Happy New Year!

Celebrate New Year's around the world with Earthcam. A great way to celebrate without leaving the house!

Comforting food for 2009

Comfort food is making a comeback and food experts believe we can see it even moreso in 2009. With the economy hitting everyone in the wallet, cheap and basic are what people want. And many are staying in instead of going out. Soups, cereals, beans, pasta and chicken are back in vogue. Read more about it here.

Family warps brain

If you've got family members coming to visit over the holidays, you might want to consider the findings of a new study: Family can warp your brain. That's the headline from the study. Research found our feelings for our relatives are somewhat primal. And because we look at our family members like ourselves, we have less patience for them and judge them more harshly than others. Read more about it here. And then consider having visiting relatives stay at a hotel.

Santa vs. Snowman

You can take the kids to see Santa versus the Snowman 3D at AutoNation IMAX Theater at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Ft. Lauderdale. It returns on Saturday and runs through January 4th for your holiday viewing pleasure. Details here.

Holiday health myths

During the holidays when we're busy and stressing about so much, I have found a list of things we don't have to worry about: Five surprising holiday health myths.
Number one is sugar makes kids hyperactive. Studies found there is no link and sweets cannot change behavior.
Number two is suicides increase over the holidays.
Also proven false. Poinsettias are toxic. They may not be good for you and may make you sick, but no significant poisoning has been found in 96 percent of the cases reported.
Eating at night makes you fat also proven to be untrue. It may be linked to obesity, but it's the overall calories that you ingest that causes obesity, not the time of day. Read about the rest of the myths here.

Pet love and understanding

You love your dog and cat and can understand every meow or woof! That's pretty much the finding of a new survey. Some 67 percent of those polled believe they can identify the wants and needs of their pets by how they bark or meow. If only we could understand our teens that well! More details about the survey here.

Something to make you smile

Who can resist little kittens, posing so cute for the camera? Not me. Here's a website that features a different kitty everyday. It's like a kitten calendar on your computer.

Love the Internet?

You're not alone, if you're always going online. Survey finds many of us use the internet for comparison shopping, as well as information gathering, and entertainment. Now a survey has found many of us would not only take the internet over tv, but also over sex. You can read more about it here.

Barney Christmas

Barney, the first family's Scottish terrier, has a new holiday doggie video. This year's plot has Barney napping and imagining he's an athlete. The video co-stars Michael Phelps. Check out the video here.

Obama's top wise man

Barack Obama is so popular, his figurine is now tops for nativity scenes. In Naples, Italy, craftsman say Obama's figurine is the biggest seller. Apparently tradition there is to not only put Mary, Joseph, and the Baby Jesus in the scene, but also top newsmakers and celebrities for the year. Look here.

Santa is scary!

Santa can be scary to a toddler. and Now there's a book dedicated to all the toddlers who screamed and cried to get off Santa's lap, but not before someone took a picture. A book of 250 photos. You can check it out here.
It has become so popular, that there is a website featuring photos of freaked out toddlers.

Weekend fun

For twinkling fun, drive through Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek to enjoy the "Holiday Fantasy of Light." It's three miles of animated holday displays and illuminated trees.


You can take your pets to see Santa and the proceeds go to a good cause. The City of Hollywood's Christmas for the Animals, Saturday, December 13th, from 10am to 3 pm, at Poinciana Park. Please bring dog and cat food, treats and toys, supplies and bedding. (954-921-3061)


For the dolphin lover in your family, why not get a holiday photo with "Santini," the dolphin at the Dolphin Research Center. Sessions are available twice dily at teh Center on Overseas Highway in Key Largo. (305-289-1121x203)

Your kids can journey from Holywood to Deerfield Beach by Tri-Rail for breakfast with Santa and a photo in Deerfield. The funs starts at 7 am Saturday at David Park Community Center in Hollywood. (954-967-4236)

Holly Jolly Fun

If you're not holiday shopping all weekend, why not take the kids for some holiday fun. The Roxy Theatre Group is presenting "Holly Jolly Follies," a holiday spectacular featuring 550 kids singing, dancing and acting. There are shows Saturday and Sunday. The Theatre is located in South Miami Dade-not too far from the North Pole.

GPS Jesus?

Every year, churches report the theft of Baby Jesus figurines out of nativity scenes. Police chalk up most to pranks, but it can get costly. Now churches are relying on something new in those nativity scenes... global positioning devices. Now they have GPS Jesus. Details here.

A really BIG gift

Stumped on a holiday gift. Tired of the malls. Give a manatee. You can give an adoption package as a gift and you get the tax deduction. Nice, huh. Also the recipient gets an adoption certificate, a manatee photo and a biography, for just 25 dollars. The money goes to conservation and education programs. Details here.

A reason to smile

Smile! It's contagious. When you're smiling, the whole world really does smile with you. A study has found that happiness is contagious and that you can spread your cheer easily and to strangers. Study also found happiness can last a year. Now a happy cupcake makes me smile on the inside! More on happiness here.

Small Holiday idea

Think small this year. Forget overpriced gifts that will wipe out your bank account. Go small and help a cause. Adopt a Koala Bear. You get a certificate and information on how the little cute one was rescued for as little as 26 dollars. Details here.

Forget the hourglass figure

If you've been exercising and dieting like crazy to try to get the much sought after hourglass figure, good news, you can stop now. Researchers have found that even though pop culture worships the hourglass figure, it's not natural and the best for women. In fact, the hormones that make women physically stronger, more competitive and better able to deal with stress also tend to redistribute fat from the hips to the waist. So what if we look like cylinders! Read more about it here.

Hello to Yellow

With the economy putting everyone in a doom and gloom mood, color experts say we can say hello to yellow in 2009. Yellow to brighten up our grey moods will be found on everything from appliances to fashions. After all, it is the color of the sun! I happen to have yellow in my dining room, so I'm very cheery when I'm eating. Details here.
What color cheers you up?

College affordability?

College affordability sounds like an oxymoron. Who can afford college these days? New study flunks all but one state when it comes to affordability. The biennial study by the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education handed out F's for affordability to 49 states, up from 43 two years ago. Only California gets a passing grade. Read more about it here.

Lots of TV harms kids

If your kids watch a lot of tv, surf the web and play video games all the time, you figure they're probably going to gain weight from lack of exercise. But new research shows that's not all that will happen. The more kids play video games and watch tv, the more likelihood they'll smoke and engage in sexual activity sooner. You can read more about it here and then reconsider that new video game for Christmas.

Toys to avoid

If you're about to go toy shopping for your little ones, please remember safety. There is a top ten list of the toys you might want to avoid because they pose some safety concerns. The number one issue is the choking hazard. Many toys have removeable parts that can be swallowed. The thing to remember is if the toy or part can fit inside a toilet paper roll, it probably could be swallowed. Here's the list.

Students ethically challenged

New study out finds students think they're good, when they're really not. Some 64 percent admit to cheating on a test, 30 percent admit to stealing from a store, but 98 percent think their ethics and characters are good. Sounds like we need more ethics lessons. Read more about it here.

Phones distract drivers most

New study finds cell phones distract drivers more than chatty passengers. It also found that we drive no better whether we're using hands-free phones or not. And that passengers will stop chatting to help us drive better. In the end, phones are bad, people are good. Details here.

Holiday pet dangers

Before you decorate your house with mistletoe and cook up a storm, be careful with certain foods and plants that can be harmful and toxic to your pets. Grapes, raisins and macadamia nuts are dangerous for dogs. Mistletoe, holly and lillies can be toxic. And don't forget chocolate. More details here.

Santa shortage?

Hard to believe in these tough economic times, there is a Santa shortage, but there is. But it's not here in the U-S. It's in Germany, where they have tougher standards. Santa, not only has to be cheerful and chubby, but also has to be a good actor who can't be seen driving to his location. He must park several blocks away, so kids don't see him in a car, and not a sleigh. But the payoff is good. 75 bucks an hour! How do you say Merry Christmas in German? Details here.

Naps are good

With Thanksgiving Day just two days away, good news from the experts: We should all take a nap. A nice nap after a belly full of turkey sounds good. Researchers found when adults take naps, they get creative, remember better and see the big picture. And I see the "big picture" on Thanksgiving Day as a day of eating--after eating turkey and all the fixings, we all take a nap. Then wake up, and have some turkey sandwiches. Details here about napping.

Turkey day tops for fires

If you're cooking this Thanksgiving Holiday, please remember some basic food safety tips, like keeping the kids out of the kitchen and all flammable products away from the stove. Thanksgiving Day is the top day for home cooking fires. More tips here.

