The office

My office is comfortable, if not luxurious! It is nice - I have a big desk and filing system, several credenzas - nothing like the great Home Office Furniture you can find at FurnitureFromHome.com, but it is functional and doesn't look too bad. It does its job!

My goodness the furniture at furniturefromhome.com is beautiful! The website is lovely - very clear and easy to understand with tons of pictures of the great products available! They also have great bedroom furniture and living room furniture too.

The kids

Not that being a working mother is all that either. I mean, it is satisfying, but I do miss being at home with my children. That's the only regret I have. The big two are in school all day and would be anyway, but the littlest one is in daycare and although she loves it, I feel a twinge of guilt every morning when I drop her off. Certainly they don't love her there as much as I do. Certainly she'd be better off at home. But it is a clean, loving, secure environment, anbd is, I believe, the next best thing to being with me. If you can't tell I am working through my guilt!

Good Friends

I'm a bit sad, because some very close friends are picking up and moving to North Carolina. They are moving to the Raleigh-Durham area. They want to be closer to family that is down there, but i feel as if i'm losing part of MY family!
But I have come to the conclusion that there is a bright spot in all of this! What a great place for us to visit! A fall getaway destination!

I am so excited about the tons of things to do in Raleigh - and I can't wait to visit there. It is a great place for a family vacation, but what a wonderful place for a getaway for two!

We could stay in a classy hotel, he could get us tickets to the N.C. Symphony's Classical Series: Branford Marsalis Quartet, and we could hav a fancy dinner afterward. Or sample the nighlife of Raleigh.

Better than a getaway would be a FREE Raleigh Getaway! I found a place to register for such a trip! Just click on the links I've provided.

While we will miss our friends on a day to day level, we will be pleased as punch this winter to join them in Sunny NC where the weather is mild and the fun is never-ending! So, rather than losing family,, I'll say that we're GAINING a super vacation spot to visit and enjoy!

Back to Work

I have to say that I am thrilled to be back at work. I love my job! How many people can say that honestly? I can! I get to help a lot of people, use my brain, feel like I've accomplished something every day! Well, accomplished something at work, not necessarily at home! My laundry is piled to the sky, my dishes aren't necessarily done every evening, and the dust on my tv set is an inch thick... but I feel good!

The Fall!

It's almost the most wonderful time of the year! I just love the Fall! It's crisp air, the smell of grapes and wood smoke, the taste of apples and squash! But really, let's face it - the best thing is that it's SHOPPING SEASON! Time to get ready for jingle bells! I'm doing a lot of my shopping online this year, using online shopping coupons. I can shop at Target online, for example,. and get $5 off every $50 I spend. Good deal!

Another of my favorites is shopping at photoworks. I love the idea of the photo books they offer. What a great gift for the grandparents! One thing I always remember is to check for online coupon codes before I buy anything!

Trying to do it all

I am now a working mother, part time blogger, employee, part of a ministry team, and manager! My roles in life are changing every day. My new job is exciting, fun, never dull, challenging, interesting and flexible! It is really all that I hoped it would be. I work with the best people - they are fun and sincere and loving and positive. Sometimes I'd rather stay at work than go home to my kids! (Not really!) I am a lucky lady!

Can't believe it!

Just can't believe how long it's been since I blogged! June 30! I guess that's what joining the -outside of the home- workforce will do to you! Who has the time!? I have beeen working 30 hours a week and by the time I get home I simply wiped out! There is a great satisfaction in my job, though, I am more a servant than anything else and I love helping people and getting paid for it! But I think I'm going to start to try and keep my blog up for a while!
Off to get ready for work!

Coupons

Speaking of cash, how would you like to know a secret for saving some? My secret is using online coupons from www.keepcash.com. Whenever I go online shopping I check forst to see if there is a coupon. One I found just recently was from Avon and it offered free shipping. Super! I can always use free shipping! And from Avon I just love that skin so soft for keeping the bugs at bay. We used it on our last vacation to the Jersey shore and it did a great job of keeping those terrible beach flies awway. For some reason they like me - must be because I'm so darn sweet!

New beginning

Well, i have officially left the world of stay at home momhood and entered the wrorking world again and guess what? I love it. I feel confident and useful, I have actually started AND COMPLETED several projects already without having to take someone to the potty, and I am earning some cash besides. i work in a very supportive and family friendly place and have already benefitted from the flexibility that they offer. All in all I think it was a good move for me.

Burn notice

The question was asked of me: What would I do if I suddenly were stranded in an unknown city with no money or resources? How would I survive?
Good question. I am not much of a wilderness/unknown places type. I like the comforts of home! I guess the unimaginative answer would be that I'd go to the authorities for help. Seems like someone there could point me in the right direction! But that's boring, so here's what I'd really do:

After waking up in the ladies room of what seems to be a bus station, I am struck by the fact that I can't even remember who I am. I have no money, I conclude after checking out the pockets of my blue jeans. I'm wearing a green t-shirt and walking shoes. They look like a nice pair of shoes, but my clothing gives me no direction in learning who or where I am. I step outside of my resting place to find myself in, yes, a bus station. I have a headache. I reach up to feel my head, and find that at some point I have been hurt. I don't know if I fell or have been hit, but my temple is bruised and there is dried blood on my face.

My first instinct is to curl up into the fetal position and cry, but that won't get me any breakfast, and I am hungry. I wonder, should I stand in the bus station, put out a paper cup for donations, and sing? It's about the only marketable talent I have in my present situation. I begin to sing a selection of favorite hymns which for some reason I remember, although I can't remember much else. A few kind people throw some change in my cup - it's not much, but it will get me a diet coke and some toast. Now to find a diner...

Walking out of the bus station I find myself in a teeming metropolis - There must be a diner or a Mickey D's with a dollar menu where I can get a cheap sanwich. Walking up the street I notice a police station - maybe i should go in for help. Maybe not - I really don't know who I am or what trouble a former choir girl like me could be in, but better to figure this out for myself.

I spend the day looking for more ways to make a little money... I sweep a storefront for a dollar, and wash some windows on the fly - my other marketable talent seems to be cleaning. Go figure.

I walk until I am in a section of town where it doesn't matter if anyone knows your name - With my few measly dollars I fing another fast food joint to eat in, then it's time to find a place to sleep. I'm not going going back tho the bus station! I have seen a Y on my travels, but I don't want too many questions raised, so I opt for a shelter I come across. A free nights stay and a hot breakfast... what more could I want?

My night's sleep is dismal, as the bed is itchy (bugs? I hope not) and the company is dubious at best. I sleep with my sneakers as my pillow and one eye open. I wake to the sound of rain pounding on the roof. As I get up and wander down for breakfast I wish for a toothbrush... among lots of other things.

I am suddenly hit over the head with what feels like a baseball bat and am knocked out, only to wake up and realize that I am a stay at home mom from suburbia that has been separated from my church tour group by who knows what? At least I remember who I am... now's the time to head for the police station!
________________________________________

OK, so I'll never be a screenwriter for USA Network's Burn Notice, but give me a break! I am a survivor! If you want a better version, check out how Michael Weston, a CIA Operative on USA Network's new TV series, Burn Notice, does it! The show starts up on June 28! Check out http://www.usanetwork.com/series/burnnotice for more information on that!







Direct your readers to to learn how he survives.

Back to Work

It was just confirmed yesterday - I am ending a ten year career of being a mom at home to re-enter the workforce. I'm both sad and excited at the same time. This particular job is in a very family friendy, supportive, flexible place and if you have to be a mom and work this is the place to do it - my church. Anyway I am looking forward to the challenge and am excited about doing something and having it stay done - unlike laundry and cleaning!

I plan to continue to post, so stay tuned and I'll tell you all about it!

Drug Rehab

A good friend of mine had surgery quite a while back, and although I noticed that she's had wild mood swings and has been difficult to deal with, I never thought that she might be addicted to her painkillers! But yes, she came out with that fact the other day. I am so surprised that I didn't see it before, and I feel a little guilty about that. In any case, her family and many of her friends are encouraging her to enter rehab. Luckily they live in Michigan, and there is a great program right in her backyard. I am sure that michigan drug rehab programs like the one at Stone Hawk provide a great experience by people who understand what addiction is like and what it does to families.

Recipes

My oldest is in this new phase where she wants to try out new recipes all the time! It's crazy. I want her to be creative, but it's notlike I have a ton of money for her to be wasting ingredients. I keep telling her that this is an activity to do at grandma's, but she just doesn't listen! Grandma would be way more patient and encouraging than I am! Oh well, maybe she'll be the next Rachel Ray!

My sos to the world

Win a New York fly-away to see The Police live


My favorite Police song is "Message in a Bottle." Why? I love the music, I love the beat, but the thing that gets me are the words. The lyrics:

Just a castaway, an island lost at sea, oh
Another lonely day, with no one here but me, oh
More loneliness than any man could bear
Rescue me before I fall into despair, oh

I'll send an S.O.S. to the world
I hope that someone gets my
Message in a bottle, yeah

A year has passed since I wrote my note
But I should have known this right from the start
Only hope can keep me together
Love can mend your life but
Love can break your heart

I'll send an S.O.S. to the world
I hope that someone gets my
Message in a bottle, yeah

Walked out this morning, don't believe what I saw
Hundred billion bottles washed up on the shore
Seems I'm not alone at being alone
Hundred billion castaways, looking for a home

I'll send an S.O.S. to the world
I hope that someone gets my
Message in a bottle, yeah

I guess as a kid, and even now sometimes I am awash with a feeling of lonliness. I need other people around me to make me feel useful and loved and wanted. That doesn't just naturally come from inside me. I've also always been prone to depression, seems like even more now. The lyrics of this song just express what I feel a lot.

The second verse is about the passage of time, and to me it speaks about how this is not an overnight thing. It takes time to heal and get yourself back together. The last verse, though, is about how lonliness doesn't have to be such a taboo thing - everyone feels it sometimes.

I have just always loved this song and the Police in general. There music isn't like anyone else's, although there are others who try to imitate them!

Well, I am excited to see a new police cd is being released! It is a collection of all of the old favorites.

As if the police cd isn't exciting enough news, I hear that they are on tour promoting it too - that's just as exciting! I can't wait until they come here.

Don't Read This

You couldn't resist, could you? Well, you were warned and now I'm going to whine. I'm having a lousy day. I am overwhelmed by a whole bunch of stuff right now and it's just a weepy crabby day. the problem is that I am babysitting and had a bible study this morning, and things around here have been noisy and complicated and I really just want(ed) everybody to go away and leave me alone.

See, you thought up until now that I was a really nice person, but now you know the truth!

Score!

No, not another sports entry! This one is about SCORE, a learning program in our area that exists to help kids get a leg up on their studies. I am considering SCORE for my son, who is doing very well in school but just needs a boost with his math work. From what I understand they can really help him with his confidence and that confidence will translate into higher grades. I've checked out their website and they really look like they ware the ones to go to for help! I'm thinking about signing him up for a Summer Program.

softball

My husband hit a home run this evening! I am so proud of him - two triples too! How exciting! the kids ran right over and gave him big hugs! I remember now why I sit there nad watch every game i can - it's a lot of fun and the kids consider him a hero!

