Forum Topic Date Replies
Pregnancy & Parenting Virtual Reality and Video Games: the Future of Teaching Our Children? Sep 02 2009
00:46 (UTC)

No video game can take the place of human interaction. 

Like another response mentions, though, education is definitely going towards a more "exploratory" approach to problem solving and learning, especially when it comes to math and science. 

I teach kindergarten and we use a very interactive approach to all of our teaching.  We do things called mini-lessons in order to introduce a concept and then children are encouraged to explore the concept on their own while the teacher walks around encouraging them, offering guidance, answering questions, etc.  If we see a student who is struggling then we offer one on one help, if we see that a student is grasping a concept well then we can offer ideas for more advanced exploration.  After everyone has given it a whirl we come together and talk about what they did, what worked, or what didn't work, and what they learned. 

Here is a sample math lesson:  Let's say I want to teach about an ABAB or 1212 pattern, like circle, square, circle, square, etc.  I would have students line up each holding either a circle or a square.  I would put them in order, read the pattern, and then ask the students what they think would come next.  I would tell them that this is an AB pattern and then ask them what they can tell me about it (it uses two shapes).  After that "mini lesson" the kids would then be asked to use small shapes to each make the same pattern on their own.  After each child has copied the pattern I would encourage them to make their own pattern with different shapes.  After everyone had made their own patterns then we would get together and share them with each other and talk about how they are all AB patterns even though they look different.

It's really a good approach.  No one is singled out if they don't "get it" right away because everyone is mostly paying attention to their own work.  Everyone can work at their own pace and the kids get to be hands-on and really gain an understanding of the whole concept. 

BUT...no video game can replace a teacher.  They can enhance the learning experience but that's about it.   

Foods Help! I can't have whole wheat!!! Aug 03 2009
03:50 (UTC)
5

Brown rice is an excellent substitute and is a whole grain.  You can find some good brown rice based cereals in the health food section and you can cook up brown rice to go with dinner.  They also make brown rice flour and brown rice bread.

You might also look into quinoa.  It is a whole grain that is also a complete protein.  It's one of the healthiest grains out there, actually.

Foods Paula Deen's 5 Worst Recipes: Oh My God! Aug 03 2009
03:38 (UTC)
22

No one is force feeding anyone this food.  The way she cooks, it's her thing.  She's a southern gal and traditionally southern food has a lot to do with butter, mayonnaise, meat, and deep fat frying.  If you don't like it, don't eat it and don't watch the show.  No one should "stop her".  She's free to do what she likes.  She makes these recipes to entertain and be extreme in order to grab people's attention.  I've never seen her hold someone down and shove a Krispy Kreme burger down their throat.  She also never touts any of her dishes as being healthy.  She readily acknowledges that they are full of butter and fat.

A little fried chicken or even a serving of Krispy Kreme Bread Pudding every once in a while isn't going to hurt you.  Everything in moderation people. 

Weight Loss Anyone up for a new 10-15 lb group? Jul 31 2009
13:19 (UTC)
10

I'm up early and remembered to weigh-in this morning! 

This week was awesome!  I really paid attention to everything closely and I definitely saw results! 

Starting Weight:  155 lbs.

Last Weigh In:  148.4 lbs.

Current Weight:  147 lbs!!!

Mini Goal Weight:  145 lbs. by Labor Day Weekend (I'm going ot hit it early if I keep going this way!)

Long Term Goal:  140 lbs.

I lost almost 1 1/2 pounds this week!!  I am really excited! 

Foods Chinese Food Jul 30 2009
22:54 (UTC)
3

Beef and Broccoli isn't too bad and neither is Moo Goo Gai Pan (it's also called Chicken with Chinese Vegetables).  Anything that is a lean protein paired with veggies is a better choice.  Avoid sweet sauces and anything fried.  Also, eat steamed rice instead of fried.  Bonus points if they have brown rice. 

Foods Eating Healthy Food = Not Meeting Calorie Goal Jul 29 2009
21:59 (UTC)
1

Thanks for the advice everyone!  I will try and use some of these ideas so I don't throw my metabolism out of whack. 

Foods Eating Healthy Food = Not Meeting Calorie Goal Jul 29 2009
00:58 (UTC)
6

I forgot to mention that I am allergic to dairy.  I take calcium with vitamin D supplements instead.

