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Remembering Paula
Life goes on until it doesn't. When we least expect it, things change and it's never the same again. This is dedicated to my friend, Paula, the most generous person I ever knew.
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Sausage Stuffed Portobello Mushroom Bake
Hungry for meat but wanting to avoid red meat and watching those calories and carbs? This recipe will satisfy the cravings and delight the tastebuds.
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Annals of the F.O. Ranch, Chapter 1
A quiet lakefront parcel in the scenic woods is home to a group of friends that camp out often for water skiing, hiking, outdoor grilling and late-night sing-alongs around an open fire. Friendships and relationships evolve as couples drift in and out of the circle.
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Tales from Beauty School 2
What caused the dramatic change in Kathy's appearance and demeanor? Chapter 2 takes Becky to her first day on a new job, a new look and one step closer to a startling confession from her best friend.
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Pizza Dough Made Easy in the Bread Machine
When you're craving it but can't get take-out or dine-in food from your favorite restaurant or pizza place this recipe will get you through hard times.
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A Hot Summer's Day
Part vagrant, part adventurer, Rusty returns to the campsite where he first met a couple of stray dogs. Hoping to find them safe, he's ready to recover his hidden stash of money and begin a new life in the country. What he couldn't know is that he'd find more than he ever expected on this trek.
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Tales from Beauty School
She never dreamed she'd end up in that job. What she discovered once she started would open her eyes to an entirely new world.
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Making Plant Containers Using Household Items
When the mood strikes to start a spring garden where do you turn? Why not use recyclables and discarded containers to start your own plants? Here's how.
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Pumpkin Pie From Real Pumpkins
Pumpkin pie from a can tastes great, but if you're feeling creative and want to use up those porch decorations, try out this recipe for fresh cooked pumpkin and learn how to turn it into a pie.
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A Land Remembered by Patrick Smith, Book Review
Award winning author, Smith, published in 33 countries, describes what Florida was like in pioneer days. He weaves a captivating story of dirt poor farmers who started out with nothing yet carved an existence from the land through determination, hard work and sacrifice fraught with peril and danger.
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Thoughts on Survival - 20 Years After Workplace Violence
Some professions are more prone toward trauma than others. Working at a hospital, this administrator knew the rigors of daily activities, emergencies, even death. Yet nothing could have prepared her for that unforgettable day in June 1999.
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The Want Book Mystery 2
Missing pages from The Want Book inspire a terminal decision for two hardware store employees. Rumor, hearsay and innuendo are the only witnesses to the deed. Could someone else be the culprit?
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The Want Book Mystery
This couple made the mistake of a lifetime but learned a valuable lesson. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. A fictional story complete on this page.
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Traveling the Seas With Speedy the Stowaway
Our first cruise was so much fun we signed up for a second journey right away. Here are photos and highlights of a trip to the Mexican Riviera with a secret stowaway named Speedy.
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Aftermath Chapter 3 - Sequel to the Pub, a Murder Mystery
The main character from The Pub, its bookkeeper, Joe, returns with plans to pick up stakes, leave town, and start over in a new place.
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Aftermath Chapter 2 - Sequel to the Pub, a Murder Mystery
The seductive widow has some explaining to do at the Police Station. McGuiness makes a hot discovery and Constable Muldowney gets an important clue from the son.
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Aftermath Chapter 1 - Sequel to the Pub, a Murder Mystery
Jason has taken a job in Jamaica where he lives with his new wife, Melissa. An old-time foe's plot for revenge leads investigators to a suspicious death with several persons of interest for the homicide.
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Cruise Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Traveling can be a challenge wherever you go, but when you board a cruise ship, knowing these few things can make the trip easier.
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How to Make Change Without Using a Calculator
Cashiers everywhere groan when a customer wants to use cash rather than swipe a credit card. Making change really doesn't have to be all that difficult if you know these tips.
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Flight Attendant Interview With Lynnie G
Stories from 35,000 feet from frequent flyers who work in the sky. This interview takes the reader through an eighteen year career cut short by a debilitating injury.
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Interviews With Flight Attendants - Pam's Story
The first in a series of interviews with current and former flight attendants, these are memories of life at 35,000 feet.
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"Living and Dying With Purpose and Grace" by James Armstrong, Book Review
James Armstrong, Professor of Ethics at Rollins College, former Methodist Bishop, and former President of the National Council of Churches writes insightful words certain to inspire.
