I normally post Monday Madness on Mondays, but it's been over a month now since the meme has updated. I'm going to switch up to another Monday meme for now, and I think Manic Monday looks like a good one to try!
If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be and why?
I would change the fact that I was raised in a very sheltered home. My mom tried to protect me from everything, and in the end it just caused her to have to deal with two very rebellious teenage girls who wanted to discover all the things that we were taught were bad.
Do you think that the world will be a better or a worse place 100 years from now?
Considering the way things are going, I think the world will be a much worse place in 100 years.
At the beginning of a relationship, do you trust your new partner unless there is something specific to make you do otherwise, or do you withhold your trust until he/she has earned it?
I always tried to enter into my relationships with an open trust policy. I'll trust you until you give me a reason not to. Of course I got my heart broken a few times that way, but live and learn.
Don't Get Stuck
My best friend and I have been talking a lot lately about Mortgages. I'm honestly glad I don't have to worry about that right now. I basically live in my house for free because my grandparents own it and we live next door to them so I can keep an eye on them. They can't do everything for themselves anymore. Unfortunately my best friend just bought a house, and she totally got screwed on her mortgage. The rates that were quoted before she bought the home are nothing like the rate she ended up getting. I just wish she'd taken more time to research before she purchased. I'm seriously anal when it comes to researching things before buying. It's always a good idea to talk to a financial adviser about your situation instead of a salesperson because the salesperson is there to sell, not help.
Creating Interactive Lists On Your Blog
As I wander around the internet I always notice how many lists of things I find. Someone might have published a daily to-do list on their blog. Someone else might have written a top 5 or top 10 list. Lists are everywhere, and I know I've even used them many times. Just see my Top 5 Reasons To Move From Free Hosting post for an example of how I use lists.
Someone showed me a site that is great for the list lover like me. The site is Listbums.com. What exactly is Listbums? Well, Listbums is defined as a
As you can see I didn't create the list, but I can very easily share it with my readers, and you guys can interact with it adding anything you would like or rating the list. The color scheme is my own, but if you wanted to add the list to your blog you could change the colors to suit you. Check out Listbums if you get a chance. If you like it don't forget to sign up for a free account. What do you think of Listbums?
Someone showed me a site that is great for the list lover like me. The site is Listbums.com. What exactly is Listbums? Well, Listbums is defined as a
community driven online multimedia platform where people can share information that combines text, photos and videos in an easy to read list format.I couldn't find a better way to explain it than how the creator of Listbums did. The site went live with a beta mode a few months ago, and it should be in final release by next year. Basically on Listbums you can create lists of things that include photos, videos, and information, then you can share them on your blog by embedding a simple code. If you don't want to create your own list, you can share one that's been created by someone else. Once the list has been embedded on your site, your readers can interact by adding content to your list or rating content already on the list. I think this is a great way to get readers to participate on your blog or website. Here's an example of what a list looks like when it's shared in a blog post.
As you can see I didn't create the list, but I can very easily share it with my readers, and you guys can interact with it adding anything you would like or rating the list. The color scheme is my own, but if you wanted to add the list to your blog you could change the colors to suit you. Check out Listbums if you get a chance. If you like it don't forget to sign up for a free account. What do you think of Listbums?
Quite A Day
I've got such a busy day ahead of me today. I've got to get all my laundry and housework done as early as I can this morning because I've got to help both my dad and sister today. My dad called last night asking if I would help him with hay. Yes, I said hay. I did grow up on a farm, and I earned my keep. I still work in the hay fields every summer...but I get to drive the truck. I've got the easy job.
Normally we would have finished up with hay at the beginning of September, but it's been such a bad summer drought-wise that there's hardly been any hay. Normally the cows and horses live off the grass in the summer, and we start feeding hay later in the fall, but I've been helping Daddy put out hay all summer because there's nothing on the grounds to eat. That means the winter supply is dwindling. We've been bailing every field we can find, and luckily my dad knows a lot of people with land that they're happy to have mowed for free. I've seen a lot of farmers actually following behind the work crew when they cut the grass on public roads picking up the excess grass to bundle up for hay.
It's gotten that bad, so I'm thankful Daddy needs my help to cut another field. We're going to cut a field sometime this morning, and then we're going to go bail another field that's been cut and drying for a few days. I've already loaded an audio book and plenty of tunes on my mp3 player because it's going to be a long couple of hours on the tractor then in the truck.
After that I've got to go with my sister to find some things for the new house she just moved into. She's renting the place, but her rent is free for the first few months because she's fixing the place up for the landlord. We've got to go pick out a new dryer since her's died last week. She's got to repair and replace a few things like old flooring, kitchen cabinets, and bathroom vanities, but it will all be worth it. The landlord is paying for the supplies. We've just got to pick them out and do the installs. I guess it's great her brother in law is a carpenter *wink*.
Normally we would have finished up with hay at the beginning of September, but it's been such a bad summer drought-wise that there's hardly been any hay. Normally the cows and horses live off the grass in the summer, and we start feeding hay later in the fall, but I've been helping Daddy put out hay all summer because there's nothing on the grounds to eat. That means the winter supply is dwindling. We've been bailing every field we can find, and luckily my dad knows a lot of people with land that they're happy to have mowed for free. I've seen a lot of farmers actually following behind the work crew when they cut the grass on public roads picking up the excess grass to bundle up for hay.
It's gotten that bad, so I'm thankful Daddy needs my help to cut another field. We're going to cut a field sometime this morning, and then we're going to go bail another field that's been cut and drying for a few days. I've already loaded an audio book and plenty of tunes on my mp3 player because it's going to be a long couple of hours on the tractor then in the truck.
After that I've got to go with my sister to find some things for the new house she just moved into. She's renting the place, but her rent is free for the first few months because she's fixing the place up for the landlord. We've got to go pick out a new dryer since her's died last week. She's got to repair and replace a few things like old flooring, kitchen cabinets, and bathroom vanities, but it will all be worth it. The landlord is paying for the supplies. We've just got to pick them out and do the installs. I guess it's great her brother in law is a carpenter *wink*.
Unconscious Mutterings #247
I'm up bright and early this morning, and it's a miracle in my opinion. I can't believe I was actually able to make myself go back to bed last night. All weekend I've tossed and turned with a bit of insomnia that's been driving me crazy. At least I finally got a good night's sleep last night, so I've got a day full of work and blogging ahead of me. Let's start off with a meme!
I say ... and you think ... ?
- Inaugural :: President
- Pledge :: Duster
- String :: Cheese
- Trot :: Along
- Fitness :: Center
- Cinder :: Block
- Edge :: Sharp
- 31 :: 5 years away
- Blue :: Jeans
- Leather :: Motorcycle Gear
Separate Plans
Hubby and I were planning on going to the Birthday Bash one of the local radio stations throws every year. This year it's going to be at Little John Colisuem, and I really want to go because there's going to be a great lineup of bands. Three Days Grace, Red, Seether, and Breaking Benjamin will all be playing, and ticket prices are actually going to be decent. We've had it all planned out, and I was going to use some of my extra cash this week to purchase tickets, but hubby came home today and told me to wait.
Why? Because Hubby decided he wants to go to Harrah's in Cherokee that weekend instead. One of his friends offered to give up a pay & play package that offers a free room when you spent $20 per person in the casino. Yeah I like going to the casino from time to time, but I'm not giving up the Birthday Bash for this! Harrah's is like our local version of the hotels in Las Vegas with the casino and nightly shows, but there's nothing going on that weekend up there that I'd be interested in.
If Hubby decides he's definitely going to Harrah's then I'll just go to the Birthday Bash with my best friend. Hubby can find someone else to tag along with him.
Why? Because Hubby decided he wants to go to Harrah's in Cherokee that weekend instead. One of his friends offered to give up a pay & play package that offers a free room when you spent $20 per person in the casino. Yeah I like going to the casino from time to time, but I'm not giving up the Birthday Bash for this! Harrah's is like our local version of the hotels in Las Vegas with the casino and nightly shows, but there's nothing going on that weekend up there that I'd be interested in.
If Hubby decides he's definitely going to Harrah's then I'll just go to the Birthday Bash with my best friend. Hubby can find someone else to tag along with him.
i.Sound FM Transmitter Review
Let me start off by saying I was not paid to write this review. I did however receive a free i.Sound FM Transmitter from one of the companies for which I occasionally do surveys. I have participated in surveys for this company both online and offline for a couple of years, and I receive no monetary compensation. With that being said, I decided I wanted to write a review of the product I just received because I don't want anyone purchasing something that isn't worth it.
I received the iSound Wireless FM Transmitter that is universal for all mp3 players with a standard headphone jack. It also works with Sony PSP as well as any other audio devices such as cd players with a headphone jack. This transmitter doesn't plug into your cigarette lighter jack like most iPod transmitters. Instead it runs off a single AAA battery.
That's a good option for those people who don't have cigarette lighters in their cars. The outlet in my Saturn doesn't work, and my Isuzu Rodeo has no cigarette lighter, so this would be a good option. The packaging states that a battery is included, but there was no battery with my FM Transmitter. Luckily my Sandisk mp3 player also runs off AAA batteries, so I keep a supply of fully charged rechargable AAA batteries on hand. If you do prefer using DC 5V power, there is an input, but the adapter is sold separate.
There are 2 color choices, white or black. The device is very small, and I was able to slip it in my pocket with my mp3 player when I wasn't using it. Using it is very simple. Just plug the provided audio cable into the i.Sound and connect the other end to the headphone port on your mp3 player. Turn on the i.Sound and your radio, then tune your radio to one of the 5 presets on the i.Sound. You can switch between the presets with a simple switch allowing you to choose which channel gives you the most clarity.
I played around with all 5 channels for the best clarity, but honestly this item just wasn't up to my standards when it comes to FM Transmitters. I've used transmitters that produce a lot of static while I've also tested a few that give perfect clarity. This one falls somewhere in the middle. There was static, although I can admit not a whole lot. It mostly depends on where you place the transmitter in your vehicle. It will work up to 30 feet away from your car or home stereo, but I learned putting it directly in front of the stereo or anywhere near the antenna produces a large amount of static. I was able to place the transmitter and mp3 player in the pull out change drawer below my stereo, and it worked pretty well there.
Unfortunately all my testing was done in my driveway, so I'm not sure how it's going to work while driving. Other stereos, radio waves, or transmitters may cause interference when on the highway. Hubby just made a run to the store, so I sent the FM transmitter and my mp3 player with him to give it a test. I'll give you an update on how well it worked with him when he returns.
What's my bottom line with this transmitter? It works pretty well, but for a price of $24.99 I would recommend something else, especially for anyone using the iPod. I've used cheaper FM transmitters that have worked much better. I only recommend this i.Sound FM transmitter to someone who wants to use it with their home stereo or who doesn't have a cigarette lighter adapter in their vehicle.
