Sleep Apnea

My husband had a sleep study done years ago. For those of you who don't know, it's where you go to the hospital overnight, and they hook you up to machines while you sleep, checking your oxygen levels and breathing. When Junior went, they thought the machines were malfunctioning, because his oxygen level was reading 46. When they brought a new machine in, it gave the same results. He also stopped breathing every few seconds, which they were extremely concerned about. They diagnosed him with severe sleep apnea and sent him home with a bi-pap machine. Whenever he sleeps, even napping on the couch, he has to wear this mask over his face that forces air down his throat, keeping his airway open. The first night he used he, he slept like a baby. He got up the next morning and said he hadn't slept that good in years.

Recently, he has started snoring again, even with his mask on. This is a sign that he either needs a new study done, or a new mask. I know the seal on his is ripped, and that could be part of the problem. It's just that the mask costs around $400, and we don't have that right now. I'm hoping when he gets back into the clinic, they can replace it for him. It's so important that his machine works properly to keep him alive. Sleep apnea is not something you want to take lightly. If you or your spouse snores, look into having a study done. It could save your life.

Ribik's Cube

My brother-in-law Mike called me a geek. Why, you ask? Well, because I got excited over a rubik's cube. My mom got me one for Christmas, and it is one of my favorite gifts, right behind my new Wolfgang Puck griddle. Mike mixed it all up, and while I didn't do it quickly, I did solve it.
Now, every time I solve it, one of the kids messes it up. Then I solve it again. They try to solve it, but give up after a few minutes. I tell them to practice, and they will be doing it in no time!

Senior Chatting

You have all heard over and over again how I met my husband. Now I want to hear your stories. Were you high school sweethearts? Did you meet in college? Was it a blind date like me? I love hearing the stories about how people met their spouses.

It's easy when you are young, and there are so many opportunities. School and work offer you the chance to meet many different people. But what happens when you are married for a while, and you lose your spouse, either by death or divorce? How do you go about finding someone to spend time with? It can be scary, because you have been out of practice, so to speak, for so long. There are programs available online, like Senior Chat rooms, that can help you to meet people who are around your age and share your interests. It takes a little bit of the pressure off, because you aren't on a face to face date, and you can decide before giving any information about yourself whether or not you want to get to know a person better. You still have to be very careful, but this is a good way to get your feet wet.

It beats moving to Florida!

Christmas Cupcakes

This was my contribution to Christmas dessert ~ mini cupcakes. I made chocolate, with red and green frosting. They came out so cute, and they tasted great, too!

I had some cookies, too, and they were also good. I swear I gained 10 pounds!

Help Those Teens Learn

Are you the parent of a teenager? I am, but just recently. My son turned 13 in November. I'm not sure if age is a factor in this, but this year is the first time he has had trouble in school. The subjects are more specific, because he now changes classrooms throughout the day. Luckily, the district offers in school tutoring, so he does get some assistance, The problem is he could use more help. Brightstorm is perfect for helping High School aged children. They offer courses specific to each subject, like algebra and writing. They even offer SAT prep. This is a fun way for kids to get the extra help they need. You can sign up for a free brightstorm acocunt and check out a free episode of each course. This allows you to see before you buy, and I gotta say, once you see how fun and effective the courses are, you will not hesitate in buying them for your child. Let's face it, if the kids won't enjoy the programs, they won't do them. I have this problem with my son. If I ask him to do a math problem, it takes forever for him to get to the answer. But when I give him twenty dollars in the store, he can have it spent, right down to the last penny, in about two minutes. When it relates to him, he can do it.

I recommend you sign up for a free account so you can check out the programs they offer. This could be the thing that gives your child the assistance they need.

Catching My Breath

It has been a crazy couple of days. My sister and her family arrived safely yesterday from NY. I can not believe how much her kids have grown. Of course, she says the same about mine! I am going to be so busy for the next few days. We are planning a trip to the zoo, which should be interesting. We've never been in the winter months. Maybe it won't smell as bad as it does in the summer...

No Call List Information

I am one of millions of people who hate telemarketers. I have put my name on the do not call list, but sometimes people get through. I don't know who they are, because their numbers do not come up on my caller ID. If you get the same kinds of calls, trying to find no call list information can be frustrating. Sometimes using Phone Number Trace is easier, as they can tell you who called from that annoying number.

Merry Christmas From Me To You!

I hope Santa is really good to you.
I hope you get everything you asked for.
I hope you have a wonderful holiday, filled with family and friends.
I hope you eat great food and enjoy every bite.
I hope you are safe, and happy.
Merry Christmas!

Big Ideas

I know, you all are probably tired of hearing about chat rooms. But, I believe that everyone has a soul mate somewhere, and for some people, this may be the way they connect with theirs. As most of you know, I was set up on a blind date with my husband, so I know how hard it is to meet someone on your own. I have always been heavy, and had no idea there were BBW Chat rooms just for bigger people. Go figure.

Camera Fixed!

I have the best brother in the world! I called him this morning, and he fixed my picture problems. Okay, maybe he just showed me a way to get around my problem, but hey, I can download my pictures now, and that's the important thing. I love that he is a computer guy. The other night we downloaded something on my computer allowing him to get on mine from his at his house. It's pretty cool!

Asian Chat City

I have been writing a lot lately about chat rooms. Not because I go into them, but because there is such a variety out there. From bikers and vampires, to Latina and Asian Chat rooms, if you are looking for a certain type of person, I'm pretty sure you can find a chat room dedicated just to them.

