Large warehouse purchases

When you think about shopping at warehouse places you probably picture large boxes of paper towels, giant bottles of shampoo and super-sized boxes of your favorite cereal. What you may not realize is that you can also find deals on larger items for your home like outdoor furniture, area rugs, televisions and baby furniture.

I must admit that I am glad I'm not shopping for baby cribs, changing tables or chest of drawers for a new baby. I am excited that it's almost time to think about getting twin-sized beds for my younger children and we can move beyond cribs and the baby stage. That means a visit to Sam's will be for linens and other items for a big kid's room. (I spotted a few cool twin/full bunk beds that I know they'd like.)

Whatever your household needs or to stock up on all things baby, you can find it at Sam's Club. Overall, buying in bulk is an excellent way to save money for your family and shopping at a warehouse is an excellent place to find deals. Saving money is the goal... right?

Do you shop at warehouses? If so, leave a comment about what you normally buy or how you find the best deals. I've heard that sometimes families share their purchases from warehouse stores; is that something you do as well?

Give me more time

I'm thinking if I ever get more than five hours of sleep I can catch up on email, posting, visiting and commenting. At least I hope that's the case. I wish there were some way to have 100-hour weekends (only when the kids are with their dad) so that I can catch up on everything that I've gotten behind on. Imagine that.

Searching for singing bowls

Have you been looking for perfect Crystal Singing Bowls? If so, SilverSkyImports.com has a wide selection of crystal singing bowls, along with a wide variety of others, for what appears to be good prices. For those of you unfamiliar with singing bowls, they are a type of bell that is a standing bell. Instead of hanging inverted, they sit with the opening facing upward. The sides and rim of singing bowls vibrate to produce sound. These bowls are traditionally used in Asia and are also known as Himalayan bowls, rin, medicine bowls, Tibetan bowls or suzu gongs in Japan.

Silver Sky Imports' site says their Quartz Crystal (99.9 percent pure) Singing Bowls are brand new and have a high quality with pure and relaxing sound that's excellent for meditating and healing. The item is sold with materials describing how to use the bowl. They offer a 30-day, 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. They also sell accessories like cushions and tools that go with the bowl.

The site seems to have different types of bowls for each person's interest, ceremony or event, and the bowls come in different sizes. Right now they have a fall sale and you can get 15 percent off your order with their coupon code. Now seems like a good time to purchase something like this if you need it.

Finding quality childcare

Every parent has had to do it: Search for daytime care for their children. It can be a daunting - scary, for some - task, but it's often necessary.

If you live in Georgia - somewhere around/near Fayetteville, Jonesboro, Riverdale, Lovejoy - you should check out Little Feet Childcare, Inc., a home-based childcare and learning center. The director/owner is Kellie and my family met her about three years ago when I was searching for childcare for my then 1-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son.

Little Feet is exactly what we needed. It wasn't too long after they started that she began potty training my son - successfully! All I did was follow up at home. When the children started my daughter was a little hesitant, but she took to Kellie right away and she soon adjusted. At Little Feet, your children can be sure to get quality curriculum with the love of home. They'll get healthy, well-balanced meals with a treat or two sneaked in now and then.

This is Amareah & Andre about
six months after they started attending.

One of the things that I like most about Little Feet is that it's not babysitting. The children have a daily schedule and curriculum they follow. I could see the things they were learning. In fact, when my daughter went to the 3-year-old class at Clayton County Head Start last year she already knew how to do about 95 percent of what they were teaching (write her name, identify some letters, memorize songs, etc.).

On the personal side, when my children started I was still nursing my daughter. It had been recommended that I stop nursing because of my health. Although I enjoyed the bond I shared with my daughter and had reduced the breastfeeding time, my body was worn down and I was overly exhausted. Kellie was supportive in helping me to wean her.

I like the fact that she has been a partner in rearing my children. Now, three of my children have been taught (and mommied!) by Kellie. My oldest daughter, Amber, is like a niece to her and she's become a very important part of our family.

If you'd like a partner in the raising of your children and someone who will support you in teaching your children values, educating them and providing them with a nurturing and caring environment then I suggest you call for a chance to meet Kellie and learn about Little Feet.

Check out her Facebook page for contact information.

Practicing patience

I am not a very patient person. I don't do well with children whining, mumbling, crying or any of the like, but with four children I've heard my fair share of that and much more. This week my 2-year-old daughter, who can be difficult to deal with on a regular basis, isn't feeling well. She has strep throat.

She's already with me everyday and likes for me to pick her up instead of working. Her being under the weather has made it worse. I have rubbed, coaxed, cajoled, kissed, hugged, tickled, held, babied for a week now (she was just diagnosed yesterday) and I think I am coming to the end of my rope.

Then I have to remind myself - once again - that she doesn't feel well. The thing with little Miss Anna though is she's a super master manipulator. I'm beginning to think that she's just using the not feeling well as an excuse for me to continue with the babying. I am so behind on everything, I have a headache and I am so extremely exhausted that I think I'll be waiting outside of the house, in the driveway tomorrow when their father comes to pick up the kids.

