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theclevercat profile image

theclevercat

Rachel Vega

Apprenticeship Alum

Joined 16 months ago from Massachusetts. Last activity 27 hours ago.

Hello from northern Massachusetts!

During the day, I'm an administrative powerhouse; by night... blogger, gamer, and freelance writer. Someday I'll publish my NaNo novel, but for now I'm keeping my day job.

Some of my favorite things to write about are architecture, art, baking and cooking, Barbie, books, crafts, dancing, decorating, fashion and shoes, gaming, and writing (of course!)... but any topic is fair game. 

Ask me about my great experience here... I'm pleased to answer questions about HubPages and set you up, too.

The fabu Simone Smith interviewed me about me Apprenticeship experience -- if you'd like to read my response, check it out:

http://hubpages.com/about/interview/theclevercat

Thanks for stopping by!

My Content: Hubs, Answers, and Forums

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  • All
  • HubPages Tutorials and Community (2)
  • All
  • Arts and Design (5)
  • Books, Literature, and Writing (1)
  • Business and Employment (1)
  • Education and Science (2)
  • Entertainment and Media (2)
  • Fashion and Beauty (3)
  • Food and Cooking (4)
  • Games, Toys, and Hobbies (2)
  • Health (1)
  • Holidays and Celebrations (3)
  • Home (1)
  • HubPages Tutorials and Community (3)
  • Pets and Animals (3)
  • Religion and Philosophy (3)
  • Technology (3)
  • All
  • Arts and Design (1)
  • Books, Literature, and Writing (2)
  • Business and Employment (5)
  • Education and Science (16)
  • Fashion and Beauty (10)
  • Food and Cooking (15)
  • Games, Toys, and Hobbies (22)
  • Gender and Relationships (8)
  • Health (1)
  • Holidays and Celebrations (2)
  • Pets and Animals (2)
  • Travel and Places (1)
  • 4

    Seven Ways to Fail Magnificently on a Dating Site

    4 days ago

    Couples find love on dating websites every day, but if you wonder how to fail on a dating site, look no further than this informative article.

  • 3

    How Long Should a First Date Be?

    11 days ago

    So it's your first date with someone you think you like. Right on! But how much time are you supposed to spend together?

  • 0

    Charles and Ray Eames' 1952 House of Cards

    2 months ago

    Do you like building toys? What about clean design? Charles and Ray Eames celebrated the beauty in everyday objects, and you can too with these interlocking cards.

  • 10

    Quality Sleep and Stress Relief

    2 months ago

    How does one shake off their stress and get a good night's sleep? Read how, here.

  • 16

    Fun Ways of Meeting Interesting People

    2 months ago

    If you feel stuck within your current relationships or simply hunger for new or more friends, here’s a comprehensive list of where to find people just as cool as you.

  • 3

    How to Display a Confident Smile

    2 months ago

    How can you project confidence with your smile when you just feel like crawling back into bed? With a little practice you will be giving off confident vibes in no time.

  • 4

    Video Barbie Spin to Clean Washing Machine and Dryer: A Review

    3 months ago

    Looking for a way to fill that Dream House? The Spin to Clean playset is well-built and looks great. Here's my review.

  • 10

    Rubber/Jelly Bracelets for Barbie: Make Your Doll Some Jewelry!

    3 months ago

    Do your Barbies, Bratz, or Monster High dolls need bracelets? Of course they do. Here, learn how to create a wardrobe of bracelets from pen pieces!

  • 8

    How to Make a Hat for Barbie Out of K-Cups

    3 months ago

    Create fashionable hats for your Barbie, Bratz, or Monster High dolls using clean K-cups!

  • 4

    How to Make a Purse or Handbag for Barbie (Without Sewing!)

    3 months ago

    Barbie may love her accessories, but too many will run into a lot of money. Save your greenbacks and continue along the green path by creating clutch or other kinds of purses for her instead, from materials you already have!

  • 4

    Deconstructivism in Architecture: 5 Dynamic Examples

    4 months ago

    What is Deconstructivism? Here, learn about this unusual architectural movement and discover some examples of the style.

  • 4

    Brutalism in Architecture: 5 Concrete Examples

    4 months ago

    Brutalism was an architectural movement. Born in England after WWII, it continues to generate debate to this day. Learn about Brutalism and five examples of this architectural style.

  • 14

    Blooming Flower Tea and You: How to Enjoy Flowering Tea

    4 months ago

    Flowering teas are not only great-tasting and healthful, they are also lovely to look at. It may be right up your alley… in fact, these “blooms” may just end up being *your* cup of tea!