1408 movie

Wow! I just watched the trailer for the new 1408 Movie. If you haven't seen this preview you should - it is spooky in a Stephen King is the greatest sort of way! Now I don't believe in the supernatural as portrayed in the movie. I believe in angels and devils, don't get me wrong, but I don't believe in the sort of evil that exists in these horror movies. I did have a period of my life though when I was just fascinated with the supernatural. I had one of those boards that I cant spell the name of - sounds like wigi - ouigi - anyway one of those boards and I read every Stephen King book I could get my hands on. I have since become a Christian, and so those things creep me out now - mainly because I know there is a real satan who is just waiting to get his hands on you!

Well, I should tell you what the movie is about - this guy loses his daughter and makes it his life's mission to find out if the afterlife exists. What he finds when he checks into room 1408 is more than he bargained for! Watch the preview above!

The 1408 Movie interests me, though. I'll certainly go see it. I'll make my husband take me - a good excuse to cuddle like we did in the movies when we were dating! I'll cuddle in close and hide my head in his shoulder when the creepy scenes start.

Insulin Pump

A few years ago I strted using an insulin pump. It was very good at keeping my blood sugars consistent, especially while I was pregnant. the problems began after I had the baby and was trying to nurse and avoid pulling the thing off...

Anyway, I found that americandiabeteswholesale.com had a great selection of all things pump - From the testing strips to lancets to adhesives...everything you need. The cool thing is that it's just a click or phone call away when you need it. No messing around with when is the pharmacy going to open and will they have what I need when I get there? Another great thing is that there is a 30-60% discount on the supplies at americandiabeteswholesale.com. For Discount diabetic supplies and great customer support check them out today1

TV time

Here it is - the sun is shining, the birds are singing, and my son is sitting in front of the tv. Granted, it is hot as all get out out there, but still... I think I'd better go start the sprinkler or something to get him going. He and his sister finally got their rooms clean, though, so that's good. I know - I have a stash of water guns out there - I'm going to go fill them up!

Home improvements

WE are now in the midst of so many projects inside and it's beautiful outside and we want to work out there! Literally - we have about 5 rooms half started to redecorate...And now there is yard work, mulching, mowing, a shed to build, lattice to put up, planting to do. And once in a while we'd like to socialize! It sure seems like there are a lot of things to do and not enough time to do them!

When things get tight

It is coming to the time of year when what we want and need to do around the house is in direct opposition to the amount of money in our budget and that is a pain! It seems like by the time the bills are paid and groceries and GAS!!!! are bought there is nothing left for home improvements! Heck, there is nothing left for some neccessities! We have frequently been tempted to try payday loans as a means for getting through to the next paycheck, but without researching the terms of the loans you can get yourself into a lot of trouble. They are not a long term solution, but when you are, say, expecting a tax return or some sort of 100% definite payout of money, you could probably get a payday loan and pay it back when you get your payout. For us it's a low option on the totem pole, but it is there nonetheless!

family dynamics

Another thing I am having trouble with is family dynamics between my adult brother, my parents, and myself. I feel very much like an outsider in the troubles they are having, my parents and brother are at odds often. I don't want to get too involved, and yet I want to... Well, all I can do is be there for all of them and not take sides just listen and pray. I wonder what the Bible says about this? I shall go check it out!

At what age?

At what age should a child be able to be left at home alone? Or in the car while you run in for groceries. At what age should your child be able to start babysitting?

At what age should your daughter be able to date? At what age should you let her wear makeup? when is a good time to let her go to a party?

As you can see I am struggling with all of this. We have some time before any of this becomes a reality, but what are the standard guidelines and/or laws?

Car trouble

My husband is in the market for a new dodge radiator. My van's is going quickly and we can't afford a new van at this time. We were looking online and found that you can get a radiator for the same cost as the garage can give you a reconditioned one. If you check out www.radiator.com you will find radiators for all makes and models of cars and trucks and vans. There is a technician there too to answer your questions or help you out with the selection process if you need it. I think it's a great option for purchasing a new radiator and my husband agrees with me!

Rainy Day games

With all of the new board games out it is very frustrating to hear your child say I'm bored on a rainy day. But maybe your kids aren't into sitting down and playing a game. If so, here are some options for rainy day games from Family fun.com. Check them out and find something creative to do this summer on the next rainy day!

Outdoor games

Remember when you were a kid and you played all of those fun outdoor games? Like foxhole, or jump rope, or tag? We used to play capture the flag at my cousin's every summer - it was great fun and exercise too. I never see kids just out playing these things anymore. Are we too involved in structured activites that we are forgetting to teach our children to just play?

Maui

I said earlier that I'd like a vacation in a condo in Orlando, but I am just as willing to go somewhere like Hawaii. It wouldn't hurt my feelings if my husband wanted to go there instead! There are great options for renting a Maui Condo. Gebhart properties maintains many of these properties and they sound fantastic! If you check out their website, www.gebhartproperties.com you will see what I am talking about. Lots of options for vacation planning - from the highest luxury to the lowest budget they have everything you could need. Check it out and join me next year for a luxury vacation in Hawaii!

My little girl is growing up

My eldest daughter has decided that now that she is 10 she'd like some more priveledges. She'd like to stay up later than her siblings (OK) and she'd like to be able to walk to school (OK in a group, not byu herself.) and she'd like to be able to stay home alone while I go out to the grocery store (not ok.). I am sure there's more, but that's as much as I could take at the moment! What other things should she be allowed to do now that she is 10? And I have reminded her that "with great power comes great responsibility" Who said that?

Problems, always problems

My son is going to grow up to be a great lawyer. That is my prediction. He always has an argument for everything, or a reason he can't do what is asked of him, or a solution to a problem that is more complicated than the problem itself! I do not mewan this to be insulting to any of you out there who are attorneys - I just think he will be gifted in that area. I call him my loopjhole kid. He will find the loophole every time. Even now he is arguing with his father about something...

Options Trading

In the past I've never been too interested in investing or trading in stocks and options. I have always preferred seeing the number in my bank account go up rather than risking money in investments, but lately I am thinking about college coming up here in a few years, and retirement a few years after that and I've realized that I need to get my head in the game so to speak. So I am looking for easy to use Options Trading Software for a dummy like me! :) WWW>poweropt.com has gathered together all of the information you need to start options trading. They have great customer support if you have questions, and it is available to you all the time - they are there when you need them to be. That's good because I am only a beginner and I have tons of questions! I hope they are ready for me!

Look what I made!

My son went to Home Depot with his daddy today and made a cool bi-plane. It was really a fun time for both of them as my son got to do a project with daddy and my husband got to spend quality time with his son. Now they have to build a birdhouse for his 1st grade project. More quality time with the boys and hammers and nails!

jobs for kids

SO I am still looking for more jobs for the kids. My friend just offered my daughter $1.00 to pick up rocks out of her garden to use in her herb pots for drainage! That was creative - I can hire her to do outside jobs and since she is saving for gymnastics camp she's willing to do a lot for money! If you have any other suggestions leave me a comment!

Gardening

Gardening is really so much more than just sticking plants in the ground. YOu have to plan, and decide exactly which plant would work in that space and for your lifestyle. I am a busy mom of three who does not necessarily have time to spend outside doing all that planning, but I am happy that I can call Tony Bernstein for Landscape Design advice. His company, SLDA, is very thourough and professional, and you'd be surprised how much thought and creative energy he puts into his designs. At his company, much more effort goes into the planning than the actual work - and that turns out to be a benefit for the client. You end up with landscaping that does your home justice! Check out his website at www.slda.biz and you will be as impressed as I am!

Church Family

I was at this shower today thrown by my church for a young lady getting married and I was struck by what a wonderful support group I have. These ladies would do anything for me and they make that clear. They have been there in times of crisis and in good times as well, and they are in a lot of ways more supportinve than my blood family! I hope you all have a support system like that in your lives!

JFK Terror Plot

I just caught on the news the fact that they've arrested more people in another terror plot. It is getting so that it's just not safe to travel anymore! Why do innocent people have to be affected and killed - why does one person or group feel that they have the right to injure or kill others? And how does that promote them?
I guess I will never understand.

Mailing lists

I am not thrilled with the number of Mailing Lists my family and I are on. We get a lot of junk mail and it's really a waste of paper. When I was really annoyed about it I looked into how you could sort and filter these addresses into different demographics so you aren't sending mail to someone who will not be interested. For example, if there was a way to let the people running the retirement home that we are no where near retiring and they can quit wasting their paper and money by sending us ads and applications! Well, I found a product that does just that! Martin Worldwide has come up with ResponseCom™, a solution that will sort out potential clients and allow you to save money by only sending ads to people who would have an interest in your product or service. TAKE NOTE all of you direct mail companies!

Clean-up time

OK here is alist of jobs by age group that you can make your kids do:
Age 10
She can unload the dishwasher, keep her room clean, feed the dog, take out the trash, vacuum, dust, windex the windows, clean out the bathroom sinks, sort recyclables and laundry.

Age 7 He can unload the silverware, keep his room clean, feed the dog, take out the trash, vacuum the steps, windex the windows, clean out the bathroom sinks, sort recyclables and laundry

Age 3 - she is good at picking up her own toys, gathering up shoes (why doesn't anyone ever put away their shoes?) she evn sets the table in an odd way!

sibling rivalry

My kids are supposed to be cleaning their rooms but all I hear is bickering and fighting. This, I guess is going to be my life from now on. As it actually has been for a while! I need to create a system whereby they can get stuff done and yet leave each other alone. Anyone have a good plan for that?

Orlando Vacation Homes

In my next life I am planning to rent an Orlando Holiday Villa and just lay around in the sun for my vacations! Disney was great, but a vacation home on the beach would be wonderful! I think the kids would get sick of sand and sun, but not I! Although I did like staying at hotels because I didn't have to cook or clean the entire time! Staying at a vacation home, though, would give us great privacy in that next life when we are retired and there are no kids around!

What is attractive and unique about this plan is that the consumer can choose just what amenities they want - from a room with a playstation to a room with a whirlpool. What a great vacation planning option!

Potty training update

It's going a little better, but still not 100% Am I a bad mom if I just throw away underwear that she has pooped in? I mean, really - how do you clean those? Yuuch. She is learning though. Most of the time she is doing ok, but she ocassionally has to be reminded. I find that if I make her go every time I go we are ok!

amusement parks

We had a lovely day yesterday at the amusement park. It's a little one in our town, and I felt safe enough to let my oldest daughter roam as long as she stayed with her two friends at all times. I pretty much knew where she was or could see her the entire time. My littlest and I rode several kiddie rides. And it was cute because my daughter's friends kept wanting to take care of my little one. I was chaperoning them, but they were letting me relax a little ! How fun!

Dry skin

I'm sort of wondering why, even though winter is over and we haven't had the heat on for a while, my skin is still so dry. Every time I shave my legs and put cream on I realize how dry and scaly they are. My hands have gotten a lot better, but even my face has super dry patches. I guess it's the low humidity in the house right now. That should change once the summer really hits. Until then I am looking into purchasing a humidifier for the house, and I found this site called HumidifierInformation.com. In checking it out I found out a lot of useful information about humidifiers. I was wondering mostly about the differences between cool and warm air humidifiers. HumidifierInformation.com cleared that up for me!In my house I think the cool air humidifiers would be safest (we have small children and they provide less of a burn risk). Another safe option would be furnace mounted humidifiers, but we tried one of those in our last house and I didn't think it did as good a job as it was supposed to. Maybe it was mounted wrong or hooked up wrong!