I'll pass on the medication instructions, kiss them all good bye and either pass out or get work done. Passing out is looking more appealing as I watch Anna throw herself from the couch because I wouldn't take a toy from her and told her to just sit it down. Maybe I should get an iPod or MP3 player to drown out the whining... okay, deep breath, I'm back. She's safely tucked under my arm contentedly playing with the toy.

Parents, pray for me today that my patience lasts. There's nothing worse than a sleep-deprived mom who is trying to avoid catching strep throat from a child who won't get out of her lap.

Turn right then stop West of Mars

Have you met Susan Helene Gottfried? If you haven't then you won't be disappointed if you click on over to West of Mars and check her out. She's a fabulous author and blogger. She has a promotion going on that I thought I'd share with you for a couple of reasons:

1. I think she's awesome.
2. I was supposed to review her book eons ago. :)

Here's the message she recently sent on Facebook:

Just a reminder that the October 10% off sale on both Demo Tapes: Year 1 and Demo Tapes: Year 2 is winding down. You only have until Saturday to take advantage and who knows when I'll do this again?

Here's the link to the main books page:
http://westofmars.com/west-of-mars/the-books/

And here's the link to the blog post, with coupon codes:
http://westofmars.com/2009/10/01/sale-on-demo-tapes/

Just a reminder: this sale is good for purchases at Lulu.com, Smashwords.com for you digital readers, and through me directly. It is NOT good in the Kindle store or at Amazon.

Come join the Trevolution!

You know, books are great holiday gifts!

From a snake's POV

Most people who know me know that I am a book lover who gets true pleasure from reading a book. Most recently, I've begun reading and reviewing more children's books and I've found that I love them just as much. The true perk? Sharing my love of books with my second generation of children.

I received "Rattlesnake Rules" by Conrad J. Storad and read it to my children a few nights ago. This easy-to-read book relays the rules of dealing with rattlesnakes from the snake's point of view. It's genius! I enjoyed the book so much that I've already told three people about it.

My children were really into it as well. It was obvious they liked the book because while I read they asked clarifying questions or pointed out things they noticed and understood. My two middle children absorbed the information about rattlesnakes and also understood the warning to humans regarding what to do if encountering a rattler.

The book is beautifully illustrated by Nathaniel P. Jensen and one of the best features of it is the glossary of information in the back that includes rattlesnake facts, mysteries, myths and vocabulary words along with a curriculum guide.

"Rattlesnake Rules" gets a definite two thumbs up.

Another children's book that we've read recently is "The Pout-Pout Fish" by Deborah Diesen. It's an extremely cute and entertaining story. Verdict: Love it.

Shop at Lou Lou's Corner

It's the treasure trove of places you find that carry little gems you are glad you stumbled upon. That's what it feels like when you go to Lou Lou's Corner, a specialty boutique store where they prefer to think of themselves as "a toy box for the whole family." Lou Lou's carries gifts items, popular baby toys, stylish designer baby clothes as well as women's items including pajamas, jewelry and tees.

Some of their most popular brands are jellycat, appaman and barefoot dreams - just to name a few. They have the cutest items ever seen (check out their infant and toddlers See Kai Run shoes that are podiatrist recommended) and the most comfortable-looking items for women.

You can find something for everyone at this online store so don't forget to do a little virtual shopping there for those on your Christmas list. The boutique offers gift wrapping and free shipping for purchases $65 and over. If you like what you see then take a moment to join their e-newsletter so you can be kept abreast of red tag sales, new additions to the inventory and anything else going on at Lou Lou's Corner.

Have fun shopping... and don't forget your blogging friends during Christmas. ;)

I hate "good hair!"

Before you click the comment button and tell me all about myself - let me explain. Actually, it's the phrase that I hate.

Over the years, for as long as I can remember actually, I've had my own thoughts and feelings about my hair and black women's hair in general. Those thoughts resurfaced when I caught yesterday's Tyra Show, which I think was a rerun. I don't normally watch television at that time of day, but I was sharing a late lunch with my youngest daughter and decided to sit down and watch the tube for a minute.

Tyra Banks was sporting some cornrows. "Looks pretty good," I thought. Then I realized the topic was about hair and I came in on the part where five young black girls from the ages of about 3 to 8 were talking about their hair, what they liked about it and their perceptions of hairstyles.

I was livid from what I heard.

The 3-year-old's mother had been perming her daughter's hair for about four months because it was "easier." The 6 year old preferred wearing a Hanna Montana wig as opposed to her gorgeous thick ponytails that were adorned with barrettes and the little ball things. There was another 6 year old whose mother had purposefully never dated a black man because she didn't want to have a child with kinky, nappy hair. That type of hair, she said, indicated you were poor and low class. To make matters worse, the daughter - half Latina - now believed the same thing. The 8 year old black child, whose mother was white, was given a perm AND tracks (that's weave for those who don't know) because it was easier and faster "for the mother" to comb out the kid's wrap in the morning as opposed to spending time braiding or styling in ponytails.

Now I was livid and appalled.