**UPDATE** Hubby just returned and said he couldn't use the i.Sound at all while driving. When he could get the signal to come in it was very weak, but most of the time he couldn't use the transmitter at all. I would seriously recommend purchasing something else.
I received the iSound Wireless FM Transmitter that is universal for all mp3 players with a standard headphone jack. It also works with Sony PSP as well as any other audio devices such as cd players with a headphone jack. This transmitter doesn't plug into your cigarette lighter jack like most iPod transmitters. Instead it runs off a single AAA battery.
That's a good option for those people who don't have cigarette lighters in their cars. The outlet in my Saturn doesn't work, and my Isuzu Rodeo has no cigarette lighter, so this would be a good option. The packaging states that a battery is included, but there was no battery with my FM Transmitter. Luckily my Sandisk mp3 player also runs off AAA batteries, so I keep a supply of fully charged rechargable AAA batteries on hand. If you do prefer using DC 5V power, there is an input, but the adapter is sold separate.
There are 2 color choices, white or black. The device is very small, and I was able to slip it in my pocket with my mp3 player when I wasn't using it. Using it is very simple. Just plug the provided audio cable into the i.Sound and connect the other end to the headphone port on your mp3 player. Turn on the i.Sound and your radio, then tune your radio to one of the 5 presets on the i.Sound. You can switch between the presets with a simple switch allowing you to choose which channel gives you the most clarity.
I played around with all 5 channels for the best clarity, but honestly this item just wasn't up to my standards when it comes to FM Transmitters. I've used transmitters that produce a lot of static while I've also tested a few that give perfect clarity. This one falls somewhere in the middle. There was static, although I can admit not a whole lot. It mostly depends on where you place the transmitter in your vehicle. It will work up to 30 feet away from your car or home stereo, but I learned putting it directly in front of the stereo or anywhere near the antenna produces a large amount of static. I was able to place the transmitter and mp3 player in the pull out change drawer below my stereo, and it worked pretty well there.
Unfortunately all my testing was done in my driveway, so I'm not sure how it's going to work while driving. Other stereos, radio waves, or transmitters may cause interference when on the highway. Hubby just made a run to the store, so I sent the FM transmitter and my mp3 player with him to give it a test. I'll give you an update on how well it worked with him when he returns.
What's my bottom line with this transmitter? It works pretty well, but for a price of $24.99 I would recommend something else, especially for anyone using the iPod. I've used cheaper FM transmitters that have worked much better. I only recommend this i.Sound FM transmitter to someone who wants to use it with their home stereo or who doesn't have a cigarette lighter adapter in their vehicle.
**UPDATE** Hubby just returned and said he couldn't use the i.Sound at all while driving. When he could get the signal to come in it was very weak, but most of the time he couldn't use the transmitter at all. I would seriously recommend purchasing something else.
Time For A New Router
I've really got to get another wireless router. My wireless one died a few months back, so I picked up a cheap $10 wired router just to get us through until I could order the router I want. Because our two computer's are so close together only separated by one wall, I just ran the cat 5 around the door frame to hubby's comp and decided not to invest in the better router until this one died. BIG MISTAKE. Now hubby needs to hook into the router for the Xbox 360, and that gives him 2 options. He can either set up the tv and Xbox 360 near the router or he can run another 30 ft cable into the living room. I really didn't want more cables running across my floor, so I opted for the first option, and now he's driving me insane! I'm picking up a wireless router this weekend. I just can't take listening to things blow up or engines revving while I'm trying to work.
Lots of Fun
One theme park I've heard a lot about is Pleasure Beach Theme Park. It's located in the UK and it's got some of the biggest theme park attractions in not only the UK, but the world! I would seriously love to check out some of the rides like the Pepsi Big Max One, Infusion, and Ice Blast. They've even got a twin-track coaster where you race the other coaster down the track! I would definitely love that, but I've got this thing with not riding wooden coasters. Hubby would definitely ride it though! Next year when we go to England for my cousin's wedding I might just have to see about taking a day trip to Pleasure Beach.
Are America's Schools Producing Stupid Students?
What are your thoughts on our school systems of today? I seriously think something is going wrong with our school systems, and I believe a lot of it has to do with the No Child Left Behind Act. No matter what is causing the problems something seriously needs to change. I watched a documentary awhile back that really made me sick. What made me sick was that it was completely true. The special is called 20/20 Stupid In America, and if you have children or you're at all concerned about the schools in our country I suggest you watch it.
Unfortunately just watching that special isn't the only thing that's got me worried about how horrible our schools are today. I seriously believe our schools are now based on how much money the school district gets for good test scores instead of how well our students do at the things they should be learning. I may have graduated only 7 years ago, but things have drastically changed since my high school days. I've tutored 3 kids over the course of the last 7 years, and things really make me sick. There is no reason I should be tutoring these kids because they're all bright kids. They come to me to learn the basics like math, science, and history because they aren't being taught these things!
For instance, I'm tutoring a college sophomore right now. He was in advanced math classes in high school. He took calculus and trig, but now in college he's in a remedial math class because he can't do basic algebra. Another kid I tutor is a junior in high school. Her entire freshman year was devoted to classes that taught her how to pass the state tests and classes that taught her to be a high school student. Half of her first semester was considered "freshman orientation". I mean come on! My freshman orientation didn't happen until college, and it was a 2 day event in the middle of the summer. No one had to stick us in a class to teach us how to be high school kids! The 3rd child I tutor is 12 years old and in 6th grade, yet when I started working with her in May she could barely read an entire children's book by herself. It's not because she's stupid. 5 months later I have her reading books that my adult friends and I read, and she absolutely loves to read. We meet once a week for a tutoring session and most of the time she's asking to borrow another one of my books.
The real question is, why am I having to teach these kids these things? Why am I teaching a 12 year old how to read? Why can't a college student who took advanced match classes (and made good grades) do basic algebra? Seriously what is wrong with our school system today?
Unfortunately just watching that special isn't the only thing that's got me worried about how horrible our schools are today. I seriously believe our schools are now based on how much money the school district gets for good test scores instead of how well our students do at the things they should be learning. I may have graduated only 7 years ago, but things have drastically changed since my high school days. I've tutored 3 kids over the course of the last 7 years, and things really make me sick. There is no reason I should be tutoring these kids because they're all bright kids. They come to me to learn the basics like math, science, and history because they aren't being taught these things!
For instance, I'm tutoring a college sophomore right now. He was in advanced math classes in high school. He took calculus and trig, but now in college he's in a remedial math class because he can't do basic algebra. Another kid I tutor is a junior in high school. Her entire freshman year was devoted to classes that taught her how to pass the state tests and classes that taught her to be a high school student. Half of her first semester was considered "freshman orientation". I mean come on! My freshman orientation didn't happen until college, and it was a 2 day event in the middle of the summer. No one had to stick us in a class to teach us how to be high school kids! The 3rd child I tutor is 12 years old and in 6th grade, yet when I started working with her in May she could barely read an entire children's book by herself. It's not because she's stupid. 5 months later I have her reading books that my adult friends and I read, and she absolutely loves to read. We meet once a week for a tutoring session and most of the time she's asking to borrow another one of my books.
The real question is, why am I having to teach these kids these things? Why am I teaching a 12 year old how to read? Why can't a college student who took advanced match classes (and made good grades) do basic algebra? Seriously what is wrong with our school system today?
Yes I Said Nudie
When you hear the words "nudie" and "jeans" in the same sentence what comes to mind? I know what you're thinking, so get that mind out of the gutter! I'm thinking about Tobi and their nudie jeans! What is Tobi? Tobi is an online store built for the next generation. What's so special about it? While shopping for the hottest fashions on Tobi, you can also speak to a personalized stylist who can help you pick what's best for you! Tobi carries tons of styles from the hottest name brands like 3sixteen, Acne Jeans, Cheap Monday, Diesel, Good Society, and more! I love the smock mini dress by Seven For All Mankind. They've got tons of fashions for men and women, and there's also a beauty bar where you can find tons of hot items to keep you looking hot and smelling good no matter your gender.
I really like how Tobi is supporting breast cancer awareness month! There are 5 exclusive breast cancer tees that have been designed exclusively by Tobi contest winners, and 10% of each t-shirt sale will go to the Susan G. Komen foundation. What's that? You see the word contest? Yep Tobi is also sponsoring a cool contest right now! All you have to do is sign up, and you could win a $1000 shopping spree and a trip San Francisco!
I really like how Tobi is supporting breast cancer awareness month! There are 5 exclusive breast cancer tees that have been designed exclusively by Tobi contest winners, and 10% of each t-shirt sale will go to the Susan G. Komen foundation. What's that? You see the word contest? Yep Tobi is also sponsoring a cool contest right now! All you have to do is sign up, and you could win a $1000 shopping spree and a trip San Francisco!
The Root Of The Problem
I think what might have put hubby in the mood to argue tonight might have stemmed from a disagreement we had earlier today. We never really argued, but we have two totally different view points on the subject. I've been trying to talk to him about life insurance lately. My dad has a term insurance policy on me, but we have no insurance on hubby. If something were to happen to him I'd be screwed. After hubby's wreck I started pushing the issue of getting life insurance, and he just doesn't want to hear it. Discussing life insurance makes him think about death, and he's one of those people who just absolutely refuses to talk about death.
Well I'm sorry honey, but it happens to all of us. Considering we participate in a sport that is dangerous, it could happen sooner. We always need to be prepared.
Well I'm sorry honey, but it happens to all of us. Considering we participate in a sport that is dangerous, it could happen sooner. We always need to be prepared.
All Over The Tuna
Hubby and I just had the stupidest fight, and it was all about tuna salad! Since hubby doesn't have to work tomorrow he stayed up late tonight to play some Halo 3. He started getting hungry about an hour ago and said he was going to make tuna salad. That was fine by me. He can eat anything he wants if he's cooking it. I asked him if he knew what he was doing, and he said yeah just boil some eggs, mix them with tuna, mayo, and mustard. He doesn't cook much, but I figured he couldn't really mess this up.
Within 5 minutes hubby was yelling for me. I walked into the kitchen and he asked me how to boil eggs. Come on. He knows how to boil eggs. He's done it plenty of times. I knew he was just trying to get me to cook for him so he could get back to playing his game. Now my method for boiling eggs is put the eggs and hot water in a pan, bring to a boil, remove from heat and cover with lid for 17 minutes. Then put the eggs in ice water for 2 minutes while I bring the water to a boil again. Drop the eggs back in the boiling water for one minute each, transfer back to the ice water for 1 minute, and we have perfect boiled eggs! I went over it again with hubby, and went back to my work.
