As far as I know....Squishybaff (a new novelty play powder, that when added to bath water turns it into a gelatinous mess)....is simply sodium polyacrylate... the same stuff that's inside baby diapers, that absorbs 300 times it's weight in liquid. You can save a lot of money by doing agoggle shopping search, and buying in bulk. Averaging about $15 dollars for 1 lb. of powder....That's a LOT bcuz the stuff is extremely lightweight. Probably add about 1/4 to 1/2 cup to a bath, and a little food coloring.
What's the secret ingredient that turns the gel back into water, so you can safely and easily let it down the drain? Salt.
I know it's cutting it close, but if you have a lot of kids on your Christmas list...could probably order a pound of this, some little zip lock baggies, and paste food coloring, and make up a ton of stocking stuffers for around a $1 each. Mix in just a touch of color to bag, and massage into the powder, same process as making colored bath salts. print up some cute little cards to staple to tops of bags. Staple together with small bag of sea or table salt. Boom. Done.
This post wouldn't be complete without.....
A WORD OF WARNING!
There are health concerns with sodium polyacrylate (SAP)—the same substance that was removed from tampons in the 80s due to its link to toxic shock syndrome—can cause allergic reactions, as well as respiratory and skin irritations. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH FIRST! I don't believe this is a suitable substance for tiny children, especially in great quantities in the bath. Warm water opens up pores, making it easier to absorb harmful chemicals.
Was planning to do about post about Urine Therapy, when the thought struck me that someone should compile a list for the "weirdo"....friend or family we all have someone we know that lives outside the box. Some further then others. I'm that weirdo. This is my list. Of course....."weirdo" encompasses a lot of personality types. The generalization here is for any health-nut, antiestablishmentarian, creative person that's into alternative health, and pushing the boundaries of society.
10) A gallon of cooperatively farmed, cold-pressed, organic virgin coconut oil (TropicalTraditions.com)
This list is no particular order. All in all weirdo pretty much like anything. We're practical people that aren't hinged on materialism. We appreciate functional gifts....like socks, and flannel pajamas....even fruitcake. We're probably the easiest people to get gifts for. And, if you're short on cash...don't sweat it, bcuz we're creative-loving.......homemade cookies, a hand-written poem, hand-knit socks, coupons for hugs and massages..........are all warmly welcome! Avoid chotsky unless it's something with a lot of heart.....vintage snow-globes, are a good example. Goodwill is a good place to shop for weirdos!
These gifts are good for any basic weirdo. They probably are not anything the person would EXPECT, but are extremely useful and heartfelt! They'll say you put a lot of thought into it, and care about them greatly. They might not have ever thought these items were something they'd need, but they'll love them!
Add to this list!!! If you're a weirdo....................leave a comment of your favorite gifts.
Gonna start a new section called "Take5" for anything that involves a brief escape.
ManBabies.com is a site I came across that's straightforward and silly. Have to check it out. Wonder if there's one for mama's? BabyMamas.com? Probably already taken. It inspired me to do one of Baby James. I emailed it to the site a couple days ago. Maybe they'll post it.
Came across this video yesterday for the newest Nao Robot.
Fun? Entertaining? Useful? Scary? We've come a long way with technology, but have yet to embrace the 'personal robot', like we have the 'personal computer'. It's coming though. And...closer then you might think. Aldebaran (Nao) and many other companies such as Honda, are moving in to fill this consumer void, and usher in a whole new era in high-tech. Of course, no one I know can afford to drop $16,000.00 on a "toy", which is pretty much what Nao is. Is probably what Will Smith and Brangalina's kids will be getting for Christmas! Regular kids are stuck with $100 versions, covered in fur...that sit on a shelf and respond to pats, and simple phrases. They're slowly being primed to be the android generation....the way we were primed for computers.
Wasn't so long ago that computers were only available for business needs. They were designed and customized to perform very specific tasks, and owning one cost about the same as Nao is going for now. A few years ago, laptops were a luxury item in the range of $1500+. The same laptop can be purchased today for $250. Actually more computer, since we're now dealing in GIG and TERA bytes....not longer megabytes.
