Writing!

Writing..It's a thing you do with a paper and pen, right?  Sadly, not for most people.  In today's world, technology can distort what writing and creativity is all about.

Typing a fiction story on the computer can trigger a much different outcome than starting with a blank sheet of paper in front of you.  With a computer and the Internet, you can get creative ideas from somewhere outside your thoughts, whether it be character names, location, or help with a time period, the Internet is at your fingertips to whatever you want to research.  It is amazing how instant our lifestyle is today.  However, the computer screen can be a big distraction.  Once you start looking up, say clothes in the Renaissance era, you are soon on the Pa Renaissance Faire website and planning a family trip.  The Internet can suck you into its vast field of information.  If you are serious about writing a story, my advice is to limit your time researching the Internet for ideas.  Try to hold off on switching away from your word processor program.  This way, more of your own knowledge and experience will appear in your writing, allowing it to feel more personal and you will be much prouder.

I admire Tolkien and other great writers from our past who never had the Internet.  They relied on their own mind and received inspiration from their surroundings and happenings going on around them.  The entertainment they give in their stories are much more appreciated then any modern story.

There is something so simple with having a piece of paper and a writing instrument, and its effect is massive.  You will dig deeper for your thoughts, and your writing will truly showcase you in your words.  I feel proud now that I can write a few paragraphs here without wanting to google similar topics regarding writing and see what others think about this same notion.  I didn't want anything to skew with my opinions or direction in this column.

I am definitely open to receiving inspiration, especially when travelling.  It is always when I am not looking for an idea, that I am blessed with it.  New sights, crazy weather, exotic color patterns, an array of talented people; these are the things that can give you the knowledge and experience for a better story.

Russell Stover vs. Whitman's Chocolates

Who can be disappointed in chocolate?  Me!  Okay, it was still delicious, but here's how it went down.  I bought some Valentine's Day candy for 50% off the day after.  I picked out two heart boxes of assorted chocolate. The two covers that caught my eye were "You're Cool! with Snoopy and "You're my #1 Draft Pick".  I noticed that they were from two different companies: Whitman's Chocolates and Russell Stover.  I never know which one to pick out of these two, but know they are both good.  I decided to buy both and do a comparison.

I opened the boxes and wah-la! - They did not look much different.

I picked one from each box that shared the same shape and color.  It was the same dense caramel filled chocolate and both tasted the same!

My partner hesitated to tell me what was found on the internet, and told me I wasn't going to like this news.  Whitman's was bought by Russell Stover in 1993!  So I bought chocolates from the same freakin' company.  I was really looking for a better comparison, but I did proclaim a winner.  Starred are the unique chocolate flavors.

Russell Stover: They provide more unique options over Whitman's.  I made my best guess on what they are, but this box was the hardest to figure out what is what!  8g of Fat for 3 pieces, less fat, but a bit more sugary taste - 28g.  Calcium is found in this box probably because of the more Nougats and Marshmallow cremes.

• Milk Chocolate Dense Caramel
• Dark Chocolate Dense Caramel
• Dark Chocolate Molasses
• Milk Chocolate Marshmallow Cream
• Dark Chocolate Marshmallow Cream*
• Milk Chocolate Butter Nougat*
• Dark Chocolate Almond Nougat*
• Two Milk Chocolate Toffees
• Milk Chocolate Roman Nougat*
• Dark Chocolate Coconut
• Milk Chocolate Chocolate Creme*

Whitman's Chocolates: No big surprises on what was in these chocolates.  More fat = yummier.  7g for 2 pieces, 17g sugar

• Milk Chocolate Dense Caramel
• Dark Chocolate Dense Caramel
• Two Milk Chocolate Toffees
• Two Milk Chocolate Dense Caramel
• Dark Chocolate Molasses
• Signature Solid Milk Chocolate*
• Two Dark Chocolate Coconut
• Milk Chocolate Marshmallow Cream
• Milk Chocolate Almond Nougat

Winner: Whitman's Chocolates, by a close margin.  Snoopy, their classic feel, and signature solid chocolate sold me.  When buying a box for a gift, it would still be a toss-up for me, and I would probably find the most relevant box design.

