Tuesday, March 31, 2009

10 Things on Your “To-Do” List

  1. Download my 2008 photos onto DVD's and get them off my computer
  2. Get a job
  3. Make a paycheck
  4. Start a savings
  5. Continue on my spring cleaning
  6. Make arrangements for my children's spring vacation
  7. Finish my latest book and move forward
  8. Get my paperwork complete for taxes
  9. Finish my resume
  10. Remind myself of how fabulous I am

Monday, March 30, 2009

Whose on my MP3 Player???

  • Twilight Score (I am addicted to everything Twilight)
  • Daughtry (His voice rocks)
  • Taylor Swift (She is a doll and I love all of her songs)
  • Creed (God damn, why did they break up???)
  • Evanescence (Amy sings like an Angel)
  • Dave Grohl (He's the man!)
  • Pearl Jam (Ten is my favorite album)
  • Fuel (Love raunchy, gruff dude voices!)
  • Gretchen Wilson (Hello!)
  • Coldplay (Everyone needs a song or two)
  • Dave Matthews (It's Dave!!! )

What's on yours????

Music Monday - Going Under




Sometimes you just feel like you are going under!!!!

Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted without prejudice.



The Simple Women's Daybook - March 30th



For Today...

Outside my window... Cold, cold, cold! Spots of sunshine but mostly cloudy.

I am thinking... That I need to call my last job to get my employment dates.

From the learning rooms... Loving yourself is so important to good mental health.

I am thankful for...Spending time with my girlfriends at a baby shower this weekend.

From the kitchen... Not much! Not hungry.

I am wearing...Jeans, brown belt and peach yoga top.

I am reading... Twilight (again) and The Middle Place (look for my review coming up)

I am hoping... To find a job that challenges me, pays well, & works with my children's schedule.

I am creating... My updated resume.

I am hearing... My girlfriend talking about our kids summer schedule, my son play Wii and my daughter watching Frosty!

Around the house... Vacuuming needs to be done. Dining room and living room were cleaned today.

One of my favorite things...zoning out with a good book.

A few plans for the rest of the week... Getting my resume printed and moving on.

Here is a picture I would like to share with you...

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Amateur Movie Review - The History Channel - The Great Depression

Take an in-depth look at the decade that defined a generation, from the stock market crash of 1929 to the recovery spurred by the coming of WWII, Americans came to grips with this disaster in THE GREAT DEPRESSION, a four-part series from HISTORY.

  • THE GREAT SHAKE UP: Examine the changes that swept the shaken nation during the first year of the Great Depression, from the landslide victory of FDR in 1932, to the California migrations of Dust Bowl farmers.
  • FACE THE MUSIC: Faced with hard times, Americans sought release wherever they could find it, from marathon dancing to going to the movies. Using extensive film clips and photos, this episode shows how the media came of age to become an integral part of daily life.
  • STRIKING BACK: As the Depression lingered and the New Deal failed to live up to people’s expectations, some Americans fought back against a system they felt had betrayed them. Illuminating rare footage and revealing interviews relive the desperate acts of people who had been pushed too far by the crisis.
  • DESPERATE MEASURES: Finally, after years of crisis, World War II approached and did what all the protests and recovery programs failed to do – end the Great Depression.
In A Nutshell: Originally a 4-part series on The History Channel, this is a very relevant movie for right now. A great, in-depth documentary on the Great Depression. During these scary times, this documentary reminded me that We were there and we dug our way out, it can happen again.

To order this DVD for $12.95, head over here.

Game Review - Trivia Pursuit for Wii


Trivia Pursuit is one of those games that can either make you feel really smart or really dumb. When I play with my husband and our friends S & S I feel like a complete idiot. When I play with anyone else, I feel somewhat good about myself.

EA Games is my favorite game company due to my huge obsession with The Sims, more than a couple of years ago.

Bringing Trivia Pursuit to the electronic, game age was necessary since we are all playing on home consoles. It makes total marketing sense to bring it to Wii.

There are three modes you can play:

  • The classic pie wedge style for us old schoolers
  • Facts and Friends where there is one pie wedge for each category. You can even steal pie wedges from your friends.
  • And my personal favorite called Clear the Board. I like playing Trivia Pursuit alone after years of feeling inadequate. There is no one besides me that can do a victory lap. Hooray!!
The plus side to the electronic version rather than the board version is that with each question there are multiple choice answers. I would like to say that I have gotten smarter, but I think it is more likely that I do better on multiple choice.

The only thing missing from this game is that I can't play my friends unless they are in my house. Playing remote gamers, is for me, the biggest plus side of playing high tech rather than the classic board game.

In A Nutshell: I LOVE IT!!!! This is a great addition to your Wii Game collection. The virtual game pieces floating around are fun. The questions, although they are the classic 6 categories, use photos, multiple choice and interactive maps which really add to the appeal of electronic gaming. Buy it, you'll love it!

