[NFBOH-Cleveland] Fwd: [theblindperspective] December 2019 Newsletter

[Cheryl Fields]

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message:

> From: Blind Perspective <theblindperspective at gmail.com>
> Date: November 30, 2019 at 6:35:39 PM EST
> To: theblindperspective at groups.io
> Subject: [theblindperspective] December 2019 Newsletter
> Reply-To: theblindperspective+owner at groups.io
> 
> 
> Welcome to The Blind Perspective
> 
> 
> December 2019
> Volume 5 Issue 12
> 
> Table of Contents
> 
> Greetings from the Editor
> Sponsor of the Month
> Movers & Shakers
> Reader's Perspective
> Exercise, does a body good
> Have I Got A Story For You
> The Braille Highway
> Kaleidoscope of Krafts
> Spencer’s Spotlight
> Computer Tech101
> A Time to Plant
> The Alternating Duo: Seeing the World Differently
> Dirty Work
> The Beauty Parlor
> Cooking Concoctions
> Riddle & Brain Buster
> Classifieds
> Navigation
> The Blind Perspective Newsletter has been produced in such a manner that makes it easier to stroll through the articles. If you are using JAWS, System Access, or NVDA press the letter H to move through the headings. If you are wanting to skip back simply press the shift key + the letter H. For MAC users, press Control Option Command plus the letter H and to go backwards through the articles press Control Option Command shift plus the letter H. If one of the links do not work for you just copy and paste it in to your browser and it should work.
> 
> If you have any trouble reading this copy you can go to Click Here it will take You to the read the current newsletter
> 
> Greetings from the Editor
> 
> By Karen Santiago
> Season’s Greetings!
> As the Blind Perspective embarks on the end of 2019, I would like to thank all of you. The writers for volunteering their time, commitment, and knowledge in each of their article contributions. Teddy, the audio technician for creating our audio format each and every month. Nat, our webmaster for updating, archiving, and maintaining our website, and making the newsletter available on NewsLine. All of our sponsors, and those who have submitted classifieds throughout the year. The many many individuals who have shared their stories, opinions, thoughts, and ideas. The many companies who have informed us about a new product, updated items, and what they offer to the blind community. Last, but certainly not least, you the readers. Thank you for taking the time each month to read the Blind Perspective, as I hope it keeps you informed and entertained! For it is the collaboration of all the previously mentioned people that enables us to enter into our sixth year of publication. Again, thank you all!
> Please click on the below link to listen to the personal greetings from each of the BlindPerspective writers:www.TheBlindPerspectiveHoliday Greeting
> Remember you can also choose to listen to our audio version of the newsletter, link below:
> The Blind Perspective Audio
> At A Glance: Elegant Insights, WeWALK, Tidbits, Compound, Comedians, Mystery, & Sci Fi, Maps, Snowflakes, Holiday Shopping, Internet Browsers, Safety & Tips, Museums, TeaTree, Lips, Breakfast Brunch, Riddle, Brain Busters, & Classified Items!
> Sponsor of the Month
> 
> Happy holidays from Elegant Insights Braille Creations!
> We offer a wide selection of jewelry and accessories for everyone on your list, all handcrafted, made in the USA, and embossed in crisp, readable, braille!
> Discover traditional jewelry items, plus fun accessories such as cane charms, key tags, purse charms, and zipper pulls. We also have elegant gifts for that hard-to-buy-for person, such as bookmarks, wine glass charms, and bottle identifiers for a home bar! We even have a little something for your favorite 4-legged traveling companion! Looking for a gift that's sentimental? What's better than a heart pendant with "I love you" in braille? Earrings and a bracelet to match! Have a friend who loves to celebrate the change of every season? Our 4-piece Charmed By The Seasons Vain Cane charms set is the perfect present for your BFF.
> Have a sports nut on your list? Check out our Spot-on Sports Fan officially licensed NFL key tags, with a colorful team logo tag, carabiner clip, split ring for keys, and a braille embossed football!
> Whether you have a sweetheart, a fashionistan, an activist, or a guide dog handler on your list, Elegant Insights has the perfect gift.
> Can't decide? We also have digital gift certificates! Have a custom design in mind? We offer a complete custom jewelry design service.
> Call Laura at 702-605-1265, or go to: www.ElegantInsightsJewelry.com
> While there, don't forget to sign up for our newsletter, and get my free jewelry care guide, "Elegant Insights into All That Glitters." Plus, you won't want to miss our 2019 Holiday Gift Guide issue!
> Have a merry and a happy!
> Movers & Shakers
> 
> By Karen Santiago
> Karen at TheBlindPerspective.com
> Please read the Q&A I had with Kursat Ceylan, the Co-founder of WeWalk.
> What started WeWALK?
> We had been developing technology for visually impaired for 7 years. We were providing audio description and indoor navigation services. We want to do more for blind community and we made a hackathon for visually impaired technologies. We worked on WeWALK project for 3 years and launched after Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign.
> What inspired/ motivated its creation?
> Co-Founder, Kursat Ceylan says, "I am blind since birth, and I want to have an equal life like everyone. And WeWALK Smart Cane has a special meaning to provide full and equal participation into social life for visually impaired. WeWALK invites all visually impaired to social life. Furthermore, WeWALK is transforming people's perspectives positively towards being visually impaired and raise awareness on inclusion.
> Can you imagine that, visually impaired people's families say that "we saw WeWALK's videos and WeWALK users on the web, and They gave me hope, I thought my child can also be more independent, self-sufficient, self-confident person in the future like these people." This is the most important effect of WeWALK for me. And it shows us WeWALK is not just a technology, it is a social movement.
> How does this cane differ from others?
> WeWALK is a smart cane for blind that detects the unexpected obstacles at the head and chest level and warns its user. It supports voice interaction with its microphone, speaker and touchpad. It can be paired with smartphones and in this way, it can gain additional features through software updates.
> One example that illustrates WeWALK’s current capabilities is that the visually impaired can now get turn-by-turn GPS directions and access Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant service directly via WeWALK.
> You can download the WeWALK app through google play and the app store. There are several easy to follow YouTube videos, link on website, to teach you how to set up, connect, and use WeWALK.
> Where is it available?
> You can buy on our website at: www.WeWalk.io
> How much does WeWALK cost?
> WeWALK is 499 dollars, but there is a campaign until the end of the year and it's 449 dollars. We have worldwide shipping with UPS, TNT or FedEx.
> You get:
> 1-year warranty
> Money-back guarantee: Notify us within 15 days of delivery to receive a refund. (For online sales only.)
> Online free training via video calls.
> Different lengths are available. (Please add your preference on order
> What has the feedback been like?
> We're sharing some testimonials with you below: www.WeWalk.io/ShanesStory
> www.YouTube.com/watch
> www.YouTube.com/
> Also, we became one of the Best Inventions by TIME Magazine! You can check it out: www.time.com/BestInvention
> Is there any tech support to individuals once they purchase the WeWalk?
> We make online trainings, they can book anytime from the below link, and we organize a video call if they need. www.Calendly.com/
> Contact information:
> Website: www.WeWalk.io
> Email: Info at WeWalk.io
> Facebook: www.Facebook.com/WeWalkio
> Reader's Perspective
> 
> Karen at TheBlindPerspective.com
> Check out the great information some of our readers have to share!
> ole from Biarrit, France writes in to share this information about google.