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"Braniff Airlines - Splash of Colors" by John J. Nance, Book Review
This non-fiction story of the self-destruction of Braniff International Airlines looks into corporate managerial and policy decisions that doomed the vibrant, pace-setting major air carrier after fifty years of flying.
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"An Ax to Grind" by Frank F. Atanacio, Book Review
Fantasy fiction can be fun even when it involves murder. Nick P.T. Barnum, a crime solving private detective, works his magic to solve this case involving drugs, murder, revenge and copy-cat killers.
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Building a Race Car: A Chat With Racer X
For nearly three decades, Racer X competed in sportsman-class racing events at drag racing strips in Texas. This is the story behind amateur racer 454X's first race car buildout.
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Cicada Facts, Folklore, and Photos
There are over 3,000 species of cicadas from annuals to periodicals which emerge every 13 or 17 years. These flying insects are harmless but arrive in droves with a loud, resonating song.
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The Mountain Pass, Flash Fiction
One quick turn of the wheel and the car would careen off the side of the mountain. But if she stayed the course, she would have regrets the rest of her life.
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"On Writing" by Stephen King, Book Review
Stephen King, best known for his horror, science fiction, and fantasy best-sellers, shares a collection of personal stories and tips for successful writing practices.
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"The Chicago Manual of Style," for Writers, Editors, and Publishers
Where do writers turn for information on publishing and written format advice? Successful writers like Stephen King suggest reading these books.
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"I Will Find You," by Lt. Joe Kenda, Book Review
Joe Kenda spent over twenty years as a detective investigating homicide cases in Colorado Springs. In his book he shares insight into the crimes he solved along with his own personal story.
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"The Carriage Driver 3" by Mike Friedman, Book Review
The Carriage Driver is a collection of stories in which the afterlife allows the dearly departed the option to fulfill their desires and wishes and begin eternity in a destination of their choice.
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90 Minutes in Heaven by Cecil Murphey and Don Piper
This is a true account as told by Don Piper who suffered a devastating car wreck with massive injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. During those 90 minutes without a pulse, he says he traveled to heaven.
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Adventures of Cookie the Stray, Chapter 2
Cookie shares her puppy story as the four dogs get acquainted around the long-cold campfire.
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Adventures of Cookie the Stray, Chapter 1
Four stray dogs on a journey face hunger and predators until they meet a drifter whose compassion changes their lives. Estranged lovers reunite, a cold mystery is solved and there's a happy ending. First chapter of the novel, "Looking for Home."
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Gift Ideas for Seniors and Nursing Home Residents
Finding that perfect gift for a senior or a friend confined to a nursing home can be challenging. Here are some ideas of things they will use and appreciate.
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5 Blunders That Kill Retail Sales
People continue to shop in retail stores despite the ease of internet purchasing. Here are a few things salespeople do that help run customers out of your store.
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"Broken Ground of the Soul" by Linda Compton, Book Review
The Strangest Secret is revealed in the pages of this easy to read and highly beneficial small book of hope. Linda Compton explains how she made the journey from bitterness to joy and how we can too.
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Follow the Money: The Cost of Illegal Immigration
What is the cost to taxpayers for housing refugees from other countries in terms of medical, educational, public services and other related expenses?
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An Analysis of the Risks of the War in Afghanistan
This review of the cost of US intervention in Afghanistan explains much of our nation's debt (now standing at $18.8 trillion). In the new presidency, many of the past policies will play a part going forward.
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Jack Reacher Novels: What Makes Them so Appealing?
Some books have incredible appeal and others don't. After reading a dozen novels by Lee Child with Jack Reacher as the main character, I've discovered some clues to explain the phenomenon.
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Follow the Money: Government Spending
Beyond political scandals and shocking headlines, the ways in which your tax dollars are being spent are disturbing.
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Historic Houses - Bain Honaker House in Texas
Exploring historic places takes me back to our family traveling the U.S. by car moving to a new town or just visiting relatives. We stopped at highway markers, museums and anywhere else that was free.
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Chance Encounter - Old Flames, Flash Fiction
From time to time, each of us wonders what might have been had romantic interest in someone panned out rather than fizzled out. When they return from the past, anything can happen.
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"The Host" by Stephenie Meyer, Book Review
What if an alien invasion is the reason for the political and social unrest we're seeing? Author Stephenie Meyer provides a scenario of possibilities, however remote, that may reveal the current media trend of disinformation.
