Good Housekeeping articles from December 2007

Good Housekeeping archives from December 2007

On my mind: editor's letter.(Editorial)
December 1, 2007... It's predawn, and I'm up as usual for quiet time (and, OK, to get some work done). I don't mind getting up this early--I love the no-sounds sound of the house, knowing that my family is upstairs asleep and that this small slice of the day...

Dear GH.(on your mind: Letters)(Letter to the editor)
December 1, 2007... Dear GH, "Since the story about the Donkey Mobile Library ["Hope: Volume I," October] came out, picking up the mail has become the highlight of my day," writes Laura Bond, director of Ethiopia Reads (ethiopiareads.org). Along with...

The ultimate gift.(on your mind: Letters)(Letter to the editor)
December 1, 2007... I wept as I read "All About Eve" [Blessings, October]. My late mother willed her body to a medical school. She said if it might start one young doctor on his or her way to find a cure for cancer, she had to do it--and that she would haunt me...

A mother's hope.(on your mind: Letters)(Letter to the editor)
December 1, 2007... I just wanted to let you know how emotional, but heartwarming, the story "Then He Found Me" [October] was to me. Being a birth mom myself, I am just dreaming and praying that my adoption experience will ultimately be as happy and fulfilling as...

Puppy love.(HOLIDAY PHOT WINNER)(pet and pet owner's picture)(Photograph)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Barbara Ledbetter's grandson, Dixon McKenzie, of Fairhope, AL, cuddled up to his coordinated pups, Cracker and Chile, to win our 2006 Baby's First Holiday Contest

Ask our expert.(on your side: HELP FROM THE GH RESEARCH INSTITUTE)(laundry methods)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Q: I have a blouse that bleeds color every time I wash it. How can I set the red so this doesn't keep happening? A: If you've already washed the blouse several times and color still comes off, it probably always will. Color setting can only...

Bring it back!(GH TO THE RESCUE)(shopping and product return)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... It's the season for giving and receiving. But when it comes to returning, stores are getting fussier than ever. Here's what' know before you buy or after you've received. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] NOTE DEADLINES FOR RETURNS Some stores...

Organizing: media center.(good (enough) housekeeping: EASY SOLUTIONS FOR SMART LIVING)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] All you want to do is kick back and watch a movie, when the trouble begins again: Which remote controls the DVD player? And where the heck is it? Add in the various messes--tangled cords, CD chaos--and you're too...

So long, soot!(good (enough): Speed Cleaning)(cleaning a fireplace)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] If your fireplace is sending smoke signals that it needs a scrub, here's the quickest way to get it done--without putting a damper on your day. BIGGEST CHALLENGES * A pile of old ashes in the firebox *...

No-brainer drainer.(Clean-Genuity DishRax )(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Washing dishes by hand is enough of a chore--then you have to wrestle with the rack (to keep the plates from toppling, the bowls from nesting, the glasses from clanking). As for hiding an empty rack, that's a whole...

Save on scent.(Idea File)
December 1, 2007... Plug-in air fresheners rarely look or smell upscale. (Must the packaging be so purple? Can real mountain berries possibly smell like this?) But home-fragrance guru Harry Slatkin (whose Slatkin & Co. candles are sold at the likes of Neiman...

Reader tip.(Idea File)(cleaning method)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] "If you're out of silver cleaner and need to touch up a tarnished spot quick, rub it with toothpaste. It'll shine!"--Leila El-Youssef, New York City

The ultimate gift-mailing guide: can't visit all your loved ones? Send presents instead--the fastest, cheapest way. Here's how.(good (enough): Do It Smarter)(mailing gifts)
December 1, 2007... PACK LIKE A PRO * Pick the right-size box The more a piece can move, the more likely it is to break. And don't overstuff; if you do, the contents are likely to bust out before reaching their destination. Check the box's bottom flap for the...

In the key of clean.(good (enough): Heloise to the Rescue)(cleaning piano keys)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Q: Is there a method for getting gunk and dirt off piano keys? Cathy Hintz, Gahanna, OH If they're plastic, rub them with a chamois cloth dipped in vinegar mixed with warm water. But if they're ivory, use a barely damp cloth and a bit...