Auditions for kids

The Roxy Theatre Group is hosting open auditions for "West Side Story" Friday, Nov. 21st at 6 p.m. Girls, ages 11 to 25 and boys ages 13 to 25, are welcome at the Roxy Performing Arts Center, 1645 SW 107 Ave. in Miami, across from Florida International University South Campus. (305-226-0030)

Sunday fun for kids

It's called Sunday Afternoons of Music For Children. And that's what it is at the University of Miami Gusman Concert Hall this Sunday. Bring the kids to see and hear "Peter and the Wolf & Friends," with the Frost Symphony Orchestra. Before the performance there's the musical instrument petting zoo and after, apple juice, balloons and cookies. Details here.

Childhood obesity link to ads

We all watch tv and see those tempting commercials for food. Now researchers believe there is a link bewteen fast food tv ads and childhood obesity and if there was a ban on those commercials, childhood obesity would be reduced by 18 percent. I'm not sure how they can come up with these claims. But I'm thinking if that were true, let's ban everything tasty looking on TV and we'll all lose weight. More on the research here.

Kids need to play

We're busy and so are our kids. We work, they go to school. And then there's homework, soccer, karate and planned playdates. Experts say kids need to play more and the lack of playtime is hurting them. They say kids need to learn creativity and social skills through unscheduled play time. Kids just being kids. Read more about it here.

Nat'l. Geographic goes video

National Geographic is getting into video games. The first title already out is available for computers and the iphone. It's "Herod's Lost Tomb." They're calling it entertainment with substance. Coming up, they're going to launch games for Nintendo DS about Pandas, and Zoo's. And down the road, titles include "Rain Forests," "Greencity" and "Africa." The timing couldn't be better. How far away are the holidays? Details here.

Pembroke Pines is Tops

In a new survey, Pembroke Pines is ranked as one of the best palces to raise your kids in 2009, according to BusinessWeek. The ranking based on school performance, crime rates, air quailty, parks theater and arts, as well as diversity. If I didn't live there already, I'd move! Read more about it here.

Pudgiest pets compete

We all love our pets. We pamper them and we feed them way too much and that's why many of them are severely obese. Britian is doing something about it. They're having a Pudgiest Pet Contest, with seven dogs and one cat, deemed the fatest of all. The one that loses the most gets a crown and a pet friendly holiday. I see TV show written all over this. Details here.

Unhappy? Turn off the TV.

If you're feeling unhappy, it could be your tv viewing. New research has found that unhappy people watch 30 percent more television. But it also found the longer those who watched TV, the more unhappy they became. So is it the TV or the viewer? More details here.

Fun Festivals

There's the Storybook Festival at the SW Regional Library in Pembroke Pines. Saturday, from 10-4. A parade of princesses, pirates and storybook characters is at 11 am. Your kids could be included. (954-538-9996)

There's the K-9 Winter Festival at CB Smith Park, Pembroke Pines, Saturday from 9-4. (954-437-2650)

Fairy Tea Party for your little ones at the Coconut Creek Center Saturday at 1 pm. (954-545-6670)

Toy buying? Remember safety!

If you have kids, you know it's never too early to start thinking about the Holidays. My kids already have their wish lists for Santa. Before you hit the stores to go searching for their must-have toys, please don't forget safety. Last year, 18 children under the age of 15 died in toy related accidents, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Here's a some safety tips from the Commission.

Don't panic: Paranoia is up

If you think they're out to get you, you're not alone. Study finds many of us have irrational fears that other people are trying to upset or annoy us. Some studies show at least 40 percent of us have had a least some paranoid thoughts. Not to worry, you don't need professional help unless your odd thoughts provoke real behavior. And some experts believe a little bit of paranoia could be helpful. It's beneficial to be on guard. Details here.

Want smarter kids?

Get them into music. Study finds kids who study a musical instrument for at least three years outperform kids with no instrumental training on non musical tests of vocabulary and non verbal reasoning. So I guess those piano lessons really do paid off. Details here.

Oprah stuff

If you love Oprah, you'll love that you now can get some of the wares offered at the Oprah Store in Chicago online. She is even offering some of her own shoes and dresses. So you walk in her shoes, in a very small way. Check out her store here.

Weekend ideas

You can celebrate Bike Miami on Sunday, from 10 am to 3 pm. Bike Miami is sponsored by the City of Miami, and is a day for bicyclists, pedestrians and skaters to explore downtown Miami in a fun, safe and free way. It includes a free yoga class and bike safety workshops. A special rally with Mayor Manny Diaz is at 1 am on the corner of Biscayne Blvd. and Flagler Street.

You can "Rock for the Wetlands." It's a concert at "The Inner Circle" on the southwest corner of Royal Palm and University Drive, Sunday from 2 pm to 7 pm. The concert is to save the wetlands along Atlantic Blvd. and Lyons Rd. in Coral Springs. A five dollar donation would be appreciated. There will be raffles and prizes.

Got a dirty car? Head to the Girl Scout Troop 1577 Car Wash Saturday at the Burger King, 14095 SW 88 Street, Miami, from 9 am til 1 pm and Sunday at the Checkers Drive-In at 2701 SW 42 Street from 9 am til 1 pm. Funds go to the scouts camping trip.

Love Barbie? Saturday between noon and 3, Barbie fans are invited to donate their old Barbie dolls at participating Walmart Stores. For every doll collected, Mattel will give a new one to a local children's hospital. As an added bonus, Barbie herself wil be at select stores. Details here.

Toy Hall of Fame inductee is...

A stick! The National Toy Hall of Fame inducted the universal plaything powered by a child's imagination: a stick. The stick joins the bicycle, kite and crayons. To get in, a toy must be widely recognized and foster learning, creativity and discovery through play. Next year could be a rock! Details here.

Metrozoo's Big Cats

Two of the most fearsome and dangerous cats in the world are now at Metrozoo. The jaguars arrived from Houston and Massachusettes and will have their own exhibit debut December 6th. They will have 27 acres to roam, with plenty of space between visitors and them. Details here.

White House Pets

You've heard by now that the Obama family will be moving into the White House with a new puppy. They join a long list of families who've had pets at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The Bush family shared their eight years at the White House with a cat, a springer spaniel and two Scottish terriers. The Clinton's had a cat and a chocolate lab. Going way back, Thomas Jefferson had two grizzly bears and John Quincy Adams had a pet alligator. That's a way to keep away your detractors!

Women have more germs

It's true. Research has found women have more germs on their hands than men do. Researchers were also surprised to find that there were more types of bacteria on the hands than they expected. Why do we have more germs? Researchers didn't have a reason. But I do.. As women, don't we wipe our kids noses more, clean more, cook more and get our hands dirty more, except for taking out the trash! Details here.

Alarming teen pregnancy link

Turn off the TV! Research has linked teenagers watching sexy tv shows with teen pregnancies. Study found those teens who watched the raciest tv shows with a lot of sexual dialogue and behavior were twice as likely to get pregnant than those watching tamer shows. Details here.

Bid on your favorite candidate

Instead of voting for your favorite candidate, you can bid on their doll on eBay. It's a doll of an idea. There are cabbage patch dolls resembling John McCain, Barack Obama, Sarah Palin and Joe Biden. You bid. We all win. Proceeds go to Toys for Tots. Details here.

Be scary and safe

If you're taking the kids out to trick or treat tomorrow for Halloween, please be safe. Remember the basics. Take a flashlight with you, don't let them run out into the street or across lawns, stick to the sidewalk. And don't go to houses that don't have any lights on. There are more safety tips here.

Working hard or hardly working?

If you're not working while you're on the job, you're among the many. A new survey finds nearly half of us spend two hours of our workday doing personal things. And the most popular time waster is socializing with co-workers. Least it's not shopping on line. Then we'd be wasting not only time but also money. Details here.

Wear red

If you're not feeling too attractive today, put on something red and watch the guys turn their heads! New research finds what we always knew: Red is the color of love. It's also the color of lust. Researchers found men always found the woman in red as the most attractive... even when it was the same woman wearing different colors.
Details here.

Internet altering brain?

Is surfing the internet altering your brain? Probably. Experts believe that internet searching and text messaging has made brains more adept at filtering information and makign snap decisions. Details here.

Watch your coffee drinking

Study finds if you drink more than three cups of coffee a day, it may shrink your breast size. Researchers also found the more coffee, the more shrinkage. If only all that coffee could shrink my thighs. Details here.

Weekend scary stuff

If you and your kids can't wait until Halloween, there's plenty of scary things to do before then:

Ghosts and Goblins Family Fun Night Saturday, Oct. 25th, 6-8 pm, at Fern Forest Nature Center in Coconut Creek. Games, costume contest, arts and crafts and storytime. Ages 2-10.

Davieween Happenings is Sunday, Oct. 26th, with a pumpkin patch, free halloween games that include play bowling for ghouls, feed the hungry pumpkin and more and a costume contest. 1-4 pm.