My Decision Rant

Can't make up your mind?  I often second guess my decisions and feel like I need to validate its accuracy beforehand.  My introversion expresses this by not giving anyone feedback until I've thought it over and then doing so quietly.  Whether I am mulling it over by myself or with a friend, my mind wants to please myself, plus everyone else.  While I'm caught up in trivial worries, most people have made up their mind.  I'm not talking about work or big life decisions - those are easier than these small ones.  These are the inferior, daily decisions we face regarding the type of food you are going to eat, what you are going to plan to do after work, or what movie you are going to see.

I am logical, however I still hold on to the "what if I make the wrong choice" worry that I take forever in deciding if I want chicken or beef on my nachos.  Of course I'm striving for self happiness, but it is not worth the tedious thought process, especially if it impacts the plan of others.  It can be a complete waste of time waiting for someone for something so trivial.  People rely on other people and I cannot be so passive 100% of the time.  It is one thing to be introverted and to not contribute to a social situation, but to be this held back about making a small decision is a bit unhealthy.  Confidence is something achieved overtime, and it helps to have reassurance from others.  It makes it harder when I get negative feedback about something I've already decided.  If they are not directly involved in the situation, I try my hardest to ignore it!  I'm getting better at making decisions quicker and sticking with it.  I do a little happy dance when the outcome is positive!

So, what is a good salad ingredient to bring along for a party, or the correct choice for dinner tonight? (Yes, always thinking about food)  Is it right to dwell on these decisions?  I say not to an excessive degree, but I cannot help my worries.  What if no one takes a helping of baby corn for their salad?  Is this even a topping for salad?  I've seen these at select salad bars, but does anyone but me take some?  These are just some thoughts that roll around in my mind, but in the end it does not matter.  The baby corn was loved after all by at least 1/4 of the group.  Even if it was just me digging in to my own ingredient, at least there will be more for me.  Optimism is hard to keep up, but it ultimately helps in social situations.

So my gut reaction of baby corn for the salad party and beef nachos for dinner? YES!  Go with what you know and like!  The key is to stick with your interest and be confident in it.  There's a good chance that others will like your decision too.  Making a quick and accurate decision boosts future confidence and also leaves room for more fun in your free time.

You have to pick your battles with yourself because you do not want to get tripped up on whether you want to wear a polka dot or blue shirt today.  You'll be late for work!  Focus on what is most important in life and embrace it.

Science Fiction vs Fantasy

   While searching for new books, I gravitate towards the science fiction section.  On particular books found in the library, there is a "Fantasy" sticker on the spine on those in the sci-fi area.  What makes these stories fantasy?  Where is the boundary between science fiction and fantasy?

   "It is said that science fiction and fantasy are two different things. Science fiction is the improbable made possible, and fantasy is the impossible made probable."
-Rod Serling, 1962

Here are my comparisons between the two genres:

Science Fiction	Fantasy
Technology	Magic
Scientific	Supernatural
Facts in real life	Imaginary
Aliens	Wizards
Robots	Unicorns
Space	Middle Earth
A world that could be	Good vs Evil

     Science fiction offers a scientific rationale for the phenomenon.  There is some kind of technology, whether it's possible or impossible in real life, that alters our known world.  In Fantasy, a unicorn will just appear, and yay, that’s just the way things are.  There are alternative realities and worlds, where you can live in an enchanted forest or a cursed castle.  Most of the time, the conclusion of a science fiction story is a new way of doing things.  In fantasy, the good, from its good vs evil theme, wins.

     This started to make me think of certain story examples.  Where would Star Trek and Star Wars fit in?  Science fiction - Most things are based on a technology or aliens from different planets.  The only thing I had a hard time accepting it is science fiction is The Force.  It is a paranormal ability which is altered in a human or creature, but it could be mistaken for magic.  A few other issues, such as shapeshifters not being technologically explained would be fantasy.  Elements could be used in both genres.  What about time travel?  Science fiction.  Ghosts?  Gods?  Fantasy.

The more I read or watch these stories, the better I can pick out which category they fall into.

Source: Difference Between Science Fiction and Fantasy, Prabhat. and updated on July 28, 2011 Articles on DifferenceBetween.net

photo credit: balt-arts via photopin cc

photo credit: Gilderic Photography via photopin cc

Soft Drinks - Part 2

Coke or Pepsi?  Yes, this is the Ultimate Cola Taste Test!