I am amazed that still, nearing the end of 2009, we continue to teach our children that ethnic, coarse hair is bad. Those girls actually pointed out an Afro as ugly and bad and then said "white hair" is good and pretty.

I.am.so.tired.of.hearing that.

While growing up I heard the term "good hair" somewhat frequently, but it wasn't necessarily used in a negative context. Either way, it didn't sit well with me. My paternal grandmother had naturally wavy, thick hair. You know the type you can wash and go or just run a straightening comb through real quick if the mood struck. My mother, although she chose to get a relaxer, had naturally straight black hair, which grew to her waist as a child. My father had naturally curly hair as did his father. (In case you're wondering, or think it's important, my mother and grandfather are dark brown.) And in between all of that, from one side of the family to the other, were all variations of ethnic hair with some being more coarse than others.

My family, however, made a point of ensuring that our hair was neatly groomed regardless of the texture. No one, back in the day, gave their daughter a relaxer. Our hair was straightened with a hot comb for special occasions. It was normally braided or styled in ponytails.

As we grew older we developed our own likes and dislikes regarding our hair. In middle school I got a Jerry Curl (don't you laugh), in high school I got a relaxer, which I started growing out sometime in my 20s mostly because I learned quite a bit about what the chemicals were doing to my hair and my body. I began wearing twists, which lasted for about six weeks, and then I let my hair lock.

For some in my mother's generation that's almost appalling.

I was about 7 years old when my family and I attended a wedding. I had never seen dreadlocks before and there was a man in the wedding party that wore them. I couldn't keep my eyes off of him. Finally, I whispered to my mother asking her what was in his hair. She said something I'll never forget, "That means he doesn't wash his hair."

Really? Even at that age the answer didn't seem right and although I remembered it, I never assumed it was true.

"Why did you put those things in your hair," my mother asked the first time she saw me. I was a little hurt, but it didn't change my mind about what I wanted to do with my hair - despite her continually bringing up the subject. Long story short, my locks over the course of about 10 years, grew to my waist. It's been about a year or two since I had them cut off, combed out and have worn my hair in its natural state.

My hair isn't as long as I would like it, the texture has changed a lot over the years and I'm not necessarily happy with it; however, I don't think I have bad hair.




When I had my first daughter, whose hair is naturally curly and fine, my mother would say she has "good hair." I would admonish her and say, "Please don't say that around her. I don't want her to think that someone else's hair that is kinky or thick has bad hair."

It took quite some time for that message to sink in, but she respected that and learned. My daughter grew up with a healthy appreciation for her hair and other's regardless of the texture. Of course she has her likes and dislikes, but she's diverse. She's worn classic children's ponytails, twists, dreadlocks, straightened and curly. She's colored it, but never permed it. As a matter of fact, she really doesn't need a relaxer.

She's 18 years old.









When I had my second daughter (who's hair is even longer than it is in this picture) my mother may have slipped up on the "good hair" comment once or twice, and I'm sure my little one has heard the term before but it's not something I teach her. To me her hair is long, thick and beautiful... it's all her. She's only 4 now and her hair seems to grow about a half an inch within two weeks. It's thick, curly, black, long ... and tiring! But I love it and I let her know it.

My third daughter's hair is more like her oldest sister's in color and texture, but so far it looks like it's going to be long like her second sister. But, so what?

The what is that black hair has always equaled status in our community. When our slave ancestors wanted favor they knew they were most likely to get it if their skin tone and hair texture was closer to that of the master than to that of their brothas and sistahs. It meant better food, better clothes, possibly education, favor and status.

No, this is not a racial thing. This is a history thing and it's part of our history that has brainwashed some of us in the present. (Unfortunately we can see this in other areas of our lives as well.) Now instead of teaching our children that our hair is better if it's long, straight, flowing, silky or any other variation of "good hair," we should teach them to love and accept themselves from the tip of their toenails to the ends of the hair.

I ask myself and my spirit for forgiveness for my recent thoughts of getting a relaxer. I also apologize to my oldest daughter for displaying that doubt about my appearance. That Tyra Show reminded me of why I started this quest in the beginning. I am proud to display my heritage and likes on my head, and I can't help if other people like it or not.

It's one thing to prefer or like one hairstyle over another, but it's an entirely different thing to hate a part of our features that links a lot of us. We need to embrace and respect each other... I may not like your hairstyle, but I think your hair is beautiful just like mine.

Check it out

• I found a link to that Tyra Show I mentioned above.
• There's Chris Rock's comedy (some are calling documentary) Good Hair

Read up on it

• "Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America" by Ayana Byrd and Lori Tharps. I believe these ladies were on The Tyra Show that I watched. They eloquently spoke about how our good hair mentality is tied to slavery.
• "Good Hair: For Colored Girls Who've Considered Weaves When the Chemicals Became Too Ruff" by Lonnice Brittenum Bonner.
  
• I love the coffee table book "Dreads" by Francesco Mastalia and Alfonse Pagano with an introduction written by Alice Walker. It has amazing photography of all types of people with dreadlocks and their thoughts behind their hair.

