Articles written by Joanne LaSpina

Joanne LaSpina, Joanne LaSpina

All 59 articles written by Joanne LaSpina



Flu Vaccine and Egg Allergies: Flu Shots Contain Egg Protein Which May Lead to Allergic Reaction

Category: Food Allergies

While the flu vaccine is getting widespread support, it can be dangerous for a select population. Those with an allergy to egg may not be able to get the suggested shot. more...

Best Book Club Books for the Holidays: Seek Out a Seasonal Read for Book Group

Category: Book Clubs

Consider a holiday themed book during the hectic months of November and December. A discussion with book club friends is a great way to reduce stress this season. more...

Organize a Classroom Halloween or Fall Party: Take on the Task of Planning a Class Party With Confidence

Category: Kids Holiday Activities

Parents of elementary aged students often participate in the planning of a fall or Halloween celebration for the class. Check out these suggestions for a great party. more...

Make Granola Bars From Scratch: Homemade Oat Snack Tastes Great and Can Be Much Healthier

Category: Recipes (general)

Granola bars can be a healthy breakfast or snack. Make them from scratch and use nutritious ingredients for a healthy food choice. more...

Pumpkin Carving 101: Creating a Jack-O-Lantern is a Favorite Ritual For Many Families

Category: Crafts (general)

Halloween is the season for carving pumpkins. Create a simple or elaborate jack-o-lantern using these tips. more...

Take Care of Your Hair: Use a Hair Mask for Healthy Shiny Tresses

Category: Beauty Treatments

Mix up an at-home hair mask filled with proteins and other vitamins and minerals vital for a healthy head of locks. more...

Maintain a Housekeeping Schedule: Creating a Routine for Household Tasks Saves Time and Frustration

Category: Home Organization

Schedules and routines in housekeeping will help maintain a healthy, safe and comfortable environment for those who live in the home. more...

Eat More Whole Grains: A Healthy Diet Includes All Three Parts of the Grain

Category: Food Trends (general)

Be a wise consumer when it comes to choosing healthy foods. Don't be fooled by bread that looks brown and grainy. Get the real deal when it comes to whole grains. more...

Host a Neighborhood Halloween Party: Plan a Get-Together for Neighbors to Celebrate The Spookiest Holiday

Category: Holiday Entertaining

Fall is a great time to spend with neighbors and friends. Plan an event to get fellow neighborhood trick-or-treaters together for a fun Halloween party. more...

How Long to Keep Important Papers: Know Which Documents to Hold Forever and Which to Throw Away

Category: Home Organization

If the filing cabinets are bulging, it's time to take a look at the papers inside. Knowing what to keep and what to get rid of is the key to home office organization. more...

How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies: Fruit Flies Swarming the Kitchen Can Carry Bacteria

Category: Flying Insects

Fruit flies can be a year-round problem, but they especially thrive during the late summer and early fall around ripened fruit. Keeping ahead of them can be challenging. more...

Keep the Dryer Vent Clean: Clothes Dryer Fires Can be Prevented with Simple Maintenance Tips

Category: Home Owner Tips

Follow a few simple maintenance tips to decrease the chance of a house fire caused by the clothes dryer. more...

How to Brine a Turkey: The Key to a Moist Delicious Turkey is a Soak in a Brine Solution

Category: Seasonal Cooking (general)

Brine your next turkey in a salt and water solution. The soaking causes the meat to plump and retain more juices while cooking. The result is a juicy, flavorful bird. more...

50 Million Pound Challenge: Lose Weight and Get Fit Through This Online Phenomenon

Category: Weight Loss Motivators

Dr. Ian Smith is determined to make the United States lighter through his motivational website that inspires Americans to lose a total of fifty million pounds. more...

Food Allergy Myths: Misconceptions About Food Sensitivities Leads to Misunderstandings

Category: Food Allergies

There are many mistaken beliefs about food allergies. Check out these food allergy myths to gain a better understanding about this common medical issue. more...