Metal protector.(good (enough): Heloise to the Rescue)(polishing brass)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Q: How do you polish brass? Marie Beaird, Porter, TX That depends on whether it's lacquered or not. To clean lacquered brass, simply wipe with a soft, damp cloth; do not use any kind of household cleaner. If it's non-lacquered, squirt...

What's that smell? Quick remedies for unwanted odors that could spoil your jolly mood.(Ask Heloise)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Cooks' tricks * To absorb the pungent odor of foods like fish or cabbage, place a small bowl filled with white vinegar on the stove while cooking. * If food from a bubbling casserole spills over on the stovetop or oven floor, sprinkle...

Does your doc play Nintendo?(WIRED M.D.)(surgeons and playing video games)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Surgeons who are nimble on their video games may also perform better in the OR, report researchers from the Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City. Doctors who were experienced gamers (defined as having played...

Testing the 5-second rule.(good health: SMART WAYS TO STAY WELL, EAT RIGHT, GET FIT)(food safety)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... You know the joke: if you pick up dropped food within five seconds, you can still eat it. Turns out. it's not a joke--and you may have more time than you think. In an experiment at Connecticut College, a group of microbiology students left both...

Another excuse to hug your hubby.(good health: SMART WAYS TO STAY WELL, EAT RIGHT, GET FIT)(health of married women)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Women in happy marriages weather job stress far better than those who face strains at the office and at home, say researchers from the University of Toronto in a recent study. Over three years, wives who described...

Danger? allergy alert.(good health: Health News)(food allergies)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] For people with food allergies, eating out may be even riskier than they realize. In a survey of 100 restaurants by the Jaffe Food Allergy Institute at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, 90 percent of...

One cough, three causes.(good health: Health News)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... If you've been hacking for more than eight weeks and your chest X-ray is clear, make sure your doctor checks for all three of the main possibilities: postnasal drip, asthma, and gastroesophageal disease (GERD). You may have two or even all...

How hard should you push during CPR?(good health: Health News)(Cardiopulmonary resuscitation)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... To save a heart attack victim, you need to apply 100 to 125 pounds of force--enough to compress the person's breastbone one and a half to two inches. But in a recent study from Purdue University, even trained emergency personnel sometimes...

Cancer protection in a teacup.(good health: Nutrition News)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Cozying up to some hot tea this winter could help protect you from the sun next summer. In a study of more than 2,000 people, Dartmouth researchers found that those who drank one cup or more of black or green tea...

No-guilt party fare.(good health: Nutrition News)(healthy snacks)(Recipe)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] * GREEK SPINACH DIP In bowl, mash 1/2 c. feta cheese; stir in 1 1/4 c. plain fat-free yogurt, 1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry, 1/2 c. chopped green onions, 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh...

Heart health: what to eat, what to skip.(good health: Nutrition News)(managing blood pressure)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Do eat... a little chocolate. In an 18-week study, people who ate 6 grams of dark chocolate daily (about the weight of a quarter) enjoyed a drop in blood pressure--without putting on pounds. Don't eat... so much salt. Cutting sodium can...

(Safe) slim-down pill.(Drop 5 lbs: TIPS AND TRICKS TO TRY TODAY)(fish oil capsule )(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Popping a fish oil capsule can help you shed pounds. Researchers from the University of South Australia tracked 81 overweight people for three months and found that those who took a daily dose offish oil and walked for 45 minutes three times a...

Chew on this.(Drop 5 lbs: TIPS AND TRICKS TO TRY TODAY)(chewing gum's health benefits)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Chomping on gum burns 11 calories an hour (hey, every little bit helps) and can prevent you from taking "taste test" bites while you're cooking. What's more, a British study that tracked 60 people showed that those who chewed gum before snack...

Holiday party cheat sheet.(Drop 5 lbs: TIPS AND TRICKS TO TRY TODAY)(calorie count)(Table)
December 1, 2007... Review these calorie counts before you hit the hazards of the buffet table INSTEAD OF TRY Handful of peanuts Handful of mini twist (165 calories) pretzels (50) 2 chocolate chip 2...

Turkey & white bean chili.(Healthy in a Hurry)(Recipe)
December 1, 2007... YOU CUT CALORIES by a third and fat by half when you substitute ground turkey for beef chuck. The cannellini beans deliver an impressive 10 grams of fiber per serving--almost half your daily requirement Total time 25 minutes Makes 4...

