Day 2 Day

Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T11:16:00.000-06:00

“Love is the condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own.”

I hope everyone has a wonderful day filled with love!

Moving Out

2012-02-14T10:54:00.000-06:00

This guest post from Werner Rogers

It’s funny how growing up, I thought that my parents were only trying to keep me from having fun. Little did I know that their protection of me was also saving me a fortune. But of course, I knew better than they did and I moved out. After finding a cheap place, I turned my attention to the necessities…beer. After getting my refrigerator stocked full, I had to line up my internet and phone. Let me go ahead and let you in on a little secret, there’s only so much that one can watch online before your eyes start to cross. With that said, I had to get cable services, and quick. Lunkily, a new coworker recommended that I take a look at http://www.Direc4u.com/. Now because of his advise, I’ve got the tv hooked up and I can actually use my flatscreen again. Now if someone could just suggest some cheap water, electricity and heat. If I drink enough beer, it’ll trick my body into thinking that I’m warm, right? Is it too late to move back in with my parents? It seems that my parents weren’t as much of a kill-joy as I originally thought.

Full of Randomness!

2012-02-10T09:24:00.001-06:00

My brain has been a little bit of every where this week or ok maybe it's been a month, I won't admit to longer though.

I went and picked up my wedding dress Wednesday. (I really wish I could share pictures) and while my initial visit to David's Bridal looking for a dress couldn't have been easier, the following visits have been frustrating. I really think that the alterations needs to get it together! A bride does not need their little quirks to think about weeks before her wedding.

My Daddy has come up from FL to stay with us for a month! It's been so great having the extra time to spend with him.

Lexi is in choir and will be attending competitions! I'm so excited!

She is also taking part in the school musical.

Braydon made his school football team, I'm so proud of him and he's thrilled about it.

15 days until I marry such an amazing man! I can't wait!

I have finally gotten back onto Twitter. I don't know why I didn't use it much before. Be sure to follow!

It's the weekend! We have a fishing show to go to and then more wedding shopping to do. I love going out with Marvin and shopping for our wedding stuff. Planning this with him has been so much fun!

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Calgary Apartments

2012-02-10T06:00:00.001-06:00

Going out and looking for an apartment to rent can be such a daunting task. Going to place after place getting information, looking at the apartments and then going back home to compare what you've seen and trying to remember what each place looked like and had to offer. It can be so confusing and time consuming.
Calgary apartments takes the hassle out of all the endless searching and days of looking. No need to set up appointments at numerous places to see an apartment. They give you one easy place to find the apartment you are looking for in Calgary, Alberta. Look at all your options and compare them online and then decide which ones you want to go look at. They have quality pictures to get an idea of what the apartment will look like. Search by what area you want to look in. You can also narrow your search results by number of bedrooms, square footage, number of bathrooms, price range and property type.
This is also extremely convenient if you are relocating from another area. It can be frustrating going somewhere with the hopes of finding a home and having to spend much more time there than planned. With this tool you can just search and find, set up your appointment and then put the addresses in your GPS for easy find when you arrive.

Advertising Made Easy

2012-02-10T05:00:00.000-06:00

If you are looking for a company to advertise your business or your product then this advertising agency may be exactly what you are looking for in and advertising company.

This company is budget friendly and knows what your company needs. This advertising company is very knowledgeable when it comes to the digital media, and they are experts at leading you and your business in the right direction.They will track your advertising campaigns to make sure you are getting the most for your money and make sure that you are using effective campaigns.

Their site is very user friendly and easy to navigate. It has all the information on it that you need to make an educated decision. You can check out work they have already done to see their effectiveness with other campaigns, so you can be sure. There is plenty explanation about why internet marketing works. See the numbers and results! Learn about mixed media marketing and see if that is right for you. Either way their team will help you make the right decision.

Their team is highly very talented when it comes to creating an advertising and marketing campaigns that will work for your specific needs. Let this advertising company help you make the best profit for the best income. They are trained, they are skilled, and they are highly knowledgeable in their expertise. Get a fully understandable about the marketing you are using now, and see if it's effective for you. Then choose to work with them because by then you will know they are the best out there.

Homemade Laundry Soap

2012-02-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

I caved and decided to make my own laundry soap. My sister has been doing it for years and likes it and then I seen it on Pinterest and decided I had to try it for myself. I found the recipe on Sew Like My Mom, went to the store and got the ingredients.


Credit

The Borax cost me $4 at Kroger.

credit

Arm & Hammer Washing Soda was about $4.

Credit

Fels-Naptha was $1.29

I then came home and grated the Fels-Naptha with a cheese grater and put it in the food processor to grate it up fine. Mixed together one cup each of the washing soda and borax and Fels-Naptha.

The end result after several loads of laundry? I LOVE IT! My clothes smell fresh and clean! From what I read one mixture should be about 30 loads. I figure on average I'll have to purchase one bar of Fels-Naptha a month and the washing soda and borax twice a year!! Do you know how much money this is going to save?? And it's safe for HE washers which is what I have. I only wish I would've done this sooner and saved the money before.

25 Days!

2012-01-31T14:58:00.001-06:00

25 more days and I will be marrying the most wonderful man in the world. We've really gotten a lot accomplished this past week with wedding planning. It's finally all starting to fall into place for us. Yesterday we got the chance to go out shopping together and get some stuff. It was so fun and builds the excitement. The pictures aren't great but I wanted to share with you what we got! I can't wait to share the wedding photos!

Ring Pillow!I love the lace and beading on this.

Flower Basket....isn't this just gorgeous!

Guest book and pen. I was so happy we were able to get a set that matched like this.

We also finally made a decision on centerpieces for the reception and got those. Today I have spent being crafty and making decor for the reception. I will post pics when it is completed. Thank you Pinterest for the inspiration!

GlassesUSA

2012-01-25T13:52:00.000-06:00

GlassesUSA.com offers prescription glasses and prescription sunglasses at a great price. You can find all different styles and brands in a price range anyone can afford. The site is extremely user friendly and easy to use. 

I am always on the look out on how to save money and what better way than to get cheap glasses for the entire family that are name brand and exactly what you are looking for. I really love the Kim Black glasses for just $58! 

Worried about how those eyeglasses will look on you? Not a problem, they also have a virtual mirror! Just upload a picture and start trying on all the different styles you love and then choose your favorite, or at these prices choose 2!

You aren't just restricted to single vision glasses either, they also do multifocal lenses. The lenses are also a great deal and you can add all the extras like anti-scratch coating, UV protection and premium anti-reflection. All of these are offered at a much more reasonable price than I have ever received at the Optometrist.

If you are looking for a new style of eyeglasses frames I would highly recommend you try them out. The entire process is easy and it doesn't take long to receive your glasses. For standard glasses process and shipping time is about 7 business day. You can request faster delivery for a higher fee of course. 

For all of you I have 2 discount codes you can use.

Take 20% off your entire order of $80 or more and get FREE US shipping with the code: FS20 
Take 10% off any order of prescription glasses. Code: Blog10

Pinterest - My New Found Addiction

2012-01-20T09:03:00.002-06:00

I know by now all of you know and are addicted to Pinterest! I went on to the site not knowing what to expect, but quickly started pinning away. I have found so much inspiration and helpful tips on there. I have also added a button on the right so you can follow me on Pinterest.

Since I am planning my wedding (37 days!) the wedding stuff has been so much fun to look at. I'm amazed at the things people come up with and others I think 'why didn't I think of that'. One that we are going to use is the lights under the table...I love this!

Source

I also have found an amazing makeup remover thanks to Pinterest. It's incredibly easy to make and use. I was a little skeptical at first, but it takes all of my make up off with such ease, and it's cheap! So if you are looking for a good makeup remover I definitely recommend giving this a shot.


Source

If you are looking for any DIY stuff adelynSTONE is a great place to go!

Guest Post by Anthony Greene

2012-01-20T09:03:00.001-06:00

Guest Post by Anthony Greene

Clarus Marketing Group / Freeshipping.com

I sometimes get asked the question by fellow coupon and reward enthusiasts where exactly the difference between Clarus Marketing Group and Freeshipping.com lies. I was a little surprised to see how many people were thrown by this distinction, but it made more sense when I went to check their BBB (Better Business Bureau) page and saw that they were currently unrated. I’m not sure why, seeing as how they are a real powerhouse in the online rewards business. There is in fact no real distinction between Clarus Marketing and Freeshipping.com, the latter is simply a daughter company of the former through which they offer certain services toward a more targeted audience. And since this information isn’t readily out there, I thought I would clear up this little misconception because I would hate for it to detract from the truly game-changing services the company offers its customers.

Freeshipping.com is the flagship website of Clarus Marketing Group (of Middletown, Connecticut ), which they use to offer a suite of consumer benefit services such as free shipping rebates to customers through a members-only program. It is actually good to make this distinction clear, because it helps to explain why freeshipping.com is such a special deal in the ecommerce world and why it stands apart from so many of those other generic ones we see every day. You see, Clarus Marketing Group is a promotional and advertising agency that has been partnering with online vendors for over a decade. Their membership services are but one of many ways they seek to make the online shopper safer and to give him or her an easier and more pleasurable shopping experience. Unlike some other offers you’ll get online, Clarus Marketing is not a tiny company in some far away place who you’ll never be able to get a hold of. They are instead a benefits industry leader that is quite prominent and significant. It is that prominence that affords them the ability to offer such unique services on a subscription basis through freeshipping.com.

Something I just said is also very important to understanding Clarus Marketing and freeshipping.com as they relate to the rest of the rewards industry: “subscription service.” Unlike a simple coupon, promotion, or buying club, a subscription service like that offered through freeshipping.com provides a whole package of benefits that you pay an annual fee to acquire and can then use as you see fit. In a buying club, where you sign up and are billed monthly for discounted merchandise or products with some certain significance, you are often receiving things you never wanted and have no use for. With freeshipping.com, you are not paying for the products themselves. You are paying for access to the free shipping benefits. Once you do, those services are available to you for as long as your membership is active, and you have a far greater range of choice in terms of how to use those services, compared with many other savings programs. The package that Clarus Marketing has been able to offer through freeshipping.com as a result of their network of thousands of online vendors includes free shipping rebates, of course, but it comes with so much more than that. From additional discounts to consumer protection and a dedicated team of customer care professionals, you aren’t just getting a great deal—though you are getting that. You are also getting the key that unlocks the door to a whole side of Internet shopping you never knew existed.

OUT FOXING THE FOX

2012-01-19T12:10:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Erasmo Cortez

Thought that I was being slick and out foxing the fox by not paying for home security monitoring. I had a security system installed but thought that the siren alone would be enough to deter thieves and prevent problems. Recently, we were out of town. There was a terrible storm that passed through our home town. A tree in the back yard fell through the window, shatter glass in the kitchen, crushing the roof, and letting rain and water damage throughout the house. The tree fell in just a spot that the neighbors couldn’t see it from the road. When we returned to the house, we found all of the damage to the house. It was absolutely terrible. If we had a wired alarm system, it would have called the police. They could have gotten in touch with us and we could have cleaned up the mess before any other damage was done. I am still kicking myself for that. No more trying to skimp on security system monitoring. I just won’t do it again!

Christmas Wishes!

2011-12-23T08:46:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New YearWe're wishing you a Christmas
Full of laughter, love and light,
With delicious holiday foods
To excite your appetite.We're hoping you receive
Delightful gifts to make you smile,
With family and friends
To love you all the while.We wish you a Merry Christmas;
May your Christmas dreams come true,
And when Christmas is over,
Happy New Year, too!By Joanna Fuchs

It's All His Fault

2011-12-20T09:31:00.000-06:00

There you have it...it's his fault that I'm so darned happy these days. His fault that I am now spoiled rotten. You see that smile on my face? Yep, that is his fault also!

Our big day is February 25, 2012. Just 67 days to go. It's going by so fast, yet can't get here fast enough.
This is the chapel we will be getting married at. It's set in a little village from the civil war era. His mom found this place and I think we both fell in love immediately. Everything out there is incredible.
We will also be able to have the reception right there. This is incredibly convenient since I have family that will be coming from out of town and won't know their way around.

This little girl (or not so little) is so much happier than she has been in a long time. I love how much she laughs these days, how much more she feels at home! Nothing makes me happier than to see everyone I love happy and smiling!

I hope everyone is prepared for Christmas. We will actually be finishing up today, I didn't really know what to get Lexi and I hate trying to go shopping for someone and not know what to get. It's just too frustrating for me. I thought she'd be the easiest to buy for...turns out she was the hardest for me to buy for.

A New Deal Every Day

2011-12-13T19:37:00.001-06:00

Love to find a great deal every single day? How about a new deal every day? No More Rack offers new deals every day that post at 12pm, so no staying up late to get that steal of a deal. I love this site and can personally guarantee that this is not a nomorerack scam. Just recently I got a $125 gift certificate for NuMe hair style products for just $20 that's an 84% discount, better yet I had store credit that I used to pay for the gift certificate. So essentially I got a $125 gift certificate for no money out of pocket. Now that is a deal that I love!

NoMoreRack posts 8 new deals every day at noon. Discounts can range from 50% off up to 100% off and shipping is always $2 per item. Just sign up on the site for your account and like them on Facebook to keep track of new deals. They also post a sneak peek of their deals on Facebook every day.

Nomorerack offers deals from jewelry to home decor and even magazine subscriptions. One of today's offers was New York Minute Limited Edition Clock for just $38.00. The retail price on the clock was $250, giving it's members a discount of 85%. I love this site and always keep a reminder to check their deals every day. The savings alone is worth checking out. The deals are real, the savings deep and the nomorerack reviews are always positive. Shipping has always been fast and packages arrive in good condition.

All you have to do is go to the site sign up for an account and start saving money. Nomorerack also allows you to simply log in through Facebook for easy log in. You can keep track of all your orders and if you want save your information for further purchases.

To make sweet deals even sweeter, they are also offering insanity deals. The savings on these deals are simply insane! Insanity deals display in a purple box with savings up to 95%. A past insanity deal was a Canon EOS Rebel XS SLR for only $19.77. Where else can you find a deal like that?

MegaPlay.com

2011-12-13T19:29:00.002-06:00

One of my favorite card games to play is BlackJack. There is nothing like a fun night with friends and family playing card games and I always seem to fall back on my favorite. It's a game of luck, but also one of strategy.

It's also one of the easiest to learn, and being the competitive person that I am I want to learn better techniques at kicking some Black Jack butt. Until recently I didn't know there was a website dedicated to teaching people just that. www.MegaPlay.com teaches the basics of the game and also some strategy tips. We all know that in Black Jack you need to know one number, 21 and it means everything. You must know when to play and when to stay. It's also crucial to know Black Jack lingo which you will learn as well. Knowing how to play your cards when you go to a casino or are playing a friendly game with your friends can mean everything if your competitive.

MegaPlay.com is one of the largest online poker sites and offers many different games. This site also offers a list of sites that you can play online, from pay to play sites to play for free sites. I love to play on the free sites to prepare myself for those nights of fun with the family. Be sure to also check out their current promotions!

Better Nights

2011-12-12T09:42:00.000-06:00

Thanks for the guest post by Esteban Vinson

I love going out in the evenings after work but I never liked coming home to an empty house. Last week I ordered an alarm system from homeSECURITYfamily.COM and coming home feels like I never left. I always set it before I go anywhere—I even set it when I am at home. I did learn that I can’t leave my cat out to roam around the house if I set the motion detector. I learned that lesson the hard way when she snuck out of my bedroom one night while I was sleeping. Talk about a rude awakening! I’m not sure who was more scared—me or her. Once I determined she was the culprit and found her under the bed in the guest room and got my heart to slow down, I went to bed without the motion sensor on and haven’t had any problems since. In fact, I even sleep better. Talk about more bang for your buck! Maybe they should advertise “better sleeping habits” as one of the advantages!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T16:00:00.000-06:00

I promise I'll be back to blogging soon, but for now want to wish everyone of you a very Happy Thanksgiving! Stay safe and enjoy your time with family! I will be spending this Thanksgiving with my fiance's family and can't wait to share the holidays with all of them!