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How to Make a Walker Caddy - Photos and Instructions for Sewing
Making this practical gift for someone who depends on a walker takes a bit of sewing skill, patience and time, but the end result will bring a smile to the user.
- 39
Training, Skills, and Duties of a Cashier
The basic duties of a cashier are to greet customers, ring up merchandise, bag the items, take the customer's payment, and thank them for their business. What training or skills are needed?
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How to Count Back Change
How did cashiers know how much change to give back before computers? They counted it back by hand. This tutorial makes it easy to give back the right amount of change.
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Battling Cushing's Disease in Dogs
Cookie suffers the symptoms of this debilitating disease that affects canines, felines, horses and humans. Described are symptoms and treatment options for dogs.
- 90
Broccoli Ham Quiche
Stretch the food budget with this simple egg based recipe using leftovers and standard pantry items. Great meal any time of the day.
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Hearty Baked Lasagna Casserole
Casseroles are an ideal way to stretch food budget dollars. A package of lasagna noodles, along with ricotta, mozzarella cheese, and marinara sauce turns into a filling dish for a hearty family meal. Here's how.
- 123
10 Gift Ideas for Nursing Home Residents
Choosing a gift for a nursing home resident can seem difficult, but these ideas are certain to enchant your beloved senior.
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"One Nation" by Ben Carson
This educational and uplifting book follows Doctor Ben Carson's rise from poverty to his fame as a world-renowned neurosurgeon. Raised by a single mother, the success of Carson's achievement stemmed from one specific practice his mother taught him.
- 113
The Pros and Cons of Emu Farming
Going into the business of raising emu wasn't quite what we'd hoped for in our quest for financial independence. We learned some important lessons about emu farming, though, which we share here.
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"If Only" by James Armstrong, Book Review
What are the ideal values to seek out when choosing political candidates? Here is one author's viewpoint examining one candidate from the past.
- 128
Italian Cream Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
Enjoy the rich flavor of pecans and coconut in this moist cake topped with real homemade cream cheese icing. This step by step recipe with photos shows you how to make this yourself.
- 67
How to Make Breadsticks From Canned Biscuits
Winter days call for hot steamy bowls of homemade soup or chili. Top those hearty, warming dishes with breadsticks made from refrigerator biscuits—from the oven to the table in minutes. Here's how.
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Egg Pastry Pie Crust Recipe and Instructions
Making a pie crust from scratch is fun, economical and easy. Follow these simple instructions for great results.
- 67
Banana Pudding and Banana Cream Pie from Scratch
Homemade banana pudding and banana cream pies are desserts my family loves to eat. The easy recipe for the pudding tastes way better than any box mix. For the pie, you can use a refrigerated pie crust or make your own.
- 95
Moist Homemade Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This cake is extra rich with crushed pineapple, shredded carrots, shredded coconut and fresh pecans. It's one of our family's favorite desserts.
- 88
Secrets for Making Hard Boiled Eggs
The versatile egg can be boiled, poached, fried, scrambled, made into a quiche or a cake, and more. Here you'll find some time-tested secrets for making eggs come out great.
- 85
Avocado Tomato Salad
This easy recipe uses one ripe avocado, a tomato, a boiled egg and a bit of pickle relish. Top this with some chopped pecans, a spoonful of lemon juice and salad dressing and it's ready to eat.
- 86
My Day as the Chauffeur
Someone was actually paying me to drive them around Downtown Dallas in a brand new Cadillac. What could possibly go wrong?
- 32
"Change, Reflections on Personal Growth" by James Armstrong, Book Review
Former President of the National Council of Churches and well sought after speaker, Dr. James Armstrong explains ways in which changing our lives can change our outcomes and our futures.
- 88
The Pub Chapter 1
When the manager of a nightclub disappears overnight rumors of missing cash send its bookkeeper to the center of suspicion. When a new manager arrives, everything changes.
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How to Make Fresh Steamed Broccoli: Quick and Healthy
Cooking fresh broccoli takes only minutes using a metal steamer, and the taste, texture, and nutritional value is well worth the time invested.
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The Popcorn Tree
What if that tree you bought at the flea market turned out to be an invasive species? Here's how to find out. A true story with an original poem.