My Lovely Ladies

This is what you get when the kids steal your camera in the McDonald's playland. I know it's a little blurry, but you can really see their blue eyes. Aren't they beautiful?! (I know. I'm biased) I just love their self-portrait.

Payday Loans

A few weeks ago, my husband and I discovered that we just weren't going to have enough money to get the kids Christmas. Bills were piling up, as usual, and we just didn't have the cash. With my husband only getting paid every two weeks, we have to make the money last. It was just our luck that he gets paid the day after Christmas.

We decided that we would go and look into payday loans. My husband went online and looked up various sites. I wasn't comfortable giving out our checking account information online, but my husband felt it was okay. Let's just say that I was right. The site he was looking into had a lot of fine print he didn't bother to read. A few days later, I had over $30 taken out of our checking account. It seems the fine print signed him up for an identity theft program. I called the company immediately, and while they did cancel his account, they refused to refund my money.

We did end up getting a payday loan. We used a local company instead of one online. If you would rather apply from home, use a service like Yellow Leaf Financial. They can direct you to lenders who may be able to help you. My only advice is to make sure you read the fine print carefully.

The Finished Product

Don't they look yummy? I think Santa will really enjoy these. I made the little round ones on the bottom racks. They will probably end up on a tray to share with my family on Saturday. We aren't seeing my brother and his family on Christmas. They are going to Colleen's on Saturday when my sister is here. She's coming from NY and I can't wait to see her! Oh, and we're going to see Twilight on Friday night! YAY!!!!!!

Family vacations

Two summers ago, my sister planned a family vacation to the beach. She rented a house for a week, and split the cost with my two other sisters and my brother. Unfortunately, I was unable to go because of money. This year we are financially in better shape, and are hoping to plan another family vacation. Picking the destination is the hardest part, because we need to find somewhere that has something for everyone. The guys in the family love to golf, and of course, the girls love to shop. I was thinking of heading to the Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing. It is located in the heart of Historic Downtown Branson, Missouri, on Lake Taneycomo, across from the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel. If we were to go in the winter, we could take advantage of their Winter Escape Package. The hotel is only minutes away from the area's 49 theatres, so there would be plenty of things to see. There are also outlet malls nearby, so shopping wouldn't be a problem. The guys would have their golf courses, and the kids would love a day at Silver Dollar City. If I remember correctly, they featured this park on an episode of 17 Kids and Counting, when the Duggar family went there for the day. It looked like something kids and adults would both enjoy. Vacationing here would offer something for everyone, and with it's 242 guest rooms, suites, and condos, and amazing view of the lake, I'm sure we will be comfortable and relaxed. Isn't that what vacationing is all about?

Sugar Cookies

This morning we made sugar cookies. As you can see, the kids had fun decorating the cookies with colored sugar and sprinkles. I think by the time they went into the oven, they were more decoration than cookie! I didn't care, though, cause these are what they will leave out for Santa tomorrow night. Wow, tomorrow night! I can't believe it. I'm so excited!!!

Settlement Advance

Are you suing someone for personal injury? While waiting for your settlement, bills and other expenses tend to pile up. With pre settlement funding you can get an advance on your winnings so that you can pay your bills, or just spend the money you are entitled to. It's a simple process to see if you will be approved, and you will know within 48 hours. Don't let an injury ruin your credit. Get an advance today.

Sleep...What Is That?

Here it is, again, 1 am and I am still up.

This insomnia is getting old.

It doesn't help that I am having serious computer issues.

The good news is that my brother said I have the "facebook virus" and I ran my anti virus stuff, and hopefully that took care of it. It took about 4 1/2 hours to scan my while computer, so hopefully I am good to go. I'll let you know as soon as I try dropping my ecards tomorrow.

If I am still having problems, I am going to scream!

CEIVA Digital Frames

I've got a wish. But it's a secret.

My husband and the kids keep asking me what I want for Christmas. I wanted all the Twilight books, but couldn't wait until Christmas to read them, so that's not going to work. I want the new Dean Koontz book, so maybe they could get that.

Here's my secret wish. I would love a digital picture frame. These are so cool! They even have ones now where you can upload pictures from your phone, without the need of your computer. CEIVA Digital Photo Frames are like that. Right now you can go to their site, and virtually sit on Santa's lap. Just download a picture of yourself, and they work all the magic. Make sure you tell him what your Christmas wish is, because it shows up in his book. They are even giving away $500 prizes to one lucky winner each day. I know this is the perfect time of year to come into a little extra cash. I am, thankfully, done with all of my shopping, but I do know a few people who are waiting until the last minute.

These picture frames are pretty cool, so make sure you check them out. And while you're there, sit on Santa's lap, and make sure you tell him that I was a good girl!

Ryan's Craft

While I was totally frustrated with my computer today, Ryan sat and made this adorable Christmas tree out of craft lace and beads. He made a green one too, but my computer is giving me a fit when I try to download pictures. In fact, I am ready to throw it out the flippin' window today. Anyway, he made these out of his head, no pattern, and I love them. Not bad for a 13 year old boy with ADHD. He hopes to make enough to give as gifts to his aunts and Grandparents.

Do You Ride?

