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The first two rounds of the 2008 NCAA College Basketball Tournament underscored just how far parity has come in the men’s competition as at least 1 major upset occurred every 6 games (8 major upsets and 3 minor upsets in 48 games). The major upsets included:

#10 Seed Davidson Knocks Off #2 Seed Georgetown 74-70

Georgetown breezed past UMBC 66-47 before running into this year’s new media darling, Davidson, which upended #7 Gonzaga in Round 1, 82-76, behind 8-of-10 3-pointers by Wildcat guard Stephen Curry who finished with 30 points in the second half and 40 total.

Curry returned where he left off against Georgetown, throwing down 30 points (25 in the second half) and adding 5 assists, 3 steals, 3 rebounds and NO turnovers. Curry is the son of Dell Curry, a former Virginia Tech All-American and NBA star, proving that your gene pool does count.

With two major upsets in its first two NCAA playoff games, Davidson has caught the attention of everyone. The Wildcats now run smack into #3 Wisconsin and its tenacious Badger defense. Wisconsin just might give Curry another 30-35 points and win anyway.

#13 Siena Upends #4 Vanderbilt 83-62

Siena had its moment in the sun as Kenny Hasbrouck popped in 30 and Tay Fisher added another 19 with 6-of-6 3-pointers to stun Vanderbilt and become the first Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference team to reach Round 2 of the NCAA tourney since Manhattan in 2004. Then #12 Villanova promptly sent Siena back home in Round 2, 84-72.

#7 West Virginia Turns Back #2 Duke 73-67

Duke barely made it into Round 2 with a last-second shot that allowed them to sneak past #15 Belmont 71-70 before meeting West Virginia. The Mountaineers made Duke look like the Blue Devils did not belong in the tournament. The glory days of Coach K and his Blue Devils are slowing down as more athletes are leaving earlier for the NBA; for years Coach K was able to convince his great players to hang around the campus longer.

#13 San Diego Uses Overtime to Tame #4 Connecticut 70-69

#12 Western Kentucky Uses Overtime to Tame #5 Drake 101-99

Talk about rooting for the underdogs. De’jon Jackson’s pull-up jumper with 1.2 seconds left in overtime gave the San Diego Toreros their first win in 4 tournament appearances. How many of you actually knew the nickname for San Diego before its victory over Connecticut?

Ty Rogers drained a 3-pointer with 3 defenders in his face and no time on the clock to give the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers a stunning win over the Drake Bulldogs. The poor Bulldogs were down by 16 points but came back to lead 99-98 with 5.2 seconds left, then Tyrone Brazelton (who had a career high 33 points) raced up the court, kicked the ball to Rogers, who was not about to settle for a tie with 3 defenders in his face and no time on the clock.

Victories like these are why the NCAA March Madness tournament is the best organized, best run, most competitive and most exciting playoff in sports today. To put the icing on the cake, #12 Western Kentucky eliminated #13 San Diego 72-63 in Round 2.

#12 Villanova Outlasted #5 Clemson 75-69

Villanova, which has more wins as a lower-seeded team in the tourney than any other program since 1979, trailed by 15 in the first half but came back to win behind 21 points by Scottie Reynolds and 17 by Corey Fisher. The Villanova Wildcats then eliminated Siena 84-72 to move into the Sweet 16. Pretty slick work by the Wildcats.

#11 Kansas State Upsets #6 Southern Cal 80-67

In the battle of the freshman marquee players-Michael Beasley of Kansas State and O. J. Mayo of Southern Cal-Kansas State won as Beasley scored 18 of his game-high 23 points in the second half and Mayo ended up with 20. Kansas State then got its lunch handed to it by Wisconsin in the second round, 72-55, as the Badger defense took K-State to school.

The 3 minor upsets between almost equal teams saw #9 Texas A&M beat #8 Brigham Young 67-62, #9 Arkansas beat #8 Indiana 86-72 and #5 Michigan State beat #4 Pittsburgh 65-54. No big tickle on my knee.

Two close games saw #2 Tennessee get by #7 Butler 76-71 in OT, and #3 Stanford sweat it out against #6 Marquette 82-81 in OT.

There were really only 5 blowouts among the first 48 games-#4 Washington State over #13 Winthrop 71-40 (+31), #1 UCLA over #9 Kent State 71-58 (+41), #3 Louisville over #6 Oklahoma 78-48 (+30), and #1 North Carolina over #16 Mount St. Mary’s 113-74 (+39) and over #9 Arkansas 108-77 (+31). A team flat needs to win by 30 for me to consider it a blowout.

The South Regional was the only regional without an upset in Round 1, and the East Regional was the only regional without an upset in Round 2.

North Carolina is scary. The Tar Heels are ranked No. 1 in the country, have a 34-2 season record, claim 4 NCAA tournament titles, have been in 16 Final 4s and made 39 NCAA tourney appearances. Oh yeah, Tyler Hansbrough is one competitive, bad dude.

The Tar Heels have not, of course, played against #4 Washington State’s defense. It should be interesting.

Here are the 2008 NCAA Tournament Round 3 Sweet 16 Match-Ups:

West Regional:

#1 UCLA versus #12 Western Kentucky – Thursday (March 27)

#3 Xavier versus #7 West Virginia – Thursday (March 27)

East Regional:

#1 North Carolina versus #4 Washington State – Thursday (March 27)

#2 Tennessee versus #3 Louisville – Thursday (March 27)

Midwest Regional:

#1 Kansas versus #12 Villanova – Friday (March 28)

#3 Wisconsin versus #10 Davidson – Friday (March 28)

South Regional:

#1 Memphis versus #5 Michigan State – Friday (March 28)

#2 Texas versus #3 Stanford – Friday (March 28)

So who will make it to the Elite 8?