> Google Accessibility Support Adds Hours and Languages:
> You can now contact Google Accessibility Support in French, German, Spanish, Italian and Brazilian Portuguese.
> The Disability Support team is available to answer questions about using assistive technology with Google products and accessibility features and functionalities within Google products.
> Email a specialist
> For email support, complete the disability support email contact form. You'll receive a reply within 24 business hours.
> Email support is available Monday through Friday:
> 6 AM–5 PM (PT) in English only.
> 9 AM–5:30 PM (GMT+1) in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Brazilian Portuguese.
> Chat with a specialist
> For chat support, complete the disability support chat contact form. Chat support is available Monday through Friday:
> 6 AM–5 PM (PT) in English only.
> 9 AM–5:30 PM (GMT+1) in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Brazilian Portuguese.
> Talk to a specialist
> For phone support, complete the disability support phone contact form. Phone support is available Monday through Friday 6 AM–5 PM (PT) in English only.
> Contact a specialist through Be My Eyes
> You can contact a Google Disability Support specialist through the Be My Eyes app on your phone or tablet. Be My Eyes support is available in English in 201 countries and territories.
> The above information along with the different contact forms are available on their website at: www.support.google.com/disability
> Bonnie submitted the below Ski for Light press release.
> The 45th annual Ski for Light International Week will take place from February 9 through 16, 2020, in Casper, Wyoming. This is a new venue for the all-volunteer non-profit’s annual event where beginning blind and mobility impaired skiers are taught the basics of cross-country skiing, while more experienced skiers further hone their skills. All enjoy a variety of après ski activities.
> Participants will stay at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center and ski atthe Casper Mountain Outdoor Center at McMurry Mountain Park. The Center has 42 kilometers of wide cross-country trails. The annual week-long event attracts more than 250 skiers, guides and volunteers from throughout the United States, as well as international participants.
> During the Ski for Light week, each skier with a disability is paired with an experienced, sighted cross-country skier who acts as ski instructor and on-snow guide. Most blind and/or mobility impaired adults leave Ski for Light with a sense of accomplishment and motivation that carries over to every aspect of their lives. Many volunteer guides return year after year and most discover that in the process of giving of themselves they get much more back in return.
> If you have never before attended what many have called “the experience of a lifetime,” join us on an epic adventure in Wyoming. Additional information can be found at www.sfl.org
> or you may contact Visually Impaired Participant Recruitment Chair Melinda Hollands at 231-590-0986 or MlHollandstc at gmail.com
> Come discover yourself and make new friends!
> Jay from Virginia shares this sad news for those who do not already know regarding Talking Thermostats.
> Dear friends of the Blind and Visually Impaired Community,
> My name is Harry Cohen and my company, Talking Thermostats.com has supplied many of you with talking thermostats and excellent customer service over the past sixteen years. I am writing to inform you that as of this date we will be exiting the talking thermostat business and closing our company.
> This was a difficult decision to make. We were helped with this decision by the manufacturer, BuyMax Alliance who is also our supplier of the VIP talking thermostat. Because of poor inventory control by our supplier, their stock of talking thermostats was depleted in January of this year. In addition, our supplier changed to a new electronic assembly vendor in China. Both of these issues by our supplier have caused very long lead times resulting in a stock out condition of thermostats not only for our company but also for our competitors. All the VIP talking thermostats come from the same factory in China.
> We have not had thermostats to ship since February. BuyMax Alliance told us we would have thermostats in April. Then they changed the delivery to the end of July. It is now the third week of August and still no thermostats. During these six plus months, we still offered customer and technical support even though there was no income being generated. Without income, we can no longer afford to pay rent, keep the lights on and keep the phones active. Therefore, we are closing up shop.
> With the closure of our business, product questions and warranty issues now revert back to BuyMax Alliance, the VIP 3000 manufacturer / supplier. BuyMax Alliance can be reached at 866-936-6622.
> Over the past sixteen years this business has given me the opportunity to establish relationships with the blind and visually impaired community of the United States and provide another means to help people with visual impairments live more independently. Thank you for this opportunity.
> Sincerely,
> Harry Cohen
> If you have any information relative to the blind community that you would like to share with us, just send me an email at my address located at the beginning of this article.
> Exercise, does a body good
> 
> By Dan Kiely
> Dan at TheBlindPerspective.com
> Hello fitness fans, and welcome back to another edition of an Exercise Does A Body Good!
> Last month, in my health tip section, I wrote about different tips to reduce belly fat. This month is about how to reduce your belly fat with compound exercises.
> What are compound exercises?
> They are multi movements that incorporate multiple muscles. A good example of a compound exercise is a squat. It uses the calf and quadricep muscles, the abdomen, and the lower back muscles. The more muscles that you use, the more calories and fat you burn.
>  
> Here are four compound exercises that will help you burn belly fat.
> Exercise 1: Squat with front shoulders raised.
> Equipment: Dumbbells or resistant bands.
> Starting Position: Stand with feet shoulder width apart, dumbbells in your hands, and arms at your sides.
> Movement: Lower your butt downwards to a sitting position.  Once in this position, simultaneously raise upper torso to a standing position, while raising your arms. At the top position, your arms should be out in front of you at 90 degrees, with palms facing downwards, and knees slightly bent.
> Now simultaneously lower the dumbbells to your sides and lower your butt to a sitting position and repeat.
> Repetitions: Depending on your fitness level, do 3 sets of 15 to 25 reps.
> Muscles Involved: Calves, quadriceps, abdomen, lower back and shoulder muscles.
>  
> Exercise 2: Bird dog.
> Equipment: Dumbbells or ankle weights.
> Starting Position: Get down on all fours, like a dog. Grab dumbbells or wrap ankle weights around wrist, placing hands about shoulder width apart. Knees should be hip width apart, and knees and hips bent at 90 degrees. Keep head in a neutral position, and abdomen slightly contracted.
> Movement: Simultaneously lift right hand and arm, and lift left leg and foot off the floor. Hold for a count of 1 or 2. Then lower arm and leg and reversed to left arm and right leg. And again, hold for a count of 1 or 2.
> Repetitions: Do 3 sets of 15 to 25 reps.
> Muscles Involved:  Abdomen, gluteus, shoulders, upper and lower back, and leg muscles.
>  
> Exercise 3: Reverse bird dog, or also known as dead bug.
> Equipment: dumbbells or ankle weights.
> Starting Position: Lie on your back with head resting on the floor. Hold dumbbells in your hands, or wrap ankle weights around your wrists. Extend your arms, shoulder width apart, straight up perpendicular to the floor. Feet should be off the floor, hip width apart, with hips and knees bent at 90 degrees. Keep lower back flat on the floor, this will ensure that your abdomen is engaged throughout the exercise.
> Movement: Simultaneously, lower right hand and left leg towards the floor. Keeping your right arm straight, lower it towards the right side of your head. Your left leg should go from a bent position to a straightening position. Keep your right hand and left foot off floor at all times throughout the exercise. Return to starting position and simultaneously, lower left arm and right foot. Repeat exercise, continuing to alternate feet and arm.
> Repetitions: Do 3 sets of 15 to 25 reps.
>  
> Exercise 4: Burpies.
> Equipment: none
> Starting Position: Stand with feet at shoulder width apart or more, and hands at your sides.
> Movement: Squat down to a sitting position and place hands on the floor in front of you, slightly wider than shoulder width apart. Kick out legs behind you, in a push up plank position, and do one push up. Then kick legs back towards chest and hands, stand up, and repeat.