I bought 6 different brands of cola:  Pepsi, Pepsi Throwback, America's Choice (Pathmark brand) cola, Giant brand cola, Coke and Mexican Coke.  Both the Mexican Coke and Pepsi Throwback are made without high fructose corn syrup.

Three participants and I taste tested each one and gave our preference of cola before and after.  Before tasting and looking at the lineup, the before preference was chosen by each tester based on what they thought they liked the most.  Then, instead of sloppily blindfolding everyone, the cups were numbered, and only I knew what they were drinking.  I had someone test me separately. These were all cooled and freshly opened.

Tester	The Before Preference	Pepsi	Pepsi Throwback	Coke	Mexican Coke	Giant	Pathmark
Steve	Pepsi			:(	:)
Mary	Coke	:)			:(
James	Mexican Coke		:)	:(
Jen	Coke	:)			:(

The smiley faces indicate the favorite after tasting all six colas. The frowny face is the least favorite.  Mary and I both preferred the regular Pepsi, despite our Coke before preference.  In being a Pepsi fan, Steve was right in choosing Coke as his least favorite, but then preferred Mexican Coke as the result.  James stuck with the no high fructose corn syrup as his preference, but chose Pepsi instead of Coke.  No one strongly liked or disliked the generic sodas!  None of us chose what we thought we would like the best!  Over this very small sample size, plus bonus points from the poll on my blog site, Pepsi wins as the most preferred taste.

I lined up my preferences from worst to best (left to right in picture above).  Welp, as a long time Coke lover, I have chosen Pepsi as my favorite after the test taste.  The test itself was so difficult.  At first, all of the colas tasted the same. I had to go back and forth from the cups.  One tasted like vanilla (Pepsi Throwback) and one tasted flat (Mexican Coke). 

So in the future, I will give Pepsi a chance, though I will probably still say that I like Coke better!  It could be the better branding for the product - note my shirt.

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Tips to a Happy Desk and Mind

    In taking courses in time management and improving my professional self, I've come up with a few tips on how to better your environment at work or home.

    Let's start with your workspace.  If you have a desk or office, this is easy to do.  Take a look around your desk, what one thing is the most annoying or out of place?  The paper clip that has fallen out of your tray?  Too many sticky notes?  Whatever your annoyance, fix one thing now!  Place the paper clip back where it belongs, or consolidate your notes to one piece of paper or to your electronic device.  Feel better?  Okay, now I'll ask again, what one thing is the most annoying or out of place?  Too soon?  I'll try back again in a few hours. A clean environment can help you in your day to day activities.  Seeing a mess in your own space can trigger stress.  Although your eyes glue themselves to your computer screen, you could concentrate more without the clutter in your peripheral view.  If you are the type of person who works best under pressure, stop reading...just kidding, it should be the pressure of the tasks at hand needing to get done that motivates you, never the mess.  You can have the same bazillion tasks, but still have a neat environment allowing you to think clearer.

    Start small in your organizing, concentrating on one paper or object at a time.  Focus on one area of your desk or space and place these in designated groups, such as current tasks, pending issues and research material.  Take your time; it doesn't need to get done today.  Depending on how organized your space is now depends on how long it will take.  Gradually things will become easier, and there will be a designated place for everything you come across.  Sometimes it feels like you do not have enough room for everything.  Think about decluttering (This word is not in the Merriam-Webster dictionary!) first before thinking you need more space.  Make sure you have a trash pile.  It is amazing how much you do not need after a year.

    Once your area is manageable and you are very comfortable with it, buy yourself a plant or add a colorful calendar to perk things up.  Why be boring?  Add a picture or comic that you can often look at for a smile.  Find a good place for fun knick-knacks - like my Gumby and Pokey.  Keep a piece of YOU around!  These little things can be comforting while in a monotonous flow or in tough work situations.

As I have said before in my time post, a calendar is helpful for work and personal reasons.  I would recommend getting two calendars: one visible on your desk or in your kitchen, and one on your electronic device.  Clear your mind by organizing your schedule on paper or electronically.  Once it is on the calendar, you can forget about it for the moment.   Electronic calendars are great in addition, but the old-fashioned writing in your days off or special meetings does have benefits.  Your eyes can revert away from the a screen for once and allows its own space of reference.  I find it easier to discuss dates when other people are present, viewing my wall calendar with me. 