Dining at Hersheypark: Plan Snacks and Meals Before a Visit to Hershey's Amusement Park

Category: Pennsylvania Travel

From packing a lunch, to eating in the park, to visiting a restaurant in the surrounding area, Hersheypark offers many options for visitors. more...

Free Services at Public Libraries: Libraries Offer Many No or Low-Cost Benefits for Users of All Ages

Category: Literary Culture (general)

Since the first U.S. public library was established in 1848, libraries have been providing free services. more...

Fall is Ragweed Allergy Season: Hay Fever Symptoms Surface in August and Last Until the First Frost

Category: Fall Allergies

The end of summer brings sneezing and itchy eyes to the 36 million Americans with a sensitivity to ragweed. Identify and treat the symptoms of this common allergy. more...

How to Use an EpiPen®: Treat an Allergic Reaction With an Injection of Epinephrine

Category: Allergies (general)

An anaphylactic reaction from food, insect stings, drugs, latex or other substances can be deadly. Prompt use of epinephrine with an auto-injector can save a life. more...

A Clean Bedroom Helps Those With Dust Allergy: Minimizing Dust in Bedroom is Key to Managing Dust Allergies

Category: Indoor Allergies

The waste products of a microscopic creature called dust mites makes millions of people sneeze and cough. Reducing dust in the bedroom helps lessen symptoms. more...

Free Money for Schools: Match Companies With Families to Help Schools Earn Money

Category: Extra-Curricular Issues

It is harder than ever for parent groups to raise money through sales of wrapping paper and food. Shopping certain stores or buying specific products can raise big bucks. more...

Ocean City New Jersey Vacation: Visit this South Jersey Beach for Unforgettable Family Fun

Category: New Jersey Travel

Known as "America's Greatest Family Resort", Ocean City New Jersey offers miles of sandy beaches, a 2.5 mile boardwalk, shopping, dining, amusements and more. more...

How to Get Children to do Household Chores: Help Your Kids With Age Appropriate Jobs Around the House

Category: Parenting Methods (general)

Chores teach responsibility, respect and resourcefulness. Over summer break, help your kids come up with a list of chores they can manage. more...

Food Allergy Awareness Week: "Take Action, Prevent Reactions" is 2009 Theme

Category: Food Allergies

In 1997, the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network designated one week in May for food allergy education . The 12th annual U.S. awareness week runs May 10-17, 2009. more...

Wii Fit Accessories: Check Out The Add-Ons For Nintendo's Popular Fitness Balance Board

Category: Sports Games

Wii Fit by Nintendo continues to be one of the hottest fitness games around. To get the most from your game, consider these accessories. more...

Allergy Drops vs Allergy Shots: Immunotherapy Treatment for Allergies

Category: Allergies (general)

Injections and oral drops are two forms of immunotherapy used to treat allergies. Be informed of the advantages and disadvantages of each before talking to your doctor. more...

Basement Floor Options: Get To Know Your Basement Before Choosing a Floor Covering

Category: Interior Decorating (general)

There are many alternatives available for basement floors. Consider the use and physical condition of the area and then select the best option for the space. more...

Egg-Free Baking: Allergies to Eggs Means Finding Substitutes That Work in Baked Goods

Category: Baking & Desserts (general)

Eggs are a major ingredient in most baked goods. They add moisture and rise to many foods. If you can't use eggs due to allergies, finding a substitute is essential. more...

Traveling by Plane with Food Allergies: With Advance Planning, Air Travel with Allergies can be Safe

Category: Food Allergies

It is scary to think about a serious allergic reaction 30,000 feet above the nearest hospital. Planning and clear communication are essential to ensure a safe flight. more...

Food Allergy Hidden Dangers: Food Sensitive? Avoiding Common Non-Foods Will Keep You Healthy

Category: Food Allergies

Reading labels is essential for people with food allergies. Be aware of the many food allergens hidden in non-food products. Read every label. more...