As most of you know, my dad recently bought a trike. Whenever I think of him riding, I think of the movie Wild Hogs. It's about four men who decide to take a road trip on their bikes, and all kinds of funny things happen along the way. They end up making a very tough biker gang mad at them, and they spend a good amount of the movie running and hiding from them. It is a very funny movie.

I wonder what kind of bikers hang out in Biker Chat Rooms? Are they young, hot bikers, or some Wild Hogs? If riding is your thing, and you're looking to connect with other bikers, you might want to check it out.

Ideas

I need some ideas. The kids are out of school starting Friday afternoon. That means we will be cooped up together, anxious for Christmas. I need some craft ideas that we can do together. I have some leftover ornaments from Brandi's party that they can paint, but that will only take a couple of hours. I also have a lot of baking to do, and they can help with that. Hubby is off Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, so hopefully we can get out of the house a little. We don't have much extra money, so maybe you guys have some ideas for cheap things to do? I want to make this vacation fun for them.

My sister and her family will be down the week after Christmas, so they will have their cousins to play with then. I haven't seen them in about a year and a half, so I am excited about the visit. Her boys are growing up so fast...

Vampires

I don't know what I'm going to do with myself tonight. I already miss Bella and Edward and Jacob. I really need to get my hands on the last book in the series. I wonder what Vampire Chat Rooms
are like? I am curious about "real" vampires. Do they really think they need to drink blood?

Tell me. Do you believe in vampires?

I Wanna Be A Bear

Can I hibernate, please? I am so tired, and all I want to do is sleep. I don't care about eating, or watching tv, or anything. I just want about eight hours of straight sleep. Once the kids are on the bus this morning, I am going back to bed. I'll be back later.

Chat Rooms

I did a husband meme on my other blog, and it got me thinking about how other people have net their spouses. My husband has a sister who met a guy in an Online Chat room, but things didn't work out. I have always been curious about chat rooms, but have never been to one. I know they are a great place to meet people who enjoy the same things you do.

Now It's Ryan's Turn

Ryan. My only son.

Handsome and big-hearted.

I used the posterize effect on picnik for this one.

Pretty cool, huh?

I really need to head to bed. I am so tired! At least I know hubby works in the morning, so when the kids get on the bus, I am going back to bed for a while.

Jewish Holidays

I grew up in New York. I didn't move down south until I was an adult. I found it odd that in South Carolina, my kids do not get all the Jewish Holidays off of school. There just aren't many Jewish people who go to our district, I guess. It is probably hard for the few who do to find people who share their religious views. Luckily there are Jewish Chat Rooms online where they can make friends and chat with people who share their religion.

Kasi's Turn

I love this picture of kasi!

I took it at the parade last week, too.

She never shows her teeth when she smiles, but that just makes her look so innocent.

I think so, anyway.

This is the pencil sketch feature at picnik.

How Did You Meet?

As most of you know, I met my husband on a blind date. My best friend at the time thought I would be perfect for her husbands sisters husbands best friend. Did you follow that? I agreed to go because I knew we had things in common. I know some people use the internet to meet people, going into Goth Chat Rooms and such. I say as long as you meet the person you are destined to be with, it doesn't matter how you get together. Some day you will have an awesome story to tell your Grandkids.

Brandi In Black And White

I love playing at picnik.

I think Boo looks great in black and white.

I love this picture, with the wind blowing her hair.

I took it last week at the parade.

I need to get more shots of Ryan and Kasi.

They hate the camera like I do!

For The Hunters In Your Life

I will admit that I know nothing about hunting, and even less about the equipment hunters use. I do, however, know good deal when I hear it. Right now, Nikon Sport Optics, NikonProGear.com and NikonHunting.com are offering a Nikon Hunting Christmas Promotion that is amazing. The Nikon’s Ultimate Hunter’s Package includes a ProStaff rifle scope, ProStaff 550 Rangefinder, and a technique teaching DVD. They are also having a binocular sale, where you can get a $25 or $50 gift card when you buy Nikon Monarch Binoculars, Trailblazer Binoculars, Nikon Action 10x50 Binoculars or any Nikon ATB Binoculars. These supplies would look great wrapped up under the tree Christmas morning, and that gift card would make a great stocking stuffer for the hunter in your life.

My Little Shpoholic

Brandi went to the Santa shop at school today. I sent her with ten dollars, and told her to get gifts for her sister, brother, dad, and me. She was so excited when she got home. I got to see what she bought for everyone, except me. She did slip and say one of my gifts was ear rings, so she went ahead and gave them to me. They are little blue hearts, with smaller purple hearts in the middle. So cute! I can not wait to proudly wear them.

Cheap Eyeglasses

I think I need new eyeglasses. I have a pair of black wire ones that I love, but the nose piece is broken. I would love to find some that are the same, but right now, going to the eye doctor is out of the question. Most eyeglasses are just too expensive, and we can not afford them right now. I would rather spend the couple of hundred dollars it would cost to buy some more gifts for Christmas.

I know I could always shop at Optical4less, where glasses start at only $15. They have such a great variety! Usually these discount sites offer only outdated frames, but Optical4less has stylish, fashionable frames that you would want to wear every day. Their price is for complete prescription eyeglasses, not just the frames. They also offer tinted sunglasses, bifocal reading glasses, progressive reading eyeglasses, and photochromic sunglasses. At their prices, you could afford to have a different pair for every day of the week! They even offer free shipping if you order more than one pair.