About 20 minutes later I started smelling a burning smell and went to investigate. Hubby didn't follow my instructions. He left the eggs boiling on the stove, and not only had all the water boiled out, but the bottom of my pan was scorched. I found hubby asleep on the couch! I about beat him with the tuna can! We argued about how he could have burned the house down, then he said he still wanted tuna salad if the eggs weren't ruined. They were a little rubbery, but they weren't burned, so I cut them up and made the tuna salad.
Hubby started yelling at me again because I didn't put enough mustard in it for his liking. He even used the phrase "this isn't the way my mom makes it." OK we've been married for 4 years, and never has he complained that I didn't make something just like his mom does. He's eaten my tuna salad too many times to count. We argued for a little while longer until I eventually just locked the door to my office. I swear if he were a woman I'd totally accuse him of being hormonal right now.
Within 5 minutes hubby was yelling for me. I walked into the kitchen and he asked me how to boil eggs. Come on. He knows how to boil eggs. He's done it plenty of times. I knew he was just trying to get me to cook for him so he could get back to playing his game. Now my method for boiling eggs is put the eggs and hot water in a pan, bring to a boil, remove from heat and cover with lid for 17 minutes. Then put the eggs in ice water for 2 minutes while I bring the water to a boil again. Drop the eggs back in the boiling water for one minute each, transfer back to the ice water for 1 minute, and we have perfect boiled eggs! I went over it again with hubby, and went back to my work.
About 20 minutes later I started smelling a burning smell and went to investigate. Hubby didn't follow my instructions. He left the eggs boiling on the stove, and not only had all the water boiled out, but the bottom of my pan was scorched. I found hubby asleep on the couch! I about beat him with the tuna can! We argued about how he could have burned the house down, then he said he still wanted tuna salad if the eggs weren't ruined. They were a little rubbery, but they weren't burned, so I cut them up and made the tuna salad.
Hubby started yelling at me again because I didn't put enough mustard in it for his liking. He even used the phrase "this isn't the way my mom makes it." OK we've been married for 4 years, and never has he complained that I didn't make something just like his mom does. He's eaten my tuna salad too many times to count. We argued for a little while longer until I eventually just locked the door to my office. I swear if he were a woman I'd totally accuse him of being hormonal right now.
Casino Reviews
Here's something I found to be interesting. I'm not one of those people who's into a lot of online gambling. Sure I might play poker for fun sometimes, but I don't like losing money. Sometimes we go to the casino when we're in Cherokee, but if I go I'll spend no more than $20. I always lose it all. I know there are lots of people who don't mind gambling though, and there are just as many people who are good at it. Normally I don't talk about online casinos because the laws changed in the US, but did you know there are still places where US players can participate? I found a website called Pro360 that gives you online casino reviews and tells you which ones allow US players. If you like casinos, check them out. If you're not from the US you might want to take advantage of this site to determine which online casinos are the best to play at.
Trick or Treat
My sister in law just asked me what we're going to do for Halloween this year, and I honestly have to say this is the first year I have no idea. Normally one of our friend's has a Halloween party, or we'll dress up and hang out here giving out candy. This year I don't know what's going on. I haven't even really given it much thought. Sure I've thought about dressing the dog up, and I really wanted to enter him into the dog costume contest at the Vet's office, but I'm just not going to have the cash to buy costumes this year. Don't even ask me to make one. I totally suck at sewing.
My best friend is taking her son trick or treating, so I might tag along with her. I'll probably end up staying here to hand out candy though because I know we'll have a few trick or treaters. We don't get many anymore, but I expect at least 5 or 6. Most of the kids around here go to fall festivals or carnivals put on by the city, churches, or schools. I might convince hubby to have a little get together with our friends on the weekend after Halloween. We'll just have to see how things go.
What are you doing for Halloween this year? Are you dressing up? I'd love to hear about everyone's costumes.
My best friend is taking her son trick or treating, so I might tag along with her. I'll probably end up staying here to hand out candy though because I know we'll have a few trick or treaters. We don't get many anymore, but I expect at least 5 or 6. Most of the kids around here go to fall festivals or carnivals put on by the city, churches, or schools. I might convince hubby to have a little get together with our friends on the weekend after Halloween. We'll just have to see how things go.
What are you doing for Halloween this year? Are you dressing up? I'd love to hear about everyone's costumes.
Fixed The Shower
We got our shower head fixed today, but now I'm not happy with it at all. I had to settle for what I could find in my price range. My price range this week is "flat broke", so I had to hit up Walmart for one. It's not the one I wanted and it doesn't match at all, but at least I can take a shower. Hubby promised he'll let me change it out as soon as I can afford the one I want. I'll keep the plastic crappy one as a backup, but if I get a nice chrome shower head I shouldn't need it. Now that I've picked out the bath faucets I really want, I'm going to have to change the sink faucet to match. Oh boy, hubby's going to love hearing that, but come on. A girl needs her bathroom faucets to match! Faucet.com has a ton of bathroom sink faucets that I like. They've got so many to choose from that I'll probably spend hours on the site before I find the one I like that matches the shower head I want.
Free Ebay Listings
I know I've mentioned my friend Connie's blog, Brain Foggles, before, but did you know there's so much more to her site than just the blog? Connie also runs a free listing site where you can list your Ebay items and stores for free. What if you don't sell on Ebay? Can you still find a good use for the site? Of course you can! All these free listings means there's tons of Ebay stores and listings to check out! It's a free Ebay resource at your fingertips! I've already found a couple of things I want to bid on.
Drooling For Cookies
If there's one sweet thing I really love, it would have to be the cookie. I've got a huge binder full of cookie recipes that I've found all over the net. I love to make cookies, and I'll make them any chance I get. With the holidays coming up I'll be making a ton of cookies, so it's time I start looking for some more interesting recipes. I love to try new things. Even if I have a recipe for sugar cookies that I already love, I'll try another sugar cookie recipe just to see if it's any better. My absolute favorite cookies are chocolate oatmeal cookies, but I would like to know what your favorite is. Do you have a recipe you would like me to try?
Sweet Catastrophe
I stumbled upon a blog today that I'm definitely going to be reading more often. The blog is called Sweet Catastrophe and it's written Jade. Why do I find this blog so interesting? She's another southern gal just like me! Jade lives in Georgia where she's attending college. She's 21, and she reminds me a lot of myself when I was in college. She also shares a lot of my same interests, she believes in saving animals, and she's not a girlie girl. She's even a gamer, so I definitely like her! Why don't you stop by and check her out? If you do don't forget to leave her a nice hello!
Looking For Good Headphones
For awhile now I've been looking for a set of noise reduction headphones or what some might call noise canceling headphones for my motorcycle helmet. I know what you're thinking. How can you fit headphones in your helmet. Don't you need earbuds? Actually the answer is no. I need headphones. Awhile back I picked up a pair of headphones that were brand new in packaging at a yard sale, and I experimented by ripping the headphones apart and mounting the speakers inside hubby's helmet. It worked so well! Not only can he hear the music, but he can hear everything going on around him. The problem is that to be able to hear the speakers when going over 55mph the dB level has to be at least 105. Hubby's speakers aren't noise canceling, so I've been wanting to try a pair of those in my helmet. I'm thinking the noise reduction will drastically help. I'm thinking I might order a pair today, so I have them ribbed apart, altered, and installed by this weekend.
Do You Use Blogging Ads?
I've got a question for those of you who do paid posting. Are any of you using Blogging Ads? I signed up with Blogging Ads months ago, and for the most part I used to like working for them. The ads are really easy to do, but sometimes you can go months without getting anything. You've got to login daily, and you've got to be quick to act before all the ops are gone. Other than that I like the service.
Unfortunately you can only post 3 of their ops per blog per month. Of course you're allowed to have more than 1 blog in the system, and that's where I've got a question. Tonight when I logged into Blogging Ads I noticed one of my blogs that was previously approved was now showing as declined. I had to delete the blog and resubmit it.
Now when I originally joined Blogging Ads it only took a few days to get my blog approved. Previously the site said (and it still mentions this on your approved blogs page) that it should take up to 2 weeks for your blog to be approved. This is what throws me off. When I resubmitted my blog I received a message saying it could take up to 6 weeks for a blog to be approved. Does anyone else think that if it's going to be up to 6 weeks the site should say that everywhere instead of making 2 different statements?
Unfortunately you can only post 3 of their ops per blog per month. Of course you're allowed to have more than 1 blog in the system, and that's where I've got a question. Tonight when I logged into Blogging Ads I noticed one of my blogs that was previously approved was now showing as declined. I had to delete the blog and resubmit it.
Now when I originally joined Blogging Ads it only took a few days to get my blog approved. Previously the site said (and it still mentions this on your approved blogs page) that it should take up to 2 weeks for your blog to be approved. This is what throws me off. When I resubmitted my blog I received a message saying it could take up to 6 weeks for a blog to be approved. Does anyone else think that if it's going to be up to 6 weeks the site should say that everywhere instead of making 2 different statements?
Bully Stick Dog Treats
Have you heard of the Bully Stick dog treats? I saw these tonight, and they're something I really want to buy. What's a better treat for a Bully anyway? I mean almost everyone who reads my blog knows I'm a bully mom, and I want only the best for my little bully. My cat's name is Alley, and he eats Alley Cat cat food, so it's only fitting that my bulldog should try bully treats. What I really like is that these dog treats are 100% natural, and they're made from free-ranging cattle. They're also USDA and FDA approved. I think I'm going to pick up a pack of these soon to see if Bubba likes them.
Watching Gossip Girl
Awhile back I mentioned a new show coming on the CW named Gossip Girl. The show is about a bunch of elite private school kids who's lives are blogged about by an anonymous "Gossip Girl". At first I didn't think I was going to like this show. I figured it was going to be another teenybopper soap opera wanna-be, and it is. What surprises me is that I still enjoy watching it. It's not the type of show I would typically watch, but I do like it. I missed this week's episode, and I've found myself checking the CW website everyday waiting for the online release of last week's episode. I don't know what's up with that. Since when do I like shows about high school kids? Maybe it just makes me feel all giggly and teenybopper inside again. I've been starting to have age issues lately considering my birthday is coming up in a few weeks, and I'm only getting that much closer to 30.
If You Drink and Drive...
Create Your Own Coffee Commercial
Have you ever been on a coffee high? That's what I'm calling what I've got right now. I've got my sleep schedule all messed up again, so I went to bed about 8 am this morning. I ended up sleeping until 4 pm, so in no way am I sleepy at 2:15am. Unfortunately I'm cold. I've had cold chills all evening, and after a hot bath didn't fix the situation I fixed some coffee. I've had 3 cups of coffee in the last hour. Of course it's my favorite kind...Folger's Gourmet Selects Vanilla Biscotti. I also love the Caramel Drizzle, but I'm out of that.