Okay, so maybe you won't have to worry about your kids demanding robots next year, but it will be on all your grandchildren's lists as an "expected" and highly necessary accouterment to their lifestyle!!! And...your kids (as adults) will be paving the path. Think about everything that's already leading in that direction.....like interactive home appliances. Fridges that tell you what foods you're running low on, calculate calories, and lock themselves to help you avoid snacking. Stoves that turn on while you're at work, and start cooking your dinner. Talking cars, that keep one en route are part of package. Everything linked up through blue tooth technology...to help you lead a more efficient and productive lifestyle. You can install cameras throughout your home, so you can log on and monitor your kids, pets, etc. Or, have an agency keep an eye on things for you. You can turn lights on and off, change television channels, and start dinner....all at the tap of a button. You can turn your car on, from the comfort of your home, or........turn it off, if someone is driving it that isn't supposed to be. You can track your children through their cellphones. Or, anyone else for that matter.
Robots are the missing link to really making our lives EASIER, and I see them being market as such. As maids, and errand boys. They'll move throughout the house picking up dirty clothes, washing, and drying them. RIDF labels placed on every item of clothing, will help your "robotic assistant" know who's clothes are whos, and which rooms to put them away in. They might not be able to prepare a gourmet meal, but if you have prepared meals in the fridge, you'll be able to program when to remove them from the fridge, and cook them in the oven. It will be able to set the table, and tell the kids when to eat! In fact....it might be able to take complete care of your children when you're not around. With built-in camera's for you, and security agencies to monitor through, built-in security features that signal 911 in an emergency, and maybe even with protective devices....such as stun-guns and laser...lol. You'll know you're children are safe and sound. They'll help them with their homework, tuck them into bed, read them a story, and.......feed the pets! Not to mention that you won't have to pay them (save the electricity and upgrades). Basically free, live-in assistants that you don't need an extra bedroom for.
And...ah, the versatility....It's a personal trainer that guides you through your workouts...an instant know-it-all on any subject. It will take dictation, help you write your memoirs, and keep your journal. It will video tape your entire existence, and that of your family, and....upload it to your blog if you like! It will keep track of your finances, prepare your tax returns, schedule your dentist appointments. Strap a rocket pack on it's back, and it can do your shopping! Cut your grass, vacuum your house, answer the phone. Load, unload, and put away the dishes....if it can reach the cupboards. Robots will be available in all shapes and sizes. Always wanted a pet, but didn't want the full responsibility of one? Allergic? No problem....with a robotic version that won't die when you ignore it for days or weeks. Lonely? Looking for a life-partner that's super low-maintenance? They're already on the assembly line...complete with desired skin-tones, hair, eye color, and shape preferred. Just pick the sex and enter your credit card number. Might not be something you take to meet your parents, but....plenty will be happy to sit at home with and snuggle...not to mention a host of other activities. All right around the corner.
Of course the flip-side is i-robot.....where they're all in place to turn on humans and force them into lock-down. Or....take over the world, like in the Matrix, where they decide to start using us as batteries to keep themselves powered. Not evil........just highly logical. Or, StarTrek....where we are ultimately assimilated into the technology ourselves. Part of the Hive. Either way......resistance is futile!!! Unless we're hiding out in the woods, and even then....expect regular visits from surveillance drones that fly by, keeping an eye on all us dissidents. Up until now.....technology has been something we choose to carry around and use. That will change without much notice....where we'll suddenly find that technology is carrying us around, and what that relationship demands from us, and.........whether or not our weight is "worthy". It all starts with some cute, little, talking toys, and cool gadgets.
These dolls have been around for a long time, marketed as blatant sex-dolls, and significant companions. Male versions are available...albeit nowhere near as refined. I saw them pushed at one point to women, with the idea that placing one in the passengers seat of a car...would reduce attacks, and harassment....or offer emotional support after a divorce, having someone to 'share the bed' with...for women that aren't yet comfortable with staying alone. Average prices for a good quality doll run around $5000. There are much cheaper, and much more expensive varieties, and I'm sure...great effort is going into linking up these soft-skinned, flexible, life-size dolls with robotics technology. Um....I think that's called "Android". Don't underestimate the SEVERE effect this will have on humans in general. We get attached to ridiculous, inanimate objects like stuffed animals, pillows, and Christmas ornaments. Draw two dots, and a smiley face on an orange....and given a few days on our desk.....we'll develop a "relationship" with it!! There are many cultures throughout history (including Mormons)...that omit faces from dolls & toys for some interesting reasons. Some believe that it teaches attachment to material items, that in turn creates "baggage" that distracts from the spiritual world. The other idea is that dolls without faces can't "feel" anything. So when children throw them around, torture them, and eventually lose them.....they aren't hurt and sad. Just an example of how we wrap ourselves up in so many, many things.