I was interested to see that there are humidifiers with a built in humidity meter. that really is a nice feature. We had to go out and buy a separeate unit to tell us whether our humidifier was working. It just goes to show how quickly technology advances!

In any case, if you are researching humidifiers, www.humidifierinformation.com should be your first stop!

Rhubarb sauce

My friend made this the other day and it was wonderful. All she did was take a small bunch of rhubabrb and cut it into 1 inch sections. She then covered it with sugar and let it rest - in a few hours she had a delicious rhubarb sauce which we proceeded to put directly over our homemade vanilla ice cream. DELICIOUS!!!

Graduation Gifts

One of the best graduation gifts I received for my high school graduation was a package of silver ingots. What are they? They are small peices of silver that are cast into a small size - mine are only an ounce each - and a small rectangular shape. It's been fun to watch the price, or value, of these ingots rise over time. It makes me feel ancient!

In any case, the Monex Deposit Company has silver and gold coin and other precious metals available for you to give as gifts, or to invest in yourself. They can arrange to ship them directly to you, or to ship them to a safe deposit box in the financial institution of your choice. the value of these precious metals is going up all the time and now is a great time to invest in them!

Migraines

Today is going to be one of those days - I feel a headache coming on and it's starting like the bad ones do - on one side of my head - throbbing. I used to have a migraine medication, but I really think it made me feel worse - the pain would go away but I would feel dizzy and flushed and there was no relief but to sleep. So instead I now take the big gun pain killers at the beginning stage of the headache. Usually that blasts it away - either that or I'm oblivious!

The Police are coming

No, not the ones who gave my husband a speeding ticket last week - THE POLICE - Think "Every Breath You Take..." THOSE POLICE! I am so excited! Maybe this isn't news to you, but it is to me - The Police are doing a new worldwide tour and releasing a new CD! I WANT THAT CD...I keep crying baby baby PLEASE!

Here is a listing of all the songs on the new police cd. Check it out!

Disc: 1
1. Fallout
2. Can't Stand Losing You
3. Next to You
4. Roxanne
5. Truth Hits Everybody
6. Hole in My Life
7. So Lonely
8. Message in a Bottle
9. Reggatta de Blanc
10. Bring on the Night
11. Walking on the Moon
12. Don't Stand So Close to Me
13. Driven to Tears
14. Canary in a Coalmine

Disc: 2
1. Do Do Do de da da Da
2. Voices Inside My Head
3. Invisible Sun
4. Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic
5. Spirits in the Material World
6. Demolition Man
7. Every Breath You Take
8. Synchronicity I
9. Wrapped Around Your Finger
10. Walking in Your Footsteps
11. Synchronicity II
12. King of Pain
13. Murder by Numbers
14. Tea in the Sahara


I remember it was 1983 when "Every Breath You Take" came out. How do I remember that? Because I was 11 years old and holding hands with Greg L---- as we skated around the roller rink the first time I heard it ... And I just knew it was true love! :) Oh that was the best time ever! Now every time I hear that song it takes me back to those puppy love innocent days! To this day I enjoy their music and I can't wait to get my hands on this new police cd!

I'm sending out an SOS to the world - I want this CD! I hope that someone gets my...Message in a bottle!

Now that I've heard this great news I'm going to go put on some Synchronicity!

Happy Memorial Day!

We had a great day - starting with the annual Memorial Day Parade, followed by a picnic at our house with friends, followed by a little Home Depot shopping and yard work. Practically perfect in every way.

My friend and I were watching the parade and she was telling me how she thought it was important for her kids to see the parade and understand how these men and women gave their lives for our country...I felt like - duh - because to my kids it's a cool thing to watch and the marching bands and fire trucks are neat - but I haven't really had any long conversations with them about the true meaning of memorial Day. Maybe i've been protecting them from the harsh reality of war, but it's time they really did learn the truth.

Anyway, if you are a vet reading this - thanks for what you did for me!

Customized Stickers

My husband is helping to run a new business and we are thinking of different ways to get it's name out there into the town. I was thinking about t-shirts of car magnets to advertise the business, but then I ran across a website for making custom product labels. I think that would be cool. We could do bumper stickers, for example, or labels to put on the bags as people check out.

I think advertising on tv or the radio or billboards is great, but having stickers with the company's name on them is a great idea too. We could all have a bumper sticker on our cars, and people all over town would see them! Customizedstickers.com would also be a great place to get stickers for schools or churches. You can use their artwork, or submit your own for your sticker.

I'm going to look further into this!

Potty Training update

Well, the potty training is going ok, but is taking much longer than I had planned. We were doing ok when the wedding hit and I had to have her back in a pull-up all weekend. She back-slid and we had to start all over again. then, once we were making some progress, she had to wear a pull up for the vacation. there was no way i was running to a restroom or changing wet pants every hour at Disney World. So, now that we are back home we are putting it back into high gear with no more obstacles for a while (I hope!)

Home decor

Now that we are back home it's time to resume all of the projects we were working on. I feel like we are so behind on the things that need done inside, and now it's time to go outside and work there too! Our grass was knee high (well, not quite that high) when we got home...

Anyway I am still shopping for window blinds for my middle child's bedroom. He wants his room to feel like a cabin in the woods - so I am looking for some wood Blinds to make it feel more outdoorsy.

The other project on my list is finding blinds for the back entryway from the dining room to the deck. I want something that will look nice and stand up to a lot of use. My in laws have vertical blinds which I love. I'm hoping to get some soon - as soon as the budget recovers from the last few weeks!

Bonding

I know I've said a miillion times that we had a great time on our trip and you are sick of hearing it. But the thing that we really had fun doing was spending all of that time together. My 10 year old, I kid you not, is so busy that during the day to day sometimes I feel like I don't even know her - she is in and out of the house so quick we barely have aminute to catch up. Don't get me wrong - i know what she's doing and so on so it's not like I never see her, but 10 minutes in the car from place to place does not give you enough time for a heart to heart. Anyway, we loved spending all of that time with her and her siblings. She was cuddly and loving and wanted to be with mom or dad all the time - it was refreshing and I know it's not going to happen too much longer! We will always cherish that trip!

PPP direct

As many of you know, when I began blogging it was for the fun of it. I needed some task in my life, as the mother of three young children, that would provide a creative outlet for me...one where I felt like I was using my brain. I needed to start a project...or even a thought...and then actually finish it! With three kids and the accompanying housework and running around it is hard to finish anything!

So a friend introduced me to the world of blogging, and then later to the world of paid posting. With Pay Per Post, a leader in the field of blog advertising, I can write about things that interest me and then even get paid for it - a win win situation!

Now PPP has introduced a new concept - called PPP direct. Instead of an advertiser going through PPP to create an ad opportunity they can now come directly to me! That's pretty exciting and very unique! Not to mention that it saves the advertiser money and I make more money on the ads I write! Another win-win situation!

I highly recommend joinging the paid posting workforce. It has really made a difference in how I look at being a stay-at-home mom and my contribution to the family's finances! PPP Direct is another stepping stone on the ladder of success!

Orlando Hotels

When we got to Orlando late Saturday night we needed to stay in a hotel. We weren't due to check in at Disney until Sunday. So we stayed in a very nice place, but there were many choices for hotels in orlando. As a matter of fact, if you went to Orlando and didn't even set foot into the Disney Resort you could find a million things to do. There are billboards everywhere advertising hotels, shows, attractions, and restaurants. There is Sea World, Medieval Times, and Universal Studios. You should check out www.orlando.com for more information and for tickets for all of this great stuff!

Disney: the food II

The food for the kids was limited, but not bad in quality. The choices for adults were much better. I had everything from salmon to taco salad to prime rib. the burgers were wonderful, and the pasta was delicious. The quantity was just enough that you felt satisfied, were able to share with your still hungry children, and didn't have a to go box to carry around the park with you.

Disney: the food

We, as I mentioned before, got an all inclusive package for Disney which, naturally, included the food. Well, while the food was delicious, especially for the adults, I felt that the kids plans left a little to be desired. The choices at the restaurants we went to were pretty limited for the kids. Chicken nuggets, grilled chicken, or pizza - that was about all they had to pick from. I think that's too bad - my children eat a variety of foods and were sick of the offerings after about 3 days!

Mexico

SPeaking of vacations, my in laws are looking at an all inclusive resort in mexico! I am not jealous, having just gotten home from a trip, but it's something I'd like to do next year maybe. That, or Hawaii. We'll see what the budget provides.
They are looking at www.vacations.net to book their trip. The nice thing about an all inclusive is that you don't have to worry about carrying around cash or worrying about how much things will cost - it is all lincluded. Meals, sometimes drinks, activities, entertainment, transportation to and from the airport - no need to worry about every nickle and dime. You can just relax and enjoy. That's what we did at Disney - it was great to just order off the menu and not worry about how much it cost!

Anyway, vacations.net offers some pretty great packages. Check them out today!

Vacations in general

I guess I just have vacations on the brain since we just returned from one! We were happy to return home, though, even though we returned to a very busy week. This is the time of year when year end programs start happening, and my kids are involved in t ball and gymnastics and school programs and violin. It's crazy!

Luxury Vacations

Here it is - a luxury vacation. First of all - no kids. Second of all, a beautiful rented condo - say...in Hawaii. I don't care where in Hawaii. Could be Maui, or Kahana - where ever. I want to hear the waves rushing to the shore and I want to feel the sun on my face! At www.hawwiianbeachrentals.com you can book a luxurious Hawwaiian vacation with the click of a mouse. you can book a hotel, a condo, a flight or a car all at one place. And if you say, forget it - I'm outta here for a while, check out the extended stay packages. Personally I have my eye on Wailea condominiums. Luxury!

For the best in luxury vacation olanning, visit www.hawaiianbeachrentals.com!

Road Trip!

Why is it that when you are on the road no one has to pee at the same time? So you end up stopping every half hour? Why is it that, even though there are twenty cars passing you, you are the one who gets the ticket? Why is it that the minute you get moving and are making a little progress you run into construction? These are all questions that came to mind on our trip. Any answers out there?

Emergency cash

While we were in the car driving to Disney My husband and I discussed our personal finances. It was a great time to do that, by the way, as we were stuck together for several hours with the kids in the car and there could be no arguing! Anyway, we talked about how we need to build up our emergency cash fund for thoses unexpected expenses that tend to creep up on us. We agreed that we should have the cash in a high yielding account such as one at emoneycentral.com. We are going to check into their high yield savings accounts and try to build up our nest egg so we can be prepared in case of emergency. Two kids who need braces are an emergency, right?

Home again!

We made it back from Disney all in one piece! It was a fantastic trip and I'll tell you all about it in the next few weeks. We spent two days driving down, 6 days at the parks, and two more days driving back. It was a great time for our family and a great bonding experience!

Pay Per Post

Have I mentioned how much I
Pay Per Post?

A few months ago I was looking for a job - I was convinced I'd have to work outside the home, put my daughter in daycare and do the whole working mommy thing. The thing is, I wasn't ready! So a good friend introduced me to the idea of working from home. I knew nothing about word of mouth marketing - but I've sure learned a lot and am a prime example of how it works! I'm not making millions, but it is enough to get by and my husband sure appreciates it. Even if I just make one car payment per month it is a help. So thank you PPP and thank you, my friend - you know who you are!