Best Thanksgiving Centerpieces: Decorate a Festive Table This Holiday Season

Category: Holiday Entertaining

While much of the attention on Thanksgiving Day is focused around a browned juicy turkey, a beautiful centerpiece is a reminder of the specialness of the day. more...

What is Daylight Saving Time?: Changing the Clocks Twice a Year Has a Long History

Category: International Affairs (general)

Spring ahead and fall back is a well-known mantra referring to turning of clocks throughout the year. Find out why and when daylight saving time is observed. more...

What to Do When A Loved One Dies: Important Steps to Take When a Family Member or Friend Passes Away

Category: Personal Development (general)

While grieving the death of a family member or friend, the experience can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are some effective methods for coping with death. more...

How to Get Rid of Head Lice: An Infestation of Lice Causes Disrpution to Homes and Schools

Category: Dermatological Treatments

Discovering a human parasite living in your home and on your person is disturbing and disruptive. Learn how to combat a lice attack and what to do to prevent another one. more...

Journey's Comeback: The 80's Rock Band Returns: A New Lead Singer Leads the Band Journey Back into the Music Scene

Category: Classic Rock Music 70s-90s

Classic rock band, Journey, has gone through changes over the years. They re-emerge with a new lead singer to bring back a familiar, yet new, mix of sounds. more...

Plant an Indoor Herb Garden: Create an Area of Beauty and Fragrance with Herbal Plants

Category: Houseplants (general)

Fresh herbs are expensive at the grocery store and often require purchasing much more than is needed. Plan to grow your own herbs indoors this winter. more...

Plantar Warts: Growths on the Bottom of the Foot Can be Annoying and Painful

Category: Diseases/Viruses

This common ailment affects children and adults. Understanding the causes, diagnosis and treatment of a plantar wart will assist in preventing the spread of this virus. more...

Bake Your Own Sandwich Rolls: Forget Packaged Rolls and Fill The House With the Aroma of Bread

Category: Recipes (general)

Baking sandwich rolls from scratch is a cinch with this easy recipe. more...

Is it Flu, Allergies or the Common Cold?: Know the Symptoms for Colds, Influenza and Allergic Rhinitis

Category: General Medicine (general)

Become knowledgeable about the differences between the symptoms associated with the flu, the common cold and allergies. more...

Food Allergy Resources: Find Reliable and Helpful Information about Food Allergies

Category: Food Allergies

A food allergy diagnosis can be overwhelming. Finding books, safe food and other resources is a must for those who need reliable information quickly. more...

Mold Allergy Symptoms and Prevention: An Allergy to Mold may Cause On-Going Health Concerns

Category: Indoor Allergies

Some molds, such as penicillin, are helpful. Others, such as black molds, have toxic qualities. Any mold detected in the home should be removed quickly before it spreads. more...

Fun Halloween Foods: Create a Spooky Meal for Halloween Celebrations

Category: Party Food Recipes

October provides the perfect opportunity to whip up some ingredients for fun Halloween food. Check out some of these ghoulish recipes for a howlin' good time. more...

Recommendations for Swine Flu Vaccine: Government Agencies and Medical Boards Weigh in on H1N1 Shot

Category: Diseases/Viruses

The Food and Drug Administration has just cleared the H1N1 vaccine for public use. Know the facts before making a decision about this preventative vaccination. more...

Easy No-Sew Halloween Costumes: Homemade Costumes for Young Trick-or-Treaters are Simple to Make

Category: Parenting Resources (general)

Halloween costumes for youngsters need not be expensive, store bought, elaborate creations. Anyone can use items from around the house to create easy, adorable designs. more...

Pre-Paid Cell Phone for Tweens: A Pre-Paid Phone Plan Teaches Responsibility and Accountability

Category: Tween Communication

There are many options when choosing a cell phone plan for a tween. Consider a pre-paid plan as a way to save money and to teach tweens accountability for their phone use more...

