Zhu Zhu Pet Party

My kids keep asking me for a pet. A dog. A cat. But I keep saying no. I was going to give in and get them a hamster, but someone - I can't remember who - convinced me that hamsters weren't a good idea either. Maybe I convinced myself.

It doesn't matter either way because they still got a hamster. Thanks to Maria Bailey and MomSelect my kids, and several of their friends, got a chance to play with and keep Zhu Zhu Pets, which are fun, interactive hamsters that talk, move and navigate around their own habitat. They're pets without the mess and they're extra cute to boot.

I had forgotten all about the Zhu Zhu Pets until I stepped out of my door last week and saw a box sitting in front of my door. I quickly moved into action to host a little gathering of children at our daycare provider's house. I took the loot to her house to set up for the children. Zhu Zhu Pets come with dozens of add-on sets so children can create a custom world for their little hamster friend. The set I had included a complete hamster "habitrail" including kitchen, hamster wheel and a few other tiny hamster amenities.

I set about putting the contraption together and discovered that it was the most difficult part. I didn't allow enough time to put it together, the children started arriving and hoovering around me. After awhile we decided to let them start playing with their hamsters and we all became entranced at the cute little things skittering across the floor. The children oohed and aahed over them while the hamsters squeaked, turned and spun around.

Once the habitrail was constructed the race was on to see who could get their hamster to the end of the trail first. Unfortunately, the trail didn't stand up to the test. Several of us tried to get it clicked together properly, but some parts didn't quite fit. The children didn't seem to notice as they let their hamsters explore.

They rolled through the fun house, went up and down the spiral slide, rode the waves on a surf board and explored under couches and tables in the little blue car. The children chased, ran and jumped, which accounts for the lack of faces in the pictures. :) One of the most popular hamster features was the Go Go Adventure Ball that captured everyone's attention at the same time.

The one below scooted across part of the directions that were forgotten on the floor. His name is Chunk. Yup, they all have names and this particular "family" also came with Pipsqueak, Squiggles and Numnums.

This trio, which includes my daughter and my son (in the center), watched the hamsters go this way and that. Don't be fooled by their blank expressions, they were just waiting for their turn to race their hamsters through the habitrail.


Zhu Zhu pets are recommended for ages four and older, but if there are younger siblings who want to play along I think they are fine with supervision. My youngest (below) and her two friends (twins who aren't pictured) would not be left out of the fun.


The toy is available now at Wal-Mart, Toys R Us and Amazon.com as well as other retailers. Check out their site for more information. You'll get a chance to see the cute commercial, if you haven't already, and the hamsters in action. My middle daughter saw the commercial while waiting in the pediatrician's office and she almost fell over herself in excitement trying to point it out.

I donated the habitrail to the daycare provider (my youngest daughter attends daily and the other two go on breaks and holidays) so that she can share it with other children. My kids happily took the hamsters home and haven't stopped playing with them since Friday. (My son discovered that they're strong enough to push some of his toys around!)

Want a pet for your kid that only eats AAA batteries (they last days!) and doesn't make a mess? Then pick up a couple of Zhu Zhu pets and their habitrail; it'll keep them busy for hours!

Monday's Muse: Un-muse-ness

I'm not feeling very creative today and I suspect that it may be this way for the entire week. Although I hope that's not true. But let's focus on today - the beginning of the week. What is fueling me creatively this week? Not one thing. It seems as if I'm being fueled in the opposite direction.

My attitude today - mostly this afternoon - is somewhat... well, uh, stank! My two youngest daughters have been with me all day (they had doctor's appointments) and my son came home from school all too quickly. He was filled with the wiggles and his loud button was turned on. It only served to further my grumpiness.

I'm tired, drowsy, sore and just downright needing to concentrate without the background noise of children. My head is hurting and there are tons of things I need to do, think about and deal with. As most of you know, doing so with children around can be trying. When you're not in the best of health or feeling under the weather it makes tasks a little difficult.

The whining, crying, talking, noisiness, repeating myself, asking for stuff - it is all distracting me from what I'm trying to concentrate on. It's tough getting past thoughts of my recent diagnosis and the way I feel mentally and physically to get anything done, but add to that three children 5 and under and it seems nearly impossible.

So, as I sat down to attempt to write what's fueling me this week the only thing I could think of was that my life is fueling me. Although I want to - and often must - stop and rest; even though the floor still needs to be mopped and the laundry put away (tasks I just haven't had the strength for) I still want to blog, write and make money. There are times every single day that I want to give up, but my desire to do this and to do more is pushing me.

I guess if I didn't care it wouldn't be necessary to be irritated about it. It wouldn't make a big deal if the children kept distracting me 'cause I would just get down on the floor or focus all of my attention on what they're doing instead of trying to get anything done. If my life wasn't pushing me to do something different so I can have something different then I wouldn't worry about trying to organize, straighten, clean, do homework, fix dinner and the one million trillion bazillion things that need to be done.

That must mean that although I'm feeling so far removed from creativity that I can still dig somewhere deep down inside and find something that keeps me going. There must be a glimmer, a spark (Maternal Spark? :D) or something simmering. If I could only reach it then maybe my irritation would pass. As soon as I get my fingers on it the doggone little thing just slips right on by. It passes through my fingers like the fine grains of white sand. It seems as distance as the furthest star.