 

Weight Loss Anyone up for a new 10-15 lb group? Jul 27 2009
21:03 (UTC)
11

I totally forgot to weigh in on Friday!  I was throwing a bridal shower for one of my very best friends on Saturday afternoon and had too much to do!  Anyway, I am still doing well although I didn't get to work out as much as I needed to.

Starting Weight:  155 lbs.

Last Weigh In:  149 lbs.

Current Weight:  148.4 lbs.  (I'll take it!)

Mini-Goal Weight:  145 lbs. by Labor Day Weekend

Long Term Goal:  140 lbs.

Lack of exercise definitely had an effect.  I lost but not nearly as much as I have been.  I am going to focus myself this week, for sure.

Weight Loss My breasts and the apple shaped torso Jul 23 2009
00:57 (UTC)
1
Original Post by timeeatthesun:

Jeez bra fitting? What's that all about- do you have to go topless while some stranger measures your chest or what?

 

Plus is it normal that they are kind of numb :/ and the skin is very translusent- I can see all of the veins!

You don't have to get naked.  They normally do it over your clothes.  That being said, a good bra fitting is ESSENTIAL to finding the correct size bra.  Wearing bras that fit you well are the number one thing you can do to help prevent sagging.  At a lot of stores the sales people can help you find the best bra for your shape.  Don't be embarassed because it's really the best thing you can do for your breasts and you will definitely be thankful that you decided to have it done.  I've had one done and now all my bras fit well and are very comfortable!   

Also, the vein/numbness thing is pretty normal.  I have smallish breasts and I can definitely see a lot of veins.  I'm pretty pale so I think that has a lot to do with it.  My breasts aren't really sensitive except for around the nipples. 

Motivation HELP i ruined my diet and binged so angry at myself Jul 22 2009
02:04 (UTC)
3
Text within this quote has been previously moderated and therefore cannot be displayed.

Yeah...she'll look great passed out on the floor in all the wedding photos because she starved and overexerted herself.

I sincerely hope you're kidding. 



Edited Jul 24 2009 19:11 by smwhipple
Reason: quotes deleted post
Health & Support Embarrassing question about number 2 and fainting... Jul 18 2009
17:33 (UTC)
11

There are several conditions that could cause these cramps.  IBS is one of them. 

There is also a condition called spastic colon which causes the colon to seize up with very severe cramps.  I was diagnosed with spastic colon in 6th grade.  I never passed out from my cramps but I would be in the fetal position on the floor bawling my eyes out.  There is a medication, a muscle relaxer, that you dissolve under your tongue that helps that a doctor can prescribe.

You could also have ulcerative colitis.  This is a more severe condition.  I was diagnosed with it when I was 15.  From what you described, I don't think you could have this BUT diseases can manifest in all sorts of ways so, even though it's unlikely, it's still within the realm of possibility.  UC causes severe cramping but it is often accompanied by diarrhea (many times bloody) and sometimes severe vomiting. 

I would look up a good gastrointerologist.  They specialize in the digestive system and will be able to give you a more specific diagnosis. 

Weight Loss Anyone up for a new 10-15 lb group? Jul 17 2009
14:30 (UTC)
37

Time for my second weigh-in!

I was on my TOM this week and, ladies, we all know what that means...inevitable bloating, water weight gain, and food cravings!  Not good for the scale!  Also, I went to the midnight showing of Harry Potter and ate a bunch of popcorn and Sour Patch Kids.  I tried to make up for all of this by running a lot.  I haven't missed a day yet and have done almost 12 miles this week.  Anyway, just maintaining would have been a triumph!

So...

Start Weight:  155 lbs

Last Weigh-In:  149 lbs

Current Weight:  149 lbs (yay!  no gain!)

Short Term Goal:  145 by September 4th

Long Term Goal:  140 by October 10th

I am very pleased with myself.  I am positive that I will be seeing at least 148 by next Friday, perhaps even less! 

Hope you all have a great weekend! 

Foods Best burger ever Jul 13 2009
21:07 (UTC)
3

They are popping up like crazy here in northern Georgia.  I looooove their burgers but am not a huge fan of the fries.  I always just get a little hamburger with lettuce, onion, mayo, and mustard.  They have hot dogs and a few other things but I haven't bothered with anything other than the burgers! 