My 1,115 Post - Saturday 9


The host of the famous Bravo series, actor, professor and host James Lipton asks actors these 9 questions (among many others). Today we will ask you those questions!

1. What is your favorite word? LOVE!

2. What is your least favorite word? Stupid, hate

3. What turns you on, creatively, spiritually, or emotionally? Someone who stands by their convictions and stays true to themselves.

4. What turns you off? Close minded people

5. What is your favorite curse word? FUCK!

6. What sound or noise do you love? My kids saying I love you

7. What sound or noise do you hate? Horns beeping and kids screaming

8. What profession other than yours would you like to attempt? I want to be a photographer for Playgirl!

9. If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? You were everything I intended you to be.

Amateur Book Review - Emergency by Neil Strauss-Giveaway

I was fortunate enough to receive a copy of Neil Strauss' Emergency from Harper Collins. I was really interested in diving into this book for so many reasons. I needed a diversion and this is one crazy world we live in and protecting my family is something I think about all the time since 9/11.

We have all heard of Survival of the Fittest but how about Survival of the Most Prepared. Neil takes us on a sometime radical journey of surviving the trials and tribulations of America.

One of my favorite quotes from the book is "I'd rather be a running wimp than a dead hero." Nothing wrong with that. Hiding out sounds like a good thing if you are prepared and you can keep your cool.

While I think this book is mostly tongue in cheek, there were quite a few interesting tidbits that could change the way you view life as we currently live it.

You have to love the titles of some of the chapters too:
  • Why knocking up a Brazilian Women can save your life
  • Why you should think of the Zoo as a restaurant
  • The Britney Spears school of pregnant surfing
Check out Neil's site for much more information.

Inside Emergency, you’ll discover…

  • How to Protect Yourself From Inflation, Hackers, and Celine Dion
  • Why Knocking Up a Brazilian Woman Can Save Your Life
  • Life-Saving Properties of Toilet Tanks
  • Surviving Snipers, Dirty Bombs, and Salad Bars
  • The Gone With the Wind Guide to Asset Protection
  • How to Become Immortal
  • Why You Should Think of the Zoo as a Restaurant
  • Proper Care and Handling of Hawaiian Tropic Girls
  • How to Pick a Lock with a Beer Can
  • Where to Swim Across the Border
  • Mental Health Guidelines For Air Travelers
  • Secrets of Escaped Felons; Birth Control Tips from Billionaires
  • Birthday Clowns to Avoid
  • Five Steps to a Tax-Free Life
  • The Art of Disappearing
  • Tips on Death Cult Etiquette
  • A Ninja's Guide to Bringing Weapons on Airplanes
  • How to Turn Your Credit Card Into a Knife
  • Your Odds of Dying Horribly
  • And much, much more…
The survival language was interesting too; WTSHTF (when the shit hits the fan) EOTWAWKI (end of the world as we know it) to name a few.

I personally loved the chapter called Five Steps to Tax Free and How to Become Immortal in One Easy Step.

In A Nutshell: Very interesting, quick read, entertaining and thought provoking. Word of Caution: This book will NOT save your life! It is not big enough or thick enough to take a bullet for you. However, if you need kindling you will be able to start a nice big fire with it.

Join Emergency on Facebook, take the Survival quiz and see if you could survive a disaster.

Book Description
Terrorist attacks. Natural disasters. Domestic crackdowns. Economic collapse. Riots. Wars. Disease. Starvation.
What can you do when it all hits the fan?
You can learn to be self-sufficient and survive without the system.
**I've started to look at the world through apocalypse eyes.** So begins Neil Strauss' harrowing new book.
After the last few years of violence and terror, of ethnic and religious hatred, of tsunamis and hurricanes–and now of world financial meltdown–Strauss, like most of his generation, came to the sobering realization that, even in America, anything can happen. But rather than watch helplessly, he decided to do something about it. And so he spent three years traveling through a country that's lost its sense of safety, equipping himself with the tools necessary to save himself and his loved ones from an uncertain future.

It's one man's story of a dangerous world–and how to stay alive in it.

Before the next disaster strikes, you're going to want to read this book. And you'll want to do everything it suggests. Because tomorrow doesn't come with a guarantee...

BTW...Did you know you can turn a cigarette into a knife?




Thanks to my Harper Collins Connection I have 1 copy of Neil Strauss' Emergency to give away.

Now for the Giveaway Details:

Prize Description: One lucky reader will receive a copy of Emergency (This book will save your life) by Neil Strauss a New York Times Bestselling Author.

How to Enter: Tell me why you want to read this book. (If this rule is not followed you will be disqualified).