As usual you know I want to hear your take on this subject. Leave me a comment with your opinion, recommended reading and experiences. Always remember: Rock your crown.
This is me today. ----->

Find fun holiday gifts

Earlier today my 4-year-old daughter told me how she likes Barbies. "Really?" I responded. And she nodded with a slight smile on her face.

I smiled as well - thinking about the Barbies I had when I was a child. I received my first Barbie in the early 70s and spent hours dressing her, making clothes for her with my grandmother, choosing accessories for her and setting up scenarios for her. My oldest daughter, who is now 18, loved Barbie as well. When she became old enough to appreciate the doll, I passed down some of the things I had saved from my Barbie dolls.

Now I'm wondering if it's time to start the serious Barbie tradition with my next daughter. I don't want to spend a lot of money on Barbie and her accessories because this daughter isn't as conscientious as her older sister, but I still need to "Shop Smart, Save Big." And it's that time of year: Purchasing fun stuff for the holidays.

I'm sure she would like 2009 holiday Barbie in her shimmering pink and gold lame gown. To find a great deal, I can use Shop.com, which is an easy-to-use online shopping comparison site. You can find just about any product you're looking for as well as coupons, free shipping offers, exclusive sales and sweepstakes.

There are tons of other gift ideas to check out at Shop.com. Start with Barbies and Nba comforters and go from there.

You've got to read this

My beautiful friend Lin (remember I mentioned her in my last post?) has a post called Livin' La Vida Hobos. I'm not telling you to read it 'cause she mentioned me... although that's a good reason. I'm telling you to read it 'cause it's a wonderful post that's excellently written, humorous and one of the many reasons I love her so much. ;)

Weekly Inspiration: Friendships

This past week has been... uh, interesting. Broken coffeemaker, dead washing machine and a medley of other ins and outs, ups and downs. By Friday I was totally exhausted from day-to-day responsibilities, lugging laundry to my girlfriend's place and running errands. But I was excited to see the weekend arrive because my friend Shaunalynn and her adorable girls were coming for a visit on Saturday.

If you aren't familiar with Shaunalynn at The Art and Science of Parenting (Mom Robs Grocery Store and a few others), you should hop on over and get to know her now. I can't even remember how we "met," but through our virtual relationship we became fast friends. Then we realized we both live in Georgia and the rest, as "they" say, is history.

Shaunalynn and her girls arrived minutes before the guy who was delivering a washing machine. He was about an hour past the time we had originally discussed. Shaunalynn and I sat down at the kitchen table to chat and talk coupons (she has this great coupon binder) while the guy and his helpers installed the washer.

The installation didn't go as smoothly as I would have liked. Upon removing the old washing machine, which was filled with water, they dumped all of it - every green stinky drop of it - onto my floor. The water pouring from the washer seemed to flow continuously and slowly as I watched with my mouth agape.

"Look," I said to Shaunalynn, while I pointed.

She was as stunned as I was...

and then she started to laugh.

Dealing with those washing machine guys caused one laugh after another and had it not been for Shaunalynn's presence I probably would have gotten extremely irritated and upset. She made what could have been a stressful event into a minor blip on the screen. (That's not even mentioning the "new" washer that didn't work and the guys returning at 7 p.m. that night with another one only to spill some water on the floor again.)

You've heard me talk about friendships in the past and that is what's inspiring me this week. It's Shaunalynn and everyone else who is important to me...
**It's Frankie who helps me catch up on my email and who endlessly puts up with my grumpiness and neediness.
**It's Kellie who let me wash and dry about SIX loads of laundry at her house AND she braided my hair AND made the kids and I dinner.
**It's PJ who checks in on me, makes me tea and mails things without a second thought.
**It's beautiful Lin who always makes me laugh, emails me encouragement, listens to me rant and sends a surprise for the kids.
**It's Sandra - my Portuguese friend and one of my first true blogging buddies - who I dearly love despite our busy lives and opposite schedules that have gotten in the way of our communication.
**It's Lewis who randomly calls to check on me "just because" I am on his mind.

They do those things and so, so much more. Even if they didn't do anything physically, the care that they've shown to me amounts to pounds and pounds of gold. As I sit here quite exhausted (I think my busyness is finally catching up to me), I'll think about my friends to get me through the week.

If you're name isn't here, don't fret! I have not forgotten you and I have not missed the care you've shown to me. Cherie, Rick, Stace and everyone else. I hope you know who you are. And, I can't resist saying, if you have doubts well then you probably know what that means. I'm just saying. LOL

Shaunalynn, It was so exceptionally wonderful to spend time with you and the girls. I'm so glad we met in person and I'm looking forward to our next visit. I hope it doesn't include washing machines.

Win a dream kitchen makeover

A contest for Canadian residents

Have you experienced the Maple Leaf Market yet? Check it out and meet the butcher, the baker and the pasta maker and - while you're there - get easy-to-make, quick meal ideas. You can watch the butcher slice up some pork tenderloin, see an appetizer demonstration by the pasta maker or check out what's going on in the bakery. It's all a yummy little virtual world. There are also tips, recipes, coupons, contests and much more like seeing details about a featured product.