> Repetitions: This will depend upon your fitness level. I recommend doing 3 sets of 5 reps. As your fitness level gets better, increase your reps.
> Muscles Involved: Well this exercise involves a lot of muscles, such as shoulders, chest, abdomen, upper and lower back, hips, and leg muscles. And most of all, your heart muscle. This is a very challenging exercise, so go slow.
>  
> These exercises will hopefully help you to lose your belly fat. Remember to eat right, exercise right, and sleep right to maximize your belly fat loss.
>  
> Exercise tip of the month:
> If you want to build muscle and strength, in addition to losing body fat, it is recommended to do your weight training first, and then your cardiovascular training second. If you do cardio first, you may become too tired to lift heavy weights, and you would probably fail to complete the necessary repetitions.
>  
> Well that is it for this month and good luck. Remember Exercise Does A Body Good!
> Have I Got A Story For You
> 
> By Carla Jo Bratton
> CarlaJo at TheBlindPerspective.com
> Season’s Greetings book friends,
> Let’s wrap up 2019 with some interesting reads. I hope all of our readers are safe, happy and well read.
> Here we go!
> First, a definition; Wheelhouse; within one’s area of expertise or interest: There are some subjects that are in your wheelhouse and some that are not.
> Wild and Crazy Guys; How the comedy mavricks of the 80’s changed Hollywood forever
> Written by Nick de Semlyen
> Read by; Curtis Armstrong
> Reading time: 12 hours and 23 minutes
> DB95880
> Not on CELA or RNIB yet
> The behind the scenes story of the iconic funnymen who ruled 80s Hollywood - Bill Murray, Steve Martin, Chevy Chase, John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, and Eddie Murphy - and the beloved films that made them stars, including Animal House, Caddy shack, and Ghostbusters.
> “An enjoyable romp that vividly captures the manic ups and downs of the remarkable group of funny folks who gave us a golden age of small and big screen comedy, from SNL to Groundhog Day.” (Peter Biskind, author of Easy Riders, Raging Bulls) Wild and Crazy Guys opens in 1978 with Chevy Chase and Bill Murray taking bad-tempered swings at each other backstage at Saturday Night Live, and closes 21 years later with the two doing a skit in the same venue, poking fun at each other, their illustrious careers, triumphs and prat falls. In between, Nick de Semlyen takes us on a trip through the tumultuous '80s, delving behind the scenes of movies such as National Lampoon's Vacation, Beverly Hills Cop, The Blues Brothers, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and dozens more. Chronicling the off-screen, larger-than-life antics of Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, Steve Martin, Dan Aykroyd, Eddie Murphy, John Belushi, John Candy, and Rick Moranis, it's got drugs, sex, punch-ups, webbed toes, and Bill Murray being pushed into a swimming pool by Hunter S. Thompson while tied to a lawn chair. What's not to like?
> Based on candid interviews from many of the stars themselves, as well as those in their immediate orbit, including directors John Landis, Carl Reiner, and Amy Heckerling, Wild and Crazy Guys is a fantastic insider account of the friendships, feuds, triumphs, and disasters experienced by these beloved comedians. Hilarious and revealing, it is both a hidden history of the most fertile period ever for screen comedy and a celebration of some of the most popular films of all time.
> My comments: This is so in my wheelhouse! The people in this book were a big part of my cultural timeline growing up. Very well written. This would make a great gift. It made me laugh out loud and I cried at the funeral of John Candy. I give this one a 10 out of 10!
> Lock Every Door
> Written by Riley Sager
> Reading time: 10 hours and 26 minutes
> DB95876
> no RNIB or CELA yet
> No visitors. No nights spent away from the apartment. No disturbing the other residents, all of whom are rich or famous or both. These are the only rules for Jules Larsen’s new job as an apartment sitter at the Bartholomew, one of Manhattan's most high-profile and mysterious buildings.
> Recently heartbroken and just plain broke, Jules is taken in by the splendor of her surroundings and accepts the terms, ready to leave her past life behind. As she gets to know the residents and staff of the Bartholomew, Jules finds herself drawn to fellow apartment sitter Ingrid, who comfortingly reminds her of the sister she lost eight years ago. When Ingrid confides that the Bartholomew is not what it seems and the dark history hidden beneath its gleaming facade is starting to frighten her, Jules brushes it off as a harmless ghost story, until the next day, when Ingrid disappears. Searching for the truth about Ingrid’s disappearance, Jules digs deeper into the Bartholomew's sordid past and into the secrets kept within its walls. What she discovers pits Jules against the clock as she races to unmask a killer, expose the building’s hidden past, and escape the Bartholomew before her temporary status becomes permanent.
> My comments; A mystery in a historical building, peaked my interest. Sager also wrote The Last Time I lied, which I loved. Then she threw in New York city and she sealed the deal with gargoyles that came to life. Wonderful, fast paced read.
> A song for a New Day
> Written by Sarah Pinsker
> Reading time; 12 hours and 34 minutes
> DB96648
> No CELA or RNIB yet
> In this captivating science fiction novel from an award-winning author, public gatherings are illegal making concerts impossible, except for those willing to break the law for the love of music, and for one chance at human connection.
> In the Before, when the government didn't prohibit large public gatherings, Luce Cannon was on top of the world. One of her songs had just taken off and she was on her way to becoming a star. Now, in the After, terror attacks and deadly viruses have led the government to ban concerts, and Luce's connection to the world - her music, her purpose - is closed off forever. She does what she has to do: She performs in illegal concerts to a small but passionate community, always evading the law.
> Rosemary Laws barely remembers the Before times. She spends her days in Hoodspace, helping customers order all of their goods online for drone delivery - no physical contact with humans needed. By lucky chance, she finds a new job and a new calling: discover amazing musicians and bring their concerts to everyone via virtual reality. The only catch is that she'll have to do something she's never done before and go out in public. Find the illegal concerts and bring musicians into the limelight they deserve. But when she sees how the world could actually be, that won’t be enough.
> My comments; This is the first Sarah Pinsker book for me, and I’ll be looking for more from her. This story is very real and very thought provoking. I loved the characters and the changes they went through. This book feels like it could happen very soon.
> To our wonderful editor, Karen, my fellow writers and most of all, you, the readers, I wish each of you joy and wonderful book journeys! Until next year,
> Happy reading, Carla jo!
> The Braille Highway
> 
> By Nat Armeni
> Nat at TheBlindPerspective.com
> Happy December and welcome to The Braille Highway. The final month of 2019, where has the time gone! This month’s focus is on Tactile Maps produced by the LightHouse in San Francisco. As per usual I invite you to send me ideas for future articles as well as constructive feedback at my email noted at the beginning of this article.
>  
> I usually use both google maps and soundscape on my smart phone when I am travelling, especially in unfamiliar places. I have come across a wonderful service that produces maps in both large print and braille. In this month’s article I had the pleasure of speaking to Greg Kehret and Naomi Rosenberg, both from the LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired in San Francisco. Greg is the director of media and accessible design lab and has been working for the LightHouse for 19 years. Naomi Rosenberg is the senior designer in the media and accessible design lab and has been working for the LightHouse for 4 years.