Consider these cold, hard facts of life:

1) When you know that no team less than a #4 seed has won the championship for 19 straight years, you might want to eliminate #12 Western Kentucky, #7 West Virginia, #12 Villanova, #10 Davidson and #5 Michigan State (my alma mater).

That leaves #1 UCLA, #1 North Carolina, #1 Kansas, #1 Memphis, #2 Tennessee, #2 Texas, #3 Xavier, #3 Louisville, #3 Wisconsin, #3 Stanford and #4 Washington State.

2) Only three of the #1 seeds are likely to advance to the Final 4 since only 70% of #1 seeds advance into the Elite 8.

So you figure out who will be eliminated on Thursday or Friday: UCLA, North Carolina, Kansas or Memphis. Last year both Kansas and North Carolina were #1 seeds that were eliminated in the Sweet 16 Round; they return as #1 seeds this year, hoping to do better.

3) Amazingly, only one or two of the #1 seeds have made it to the Final 4 in 18 of the last 23 years.

You figure it out. Good luck, you will need it.

2008 NCAA Tournament Results for Round 1:

Midwest Regional:

#1 Kansas eliminated #16 Portland State 85-61

#2 Georgetown eliminated #15 UMBC 66-47

#3 Wisconsin eliminated #14 Cal State Fullerton 71-56

#4 Vanderbilt was upset by #13 Siena 83-62

#5 Clemson was upset by #12 Villanova 75-69

#6 Southern Cal was upset by #11 Kansas State 80-67

#7 Gonzaga was upset by #10 Davidson 82-76

#8 UNLV eliminated #9 Kent State 71-58

West Regional:

#1 UCLA eliminated #16 Mississippi Valley State 70-29

#2 Duke eliminated #15 Belmont 71-70

#3 Xavier eliminated #14 Georgia 73-61

#4 Connecticut was upset by #13 San Diego 70-69 in OT

#5 Drake was upset by #12 Western Kentucky 101-99 in OT

#6 Purdue eliminated #11 Baylor 90-79

#7 West Virginia eliminated #10 Arizona 75-65

#8 Brigham Young was upset by #9 Texas A&M 67-62

East Regional:

#1 North Carolina eliminated #16 Mount St. Mary’s 113-74

#2 Tennessee eliminated #15 American University 72-57

#3 Louisville eliminated #14 Boise State 79-61

#4 Washington State eliminated #13 Winthrop 71-40

#5 Notre Dame eliminated #12 George Mason 68-50

#6 Oklahoma eliminated #11 St. Joseph’s 72-64

#7 Butler eliminated #10 South Alabama 81-61

#8 Indiana was upset by #9 Arkansas 86-72

South Regional:

#1 Memphis eliminated #16 Texas-Arlington 87-63

#2 Texas eliminated #15 Austin Peay 74-54

#3 Stanford eliminated #14 Cornell 77-53

#4 Pittsburgh eliminated #13 Oral Roberts 82-63

#5 Michigan State eliminated #12 Temple 72-61

#6 Marquette eliminated #11 Kentucky 74-66

#7 Miami (FL) eliminated #10 St. Mary’s 78-64

#8 Mississippi State eliminated #9 Oregon 76-69

2008 NCAA Tournament Results for Round 2:

Midwest Regional:

#1 Kansas eliminated #8 UNLV 75-56

#2 Georgetown was upset by #10 Davidson 74-70

#3 Wisconsin eliminated #11 Kansas State 72-55

#12 Villanova eliminated #13 Siena 84-72

West Regional:

#1 UCLA eliminated #9 Texas A&M 70-29

#2 Duke was upset by #7 West Virginia 73-67

#3 Xavier eliminated #6 Purdue 85-78

#12 Western Kentucky eliminated #13 San Diego 72-63

East Regional:

#1 North Carolina eliminated #9 Arkansas 108-77

#2 Tennessee eliminated #7 Butler 76-71 in OT

#3 Louisville eliminated #6 Oklahoma 78-48

#4 Washington State eliminated #5 Notre Dame 61-41

South Regional:

#1 Memphis eliminated #8 Mississippi State 77-74

#2 Texas eliminated #7 Miami (FL) 75-72

#3 Stanford eliminated #6 Marquette 82-81 in OT

#4 Pittsburgh was upset by #5 Michigan State 65-54

Copyright © 2008 Ed Bagley

I have a March Madness pool that i want to take public to the world next year. I am scared of the idea being taken. I do not know how to protect myself from it being duplicated somewhere else. Should i copyright it? TM it? How do i fully protect it from being taken?

Tuesday 14th February 2006 is St Valentine’s Day. This is traditionally the day when lovers exchange notes confirming their
love for one another. Modern Valentine symbols are often either heart shaped or cupids.

Valentine’s Day started life as a Catholic feast day in honour of Saint Valentine. However, it’s not known exactly who Saint Valentine was. According to the Catholic Encyclopaedia of 1908 there are at least three possible candidates for the position.

The first was a Christian priest in Rome how was martyred in the second half of the 3rd century. The second was a bishop of Interamna – the modern day Terni – who, like the priest was martyred and is buried near to but not in exactly the same place as the first. The third was a North African martyr about whom nothing else is known.