But I guess I have to go after it. My closest friends keep telling me to go after. My wonderful blogging family keeps pushing me to go after it. And, as I focus on that distance goal I think I want to keep going. For a moment, the irritation lifts and I get a clarity that only peace can bring. Now, if only my youngest child would stop whining to eat (it's not my fault she refused to finish her lunch!) then maybe I could grasp - for just a second - what I'm longing for.

Don't let her cute face and darling smile fool you; it's tough to catch her on
camera being naughty. She smiles automatically regardless of what
she's doing or how she's acting. It's a conspiracy against her mother!

Satellite TV

When moving from state to state there are a lot of services that have to be canceled where you're leaving and activated where you're going. Finding a company that gives you the best information on DIRECTV vs. Dish Network, if that's the type of service you prefer, is a part of comparison shopping.

Kaptain Satellite is a good resource for discovering your satellite television options and it offers deals as well as information to help customers make the right decisions. If you're a new customer, you don't have to worry about being confused about all of the objects. New subscribers receive free equipment and installation. All you have to do now is visit the site, select your state and find all the information that is relevant for you.

Yesterday's brunch

I didn't venture out of bed until later than I normally would. I gave the children some fruit and put together this quick breakfast bake that I saw in Food & Family magazine.

It didn't take long to make and it was really good. Just take a Pillsbury crescent roll, unfold and put at the bottom of your dish. Sprinkle with 6 ounces of turkey ham. It said, "ham," but I used turkey ham. Next time I'll use something different because I prefer not to use processed meat. Whisk six eggs with some milk (I used 1/2 cup of soy milk) and add pepper. The next time I make this I'm going to add spinach or something else that I like. Pour the mixture on top of the crust and the meat then sprinkle with cheese. Bake in oven at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes or until center is set.

Oh so yummy!

Inside my head

Everyone has their own way of doing things, their own way of feeling and their own way of reacting, but not everyone understands another person's ways. That misunderstanding can be painful. I mean, it's not that they have to agree but can they at least say, "I understand." Is it just me who yearns for... I guess it's acceptance in all areas? As a matter of fact, I think there's some Facebook quiz that I took recently, which said that I long for acceptance. Unfortunately, that's true.

There's one thing that I've learned about creative people - of which I am one. And it is that we're a sensitive bunch. We feel stuff deeply, often uniquely from the average person. An overly logical person (and those who are judgemental, critical or no nonsense) will often frown in confusion at our thought patterns. A lot of creative people fight the urge to express something and they search for the words to get it right. To speak it in an English that everyone will understand. If you don't ask them they may not tell you. It'll just simmer inside and burst out in the form of a poem, prose, a drawing, painting, model, mold, photo... or whatever medium they're favoring at the time.

Years ago I composed poetry that would often hint at my innermost thoughts. It was my outlet of choice. Now, for some reason, my poetry muse has moved on. Maybe because I have more words to use and more confidence to use them (sometimes). But there are some thoughts and feelings that I keep to myself because they're birthed of fear, uncertainty and the lack of confidence in myself, my abilities, my future and my world.

I try to bury the feelings where no one can find them, but they come out at the most inopportune times. I fear that those feelings, if I don't find a cure for them or come to terms with them, will cause me to lose something that is important to me. And, I don't think I can lose anything else. I just want to come up with some idea, some solution that will make a lose of this thing impossible.

Being unwell is so affecting my emotions. It's so uncontrollable that it makes understanding me difficult. It makes the thoughts that ramble around in my head difficult to share and explain. I have my own way of doing things, my own way of feeling and my own way of reacting... In all of my creative, misunderstood idiosyncrasies and thoughts. I just hope that I and all that comes with me is accepted. Simply embraced, respected and loved. Right now, I think that's all that I need.

Memories from 1993

I'm Falling Into Memories by `smashmethod

I have been a bit random this weekend and I know it has to do with me not feeling well, but at least I have gotten a little bit done. In one of my random moments (in between introducing the kids to School House Rock and trying to figure out one I'm going to snack on), I was getting some other VHS tapes out of the closet.

I came across one labeled 1993 and saw my oldest daughter Amber, now 18, in all of her 2 year old glory. Amazingly my youngest daughter looks a lot like her now. And as I sat watching my young daughter - and a young me - it was as if I was back in time. She was singing, playing, taking a bath and being the inquisitive and smart little person she was known to be.

Then I watched a tape of her 3rd birthday party. All of her friends back then that are obviously grown now, and all of my friends from back then that I lost touch with. Her babysitter at the time has since been killed (yea, that's a long story) and I heard her younger sister took the news so hard that she was really mentally affected. But that was years ago.

A friend of mine and my downstairs neighbor quietly videotaped everything and now I am looking for him on Facebook. During a weekend when I've felt lonely, alone and abandoned, I am now feeling nostalgic. It's funny the different feelings that can be evoked by a thought, a memory or an experience. My 1993 life was so much different than my life is now. Makes me think, ya know?

From Toddlers2Teens

When is the last time you checked out my other blog: From Toddlers2Teens? If you're new around here then you may not have known I have another blog. I have a somewhat difficult time keeping up with two blogs, but I am going to try and update that one at least once a week.