>  
> Dr. Joshua Miele's created tactile Maps over 10 to 14 years ago, for Smith-Kettlewell. The Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute is a non-profit, independent research institute, affiliated with and located adjacent to the California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco. Joshua wanted for blind people to experience all that our sighted counterparts do regarding orientation and location literacy. The Smith-Kettlewell partnered with the LightHouse for The Blind and Visually Impaired of San Francisco who took on the job of outreach, Marketing, and distribution of the tactile maps. With financial assistants through grants a tool was created that would take the information from programs such as OpenStreetMap and automatically create a tactile version along with a large print one in the same document. Eliminating the need of someone who knows braille and or a graphic designer.
>  
> Here is a simple version of how the procedure works, as I understand it. I will use myself as an example. I would begin by giving the address of interest to the person at the Adaptation store at the San Francisco LightHouse. Next, I would need to choose what size I wanted; a letter size page, 11 x by 11.5-inch page, or an 11 x by 17-inch page. If the address I am seeking is in an urban setting, then the preferable choice would be 11 x by 11, to be able to zoom in. Another decision to make is whether I want imperial or metric measurements. The 11 x by 17-inch page would ideally be used more for stationary purposes, since to carry around would be difficult not to bend.
>  
> The maps are standard, whether you get them at the LightHouse or at the exhibit hall at a convention.
> The title is on the top left corner, the directional arrows are on the right-hand corner, and next to the left arrow is the scale ratio. For example, a 1-inch line equals 500 feet or 150 feet, whatever the calculation may be.
> Below that the map begins with lines representing streets. At the end of the line is a 3-letter abbreviation, representing the street name.
> You will also find directional information, indicating the direction in which the street goes. For example, Market street in San Francisco would have, N E and S W. this would reveal that Market Street travels North East and South West.
>  
> Upon placing an order, you will receive 2 copies of the same address. One is a simple representation of the area, while the other one is more detailed. Also included is the map key informing you of the full street names represented by the three letter abbreviations.
>  
> So far this calendar year, the MAD Lab (Media and Accessible Design Laboratory) has printed and distributed over 2000 maps! I conducted my interview way back in July and at that point the NFB National Convention in Los Vegas was happening.  Naomi informed me that they had produced over 125 copies of maps during the convention. A smaller and portable embosser from ViewPlus Technologies was used during convention to produce these maps. But back at the home base, an industrial embosser from ViewPlus Technologies is used to produce braille and print Tactile Maps.
>  
> If you wish to order a tactile map for a particular address, call the store at the LightHouse in San Francisco at 1-888-400-8933. It generally takes two to three days to produce, and then it will be shipped to you either through paid postage or free matter. The maps cost 25 dollars, but if you mention that you heard about Tactile Maps through the Blind Perspective, or use coupon code TMAP20, you will receive a 20 % discount!
>  
> If you prefer shopping online, the Adaptations Store website is: www.Adaptations.org
> 
> Direct link to order a TMAP from the website is: www.Adaptations.org/OrderMaps
> 
> In both of these online options, use the TMap20 code for a 20% discount. This coupon code is valid until December 20th 2019.
>  
> I want to officially thank Naomi and Greg for allowing me to interview them. I also want to apologize for the lengthy time it has taken me to publish this article.
>  
> Braille users do it with feeling. Why complicate life with gadgets when you can compliment it with braille. Remember to stay on the dotted line of life. Keep safe and write to you again in 2020!
> Kaleidoscope of Krafts
> 
> By Lindy van der Merwe
> Lindy at TheBlindPerspective.com
> Though it is almost summer here in South Africa, no doubt it is getting colder in the north as you move into the long winter months. Where we are used to Christmases filled with sunshine, surfing and swimming, snow is synonymous with the festive season for those living in the northern hemisphere. Hence, I am sharing with you a craft that many might remember from their grade school years - making paper snowflakes.
>  
> Cally from the make-it-do.com website relates such a great story on hand-cut snowflakes that I just had to share. She writes:
> "When my parents-in-law were newly married and both in school, they faced decorating their Christmas tree with no money to buy ornaments.
> The solution came from what they, as young students had in abundance… white typewriter paper.  They folded and cut and soon their tree was blanketed in beautiful, elegant snowflakes.
> As the years passed and they had the money to buy more expensive ornaments, they found they could not give up their beautiful handmade snowflakes.  After nearly 45 years of marriage, they still decorate their tree with paper snowflakes along with their favorite ornaments. Some of the snowflakes are many years old, some were even cut by loved ones who have passed away.  Each year the best snowflakes are carefully saved between sheets of cardstock.
> Most of my husband’s siblings, our family included, have carried on the tradition of hand cut snowflakes.  It started for us, just as it did for my in-laws… out of necessity, but has continued out of choice."
>  
> Her words once again reminded me of the importance of tradition and of creating and sharing special moments with our loved ones. What better way to spend time during this festive season with family or friends than making simple paper snowflakes?
>  
> Don't worry if you are not good with cutting a straight line. Odd shapes and cutting at an angle are actually required for this craft. If you can hold scissors, you can do this craft or if you prefer, instead of making the snowflakes yourself, show or explain to someone else from the next generation how to make unique, hand-cut snowflakes.
>  
> Before you start, Make sure everybody has sharp scissors and clean hands. Dirty hands make for dingy snowflakes! Use whatever scissors are comfortable for you. In general, smaller is better.
>  
> A waste paper basket is also handy to contain the snippets of paper that will no doubt result from this craft.
>  
> Some people use wrapping paper or other fancy paper to make their snowflakes. Use whatever you like to create the desired effect. Cheaper, thinner (light weight) paper is actually best for this project. I stick with plain white copy paper because somehow, I get a lot of satisfaction from creating something so beautiful from something so ordinary.
>  
> Instructions:
> Step 1. Start with a square. Those who have done origami before will find this step easy, but here is a description of how to make a square from a rectangular piece of paper.
> For practice it might be best to use a sheet of copy paper, which will make a fairly large snowflake. For smaller snowflakes you will of course need smaller squares. Check out your favorite local or on-line stationery or craft store for different types and sizes of paper.
>  
> To make a square, do the following.
> Folding: Lay your rectangular piece of paper down on a hard, flat surface with the long sides to the left and right and the short sides at the top and bottom. Fold the top right corner of the paper down and to the left until you can feel that the two layers of paper lay on top of each other on the lefthand side. Follow the two layers of paper upwards to make sure they line up as closely as possible until you find the narrow, top point of the paper. While holding the two layers in this position, make a sharp crease, running your finger from the top left corner down and to the right. Now, on the righthand side, your paper will slope up sharply from bottom right to the top left corner. Notice that at the bottom of your folded paper, there is a rectangular piece, which has not been folded. It is this part of the paper that you will remove to create a true square.
>  
> Weakening the paper: Concentrating on the single rectangular layer of paper at the bottom, fold your paper upwards so it covers the bottom part of your folded triangle. Crease well from left to right to create a horizontal fold and, lifting your paper from the folding surface, fold back the other way. Do this a few more times to weaken the paper in both directions.
> You can also run your nail along the crease or use a damp finger to weaken your paper even further.
>  
> Removing the extra paper: There are many ways you can use to remove the bottom part of your sheet, including taring, cutting with scissors, rotary cutters or craft knives, etc. Feel free to use whatever method you find easiest, or ask for sighted assistance until you are comfortable performing this step.
>  
> I will describe the taring method I most often use for those who would like to try this. After you have weakened your paper along the horizontal crease line, place the paper flat on your folding surface again. It works best if you now place the paper with the weakened fold in a vertical position. Place your thumbs and forefingers on either side of the crease and move your hands apart in a swift, but controlled, motion. Don't worry if the edge of your paper is not perfect. You will get better with this with practice.
