Featured

Teen Birth Rate in U.S. at All-Time Low: So is Total Birth Rate

December 21, 2010

Teen births in the United States reached a record low in 2009, as births to teenagers fell 6 percent from the previous year.

The birth rate for teens aged 15 to 19 dropped to 39.1 births per 1,000 teens in 2009, according to a new report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“One of the biggest highlights is the continuing decline in teen births — down to record lows,” said report co-author, Brady Hamilton, a statistician at CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics.

This number is the lowest level seen in almost seven decades

The decline in teen pregnancy is mainly because of a decrease in intercourse and increase in contraception.

“That doesn’t mean decreases in sexual activity, but just alternate intimacies that teenagers are discovering or rediscovering,” said Dr. Lawrence B. Friedman, a professor of pediatrics and director of the division of adolescent medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. “There is also increased use of effective contraception.”

In fact, the number of total births has also declined for the second year in a row, with the number of births falling from 4,247,694 in 2008 to 4,131,019 in 2009.

The CDC doesn’t suggest causes for their findings of this decrease but Hamilton said the ailing economy may be partly responsible for the lower overall birth rate.

More women are waiting longer to have babies, and factors such as education and career choices account for some of the delayed births.

“In addition, technology has allowed women to give birth later in life,” he said.

“People are getting pregnant later,” said Dr. Leo B. Twiggs, chairman of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. “And the birth rate is also falling due to the economic downturn.”

Other highlights of the report from CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics:

• The fertility rate dropped for the second straight year, falling from 68.6 births per 1,000 women in 2008 to 66.7 in 2009.

• The proportion of births to unmarried mothers increased to 41 percent of all births from 40.6 percent in 2008, but the total number of births to unmarried women fell for the first time since 1997.

• The birth rate for women in their early 20s fell 7 percent last year, the largest drop since 1973. A decline was also noted for women in their late 20s and 30s.

• The birth rate increased for women in their early 40s.

• Preterm births dropped for the third straight year to less than 12.2 percent.

• Cesarean deliveries rose to a record high of 32.9 percent in 2009, up from 32.3 a year earlier.

• Low birth weight deliveries remained almost the same at less than 8.2 percent in 2009, down slightly from the record high of 8.3 in 2006.

For more information on birth rates, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Featured

Happy Anniversary to Me! amotherworld Turns Three!

December 21, 2010

Three years ago, amotheworld was born. Three years!

The Boss was three years old and the Destroyer was eleven months old.

Why did I start amotherworld? At that time, there weren’t many mom blogs like there are today. They were few and far between, and I felt like there was a need to share my ideas with the webisphere.

I’m shocked to see how many mom blogs out there now – stunned. Like a dime a dozen. But back then, there weren’t many out there… and I wanted to share my voice. A blog was the perfect outlet.

But then I wanted to share others’ stories as well. The blog then turned into an online blogazine and ultimately magazine.

When I had my first son, I thought that some moms always looked like they had it together. Motherhood seemed to come so naturally to them.

I’d wonder, are they really enjoying motherhood like they appear to be?

I started writing the blog and after sharing my own stories and experiences, I saw a change in some of the women I knew personally. And I heard from many women around the world about their experiences.

After some prodding, these women started to magically open up. Like an epiphany, we all seemed to suddenly realize that we were all struggling to cope with all the challenges of motherhood.

Why were we so damn afraid to talk about it in the first place?

Part of it was cultural – we were “supposed” to know how to be a mom, just like our moms. We were supposed to be able to do it all, and do it all with a smile.

Part of it was womanly instinct – we were supposed to be natural at breastfeeding, changing diapers, dealing with screaming babies.

Part of it was fear of comparing – we didn’t want our friends to think that we were having a tough time while they were in complete bliss.

Part of it was fear of failure – we didn’t want to fail at being a mom.

The truth is, motherhood is the most challenging yet rewarding job many of us have ever had or will have.

Through my own journey into motherhood, I learned many valuable lessons that have helped me to grow into the woman that I am and always wanted to be.

Happy Anniversary 🙂

Desserts

Easy Gingerbread Cookie Recipe

December 20, 2010

Christmas isn’t Christmas without gingerbread! Whether you bake a house with your kids or buy a pre-made kit from the grocery store, gingerbread is a must-have during the holidays.