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Treasures Found in Thrift Stores
Finding valuable vintage items is getting more difficult. Whether it's grandma's jewelry, glassware, dishes or furniture, knowing the value of items can make a difference when deciding what to keep, what to buy and what to donate.
- 170
5 Things You Can Do to Get Ahead at Work
What does it take to be successful in today's competitive work environment? These few ideas helped triple my income.
- 24
How to Interview for an Office Job
Looking to move out of retail or the hospitality field into an office job? What do hiring managers look for in a prospective candidate? Do you have what it takes? Find out!
- 69
Finding Myself in the Country Chasing the Dream
Living out in the country was only a dream without hard work and sacrifice to get what we wanted. This is how we turned our dreams into reality.
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Kris Kristofferson, Songwriter, Singer, Actor
Rhodes Scholarship Winner, athlete, U.S. Army Captain, college graduate, recording artist and song writer, Kris Kristofferson remains a veritable talent and sought-after performer.
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How to Bake Butternut Squash
When harvest brings in the butternut squash, it's time fire up the oven and bake this delicious vegetable in pies or serve it as a simple, nutritious side dish.
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Butternut Squash Pie Recipe With Photos
Getting kids to eat vegetables is easy when it's made into dessert. My young son always asked for seconds of this delicious pie.
- 98
Coming of Age in the Sixties
The sixties offered a far different experience than kids know these days. Share a bit of nostalgia with me as we travel back in time.
- 38
Canning Food in Mason Jars - Tips and Warnings
The key to success in canning food at home is knowing which foods are safe to preserve and which are not. Choosing the wrong method and using improper techniques can be deadly.
- 105
How to Find Military Service Records for Veterans
Getting information for official military records is simple using online tools. By providing a little info about your veteran you can discover fascinating details contained in their service records.
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"Feet of Clay on Solid Ground" by James Armstrong, Book Review
Former Bishop James Armstrong shares his memoirs about family, his tenure in the ministry, and the circumstances that led him to resign as President of the National Council of Churches.
- 62
Favorite Banana Bread Recipe
This delicious bread is a great way to use up overly ripe bananas. It's a family favorite that makes a great gift anytime.
- 65
Flight Attendant Trainees and Unexpected Mishaps
Before graduation, Flight Attendant students were required to work an actual flight with real passengers. Sometimes we hit a bump in the air.
- 45
Workers' Comp Versus the Little Guy
Worker's compensation is designed to provide medical coverage when an employee is injured on the job. But what happens years later when the injury worsens and the worker has a different employer?
- 67
Flight Attendant Memories
A former flight attendant shares the inside scoop about practical jokes and on-the-job training for the airlines.
- 36
You Have Been Summoned for Jury Service
When a summons to serve on a jury arrives in the mail, it generates different reactions.
- 41
Chicken and Rice - Easy, Economical, Delicious
Pan-seared chicken, served with a side vegetable and rice, is one of our family favorites. This economical meal of comfort food is hearty, quick and delicious. Make this recipe in 30 minutes or less.
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New Puppy Blues - Intussusception in Dogs
When our new puppy came down with a condition that could have been fatal, recognizing these are signs and symptoms saved his life.
- 82
Old Time Remedy for Upset Stomach
Whenever a member of our family had a stomach ache, we used this common product found in our medicine cabinet. When supplies ran low, we'd go to the corner store to fetch a refill.
- 48
Elvis Presley, the Man Behind the Image
He was a collector of things: cars, jets, musical instruments, fame. His home at Graceland reveals his personal taste in furnishings and his love for the unusual and unique. But what about the man?
- 44
Navy Life - World War II Veteran's Story
Enlisting in the United States Navy during World War II was a patriotic, yet dangerous option for teenagers in the nineteen-forties who felt the need to serve our country.
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My Former Life as a Flight Attendant
Often, one small event is enough to change the direction of our lives. One phone call, made while on vacation in Texas, was instrumental in changing my career path and fulfilling a lifetime dream.
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Dog Rescue Stories and a Poem
Dogs teach us about love, companionship, dedication and loyalty. Here are a few stories about the dogs I've known and loved.
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Your Perception is Your Reality
Changing the way that we think can change our lives for the better. How to begin? Start during the daily commute to work.
- 24
Drag Racing for the Novice Fan
For motor sports enthusiasts who love the thrill of speed, competition and precision, drag racing has it all. Share the experience here and learn the basics of how it works.