To celebrate the launch of the Maple Leaf Market, they are giving away a $32,000 Dream Kitchen makeover and 12 Frigidaire® fridges that will be stocked with new Maple Leaf® Prime™ Premium frozen chicken that is now available in your grocer's freezer. And the cherry on top is that each contest entrant will be eligible for a $500 rebate offer from Frigidaire®.

Wouldn't it be exciting to win a kitchen makeover? If I were to makeover my kitchen I would definitely get new cabinets and counter top along with a fresh coat of paint, new floor and brand new appliances. I can just picture the beauty of a new kitchen. Can’t you? If you won this contest what would you do to your kitchen?

Fittin' it in with a dance, yoga

Over the past week or so I've been trying to organize around the house. The area that has yet to get a little organization and structure is my office; however, much of the house is coming along nicely. One other area that hasn't been organized is my life. More accurately, having balance and fitting exercise and movement into my days.

When I first began to lose weight more than a year ago, one of the things I did for exercise was dance around the house with my teenager and when I was here alone. Well, since she's been away at college (and since I'm not alone any longer thanks to the presence of my 2-year-old daughter) I haven't danced as much or exercised as much. Today, I began to dance again.

It started last night when I popped in a Mary J. Blige CD I haven't listened to in quite awhile. I played that CD about three or four times last night and the same today and today I danced until I could feel it. So freeing.

Then I began getting a little irritated at the 2 year old because I am running out of time to get things done before my son gets off of the bus and it's time to get the 4 year old from headstart. My free feeling started to dwindle away and my face started to frown, and then I was irritated about not having time to do yoga. Geez, I went from one freeing feeling to a total irritating irritation!

I suddenly thought of an article I had read early in body+soul magazine about doing certain yoga moves to assist in building the immune system in fighting colds and flu and I decided to do yoga right that moment. Right in the hallway.

Getting out my yoga mat, book, CD, block and strap is such a process. Yoga books recommend wearing certain clothing and being freshly showered while having a designed spot and mat that is just for that. All of that preparation was hindering me in getting it done.

I did the two poses that I remembered from the article and some others I know from my yoga CD, adding some stretches and some breathing. I did this all while the preschooler brushed pass me, touched my hair, played with my belt and tried to talk to me. I stayed in complete zen mode.

And... you know what?

It was so worth it. The free feeling came back and it was a good movement/break from the desk and computer.

I guess, from now on, I won't worry about the preparation and specifics of exercising. I'll just get it done and fit it in.

Christmas shopping for kids

Whether you want to think about it or not, Christmas is only about two months away. I can't believe it. Given the necessity to budget, the need to save money and the desire to purchase gifts for your children that they will really love, it's best to start organizing and shopping now.

Gone are the days where you have to drive from store to store finding the best deals or the most coveted toy. Now you can shop around on the Internet. In fact, you don't have to leave your house at all if you don't want to because you can purchase from home easily and quickly.

To find what you're looking for just check out Shopwiki.com. Maybe you're looking for an electronic toy car for your son or a classic red wagon to fill with small holiday toys and then use it to roll your youngest around in. Whatever it is Shopwiki will find every store on the Internet because it crawls Google. It's rumored that other shopping sites only display paid advertisements to consumers, but Shopwiki will show you everything available.

It's time to turn thought into action - get started on holiday shopping for your kids. Grab that action figure or new Barbie for the little loved ones in your life.

Molly the Monarch Butterfly

My children are fascinated by creatures of all sorts - bugs, animals... anything non-human. So, of course, when I got wind of The Adventures of Molly the Monarch Butterfly and Friends(c) Series, "Molly: A Butterfly's Story" by Maureen Akey, I had to request a review copy.

My children - 6-year-old Andre and Amareah, 4 - listened intently while 2-year-old Anna imitated what I was saying. After I finished reading I asked them what they liked about the book.

Here's the dynamic duo checking out the pictures
before I read the book. Okay, I made them pose,
but they were still looking at the pictures. :D

Amareah said she liked when the caterpillar was drinking from the milkweed plant. When she pointed to the picture, I said, "You liked when the caterpillar was eating..." She corrected me and said, "It was drinking." I guess it seemed obvious it was drinking since it's a milkweed. Andre said that he liked when the caterpillar busted out of its egg, and - in case I missed it - he described the entire process.

It's really a pleasure to hear the children talk about the books that I read to them. The amount that I read to them is actually thanks to Andre's kindergarten teacher who "requires" a minimum of five minutes of reading to the children per night. (I'll save my comments about the amount of homework for another post.)

If you're interested in purchasing a copy of "Molly: A Butterfly's Story," which was illustrated by George Arnold III, it's $14.99 plus $3 shipping and handling. Just write to the author, Maureen, at clone1@copper.net.

I think any children's book that entertains as well as teaches is a wonderful addition to your child's library.

Getting back on track

Before I get into my health and weight loss journal, I want to ask you a question: What do you think about these types of posts? I've noticed that, for the most part, I get few comments on the health and weight loss journals. I actually didn't get any on the last one and, on the other hand, there have been quite a few in the past that have attracted numerous comments.