Our washing machine broke a couple months back. Started making this terrible grinding noise. After some searching online, figured out this is a common breakdown, and a fairly easy fix. Unless you have a fancy front-loader....I don't know about those.
TERRIBLE GRINDING NOISE IS MOST LIKELY A "COUPLER". HERE'S A GOOD VIDEO TO WALK YOU THROUGH IT.
We've got a Kenmore washer, so was easy to go pick up the part (same day) from a Sears Parts store nearby. Lots of options for ordering online though, if you can live without a washer for a week. This was a super easy fix. Only had to pull the washer out from the wall. Remove the exterior housing, and get down on the floor to do the main repair. All straightforward. Needed a second person to help get the motor back in place....replacing the motor clips. Needed some extra strength/force. Otherwise, did the whole repair myself and only took about 15 minutes. Half of those spent looking for the right size ratchet! PART COST $25. Compared to service call, or buying a new washer.......................Definitely worth it!!!!!!!!! Worked as good as new!
Yesterday....noticed that the agitator wasn't working right. If I put pressure on the top of the agitator it works fine. Searched online, and found out that the "Agitator Dogs" are worn out. 4 small plastic pieces that sit inside the agitator to make it move. Parts are super easy to come by (most are universal fit), so can either order online (and wait), or try any replacement parts center. Dogs cost about $10. So again, worth the fix to do it yourself!
Here's another good video to walk you through this QUICK FIX!
Got a few items yesterday....to help with staying organized. Not really 'feeling it'. In the past....I've been able to convince myself that there was some new method that would work wonders to kick my ass in gear on things. Like, new school supplies! Anyone remember that? Ah.....when it was easy for me to trust that reams of crisp paper, clean binders, duo-tangs (?), divider tabs......would catapult me to success as a student. Hmm. I think that's where the belief may have started? From there it shifts....some people thinking the more cleaning supplies and gadgets they have...the easier it will be to keep the house clean. The more beauty supplies on hand...the easier to work on gorgeousness. The more technology one is surrounded by...the easier to stay on the ball.
There's two detrimental thought processes going on here 1) That there's always things to ADDED to ones life to make things easier. and 2) That things are RIGHT in the moment, where we're at. The BETTER is always a point further down the road somewhere. The problem with that for me....is that I have a terrible belief solidified in my head, where I tend to PUT THINGS OFF UNTIL THE TIME & SITUATION IS RIGHT. And.....that never manifests to the IDEALS that I have set in my mind. I know it's a programmed belief....mere conditioning from the world around me, but it's a hard one to de-program from!!! What I've had to do instead....is change my ideals. Maybe it was my mom's collection of Architectural Digest magazines, but it my ideals as a child where unrealistically high! Compound that with a teenage girls ideas about being beautiful.....remembering that this back in the 80s when there was no room for flaws, fat, or failure. There were no punks, grunge, nerds, emo's. There was HOT or NOT. One was either popular, or............a complete REJECT. LOL. Times were tough if you're hair didn't feather just right, or you couldn't fit into standard jeans. I think the largest size back then was size 12, and was NOTHING to be proud of! I think I was size 12, when I was 12. I never fit the bill, or the painted on satin jeans! And I carried around this huge weight of disgust and self-loathing for myself for........God knows how long? Too long! I rebelled into different things, as un-perfect people do. Thank God for arts, and crafts, and nature.....the things that keep us grounded in ourselves.
I'm rambling, but.......PERFECTION is a twisted game with no winners. Don't underestimate it's power of distruction, and..........if you have children....be extra cautious of how you might be programming long-term shit into their precious, unconditional minds!!! I had to lecture Aunt Beth yesterday on something she was playing with James....asking him to pick his "favorite" hot wheels car out of pile. He's 21-months...and call me anal, but.....I saw it as detrimental. Beth thinks I'm crazy. I can't even explain it, but......picking a FAVORITE has a lot tied up in it. It starts one down an entirely different road of thinking! It works on developing the EGO, and that's not something that needs any reinforcement. In my humble opinion. Toys are toys, food is food, transportation is transportation, friends are friends.....playing "favorites" gets in the way. I don't support the process of sitting in ones mind....weighing out which friend is better then the others! Does that make any sense??? It's just an example of how dangerous everyday processes can be, especially where children are concerned. As programmed adults, it's super hard for us to see we're pre-programming our children. Maybe I'm being overly cautious, and this will end up biting me in the ass? I have to be super-conscious though. I don't want James' wasting the time I did.............setting himself up with IDEALS, which is actually setting ones self up for FAILURE....since perfection is unattainable. Blah, blah, blah.
