Watercooler Stories

RUSSIAN BUSINESS PRINCIPLES OFFERED

Russian businessmen are being offered a code of moral principles -- modeled after the Ten Commandments -- by the Global All-Russian Orthodox Council.

The first says, "Remember the spiritual meaning of life while earning the daily bread. Take care of the welfare of other people, the nation and the country when seeking personal welfare."

The principles also say, "Wealth is not an end in itself. It must serve for creation of good life of any individual and the nation," Pravda reports.

Another points out that, "A human being is not a continuously working mechanism: he needs time for relaxation, spiritual life and creative progress."

No. 6 warns that work should not kill and cripple people.

RESERVATIONS NEEDED FOR VALENTINE'S DAY

Sharing a special dinner is a longstanding tradition for many on Valentine's Day and this year 35 percent of couples plan to dine out.

A survey by the National Restaurant Association finds of those who intend to dine out this Valentine's Day, 80 percent expect to spend less than $100 on their meal, but 20 percent plan to spend $100 or more -- with an average of $62.

"Feb. 14 falls on a Saturday this year, which is the most popular day of the week to visit a restaurant throughout the year," says NRA President Steven C. Anderson

Anderson recommends that if a favorite eatery is fully booked this weekend, many restaurants offer takeout options for convenient -- but still romantic -- dining at home.

BABY SUPPLIES WAIT FOR PARENTS

Babies Travel Lite has baby supplies waiting for parents at hotels, vacation rentals or even Grandma's house nationwide via its Web site babiestravellite.com.

"Between security concerns and newly enforced baggage restrictions, bringing all the baby things has become more difficult," says stay-at-home dad Frank Pechacek, who co-founded Babies Travel Lite with his wife Natalie.

The couple conceived the idea while taking a newborn son and a 1-year-old daughter on a trip, along with eight pieces luggage as well as strollers and car seats.

"Three pieces of our luggage alone consisted of baby supplies -- diapers, wipes, formula, bottles, food, bathing supplies, and countless other items," says Natalie Pechacek.

FIRST FEMALE ASTRONAUT DOLL

The first female astronaut, Valentines Tereshkova of the Soviet Union, went into space in 1963, but it took until 2004 before the first female astronaut doll was launched.

In cooperation with The Space Store, Daron products has released the first female astronaut doll.

The 11.5-inch fashion doll wears an official NASA blue flight suit with NASA luggage -- with wheels.

The doll is sold packed in a pink and clear plastic backpack.

Sally Ride was the first U.S. woman in space in 1983, followed by Kathryn Sullivan and Anna Fisher in 1984, Mae Jemison in 1992 and Eileen Collins in 1999.