Get smart! From leading brain experts: games that can boost your memory now--and help keep you sharp for years to come.(good health)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] I fear I may be hurtling into the brain-fog years. In a single weekend, I forget the name of a woman I see regularly at our children's parties, misplace an important financial document, and have trouble identifying a...

This mom's life.(goodbuzz: STAR TALK ON HOME, FAMILY, FASHION)(mother-child relations)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] "I try to call my mother, Betty, with more regularity because I think, What if Hazel didn't call me for two weeks? I'm able to see her mothering now from a different vantage point."

How to get the look.(Star Style: Flower Power)(brooch )(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATIONS OMITTED] A blooming brooch can add holiday pizzazz to basic black, or dress up casual attire. As Emily Procter, Lauren Graham, Jane Fonda, and Katherine Heigl show, the perfect pin provides seasonal sparkle. One to try: this...

Man of the house: John Travolta.(goodbuzz: STAR TALK ON HOME, FAMILY, FASHION)(Interview)
December 1, 2007... He's a licensed pilot and a disco-dancing icon; recently, he became a Baltimore housewife--so convincingly that there's Oscar buzz about a Best Supporting Actor nomination for his campy gender-bending turn in the hit musical Hairspray. Another...

Why I give: Molly Sims.(goodbuzz: STAR TALK ON HOME, FAMILY, FASHION)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... The actress, who stars on the NBC hit Vegas, gives to the Friends of El Faro, which helps Mexican orphans. "Friends of El Faro supports Casa Hogar Sion orphanage in Tijuana, Mexico. These are amazing kids, but most won't find homes since...

Turning point.(goodbuzz: STAR TALK ON HOME, FAMILY, FASHION)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] "I looked at my budget from last year and decided that I wanted to reduce it by two-thirds. I was going to buy a cute little top this week, and it was $53, and I said, 'No way! Do you know how much $55 would buy for...

Animal house.(goodbuzz: STAR TALK ON HOME, FAMILY, FASHION)(Kristin Chenoweth and her pet dog Madeline)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Kristin Chenoweth, star of the new ABC drama Pushing Daisies, gets all mushy over her Maltese, Madeline. "Before I got Madeline, I used to see dog people who were so obsessed, and I'd think, Oh, that's so sad. But...

How I stay sane.(good buzz: STAR TALK ON HOME, FAMILY, FASHION)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... "My father used to tell me, 'Goldie, when you feel too big for your britches, just go stand in front of that big ocean out there and feel how small you are.' He was right." --Goldie Hawn [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

The diet trick that worked for me.(good buzz: STAR TALK ON HOME, FAMILY, FASHION)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] "To get back to my pre-pregnancy weight, I cut out croissants, bagels, and muffins--all the good stuff. And I went back to having a salad once a day and more protein." --Jennifer Garner

Reba McEntire's praline sweet potato casserole.(CELEB DISH)(Recipe)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Praline Sweet Potato Casserole 1 can (40 oz.) sweet potatoes, drained 1/3 c. granulated sugar 2 Tbsp. margarine, melted 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp. salt 2 lg. eggs Topping 3/4...

My family Christmas: Caroline Kennedy was, perhaps, the most famous girl ever to celebrate Christmas in the White House. Here, she shares some special family memories.(good buzz: STAR TALK ON HOME, FAMILY, FASHION)(Excerpt)(Essay)
December 1, 2007... For each of us, there are aspects of Christmas that remain magical throughout our lives. One of my earliest memories comes from living in the White House. Every morning before I went to school, I would go to my father's room and talk to him as...

Caroline today.(good buzz: STAR TALK ON HOME, FAMILY, FASHION)(Caroline Kennedy )(Interview)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The holidays that Caroline Kennedy spent in the White House--complete with sleigh rides on the front lawn-remain a cherished memory for Americans, and for Kennedy herself. Currently living in New York City with her...

Party time? Fake fuller hair.(good looks: BEAUTY AND FASHION NEWS, DEALS, TRENDS)(Buyers guide)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] When it comes to hair, thin isn't in--especially this time of year, when you want to look particularly fabulous. So if big, bouncy, make'em-stare hair is all you're after, check out our bagful of all the expert...

Pose like a pro.(good looks: Beauty News)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Whether it's Uncle Fred trying out his new camera or Mom snapping a family portrait, someone will inevitably ask you to say "cheese" this season. Camera shy? To ensure a scrapbook-worthy shot, try these tips from...

