Sandra Bullock Wins Humanitarian Award

Last Wednesday, the People’s Choice Awards was held at the Nokia Theater.  These awards are pretty cool because the celebrity honors are chosen by the people rather than industry professionals like the other award shows. The Hunger Games won five awards, singer Katy Perry won three, and Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston won for best comedic actors. One special award went to Sandra Bullock, not for acting, but for her humanitarian efforts. Bullock was recognized for her many philanthropic efforts.  She has been a great supporter of the American Red Cross, having given the organization millions over the years after … Continue reading

“Dreams Come True” in New Orleans

In my introductory blog from last week, I talked about how when I was young Disney films felt like a magical place of escape. Clearly I’m not the only one who thought so; now Disney offers us a chance to wander through the magic itself. “Dreams Come True – Art of the Classic Fairy Tales from the Walt Disney Studio” is appearing at the New Orleans Museum of Art from November 15, 2009 through March 15, 2010. The exhibition details the true artistry involved in the making of classic Disney films, highlighting the skill that made Walt Disney famous and … Continue reading

Spring Break Menu—New Orleans

The Big Easy is a big draw for many spring breakers. Not only is it home to waterfront attractions and legendary landmarks, but it also boasts some of the most incredible cuisine in the country. If you can’t make it to New Orleans this spring, then consider cooking up some of the region’s most iconic dishes in your own kitchen. CLASSIC SHRIMP PO’ BOY Ingredients: 10-inch crusty French bread 10 lightly breaded, fried shrimp Cajun tartar sauce Marinated salad mix Cajun Tarter Sauce Ingredients: Mayonnaise Relish Cajun seasoning (available in your grocer’s spice aisle) Directions: Combine ingredients to taste. Marinated … Continue reading

Places to Have a Holly Jolly Good Time with Your Family

Tis the season to be with family and friends. Whether you decide to bond on the slopes or huddle together in front of the fireplace for a fierce game of Pictionary, the holidays are a great time to spend with loved ones. However, if you don’t know how to ski or you shudder at the thought of having to stay cooped up indoors all day, you might consider the following festive family-friendly options: CONNECTICUT At Christmas Town in Bethlehem, Connecticut, kids can visit Santa on the Village Green and sing along with carolers strolling along Main Street. Don’t forget to … Continue reading

Author Interview – Abel Keogh

Last September, I had the opportunity to review a nonfiction novel entitled “Room for Two.” I was impressed by the story and today I’m pleased to bring you an interview with the author of the book, Abel Keogh. Abel, your book, “Room for Two,” talks about a tragedy that took place earlier in your life, the suicide of your seven month pregnant wife. How did you arrive at the idea to write a book about this? Most of the motivation to write “Room for Two” was because of the lack of well-written, compelling books about losing a spouse. The books … Continue reading

Sizzling Summer Airfare Bargains

It took the demise of one of my favorite airlines and the introduction of an insane new carrier fee for me to finally stop procrastinating and sign up for a service that tracks down the most affordable airfare rates available. It what might be the smartest move I’ve made in a long time–I finally became a member of the Airfarewatchdog.com team. I can’t say enough about the incredible deals offered by this travel site that employs analysts to monitor every airline and search for the lowest fares on the market. What I love about this site is that once you … Continue reading

Author Interview — Gabriella Goddard

Today we are joined by Gabriella Goddard, author of a new self-help book entitled “Gulp!” Gabriella, thank you for joining us today. Can you tell us a little about this new release? It has a great title, by the way. “Gulp!” is aimed at people who are facing a challenge in their life and are confused about what to do next. Using the latest life coaching techniques, “Gulp!” provides people with a 7 day crash course showing them how to master their fear, step outside their comfort zone and take that leap of faith. This is exactly the same journey … Continue reading

Education Vacation: The National World War II Museum

It’s the one place I wished my grandfather could have visited before he died. My grandpa was a member of the U.S. Army’s highly decorated 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry. It is the only remaining Infantry unit in the Army Reserve force structure. Many books have chronicled the heroic actions of the members of the 100th Battalion and 442nd Infantry. Many note that none have shed their blood more valiantly for America than the Japanese Americans who served in these units while fighting enemy forces in Europe during World War II. My grandfather was a proud member of this elite group … Continue reading

Celebrating Mother’s Day in the Big Easy and the Big Apple

Mother’s day is May 11th… do you know what you are getting for the special lady in your life? If a new vacuum just won’t do this year consider sending mom to relax and rejuvenate with some of her best gal pals. Tour operators along with several lodgings across the country are offering incredible Mother’s Day travel deals that will surely get you in mom’s good graces. The following bargains are tailored to moms who enjoy big city life. Whether you take advantage of the Mother’s Day packages being offered in the Big Easy or in the Big Apple you … Continue reading

Mary, Martha, and Me: Seeking the One Thing that is Needful – Camille Fronk Olson

The book “Mary, Martha, and Me” by Camille Fronk Olson offers new insight into the biblical account of the two sisters from Bethany, one who sat at the feet of Jesus and let her sister do all the work in preparing the meal. As we remember from the story, Martha had been working hard to make her home ready for her special guest, and Mary chose instead to sit at Christ’s feet and listen to his words. Christ spoke to Martha, not angrily but gently, as He commended her for her diligence, but then told her that Mary had chosen … Continue reading