A Masquerade Dance is Saturday, Oct 25th at the Civic Center in Miramar, 6920 SW 35 Street. (954-704-1631)

Pumpkin Origami is at the Morikami Museum Saturday, from 11-4 in Delray Beach. (561-495-0233)

Pines Night Out

Bring the kids to a special Pembroke Pines Crimewatch Program at Walter C. Young Middle School tonight, (Friday), from 6 to 9 pm. There will be police and fire vehicles and safety demonstrations and free child ID kits as well as lots of free fun for the kids. Rock climbing, face painting, pony rides, bounce houses and more.
(954-436-3274)

Hell's Kitchen Auditions

Today's the day for you to grab your favorite spatula and skillet and head to the Hell's Kitchen auditions. They're going on from 10-3 at the Hard Rock Cafe at the Bayside Marketplace. You have to be at least 21 and over, and have the skills, stamina and competitiveness to go toe to toe with Chef Gordon Ramsay. Details here.

Birth order predicts career

Before you decide on a career, maybe you should consider your birth order. Experts say each birth position has a special role within families and the position leads to different patterns and personalities and jobs. Firstborns are ambitious, assertive and dominant and last borns were the least likely to report earning six figures. That explains so much to me... as a last born. Read more here.

Wolf down lunch?

Did you wolf down lunch and ate until you were full? Bad news. You're more than likely going to be overweight if you keep that up. Research finds those who gobble down their food and eat til they're full are three times more likely to become overweight. I used to eat real fast to try to sneak those calories past my stomach. Didn't work. Neither did eating while standing up. Weren't the calories supposed to go to your feet? :) Details here.

Don't skimp on sleep

If you don't have enough hours in the day to get it all done, don't skip your sleep. Let the laundry sit, or dishes pile up, because lack of sleep is connected to several critical health problems. Those who get less than five hours of sleep are more likely to get heart attacks. Also less sleep triggers hunger hormones, and is linked to diabetes and high blood pressure. I think a nap sounds good about now. More about sleep here.

Weekend fun

Love cats? Head to the Cat Show at War Memorial Auditorium in Ft. Lauderdale. Felines of all breeds on the cat walk. Cat adoptions available too. Saturday and Sunday, 800 NE 8 St. (954-828-5380)

Collect coins? Head to the Ft. Lauderdale Coin and Stamp Show with gold and silver collections being shown, sold and appraised. Sunday at ArtServe, 1350 E. Sunrise Blvd. (954-802-4967)

Enjoy outdoors at the Birthday Celebration for Biscayne National Park. Celebrating 40 years as the largest marine park in the Nation's Park System Sunday, with a free concert and hands on activities. 9700 SW 328 Street, Homestead. (305-755-7848)

Enjoy The Jamies Rescue and Be Kind to Animals Free Concert Saturday night at the Hollywood Bandshell Stage and you'll help find homes and care for abandoned and neglected dogs. Starts at 6 pm. (954-622-7597)

Celebrate Halloween early with the kids at the City of Plantation's "Family Halloween And Safety Halloween" Saturday, from 10 am to 2 pm. There will be a Haunted House, inflatable rides, a carnival and police and fire safety demonstrations and free candy and halloween bags. (954-797-2180)

Cell phone itchy?

Watch out for your cell phone.. you could get mobile phone dermatitis. British dermatologists have coined the term after reporting mobile phone users were coming up with an unexplained rash on their cheeks and ears by where they hold their phones. Dermatologists have determined they're allergic to the nickel surface on the phone. Might want to stop talking or go hands-free. Details here.

Gap kids casting call

Bring your cute little ones to GapKids and they could be in a new advertising campaign as the new face! There is a casting call Friday and Saturday at the GapKid stores in Dadeland, Aventura and Cocowalk. Details here.

Is your brain shrinking?

Yes. Your brain naturally shrinks like two percent each decade. But if you drink, it shrinks even more. Detais here. To combat the shrinkage, you could go surf the net. Research has found web searching keeps the brain from getting old. Details here.
This stuff too cerebral for me.

PB & J is good for you

We know it as a comfort food, now research has found the jam and jelly that goes with peanut butter is good for you too. Specifically, research has found that jam and jelly have pectin which blocks the progression of cancer. Details here.

One Republic gives back

One Republic offering an hour long songwriting lesson to budding musicians. They're offering it in an online auction to benefit City of Hope to raise money for cancer research. Details here.

Babies can discern music

Watch what kind of music you play for your kids. Study finds they can tell already if the songs are happy or sad, as early as five months old. Least at that age, they can't tell you to change the station! Details here.

Angry about the economy?

If you're angry about the economy, the slide on wallstreet, the motorist who cut you off, your boss, or anything else, you're invited to smash a few plates. A new company called "Sarah's Smash Shack," offers patrons time to smash dinnerware on the walls...to relieve pent-up issues. Great idea, too bad the company is in San Diego. We need one in Miami. Details here.

Is your car angry?

It's common to see people's faces in many things, from clouds to cars. And now a new study finds we prefer cars with an angry people faces. Not sure why. Maybe to scare all the other people-faced cars away. Details here.

Stress trickles down to kids

If you're stressing over money (like who isn't these days), your kids are probably feeling it. Experts say you should probably share what's going on with your little ones. So they can understand some of the problems, not necessarily all of them. You may not want to say we're going to lose our home, but you may want to say money is tight and we can't afford to buy you a hamster right now. Other tips here.

Lying about your age?

If you're 39 and holding, you may shy away from looking in the mirror. But you also may want to shy away from the computer. Computer scientists have developed a software program that can estimate age based solely on someone's facial appearance. It could be used for all kinds of things-from verifying age before drinking, driving, or dating your daughter! Details here.

No hedgehogs for kids

A warning out from the American Academy of Pediatrics that will have many parents breathing easier. At least moms. Young children should not keep hedgehogs, hamsters, baby chicks, lizards and turtles as pets, because of the risks for diseases and the sometimes deadly germs they carry. The warning is for kids 5 and younger. I was hoping for like 18 and under. More here.

Calories overload brain

You know how your computer gets overloaded and then works sluggish or not at all. Your brain also gets tapped out when you overload it with calories. Researchers have found that when you over-eat, your brain goes haywire and sends out cells to attack invaders that aren't there. Could explain diseases associated with obesity, as well as our bad food choices... you know after a really big meal, we're stuffed and we still order dessert. More here.

Concerns about makeup

If you use makeup daily and your teenager wants to, this may make you think twice: Studies have found that some makeup contains harmful chemicals that are linked to health risks such as cancer. And a study of teens found their bodies contained some of these harmful chemicals. What is the price of beauty these days? You can read more about it here.

Voting warning

Before you head to the polls come Election Day, you should know that traffic accidents typically increase during voting hours. Researchers studied traffic accidents on election days for the past 30 years and found an 18 percent increased risk of death. Researchers blame people rushing to get to the polls, driving unfamiliar routes and being distracted. My suggestion: Plan ahead. Take a practice run to the poll and don't let anybody distract you. Read more about it here.

Good day to eat veggies

Today is a good day to eat all your veggies and then some. It's World Vegetarian Day, a day to celebrate the benefits of eating a meat free diet. It can help reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke and cancer, and help save animals from suffering and even help the environment. Details here.

Man saves dog from shark

Talk about brave. A dog owner risked his own life to save his dog. He was swimming off the keys with his little rat terrier, when a shark swam up and took a bite of the dog and tried to swim away. Greg LeNoir punched the shark and managed to get the little dog away and saved his life. Now that's a faithful companion! Read more about it here.

Fat dolphins need diet

Hard to believe but dolphins at a Japanese marine park are going on a diet, because they gained too much weight eating mackerel. Turns out the mackerel was very fatty. And the dolphins weren't making their jumps. I can see it now. Dolphins by the side of the pool trying to snag a bag of chips from visitors to the park. Read more about it here.

Frugality has limits

It may be a tough economy, but women are not going to scrimp on everything. We do have priorities. Survey of women finds we will look to save on medications, milk and eggs, but when it comes to food for our dogs, or cosmetics for us or toilet paper, we refuse to go bargain. Absolutely! We have to look and feel our best and our dogs too. Read more about it here.

Tempting foods help diet

Hard to believe, but research finds being tempted is a good thing for diets. Researchers say having tempting treats around helps us with our self control strategies and build will-power. Sure, if you can ignore that chocolate cookie calling your name at home, you can do the same when you're at a party or anywhere else. You can read more about it here.

Public Lands Day!

Saturday is National Public Lands Day. A day to enjoy our National Parks as well as help keep them nice. There are clean-up efforts all over the country on this day. 1500 sites. To find out where you can help, go here.