Deadline: April 8, 2009 by Midnight

Do You Want More Entries? (PLEASE NOTE: YOU DO NOT NEED TO LEAVE A COMMENT FOR EACH SEPARATE ENTRY. LEAVE ALL YOUR ENTRIES IN ONE COMMENT. I GO THROUGH EACH COMMENT AND I WILL ADD THE ADDITIONAL ONES TO MY SPREADSHEET).
* Blog about this contest and link back to me (provide the link in the comment).

* Follow Me

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A winner will be chosen by Random.org and notified within 2 days. You will have 3 days to claim your prize or another winner will be chosen.

Friday, March 27, 2009

Amateur Movie Review - The History Channel-The Founding of America


The inspiring early days of America – the personalities, the battles, the bravery, the losses, and even the romance – spring to life in spellbinding detail in this sweeping 14-DVD set from A&E Home Video.

FOUNDING FATHERS and FOUNDING BROTHERS examine the relationships of the very human men who risked their fortunes and lives for independence. THE REVOLUTION recounts great battles, devastating losses, and miraculous victories. BEN FRANKLIN and BENEDICT ARNOLD: A QUESTION OF HONOR look at the critical roles played by both men--one a hero, the other a traitor--while WASHINGTON THE WARRIOR and THE CROSSING pay tribute to the soul-stirring leadership of our first president.

With performances by Kelsey Grammar, Aidan Quinn, and Jeff Daniels, rare archival material, and commentary by leading historians, THE FOUNDING OF AMERICA presents historical programming at its comprehensive best.

DVD Features “History in the Making: The Revolution”; Behind-the-Scenes Featurettes; Behind-the-Scenes "History in the Making"; “Declaration of Independence” episode of SAVE OUR HISTORY; “The Many Faces of Ben Franklin”; Timeline; Anecdotes; Quotes; List of Innovations and Inventions; Benedict Arnold: Triumph and Treason (50-minute Biography episode); Cast Biographies/Filmographies.

For a breakdown of information on each of the 14 DVDs head over here.

In A Nutshell: Great documentary on the history of America. Like a years worth of History Lessons in 1 DVD set. There are over 27 hours with of documentary here for only $69.98. A real great gift for the history buff. The case is a beautiful addition to your library too. There are some great recreations with actors Jeff Daniels, Aiden Quinn, and Kelsey Grammer done really, very well. Enjoyable watch, with a current feel to American history.

Thursday Thunks on Friday


This week we will answer some crazy questions brought to you by THE THURSDAY THUNKERS, the color brown and the number 1.

1. What is your favorite type of soda (if you drink soda)? I don't drink Soda but I love Dr. Pepper. It has been a few years since I had a taste though.

2. Do you believe in astrology? If so, what does your sign say about you? I think there is something there but I don't put as much thought into it as I used to. I am a Leo. The Zodiac says:

The Leo type is the most dominant, spontaneously creative and extrovert of all the zodiacal characters. In grandeur of manner, splendor of bearing and magnanimity of personality, they are the monarch's among humans as the lion is king of beasts. They are ambitious, courageous, dominant, strong willed, positive, independent, self-confident there is no such a word as doubt in their vocabularies, and they are self-controlled. Born leaders, either in support of, or in revolt against, the status quo. They are at their most effective when in a position of command, their personal magnetism and innate courtesy of mind bringing out the best of loyalty from subordinates. They are uncomplicated, knowing exactly what they want and using all their energies, creativeness and resolution to get it, as well as being certain that they will get whatever they are after. Their followers know where they are with Leonians. Leonians think and act bigger than others would normally dare; the ambitiousness of their schemes and idealism sometimes daunt their followers, their practical hardheadedness and ability to go straight to the heart of any problem reassures those who depend on them. If Leonians meet with setbacks they thrive on the adversity.

On the whole they are powers for good, for they are strongly idealistic, humane, and beneficent. They have powerful intelligence and are of a broad philosophical, sometimes religious, turn of mind. Those who are devout may become very obstinate in upholding traditional beliefs and will cling tenaciously, but with complete sincerity, to practices and doctrines which liberal thinkers regard as absurdly out-of-date. These will be found as the 'lions' of industries, and in the forefront of the cutting edge of technologies.


3. Who is John Galt? A man?!

4. What is the last thing you do before you go to sleep at night? Kiss my husband

5. Who's your Daddy? A man, I think.

6. Jelly beans or Jelly Bellies? Neither

7. What do you think about yellow car? Why car manufacturer actually made yellow cars? Whatever floats your boat!

8. Holding on or Letting go? Holding on but if I have to let go, I will.

9. What kind of underwear, if any, do you wear? I only wear thongs. I hate underwear.

10. Who is your daddy and what does he do? A man who does nothing.

11. Spring - is it here yet?? It is getting here.

12. Does Google Streetview scare you? Nope!

13. What is your favorite brand of ice cream? Haagen

14. What is your favorite flavor of ice cream? Coffee

15. Do you ever get tired of your everyday routine? Yes, daily

16. What inspires you? My kids, books, photography, the weather, everything.

17. It’s springtime-do you spend more time outdoors? Oh yes....

18. When do you think Bud will let us see the DVD of him and the french twins? Is there a DVD?

19. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you, and why? I would live where I am right now. Why not?