>  
> Step 2.  Fold your square in Half Diagonally by bringing together two of the corners to form a triangle. There should already be a crease if you used the method for creating a square above.
>  
> Step 3. Fold your triangle in half once more to make a smaller triangle. Crease well.
>  
> Step 4. Fold the triangle you have created into thirds. Hold your triangle with its closed, narrow point closest to you. Start on the left and fold over a third of the way. Then fold over a second time. Try to get all of the folds to line up as close as possible for the most symmetrical snowflake, but don't worry if these folds are not perfect.
> The idea here is to create six layers to form your six-sided snowflake.
>  
> Step 5. You will now have a shape with a closed point and two points sticking out at the opposite end. Still holding your paper with the closed side nearest you, cut off the bottom of the shape at a slight angle or in a rounded curve. Then, also cut in a zigzag shape along the top of the shape so that the points are removed and you are left with edges that are similar.
> Step 6. Make small cuts into the sides of your folded paper. Usually, cutting small triangles from the sides is easiest, but don't forget to try other shapes like rounded or square cuts. Otherwise, simply make angled snips into the sides of your paper.
>  
> Step 7. Unfold the paper very carefully. 
>  
> Ta da! The snowflakes will not lay flat right away, so you might want to tuck them between the pages of a book for a while before displaying them. They can also be ironed by placing a cloth over them and pressing lightly with the iron on a very low setting, but this is optional.
>  
> A few tips regarding cutting:
> Be careful not to cut all the way from one side to the other, or else you'll chop your snowflake in half!
> More smaller cuts are better than a few large ones.
> The way in which you cut the top edge of your triangular shape will determine how the outer edges of your snowflake will look.
> The sides are up to you. Make spiky or zigzag cuts or different sized triangles.
> Snipping off the very bottom of the shape at an angle will make a star shape in the middle of the finished snowflake.
> Make sure you only snip off a very small piece of the bottom point, otherwise your snowflake will have a large hole at its center.
> Remember that no pattern needs to be followed here. Because your cuts are random, each snowflake will be unique.
>  
> Tips for decorating with snowflakes:
> A tiny piece of double-sided tape behind each point is a good way to stick them to a surface.
> Sticking them onto windows will make them visible from inside and out and they show up beautifully at night against the dark glass.
> They can be hung from the ceiling, or as a garland against a darker background. Invisible thread, or fishing line, works great for this.
> Use snowflakes to decorate gifts instead of a bow. Tape a single snowflake to a gift, and then put a plain gift tag on top of it. The lacy looking snowflake makes a pretty backdrop for the tag.
> Stick snowflakes onto a colored paper background for a nice effect when making a card or on the front of a book cover.
> A sprinkling of glitter on your hand cut snowflakes could also look beautiful for the festive season.
>  
> I conclude with wishing all our readers only the very best for the festive season which is once again upon us and end with another word from the website mentioned above regarding the craft of hand-cut snowflakes.
> "I love this tradition, because every member of our family can contribute and each snowflake is unique, lovely and festive. But, best of all each year we create wonderful new memories.
> Share and Enjoy."
>  
> Source:
> http://www.make-it-do.com/make-it/how-to-make-hand-cut-snowflakes/
> Spencer's Spotlight
> 
> By Cheryl Spencer
> Cheryl at TheBlindPerspective.com
> As we approach the gift giving holidays, there is always that age old question what do I get my friends and family, and I am sure they are wondering the same about what to get their blind friends and family members as well.
>  
> Are you tired of getting the same old generic gift that could probably have been purchased for just about anyone? Wouldn't it be refreshing if you got a gift that talked, or was otherwise accessible? That's what I'm talking about.
>  
> There are so many things available for the blind that there is absolutely no excuse for any of us to be getting another scarf or that awful bottle of perfume, or cologne. So many companies are now selling items that are affordable that are beneficial and useful to us blind folks.
>  
> Below is a list of businesses that sell fun and accessible items that you or someone you know may enjoy. Maybe you can casually slip in a hint or suggestion and you never know, someone just may be listening. Happy shopping!
>  
> Amazon: www.Amazon.com
> 
> Type the word blind in the search box, and you will be surprised what you find.
> I actually ordered a cane!
>  
> A T Guys:  Your Assistive Technology Experts.
> Product or Service: Your leader in affordable technology including iPhone and Android accessories, keyboards, headsets, speakers, cases, the iGrill kitchen thermometer, Braille displays, and other cool gadgets.
> Phone: (269) 216-4798
> Website: www.ATGuys.com
> 
> American Printing House for the Blind
> Product or Service: APH is the world’s largest company devoted to making products for people who are visually impaired and blind, and is the official supplier of educational materials for blind students in the U.S. They also have games such as scrabble and monopoly marked in braille.
> Phone: (800) 223-1839
> Website: www.APH.org
> 
> Blind Mice Mega Mall
> Wide variety of items such as electronics, watches, and novelty apparel.
> Website: www.BlindMiceMegaMall.com
> 
> Ebay
> I ordered a talking scale from here!
> Website: www.Ebay.com
> 
> Laura Legendary with braille Jewelry
> Elegant Insights Braille Creations jewelry and accessories are beautiful, unusual, accessible, and inclusive. You’ll get noticed, and get compliments!
> Phone 1-702-605-1265
> Website: www.ElegantInsightsJewelry.com
> 
> Harbolt company
> We at the Harbolt Company love what we do, and can't wait for you to share in our passion for all things cool and accessible. Whether you're looking for some serious high end audio equipment, searching for the perfect accessory for your smartphone or mobile device, shopping for that elusive gift for the person who has everything, trying to locate that hard to find rare and unusual item, or just wanting something for yourself or for that special someone, we’ve got you covered. You've found the perfect place for fun, excitement, and accessibility. Most importantly, a place to feel right at home. We offer audio and written descriptions of all our products, so you'll always know what you are getting. So, come join us in our unfailing love of all things unique.
> Website: www.HarboltCompany.com
> 
> Independent Living Aids
> Product or Service: ILA, 38 years strong; Keeping life MAGNIFIED, AMPLIFIED, SIMPLIFIED, and always in MOTION. We are your #1 source for independence, with a wide selection of low vision aides, tools, and technology.
> Phone: (800) 537-2118
> Website: www.IndependentLiving.com
> 
> National Braille Press
> Product or Service: Braille and tactile products for sale.
> Phone: (617) 266-6160
> Website: www.NBP.org
> 
> Maxiaids
> Catering to multiple disabilities as well as blind and low vision.
> Phone: 800-522-6294
> Website: www.MaxiAids.com
> 
> Speak to me catalog
> Featuring talking toys, games, electronics, and novelty gifts.
> Phone:  800-248-9965
> Website: www.SpeakToMeCatelog.com
> 
> Materialism aside, remember the reason for the season.  Cherish the time you spend with your friends
> and family. Wishing you all a happy and safe holiday season.