The romantic associations with Valentine began in the Middle Ages at which time the concept of romantic love became widely accepted. This connection is not mentioned in any early histories and is regarded by secular historians as purely a matter of legend.

The feast of St. Valentine was first declared to be on February 14 by Pope Gelasius I in 496. There is a widespread legend that he created the day to counter the practice held on Lupercalia of young men and women pairing off as lovers by drawing their names out of an urn, but this practice is not attested in any sources from that era.

Valentine’s Day probably reached North America in the 19th century with the arrival of settlers from Britain. Gradually Valentine’s Day has changed, like most other festivals and celebrations, from a pagan to a religious to a secular event.

The custom of giving a valentine gradually evolved into a multi-million dollar industry starting with the mass production of embossed paper lace valentines. By the second half of the 20th century people began giving gifts as well as cards to their loved ones. These gifts included red roses and chocolates and by about 1980 jewellers began promoting diamonds as an appropriate gift for the occasion.

Here in Devon there are many places to enjoy with your loved one. It’s the perfect place to visit for a romantic weekend – why not visit one of the excellent hotels or bed and breakfast properties or enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.

St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most popular green holidays you can come across. This holiday came all the way from Ireland to celebrate, obviously, St. Patrick, the enemy of snakes everywhere. St Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland and is accredited with the conversion of Ireland over to Christianity during the second half of the 5th century. This is an unofficial holiday that is quite popular in the U.S. The first celebration in the U.S was held in Boston on 1737 by the Charitable Irish Society, later it came to New York in 1766 when a Irish soldiers marched through the city.

However, it came to be this is still a popular festival and luckily very easy to theme. The main thing to know is that everything must be green. Chicago even went so far as to dye its river green in celebration. Gold is a secondary color, but is to be used very sparingly. Three and Four leaf clovers are the symbol of choice for St. Patrick’s day so of course anything with clovers on it will also add to the theme. Most people seem to think that alcohol is an integral part of the celebration so expect any adults to be asking for some, mainly beer.

There are many things you can purchase to enhance your celebration, but the main things you should include in any party are paper products, cups, plates, napkins, utensils, table clothes, all of these can be purchased in a disposable format to make cleaning much easier and usually they can have an Irish theme to them. Other things you can purchase include green top hats, themed stickers, Green glow sticks, bracelets, necklaces, mugs, and of course beer mug shaped sunglass for novelties sake. The real problem is knowing what not to get, though that is up to you to decide.

Fundamentally, Valentine’s Day is a mass outward expression of love. Love is universal; it is what makes us human. So the essential spirit of Valentine’s Day is within every man and woman, regardless of nation. But, how is Valentine’s Day celebrated in other countries — if at all? In this article, we lift the lid on how Valentine’s Day is celebrated in the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Brazil and Portugal.

Valentine’s Day in the UK

Can Valentine’s Day be celebrated without romantic verses and sonnets by love-struck couples in the Bard’s own land? While the mandatory cards, flowers and chocolates dominate the day, youngsters in the UK also take recourse to love poetry (published in magazines and tabloids on the Big Day) to express their heart’s desire.

This is, and always has been, a deep-rooted tradition in the UK, tracing its origins to the fact that it was the British poets who wrote the bulk of romantic verses for Valentine’s Day.

Interestingly, birds have also long shared an intimate association with Valentine’s Day. Tradition has it that birds choose their mates on 14 February each year. So, there could not be a better day to honour love and commitment — a fact that was first pointed out by Geoffrey Chaucer in the 14th century!

In the UK, the coming of Valentine’s Day also marks the end of winter and the onset of spring — new life, new beginnings. In some parts of England, Valentine’s Day is also referred to as ‘Birds’ Wedding Day’. Traditionally, special buns topped with caraway seeds, raisins and plums are baked to celebrate.

Recent surveys showed that Cupid-struck Britons spend around £503m on cards, flowers, chocolates and other gifts for Valentine’s Day annually! Not too bad for a nation famous for its emotional reserve?!

Valentine’s Day in France

It was a Frenchman who made history of sorts by writing the world’s first ever Valentine’s Day card! Charles, Duke of Orleans was a young Frenchman who had been captured at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415 and was imprisoned in the Tower of London. While languishing in prison, he wrote a poem or ‘Valentine’ to his wife, little knowing that he was setting into motion a trend that would far outlive him.

Valentine’s Day in France was characterized by a rather unusual custom known as ‘drawing for’. In this activity, unmarried couples would enter the house facing across the street. Then would follow a ‘calling out’ session and, those who liked the person whose name was being called out, would go off with that man/woman. However, if the young man took a dislike to the chosen valentine, he would simply refuse to go! After the ritual was over, the rejected girls would light a bonfire and burn images of the young man (men), bellowing abuse as they did so!

Later, a decree of the French government banned this custom on the grounds of it reflecting poorly on the basic emotion of love and friendship that was the hallmark of Valentine’s Day.
In France, elegant greeting cards, containing tender love messages, called ‘cartes d’amities’ were also exchanged between lovers.

Valentine’s Day in Australia

It was during the Gold Rush in Australia that Valentine’s Day fervour reached its peak! Nothing was too extravagant or expensive to woo the chosen one.

The Gold Rush saw hundreds of men grow rich overnight. Flush with all that newfound money from the Ballarat mines, the smitten men spared no expenses in presenting the most extravagant ‘valentines’ to their sweethearts.