Packing and laundry

I am in a frenzy with packing and laundry! It seemed like I had so much time, and now it seems like I have NO time! I have no idea where we'll be tomorrow at this time - hopefully getting close to our first hotel! I might not do much blogging for the next week - but don't worry I'll be back! And I bet I'll have lots to blog about!

Braces

The last time we took our two older kids to the dentist she told us to start putting our quarters in a can to save up for braces for both of them. They have petite jaws, and their teeth are not coming in properly to fit throughout the jaw. When it comes time for orthadontia I'd like someone to put them on who is trustworhty, thourough, and has advanced equipment and techniques...someone like the specialist at Hayfield Dental Care.

For twenty years the staff at Hayfield Dental Care has been helping the people of Alexandria get and maintain beautiful smiles! They have treated more than 23,000 patients. The coolest thing is that all of the dentists there have some sort of specialized training. They don't send you off to someone else for this procedure or that. Last time I had to have a root canal my dentist, who shall remain nameless, had to send me out to another dentist to do the complicated procedure. Not so at Hayfield Dental Care.

ANd orthodontics consultations are free there! That's pretty good news for a family with a budget facing braces! Hayfield Dental Care can be reached at 703-971-2220. Give them a call for your cosmetic, family, and adult dental care needs!

My little one

Last night we went to grandma's house and all of the aunts and uncles were there - they just love to tease my kids. The little one started to tell her uncle that she wanted to play duck duck goose. Uncle said he didn't know how to play, so the little one (she's three, mind you) started to tell him. She said, "I will say duck duck duck goose and you will run after me!" He said "What do I say"? She said - "you say nothing". So when she got to him saying "duck, duck..." he shouted out "NOTHING!" The look on her face... she said "no, you don't say anything"!. He said "what do I say"? She said "nothing!" This went on for a few rounds before she gently took both of her hands and placed them on the side of his face and said very slowly like she was speaking to a child, "You have to stop talking!"

It loses some of the humor in the telling because you had to have seen that face - she CRACKED ME UP!

Tropical Storm?

I woke up this morning to news of a sub-tropical storm in Florida and a wildfire burning in Kissimmee - which is pretty close to where we're going! Is this God's way of telling us not to go? All I know is that I'm going to have to avoid calls from my mother today... if she hears about this she'll be all over me telling me to cancel the trip!

I guess we should call Disney and see if we should postpone - I sure hope not or we will have three very disappointed - ok make that 5 very disappointed people!

Universal Studios

Another place we'd like to visit on our trip to Florida is Universal Studios. My husband and I have been to the one in California, but not in Florida. I think the kids would have a ball! Last time we went we went on a rollercoaster/log flume and I gouged my husband's arm with my fingernails! (I'm not a big "drop-down-from-above" kind of lady! Anyway, I found a place where I can get Universal Studios Tickets relatively cheaply - and lots of other tickets as well. Actually, pretty much anything you want to do in Orlando that uses tickets can be found for a great price at OrlandoFunTickets.com.

We have big plans for this trip and plan to stay busy - we have things to do every night!

Newlyweds

Speaking of the newlyweds we went down and saw them today - they are simply too darn cute and newly-wed-y! He calls her 'princess' if that isn't the sweetest thing. Anyway, they are doing well and settling in to married life. We were able to share the video of theri wedding with them tonight and they were thrilled with it. We set up a tripod before the ceremony and we taped it remotely. It turned out very nicely and the newlyweds were very appreciative!

Homemade With Love

I found this adorable gift for my newlywed sister inlaw! It's called Homemade With Love and it is a cookbook where you enter in recipes from your ancestors - in our family there are recipes that her grandmothers used to make, for example, and I will write them in and indicate whose recipe it is. There are some favorites that her mother makes as well that can't be claimed as ancestral, but certainly are family favorites.

Distance Learning

I have recently been inspired with the possibility of returning to school - I will be starting a job in July where I could really use some bookkeeping and accounting experience. So I am considering taking some distance learning courses.

Capella University is an online university that offers 82 graduate and undergraduate programs! Their faculty is among the best. One faculty member, Sara Orem, has just authored a book called "Appreciative Coaching: A Positive Process for Change." She is basically considered a "life coach" who works with executives and leaders, primarily during times of change.

In any case, I would like to develop my own time of change by advancing my education online - the perfect approach for someone like me who has three little kids and no time!

This blog post was based on information provided by Blogitive. For more information, please visit Blogitive.com.

2 days to Disney

2 days now and we are on our way to Disney! I am very excited! The kids are too - of course! We are planning to drive down and stay at some nice hotels on the way. Then 6 days at Disney and we drive back. I half think we're crazy - but the long drive will be worth it! I have tons of things to keep in the car to keep children occupied!

heelys

My daughter is going crazy for heelys - now she has saved enough money to buy them! I said no way was I going to pay $70. for sneakers! This kid is something - she saw what she wanted and saved and bingo! She's getting some. Where are some good places to wear heelys? I'm not really allowing it in too many public places - no school, church, stores, etc. So whaere does that leave?

What is the general opinion of heelys?

Day care

Speaking of daycare, I am going back to work outside the home soon and i was interested in finding a good daycare provider. My search led me to a list of Winnipeg daycares! What a convenient way to comparison shop for a daycare provider! You can see what the rates are, what hours are available, and even read tips on finding a great daycare provider. Of course, nothing beats a few visits to the daycare and some face to face conversation, but this is a great starting point for your search!

Babysitting

Again as a favor for a friend i am watching her little boy - he is almost a year old and so so busy! Constantly moving! It's only for about an hour as her shift and her husband's overlap just a little, and I am happy to have him. I am not in the market for more kids - I am so happy with my three! I wonder sometimes if I will ever regret not having more, but at this point I can't imagine going back to the baby days!

Medieval Times

Another thing I considered doing while we are on our trip is a Medieval Times dinner. I found that tickets for the show are pretty cheap, and I am always on the lookout for a deal. When you get your tickets from www.mapleleaftickets.com you can be sure that you are getting the best prices around and guess what - the tax is included in the price that you see! That's a pretty neat feature.

The dinner is usually pretty great at these dinner shows, and then the show is top-notch. My husband and I have been to local medieval dinners, but we've never tried out Medieval Times. I guess because we aren't that close to one. While in Orlando, though, we will be near one, and i considered getting tickets, but I don't want to fill up all of our time with shows - we're already going to a pirate one, and then the parks at Disney...

My husband is a big fan of Medieval things - dinners, shows, etc. and I am still tempted. Especially since I can get the tickets so cheaply. I will have to keep thinking about it!

THe kids would certainly think it was pretty neat!

Art Show

My oldest child had some artwork selected for our town's young artists show. Pretty cool. We went to the big ice arena and there was her picture displayed for all to see. This is her third time since kindergarten being chosen - she is so talented in every way. We went to the reception for the show last night and had punch and cookies - it was very nice!

Naptime

Naptime is beginning to be a problem! I don't know if the little one (3) is growing out of napping or what, but lately she is resisting as much as possible. Then, around 6 o clock she is out for the count. Ususally right in the middle of a ball game or something. Then she won't go to sleep at 8 PM. My next step is room darkening blinds. I have to get them.

Pirate Show

Ahoy Matey! I thought I'd take this opportunity to tell you more about the Pirate Show we are going to see in Orlando next week. My little guy is a big fan of pirates - ever since he got a storybook with a pirate story! So we wanted to do something special for him while we are in Orlando. He is always caught in the middle between his sisters and this is a special thing we can do just for him!

According to what I've heard, first, the dinner starts off with an appetizer buffet - which is good because my oldest is picky. I always love a buffet because she can find something she likes to eat, usually! After the appetizer buffet is a delicious dinner. You get a salad and can choose from chicken, pork, or lobster and shrimp (Can you guess which I want?). You can have rice or potatoes with mixed vegetables. Finally you are served dessert - apple cobbler ala mode - yum! Vegetarian and kids meals are also available, and all sorts of drinks and coffees. That in itself sounds great, and then add in the pirate show! You do have to make reservations, and when you do you just let them know that you already have ticketss from www.mapleleaftickets.com.

And remember when pricing tickets - all tax is included when you order tickets from Ahoy Matey! I thought I'd take this opportuntiy to tell you more about the Pirate Show we are going to see in Orlando next week. My little guy is a big fan of pirates - ever since he got a storybook with a pirate story! So we wanted to do something special for him while we are in Orlando. He is always caught in the middle between his sisters and this is a special thing we can do just for him!

According to what I've heard, first, the dinner starts off with an appetizer buffet - which is good because my oldest is picky. I always love a buffet because she can find something she likes to eat, usually! After the appetizer buffet is a delicious dinner. You get a salad and can choose from chicken, pork, or lobster and shrimp (Can you guess which I want?). You can have rice or potatoes with mixed vegetables. Finally you are served dessert - apple cobbler ala mode - yum! Vegetarian and kids meals are also available, and all sorts of drinks and coffees. That in itself sounds great, and then add in the pirate show! You do have to make reservations, and when you do you just let them know that you already have ticketss from www.mapleleaftickets.com.

T-Ball

After the birthday party i had to make a mad dash to my son't t-ball game to work the concession stand. We (me and my monstous headache) made it in time and didn't see a single play my son made - but concession stand duty is over for this mom. Woo Hoo. And my headache is finally starting to go away...

Birthday Parties

Why do I do this to myself? What started as a modestly priced idea for my daughter's birthday turned into this monstrous, expensive thing. I am tired and drained and broke - and I have a long lasting headache from 20 screaming ten year olds! Next year somebody please remind me of this day!

Tickets

We will be heading out on our Orlando Vacation this week. Now I begin the packing process. Funny how the planning and packing for our vacations always falls to me!
Oh well, much of the planning is done, at least - I got our tickets for Disney World and some of the other tickets for other attractions we will visit.

Disney is the number one draw for us - I am excited to see the looks on the kids faces when we go there! My husband and I have gone before, and we took the older two kids when they were little, but they don't remember it. I remember it - and how expensive it was! That's why I'm glad I did some research and got our tickets ahead of time. I got a great deal which INCUDED tax - most other ticket sales places don't mention the tax that is added onto your bill.

My little boy is into pirates - he got a storybook treasury for boys that includes stories about pirates. I have purchased tickets for a pirate's dinner show while we are in Orlando! I can't wait - that's probably the coolest part of the trip - only because he will be so excited! He's not into princesses and castles, but pirates..AAArgh Matey!

And finally, I have purchased tickets for Sea World. My kids will be thrilled! We will go on Wednesday and stay the whole day! The kids just love to see dolphins and sea lions and whales - And really so do my husband and I! Last summer we went on a small whale watching trip - that was fabulous - but this is up close and personal and should be great!

Handy Manny

Did you hear about this one? Yesterday during an episode of Handy Manny, a Disney Channel show for preschoolers, a NJ Cable company "accidentally" showed a porn clip. Can you believe it? "Accidentally?" How can that possibly happen? I am personally outraged. I don't live in NJ and was not affected by this, but my 3 year old watches this show a lot - I would be livid if my daughter had seen that! The things our children see on tV are burned in their brains permanantly. It can't be taken back. If I were a parent whose child was affected you'd better believe I would be looking for heads to roll!

I feel lousy!