> Computer Tech101
> 
> By Jim Morgan
> Jim at TheBlindPerspective.com
> With apologies to William Shakespeare, which, for those of us that use Talking Books, is apropos since he is known as the Bard, To switch or not to switch, that is the question. I had a reader, I apologize for not getting back to her sooner, but the E-mail went missing on me and I don’t recall the name. Hopefully, she knows who she is and will accept my apologies for the lapse. Anyway, she asked about Google Chrome and was told by someone close to her that Chrome is Blind-unfriendly but she may have to use it for a site or two that she uses that won’t support Internet Explorer. Since we all know that IE 11 is the last and there will be no more since Microsoft will be doing Edge, I thought we’d talk about the alternatives and whether or not you have to switch.
>  
> I haven’t seen Edge myself so I can’t really speak about it as yet, but I can speak to others. In my opinion, none of the Browsers are really Blind-friendly since most Websites aren’t and that’s the driving force when it comes to accessibility. Both Chrome and Firefox have menus, at least the version I have and have used do, and they will work with JAWS. Also, based on my testing, Chrome and Firefox seem to both work within most Websites; again, the site is the determining factor as to how “friendly” the site will be.
>  
> I have both Internet Explorer and Chrome installed. I generally use IE because I’m more familiar with it. However, there is nothing wrong with Chrome, as far as I can see. Granted that the menus, hot keys, and so forth are a little different, but my Screen Reader, Zoomtext Fusion, just so you know, reads both programs with no problem. Also, there is no real difference with Website operation between the two programs. There are differences, of course, but I think that, with a little use, it’s no problem to use either program. I don’t personally use Firefox because I don’t really like it but I have some friends that do and, like Chrome and IE, there seems to be no problem with it “talking” during use.
>  
> I do maintain, however, that while Chrome is more of a memory hog, it’s more “advanced” for use with the newer operating systems. Also, a number of Websites have been recommending the use of Chrome over other Browsers. I have a financial site that I access that has told me explicitly that they don’t really support IE but I can use it anyway. They, every so often, “invite” me to switch/upgrade to Chrome. My Chrome is already up-to-date so I just decline and go on but I foresee the day when I’ll have to use Chrome because IE won’t work. There are already some Websites where this is the case. The Described videos that you can download from Blind Mice doesn’t support IE at all and won’t allow access with IE; you must use Chrome or Firefox.
>  
> This, of course, begs the question, “Do I have to switch now?” The answer, in my opinion, is NO. I feel the same way about upgrading or switching Browsers as I do about upgrading either the computer or the Operating System. That philosophy is, like the “Engineer’s Outlook”, “If it aint broke, don’t fix it”. I have a friend of mine who has an older computer, about 7-10 years old, who recently said he was going to have to get a new computer. When I asked him why, he said because of its’ age. My response was to tell him that as long as the computer was working fine and would do all the things he wanted it to do, there was no reason to upgrade. However, if you come to the point, like I did a couple of years ago, where to use a specific program that you need/want to use, you must upgrade the computer, then it’s time to upgrade. As I said before, I feel the same way about upgrading both Browsers and Operating Systems. My current computer is currently running Windows 7-64 bit, which is 3 steps below the current Windows 10. I could upgrade it relatively easily but would have to pay Microsoft for the privilege. Since it does everything I need with no problem, I haven’t upgraded. The same thing applies to going from IE to Edge; I have no need to do it at this time, so I’m not going to. When IE becomes untenable to use, I’ll probably switch over to Chrome since I already have it and it works fine; I simply use IE because I’m more used to it but can use Chrome with no issues.
>  
> Bottom line is to not be “afraid” of a Browser and don’t upgrade just because there’s something newer. Given my “testing” the “big 3”, IE, Chrome, and Firefox, will work just fine with a screen reader. Fusion uses JAWS for its speech so I’m fairly confident that any one of those 3 will work fine; it’s simply a matter of preference of both you and the Websites you frequent. When that dark day finally comes and you must upgrade, I suggest that you get something you’ll be comfortable with so you’ll use it. I have a friend in MD who, after years of using the same computer practically daily, finally got a new one but hated the way it worked and wasn’t interested in learning the “new” way to use it. Needlesstosay, his computer usage went way down and he was a tad unhappy with his purchase. So, again, don’t be afraid of change, but make sure that the “change” is going to work for you.
>  
> Hopefully this helps anyone else out there that is contemplating “change” with regard to their computer. Should you have any questions about this or any other topic, for that matter, please send me a message and I’ll try to answer it, one way or the other. I can be reached at my email address located at the top of this article. 
> Happy Computing!
> A Time to Plant
> 
> By Sue Brasel
> Sue at TheBlindPerspective.com
> Gardening is the process of growing and cultivating plants as a part of farming. Plants can be grown for many features including flowers, foliage and root structures. We tend to think of plants for their vegetables, fruits, herbs or appearances. Other things, such as soil composition, pest control, and sustainable gardening also help to have a better garden.
>  
> In 1973, Dr. David Gibby of Washington State University Extension Service founded a program where volunteers were trained to advise and educate the public about gardening and horticulture. These volunteers, known as Master Gardeners in both the US and Canada, learn about plant pathology, soil health, entomology, sustainable gardening, and other things pertaining to gardening. They are taught by university professors and local experts. In essence, Master Gardeners are taught many areas of gardening and are willing to share what they know as they continue to learn.
>  
> Several visually challenged Master Gardeners decided, independent of each other, to find ways to help others who are visually challenged or blind gain better gardening ability with their sight limitations. Safety issues and gardening hints were the most discussed items.
>  
> It is wise to have a whistle, horn or some other device so you can signal others. A phone is a great way to contact someone; keep it in your pocket or gardening apron. Consider having family connection numbers handy.
>  
> Personal gear such as wrap around sunglasses and/or visors might be wise. Keep hydration in mind, especially during the summer.
>  
> Two waterproof radios, set on different stations, can allow you to orient yourself in your garden. A fountain or wind chimes might also help with that.
>  
> Gardening gloves made of Kevlar® can protect your hands from sharp tools or thorny vines. Leather gloves may make it difficult to move your hands, but gloves where only the palms are leather, may help.  Wrist or elbow length gloves provide dexterity options.
> You might choose to have several pairs of different kinds of gardening gloves.
>  
> Be careful about falling, especially near vine plants. Level pathways with mulch, rocks, or oyster shells for traction. Use different surface textures to orient where you are.
>  
> Walk with tools parallel to the ground, the point pointing down.  Shears or loppers should be closed and locked.  Re-purpose leather glove fingers to make cutting edge shields.
>  
> By installing ropes or fences with colorful end caps you can recognize where you are. Tennis balls on stakes work here! Raised bed corners and edges can have pool noodles attached to protect shins.
>  
> When mowing, line wheels up against edging. Traffic cones or flags provide destinations to aim for.
>  
> Use a tool caddy or a deep (5 gallon) bucket to haul your tools, with yellow caution tape, binder twine or braided twine on the handle for easy finding. Long colorful strings of bright pink, white or blue may help because many sight challenged people easily recognize these.  A small amount of color may be hard to find, but larger amounts may make it easier. Consider tying tools to your belt so you don’t misplace them.
>  
> Wishing all of the readers of the Blind Perspective a very joyous and blessed holiday season. It is now “thyme” for me to check my equipment, getting things ready for the next gardening season.
> the Alternating Duo: Seeing the World Differently
> 
> By Lois Strachan
> Lois at TheBlindPerspective.com
> Museums, they can be a fascinating experience of a historical time and place, or a frustrating waste of time for a blind tourist. With my interest in history I’ve had plenty of experience with both types of museums.