    If your home or work environment is noisy, wear headphones and listen to your iPod or Spotify.  Avoid slow classical music as this could put you to sleep.  Upbeat music is ideal for greater productivity. 

   Already organized and have keen knowledge on these tips?  Add another knick-knack or clean out that drawer you have forgotten about.  Small changes here and there can put you in a better mood!

Fast Food Unraveled: Part 2

Hello World!  After being dormant for so long, I have tried to think of an excuse to where I was for two months...working on my book, sick, entertaining guests, out of town, out of ideas - Okay, while some of these were true, I was really eating chicken!  Continuing my fast food tour, I explored chicken nuggets.  I veered away from the top three fast food chains and compared a few other good places. 




KFC - Original Recipe Bites (10 count)





- WW points: 8

- Price: $3.99 with side and drink for a limited time

It really feels like you are eating chicken right off of the bone.  They are boneless, but could have fooled me if I had a blindfold on...(ooo I should do that for my next food post).  These nuggets are moist, and the breading is just the right amount of crisp.











Chic Fil A - Nuggets (8 count)

- WW points: 7

- Price: $4.79 with fries and drink, may vary by location

These nuggets are thinly breaded and full of flavor. The light, salty taste makes you want more.  I try to ration the chicken, but always run out with a ton of waffle fries left (yum...).  The sweetness of the Polynesian sauce compliments this.

Sonic - Jumbo Popcorn Chicken (large size, too hungry to count)

- WW points: 15
- Price: $6.50 with tots/fries and drink

These nuggets are not jumbo.  They range from small to large.  The taste is good, but nothing special.  BBQ or other sauce is needed.









Winner: Chic Fil A!  KFC is a close second.  Sonic is out in left field with points, price and taste.  What is your favorite chicky-chick?

*WW points based on PointsPlus Values.  Click here for the calculator.

The Fifty States: Connecticut

Skipping ahead a bit, this is the twelfth (12th visited in my lifetime) in a series of states, where I highlight my time spent in a state.  These are my own recommendations of restaurants and things to do, and I hope to share my perspective. I hope to visit all 50 states in my lifetime to see the sights and learn about each area.

Connecticut

Here I will link to a guest blog.  This is my experience in a nut shell of Greenwich, Stamford and New Haven.  http://www.rubberducksystems.com/jamesstopford/2012/02/26/greenwich-and-new-haven/

A few more notes to add:

In visiting different parts of Conneticut, I found it very upscale and elegant.  It seemed like many people were dressed up, and that this is the daily norm.  The Stamford Town Center is notable for the odd layout of floors and parking.  I enjoyed the Beineke Rare Book Library and walking around the Yale campus.  In every town visited, crowds are apparent. Areas are built up with high end stores and hoity-toity coffee shops. 

The Fifty States: Delaware

This is sixth in a series of states, where I highlight my time spent in a state.  These are my own recommendations of restaurants and things to do, and I hope to share my perspective. I hope to visit all 50 states in my lifetime to see the sights and learn about each area.

*As I review this area and those surrounding, my heart goes out to all affected by the recent hurricane Sandy.  Many landmarks and sights are now only memories to us across the east coast.  Below are my thoughts on what they once were and wish none were altered too drastically.

Delaware

Delaware was the first to become a state in 1787 by ratifying the United States Constitution.  It is the second smallest state; the smallest is Rhode Island.  If you drive too far, you'll get to Pennsylvania, Maryland, or the Atlantic Ocean!

Rehoboth Beach - In 2012, Rehoboth Beach was named one of the top 10 best beaches for families by Family Vacation Critic.  If coming from the north, head to Cape May, New Jersey and take the ferry over to Delaware to get to Rehoboth Beach.  You can drive your car right onto the ferry.  There is a nice clean boardwalk and many bed and breakfasts in the area.  Check out the Haunted Mansion ride in Funland.  It is not too scary, but sure is fun.

Christiana Mall - This is a large one story mall with a few high end stores and a Target.  No sales tax in Delaware, so buy it there!