Kids auditions this weekend

If your kids can sing and dance and have 11 friends, take them to the Wizard of Oz group auditions Saturday at the Adrienne Arscht Center for the Performing Arts. Auditions for children ages 8-13 who are under five feet ten inches tall. They're playing munchkins. Details here.

If your kids prefer flying, then take them to the "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" auditions Sunday at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Doors open at 9:45. Auditions begin at 10. 201 SW 5th. Avenue. Details here.

Women Rule!

This just in.... Women rule the roost. Study finds women make most decisions at home and guys are okay with that. From household finances to what to do this weekend to tv watching, women make the decisions most of the time. I can guess the times when women let men decide.. when they're holding the remote. Read more about it here.

Palin Pink or Obama Berry?

Which lipstick do you prefer: Palin Pink or Obama Berry? A South Florida company is launching the two lipstick shades in October to cash in on the "lipstick" controversy of a few weeks back. Remember lipstick on a pig and lipstick on a pitbull? When you buy these political shades, you'll help a good cause. Part of the proceeds go to domestic abuse victims. Read more about it here.

Get a phone call from Ellen

Want to get a phone call from Ellen DeGeneres? You can sign up now at the One-A-Day Vitamins website. She's partnered with them to remind people to get checked for breast cancer and live healthier. She is behind the effort, since her mom is a breast cancer survivor.

Are you a noisy neighbor?

Topping the list of biggest neighbor annoyances: Noise. Nearly a third of those polled said noise is what bugged them most about their neighbors. Also those with kids and pets are considered nuisances, and those who talk about Dick Cheney too much. You can read more about the list here.

Power suits give clean image

Forget the dry cleaners. Now you can wash your suit in the shower. It's called the Shower-power suit. After you're done washing yourself, you wash your suit in the shower for three to four minutes with warm water and then let it drip dry. No ironing need. The suit is so popular in Japan and Australia, they're now designing ladies suit with the same shower power technology. Read more about it here.

Take kids out

This is "Take A Child Outside" Week. It's an effort which began in North Carolina with beautiful mountains and bubbling streams, but it's catching on all over that we need to get our kids away from tv and video games to enjoy the outdoors and maybe get a little exercise and lose weight. You can read more about it here.

Veggies bad for brains?

Research finds you can have too much of a good thing and that those eating an all vegetable diet can suffer the effects, such as brain shrinkage. Veggie diets can lack Vitamin B12 which is needed for good brain function apparently. Also contributing to brain shrinkage, consuming 14 alcoholic drinks or more a week and being overweight. So maybe we shouldn't eat all our veggies, Mom. What do you think of that? Read more about it here.

Yawning goes to the dogs

You yawn. Your friends yawn. Their friends yawn and so on and so on. And now research finds you yawn... your dog yawns too. The only animal so far (other than primates) that can catch contagious yawning. What about cats? They're really good at stretching, so maybe yawning too? Read more about the yawning story here.

Video gamers are everywhere

97 percent of young Americans, including girls, play video games. New survey finds most play to socialize with friends. And most play at least five different games. Diversification is so important! And a third of those who play are parents. Read more about it here.

Wanna be lizard skinny?

You've heard of the Gila monster, a rare poisonous lizard? Well, doctors have been using the lizards' spit to help diabetics stabilize their blood sugar. Now they've discovered the drug (from lizard's spit) also helps them lose weight. And they're going to do more studies. I can see it now. Women wrestling with lizards in their backyards trying to get spit from 'em. Read more about it here.

Car sick?

If you're feeling car sick? It may not be you. It may be your car. Studies find on average there are 283 different types of bacteria present in every square inch of your automobile, more if you have pets and kids and eat in the car. I think I need a hazmet suit before I drive home. Read more about it here.

Dieting? Say cheese

Say cheese to your cheese and it just might help you make better food choices. Study finds those who took pictures of their food made better food choices than those who just wrote down what they ate. You can read more about it here. So I guess a picture is worth more than a thousand words, could be worth a thousand calories?

Kids and germs

This just in.. kids are germ factories. We know kids can spread flu like wildfire. Now studies found that flu like symptoms struck first and worst in the zip codes that were home to the most kids. So if you live in a neighborhood filled with kids, you might consider the flu vaccine.

Flu shot season begins this month and for the first time, vaccinations are being recommended for all children, not just those under 5.

You can read more about it here. And then go wash your hands. That's where I'm going.
Never hurts to practice germ prevention.

Cabbage Kids Return

Get ready for September 20th. It's the anniversary of the Cabbage Patch Kids. And they'll be re-released as replicas from the 1983 originals. So beloved by so many, there are celebrations planned at BabyLand General Hospital. Read more about it here.

Fight the fat gene

You've heard of the fat gene right, the common genetic variation that makes people more likely to gain weight. Researchers say we can fight the fat gene and beat it. Well, if you have a few extra hours each day. They say with three to four hours of being active each day, we can block the gene. Who has three to four hours? Read more about it here.

Help storm victims

We were spared from Ike. Why not help others. You can donate non-perishable foods to the Food for the Poor. They're having a food drive this week at their offices at 6401Lyons Road in Coconut Creek. If you don't have time to drop food off, you can always give what you can to their organization by visiting here. They've provided 30 shipping containers of relief supplies and food so far.

Responsible dogs

If your dog is a bit of a handfull, have you ever thought of training? This might be the month to do it. Bark Busters is offering free dog safety workshops. It's in conjunction with the American Kennel Club's Responsible Dog Ownership Days, with events held all this month. If you'd like to know more, you can email SouthBroward@Barkbusters.com. Good luck.

Disasters getting worse?

With more deadly Hurricanes like Gustav and Ike, and earthquakes in China, we may feel like disasters are getting worse. But if you take a look at the history of disasters and the recent population growth, it may be more about geography than catastrophy. An article shows that many of us are living now in harm's way, living in high rises along coast lines and more. Read it for yourself.

Thinking hard=weight gain

Why is our society getting so big? Researchers think it may be because we think too hard. They have found in studies that when people exercise their brain with intellectual activities, they eat more. And since many of us have become more sedentary, we're obviously doing something. We're thinking and eating and not exercising. You can read more about it here. I think therefore I am.. overweight?

DVR's save more than shows

You love your tv shows. So you probably have a DVR (digital video recorder) to record them all. Now research finds DVR owners say the technology doesn't just save their shows, it saves their relationships. You can't put your argument on hold, but you can put your show in pause. Read more about it here.

A sparkly way to remember

You want to remember your loved ones once they've departed in a special way. Forget the cemetery, head to Switzerland and make a diamond. A company in Switzerland makes diamonds out of the ashes of the dearly departed. They do say diamonds are forever. Read more about it here.

Internet access anxiety

If you feel stressed or anxious when you can't access the internet, you're not alone. It's becoming so commonplace, there is now a term for it. It's called "discomgoogolation." I imagine because "google" has to do with everything these days. Read more about it here.

Stressed moms=heavy kids

If you're stressed out over finances, work loads and more, your kids are more than likely stressed too and overeating as a result. Research finds many stressed moms have overweight kids. The kids seek out comfort foods much like moms. Better hide the twinkies. Details here.

Is your kid gifted?

Is your kid really gifted? Probably not. We all get excited when we hear "your child is going into the gifted program" at school, but estimates find only two to five percent of kids are really gifted. Of those only one in 100 is highly gifted and one in a million a prodigy. And if you think getting an early start will make your child gifted, think again. Most educators believe kids don't benefit from academically oriented preschools.
So if you want to help your child, just let them experiement, express creativity and work through feelings through play. Read more about it here.

Dogs and cats save lives

Your dog is your best friend, but he also could be your lifesaver. Canines have a keen sense of smell and intuition that can help them detect people's diseases. In one instance, a dog in Rhode Island, detected her owner's bad leg and kept jumping at the owner until she noticed it was red from the knee to the foot. Turns out she had sepsis and was hospitalized for a week. Cats too are life savers. A gray cat in South Dakota regularly wakes up her elderly owner when her blood sugar dips too low and she needs insulin. Read more about it here. And I get excited when my cat plays fetch and my dog listens. Go figure.

Mutts get new status

Move over pedigreed pooches, mutts are getting respect. There's a new Mutt-i-gree Club for owners and their mixed breeds to raise awareness and respect. Three million dogs get euthanized in shelters each year, most of them mixed breeds. Hopefully with the new-found respect, more mutts will be adopted. Read more about it here.

We're all a bit touched

We all know we live in a crazy messed up world. Now researchers say in order to survive, we are all crazy and messed up too. And we can blame natural selection for our mental health issues. Read more about it here.