Small business Owner

2011-11-23T14:52:00.001-06:00

Guest post by Gerard Mcdaniel

Being a small business owner wasn’t something I saw in the cards for myself but when my art career really took off during college it just made sense to go this way. Now I own a small art gallery right in downtown Chicago and business has never been better. I’m definitely learning as I go since I don’t have any formal business training (I went to art school) but I feel like I’ve made more good decisions than bad at the end of the day. Everything from credit card services to the utility bills to hiring for the spring season is in my hands and that’s a really scary but freeing feeling. I love having so much responsibility and knowing that the choices I make directly reflect in how much I earn – not to mention going to work everyday and working with art, which is my true love! I’m so happy to have found my dream career at such a young age and to know where I’m going in my life.

Getting On With Life

2011-11-12T09:00:00.001-06:00

Well time has flown by and I have been so extremely busy. We had a great summer and did a lot. I have a lot of BIG news to share with everyone!

I did leave my husband and we have divorced. It was the best decision for everyone involved and it went smoothly. Though we attempted to maintain a friendship that didn't work out well. 8 years was hard to walk away from but I am in a much happier place now!

Now that you know I am divorced I have even bigger news...I am getting married!!!! After leaving my ex I started dating a co-worker who treats me and the kids wonderfully. I didn't know there was this kind of happiness out there. It's a fairy tale! He makes me happy. After a few months of dating he asked me to marry him and I said yes. So the date is set for February 25, 2012! I'm so excited to spend the rest of my life w/ such a caring and considerate man. He has truly shown me what it means to be loved unconditionally. His family is equally as amazing as he is.

As you can see from the picture Lexi has learned how to ride a horse and volunteered her time at the horse farm. She does the volunteer work there for the love of the animals and her merits in ROTC. She has been doing extremely well and is a much happier little girl. I did not appreciate her turning 16 in June though.

Braydon on the other hand just had to go and have a birthday just yesterday and turned 13! All my babies are growing up. Now all the kids are teenagers and it's killing me. We had a great time celebrating his birthday with my Fiances family.

So there is a little of what has been happening. Still so much to say but I'd be writing all day. Anyway the good news is, I am back to blogging! Yay! Can't wait to catch up with all of you!

It's Been A Long Time...

2011-09-11T00:37:00.001-05:00

It's been a really long time since I've posted and life has changed so much and been very busy. So let me give you a quick run down of what's been going on and hopefully I'll be back to posting away.

June:
I took my camera out a lot and took pictures. Really am working on getting better with it and I think I'm improving. These are also in a post from June.

These were 2 of my favorite shots.

July was a busy month. I had several visitors and really enjoyed my time with them.

August flew by in an instant, but I did get a really cool new phone that I love btw!

Two last favorite pics of mine!

My little girl who makes me so proud!

My handsome son who makes my mommy heart swell so much!
Many more updates to come. Life is getting back on track these days!

Advertising Made Easy

2011-09-01T05:00:00.000-05:00

Working A Lot

2011-08-08T22:10:00.000-05:00

This guest post from Edgardo Rosa

I work a lot, and my husband is out of town 4 out of 5 days of the work week, so we have a lot of babysitters for our girls. Our favorite is Mary, who treats our children like one of her own. She’s actually a teacher at a local elementary school, so she helps the kids with homework while she’s with them, too. Now don’t get me wrong. We do NOT take Mary for granted. We pay her 25 dollars an hour, which when I think about the 3 dollars an hour that I used to get seems like an absurd amount. However, it is so nice to know that she’s there with our kids- I mean, they’re our most prized possession! We feel better about when we have to leave the kids overnight knowing that we’ve checked out http://Homesecurity101.COM/ . We’d obviously like to be there ourselves, but with Mary and our new alarm system we feel confident (although not good) about leaving our kids at home without us.

2011-07-30T03:36:00.000-05:00

Build me a son, O Lord, who will be strong enough to know when he is weak, and brave enough to face himself when he is afraid, one who will be proud and unbending in honest defeat, and humble and gentle in victory.

Love

2011-07-29T00:28:00.000-05:00

“There are many things in life that will catch your eye, but only a few will catch your heart...pursue those.”

Daisy

2011-05-30T09:47:00.000-05:00

"Each flower is a soul opening out to nature."
Gerard De Nerval

My 1st Garden!

2011-05-29T10:28:00.000-05:00

So we decided to try our hand at growing a garden this year. It's not a big garden since it's our first, but a garden none the less. We have tomatoes, jalapenos, poblano, banana pepper, red and yellow bell pepper.

My banana pepper...it's actually grown a lot more since I took this picture. The only one so far, but one means more right?

My little bitty jalapeno....isn't it so cute!

One of my many tomatoes that are growing.

I honestly didn't think that I'd be able to grow anything. I don't have a green thumb at all so yes, I'm really excited that it's growing.

2011-05-27T07:57:00.001-05:00

WWTK

2011-05-18T08:25:00.001-05:00

Ok so I see Heather links up with this all the time and I was jealous, so this is my first time linking up. Also make sure you visit Impulsive Addict, Mamarazzi, Janette and Shawn.

{1} If you could choose a Super Power, what would it be?
I'm greedy...I want them all!!

{2} What would be your first frivolous purchase if you were awarded a million dollars, tomorrow?
What ever my childrens hearts desire. I suppose I'd buy PC a bigger airplane as well cause I know he'd love to have a bigger plane.

{3} What would be the hardest current luxury for you to give up?
Internet for sure. I swear it's like oxygen to me.

{4} If you were given a choice between being given great wisdom and great wealth, which would you choose?Again greedy...why can't I have both? If I have great wisdom wouldn't I be able to obtain great wealth with it? So I guess if I HAD to choose it would be wisdom.

{5} If you were to be stranded on a deserted island for 100 days what 5 THINGS would you pack?
My dog Guapo, he's a must have. My laptop because there will be internet right? My toothbrush/toothpaste, hand sanitizer and some books. I would have said my family but heck lets be honest, if it's 100 days, that's like a vacation and I want to enjoy it. I'm also assuming there will be a cook and maid there for me as well as a luxurious hotel.

Muscle Pain?

2011-05-17T12:38:00.000-05:00

Do you suffer from muscle pain? There may just be a solution for you in sight. Visit LGMedSupply Online and see what their products can do for you!

LGMedSupply offers offers TENS Units, MuscleStimulators and many other products to help relieve your pain. you can get these same treatments at a rehabilitation center but pay a lot more money out of pocket. If you want to read some testimonials be sure to check out their online customer blog.

Some examples of products are the LG-TEC Dual Combo TENS Unit and Muscle Stimulator maximizes pain relief by combining TENS pain relief and muscle stimulation at the same time. This combination allows you to receive instant pain relief.

You can also treat wrinkles and pain with their DSL handheld deep penetrating light therapy skin care tool. This is FDA approved and has so many benefits! I love that it treats fine lines and crows feet as well as blemishes and acne.

Make sure to check out LG Med Supply and see what they have for you!

Looking for Identity Theft Protection?

2011-05-17T08:52:00.000-05:00

For those of you who have had your identity stolen, or even the scare that someone has stolen it will know exactly what I'm talking about.

Identity theft is real! It effects people every single day and the thieves are finding new ways to steal it every day. New scams come in and we are blinded by them I think in part because we always want to trust people. Those emails, yeah that tell you to log in to your bank account from their link, that's a scam and people fall for it all the time.

What most of us need is identity theft protection. To have someone watch and protect our good name. I think we fail to see the benefit in having an identity theft protection service. These services can help reduce your risk drastically and believe me having your identity stolen causes a lot of heart ache and it's a long and hard process to fix.

IdentityHawk provides indentity protection that we all need. Protecting our good names, and making sure that we don't fall victim to these thieves. As smart as we would all like to believe we are, there is always a thief who has figured out a new scam.

My Miami Port Experience ~ Guest Post

2011-05-17T08:19:00.003-05:00

I appreciate the guest post, Lindsay Valdez

I went on my last cruise to Jamaica with my entire immediate family. My mom, dad, husband, three kids, sister, and neice. The experience was memorable to say the least. We had to drive down from Port Charlotte to Miami, and were getting nervous about leaving the house vacant for an entire week. We set our home security alarm (Arkansas ADT home Alarm home systems) prior to going. This set my mind at ease for our long trip ahead.

Once we got to port in Miami, we had to stand in line for 3 hours before they would let us on the ship! Unfortunetly, the ship that we were going on, had just gotten back from an international trip, and the Coast Guard decided to make a spot inspection! So, we are all standing in line like cattle, with no entertainment, food or drink for three hours! This is quite a feat with four children, and your mother with you!

Luckily, we survived that and finally were able to get on the ship, hassle free. Once we were up to our rooms, we could finally sit on something comfortable and begin to plan our first night on the ship. All in all, it was a memorable experience. and one we will be taking again in another few years.

Pride...

2011-05-06T10:34:00.000-05:00

Braydon had a soccer game last Saturday and they won! He does such a good job and is so very serious when playing.

Another block!

Always prepared for the ball to come at him.

Game face doesn't fade for a second when he's playing!

He makes me proud!

Guess Who...

2011-05-03T09:48:00.000-05:00

Yes, I finally made it back to the human world. I still don't feel 100% but I'm doing much better. I'm starting to get my energy back, but get tired easily. My joints still hurt terribly though!

I will not however be blogging nearly as much as I used to. I used to try very hard to go to each blog I follow every day, I wasn't alway successful, but I tried. However things are going to change. I will be visiting all of you at least once a week, and I will try to read several blog posts of yours. I won't be posting nearly as often as I used to.

I have made a decision and a promise to myself to focus more on my family. I really want my marriage, I want it to work. So I need to take time to focus on us. My daughters behavior has down spiraled and I need to focus more on her and spend more time with her. Blogging just has to take the back burner.

Bouncing Back

2011-04-26T11:52:00.000-05:00

Man I am having one heck of a time bouncing back from this illness. I laid in bed for nearly 4 days, then moved to the couch for a few days. Today is my first day back at work and I'm exhausted after just a few short hours. I feel like I've put a whole week in already! I don't know how I'm gonna get through a full 12 hours.

It was a decent weekend, I had Braydon all weekend which was a nice change. I miss him so much, but we got in a lot of hang out time. My baby boy is growing up so quickly.

My life has been pretty boring...not uneventful, but that's all a post for another day. Laying around being sick has made me a pretty boring person, but wanted you all to have a quick update and know that I am in fact still alive. Barely....but alive!

I hope that all of you had a wonderful Easter and was able to spend some much needed time with your loved ones. The kids and I didn't get to do much since I was sick, but we spent time together and watched movies and talked about stuff that will make a teenage boy cringe. Very funny thing to watch as well!

Eeeeek.....

2011-04-20T14:52:00.000-05:00

I have always dreamed of having a day to lay in bed...or even two days. A relaxing time where I wouldn't be bothered. No troubles in the world to worry about. No husband to fight with at the moment. No kids to be bugging me for one thing or another. No work to be done because I didn't have to go that day. No chores at home to be bothered with because I was in bed and didn't have to do them.

Then comes the day that I got what I wished for. A day of laying in bed all to myself. Nobody bothering, no work, no chores....nothing! But did I think about what price all that would come with? Nope! I thought how great it would be to just lay in bed. To be care fee. Yes, I got just that...kind of. I am getting to lay in bed. I am getting plenty of rest. But the price I am paying...well that would be mono! Yes, you read that right...I have mono!

My day of laying in bed and being confined has turned into 3 days. 3 days of being by myself. Well my precious puppies are staying by my side of course, but confinement really sucks! I get bored. I sleep. I hurt. I sometimes think I laid down and allowed somebody to run me over, back up, and do it all over again....and again. This has hit every part of my body. My joints are killing me. It hurts to move, to turn over. Then there are the times I feel the need to get up and smoke. (Yes I know how bad it is for me, please no lectures) Dr gave me a steroid shot, and put me on a Z pack. Do you know what steroids do to you? They make you HUNGRY! Hungry is not exactly what I need to be when I'm in bed, or confined to one room, or when it hurts to move because then there is no getting up and doing jumping jacks.

So I will from now on be careful what I wish for. Sometimes wishes come true, but they may not exactly be in the form that you wished for.

Maybelline Superstay Review

2011-04-20T09:43:00.000-05:00

I was invited to join the Maybelline Superstay campaign through a BzzCampaign and I can't say enough about this product.
The Maybelline Superstay is made of a micro-flex formula that stays on all day...literally. It is a 2 step process and will not wear off. First you put on the liquid color and let that dry completely, about 2 minutes (you can apply your other makeup while you are waiting) and then add the conditioning balm to finish out the look. Go ahead, kiss something after you put the liquid color on...I dare you!
I can say without a doubt this is the longest lasting best lip coloring I have ever used. I applied it at 5:30 AM and even left it on all night just to see. Woke up the next morning and no smudges on my pillow and it was still on my lips! To say the least I was impressed. There are 30 different shades to choose from and they are all beautiful. I received 3 different colors and will be buying more.
There is absolutely no caking as some lipsticks do at the corner of your mouth and worse, the inside of your lips. No flaking off, and no feathering. It really lasts the 24 hours they promise it does. Now you do have to reapply the lip balm if you want to keep the shine, and even still putting that on doesn't make the color come off, no matter how many times you apply it. I put that to the test as well. I kissed my husband, pecked the kids on the foreheads and cheeks, and they were clean, no lipstick marks at all.
Go and like Maybelline on Facebook for coupons and updates!

It's My Dirty Laundry...

2011-04-18T00:01:00.000-05:00

So it appears that PC feels that by my posting on my blog I am "airing my dirty laundry to the public". So since I don't like doing laundry I am going to continue to share my dirty laundry with y'all in hopes that you will clean it for me. Please...see I asked nicely!

As the story goes, PC and I have decided that we are going to "hold off" on a divorce right now. I don't like the idea of "holding off" but I guess I'll take what I can get.

The past 6 months have been very hard and very trying for me. The battle for custody of my son, my daughters crazy down spiraling behavior, and problems in my marriage. I have to admit that it has all taken it's toll on me. It's been one constant battle after another and I find myself giving up on people and my life. I'm just tired of struggling, financially, emotionally and personally. Every day feels like a battle.

I find myself falling deeper and deeper into depression. Caring less and less about life. I have failed to take my medication for the bipolar disorder...why....because I don't care anymore. Do I know this doesn't help the depression or the moods...well yes of course I do. But I feel like why should I care.

I feel like there are constant battles over the most trivial things. That people in my life choose to fight and argue over minor issues, and refuse to really see what is there. I was asked the other day is love enough? Well yes, in my book love is enough. Love is built on so many things, trust, communication, understanding, and acceptance. Without those, even just one of those I don't think you can have love. So yes...I believe love is enough. I love everyone in my life. I'd lay down and die for any one of them. I have passion for each of those relationships.

So what do you think? Is love enough?

An Invitation

2011-04-15T08:17:00.001-05:00

Heather and I are doing a photo blog. This blog will help us to not only use our cameras more but also to learn more about out camera's and photography. So I would love all of you to come over, visit, follow and let us know what you think about our photos. Please be very honest in your opinions, that is how we will learn what is good and what is not.

The Road I Never Wanted To Take

2011-04-13T00:01:00.003-05:00

I never imagined that after being together for 7 1/2 years, after 3 years of marriage I would be traveling the road of divorce. I am so broken right now. I can't even begin to tell you what it's like losing my best friend. I can't imagine what my life will be like without him in it. I can't imagine living away from him. I don't know where I will find this strength to go on. To put on a happy face because I have to for my children and my work.

I feel so abandoned. I feel anger and resentment. I feel hurt and broken. All these different emotions at one time is enough to make a person go crazy. It's just that after having someone beside you, loving you, and then losing them rips your heart out. Destroys your dreams of happily ever after. I thought that's what we'd be. I thought we'd grow old together and share many more memories. I thought I would always have him.

So if I am missing for a while, if I'm not posting much or visiting your blogs, please understand that once I find the strength I will. Right now I don't want to read about happy marriages, how great life is for them. I just can't after my world has been crushed and turned upside down.

For you Scott, because I know you read this, you will ALWAYS have my heart, and I will always love you. I hope you find what you are looking for.