Why am I telling you all about my favorite coffee? That's because Folger's Gourmet Selects is promoting something I think it very cool. They're raising money for Habitat For Humanity. Unfortunately it's only for the Los Angeles Branch, but I don't care where you live. If you need help I'm going to try to help you. Folgers has given us a very easy way to help. Just create your own Gourmet Selects commercial telling the world how you wake up! Each time you create your own commercial or vote on your favorite Folgers will donate $1 to Habitat For Humanity.
It's easy to make your own commercial. Just tell us what's your favorite part of the morning. You can choose photos from the website or use your own photos to create your commercial, and you're done! Check out my Folger's commercial!
Why am I telling you all about my favorite coffee? That's because Folger's Gourmet Selects is promoting something I think it very cool. They're raising money for Habitat For Humanity. Unfortunately it's only for the Los Angeles Branch, but I don't care where you live. If you need help I'm going to try to help you. Folgers has given us a very easy way to help. Just create your own Gourmet Selects commercial telling the world how you wake up! Each time you create your own commercial or vote on your favorite Folgers will donate $1 to Habitat For Humanity.
It's easy to make your own commercial. Just tell us what's your favorite part of the morning. You can choose photos from the website or use your own photos to create your commercial, and you're done! Check out my Folger's commercial!
Win With Prizematch!
How would you like the chance to win cash, video games, and other great stuff? Prizematch is just the place to do it! All you have to do is sign up for a free account and play to win!
It's easy to play. Just choose a set of five numbers, and if they match up with the winning numbers you can win cash, video games, or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other cool prizes. If you don't feel like picking the numbers yourself you can choose the quick pick option. Let the computer pick your numbers, and click "win" to see if you won anything!
You can also earn points through shopping deals. If you're a gamer you can view previews of upcoming games and participate in the gaming forums. It's free and easy to play, so what are you waiting for? Register and Win! You'll automatically earn 1000 points just for signing up for a free account. You never know what kind of prizes you might just walk away with. Don't forget to take advantage of the referral program where you can earn extra points by inviting your friends to join for free, too! You'll receive 500 points for each friend that signs up, but that's not all. You'll also receive 10% of all your friend's winnings!
I've already signed up, and I hope to see you there, too!
It's easy to play. Just choose a set of five numbers, and if they match up with the winning numbers you can win cash, video games, or points that can be redeemed for gift cards or other cool prizes. If you don't feel like picking the numbers yourself you can choose the quick pick option. Let the computer pick your numbers, and click "win" to see if you won anything!
You can also earn points through shopping deals. If you're a gamer you can view previews of upcoming games and participate in the gaming forums. It's free and easy to play, so what are you waiting for? Register and Win! You'll automatically earn 1000 points just for signing up for a free account. You never know what kind of prizes you might just walk away with. Don't forget to take advantage of the referral program where you can earn extra points by inviting your friends to join for free, too! You'll receive 500 points for each friend that signs up, but that's not all. You'll also receive 10% of all your friend's winnings!
I've already signed up, and I hope to see you there, too!
Have You Seen A Pink Dolphin?
I saw something on my friend Connie's blog that I just thought was too cool not to share. Have you ever seen a pink dolphin before? I had never seen a pink dolphin before, and I probably would have said you were crazy for thinking dolphins are pink if I hadn't seen the photos Connie posted on My Chronic Life. Apparently pink dolphins are actually albinos, and they are absolutely gorgeous! Head over to My Chronic Life to check them out! While you're there remember to leave Connie a nice little comment saying hello!
Bike or Ring?
What do you do when your hubby gives you two really awesome choices for your Christmas gift, and then he makes you make the decision? I'm faced with that dilemma right now. Hubby knows I've wanted us to buy new wedding bands for a long time. The ones we bought when we got married are nice, but they were what we could afford at the time.
Hubby also knows I want a new 08 Ninja 250r so I can play in the mountains. The bike's small enough and light enough that I can enjoy it as a twistie toy, but it's also got a small enough engine that it doesn't classify as a sports bike for insurance purposes. The one thing I want right now more than anything is that 250r, but I know hubby really wants us to get new wedding bands.
Why did he have to stick me in this situation? Why couldn't he just buy me something and surprise me?
Hubby also knows I want a new 08 Ninja 250r so I can play in the mountains. The bike's small enough and light enough that I can enjoy it as a twistie toy, but it's also got a small enough engine that it doesn't classify as a sports bike for insurance purposes. The one thing I want right now more than anything is that 250r, but I know hubby really wants us to get new wedding bands.
Why did he have to stick me in this situation? Why couldn't he just buy me something and surprise me?
Unconscious Mutterings Week 246
I've been so slack on filling out my Unconscious Mutterings, and I'm sorry about that. Now, I'm back in business and ready to go. Let's see what words we have this week.
1. Las Vegas :: Showgirls
2. Linus :: Lucy
3. Struck :: Lightning
4. Movie :: IMDB
5. Anxious :: Anxiety Attack
6. Bandit :: Jonny Quest
7. Picks :: Banjo
8. Lasso :: Rodeo
9. Dinner :: Bake
10. Bargain :: Shopper
1. Las Vegas :: Showgirls
2. Linus :: Lucy
3. Struck :: Lightning
4. Movie :: IMDB
5. Anxious :: Anxiety Attack
6. Bandit :: Jonny Quest
7. Picks :: Banjo
8. Lasso :: Rodeo
9. Dinner :: Bake
10. Bargain :: Shopper
Looking For A Shower Faucet
Since I have a while to wait before hubby gets home I decided to check out some shower faucets at Faucet.com. They've got a huge selection to choose from, and I've definitely found a few things I like. They've got a ton of brands to choose from, and I've already found quite a few chrome and brushed nickel faucets I would love to have. Of course I know I can't afford something like this right now, but maybe in the future I can replace whatever cheap shower head I pick up with one I know will last like this Jado "New Haven" faucet. Even though the prices are a little much for my budget right now they're still pretty cheap compared to a lot of other stores selling the same faucets. Faucet.com also offers so many styles that I have a hard time choosing exactly what I want!
Plumbing Woes
This has so not been my weekend. So many things have gone wrong, and I swear my bathroom hates me. Yesterday my toilet decided to go on the fritz. I couldn't get it to flush, so I decided to investigate only to find that the handle that lifts the chain is broken. I didn't know what to buy, so I had to wait for hubby to get home to fix it. Hubby got home just in time to leave for the Oktoberfest fireworks show. He was so tired when we got home from the fireworks he didn't feel like going to Walmart, so I spent the whole day and night having to manually flush the toilet by lifting the little arm myself. I know it's gross.
Just when I thought things couldn't get any worse I decided to take a shower. I stepped in the shower, reached up to turn my shower head from normal to massage, and the shower head fell off in my hand! I got a nice spray of water full blast into the chest, and boy did it sting. After I got the water turned off and recovered from the blast, I inspected the shower head to discover the entire thing was plastic, and the part that screws onto the pipe basically broke in half. I had to settle for a bath.
Now I'm waiting on hubby to get home again so we can go shopping for what we need. I'd go get the stuff myself, but I don't know what I'm looking for. Plumbing is not my forte. Unfortunately hubby's off hauling hay with my dad, so he's going to need a bath as soon as he gets home. He hates taking baths, but that's what he gets for not going to get the plumbing parts last night!
Just when I thought things couldn't get any worse I decided to take a shower. I stepped in the shower, reached up to turn my shower head from normal to massage, and the shower head fell off in my hand! I got a nice spray of water full blast into the chest, and boy did it sting. After I got the water turned off and recovered from the blast, I inspected the shower head to discover the entire thing was plastic, and the part that screws onto the pipe basically broke in half. I had to settle for a bath.
Now I'm waiting on hubby to get home again so we can go shopping for what we need. I'd go get the stuff myself, but I don't know what I'm looking for. Plumbing is not my forte. Unfortunately hubby's off hauling hay with my dad, so he's going to need a bath as soon as he gets home. He hates taking baths, but that's what he gets for not going to get the plumbing parts last night!
Save While You Shop
I've been talking a lot lately about shopping for the holidays. There's just so much to do with such a busy holiday season among us. First there's Halloween and candy to buy, then there's Thanksgiving. I've got a ton of birthdays I have to buy stuff for, and then I'll get hit with Christmas presents. On top of all of that I've still got decorations to buy. Yes I keep my decorations year to year, but every year there's just something else I want or something I'm missing that I have to replace. One thing I definitely want to do this time of year is save money while I'm spending it. Just because I have to spend it doesn't mean I can't find deals on great stuff.
A great way to save a little cash on holiday shopping is by visiting sites like Coupon Chief where you can find great online shopping coupons. It's a good idea to make a list of all the presents you have to buy. I start by listing everyone I have to buy for, then I break them down into categories based on what they like. Then all I have to do is visit stores that contain items I think they would like. I'm sure to find a coupon for something! For example, Hubby is a carpenter, but he's also a backyard mechanic. Tools are always a great gift for him. My Dad, Father-in-law, and Grandpa all fall into this same category, so all I have to do is check out Coupon Chief for Home Depot coupons. I've already knocked at least 4 gifts off my list!
When it comes to the ladies everyone likes to smell good. I'll find some nice perfume or candles for a few of my gifts. When it comes to the younger girls I know I can always buy them cute clothes they'll love. My sister and sister-in-law love Delia's, so I can take advantage of some of the Delia's coupons on Coupon Chief.
If you like to save cash on your holiday shopping, give Coupon Chief a try. You never know what kind of savings your going to find!
A great way to save a little cash on holiday shopping is by visiting sites like Coupon Chief where you can find great online shopping coupons. It's a good idea to make a list of all the presents you have to buy. I start by listing everyone I have to buy for, then I break them down into categories based on what they like. Then all I have to do is visit stores that contain items I think they would like. I'm sure to find a coupon for something! For example, Hubby is a carpenter, but he's also a backyard mechanic. Tools are always a great gift for him. My Dad, Father-in-law, and Grandpa all fall into this same category, so all I have to do is check out Coupon Chief for Home Depot coupons. I've already knocked at least 4 gifts off my list!
When it comes to the ladies everyone likes to smell good. I'll find some nice perfume or candles for a few of my gifts. When it comes to the younger girls I know I can always buy them cute clothes they'll love. My sister and sister-in-law love Delia's, so I can take advantage of some of the Delia's coupons on Coupon Chief.
If you like to save cash on your holiday shopping, give Coupon Chief a try. You never know what kind of savings your going to find!
Fresh Bet Home Fragrances
My mother in law just got a part time job at a store that I absolutely love! It's called Fresh Bet Home Fragrances, and I'm already dieing to shop there. As soon as I saw their website I told my mother in law I would definitely be sharing this one. She carries all kind of wonderful candles, fragrance oils, air fresheners, and tons of other smell good products, but my favorite part is the clearance and specials sections! It doesn't matter when you visit the website there's always something on sale. If you find something you'd like to order, don't forget to check the specials section to see if you can order anything for free. Right now you can get a Ginger Tea Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer free with any purchase, but there are a ton of other goodies, too.