Small packages trick dieters

Beware of cookies, candies and chips in small packages. They are not diet food. Research has found many chronic dieters look at those 100 calorie packs and see them as diet food alternatives and eat more of them, instead of less. And food makers package less food and charge more. Big profits, big waistlines. Yikes. Details here.

Ask a cow for directions

The next time you're lost, you might want to ask a cow for directions, or just look at which way the bovine is pointing. Researchers have found grazzing cattle and sleeping deer align their bodies to the Earth's magnetic field, because they have an innate magnetic compass. They tend to point to North or South. Researchers also believe humans and whales have an innate magnetic compass too. We all have animal magnetism! Details here.

Cafeteria trays retiring

Your college kids may have to learn how to juggle plates like a waitress or learn to eat less. Many higher institutions are doing away with cafeteria trays in an effort to go green and save money. Read more about it here.

Pot-bellied pig up for adoption

A family who lost their home to foreclosure had to give up their beloved pot-bellied pig and now Moogy is up for adoption. The three year old black Vietnamese porker is house-broken! The SPCA Wildlife Care Center in Ft. Lauderdale says adoption fee is just 50 bucks. Details here.

List of Top Colleges

Harvard University is tops. The U.S. News and World Report is out with its list of top colleges according to SAT scores, peer reputation, selectivity and alumni giving. Top five are Harvard, Princeton, Yale, MIT and Stanford. Harvard is quick to note that students should still choose the school that fits their needs and not by ranking. Details here.

Riskiest sport for your daughter

So what is the riskiest sport for your daughter at school? Not gymnastics, although that comes in second. Not basketball or baseball. No. It's Cheerleading. Cheerleading accounts for 65 percent of all catastrophic injuries in high school girls' athletics and 67 percent in colleges. Researchers say part of the huge amount of injuries is the increasing number of girls wanting to be cheerleaders, the other part is cheerleading is becoming more acrobatic. Read more about it here.

Don't get angry at work

If you get angry at work, don't show it. Study finds anger in the office hurts women more. Women who show anger are seen as less competent, men aren't. Experts say don't get angry, be direct and assertive about whatever is angering you, whether it's a broken computer or copier, and then blow off steam later when no one is within hearing distance. Could explain why you see people yelling in cars as they drive all by themselves. Read more about it here.

Cutest Pet Contest

We all know we have the cutest pet at home. Now we can prove it. The Florida State Chapter of Dog & Cat Lovers of America and the CutestPetContest.com partnering up for this year's competition to find the cutest pet. Winners get their photos on the cover of a new book "America's Top Pets," and $1,000.00 cash. All the details are here. Good luck.

Women career blame

Is your head hitting the glass ceiling at work? Experts say career women are to blame. Sure we didn't create the glass ceiling, but some believe career women help maintain it. In that we don't do enough to break it. We think hard work alone will help us get promoted to the top, but it's more than that. It's networking and more.
Read more about it here.

Help kids grades

You want to help your kids do better at school. Research finds the answer is easy: Get them moving. Exercising their bodies helps burn off energy and exercise their brains. Read more about it here.

Nine lives, four ears

We all know cats have nine lives, but I've never heard of a cat with four ears. You have to check out this photo. The cat lives a relatively normal life in Chicago, but his owners fearing for his safety keep him indoors. Someone might want to cat-nap him because he is so unusual.

A place for dogs

Move over "Facebook" and "Myspace." There's now "Doggyspace." A place for your dog. A website for owners to show off their puppy love. It's adorable. Check out the puppy and duck who are fast friends. Click here.

Want smarts? Exercise!

People who exercise regularly have better bodies and apparently better brains too. A review of studies found exercisers learn faster, remember more, think clearer and bounce back after injury more easily. So Beijing must be a very smart city, at least for the two weeks.. you know the Olympics. Read more about it here.

An alarming trend about fat

If Americans keep eating the way they do, we'll all be fat by 2048. Researchers based their projections on how many of us became overweight in the last 30 years, and projected what will happen in the next 40 years. The good news is we'll finally see pudgy models and celebrities. The bad news healthcare costs will soar with medical problems associated with obesity. Read more here.

Super-mom shine dims

Super-mom. Many of us are struggling to do it all: Work full-time, take care of the house and the kids. But studies find our family life is suffering as a result. In fact, ten years ago, studies found that most thought that having a "Super-Mom" wouldn't affect family life. But now, studies find most believe family life is suffering. But in many cases, families cannot afford to have only one wage earner.
Read more about it here.

Need sleep? Read this.

If you always feel like you need a nap, you're not alone. Many of us do. But studies find many of us are our own worst enemy. We do things to cause our lack of shut eye, from drinking too much coffee and alcohol, to eating spicy food and taking medication that interferes with our sleep. One thing I read says as we age, we need less sleep. Let me know when that is, because I still always feel like I need nap.
You can read more about sleep here.

Job hunting advice

We've all heard be professional, wear a business suit, and show how you can be a team player when you're looking for a job. But sometimes, if you want to stand out from that crowd, you can do some wacky things and still get hired. One candidate sent a pair of baby shoes with the note "Let me get my foot in the door," another candidate wore a sandwich board at a busy intersection. Read more success stories here.

Overdue book amnesty

Got a book or two, or video, or any other materials, that you checked out from the library, but failed to return. This is your month. Miami Dade Public Libraries is offering amnesty to all patrons for their overdue materials. You have until the end of September to return the materials. After that, those accounts with outstanding fees will be turned over to a debt collection agency.

Magic pill

The magic pill may very well exist. Scientists have discovered a pill that can make you leaner, burn more calories and lose fat. An exercise pill that you won't have to sweat over. Cool. Only problem. They've only tried it on mice. Human trials are next. I'm in. Read more about it here.

Dog adopts tiger cubs

Nothing like a cute picture of mommy love especially when it's unconditional love for a different species! Check out this photo and story of a golden retriever who is nursing three tiger cubs, who were abandoned by their mom. This retriever not only feeds the cubs, but also licks and cleans them. What a mom!

Dress for success

If you always wonder why you have to look nice at work, if you don't see anybody, here's the answer. A poll found 41 percent of employers more often promote people who dress better. And more than a third of companies polled have sent employees home for unsuitable attire. Flip flops very unsuitable. Read more about how you can dress for success here.

Biscuits sweeten boardroom

So you've got a big corporate meeting coming up, you might want to serve up some tasty biscuits. Survey finds food was deemed the next most important aspect of the boardroom after tables and chairs. And if you serve cookies, make sure they don't look dry and crumbley. Read more about it here.

Warning about texting

A warning coming from Emergency Room Doctors: Don't text and walk, don't text and skate, don't text and horseback ride, and don't text and cook. The warning comes after they've seen all the injuries involved with people trying to do the aforementioned. Read more about it here.

Really fat cat

Shelter workers in New Jersey are caring for a really fat cat. She's 44 pounds and apparently lost. It's hard to believe her owner lost her considering her size. But her nickname is now "Princess Chunk" and shelter workers will be putting her on a diet. If her owner doesn't claim her by Saturday, she'll be put up for adoption. Even though she's chunky, you got to love her. Check her out here.

Are you happy?

The answer could be determined by how old you are. If you're young, you are happy. If you're in the late 40's or early 50's, you're not so happy. This according to a study in USA Today. Researchers say the happiness they researched was tied to aspirations and family life. So happiness or lack of could have something to do with kids, divorce and gravity. I threw the last one in there.

Get ready lobster lovers

The two day lobster min-season begins tonight at midnight. So be careful if you're going out. Lots of boaters and divers are expected. Remember, there is a 12 lobster per person limit. More details here.

Dog napping is up

Hold your pet close and keep a watchful eye on her, pet thefts are on the rise. Experts are blaming the bad economy for the rise in dog-napping. The most stolen breeds are the little ones that look expensive and can fit in your purse. So the ones that appeal to celebrities also appeal to crooks. Read more about it here.

Best colleges for...

You want the best college for your child. They do too, but best for what? Best for education.. or best for partying? The Princeton Review is out with their annual list of Party Schools today. A list you'll want your child to avoid, a list they may want to consider. So which school is tops for partying? Number one this year, my alma mater, the University of Florida. Oh, I never partied. Not me. Read more here.

Lost luggage auction

If you've ever lost anything on a trip, here's your chance at payback. Head to the Miami International Airport's Auction Saturday, beginning at 9:30, and you can bid on all kinds of goodies left behind by other travelers, from cell phones, to laptops, DVD players, jewelry, sporting goods and even a surfboard. Hundreds of unclaimed bags are there. Details here.

Butterfly Days and Free Trees

It's Butterfly Days at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens this weekend. There'll be children's activities, lectures on South Florida butterfly identification, butterfly watching, gardening and more. You also can buy plants that attract butterflies.