The Lounge Do you owe it to your spouse to stay fit? Jul 13 2009
03:46 (UTC)
5

Yes, although you owe it to yourself first, as others have said. 

First, let's get the superficial reasons out of the way.  I believe that it is important to keep up a reasonable level of attractiveness once you are married.  Showing your spouse that you care about whether or not they find you physically attractive shows a certain respect.  I take great care in getting ready to go anywhere because I want my husband to feel proud that I am his wife.  He takes care to look his best because I know he wants me to be proud to show him off as my husband.  I really don't understand people who think that, once the ring is on and the vows are said, it's okay to wear track pants, big T-shirts, and no make-up all the time or whatever (sometimes is okay, of course).  Physical attraction is an important part of marriage (for most people).  I think this applies no matter what standard of beauty you tend to conform to. 

As far as the health aspect, I definitely feel that keeping fit is something you should do for yourself and your spouse.  You got married because you both wanted to spend a long and happy life together.  I don't believe it is fair at all to put yourself at risk of a heart attack or other serious health problem, by eating the wrong foods and never exercising, that could leave you either being a "burden" on your spouse or leave them widowed.  Sure, life happens, and sometimes we can't help these things, BUT doing what you can to prevent these types of things from happening is important.

And, just to clarify, since this could be a controversial topic, I am definitely talking about PREVENTABLE stuff.  If you have to take medication or are in an accident and end up gaining weight or in need of extra care that's totally different.  But, if you are able, I believe that it is important to do what you can to maintain good physical health. 

I truly don't belive that you can truly respect and love another person until you first respect and love yourself.  Part of loving yourself is doing what you can to keep yourself healthy.

The Lounge I Need to Vent! Aggressive Dog at Off Leash Dog Park. Jul 11 2009
20:20 (UTC)
1
Original Post by puh8suwrux:

I have to say, I am the owner of a 75 lb agressive dog - a black lab/great dane mix, we think.  He (and yes, he's neutered) usually doesn't want to hurt the other dog, but he was not socialized well and thinks the way to play with other dogs is to jump on them, roll them over, and pretend to attack them, all while growling rather viciously.

For that reason, he's NEVER allowed off the leash.  If I see another dog walking by, I grab hold of his collar and hold him close to me.  I wouldn't even consider taking him to a dog park. 

What gets me is people who go walking with their tiny, mega-egoed dogs without a leash (ie. not in a dog park), and when that dog comes and starts something with mine, look at me like I'm dirt while I am trying to keep my dog from smooshing theirs.

 You are a responsible dog owner!  Good for you for knowing your dog's limits.

I can't STAND people who assume that, because their dog is small, it doesn't matter if he acts aggressively.  Every year the Humane Society sends someone to my elementary school for career day and every year the guy tells the kids that they need to be most careful around small dogs because small dogs are responsible for a much larger percentage of dog bite incidents.  He says that it mostly stems from people not taking the time to correct behaviors when the dogs are young because "They are so small, what harm can they do?". 

The Lounge Thoughts on drug testing welfare recipients? Jul 11 2009
17:06 (UTC)
81

I agree with it to an extent.  Drug test them, if they test positive tell them that they can only continue to receive benefits if they go to some sort of substance abuse counseling.  Don't make them pay for the counseling.  Monitor them to make sure they are making progress. 

The biggest issue I have with government assisstance is that, for some people, it's a way of life and they rely on it instead of taking steps to make their lives better and get off of it.  It's a crutch.  I think that if we provided some sort of education about job skills, health, parenting, etc. along with the assisstance and made it easily accessible we would see a lot more people come off of welfare and become productive citizens.  We provide prisoners with tax funded education programs so that they will, hopefully, not end up back in prison (they are optional, I know).  Why can't we do the same for welfare recipients?  And what's wrong with making further education a condition of their benefits as long as we made it as easily accessible as possible? 

The problem is, where is the money to provide these programs going to come from?  The system is broken and, unfortunately, we don't have the cash to fix it.

I'm no Bible thumper but I truly believe in the quote "If you give a man a fish, he will eat for a day.  If you teach a man to fish, he will eat for a lifetime."

The Lounge I Need to Vent! Aggressive Dog at Off Leash Dog Park. Jul 11 2009
16:51 (UTC)
3
Original Post by lynners:

Irresponsible dog owners drive me nuts!