I prefer to make gingerbread cookies; it’s less time consuming than making a gingerbread house, and the kids can then help decorate them. Plus, this gingerbread cookie recipe is super easy to make!

Here is my easy recipe:

Easy Gingerbread Cookies

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1/4 cup fancy molasses
1/2 cup cooking molasses
5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Method

In a large bowl, beat butter with sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs and molasses. In another bowl, mix flour, ginger, baking soda and spices. Add the flour mixture into molasses mix in batches, mixing well and blending with hands if necessary.

Divide the dough into two flattened balls (discs). Wrap in plastic wrap and put in the fridge for a couple of hours.

Roll out dough to a 1/4″ thickness and cut into shapes using cookie cutters. Bake at 325F for about 10 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet or until edges are golden brown.

Royal Icing

1/3 cup pasteurized egg whites (buy a carton in the egg aisle)

1/2 tsp cream of tartar

4 cups sifted icing sugar

In a bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar on mixer until foamy. Gradually beat in icing sugar until stiff, about 5 minutes. When not using, cover with a damp cloth to prevent drying out. Add food colouring paste if you wish. Decorate the cookies by transferring the icing to a piping bag. Add candies or sprinkles right away before the icing dries.

Icing Sugar Glaze

1 1/2 cups icing sugar

2 tbsp milk

Mix icing sugar and milk until well blended. Tint glaze by adding a drop of food colouring. Decorate with sprinkles or candies before the glaze dries out.

Enjoy!

Entertainment

How the Grinch Stole Christmas the Musical Toronto: Review

December 18, 2010

You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch!

The classic Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is also a brilliant must-see Broadway musical for the whole family this holiday season.

Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small”, decides to steal Christmas away from the Who, an endlessly cheerful bunch bursting with holiday spirit in Whoville!

Grinch is played by the super-talented Stefan Karl, whose amazing performance wowed the audience. You may remember the father of four who starred in Nickelodeon’s TV series “Lazy Town” as villain Robbie Rotten.

Karl was a delight to watch, captivating in the demanding role and very grinchy! His portrayal of the famous character we grew up loving to hate-then-love, was by far the best I’ve seen. He especially wowed the audience when he started to interacts with the kids in the crowd!

Cindy-Lou Who, played by Carly Tamer and Brooke Boyd, was simply adorable! Both talented actresses have played Annie and I’m certain we will see much more of them in the future.

Bob Lauder, who played Old Max the Dog, narrated the musical and took us along for the amazing ride. He also sang a mean “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch”.

The costumes and set design were gorgeous – it felt like it jumped right out of the classic Dr. Seuss story book. Then when it started to snow in the theatre, it was simply magical!

The reaction from my kids and the others in the audience? Pure joy and delight!

I hadn’t been to the Sony Centre since it was called the O’Keefe. The centre was re-opened this season under the head of CEO Dan Brambilla. I had the pleasure of working with Brambilla at Livent Inc., which produced The Phantom of the Opera, Fosse and Ragtime.

Celebrate the holidays with this heart-warming Broadway Musical at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto from December 17 through December 30, 2010. Click here to find tickets!

Health

U.S. Government Bans Drop-Down Cribs: Canada Next?

December 17, 2010

The U.S. government is banning drop-side cribs after the deaths of more than 30 infants and toddlers in the past decade.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has voted unanimously to ban the manufacture, sale and re-sale of the cribs, which have a side rail that moves up and down, allowing parents to more easily lift their child from the crib.

Drop-side cribs have been around for decades but have come under much scrutiny over the past few years because of malfunctioning hardware, sometimes cheaper plastics, or assembly problems that can lead to the drop-side rail partially detaching from the crib.

When that happens, it can create a dangerous “V”-like gap between the mattress and side rail where a baby can get caught and suffocate or strangle.

The ban means those who own drop-side cribs won’t be able to sell them to a resale shop. Parents are urged to get rid of them immediately.

Parents who are unaware of the safety issues and past recalls often purchase the drop-down cribs due to the convenience. The cribs are designed to allow parents easy access for placing and removing infants and toddlers from the crib by lowering the side rail.

In order to prevent further injuries and deaths from these cribs, the CPSC unanimously voted to outlaw any manufacturing and resale of such cribs.