20. Why do you blog? So many reasons; to keep up my computer skills, to network, to be creative, to leave a legacy for my kids, to write, to keep myself sane. Imagine taking care of kids, watching TV, doing house cleaning and laundry all day. Then imagine you never have time to yourself to just be with your own thoughts for 10 minutes! It would make you pretty crazy. Blogging allows me an escape for 2 seconds.

21. What are electrolytes and why are they good for us? Electrolyte is a "medical/scientific" term for salts, specifically ions. Electrolytes are important because they are what your cells (especially nerve, heart, muscle) use to maintain voltages across their cell membranes and to carry electrical impulses (nerve impulses, muscle contractions) across themselves and to other cells. Your kidneys work to keep the electrolyte concentrations in your blood constant despite changes in your body. Duh, everyone knows that.

22. Do you twitter? Why or why not? Yes. I Twitter because it is what Bloggers do.

23. What did you dream last night? I never dream, you have to enter REM sleep to dream.

24. What is the strangest thing you've eaten? I don't eat strange things.

25. What was the last picture that you took? It was my kids playing soccer with their father.

26. what is your favorite part of spring? The sunny, breezy feeling.

27. what is one thing that you did this past week that no one knows about? I watched Twilight 4 times this week. 2 times in 1 night.

28. What kind of bandages do you typically have in your household? Band-Aid brand

Friday Memes



1. "In a hole in the ground there lived a bunny named Hopper. Hopper loved to sit and watch the children playing in the school yard. Secretly Hopper wanted to be human but he would never admit that to his bunny friends.

2. "I have a few grays but that ain't no matter."

3. "After dark the rain began to fall again, and the creeps come out at night."

4. "The brooch she wore upon her breast were from the hold of the Spanish galleon."

5. "There was a hand in the darkness, and a scream escaped her throat as the realization seeped in.

6. "Accidents ambush the unsuspecting, tourists.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to ummm...errr...watching Twilight for the fifth time. Tomorrow my plans include just trying to catch up on a million and one errands and Sunday, I want to hang with my girlfriends at a baby shower.





  1. To whom do you normally turn when you need to complain about something? I have an amazing group of girlfriends. All of them have a unique purpose. I usually turn to my girlfriend Teresa or Susan. They are the ones who aren't afraid to speak their mind or worried about offending me.
  2. Which annual season-turning do you enjoy the most? I love summer to fall. The colors of Fall amaze me.
  3. Where can you get a really good turnover? I don't really love turnovers. It isn't something I would look for but Entemann's has good ones.
  4. What’s employee turnover like where you work? Unfortunately, were I work, I am the only employee. The pay really sucks, the hours are even worse.
  5. One of the Wonder Twins could turn into any form of water, while the other could turn into any animal. Which of these powers would be more useful to you? I would prefer being an animal! A bird who can take flight, soar above the trees and return home with the swoop of a wing sounds great.





Food 4 Thought Friday


Food 4 Thought Friday ~ This week's questions


♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
Breakfast
What is the last thing you ordered on-line? I pre-ordered my obsession: Twilight DVD


Lunch
What is your favorite dessert at a restaurant? Something with melted chocolate


Dinner
What is the funnest game you have played recently? Trivia Pursuit for Wii


Midnight Snack
What job(s) did you have while in high school/college? When I was in college I worked at Kmart. "Attention K-Mart Shoppers, there is a blue light special in the Ladies Wear Department." Yup, that was me.


Recipe of the Week (instead of your recipe for life what is it just for the week?) Obsessing over a fictional character is weird but it is short lived so enjoy it while it's there. "Ummm errrrr...can you say Edward Cullen????

Thursday, March 26, 2009

A Thousand Words Thursday

Cheaper Than Therapy

Could You Use A Million Dollars?

Who couldn't??????

  • Maybe you have your grandma's cookbook
  • A picnic staple that your family and friends rave about
  • Do you bake a mean cookie like no one else?
If you answer yes to any of these questions, than you could possible have what it takes to enter the Pillsbury Bake-Off.

All it takes is one simple recipe idea to become a millionaire. It could be a new twist on a family favorite or a variation of a dish enjoyed at a restaurant. Maybe it’s a recipe inspired by leftovers in the refrigerator or the desire to try a new product. As you’re creating your original recipe, think like a judge, and consider not only taste, but appearance, creativity and how your recipe will appeal to families across America. You just may have a winner!

