Friday, January 25, 2013

Did I read that sign right


Did I read that sign right?
"TOILET OUT OF ORDER. PLEASE USE FLOOR BELOW"

In a Laundromat:
AUTOMATIC WASHING MACHINES: PLEASE REMOVE ALL YOUR CLOTHES WHEN THE LIGHT GOES OUT

In a London department store:
BARGAIN BASEMENT UPSTAIRS

In an office:
WOULD THE PERSON WHO TOOK THE STEP LADDER YESTERDAY PLEASE BRING IT BACK OR FURTHER STEPS WILL BE TAKEN

In an office:
AFTER TEA BREAK STAFF SHOULD EMPTY THE TEAPOT AND STAND UPSIDE DOWN ON THE DRAINING BOARD

Outside a secondhand shop:
WE EXCHANGE ANYTHING - BICYCLES, WASHING MACHINES, ETC. WHY NOT BRING YOUR WIFE ALONG AND GET A WONDERFUL BARGAIN?

Notice in health food shop window:
CLOSED DUE TO ILLNESS

Spotted in a safari park:
ELEPHANTS, PLEASE STAY IN YOUR CAR

Seen during a conference:
FOR ANYONE WHO HAS CHILDREN AND DOESN'T KNOW IT, THERE IS A DAY CARE ON THE 1ST FLOOR

Notice in a farmer's field:
THE FARMER ALLOWS WALKERS TO CROSS THE FIELD FOR FREE, BUT THE BULL CHARGES.

Message on a leaflet:
IF YOU CANNOT READ, THIS LEAFLET WILL TELL YOU HOW TO GET LESSONS

On a repair shop door:
WE CAN REPAIR ANYTHING. (PLEASE KNOCK HARD ON THE DOOR - THE BELL DOESN'T WORK)

Man Kills Self Before Shooting Wife and Daughter
This one I caught in the SGV Tribune the other day and called the Editorial Room and asked who wrote this. It took two or three readings before the editor realized that what he was reading was impossible!!! They put in a correction the next day.

Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says
Really? Ya think?

Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers
Now that's taking things a bit far!

Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over
What a guy!

Miners Refuse to Work after Death
No-good-for-nothing' lazy so-and-so's!

Juvenile Court to Try Shooting Defendant
See if that works any better than a fair trial!

War Dims Hope for Peace
I can see where it might have that effect!

If Strike Isn't Settled Quickly, It May Last Awhile
Ya think?!

Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures
Who would have thought!

Enfield ( London ) Couple Slain; Police Suspect Homicide
They may be on to something!

Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges
You mean there's something stronger than duct tape?

Man Struck By Lightning:Faces Battery Charge
He probably IS the battery charge!

New Study of Obesity Looks for Larger Test Group
Weren't they fat enough?!

Astronaut Takes Blame for Gas in Spacecraft
That's what he gets for eating those beans!

Kids Make Nutritious Snacks
Do they taste like chicken?

Local High School Dropouts Cut in Half
Chainsaw Massacre all over again!

Hospitals are Sued by 7 Foot Doctors
Boy, are they tall!

And the winner is....
Typhoon Rips Through Cemetery; Hundreds Dead
Did I read that right?
Now that you've smiled at least once, it's your turn to spread the stupidity and send this to someone you want to bring a smile to (maybe even a chuckle). We all need a good laugh, at least once a day !  

Saturday, January 12, 2013

Homemade Laundry Soap Recipes

10 Homemade Laundry Soap Detergent Recipes

My recipe HE Maytag Washer
1/2 cup baking soda
1/2 cup 20 mule team borax
Throw direct into washer with clothes
I have allergies and wash everything twice.
Once with soap and once without.
If you have a stinky wash load toss 1 cup of baking soida into the wash to remove oders.
Also run a hot wash with just baking soda to remove HE washer smells every two weeks.



Recipe #1
1 quart Water (boiling)
2 cups Bar soap (grated)
2 cups Borax
2 cups Washing Soda
Add finely grated bar soap to the boiling water and stir until soap is melted. You can keep on low heat until soap is melted.
Pour the soap water into a large, clean pail and add the Borax and Washing Soda. Stir well until all is dissolved.
Add 2 gallons of water, stir until well mixed.
Cover pail and use 1/4 cup for each load of laundry. Stir the soap each time you use it (will gel).