Luckily I am the only one in my family needing glasses right now. Ryan does wear eyeglasses to see the board at school, but we have insurance that completely covers his eyes. I do know where I will be getting my new glasses. For $15 a pair, how can I not?

Santa Shop

Today Brandi's class is going to the Santa Shop. This is set up by the PTA, and it gives the kids a chance to buy their own Christmas presents for family. Last year, she bought me the most beautiful angel figurine. I can not wait to see what I get this year. If I know her, she won't be able to wait until Christmas to give it to me.

Freebies

I spent a good part of last week trying to get my mother's computer online. It is an old computer, with windows me on it, and it just wouldn't cooperate. After a very frustrating hour or two on Tuesday night, I told her I would just bring her my old computer, and she could use that until my brother could upgrade hers. It took us two tries, and two days, to finally get her all hooked up. She was so excited. It had been a while since she could surf the internet, and she didn't know what to do first.

She has always been curious about all the free stuff I find online. I will admit to bragging every now and then when I find a great, free product. So I sat with her, and we searched for free stuff. I was able to find a few sites that I have used in the past, and then we found this new to me promotional products blog. It's a great source for finding all the promotional things companies are doing. I found a really cool TMNT cheese mold for easy cheese. My nephews would love that. This site gives you a heads up on what products are giving away promotional things, and let's face it, we all love free stuff. I especially love it when a product I already use offers a promotional product that makes it easier to use that product. Wow, that was a tongue twister right there, but i think you get the point.

If you are a freebie hunter like me, make sure and check out this site.

Seven Layers Of Me Meme

I stole this from the amazing Jenn...

LAYER 1: Tell us your…

* Name: Jennifer Lynn
* Birthday (month, day): February 4
* Birthplace: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
* Current location: Spartanburg, South Carolina
* Eye color: green...sorry, jenn ;)
* Hair color: dirty blond and, ahem, a little gray
* Height: 5' nothing
* Righty or lefty: Righty
* Zodiac sign: Aquarius

LAYER 2: What’s…

* Your heritage: I'm a mutt, with a lot of Irish and Swedish
* The shoes you wore today: Black Flip Flops....no, it's not really warm enough, but I have a little cut on my toe and socks and shoes hurt!
* Your fears: do we REALLY want to open this can of worms????
* Your perfect pizza: mushrooms and spinach is my current favorite!
* Goals you’d like to achieve: um....make more money with my blogs
* Your first waking thoughts: it's 5:20 already?
* Your best physical feature: My new boobs! Okay, my eyes.
* Your most missed memory: um........

LAYER 3: Do you…

* Smoke: No. I quit seven years ago, cold turkey, and have only once felt like doing it again, in a moment of EXTREME STRESS, but I didn't.
* Cuss: I’d make a sailor blush. ** Jenn stole this answer, and I'm going to steal it from her!
* Sing: Yes, I sing, ALL...THE...TIME...just not well! lol!
* Do you think you’ve been in love: There's not a doubt in my mind.
* Did you go to college: briefly.
* Liked high school: Kinda. I was smart and a "good girl", so I missed out on dating and such, but I had great friends who I miss.
* Want to get/stay married: Yeah. I've already put in 13 years, I may as well see how much longer we will last! :)
* Believe in yourself: Abso-tootin-lutely!
* Think you’re attractive: Yup. I'm beautiful!
* Think you’re a health freak: Not even close, although I wish I were.
* Get along with your parent(s): Yes
* Like thunderstorms: Mostly, but I hate when the kids get scared.
* Play an instrument: I sat first chair viola for years! Not sure how much I would remember...it's been almost 20 years since I had one in my hands.

LAYER 4: In the past month have you…

* Drank alcohol: Nope.
* Smoked: Nope.
* Done a drug: Nope.
* Made out: Yup.
* Gone on a date: If you count grocery shopping while the kids are in school!
* Gone to the mall: Yup...Black Friday
* Eaten an entire box of Oreos: Nope. I prefer chocolate chip, but not the whole box.
* Been on stage: Nope.
* Been dumped: Nope.
* Gone skating: Nope.
* Gone skinny dipping: Yeah, right! lol!
* Stolen Anything: Um.....do hugs and kisses count?

LAYER 5: Have you ever…

* Played a game that required removal of clothing: Nope.
* Been trashed or extremely intoxicated: Boy do I have a story about this one night, at a sweet sixteen party.......
* Been caught “doing something”: um...........maybe ;)
* Been called a tease: Yes.
* Gotten beaten up: Nope.
* Shoplifted: Nope.

LAYER 6:

* Age you did get/hope to be married:23
* Numbers and names of children (either you have or want): 3 monsters...Ryan is 13, Kasi is 11, and Brandi Rose is 7.
* Describe your dream mate: These days he is seventeen and a vampire....
* How do you want to die: Quickly.
* What did you want to be when you grow up: I'm not sure I want to grow up yet!
* What country would you most like to visit: I'm happy right here. I have no desire to travel.

LAYER 7: Now tell…

* Name a drug you’ve taken illegally: I smoked pot once when I was about 19 or 20, and I hated it. Never did it again.
* Name a person you could trust with my life: hubby.
* Name a favorite CD that you own: Right now it's Sugarland's Love On The Inside
* Number of piercings: 5, all in my ears
* Number of tattoos: I don't like pain, so that's never gonna happen!
* Number of times my name has appeared in the newspaper: The births of my children, and when I made the front page of our local paper because of our power bill.
* Name a past experience that you regret: The day I started smoking. It was so not worth it!