Review these guidelines and you’ll be ready to create a winning recipe:

Recipe categories: Determine which category is the best fit for your recipe.
Prizes: See what you could win! $1 million, appliances and more!
Eligible products: Learn which products to use to make your recipe eligible for the contest.
Who can enter? Make sure you qualify to enter.
How do I enter? Submit your recipe online – it’s easy!
Judging: Check out how the recipes will be evaluated.
Rules: See the contest details.
FAQs: Start off on the right foot by reviewing the Frequently Asked Questions.


Enter here by April 30, 2009

Last Years Winner



Blog Search

Look What I Found Thursday - 3rd Edition

I would like to share with you "pearls of the Internet" on my radar for the week.

My girlfriend Bek, sent me this link, while there, I found Lauren's Bite. She is witty, funny and write about her Twilight/Edward/Rob obsession. I couldn't stop reading. You can also check out some awesome pictures of Rob as Edward. My favorite part of her blog is "pocket Edward."


Lauren's Bite

Join my Twilight Addicts Support Group


Calling all Twilight Addicts!!!!

Christmas is only 9 months away, join the Candy Cane Club and get organized, slowly!

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Twilight Support Group


Calling all Twilight Addicts!!!!

Do you have Twilightitis?
Twilightitis - Can't move past the saga; refuse to move onto another book;can't stop researching Twilight online; have already watched every You Tube video with Rob Pattinson; watched the DVD over 2 times.

I simply cannot get enough of Bella and Edward. There are a million books out there I am dying to read but nothing is grabbing me. I took 3 months to read Breaking Dawn because I refused to let go of the Cullen Family. Once I was done with book 4 I knew it was over.

I am praying that Stephanie Meyer finishes Midnight Sun because Edward's voice is missing from The Twilight Series almost making him a secondary character. I know she is busy with the movies and all but the series has already been written she just has to write from his prospective. It should be easy for her.

If you are a Twilight Addict like me; write me (ree026 at optonline.net) and lets see if together we can come up with a way to move past Twilight. What is the next great love story? What books are good that will take the place of my obsession?

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Birthday Calculator - I am 511 Months Old!

That sounds so young to me. I will no longer say I am 42, from now on I will only use the month calculation.

Enter you birthday to find out how many hour, seconds, or minutes you are.

There are 142 days till your next birthday
on which your cake will have 43 candles
As of 3/24/2009 3:52:19 PM EST
You are 42 years old.
You are 511 months old.
You are 2,224 weeks old.
You are 15,564 days old.
You are 373,551 hours old.
You are 22,413,112 minutes old.
You are 1,344,786,739 seconds old.

Do You Believe In Numerology?

THE LIFE PATH NUMBER
The Life Path is the sum of the birth date. This number represents who you are at birth and the native traits that you will carry with you through life. The most important number that will be discussed here is your Life Path number. The Life Path describes the nature of this journey through life.

The Life Path number is established from the date of birth. First, add the Month, day, and year together to arrive at a total. Next, reduce this four digit number to a single digit.

Example: If a person was born on October 23, 1972 (10-23-1972*), add the month 10 to the day 23 plus the the year 1972 arriving at a total of 2005. Then add the digits in 2005 arriving at the Life Path number 7.

Mine is 7

Life Path 7 person is a peaceful and affectionate soul. (This is very true, I am extremely affectionate.) But you guard your connection to people carefully. It's easy for you to detect deception and recognize insincere people, and you avoid them. (Like the plague) You aren't one to have a wide circle of friends, but once you accept someone as a friend, it's for life. (This is so true)It's as if you must get to know someone a lot better before you allow the wall surrounding you to be penetrated. Chances are you are a very charming and refined individual with great poise and a quick wit. (Never saw myself as poised and quick witted, but I will take it) Nonetheless, there is an exclusiveness about you. You probably aren't a very social person. Your reserve is often taken to be aloofness, but actually, it's not that at all. It is merely a cover up for your basic feeling of insecurity. (This couldn't be more true. I am so insecure). There's no rush, It takes time for you to warm up to new friends. Clubs and organizations hold little interest for you; you are not a joiner. (I wish I were).

You actually like being alone and away from the hustle and bustle of modern life (Sometimes, but I do like people). In many ways, you would have fit in better in much earlier times when the pace of life was less hectic. You need a good deal of quiet time to be with your own inner thoughts and dreams (YES! That has never been more me than it is right now!). You dislike crowds, noise, distractions, and confusion. YES! YES! YES!

The overwhelming strength of the number 7 is reflected in the depth of thinking that is shown; you will garner knowledge from practically every source that you find. Intellectual, scientific, and studious, you don't accept a premise until you have dissected the subject and arrived at your own independent conclusion. This is actually very me.

Check out your number! Is it you?

[source]

The Simple Woman's Daybook~March 23rd Edition

This was supposed to post yesterday, but I just found it sitting in my drafts. Hurmmmmppppff


For Today...