Recipe #2
Hot water
1 cup Washing Soda
1/2 cup Borax
1 Soap bar
Grate the bar soap and add to a large saucepan with hot water. Stir over medium-low heat until soap dissolves and is melted.
Fill a 10 gallon pail half full of hot water. Add the melted soap, Borax and Washing soda, stir well until all powder is dissolved. Top the pail up with more hot water.
Use 1 cup per load, stirring soap before each use (will gel).

Recipe #3
Hot water
1/2 cup Washing Soda
1/2 cup Borax
1/3 bar Soap (grated)
In a large pot, heat 3 pints of water. Add the grated bar soap and stir until melted. Then add the washing soda and borax. Stir until powder is dissolved, then remove from heat.
In a 2 gallon clean pail, pour 1 quart of hot water and add the heated soap mixture. Top pail with cold water and stir well.
Use 1/2 cup per load, stirring soap before each use (will gel).

Powdered Laundry Detergent – Recipe #4
2 cups Fels Naptha Soap (finely grated – you could also try the other bar soaps listed at the top)
1 cup Washing Soda
1 cup Borax
Mix well and store in an airtight plastic container.
Use 2 tablespoons per full load.

Recipe #5
Hot water
1 bar (4.5 oz) Ivory Soap – grated
1 cup Washing Soda
In a large saucepan add grated soap and enough hot water to cover. Heat over medium-low heat and stir until soap is melted.
Fill a large pail with 2.5 gallons of hot water, add hot soap mixture. Stir until well mixed.
Then add the washing soda, again stirring until well mixed.
Set aside to cool.
Use 1/2 cup per full load, stirring well before each use (will gel)

Recipe #6
2.5 gallons Water (hot)
1 Bar soap (grated)
3/4 cup Washing Soda
3/4 cup Borax
2 TBS Glycerin
Melt bar soap over medium-low heat topped with water, stir until soap is melted.
In a large pail, pour 2.5 gallons of hot water, add melted soap mixture, washing soda, borax and glycerin. Mix well.
Use 1/2 cup per full load.

Recipe #7
2 cups Bar soap (grated)
2 cups Washing Soda
2 – 2.5 gallons hot water
Melt grated soap in saucepan with water to cover. Heat over medium-low heat and stir until soap is dissolved.
Pour hot water in large pail, add hot soap and washing soda. Stir very well.
Use 1 cup per full load.

Recipe #8
2 gallons Water (hot)
1 bar Soap (grated)
2 cups Baking soda (yes baking soda this time–not washing soda)
Melt grated soap in a saucepan with enough hot water to cover.
Cook on medium-low heat, stirring frequently until soap is melted.
In a large pail, pour 2 gallons hot water. Add melted soap, stir well.
Then add the baking soda, stir well again.
Use 1/2 cup per full load, 1 cup per very soiled load.

Powdered Laundry Detergent – Recipe #9
12 cups Borax
8 cups Baking Soda
8 cups Washing Soda
8 cups Bar soap (grated)
Mix all ingredients well and store in a sealed tub.
Use 1/8 cup of powder per full load.

Recipe #10 – (Powdered)
1 cup Vinegar (white)
1 cup Baking Soda
1 cup Washing Soda
1/4 cup liquid castile soap
Mix well and store in sealed container.
I find it easiest to pour the liquid soap into the bowl first,
stirred in the washing soda, then baking soda, then added the vinegar in small batches
at a time (the recipe foams up at first). The mixture is a thick paste at first that will break
down into a heavy powdered detergent, just keep stirring. There may be some hard lumps,
try to break them down when stirring (it really helps to make sure the baking soda isn’t clumpy when first adding).
I used 1/2 cup per full load with great results.
Liquid Detergents Note
Soap will be lumpy, goopy and gel-like. This is normal. Just give it a good stir before using
. Make sure soap is covered with a lid when not in use. You could also pour the homemade soap
in old (and cleaned) laundry detergent bottles and shake well before each use.