Are you a parent of a multiple generation of children? If so, share your ideas about what you would like to see on my Toddlers2Teens blog.

I appreciate any input as long as it's constructive. :)

Breezes Resorts

There's one thing that I've never forgotten, which I learned when I used to do travel writing on a regular basis: Always vacation at all inclusive resorts. If you've ever vacationed somewhere for more than a couple of days and the food wasn't included in the price of your stay, you'll realize how quickly that can become a major expense.

The food at the majority of resorts is normally very tasty and convenient especially if you choose to stay at one of the caribbean resorts. I probably shouldn't say that since I'm a little biased (I've never been to a resort outside of the Caribbean), but that's where I've had all of my experiences.

Breezes Grand Resort & Spa

Negril, Jamaica

Whether you decide to visit Bahamas, Costa Do Sauipe, Rio Bueno, Trelawny or one of the other destinations, Breezes All Inclusive vacation resorts will not disappoint. Each resort is beautiful, relaxing, romantic and accommodating. Imagine an ocean view from your room... Can't you smell the fresh air already and hear the waves lapping against the shore? Now all you have to do is slip on your shoes and stroll into the dining area to enjoy the food that is prepared for you.

It's all about relaxing. Swim and lounge to your heart's content and let someone else fuss over the details. Believe me, once you've experienced an all-inclusive resort you'll never vacation the same again.

Interesting horoscope

I happen to click on a link to my daily horoscope at LexiYoga.com because she left me a message inquiring about whether I wanted to include horoscopes here. (I haven't decided yet. What do you think?)

An-t-way... every once in awhile I check out my horoscope, but I don't follow it on a regular basis. I was surprised when I read this for tomorrow's:

"Health related problems might cause discomfort. Do not overspend on household luxuries. Health condition of a family member will cause some stress. Your beloved will be difficult to please. Watch out for individual who might try to mislead you or give you information that might cause you some harm."

I haven't been feeling well lately, which is what makes that first sentence interesting to me. There was another couple of areas that struck a cord, but we'll see how that plays out. Do you follow your horoscope?

Find a host

Who is your Web Hosting Provider and how much do you know about the company? For that matter, how much do you know about web hosting? I, for one, do not know much about it, but I am learning more and more each day. A good Web Hosting Provider site is HostNexus.com. They have a visually appealing site with easy-to-find information on a variety of hosting options (shared, blog, reseller, VPS, etc.) at competitive prices. You won't have to search around the site for the information you're looking for like the cost of the service you need and, if you're interested, you can even sign up for their affiliate program. I don't know about you, but I love a company that also makes it possible for me to earn money. You're heard me say it before: Don't take my word for it, check it out for yourself.

Looking at the Sky on Friday

Dark and rainy... (through the windshield of my van)

This is what it has looked like all day... well, except for when there was a solid sheet of rain pouring from the sky. My driveway was flooded so I had to get creative getting the children off to school this morning, but at least they enjoyed themselves. They need some rain boots so they can splash to their little hearts' content. I need a rain hat so I don't have to juggle with umbrellas and whatnot.

Real page turners for big & little kids

On the Woman's (and the kids') Bookshelf

This month, when it comes to reading, I have been on a roll. It's something I thoroughly enjoy and it comes with the added benefit of discovering new authors as well as exploring different styles of writing and new ideas.

Two books I am excited to share with you today are A Circle of Souls by Preetham Grandhi and The Zoopendous Surprise by Boots Hensel with illustrations by Andrea Gabriel. These books are worlds apart, but I enjoyed each one immensely.

I "met" Preetham Grandhi on one of the forums or social networking sites I am a member of. In fact, I don't even recall which one. I believe he introduced himself and included a link to his site. When I clicked through and read the synopsis of the book I was immediately enthralled and requested a review copy.

From the first line in the prologue to the last sentence of the final chapter, A Circle of Souls - Grandhi's debut novel - kept me reading every free moment I had. It's described as a "new kind of psychological thriller," which is definitely fitting.

Here's the gist of the story: A little girl is found murdered and Leia Bines, an FBI agent, is called in to investigate. At the same time, Dr. Peter Gram - a psychiatrist - is working with Naya a young girl who is having nightmares that are causing her to sleepwalk and potentially harm herself. The murder and the psychological evaluation collide when Naya's drawings of her dreams lead to clues about the murder.

My description does not even come close to doing the novel justice. So, you'll just have to take my word for it that it's a fabulous read and head on over to buy A Circle of Souls for yourself.

On the lighter - and younger - side is The Zoopendous Surprise by Boots Hensel. I knew I had to review this and share it with my children when I read the story behind the creation of this book. It's based on a true story to give honor to the author's daughter Courtney who died of cancer four years ago. Courtney was a zookeeper for two Asian elephants at the Little Rock Zoo in Little Rock, Arkansas.

It's such a sweet and entertaining story of the elephants, Mary and Ellen, who try to find out what's going on around the zoo. None of their animal friends will tell them what the surprise is and just as they're getting discouraged and about to give up they discover what it is.

What do you think it is? That's what I asked my children when I was almost finished reading the story. Between the voices that can be used for each animal, the colorful and beautiful illustrations and the suspense of trying to figure out what is going to happen, The Zoopendous Surprise is a book that your children will love hearing and reading again and again.