  • 8

    Video Easy Hanukkah (Chanukah) Decorations

    5 months ago

    Find directions for creating four easy, quick, inexpensive, and fun Hanukkah decorations here: Latkes on a Plate, Maccabee Helmet, Hanukkah Banner, and Dreidel Box. Kids will have a blast and you won't have broken the bank buying supplies. Happy Hanukkah!

  • 6

    How to Pretend to be a Couple at a Party

    3 months ago

    If you've ever felt the need to invent a girlfriend or boyfriend to attend a party with, here's a definitive guide about how to make it all happen... and get away with it.

  • 4

    Video Marcie Boots: Dr. Martens for Women

    3 months ago

    The Doc Martens Marcie boot is the grown-up cousin of the original boot. If you seek a stylish and feminine yet functional boot, why not consider the Marcie?

  • 12

    Video Mini Tydee: Doc Martens for Women

    5 months ago

    Doc Martens are available in many different styles, the most iconic being the original 1460 8-eyelet boot. But if you seek to pair fashion with utility, consider the Mini Tydee patterned boots instead of a solid color. Find a detailed review here.

  • 14

    How to Break in a Pair of Doc Martens Shoes

    2 months ago

    If you've ever wondered how on earth to break in those wonderful smooth DMs you've had your eye on, wonder no more. Here's how!

  • 2

    Different Ways of Wearing a Black Skirt

    6 months ago

    Don't let black skirts be your Kryptonite! Learn how to wear black skirts of all lengths with the right shoes and accessories to suit your style.

  • 4

    Latina Beauty Tips

    6 months ago

    Latina women are renowned for their exotic beauty! Here are some tips on how to keep that beauty... and not all of them require makeup.

  • 6

    Friend Dates: Cheap Places to Go

    3 months ago

    Searching for low cost hangouts? Reasons like a tight budget or current unemployment don’t mean you can’t still have a little fun. Here’s a list of fun hangouts ranging in cost from under $20 for two people to completely free.

  • 10

    Zombie Barbie -- Customizing Barbie for the Zombie Apocalypse

    6 months ago

    When Barbie dies, is she resurrected as a zombie? You bet your dream house she is! Learn how to design and create your own Zombie Barbie.

  • 6

    Psychology of White

    3 months ago

    White as the necks of swans, white as maiden purity, pure as the driven snow. These descriptions of white distill its essence into beautiful similes, but white is more than that! Learn about the psychology behind white and its use in marketing and design.

  • 4

    Dating is Awkward: How to Respond to an Awkward Compliment on a Date

    7 months ago

    Ever received an awkward compliment while on a date? Nearly everyone has had this experience. But it doesn't have to be a deal-breaker. Here’s how to deal with clumsily expressed admiration.

  • 14

    Legends and Folklore about Black Cats

    6 months ago

    Are black cats lucky or unlucky? Read about legends and superstitions surrounding the most glorious of animals... the black cat.

  • 16

    How to Understand Cat Tail Language

    6 months ago

    For the uninitiated, cat tail language can be confusing, to say the least. But is not difficult to understand when you know what to look for. Complete with pictures, this guide explains the flicks and other tail actions that cats use to share how they are feeling.

  • 6

    Psychology of Red

    6 months ago

    Red is the most passionate color of the rainbow, but is also the color of anger: applied to both love and hatred, red is very versatile. Learn about the psychology behind the very powerful color of red.

  • 16

    Color Psychology: Blue

    6 months ago

    Blue is the color of truth and expansiveness. Learn about the psychological uses of blue and its objective impressions.

  • 8

    Psychology of Green

    8 months ago

    Green is the color of freshness and growth, but also of envy. Why do you suppose that is? Learn about the psychology of green and why it is considered a "neutral" color.

  • 4

    Why Latinas Should Wear Sunscreen

    7 weeks ago

    Just because Latina skin tends to tan more evenly and quickly than lighter skin doesn't mean we can conveniently "forget" about applying sunscreen daily. Learn how to protect your looks from the damaging rays of the sun.

  • 4

    Brandy Mixed Drinks

    8 months ago

    The typical brandy is made from grapes, but there are so many other types to choose from! Here, take a short quiz about fruit brandies and learn three recipes for classic cocktails using brandy.

  • 10

    Color Psychology: Purple

    6 months ago

    Purple has long been associated with royalty, but it can be perfectly approachable too! Learn about the psychology behind purple and how to use it to your advantage in marketing and your home.