In November 2009, more than 2.1 million drop-side cribs in the U.S. and almost 1 million in Canada by Stork Craft Manufacturing were recalled. It was the biggest crib recall in U.S. history.

In Canada, a consumer safety bill passed in Parliament in Ottawa on Tuesday. When the bill comes into force in the next few months, the federal government will be able to order the recall of unsafe goods such as drop-side cribs.

At the moment, the Canadian government can only request a voluntary recall from manufacturers or distributors.

But it looks as if Canada will follow suit with a ban once the bill is in effect.

Books & Music

Best Christmas Movies: Top 15 Not So Christmas Movies List

December 15, 2010

by Shannon Lintott

While it is true that Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the classic Christmas movies like A Christmas Carol or The Grinch type movies, there are many fantastic Christmas themed movies that everyone can enjoy.

As December 25 approaches and Christmas songs begin playing in the mall, I have been thinking about what my favourite non-Christmas Christmas themed films are. Sometimes you want to celebrate the holidays without actually having to watch the same five films over and over again. Whether you need a break from the classics or you are looking for a new holiday favourite, here are my top 15 “not so Christmas” Christmas movies (in no particular order):

Top 15 Not So Christmas Movies List

Love Actually (2003, Romantic Comedy)

This isn’t only one of my favourite of favourites Christmas themed films; it’s also one of my favourite all-around movies of all time. With a stellar cast and brilliant characters left, right and maybe all too close and centre, you really can’t let this movie slip by you. The writing is fantastic and everyone can relate to at least one story or one character in this movie, even the kids and even the man folk. I don’t really suggest this as a family film though as there is some slight nakedness and a few sexual slams (aka jokes) but I think it’s very PG-13 worthy. A great laugh and a great heart warmer for all!

The Holiday (2006, Romantic Comedy)

That’s right, another romantic comedy! Who doesn’t feel a little more succumbed to rom coms this time of year? For me nothing makes me want to cuddle on the couch with a cup of tea more than 30 below freezing. Even if you are spared the harshness of winter, there is something about the holidays that makes your heart warm. One of those things may be this movie, The Holiday. If Kate Winslet and Jack Black don’t make you want to watch this already, how about being shocked by how much you will like Jude Law and Cameron Diaz.

I’m not usually a Jude fan but I love him in this role. He makes me grin like an idiot. A big, girly idiot. Jack is fantastic in this movie and really shows you a side of him that I am still stunned by every time I watch this movie. A little more couple-ie than Love Actually but I think the man will be pleased with Jack Black being involved. Once again, not so family-friendly but I’ll leave that to you.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (2005, Family/Fantasy)

Such an amazing story with generally good acting and the animals that steal the show (I love when they do that). Narnia is such an amazing family movie. Everyone loves something about these stories. There’s snow, there are polar bears, there’s good and evil and whatnot, but there’s also something very Christmas like about it all. Plus, Mr. Tumnus. Come on. That’s worth it right there. And there’s a lion. Brilliant. Not super scary but I’m not sure how younger kids would handle this movie. There are quite a bit of tears, some blood and fighting. Once again, I leave that to you.

Babes in Toyland (1986, Family/Musical)

This movie is hilarious! It’s one of my all-time favourites. Keanu Reeves and Drew Barrymore when they were really young is amazing enough but overall it’s just a very entertaining movie. It’s got “written for television” all over it. Yet, it’s a quirky adventure flick and a good one to put on while decorating or baking. If all else fails at least it will take you back to those crazy 80s. Family-friendly for sure!

Planes Trains and Automobiles (1987, Comedy)

A man is trying to get home for Thanksgiving and ends up with the worst travel partner ever. Nothing says the holidays or comedy quite like John Candy. Already you know it’s good. This is another classic John Candy film. So if that isn’t enough incentive: Steve Martin. End. It’s great! Not so family-friendly but it will guarantee to make you giggle.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989, Family/Comedy)

I wasn’t sure if this fell along the same classic lines as The Grinch for anyone else so I thought I would put it in here. I love this movie. To me and many others, it is as classic to the holidays as any other Christmas flick but I know it’s sometimes forgotten. Don’t forget. It’s hilarious. It’s entertaining. It’s pretty family-friendly too in my books.