Read more:http://tincatchat.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=freestuff&action=display&thread=8427#ixzz2HmK6bI7F

Thursday, January 10, 2013

Christmas Card recycle


Christmas Card Recycle Garland

A few weeks ago I mentioned in a post that I was going to do some projects with the Christmas Cards I’ve saved through the years. I first started with making a garland and its coming along nicely.
I used a simple circle punch and went through the cards, strategically punching circles from the cards to get phrases, art elements, graphics and even the signatures and handwriting from my friends and loved ones to make it extra special. From the many photos I had I punched out faces so I could keep those little treasures in time. I used a 1.5″ punch here but you could probably even use different sizes and string a pattern of sizes on the jute. I folded each circle in half and then glued them together back to back. I used 5 circles in each ornament, and strung it to the jute by closing up the final two sides around the jute – just tucking the string down to the center of where the circles meet and then sealing closed.
Christmas Card Recycle Garland | Freshly Hatched Studio
I’ve got plenty of cards so I will have more than enough stock to choose from and will have a garland of memories to string on the tree this year.
http://www.freshlyhatchedstudio.com/diy-projects/christmas-card-recycle-garland/

Planting ?Paper


You’ve might have seen seed paper recently.  It is homemade paper with flower seeds in it.  When it is planted in the ground and given lots of TLC it will bloom into beautiful flowers you can enjoy.  Here is a tutorial for a project using seed paper.
First, you need to make the paper.
Use paper you have around your house.  This is a great way to recycle old scraps.  Tear them up into small pieces and place in a blender.  Add enough water in the blender so the paper is covered and blend.

When your paper is nice and evenly blended  you can add your seeds.  Unplug your blender and use a wooden spoon to gently stir the seeds into the paper mush. Do not blend them!

Now it is ready to be shaped.  Place a colander in the sink and pour the paper mush into it. If you have large holes in your colander like I do, go ahead and place a towel in it to catch the pulp, but not the water.
Place a towel on the counter and if you have a piece of felt, place the felt on top of the towel.  Then gently pour your seeds and paper pulp on the felt and spread evenly out.
Take another towel and press it down on the paper pulp to help dry the excess water.  You can now blow dry the paper or let it sit out overnight to dry.
When your paper is dry, cut it out into a flower shape. Make a simple card with cardstock and glue the flower to your card.  Feel free to get creative here and draw, stamp, or cut out a stem.  If you don’t like flowers, make a cute butterfly or tree.  The options are endless and no matter what shape you choose–it will be a hit with the recipient of the card.
Make sure you add a message somewhere on your card to let the recipient know they can plant it!

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Stuffed Giraffe Shows What Customer Service Is All About


Stuffed Giraffe Shows What Customer Service Is All About
2012-05-17-Joshiepic1
Most people have experienced outstanding customer service in one form or another -- an attentive
server at a restaurant or a retail store employee who goes the extra mile. A thriving industry comprised
of consultants dedicated to training companies how to adopt exemplary customer service has blossomed
over the past couple decades. For example, The Walt Disney Company Institute will help bring some
of that "Disney magic" to your business.
At my company, we've always pushed our employees to go the extra mile for clients because the
ripple effects of terrific customer service extend beyond mere satisfaction and retention. Exemplary
customer service distinguishes your brand, builds repeat business, combats price competition, and
even improves employee morale.
Hotel chain Ritz-Carlton has a storied reputation for great customer service. Many companies mimic
its training programs, and one often hears executives saying they want to be known as the "Ritz-Carlton"
of their respective industry, be it a law firm, car dealership or plumbing supplier.
Recently, my family and I experienced the Ritz-Carlton signature customer service in a way that
will be talked about in our family and at my company for many years to come. My wife and two
children spent a few days at the Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island (Florida) while I was in California
on business -- sadly unable to make the trip with them. Upon returning, we discovered that our
son's beloved stuffed giraffe, named Joshie, had gone missing. As most parents know, children
can become very attached to special blankets, teddy bears and the like. My son is extremely fond
of his Joshie, and was absolutely distraught when faced with the idea of going to sleep without his
favorite pal. While trying to put him to bed the first night home, I decided to tell a little white lie.
"Joshie is fine," I said. "He's just taking an extra long vacation at the resort." My son seemed to buy it,
and was finally able to fall asleep, Joshie-less for the first time in a long while.
That very night, the Ritz-Carlton called to tell us they had Joshie. Thankfully, he had been found, no
worse for wear, in the laundry and was handed over to the hotel's Loss Prevention Team. I came clean
to the staff about the story I told my son and asked if they would mind taking a picture of Joshie on a
lounge chair by the pool to substantiate my fabricated story. The Loss Prevention Team said they'd do it,
and I hung up the phone very relieved.
A couple days went by, and we received a package from the hotel. It was my son's Joshie, along with some
Ritz-Carlton-branded "goodies" (a frisbee, football, etc.). Also included in the package was a binder
that meticulously documented his extended stay at the Ritz.
It showed Joshie wearing shades by the pool (my original request/suggestion)...
2012-05-17-Joshiepic2
Joshie getting a massage at the spa...
2012-05-17-Joshiepic5
Joshie making friends with other critters...
2012-05-17-Joshiepic4
(Stuffed and real)...
2012-05-17-Joshiepic3
And Joshie driving a golf cart on the beach (who knew giraffes could drive?).
2012-05-17-Joshiepic7
My son's Joshie was even issued a Ritz-Carlton ID badge, made an honorary member of
the Loss Prevention Team, and was allowed to help by taking a shift in front of the security monitors.
2012-05-17-Joshiepic6
Needless to say, my wife and I were completely wowed by the Ritz-Carlton Loss Prevention Team.
My son, on the other hand, didn't care so much about the binder and was just happy to have his Joshie back.
I'm sure he'll have a greater appreciation for it as he grows up.
It goes without saying that the Ritz-Carlton can count on my family to be repeat customers. But I'm also
telling you (and everyone else who happens to read this story). This is something I've always told my staff --
create an experience so amazing that someone can't help but tell others about it, and you're sure to succeed.
I'd also venture to say that Aaron (of the Ritz-Carlton Loss Prevention Team) and his cohorts had a pretty
good time documenting Joshie's vacation, and employee morale is a huge part of creating a great customer experience.
All this from a stuffed giraffe who got lost on vacation.