The men actively competed with one another in giving the most expensive valentine to their chosen lady. After all, their gift sealed their romantic fate. ‘Valentines’ were often made of a perfumed satin cushion, and exquisitely embellished with flowers and colourful shells and even a taxidermied humming bird! This ‘valentine’ was then packed in a beautifully decorated and expensive box to be sent to the fair maiden. Whether their labour bore fruit or not is, of course, an altogether different matter!

Recent surveys have now revealed a little-known fact about Valentine’s Day in Australia — that the men are not only more romantic than the women when it comes to open declarations of affection, they also beat the women in the purchase of Valentine’s Day cards!

Valentine’s Day in Brazil

In the land of carnivals and joie de vivre, Valentine’s Day takes on a slightly different hue. Young Brazilians observe ‘Dia dos Namorados’ or Boyfriend’s/ Girlfriend’s Day on 12 June instead of Valentine’s Day on 14 February. But the inherent spirit of love and romance dominates the occasion.

The date — 12 June — was chosen for a particular reason. This date is observed by devout Brazilians as the day of St. Anthony of Padua, the saint who is believed to bestow fortune and blessings on marriages.

Even though it may not be carnival time, Brazil resembles a carnival alright with stores stocked with flowers, cards, chocolates and assorted popular Valentine’s Day gift items. Giving gifts is a major activity and thoughtful gifts are exchanged between girlfriends and boyfriends, husbands and wives. There is a lot of love, laughter and general merriment all around. Elaborate meals are cooked at homes, there are parties and family get-togethers in the evening, while the younger ones spend the day with their beloved.

No Brazilian celebration can be complete without dance and music and this day is no exception. Work is suspended and almost everyone gets into the mood. There are cultural shows, concerts and musical extravaganzas — all a huge hit with Brazilians.

‘Dia dos Namorados’ is not for the youngsters alone but is looked upon by men and women of all ages as the occasion to shower their loved one with some special care..

Valentine’s Day in Portugal

Portugal has a unique custom that is all its own — giving gift baskets on Valentine’s Day. The contents of the basket can range from chocolates to spa products to even aged liquor! Each basket carries a meaning and for a shy young man, it is a lifesaver!

The contents of the basket can be as varied as the young man’s imagination. One gift basket could have just chocolates, yet another wine and cheese, while another can have fruits of all types.
Gourmet food and snacks, exotic spa products, delectable cookies and candy bouquets have also been making their way into these gift baskets in recent years.

In Portugal, the girls aren’t the only ones receiving baskets of gifts: the men can also eagerly look forward to receiving one. For a man, the basket is preferably of aged liquors from their sweethearts. These gift baskets are more than just baskets laden with exotic contents. They assume a special significance on Valentine’s Day!

Valentine’s gifts for men are easier to pick out than most women predict they would be. If you’re depressed about the pithy suggestions that keep coming up like socks, a tie, or toiletry kit, relax! This article will help you find the choicest Valentine’s gifts for him.

First of all, let it be said, from a guy’s perspective, that there are many important ways to make a guy feel better outside of just plopping gifts in front of him. Words of affirmation, admiration, and compliments can boost a guy’s self-esteem. Make sure your attitude and message is authentic. Set aside everything else to give him some personal, caring attention. Guys, not just girls, need to feel emotionally secure. Another thing you can do is serve him. Acts of service are meaningful to men and women alike. Brew him a cup of special hot chocolate you bought for the occasion and make his favorite meal. Bring him a delicious breakfast in bed. Erotic touch, caresses, hugs, kisses, massages, and any kind of affection are especially appreciated by some men. It’s all about finding the right balance of the aforementioned ideas not only on Valentine’s Day, but as a necessary part of the daily relationship. Find out what works for him. Simply give them more abundantly, genuinely, and gracefully as Valentine’s Day gifts.

Some of the most unique Valentine’s day gifts for him are the ones that cost a little. A high-quality watch, universal remote, Apple iPod, iTunes gift certificate, XM or Sirius radio subscription, power tools, magazine subscriptions, DVDs, grooming products, cologne, tickets to his favorite sports event, footwear, a ring, silk boxers, a picnic basket, personally engraved jewelry, a robe with his initials, a mouse pad with a customized message, or a new puppy dog or kitty cat.

Sometimes the best Valentine’s Day gifts are the ones he’ll remember for the rest of the life. In this case, avoid items that can be used up, spent, or forgotten. A watch or ring engraved with his initials or a message, especially if it’s a style he truly wants, will be with him for a longer period of time. It’s rare to forget the source of something. So, for instance, if he really gets a lot of enjoyment out of the best dust buster on the market, he’ll remember that it was your ingenuity that got it for him. Hey, some guys are clean freaks. In any case, the Valentine’s gifts for him should create bonding memories for you both.

St. Patrick’s Day is known as a day of celebration and festivities, but very few people know the true story of St. Patrick and who he really is. By tradition, he is a patron saint of the Catholic religion because of the captivity that he went through, the time of solitude and his great faith, and eventually the number of people that were converted to know God through him. It is legend that he heard angels and they helped him in his decisions. All in all, he is known as the patron saint of good luck and blessings to the Catholics in that era up until the 21st century.

St. Patrick was a real live person born in the time around 400 AD in Roman Britian, when the British Isles were still under the domain of the Romans. He was born with the name Maewyn. His name wasn’t changed until he was in the monastery. His father was a soldier in the army, and Patrick also reports him to be a deacon, civil official, and a town councilor, who was a son of a Romano-British priest. The family was Christian, but they weren’t extremely religious, some historians even say Patrick was agnostic in his childhood.