Affordable luxury.(good looks: Beauty News)(Avon Anew Ultimate Age Repair Night Cream)(Brief article)(Clinical report)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Luxe moisturizers are on everybody's wish list--but we can't just wish away the triple-digit price tags. Luckily, now you no longer have to be rich to buy rich: Avon Anew Ultimate Age Repair Night Cream ($34,...

Makeup made easy.(NEW TREND)(Buyers guide)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... The whole idea of a palette is to give you choices--but sometimes it's hard to know which color goes where. To eliminate guesswork, several new kits have helpful instructions. Some, like Red Earth Eye Shadow Palette in Golden Allure ($28, Ulta;...

33 perfect presents: gifts that only look like splurges--for $48 or less. Plus 7 super-steal stocking stuffers for $10 and under.(good gifts)(Buyers guide)
December 1, 2007... 1 BLANKET STATEMENT The cold calls out for a cuddly throw--and this pleated knit from Milli Home by Marsha Cutler chases away the chill for cheap ($20), bedbathandbeyond.com) [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] 2 QUILT TRIP This red-hot...

Satin: this opulent, luminous fabric has always glowed after dark, but now it's daytime appropriate, too. For an up-to-the-minute look, pair a posh evening coat with jeans or a shimmery blouse with office-worthy gray flannel trousers.(good looks: Trends for Grown-ups)(Buyers guide)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... HI, GLOSS Satin's glimmery finish is like a spotlight on your figure--so avoid clingy silhouettes in favor of looser shapes O Oscar, $129 [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Izaak, $195 [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Banana Republic, $78...

Bow show.(good house: GREAT BUYS, STYLISH IDEAS)(dining room decoration)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Our gift to you this season: a simple yet stunning way to dress up your dining room for sit-down gatherings. It couldn't be quicker-just wrap each place setting with a length of wide, pretty ribbon. Do it in satin...

Sweetest swag.(good house: Idea File)(candy as decoration)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Skip traditional popcorn and cranberry garlands this year, and take a cue from the Sugar Plum Fairy: Colorful candy strands are a magical way to dress your mantel or tree. To create these sugary swags, all you need is a sizable stash of wrapped...

Snow cover.(EASY IDEA)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] In the Victorian era, you'd have been hard-pressed to find a table that wasn't topped with a crocheted doily. Today, these handmade bits of lace (which to us look like delicate snowflakes) are more likely to be...

Points of light.(good house: Idea File)(decorative candles)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Decorative candles are rarely cheap, and when they've burned down, your investment has burned up. For a more affordable glow, buy plain pillar candles and embellish them with thumbtacks and pushpins. Simply slide a...

Fine cones.(good house: Idea File)(evergreen seeds as decoration)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Here's a fast, festive way to spruce up some evergreen seeds: Lightly spray-paint half the cones in cheery cranberry, the rest in shimmery silver; display in a clear glass bowl. Or to make a Pop Art-y piece, coat...

Friendlier family card.(good house: Idea File)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] For a season's greeting that's fun, not fussy, forgo the portrait studio for your nearest photo booth-you'll save big bucks and your children may actually look at the camera. (Check photobooth .net for a local DIY...

Good deals: home.(good house)(Buyers guide)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Jolly red and white put a peppermint twist on affordable holiday finds [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] TOP CIRCLE Graphic, confetti-like dots add dash to Plum Party's ceramic appetizer plates ($22 for four), which are microwave- and...

Sleeping in = blanking out.(good family: FROM KIDS TO MONEY, WHAT TO KNOW NOW)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... If your kid is groggy on school mornings, it may be because she's sleeping late on weekends. Changing slumber patterns for just those two days can have the same negative effect on brain function as jet lag. Brown University researchers...

Watch the liquor cabinet.(good family: FROM KIDS TO MONEY, WHAT TO KNOW NOW)(survey done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Forget the cliche of teens sneaking a brewski. Underage drinkers choose bourbon, rum, scotch, vodka, and whiskey more often than other alcoholic beverages, reports a survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Forty percent of...

When nagging works.(good family: FROM KIDS TO MONEY, WHAT TO KNOW NOW)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Reminding your kid to eat some veggies may make him roll his eyes. But don't let that stop you--chances are, he's listening, too. The latest research shows that gently prompting children to make healthy food...