You want to get a little extra shade and a little extra fruit in your yard? You can "Adopt-A-Tree" Saturday at the Miami Dade County Auditorium, from 9 am til noon. You can choose two free shade or fruit trees. It's hosted by Miami Dade County's Department of Environmental Resource Management.

Avoiding speeding tickets

Let's face it, we all want to get somewhere faster than we should. But we also don't want to break the law and get a speeding ticket. There are some do's and don't's that might help you stay under the radar when you are going a little faster than you should. Some of the tips include don't lead the pack of fast drivers, stay back. Stay out of the fast lane and avoid a bright colored car. Other tips here.

E-mail helps you Exercise

Want to work out more? Get someone to nag you via email. A study found emails reminding participants to exercise, actually exercised more than those who didn't receive any reminders. However the nagging or reminding has to be more supportive than critical to get results. Read more about it here.

Sly calling

You want to avoid an awkward telephone conversation, then you'll want to use Slydial. This company lets you call directly into someone's voice mail, bypassing a direct chat. You could use it to avoid a date, a pushy co-worker or boss, whatever.

Fishy pedicures

Something's fishy in a Virginia nail salon, where they have fish doing some of the work of their pedicurists. The garra rufa fish nibble on patrons feet, to eat away at dead skin. It's a popular treatment in Turkey and other Asian countries. And it's now gaining followers in the U.S. Check it out here. And the real problem clients can go to the pirhana tank next door!

Hybrid bikes?

We've all heard about hybrid cars, now there are hybrid bikes. They combine battery power with human power to help propel you even farther. It's called "hybrid cycling technology," that can take you up to 70 miles. You can read all about it here. But where do you put your kids? On the handlebars?

Loud music=drinking more

If you head to a bar that plays loud music, you might want to bring along extra cotton... not just for your hearing's sake, but for your purse. Study finds in bars where the music is loud, patrons drink more. You can read more about it here.

Sexy people sound better

Your voice tells a lot about you. Study finds people with voices deemed sexy and attractive tend to have greater body symmetry. So they're well balanced, but an attractive voices doesn't guarantee an attractive face. Read more about it here.

Barbie's in trouble

The new Barbie is stirring up some trouble. The new Black Canary Barbie unveiled already, but not in stores until September, is being slammed for its sexually suggestive clothing. Barbie is seen wearing fishnet stockings, black boots and gloves and a motorcycle jacket. Mattel says the clothing is based on the DC comics superhero "Black Canary." My suggestion would be to base a children's doll on more child-like and less adult-like characters. You can check it out here.

Save on gas. Walk!

You want to save on your gas bill, you could walk. It would help if you lived in one of the most "walkable cities." But acccording to Walkscore.com, South Florida doesn't make it. San Francisco, New York and Boston are the top three cities where you can live, grocery shop and work all within walking distance. Try the link for yourself and see if where you live ranks 70 or higher. If it does, put on your walking shoes!

Low carb diets win

A study comparing three different diets found the one that lowered or cut out carbs helped people lose the most weight. The two year long study compared low carb diets with mediterranean-style diets and traditional low fat diets. The Atkins Foundation is thrilled with the results. You can read more about it here.

Who's on the mommy track?

New study finds more women with MBA's are more likely to become stay-at-home moms than those with medical or law degrees. Researchers found those who stayed working were in more family-friendly environments, where they could work part time, while those in the business world didn't find such possibilities. Read more about it here.

Walk while you surf

Forget trying to find time to exercise after work, now you can exercise while you work. It's the new treadmill computer workstation. A device that is being used by a few companies hoping to help employees burn a few calories while they work. You can read more about it here.

Hungry for happiness?

If you want to be happy, skip a meal. No not really. But researchers have found when our bodies notice we need more calories, the levels of a hormone called ghrelin increase. And this hormone was found to be a stress buster and an antidepressent. It also helped in terms of concentration. Researchers have an evolutionary explanation. The hormone helps us concentrate on finding dinner, rather than becoming dinner. I know when I'm hungry, all I can think about is food. Read more about it here.

Mango Festival

It's a Mango extravaganza at Fairchild Tropical Gardens this weekend. It's the International Mango Festival with a cook-off, lectures, tree sale, even a mango safari. It's mango-licious. Details here.

Need a job?

The Salvation Army is having a Job Fair Friday and Saturday, July 11th and 12th, at its Tamarac Store, 7707 W. Commercial Blvd. They're looking for assistant managers, cashiers and stock people to fill positions at their six stores. The Fair runs from noon to 4 on Friday and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday. (954-721-0705)

Panda adopted by cat

It's a heart warming story and we got the video to show.. of a little red panda rejected by its mom at the Amsterdam Zoo, but is now in the loving paws of a domestic cat. Not to worry this little panda won't grow up to be as large as the giant black and white pandas we're all familiar with. The red panda grows up to be a bit larger than a cat, so she won't scare momma cat when she comes back home after a night out.

Desk Rage

We've heard of road rage. Now that anger and frustration is finding its way into the office and it's called "Desk Rage." Experts say the stress of job uncertainty, rising gas prices and more have heightened the stress and frustration levels at work, and as a result many are experiencing "desk rage." You can read more about it here. My advice, never ride up too close to anyone's bumper and please don't honk while someone is on the phone.

Really Hot Dogs!

The Humane Society of Greater Miami is having air conditioning problems. It's not working and with this heat, the dogs are really HOT. They're asking for support from the community to help them get a new A/C. They need $85,000. They've only raised $13,000. Read more about it here.

You can say no

You can say no to your boss without endangering your job. Career experts say you can, if you know how. First up agree early on that your boss doesn't want you to be a yes person and it's easier to say "no" if you have defined expectations early in your tenure. Also find a way to demonstrate how "no" will advance your manager's agenda. And lastly, sometimes it's good to just unplug your phone, rather than being faced with work conflicting with personal time. Read more here.

Job weight gain

New study finds 45 percent of workers have gained weight since they started their current jobs. Working apparently is bad for the waistline, because we tend to eat out lunch more, snack more, and hit the gym less. Some advice, plan ahead, pack a healthy lunch, don't snack and exercise more. Read more about it here.

Kids eat more when...

They watch TV! Study finds kids eat more when they're watching television, on average about 200 calories more. Researchers say television overrides our ability to know when to stop eating. Of course if you need your kids to gain weight, it might be just the thing! Read more about it here.

Mom's addicted to...

What are moms addicted to? New study finds moms are addicted to their own baby's smile. And the addiction has drug like qualities in that reward centers in her brain light up when she sees her baby smile. This could be why we want to please our little ones so we can see them smile again and again. Read more about it here.

Pets and Politics

A new poll finds pet owners prefer McCain over Obama, while non-pet owners prefer Obama. Coincidentally, McCain has a menagarie of pets including birds, fish, dogs and a ferret, while Obama has none. Obama has promised to get his daughters a dog after the campaign is over. Read more about it here.

Feeling buggy?

With the rainy season comes the mosquitos. And this year, also big in South Florida, the gnats. And apparently gnats love to swarm our heads. Experts say they want what's in our eyes, ears and nose... mucous membranes! They also recommend insect repellent. Read more about it here.

Wine fuels car

Wine is good for the heart, but it also is good for your car. Prince Charles has a car that is running on biofuel made from surplus wine. So I guess if you get thirsty, you could always pull over and get a drink from your tank. Not really.
Read more about it here.

Fight less over time

If you and your partner or spouse are always fighting over the same thing, just give it time. An online survey found couples argue less and get better at resolving differences with time. You just gotta get past the 3-7 years. And once you hit 21 years, it's smooth sailing. What's a decade or two of arguing? Read more about it here.

Parents get "kid-sickness"

You've heard of kids getting home-sick when they go off to camp in the summer. Well, experts say parents get something too... "kid-sickness." They miss their kids as much as kids miss home. The American Camp Association says focus on the positive and separation is natural and necessary to help your kids succeed later in life. You can read more about it here.

We're happier!

Despite high gas prices, high foreclosure rates and high divorce rates, we're happier than we were say 20 or 30 years ago. According to the "Happiness Index" people in 40 different countries say they're happier today than yesterday. The cheeriest place to live: Denmark. The gloomiest: Zimbabwe. The U-S ranked 16th in happiness. You can read all about it here.

Questions about sunscreen

So you slather on sunscreen and you still get burned? It happens. But why? Researchers say sunscreen has to block out different types of rays and not all sunscreens block out all rays. Also, a study finds some sunscreens contain chemicals that aren't safe. A study many sunscreen makers dispute. You can read more about it here.

Puppy mill dogs arrive

A happy ending for 700 puppy mill dogs rescued from Tennessee. More than 100 of them have arrived in South Florida to be adopted out. These dogs lived their entire lives in cages, without ever being picked up or ever being able to walk on the ground. You can read more about The Humane Society of the United States' efforts to stop these mills here.