Justice

2011-04-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

Her name was Justice!
I am sure you all remember this post about the horse that has broken my heart for over a year. Watching her slim down and eventually become nothing but skin and bones. The picture honestly does not really show just how skinny and malnourished she was.
Well today I give you some history and an update:
We moved to TN in June 2007. I drive by these 2 horses on a daily basis. I would always smile thinking they must be happy and carefree. They were always beside each other, never far from the other...what better way to go through life than to have a friend always right there by your side. She wasn't always so skinny, she looked pretty healthy when we first moved here. Then one day I noticed she looked a little thinner. Then a month later even thinner. Eventually looking severely malnourished and just skin and bones. I'm sure Prince Charming got sick of hearing me complain about this horse. One who was obviously not being cared for. I couldn't figure out why someone would do that to an animal. A horse doesn't have a choice to leave and go somewhere where they are cared for. They don't have the option of getting a job to buy their own food. They are fully dependent on their owners to love and care for them properly. My neighbor called animal control last year because the horses didn't have blankets on them in the very cold weather. Animal control came out and made them put blankets on them, but they accepted the excuse that she was so skinny because of her age. Which yes, did play a role in her weight loss, but I don't feel that they did enough to ensure that she kept weight on.

So I drove by every day, heart breaking, wishing I knew what to do for this horse. She needed a voice and I wanted to be that voice for her. I started asking people I worked with. I took the picture and put it on my FB, I posted a blog about it. Hoping and praying somebody could help me come to a solution. I even had one organization contact me from my blog post, she requested more information and I provided her with everything I could. I thought, FINALLY, we are going to be able to get this horse some help. Then....nothing!

March 30th I left work early and as I was approaching where the horses were I seen something odd. The horse was stuck under the fence! OMG! There were 2 gentleman standing there holding the fence over her. She had somehow gotten stuck under the fence. I immediately stopped and jumped out of my car to see what I could do to help. She was just laying on the ground. My heart in my stomach fearing she was dead. She looked at me and said "Well honey you are gonna sit here and comfort me!" Yes, I decided what she said when she looked at me. The owner wasn't home.

We tried for almost 2 hours to get her up. We pushed and we pulled, but she didn't even make an attempt to get up. She just laid there. We called Animal Control and was told they were closed on Wednesdays. We called the Sheriffs department and were told they would come out "when and if" they found the time because it was not a top priority. We called the Fire Dept to see if they could help us, because a horse can no lay on it's side for that long. NOBODY would help. I felt so damn helpless.

To make a really long day/story short....I sat with Justice for 5 hours on the side of the road. We were fortunate that a lady who owns a horse rescue just happened to drive by. They couldn't do anything without the owners permission because it was outside of her jurisdiction. She knew the horse was going to die. After 3 hours the owner finally got home from work and called his vet. His vet told him he didn't have time to come out. I was so mad!!!! This horse was on her side, on the side of the road and you don't have time? What kind of vet is that?

I'm making this long again sorry....long story short, her name is Justice, she had to be put down. Her head lay in my lap and I talked to her, and caressed her as she went. It broke my heart. I cried and cried. In those 5 hours Justice and I became fast friends. She was comfortable with me, and I liked comforting her. She was a beautiful girl, but she is in a better place now.

The owner surrendered the other horse "Maxine" to the rescue group where she is now learning ground manners and how to be handled by people. While she wasn't malnourished, her feet had never been taken care of and her hooves were terribly over grown and were mushrooming out. They are taking care of it but said it will be about a year before they can get them into "decent" shape. Those are not her hooves just and example of what they kind of look like. I'll be visiting Maxine and taking pictures of her progress.

Credit Score

2011-04-07T17:11:00.000-05:00

I never really knew much about credit or credit scores but I have spent the past year really trying to improve my credit score. I had no idea what my score was, what effected it or even what a good rating was. It wasn't that I didn't care, I guess I just didn't have much knowledge when it came to my credit. I never had credit cards and only once had a car loan in my name. I never really had a reason to think about my credit.

Over the past year though Prince Charming and I have talked a lot about credit, and slowly I've learned. I have started doing a lot of reading about credit scores and am taking back control of my credit. 2 years ago was when I got my first credit card. It had a low credit limit which I was ok with. I was just learning after all. I made sure I was never late on my payments. After a year of having that card I decided I'd try for another and I got it. Then I really got excited about my credit and felt like I was going to be able to fix it.

But what was I fixing? I had never even seen my credit report to know if it was bad or good or in between. How can you fix something if you don't know if or what is broken? That of course which prompted me to get my free credit score. I did that about 2 weeks ago. I still have some fixing to do on it. I actually found several things on my credit report that should not be there. Just as bad, they've been there since 2005 and I didn't know it because I never bothered to look at my report.

What really prompted me to get my report was I started receiving calls from bill collectors telling me that I owed them money for SBC Ohio and Sprint. I didn't know who SBC Ohio was and Sprint I didn't have an account with so I couldn't figure out why they were calling me. The company on the phone couldn't/wouldn't give me the address they had for me so I refused to give them any of my info. So when I got my report I looked it over and sure enough neither of these companies or anything related to them are on there. There are 2 things on my report that I have to dispute because they aren't my accounts.

So starts the long journey of fixing my credit and actually knowing what I'm fixing!

Autism Awareness

2011-04-06T07:52:00.000-05:00

**credit**

Most of you don't know that I have a nephew with Autism. So for Awareness Wednesday this month I will be doing a Q & A with my sister, who has first hand knowledge. I can't think of a better person to ask about Autism and the world inside than someone who lives with it every day.

Whendid you first notice signs of autism?

Zach was four months old when I noticed that he didn'tmake sounds or follow objects with his eyes. He didn't jump at loud noises. Hedidn't respond to anything. He didn't cry. I remember thinking he was eitherdeaf or autistic.

Whatwere the signs?

As he got older it was more noticeable. He played alongside other kids but not really with them.

Howold was he when he was officially diagnosed?

Because Zach is high functioning, wedidn't get an official diagnosis until he was 11 and a half years old. He wasdiagnosed with ADHD and High Functioning Autism.

Whatkind of testing did he go through for his diagnosis?

We saw a pediatric neuro-psychologist for a diagnosis. Hewent through 18 hours of testing. There were different tests. Some tested hisintelligence, some his ability to plan what will come next, how to put thingsin order/groups, social situations, and still others.

Wasthe diagnosis hard for you to accept?

I know that it is hard for many parents to accept thatsomething is different. I already knew. Getting a diagnosis simply told me whatit was so I could learn how to treat it. So not really. The pediatrician and Iwere pretty sure that was the diagnosis we would get.

Wasit hard for him to accept?

I am a firm believer that knowledge is power. Zach isfully aware of all of his diagnosis. He researched on the internet to learnmore. He did fine after the research. He said that it explained a lot of thingsand his behaviors.

A really good poem for the parent of ANY special needschild:

WELCOME TO HOLLAND

by
Emily Perl Kingsley.

I am often asked to describe the experienceof raising a child with a disability - to try to help people who have notshared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel.It's like this......
When you're going to have a baby, it's likeplanning a fabulous vacation trip - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide booksand make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum. The Michelangelo David. Thegondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's all veryexciting.
After months of eager anticipation, the dayfinally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, theplane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland."
"Holland?!?" you say. "What doyou mean Holland?? I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed to be in Italy. All mylife I've dreamed of going to Italy."
But there's been a change in the flight plan.They've landed in Holland and there you must stay.
The important thing is that they haven'ttaken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famineand disease. It's just a different place.
So you must go out and buy new guide books.And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group ofpeople you would never have met.
It's just a different place. It'sslower-paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been therefor a while and you catch your breath, you look around.... and you begin tonotice that Holland has windmills....and Holland has tulips. Holland even hasRembrandts.
But everyone you know is busy coming andgoing from Italy... and they're all bragging about what a wonderful time theyhad there. And for the rest of your life, you will say "Yes, that's whereI was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."
And the pain of that will never, ever, ever,ever go away... because the loss of that dream is a very very significant loss.
But... if you spend your life mourning thefact that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the veryspecial, the very lovely things ... about Holland.

What Can 30 Seconds Do?

2011-04-04T13:07:00.001-05:00

About 2 weeks ago I left work early as I always do on Mondays to cover for the long day on Tuesday. I'm always the impatient driver who can't stand to be behind someone going under the speed limit or sitting forever after the light turns green.

A - Z All About Me

2011-04-01T09:09:00.001-05:00

Ok y'all I stole this from Erin @ Life with the Websters! blog and I wanted to do it. If you haven't visited her little part of the internet hop on over and do that.

A. Age: 25+ maybe a few years, but I'll never tell.

B. Bed size: King.

C. Chore you dislike: For some reason I don't mind washing the laundry or folding it, but man I hate to put it away and even more I hate to iron.

D. Dogs: 2 Chihuahuas - Tequila will be 4 in June ***Had to edit this to add my favorite dog Guapo who will be 3 in May. (Side note you should not blog at work because it's not so easy to write and focus on work at the same time.)

E. Essential start to your day:Mt Dew! I feel for this world if I ever wake up and don't have any. I actually have a bottle that sits on my night stand. Uhm...wait was I supposed to say kids or hubby here? Because they are an essential start to my day.

F. Favorite color: I love pink...everything pink! But I also love anything bright.

G. Gold or silver: Silver! Gold looks horrible with my skin tone.

H. Height: 5' 5"

I. Instruments you play(ed): None...unless yelling counts as playing my voice.

J. Job title: Mom, wife, daughter, friend, sister....receptionist.

K. Kids: Lexi (15...be 16 in less than 9 weeks) Megan (15) and Braydon (12)

L. Live: Just north of Nashville

M. Mom’s name: Leila (miss you mommy)

N. Nicknames: Lissy, Lissa or when I was younger Monkey or Lizard. I don't recall where any of these names stemmed from.

O. Overnight hospital stays: More than I can count. Hubby likes to say I visit the hospital like I visit WalMart.

P. Pet peeves: I have more than I can list but top of the list is mouth noises. They drive me insane!

Q. Quote from a movie: "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn!" Gone With The Wind

S. Siblings:2 older brothers, 2 older sisters

T. Time you wake up: Weekdays 5:30 and weekends, whenever my dog shoves his tongue into my sinus cavity to alert me he needs to go out.

U. Underwear: Those are the things I call "choni's"

V. Vegetables you don’t like: All of them pretty much. I only eat corn and green beans.

W. What makes you run late: Hitting snooze

X. X-rays you’ve had: I couldn't even begin to list all of them I have had.

Y. Yummy food you make: None really....I am on a quest to learn to cook.

Redecorating

2011-04-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Lexi has hit that age where it is time to redecorate her room. She is starting to want more sophisticated decor. So I've been scouring the internet looking for something unique and different that would fit her personality. I came across this website with an adorable collection of seventeen bedding. They have a wide variety of furnishings and decor from thousands of online stores. It's like having someone do the searching at different stores and picking the best. Kind of genius in my eyes.

I also fell in love with the idea of putting a dressing table and mirror in her room. She's becoming such a woman that she's gonna need the extra room for all her makeup, brushes, and hair irons. I can picture her in my mind sitting there doing her hair as her mom cries because she's growing so quickly.

Another very popular bedroom item is the moon chair. Kids love to have these chairs in their rooms and I must admit I love hanging out in them. The really big ones are so comfy to just lounge and chat in. The many different styles and colors make them easy to add as an accessory.

I want her room to be a retreat of sorts. A room she can rest in at the end of the day, a room that her and her friends can hang out comfortably in, and a room that is peaceful enough she can study in.

When is the last time you redecorated your child's room?

He Likes Me!

2011-03-29T09:12:00.001-05:00

Last weekend Prince Charming and I were talking about our likes and dislikes. Mostly TV shows, actors and actresses. Oh there were some other subjects but it's been a few days now so I can't really remember what they were. Must not have been important right? There really is a point to this story (it's gonna be a short one).

When Prince Charming and I walk past each other in the kitchen or wherever it may be, we almost always give a quick kiss and say I love you. So after our conversation about likes and dislikes I was standing at the kitchen counter. He walks by me, gives me a kiss and says "I like you" but really meant to say "I love you". Ha...so now we have come to like each other instead of loving each other. LOL

The Steam Team Review

2011-03-28T20:14:00.001-05:00

If you live in Austin or the surrounding area I know a company that can help you out! The Steam Team have many different areas of expertise and can help you with almost any cleaning you need done.

It's that time of year where we start to do our Spring Cleaning. We want everything spotless top to bottom. That includes our air ducts because it's allergy season and lets face it, those air ducts can really add to the problem. With pro air duct cleaning it can help to eliminate part of that problem. Who doesn't want to breathe a little easier right?

While you are getting those air ducts taken care of you can get carpet and upholstery taken care of. We all know those of course are another great allergy inducer, especially if you have pets. My husband is allergic to pet dander and professional carpet and upholstery cleaning can really help to reduce the amount in the house. They also provide a pet odor removal service.

Make sure to visit The Steam Team and see all their many areas of expertise. They repair smoke damage, water damage, power washes and even ozone cleaning. If you are looking for professional carpet cleaning reviews you can find that on their website as well.

So when you are thinking about all that spring cleaning you need to do, also think about how great it would be to have someone do all the deep cleaning for you. You can relax and enjoy the day while someone else climbs in all those little crevices and gets the job done!

It Only Flies When You Don't Want It To

2011-03-28T07:38:00.000-05:00

I just don't get it! When I'm waiting for vacation time to arrive, time drags by. When I'm waiting on something to arrive in the mail, time drags by. It seems it takes forever to move on. The work week, it drags on.

Weekends though, oh they go flying right by. Before I know it my weekend is over and it's back to another work week. Don't get me wrong, I love my job and I appreciate having one. But man I want my weekend hours to go a little slower. When I have my son with me, I want time to creep by. To stand still. But it zips by in a hurry. When the kids are growing it seems to come out of nowhere. I mean, how did my daughter make it to almost 16 (hysterical sobbing here) and my baby is 12. What happened to those years? I swear I blinked and *poof* they are teens. Oh but don't forget that as a teen they have the answers to the worlds problems so make sure you ask them to write them down before they become adults and forget all those answers.

So I'm thinking we need to have a chat with time.We need to let time know when it is and isn't ok to fly by. When we need it to hurry along and when we need it to stand still. This can't possibly be that hard. I tried turning the hands back on the clock....but it didn't do anything for me.

Skin MD Lotion Review

2011-03-27T14:08:00.000-05:00

If you haven't heard me complain before I have terribly dry skin, especially in the winter time. I have even scratched my legs until they bleed from the itching. Terrible I know. I have found some lotions that provide me with relief, but I have to use a lot of it and end up spending a lot of money just to keep my skin hydrated. I also take extremely hot showers which I know is not good for my skin, but it's just not something that is going to change.

Skin MD is manufactured in the United States using 100% solar power, free of animal products and animal testing. If that is not impressive enough it's also made with all natural ingredients.

Every day your skin is bombarded by chemicals and irritants that strip away the skin's natural protective barrier. Most soaps and cleansers contain fragrances, colorants, antibacterial agents and many other ingredients that damage the skin's natural barrier. Daily use of these soaps and cleansers can greatly reduce your skin's natural ability to repel the thousands of irritants and toxins that are commonly found in the home and work place. Applying a shielding lotion will keep skin hydrated and protected against irritants that cause dry skin.

Skin MD Natural uses a blend of natural ingredients in combination with significant recent scientific advances to hydrate and help heal dry skin without any greasy residue, harsh fragrances, or other potentially toxic ingredients. Conventional lotions simply attempt to replace lost moisture with artificial moisture.
Skin MD Natural works differently by helping keep moisture-robbing irritants away thus enhancing the skin's inherent ability to moisturize itself. This easy-to-apply, fast-absorbing lotion helps protect against many household, cosmetic and other commonly used products that can lead to skin disorders or just plain dry cracked skin.

My take on it:

I used this lotion for a little over a week. As with any product I try I want to be able to give a fair and honest review.

This lotion goes on so smoothly and gets a 100% grade for being non greasy. I only needed to use a very small amount to completely coat me. It's as smooth as water! I'm used to using thick lotions so that they protect my skin, but Skin MD not only shields it but my skin absorbs it. My skin feels so much softer after applying it.

The only complaint I have with Skin MD is that I did have to reapply it during the day. I had hoped that it would last for 24 hours. It may be that my skin is in such terrible condition. I have noticed improvement to my skin, I don't have to apply it nearly as often as I had to at first and it is more hydrated than it has been in a long time.

Lexi was just diagnosed with atopic dermatitis. I will be using the lotion on her arms and taking pictures over a week period to show you the results.

If you have dry skin, and looking for a lotion to hydrate your skin then I would definitely recommend Skin MD.