I'm currently fostering a dog who doesn't have the greatest reputation for being friendly with other dogs. I'm clearly am not ever going to take her to the dog park or ever have her off leash! There are a lot of dogs that live in my neighborhood, and in the near by park (not off leash OR a dog park) so many owners let their dogs off leash. I'm worried that one day one of those dogs isn't going to have good re call and just come barrelling over to say hi, and I'm going to be the "bad guy" because my dog was aggressive. Train your dog, jerk off!

 I can't stand it when people act like their dogs can do no wrong and just let them off the leash whenever, wherever.  Just last week I was walking my dogs and this little ankle biter started chasing us up the sidewalk.  His owners were calling him, trying to bribe him with treats but he just wouldn't listen to them and kept chasing us.  People need to know their dogs and treat them accordingly!  I have one that is fine off leash, comes when called, and doesn't wander so in the right environment I will occasionally let him off.  The other one is more stubborn and has a tendency to wander so he is NEVER allowed off leash in an unfenced area.  I just can't trust him!

The Lounge I Need to Vent! Aggressive Dog at Off Leash Dog Park. Jul 11 2009
16:47 (UTC)
4
Original Post by andie-1:

Although i agree with you and off leash unmuzzled aggressive dogs are a real annoyance.

Neutering doesn't always work it very much depends on the dog and i am speaking from my own personal experience where in after getting it done to a dog i owned plus getting injections to speed up the removal of those hormones, training etc it did nothing i still ended up having to get the dog put down.

 I definitely agree that it doesn't always solve the problem.  It's really just a question of being proactive about it...what are you doing to try and remedy the situation?  You did everything you could but it didn't work but at least you recognized the problem and attempted to fix it and that is commendable.  It's the people who don't even care to try that are the problem. 

The Lounge Has anyone read the Harry Potter books? Jul 11 2009
06:51 (UTC)
4

I've read them all and I love them.  I'm generally a fan of books that are an "easy read" although I do dabble in more sophisticated literature from time to time. 

The first three books are pretty much the same as the movies and aren't very long.  You could definitely get through them easily.  Books four through seven are fairly long but still entertaining.  There are a lot of things in those books that is altered or left out of the movies because there just wasn't time to include it.  

I've been to the midnight premiere for every movie that's come out AND bought book seven at midnight and stayed up until 7 or 8 the next morning reading until I was done. 

I've never been a fan of fantasy (I especially can't stand Twilight!) but for some reason I really enjoy Harry Potter. 

The Lounge I Need to Vent! Aggressive Dog at Off Leash Dog Park. Jul 11 2009
06:41 (UTC)
9
Original Post by cptbunny:

Unless you're a certified breeder, it should be a frickin' law to neuter/spay your dog or cat. You not only save their lives, but I promise, they won't miss it. -.-;

I wouldn't know what to do if that happened to my dog, I think like #5 did would be my exact reaction too. Just stand there and scream really high and loud, not just to stop them, but out of frustration, fear and anger. Poor dogs, it's not their fault their owners are morons. Grrrr...

This topic is one of those things that really grinds my gears!

*takes deep breath*

 I agree!  I have a friend at work who I love to death but she bought a Yorkie so she could breed it.  She's not a certified breeder and just wanted to do it for fun/extra money.  It pissed me off because I am a really big advocate for animal rescue and the last thing we need in the world are MORE dogs when there are so many that are waiting for a good home.   

When we adopted our first dog (the one in the picture) he was a year and a half old and hadn't been neutered so we took care of it.  I can attest to the fact that he was curious about his missing parts for two or three days, tops, and I think it was mostly because he was sore down there and not because he was missing his balls.  After it healed up he could have cared less. 