  • 14

    Color Psychology: Yellow

    6 months ago

    You may already know that yellow is the color of happiness, but did you also know that directing yellow light at the intestinal tract for short periods can be considered a digestant? Here, learn about ancient and modern psychological uses for yellow.

  • 9

    Color Psychology: Orange

    6 months ago

    Historically, orange has symbolized movement and warmth, so why not grab some of that energy for yourself? Orange is a powerful color and can assist in lifting your spirit and enlivening your home. Learn about the psychology behind the use of orange and how to incorporate it into your home.

  • 8

    Fictional Biography of Barbie Doll

    8 months ago

    An invented account of the gorgeous girl we all know and love, the ever-popular beauty known as Barbie Millicent Roberts. Includes photographs and a fictional timeline of her fantastic, extraordinary life.

  • 8

    Leadership Skills List: Skills of a Good Manager

    8 months ago

    What skills make a good manager? Excellent communication, knowing how to praise publicly and how to be responsible? We already know that! This list of important leadership skills is different... it comes from the people directly affected by the manager’s decisions -- the non-decision makers!

  • 4

    Barbie's Fashion Designers and Quiz

    3 months ago

    Barbie has had a multitude of designers create her closet for her. Learn about some of the biggest names in Barbie fashion from the 1960s through the 1990s.

  • 6

    1940s Slang: Hepcats and All That Jive

    9 months ago

    Are you hip to the jive? Is everything kopasetic? This article describing 1940's speech patterns includes sections about clothing, body parts, military slang, and over 50 words for "good."

  • 6

    Barbie Quiz: Original Barbie Design

    9 months ago

    This Barbie quiz tests your knowledge about the lovely doll and her designers from Barbie's birth in 1959. Learn about how she burst onto the fashion doll scene and her design beginnings.

  • 10

    History of the Headband, and How to Wear Headbands

    5 months ago

    Headbands aren’t just to keep hair out of children’s faces. In fact, they can be the perfect accessory for adults! Here, learn about the numerous types of headbands, discover headband history, and identify the best styles for your face shape.

  • 16

    Yiddish Expressions Everyone Should Know

    4 months ago

    Are you looking for a way to pepper your speech with interesting, descriptive, gutturally-pronounced words? Try using Yiddish to get your point across! Here, learn the most useful Yiddish words with which to spice up your elocution and how to build a curse, Yiddish-style.

  • 12

    Rum Smoothie with Strawberries and Coconut

    3 months ago

    Rum smoothies can be decadent and heavy, but this one made with coconut and frozen strawberries is just as satisfying, while saving calories. Instead of using a lot of caloric, creamy coconut milk, this recipe uses a mixture of coconut milk and coconut water to lighten it up. So go ahead, enjoy that extra nacho!

  • 10

    Video Watermelon Juice and Recipes

    9 months ago

    Watermelon is a sweet, refreshing, and healthful summer treat. Here, learn how to make two kinds of watermelon juice, other recipes using the juice, and why watermelons are so good for you. Enjoy!

  • 18

    Peach Iced Tea Recipe

    9 months ago

    Peach iced tea is a favorite with adults and children alike, and proper hydration is a must, especially in the summer. But who wants to watch their family gain weight from sugary syrups? Using only peaches and Splenda, whip up this easy recipe for peach tea, and watch them keep coming back for more.

  • 8

    College Slang From the 1900's That Still Sounds Fresh

    10 months ago

    You've heard the expression, "Everything old is new again," right? And it holds for language too. Here, find slang used by college students in the 1900's that is still used today... and a few that aren't.

  • 12

    How to Wear Doc Martens

    3 months ago

    Quick! What do you think of when I say “Doc Martens”? If you only picture the inimitable heavy-duty lace-up hard black leather kick-butt boot (they are known as 1460s) favored by British postal workers and punks alike, you may be surprised to discover that there are a lot more styles to choose from now. There’s a DM shoe for everyone, and that’s why the brand is one of my (and the world's) all-time favorites.

  • 8

    Druid Ceremony: Summer Solstice at The Rollright Stones

    8 months ago

    Taking part in a Druid summer solstice ceremony doesn't need to be completely mysterious. I joined the public celebration at the Rollright Stones and it was a wonderful experience. Here's what to expect (includes pictures).

  • 12

    Henge Stones: Rollright (The Cotswolds)

    2 months ago

    The Rollright Stones are prehistoric stones located on the border of Oxfordshire and Warwickshire, UK. For a detailed description of the stones with photographs, please read on.