So I Disappeared

2011-03-24T18:31:00.000-05:00

Yes, as you know I'm bipolar! Yay me! That means sometimes I disappear into my own little world, where I feel safe (or not). Well this past week has been one of those times. I have disappeared into my world. My world where there is an emotional roller coaster around any corner, or hanging on any word. But that is how my world works. Does it suck, yes sometimes, but it's my world and I'm learning slowly to live with it.

This time of year is a tough time. It's been 8 years since my mom passed and that is hard on me. So when we come upon this time of year it tears me apart and I go in my world and I lock the door. I do my best not to lash out on the ones I love, though it's so easy for me to do.

So I promise next week to try to pull myself out and be back to posting and visiting your blogs!

That Advertising Company Review

2011-03-22T08:22:00.001-05:00

I've told you about them before and because I think their site is awesome I'm going to tell you about them again.
If you are looking for a company to advertise your business or your product then this advertising agency may be exactly what you are looking for in and advertising company.

This advertising agency is very knowledgeable when it comes to digital media. It's safe to say they are experts at what they do. Let them help you and your business head in the right direction by tracking your campaigns for you. Not only will they track those campaigns for you, but they will ensure that you are getting the most for your money and that the campaigns you are using are the most effective for your business. Don't waste money when an expert can help you.

Their team of professionals are highly motivated and extremely creative when it comes to creating a campaign that will benefit you and meet your specific needs. This advertising company will help you make the best profit and increase your income. They will help you get full knowledge about the type of marketing you are using now and see if it's the most effective for your business needs.

The site is completely user friendly to use, and very easy to navigate. Gain the full knowledge of these experts, see how budget friendly they are for you and your company. Check out the work they have already done and see how effective they have been in other campaigns. Request more information so you can see for yourself that this company will help you and your business become a bigger and better success.

The Man Who Has It All

2011-03-21T00:01:00.000-05:00

What more could PC ask for? He has me...he has it all right? Ok really though he does. When it comes to birthdays, Christmas, anniversaries I am always so stumped as to what to buy him. If he wants something he goes out and buys it.

Well it's almost that time of year again. Our anniversary is in May and this is about the time I start freaking out about what to get him. A few weeks ago he tells me he needs a new toolbox and tools, so there I know what to get him. Romantic huh? He always preaches to buy something practical...something he can use. So here I am planning on getting him a toolbox and all that stuff to go with it. Asking all the guys at work what kind is good, what do they want in one...etc.

Well I had to take his car somewhere the other day, he tells me to get the stuff out of the back and guess what was included in that stuff?? Yes, I'm sure you got it right...a TOOLBOX!!! WTF? Uhm...didn't he just tell me that is what he wanted me to get for our anniversary? How am I supposed to do that now?

I asked him about it, why did he get it...wanna know his answer? He needed a leveler. Really, because I was pretty sure they sold those separately! Does he do this because he hates me? Because he likes to see me freaking out about it? Is it the stress lines I get because I want to do something nice for him, get him what he wants but he goes out and does it himself. MEN!

So now I am back to square one, I don't know what to get him. What do you get the man who has it all?

Walgreens Deals 3/20/11

2011-03-20T13:23:00.000-05:00

These are few of my favorite deals this week. You can find the whole list @Deal Seeking Mom

Plackers Flosser (90 pk.), $2
Get $2 RRs
FREE after RRs!

Always With Odor-Lock Feminine Care, $2.99
Get $2 RRs
-- Dri-Liners Plus (30 pk.)
--LeakGuard Plus Pads (22 pk.)
$2/1 Always Pads, exp. 9-30-11 (P&G Sampler)
$1/1 Always Product, exp. 4-30-11 (P&G Everyday Savings Book)
$1/1 Always Pads, exp. 12-31-11 (P&G Sampler)
$0.50/1 Select Always Items, exp. 3-31-11 (P&G 02/27/11)
Better than FREE after coupon and RRs!

Comet Cleanser (14 oz.), 2/$1 (with in-ad coupon)
$0.35/1 Comet Cleanser or Comet Spray, exp. 3-31-11 (SS 01/23/11)
$1/2 Comet Soft Cleanser or Comet Spray, exp. 3-31-11 (SS 01/23/11)
As low as FREE after stacked coupons!

Reach Floss (55 yds.), $0.99 (with in-ad coupon)$1/1 Reach Toothbrush or Floss Product printable
$1/1 Reach Floss, Flosser or Toothbrush, exp. 4-30-11 (RP 10/10/10)
FREE after stacked coupons!

Reach Crystal Clean Toothbrush, $0.99 (with in-ad coupon) (monthly deal)
**through 3/29
Get $1 RR wyb 2
Get $2 RR wyb 3
Get $4 RR wyb 4 or more$1/1 Reach Toothbrush or Floss Product printable
$1/1 Reach Floss, Flosser or Toothbrush, exp. 4-30-11 (RP 10/10/10)

Suggested Scenario

Buy (4) Reach Crystal Clean Toothbrushes, $0.99 ($3.96)
Get $4 RRs wyb 4Use (4) $1/1 Reach Floss, Flosser or Toothbrush, exp. 4-30-11 (RP 10/10/10)
$4 money maker after coupons and RRs!

Method Hand Soap (12 oz), $2.99
Get $2 RRs$0.99 ea. after RRs!

Schick Quattro or Intuition, $8.99
Get $3 RRs
--Razor System
--Cartridges (3 or 4 pk.)
$3/1 Select Schick Quattro Products, exp. 5-1-11 (SS 03/20/11)
$2/1 Schick Intuition Razor or Refill, exp. 5-1-11 (SS 03/20/11)
As low as $2.99 ea. after coupon and RRs!

CVS Deals 3/20/11

2011-03-20T13:20:00.000-05:00

These are few of my favorite deals this week. You can find the whole list @Deal Seeking Mom

Select Crest or Oral-B Products, $3.49
Get $2.50 ECBs (Limit 2)
–Crest or OralB Pro-Health Complete Rinse (16.9 oz.)
– Clinical Gum Toothpaste (4 oz.)
$0.50/1 Crest Toothpaste or Liquid Gel, exp. 4-30-11 (RP 03/13/11)
$1/1 Crest or Liquid Gel, exp. 3-31-11 (P&G 02/27/11)
$0.75/1 Crest Toothpaste or Liquid Gel, exp. 3-31-11 (P&G 02/27/11)
$1/1 Crest Toothpaste or Liquid Gel, exp. 4-30 (P&G Book)
$1/1 Crest Toothpaste, exp. 4-30-11 (P&G Ebony Magazine Insert, March)
– Glide Clinical Protection Floss (38.2 yd.)
$0.75/1 Oral-B Floss or Floss Picks, exp. 3-31 (P&G 02/27/11)
$1/1 Select Oral-B or Glide Items, exp. 4-30 (P&G Ebony Insert, March)
As low as FREE after coupon and ECBs!

Dawn, $0.97
$0.25/1 Dawn Product, exp. 3-31-11 (P&G 02/27/11)
$0.50/1 Dawn Product, exp. 4-30-11 (P&G Everyday Savings Book)
$0.25/1 Dawn Product, exp. 10-31-11 (Organize In Style)
$1/1 Dawn Hand Renewal Dish Liquid, exp. 4-30-11 (Organize In Style)
$1/1 Dawn Hand Renewal inside Charmin packs
FREE after coupon!

Head & Shoulders and Pantene Products, $4.99
Get $2.50 ECBs (Limit 1)
–Head & Shoulders (14.2 oz.)
$1/1 Head & Shoulders Shampoo/Conditioner, exp. 3-31 (P&G 02/27/11)
$2/1 Head & Shoulders Shampoo, exp. 4-30-11 (P&G Ebony Insert, March)
$2/1 Head & Shoulders, exp. 4-30 (Essence Magazine, Mar)
–All Pantene Expressions, Restoratives Shampoo, Conditioners or Treatments$1/1 Pantene Product, exp. 3-31-11 (P&G 02/27/11)
$2/1 Pantene Product, exp. 4-30-11 (P&G Ebony Magazine Insert, March)
$2/2 Pantene Product, exp. 6-30-11 (P&G Brandsaver, March)
As low as $0.49 ea. after coupon and ECBs!

Select Colgate Products, $2.99
Get $2 ECBs (Limit 2)
–Colgate MaxFresh, MaxWhite or MaxClean Toothpaste (6 oz.)
$0.75/1 Colgate Toothpaste, exp. 3-19-11 (SS 02/27/11)
$0.50/1 Colgate Toothpaste (SS 02/13/11)
–Colgate 360 Surround Toothbrush (1 ct.)
$0.75/1 Colgate Manual Toothbrush, exp. 3-19-11 (SS 02/27/11)
As low as $0.24 ea. after coupon and ECBs!

Select Schick Razors or Cartridges, $8.79
Get $4 ECBs (Limit 1)
–Schick Intuition Razor or Cartridge (4 ct.)
$2/1 Schick Intuition Razor or Refill, (SS 3/20/11)
–Schick Quattro For Men or Women Razor or Cartridge (4 ct.)$3/1 Schick Quattro Razor, Trimmer or Refill (4 or 8 ct.), (SS 3/20/11)
As low as $1.79 ea. after coupon and ECBs!

Arm & Hammer Spinbrush Toothbrush (1 ct.) or Brush Heads (2 ct.), $6.49
Get $2 ECBs (Limit 1)
$3/1 Arm & Hammer Spinbrush Toothbrush, exp. 3-31 (SS 12/5/10)
$1/1 Arm & Hammer Spinbrush Product, exp. 3-31-11 (SS 12/05/10)
As low as $1.49 ea. after coupon and ECBs!

Suave Products
Get $3 ECBs wyb $12 (Limit 1)
–Suave Invisible Solid Deodorant (1.4 oz.), $1
$0.50/1 Suave Deodorant Product, exp. 4-17-11 (RP 03/20/11)
–Suave Body Wash (12 oz.), $2
B2G1 Suave Body Wash Product, exp. 4-17-11 (RP 03/20/11)
–Suave Shampoo or Conditioner (12-22.5 oz.), Styler (9-11 oz.), 3/$5
$0.50/2 Suave Professionals Styling Product, exp. 4-17 (RP 03/20/11)

Suggested Scenarios
Buy (12) Suave Deodorants at $1
Use (12) $0.50/1 Suave Deodorant Product, exp. 4-17-11 (RP 03/20/11)
$0.25 ea. after coupons and ECBs!

or

Buy (6) Suave Body Wash at $2
Use (2) B2G1 Suave Body Wash Product, exp. 4-17-11 (RP 03/20/11)
$0.83 ea. after coupons and ECBs!

Funny Things Friday

2011-03-18T07:54:00.000-05:00

I haven't had any funny conversations with people at work, but my kids have cracked me up this week! So here are some snippets of conversations:

Lexi: So, I'm not the brightest cookie in the jar! (Ok I think you got that one a little mixed up kiddo)

Lexi: Hey mom, does time go forward or ahead this week? (I thought forward and ahead were the same thing? Something I don't know?)

I was watching a movie, all engrossed in it when I hear:
Braydon: Hey sissy, you wanna do that naughty thing?
Me: Does she wanna do WHAT?
Lexi: Yeah, I'll do it. (serious giggling going on)
Me: Uhm what the hell are you two talking about and doing?
What really was happening was Braydon was putting the trash bag into the can, we tie a knot on the bag so that it's tighter around the can and doesn't fall in. He was asking her if she would tie the knot in the bag, but that sure is not how it sounded.

My Mini Vaca - Part 2

2011-03-17T00:01:00.001-05:00

I know I know, I promised this last week, but well...yeah I didn't get to it. So my sister has been nagging me to get the post up. Yeah she hasn't even seen the pics.

Sunday morning I woke up, my lip was hurting really bad and I couldn't figure out why my face felt so funny. Turns out I had been bitten by a bug and this is what I looked like:

Stop laughing now! My lip was huge, my face was swollen and my eye was almost blackened. It sucked! I was not happy! How was I supposed to walk around looking like that?? I sucked it up!

Went outside to be greeted by the morning sun or not:

Yep remember that cute little creek I was so happy about? It flooded over night and flooded the whole yard. Stupid rain!
We set off to go to Ruby Falls. Aside from spending some much needed alone time with Prince Charming Ruby Falls was one of the things I was most excited about.

I know horrible pic, but I had to snap it between people running by it. So I got a pic of the sign...did I get a pic of the falls??? NO! Ruby Falls was flooded from all the rain and I did not get to see it! I was so disappointed.
So we went on with our day and went to the Incline Railway...have you been there? It is REALLY steep!

Yep that's it...almost a straight up and down shot. 72.7% grade! SCARY!

That's Prince Charming looking all manly and unafraid. It's just a cover though, I know deep down he was screaming like a little girl...or not, but it sounds good.

There is me...fat lip and all. Don't I look brave...or a little scared! I had to at least have proof on the camera that I was alive and well (except for the whole fat lip) before I went on. Just in case it you know let loose and fell all the way down.

This is proof...I know what you were thinking. You were thinking I just took a picture in front of it and claimed that I did it. No way, I was on it and snapping pictures. To keep my mind busy so I didn't cry!

That there...that's the view. Do you see all that fog? Because of that fog I didn't get to go see Rock City. I mean what is the point if there is no view right? This was taken at the top of Incline Railway.
So when we get off the train they say it doesn't go back down for 30 min. Prince Charming being the Prince he is bought me a hot pretzel...YUM I love those. We are sitting there munching away when we here them say they are going back down. WHAT?!? It had only been 5 minutes, where is that thing going? I can not walk back down...that is a long walk and they tell me I can't walk down it. So we had to wait for the next ride down. We did however warn the other passengers on their first trip that it doesn't really wait 30 min. It was pretty neat to do though.
We went back to the cabin and I was not going to let my camera time go to waste and I seen a little sign of Spring so I took the chance to take a few pics.

I was so happy to see these. It means warm weather is right around the corner!
At the end of the day we sat beside this....

Talking and enjoying each others company. Nice and warm, eating....pizza I think.

So all in all I didn't get to do the things I wanted to do, but I did get to spend some good quality time with Prince Charming. I did brave up and do Incline Railway...if you know me that is a HUGE step. I'm deathly afraid of heights. I will not tell you that I did it with no medication though.

He promises to take me back so we can do it all over again some day.

Awareness Wednesday - Mental Retardation

2011-03-16T00:01:00.002-05:00

March is among other awareness is Mental Retardation month. I have always had so much compassion for a person who is mentally challenged in any way. All through school I wouldn't allow them to be bullied or picked on. I am proud to say that my daughter has the same compassion and stands up for those that can't or won't stand up for themselves. There are 2 children with downs syndrome in her school, those 2 children have to be escorted through the halls because of a few students who are horribly mean children. My daughter and her friends allow these 2 beautiful souls to sit with them during lunch. My daughter came home so upset one day because some kids were being mean calling them "retards" among other horrible names. My daughter and her friend both freshman in high school chose to stand up and say something to these kids. A teacher yelled at them for making too much noise. When they explained to the teacher what had happened and why they made all the "noise" she told them they had to mind their business and keep it down or they'd be sent to the office. I myself dare a teacher to send my daughter to the office, or the office do something to her for her standing up for those who can't stand up for themselves.

I believe education is the key to teaching people to accept others, and that is why I do Awareness Wednesday. To educate people and maybe provide some answers. So here is a little information I found on The Arc of Atlantic City.

According to the American Association on Mental Retardation (AAMR), an individual is considered to have mental retardation based on the following three criteria:
· intellectual functioning level (IQ) is below 70-75;
· significant limitations exist in two or more adaptive skill areas;
· and the condition is present from childhood (defined as age 18 or less.)

Mental retardation can be caused by any condition which impairs development of the brain before birth, during birth, or in the childhood years. Several hundred causes have been discovered, but in about one-third of the people affected, the cause remains unknown. The three major known causes of mental retardation are the genetic conditions of Down syndrome and fragile X, and fetal alcohol syndrome, the result of alcohol consumption during pregnancy.

The Arc of Atlantic County improves the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community. Through direct services, advocacy, education and prevention activities, we work in partnership with individuals and their families to make choices possible about how and where they live, learn, play and work.

Guest Post - Written by Kim Rogers

2011-03-15T09:42:00.000-05:00

Guest post written by Kim Rogers

Once I have my mind set on buying something, it's like I have a one track mind and I can't concentrate on anything else. That's probably the big reason why I go shopping so much. But I do have really good taste though and I buy pieces that I do actually end up wearing a whole lot. It's just that I kind of have a large rotation so I don't wear stuff as often as I should because I try and wear all the clothes that I do have. But the thing lately that I've really been concentrating on is getting a black faux fur vest.