The Lounge I Need to Vent! Aggressive Dog at Off Leash Dog Park. Jul 11 2009
06:35 (UTC)
10
Original Post by skinnylea:

I am 100% and in fact 110% with you with this one. I have a wired hair terrier and one time I was on a trail near my home where I ALWAYS walk him off leash (he is obedient and I trust him completely). We went around a corner and I saw my bogan neighboors who have a boxer, pit, and a rottweiler. As soon as I saw them I leashed my dog and the boxer and rottweiler charged my dog! My adrenaline went through the roof! They basically had no control over their dogs and I was pulling my dog around on his leash helping him avoid the snapping jaws of these two large dogs. Finally they pinned my poor dog to the ground and I just screamed at the top of my lungs, as high pitch as I could go and it shocked the two dogs long enough for their lame owners to take control. Then the three of them were like "Oh were sorry they have never done that before". . . . bull ****. I see their dogs act agressive towards others through their fence. They are terribley trained animals. It was an awful experience and luckily Arty was okay. I don't have anything against those breeds either. The problem are the owners of those dogs. They don't take the time to train breeds that could potentially be dangerous. It's always the same type of bogan who purchses those breeds as well. Was the retriever okay? I would have been furious as well.

 I've found that there are two types of people who own "Bully Breeds".

The first are people who genuinely like the breed and are willing to train their dog in order to help disspell the violent reputation the breed has. 

Then there are the elitists who see owning an aggressive breed of dog as some sort of status symbol and like the controversy. 

I really would like the population to wake up and realize that dogs are not accessories.  They are living things that need love, care, and extensive training.  If you aren't willing to put in time it takes to properly socialize and train your dog then don't get one. 

The Lounge I Need to Vent! Aggressive Dog at Off Leash Dog Park. Jul 11 2009
06:29 (UTC)
11
Original Post by andamonkey:

I'm so sorry that happened to you. One of my friends was a dog park regular and stopped after her dog was attacked. My husband and I stopped going to the park near our house - no one was watching their dogs! We've moved, but haven't tried out the new park.

 Our dog was attacked at a different dog park.  We thought it was because it was pretty small and lots of people went there so there was more tension.  This park is bigger but apparently that doesn't solve all the problems. 

The Lounge I Need to Vent! Aggressive Dog at Off Leash Dog Park. Jul 11 2009
06:26 (UTC)
12
The Lounge 650 Pound Man? Jul 11 2009
02:39 (UTC)
53
Original Post by loriklorik:

Its amazing that he could allow himself to get to 650 pounds.... but him deciding to stop stuffing his face with HUGE amounts of food every day is about as amazing as when i decide not to eat an entire bucket of icecream before going out to dinner.

Its not hard to lose weight (even easier at that level!)...just gotta stop stuffing your face and maybe watch TV or something else instead....

If it were that easy there would be a lot fewer obese people in the world. 

People who allow themselves to get THAT big have very obvious psychological issues that have caused them to overeat to that extent.  It's more than just loving food...it's an addiction just like drugs or alcohol.  People who are that big need a lot of psychological and emotional support as well as diet and exercise in order to succeed.  The fact that he did it all without weight loss surgery makes it even more amazing.    

Fitness **Beginning Couch to 5k Jul 11 2009
00:34 (UTC)
114

I'm currently doing it.  I had been running/walking on my treadmill in order to get some of my physical fitness back.  I printed out the program and actually tweaked it so that I was actually doing a total of 40 minutes instead of 30.  My goal is to work up to 40 minutes of solid running at 5 mph on a level surface and then begin playing with the incline and speed to build more endurance.  I really want to run a 5K or 10K by next spring/summer.

Weight Loss Anyone up for a new 10-15 lb group? Jul 10 2009
14:18 (UTC)
67

Okay...I'm really excited this morning! 

I haven't been the best at tracking this week and went out to lunch with my dad on Monday and dinner with my sister-in-law on Wednesday.  We all know what eating out can do to the number on the scale what with all the fat and sodium!  I did try to make up for these things with exercise, I've worked out Monday, Tuesday, and yesterday for an hour each time and am going to do another hour today. 

Apparently, whatever I did worked! 

Start Weight:  155

Last Weigh In: 151

Current Weight:  149!

Short Term Goal:  145 by Labor Day Weekend

Long Term Goal:  140 by October 10th

I haven't seen the 140's in years.   I would normally get to 150 and then plateau and just give up on the exercise and go back to eating whatever I wanted.  Now I really have the motivation to stay on track!

Weight Loss Anyone up for a new 10-15 lb group? Jul 08 2009
05:40 (UTC)
106

I'm game! 

Age:  25

Height:  5' 6"

Current Weight:  151.0

Goal Weight:  140 by September 30th

Mini Goal:  145 by Labor Day Weekend (Bachelorette Beach Weekend with friends!)