According to his most famous work, the Confessio, Patrick was captured along with many others when his village was attacked, and he was taken to Ireland as a slave. Patrick was under the authority of a druid high priest and his family and here he learned the native Celtic language which he later used to communicate, and help those to be converted.

After 8 years in captivity, he escaped at the age of twenty-two, and legend has it that an angel directed him to spend twelve years in a monastery near Paris, France, where he adopted the name Patrick. It was during this time of captivity that Patrick found God and developed the habit of praying throughout the day to strengthen himself and to be closer to God. It is recorded in the Confessio that he would often pray up to 100 times a day. One night, while in the monastery, he said he heard many voices that were calling him back to Ireland to help the remaining slaves. At this time he was somewhere in his mid thirties and so he answered the callings. He became one of the first Christian missionaries in Ireland.

He was confident in the Lord, and he journeyed far and wide, baptizing and confirming with untiring zeal. Indeed, Patrick was successful at converting Ireland to christianity . And he even made important converts even among the royal families. For 20 years he had travelled throughout Ireland, establishing monasteries, schools and churches, which would aid him in his conversions. He died on March 17th.

You can see how originally this was a Catholic holy day, but today St. Patrick’s Day has evolved into more of a secular holiday. Or, rather, ‘be Irish Day ‘. Speculation as to why this holiday is so popular could be the coming of spring that occurs within just a few days.

Did you ever stop to think as you dressed up on October 31st where it all started? Why do kids go door to door trick or treating? Why do we dress in costume, party and parade in the streets?

Celebrating Halloween is an ancient tradition dating back over 2,000 years to the Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in). The Celts were a people who lived in Ireland, the United Kingdom and the northern regions of France. The Celtic people celebrated New Year on November 1st. They believed that on October 31st the day called Samhain, the ghosts of the departed returned causing turmoil and hunting for a body to possess.

In order to trick the spirits the Celtic people would dress up in masks or animal skins and heads when they left their homes. They would run through the streets destroying and causing havocs in order to confuse the spirits.

Samhain was also a time of sacrifice to the gods. It was a day when the Druids erected large bonfires and burnt crops and animals. The people would gather around the fires telling fortunes and tales of the departed. When the new day dawned the Celts would take torches lit from the bonfires and light their hearth fires which they had extinguished before the celebration. This re-lighting was to help protect them during the cold and dark days of winter.

The dressing up to confuse the spirits was brought to America by the Irish immigrants in the 1840′s. Parading in the streets in costume and begging at houses for treats were customs brought from other parts of Europe where they had celebrated a custom called souling.

In the seventh century Pope Boniface IV proclaimed the 1st of November All Saint’s Day. All Saint’s Day was a day to honor Christian saints and martyrs and was an attempt by the church to replace the Celtic festival of the dead. This day was also called All-hallows and the Celtic Samhain became known as All-hollows eve…becoming eventually Halloween.

In A.D. 1000, the church proclaimed November 2nd All Soul’s Day in honor of the dead. All Soul’s day was celebrated with bonfires and Christians walked their villages begging for soul cakes, (currant studded pieces of bread). Every time a beggar received a soul cake he promised to say a prayer for the dead relatives of the person who gave him the treat.

The modern Halloween celebration is a melding of ancient traditions and customs in honor of the spirits of the departed. Dressing in costume to confuse the spirits and causing mischief to confuse the spirits. Parading the streets and begging door to door in honor of the spirits. Parties, bonfires, fortune telling and scary tales all these things circle back to ancient ways the world over, to honor and appease the spirits. Each culture that entered the American melting pot had a way to honor the dead. When you dress for Halloween this year to go partying, when the kids t.p. or bean your house, or when you hand out treats to avoid the tricks, remember also the spirits of the dead. Honor the spirits and you will have a safe and happy Halloween.

Most people are familiar with the game of bingo. It is played with bingo cards containg a five by five grid of squares, with each square containing a word or number. Each player is given a bingo card, and marks off the squares from their card when the corresponding number is announced by the bingo caller. In most games, the winner is the first player to achieve a line of five items across the card (regardless of whether that line is horizontal, vertical or diagonal) and call “bingo”. For a longer game, other target patterns than a single line can be required, for example two lines of five, a postage stamp shape of three by three squares, all squares marked off, etc.

Today versions of bingo, played exactly like the “standard” game, but using cards printed with words or phrases instead of numbers, are become increasingly popular. No doubt this is in part because with the helper of a computer and bingo card maker software, it’s dead easy to produce these cards! However, the main reason why these versions of bingo have become popular is that they can be used in schools and education, as well as in community events and gatherings celebrating both religious and secular holidays.

St. Patrick’s Day (usually March 17th, although the date may move if it falls within Holy Week), which is annual event of honor of one of Ireland’s patron saints but has subsequently become a celebration of all things Irish, is an ideal occasion for playing bingo. In St. Patrick’s Day bingo, the game is of course played using bingo cards printed with words or phrases relating to Ireland or Irish culture. It’s a lot of fun to play, inexpensive, and suitable for people of all ages to play together – may be you should give it a try?

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful reminder to express our love. To me, everyday is Valentine’s Day. “Focus each day not on what you can accomplish, but how much caring and love you express to others and yourself.”

We can share our love with a kiss, a hug, a smile, or a gift. People also receive our caring message when we listen, are present, spend time with them, help them in some way, give them a massage, or contact them to express your appreciation and gratitude that they are in your life. You can also draw them a bubble path, leave loving notes around the house and in their briefcase or purse. There are many ways to give free, wonderful gifts that will be greatly appreciated.