I saw this girl in one of my favorite stores about a week or so ago wearing one and when I asked her where she got it she said that it was vintage, which meant that I wouldn't be able to find another one like it. So I used my Satellite Internet Provider when I got home to start looking up vests like that online, but I didn't have nearly as much like with it as I had hoped.

I found a few vintage shops that I've never been in looking for a black faux fur vest, but I actually found one at Target!

Nursing Uniforms

2011-03-15T09:36:00.000-05:00

I dream of one day going to medical school and becoming a nurse. I love taking care of people and have always thought about it. Often times I look at nursing scrubs and think I should have done it. Some days I swear I will still do it. Never too late right?

So for those of you who are nurses and are looking for some cheap scrubs that look nice and professional Blue Sky offers just that. They are clean cut, and have a nice slimming fit. Not the normal box cut scrubs that are meant for both men and women, these are designed to fit a woman. They offer bother original scrubs and simple scrubs. They are both made from the same high quality material the difference is the original has some beautiful stitching along the seems and if that's not for you then the simple scrubs may make you happier. Either way they are superbly priced.

Blue Sky also sells the scrub top and scrub pants separately or together. At such an affordable price and quality uniforms you should definitely take a look at their site and find exactly what you are looking for. Look professional and be comfortable at the same time!

Purex Crystals Review

2011-03-12T13:34:00.000-06:00

I have become a Purex Insider and I can't tell you how excited I am to be given the opportunity to try their new products. A few weeks ago I received the Purex Crystals to use. I wanted to try this product for a few weeks to make sure I could give you a fair and honest review.

Purex Crystals are 92% natural and works differently than the oil based softeners that leave an oily residue on clothes. In addition you don't have to wait for the rinse cycle to add your softener. You add the crystals in at the beginning of the wash cycle.

Purex Crystals are safe for all your laundry. They don't break down the materials or leave a residue on them. The crystals preserve the flame retardant benefits on your childrens clothing and won't yellow or gray your whites as some oil based softeners do.

Purex Crystals are also affordable with a suggested retail price of $3.99 to $5.99 depending on the retailer.

Now for my opinion:
I love my clothes to smell good. I always waited for the rinse cycle of my laundry to add my liquid softeners because I felt putting them in the ball didn't make them smell as good. I also didn't like that after drying them in the dryer the scent usually wasn't as strong and didn't last until I wore them. There is nothing better than to crawl into bed and have good smelling sheets to cover up with.

I have to admit I was a little worried about Purex Crystals because you add them in before you put your laundry in. I was certain that the crystals would dissolve before they got the chance to soften my clothes and make them smell fresh.

I have used Purex Crystals for the past 2 weeks and I.LOVE.THEM!!! My sheets smell so good as soon as they come out of the dryer and stay smelling fresh through out the week until I wash them again. They stay soft and smooth. My work clothes still smell fresh at the end of the week when I finally use them. They have kept the smell and the softness on them hanging in the closet. My towels...wow! I have had a problem with my towels smelling funny even after they were washed. When I used the Purex Crystals the smell was gone and they were so soft. I almost wanted to cuddle with them.

I have a High Efficiency washer and dryer, the Purex Crystals are safe for both HE washers and standard washers. They have left no sort of residue in my washer. I add the crystals to the washer before I add my laundry.

This is a product I would highly recommend to anyone who wants to preserve the quality of their laundry and have them always smelling fresh no matter when you go to use them. Thank you Purex for giving me the opportunity to use your product.

**I was given the Purex Crystals to try. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.**

The Truth About Dating, Love, and Just Being Friends by Chad Eastham Book Review

2011-03-10T12:11:00.000-06:00

I first had Lexi read this book so I could get her reaction on it. With her being 15 and in high school I really don't know how to tackle some of these subjects and really get through to her.

The first night I gave her this book to read I heard her upstairs laughing hysterically. I thought certainly she was watching a funny movie. A few minutes later another huge burst of laughter, and then feet stomping down the stairs to come tell me about the book. What is so funny you ask? He talks about an Ostrich burying it's head in the sand. He explains that they don't actually bury their head in the sand and what they are really doing. He also explains how this belief of the Ostrich came about and another very funny thing this man believed. I quote from the book **please don't have a drink in your mouth**

Pliny also thought that the ostrich could stare at its eggs with such intensity that it would make them hatch. Really, man? 'Cause that seems logical.

This statement had my daughter bursting with laughter. Then he goes on to explaining why the point of the ostrich was important. It's because we all make observations, whether they are right or wrong we make them.

He talks about dating, dating mistakes, how to be just friends, why some teens are happy and some are miserable, and the problem with falling in love with mythical creatures. Can you believe he thinks my being in love with a vampire is a little crazy?

Not only does he talk about these very important subjects, but he does it in their language, one that they can understand and relate to. He does it so that it's fun to read and informational at the same time. He shares letters and emails he has received from teens and his response to them.

After she read the book I did. Not just so I could do the review but because I wanted to know what was so funny to my daughter. I have to admit, I think I enjoyed this book just as much as she did. It was a great read and one that I would highly recommend to any parent with a teen or preteen. I give this book 5 stars! I couldn't have been happier with a book for my daughter to read and get good information from.

Chad Eastham is a fantastic author with a very special talent of relating to teens and teen issues.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

My Mini Vacation - Part 1

2011-03-09T18:44:00.001-06:00

As promised I am going to tell you all about my mini vacation and sorry but you are going have to do this in 2 parts, but I promise only 2!

So on Saturday we woke up and got on the road to Chattanooga:

So we drove....errr...uhm...Prince Charming drove in the down pouring rain and crazy weather. Thank goodness it was only a 2 1/2 hour drive or he may have indented the steering wheel with his death grip and complete concentration.

When we got to Chattanooga we arrived here:

It was such a cute cozy little cabin! I fell in love at first site and thought NOW I have reached a place where I can rest and relax. We dropped the dogs off at the cabin (bad humans I know) and then went to eat lunch here:

Prince Charming and I both love Mexican food so much and we are always trying new Mexican restaurants.
So Prince Charming took his time looking over the menu:

As I sat laughing because they told him it was a dry county and he could not order a margarita.

I know it's not nice to laugh at people but I find it so much fun when he gives me a reason to laugh. Ok he gave me a better reason but he said if I put that picture up I'd be in big trouble.
So we had our lunch and then realized it was time to go relax. We knew it was going to rain Saturday so that was going to be our day of relaxation. And we did just that in this:

All day! It was wonderful to sit around and do nothing. Not have to worry about anything, not to have to clean anything, just relax and listen to the rain fall around us.
We also had a nice little creek (yes I say crick) out back to look at.

And a huge yard for the doggies to romp around in though with the rain they didn't do any romping.

After all the relaxing and lazing around Prince Charming decided to build me a fire.

I won't tell you that it was a gas fireplace and that it was also lit by remote control because that is not as manly.
After all the excitement of relaxing for an entire day we spent the rest of the night sleeping on this:

I love this bed and if I could have packed it up and brought it home with me I would have!

Tomorrow I will tell you about Sunday!

Awareness Wednesday Kidneys

2011-03-09T09:12:00.000-06:00

Did you know that March is National Kidney Month?
This you will find is a subject that hits close to home with me. I have had 1 family member die from kidney failure and another that kidney failure played a big role in her death. So I come armed today with information from the National Kidney Foundation. If you don't get enough information here today make sure to visit their site for more.

So first a story: My Grandma (dad's mom) passed away from kidney failure years ago. Now I wasn't close to her and barely seen her through out my life so her loss in our family wasn't one that impacted me greatly. Yes, I know that sounds horrible but it is what it is and there is a more personal story behind that. Maybe another post some day.
My mom also suffered kidney failure as well. Hers stemmed from her diabetes because she didn't take care of herself the way she should have. The loss of my mom was a great one. One that impacted my life so much I didn't know how I would ever breathe with out her. Most days I went over and did her dialysis for her, she hated doing it and had to have someone hold her hand to be sure she did. But one this particular day I didn't get to go over, I had to work over time and well I really needed the money at the time so I did it. My mom was fine that morning when I went to work. We had gone out for our usual Friday brunch and I went off to work. Later that day she had a heart attack which led to her untimely death at the age of 49. All of this related to diabetes and her kidneys.

Most people know that a major function of the kidneys is to remove waste products and excess fluid from the body. These waste products and excess fluid are removed through the urine. The production of urine involves highly complex steps of excretion and reabsorption. This process is necessary to maintain a stable balance of body chemicals.
The critical regulation of the body's salt, potassium and acid content is performed by the kidneys. The kidneys also produce hormones that affect the function of other organs. For example, a hormone produced by the kidneys stimulates red blood cell production. Other hormones produced by the kidneys help regulate blood pressure and control calcium metabolism.

Kidney disease usually affects both kidneys. If the kidneys' ability to filter the blood is seriously damaged by disease, wastes and excess fluid may build up in the body. Although many forms of kidney disease do not produce symptoms until late in the course of the disease, there are six warning signs of kidney disease:

High blood pressure.
Blood and/or protein in the urine.
A creatinine and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) blood test, outside the normal range. BUN and creatinine are waste that build up in your blood when your kidney function is reduced.
A glomerular filtration rate (GFR) less than 60. GFR is a measure of kidney function.
More frequent urination, particularly at night; difficult or painful urination.
Puffiness around eyes, swelling of hands and feet.

The National Kidney Foundation's Kidney Early Evaluation Program (KEEP^®) offers free screening for those at risk - anyone 18 years and older with high blood pressure, diabetes or a family history of kidney disease. It is designed to raise awareness about kidney disease among high risk individuals and provide free testing and educational information, so that kidney disease and its complications can be prevented or delayed.

Find a screening near you here.

I Promise....

2011-03-08T09:14:00.000-06:00

I promise on Thursday I will have a post up about my weekend vacation. I am not going to lie...I was too lazy to do a post yesterday and today is a 12 hour day at work and I don't have my photos. So today I am going to play catch up on all your blogs. Tomorrow will be the usual Wednesday Awareness and Thursday I will have you a post to read all about my vacation!

So here's to a lazy day yesterday and a slow catch up day today!

Funny Things Friday

2011-03-04T00:01:00.002-06:00

Yes my lovely readers it is BACK! I have funny things to tell you again. I hope that you find as much humor in these people as I do. Just as a reminder:
**I answer phones at work so I am constantly hearing funny things. There is only 1 of the companies I work for where I live so I will not directly refer to that company but instead will call it XYZ. What I will tell you is I am a receptionist for a car dealership. That is very important to keep in mind as you hear these things. Some make me laugh and some well they just irritate the hell out of me. All stories are true events! Names will be changed for privacy purposes.

Me: Thank you for calling XYZ how may I direct your call?
Caller: Dees Jose
Me: Yes sir, and how may I direct your call?
Caller: Dees Jose
Me: I understand that sir, which department do you need?
Caller: Dees Jose
Me: Sir do you have your car at our dealership?
Caller: Dees Jose
Me: **click**

Ok so you have to make up your best "I don't really speak English" accent because this was hilarious! Though very annoying at the time because I was sick of being told "Dees Jose" and I still don't know if he was needing something or someone or if "dees" meant something I didn't know.

Me: Good morning thanks for calling XYZ how may I direct your call?
Caller: Yes ma'am I'm not sure if you know the person I'm looking for, but we are having a reunion and a person we are looking to invite used to work there.
Me: Ok what is the name and I'll be able to see if he's still here?
Caller: His name is Joe Smith
Me: Nope, no Joe Smith working here now. How long ago did he work here? Maybe someone who works here now may know who he is?
Caller: Oh he worked there in 1959 and we really want to find him for this reunion!
Me: **Crickets** 1959??? (Does she know what year this is?)
Caller: Yes ma'am it was 1959 and this is the last place I know he worked at.
Me: (after asking the one person who I know has worked there for 25 years) Ma'am nobody here is aware of Joe Smith or anyone else that may have worked here in 1959.
Caller: Oh well do you know how I can get a hold of him because we really want him to come to this reunion.
Me: (shaking my head shamelessly for the horrible thoughts that I was having) No ma'am I don't know how to locate him. Nobody here knows him.
Caller: Are you sure?
Me: Ugh...yeah pretty sure!

I feel so bad for the old lady...she really wanted that man there. Must have been her high school sweet heart right?

So this was my favorite call this week.....drum roll please.....

Me: Thank you for calling XYZ how may I direct your call?
Caller: Oh my God you give good phone!!!
Me: **blink, blink** I give good phone?
Caller: Oh yes you have a fantastic phone voice!
Me: Ugh Thanks!
Caller: Can I talk to Ben now please?
Me: One minute please.

So my dear readers....I GIVE GOOD PHONE!

T Shirt Printing Review

2011-03-03T17:11:00.002-06:00

I received a printed T Shirt from T Shirt Printing for review. I got one adult sized medium shirt to wear and give my opinion on. Because I love shirts with prints on them I was super excited to do this review. I took a little over a week to review this shirt because I wanted to be able to wear it and wash it a few times. Wear and tear are important when selecting our clothing right?

The Fit: When selecting clothing online the scariest part is knowing you are getting the right size. Small doesn't always mean small to the same people and well large can sometimes mean small as well. So I ordered a medium because when I shop in a store that is what I typically buy for myself. The fit was perfect! Exactly what I would have wanted and needed in a t shirt. It wasn't too tight and wasn't too baggy.

The Quality: I couldn't have asked for better. The t shirt material is good quality, not the cheap kind that is going to lint out with the first few washes. The stitching is good quality so you don't have to worry about the seams coming out in a few washes. I am completely satisfied with the quality of the t shirt as well.

The Print: As you can see in the pictures below I received a t shirt with their company logo print. (OK so I am a little biased when it comes to monkeys!) It is honestly one of the best quality prints I have seen on a t shirt in a long time. The logo feels firmly placed and place perfectly on the shirt. There isn't any off setting at all. My only suggestion I have, and it's a rule of thumb I have for any clothing with print on it is not to dry it. Dryers tend to heat the plastic up and make them crack and peel quickly.

I took these pictures of the t shirt I received. I have worn and washed this shirt 4 times (yes I know that is a lot in a 10 day span, but I wanted to be able to give a fair and honest review). As you can see there is no cracking or peeling of the print. I did not put this shirt in the dryer because it isn't how I would have laundered any of my other clothing.

If you are looking to have anything printed on a t shirt I would definitely recommend TShirtPrinting.net to get it done. They get 5 stars from me!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Soooo Excited!

2011-03-01T12:53:00.000-06:00

In just 4 days I will be going to Chattanooga, TN for a mini vacation. Ok well it's more like a weekend getaway but I'm excited just the same. I can not wait to go! Oh and I'm taking my new camera so be prepared when I get back for a ton of pictures. Just me and hubby going away by ourselves!

We plan to visit Ruby Falls and I have looked at a ton of pictures. They promise for me to see this:

**image courtesy of rubyfalls.com**

Is that not the most amazing water fall ever! Oh it better look like that because my expectations are high. I can not wait to see that. I'm really going to be brave and go down in the cave to see this...so it better be this spectacular. Oh and I'll have my own pics to post then.

We are also planning a visit to Rock City. They are going to provide me wonderful views of the mountains and at one point I'll be able to see 7 states at one time...yeah 7!

**image courtesy of seerockcity.com**

That is gonna be so cool because I've only seen one state a time. In my mind I will travel to all 7 at the same time!

After all that fun we are going to do the Incline Railway. This is where I get really brave (or sedated) because it's steep. I'm so afraid of heights. It is a 72.7% grade...Oh pray I don't have an anxiety attack! I will have my anxiety meds on hand because thinking about it is bringing on an attack. I would love to show you pictures but I couldn't find any on their website so you'll have to be happy with mine when I get back. In the mean time pray for me cause that is going to be scary.

So on a mini vaca to relax I am doing 3 things that are going to have me terrified! Ruby Falls...I am claustrophobic...Lookout Mountain (Rock City)...I am deathly afraid of heights and the Incline Railway falls into the heights category. I can do this!

Late or Prepared?

2011-02-28T00:01:00.001-06:00

I took this picture a few days ago...so I ask you - are they late or prepared?

I also want to note that this isn't even half of the decorations that are up.

HELP!