I just feel better when I weigh less, eat well, and exercise.  I was 160 at my highest weight and just felt like a huge, jiggly, blob.  I was just unwell.  I decided that I could NOT allow myself to continue to gain weight and I've been conscious of it ever since.  I haven't seen the 140's in quite a few years, though, so I'm a little apprehensive about whether or not I'll be able to get there without too much of a struggle. 

Foods its a.....SuRvEy Jul 07 2009
04:27 (UTC)
7

I just found out that I am no longer allowed to eat dairy or things with vanilla in them so...this list is all my favorites if I was still allowed to eat them!  Hopefully  I will be able to find some good subs in the future.

sit-down restaurant-Most:  Taqueria Del Sol  Least:  Applebee's

thing to get at an icecream parlor-Most:  chocolate peanut butter  Least:  vanilla 

salad dressing-Most:  blue cheese  Least:  rasberry vinagrette 

fruit-Most:  pineapple  Least:  blueberries

breakfast-Most:  country omelet  Least:  cream of wheat

bread-Most:  yeast rolls  Least:  pumpernickel

veggie-Most:  broccoli  Least:  squash

cold drink-Most:  lemonade  Least:  orange soda

hot drink-Most:  hot chocolate  Least:  coffee

cake-Most:  carrot cake  Least:  pound cake

soup-Most:  chicken noodle  Least:  vegetable

meat (if you aren't vegetarian)-Most:  filet mignon  Least:  liver

cereal-Most:  honey bunches of oats  Least:  fruity pebbles

chip-Most:  lays original  Least:  sour cream and onion

fast food place-Most:  wendy's  Least:  mcdonald's

sandwich-Most:  turkey w/ mayo and mustard  Least:  reuben

nut-Most:  cashew  Least:  almond

spread-Most:  sunbutter  Least:  miracle whip

type of food-Most:  asian  (all types)  Least:  indian

cookie-Most:  chocolate chip  Least:  oatmeal raisin

condiment-Most:  honey mustard  Least:  ketchup

candy-Most:  reese's peanut butter cups  Least:  laffy taffy 

Health & Support Could purging have caused all this?... and has anyone had anything like this happen to them... long but please help! Jul 07 2009
00:26 (UTC)
3

It was the purging combined with dehydration that probably caused your extreme dizziness.  The uncontrolled vomiting could have been a result of the three glasses of wine on an empty stomach that was already weakened from a week of purging. 

I don't have bulimia BUT I do have a digestive disorder that can cause me to have diarrhea and vomit uncontrollably when it is flaring up.  During my last flare up I had some serious problems with my heart rhythm/dizziness after a day of vomiting and not being able to rehydrate myself properly.  I had to get my electrolytes back in balance quickly in order to help restore a normal rhythm.  If you were purging you could have not only caused yourself to have an electrolyte imbalance, since you didn't drink anything, but you could have depleted your body of potassium which is one of the most important minerals for your heart.    

Weight Loss EXTREME WEIGHT GAIN! Please help!!! Jul 06 2009
23:43 (UTC)
2

I have two ideas.

The first has to do with calorie restriction.  If you were strictly restricting your calories with your diet then you might have slowed down your metabolism.  When someone eats the same number of calories practically every day over a long period of time eventually the body will adjust the metabolism.  Diets are inherently unnatural...whenever there is a calorie deficit our body will interpret this as a sign of famine and will slow calorie burn in order to conserve energy.  Assuming that this is what happened with you, when you were unable to control your calories your body probably was signalled to store the extra calories in case there was another "famine".  This would result in weight gain, especially if you were unable to exercise.  One way to combat this is through exercise and calorie cycling where you have low calorie days and high calorie days so that your metabolism doesn't get used to having the same limited amount of energy available every day.

Another theory is water weight.  If you weren't drinking enough water while you were outside hiking you might have gotten dehydrated.  Begin dehydrated causes our bodies to retain water resulting in water weight gain.  I would drink lots of water over the next few days and do some moderate exercise.  This might knock a few pounds off the scale. 

Join Calorie Count - it's easy and free!
CREATE FREE ACCOUNT
Advertisement
Advertisement
Why Create an Account?

So you can log your weight -- which allows you to do the following:
  1. Plot your weight curve
  2. Analyze the trend of your weight (see under Recent in the figure above)
  3. Determine the projected target date (see under Overall in the figure above)