Don't forget the clearance isle! The clearance section is packed full of goodies that are anywhere from 10-50% off. If you live anywhere in Upstate SC stop by the store in Central, SC to see what in-store specials are running, but if you're no where around here you can still take advantage of online only specials!
I'm definitely picking up this Blue & White Aroma Decor Diffuser by Greenleaf for my Grandma. It will match her blue china set in the living room, and I know she'll love it. Right now it's 15% off, so that's a nice bit of savings for my pocket, too! There are so many wonderful things to choose from. Last night I smelled some of the wax melts my mother in law brought home, and they were so awesome. I especially loved the strawberry kiwi. I think this store is definitely one of my new favorites!
Don't forget the clearance isle! The clearance section is packed full of goodies that are anywhere from 10-50% off. If you live anywhere in Upstate SC stop by the store in Central, SC to see what in-store specials are running, but if you're no where around here you can still take advantage of online only specials!
I'm definitely picking up this Blue & White Aroma Decor Diffuser by Greenleaf for my Grandma. It will match her blue china set in the living room, and I know she'll love it. Right now it's 15% off, so that's a nice bit of savings for my pocket, too! There are so many wonderful things to choose from. Last night I smelled some of the wax melts my mother in law brought home, and they were so awesome. I especially loved the strawberry kiwi. I think this store is definitely one of my new favorites!
Personalized Gifts For Children
Do you ever have a hard time shopping for kids in your family because you just don't know what they like or what they already own? I have this problem all the time, and I normally end up waiting to the last minute and just picking something off the shelf. Now here's a great idea for a Christmas present that's not only educational, but it's also something unique!Check out these cute little "My Special Christmas Adventure" books. It's a Personalized Christmas Story Book that can be tailored just for the child you're shopping for. The story is personalized with details such as the child's name, friend's names, and age to make it a story that is unique to them. Not interested in a Christmas Story? Identity Direct, the company that sells these books, has over 500 other personalized gifts for children including other personalized books, many of which are Disney titles including Cars, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Ratatouille.
Can you think of anything that will make your child or the child you're shopping for happier than a personalized gift made just for them?
Save The Boobs
Did you hear about the 2 girls who were told they couldn't wear or sale Breast Cancer Awareness shirts at the school the girls attended? I was totally shocked by this, and no matter how you feel about the slogan the girls decided to use, I think they should be allowed to raise the money for Breast Cancer Awareness.
The story is that these 2 girls, Haley Wenthe and Jessica Sheahon wanted to raise $10,000 for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Haley lost her mother to breast cancer 5 years ago, and Jessica's mom is battling the disease. The two girls were selling bracelets, beads, and temporary tattoos to raise money, but they decided to step it up a notch by having t-shirts printed that they could sell for the cause. What was the slogan? "Save 2nd Base." The girls decided to use the term because it's a slang teenagers often use to refer to boobs, but on the back they printed a breast cancer awareness ribbon.
Unfortunately not only did the school officials decide the girls couldn't wear or sell the shirts because it was considered "bad taste", but another breast cancer awareness group trademarked a shirt with the same slogan that was originally designed by Kelly Rooney, a woman who lost her battle with breast cancer after designing the t-shirt. The girls were contacted by a woman with the foundation that owns the trademark for the shirts asking them to stop selling the shirts due to copyright laws. The foundation would have probably never have found out about the shirts the girls had printed, and the girls would have never known they were committing copyright infringement if it hadn't been for the school.
The girls had 900 shirts printed with plans of selling them at a Friday night football game. Even though the vice principal of the high school is a cancer survivor and supports the girls' campaign, he told them they had "gone too far" because the shirts contained a reference to a sexual statement. I honestly think this is total BS. I have seen the original "Save 2nd Base" shirts, and I want one! I think this is a great way to tune the younger generations into what's going on and a great way to get them involved in raising money for breast cancer awareness. After the girls were banned from selling the shirts at school more people started buying them because they didn't believe the ban was fair. Unfortunately the girls can no longer sell the shirts because of the copyright infringement, but the foundation that owns the copyright is working with the girls to find a solution to help them raise money with sales of the original shirt design.
I do think it is fair for the two girls to learn a lesson in copyright infringement, but I do believe this is a special case. If the money is going to the same place, I think the foundation should allow the girls to sell the original 900 shirts they had printed. I also understand the school's point of view, but I think the girls should have been allowed to sell the t-shirts for such a cause.
What do you think about all of this? Should they have been allowed to sell the shirts...whether it be the ones they had printed or ones approved by the foundation holding the copyright?
The story is that these 2 girls, Haley Wenthe and Jessica Sheahon wanted to raise $10,000 for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Haley lost her mother to breast cancer 5 years ago, and Jessica's mom is battling the disease. The two girls were selling bracelets, beads, and temporary tattoos to raise money, but they decided to step it up a notch by having t-shirts printed that they could sell for the cause. What was the slogan? "Save 2nd Base." The girls decided to use the term because it's a slang teenagers often use to refer to boobs, but on the back they printed a breast cancer awareness ribbon.
Unfortunately not only did the school officials decide the girls couldn't wear or sell the shirts because it was considered "bad taste", but another breast cancer awareness group trademarked a shirt with the same slogan that was originally designed by Kelly Rooney, a woman who lost her battle with breast cancer after designing the t-shirt. The girls were contacted by a woman with the foundation that owns the trademark for the shirts asking them to stop selling the shirts due to copyright laws. The foundation would have probably never have found out about the shirts the girls had printed, and the girls would have never known they were committing copyright infringement if it hadn't been for the school.
The girls had 900 shirts printed with plans of selling them at a Friday night football game. Even though the vice principal of the high school is a cancer survivor and supports the girls' campaign, he told them they had "gone too far" because the shirts contained a reference to a sexual statement. I honestly think this is total BS. I have seen the original "Save 2nd Base" shirts, and I want one! I think this is a great way to tune the younger generations into what's going on and a great way to get them involved in raising money for breast cancer awareness. After the girls were banned from selling the shirts at school more people started buying them because they didn't believe the ban was fair. Unfortunately the girls can no longer sell the shirts because of the copyright infringement, but the foundation that owns the copyright is working with the girls to find a solution to help them raise money with sales of the original shirt design.
I do think it is fair for the two girls to learn a lesson in copyright infringement, but I do believe this is a special case. If the money is going to the same place, I think the foundation should allow the girls to sell the original 900 shirts they had printed. I also understand the school's point of view, but I think the girls should have been allowed to sell the t-shirts for such a cause.
What do you think about all of this? Should they have been allowed to sell the shirts...whether it be the ones they had printed or ones approved by the foundation holding the copyright?
Big Ouch!
I absolutely hate the lighting in my kitchen. Well it's not that I hate the lighting so much as the placement of the light switch. At night I almost always leave the light over the sink turned on just so I don't have to go fumbling for the light switch if I want something to drink. I walked in there to find that someone had turned both lights off. Now here's the first problem. The light switch isn't near the door that leads to the kitchen. It's in the middle of the room under a row of cabinets. Yes I know my way around my own kitchen enough to walk through it in the dark, but there's almost always going to be something in the middle of the floor that I won't be expecting like one of the dog's toys. Hubby's also bad about placing the dog's water bowl right in my path to the light switch.
What's problem #2? We've got a big deep freezer that sits under the cabinet right in front of the light switch. The freezer sticks out so far I have to tip toe to reach the light switch and I almost always end up jabbing the freezer handle in my side. It's bad enough to do it in the daylight but in the dark...OUCH! Of course tonight was yet another incident of handle in the side. I'll have another big bruise tomorrow.
We seriously need to move the light switch, but if I'm going to make hubby go to all that trouble I'm going to go ahead and replace the light as well. It's one of the old school fluorescents that takes the 2 light tubes, and I absolutely hate it. Not only is it ugly, but it's a pain to change when one blows. I think some track lighting would look nice in there. I might just have to talk to hubby about it.
What's problem #2? We've got a big deep freezer that sits under the cabinet right in front of the light switch. The freezer sticks out so far I have to tip toe to reach the light switch and I almost always end up jabbing the freezer handle in my side. It's bad enough to do it in the daylight but in the dark...OUCH! Of course tonight was yet another incident of handle in the side. I'll have another big bruise tomorrow.
We seriously need to move the light switch, but if I'm going to make hubby go to all that trouble I'm going to go ahead and replace the light as well. It's one of the old school fluorescents that takes the 2 light tubes, and I absolutely hate it. Not only is it ugly, but it's a pain to change when one blows. I think some track lighting would look nice in there. I might just have to talk to hubby about it.
Double The Reading
If you're looking for a couple new blogs to read check out The Original Mx5 and Mummified Times Five. I know what you're thinking. Mummified? Is she a Halloween freak? Nope! The answer is she's a mom! Tina has 5 little ones running around at home, so I have to call her a super mom for being able to chase them all and still maintain TWO blogs. I have a hard enough time keeping up with my blogs with just a dog and a cat to follow around! She's also an Aussie which is just think is so dang cool. I love Australian accents.
When it comes to her blogs I'm a fan of both. First of all I love the layouts. The Original Mx5 has a nice 3 column layout that allows Tina to have a lot of sidebar info without it looking cluttered. The font and color are easy on the eyes, and on top of that there's always something interesting to read about. Mummified Times Five is Tina's new blog that she's decided to self host. I definitely give her props for trying to move away from free hosting. The layout is as equally nice, and I'm finding I enjoy reading about a family with 5 kids in the house...4 of them girls! That has got to be a mess to deal with!
When it comes to her blogs I'm a fan of both. First of all I love the layouts. The Original Mx5 has a nice 3 column layout that allows Tina to have a lot of sidebar info without it looking cluttered. The font and color are easy on the eyes, and on top of that there's always something interesting to read about. Mummified Times Five is Tina's new blog that she's decided to self host. I definitely give her props for trying to move away from free hosting. The layout is as equally nice, and I'm finding I enjoy reading about a family with 5 kids in the house...4 of them girls! That has got to be a mess to deal with!
Ran Into An Old Friend
Hubby and I ran into someone tonight that we haven't seen in a few years, a guy named Justin. He used to be one of hubby's best friends, but that was also during hubby's days as a drug addict. If I had never actually seen Justin doing drugs I would never have believed he did them. He was a very sweet guy who seemed to have his life together. He owned his own business, drove nice cars, was buying a house, was getting married...he just didn't seem like the kind of guy who was hiding in bathroom stalls to do drugs while out at the club. Unfortunately right after I found out he was a drug addict it all came crashing down on him. He ended up OD'ing, and he totally flipped out. That was about the time I was trying to get hubby away from his drug addict friends, so we didn't see him again.