2011-02-24T20:52:00.001-06:00

Ok I know I promised funny on Fridays but well I'm not in a funny kind of mood. You may have seen this on my FaceBook but I'm up to my eyeballs in rage right now. This horse needs help and I am bound and determined to find it help. I can't take driving by this poor thing day after day and seeing it like this. So I'm posting a picture for all to see and hoping someone will have an answer. Funny will be back next Friday.

A side note, I know I haven't gotten to emails because I've been sick but I promise I have read every single comment. Thanks...love y'all!

2011-02-24T08:42:00.000-06:00

Welcome to Picture this Thursday! Join us and play along!!

It works like this. I will post this weeks photo's and also inform you of the category for next week. Which will allow anyone that wants to participate but that may not have a photo for that category an opportunity to get those pictures! There will be a linky (because I want to see everyone's photos!) that will be open for probably 2 days.

So I know you've probably seen it before but I L.O.V.E my dog!

Yep he's a poser! He knows he's cute!

Sickly Me

2011-02-23T08:43:00.000-06:00

I know I usually do my Awareness Wednesday post and I have one planned but I didn't get the pictures I took uploaded yet. I have strep throat and just didn't feel like doing anything yesterday. I'm at work today so I can't put the pics on my comp till I get home. Sorry!

I Love My Online Friends ~ Blog Hop

2011-02-21T07:45:00.000-06:00

Good Morning friends!

It's time again for I Love My Online Friends, Monday blog hop! For my new followers I am so happy and excited to have you. Please leave a comment so that I know you are following and I can follow you back!

Funny Things Friday!

2011-02-18T00:01:00.000-06:00

Ok so I'm terrible, and I did not write down funny things this week. What? I know...but well...ok I don't have an excuse so I won't give one. But I did find some funny things to share!

Uhm...what did they expect to find in there???

Well personally I would've thought it dropped off at age 20...you know the whole not a teen anymore. I could be wrong though!

As opposed to the dead one representing him?

I know ladies...I should've posted this one before Valentines Day! Sorry!!!

All photos courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com

Consultant Work

2011-02-17T21:00:00.001-06:00

Own a business and looking for a consultant? Go and check out a consultant directory and find one that suits your needs. Find a consultant that specializes in exactly what you need. You don't need to settle for one that is only a mediocre fit for your business when you can go to one place and find the right one.

Looking for the answers to all your questions and aren't quite sure what to ask your prospective consultants so that you know they will be the best for your business? Need to figure out what type of consultant you need to help boost your business? Have questions how to hire a consultant, or need to know exactly what a consultant can do for you? You can get all those answers and find one in one easy to use web page.

Are you consultant looking for a job? Need to find a company that you know you can help? You to can go there and get listed in their consultant directory and let businesses find you. This one site will list consultants for hire and help you find the right company to work for. They make the best matches to help you and the company come together.

Describe you needs, get proposals quickly and then interview and hire all in one spot. It really couldn't be any easier than that. They do most of the work for both the business and the consultant. So make looking for your next job or looking for the best suitable consultant for your company a little easier.

Dear Friend...

2011-02-17T00:01:00.000-06:00

Dear Friend,

I met you at one of the lowest points in my life. My world was crashing down around me and I didn't think I would make it through it. I was in such a deep depression with so much confusion in my head, my heart and my life.

Then I happened across your blog...and you happened across mine...and a friendship formed. We talked about casual things, we talked about little life issues and then we talked about my falling apart world.

There was a time when I was driving down the road...allowing my mind to wander and it went into a dark place. The darkest of them all. I thought about ending it, about getting away from this world...but then I got home and I emailed you. Within minutes you responded. You listened to me whine, rant and cry. You let me dump all my problems on you and you helped me to see a better way. You saved me!

I never imagined that I could meet someone in blog world and feel so close to them. I never thought I would trust someone I didn't know as much as I trust you. I wish there were a way to thank you. I wish there was a way that I could show you how much your words and advice has helped me. Especially in the last 4 months. Never once judging me for the things I said, did or felt. Never telling me I was wrong for thinking the way I was. You were always honest but not pushy or degrading. You have brightened my world, you have helped heal my heart and you have had a huge impact on my life.

Dear friend you know who you are. Today I say thank you! Thank you for listening, for caring, for helping and for being there. Even if you did boycott my blog for a little while.

Relationship Wellness

2011-02-16T00:01:00.000-06:00

February is relationship wellness month! I think with my recent post and knowing that we can all improve in one area or another I thought this was a perfect awareness to bring light to. So I found some great tips I thought I would share with you.

Create Intimacy - Ok so this is one of PC's and I's biggest problems. I think it's all too easy to get caught up in daily life and lose that. We work opposite schedules, have different days off and only see each other a few days a week. Here's a few things I think we need to try.

Lie down on the bed and spend two minutes looking into each other's eyes without saying anything. (Blinking is OK.)
Next time you're in bed pull the covers over your head and have a whispered conversation. If you whisper first he'll probably whisper back—it's incredibly intimate.

Speak - I think we forget to talk to each other sometimes. I don't mean that we don't say anything, but we aren't really talking to each other.

Say something positive—anything at all. Researchers have found that happy couples have a ratio of five positive comments to each negative comment.
Compliment something that he's improved upon.
Tell him he makes you a better person, and then tell him how.

Kiss every day for at least 10 seconds - This may sound silly, but the research shows that couples that connect through physical touch every day are happier overall in their relationships. Now at times, the last thing you may want to do is kiss your spouse; I understand that. However even if we are not feeling something, sometimes the action changes how we feel. So plant a big one on your spouse tonight!

Compliment your spouse at least once a day. Yep, I know I fail miserably at this one, but I'm going to try harder.

Go on a date - PC and I used to go on a date every week. We have slacked off. I find that when we go on our weekly dates I felt so much closer to him.

I found these tips at Mental Health Matters and Your Tango.

I also purchased The Love Dare app for the iPod touch. I'm going to do my best to get my marriage back to where it should be.

I Love My Online Friends ~ Blog Hop

2011-02-14T07:50:00.000-06:00

It's that time again for the 'I Love My Online Friends Monday Hop'. I hope to see lots of new blogs participating this week and I hope that everyone gets a few new blog followers and friends from this week's hop.

Okay so let's get started.

RULES

1. Follow the host (me) and the guest hosts on GFC. For this week, we are the number 1 and 2 spots on the linky. (We will follow back.) Leave a comment to let us know.

2. Follow as many people as you can and be sure to let them know that you are from the 'I love my Online Friends Monday Hop'.

3. You are not required to, but it will be great if you could grab our button and make a post about this hop. (At the bottom of the hop, you can get the code so that the same linky list will appear on your blog).

4. Every week I will pick one person to 'Guest Host' the hop with me. If you would like to be considered for the guest host position, all you need to do is grab our button, write a post about the hop and follow me on GFC. Leave a comment under this post to let me know if you are interested in guest hosting.

30 Day Journals

2011-02-11T00:01:00.011-06:00

A great blogger Margaret @ The World As I See It does these awesome 30 day journals. Well I was jealous and wanted to do some also so she was kind enough to share them with me. If you want to do them also I will put the link she gave me so you can do them also. You can go here and get the list.

Now you know I'm a chatter, so I will not be doing these 30 days in a row, but it will help you to get to know me a little better.

So day 1 ~ A photo of myself and how my day went.
Well I've been sick so I'm not going to do a pic from today but here's me...I'm sure you've seen it but it's me!

Oh and that last one...yeah that's me at 14! It's the only picture I have of my younger days now and that's because a friend posted it on FB. Ha!

So how my day went today....well I've been sick. I haven't done much of anything. Every single ounce of my body is aching. There is a ton of snow outside because mother nature is having a good time screwing with me.

**Just a side note...this will post on Friday and while I say today I'm really writing this on Thursday. But I posted today's post yesterday because I lost track of my days.

CoverGirl

2011-02-10T20:25:00.000-06:00

Check out the CoverGirl Facebook page for incredible information. CoverGirl is celebrating their 50th Anniversary and you could win free samples or once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and your friends. Join in their celebration today! Like CoverGirl on Facebook to stay up to date.

Funny Things Friday

2011-02-10T07:38:00.002-06:00

Since the nasty virus bug has hit me I have no funny stories to tell...y'all are getting funny pictures! I hope you find them as funny as I do. I also will be catching up on your comments today...hopefully!

**All photos from I Can Has Cheezburger**

After posting this I realized it is Thursday...Boo!

National Stop Bullying Day

2011-02-09T00:01:00.001-06:00

Today is National Stop Bullying Day! I think with all the teen suicides that have been in the news lately it's so important to bring this to light and put a stop to it.

I have gathered some information to share with you from Stop Bullying Now and a great website for parents to share with their children Hey Ugly. Just to make it clear UGLY stands for Unique Gifted Lovable You.

A lot of young people have a good idea of what bullying is because they see it every day! Bullying happens when someone hurts or scares another person on purpose and the person being bullied has a hard time defending himself or herself. Usually, bullying happens over and over.

Punching, shoving, and other acts that hurt people physically
Spreading bad rumors about people
Keeping certain people out of a "group"
Teasing people in a mean way
Getting certain people to "gang up" on others

Bullying also can happen online or electronically. Cyberbullying is when children or teens bully each other using the Internet, mobile phones or other cyber technology. This can include:

Sending mean text, email, or instant messages

Posting nasty pictures or messages about others in blogs or on Web sites
Using someone else's user name to spread rumors or lies about someone

Go this site for some Prevention and Intervention information. We can help!

When Is It OK?

2011-02-08T09:59:00.000-06:00

***WARNING...if foul language offends you then skip this post because I am in a foul mood and it's bound to come out***

So when is it ok to throw your hands up and say I give the fuck up? How much does a person keep fighting?

I feel like I have been in one constant battle for the past 4 months. Battling my ex, battling my daughter, battling with my husband, battling with bipolar and depression, battling the stupidity at work. I'm tired of the fights, I'm tired of the emotional drainage and I'm tired of feeling like I'm drowning in my own life. I try so hard to please everyone and make them happy. Yet it seems to be a constant fail.

I had to battle my ex in court for custody of my son. He lied...viciously and he was given custody. I can't even begin to explain the pain that caused me. The anguish I went through. But I had Christmas right around the corner and I had a family to make happy during the holidays. So I put my big girl panties on and tried my best. I think I succeeded a little. I know the kids had a good Christmas, they were all happy with their gifts.

Bipolar and stress don't go well together. Bipolar and holidays don't go well together...because they tend to be stressful. I've been on such an emotional roller coaster my head is spinning out of control. Most days the meds work, but there are days that seems like I had nothing at all even though I have. My energy is completely depleted because of all the emotional damage and the stress.

My daughter...well you read about that the other day. Some of you I scared, and some of you are going through similar situations and can understand what I'm going through. I'm so very sorry for all the crap I put my parents through and never realized what emotional strain it put on them. I honestly have no idea how they came out with hair.

My marriage...well that's been an ongoing battle. I feel like I try and try and fail. I guess where I feel like I'm trying, he feels like I'm not. I've been struggling to hold on and the past 2 days...the fights and me feeling uncared for, disrespected and as if there is no understanding or compassion. Some days I feel as if I'm the only one who cares, other days he can make me feel like the most amazing person in the world. That in its self is an emotional roller coaster.

My job...well I feel unappreciated most the time. I am sick of some people getting away with crap and knowing if I did it, I'd be out the door in a heart beat. I work and work, I fill in for people and I do more than my job description....A LOT more. I do anything that is asked of me. I know my immediate super visor appreciates me and she is constantly telling me so. But it's the worry of losing my job every single day. And well now that fear just jumped by 1000%.

Don't get me wrong....I love my husband...I love my kids...and I love my job. I am just fed up at this point. I'm tired of everything. I'm ready to throw in the towel and say I give the fuck up!

I Love My Online Friends ~ Blog Hop

2011-02-06T22:59:00.000-06:00

RULES

The Untouched Subject

2011-02-03T00:01:00.010-06:00

I just realized that I talk about my kids but never really about parenting...and today you are in for a mouth (or finger tip) full of my parenting frustrations.

You see that little girl in the above picture? Isn't she just beautiful? Do NOT let that fool you. That ~~hormonal teenage terror~~ little girl is going to make me gray, wrinkle and go bald by time she's 18. She's had me to the point of calling my dad and begging for his forgiveness for my teenage years. I honestly don't know how they made it through. I'm so ready to throw my hands up in the air and just say I give up but I don't give up that easily. So lets start with a little back history from November:

Lexi talks to me a lot about her friends and what not and what's going on in their lives. Well she comes to me and tells me that her best friend (we are gonna call her Sue for the sake of this post) is going out with this boy (we'll call him Butt Head Bob) and BHB tells Sue she can't talk to Lexi anymore because he doesn't like her. So Lexi is all upset because Sue has stopped talking to her and they've been BFF's for years. I told her that eventually Sue and BHB will break up and the only thing she could do is be there for her friend even though she made a stupid decision...because that's what friends do. Which of course being high school students they broke up. End of story right?? NOPE!

Now we move on to Christmas break. Our home phone rings at 3:00 am and I immediately go into panic mode because certainly if my phone is ringing at that our someone must be seriously injured or worse. So Prince Charming gets up and answers the phone. Some stupid boy dared to call my house at 3:00 am and ask for my daughter...oh we were in a rage. When Prince Charming asks who it is, he tells my husband "it's none of your business." Really kid! So we write the number down and when I get to work, tired from being jerked awake by some idiot, I have someone call the number from their cell phone and find out who it is. It was BHB! I was mad...told her she was not allowed to talk to him, text him or FB him. That boy is disrespectful and not allowed to speak to him on anything that I pay for.

Fast forward to 2 or 3 weeks ago: Prince Charming and I are sitting on the couch enjoying one of our favorite TV shows when the phone rings. We look at the number, don't recognize it and ignore it. They hang up and call right back. I asked Prince Charming to answer the phone because what if it's an emergency. That's the only reason you would call, hang up and call right back right? So he answers the phone and it's BHB who claims he's Lexi's boyfriend. WHAT?!? That can't be possible, she already knows he's an idiot because of how he treated her BFF and I told her no talking to him. Prince Charming goes and grabs the iPod Touch and we start looking through it (did you know you can text on those things?) and sure enough she's been texting him and he's her BF. I'm sure you can picture the steam coming out of my ears right? So I being the smart mom that I am start digging further. I look at our phone records and it seems she's calling him at night after I go to bed. I was speechless...angry...furious! Well she got in trouble, we took away the iPod and TV and forbid her from carrying on with this relationship.

A few weeks goes by and I have a spy in her school...she informs me that Lexi and BHB are still dating. She's seen them holding hands and kissing (so glad the school offers them the time to do this). I asked her to take a picture and send it to me which she did last Friday. Prince Charming and I sit her down on Sunday and ask her if she's still dating him. She insists that no she isn't. He asks her if we can trust her, she of course says yes. He asks her if she knows what will happen if she is lying, she says yes she will get in trouble. Yet insists that she's telling the truth. That's when I bust her...let her know I know the truth. Ask why she lied and what does she say...."I don't know." I REALLY hate that answer. So we take away everything else...all her makeup, nail polish and radio. This kid literally has only her clothes and books.

Do you think that stops her....NOPE! Now I'm ready to lose it. Really....what is it gonna take?

I talked to a few people at work and ask them, they say "Well the more you tell her not to do it, the more she will. So stop telling her not to do it." REALLY people....she gets to call the shots. I'm just going to ignore the fact that she's disobeying me and just accept it because other wise she will do it more. I don't think so!

So I ask you...what would you do?

I know I should have made this a 2 part post...this is short compared to my really long post the other day right?

I'm also joining in for the first time withVanessa @ Dilly Dally on Picture This Thursday. She will give us a theme each week to post pictures on. This weeks theme is Winter.

So there you have my pics...go link up with us her!

Womens Heart Week

2011-02-02T00:01:00.002-06:00

February 1-7 is Women's Heart Week and it's such an important week to educate you on. So I come armed with some information from Womensheart.org.

Heart Disease is the number one killer of American women. Recognizing symptoms and risks, making lifestyle changes and getting timely care can save a woman's life. Women's Heart Week is a national outreach campaign aimed at improving women's outcomes from this deadly disease. Heart disease is America’s leading killer of women over the age of 34. Most women are not aware of this fact and fail to recognize their own risk factors for heart disease. Women’s symptoms, especially thosethat are milder, often go ignored. Women often miss outon critical opportunites to save their own lives. Women's Heart Foundation (WHF) recognizes that women are busier than ever as they juggle career, family and care-giving responsibilities. For many, each day resembles a jig–saw puzzle in which a woman is required to piece together her time and obligations. Now, more than ever, women need to take time out for themselves and be given a reminder: Take Care of Your Heart.