  • 6

    Gooseberry Jam Recipe

    9 months ago

    If you've never tasted a gooseberry, June is the perfect time. Make a tasty jam from these green berries and surprise your friends with the fresh, sweet-tart flavor and the unusual color.

  • 8

    How To Be the Best Assistant

    3 months ago

    What does the perfect assistant have that you don’t? Nothing, if you follow these words of wisdom! Read on for tips to becoming a better assistant.

  • 16

    Saying Goodbye to A Favorite Coworker - Colleague, Farewell!

    7 weeks ago

    When a best coworker leaves, it can be stressful for the whole office. But the breakup of a working relationship can be amicable at least, and a stroke of luck at best.

  • 10

    The American Pin-Up: Alberto Vargas and Beyond

    5 weeks ago

    Pin-ups are alive and well and living in America! Read about the artists who created these glamour girls as well as the pulp fiction, calendar, and advertising illustrations they created.

  • 6

    iMAgiNiff... Best Party Game!

    2 months ago

    Imaginiff is a fun, easy to play party game that is perfect for hanging around with old friends and reminiscing... but is also tons of fun for families. With lots of silly questions, be prepared for lively debate and a great deal of giggling!

  • 12

    Video Cat and Feather: Homemade Cat Toy

    11 months ago

    Tired of searching for the perfect cat toy? Look no further as this article shows you how to create a custom toy that your kitty will love!

  • 50

    Homemade Crayons (From Old or Broken Crayons)

    2 months ago

    Forget about buying a specialized crayon maker! Melt down your old crayons into beautiful “new” coloring sticks. Step by step pictures and tips included.

  • 16

    Strawberry Sauce Topping with Homemade Greek Yogurt

    3 months ago

    Look no further for the best strawberry sauce! This inexpensive recipe for strawberry sauce with the brightness of oranges is surprisingly sweet and flavorful when served over homemade strained Greek-style yogurt. And since it's prepared without sugar, it’s also very figure-friendly at 117 calories for a half cup of yogurt and a half cup of the berry sauce.

  • 10

    Yogurt Dessert Recipe: Yogurt Balls

    9 months ago

    Instead of rolling fattening ice cream in high-calorie chocolate, cookies, or nuts, try it with frozen yogurt and cereal! Save lots of calories and fat while increasing your daily dose of vitamins and even fiber when you use enriched or healthy cereal. Various combinations and presentation ideas are included.

  • 26

    Friend Dates: Fun Things to Do With a Friend

    5 weeks ago

    When you meet someone you like, figuring out what to do can be a challenge. Here’s a list of fun friend dates for adults!

  • 20

    Tortellini Soup, Tortellini en Brodo

    9 months ago

    Tortellini soup or tortellini en brodo is a nourishing, quick meal and very easy to whip up (and costs only $2.64 a serving). It only takes three ingredients and fifteen minutes, so set the table fast -- this soup will be ready before you know it! Pictures included.

  • 14

    Fun Board Games: Good Games for Kids

    2 months ago

    It can be difficult to find games that hold both the attention of kids aged five to ten years old and also adults. But never fear! This list highlights four fun, cool games that could even be classified as "educational."

  • 4

    Fruit Picking in Massachusetts

    12 months ago

    The perfect summer day includes biting into a juicy piece of fruit... but where can you get that fruit locally? Here, find five local farms in northern Massachusetts where you can pick your own delicious fruit. Includes map.

  • 0

    Farmers' Markets in Northern Massachusetts

    5 months ago

    Looking for the best, most convenient farmstands in northern Massachusetts? Here's a list of five great locations for local fruit, veggies, flowers, gifts, and more. A map of the locations is included.

  • 20

    Recipe for Toasted Ravioli / Oven Fried Tortellini: Party Food

    3 months ago

    Similar to the popular restaurant appetizer fried ravioli, this stuffed pasta finger food is fun to prepare, serve, and eat. And it's not fried! Pop these in the oven and let them crisp up while you enjoy hanging out with your guests.

  • 20

    Pasta Salad Recipe with Tuna, Tomato and Olives

    10 months ago

    Searching for an unusual pasta salad? You can find almost everything you need for this salad in your pantry.

  • 16

    Video Wallpaper/Paper Clothes for Barbie with Pattern

    5 months ago

    Barbie's closet may be extensive... but her clothes are way too expensive! Give your favorite doll a new wardrobe easily and for next to nothing by utilizing out-of-date wallpaper books. Includes patterns for a circle skirt and basic strapless top.