Camera Critters ~ 2

There are two bears in this picture. Can you see them?

This is the last pictures from our zoo trip. I guess next weeks it's back to cats!

To participate, go here.

Business Loans

How much money you are spending on Christmas this year? Did you cut back because of the economy, or did you just use your credit cards to buy gifts? Are you like the many Americans who are only buying what they can pay for with cash?

It is a difficult time for spending in America these days, and businesses are suffering. Most people do not have extra money to be spending, and what money they do have, they are buying groceries. This is making it difficult for small businesses to survive. More and more are closing their doors, or they are looking to take out a loan to help keep their doors open.

If you are a small business looking to get a loan that requires no collateral, has fast approval, and no application or closing fees, these business loans may be perfect for you. They have a 90% merchant loan approval rate and you could be approved in 48 hours. All you have to do is fill out an easy application with minimal requirements, and you could have funds deposited into your bank account within five to seven business days. This might be the thing that helps your business stay open during these hard economic times.

One Of Those Days

Today I am feeling the blah's. I am tired, and bored, and just yucky! The rain stopped yesterday, so that's not it. I am so happy I do not have to get up at 5:30 in the morning. I am looking forward to the two weeks the kids have off for Christmas so I can catch up on my sleep. There is so much cleaning I need to do around here before tomorrow, and I just don't feel like doing a thing. Thank goodness the kids will be here to help!

Personal Loans

I am sure many of you are like me, and having a hard time finding the money to finish up your Christmas shopping. I was checking out personal loan interest rates hoping to find a way to get some extra cash. I still have to get Ryan twelve more gifts to even him out with the girls. I know that seems like a lot, but most of the things I've bought already were on clearance, and it's mostly clothes. They need some fun stuff, too.

It Has Arrived

I finally got my Tupperware today. I asked the driver what happened to my other box, and he said that he didn't deliver that one. Yeah, right. I guess it doesn't really matter. The important thing is that I got it this time.

I had no idea what would be inside, and I gotta say, there are some cute things! I really don't want to be a Tupperware lady, but my sister insisted, and I didn't want her getting mad at me. I told her now is a bad time to have a party, because Christmas is so close. She disagreed.

Well, my party, so far, is a big old flop. I haven't sold one thing.

I agreed to do this strictly online. It is not in my nature to do "real" parties and have to demonstrate things in front of people. So, I will be hitting up all my online friends after Christmas to see if they want to host online parties. Seriously, no pressure.

Consider yourself warned......

Audio Book

If you know anything about me, you know that I love to read. If I have a good book, I will do nothing else until I have read it from cover to cover. This holds true especially for Dean Koontz. I become so engrossed in the book, that nothing else matters. How horrible is that? I can sit and ignore housework and cooking, just to stay in the story.

Do you listen to audio books? I never have, but maybe I should try one. Maybe then I could find a way to do my housework while listening to a good book on my MP3 player. I know a few people who love them. Instead of listening to the radio on their way to work, they can be taken on a journey through their imagination. If you are like me, and want to try an audio book, check out The Bible Experience website. This is an Award Winning celebrity audio bible. It has over 400 different celebrities reading, from actors and musicians, to producers and directors. The New Testament Edition is the 2007 Audies Audio Book Of The Year. Right now they are offering a free download clip of Nick Cannon as Adam. Just use the promotion code: GEN3SPRK.

Wordless Wednesday ~ 1

This is a shot of all the kids waiting for the parade to start.
I was worried about Brandi, because she has been coughing so badly, but she did great.
They were bundled up warm, and it had stopped raining, which was a good thing.
I will do a lot of things for my kids, but standing in the rain to watch a parade is not one of them.

To participate, go here.

My Forgetful Husband

Last week, my husband was trying to get some money for Christmas shopping. He needed to show his license and social security card. Well, wouldn't you know, he couldn't find his SS card. Anywhere. He ended up having to go down to the Social Security Office and apply for a new one. I wish the business had known they could just call to Verify Social Security Numbers. It would have saved my husband some time.

Fedex Found Me This Time

My pictures arrived this morning. They came out beautiful! I think the only problem I am going to encounter is that they are an odd size, 12 X 8, and I need to find frames. I may end up having to mat them in a bigger frame. I want to give one to my mom, and one to family friends, and keep the third for myself.

Now I'm just hoping the second tupperware box finds me, too.

Christmas For My Husband

I have been having the hardest time trying to find something for my husband for Christmas. Sure, there are certain things he has mentioned he would like to have, but they are all things that are out of our price range. I would love to be able to but him the new car he wants, or the thousand dollar toolbox that has a radio and refrigerator built in. We just can not afford all that this year. I would do better getting him some vinyl shutters for his building he wants to built as a workshop. At least they would throw in free shipping until the end of the year.

Tupperware...Oh My

If you haven't read my tupperware dilemma, go here first.

I'll wait.

Okay, well, I called tupperware this morning, and explained that I never received my shipment. I explained how GPS and MapQuest have my address listed as a house about a 1/4 mile down the road. Without hesitating, the nice man said they would re-ship the order. I asked how I could be sure it would make it to my house. He said that if this one didn't make it to me, they would contact fedex.