The vote stands with you. Do you love me? Circle yes or no.

LOL... I couldn't resist saying that. The real question is: Should I continue to post my health and weight loss journals? Yes or No. Please comment. :) Thanks!

Currently, I am getting back on track with healthy eating... well 75 percent back on track. The other 25 percent is the minimal amount of green vegetables that I eat. I need to make a gigantic improvement in that area. Otherwise, I eat a lot of fruit, drink a lot of water and generally don't have a large sugar intact. Lately, however, I have been snack - sweet and salty - crazy.

Yesterday it dawned on me that I was "enjoying" a little emotional eating. For once it wasn't fueled by depression or sadness, and it's an area that I don't want to reveal right now. I know I share a lot with you, but I am too ... I don't know the right word... I guess, shy about telling this one.

Right now it's way beyond my comfort zone to share.

Moving right along. Thankfully, I have been feeling "normal." What that means for me is the chronic pain is still there, I have been having bad stomach discomfort (cramping, nausea, etc.), and frequent headaches. BUT I haven't had any terrible attacks of severe pain that leave me laying down most of the time and moving around hunched over. I haven't had as much dizziness and been as lightheaded over the last few days as I normally am. The exhaustion is still there... but for someone with a chronic condition I am feeling "good."

Wordless Wednesday: Another critter takeover

My Wordless Wednesday posts

5 Minutes for Mom WW participants

Rare silver coins

Do you collect rare silver coins? If the answer is yes then you know that, as a collector, you want to ensure you're getting certified rare silver coins from a company that knows what its doing. Check out Monaco Rare Coin, which is part of the Monex family of companies, a trusted 40-year-old leader in precious metals investments. The Monex companies have helped investors invest over $25 billion in hard assets including rare coins and other precious metals.

Monaco has experienced and knowledgeable representatives, which is so much better than simply trading coins online. If you're going to trade or invest your rare silver coins then do it with a company that has a solid reputation, expansive knowledge and dedicated professionals.

One busy, tiring, celebratory day

I have been offline the entire day. I didn't hear my alarm go off so I slept through it. What makes it so bad is that I was awake at 5 something and 6 something. I was able to sleep late because the children were still with their father, but I had planned to get up, do some yoga, shower, dress and eat before they arrived with hopefully enough time to get some work done.

Didn't happen. When I finally got up I only had time to shower and dress. They were here before I ate or anything. By the time I was finished eating (and, of course, two of them wanted to eat with me even though they'd eaten with their dad) it was time to leave the house for Amareah's yearly check up.

This is before she received FOUR shots!

I'd told the kids that we would have lunch at Chuck E. Cheese's to celebrate Andre's 6th birthday after we left the doctor's office. We stopped to get a cake of his choice then proceeded to the Chucksters. I don't really like going to that kid-friendly establishment, but it's excellent during the weekday when it isn't crowded with rude little... I mean, uh, a lot of little people.

Andre and Amareah really had a great time and, overall, Andre enjoyed his birthday. He also celebrated over the weekend with his dad. I'm sure his cousins were all in attendance and they had cake and ice cream. Two celebrations. Can't beat that.

Happy 6th Birthday, son!

The cake was really yummy.

Now, it's almost time to begin preparing dinner. I.am.exhausted. Anna is irritable, but that's what happens when a 2 1/2 year old misses her nap.

At least she enjoyed the cake! :)

Being offline is worth it when celebrating such a momentous occasion, which was topped off by a call from his big sister Amber a little bit ago. Now, if I can only find that card my mother sent to him about two months ago all would be right with the world. LOL... (Don't tell her I misplaced it. It was on my desk until I "straightened" up and put it somewhere that I wouldn't forget it.)

Following is Amareah's creative photography. She constantly asks me to use my camera and I finally gave in at Chuck E. Cheese. (I know what I'm getting her for Christmas!) I thought you would enjoy a peek at her work.

Small appliances

When I was in the Air Force, stationed in Rome, New York, I lived in the barracks, which was more like a dormitory. It was a room/living area with a sink area that had enough room to include a small refrigerator, a microwave and any other small appliances like a toaster oven.

I remember whipping up quite a few tasty meals in that small space. I wonder how much more I could have made had I had a conveyor toaster oven. I could have fed the entire dorm with one of those or at least the entire floor I lived on - that would have been something to see.

If I remember correctly, I gave that toaster oven to a friend of mine. Do you use a toaster oven?

Weekly Inspiration: Broken

I'm having a difficult time starting this post because I'm listening to India Arie and dancing in my seat. I could concentrate much better on working if I stopped thinking about my to-do list and the music. Funny how thinking about the to-do list can prevent one from actually doing it!

No worries though... I am breezing right through it. Well, sort of.

But that's not what I want to talk about it. Last week saving money was inspiring me (although I forgot to label that post as my weekly inspiration). I get a GIGANTIC high/thrill/surge from getting something that we need for an excellent price.