Hagley Museum - Be prepared to walk all over these grounds.  There is a shuttle available, but the trail is nice to stop along the way for different views of the Brandywine River. Learn about DuPont's company history in a couple stories of the museum.  There are also changing exhibits here.  On the grounds, there is a black powder mill, a school, the DuPont family home (need to take the bus to get here), gardens and an organic cafe.  There are demonstrations and tours along the route.  This could take at least 3 hours to go through.

Soft Drinks

Why are soft drinks 'soft'?  I had to think about this one a bit, but had to revert to googling the answer.  It is because they are not 'hard' (Duh, right?), or a distilled alcoholic beverage.  It can be a carbonated or non-carbonated drink, but is most likely referred to as the carbonated type: a soda (also called pop, coke, fizzy or other variations).

Soft drinks are probably the unhealthiest drink because of its high sugar content and/or high fructose corn syrup in most.  It is alleviated through diet alternatives, but some, like me, would not prefer the taste.  Beware of the diet sodas; they create brain trickery!  It tastes sweet and your brain expects the calories to give your body energy, but it disappoints. This leads to more food intake to compensate for the empty feeling and is associated to causing obesity.1

Soda may not quench your thirst thoroughly, but it does leave you feeling good.  When I have my favorite pop in my belly and more in my glass or bottle, it promotes good vibes to my brain.  I don't think of the consequences, especially since I do not consume it that often.

The Consequences of a Coke:
Burp! (repeat)
Bad breath (see Burp!)
High sugar (Wheeeee!!!!  Wheee! Weaa..::crash::..wah)
Caffeine (WOOHOO  it's 3AM!)
High calories (50 minutes of jogging burns one bottle ~250 cal)
Yellow/bad teeth (I better use a bendy straw)
Thirsty (still thirsty! need more and more fizzies!)

The Benefits of a Coke:
High sugar (The Wheeeeee!!! part)
Caffeine (The WOOHOO part)
Delicious (AHH!)
Cold and refreshing ("milk was a bad choice")
A Party drink (popular for young and old crowds)
Can combine with liquor to become a hard drink (yes please)
Pairs well with a variety of food (a hamburger or pizza in particular)
Inexpensive (99 cents for a 2 liter Coke)
Convenient - (in vending machines and most food vendors)

Citations:

1. Diet sodas may confuse brain's 'calorie counter' By Janet Raloff

July 14th, 2012; Vol.182 #1 (p. 14) : Wednesday, June 13, 2012

The Fifty States: Maryland

This is fifth in a series of states, where I highlight my time spent in a state.  These are my own recommendations of restaurants and things to do, and I hope to share my perspective. I hope to visit all 50 states in my lifetime to see the sights and learn about each area.

Maryland

I think I am the rustiest on this state and will need an immediate revisit to up any sort of credibility here.

-Baltimore

95 and 83 are the main highways through this city.

The National Aquarium is great to visit.  It is expensive for a ticket; about $30 for adult, which you buy somewhat outside the site.  They do this so you can buy the ticket and then get in line to enter.  This place tends to get very crowded come lunch time on a weekend.  Go when it first opens and explore all of the tanks surrounding you in peace.  There is a dolphin show that is popular, and you'll need to line up to enter this as well.  The gift shop is noteworthy.

Around the Inner Harbor, where the aquarium is located, there are many shops, restaurants (mostly seafood), and museums. The Oriole Park at Camden Yards is nearby for a baseball game.  Babe Ruth's birthplace is a few blocks away from here.

Any suggestions of where else to visit within Maryland would be appreciated!

---

FYI: Geographically located within the state is Washington DC, the capital of the United States, but it is not considered part of Maryland state!

The Fifty States: New York

This is fourth in a series of states, where I highlight my time spent in a state.  These are my own recommendations of restaurants and things to do, and I hope to share my perspective. I hope to visit all 50 states in my lifetime to see the sights and learn about each area.

New York

The best way into New York City is I-95 from NJ, PA or south of here.  The train is $30 round trip from Trenton. If you really don't have to drive, use the train or other public transportation.  The streets are crowded with mostly taxis, and the parking is expensive.

If you do not like crowds, I would not recommend going to downtown Manhattan after Thanksgiving through New Year's Day.  Not only is it crowded, it is cold, and there is a lot of walking around the city to get to place to place.  Your toes will be numb and face wind burn from the cold air, so bundle wisely!