You a caffeinated mom?

If you start your day with a double latte, then have a soda with lunch, and an energy drink at midday, you're probably a "caffeinated mom." There's a growing number of working multi-tasking moms downing caffeine to keep up. More than 65 percent of moms are caffeinated. The downside: caffeine can trigger migraines, heartburn, gastrointestinal ills as well as the jitters. Read more about it here.

Big bullying problem

We've all faced a bully or two growing up, but a new study finds bullying is now happening to kids at a younger age and it's becoming more prevalent. 75 percent of those ages 8-11 say they've been targets. And cyber bullying is happening as young as 10 and 11. Scary for parents! Read more about it here.

Skeeter season

It's Mosquito Control Awareness Week, a time for us to remember that mosquitos want our blood. And the best way to deter them from biting is to remember the 5 D's: drainage, deet, dress, dawn and dusk. That's empty all outside containers of standing water, wear deet, dress appropriately and avoid dawn and dusk hours when the skeeters like to feed. Read more about it here.

Eat your breakfast

You wanna lose weight and keep it off. Eat a big breakfast. Really big, like over 600calories and 22 fat grams big. Researchers found those who lost weight and kept it off had a big breakfast and then a low carb and low calorie diet the rest of the day.
Read more about it here. Pancakes, bagels, hashed browns, so many foods I can think of that I can't wait to enjoy for breakfast!

Snooping I-T's

Do you trust your company's information technology staff?? Afterall, they help you keep your computer running, but they also have to know your password. And a new survey finds one in three I-T personnel admit to snooping and reading what they shouldn't. And nearly half say they've accessed information that wasn't related to their jobs. Read more about it here.

Little Furry at work?

Today (Friday, June 20th) is Take Your Dog to Work Day! A time to show that dogs can do more than play fetch, they can roll over and play dead. Just kidding! I'd take my Golden Retriever to work, but she'd lick everybody and then jump on them when they have hot coffee in their hands! Hope you have better luck with your canine. Today is really to show that dogs need love and attention and can share as much joy as they give. Read more about it here.

Go Fishing Saturday

Take the family to the free Family Fun Fishing Day at Hollywod's North Beach Park Saturday. The fun starts at 8 am, and goes til noon. Meet at the Hawksbill Picnic Area. You'll get free bait, along with goodie bags and fishing gear will be avialable for loan. Also there will be instructions, if you or your kids have never fished before. Go fish!
Questions? 954-926-2480

Pocahontas Auditions

If you have a little Pocahontas in your family, take her to the auditions for "Pocahontas" the musical at the Sol Children Theatre Troupe in Boca Raton Saturday from 9 am til 12 noon. They're re at 3333 N. Federal Highway. You need to call first at 561-447-8829. Actors need to be at least 10 years old. Bring a brief bio too and be ready to SING!

Fancy menus = fancy money

If you head to a new restaurant and their menu has fancy typeface, more than likely you're gonna pay fancy prices. Study found people perceive fancy hard-to-read menus to mean complex food that needs greater skills to prepare and therefore more money. On the flipside, if it's easy to read, it's easy to prepare and easy to afford.
Read about it here.

Bikinis turn men into ...

The headline reads "Bikinis turn men into boobs," and I couldn't resist reading the story and then sharing it. Apparently scientists have proof of something us gals have known all along; guys lose all brain power when staring at a woman's anatomy.
Study found sexy images rob the male brain of the ability to make wise decisions. That's why you see bikini clad women in front of very expensive cars. You can read all about the scientific study here.

Web use at work

Let's face it, we all do it at work. Personal e-mail and web surfing. While some may call it "cyberslacking," a new study finds it really does help balance job and life responsibilities. And if employers block access to web sites at work, it could backfire and reduce job satisfaction and productivity.
Read more about it here and print it out for your boss!

Boys versus girls

Who is harder to raise... boys or girls? When I see parents of boys I always give them sympathy. I have two girls and just a little drama in the house, but boys. Study finds they may not listen as well as girls, they are more action oriented, and they are more harder to raise early on, however girls tend to be less confident and more difficult to raise as preteens. So I may be getting sympathy in a couple of years when my girls are in the pre-teen years. Read more about it here.

Coffee drinkers rejoice!

Go ahead and drink another cup of joe! Study finds your coffee habit could actually extend your life. Drinking two to three cups a day may cut your chances of dying from heart disease. Studies also found no link between coffee and cancer.
Read more about it here.

Annoying co-workers

Co-workers drive you crazy? Study finds 20 percent of workers say their co-workers have at least one habit that drives them crazy. Among the most annoying: Speaking on speaker phone all the time, passing off colleagues work as their own, talking too much, and eating smelly food. Perhaps the most ironic complaint is people complaining. Read more about it here.

Avoid the Palmetto

If there's one thing we know in South Florida, traffic is generally bad. A new study ranks the Miami/Ft Lauderdale area in 11th place for the worst traffic congestion in the country. Los Angeles is in first place. Now the worst place in South Florida to drive? The Palmetto southbound around NW 25th Street. It's congested 39 hours a week, with the average speed about 15 mph. Click here for more.

Go for a walk

We've all heard walking is good for you, but you may not know how good. Various studies find brisk daily walks can do many things: Cuts breast cancer risks. Helps you sleep. Keeps you slimmer. Protects your bones. Even cuts down on aches and pains. Read more about it here.

Dad's pregnant!

Dad is a weedy sea dragon at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. Experts say it's only the third time that's happened in U-S Aquariums. But in the wild, male sea dragons carry the eggs for mom. If only we could get dad to be more like a sea dragon, minus the soggy weedy part. Read more about it here.

Ocean Clean-up

You can help out in the 19th Annual Reef Sweep and Beach Clean-Up Saturday June 14from 9 am til Noon. Hosted by Ocean Watch Foundation at various beaches, from Pompano Beach at the Pier, Birch State Park, and North Beach Park on Sheridan Street in Hollywood. Beach walkers, divers and boaters welcome.

Details here.

Parenting Workshop

Want to get your child to not only listen to you, but also respect you and do their chores? Head to the Parenting Workshop, Saturday, June 14th, at the Educational Systems Today on Powerline Rd. in Ft. Lauderdale. Shelly Lefkoe, co-author of "Chicken Soup's Effective Parenting," is hosting a one day, interactive parent empowerment workshop to help parents learn how to re-direct children's behavior in a positive way.

Read more about it and register here.

Foreclosure Workshop

If you're facing foreclosure on your home, head to the City of Hialeah's Foreclosure Prevention Workshop. It's a free seminar Saturday, June 14th, at Milander Auditorium, 4800 Palm Avenue, Hialeah, from 10 am til 12 noon.

Please call ahead to register at 305-375-4831 or 305-889-5701.

Oprah still number one

It may be the year of the tween, with Miley Cyrus becoming a household name, and High School Musical the movie, the soundtrack, the merchandising, still Oprah is number one, according to Forbes list of most powerful Celebrities, based on earnings and fame. Altho Miley did make it on the list at 35, and Zac Efron and Ashley Tisdale made it too, they're just not number one.
Read more about it here.

Sleeping at work?

We are a sleep deprived society. Survey finds about one third of workers fall asleep while on the job. Tired workers cost employers 100 billion dollars in lost productivity, health care costs and absenteeism.

Want to sleep better? Experts recommend have a before bedtime routine, a cool bedroom and avoid caffeine after lunch.

Read more about it here.

Another reason to exercise

Exercise can help us lose weight, help us de-stress, is good for the heart and bones. Now comes word exercise may help prevent drug and alcohol addiction. New study finds those who exercised daily were twice as likely to give up smoking. And when teens exercised, they were 40 percent less likely to experiment with marijuana.
You can read more about it here.

Excuses for being tardy

If you're always coming in to work late, you're not alone. Survey finds, 15 percent of workers admit to arriving late at least once a week. Experts say habitual tardiness can be damaging to your work relationship though, and if you're considering excuses, don't use these: (They already have been used)

1) While rowing across the river to work, I got lost in the fog
2) Someone stole all my daffodils
3) I had to go audition for American Idol.

You can read more here. Bottom line, try honesty and try to be on time more often.

Stressing over debts?

More and more of us are stressed over debt. And the more stressed, the more likelihood we're going to have health problems. Poll finds those with the highest levels of debt stress are suffering from such stress related illnesses as ulcers, severe depression and even heart attacks. Great! Now we're not only stressed about our debts, but also over our health. Read more about it here.

Make-up makes the man

Want your man to look more macho and sexy? Do what birds do. Scientists found birds who had make-up on were sexier and more macho and became chick magnets. The scientists darkened the rust colored breast feathers of the New Jersey barn swallows and the female birds flocked to them. Their conclusion, it is indeed clothes or make-up that makes the man. Read more about it here.