Amareah and Andre were happy to tell me what they liked the most about The Zoopendous Surprise, and everything they mentioned had to do with the animals. I don't know if I've ever met any children who are as fascinated and in love with animals as these two are. Their love has rubbed off on their little sister.






Thanks to Andre's kindergarten teacher, we have to read to the children at least five to 15 minutes a day (I know you're saying: Weren't you doing that anyway. Oh never mind me, pay attention to the post!), so I've discovered and rediscovered my love of children's books.

 




Although Anna won't cooperate with answering the questions based on the stories, hogs the book and pretends she doesn't know which animal is which, it's a delight watching her become fond of reading and books.




 


Here is Boots with Mary and Ellen; stars of The Zoopendous Surprise. I would love to meet all three of them. :)

A blog of your own

Not too long ago I was having a conversation with a good old friend of mine and she was asking me questions about starting a blog. I told her of the platforms that I knew of, but I couldn't think of all of them. Since that time I have come across a couple that offer Free Blogs.

It seems like regardless of what you're into today, hosting a blog or at least a retail website is the way to go. Although brick and mortar buildings will never be extinct, shopping and communicating from the comfort of your own home without even opening your mouth is the way to go.

There are quite a few options and avenues to consider when you're about to start a blog and OkayBlog.net seems like a good one to investigate. It is a free blog hosting site powered by Wordpress blogging software. I've heard that quite a few people extol the virtues (too dramatic?) of Wordpress and highly recommend it.

I'm going to leave that up to you to find out for yourself. Develop a couple of test blogs or start two of them. You can run blogs at the same time and determine which hosting site you prefer. Now you know you also have a choice with OkayBlog.net.

She should be arrested!

I wish I had had my camera ready and taken a picture of what I saw today.

I was going to pick up my middle daughter and we were stopped at a traffic light. I'm in the left/straight lane and a car pulls up next to me waiting to turn right. For some reason I glanced over and saw the driver holding an infant.

My first thought was, "Wow, she sure did get that baby out of the car seat fast." It was a split second thought 'cause it didn't add up that she would actually be driving while holding her baby who looked to be no older than two months old.

She adjusted her baby at her breast - SHE WAS NURSING! - and she pulled away. Nursing the baby AND driving.

Yup, that's what I said.

I was stunned. I have seen all kinds of crazy things on the highway. All kinds of irresponsible parents with their children not strapped in, but this lady took the cake. She won the Irresponsible Parent of the Month Award.

Now, I'm in no way a perfect parent, a perfect driver or even a perfect person, but come one! I.have.never.nursed.a.baby.while.driving.

I felt like I should have taken off after her and called the police to report her license plate number. Or yelled out: Stop, you're endangering an innocent baby.

She should be arrested and charged with child neglect, attempted manslaughter, child endangerment... or at the very, very least ticketed for not having her child properly restrained.

SIGH... I just had to get that off of my chest. Can you even believe that?

Wordless Wednesday: Then & Now

Tests, treatments, thoughts...

My health and weight loss journal

SIGH......

That's the only thing I could think of to write when I sat down to compose this because that's exactly what I did. I let out a big sigh.

Last week I told you about my upcoming MRI and the follow-up doctor's appointment. The good news is my MRI didn't show what the doctor thought she saw on my bone scan.

:| The bad news is that one of my blood tests, which I think I mentioned several weeks ago, was positive for lupus. I keep saying it was positive for a strain of lupus, but I'm not sure if that's the correct phrasing because I am just learning about this disease.

Although I do have some symptoms of fibromyalgia that don't correlate with lupus, the main concern and problem is the lupus. Fibromyalgia is secondary.

SIGH.....

You know reading about lupus isn't that great of an experience. It's bad enough that I have been feeling worse lately and that I already experience the chronic everyday pain. It's just so much information and since my appointment yesterday I have forgotten almost every specific thing the doctor said. The general stuff is still hanging around in my brain, but there's more information I need to know.

This is the line they hooked to me last week when I
had the MRI. They had to test my blood for something
and put some stuff in there half way through the MRI,
which - by the way - was no fun.
I have oodles of more blood work in the process (they took like 100 vials of blood yesterday) and a couple/few more tests. One, which I am so not looking forward to, is a "pin prick test." The doctor says, quite stoicly I might add, it's a little uncomfortable.

Ya think?

It's called PIN PRICK TEST! Great. I've already told everyone that I know that someone is going with me for that test.

SIGH....

I can't seem to stop sighing. Like my friend says, "Well, you're okay, right?"

I kind of smiled and said, "If you want to interpret like that. ... There isn't a cure."

"Yea, but now, you're okay?"

"Yes."

"Well, that's good." Leave it to him to look at the bright side of things. He always does so I guess I need someone like that around. "We're going to have to fight this together." Well, now that's even better.

How do I feel mentally? Right now I am pretty "up," so to speak. Although my brain is tired. How do I feel physically? Not so great (really hurting/sore) and I'm totally and completely exhausted.

The results of the blood tests (vitamin levels, hormones and some other stuff I can't remember) along with the urine test and the pin prick test (testing my nerves' reactions) should help to solidify a plan of action and a way to cope/live with this. For now... I just...

SIGH...