This week my inspiration is a little odd: I'm inspired by stuff breaking down. You know, I had the car issue just a month or so ago. Yesterday morning my coffeemaker just died before I could make my morning cup of joe. Then when I went to put clothes into the dryer I found the washing machine still filled with water. Seems like that has broken as well. And before all of that, my sausage got trapped in the pot.

Yes, you read that correctly. Let me see if I can explain. I was cooking sweet Italian sausage. I put some chicken broth in the pan so the sausage wouldn't burn. (I hate standing over a stove and I like the sausage tender and juicy so I put the liquid in and put the lid on.) After checking it a few times I was ready to take it out and I tried to lift the lid off. It didn't budge.

I picked the pan up, looked under it, shook it around and tried the lid again. Nothing. I tried to pry it with a knife, a spatula, a can opener... I scratched my head and looked around the room for the hidden cameras.

It surely was a joke, right?

Well, problem is, I was home alone. Hmmm?

I call my BF and ask him (not gonna mention any names, okay Frankie?) to activate his science. "Is it cold or hot that it needs to release?" He says cold. In the freezer it goes. A few minutes later I look at the top and it is dented further in. I call back. "You have your science backwards."

"Huh?"

"Backwards." And I explain the situation. Oh yea, it should be heated.

SIGH

Now, I'm thinking I hope there's still liquid in there because I made a big deal about making sure I didn't burn the sausage while I watched television. After quite a few minutes the top started to feel a little loose and, with all of my might, I pulled!


It popped off and nicely splashed hot liquid on my thigh and my tank top. Ouch! But, alas, the sausage was rescued. And tasty. Nope, it wasn't burned.

Why in the world would this be inspiring? I don't really know. ROFL. All I know is that I've been working hard for the last couple of days to maintain a positive attitude despite everything that continues to go wrong. It's tough getting outta a funk and negativity. This has been a rough two years for me. And as I try not to think about everything that has happened and everything that may happen, I am ignoring (at least for now) the sadness that travels through my head on a regular basis.

The worries are off to the side. The anger is pushed down. (Except when I talk about it. :D) Right now there's just one day at a time, everyday.

Now, if the dryer dies then I can't be responsible for my actions. ... I'm just saying.

Oh what a weekend!

The good thing about this weekend was that I took a computer break... for an entire day! Now that may not seem like a big deal to a lot of you, but bloggers and writers know that getting away from the computer is like pulling yourself away from an addiction. A necessary addiction.

I don't have much time to post right now, but I wanted to let you - my friends - know that I am around and I am okay. :) My to-do list has somehow magically went from 0 to 1,000 in 10 minutes so I have to get rolling. My three youngest children are with their father so I better get my errands finished and then rush back here to finish up the housework.

Oh... the weekend. That's right, I wanted to tell you a little about that. Here's a brief re-cap and I'll share more later:

A pot trapped my sausage
My coffee maker died
The washer won't drain water or spin

Other than that it was great. LOL. I watched a lot of television, snacked a lot, read magazines, stayed in my jammies for an entire day and generally tried to relax. I'll leave out the other thoughts and emotions that passed through my brain, but - you know me - ever the sensitive, creative writer.

I'll be back later. I hope you had a fabulous weekend... I can't wait to hear all about it. Meaning: Leave a comment telling me what you did. ;)

In love with Disney On Ice

Disney On Ice is magical. Thanks to Mom Central and Feld Entertainment, I was able to share the Disney On Ice presents Celebrations experience with my three little ones: Andre, Amareah and Anna.

Celebrations was a giant party on ice and all the Disney favorites were there. There was a winter wonderland with Mickey and Minnie, a Halloween haunt with villains like Captain Hook and Cruella de Vil, a ball with the princesses and their beaus, and wonderfully, beautiful celebrations from around the world.


When the show began, last night at Philips Arena, my children sat with looks of absolute wonder and focus on their little faces. I think it's one of the few times I've ever seen them all sitting still and quiet at once.




I must admit that I was quite enthralled myself. It was more than half way through the show when Amareah started turning to me and saying, "Mommy, that princess is from Beauty and the Beast" or my favorite realization: "That's the princess who kisses the frog and turns into a frog."





I couldn't resist my own exclamations: "Amareah," I said as I leaned over 2-year-old Anna, "I like that one best, they're in Japan." When the scene switched to China, Amareah got really excited because her class studied China for International Day at school last year.

Their reactions at the end of the show were priceless. It's like everything that they saw downloaded into their brains as soon as the curtain closed on the final Disney character. Then they began chattering about what they liked, what they saw and what was the best.

On Thursday, Anna finally began talking about the show. It was the first time she ever saw - and probably will remember - something like that. It was a spectacular show.

Andre and Amareah were so pleased to recognize the princesses and other Disney characters, and it was really a joyful evening watching the expressions on their faces. I can't wait until the next show, which hopefully Amber will be able to attend with us. It was such a pleasure to experience Disney magic; it really ignites the kid in me.





Don't miss participating in the Celebration. Check out the Atlanta Facebook page to keep up with all of the details! Don't forget to go to Ticketmaster.com for dates and times of upcoming shows. (Hint: Get your tickets now. Last day of the show is Sunday!)