Outside my window... looks warm, but looks can be deceiving. It is friggin cold out there.

I am thinking... Twilight tonight baby!

From the learning rooms... I need to spend more time learning Photoshop

I am thankful for... A day off from school.

From the kitchen... My coffee smells awesome

I am wearing... black yoga pants and a purple t-shirt.

I am reading...Breaking Dawn for the 2nd time and Emergency by Neil Strauss

I am hoping... To get the kids down before 8:00 so I can watch Twilight

I am creating... a very cool network of business associates.

I am hearing... my kids fight over the TV

Around the house...started Spring cleaning. All ceiling fans are done!

One of my favorite things... reading all I can on Twilight

A few plans for the rest of the week...cleaning

Here is a picture I would like to share with you...

My babies are too cute together. He loves picking her up these days. Check out her hand-me-down boy underwear.

Monday, March 23, 2009

It's Twilight Time - Don't look for me tonight!

The husband is working tonight, the kids are down...it's time for Twilight!

My DVD arrived today and I have been holding it ever since.

All day, I waited for this moment when I could sit down on the couch, with a comforter and watch it again!!!!

Yes, that is a 42 year old women kissing a DVD case. What? Like you never did that!


That is a happy lady right there!!!


Music Monday - Happy Birthday Mr. President

Yesterday was my husband's birthday. It was a quiet day, he took the kids outside to kick the ball, I took some pictures of course. Then they invited me to go for a walk with them. It was nice! I love doing things like that with my family, we don't do it enough.

For my Music Monday, I chose Marilyn singing Happy Birthday. He is the president of his own company, and he takes care of us. Really is there a better version of Happy Birthday out there?????


Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. One simple rule, leave ONLY the actual post link here. You can grab this code at LJL Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted without prejudice.


Sunday, March 22, 2009

Spring Has Sprung Giveaway-Adorable Journal

I thought it was going to be warmer today, the sun failed me. Wahhh....I know the decent weather is coming, and I can't wait.

As I told you guys yesterday, to help me celebrate Spring I was enlisting the help of a few amazing women from the Etsy community.

Please allow me to introduce, Andrea of Nico Paper Goods.

Andrea, is one of those eclectic, interesting people who has a ton of creativity. I love that she is continuing an art, that is mostly being done by machines in a factory these days. Book-binding by hand takes a lot of work. She must really love what she does!

I am happy to report that Etsy is showcasing Nico Paper Goods today on their home page today.

Where did you learn book binding?
I learned to be a bookbinder in the old city of Zürich, Switzerland where I grew up.
After a traditional 4-year apprenticeship and several sojourns abroad, I ran my own business for 14 years. I trained several apprentices and for many years taught courses in my specialty at a school for continuing education. When I moved to Seattle in 1996 with my husband I was pregnant with my son Nico. That was the time when I started to think about children's items.
Bookbinding is a labor-intensive craft. I bind books entirely by hand, in both traditional and contemporary styles

These books are adorable. Where did the idea come from?
The idea of the little pencil books with recycled children's clothes came while we were on one of our trips in Europe sitting in a restaurant waiting for our meal realizing that we once again forgot both pencils and paper for Nico to draw with. I also had a hard time giving away those adorable shirts and pants he grew out of so fast.

Where do you get your inspiration?
Long walks in nature or on the beach in the North West inspire me and give me ideas for new projects. Traveling in different country's and city's I also find very enriching.

Andrea, doesn't only do books, she also makes these cute boxes.

Each one of her bound journals holds 50 pages of 41/4”x 6" white paper and are suitable for both drawing or writing. Thanks to its convenient size it will fit in your purse.

Andrea, has been kind enough to offer the adorable journal below to one of my readers. Isn't it cute?



Now for the Giveaway Details:

Prize Description: One lucky reader will win the very Springy, handmade, hand bound, journal above from Nico Paper Goods.

How to Enter: Visit Nico Paper Goods then come back and tell me about one of Andrea's other items. (If this rule is not followed you will be disqualified).

Deadline: April 7, 2009 by Midnight

Do You Want More Entries? (PLEASE NOTE: YOU DO NOT NEED TO LEAVE A COMMENT FOR EACH SEPARATE ENTRY. LEAVE ALL YOUR ENTRIES IN ONE COMMENT. I GO THROUGH EACH COMMENT AND I WILL ADD THE ADDITIONAL ONES TO MY SPREADSHEET).
*Favorite Nico Paper Goods on Etsy

* Blog about this contest and link back to me (provide the link in the comment).

* Follow Me

*Add me to your blogroll

*Follow me on Twitter , Tweet this and leave the link.

* Subscribe to Maria's Space (if already a Maria's Space VIP "subscriber", please let me know how you receive my feed).

* Post my button on your sidebar



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A winner will be chosen by Random.org and notified within 2 days. You will have 3 days to claim your prize or another winner will be chosen.

