Pop and Thistle

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Pet Profile: The Dignified Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is a familiar sight in movies that feature escaped convicts. Although the sound of these big dogs baying as they find the scent they are searching for may be a chilling sound to an escapee, it can be a comforting sound. After all, Bloodhounds are also used to track people who are lost …

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Spooktacular Punch Recipes for a Hauntingly Good Halloween Party

Get ready to stir up some wickedly delicious fun this Halloween with our spooktacular punch recipes! Whether you’re hosting a haunted house party or just looking to add a touch of frightful flair to your festivities, we’ve got the perfect potions to make your guests scream with delight. From creepy concoctions that glow in the …

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10 Free Pumpkin Carving Stencils

Pumpkin carving season is here, and if you’re looking for some ideas for this year’s jack-o-lanterns, here are ten free printable pumpkin carving stencils. Just click on the one(s) you want, and print! If you want instructions for pumpkin carving, use these stencils with our Complete How-To Guide for Creative Pumpkin Carving Using Stencils. Haunted House …

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Happy Fall

For the Chipmunk in My Yard I think he knows I’m alive, having come downThe three steps of the back porchAnd given me a good once over. All afternoonHe’s been moving back and forth,Gathering odd bits of walnut shells and twigs,While all about him the great fields tumbleTo the blades of the thresher. He’s luckyTo …

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Pet Profile: The “American Gentleman,” The Boston Terrier

Do you want a dog that is as all American as apple pie? If so, you may want to consider the Boston Terrier, which is one of the few breeds developed in the USA. These comical charmers originated in Boston in the 1800’s. The Boston Terrier was the first American breed accepted by the American …

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Experience the Ultimate Fright at Busch Gardens’ Halloween Scream: A Guide to Howl-O-Scream

As the leaves begin to fall and the nights grow longer, the anticipation of Halloween begins to build. Among the many celebrations, one name stands out: Busch Gardens’ Halloween Scream. This annual event transforms the popular amusement park into a haunting spectacle, filled with spine-tingling scares and eerie entertainment. For thrill-seekers and fans of the …

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Pet Profile: The Loyal Chihuahua

You’ve probably seen people toting around tiny dogs with big poppy brown eyes. These dogs, called Chihuahuas, are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world. The Chihuahua first appeared in Mexico and does well in warmer climates. Of course, a doggy sweater can make one of these small dogs feel warm and cozy …

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Pistachio Gazpacho with Watermelon and Cucumber

By Chef Gerald Hirigoyen, Piperade, San Francisco Chefs Laurent Manrique, Roland Passot and Gerald Hirigoyen hold the most envied title of their profession: Maître Cuisinier de France or Master Chef of France. Chefs are chosen to join one of the world’s most prestigious culinary associations through an exhaustive six-month review process that dates back to 1951. For …

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Mind over Matters: The Right Mindset to Start School

The First Day Of School. A phrase that must be written like that, because it is such an important milestone for the child – and for the parents too. School is the place where a child may spend more of his waking time than he does in his or her home, not counting sleep. It …

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Pet Profile: The Sensitive Dalmatian

We may have Disney to thank for the popularity of Dalmatians. However, few Dalmatians act like the dogs in these movies, although Dalmatian puppies can certainly get into plenty of mischief, just as their cartoon counterparts can. The Dalmatian is a member of the American Kennel Club’s Non-Sporting group. These dogs first arrived in England …

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