Um, yeah, I didn't want to wait and not get it again, so I called fedex myself. They asked for my tracking number on the first package, and after giving it, she asked if I had looked in my carport, because that is where the driver left it. I told her I don't have a carport.

Her reply....oh.

Yeah, okay. I told her they had reshipped the order, and that I wanted to make sure they had the right directions, because I am also expecting the pictures from the contest I won at Tammy's, and I wanted to make sure that was delivered here, too. She said until I had a new tracking number, they couldn't put directions into the computer.

Whatever.

Now I have to wait for tupperware to re-ship, get the tracking number, and call fedex back. Then they can put directions with it. When I asked about my picture package, she told me that unless I had a tracking number, they couldn't do anything to guarantee it makes it here.

What the crap?

Isn't that their job...to deliver things to the correct houses?

They better not screw this up, again.

Find Mr. Or Mrs. Right

I met my husband on a blind date. My best friend thought we would hit it off, and she was right. We have been married for thirteen years now, and couldn't be happier. If you are looking to find that special someone, you should Find Local Singles in your area who share your interests. You can join for free at localmatch.com, and browse through thousands of available people. Who knows. You may find your soul mate on a blind date, too.

I Have Made A Decision

I think I am going to close my etsy shop. It's been open for a while now, and I have only sold one thing. I'm not that bummed about it. I couldn't devote the time and effort needed to keep my listings fresh. I will just pack up the things I have made, and save them for future craft shows. My mom and I are going to do some next summer, so at least I will have a head start on that.

Vinyl Shutters

I love decorating for Christmas. The outside of our apartment looks very festive, with lights hung along the porch and on my wishing well. When the decorations come down, it will look boring again. I wish the landlord would invest in some vinyl shutters for the windows. Right now they could get a 40 year manufacturers limited warranty against fading, cracking and peeling, as well as free shipping if they spend more than $225, when they order from Larson's ExteriorShutterSource.com.

Painted Ornaments

These are the ornaments the kids painted at Brandi's party. On the left is Boo's, a little gingerbread man. In the middle is Kasi's...two brown snowmen holding a heart. On the right is Ryan's. He painted the mouse brown, and the red stripes, then Colleen took it to "fix it up". I think they are all adorable.

Belly Dancing

I have heard that dancing is a good way to exercise. It gets you moving, and it's fun. I know you can take pole dancing classes at some gyms these days, but that's just not my cup of tea. In fact, I don't think I could take any kind of dancing lessons in public. I would be too embarrassed. Luckily there are resources available where I could learn in my own home. I still don't think it would be pole dancing, but I would be interested in learning how to belly dance. I know there are Belly Dance Video Clips that could teach me the basics, and I could learn in the privacy of my own home.

I never knew there were so many different types of belly dancing. There's classic American belly dance, tribal belly dance, gypsy belly dance, and fitness belly dance, just to name a few. Within these dances, there are staccato and rolling hip moves, ribcage circles, and arm, shoulder, and head moves. You can start with the basics, and then move on to slow and fast moves. I have seen belly dancers, and they always look so graceful and seductive. Maybe, just maybe, I could be graceful and seductive, too, with a little help.

Here For The Party

Brandi's party starts in less then an hour. The food is prepared...the kids are excited. I did end up getting ornaments for the kids to paint, so that should be messy, I mean fun!

On another note...I have been waiting for my first tupperware delivery for almost 2 weeks, so this morning my sister showed me how to track it. According to fedex, they delivered it on the 29th, only not to me. I have no idea where they left it, but when I out my address into map quest, it showed that I lived 1/4 mile down the road. I went and knoecked on that door, but no one answered. i really doubt they would fess up to getting my box. It only had about $300 worth of tupperware in it. I am hoping when i call them in the morning, they can straighten it out.

My Sister's Birthday

Today is my sister Tami's birthday. She turned 38. Only two more years until the big 4-0. We're only eighteen months apart, so I guess that means I only have a little over three years until I'm 40. Wow. That seems so unreal. I find it funny that I can refer to things that have happened twenty years ago, when I was in high school. We were not very close growing up. She had her friends, and I was a shy, overweight teen who liked to just blend in with the crowd. I did end up working at the same place she did when I turned 16, and her friends soon became my friends as well. I didn't date as much as she did. To be honest, I didn't have my first real boyfriend until I graduated high school. I know, I'm such a dork. I didn't even have my first real kiss until I was sixteen years old.

I found it difficult following in her shadow. She liked to steal the boys I liked, and was always more popular. I remember one time she was dating a New York City cop. He used to come over, and he would always have at least one gun on him. Now, I hate guns and always have. I am sure for people who know how to use them, they are perfectly safe. But when he used to take his out of his ankle holster,I was always afraid he would accidentally shoot me. I know now that that is kind of ridiculous. He was a cop, and he knew how to handle his weapon. It's not like he ever pointed it at me or anything.

I am happy to say that as we have gotten older, we have learned to get along. Getting married and having children of our own has brought us closer, and I can honestly say that I couldn't ask for a better sister.

Crochet?

I have been such a slacker lately in the crochet department. I wanted to do new balls for the tree this year, but that doesn't look like it's going to happen. I have been so busy, I haven't had time to do any crocheting. I found patterns for angels and snowflakes that I wanted to try, but I didn't get around to those either. Maybe in the next week or two I will find an hour or two to do something creative.