Amateur Movie Review - The History Channel-The Bielski Brothers


During the darkest hours of World War II, three Russian brothers achieved the impossible: they transformed persecution and violence into an incredible tale of affirmation and survival. Living in the Soviet Republic of Belorussia, Tuvia, Asael and Zus Bielski fled to the woods to escape the Nazis. There they built an elaborate village for rescued Jews. The forest haven included a bakery, communal bath, synagogue, and even a theater company. Although they mounted guerrilla attacks against the enemy, their priority was saving their people. Tuvia often declared he would “rather save one old Jewish woman than kill ten Nazis.”

The Bielskis saved 1,200 men, women, and children--easily the largest rescue of Jews by Jews during World War II--but until now their story has gone largely untold.

Including interviews with Bielski Brigade survivors in the United States, Israel, and Great Britain, HISTORY recognizes three of the greatest heroes of the Holocaust.

In A Nutshell: As far as documentaries go, this one was very well done. Imagine that these brothers took on the responsibility of rescuing 1200 people all while surviving the Holocaust themselves. A very heroic story of 3 brothers who decided they wouldn't just lie down without a fight. Heroes during the Holocaust, who created history and left a legacy like no other.

This is a great movie for the WWII buff on your shopping list, and with a price of only $9.95, you can't loss.

Go here to order.

Saturday, March 21, 2009

1st Spring Has Sprung Giveaway-Out On A Whim-Easter Tags

Spring is in the air and I have never wanted it to come more than I do right now. This winter was a rough one. Cabin fever hit for the first time ever. I just need a good dose of sun!

To help me celebrate Spring I have enlisted the help of a few amazing women from the Etsy community.

Today, please meet Kath from Out On A Whim.

I was searching for things that reminded me of Spring and Easter, when I fell upon Kath's shop.

I loved all her cute, little tags that reminded me of Easter when I was a child, beautiful, whimsical and magical.

Kath resides with in Ohio with her husband of 24 years, her 4 sons, ages 21, 18, 16 and 10, a slew of cats and a dog. When she isn't helping her husband run his company she throws herself into her hobbies and boy does she have quite a few. She loves crafting, shopping and reading. She is a magazine junky, and love cookies and chocolate (woot, girl after my own heart)!

I Interviewed Kath and asked her some questions.



When did you start working with paper?
I was a decorative painter, selling in several shops, when I started scrapbooking the kids pictures circa 1990. At one time I had ALL my family pictures in books...now I am YEARS behind. Thank goodness for graduations that force me to get some done! I started doing altered art, with my collage tags, about 5 years ago. I've made and sold thousands of them!

Where do you get your inspiration? My inspiration comes from the old papers I use, the "junk" I collect, as well as books and movies based on days gone by. I also listen to a lot of Allison Krauss in the studio!

What do you love most about what you do? I love giving old "junk drawer" items new life. I go to the flea market and buy all the stuff that no one else wants, and make it into something no one else would have thought of. A funny note...usually whatever I was snapping up for pennies one month, the next month will be everywhere, and for more than pennies! I think the vendors know me and share notes, lol The jokes on them though, because I am looking for something different everytime I go! And I am CHEAP!

I also just love sitting in my studio, on a warm sunny day with the windows open, or a cold winter day with the space heater blowing on my feet, creating new things, listing on etsy, and singing with the cd player cranked way up (I do this when I'm home alone!), and just having a blast!

Doesn't she sound like everyone's best friend? Love her!

Kath, has graciously offered to give away this adorable set of her Easter
tags to one of my readers.


Beside Out On A Whim, Kath has the following Etsy Shops:

http://www.ineedthat.etsy.com for kewl supplies and vintage stuff you NEED

http://www.sweetlibertyprims.etsy.com for primitives with an altered twist

http://www.gethappy.etsy.com for fun things for scrapping and happy living!

Also, check out her blog when you have a chance to learn even more about her.

Now for the Giveaway Details:

Prize Description: One lucky reader will win a set of beautiful Easter Tags from Out On A Whim.

How to Enter: Visit Out On A Whim then come back and tell me about one of Kath's other items. (If this rule is not followed you will be disqualified).

Deadline: April 4, 2009 by Midnight

Do You Want More Entries? (PLEASE NOTE: YOU DO NOT NEED TO LEAVE A COMMENT FOR EACH SEPARATE ENTRY. LEAVE ALL YOUR ENTRIES IN ONE COMMENT. I GO THROUGH EACH COMMENT AND I WILL ADD THE ADDITIONAL ONES TO MY SPREADSHEET).
*Favorite Out On A Whim on Etsy

* Blog about this contest and link back to me (provide the link in the comment).

* Follow Me

*Add me to your blogroll

*Follow me on Twitter , Tweet this and leave the link.

* Subscribe to Maria's Space (if already a Maria's Space VIP "subscriber", please let me know how you receive my feed).