I would go in the morning and during the day to get a head start.  Head up to the Empire State Building first.  The lines on a busy Friday or Saturday are very long, so be prepared to wait at least an hour or two.  See 360 degree views of the city with the sights of the Chrysler Building, the Statue of Liberty, and others.  A Statue of Liberty visit needs reservations to take the boat out to Liberty Island. These are sometimes booked up a few months in advance.  Be prepared to walk up many steps to get to her crown.

If you must see the holiday decorations around the city, start with the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and join in the crowds for some fun events. The sites at night, such as Times Square and the Rockefeller Tree are particularly tourist worthy.  For night life, catch the Rockettes at Rockefeller Center or a Broadway show.

There is a huge celebration on New Year's Eve in Times Square.  This is a ridiculous gathering that rings in the new year by watching the ball drop on this main street of New York.

Do not miss these art and history museums: MOMA, Guggenheim Museum, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Museum of Natural History.

Central Park could be a day's journey.  It contains a zoo, an ice skating rink, Belvedere Castle, Bow Bridge and other bridges, a Carousel, sports fields, playgrounds, conservatories, memorials, trails and more.

Take a moment to reflect and visit Ground Zero, where the World Trade Center once stood.

For restaurant ideas in Manhattan, try one of Gordon Ramsey's restaurants, such as The Maze at the London.  Pizza and bagels are New York City's staple foods.  Have a cupcake at the Magnolia Bakery.

Visit Long Island for the beach in the summer.

Fast Food Unraveled

I went on a local fast food tour. I wanted to understand what exactly you get for your money and to compare the taste and look of popular items against their competitors. I went to the top three burger joints in town, which are also the top food chains in the US. I went to the counter at each place and ordered, "A plain hamburger and small fries."

Plain Hamburger + Small Fries

                                                                                                                                                     

Jennie's Winner: Burger King
The BF's Winner: Wendy's

McDonalds - There is more bun than burger. There is one pickle and tiny diced onions along with ketchup and mustard.

Burger King - The juicy and charcoal taste stands out with this burger.  There are two pickles, no onions, ketchup, and a decent sized burger to go with the sesame seed bun.

Wendy's - This square shaped burger is thin but flavorful. There are two pickles, one onion ring, ketchup and mustard.




                                                                                                                                                     

It was hard to resist eating a fry or two during this project. My counts are based on all fries, including the tiniest bits.

Jennie's Winner: Burger King
The BF's Winner: Burger King



McDonalds -  Thin, long, lightly salted and soggy with grease
Count: 47

Burger King - Thick, crispy and lightly salted
Count: 45

             
         

Wendy's - Thin, crispy and heavily salted
Count: 46

 

 

                                                                                                                                                      

At the most expensive, Burger King was my best choice for both the hamburger and the fries.  It would be well worth it in the future, now knowing these are my favorites among the rest!

*WW points based on PointsPlus Values.  Click here for the calculator.

E-clubs: Do you like to dine out?

If you dine out often, sign up with these restaurants to get a deal! Click the restaurant name to link to the e-club website.