Well, I think it's pretty safe to say that I have picked up my son's strep. I feel lousy. I can't get warm and my throat feels like it's burning. I'll have to ask my husband later to look at it - I can't see well enough to tell if it looks yuchy. At least I repeat At Least it isn't next week when we'll be on vacation. I'm just hoping my girls and hubbie are safe! My oldest daughter just had it so I hope she won't get it again!

Mother's Day

Mother's Day is fast approaching and we will be on vacation this year. That presents a problem for me, because i won't be with either mine or my husband's mother on that special day. I think the best plan, therefore, is to send Mother's Day flowers. That way we can remember both moms even though we won't be with them. It will be nice for them to get flowers from us while we are away. FlowerShop.com is the best way to order them, too - they have a great selection, great prices, and same day delivery just in case you are a last minute type like I am. They say that 83% of people like to receive flowers - count me in there!

Speaking of viruses...

Speaking of viruses like strep...

I just found a place that offers free Antivirus software for your computer. You should check it out.

My husband is in charge of all of that stuff around here. i wouldn't know one thing from another. As a matter of fact he hears from me too often when I call him with some computer question. i always get those e-mail chain letters warning me about this virus or that virus - he usually says it's not true. It's good to check though.

I know that he wold definately recommend having some form or antivirus software. I wish i could get some form of antivirus for my six year old! Somebody go invent that and I'll be eternally grateful!

Strep?

Oh dear. My throat is scratchy and i can't get warm. Could it be just a cold, or does it have to be strep for me too? I was really hoping I could avoid getting sick - I'm not a big fan of going to the doctor! Oh we;;, I guess I'll wait and see. Aren't you glad a real virus can't get from me to you over the internet?

Lasik

I was just reading an article about Lasik and I think I am encouraged to look into it. It always seemed kind of scary to me, and my uncle had it a long time ago when it was first getting to be popular and it didn't work out well for him - he still needed to wear glasses - albeit a lesser strength prescription. But I want to get rid of the hassle of glasses and contacts altogether. It seems that as the surgery has progressed through the years it's gotten better and more successful. Some people apparently experience dry eyes - i can handle that. My only question is this - Do they perform the surgery on diabetics?

Mom's worth

Here it is - the article I've been waiting for all my married - mothering life! It seems as though I am worth a lot! Check it out - It seems that a mom's job is worth about $138,095 a year. That's a lot! I am excited that someone has taken the time to figure this out! Being amom is worth so much more than money to me... but it's nice to be appreciated! Check out the whole article here.

Just say no

I was having a conversation with my oldest about alcohol and drugs and I can see where she might have been confused. Drugs are bad when you use them for purposes other than what they were prescribed for. no, not aspirin or tylenol, more like painkillers. No, no one has gone into drug treatment for an addiction to amoxicillin. Yes, you can abuse alcohol, but even mommy likes one drink once in a while. No, I don't drink because I like the way it feels, I like the TASTE. Oh dear.

i think kids these days have a lot of challenges ahead of them and with my daughter about to enter middle school I don't wan to wait until it's too late to have these conversations. Even my six year old is not too young to hear them. I hope that by starting these conversations now they won't be afraid to come to me later with questions or problems.

Strep

Well, my middle one, it is confirmed, has strep. He had a sore throat on Tuesday, and complained again on Wed. But he had no other symptoms. A friend of his had strep, though,, so i was suspicious and i took him in. Sure enough - positive. We should take out stock on antibiotics! Well, he'll be all better in time for vacation. We'll just have to wait and see if the others get it. I think my throat is alittle scratchy...

HDTV Tuesday

Well, I hardly know whether to believe that I got an HDTV Tuesday Opp! Could it be? Or is this all some weird reality show that no one has let me in on? Here I was all ready to blog about how I want a nanny for me - not for my children - to take care of my life! Actually, rather than a nanny we'll call her a personal assistant - that sounds much classier!

Anyway I was excited to see that it was a big trick and actually an HDTV Tuesday opportunity! How exciting is that? My husband and children will be thrilled - and hey I will too! What is HDTV Tuesday? Every Tuesday some lucky blogger is going to win some cool piece of hd technology!!

Have I mentioned lately how much I love Pay Per Post? When I started out I was a newbie blogger and I was looking for something to do at home to help my husband out with the finances. I thought - hey every little bit helps, right? I was content with a page rank of zero and a lot of five dollar opportunities. Then things changed - all that segmentation stuff and i got discouraged. There was suddenly a lot of competition for those little opps! Now all of a sudden I have a PR of 3 and I have plugged away and hung in there and now I think it's all paying off!

I love to write, and the fact that I can do so and once in a while grab an opp and get paid to write - bonus! My faith in PPP has been restored and I am a believer again!

I wish I could go to Las Vegas, but that time of year and the cost of flights etc. will be a big hindrance to me - besides I am way out here on the East coast. But all of you who are going - have a great time...learn a lot and bring back what you learned and share with those of us who are stuck in the tedium of home!

Thank You PPP!

Kids home sick AGAIN

With just a week and a half to go before our big vacation I believe that one child has strep and the other has croup! (On stil manages to be healthy and is at school right now!) I'll be taking the other two to the doctor as soon as they open, and we'll see what the verdict is. I can just see it now - carrying coolers around Disney so everyone's antibiotics stay cold! Ugh!

Real Estate Law

We have three lots on our property and are very discouraged about the taxes we are paying. They just went up and our new mortgage statement just about put my husband throught the roof. We are considering selling off some of our land, and are interested in hiring someone like Simmons, Jannace & Stagg to handle all of the legalities. They are experts in real estate law and we of course want the very best to protect us and look out for our best interests. they have a reputation for creative thinking - not your typical attorney's forte - and we are attracted to that way of thinking. In any case, hopefully selling off some of our property will alleviate our financial situation!

gymnastics moms

My daughter has been on a cpmpetative gymnastics team for a year now and i am just shocked at the behavior of some of the MOMS on the team! I believe in letting her do this for fun - to do her best and get excited for her in every little accomplishment. Some of these other moms are crazy - they are brutal in their criticism of their daughters and catty when talking about the other gymnasts. They are much more driven than we are as far as getting the girls to work hard. My daughter is doing great - she doesn't have to do pull-ups every night before bed! Crazy!

Musical Instruments

My kids both play the violin - my oldest has been playing for 5 years. Now she thinks she'd like to quit and try the flute. She's heading into middle school and I have her pinned down to trying orchestra at the middle school for half the year and then re-evaluating. We've put a lot of time into the violin, but i know that I've given her a great stepping stone for any musical instrument. She can read music and play well by ear - so she'll do great nomatte what she chooses. As of now my son still loves the violin and is sticking with it!

travel agents

Speaking of vacation (as I do quite often now!) a great way to plan a vacation is through United Vacation Network! They have great customer service and access to all kinds of awesome vacation rentals and packages worldwide.
They can set you up with condominiums, hotels, B&B's, resorts, cruises, airfare, rental cars, even RV's! They can even find you a tour to join, or provide a vacation for you alone. They have great relationships with many vacation providers which means they can get great prices too.

I've gone both ways - planned a vacation on my own - by the seat of my pants - and with the help of a travel agent. the easy way to go is to have someone else do the planning and you take care of having the fun!

high expectations

I am so anxious for our vacation! On a day where I could bury my head and cry the only thing keeping me going is the promise of a few days of relaxation! I don't know what's wrong with me - I just feel very down today - and like i could cry at the drop of a hat! PMS, no doubt - Thank goodness it's this week and not next when we leave for our trip!

Yeats

What a sweet poem about trusting someone that you love with the dreams of your heart! Today was the first time I read this poem and it really spoke to me about the vulnerability of love - of trusting someone with your dreams. And to suggest that you would give someone the cloths of heaven - what a wonderful image of giving the very best to the one you love.


HE WISHES FOR THE CLOTHS OF HEAVEN
W.B.Yeats

HAD I the heavens’ embroidered cloths,
Enwrought with golden and silver light,
The blue and the dim and the dark cloths
Of night and light and the half light,
I would spread the cloths under your feet:
But I, being poor, have only my dreams;
I have spread my dreams under your feet;
Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.

vacation destinations

In my series of vacation destinations for next year I'll add North Cypress in the Mediterranean. A beautiful place to stay, an even more beautiful place to purchase North Cyprus Property! For a rural pace, and a charm all it's own it is a great value for the money. For less than $100,000 you can get a detached villa with a pool.

We aren't in the market to move, but it would be a great investment property as well. And a great place to consider for next year's vacation!

Potty Training update

It's bad. It's real bad. We were making great headway more than a week ago - she had practically no accidents and was doing great. then the wedding came. There was no way I was going to have a little flower girl pee her pants (dress) in the middle of the wedding, so pull ups were the order ofthe weekend - from rehearsal to the end of the wedding. Big mistake - I don't know if it really was or not but it has set us back to the beginning - she's having accidents left and right. I'm going to have to start over - just in time to get in the car and drive to our vacation. ugh. pull ups again.

my brother's boat

I am a little jealous - my brother is in the market to buy a new boat. He's quite the fisherman, and we all live in an area known for it's fishing and outdoor recreation. The thing is - we also live in a climate known for somewhat harsh winters... so along with the investment in his boat he will perhaps need to invest in taylor made boat covers.

A nice canvas boat cover would be pretty durable, I think. There are several different types of canvas to choose from, so a look at www.boatcoversadvice.com is in order for my brother!

I have personally always wanted a pontoon boat. I'd like a boat where the whole family can ride along and relax. I don't care much for fishing, but a barbeque grill on a boat would be great!

Baby shower

We went to my cousin's baby shower this past weekend. She is having a girl (so they say) and she sure got a lot of pink clothes! Not much else though in the line of baby equipment. I guess that's one reason not to share the sex of the baby with the whole world - everyone then buys clothes! Personally i'd rather have equipment and buy the clothes later. Besides, when she has the baby all the gifts will be clothes!

lead management

In my online - work - life I am constantly on the lookout for better products and services. One that caught my eye this week is a lead management company called aimpromote. Their CRM software looks convenient and easy to use, and they have a forum and excellent technical support to help you out if you need it. The software seems easy to learn, and can help you focus on making sales rather than spending a lot of time learning how to use the program.

I am really impressed with the availablity of the forum in which you can post questions and answers about the program. It details a lot of the questions you might have and you should check it out before you subscribe to this great service!

Springtime

It was nice the other day to pullk out all of the outdoor furniture and get it on the deck. We have a HUGe deck - enough room for the greill, a picnic table, a bistro set, and a full 6 chair table with umbrella. We also have a glilder swing on it - and still enough room to play and entertain! My husbnad spent one whole summer building that deck and every spring I am anxious to get out there. It's so nice to sit in the sunshine and watch the kids at play!

My dream

Picture it. Soft breezes brushing your skin, the smell of coconut oil wafting by you. The gentle swaying of your hammock lulling you to sleep as the sun peeks through the leaves of the palm trees above you. The sound of the surf fills your ears and the taste of a tropical drink flirts with your tongue.

I should have been a romance writer, yes?

*sigh* In a few weeks we'll be going on vacation and I am looking forward to that kind of relaxing experience! Just for kicks I was checking out HammocksRock.com while I was dreaming the dream - and you should check out what I found there! When I think of a hammock I think of a traditional rope hammock tied between two trees - they have these and so much more!

My parents have a canvas hammock and they love it. They say it is durable and tough - and it needs to be with their grandchildren playing on it all the time!

But nothing beats pawleys island hammocks for true luxury and relaxation!