Right now, it doesn't seem important how much I weigh. Well, LOL, it's important to me, but there aren't really any updates in that arena. However, if you can give me some tips on incorporating the doctor mandated exercise (15-20 minutes a day, six days a week) into my schedule I would really appreciate the suggestions. And the prayers. I'm just saying.

Permanent cosmetics

I have noticed as I've gotten a little older that my eyebrows are getting a little thinner. Well, thinner in a weird way. I've always had really think eyebrows. Okay, I'll say it: I've always had a uni-brow, which I started shaping and grooming sometime in my 20s. (Yes, it took me that long because I didn't want to conform.)

The memories of my classmates and so-called friends teasing me about my eyebrows haunts me to this day, and it took me a long time to come to terms with the fact that I really did somewhat have a uni-brow. (They didn’t really meet there was just a little hair between them.) The only difference now is I wish that the thinning parts were the parts that shouldn't be there and vice versa. Now the thick eyebrows are getting spacey and sketchy. I never really thought about any other option besides using eyebrow pencil to fill them in until I heard about permanent cosmetics.

Permanent cosmetics alleviates the need to apply makeup everyday or the frustration of having makeup rubbed off or smeared while working out or simply wiping and touching your face. You can choose to have lip color, eyebrows or eyeliner permanently tattooed to those areas using micro pigmentation. Those who have had it done swear by the convenience it gives them because they don’t have to take the extra time to apply that particular makeup.

I’ve never been very good at applying eyeliner and it sounds really convenient, but I don’t think that’s for me. However, having my eyebrows done is something to be considered, I suppose. (Well, kind of like I “consider” having a tummy tuck.) It would be nice to wake up in the morning and not wonder if I have enough time to make my eyebrows look a certain way.

I’ve always been a low maintenance type of girl, but I do like to look nice and put together. What do you think? How would you like to have permanent eyeliner, lip color and/or eyebrows?

Monday's Muse: Busy brain

Sometimes I'll sit down to the computer and my brain is blank. There's not a useful creative thought brewing no matter how many times I scratch my head or look around the room. There are other times when ideas keep popping in, but they're so bad that I know I can't share them. This is one of those times that is somewhere in between.

My brain is busy with all kinds of thoughts, but none of them relate to anything creative. I'm thinking about the doctor's appointment I had today (I'll share more of that with you tomorrow when I post my health and weight loss journal), my children, finances, writing and blogging obligations, how I feel, people in my life who I love and some that I don't love so much, books that I've read... the list seems to go on and on. There are so many things that ran through my head in the last couple of minutes that I'm not sure what to do next.

I think I've talked about this before in another Monday's Muse: The necessity to rest the brain. For the past couple of weeks or so I haven't really been able to do that. In fact, that's probably one of the reasons I have been reading so much because it's the only time I get to "get away." I would usually sit down and stare at the boob tube (I'm not going to talk about that broken television again), but that's not possible. So... I read.

Right after I finished writing my reviews on Thursday I began reading A Circle of Souls by Preetham Grandhi (look out for that review on this Thursday) and I finished it today. I could hardly put it down.

My point is when all your relaxation techniques have failed you may want to try something that engages your brain like reading. It'll temporarily relieve you of thinking. At least it's worked a little for me. I just have to decide what I'm going to read next.

Share your thoughts

Blogging, social networking and everything related seems to be growing more and more each day. If you are interested in adding another outlet to your Internet presence then check out another service where you can create a blog to share your thoughts with the world.

I already have two blogs along with my social networking so I am not sure if I want to create another one, but if I did Thoughts.com (a community blogging site) would be a great place to do it. It is a user-friendly service that allows you to be apart of a community that will give you honest opinions on your thoughts.

Although there is a basic template, like every other blogging platform, I did check out the choices and they seemed elegant, colorful and unique. One of the great features that I noticed from taking the tour is to be able to easily set a different privacy setting for every post, picture or video that you publish. Now that's complete control. And, of course, another feature is if there is a cost. There isn't. Thoughts.com is free.

Thoughts.com seems similar to a platform that I really like, but sometimes one that works for one person may not work for another. If you're not sure what you want to do, you can at least pop over and take the tour. There's no obligation. You don't even have to sign up to tour, which gives you easy to see, colorful screen shots of every section.

Help Flat Carter

My friend Shaunalynn posted about a friend of hers who has a son named Carter. His class is reading a book called Flat Stanley about a boy who gets flattened by a bulletin board and then gets mailed to California for a visit.

Well, Carter has made himself a Flat Carter. Flat Carter would like to visit lots of different places. If you would like to host Flat Carter for a visit, please go to this link (or any other link in this post) and print out Flat Carter.

If you're going to participate, there is information on the website about how to send your Flat Carter story via email.

I think this is the cutest project ever and I hope you'll help Flat Carter.

A few moments of TV obsession

For the last two years - give or take - I've received a free subscription to TV Guide. When I first started getting it I was excited because I figured it would be easier deciding what I wanted to watch on the rare occasion I sat down to watch television. Since the guide doesn't list the exact channel and I never can remember which station is which, my excitement wore off.

Every once in awhile I would read an article about one of my favorite shows or check out the pictures, but it really - I'm ashamed to say - sat on the TV for a week or so then went into the recycle pile. That was when my television was working.