Running into him tonight was nice. At first site of him I was thinking oh no, one of hubby's old drug buddies, but when Justin came over I could tell something was definitely different about him. We ended up talking for over an hour about how he went to drug rehab shortly after his incident, and he's been clean every day for 4 years now. It makes me feel good to run into people like that. It reassures me that drug rehabilitation does work if you set your mind to it.
Running into him tonight was nice. At first site of him I was thinking oh no, one of hubby's old drug buddies, but when Justin came over I could tell something was definitely different about him. We ended up talking for over an hour about how he went to drug rehab shortly after his incident, and he's been clean every day for 4 years now. It makes me feel good to run into people like that. It reassures me that drug rehabilitation does work if you set your mind to it.
MRSA Becoming A Threat
A few days ago I wrote a post on Everyday Randomness about MRSA becoming an epidemic that could kill more people that AIDs. It's a scary thought, but what's even scarier is that it's being passed around in our schools. I had never heard of MRSA until a few months ago, but now I'm trying to research everything I can about the deadly strain of the Staph germ. That's mostly because tonight I heard something on the news that scares me even more.
I already knew there were 21 schools in Virginia shut down from MRSA, but then I heard tonight about it hitting schools close to me. Both schools are in North Carolina, but it scares me because they are both in communities where hubby works. One school in Cashiers is only a couple miles away from the job he's working on right now. I think the saddest part is that this antibiotic resistant strain of the Staph infection is traveling through kids. At least 6 football players at a high school in Winston Salem have come down with it since September.
I think it scares me even more knowing that hubby still has a huge open wound on his leg from his bike wreck. We've been taking every precaution to keep it clean and free of bacteria, but even if we could use Neosporin on it (which we can't), the MRSA virus is immune to most triple antibiotic ointments. I discussed it with hubby, and he's also very concerned about his leg and the infection he could pick up, so we're going to buy some Staphaseptic to keep around the house just for situations like this. It's the only first aid ointment that I know of that will kill 99% of the MRSA germs.
I'll be watching the news more closely now that this virus is affecting the area I live in. It scares the heck out of me.
I already knew there were 21 schools in Virginia shut down from MRSA, but then I heard tonight about it hitting schools close to me. Both schools are in North Carolina, but it scares me because they are both in communities where hubby works. One school in Cashiers is only a couple miles away from the job he's working on right now. I think the saddest part is that this antibiotic resistant strain of the Staph infection is traveling through kids. At least 6 football players at a high school in Winston Salem have come down with it since September.
I think it scares me even more knowing that hubby still has a huge open wound on his leg from his bike wreck. We've been taking every precaution to keep it clean and free of bacteria, but even if we could use Neosporin on it (which we can't), the MRSA virus is immune to most triple antibiotic ointments. I discussed it with hubby, and he's also very concerned about his leg and the infection he could pick up, so we're going to buy some Staphaseptic to keep around the house just for situations like this. It's the only first aid ointment that I know of that will kill 99% of the MRSA germs.
I'll be watching the news more closely now that this virus is affecting the area I live in. It scares the heck out of me.
Facts For Life
I found a Breast Cancer Facts Sheet that I thought was interesting and want to share with you. It's called Facts For Life, and I've already read a lot of interesting facts I didn't know. I know men can get breast cancer, too, but did you know that it's so rare that less than 1 in every 100 cases of breast cancer is a man? If you would like more information on breast cancer, what causes it, and how to prevent it check out Facts For Life. You'll find information on what makes you at risk, when to start mammograms and self checks, and a lot of other helpful information.
Working On Graphics
I'm sorry I haven't been able to get the tag up like I wanted. I've been having problems with Paint Shop Pro, and I think I'm going to have to wipe it off here and do a clean install. All the normal cleanup methods just aren't working, so I'll try to install it later this evening. Hopefully I'll have time to sit down and make a tag. I still haven't decided if I want to make just one tag or if I want to make a few options so those of you who have beaten the cancer can be show the world that you're a survivor. Remember if you choose to use my graphic you can use it year round. You won't have to take it down at the end of October. We should try to raise breast cancer awareness year round!
My Own Little Jungle
I'm turning my guest room into a jungle. No seriously...I really am. It's already half way there. I've got a huge collection of stuffed monkeys that hubby has banished to the guest room, and my mom gave me some dark green curtains that I'm going to put up in there. The walls are already really dark wood paneling, and well the floor is ugly brown linoleum that we can't change because we don't own the house.
I've been trying to come up with ways to make the room look better in a fun way, and I really think this is going to be it. I found some animal print bedding that I can use on the day bed, and I'm thinking about getting a couple of those plastic chains you store stuffed animals on to hang from the ceiling. I could wrap them in some ivy I've got stashed away in my craft supplies, and I think I could make it look really cute. I'm even thinking about adding a fake mosquito net canopy over the bed. Man I don't even have kids yet, and I'm already decorating the room funky. It'll be fun though! What do you think?
I've been trying to come up with ways to make the room look better in a fun way, and I really think this is going to be it. I found some animal print bedding that I can use on the day bed, and I'm thinking about getting a couple of those plastic chains you store stuffed animals on to hang from the ceiling. I could wrap them in some ivy I've got stashed away in my craft supplies, and I think I could make it look really cute. I'm even thinking about adding a fake mosquito net canopy over the bed. Man I don't even have kids yet, and I'm already decorating the room funky. It'll be fun though! What do you think?
Beautiful Breast Cancer Scrap Kit
I've found something wonderful for all you scrappers out there as well as any tag makers who might drop by for a look here. I found a free scrap kit called "Alive & Kicking" by Susan Darter that I just had to share. This kit is absolutely beautiful and is designed to bring awareness to breast cancer. The set is huge, and is wonderful, but yo can use it for more than just breast cancer scraps. There are a ton of papers included that will look great with tons of other stuff. Not all of the elements are shown in the preview above, so make sure you head over to Raspberry Road Designs to check it out. Don't forget to grab the elements because they are posted separate from the papers. I will be also using a few of the elements in a tag I hope to have finished to share later tonight.
New Job New Camera
I know have a reason why I really must buy a new camera and a great one at that. I might have a new job! Yeah just add it to the list of many things I already do, but I think I'll seriously love this one. Hubby builds these huge homes in Highlands, NC. Most of these homes are worth multi-millions before you even consider adding the furniture, so they're definitely considered luxury homes.
I love walking around and snapping photos through the build so hubby can look at his work later. Last week hubby showed some of the photos I've taken to his boss. Most of these I took with my cell phone camera, so I thought they were pretty crappy, but his boss loves them. He wants to start taking photos of different stages of each build so they can show them to potential customers, and he wants ME to take them!
I love walking around and snapping photos through the build so hubby can look at his work later. Last week hubby showed some of the photos I've taken to his boss. Most of these I took with my cell phone camera, so I thought they were pretty crappy, but his boss loves them. He wants to start taking photos of different stages of each build so they can show them to potential customers, and he wants ME to take them!
Pinkalicious
By now it's very obvious that I'm on a crusade to support breast cancer awareness during breast cancer awareness month even if I can't afford to donate money. Are you sick of seeing all this pink yet? I am, but you know if I can put away my hatred of pink for this cause you can deal with it, too. I even wore a pink shirt today, and that totally goes again my whole wardrobe. I had to go through just about ever piece of clothing I own to find one pink shirt. Thank goodness the temperature finally decided to remember it's fall now because that one shirt is fleece.
Now that I've gone off on a ramble, let me get back to the point. I wanted to let everyone know you're going to be seeing a lot more pink and breast cancer awareness info on this blog. Everyday this month I'm going to try to post at least 1 helpful link or article about breast cancer awareness. Because I'm also a signature tag designer I will also be creating a breast cancer related graphic in the new few days that I will offer to personalize for anyone to use on their blog or in their signatures. If you don't know what a signature tag is you'll have to stay tuned to find out!
Now that I've gone off on a ramble, let me get back to the point. I wanted to let everyone know you're going to be seeing a lot more pink and breast cancer awareness info on this blog. Everyday this month I'm going to try to post at least 1 helpful link or article about breast cancer awareness. Because I'm also a signature tag designer I will also be creating a breast cancer related graphic in the new few days that I will offer to personalize for anyone to use on their blog or in their signatures. If you don't know what a signature tag is you'll have to stay tuned to find out!
Planning Yet Another Vacation
I talked to my dad tonight, and he asked me about our trip to the beach. My dad's going to the beach next week, but it's just one of many vacations he takes each year. He takes the entire month of June off to vacation, the entire month of November off to hunt, and he's still got plenty of vacation weeks during the year where he runs off to some other location. I know, he makes me sick with all that free time, but he's my daddy and I still love him!
Tonight he told me he wants to plan a family vacation. We normally spend at least one weekend in the mountains each year with my mom, but I hardly ever get to go on vacation with my dad. My sister and I haven't both gone on vacation together with him since I was a teenager, so he wants to plan something big. I think I might mention a trip to Branson Missouri. I know what you're thinking. What the heck is there to see in Branson?
Well there's a few things I really want to see. For starters there's the Titanic Museum. It just happens to be the World's largest museum attraction, and I want to see it! My sister might not be interested, but I know my dad, hubby, and myself would all like to visit '57 Heaven, the largest collection of automobiles from 1957. I'm a sucker for an old car. Last but certainly not least I'd like to visit Silver Dollar City. It was voted the #1 theme park in the world, and I've heard it's an awesome experience!
Tonight he told me he wants to plan a family vacation. We normally spend at least one weekend in the mountains each year with my mom, but I hardly ever get to go on vacation with my dad. My sister and I haven't both gone on vacation together with him since I was a teenager, so he wants to plan something big. I think I might mention a trip to Branson Missouri. I know what you're thinking. What the heck is there to see in Branson?
Well there's a few things I really want to see. For starters there's the Titanic Museum. It just happens to be the World's largest museum attraction, and I want to see it! My sister might not be interested, but I know my dad, hubby, and myself would all like to visit '57 Heaven, the largest collection of automobiles from 1957. I'm a sucker for an old car. Last but certainly not least I'd like to visit Silver Dollar City. It was voted the #1 theme park in the world, and I've heard it's an awesome experience!
Ways To Support Breast Cancer Research Without Paying A Lot
If you're like me you want to support causes like research for breast cancer cures, but you might not always have the extra money to donate. There are ways to support the cause without having to pinch your own pennies to help.
The easiest way to help is by visiting The Breast Cancer Site and clicking a button. You can click once a day, and every click donates free mammograms to aid in early detection. Another way to help is to find a breast cancer charity event in your area. These events are ran by volunteers, and there are many jobs available where you can help out.