Die Hard (1988, Action)

How could I not put this one in here? Not only is it one of the best action movies of all time but it’s Christmas themed! Win for everyone! I don’t have much else to say about it as I’m sure you’ve all seen it before but you can have some gunfights while still keeping the Christmas spirit alive and warm. Yippee-Ki-yay! I watched this when I was really young but there is some swearing here and there, nothing crazy though.

Lethal Weapon (1987, Action)

If Die Hard wasn’t enough action for you and you’re feeling traditional still why not continue your festivities towards this classic flick. Such a great movie. Not as good as Die Hard (in my books) but it will do. Oh yes, put this movie on and you will remember the good old days…when Mel wasn’t crazy yet. I mean, when you would sit on the couch Christmas Eve with the family and feel the holiday joy. I also watched this when I was young but once again, caution.

Edward Scissorhands (1990, Drama/Fantasy)

Such an amazing film and perfect for the holidays. It’s all about family, love, cheerfulness and Johnny Depp. What more is there to life really? I’m sure you’ve seen this but, once again, it is a nice break from the normal Christmas flicks but doesn’t stray too far away to make you feel like you’re skipping the classics on purpose. I think it’s family-friendly but Edward is pretty darn scary as it is so best to judge that for yourself.

The Shining (1990, Horror)

A little Jack Nicholson for the holidays is just what the doctor ordered. Plus, nothing says Christmas like hiding in the arms of someone you love, or maybe just that favourite pillow/blanket on the couch. It’s family-friendly…for a bit. Really though, not a family flick. Something good when you’re enjoying a nightcap though! Bailey’s anyone?

Kiss Kiss, Bang, Bang (2005, Action/Comedy)

If Jack and John aren’t enough to bring the holiday cheer why not add a little Robert to the mix? One of my new favourites and with just enough Christmas in it to make it to my list, the whole thing is hilarious and amazing. Val Kilmer is fantastic in this role and with Robert Downey Jr. added in this movie is a must-see during the holidays. The action is amazing and the comedy is pure. Hear those sleigh bells ringing…

Ghostbusters II (1989, Action/Comedy)

Another classic. Man, I love these movies! Plus I think this is my favourite of Ghostbuster series, mainly because it has Sigourney Weaver in it. Win. This movie was definitely part of my traditional Christmas programs while growing up. Pretty hilarious and with some ghost. Think of it as A Christmas Carol but with Bill Murray and a lot more jokes. You just can’t go wrong.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004, Drama/Romance)

This is one of my all-time favourite movies. The fact that it has some snow and maybe mentions the holidays and/or Christmas at some point (at least I think it does) was enough to make me put it on this list. It’s wintery for most of it so it counts. Kate Winslet and Jim Carey are fantastically amazing in this movie.

It’s a little heavy and will probably be boring for kids but there isn’t anything too awful in it. It’s not entirely a feel-good movie but it is when you take the time to think about it. It’s a thinking movie, I mean it’s entertaining but it’s more intense than any of the other films on this list. It’s still amazing. A nice change from the other holiday flicks.

Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001, Romantic Comedy)

Another of my all-time favourites, these movies make me laugh and laugh and laugh some more. I love Renee Zellweger as Bridget; it’s my favourite role for her. Colin Firth is a deliciously handsome touch and Hugh Grant is tolerable in this role. It suits him, I’ll say that (sorry Hugh fans).

It’s got some Christmas stuff here and there and is all about love and family and isn’t that just what the holidays are all about! Definitely a feel-good flick. Not so much for the whole family but I didn’t think it was that bad. I suppose it has a lot of swearing though. Best to take caution, it’s a good afternoon-while-wrapping-presents kind of film.

Happy Feet (2006, Family/Comedy)

You know what they say, save the best for last! I love heart love this movie. I always have. Penguins and dancing and singing. It’s so amazing! A well-done film with such a great story. Robin Williams is hilarious. The cast for this is actually really intense: Elijah Wood, Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, Hugo Weaving… The list goes on and on. Happy Feet is super awesome for the family. The whole family will love this movie. It will easily be a new holiday favourite if it isn’t already.

Well, there you have it. Get some hot chocolate in your favourite Christmas mug and grab a few holiday treats while you snuggle up to some of the best “not so Christmas” Christmas movies! Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all!

What is your favourite not-so-Christmas Christmas movie?

Follow Shannon Lintott on Twitter.