One day before the TV died completely,
my 4-year-old daughter snapped this pic.
Now, as I go about my day with the TV sitting there mocking me at every pass, I wonder what I am missing on my favorite shows (Law & Order: SVU; Criminal Minds; Without a Trace; Army Wives; The Closer).

A few days ago another TV guide came in the mail, and I sighed with frustration. What a waste, I thought; as if I wasn't already wasting it. I began flipping through it and noticed articles about shows that I had watched the season premieres of. My interest was peaked. Now, all of a sudden, it was important.

I found out that George died. On Grey's Anatomy, of course. I learned that Kyra Sedgwick's (you know, she plays on The Closer) husband, Kevin Bacon, is directing an upcoming show and it's one of the best ones yet. More excitement, car chases, etc.

Then Delko, one of my favorite characters on CSI: Miami, is only going to return briefly. I only spent a moment bummed about then 'cause I'm excited about Laurence Fishburne playing a professor on the CSI shows. This will be the first time that they'll be a triple crossover (between the CSI shows) as Fishburne's character delves into a nationwide human trafficking case. And, on House, the good doctor has gone complete crazy and finds himself in a mental hospital. Yup, those hallucinations from last season were just a glimpse into what was going wrong with House.

By the time I finished reading TV Guide I felt tingly all over. It was almost like I had sat down and caught up on all of the shows recorded on my DVR. I don't mind going without television because I've done TV fasts in the past, but I don't like to be forced into it. There's something refreshing about watching back-to-back episodes of House or catching up on a season of Criminal Minds.

Now that I've had my fix of television I can move on to something else. Anyone seen that book I was reading?

Testing another paid site

I've become aware of another site that connects bloggers and advertisers. It's Link From Blog and from what I understand it's pretty new, but like most of the sites you're familiar with it is how companies are able to do blog advertising. I am still learning about it and navigating my way around so I'm not going to pass judgment or offer my opinion until I see how it works out. So far it's proven easy to use and sign up for. Communication is prompt and easy to understand. If you're interested check it out and let me know what you think.

Adding to the blog roll

Today I added a friend to my blog roll and it dawned on me that I haven't updated the roll or mentioned it in awhile. So, I have a few assignments for you:

1. Visit my friend Kia at Urban Paper Loft blog. She is a talented graphic artist who sells personalized stationary at Urban Paper Loft. Check her out to get a look at all of her products.
2. If you're one of my regular blogging friends and readers, your link should be on my list. If it's not and you'd like it to be, please leave a comment and let me know. (Also, please forgive me if it's missing.)
3. There may be some blogs that have disappeared or been abandoned, if you recognize one that is or if you happen to click through to one that is then let me know that too.
4. Even if this is your first time here and you'd like your blog or site listed on my roll, just leave me a comment indicating your URL and I'll check it out for consideration. I'm also interested in link exchanges, so if you want to list me then let's make a deal. :)

I think that's all of your homework for now. Have a great weekend!

Potty training success

It's official. Little Miss Anna is potty trained!

Do you remember all the dilemmas I had trying to get her trained. I even tried using the Baby Signs® Potty Training Complete Starter Kit, but my inconsistency and her stubbornness hindered the success. It's funny because she still loves the book reading the book and doing the potty training sign language and she still loves watching the DVD.

Every once in awhile she has an accident during the day (more at daycare than here) or pees on herself during the night, but she tells me when she needs to go (often with a lot of false alarms) and even tells her siblings. Every time I put a disposable training pant on her at nap or bedtime she wakes up dry, but if I don't she wets herself. So I guess that would make us about 99 percent successful.

Well, it's more like that makes her 99 percent successful because we wouldn't have the training success if she didn't get it into her mind that she was going to start using the potty.

Good luck to everyone who is still in the training process or those who haven't reached it yet. And, if you're already pass it: Isn't it great not to have to spend money on training pants and diapers? That's a big relief!

Looking at the Sky on Friday

This is what I see when I step out onto my front stoop, move a little to the right and peer up to the left over the roof of my house. There are quite a bit of trees surrounding me.

Want more sky photos? Visit Crazy Working Mom.

Four books worth reading

On the Woman's Bookshelf

I am so excited that I've had the chance to read some really entertaining and well-written books lately. I've recently finished three novels and perused a very timely and educational book about life insurance. Reading is one of my passions, which I always desire to share with you.

The Sinful Life of Lucy Burns by Elizabeth Leiknes
This is unlike any book I've ever chosen to read. This is what a portion of the promotional material said about the book: "Audiences love [Lucy Burns] with and charisma, especially when she talks about her lead character, whose fascinating job is 'facilitator to hell,' and whose boss is really the devil himself."

"Huh?" I thought. I had to read it again. Then I chuckled. My next thought was, "Are they serious?"

I kept reading about the book and knew I had to review a copy. The Sinful Life of Lucy Burns is an entertaining, quick read that's filled with just enough humor, a definite plot and great writing to keep readers engaged from the first page until the last. I really wanted to know if Lucy Burns (don't you just love that name?) succeeds at her mission. And, yes, she really is a facilitator to hell.