My ideal now....not broken, but reduced severely...........is lots of quality time available for James and I to be present together, play, and explore, and grow. That involves some super, downsized lifestyle, with a minimal amount of material stuff in the way. I call it IKEA-syndrome. I love those tiny, little show spaces in IKEA......where everything is laid out perfectly (there's that thought again). The spaces are thoughtful, and artistic....simple, and flowing. A box with just the right amount of stuff to deal with. I'm kidding myself that it all wouldn't still be upside down at James' hands. Still, I find myself seriously attracted to the idea of 4 plates, 4 bowls, 4 knives, and spoons, etc. The minimal amount of nice, neat stuff.....with adequate storage!
I'm not the only one this appeals to, am I? 4 little place-mats, in a drawer with nice candle sticks, and beeswax tapers. Perfectly level-smooth floors, and a steam mop. Healthy plants, a vase of fresh flowers. Some beautiful, utilitarian pottery, the perfect salad bowl. One television, one dvd player, a luxurious set of bath towels. And..............like, that's it. Pretty much. Okay.....there's probably some Martha Stewart magazine mania showing through here. What would these spaces look like after an intense craft project, or after James got to the couch with his magic makers? Would it really be easier in a tiny space? Or, would be hell?? Total cabin fever, and tripping over stuff? My other ideal is an RV. Having the same minimalistic lifestyle, but MOBILE. Would it get any better/worse then that? I love the idea of never having to pack or unpack again! Just turn the key and go to some other fresh location!! Keep the energy moving....bugout when things get hectic or static.
I'm not really for the idea of living in a BOX, but.....if that's the common option....IKEA has the tools for doing it right. Or, it's the inspiration anyway. I love this photo with the 20'x20' cardboard apartment box! I think IKEA should actually sell these.....insulated, and weather-proof!! Have it delivered, dropped off the back of a truck, and move right in. Stack them up, or spread them around like Legos. And...............they should cost $5000. No more! Ready to plug into the grid, or with solar panels, and composting or incinerating toilet!!!!
Which leads to a new post..............the IDEAL that closest to my HEART (and has absolutely nothing to do with boxes at all)!!!!!
As far as I know....Squishybaff (a new novelty play powder, that when added to bath water turns it into a gelatinous mess)....is simply sodium polyacrylate... the same stuff that's inside baby diapers, that absorbs 300 times it's weight in liquid. You can save a lot of money by doing a goggle shopping search, and buying in bulk. Averaging about $15 dollars for 1 lb. of powder....That's a LOT bcuz the stuff is extremely lightweight. Probably add about 1/4 to 1/2 cup to a bath, and a little food coloring.
A years worth of Prep Food (
It inspired me to do one of Baby James. I emailed it to the site a couple days ago. Maybe they'll post it.
It will keep track of your finances, prepare your tax returns, schedule your dentist appointments. Strap a rocket pack on it's back, and it can do your shopping! Cut your grass, vacuum your house, answer the phone. Load, unload, and put away the dishes....if it can reach the cupboards. Robots will be available in all shapes and sizes. Always wanted a pet, but didn't want the full responsibility of one? Allergic? No problem....with a robotic version that won't die when you ignore it for days or weeks. Lonely? Looking for a life-partner that's super low-maintenance? They're already on the assembly line...complete with desired skin-tones, hair, eye color, and shape preferred. Just pick the sex and enter your credit card number. Might not be something you take to meet your parents, but....plenty will be happy to sit at home with and snuggle...not to mention a host of other activities. All right around the corner.
My ideal now....not broken, but reduced severely...........is lots of quality time available for James and I to be present together, play, and explore, and grow. That involves some super, downsized lifestyle, with a minimal amount of material stuff in the way. I call it IKEA-syndrome. I love those tiny, little show spaces in IKEA......where everything is laid out perfectly (there's that thought again). The spaces are thoughtful, and artistic....simple, and flowing. A box with just the right amount of stuff to deal with. I'm kidding myself that it all wouldn't still be upside down at James' hands. Still, I find myself seriously attracted to the idea of 4 plates, 4 bowls, 4 knives, and spoons, etc. The minimal amount of nice, neat stuff.....with adequate storage! 