Health

Biggest Loser Meal Plan: How the Contestants Keep the Weight Off

December 15, 2010

biggest loser winner 2010, biggest loser meal plan

Who is the Biggest Loser Winner 2010?

Patrick House, the 28-year-old Mississippi father!

He lost 181 pounds, a whopping 45.25 percent of his starting body weight. Starting the show at 400 pounds, he leaves weighing 219 pounds and with $250,000 in his pocket.

How did he do it? How do the other Biggest Loser winners keep the weight off at home?

Ada, Elizabeth and Patrick, “Biggest Loser” finalists, have been using The Biggest Loser Meal Plan by eDiets at home to help ensure they get the right nutrition and calories to lose weight in time for the season finale and win the $250,000 prize.

Nutritious, calorie-controlled meals are delivered to their door which makes keeping the pounds off easy.

“I don’t have to stare at my cabinets trying to figure out what to eat. I don’t have to weigh food or measure,” Patrick said. “It’s quick; it’s simple; it’s awesome and I know exactly the nutrition that I’m putting into my body.”

“The Biggest Loser Meal plan makes it easier. It’s more convenient, I don’t have to think about it and I know exactly what I’m eating!” said Ada, a finalist who admitted that portion control had been an issue for her before this contest.

The Biggest Loser Meal Plan by eDiets is licensed through NBC Universal Television Consumer Products Group and Reveille LLC.

‘The Biggest Loser’ returns on Jan. 4, and the theme for the next season is “Couples.”

Christmas

Christmas Memories: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly!

December 14, 2010

My childhood wasn’t always the greatest so neither were the holidays.

My Mom always did her best and we never did without – at least we didn’t feel it. But then there was my Dad… inevitably he would be drunk by noon and so the family drama would ensue. Everyone, including Granny would be in tears by dinner. Fun times.

When I had my son, I always swore that we would have the best Christmases ever and I think we succeeded. At least he won’t have any drunken stories to tell. We had our rituals, like every other family, and treasured those each and every year.

I was usually the first one up. I would be so excited… light up the tree, get everything ready, then wake them up. I never put out presents until after son went to bed on Christmas Eve because Santa hadn’t come yet… the look on his face every year was priceless. I loved the whole day. I would always try to stretch it out – open the stockings first, have a juice and coffee break , and then go downstairs to the tree.

A huge brunch was always next, clean up then off to a family dinner. I thought I had scarred him for life once by leaving out some presents early by mistake. I had a friend write on the Santa cards so they wouldn’t be in my hand writing. I made up a story about elves and early delivery crap but I felt I had just made the biggest Mom fail EVER – he doesn’t even remember that now.

When my son was a teen, he befriended a ‘hoodlum’. When he first brought him home I was a little shocked because son didn’t usually hang with people like ‘this’.

Major tattoos everywhere, stretched ears and of course, spiked hair. If you met him in a dark alley, you might just panic. But as I got to know Mikey, I was reminded to trust my son because he always had and still does have great judgment for people. He became a fixture around the house and called me Mom along with the rest of my son’s buddies.

With the holidays coming I asked my son what Mikey, who was 16, was doing. I found out he had pretty much been living on his own since about 12 and didn’t have anywhere to go for Christmas.

With only a few days to go, I had work to do and I was in my glory! I went out and bought almost as many gifts for Mike as for son that year, complete with a stocking.

On Christmas Eve I asked my son when Mike was coming. “Sorry Mom, but he isn’t, said he doesn’t feel right.” I went to bed upset and still felt same in the morning.

We all looked at our stuff but didn’t want to touch it – not even open our stockings. I said that’s it! We got in the car and drove a half-hour to his place and started banging on his door. I told him I wasn’t leaving until he came with us.

Finally, he shyly relented with a smile and got in the car. The looks on his face that day are the most priceless moments I’ll never forget.

I don’t think he ever had an over-flowing stocking before or lots of boxes under the tree, but he sure did that year. He would blush and get all embarrassed every time he was handed a gift. It warmed all of our hearts too, just seeing that smile we had come to love – that would have scared many!

Christmas past brings me back to now and why I’m not crazy on Christmas present. I’m at my best when I’m doing for others… whether it be shopping, wrapping, cooking – that’s when I’m happiest. I don’t have that anymore and it’s hard at this time of year.