>  
> Last month I was in France, in Normandy, exploring some of the history of the Allied landings during WWII. During that time I visited 4 or 5 museums. Sadly, most of the exhibits were only to be looked at from a distance which, as you can imagine, isn’t great for a blind traveler. 
>  
> Which was why I was so enthralled to visit the Normandy Airborne Museum, where I felt they made the experience more interactive. Not only did I get to explore a WWII glider by touch, both inside and out. But I also got to experience a simulation of what it might have been like for the paratroopers who were the first line combatants.
>  
> In the airplane, I could hear the crackle of radio transmissions from the cockpit, I could hear and feel the deep thrum of the engines as I walked through the belly of the plane where the paratroopers would have waited to jump. The simulation is reinforced visually as you step out of the plane into an apparently dark night where you can see vague white shapes of the parachutes that have gone before you.
>  
> Leaving the plane behind you, you are thrust into another simulation. This time of what the paratroopers might have found upon landing in France, with a cacophony of shots and explosions engulfing you. While it’s nowhere near what must have been faced by the paratroopers, the simulation left me profoundly shaken, and with a greater respect for those in the armed forces.
>  
> Another museum that had a significant impact on me was the Schindler Museum in Krakow, Poland, which I visited a few years ago. I still find it eerie how effectively the atmosphere of WWII Krakow under Nazi rule was recreated in each room of the museum, engaging every sense to create an almost immersive experience for visitors.
>  
> More disappointing was my visit to the Versailles Palace, the opulent home of French King Louis XVI and his wife, Marie Antoinette, which is just outside Paris. We were kept well away from any of the historic items, and there were so many people being shuttled through the palace that we couldn’t even use our audio guide to get a sense of the experience. There was no attempt to engage the visitors using anything besides their eyesight. It was frustrating and unpleasant for me. I honestly felt like I was standing in a jostling crowd at a rock concert. Without the compensation of some great music to make it worthwhile.
>  
> Here’s the thing. A museum that tries to engage all the senses of their visitors is going to give them a far richer and more meaningful experience. If they take the time to add sound, touch and scent to the exhibits, everyone will benefit. And it may turn a previously frustrating museum into a fascinating and inclusive experience for us as visually impaired travelers.
>  
> Have you been to museums that have made an effort to give visitors an experiential way of engaging with the exhibits? How have they accommodated the needs of visitors who can’t see? I’d love to hear your experiences, so please drop me an e-mail and let me know.
>  
> Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful Festive Season and, till next year, happy travels!
> Dirty Work
> 
> By Manny Morales
> Manny at TheBlindPerspective.com
> Tea tree oil is an essential oil that can be used for several purposes, including keeping skin, hair and nails healthy. Today, tea tree oil is widely available as a 100% undiluted oil. Diluted forms are also available, ranging from. 5–50% strength in products designed for the skin.
> Some people who have sensitive skin may experience irritation when using undiluted tea tree oil. If your skin is sensitive, it's best to mix tea tree oil with an equal or greater amount of olive oil, coconut oil or almond oil.
> 
> Read on to learn more uses and benefits of this versatile oil.
> Hand Sanitizer: Using tea tree oil as a natural hand sanitizer may help kill a number of germs responsible for colds, flu and other illnesses.
> 
> Hand Sanitizer Recipe
> Ingredients:
> 5-10 drops lavender essential oil
> 30 drops tea tree essential oil (0.5% concentration)
> 1 Tablespoon witch hazel (found in most drug stores and Amazon)
> 8 ounces 100% pure aloe Vera gel
> ¼ teaspoon Vitamin E oil*
> Small colored spray bottles
> 
> Directions:
> Add essential oils and Vitamin E oil to a small glass bowl or container and swirl to mix.
> Add witch hazel to the oils and swirl again.
> Combine this mixture with the aloe Vera gel and mix well.
> 
> Transfer hand sanitizer to small, clean squirt bottles. Using the colored bottles will protect the oils from being exposed to light.
> 
> Shake gently before each use. Sanitizer should last several months with the addition of Vitamin E.
> *a natural preservative to increase shelf life, and it will also help soften hands!)
> 
> Insect Repellent: Some studies have shown that tea tree oil had a greater ability to repel mosquitoes than DEET, the most common active ingredient in commercial insect repellents.
> Bug & Mosquito Repellent Spray
> Ingredients:
> spray bottles
> 20 drops citronella essential oil
> 20 drops lavender essential oil
> 20 drops tea tree oil
> 20 drops lemongrass essential oil
> 20 drops mint essential oil
> 1 tablespoon vodka (acts as a preservative)
> Distilled water
> 
> Directions:
> Add all essential oils to the bottle.
> Add the alcohol to the bottle.
> Shake before each use. Spray on the parts that bugs/ mosquitos tend to go for, such as the hands, legs, arms, neck; basically, any part that is exposed.
> 
> Natural Deodorant: Tea tree oil's antibacterial effects may help control underarm odor related to perspiration. Sweat itself does not smell. However, when secretions from your sweat glands combine with bacteria on your skin, a moderate to strong odor is produced. Your underarm area contains a large concentration of these glands and is mainly responsible for what is commonly referred to as "body odor." Tea tree oil's bacteria-fighting properties make it an ideal natural alternative to commercial deodorants and antiperspirants.
> Homemade Deodorant
> Ingredients:
> 3 Tablespoons Coconut Oil
> 3 Tablespoons Arrow Root Powder or Cornstarch
> 3 Tablespoons Baking Soda
> 10-20 Drops Tea Tree Essential Oil
> 
> Directions:
> Melt the coconut oil using the double-boiler method.
> Once melted, remove from heat, and stir in the remaining ingredients.
> Pour the mixture into a small, glass jar or container and let it set for a couple hours.
> Apply with fingers.
> 
> Antiseptic for Minor Cuts and Scrapes: Injuries that result in broken skin make it easy for germs to enter your bloodstream, which can lead to infection. Tea tree oil can be used to treat and disinfect minor cuts and abrasions.
> To disinfect a cut or scrape, follow these steps:
> Clean the cut thoroughly with plain soap and water.
> Mix one drop of tea tree oil with one teaspoon of coconut oil.
> Apply a small amount of the mixture to the injury and cover with a bandage.
> Repeat this process once or twice daily until a scab has formed.
> 
> Athlete's Foot: Tea tree oil's antifungal properties may help alleviate symptoms of athlete's foot.
> Athlete Foot Powder
> Ingredients:
> ¼ cup Arrowroot powder or cornstarch
> ¼ cup baking soda
> 20 -25 drops of tea tree essential oil
> 
> Directions:
> Combine all ingredients, stir and mix well.
> Place in a covered container.
> Apply to clean, dry feet twice a day.
> 
> As you can see by all of the examples, tea tree oil can be helpful in many ways. It's an inexpensive natural alternative to chemical-based skin and nail treatments, personal care products and disinfectants, among other things.
> I like to take this time to send my best wishes for all of our readers to have a wonderful and festive holiday season!
> The Beauty Parlor
> 
> By Christy Ray
> Christy at TheBlindPerspective.com
> Extreme cold and dry weather calls for a little extra TLC for . wait for it . your lips. Think about it, we have hats for our heads, gloves for our hands, but what about your lips? Using a lip balm is great, but pay a little closer attention to those lips of yours and use an exfoliant sugar scrub made just for your lips. And, don’t forget to use that lip balm not the chap stick. Chap stick contains alcohol that dries out your lips! One last thing that is good for your lips, and your whole body is drinking water. Water, and more water to keep from feeling dried out from the inside out.