Some scary statistics for you to think about as well:
Less than one-third (31.8 percent) of U.S. adults get regular leisure-time physical activity (defined as light or moderate activity five times or more per week for 30 minutes or more each time and/or vigorous activity three times or more per week for 20 minutes or more each time). About 10 percent of adults do no physical activity at all in their leisure time.

Nearly two-thirds of U.S. adults are overweight (BMI > 25, which includes those who are obese).[7]All adults (20+ years old): 129.6 million (64.5 percent)Women (20+ years old): 64.5 million (61.9 percent)Men (20+ years old): 65.1 million (67.2 percent)Nearly one-third of U.S. adults are obese (BMI > 30).All adults (20+ years old): 61.3 million (30.5 percent)Women (20+ years old): 34.7 million (33.4 percent)Men (20+ years old): 26.6 million (27.5 percent)

About 25 percent of young people (ages 12–21 years) participate in light to moderate activity (e.g., walking, bicycling) nearly every day. About 50 percent regularly engage in vigorous physical activity. Approximately 25 percent report no vigorous physical activity, and 14 percent report no recent vigorous or light to moderate physical activity.

So I ask this of all my readers. Get check ups, make sure you are healthy and know your family history. I can tell you that in my moms family we have a ton of heart disease. My mom passed away at 49 from a heart attack, her sister passed away at 48 from a heart attack. This hits close to home for me.

A Really Long Post

2011-02-01T12:47:00.000-06:00

Ok y'all I know I've been MIA but we've had some stuff going on. I'm taking today to play catch up and will be back to my regular posting tomorrow.

A New Home

2011-02-01T00:01:00.000-06:00

Do you dream of moving somewhere far away from where you are. Maybe to see new things, or get away from the stresses of where you live? I do! I have all kinds of dream places that I want to live. I dream of living somewhere that is warm year round or living north for the summer and south for the winter.

Moving to somewhere like Santa Cruz, CA would be nice. The temperature averages in winter months is in the 60's! I could handle that. 70's during the summer...that's lovely. I think that may be the perfect place to live. Imagine perfect weather year round. Ok so I know it's not perfect, but I could really deal well with mild temperatures.

Then there is the beautiful scenery. Have you seen the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk? My goodness it looks beautiful in those pictures. I could walk out on that every single day. Oh and the romantic walks at sunset with Prince Charming! I'm practically packing my bags now.

The average home value was $649,572 in 2009. Now I know that may sound like a lot but I'm sure there must be a pay difference in the area...right? When I think of a home like that I think of a castle. So a castle in Santa Cruz I could live with.

Funny Things Friday

2011-01-28T06:10:00.001-06:00

Yep it's time for some more Funny Things Friday. Just a reminder:
**I answer phones at work so I am constantly hearing funny things. There is only 1 of the companies I work for where I live so I will not directly refer to that company but instead will call it XYZ. What I will tell you is I am a receptionist for a car dealership. That is very important to keep in mind as you hear these things. Some make me laugh and some well they just irritate the hell out of me. All stories are true events! Names will be changed for privacy purposes.

Me: Thank you for calling XYZ how may I direct your call?
Cust: I'm sorry who is this?
Me: This is XYZ
Cust: Are you sure this isn't headquarters for Bo Jangles?
Me: Yep pretty sure! (Ok I'm not supposed to be sarcastic but I had to do it.)
Cust: Well I dialed the numbered to Bo Jangles
Me: I'm sorry but you must have misdialed
Cust: I never misdial, this must be Bo Jangles!!! (She said this very loud)
Me: **blink, blink**

That's all the calls I got for you today because it's been a heck of a week and it's also very early in the morning and I'm getting ready to go to work. Hope y'all have a great weekend! Now I leave you with some funny pics.

***All images found at hahastop.com***

It's All In The Box

2011-01-26T21:03:00.002-06:00

Today I'm going to talk to you about mailboxes. Yes, I'm serious because there is an entire story behind our mailbox when we moved into our home.

We moved from Alabama to TN in 2007. We had 2 days while we were here to look at homes and we looked at a ton of them. I did not want the house we are in (yes, I'm very thankful to have a home since I know you are reading this Prince Charming!) but it had carpet. I hate carpet and of course Prince Charming promised to put hardwood floors in the living room since I don't like carpet. Well I should have known better, but I wanted to have faith that he would do it. Need I tell you that he put new carpeting down in the living room?

That is not my story though. When we moved here there was a lot of work to be done in the house and around the property. Prince Charming loves the yard to look nice and I must admit he does a fantastic job at making it look nice all the time. Bless his heart!

Well our mailbox was one of those cheap ones on a flimsy metal pole. Prince Charming was doing his yard work, cleaning it all up and making it look good and was chopping away on all the over growth around the mailbox. When he cut all the growth around the mailbox down, it fell over. I swear to you this is a true statement.

Well then we had to go on our journey of finding a new one. I had a dream of getting one of those pretty decorative mailboxes, but he had another plan. I still dream about having me a fancy mailbox and so comes the website searching.

I happened upon this website that has mailboxes for sale. They have some traditional mailboxes and some gorgeous really catches my eye modern ones. These are good quality mailboxes at great prices. They sell both residential and commercial mailboxes. They also offer curbside decor that will really enhance your curbside appeal.

No Name Calling Week

2011-01-26T00:01:00.001-06:00

Did you know that this week isNoName Calling week. I know for some of you this may be hard.People like to call me names - like perfect, beautiful, fun, silly,loyal...you know all those wonderful things.

Seriously though, this is NoName Calling week. I think it's a great idea. Tell your kids andmaybe they will go a week without calling someone a name. Maybe itwill catch on and they will stop doing it.

What is it:
No Name-Calling Week is anannual week of educational activities aimed at ending name-calling ofall kinds and providing schools with the tools and inspiration tolaunch an on-going dialogue about ways to eliminate bullying in theircommunities.

Who should participate:
Anyone who wants to worktowards eliminating harmful name-calling, harassment and bullying intheir school can be a part of No Name-Calling Week, whether you are ateacher, student, guidance counselor, coach, librarian or busdriver.

No Name-Calling Week wasinspired by a young adult novel entitled "The Misfits" bypopular author, James Howe. The book tells the story of four bestfriends trying to survive the seventh grade in the face of all toofrequent taunts based on their weight, height, intelligence, andsexual orientation/gender expression. Motivated by the inequitiesthey see around them, the "Gang of Five" (as they areknown) creates a new political party during student council electionsand run on a platform aimed at wiping out name-calling of all kinds.Though they lose the election, they win the support of the school'sprincipal for their cause and their idea for a "No Name-CallingDay" at school.

Motivated by this simple, yetpowerful, idea, the No Name-Calling Week Coalition, created by GLSENand Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, and consisting ofover 40 national partner organizations, organized an actual NoName-Calling Week in schools across the nation during the week ofMarch 1-5, 2004. This year, No Name-Calling Week will take placethe week of January 24-28, 2011. The project seeks to focusnational attention on the problem of name-calling in schools, and toprovide students and educators with the tools and inspiration tolaunch an on-going dialogue about ways to eliminate name-calling intheir communities.

I Want Your Button!

2011-01-25T00:01:00.000-06:00

So I did some cleaning up of buttons that no longer work on my blog and I want yours! So how about a button swap? If you are interested let me know!
Yes, this is the longest blog post I have ever done!

You Know He's Spoiled....

2011-01-24T00:01:00.000-06:00

Yes this pic was taken at Christmas, yes this is not a great pic I know...but isn't he the cutest thing in the entire world! I have to tell you I L.O.V.E this dog!

Guapo will be 3 yrs old on May 20th. I have had him since birth and he's my baby. When he was about 4 months old a friend of mine came to see me from Ohio. We sat outside and enjoyed a fire at table and they had some drinks. Prince Charming and I can not live without our dogs.

Sorry I got off track...we were all outside enjoying a fire and they were having drinks. My little Guapo was maybe 1 pound at the time. He's very small! I didn't want him to get cold so I put him inside of my sweatshirt and he slept. That has become and unbreakable habit.

The other day I sat down on the couch with just a t-shirt on...well I had pants on also but I mean I didn't have a sweatshirt on as usual. Guapo I swear gave me a WTF look. I knew what that look meant...I didn't have a sweatshirt on. So I got up and put one on so he could climb inside.

Yep he's spoiled and I love him!

Rite Aid Deals 1/23/11

2011-01-23T10:56:00.000-06:00

These are few of my favorite deals this week. You can find the whole list @ Deal Seeking Mom

GE Extra Soft White Light Bulbs (4 pk.), $1.99
Get $1.99 +UP Reward (Limit 6)
FREE after +UP Reward!
**Qualifies for $20 +UP Reward wyb $100 select Buy & Save items

Colgate Total (6 oz.) or 2 in 1 Max (4.6 oz.), 2/$5
Get $2 +UP Reward wyb 2
$1/1 Colgate Total, exp. 2-5-11 (SS 01/16/11)
$1/1 Select Colgate Toothpastes, exp. 1-22-11 (SS 01/02/11 #2)
$0.75/1 Select Colgate Toothpastes, exp. 1-22 (SS 01/02/11 #2)
$1/1 Colgate Total Advanced Toothpaste, exp. 2-28 (ALL YOU Jan '11)
As low as $0.50 ea. after coupons and +UP Reward!
**Qualifies for $20 +UP Reward wyb $100 select Buy & Save items

Betty Crocker Bowl Appetit! (2.8-3.2 oz.) or Progresso Soup (18.5-19 oz.), 4/$6
Get $1 +UP Reward wyb 4
$1/4 Progresso Soup, exp. 2-26-11 (GM 01/02/11)
$1/4 Progresso Soup, exp. 1-29-11 (GM 12/05/10)
$1/4 Progresso Soup, exp. 02-13-11 (GM 10/03/2010)
$1/2 Progresso Soups RA printable
As low as $0.75 ea. after stacked coupons and +UP Reward!
**Qualifies for $20 +UP Reward wyb $100 select Buy & Save items

Pantene Shampoo, Conditioner, or Stylers, 2/$7
Get $1 +UP Reward wyb 2
$3/2 Pantene Product, exp. 1-31-11 (P&G 12/26/10)
$1/2 Pantene Product, exp. 2-28-11 (SS 01/23/11)
$1 off Pantene Pro-V Shampoo AND Conditioner, exp. 6-30 (P&G Book)
As low as $1.50 ea. after coupon and +UP Reward!

L'Oreal Excellence Creme or Excellence-To-Go Hair Color, 2/$17.98
Get $5 +UP Reward wyb 2
$5/2 L'Oreal (1/23/11 insert)
$2/1 L'Oreal Excellence or Excellence To Go, exp. 2-6 (RP 11/14/10)
$4/2 L'Oreal Excellence Product (in-ad coupon)
As low as $1.99 ea. after stacked coupons and +UP Reward!

Keri Lotion (15 oz.), 2/$11
Get $3 +UP Reward wyb 2
$2/1 Keri Lotion, exp. 4-16-11 (SS 01/09/11)
As low as $2 ea. after coupons and +UP Reward!

Aquify or Clear Care Multi-Purpose Solution, $7.99
Get $2 +UP Reward
$3/1 Clear Care or Aquify Solution, exp. 1-31-11 (SS 12/05/10)
$2/1 Select Clear Care or Aquify Solutions, exp. 2-20 (SS 1/9/11 #2)
$2/1 Clear Care or AQuify Solution, exp. 2-14 (SS 10/17/10)
As low as $2.99 ea. after coupon and +UP Reward!

Glade Lasting Impressions or Sense & Spray Kits, $6.99
Get $1 +UP Reward
$3/1 Glade Plugins Scented Oil Holder, exp. 2-13 (SS 01/09/11 #2)
$3/1 Glade Sense & Spray Starter Kit, exp. 2-19-11 (SS 01/09/11 #2)
$3/1 Glade Sense & Spray Kit, exp. 12-31 (Good Housekeeping, Oct)
$3/1 Glade Sense & Spray Starter, exp. 12-31-11 (ALL YOU Sept '10)
$2.99 ea. after coupon and +UP Reward!

Select Gum, $0.99
--Mentos
--Orbit Mist
B1G1 FREE Orbit Tropical Remix Gum printable
--Wrigley's 5
--Stride Shift
--Trident Xtra Care or Layers Gum
$1/3 Trident Gum, exp. 2-26-11 (SS 01/02/11 #2)
As low as $0.50 ea. after coupon!
**Qualifies for $20 +UP Reward wyb $100 select Buy & Save items

Select Laundry and Paper Products, $1.99
--Purex 2X Liquid (50 oz.)
--Purex Fabric Softener (100 oz.)
--Cottonelle Moist Wipes (42 ct.)
$0.50/2 Cottonelle Flushable Moist Wipes, exp. 3-6-11 (SS 01/23/11)
--Kleenex White (260 ct.), Pocket Packs (8 ct.), or Splash N Go Wipes (42 ct.)
$0.50/3 Kleenex Facial Tissue, exp. 2-27-11 (SS 01/02/11 #2)
$1/4 Kleenex Facial Tissues, exp. 1-30-11 (SS 12/05/10)
As low as $1.74 ea. after coupon!

Walgreens Deals 1/23/11

2011-01-23T10:51:00.000-06:00

These are few of my favorite deals this week. You can find the whole list @ Deal Seeking Mom

Maalox, $6.99 (price may vary slightly by store)
Get $10 RRs wyb $30
$5/1 Maalox Product, exp. 3-1-11 (SS 01/09/11)

Suggested Scenario
Buy 6 Maalox, $5.24 ($31.44)
Use (6) $5/1 Maalox Product, exp. 3-1-11 (SS 01/09/11)
Pay $1.44 OOP and get back $10 RRs
$8.56 MM after coupons and RRs!

Nivea for Men Arctic Freeze Shave Gel or After Shave, $3.99
Get $3 RRs
$1/1 Nivea For Men Face Care Product printable
FREE after coupon and RRs!
Colgate Pro Clinical Toothpaste (4 oz.), $3.49
Get $2.50 RRs
$1/1 Colgate ProClinical Toothpaste printable
$1/1 Colgate Toothpaste, exp. 1-22-11 (SS 01/02/11 #2)
$0.50/1 Colgate Toothpaste, exp. 1-22-11 (SS 01/02/11 #2)
As low as FREE after coupon and RRs!

Omega Smart Ultimate Super Critical Fish Oil (30 ct.), $10
Get $10 MIR (form prints at checkout)
FREE after MIR!

TRUE2Go Blood Glucose Monitor $9.99 (Free after Mail in Rebate)
Get $9.99 MIR (form found on package)
FREE after MIR!

Select Personal Care Products, 6/$10
Get $3 RRs wyb 6
--Lever 2000 Bar Soap (2 pk.)
$1/1 Lever 2000 Product printable or printable
--Suave Antiperspirant/Deodorant (2.6 oz.)
--Suave Body Wash (12 oz.)
As low as $0.17 ea. after coupon and RRs!

Got 2b Styling Products, $4.99
Get $2 RRs
$2/1 Got2Be Hair Styling Product, exp. 2-17-11 (ALL YOU Dec '10)
$0.99 ea. after coupon and RRs!

Pantene Hair Care, 2/$7
Get $2 RRs wyb 2
--Shampoo or Conditioner (12.6 oz.)
--Styling Products (1.9-11.5 oz.)
$1/2 Pantene Product, exp. 2-28-11 (SS 01/23/11)
$3/2 Pantene Product, exp. 1-31-11 (P&G 12/26/10)
$1 off Pantene Pro-V Shampoo AND Conditioner, exp. 2-28 (P&G Book)
As low as $1 ea. after coupon and RRs!

Kleenex Facial Tissue (78 or 110 sheets), $0.89
$0.50/3 Kleenex Facial Tissue, exp. 2-27-11 (SS 01/02/11 #2)
$1/4 Kleenex Facial Tissue, exp. 2-27-11 (SS 01/02/11 #2)
$1/4 Kleenex Facial Tissues, exp. 1-30-11 (SS 12/05/10)
$0.50/3 Kleenex Facial Tissues, exp. 1-30-11 (SS 12/05/10)
As low as $0.72 ea. after coupon!

