more than their fair share, there are local sports teams almost everywhere, meaning there is an abundance of sports team merchandise for gift giving.
American toys and games
When the cold winter nights begin, it's great to stay indoors and play board games. You can buy games tailored to a specific U.S. location, and they are perfect for the winter holidays.
American wine
America produces wine in all 50 states, meaning wherever you live, you have a local winery. Although some regions, such as this one, are more established, there are a many good wineries across the nation, meaning you can give a gift that is both local and delicious.

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