School's out...gone fishing!

Now that school is out, what to do with the kids? Take them fishing. You don't have to go far. The Town of Davie is hosting its annual "Take A Kid Fishing Rodeo," Saturday at Wolf Lake Park, 5400 SW 76th Avenue. Registration is at 7:30 am. You get lunch, bait, cap, and goodie bag. Prizes will be awarded for longest fish, most unusual catch and more. Don't forget your fishing pole. (954-797-1163)

Job or boat shopping?

Looking for a job, head to the Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center's Job Fair Friday and Saturday (June 6 and 7) at their family super store at 888 N. University Drive in Pembroke Pines. Dozens of jobs are available including assistant managers, cashiers and more.

Looking for a boat or car, head to the Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center Car and Boat Auction Saturday (June 7)at its West Broward facility. The average price for a car is $900 with many going for as low as $200. If you have a car or boat to donate, please call 954-463-3725.

To your health

If you usually raise your wine glass and toast to your health, you may not realize you are actually drinking for your health. Studies find red wine can help your heart, protect it from the effects of the aging process. So you could actually toast to not only your health, but also to a younger body part! Details here.

Disinfectant wipes concerns

If you use disinfectant wipes to clean away all that nasty bacteria, you might want to think twice. Study finds the wipes may actually spread drug resistant bacteria rather than kill them. Advice: if you use a wipe, use it only one time on one thing only so you don't spread anything. Details here.

Fat cells diminish? Fat chance!

You want to get rid of fat cells as you age? Fat chance, say the experts. New study finds you're stuck with the number of fat cells you have acquired by about age 20. So no matter how much weight you lose, your body remembers how many fat cells and helps you quickly recover them.. which explains why it seems so easy to gain back lost weight. Read more about it here.

Bunk beds & boo-boos

Bunk beds may be a great space saver, but they can also be a little dangerous. Nearly 36-thousand kids a year are treated for cuts, bruises and fractures in connection with bunk bed accidents, according to the latest study. Kids younger than three were more likely to injure their head and neck. Surprising finding those between 18 and 21 more than twice as likely to get hurt than those bewteen the ages 14 and 17. And 60 percent of those injured, boys.. because boys will be boys.
Read more about it here.

More kids, less teeth

Research has found the more kids you have, the more teeth you lose. And it has nothing to do with your age, or how much money you make. So why does it happen? Researchers say women are prone to gingivitis when they're pregnant, which leads to serious gum disease and eventual tooth loss. And women with multiple kids have a tendency to forego their own dental needs for their kids. Read more about it here.

Weekend Fun

If your kids like big toy trucks, head to the Big Toy Truck Extravaganza Saturday from 10am to 2pm at George English Park in Ft. Lauderdale. (954-838-5363)

If you're into art and gardens, don't miss the last day to see Botero, Chihuly and Litchtenstein at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Their sculptures and artwork are on display through Saturday only.

The Athalie Range Park Aquatic Center is hosting a Swim-A-Thon Saturday to raise money for swimming scholarships in our community. Swimmers from Team FLA, in conjunction with the FLA Foundation wil swim up to 200 laps. (954-713-6388)

Less overweight kids

Good news. We may be winning the battle of the bulge with our kids. New numbers indicate the percentage of American children who are overweight or obese appears to have leveled off after a 25 year increase. Now, if we can just get mom to stop cleaning up what the kids leave behind on their plates. (that would be me) Read more about it here.

Answered prayers

Two New Zealand pilots have a great story to tell their kids someday. They ran out of fuel over a dangerous ridge, said their prayers, and then managed to land safely in a field, next to the sign that read "Jesus is Lord." Read more about it here.

Job burnout?

If you're dreading going to work every single day, you could be suffering from job burnout. Before it gets worse, experts say you can try to find your way out of the "burnout," and rediscover why you took the job in the first place. Some steps include spicing up your routine, such us taking on new tasks or finding new ways to do old tasks. Also rediscover your motivation. Read more about it here.

Germ surprises

We've all heard how germ riddled our bathrooms are as well as the kitchen, but a new list of surprising places where germs lurk is out. And what surprised me was my vacuum cleaner. Never thought of it, or the flight attendant or restuarant menu. Other surprises, your bed, and lemon wedge in your drink. Details here.

One little piggy finds love

A heartwarming story out of Palm Beach, where a dog has taken in an orphaned boar piglet. The dog who is nursing her own puppies is allowing the baby piglet to nurse as well. You can see the whole family here. Makes you go ahhhhh.

1 in 6 drivers flunk

New study finds about 33 million American motorists would not be able to get a license if they had to take a written test. The survey taken of drivers from all 50 states found one in six drivers don't know the rules of the road. The biggest sticking points are what to do when approaching a yellow light, and the safe distance to maintain behind another car. As we all head out on the roads this long holiday weekend, please drive carefully and defensely, because the other driver may not know what they're doing! Good luck. Read more about it here.

Snack and a Snooze

Apparently what people want the most at work, free snacks and a place to sleep during lunch. A recent poll of office workers found the biggest gripe at work is the climate, either too hot or too cold. The top requests: covered parking, subsidized cafeteria food, free popcorn and coffee as well as a nap area. The unusual request: better office artwork. Those dogs playing poker really disturb me too!

Poor sleep affects brain

Just one night of poor sleep can prompt your brain to just shut down. Research found those who were sleep deprived suffered with momentary lapses in several areas of the brain, including blanking out. Another reason to make sure you're getting a good night's sleep, you might vote for the wrong David! Research details here.

Guilty drivers

We all do it, even though we know we probably shouldn't: Talk on our cell phones while we drive. Now a new survey finds nearly half of those polled say they have nearly hit or have been hit by someone talking on a cell phone. So why do we continue to do it? Poll finds we are a multi-tasking society with little time and hectic lifestyles. You can read more about it here.

Obesity affects global warming

The size of your waistline can affect global warming. Researchers in London say obesity contributes to global warming because obese people eat more, therefore, more food has to be grown and transported and it takes more fuel to transport heavy people as well. You can read more about it here. So now losing weight is not a single goal, but a global one. Too much pressure for me, I need a twinkie.

Weekend Fun

Take the family to the City of Tamarac's Fun and Fitness Fair Saturday, May 17th, from 9:30 am to 1 pm. There will be free health screenings, raffles, a bounce house, fitness demonstrations, health information and more. The Fair is at the Community Center on Commercial Boulevard. (954-597-3642)

On Sunday, May 18th, you can have fun and help a good cause at the Spencer Crawford Children's Foundation's Walkathon and Family Fun Day. It's being held at North Community Park in Coral Springs There'll be a butterfly release, followed by the walk, and then fun activities for the kids and adults. (877-731-3452)

If your kids love "Little Red Riding Hood," take them to see the play at the Sol Children Theatre Troupe's presentation this weekend in Boca Raton. Shows are at 2 pm and 7 pm, both Saturday and Sunday.

Your kids also can enjoy a live performance of Walt Disney's "Mulan," this weekend at the Coral Gables Youth Center Theater in Coral Gables. Shows are at 3 pm and 8 pm both Saturday and Sunday.

Kids Diabetes Camp

Today (May 16) is the last day for you to register your kids at Camp KoralKids. This camp is for Type 1 diabetic children, ages 5 and half to 11. It's medically supervised by Coral Springs Medical Center and it's held at Parkside Elementary School in Coral Springs. It runs from June 9th through the 20th. (954-344-3344)

Cost of ice cream

Have you noticed that ice cream carton lately? It could be shrinking. Some companies are cutting down on the size of the carton rather than upping the cost of ice cream. Both Breyers and Edy's acknowledge they've downsized their containers, but kept the same prices, blaming the measure on the higher cost for ingredients. You can read more about it here.

Bird feed advice

You know the signs that read "Don't Feed the Birds"? Now we may get new signs that read "Don't Feed the Birds Bread!" That's because animal experts say bread is nothing more than empty calories that fill birds up, when they really need a mix of seed, worms, grated cheese, soft apples, bananas and strawberries. They even like cooked rice and pastry. Maybe someone should open up an open-air bird cafe? You can read more about what to feed birds here.

Kids with specs look smart

If your kids dread wearing glasses, just tell them they'll look smarter. And you'll be telling them the truth. New study of children finds they really do think kids who wear glasses look smarter and even more honest. And that glasses don't influence their decision in choosing whom to play with. Read more about it here.

Happy Bicycling Month

With gas prices up, sales of bikes are up too, both motorcycle and bicycle. It's National Bicycle Month, a time to ride for fun, exercise and work. Read more about it here. Can't get very far on my bike; it's stationary.