Hershey's Valentine Chocolate, 8 or 8.5 oz, 2/$4
$1/3 Reese's, Kit Kat or Hershey Snack Size Bag printable
$1/2 Hershey's Extra Dark Chocolate, exp. 3-13-11 (SS 01/09/11)
$1/1 Hershey's or Reese's Candy, exp. 1-29-11 (Walgreens, Jan)
As low as $1 ea. after stacked coupons!

Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash (1 liter), $4.99
$2/1 Crest Rinse, exp. 1-31-11 (P&G 12/26/10)
$1/1 Crest Mouthwash, exp. 2-28-11 (P&G Everyday Savings Book)
$2/1 Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash, exp. 1-29-11 (Walgreens, Jan)
As low as $0.99 ea. after stacked coupons!

Stayfree Maxi Pads (14-24 pk.) or Carefree Pantiliners (16-60 pk.), $1.99
$1/1 Stayfree Product printable or printable
$0.50/1 Carefree Product printable or printable
B1G1 Stayfree Product, exp. 3-31-11 (SS 01/09/11 #2)
$1/1 Stayfree Product, exp. 1-31-11 (RP 11/07/10)
$0.50/1 Carefree Product, exp. 3-31-11 (SS 01/09/11 #2)
$1/1 Carefree Product, exp. 3-31-11 (Good Housekeeping, Feb)
As low as $1 ea. after coupon!

Chapstick (0.15 oz.) or Carmex (0.15-0.35 oz.), 2/$2
$0.55/1 Carmex Moisture Plus Lip Balm, exp. 1-31-11 (SS 11/07/10)
$30/1 Carmex Lip Balm, exp. 1-31-11 (SS 11/07/10)
As low as $0.45 ea. after coupon!

CVS Deals 1/23

2011-01-22T18:00:00.001-06:00

These are few of my favorite deals this week. You can find the whole list @ Deal Seeking Mom

Crest Pro-Health or Pro-Health Complete Rinse (16.9 oz.), $3.99
Get $3.99 ECBs (Limit 1)
FREE after ECBs!

Revlon Cosmetics or Beauty Tools
Get $4 ECBs wyb $10 (Limit 1)
–Revlon Eye Products, psa $4.99
$1/1 Revlon Eye Product, exp. 2-20-11 (SS 01/16/11)
–Revlon Lip Products, psa $6.99
$1/1 Revlon Lip or Nail Product, exp. 2-20-11 (SS 01/16/11)
–Revlon Nail Polish, psa $4.99
$1/1 Revlon Lip or Nail Product, exp. 2-20-11 (SS 01/16/11)
–Revlon Face Products, psa $9.99
$2/1 Revlon Face Product, exp. 2-20-11 (SS 01/16/11)

Suggested Scenario
Buy (2) Revlon Luxurious Eye Shadow Singles at $4.99
Use (2) $1/1 Revlon Eye Product, exp. 2-20-11 (SS 01/16/11)
$1.99 ea. after coupon and ECBs!

L’Oreal Cosmetics
Get $5 ECBs wyb $15 (Limit 1)
–L’Oreal True Match Foundation, Powder, Blush or Concealer, $7
$2/1 L’Oreal Cosmetic Face Product, exp. 2-6-11 (RP 11/14/10)
$5/2 L’Oreal Cosmetic Face Product, exp. 2-6-11 (RP 11/14/10)
–L’Oreal Infallible Lip Gloss, $5
–L’oreal Colour Riche Lip, $5
$2/1 L’Oreal Cosmetic, exp. 2-27-11 (RP 01/02/11)
$5/2 L’Oreal Cosmetic, exp. 2-27-11 (RP 01/02/11)

Suggested Scenario
Buy (3) L’Oreal Infallible Lip Gloss or Color Riche Lip Product at $5
Use (1) $5/2 L’Oreal Cosmetic, exp. 2-27-11 (RP 01/02/11)
Use (1) $2/1 L’Oreal Cosmetic, exp. 2-27-11 (RP 01/02/11)
$1 ea. after coupons and ECBs!

Cover Girl Products
Get $2 ECBs (Limit 1)
–CoverGirl Lip Perfection Lip Color or Liner, psa $6.49
–CoverGirl Natureluxe Foundation or Gloss Balm
$1/1 CoverGirl Product, exp. 2-28-11 (P&G 01/16/11)
$2.50/2 CoverGirl Product, exp. 1-31-11 (P&G 12/26/10)
$1/1 CoverGirl Product, exp. 1-31-11 (P&G 12/26/10)
$2/1 CoverGirl Lip Perfection CRT

Suggested Scenario
Buy CoverGirl Lip Perfection Gloss at $6.49
Use $1/1 CoverGirl Product, exp. 2-28-11 (P&G 01/16/11)
Use $2/1 CoverGirl Lip Perfection CRT
$1.49 ea. after coupon, CRT and ECBs!

B1G1 Colgate Toothpastes, psa $3.89
Pro Clinical (4 oz.), Sensitive (6 oz.), Total Enamel Strength, Advanced Whitening or Advanced Clean (7.6 oz.)
$1/1 Colgate Total, exp. 2-5-11 (SS 01/16/11)
$0.50/1 Colgate Toothpaste, exp. 1-22-11 (SS 01/02/11 #2)
$0.75/1 Select Colgate Toothpastes, exp. 1-22 (SS 01/02/11 #2)
$1/1 Colgate Sensitive Toothpaste, exp. 3-31-11(ALL YOU Jan ’11)
As low as $0.94 ea. after coupon!

Carmex Lip Balm, $0.99
$0.30/1 Carmex Lip Balm, exp. 1-31-11 (SS 11/07/10)
$0.66 ea. after coupon!

Saturday 9

2011-01-21T22:24:00.000-06:00

Today I'm going to join for the very first time Saturday 9! From Saturday 9 they say:

Welcome to Saturday: 9. What we've committed to our readers is that we will post 9 questions every Saturday. Sometimes the post will have a theme, and at other times the questions will be totally unrelated. Those weeks we do "random questions," so-to-speak. We encourage you to visit other participants posts and leave a comment. Because we don't have any rules, it is your choice. We hate rules. We love memes, however, and here is today's meme!

1. Have you ever been to Japan? If not would you like to travel there?
I haven't been there, but Prince Charming was stationed in Okinawa Japan when he was in the Air Force - So does that count?

2. Have you ever played a game that required removal of clothing?
I would never do such a thing. I really haven't though!

3. Have you ever dated one of your best friends?
Yes, and I married him!

4. Have you ever kissed someone you didn't know?
Nope, I've known every single persons lips who have ever touched mine.

5. What is your secret guaranteed weeping movie?
Well any movie can make me cry. If it has a touchy moment, a happy moment, a sad moment...any kind of moment it will make me cry.

6. What feature are you most insecure about?
E.V.E.R.Y.T.H.I.N.G There is nothing about me that I'm super secure about.

7. What do you miss most about being young?
The lack of bills and responsibility...yep that would be what I miss most. **sigh**

8. Who is the most annoying musical artist EVER?
Rhianna....I can not stand her!

9. Have you ever applied for a job that was an internet hoax, asking for credit history and your social security number?
No, I am very careful about my personal information. Well maybe not so careful that y'all don't know my name and the city I live in but I'm pretty careful.

Funny Things Friday...

2011-01-21T00:01:00.000-06:00

So I have decided on Fridays I will share funny stories and pictures with you.

I answer phones at work so I am constantly hearing funny things. There is only 1 of the companies I work for where I live so I will not directly refer to that company but instead will call it XYZ. What I will tell you is I am a receptionist for a car dealership. That is very important to keep in mind as you hear these things. Some make me laugh and some well they just irritate the hell out of me. All stories are true events! Names will be changed for privacy purposes.

Story #1:
Me: Thank you for calling XYZ how may I direct your call?
Caller: Yes ma'am, this is Mary and I was wondering if you could refer me to a OB.
Me: Ma'am this is a car dealership.
Caller: That's fine, I just need a referral to an OB.
Me: Ma'am I am a receptionist at a car dealership I can not give you referrals to an OB.
Caller: Well why didn't you tell me this was a car dealership.

Story #2:
Me: XYZ how may I direct your call? (No I don't always answer the phones the same exact way but I do always say the company name)
Caller: I just got a call from this number.
Me: **Rolling my eyes because we have 100+ employees and certainly they must all call me and let me know they are making a phone call before they do so**
Me: Do you have your car in our service department or the bodyshop?
Caller: No
Me: Did they leave a voicemail?
Caller: Yes, but they said the message was for Lynn and I don't know anybody named Lynn.
Me: **Doing my very best to contain my laughter** Ma'am it must have been the wrong number.
Caller: Well maybe but ok.

Ok now for a few funny pictures I found on hahastop.com

Valentines Smiley Cookies - Review

2011-01-20T20:37:00.001-06:00

I was given the opportunity to try and review the Valentines Day Cookies.
My cookies arrived in a box surrounded by air packs to ensure that not a single one was broken. They came in the most adorable box that I will be using again because it's cute!

That has got to be the happiest box that I have ever seen! I love all those smiles on it. Inside of that box I found these:

The Original Smiley Cookies. They are packed nice and tight so there is no room for them to wobble all over and break. I received special cookies though, I got Heart Shaped Cookies! That's because I'm so loved ya know.

They are sealed nice and air tight to ensure their freshness when they arrive. Aren't they cute as a button. I love hearts, I love pink and I love smiles!

I had to dig right into these cookies because not only are the adorable, but they scream your name. I swear I heard them yelling, "Melissa open this plastic and try me out now!"

Now that I have confessed my weaknesses I want you to understand the true quality of these cookies because I'm always kind of skeptical about ordering any food item online.

These cookies were as good as fresh out of the oven. They obviously weren't warm, but they were delicious and soft. They weren't rock hard like an "old" cookie would get, and have what I call the perfect crumble. I'm very picky about how my cookie crumbles. (Yes that was an attempt at being funny)

The icing is so good and it does not over power the cookie at all. There is a thin layer of icing and the adorable little buttons for the eyes and nose. These cookies are not overly sweet but they will fulfill that sweet craving you have. I know in the pictures they look small, but they are not. These are good sized cookies! One will fill that sweet tooth instead of 3 or 4. I am usually the one who eats several cookies at one time. By several I mean 5 or 6. Not these though, I only needed one which left me some to share with the family. My daughter loved these also.

You can visit their website and purchase many different kinds of cookies. You don't have to get just smiley cookies or heart cookies, but they also have Cookie Gift Baskets. You can create your own cookie, pick your shape and pick your colors. These will make great gifts for that special someone in your life, your kids or if you are feeling especially generous me!

Now head on over and check out Smiley Cookie and order some of these super delicious cookies!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

American Poverty

2011-01-19T00:01:00.002-06:00

I have stated to a few of you that I had planned to bring awareness to something every Wednesday. I feel it's important to educate everyone I possibly can on these issues that I can. Even if 1 person learns something new then I will be happy.

With all that said January is American Poverty awareness month. I don't think that any of us who don't live it really understand just how bad it is. So with some information I got from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops I want to bring to light just how bad this is.

There are approximately 37.3 million Americans living below the poverty line. 1 in 6 children (that's 18%) fall into that category. This is so troublesome to me. I hate to think of any child going hungry or going to bed without food. It saddens me that we haven't found a better way to ensure that our children are cared for.

There are so many simple ways that we can help. You could find a local food bank and donate any items in your pantry that you won't be eating. We all buy stuff we think we are going to use but then we don't. I have been couponing for over a year now and it struck me the other day that it'd be so easy to get something with my coupons that is either free or cheap and donate those items to the food pantry. It wouldn't cost much if anything at all and it could really help a family in need. If you coupon please consider this option.

Feeding America is another great program helping families. If you can afford a small donation then send it. I do a lot of online surveys and I have decided to start donating a portion of my earnings to this cause. It won't cost me anything to do it and again I'll be helping a family in need. One in eight Americans depend on Feeding America to put food in their stomach. If you can help in any way it would be wonderful.

There are a ton of small ways that we can help people, even if we can't afford to take it out of our paycheck. You just have to get a little creative!

Bad Service

2011-01-17T00:01:00.000-06:00

I placed an order about a week or so ago on Amazon for some Eneloop batteries. They are said to be the best for my new camera that I got for Christmas. I was so excited to get them, and oh by the way I got free shipping. I love free shipping!

So I went to check the status of my order and it said there was an attempt to deliver but they were unable. I don't understand why FedEx hands so many of their packages over to USPS but ok what ever. Once I seen that it had been turned over to USPS I knew why it hadn't been delivered, the weather. We've had all this snow and I knew they couldn't get up my driveway, that is if they even went down my street. So I call the post office because it says I can pick it up. The lady on the phone asked me if I had the pink pick up slip and I explained to her that I didn't believe they had even made it down my road. So she said as long as the address on the package matched my drivers license I would be able to pick it up. She then proceeded to check and make sure that it was in fact there. It was.

So I stopped at the post office on my way home from work to pick up my package. Get up to the counter and explain that a package had been attempted to be delivered and they weren't able to. I didn't have the pink slip but that I had spoke to someone and she said as long as it matched my DL I could get it. The lady asks for my name and address. She then asks "was this shipped through us?" No it hadn't been. "How do you know it was attempted to be delivered?" Well I tracked it online and it said it had and that it was available for pick up. She says to me "well you can't always trust those things." I explained that I had talked to someone and she assured me it was there. She says again "You can't trust those things" and pretty much dismisses me and starts to call the next person. Of course I got a little upset and said "Excuse me, but I did talk to someone and she assure me that it was here!" She rolled her eyes and said "I'll go look, but it's not here!"

So she huffed to the back, complaining to a coworker on the way to look. Guess what she emerged with...my package. Oh and not just mine, but another one they had attempted to deliver for my husband! HAHAHA stupid lady, stop being lazy and do your freaking job!

Customer service is very important. When the post office starts to wonder why their business is going down hill, it's because technology has increased, and your employees aren't worth a damn! Every time I have to deal with them, it's never a pleasant experience.

Day 2 Day

Happy Valentine's Day!

Moving Out

Full of Randomness!

Calgary Apartments

Advertising Made Easy

Homemade Laundry Soap

25 Days!

GlassesUSA

Pinterest - My New Found Addiction

Guest Post by Anthony Greene

OUT FOXING THE FOX

Christmas Wishes!

It's All His Fault

A New Deal Every Day

MegaPlay.com

Better Nights

Happy Thanksgiving!

Small business Owner

Getting On With Life

It's Been A Long Time...

Advertising Made Easy

Working A Lot

Love

Daisy

My 1st Garden!

WWTK

Muscle Pain?

Looking for Identity Theft Protection?

My Miami Port Experience ~ Guest Post

Pride...

Guess Who...

Bouncing Back

Eeeeek.....

Maybelline Superstay *Review*

It's My Dirty Laundry...

An Invitation

The Road I Never Wanted To Take

Justice

Credit Score

Autism Awareness

WELCOME TO HOLLAND

What Can 30 Seconds Do?

A - Z All About Me

Redecorating

He Likes Me!

The Steam Team *Review*

It Only Flies When You Don't Want It To

Skin MD Lotion *Review*

So I Disappeared

That Advertising Company *Review*

The Man Who Has It All

Walgreens Deals 3/20/11

CVS Deals 3/20/11

Funny Things Friday

My Mini Vaca - Part 2

Awareness Wednesday - Mental Retardation

Guest Post - Written by Kim Rogers

Nursing Uniforms

Purex Crystals *Review*

The Truth About Dating, Love, and Just Being Friends by Chad Eastham *Book Review*

My Mini Vacation - Part 1

Awareness Wednesday *Kidneys*

I Promise....

Funny Things Friday

T Shirt Printing *Review*

Soooo Excited!

Late or Prepared?

HELP!

Sickly Me

I Love My Online Friends ~ Blog Hop

Funny Things Friday!

Consultant Work

Dear Friend...

Relationship Wellness

I Love My Online Friends ~ Blog Hop

30 Day Journals

CoverGirl

Funny Things Friday

National Stop Bullying Day

Maybelline Superstay Review

The Steam Team Review

Skin MD Lotion Review

That Advertising Company Review

Purex Crystals Review

The Truth About Dating, Love, and Just Being Friends by Chad Eastham Book Review

Awareness Wednesday Kidneys

T Shirt Printing Review