* Post my button on your sidebar


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A winner will be chosen by Random.org and notified within 2 days. You will have 3 days to claim your prize or another winner will be chosen.

Friday, March 20, 2009

Gigi and the Lend Me A Hand Band Gets Kids Moving

Today, I was in the right place at the right time. While talking to someone today, I heard that there would be a "music and dance show" for the kids in a half hour.

My son is almost 6, so when I saw the flyer, I passed it by because it said, 1-5 years old. I am so glad someone took the time to invite me because my kids had a blast.

The "music and dance show" ended up being the............
Gigi, has been singing since before she was walking,
according to her mom, Granny Franny
The two women (the duo) who performed today are part of a musical family (trio & full band) who are available for parties, libraries, engagements, preschools, schools, and more.

There were about 25 kids and 12 moms and dads and we were all having a wonderful time. The women were engaging, entertaining, funny, witty, and clever.

The music they perform is super kid friendly. All the kids were sitting right in front of them performing the songs and doing the dances the Gigi and Granny Franny asked of them. Mixed with classics such as Old McDonald, 5 Green Speckled Frogs, and more were a slew of activities that made the kids jump, clamp, stamp their feet, make animal noises, and march around the room. The kids all loved the opportunity to speak into the microphone as Gigi asked questions, giving everyone their moment to shine.

My kids loved it! They sat right in front and told me later they really enjoyed themselves. "Can we see them again?"

If you are interested in finding out more about Gigi and the Lend Me A Hand Band check out their website where you can find out their schedule, the various party suggestions, or purchase 1 or both of the CD's.

I really wish I had my camera today!

The Good and The Not So Good Side of Being a SAHM

MySpace Stay-At-Home Mom Graphics

These are in no kind of order but today like most days I was hard up for adult companionship.

There are good, and not so good sides to every story. Giving up work to raise children is not something that anyone should go into lightly. When you give up your job you give up all kinds of things.

For me the easiest part of leaving my job was wanting to spend all my time with my babies. I lost my mom at 12 years old and never had a soft place to land. I was out of the house and taking care of myself before I was 17 years old. The hardest part of being a stay at home mom for me was giving up my independence. I didn't think of this at the time because I was more focused on my baby than of myself.

The hardest part of leaving my job; now (almost 5.5 years later) is that I am now 100% dependent on someone. This should be a good thing, and for some, it just might be. For me, it means little respect, no time to myself, having to ask for money to and always feeling as if I am walking on a glass floor that can break at any time.

Looking for work right now, is almost impossible. It means putting the kids in daycare and that is something that doesn't sit well with me. As a child of abuse I am always afraid of what other people will do to my children. My families schedule makes it hard to work also.

In this economy and in life we all need to work I just wish it was easier for me to find work around my children's, mine and my husband's schedule.

The Good Side
  • Spending 24 hours a day with your kids
  • Not having to take time off if they are sick
  • Enjoying the park on a beautiful day
  • Taking them to the free shows my community offer during the day
  • Going to the farms, stores, and parks during the week instead of on the busy weekend
  • Being able to participate in school activities

The Not So Good Side
  • Spending 24 hours with your kids
  • Getting absolutely no respect for what you do
  • Having to ask your significant other for money even if it is to pay the bills
  • Having no moments to yourself (even in the bathroom)
  • Sometimes having no other adult conversation except with your spouse who never has anything to say to you.
I am tired of feeling in inadequate or that I am worth, less because I don't work outside the house.

Stepping off my soap box for the day. I just really needed to get that off my chest.

Twilight!!!!

Seriously, it's simply crazy to me how excited I am for the release of Twilight.

I pre-ordered from Amazon over 2 months ago knowing that I would get my DVD in the mail a few days after the release.

This morning, I received an email from Amazon stating that my order has already been shipped.


Along with this wonderful news was this email from Amazon:

Thank you for buying 'Twilight' on DVD from Amazon.com. We're writing with some important news about the release date.

Summit Entertainment, the studio producing 'Twilight' on DVD, will release it on Saturday March 21. Saturday delivery for your Amazon.com orders isn't guaranteed, but we're working to deliver your DVD as soon as possible after the Saturday release date.

We understand how important it is for fellow Twi-hards to watch and enjoy 'Twilight' on release day, so we've decided to make it happen. Amazon will provide--at no cost to you--a free 24-hour digital rental through Amazon Video On Demand that you can activate on March 21st. (No fighting the crowds or waiting in line at the store.)

Your promotional code and instructions will arrive in your inbox within hours of midnight EST on March 21st, and you can break dawn with 'Twilight' instantly. It's our way of saying thanks for your business.

Woooooootttt!!!

As if you needed another order to use Amazon!!


Thank you to my advertisers who helped me pay for my Twilight Box Set along with the DVD.