Private Student Loans

I have three children. We live from paycheck to paycheck, and I worry about my kids education. We are not financially able to put money away for their college. Luckily they are bright, and can hopefully qualify for scholarships or financial aid when the time comes. The problem is that there will also be additional costs they will have to pay. Private student loans are available to help ease the burden of having to pay for books, supplies, housing, and unpaid tuition balances. At privatestudentloans.com, you can fill out an application online in just minutes. There are no prepayment fees, and repayment begins after graduation. This is an avenue we may take advantage of as my children start looking at colleges in a few years.

Christmas Chocolate

This is how I spent my morning....making chocolates!
These lolli-pops were fun to make. I made santas, and reindeer, and toys, and all kinds of things.

I also made regular chocolates, that I am going to bag up and give out as gifts.
I bought the cutest little stocking baggies to put them in.

I am now off to finish up our gingerbread men.
Oh, the joys of Christmas baking!

Liposuction

I have been trying to lose weight for a long time. I have always been a little overweight, even when I was in high school. I can lose weight if I restrict my diet, but I always put it back on within a few months of regular eating. I also have issues with weight gain during pregnancy. With each pregnancy, I gained weight. While pregnant with Ryan, my oldest, I gained almost 85 pounds. I remember everyone, especially my mom, telling me that I shouldn't gain so much, because it was so hard to lose "baby weight" after delivery. I wish I had listened. I am still carrying around pregnancy weight, and my youngest child just turned seven. I don't think I can blame it on "baby weight" anymore. My breasts were always on the bigger side, too, and with each pregnancy they got bigger, to the point of causing some health problems.

In July of this year I had a breast reduction. They removed fifteen pounds of breast tissue. While I am extremely happy with the results, I have some issues with my sides. I have a spot on each side of my chest, under my arms, where my stitches ended, that are sticking out. It is because of how heavy my breasts were before the operation. The surgeon said he could easily remove those spots with liposuction because they are essentially just fat deposits. Even with exercise, he doesn't think they will go away. I have to wait a year to fully heal, and then go back to discuss the options with him. It will be nice to have these problem areas fixed.

Camera Critters ~ 1

I took this picture at Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, SC during the Summer. This alligator was just being lazy in the sun. In fact, all the animals that day were being lazy. It was so hot!

To participate, go here.

Saltwater Fish

Ryan has a little fish tank in his room. Right now it is home to one tadpole from the creek, and a turtle we caught at the lake. The kids love watching them swim around, and are looking forward to watching the tadpole turn into a frog. I would love to get a big fish tank for the living room and fill it with saltwater fish. There is just something extremely relaxing about watching colorful fish swim around. It's almost hypnotic. Growing up, we had a big fish tank filled with fish. I would love to have some live coral in mine as well as the fish. I would put clown fish, like Nemo, because I think the kids would love that. Maybe I could recreate the fish tank from the dentists office. Those are some amazingly beautiful fish.

There is a website where you can buy saltwater fish online. Reef Hot Spot sells exotic saltwater fish, rare corals, and saltwater invertebrates. They ship anywhere in the United States. You can chose from an amazing selection of beautiful fish. They offer discount prices, as well as rare and exotic types of saltwater fish. They also offer a 14 day live guarantee, and free shipping for orders over $225. So if you are looking to start a saltwater fish tank of your own, or add to one you already have, check out Reef Hot Spot for all your saltwater fish needs.

I bought these cute little ornament kits on Black Friday for the kids to do. I found them at Bed, Bath, and Beyond for $4.99. I let Brandi do hers when she got home from school today, and she had so much fun. It was so easy too. All she had to do was use the markers. I was expecting them to have to dry, or the markers would wipe off, but that wasn't the case. They dried instantly. I love the way she wrote merry Christmas on the round one, although you can not really see it in the picture. Ryan and Kasi will get to do theirs later, so I will post more pictures when they are done.

What's Your Christmas Wish?

When was the last time you sat on Santa's lap and told him what you wanted for Christmas? It was probably back when you were a child, or maybe at a recent Christmas party where you had a little too much to drink? Either way, I'm sure you told Santa exactly what you wanted, believing with your whole heart that he would make your wish come true. You probably waiting anxiously for Christmas to arrive, wondering if you had been good enough that year for that special gift to be waiting under the tree. I love that my youngest still believes in Santa. That means she still believes in the magic of Christmas. I miss that feeling, but I now love watching my children Christmas morning, their eyes all aglow, taking in the sight of all the presents under the tree.

I came across this site where you can sit on Santa's lap, and decided to give it a try. All I had to do was upload a picture of myself, and tell my name and what I want for Christmas. Santa and a helpful Elf then proceeded to put me on Santa's lap by using a CEIVA digital photo frame. I loved this picture frame. It is perfect for people who don't have the time or patience to upload the pictures themselves. You simply hook up this frame to a phone line, and anyone can send pictures to it, and they will automatically be displayed. You do not need the internet. Heck, you don't even need to have a computer.

If you've got a wish that you want to share with Santa, go sit on his lap. Tell him what you want. You just might find it under your tree Christmas morning. Oh, and I almost forgot to mention. Right now, one random winner will be selected everyday to win $500. That would definately help with making your Holiday wish a reality.

So Much To Do Before Christmas

I can not believe it is less than 3 weeks until Christmas. I still have so much to do! I haven't finished shopping yet. I haven't even started my baking. I bought all the supplies to make chocolates, so that still needs to be done. My Christmas cards are filled out and ready to go. I just need to get to the post office to get some stamps. If I wait too much longer they won't reach people by Christmas!