Love is what we all desire. When we do not feel that powerful emotion we are in some form of pain. Our soul wants to express love and be loved. It is important to keep in mind that true love is unconditional. In other words, it is not, “If you loved me you would buy me an expensive present.”

Are you expecting on this day for your partner to prove to you that you are loved? Or deciding by the value of the gift how much he/she loves you? That is setting yourself up for pain. The expectation also comes from pain because you do not know in your heart that they love you and you are lovable.

Whether you receive a gift from a loved one or not, it is helpful to remember to celebrate Valentine’s Day expressing love to yourself. Send yourself a card, or flowers, or buy yourself a present. Call your cell or home number and leave yourself a loving message. Look in the mirror and say, “I love you!” Put notes on your bathroom mirror and refrigerator, etc, “I love you!” Loving yourself is a key to health, happiness, and attracting and maintaining successful relationships.

We often want others to show us love so that we can feel we are lovable. The truth is that it lasts a short time because we need to feel it in ourselves. The number one Valentine needs to be you. Then you can truly love another.

How to truly love yourself is the most important thing you will ever explore. The results are high self-esteem. Then you can allow yourself to enjoy prosperity, success, a slim, healthy body, loving people in your life, and much more.

As a Marriage and Family Therapist for over 27 years, I have counseled numerous clients who, according to society’s standards, were very successful in every way. They had beautiful children, wives, husbands, homes, money, cars, and vacations. However, they were miserable inside. They had felt even worse because they had so much and yet it did not fulfill the yearning inside to be at peace, to feel fulfilled and happy.

The clients taught me that the most important things in life are: loving yourself and others, being truly who you are, doing what you want to do, and living in love and gratitude.

Make Valentine’s Day everyday. The spirit of the celebration is expressing love and that is the most powerful gift. Tell your loved ones you love them in different ways. Remember to also tell yourself.

Hmmm, let’s see … there’s the usual humdrum chocolate candy in a heart-shaped box, flowers that end up wilting, lingerie … who knows? If you’re looking for a sexy Valentines day gift that’s sure to surprise and impress your special someone, then it’s time to think beyond the traditional, whether it’s your first Valentines Day together or the 25th time you’ll be sharing the holiday with someone you love.

Ready to think outside the conventional heart-shaped box? Then read on … and, by the way, this is an original and affordable idea that you can use without having to mortgage the house! After all, a present that has no creativity or that puts you in a bind financially doesn’t qualify as a sexy Valentines day gift… just ask anyone, especially a woman about their most special memories associated with the holiday. Nine times out of ten, you won’t hear them mention candy, flowers, lingerie, or even diamonds. What you will hear are heartfelt reminiscences of gifts that created a sense of intimacy and time shared together.

We’ve all heard or read about creating a warm, romantic setting, complete with flickering candles and rose petals leading to a luxuriously waiting bubble bath … so what’s new about that? Well nothing, actually; however, here’s where the spin comes in with a sexy Valentines day gift that lets you put an entirely new twist on things!

Now, you know how sexy it is to feel your lover’s body next to yours, especially when their pubic area is smooth and silky from having been freshly shaved. But have you actually enjoyed the shaving experience with them? If you haven’t, then you’re genuinely missing out here. Remember, half the fun lies in getting ready!

Here’s a sexy Valentines day gift that will really heat things up a notch or more … for both you and your lady. Now, this doesn’t mean grabbing a can of shaving cream and a disposable razor, standing there wearing nothing but a smile. Even the perfect experience requires a little prep on your part, but just a little for a memorable occasion with a gift that can keep right on giving long after the holiday has passed.

So, put down that shaving cream and throw on something over that smile … you’re a man on a mission here, but a simple one. You’re searching for a bikini shaving kit for her. What the heck is that?

Get out of your male mindset here and think like a woman. While shaving cream and disposable razors work for you, they won’t work for her, especially when it comes to creating a mood. You know how women love their lotions and potions, don’t you? Well that’s what they’ll get. A nice quality set will include women’s shaving products that feature items for shaving, soothing and smoothing. And you already know how well soothing and smoothing works with your woman.

If you want to create an absolutely memorable experience with a sexy Valentines day gift for her, then it’s time to get busy. You can usually buy a quality bikini shaving kit for her at a reputable spa, or better yet, you can shop online. An upside to shopping online? Covering your smile is optional.

Buy some champagne, candles and chocolate and you have a fun, romantic and sexy evening planned that will be a memory that both of you will always remember!

(c) 2008, Davis Virtual Assistance. Reprints welcomed so long as article and byline are used intact and all links made live.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner And just in case you’ve forgotten, it’s always celebrated on February 14th. (Now you have no excuse for ignoring it again this year.)

But if you’re thinking, “Well, I have no excuse … except for the fact that I don’t have much money to spend on an elaborate gift or dinner out at a fancy restaurant right now.”

No worries. Here’s a list of inexpensive — and often free — ideas for spending some quality romantic time with your Valentine.

Outdoor Ideas

If the weather outside isn’t frightful this time of year where you live, Nature’s a romantic spot to spend some snuggling time together.

You could always have an exercise date if you’re both fitness nuts: a brisk walk on a tree-lined lane, a game of Frisbee in the park with your favorite view, bicycling along the waterfront, a hike to a local destination. One of my favorite things to do is rent a canoe and meander slowly around the local waterways.