This is a great book to read while waiting in the doctor's office or taking a moment for yourself. And for the aspiring authors take some motivation from the author and plow through to get your novel complete. When she was pregnant with her first son she realized motherhood was getting close and she had a little time left to realize her novel-writing dream. She wrote throughout her pregnancy and finished it on maternity leave.

Published in June by Bancroft Press, "The Sinful Life of Lucy Burns" has to be on your must-read list.

Resurrecting Midnight by Eric Jerome Dickey
When Dickey's new book arrived in my mailbox I did a little dance. Dickey is one of my favorite authors and I've been waiting to see what has been going on with International assassin Gideon since I put the last book down. Resurrecting Midnight is filled with action (enough to make your heart race), drama (more than enough to scare you) and passion (I definitely felt some tingles) - all of which are reasons why I never pass up the chance to read a book by this New York Times Bestselling author.

This novel continues the story of Gideon who killed for the first time when he was 7 years old. It was a single shot to the head of a man who was trying to kill the woman Gideon knew as his mother. What he later learns is the evil man was his father. Killing him changed Gideon forever.

When we were last in Gideon's world he almost died in Antigua while on a mission that went very bad. Now he's involved in a dangerous assignment with folks he doesn't trust using his skills to obtain a briefcase that contains a part of a larger puzzle. It's one exciting action scene after another. Once again, Dickey doesn't disappoint.

Resurrecting Midnight (Dutton/Penguin Group) hits the shelves on August 25 and you must order your copy right away.

Questions and Answers on Life Insurance: The Life Insurance Toolbook
by Anthony Steuer, CLU
I chose to share this book with It's a woman's world readers because it covers a topic that many of us have questions about and something we need to know about. Written by a life insurance guru, this 464-page comprehensive guide to life insurance answers every question you've ever wanted to know.

Since this book isn't one you may sit down and read from cover to cover, I took the liberty of getting some information directly from the author:

"Probably the biggest issue for consumers & advisers is choosing the right type of insurance," Steuer explained. "A lot of people end up with insurance that's more than they need. Example, a whole life policy with a premium that's five to 10 times what they could pay for a term insurance policy that would better fit their needs. Another timely point is choosing a company - some of the companies have had a rough time through this economic downturn."

For individuals who are 40 years or older with children and no life insurance, Steuer offered this advice: "They still need it and shouldn't put if off. If they do their homework and stick with term life, which is what most people need, it's not that expensive. A good step would, of course, be to buy my book." This statement, which was shared via email, was followed by LOL. (See, even insurance gurus have a sense of humor.)

You can get all your other questions answered by picking up a copy of this user-friendly guide today. In addition to Steuer's book, you can find additional on his site TonySteuer.com or check out Insurance Information Institute site at III.org. Final advice? Always do your homework.

The Unexpected Gift by Michelle Bulmer Atha & Meaghan Gonzales Wagar
The authors of The Unexpected Gift learned what it was like to put their energies into worthy causes to soothe their own heartache. These women, who were going through a divorce at the same time, took their experiences and co-authored this book that shows the real result of being selfless.

This novel is about a single mother who still deals with the pain of her divorce and encounters an 18-year-old pregnant woman who's down on her luck. The pair form a surprising friendship and teach each other that the gift of friendship can lead to a satisfying life.

Published in June by Synergy, The Unexpected Gift is a book to read for a little message, a little peace and to feel a little less lonely.

This isn't a paid post, but I am an Amazon affiliate. Would you like to buy me a cup of coffee or put a dollar or so in my gas tank? I hope the answer is yes and in the process you can get you something great to read. Click on the Amazon widget to check out the books I've talked about here or to do a little search for something you've been wanting to read.



And, while you're here, check out some other reads that are on my bookshelf.

Wordless Wednesday: Picture perfect

I forgot to mention...

My health and weight loss journal

I so totally forgot to tell you that I lost the four or five pounds that I gained. Well, I guess I should say it's the four or five pounds that keeps coming and going. I think I'm at 155. It probably would stay more gone (don't say anything about my grammar!) if I would diminish my occasional emotional eating. But what fun would it be in being a girl if I couldn't sometime indulge in a little emotional and hormonal noshing?

If you're trying to lose weight or maintain a weight loss then not depriving yourself is a key to success. Losing weight is a life-style change not a temporary thing. Choose a plan (whether organized or self-imposed) that will work for you. Then rock it!

There's some pretty good and exciting news that I haven't revealed. I was waiting until I actually saw it myself, but I think now would be the perfect time to tell you. (And, if you're reading this - you know who you are - this is not my attempt to take your challenge and be positive. I'm too stubborn for that. LOL) I am scheduled to be featured/mentioned in All You magazine! How cool is that?!

I answered one of the magazine's emails where they reach out to their readers to provide input. It was quite a few months ago that I replied to the email and one of the editors contacted me a few weeks ago. I provided before and after pictures along with my story of weight loss. I must admit I am pretty excited about it. One would think that as a published magazine article writer and poet (not counting my web stuff) that I would tire of seeing my name and face in print. Well, I don't. Each time is rewarding and exciting. It's a treat being on the other end of a writer's pen (keyboard?).

What's with all of the in parenthesis sidebar comments today? Like how I put that in italics?

An-t-way...