Friday, January 4, 2013

Maine Coon Cats


The Gentle Loyal Cat Breed


The History of Maine Coons

Lots of myths surround the origin of the Maine Coon, from the belief that he’s the result of a cross between a cat and a raccoon — biologically impossible — to the fanciful notion that he descends from French cats sent to Maine by Marie Antoinette in anticipation of her intended escape from France. More likely, the cats descend from meet-ups between shorthaired domestic cats already in this country and dashing longhaired foreign cats brought home as souvenirs by New England sailors. Some even say the Vikings might have brought longhaired cats with them when they touched the shores of America a thousand years ago, and indeed there is a resemblance between the Maine Coon and the Norwegian Forest Cat. Wherever they came from, the cats were viewed as household and farm workers, highly valued for their mousing talent.
The first mention of a cat called a Maine Coon occurred in 1861, in reference to a black and white specimen named Captain Jenks of the Horse Marines. It wasn’t unusual to see Maine Coons at the then-new and popular events called cat shows held in Boston and New York. In 1895, a brown tabby Maine Coon named Cosie won Best Cat at the Madison Square Garden Show.
Today, Maine Coons are among the most popular pedigreed cats. They rank third among the breeds registered by the Cat Fanciers Association.

What They Are Like to Live With

They tend to be a hardy breed, but are at risk for hip dysplasia, polycystic kidney disease and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Things You Should Know

Bestowed many nicknames, including “Gentle Giant,” “Feline Greeters of the World” and “Shags.”

This longhaired breed requires minimal grooming because they keep their coats in top condition.

Look like small bobcats.

They are slow growers, reaching full maturity by age 4 or 5.



Maine Coon Temperament and Personality

The Maine Coon is sweet and friendly, with the typically curious cat nature. He is a sociable cat who loves his family but isn’t demanding of attention. He’ll follow you around and show an interest in what you’re doing, and if you’d like to give him some lap time, he’s happy to oblige.
This is one of those cats who gets along with everyone, including dogs and other cats. He enjoys playing fetch and is willing to learn to walk on a leash, making him a great choice for anyone who travels frequently and would like to bring a feline companion along. When you’re not home with him, keep your Maine Coon entertained with puzzle toys, a bird feeder he can watch from the window and a water bowl he can splash in.
Maine Coons communicate with a variety of sounds. In addition to the all-purpose meows and purrs, you will hear them cheep, chirp and trill, incongruous sounds coming from a gentle giant. They use body language, too. A Maine Coon will give you a nice head butt to let you know just how special you are to him.
Maine Coons can adapt to any type of home in any climate. They are built for cold outdoor living, but it’s safer to keep them inside so they don’t get hit by cars or run the risk of disease spread by other cats.


The Basics of Maine Coon Grooming

The Maine Coon has a heavy, shaggy coat that’s silky to the touch. It rarely mats and weekly combing is all that’s needed to care for it. Combing removes the dead hairs that would otherwise be ingested by your cat when he bathes himself, resulting in hairballs. Trim the nails as needed, usually every 10 days to two weeks. Cats can be prone to periodontal disease, so brush the teeth at home with a vet-approved pet toothpaste and schedule regular veterinary dental cleanings.