Two little words: novelist Maeve Binchy wonders why teaching kids how to write a proper thank-you note has gone out of style.(good family: FROM KIDS TO MONEY, WHAT TO KNOW NOW)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Suppose you go to a lot of trouble choosing and sending a gift you think some young person would love. And you never get a line of thanks. So you start to brood about it. Perhaps the gift never arrived. Perhaps...

7 perfect presents for tweens.(good family: FROM KIDS TO MONEY, WHAT TO KNOW NOW)(Buyers guide)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... (1) GET PHYSICAL Kids with energy to burn may go crazy for Hyper Dash from Wild Planet ($25). This target-tagging race against the clock can be played solo or with a group, indoors or out [ILLUSTRATIONS OMITTED] (2) CALLING ALL...

Get great deals Online: net the best prices and return policies.(HOLIDAY GIFT SHOPPING)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The perks of online shopping are obvious--no slick roads, long register lines, or parking nightmares-but you have to be careful. In your haste to click "complete order," you can overpay or get stuck with the wrong...

10 ways to spend less in stores: don't head to the mall until you read these tips.(HOLIDAY GIFT SAVINGS)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] 1 Subscribe to your local mall's e-mail newsletter You'll be alerted to upcoming sales and may receive e-mail coupons you can then use at the stores. 2 Get even better deals at outlet stores by going to their...

Holiday countdown.
December 1, 2007... On the brink of a total meltdown? Not this year. Our troubleshooting guide is packed with time-saving smartcuts and inspiring ideas [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

9 home fixes to fake: try these quick cover-ups--before guests descend.(HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN)
December 1, 2007... OUT-OF-CONTROL JUNK If the clutter has grown beyond container proportion, corral it in a corner under a sheet or blanket (or in a spare room, if possible). Add a sign, such as, "Secret Santa Work in Progress: Keep Out!" You'll get chuckles...

Throw your best party ever! Follow this plan, and your guests won't leave until New Year's.(HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN)
December 1, 2007... 4 Quickie Decorating Ideas 1 Create a festive runner for your table by rolling out a length of holiday wrapping paper. When the party's over, crumple it and toss. 2 For a sit-down dinner, invest in dining-chair slipcovers, which start...

The-party's-over stain guide: here's what to do--at the fatal moment and the morning after.(HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN)
December 1, 2007... Red Wine RIGHT AWAY Quickly blot with clean cloth before sponging with cool water, if safe for fabric. Another trick: Dab with white wine to neutralize red. If on carpet, cover with a pile of salt and let absorb overnight (cover pile with...

10 best mail-order goodies for giving (or serving).(HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN)(Buyers guide)
December 1, 2007... RIO STAR GRAPEFRUIT We've never tasted grapefruit as sugary as this organic citrus. Plus, it's Texas-size: Each piece weighs over a pound! $35 for 12, $46 for 24, includes shipping; 888-895-0108, stxorganics.com DAVID'S COOKIES...

Wrap stars: four fresh, festive ideas.(HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] 1 MONOGRAM IT Stamp your kids' gifts with their first initial (all you need are alphabet rubber stamps, ink pads, and blank rolls of paper). That way, once they find your hiding spot, they'll know which presents...

7 things you should never do yourself: these time-consuming tasks were made for outsourcing.(HOLIDAY COUNTDOWN)
December 1, 2007... WRAP EVERY GIFT Of course, extra-special holiday presents merit custom treatment (see page 132 for inspiration). But if a store offers free wrapping with your purchase, just say yes. If the gift looks too plain, you can always jazz it up...

Best sites for holiday cards: you supply the cute kids and these services do the rest. The GH Research Institute picks 5 winners.(TESTING YOU CAN TRUST)(Good Housekeeping)(Product/service evaluation)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] In our tests, these five sites delivered the best cards (on high-quality paper stock) for a reasonable price, left, from top: zazzle.com, kodakgallery.com, snapfish.com, mycardmaker.com, and shutterfly.com. Here,...

"Is it real?" Great trees that aren't.(GHRI TESTED)(Oregon Noble Vintage, Balsam Hill Fir and Just Cut Fraser Fir)(Product/service evaluation)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... GHRI TESTED Unlike the forthrightly fake impostors of the past, the best of today's faux trees could pass for freshly chopped. Another big improvement: Most of the new crop of artificial evergreens are pre-lit, so you can skip the...