On the health side of things, I haven't been feeling that great. No surprise there since I've been pretty stressed out. Tomorrow is the MRI I told you about already and Monday I'll see the Rheumotologist. Hopefully she'll have the results of all of my tests along with recommendations and a plan of action.

Moving checklist

You've just decided to move your family from one state to another, and you have a lot to do. The best thing to start with is making a list before the move starts.

Moving company
Boxes
Packing tape
Hand truck
Final bill payments and due dates

Besides the above there are probably quite a few other things that should go on the list including address labels with your new address on them. During a move you normally have to fill out tons of forms with your old address (use labels you already have) and your new address (won't new ones come in handy?). If you have them printed as soon as your address is finalized you'll save yourself some time and, possibly, a few sore fingers.

They don't have to be boring labels either, you can choose a design that amuses you in the attempts to alleviate some of your moving stress. At 123print.com, you can choose a flag, an empty beach, bubbles, something elegant or even your initials. Whatever you decide on it'll be a welcome sight for your new surroundings.

Monday's Muse: Stepping back

"This week, if you come upon a problem. Step back (or go to bed) and think things through logically. Trust in yourself to possess the knowledge you need. Trust in yourself to know when you need more knowledge and go do some research." - Heather, at Maternal Spark, wrote this in her Monday's Muse post today.

I've read that quote about a hundred times. Okay, it was about three, but you know what I mean. And although I know the truth in that statement, the things I have been dealing with seem to prevent me from coming to conclusions or finding the solutions. It's possible that I've stopped trusting in myself.

Wow, that's a sad realization.

Is it possible that my financial and personal situation has left me feeling helpless and out of control? Definitely. When things happen and I can't stop them especially when those things have been caused by other people; it feels like I have no recourse.

So, I have to do what Heather says "think things through logically. Trust in yourself to possess the knowledge you need." I think I don't trust my own knowledge because of a decision I made seven years ago and every decision I've made since then that has contributed to my current situation.

It kind of goes along with a comment PJ left for me recently: "ok lady, it's time to pick yourself up and shake it off. seriously,..." So here is me shaking myself off. Or at least trying very hard to. Thanks Heather, PJ, FB, PJ&H, Munch, my sister K and every one of my IRL and blogging friends that refuse to let me mentally drown and give up. I'm taking a step back, assessing the situation and continuing to move forward (Yes, I took a gigantic nervous breath there)... worse case scenario, I can always move in with one of them. ;)

Research bankruptcy options

When you have the information you need it is easier to make tough decisions. For instance, if you are in a financial bind because of the economic situation then learning about bankruptcy as an option could take a little of the stress off of you. I viewed a site today that provides all types of information about bankruptcy and how to deal with financial challenges. Whatever city you live in then you can investigate an attorney there. For instance, a Dallas bankruptcy attorney can help you if you live in that area. Taking the time to do the research before making such an important decision is essential.

My kids need a fairy godmother...

... or maybe just a real godparent.

I envision godparents as angels. A longtime friend, caring aunt or a trusted cousin who gives your child the care, nurturing, love, guidance, fun and stuff that parents just can't, won't or shouldn't provide.

I'm sure that's what's missing from my younger children's lives.

This weekend has been really sucky for me. I could say the last two years have been, but I'm trying not to be extremely negative. I am in a bad mood, there are quite a few financial and personal problems, and my brain hurts from trying to figure everything out.

Well, just because things aren't going right for me doesn't mean my children are going to act any differently. In fact, it seems like they're even more rambunctious than usual. A godparent would/could occupy their time. All I had for them to do was a birthday party Friday evening.


One of the children in my 4-year-old daughter's class had a birthday party at a local skating rink. The kids had a ball... I - on the other hand - sat there wishing I was sitting on a rock staring at the sky. There was a little glimmer of fun somewhere down inside as my love for skating began to resurface. Of course it was extinguished by the small ugly voice that lives inside my head that said, "Skating? You don't even have money for them to play games..."

See, that's why they need a godparent.

When I woke up yesterday morning with a chip on my shoulder, a godparent would have swooped in, treated the kids to the dollar menu at a local fast food restaurant and tired them out until bedtime. Instead they were subjected to my evil eye all day. When I opened my eyes this morning and wished I could sleep 12 more hours, a godparent would have showed up with a cup of coffee (it's special 'cause I wouldn't have had to make it), gotten the children dressed, taken them to church, made sure they ate dinner and brought them home just in time for bedtime. And, if the godparent was really good, they would already be bathed, lotioned and already to snuggle in until the next morning.

Unfortunately, besides the party, all I had planned was knowing they would eat three meals and two snacks. They could watch a movie if they asked. Remember to have them clean up their toys. And... keep them from hurting themselves and each other.

I'm really not that much better when I'm in a good mood. Well, okay, my conscious won't allow me to tell that lie and some people may not realize I'm (somewhat) joking.

Seriously, it would be nice to have someone who is always there for the children and who cares a little about me as a parent (not to mention as a person). I guess I'm just having one of those moments. I wrote the following comment on Grammology's blog and it sort of explains or reveals how I'm thinking right now: "You know, I don’t think I really care about my funeral or anything surrounding it. I just want someone to turn away the people who come to my funeral who never showed up when I needed them in life. That way, there will hardly be anyone there."

Maybe I'm the one who needs the fairy godmother.