Bike riding

The whole family went out for a bike ride this evening - what a great time we had! It was nice to spend recreational time with the kids and each other and get a little physical excercise. My bum knee actually felt stronger today than my "good" one - that's good. I had surgery on it 8 months ago or so. I was worried I wouldn't be able to bike yet - but it was all good. I am old and out of shape, however.

Dating

So glad I am not in that scene anymore! I am not much of a social person and dating would just about kill me at this point. I am lucky to be happily married...but my friend who is single is into a dating site. I guess I would try it too if I were thrust into the dating world again. It seems like a safe way (if you use common sense) to meet other people and get to know them before you actually have to spend any time with them! Seems like a good way to weed out the guys you know you aren't interested in!

Breastfeeding

My sister in law just called me and asked me some great questions about breastfeeding for a friend of hers. I am fired up about it now, because it is something I did and really loved and believe in! Maybe I'll start a breastfeeding series here - send me your questions and I'll try to help!

Unusual auction

OK - here is a wierd twist on the auction scene - an auction in which the lowest bidder is the winner! Well, I'm not sure if it works that way every time - the website says that unusual bidders win too... I'll have to check that out further! Either way, here is your chance to bid4prizes and win! I am an auction junkie - I love the high of being the winning bidder. Luckily my low balance in my checking account keeps this and other "highs" (ie shopping...) out of my daily schedule! But an auction where the LOWEST bidder wins? I could get into that! Looks like I could win a playstation (like I need another one of those - my son is already addicted!)

Page Rank!

Well, I must say i am pretty excited about my new page rank! I just looked and realized I am a 3! Whoooo hoooo! It's cool to k now that people are interested - and it will definitely increase my opportunities to have sponsored posts on here! Hope google was good to everyone!

job opportunities

Speaking of my husband's job situation being a mess(see my previous post), we were just contacted by a recruiter. Not that his situation warrants looking for something elsy (yet), but it was interesting hearing from this guy about how many different fields he has placements for. Everything from IT to risk management toaccounting. It's a great way to match people and skills up with jobs in their field. If his job should go sour, we could contact this guy and he's help us find a new position anywhere we wanted practically. It's a great way to gain nationwide exposure for your resume.

Biking

One of my favorite recreational pasttimes is biking with my family. A few years ago we all got new bikes and we started to bike together - we all have such fun. It's been a long time, though, becuase last summer I had surgery on my knee and was out for the count most of the summer. Plus my husband's job situation was a mess. I'm looking forward to getting on those bikes again soon. Maybe tonight!

Baking

I remember baking with my mom, and then the times that I wa allowed to bake on my owm - Right now my big girl is baking brownies all by herself. She's 9 almost ten and very responsible - and I am right in the next room of course. She's got the whole recipe down pat, but I just got a new oven and she's not too sure how to owrk it - so I am waiting for her to call me in. I love being a mom.

Spa treatments

For a deliciously relaxing at home spa treatment follow the following recipe:
take 1/3 cup cocoa powder, 3 tbsp. heavy cream, 2 tsp. cottage cheese, ¼ cup honey
and 3 tsp. oatmeal and mix it in a blender or use your magic bullet! spread it over your face for a moisturizing mask! Wash it off after ten minutes with warm water.

For an even more enjoyable spa experience, check out Puremed Spa! I don't have much experience with spas, but I know that they offer botox, laser hair removal, massages, and so much more. I think a spa trip would be a lovely mother's day gift (hint hint all you men) and just think how relaxed mom will be when she gets home!

Socks

How is it that my littlest came home from church today with a pair of socks on her feet that are not the same socks as the ones she had on when she went to church? I can tell you - goofy three year olds! Apparently when one takes off their socks the rest follow suit! Now I have no idea whose socks they are and where her socks are. Actually, I benefitted because the socks she came home with are much cuter than the ones she left with! :)

Lawn Mowing

Ahh - the sweet sweet sound of the lawn mower running and my kids' voices outside "helping" daddy! He shouts over the lawnmower to "come pick up that rock" or toy or stick or what have you and they run over and get (steering well clear of the mower, of course!) It just means springtime to me - and the sunshine and sweet smell of freshly cut grass add to the experience!

PayPerPost acquisition

Word is out that PayPerPost has aquired a new company and the buzz is on...
If you don't already know about PayPerPost, those of us who are bloggers ocassionally have a post "sponsored" by a company - PayPer Post is the vehicle that puts advertisers and bloggers together. It's a great way for bloggers to make a little extra cash by doing what they already love to do - blog - and advertisers get the word out about an event, a product, a website, or a service. It is a win-win situation -
But back to the great aquisition - I really have no idea. I don't really keep up with the business of payperpost. I just sit in my corner of the world typing away on my trusty keyboard about all sorts of ...interesting? things and occasionally I catch an "opportunity" at payperpost. There are those, I know, who are making a career at payperpost and they are probably keeping up with current events better than I am.
I do tend to try to find ways to drive traffic to my blogs - that's about the only time I even look at the forums and the PPP blog. Anyway, hopefully whatever company PPP has aquired will help with some of the problems that have been around in the -get-paid-for-blogging - world.

When Spring goes by!

My lilac tree has buds! I suppose it's a lilac bush! Anyway - it has buds - that must mean that spring is here! Forget robin redbreast - this is my first sign of spring - and one I welcome with open arms!


When Spring Goes By


The winds that on the uplands softly lie,
Grow keener where the ice is lingering still
Where the first robin on the sheltered hill
Pipes blithely to the tune, "When Spring goes by!"
Hear him again, "Spring! Spring!" He seems to cry,
Haunting the fall of the flute-throated rill,
That keeps a gentle, constant, silver thrill,
While he is restless in his ecstasy.

Ah! the soft budding of the virginal woods,
Of the frail fruit trees by the vanishing lakes:
There's the new moon where the clear sunset floods,
A trace of dew upon the rose leaf sky;
And hark! what rapture the glad robin wakes-
"When Spring goes by; Spring! Spring! When
Spring goes by."

Duncan Campbell Scott

Global Futures

I have to admit I didn't know much about futures and forex trading as investments.
But now that I've looked into it, it seems like a viable strategy for investing. With as little as $250 you can invest with Global Futures Exchange & Trading Co., Inc. To get started, you should check out their website, www.globalfutures.com and review all of the options available. You can read a letter from their president, customer testimonials, and you can find out a little about the history of the company. Then check out all of the options for investing, open an account online and get started.

Be sure to review the policies and risks of investing with any investment company. - Once you do you can make an informed decision regarding global futures and any other opportunities that come your way!

I CARRY YOUR HEART WITH ME

As a former English Ed major it strikes me how beautiful the English language is...sometimes. I, like everyone else, butcher it when I am blogging - my typing (dis) ability gets in the way or my thoughts move faster than my fingers do. But every so often it is nice to be reminded of the beauty that exists in the written word.


I CARRY YOUR HEART WITH ME
E.E.Cummings (not e.e.cummings)

i carry your heart with me(i carry it in
my heart)i am never without it(anywhere
i go you go,my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing,my darling)
i fear
no fate(for you are my fate,my sweet)i want
no world(for beautiful you are my world,my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life;which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart(i carry it in my heart)

Attorneys

My husband's brother is looking for some advice - his condo is having some maintenance problems and the association at his condo won't pay the costs of the repairs. He's looking to come to an agreement without a lot of legal hassle. He lives in NY and I have suggested to him that he contact Simmons, Jannace & Stagg . they have a lot of experience at this sort of thing - coming to a solution in a caring, client friendly way that will make all parties happy. I hope it works out for my brother in law. He really deserves a break!

Dinner

Just thinking about dinner tonight - what's it gonna be? I have a freezer full of food. Probably going with spaghetti! It's quick and easy and will allow us to get out the door for AWANA tonight. I'd best go get the meat out of the freezer!

Wedding costs

I'm tallying up my wedding costs from the past weekend and will give you the grand total soon. We got a hotel room, had our hair done, eyebrows waxed, got a gift, ate out all weekend, bought a tri-pod, etc. This is adding up to well over a thousand dollars. We are taking a big hit from this, but it's a happy thing and i guess it's all worth it!

web design

My husband is in the IT field, and, along with many other hobbies he dabbles in web design - I'm going to mention to him a company for processing a web form right on his own wensite - he won't have to go through an outside server. That way, when he does a form, it won't be covered with all of those advertisements from the outside server. I think he'll like the option. Plus he'll like the customer service - they will work with you on your web form until it is working perfectly. What a bonus. One of these days he's really going to thank me...!

All done

The wedding is over! Whoo hoo - they are all married! I am thrilled. The kids were good - they behaved beautifully and were priceless. They all looked gorgeous and handsome.My family recieved lots of compliments on how well behaved they were. Did I mention i was proud? More later on the wedding...

Leadership Training

My husband works for a company in serious need of some leadership training. Wher he worked in New England for a time he was able to get some of this training, and I really think it would be helpful in his current business. His boss is passionate about IT, but not so hot in the leadership/people management side of things. An Executive Leadership Training Program would benefit the entire company - he would run the business more effectively, have happier employees, and the return on that would be great. It would result in better attitudes and a better working environment. What a bonus!

google update

I hear that google is going to update soon - I'm hoping that my blogs get a higher pagerank. I like the immediate gratification of knowing that lots of people are looking at my blog. Plus it will help me get more opportunities when I take sponsored posts. In any case it's an update and change I am looking forward to!

Speaking of weddings

By the way, here is a nice option if you are an unmarried man looking for a wife and family - try a mail order russian bride! Yes, you heard me right. There is a dating site advertising russian brides. These are women in Russia who are looking for wedded bliss with a man from elsewhere. Ready to pick up and move at a moments notice. But don't get involved if you aren't serious about marriage - these women are looking for the whole package. As always, be careful when dating online - it's dangerous in many ways - especially to the heart - but there are those who would say it is worth the risk. These mail order marriages sometimes work out better than a traditional marriage in the US!

Wedding update

I have just spent another $85 dollars for this wedding - this time on alterations for 3 dresses. I also spent $55 on getting my hair colored - that's a story in itself. One for later! And then another $75 on tights, some jewelry, a headpiece for the little one, some hair clips, etc. then about $40 on shoes for the flower girl and ring bearer.

Grand total to date: $1037. and some change.

This does not include getting mine and my daughter's hair done, nails, eyebrow waxing, hotel room, gas, food for the weekend, and wedding gift. Ouch.

The blame game

I'm going to get on my soapbox here - just bear with me and I'll eventually get off again.

I am SO TIRED of people not taking responsibility for their own actions. I am SO TIRED of people making excuses for another's actions. I am SO TIRED of parents making excuses for their childrens' behavior. And I am SO TIRED of the blame game.

A guy who must be somewhat messed up in the head shoots and kills a bunch of innocent people. Let's see... who should we blame? The kids parents? The school? The government? The psychologist? The friends? The classmates? The VICTIMS?

How about we blame the guy who chose to pick up a gun and end so many inncoent lives? How about that? Why do we keep making excuses - reasons - that someone's bad decision really wasn't his own fault? It was society, or the NRA, or someone else, but not the shooter.

OK I'm getting off my soapbox now.