For a less physically demanding outdoor idea, slow the pace down and stroll leisurely through the park rather than power-walking. Hold hands, look at the flowers, watch the birds, listen to the sounds of nature. Go somewhere you haven’t been for ages … maybe an arboretum, beach, game reserve, or Japanese
gardens.

And don’t let a bit of rainy drizzle stop your plans. A romantic stroll under a shared umbrella followed by a cup of coffee or tea in a local coffee shop is definitely a romantic alternative to the typically more expensive dinner and a movie. Plus, most parks are less crowded on rainy days, so you’ll have more privacy for
your romantic walk.

Even in the winter, it can be fun to wander through the local zoo. Many times the animals are more active this time of year rather than in the summer when they’re all hiding in the shade, escaping the summer heat.

Your local newspaper is always a great resource for inexpensive date ideas. Check out the “What’s Happening” section for information on local heritage festivals, film showings, street fairs, home tours, fireworks displays, musical events, and county fairs.

Indoor Activities

If it’s too cold or wet to spend Valentine’s Day outside, try taking a romantic drive together into the countryside, perhaps stopping for coffee and pie at a diner along the way. Mmm.

Spend the afternoon browsing through antique stores together. Talk about the things you remember seeing in your grandmother’s house when you were a child. It’s amazing the memories that can come back looking through things from long ago. You might discover things about your loved one you never knew.

Museums are often a fairly inexpensive way to spend time together. Check around for history and art museums you’ve overlooked in the past. Many of them have free days, too.

If it’s winter in your area and winter consists of sunny skies and palm trees, you might want to consider going ice skating together at the local skating rink. The change in temperature is invigorating, and it’s fun to bundle up in a scarf and gloves if it’s not something you do very often. Plus, it’s always appropriate to hold hands while skating together. Instant romance.

Stay-at-Home Ideas

Breakfast in bed is a fun wake-up on Valentine’s Day morning. Maybe cook some heart-shaped pancakes to complete the theme?

You could also have a tea party, just for the two of you with a selection of delicious gourmet teas, a variety of cakes and cookies, romantic music, and of course some fragrant flowers (they can just be ones picked from the yard … you don’t have to go overboard — and over-budget — with a dozen long stemmed roses).

Try having a picnic in the living room by the fireplace. Spread a blanket or tablecloth on the floor, light some candles, pack traditional picnic food items into your picnic basket, turn on some soft music. Maybe feed each other fresh strawberries.

If you have a series of movies you both enjoy, a movie marathon can be a fun way to spend the day. Stock up on snacks ahead of time, cuddle under a blanket on the couch, and watch a day full of Lord of the Rings, the Matrix, or a variety of romantic comedies). Turn off the ringer on your phone and just spend the day getting lost in the stories together.

Have a happy Valentine’s Day!

St. Patrick’s Day is March 17th, and it is a “day for wearing green” and other Irish traditions. Even though the patron saint St. Patrick was not born in Ireland, everything that is Green (which symbolizes spring and the prospering of the crops), fun and Irish can be worn or used to celebrate this holiday. And it is a holiday for all ages. Here are some entertaining ideas to use on St. Patrick’s Day.

A few drops of green food coloring goes into anything you might want green, even a mug of draft beer. Anything made with Irish cream or Irish whiskey has the Irish spirit, too.

Authentic Corned beef and cabbage

Corned beef brisket, about 4 lbs.

1 juice orange

18-20 whole cloves

1 tsp. whole yellow mustard seeds

1/2 tsp. caraway seeds

1/2 tsp. whole black peppercorns

1/2 tsp. whole coriander

Put corned beef brisket into large pot for cooking. Take cloves and insert them, then sprinkle remaining spices on. Cover brisket with water, bring to boil, then simmer for 3 hours or until tender.

3 lbs. small potatoes, peeled

2 1/2 lbs. carrots, peeled and cut into large pieces

1 medium head cabbage

About 40 minutes before beef is finished, boil a large pot of water and cook potatoes and carrots. Add cabbage about 10 minutes before you’re ready to serve as it doesn’t need to cook long. Drain vegetables.

Arrange meat and vegetables on a platter and serve with your favorite mustards.

St. Patrick Day Cookie Pops (for the kids to make)

Box of Vanilla Wafers

Box of Popsicle sticks

Vanilla or chocolate frosting; or Peanut butter

Various decorations – chocolate chips, icing packs, assorted green candies, green sugar sprinkles, ju ju bees, sprinkles, etc.

Spread out ½ of the vanilla wafers, with the flat sides up on the plate. Take the vanilla, chocolate icing, or peanut butter and spread across flat surface. Next, take a Popsicle stick and lay it down with the end in the middle of the cookie. Top with another vanilla wafer to make a sandwich.

Now the kids can get creative! Turn the cookie pop into a green shamrock; apply vanilla icing and draw with green icing pack; make a pot of gold with candies; anything you want! They make a great treat for the kids to take to school!

Easy Hot Whiskey Punch (for the adults) Serves 1

1 measure of whiskey

2 teaspoons white sugar

4-6 cloves

2 slices fresh lemon

7 oz. boiling water

Put whiskey, sugar cloves and lemon slices into a strong glass. 2. Pour on the boiling water until the sugar has dissolved. 3. Sip contentedly by a blazing fire.

Irish Scones

1/2 cup butter

4 cups flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup sugar

1 egg

1 cup milk

Note: You can add raisins, dates or other dried fruits, if desired.

Makes about 18 scones.