My marital status has changed after 25 years and so have the sibling’s get-togethers. It used to be that ALL the family was there; now it’s too big and it’s just not the same.

I guess it’s just this time of year that reminds us single ones, with grown kids, that we’re not so needed anymore.

On a positive note, I say – come on grandkids! I’m very grateful though. My son is always with me for dinner – he’s such a keeper!

Cherish the moments when your little ones are young – they grow up way too fast.

Dianne Preston aka @smilenwaven is a proud Mom, first and foremost. Her son inherited his musical passion from her but thankfully he has talent! Dianne has worked in the admin world for most of her working years and now has a home-based typing, errand service. She loves music/concerts, antiques, Scrabble, cooking and being with friends, including her Mom. She worked as an associate-editor for two small newspapers and was married 25 years, but has since moved on and loving her ‘new life’ at the moment.

Entertainment

Golden Globe Nominations Announced!

December 14, 2010

The 68th Annual Golden Globe Awards nominations were announced today by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association.

Ricky Gervais will return to host the Golden Globes, airing living on January 16, 2011 on NBC.

Here are the nominees for the 2011 Golden Globe Awards!

1. BEST MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA

a.    BLACK SWAN Protozoa Pictures & Cross Creek Pictures & Phoenix; Fox Searchlight Pictures
b.    THE FIGHTER Paramount Pictures and Relativity Media; Paramount Pictures and Relativity Media
c.    INCEPTION Warner Bros. Pictures UK LTD.; Warner Bros. Pictures
d.    THE KING’S SPEECH See-Saw Films and Bedlam Productions; The Weinstein Company
e.    THE SOCIAL NETWORK Columbia Pictures; Sony Pictures Releasing

2. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA

a.    HALLE BERRY             FRANKIE AND ALICE
b.    NICOLE KIDMAN            RABBIT HOLE
c.    JENNIFER LAWRENCE        WINTER’S BONE
d.    NATALIE PORTMAN        BLACK SWAN
e.    MICHELLE WILLIAMS        BLUE VALENTINE

3. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA

a.    JESSE EISENBERG        THE SOCIAL NETWORK
b.    COLIN FIRTH            THE KING’S SPEECH
c.    JAMES FRANCO            127 HOURS
d.    RYAN GOSLING    BLUE VALENTINE
e.    MARK WAHLBERG        THE FIGHTER

4. BEST MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

a.    ALICE IN WONDERLAND Walt Disney Pictures; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
b.    BURLESQUE Screen Gems; Sony Pictures Releasing
c.    THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT Antidote Films, Mandalay Vision, Gilbert Films; Focus Features
d.    RED di Bonaventura Pictures; Summit Entertainment
e.    THE TOURIST GK Films; Sony Pictures Releasing

5. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

a.    ANNETTE BENING        THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT
b.    ANNE HATHAWAY        LOVE AND OTHER DRUGS
c.    ANGELINA JOLIE            THE TOURIST
d.    JULIANNE MOORE    THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT
e.    EMMA STONE            EASY A

6. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

a.    JOHNNY DEPP            ALICE IN WONDERLAND
b.    JOHNNY DEPP            THE TOURIST
c.    PAUL GIAMATTI            BARNEY’S VERSION
d.    JAKE GYLLENHAAL    LOVE AND OTHER DRUGS
e.    KEVIN SPACEY            CASINO JACK

7. BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM

a.    DESPICABLE ME Universal Pictures, Illumination Entertainment; Universal Pictures
b.    HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON DreamWorks Animation; Paramount Pictures
c.    THE ILLUSIONIST Django Films, Ciné B and France 3 Cinéma; Sony Pictures Classics
d.    TANGLED Walt Disney Animation Studios; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
e.    TOY STORY 3 Disney * Pixar; Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

8. BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM

a.    BIUTIFUL                         (MEXICO/SPAIN)
b.    THE CONCERT                    (FRANCE)
c.    THE EDGE                         (RUSSIA)
d.    I AM LOVE                         (ITALY)
e.    IN A BETTER WORLD                (DENMARK)

9. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MOTION PICTURE

a.    AMY ADAMS            THE FIGHTER
b.    HELENA BONHAM CARTER    THE KING’S SPEECH
c.    MILA KUNIS    BLACK SWAN
d.   MELISSA LEO             THE FIGHTER
e.    JACKI WEAVER            ANIMAL KINGDOM

10. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MOTION PICTURE

a.    CHRISTIAN BALE    THE FIGHTER
b.    MICHAEL DOUGLAS      WALL STREET: MONEY NEVER SLEEPS
c.    ANDREW GARFIELD     THE SOCIAL NETWORK
d.    JEREMY RENNER    THE TOWN
e.    GEOFFREY RUSH    THE KING’S SPEECH

11. BEST DIRECTOR – MOTION PICTURE

a.    DARREN ARONOFSKY        BLACK SWAN
b.    DAVID FINCHER            THE SOCIAL NETWORK
c.    TOM HOOPER            THE KING’S SPEECH
d.    CHRISTOPHER NOLAN        INCEPTION
e.    DAVID O. RUSSELL        THE FIGHTER

12. BEST SCREENPLAY – MOTION PICTURE

a.    DANNY BOYLE, SIMON BEAUFOY 127 HOURS
b.    LISA CHOLODENKO,  STUART BLUMBERG     THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT
c.    CHRISTOPHER NOLAN        INCEPTION
d.    DAVID SEIDLER             THE KING’S SPEECH
e.    AARON SORKIN            THE SOCIAL NETWORK

13. BEST ORIGINAL SCORE – MOTION PICTURE

a.    ALEXANDRE DESPLAT        THE KING’S SPEECH
b.    DANNY ELFMAN            ALICE IN WONDERLAND
c.    A.R. RAHMAN            127 HOURS
d.    TRENT REZNOR, ATTICUS ROSS            THE SOCIAL NETWORK
e.    HANS ZIMMER    INCEPTION

14. BEST ORIGINAL SONG – MOTION PICTURE

a.    “BOUND TO YOU” — BURLESQUE Music by: Samuel Dixon Lyrics by: Christina Aguilera, Sia Furler
b.    “COMING HOME” — COUNTRY STRONG Music & Lyrics by: Bob DiPiero, Tom Douglas, Hillary Lindsey, Troy Verges
c.    “I SEE THE LIGHT” — TANGLED Music by: Alan Menken Lyrics by: Glenn Slater
d.    “THERE’S A PLACE FOR US” — CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TREADER Music & Lyrics by: Carrie Underwood, David Hodges, Hillary Lindsey
e.    “YOU HAVEN’T SEEN THE LAST OF ME” — BURLESQUE Music & Lyrics by: Diane Warren

15. BEST TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

a.    BOARDWALK EMPIRE (HBO)
b.    DEXTER (SHOWTIME)
c.    THE GOOD WIFE (CBS)
d.    MAD MEN (AMC)
e.    THE WALKING DEAD (AMC)

16. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

a.    JULIANNA MARGULIES        THE GOOD WIFE
b.    ELISABETH MOSS            MAD MEN
c.    PIPER PERABO            COVERT AFFAIRS
d.    KATEY SAGAL            SONS OF ANARCHY
e.    KYRA SEDGWICK            THE CLOSER

17. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

a.    STEVE BUSCEMI            BOARDWALK EMPIRE
b.    BRYAN CRANSTON         BREAKING BAD
c.    MICHAEL C. HALL         DEXTER
d.    JON HAMM                MAD MEN
e.    HUGH LAURIE            HOUSE

18. BEST TELEVISION SERIES – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

a.    30 ROCK (NBC)
b.    THE BIG BANG THEORY (CBS) Warner Bros. Television
c.    THE BIG C (SHOWTIME)
d.    GLEE (FOX)
e.    MODERN FAMILY (ABC)
f.   NURSE JACKIE (SHOWTIME)

19. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES –COMEDY OR MUSICAL

a.    TONI COLLETTE            UNITED STATES OF TARA
b.    EDIE FALCO            NURSE JACKIE
c.    TINA FEY                30 ROCK
d.    LAURA LINNEY            THE BIG C
e.    LEA MICHELE            GLEE

20. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

a.    ALEC BALDWIN            30 ROCK
b.    STEVE CARELL            THE OFFICE
c.    THOMAS JANE            HUNG
d.    MATTHEW MORRISON        GLEE
e.    JIM PARSONS            THE BIG BANG THEORY