Baking with the stars.(the goods: WHAT TO BUY, WHAT TO SKIP)(Buyers guide)
December 1, 2007... For special holiday desserts, you maybe considering a splurge: mixes from famous chefs or bakeries beloved by celebs. These upscale goodies can be yours, but at a premium price--so we baked, frosted, and tasted to find out if they're worth the...

Give the gift of safe toys: GH asked the experts how you can make wise choices--and still make your children's dreams come true.(the goods: WHAT TO BUY, WHAT TO SKIP)(Good Housekeeping)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] This year's recalls of dangerous toys--coated with lead paint, or equipped with potentially lethal magnets--alerted parents to an unsettling fact: Government oversight of the industry is so minimal that toy makers'...

Are you too sensitive? No, we're not picking on you--just trying to make you feel better. Seven tips to help you roll with the punches this season.(good advice: STAYING CENTERED, COPING, LIVING FULLY)
December 1, 2007... There was a carpool mix-up: I thought it was my night to pick up the kids outside the gym; another parent thought it was his. "What happened?" he snarled, shaking his head. "Why are we both here right now?" As chauffeuring snafus go, this was...

Hungry for the holidays: 'tis the season when the child you used to be comes out to play. Give her a hug, a cookie--and lots of adult supervision.(good advice: Feed Your Soul)
December 1, 2007... A friend of mine once asked a 6-year-old girl what she wanted to be when she grew up. "A person with really long arms," the child answered. "Why?" my friend asked. "So I can reach across the table and eat all the chocolate chip...

Ask Peggy.(good advice: Everyday Manners)(sleeping arrangement)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Q I invited my son's girlfriend for Christmas. They're seniors in college and practically live together--but I want them in separate rooms. What's the best way to communicate this? Talk about the sleeping arrangements before their visit. Simply...

Pop quiz.(good advice: Everyday Manners)(Christmas shopping)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Q You forgot an essential food item for Christmas dinner--now you're stuck in the supermarket 10-items-or-less line behind someone with at least 20. Do you: (A) Ask the offender if you can go ahead of him (B) Find the manager after you...

Can you return a gift?(WHAT WOULD YOU DO?)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... A friend buys you a sweater that looks like one you already own. You would really love to exchange it--can you ask for the receipt? [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] No "Besides, at many stores you don't need a receipt to do an exchange."...

Pet Peeve.(good advice: Everyday Manners)(airplane seats )(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... Q I hate it when people tilt their airplane seats back--there's so little room as is, and I end up feeling claustrophobic. Can I ask the person in front to bring the chair back up? As a frequent traveler, I sympathize! Your only chance is...

I wish you holidays.
December 1, 2007... "I wish you holidays that are filled with homecomings" --Sue Monk Kidd

Holiday fun with Faith.(Short story)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] 'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house... Every creature was still stirring, much to Faith Hill's considerable chagrin. "Each year, we try to read the Bible story and the poem ''Twas...

My most magical Christmas: from family traditions to childhood memories, stars share their favorite holiday moments.
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITED] "When I was a little girl, my mom and dad would take me to the candlelight service at First United Methodist Church in Midland, TX. Then wed d rive around to look at all the Christmas lights. George and I did the same...

Martha makes merry: Martha Stewart is famous for Noel know-how. Now she shares her easiest, fastest, and most fabulous tips for creating classic Christmas style.
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] When it comes to decking the halls, Martha Stewart is probably the one woman on the planet--from North Pole to South--who could give Mrs. Claus a run for her money. The entertaining expert has spent decades setting...

1 dough 12 ways: one treat for every day of Christmas--all from one easy recipe.(cookies)(Recipe)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Smart cookies are strategic about holiday baking. If your goal is to whip up a diverse assortment of goodies in record time, then share in our flour-power secret: one do-it-all dough, like our triple-tested version...

The perfect party dress: our gift to you: stylish choices that look like a million bucks--but aren't.(UNDER $100!)(Buyers guide)(Brief article)
December 1, 2007... [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] toast the new year without burning your budget Elegant, wear-forever styles are like money in the bank. A V-front gem-detailed shift, and a sophisticated satin cowl-neck, left, will make an entrance season after...