Back to School With Food Allergies: Plan Now for a Successful School Year For Your Food Allergic Child

Category: Food Allergies

School has many challenges for students who deal with life-threatening food allergies. Planning and communication are the key to a safe school experience. more...

Visit Adventure Aquarium in Camden New Jersey: Visit NJ's Sharks, Penguins, Jellyfish and Other Sea-creatures

Category: New Jersey Travel

Spend a day at Camden's Adventure Aquarium where visitors find education and entertainment at every turn. more...

Tour the Gettysburg Battlefield: The Civil War Comes to Life at Gettysburg National Military Park

Category: Pennsylvania Travel

The Gettysburg National Military Park offers a variety of ways to learn and experience the culture and history of the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg. more...

First Aid for Venomous Stings and Bites: Bee Stings and Spider Bites Require Specific Treatment and Attention

Category: First Aid

Know the difference between venomous and non-venomous insect stings and spider bites to provide first aid promptly. more...

Dairy and Egg Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake: A Fudgy Moist Chocolate Cake Perfect for Food Allergies

Category: Food Allergies

Baking cakes without dairy and eggs is simple with this easy recipe. It makes an elegant frosted two-layer cake or fun cupcakes for a child's birthday party. more...

Cape May-Lewes Ferry: Travel Between New Jersey and Delaware Aboard the Ferry

Category: New Jersey Travel

The 80 minute cruise from Cape May, New Jersey to Lewes, Delaware saves hours in drive time while providing an enjoyable and memorable experience for passengers. more...

HARO – Help a Reporter Out: This Free Tool is Valuable for Writers Seeking Experts on any Topic

Category: Resources for Writers (general)

With the idea that "everyone is an expert at something", Peter Shankman has helped thousands of writers by connecting them to sources. more...

A Trip to the Philadelphia Zoo: Plan a Visit to Philadelphia's Zoo This Summer

Category: Pennsylvania Travel

The first zoo in America opened in Philadelphia on July 1, 1874 with 813 animals. Today, more than 1.2 million visitors come to see over 1300 animals every year. more...

CareCalendar to Help Family and Friends in Need: This Online Calendar is a Timesaver when Trying to Assist Others

Category: Caregiver Resources

Ever coordinate meals to help a neighbor following the birth of a baby or tried to arrange rides for a friend after surgery? Turn to this resource for easy organizing. more...

Best Vacuum Cleaners for Dust Allergies: Allergic to Dust Mites? Keeping Floors Free of Dust is Essential

Category: Indoor Allergies

Dust mites are microscopic creatures that cause sneezing, itchy eyes and stuffy noses for millions of people. Dust mites thrive in warm areas and they love carpets. more...

Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Management Act: What You Need to Know About U.S. Senate Bill 456

Category: Food Allergies

Food allergies in children continue to rise dramatically. Schools and early childhood centers need clear guidelines about the management of food allergic children. more...

Celebrate 25th Annual Meatout, March 20, 2009: Since 1985, Many Celebrate Spring by "Kicking the Meat Habit"

Category: Vegetarian Issues

"Change Your Diet - Change the World" is the 2009 slogan for Meatout, the world's largest and oldest annual grassroots diet education campaign. more...

Family Vacation to Canada's Niagara Falls: A Trip to This Natural Wonder Will Delight Adults and Kids Alike

Category: Ontario Travel

Simplify your planning with a Niagara Falls and Great Gorge Adventure Pass. This pass gets your family into the best attractions in the area for one great price. more...

Free Family Fun in Orlando Florida: Visit Family-Friendly Orlando Attractions without Spending a Cent

Category: Florida Travel

A family vacation to Orlando Florida doesn't require taking out a second mortgage. Add these nine free family friendly attractions to your vacation itinerary. more...



Joanne LaSpina's articles How to subscribe to Joanne LaSpina's article feed