> Cooking Concoctions
> 
> By Maxine
> Maxine at TheBlindPerspective.com
> The holiday season is in full swing. And, no doubt you will either be going to a pot luck brunch or having your own big Sunday breakfast for family and friends. Don’t fret, I have three recipes that have most of the work done the night before! That way you will be able to sit, chat, and relax with your family and guest.
> I am starting with yummy warm, glazed cinnamon rolls. They not only will taste great, but your house will smell wonderful!
> Overnight Cinnamon Rolls
> Prepare these ahead of time and let the rolls proof overnight in the refrigerator so you can relax with your coffee in the morning.
> Ingredients:
> For the dough:
> 1 Tablespoon (1 package) active dry yeast
> 1/2 cup warm water (105°F)
> 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more as needed
> 4 eggs
> 1/4 cup granulated sugar
> 2 teaspoon kosher salt
> 1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature
> 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
> 1/2 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon
> 
> For the vanilla glaze:
> 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
> 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
> 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
> 3 Tablespoons milk
> 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
> 
> Directions:
> To make the dough:
> In the bowl of a stand mixer, add warm water then sprinkle in the yeast, allow to bloom for a few minutes, then whisk until smooth.
> Whisk in 1/2 cup of the flour. Cover with plastic wrap and let stand in a warm spot, about 30 minutes.
> Add the eggs, granulated sugar, salt and the remaining 4 cups flour to the yeast mixture.
> Fit the mixer with the dough hook and knead on medium speed until smooth, 3 to 4 minutes.
> Add the room-temperature butter and continue to knead, adding a little flour to reduce stickiness if needed, until the dough is smooth, 10 to 12 minutes.
> Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise until doubled, about 2 hours.
> Butter a 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
> Transfer the dough to a floured work surface. Roll out into a 15-by-10-inch rectangle.
> Brush the rectangle with half of the melted butter, leaving a 2-inch-wide strip uncovered on one long side.
> Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over the butter.
> Starting at the long side covered with sugar, roll up the rectangle snugly and pinch the seam together.
> With the seam facing down, cut into 10 equal pieces.
> Place the pieces, cut side up, in the prepared dish.
> Brush the rolls with the remaining butter. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in the refrigerator overnight.
> 
> The next morning, remove the rolls from the refrigerator and let rise, about 1 hour.
> Preheat an oven to 350°F.
> Bake the rolls until golden brown, about 30 minutes. Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
> While the rolls are baking, make the vanilla glaze:
> In a small bowl, sift together the confectioners’ sugar and salt.
> In a separate bowl, whisk together the butter, milk and vanilla, then stir into the sugar mixture to form a smooth paste.
> Spread the glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately.
> 
> Hash Brown Bake
> Ingredients:
> 5 medium potatoes
> Water
> 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
> 1-1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
> 2 cups milk
> 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) reduced-fat reduced-sodium condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
> 1 Egg
> 1 teaspoon ground mustard
> ½ teaspoon pepper
> 
> Directions:
> Potato Prep:
> Cook whole potatoes in water until half cooked.
> Drain and cool.
> Peel and shred.
> 
> Mix in the onions, and place in a 13x9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray.
> Top with 1 cup cheese.
> Combine milk, soup, egg, mustard and pepper.
> Pour over cheese. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
> 
> Directions, for the next morning:
> Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking.
> Bake at 350° for 1 hour.
> Uncover and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake 20-25 minutes longer or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
> Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
> 
> Sausage Cheese Bake
> Ingredients:
> 2 slices bread, crust removed and cubed
> 3 1 pound chorizo sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken, if you prefer)
> 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese
> 9 eggs, beaten
> 1 1/2 cups milk
> 1 teaspoon dry mustard
> 1 teaspoon salt
> 
> Directions:
> Line 13 by 9 inch baking pan with bread cubes.
> In skillet, brown sausage in small amount of water; drain.
> Once cooled, spoon sausage over bread cubes and sprinkle with cheese.
> In bowl, combine eggs, milk, dry mustard and salt.
> Pour over casserole, and refrigerate overnight.
> Bake, covered, at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.
> Uncover; bake for 10 minutes longer.
> Cut and serve.
> 
> Are these three recipes not a fantastic menu for a Sunday brunch/ breakfast? I hope you will try to make at least one of these recipes and share it with your family and friends. Wishing you all the peace, joy, and spirit of the holiday season!
> 
> Riddle & Brain Buster
> 
> By Alex Smart
> Alex at TheBlindPerspective.com
> 
> Riddle
> 
> You find me in December, but not in any other month. What am I?
> Answer to November’s Riddle: Santa just ate his walking stick! How is that possible?
> It was a candy, cane
> Brain Buster
> 
> Teen Problem
> Every answer is a word or name that ends in the syllable teen, in any spelling. Example: an order of monk; Benedictines.
> Singer known as the Boss.
> Isolation to prevent the spread of disease.
> Brand of chewing gum.
> Prepared with spinach.
> Hiker’s water container.
> Nutritionally what meat is full of.
> Absolutely spotless.
> How Marie Antoinette lost her head.
> Customary procedure.
> Cracker with lots of little holes.
> Answers to November’s Brain Buster:
> Q Z Quiz
> Rock that sparkles. Quartz
> Bed cover made of random patches. Crazy quilt
> English monarch beginning in 1952. Queen Elizabeth
> Hug. Squeeze
> Make sedate. Tranquilize
> Area around a hospital, to traffic. Quiet zone
> 1968 hit by CCR. Suzy Q
> In mattresses, it’s larger than full. Queen size
> Wishing you and your family happiness and laughter during this holiday season!
> Classifieds
> 
> Talking Clocks
> Four different talking clocks with large display.
> triangle/white, cube/white,circle/silver, upright/grey.
> All work. Five dollars each!
> kid's talking penguin clock
> this is a kids talking clock. It is a blue and white penguin with a top hat. It has three functions. Push the top hat and each wing for each function. Very cute.
> Price: 5 dollars.
> Email for more details: laotab at msn.com
> Perkins Brailler standard
> Perkins brailler, Designed by David Abraham, Howe press, Perkins school for the blind.
> original price 810 dollars. Asking 500 dollars.
> Color/Grey, standard, with dust cover and some Braille paper, Braille lesson book.
> Only used on weekends while attending blind school for a year.
> Like new condition.
> contact laotab at msn.com
> writing guides
> a full sized paper guide, 8x11inch; check guide; envelope guide; signature guide. All 4 items for 15 dollars.
> For more details email: laotab at msn.com
> cooking instruments
> fluid alarm, hang over cup and it will beep when fluid reaches tongs.
> 2 metal circles with moveable handles. These can help cook in a pan for eggs or pancakes or anything to know where the food you are cooking is in the pan.
> Both items for 25 dollars.
> contact laotab at msn.com
> The Blind Perspective
> 
> Where we aim to keep you informed and entertained
> The Blind Perspective
> Subscribe by sending an email to: TheBlindPerspective+subscribe at groups.io
> And don't forget to like us on Facebook at facebook.com/TheBlindPerspectiveNewsletter
> Follow us on twitter: @BlindPerspectNL
> Thank you for reading the Blind Perspective!
> 
> © 2015-2019 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any way without the prior expressed written permission of The Blind Perspective.
> THE END
> 
>  
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