Playground Safety

By Diane Forrest

Yesterday we told you it was Kindergarten day, so today is a great time to also let you know that is it National Playground Safety week.

Probably one of the most repeated playground activities that have been depicted in a movie scene involves the licking of an ice-cold metal pole. And of course, getting stuck on it.  Hopefully by now the weather has warmed up enough to prevent freezing your tongue, but it has also warmed up enough to encourage young children to go out and play.

Playing on the playground during school at recess is not only a fun activity, but it is also beneficial for exercise and fresh air and sunshine.  My daddy always tells me my favorite class was recess!!

We recently told you about the home improvement areas you should do at the start of spring, but it is also important to check your local playgrounds to make sure they are safe too.  During the winter month, there is damage done to wood pieces getting rotten, and metal objects getting rusty.

During winter months most playgrounds are empty, however this does not prevent garbage and debris being deposited in the area that can also cause injury.

Take some time this week and check the areas your child or grandchildren will playing, make sure they are clean and safe, report any brooked toys to the authorities, and make sure the children are supervised while on the playground to prevent accidents during play time.

Did you know…that from Monday, April 22 – Friday, April 26, the national parks waive all entrance fees? So, whether it is your first trip, or the latest of many memorable park experiences, there couldn’t be a better time to get out and explore!

(All images from Google) 

Flirting

(Google Image)

By Diane Forrest

Well Valentine's Day has come and gone, and if you found yourself alone, and wishing you had a special someone to share the day with, you may want to start that search now, to be ready for next year.  This is your lucky week!  It’s the National week of Flirting!

(Google Image)

When I think of flirting, the first thing I think of is the song Three Little Maids from School, A Rogers and Hammerstein song from the musical Mikado.  Here is a link to the song on you tube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXWkIZUPmDY

 

(Google Image)

Another is a scene from The Princess Diaries 2 Where the young princess Mia is learning the art of the fan from her grandmother, Queen Clarice, played by Julie Andrews.  You can see this scene here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXWkIZUPmDY

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While I may think of the use of the fan first, realistically, it’s not something I would use.  I mean, how many people do you ever run across that carry lace fans?  So, I looked around and checked out some other views for flirting.

The radio station 96.1 FM lists these as some clues:

She’s starts flipping her hair, playing with her clothes or jewelry.

If she laughs she thinks you’re cute or funny, (guffaws mean she wants to split.)

If she moves her body a lot, she’s trying to get your attention.

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Marriedromance.com also has some suggestions stating that just because you are married, doesn’t mean you can stop flirting with your spouse.  However it would be dangerous if you flirted with others!  Here are some tips they suggest:

Spend some time really looking at your spouse. Glance at him for a few seconds and then look away. Bat your eyelashes, lick your lips and look deeply into his eyes. Flash him a brilliant "just for you" smile and if you're feeling a little daring, lean in for that kiss after looking longingly at the shape of his mouth, the fullness of his lips, get the picture? Wink, wink. By the way, a saucy wink works well too.

Touch him, often and casually. A simple hand placed on an arm, or rub on the back in passing.

Send your spouse flowers, candy, or balloons, just because. Leave a note tucked in his luggage if he is traveling, or at home on his pillow or pockets.  My husband use to place little notes on the mirror in the bathroom, so I would always see them first thing.  I’m so glad I saved them all.

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There are many different ways to do some spontaneous flirting....use your imagination and bat those eyes!