21. BEST MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

a.    CARLOS (SUNDANCE CHANNEL)
b.    THE PACIFIC (HBO)
c.    PILLARS OF THE EARTH (STARZ)
d.    TEMPLE GRANDIN (HBO)
e.    YOU DON’T KNOW JACK (HBO)

22. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

a.    HAYLEY ATWELL            PILLARS OF THE EARTH
b.    CLAIRE DANES            TEMPLE GRANDIN
c.    JUDI DENCH            RETURN TO CRANFORD
d.    ROMOLA GARAI            EMMA
e.    JENNIFER LOVE HEWITT    THE CLIENT LIST

23. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

a.    IDRIS ELBA                LUTHER
b.    IAN MCSHANE            PILLARS OF THE EARTH
c.   AL PACINO                YOU DON’T KNOW JACK
d.    DENNIS QUAID            THE SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP
e.    EDGAR RAMIREZ            CARLOS

24. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

a.    HOPE DAVIS            THE SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP
b.    JANE LYNCH            GLEE
c.    KELLY MACDONALD        BOARDWALK EMPIRE
d.    JULIA STILES            DEXTER
e.    SOFIA VERGARA            MODERN FAMILY

25. BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

a.    SCOTT CAAN            HAWAII FIVE-O
b.    CHRIS COLFER            GLEE
c.    CHRIS NOTH            THE GOOD WIFE
d.    ERIC STONESTREET        MODERN FAMILY
e.    DAVID STRATHAIRN        TEMPLE GRANDIN

Entertainment

Good News for Parents of Kids Who Like Video Games?

December 13, 2010

You’ve probably asked yourself this question at least once: should I let my kids play video games?

A new study has found that people who play fast action games are able to more quickly process information and make correct decisions.

Video game players develop heightened sensitivity to what is happening around them, training them make the right decisions faster, according to new research by cognitive scientists from the University of Rochester.

Playing games also improves a wide variety of general skills that can help with everyday activities like multitasking, driving, reading small print, keeping track of friends in a crowd, and navigating around town.

“You would not think playing action games could be beneficial by watching an avid player blast monsters,” said Daphne Bavelier, researcher at the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Rochester.

“Yet, our research shows that these individuals learn through action gameplay how to make more informed decisions about their surroundings. They react extremely fast to events around them, but they are not trigger happy. Rather, our work shows that their brains are just better at processing the information they need to perform the task at hand.”

Dozens of 18- to 25-year-olds who were not ordinarily video game players were tested and subjects were split into two groups. One group played 50 hours of the fast-paced action video games Call of Duty 2 and Unreal Tournament, and the other group played 50 hours of the slow-moving strategy game The Sims 2.

After the training period, players were asked to make quick decisions in several tasks designed by the researchers. In the tasks, the players were to look at a screen, analyze what was going on, and answer a simple question about the action in as little time as possible – both visual and auditory.

The action game players were up to 25 percent faster at coming to a conclusion and answered just as many questions correctly as their strategy game playing peers. Bavelier said these results did not show that the action game players are trigger-happy and less accurate. In fact, they are just as accurate and also faster.

“Being able to make more correct decisions per unit of times could give you an edge in many real-life situations,” said Bavelier. “There are already reports in the literature of gamers being better laparoscopic surgeons, better air traffic controllers, better pilots, and better soldiers in battle.”

Action video game players are more efficient at collecting the visual and auditory information they need to make a decision much faster than non-gamers.

Video games may be okay in moderation but it’s always best to remember that there are also harmful effects to playing video games as well.

amw

Easy Gingerbread Cookies

Ingredients

Method

Royal Icing

Icing Sugar Glaze

by Shannon Lintott

Top 15 Not So Christmas Movies List

Love Actually (2003, Romantic Comedy)

The Holiday (2006, Romantic Comedy)

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (2005, Family/Fantasy)

Babes in Toyland (1986, Family/Musical)

Planes Trains and Automobiles (1987, Comedy)

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989, Family/Comedy)

Die Hard (1988, Action)

Lethal Weapon (1987, Action)

Edward Scissorhands (1990, Drama/Fantasy)

The Shining (1990, Horror)

Kiss Kiss, Bang, Bang (2005, Action/Comedy)

Ghostbusters II (1989, Action/Comedy)

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004, Drama/Romance)

Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001, Romantic Comedy)

Happy Feet (2006, Family/Comedy)

What is your favourite not-so-Christmas Christmas movie?