Preheat oven to 425°F.

In a large bowl, combine butter and flour until crumbly. Add baking powder, salt and sugar. In a separate bowl, beat egg and milk. Mix into dry ingredients to make a dough. Turn onto floured surface and roll to one-inch thickness. With a cookie cutter or the bottom of a drinking glass, cut dough into 2-inch rounds. Place on greased cookie sheet, about one inch apart and bake for 15 minutes.

When serving your Irish creations don’t forget an Irish toast to bless the meal!

Italy – The Feast Day of Saint Joseph

Italians love celebrating. Two days after the feast of Saint Patrick, on March 19th, Italians all over the world celebrate Saint Joseph’s Day. Saint Joseph is the father of Jesus and the husband of Mary. He is the Patron Saint of carpenters, house buyers and sellers, fathers, confectioners, wheelwrights, and working people. Numerous countries regard him as their patron saint too, including Austria, Canada, Mexico, Sicily, Turin, and Florence Italy.

According to legend, during the Middle Ages severe drought and famine plagued Sicily. Sicilians prayed passionately to Saint Joseph for rain. They promised that if he sent rain, they would prepare a large feast in his honour. While they waited, Sicilians survived on fava beans which saved them from starvation. Saint Joseph heard their prayers and sent rain. The Sicilians never forgot their promise to him for answering their desperate prayers. In gratitude, to this very day, they hold dear their promise and pay homage to him.

Every March 19th, Italians open their hearts and pantries. First, three-tiered altars are erected to honour the Holy Trinity. A statue of Saint Joseph, surrounded by flowers and candles, decorates the top tier. On the next two tiers are foods like pasta, olive oil, fava beans, and baked goods.
During the banquet, food is generously offered to the needy. In the town squares of many towns and villages, large banquet tables are erected. All the townsfolk contribute food, flowers, limes, candles, wine, and fava beans. No meats are placed on the altar because the feast day falls during the season of Lent. Foods made with bread crumbs are common because it is symbolic of a carpenter’s sawdust. A special vegetarian minestrone soup including fava beans and bread carefully baked in the shape of a sceptre to represent his walking stick or a wreath representing the Crown of Thorns are lovingly prepared and offered. At the end of the meal, every guest takes nhome some of the food.

To begin the festival, the local priest blesses the altar and its foods. Children portraying the Holy Family must sample all the food on the altar. As each item is tasted, there is a drum roll and everyone shouts “Viva San Giuseppe” to cast away all of the evil spirits. When the tasting is complete, the blessed loaf of bread is cut into pieces and shared with all. Legend decrees that whoever eats a piece of the bread will receive good fortune throughout the next year.

Saint Joseph’s Day is a day for eating and celebrating with friends and family. There are many recipes passed down through the generations for this very special occasion. One of the most common is for “zeppole”, a fried donut-like treat. So on March 19th, I hope you take the time to make and enjoy zeppole. I wish all my Italian family, friends, and readers Buon Giorno di San Giuseppe – Happy St. Joseph’s Day. “Viva San Giuseppe!”

Zeppole

For the dough:

2 cups sifted flour

2 cups water

10 ounces granulated sugar

½ teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 large eggs

¼ cup white wine

A pot of oil for frying

For the dredging:

3 teaspoons powdered cinnamon mixed with 1 cup sugar

Combine water, sugar, and 3 tablespoons of oil in a heavy saucepan and bring to a boil. Mix flour into boiling water mixture all at once. Remove from Remove from heat and begin whisking or stirring with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a mass. Return to low heat ad cook 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, and add eggs 1 at a time. Beat vigorously after each addition or the egg will cook. Add wine and beat the dough until satiny. Grease a countertop or board with oil. Turn out the dough and pat down flat. Fold sides over on itself so there are 3 layers. Repeat this five more times. Heat oil in a large pot or fryer. Take about 1/3 of dough and roll out in a log, to the thickness of your thumb. Pinch off a teaspoon size piece. Place 3 or 4 at a time into boiling oil. Turn and fry until golden on both sides. Drain on brown paper. Place into a paper bag and sprinkle powdered sugar over them. Close the bag and shake to cover with sugar.

If you want the best exercises to improve vertical leap, then pay attention – the best kind of training to jump higher is NOT TO just work on your leg strength. What you need to realize is – for maximum performance, you need to improve your TOTAL BODY STRENGTH to improve your vertical leap.

Although it is an advantage to have strong legs .. it’s not the key factor that will have you jumping higher and dunking ‘left, right, and center’.

Like I said .. TOTAL BODY STRENGTH is the a major factor to getting you to jump higher. And the best exercises to improve your vertical leap is one that works on your large muscle group – which them strengthens your core muscles. A strong core will translate to a stronger body, and an increase in your vertical leap.

If you don’t believe, just look at the Basketballers, VolleyBall players … and Aussie Rules Footballers. Not only are these athletes strong, they are fit, powerful and have high vertical leaps. There’s not the slightest hint of larger leg muscle groups over the upper body!

You see … it’s their overall conditioning that allows them to perform to their MAX – give them the edge to jump higher. And so, what are the best kind of exercises to improve vertical leap?

The best training to jump higher are the HIGH INTENSITY cardio training and TOTAL BODY resistance training. It gives you a complete workout to strengthen your core muscles, and improving your fitness level. When you are in shape, you are at your optimal fitness to perform effectively and jump higher.

And throw in ‘Plyometrics’ – you’ll have the best mix of exercises to improve vertical leap in no time.