You can contact the American Cancer Society to find out info on breast cancer walks in your area. Participating in these walks not only raises money but helps you to stay fit! If you are involved with a local church group or community group see if you can get your group to sponsor a charity event to raise awareness.
I still think the most effective, yet free way to support breast cancer research is to raise awareness by talking to the other women you know about their health and breast cancer. Remind them to do monthly self checks and to talk to their doctors about mammograms. Breast cancer knows no age limit, so just because a woman might think she's too young to need a mammogram, her doctor may think otherwise. I might be 25 with no family history of breast cancer, but I am a large chested woman with a thyroid problem. My doctor wants me to get a mammogram every 2 years. Taking care of your own body is the first step in prevention.
These are just a few ways to support breast cancer awareness if you're pocket is too empty to give money, but I'm sure there are many other ways I'm not thinking of. What ideas can you come up with? Be creative!
The easiest way to help is by visiting The Breast Cancer Site and clicking a button. You can click once a day, and every click donates free mammograms to aid in early detection. Another way to help is to find a breast cancer charity event in your area. These events are ran by volunteers, and there are many jobs available where you can help out.
You can contact the American Cancer Society to find out info on breast cancer walks in your area. Participating in these walks not only raises money but helps you to stay fit! If you are involved with a local church group or community group see if you can get your group to sponsor a charity event to raise awareness.
I still think the most effective, yet free way to support breast cancer research is to raise awareness by talking to the other women you know about their health and breast cancer. Remind them to do monthly self checks and to talk to their doctors about mammograms. Breast cancer knows no age limit, so just because a woman might think she's too young to need a mammogram, her doctor may think otherwise. I might be 25 with no family history of breast cancer, but I am a large chested woman with a thyroid problem. My doctor wants me to get a mammogram every 2 years. Taking care of your own body is the first step in prevention.
These are just a few ways to support breast cancer awareness if you're pocket is too empty to give money, but I'm sure there are many other ways I'm not thinking of. What ideas can you come up with? Be creative!
Birthday's Hitting The Wallet
I just realized something that's going to drive me crazy this week. I've got 12 birthday presents to buy in the next 2 months. That's not counting my own birthday which is coming up next month. I know hubby's going to do something big for me, and he's already said it involves tickets to the Clemson vs. Wake Forest game that's on my birthday. Hubby also mentioned possibly buying me the unlocked phone I've been wanting. I'm getting sort of tired of my LG 9800 even though it's a great phone.
That just means I've seriously got to come up with some cash for gifts, or I've got to come up with a list of cheap but good gifts that I can afford out of my own cash. I swear all the birthdays in our family hit at the same time. Half of them hit in October/November while most of the others hit around March to May. There are a few spread out over the rest of the year, but there aren't enough then to hit the wallet hard.
I'm making a list right now breaking it down into girls and guys then age categories. I know I over analyze everything including the gifts I'm going to buy, but there's so many to buy for I feel like I'm shopping for Christmas already. Oh wait...I've got to turn around and buy them all Christmas presents! See why all these birthdays late in the year hit me hard? At least my own birthday money goes for Christmas presents.
That just means I've seriously got to come up with some cash for gifts, or I've got to come up with a list of cheap but good gifts that I can afford out of my own cash. I swear all the birthdays in our family hit at the same time. Half of them hit in October/November while most of the others hit around March to May. There are a few spread out over the rest of the year, but there aren't enough then to hit the wallet hard.
I'm making a list right now breaking it down into girls and guys then age categories. I know I over analyze everything including the gifts I'm going to buy, but there's so many to buy for I feel like I'm shopping for Christmas already. Oh wait...I've got to turn around and buy them all Christmas presents! See why all these birthdays late in the year hit me hard? At least my own birthday money goes for Christmas presents.
Support Breast Cancer Awareness With Free 411
A lot of my friends online and offline know I use Mypoints. It's so easy to rack up points via the emails and through the points I earn when I shop online, and normally when I have so many points I donate them to one of the charities. My last big points donation was to the Red Cross, but it'll be awhile before I have enough to make a good donation again. Even though I can't do that, Mypoints showed me another way that I can help donate to Breast Cancer research, and it's pretty cool because it's with a service I already use so I thought this was definitely worth sharing.
This month every time you tell someone about 1-800-Free-411 and they use the service $1 will be donated to Breast Cancer Research! I think that's just awesome because I use 1-800-Free-411 anytime I need to call 411 for a listing. It's free to use, and it's just like dialing regular 411 without having to deal with the phone charges. It costs me $.99 every single time I call 411 from my cell phone, so I started using this service a long time ago. 1-800-Free-411 pays for it's calls with short advertisements that play before you receive the number you're calling for. The advertisements aren't annoying or long, so I think it's worth it to get the listing for free. In fact, most of the time when I call I listen to a short little message about McDonald's so it's not that bad. So, go ahead and check out the service, make the call, and have $1 donated to Breast Cancer Research! Don't forget to tell everyone you know so they can have $1 donated, too!
This month every time you tell someone about 1-800-Free-411 and they use the service $1 will be donated to Breast Cancer Research! I think that's just awesome because I use 1-800-Free-411 anytime I need to call 411 for a listing. It's free to use, and it's just like dialing regular 411 without having to deal with the phone charges. It costs me $.99 every single time I call 411 from my cell phone, so I started using this service a long time ago. 1-800-Free-411 pays for it's calls with short advertisements that play before you receive the number you're calling for. The advertisements aren't annoying or long, so I think it's worth it to get the listing for free. In fact, most of the time when I call I listen to a short little message about McDonald's so it's not that bad. So, go ahead and check out the service, make the call, and have $1 donated to Breast Cancer Research! Don't forget to tell everyone you know so they can have $1 donated, too!
Going Pink For Breast Cancer Awareness
I decided to follow in the foot steps of a lot of my other female bloggers. As much as I truly despise the color I'm putting my own feelings aside and going pink for the rest of the month of October in support of Breast Cancer Awareness. I don't personally have a family member who's experienced breast cancer, but I do have a few friends who have, and even though I'm young I know it can still effect me. One of my best friends in college found out she had breast cancer at 19, so I know it can have an affect on anyone of any age. Please take a few minutes out of your busy schedule to do something to support breast cancer research anyway you can.
Fixing Your Bad Credit Score
Getting a credit card does help you bring your credit back up to a good rating, but finding a company that will give you a card is the hard part. That's why there are resources out there like badcreditoffers.com. The site is a resource to help people with bad credit find credit cards, loans, and credit counseling. With the right resources it's still possible to right a bad situation where credit is concerned.
Muttering Away Again
As usual I'm really behind on my memes, but I'm catching up! This week's Unconscious Mutterings has some words that really made me think. Are you ready for some word associations? Check these out!
1. Cluster :: I can't say the first word that came to mind because this is a PG rated blog! ;-)
2. Announcement :: Engagement
3. Respect :: R-E-S-P-E-C-T!!!
4. Incident :: Report
5. Accordion :: Music
6. Drunk :: and Disorderly :-p
7. If :: As If
8. Dexter :: I have no idea
9. Wedding :: Planner
10. Gambling :: Addiction
1. Cluster :: I can't say the first word that came to mind because this is a PG rated blog! ;-)
2. Announcement :: Engagement
3. Respect :: R-E-S-P-E-C-T!!!
4. Incident :: Report
5. Accordion :: Music
6. Drunk :: and Disorderly :-p
7. If :: As If
8. Dexter :: I have no idea
9. Wedding :: Planner
10. Gambling :: Addiction
Beach Trip Is Off
Every year I look forward to our beach trip that we take in the fall, but right now I'm disappointed. Hubby and I were afraid we wouldn't be able to go because of the financial situation we ended up in after his wreck, but that changed for us. We canceled our original trip because of that, but last weekend we discussed it with our friends and decided to plan the trip again.
Today I made some calls about getting a rental house, and because it's last minute I didn't know how much luck I would have, but I found some great deals. I found one near the boat landing that would be perfect, especially since one of our friends who lives nearby always comes down to do some boating in the river. There are some nice sandbars that are perfect for lounging out or having a picnic when the tide is low. It's like your own private little beach with dolphins swimming around.
I called my friend to tell her about it, and she dropped the bad news. Her dad has to have surgery that week, so they won't be able to make it. Without them we can't afford the place, so it looks like we'll be putting off our trip this year. I can't get upset them having to back out. It's totally understandable, and I would actually be pretty pissed at her if she decided to go to the beach while her dad's having surgery. Hopefully we can reschedule it later next month, but we'll have to see how it goes.
This means I won't have to take time off from my blogging through. I was trying to line up a couple people to possibly do some guest posts, mostly reviews of products they've tried recently, but now I won't have to worry about that so much. This also gives me an opportunity to save up some more cash, and if we don't go on our trip I know I'll have plenty of cash for Christmas this year. Things always seem to work themselves out don't they?
Today I made some calls about getting a rental house, and because it's last minute I didn't know how much luck I would have, but I found some great deals. I found one near the boat landing that would be perfect, especially since one of our friends who lives nearby always comes down to do some boating in the river. There are some nice sandbars that are perfect for lounging out or having a picnic when the tide is low. It's like your own private little beach with dolphins swimming around.
I called my friend to tell her about it, and she dropped the bad news. Her dad has to have surgery that week, so they won't be able to make it. Without them we can't afford the place, so it looks like we'll be putting off our trip this year. I can't get upset them having to back out. It's totally understandable, and I would actually be pretty pissed at her if she decided to go to the beach while her dad's having surgery. Hopefully we can reschedule it later next month, but we'll have to see how it goes.
This means I won't have to take time off from my blogging through. I was trying to line up a couple people to possibly do some guest posts, mostly reviews of products they've tried recently, but now I won't have to worry about that so much. This also gives me an opportunity to save up some more cash, and if we don't go on our trip I know I'll have plenty of cash for Christmas this year. Things always seem to work themselves out don't they?
Shopping Spree For Me
Well I didn't get to buy anything in the Woot Off yesterday. That doesn't mean I didn't try! Everything I wanted sold out before I had a chance to even put in my credit card info to order it, but I guess that could be a good thing. At least I didn't spend the cash, but this was the week I had it to spend! Since I do have extra cash I let hubby order some parts to fix our bike...yes the one he wrecked a couple months ago. It'll be back on the road before next weekend, and I convinced him to let me order some fire glass too. I think fire glass is so cool, and I want some to put in my outdoor fire pit as well as in my electric fireplace. I don't think I can put it in my regular wood burning fireplace or wood stove, but I'll use it where I can! Have you seen the fire glass tables? I think they're so freakin' cool looking, but I would prefer to make my own.
Woot Off!