Restaurant	Birthday Deal	Sign Up Deal
Applebee’s	Free Dessert	---
Arby’s	Free 12 oz milkshake	---
Au Bon Pain	Free sandwich or salad	Free travel mug
Auntie Anne’s	BOGO Pretzel	---
Bahama Breeze	---	---
Baskin Robbins	Free one scoop of ice cream	---
Benihana	$30 gift certificate	---
Bertucci’s	Free Dessert	---
Bonanza	BOGO coupon for one free steak or buffet	BOGO coupon for one free entree
Bonefish Grill	Free order of Bang Bang Shrimp or Jen’s Jamaican Coconut Pie	---
Bruster’s Real Ice Cream	Free Sugar or Cake Cone when you buy a Waffle Cone	Free Sugar or Cake Cone when you buy a Waffle Cone
Buffalo Wild Wings	Free Chocolate fudge cake or scoop of ice cream with chocolate or caramel topping	---
Burger King	---	---
California Pizza Kitchen	Free Dessert	Free Small Plate
Chic-Fil-A	---	---
Chili’s	Free dessert of choice	Free Queso
Coldstone	Buy one get one Creation - any size	---
Corner Bakery Café	FREE Bakery Fresh Sweet, like our Baby Bundt Cake, Whoopee Pie or Fudge Brownie	Free Freshly Baked Cookie
Cosi	---	---
Cracker Barrel	---	---
Dairy Queen	Buy one get one medium Blizzard, $3 off a blizzard cake	---
Denny’s	Free Grand Slam Breakfast	---
Dunkin Donuts	Free medium coffee, latte, tea, Coolatta or hot chocolate	---
Eat ‘n Park	Free dessert with purchase of entree	10% off
Elevation Burger	Free Milkshake	---
Friendly’s	Free single cone with any Friendly's purchase.	---
Hooters	10 free Boneless Wings	---
Houlihan’s	Free entrée up to $15	---
IHop	Free Rooty Tooty Fresh 'N Fruity breakfast	Free Rooty Tooty Fresh 'N Fruity breakfast
JB Dawson's	Free Dessert	---
Joe’s Crab Shack	Free Appetizer	---
KFC	---	---
Krispy Kreme	Free Donut and Coffee or fountain drink	---
Longhorn	Free Dessert	Free Appetizer
Maggiano’s	$10 off	---
Margarita's (Tio Juan’s)	$10 off	---
Max and Erma’s	---	$5 off 20 or more
Miller's in Lancaster	Buy one get one dinner	---
Moe’s Southwest Grill	Free Entree with purchase of drink	Free Cup of queso
Noodles and Company	Free Noodle Bowl	---
Old Country Buffet	Buy one adult dinner and drink, get one adult buffet free	---
Olive Garden	---	---
On the Border	Free brownie sundae or queso	Bowl of original queso or sopapillas with the purchase of one entree
Outback Steakhouse	---	250 reward points
P F Chang’s	---	Free Lettuce Wraps
Panera Bread	---	---
Pizza Hut	Free Breadsticks or Cinnamon Sticks or Baked Cinnamon Sticks with icing on next online order	Free Breadsticks or Cinnamon Sticks on next online order
Ponderosa	BOGO coupon for one free steak or buffet	BOGO coupon for one free entree
Popeyes	---	---
Qdoba Mexican Grill	Free Burrito	Free Chips and Salsa
Quiznos	---	$1 regular or $2 large
Red Lobster	$5 off two adult dinner entrees	---
Red Robin	Free burger	Free burger
Rita’s	Free regular Italian Ice	BOGO regular Italian Ice
Romano’s Macaroni Grill	Free Dessert	Free Dessert
Ruby Tuesday	Free Blondie for One, or two Gourmet cupcakes	Buy one get one free entrée up to $10
Ruth’s Chris Steak House	---	---
Sonic Drive-In	Choice of free medium Tots, 14 oz. CreamSlush Treat, or a medium Soft Drink	---
Starbucks	Free beverage, buy something within 12 months of  Rewards Card registration, birthday postcard in mailbox in 3-7 days	---
Subway	---	---
Taco John’s	---	---
Ted’s Montana Grill	---	$5 off any $20 purchase or more
Texas Roadhouse	Free appetizer or sidekick of ribs with entrée purchase	Free appetizer
TGIF	Free dessert with purchase of an entrée	Free appetizer or dessert up to $8 value
The Melting Pot	Free Chocolate Fondue	---
Tijuana Flats	---	---
Uno’s Chicago Grill	$10 off $25 or more	---
Waffle House	Free Waffle	Free Waffle
Wendy’s	$1.00 off any Premium Combo	$1.00 off any Hot ‘n Juicy Hamburgers or Premium Chicken Sandwiches
Wings to Go	5 free wings	---
Zaxby’s	Free Nibbler	Free Meal Deal

If you know of any other restaurants or can fill in some of my blanks, leave me a comment, and I'll update! I am signed up for all of these, so some I have forgotten what was received for signing up.  

Here are some other non-restaurant deals:

Movie Tavern - Free Ticket for your birthday month, free popcorn for initial sign up

Luminosity - 35% Off

AC Moore - 250 points with a purchase of $5 or more

Hot Topic - $5 off $30 or more in birthday month
 

DSW - $5 off any purchase amount in birthday month

CVS - $3.00 in birthday month, must have extra care card, will print on your receipt or at the coupon center