  • 18

    Barbie Quizzes: History, Homes, and Hairstyles

    5 months ago

    These three quizzes spanning Barbie’s birth through the present day will test your knowledge of Barbie hair, homes, and history. Show off how much you know and compare with your friends!

  • 69

    A Top Ten List of Interpersonal Skills to Boost Your Career

    2 weeks ago

    Having excellent interpersonal skills will always be necessary to get ahead at work. But what are the best interpersonal skills to have? Find that list here.

  • 11

    Barbie History: The Development of the Barbie Dream House

    2 months ago

    The Barbie Dream House has come a long way since its inception in 1960. Here, read about the numerous changes in style, look, and colors of dream houses for this dream doll.

  • 12

    A Peek at the World's Top Barbie Collectors

    5 months ago

    It may seem like Barbie collectors are part of a secret society, but they are just like you and me. Here, read about four of these "society members" and their beginnings.

  • 32

    5 Beautiful Examples of Organic Architecture

    8 months ago

    Have you ever wondered what organic architecture looks like? Does the name Frank Lloyd Wright ring a bell? Wonder no more as you check out this short list of organic architectural marvels.

  • 18

    Is Barbie Pregnant? The Story of Pregnant Barbie

    5 weeks ago

    Is Barbie, that marvel of disproportionate anatomy, pregnant? (What pretty babies she could produce!) Actually, it's Midge who became pregnant; read on for details.

  • 18

    A Beginner’s Guide to Architectural Design

    5 months ago

    Don’t be intimidated by intersecting lines! Here, find architectural terms and theory for laypersons, with easy to understand definitions. Pictures are included.

  • 10

    5 Fun Dress Up Barbie Games Ideas

    10 months ago

    What could be better than dressing up with Barbie? Here, find five fun dress up games you can play with Barbie!

  • 13

    Barbie History: Barbie Fashion Style Over the Years

    5 months ago

    Barbie has always been the pinnacle of stylishness. Here, learn about her clothing from 1959 to the current day.

  • 50

    Barbie History: The Real Story Behind the Original Barbie

    3 months ago

    How did Barbie come to be? Learn about how the lovely doll's controversial beginnings led to a worldwide phenomenon.

  • 6

    Hula Honey Barbie, Pin-Up Girls Collection

    8 months ago

    All about the Barbie Pin-Up Girls Collection, Hula Honey Barbie (Gold Label), with details about her makeup, clothing, and accessories. High-quality photographs are included.

  • 4

    Way Out West Barbie, Pin-Up Girls Collection

    8 months ago

    All about the Barbie Pin-Up Girls Collection, Way Out West Barbie (Gold Label), with details about her makeup, clothing, and accessories. High-quality photographs are included.

  • 4

    How to Wear Stripes

    7 weeks ago

    A humorous look at the good and bad sides of wearing stripes. Learn what to avoid and how to look like a million bucks.

  • 34

    Coloring for Grown-Ups (It's Not Just For Kids)

    8 months ago

    Coloring is not just for children, oh no! Coloring can provide a sense of satisfaction to adults. while also serving as a form of meditation. And don't forget, FUN!

  • 4

    The Road, by Cormac McCarthy (Review)

    5 months ago

    In Cormac McCarthy’s post-apocalyptic 2007 novel, a man and his young son traverse a main road in the hope of finding a safe place to spend the winter. Desperately clinging to life and each other, they avoid horrors along the way and are forced to make very important choices.

  • 6

    The Birth of Venus, by Sarah Dunant (Review)

    11 months ago

    Sarah Dunant brings the Renaissance to life in this sumptuously worded coming-of-age historical novel set in Florence, Italy. The young protagonist Alessandra Cecchi is likable and headstrong, just like the city itself.

  • 11

    Annatto and Achiote -- What Are They?

    10 months ago

    Achiote, also known as annatto, the lipstick tree, or Bixa orellana, is prized for its highly pigmented orange-red seeds. It is been used to color foods, cosmetics, medications, and cloth.

  • 8

    How to Stop Biting Your Nails and Cuticles!

    10 months ago

    A short, humorous, useful guide to the best ways to avoid biting nails and cuticles.

  • 60

    Vegetarian Arroz con Gandules: A Modern Take on Puerto Rican Rice and Beans

    2 months ago

    Arroz con gandules is an inexpensive, perfect mix of protein, carbohydrates, veggies, and deliciousness.

  • 18

    Working Better: Workplace Tips and Administrative Magic Tricks

    8 months ago

    Tips for organization, credibility, respect, communication, and other workplace complexities.

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