Are you ready to pick up some awesome stuff for cheap? The Woot off's going on over at Woot.com! Of course, the Woot off always hits during the week I'm broke, but I'm making sure you know about it, so you can pick up some great deals! Remember the Sandisk 512mb mp3 player I got for $14.99? Yep I got it during a woot off. You can find tons of stuff both new and refurbished, so head on over to check out what's for sale today before it ends!
Win With The Rookie Challenge
Have you been interested in investing in the stock market, but you're afraid of losing your money? That's exactly how I describe myself. Every time I consider investing I change my mind because I'm afraid I'll lose all my money.
My dad has been very successful in the stock market, and he's always telling me I'll never learn to invest correctly if I don't jump in there and risk some money. Well Daddy, I think I've found a better way to do it. My way doesn't involve risking any real money, but I can win $1000 in real cash!
All I have to do is sign up for a free account at MyWallSt.net, the social networking site for people with an interest in finances and the stock market. Then all I have to do is take the rookie challenge. They'll give me $100,000 in virtual money to invest in real companies. Just like the real market, I can buy and sell between 10am to 4pm Monday through Friday. Then MyWallSt will track my performance. I can even view my portfolio online, and I can see the top Rookies for each day.
At the end of the market week MyWallSt will tally the performances of all the Rookies, and if I have the highest percent gain in portfolio equity I'll win $1000 in cold hard cash! Not only will it be fun to play, but the game is a free learning experience with a chance to win big. Once I get the hand of investing I can then take advantage of the social network to meet new friends who share an interest in investing.
My dad has been very successful in the stock market, and he's always telling me I'll never learn to invest correctly if I don't jump in there and risk some money. Well Daddy, I think I've found a better way to do it. My way doesn't involve risking any real money, but I can win $1000 in real cash!
All I have to do is sign up for a free account at MyWallSt.net, the social networking site for people with an interest in finances and the stock market. Then all I have to do is take the rookie challenge. They'll give me $100,000 in virtual money to invest in real companies. Just like the real market, I can buy and sell between 10am to 4pm Monday through Friday. Then MyWallSt will track my performance. I can even view my portfolio online, and I can see the top Rookies for each day.
At the end of the market week MyWallSt will tally the performances of all the Rookies, and if I have the highest percent gain in portfolio equity I'll win $1000 in cold hard cash! Not only will it be fun to play, but the game is a free learning experience with a chance to win big. Once I get the hand of investing I can then take advantage of the social network to meet new friends who share an interest in investing.
Shopping Around Again
I'm still waiting on hubby to get home from the errands he had to run this morning, so I decided to do some online thrift store shopping. I'm loving the concept of online thrift stores and consignment shops that are in no way connected to Ebay. Am I the only person out here who thinks Ebay has turned into a monopoly?
Anywho, right now I'm checking out Housing Works Thrift Shops. I see a lot of things I would love to buy, but even the 2nd hand price is way out of my price range. That's because this store sells a lot of designer items. If you're looking for designer goodies at a great price, this store is probably for you. They sell items in an auction format, but the money raised goes to help the homeless living with HIV and AIDS.
I found this YouTube video of Sarah Jessica Parker on their site. It's a great little video promoting Housing Works.
The only downside I see to buying something from Housing Works is the shipping options. If you purchase a smaller item it can be shipped anywhere in the US via DHL, but if you want to purchase something larger like furniture, you have to live in New York. They won't ship the larger items. If I'm ever in New York I do think I'll try to find one of these thrift stores to see exactly what kind of deals they have going on inside.
Anywho, right now I'm checking out Housing Works Thrift Shops. I see a lot of things I would love to buy, but even the 2nd hand price is way out of my price range. That's because this store sells a lot of designer items. If you're looking for designer goodies at a great price, this store is probably for you. They sell items in an auction format, but the money raised goes to help the homeless living with HIV and AIDS.
I found this YouTube video of Sarah Jessica Parker on their site. It's a great little video promoting Housing Works.
The only downside I see to buying something from Housing Works is the shipping options. If you purchase a smaller item it can be shipped anywhere in the US via DHL, but if you want to purchase something larger like furniture, you have to live in New York. They won't ship the larger items. If I'm ever in New York I do think I'll try to find one of these thrift stores to see exactly what kind of deals they have going on inside.
Halloween Costumes
Yes, I'm one of those "crazy" people that dresses their dog up for Halloween. At least that's what my mother called me this morning. What does she expect? I've got a dog and a cat, but I don't have any kids. My pets are my kids...for now anyway. Besides that, there's a Halloween costume contest going on at our vet's office, and I'm not passing up an opportunity to try to win free flea medication for a year as well as $1500. There are a few smaller prizes, too, but the big one is what I'm after.
That's why I've decided to dress our Olde English Bulldogge, Bubba, as a football player. He's not going to be just any football playing pup, though. He's either going to be my favorite college team, Clemson, or he's going to play for the Philadelphia Eagles. Times like these I really do which I had kids though, because I found pro football uniform Halloween Costumes at http://www.nfluniformset.com
Franklin Sports has a ton of Halloween Costumes that I think any kid would look cute in. I might try to convince my best friend to ditch the Spiderman idea and dress her kid up as a Carolina Panther. He can even get iron on numbers so he can go as his favorite player!
That's why I've decided to dress our Olde English Bulldogge, Bubba, as a football player. He's not going to be just any football playing pup, though. He's either going to be my favorite college team, Clemson, or he's going to play for the Philadelphia Eagles. Times like these I really do which I had kids though, because I found pro football uniform Halloween Costumes at http://www.nfluniformset.com
Franklin Sports has a ton of Halloween Costumes that I think any kid would look cute in. I might try to convince my best friend to ditch the Spiderman idea and dress her kid up as a Carolina Panther. He can even get iron on numbers so he can go as his favorite player!
360, Cheap Shopping, And Exploding Cooktops
Good morning everyone! I've got so much going on today I thought I'd drop in early this morning to say a few words. It might not be that early, but 10:40am is early for me! I just wanted to mention that I finally got an Xbox 360, so be on the lookout for some game reviews. I haven't had the cash to run out to buy any games this week, but I've downloaded a few demos on Xbox live. I had planned to get a Playstation 3, but the Xbox 360 finally won me over. I'll be telling you all about that later, so keep an eye out for that post. I'll be telling you why the Xbox 360 is more than just a toy for gamers.
Hubby's off work today, so we're going to try to do some thrift store shopping. I'm hoping I can find some great goodies, especially at the new Goodwill Superstore that just opened. I don't think I'll find it, but I'm on the hunt for a counter top stove top because mine blew up last night.
Yep, I said blew up. Something electrical in one of the eyes didn't like whatever was going on, and it went poof with a big flash of light and a huge buzzing sound. I was in the middle of cooking dinner, and it flipped not just the one breaker to the kitchen, but killed the main breaker to the whole house! We flipped the power back on and hoped the other 3 eyes would work, but nope the whole thing is dead. It's not like I wasn't expecting it to die soon enough. It's an old Hotpoint cook top from the '70s, but I didn't expect a light show!
Hubby's off work today, so we're going to try to do some thrift store shopping. I'm hoping I can find some great goodies, especially at the new Goodwill Superstore that just opened. I don't think I'll find it, but I'm on the hunt for a counter top stove top because mine blew up last night.
Yep, I said blew up. Something electrical in one of the eyes didn't like whatever was going on, and it went poof with a big flash of light and a huge buzzing sound. I was in the middle of cooking dinner, and it flipped not just the one breaker to the kitchen, but killed the main breaker to the whole house! We flipped the power back on and hoped the other 3 eyes would work, but nope the whole thing is dead. It's not like I wasn't expecting it to die soon enough. It's an old Hotpoint cook top from the '70s, but I didn't expect a light show!
Writing Styles: Paper Vs Notepad
How do you write down your ideas? Do you keep things neatly organized on your pc or do you write down random thoughts on sticky notes? Do you type everything, or do you have to write everything out first?
I've always been the type of person who has to write almost everything down first. Short blog posts are the exception to that, but when I'm writing a review, or I have an idea for something I really want to talk about I have to write it down first. I'll curl up in my recliner in my office with some music and my notebook and pen in hand.
I might start with a list of ideas. If I already know exactly what I want to write about I might start with an outline, but normally I'll just write as the words flow. Sure, I go through an awful lot of notebook paper and pens, but this is what feels comfortable to me. I'm a hands on person. I like to cross out sentences I don't want to use or scratch out a word to replace. That's also how my ideas come to me. I can't open a blank document on my computer and expect the ideas to pour out of my head.
How do you write? Do you do everything digitally in this day and age or do you still write it out then type it up?
I've always been the type of person who has to write almost everything down first. Short blog posts are the exception to that, but when I'm writing a review, or I have an idea for something I really want to talk about I have to write it down first. I'll curl up in my recliner in my office with some music and my notebook and pen in hand.
I might start with a list of ideas. If I already know exactly what I want to write about I might start with an outline, but normally I'll just write as the words flow. Sure, I go through an awful lot of notebook paper and pens, but this is what feels comfortable to me. I'm a hands on person. I like to cross out sentences I don't want to use or scratch out a word to replace. That's also how my ideas come to me. I can't open a blank document on my computer and expect the ideas to pour out of my head.
How do you write? Do you do everything digitally in this day and age or do you still write it out then type it up?
Need A Rugged Phone
It's about time for new cell phones. I've had the LG 9800 aka "The V" for about a year and 1/2 now, and I really do like it, but I'm ready for something else. Hubby goes through cell phones like toilet paper. so he just broke yet another one. That's his 5th phone in 2007!
I looked up our contract terms with Verizon this morning to see when we qualify for new phones. Since we share a family plan we get 1 new phone every 2 years, and then we get 1 at a discounted price. It looks like we've got about 6 more months before we can take advantage of the free phone. It will be hubby's this time since I got the expensive phone for free last time, but my line qualifies for the discounted phone in another month.
I'm not too worried about what phone I'll get yet. I've been looking at a few smarts phones I'm interested in, but what I really want to know right now is what's a good phone for a guy who breaks at least one a month? I'm tired of buying cheap phones off Ebay just so he'll have something, but working in construction hubby does kill them left and right. Anyone have any ideas?
I looked up our contract terms with Verizon this morning to see when we qualify for new phones. Since we share a family plan we get 1 new phone every 2 years, and then we get 1 at a discounted price. It looks like we've got about 6 more months before we can take advantage of the free phone. It will be hubby's this time since I got the expensive phone for free last time, but my line qualifies for the discounted phone in another month.
I'm not too worried about what phone I'll get yet. I've been looking at a few smarts phones I'm interested in, but what I really want to know right now is what's a good phone for a guy who breaks at least one a month? I'm tired of buying cheap phones off Ebay just so he'll have something, but working in construction hubby does kill them left and right. Anyone have any ideas?
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