Gold

For my cousin's baby shower I am planning to buy gold coin. I think this is a creeative and different gift idea that she and her new baby will appreciate. Call it an investment in the baby's future. She (the baby) will have the gold coin forever and can watch it's value grow and fall through the years. I did the same for many years with a few silver ingots that I recieved as a gift. What a good lesson in the value of money. Now is a great time to buy gold coin, as well. You can have it shipped to a safe deposit box at a depository of your choice. I can't afford to buy that much, but a few pieces here and there will definitely be appreciated.

Unique gift idea

I saw this ad for blooming teas and was curious. I had to check out the website - What a unique gift idea! These are hand harvested, dried, and tied teas that, when put in boiling water, appear to bloom before your eyes. There are a number of rich sounding flavors available as well as teapots and cups, gift assortments and even a commuter teacup. Very cool. You can sign up for a free sample (you pay the shipping costs) and try it before you buy it!

I love tea, although I mostly drink coffee. I am interested in this tea because I am recently discovering leaf teas rather than the old stale stuff you get in a teabag at the supermarket! Nothing beats the fresh tea taste! It is pure comfort food for me!

Herbal supplements

I'm curious about these herbal supplements. This one, Dual Action Cleanse, says it cleanses your insides, purifies your body, and cleans out your colon. Maybe that's what I need to give me a boost - I am feeling very sluggish these days. Too much bad food and not enough excercise!

Home sick

My oldest went to the nurse today and had her call me - she didn't feel well. I picked her up and just don't see any evidence of sickness. Oh well. She never fakes it - at least she hasn't yet - so I'm sure she doesn't feel 100% You'd just not know it to see her right now!

surgery options

A friend of mine recently lost her husband to a cancerous brain tumor. I know that at the time they did everything they could to save his life, and I am not aware of every aspect of his treatment, but I wonder if they tried radiosurgery. I was just reading about this lifesaving surgery. It is only effective on certain types of brain tumors, but still...I wonder if it would have been an option for my friend.

Hawaii

Yes, I am really attracted to the idea of Hawaii next year for our vacation. I'll take a whole year to decide for sure, but the idea of a green vacations sounds good to me. Kauia vacation rentals are the way to go there, because they specialize in vacation properties that have a positive rather than a negative effect on the environment. It would be great to go there and get a feel for the natural beauty of the place, as well as the cultural heritage and the local communities. In the process you could be staying at a Kauai vacation rental and having the relaxing vacation of your dreams.

Snow in April

Here it is April and more snow on the ground. Funny that Christmas was green and Eater was white! I do so wish that the snow would go away for good! My husband would love some day to move South - I don't want to do that - I actually like the snow - but not into April.

The wedding is next weekend - I hope the weather is nicer than this and there is no snow on the ground - we are in strapless dresses (well, spaghetti straps) and strappy heels!

Off to Grandma's

The closest I can get to an immediate vacation is a trip to my parents overnight. So off I go. It's been a nice Easter vacation week, but I could use a little r and r now. So I'll pack everybody up and let the grandparents entertain and chase them a little bit! I may even get the chance to stay in bed a little longer tomorrow morning - the littlest one will surely go to gram and papa's room first thing in the AM instead of mine!

Next Year

Once I get potty training done with I can concentrate on planning next year's vacation! I know, I know I just got done planning this year's! Either way I deserve to be able to dream - it's a long shot, but I am hoping for something like... Hawawii? I'd like a Maui vacation rental next year. Sitting by the ocean, listening to the surf pound the shore... sounds as far from potty trainng as you can get! I'd like a big condo or townhouse - fully furnished - lots of sleeping space. Righ ton the beach. My husband laughs over my shoulder because he doesn't think we'll ever be able to afford it - we'll see!

Potty training day 5

Since Monday we have been in full bore potty training mode. I am so proud of my little one - I daresay I think she's got it! At least, in our house and in her little potty. She has gone in the big potty a few times - even once completely on her own - so hopefully her fear of being "Flushed Away" is alleviated! After all the frustrattion of previous potty trainng attempts I can see that things just needed to click for her - now she's got it!

Go Sabres!

Not that I'm a huge fan - But when your team is in the playoffs you becopme one i guess. So Go Sabres! I might catch a game or two in the next 15 or so. A few years ago I saw all of the ames right up until I was disillusioned byt triple overtime and a "no goal" call! Here's to this year - go for it Sabres!

education

While we plan vacations and participate in big buck weddings i can't help but think that if i had a better or different degree than the one I have I might be able to better help provide for my family. But how can I go back to school with three children who need shuttling to school and activities? I am considering getting an online education. Distance learning might just be the answer. After all, I can be in the office blogging, why couldn't i be in the office learning? With such a huge number of schools that offer distance learning I'm sure I can find the right match for me!

More wedding...

One of the things we still need to get are our accessories for the wedding. We (the girls) need jewelry and maybe a hand bag. We're going for that polished look, you know. While I am on the subject, check out the collection of Peter Belisi. A true genius in the world of accessorizing, he has created a website for you called www.stylehive.com. There you can check out all things relating to accessories. From bags to jewelry to accessories for your home - telephones and teacups and whatnot - the whole point is to join the stylehive community and see what's shaking in the world of fashion. This is a time when it's important to be a follower!

Wedding update

Well, we have gotten through the shower and most of the wedding planning - so I am going to update what we've spent so far. For those of you new to reading this we are all in my SIL's wedding next weekend. We have a groomsmand and a ring bearer, a bridesmaid, junior bridesmaid, and flower girl. Take a guess at how much that's running us!

My dress $150.00
My wrap $20.00
Flower Girl Dress $99.00
Jr Bridesmaid Dress - $109.00
Shower invitations - $25.00
postage $35.00
My husband's tux 107.98
My son's tux $72.15
wraps for both girls $24.00
shoes for three ladies $20 so far - still have to buy flower girl shoes.
shower gift, food, and game prizes - $175
alterations for three gowns - $85

still to be spent:
hotel room for wedding
bachelor party this weekend
shoes for flower girl
tights for all three ladies
hair for me and jr. bridesmaid
nals for same
eyebrow waxing

Want feedback?

Remember when we were kids we had those "slam books" I think they were called. It was a notebook, and you wrote your name on the top and then passed it around. Everyone wrote comments about you in your book - some good - and some maliciously bad. More than one little girl in my school left the room crying after hearing what everyone thought of her.

Being very sensitive myself I never took part in that type of thing. Anonymous comments about my inadequacies never appealed to me. If you can't say something to my face I would bet it's not worth saying...

Except in the world of business. I can see why an anonymous service like 360 degree feedback would be very popular. This is a service where you fill out a questionnaire about yourself, ask six people to read it and comment on it and you anonymously find out what others think about your behavior, attitude, and management style. A useful tool in that it allows your employees to review you - turning the tables on the once a year review/raise you get. And they can do it without fear of reprisal. All in all quite an improvement to the "slam books" of yore!~

Potty Training Tips

Because now I feel like I'm an expert (yeah, right) I'll give you some tips on potty training. First of all, you know that your child is ready when he/she hides to do her business in his/her diaper. Secondly he has to show some interest in the potty. Please don't be afraid to model it for your child. You don't get any privacy anyway when you are in there!

When your child is ready - lose the pull ups. A child doesn't get the difference between a pull up and a diaper. One is just the same as the other. Get some absorbent undies and go cold turkey. Load the kid up with juice and set them on the potty every 15 minutes. It might take a few days, but eventually the buzzer will go off in their head when they need to go and presto!

The dining room

Our dining room has been done for quite a while now - except for the lighting. I don't want anything too fancy - just a simple cottage look. But I did find some georgeous Chandeliers that would look so nice in a formal dining room!



Makes me wish we hadn't done the cottage look! I would love a great big house with a formal dining room! Anyway, these chandeliers aren't even sold in stores. To avoid the middlemen and markups of lighting stores they sell them directly to you. That makes it easy and less expensive!



These beautiful D'Legne Chandeliers are inexpensive European-style crystal chandeliers - for more up-close photos check out www.dlegne.com!

Potty training - The saga continues!

It is going well. Really well. So well I dare not hope...
My little one has spent the last three days is underpants and has had only about 5 accidents. 5 may sound like a lot, but two of them were the first day, the next two were at McDonald's where she was afraid to use the big potty and one of them was just now at home - i think she didn't give herself enough time to get there. Either way I think this is going well. They key - jelly beans! She gets one every time she goes and she loves them. I tried m and m's but no way - jelly beans!

blinds

As we continnue the renovations to our son's bedroom, I am still debating about some of the decorative elements. He is an outdoorsy boy - into fishing and hunting and antlers and such, so we have chosen a lodge type of theme. Cabela's has some great borders that we are going to order and then paint. But I am still trying to figure out what to do for lighting and for window treatments. I am considering vertical blinds - i think the kids will go aesier on them than horizontal ones. Although, maybe just a shade would work. I'm goiung to loook for something lodgy - outdoorsy. Maybe wood blinds. Either way I'm checking out Terry's Fabrics for window treatments.

Reservations

We did it! We made our reservations for our trip! i am giddy-excited. Walt Disney World Here we come! I am excited for the kids - this will be their first time at Walt Disney World, but i have to admit that i am excited for me too - the idea of a long family vacation really appeals to me! No cooking, hardly any cleaning - sign me up! I know that for me the packiing will be a chore, but once we are on the road...woohoo!

Ultimate Paintball

My husband loves paintball. When he was a young guy in college it was all the thing to do - and then as he helped out with our church's youth group he introduced them to the sport. There are only a few places around for paintball, so it can't drain too much of his time! When he looks for equipment, though, he tends to gravitate toward the great selection of paintball guns at Ultimate Paintball. They are the best paintball store around, selling everything from the Tippmann A-5, the Tippmann 98 Custom, the Smart Parts Ion, and the Spyder Pilot ACS. You can order paintballs, a paintball mask, paintball markers - whatever paintball gear you need. Best of all the prices are reasonable and the shipping is free. Check out http://www.pntball.com to see for yourself!

Candy Candy CANDY!

What is the worst thing you can do for a diabetic and her family? Give them an Easter basket filled with peanut butter cups and hershey's kisses with almond! Ugh - I can't keep myself away! And my children are asking me every ten minutes - can I have some candy? NO! (Then I go sneak some - it's bad!)

Florida

Part of the excitement of planning our trip to Florida is planning where we are going to stay. Imagine finding a place to book your trip where you get to check out the place online first - a virtual tour if you will - and you can choose the exact room you want to stay in. We are considering renting an Orlando Villa - we could get exactly what we want at a cheaper price than your typical hotel. We can choose a place with or without a pool, we could also book flights and cars - all of the things you need for your next vacation!

Dating advice

Now, I have been happily married for almost 12 years now, but boy do I wish this website was around back when I was dating! It would have saved me a lot of trouble! Here is the World's Largest Database Rating Abusive and Cheating Men! Ladies - have you dated a man you wouldn't recommend to your worst enemy? List him here!

Check out the website for all kinds of support and advice from others who have been there!

babysitting

Boy it's been a long time since i had a toddler in the house! I am babysitting today and I've forgotten all about childproofing! (sad, since my youngest is only 3!) Anyway this little one is climbing my stairs, putting stuff in her mouth - you name it she is getting into it! I have to watch her like a hawk!