Gerald Genta Watches

I love thewatchery.com. They have the most amazing selection of Gerald Genta watches. I was checking out their selection, and found this adorable Gerald Genta Retro Fantasy Unisex Automatic 18k Yellow Gold Mickey Mother-of-Pearl/Silver Guilloche on Red Leather Strap watch that would be perfect for a certain someone for Christmas this year. My dad's wife is crazy about Mickey Mouse. She has so many things in her collection, and I'm pretty sure she doesn't have a Mickey watch. Even if she does, I'm sure it's not one as nice as this. I love the mother-of-pearl face on this watch. It has Mickey Mouse on it, but it is still classy enough not to look childish. I am going to have to let my dad know about my find, and who knows, his wife may just find this watch under the tree Christmas morning.

If you are looking for something a little more dignified, they also have gold watches. Right now, thewatchery.com is offering Gerald Genta watches for up to 77% off. They are also having a special where if you buy selected watches, you can get another watch free. That's two for the price of one. That could put a real dent in your Christmas shopping.

Seven

Brandi is officially seven.

We had a nice time this evening with my dad and his wife.

We talked over pizza and cake, and Brandi was super excited with her new Hannah Montana snack box.

She was even more excited finding the wal-mart gift card inside.

She is already planning how to spend it!

Protect Your Belongings

How many times have you lost your cell phone? Or your music player? Or even your keys? There is now a really simple way to improve the chances of getting those lost items back. Foundit Lost and Found Service is a new way to greatly increase the likelihood of someone returning your personal property. The person who finds your property simply calls the toll free number on the decal, and you will be notified that your property has been found. Foundit acts as the "middle man", protecting your identity and where you live. They will arrange for your property to be returned to you, either by meeting in a mutual, safe location, or having it shipped to you, without the finder ever having access to your personal information.

It really is simple How it Works. You just order the company's high quality, durable and weather resistant decals, and affix them to your property. It could be your cell phone, camera, keys, or anything really. The decals adhere to any clean service. You can even use them on your kids stuff. Then you just register your items at Foundit.com, and you are done. They have an 80.7% return rate on lost items.

If you are giving electronics this Christmas, think about protecting them as well.

I Won!

Tammy at mom knows everything had a giveaway, and I won!

What did I win?

A $50 gift card to photofiddle.

I immediately sat the kids in front of the tree, and took this pretty great picture above!

It cost me a total of $6 and change to get 3 12X8 pictures made, which they will deliver in two days, once my order is processed, which could take up to 4 days.

I am really excited!

They had all kind of effects you could use on your picture, but in the end I chose just to have prints made. I wanted it to look Christmassy, and the effects took that away from the picture.

I can't wait for my pictures to arrive!

Anime

I will admit it. I know very little about anime. I know it's really big right now with kids, but I have honestly never really looked into what it is all about. I found this site, and started to read naruto, and it's pretty fascinating. I was looking at magna called 3x3 eyes, and it was a comic strip type story. Pretty interesting. I may not understand it all, but I do remember what it is like being a kid and getting caught up in the latest craze.

If you have kids who are interested in this kind of thing, you might want to check out this site. Find out for yourself what all the buzz is about.

Quick Question?

How long can I keep gingerbread dough in the fridge?

I made it a week ago, and it has been wrapped up in the fridge. It is still soft, but I don't know how long dough is good for. I know they sell refrigerated dough, but it is sealed.

What do you think? Just use it to decorate, or is it still edible?

Me On A Motorcycle?

As most of you know, I do not drive. I have an intense fear of other cars on the road. My husband has tried to talk me into letting him get a motorcycle, cheap, that he can fix up using yamaha motorcycle parts. I told him he's crazy! If he wants to ride a motorcycle he can. But there is no way I am getting on one.

Ginger, The Mischievous

This is our new kitten Ginger standing on a reindeer, swatting the ornaments off the tree.
I don't know what I was thinking getting a kitten right before Christmas.
For some reason the picture blurred.
I have no idea why.
Maybe this is just more proof that I need a new camera.

Men's Gifts

I am trying my hardest to make this a handmade Christmas. The women in my family are easy. I can crochet a kitchen set for them, or paint a welcome sign for their front doors. I am finding it difficult to come up with something for my dad. I may end up getting some saddlebags for his trike if I can't think of something to make for him.

Fun With Sand

A couple of weeks ago I found the neatest craft on Kristin's blog, so a few days ago me and the kids attempted to try it. We had so much fun! We made sand sculptures. Here are some of our creations.

I made this elephant, because, well, we all knew I would attempt to make one.

Kasi made this elephant.

Brandi made this one. Right now it is just a head, because the body fell apart. She waiting a long time to make this, and the sand wasn't very sticky at that point, so it didn't stay together too good.

Ryan says this is an elephant, but it looks more like a toilet to me! lol!

Ryan made this bowl, and I love it!

This is Kasi's little martian person.

This is Brandi's little smiley face.

You all know I am obsessed with ornaments for my tree, and every year I make some with my kids names on them. I already made one set this year (here) but couldn't resist making these. I formed the sand dough around the ribbon, so it should hold.

if you want to make some, the recipe is here on Kristin's blog. She always has lots of rafty ideas, so make sure you browse her whole site.