Gadgets on the go
Web-posted 7/31/2004
It was, understandably, the trip from hell. Trapped in a van during the summer with no air conditioning, on a 700-mile trek from Loveland, Colo., to Ames, Iowa, Lynn Matson and his wife were desperate to find something to occupy their 7- and 9-year-old children. Somewhere in Nebraska, they decided to make do with their surroundings. They counted dead animals.

Woman can refuse to discuss political topics
Web-posted 7/31/2004
Dear Carson: I have developed a friendship with a woman I work with and also see socially with my husband. Lately, it seems that every time we get together she and her husband bring up politics. At a recent party, a member of her family became very aggressive with me about my support of our president. I always felt that a social gathering is not the place to discuss politics or religion. Because my husband and I have been repeatedly attacked on politics with this couple, we are now making excuses to spend less time with them. Can you give me any tactful way around this subject? - Political Pressure

The Winner's Circle: The Face on the Wall
Web-posted 7/31/2004
STORY SO FAR: On Ben's first day with his foster family, he gets the first inkling that the Brennans are not as wealthy as they seem. But an upcoming excursion with Rachel drives everything else out of his head.

Decor enhances look of openness in graceful home
Web-posted 7/31/2004
When it comes to town-house living, Cathie Richards sees no negatives.

Living briefs
Web-posted 7/31/2004
Do you love to drink smoothies? If you're older than 16 and would like to be a smoothie taste-tester, tell us why in 25 words or less. We'll treat you to a tour of places that serve smoothies.

Kitchen waste not, kitchen want not
Web-posted 7/31/2004
Interest rates are on the upswing. The economy appears much stronger now than it was last year. It looks like we can expect job growth and possibly even a raise or two over the next several years. Unfortunately, as with all recoveries, we should also expect higher interest rates. Bottom line: we can enjoy a growing economy where interest rates are pretty darn low and the job market is in growth mode.

Style Briefs
Web-posted 7/31/2004
NEW YORK -- Models over 40 can have the same great figures, hair and smiles that their 20-something counterparts have, but with age comes confidence, one of the most attractive qualities a woman can possess, says Candace Bushnell, the 45-year-old author of "Sex and the City" and "Four Blondes."

Pennsylvania: an ideal hiking state
Web-posted 7/31/2004
GARDNERS, Pa. -- At 3,213 feet, Mount Davis in Somerset County lords over the wild rivers of southwest Pennsylvania. And as the state's highest point, it makes for one rewarding (and fairly easy) hike.

Retreats offer sanctuary from stress in North Carolina
Web-posted 7/31/2004
PITTSBORO, N.C. -- Swinging away lazy afternoons in a hammock. Indulging in quiche and homemade peach cobbler from the General Store Cafe. Walking barefoot on the grass down to a placid pond, cooled by the summer breeze off Jordan Lake.

Travel briefs
Web-posted 7/31/2004
PARIS -- Bikini-clad sun worshippers and other Parisians are flocking to Paris Beach, a lengthy stretch of trucked-in sand along the Seine River.