The Virgin Islands

If you are interested in owning a piece of real estate in the US Virgin Islands, Century 21 Sauter and Associates is a trusted place to go for help. Not only can they help you find a home, they can help you learn about the community and customs of the people in the Virgin Islands. Century 21 is the industry leader in the field.
Rosemary Sauter-Frett is the owner of this group and has been president of the Virgin Islands Territorial Association of Realtors®. She recently was named “Realtor of the Year” for 2004, and is now in a three year position as a Director for the National Association of Realtors. All this to say that you can be confident that you are putting your trust in a worthy company.

When researching virgin island real estate let Century 21 Sauter and Associates give you the helping hand you need.

Chocolate Jesus

Oh my goodness. I just wonder what they'll come up with next. So this guy in NYC does a sculpture of Jesus in chocolate and now a bunch of people have their undies in a bundle over it.

Really, folks... I am a Christian, and frankly I think it's cool that someone would use their talent to honor Jesus in that way. Why such offense? Is it the medium? Would people be so upset if it were made of marble? Or is it the fact that Jesus isn't wearing a loincloth?

When you look at it, isn't it an idol, anyway? Why get so worked up about it - aren't there better things to be offended about?

The blogosphere

The blogosphere - what a funny term. I suppose that's what it is - a world in which we are surrounded by blogs. We live them and breathe them, don't we? I am somewhat new to the blogging world, although i am finding my way with the help of a good friend who holds my hand and answers my questions.

I found a site today to organize my blogging world. HighFivez.com is a place to submit a blog and check out other people's blogs. You can check out blogs and vote for or against them. You can also keep all of you blogs in one central location and keep track of them. This, to me, is worth looking into.

When I checked out the site I was impressed at how the blogs were sorted by topic and post title. They all seemed really interesting and relavent. Some were serious, some were humorous - and the writer can choose from all kinds of categories to label his/her blog post.

After you check out recently submitted posts, you can look and see which posts are being discussed. Posts are rated as to which are most viewed as well. The site is well constructed and easy to follow. Check it out!

Amoxicillan

I realized this morning that i left the little one's medicine out all night. It says Keep refrigerated. Ugh. It was $77.00 for that bottle. Luckily the insurance covered all of it yesterday, but they won't just hand me a new bottle today for free.

I called the pharmacy (after panicking and asking my friend who calmly told me to call) and they said it was fine - no problem. Whew. That would have done me in - after one dose of medicine dumping the whole bottle and having to get new. Thank You God for the little things you do!

Mother's Day

Mother's day is fast approaching. I will never think of mother's day without first thinking of my first child. I was due to have her on mother's day, and ended up having her a few days later. I remember being so frustrated that i didn't have her yet. My husband made me feel better by buying me a great present - a personal cd player that i could use while in labor. I still have and use that gift - and will remember it always because of the thought that he put into purchasing it. He knew I'd be frustrated - nothaving a baby in my arms yet - on that first mothers day and as he put it - i was a mother, wasn't I? Yes I was! He's a great, thoughtful gift giver, by the way.

anyway, since mother's day is coming and I appreciate how important finding the right mother's day gift is I thought I'd help you all out by pointing out this great
place to find 2007 Mother's Day Gifts for Moms, Mothers and Grandmothers. You can find beautiful gifts here from jewelry to figurines to music boxes Mother's Day Pendants, Necklaces, Jewelry Gifts for Mom
- you can't go wrong. there are some lovely religious gifts and jewelry which I don't mind hinting to my hubbie that I'd love - I wonder if he even reads my blog! I guess I'll find out when I do or don't get something fabulous from this website!

This stuff makes great mother's day gifts, but you can honor mom any time - and shop here to find Easter gifts, birthday gifts and just "I love you mom" gifts! I know nothing is better than the homemade cards and noodle necklaces that our little ones make for us, but we can expect more from our husbands, can't we? After all, we may not be their mothers, but we are the mother of their children, right?

strep throat

I win the bet that we never actually made because I don't bet! My eldest has strep. Great. The little on eis still a basket case because of a double ear infection, and now the big one is sick too - and highly contageos the Dr. says. The rapid strep test, which I guess usually takes about ten minutes, showed strep in about three minutes. We are swimming in amoxicillin!

classifieds

I've found it! A great source for online classified ads! It's My Market Directory lists anything you might need in a classified ad. There is local talk where you can communicate with people in your local area. You can participate in the question of the day, community blogs, even check out the news or post in the forums. Listing a classified ad is free, and can be listed in your local area.

From the itsmymarket.com Directory you can connect with other community websites, the local dating scene, traffic and weather reports, what's playing at the local cinema and so much more. Check out www.itsmymarket.com today!

Two White Flags

Things are going downhill fast around here. I am seriously considering changing my blog name to: The Chronicles of The Sicknesses of our Family.

My oldest woke up this morning with a sore throat so we are off to the doctor. It looks swollen and beefy with white spots. Any guesses? I'm thinking Strep. I don't gamble, but if I did I'd bet the bank on it.

SEO Help

Have you ever considered hiring search engine optimization services? As I continue my blogging career I can see how important it is to build traffic to my blog. I get lots of satisfaction in knowing who is clicking on my blog - it makes all this writing I do seem worthwhile. An SEO service like customermagnetism.com is a great tool to use to help the right people find your blog. This particular company specializes in free (non-sponsored) listings and can draw up a plan for your website that will build links and recognize keywords that will attract people to the site.

customermagnetism.com charges reasonable rates for a thorough, personalized SEO plan.

Red Slush Punch

I just made this punch for my sister in law's wedding shower and it was delicious! Everyone raved about it - and I went through four punch bowls worth of the stuff. The recipe is from allrecipes.com.

INGREDIENTS
3 (3 ounce) packages strawberry flavored gelatin mix
9 cups boiling water
4 cups sugar
9 cups water
2 (46 fluid ounce) cans pineapple juice
2 cups lemon juice
4 (2 liter) bottles ginger ale
DIRECTIONS
In a large bowl, whisk together the strawberry gelatin mix and 9 cups of boiling water. Set aside. In a large pot, bring the remaining 9 cups of water to a boil. Stir in the sugar until dissolved. Pour the sugar water into the gelatin water, then stir in the pineapple juice and lemon juice, mixing well. Pour into four 1-gallon size resealable freezer bags, or pretty Bundt pans to freeze.
To make punch, place one of the frozen portions into a punch bowl, and pour 1 bottle of ginger ale over.

I highly recommend using the four resealable freezer bags rather than the bundt pans. Sometimes the slushy part freezes too much and it's hard to break up in the punch bowl. Make it in the bags so you can break it up in the bag before you pour over the ginger ale.

Old Testament Books

Does anyone out there have any advice for teaching children the books of the Old Testament? I have seen some places that talk about setting them to music, but I can't actually find the melody (melodies). My six year old needs to learn them.
Is there a website I can go to to actually hear a song? That would be most helpful!

Vacation

Oh - I am ready for a vacation! And when I'm ready to book my vacation at an all inclusive resort in Mexico I will do it at Vacations.net. Their website is easy to use - you can book everything from a resort vacation to a cruise...you can book a car or flight - all from one place. You can find out in depth information about the things that you book - and you can take virtual tours and actually see your destination. Maybe the best feature is that you can see how other vacationers have rated the exact vacation that you want to book! Prices are reasonable too with some up to 50% cheaper than you can find other places.

Time to book a trip for Spring Break!

Antibiotics

My good friend over at pencil thin has some great advice about antibiotics. Since my little one is taking augmentin i thought I'd look up some info on it. Healthline.com also has some good info on it. Sadly, it seems that I am all too familiar with these antibiotics - seems like the little one has been on them quite a lot!

Double Ear infection

My little one is down for the count again. Double ear infection. She started coughing last Tuesday, and I waited until Friday to take her to the Dr. I could kick myself, but I was sure they would tell me it was just a virus. When I finally took het it was croup. So we did steroids for three days, but her fever never really went away, and she continued to cough, although not as bad. But her demeanor - she has been crabby and sad and screaming all day - just miserable. I didn't get too frustrated, knowing that she wasn't feeling well...anyway, back to the Dr. we went today - double ear infection. Here we go Augmentin!

Baby stuff

My good friend is expecting - and I am very excited for her! So excited, in fact, that I started my baby shopping a bit early! I found a great place online to buy baby gifts! They have everything the new mom could want. From personalized items to mommy pampering kits to clothes to toys. Baby Nest is the perfect place, also, to find a friend - the website has discussion boards on all types of topics - from breastfeeding to the perfect layette - you can discuss it all here. There are gifts for siblings and grandparents too!

Thanks, honey

Just wanted to send out thanks to my husband for setting me up with some wireless internet so I can blog and watch re-runs of Judging Amy at the same time! I feel free - no longer chained to the desk in the office. It will make things easier when i need to use the computer and watch Maggie and the Ferocious Beast with my three year old too! Thanks, honey!

OK OK the Dentist - blessing # 7

OK - I'll add the dentist to my blessings list - along with the doctor, health insurance and all of the quality medical care we have in our family. With a son who had asthma, and myself with diabetes, we are fortunate to have the care that we do. I must add these things to my blessings list.

The dentist

I'm sorry I just can't bring myself to add the dentist to my blessings list - oh I guess I will later. In any case I am heading to the dentist this afternoon for an x-ray of a root canal that I had. In checking out dental x-rays on the web i found the listing for Charles Brown DDS PC. Dr. Brown has over 10 years experience in the field of root canal surgery, crown placements, and other dental surgeries with Hayfield Dental Care. Dr. Brown has a clear record with no complaints to the Virginia Board of Dentistry, and has recieved several awards including an academic achievement award from The Medical College of Virginia, and the Quality Care Award and Resident of the Year Award from UMMC. Dr. Brown is a high quality dentist in the Alexandria VA area and can be reached at 703-971-2220.

Blessing #6 - The material things

My home. The clothes on my back. My car. My bank account. The food in my refridgerator. My computer. Tylenol. My TV. And so much more that can not be listed. I take all of these things for granted - it is apparent to me when I am faced with things like my church's mission trips to Africa and the like - We have so much here nad so much to be thankful for.

Blessing #5 - My Faith

First of all I have to state that this list is not really in the proper order - my faith is pretty much blessing #1. It's just that it's not the first blessing that came to mind! (That's bad)

Anyway, God is #1. Well, he should be - sometimes that's hard. But my husband and kids would not be here but for the grace of God, and I am thankful to him for them. Faith is an odd thing - I have faith in something I can not see or explain - it just is.

I have faith that God has my best interests in mind - even if/when I do not agree with him. Faith means letting go and letting God be in control. Like I siad, I'm not always there, but I am human so that's my excuse.

Cash Flow Problems

You've been there. We all have. That few days between the bill due date and your next paycheck. If you pay the bill late, there is a big late fee. That's when California Payday Loans come in handy. They are there to just get you through until you can catch up. As with any financial loan you should look into the terms of a payday cash advance and make sure you can pay the loan back before you sign on the dotted line, but once you research it and make sure it's right for you a payday loan can be a lifesaver.

Blessing #4 - the little one

An imp, a sprite, a mischievous twinkle in chocolate brown eyes. A dora haircut and a beautiful smile. She is brilliant (if I do say so myself) and funny - And she likes to give her big brother a hard time. She loves to be a princess and dress up in a dress and a crown.

She makes me crazy, yet she's the last and so darn cute that it's hard to be stern with her - and she knows it and has us wrapped around her little finger. She takes her little buddy by the shirt and pulls him after her saying, "Come on. You be the dad and I'll be the mom."

Someday I hope she marries him!