Before the show we had the pleasure of meeting Mickey Mouse at a meet and greet event before the show. Mickey is just as cute in person. :) We got our picture taken with Mickey; however, Anna would have no part in it and stood beside the young man who took our picture. They were even so nice as to provide a Polaroid of the shot, which is inside of a Disney Toy Story frame on our refrigerator.










Andre and Amareah enjoyed coloring pictures of Disney characters while they waited for the show to start. Anna finally warmed up to coloring, but she would not put on her party hat.

What's next for Disney in Atlanta? Feld Entertainment is producing Disney Live! Rockin' Road Show will be at the Philips Arena on Sunday, December 20th at 12 and 3 p.m. I really can't wait to see this show and they don't want you to miss it either so to sweeten the deal (seeing the Disney gang is sweet enough by itself, right?) you can save $10 on tickets by using code FFSC. This offer is valid from now until November 15th and excludes VIP and VIP floor seats. Regular ticket prices: $14, $25 and $40.

You can redeem one of three ways:
1. In person at the Philips Arena Box Office
2. By calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000
3. Go to Ticketmaster.com/FFSC and enter code FFSC

Other upcoming shows in Atlanta:
January 9th - Monster Jam at the Georgia Dome. There are super value seats for just $10.
February 12th - 21st - Ringling Brothers & Barnum Bailey presents ZING ZANG ZOOM, "a thrill-filled, mind-blowing circus spectacular where family fun is no illusion." For a limited time opening night tickets are HALF PRICE. Mention or enter code ZXC. Valid on $14, $22, $28, $35 and $50 VIP priced seats and $15 tickets, valid for $14, $22, $28 and $35 priced seats.

Don't miss out on all the fabulous family fun.

What do you think?

I've been considering moving my From Toddlers2Teens blog from Today.com to Blogger. I know I haven't really put a lot of energy into browsing around and getting to know the Today bloggers, but I thought I would see more "action" over there or something. I guess you get back what you put into something, huh?

Just wondering what you thought about moving everything over? Does anyone else use Today.com?

I've had one "issue" with them since I started writing/blogging there. At one point there was an "adult" advertisement that was up and I didn't have any control over it. I couldn't remove it and I didn't know what to do. I don't recall all of the details, but I remember writing a post or two about it and apologizing to my readers. One day I went on there and the ad as well as the posts were gone.

Quite a bit of time later I found an email that I missed saying, "Next time don't discuss such things on the blog send a note" or something like that. My thought? "Humph! The nerve."

Any thoughts?

Dreams of granite sinks

I know a couple of people who have obsessive compulsive disorder and are severe germaphobes. I've teased and hounded them to lighten up until I realized that I'm almost just as bad. The other day I was washing dishes and glanced down at the edges of my sink. How in the world do you get the little crevice clean under and around the edge of the sink and the counter? I ran my hand along the edge then used a dish clothe to try to clean it better - to no avail.

It wasn't long before I was daydreaming about a granite counter and undermount kitchen sinks. Have you seen those? It's when the sink is mounted under the counter, instead of dropped into it, resulting in the sink being flush to the counter. MR Direct Incorporated sells a undermount granite sink series made of 100 percent environmentally friendly materials and they are coated with bacteria-killing silver ions that kill 99 percent of bacteria on contact.

Now that's a germaphobe's dream come true.

MR Direct Incorporated has a large selection of Granite Kitchen Sinks to choose from. You can choose the style, color and even the depth of the sink you want. Wouldn't that make washing dishes fun? :)

More tests, pokes and proding

My health and weight loss journal

I am too lazy to review my last health and weight loss post to see where I left off telling you about my health. So I'm going to try to make this short... Recently, I've been electrocuted (that's my sarcastic way of saying I had some type of test where your nerves are shocked to see how they're responding to pain) in both hands/forearms and I still have to return to get my lower legs/ankles/feet done. Thankfully, there isn't any nerve damage in my hands, which would mean that the lupus strain is affecting my nerves. I just have carpal tunnel in the right wrist and slightly in the left wrist. I have to wear wrists braces every night for six weeks then return to get some type of shots in my wrists.

That doesn't sound pleasant and I haven't decided if I am going to keep that appointment. I probably will, but the fact that I don't know what they're going to be shooting me with let's me know that I turned out right after she said "shots."

The doctor wasn't surprised that there wasn't any sign of nerve deadening in my hands because it normally doesn't start there, but she didn't sound as hopeful with my legs. I also had an appointment the GI who told me again about the strain of lupus, which is called sjogren's disease. When I looked it up I think it said "syndrome" instead of "disease." It's an autoimmune disorder just like lupus. They aren't sure that I have sjogren's, but I do have a lupus strain in my blood. If the nerves in my legs and feet are being affected (I've been suffering from numbness, tingling, etc., in addition to the pain) then it's possible (likely?) that I have it.

I've also had an ultrasound of my stomach to ensure there aren't any other signs that my body is attacking itself or whatever, and - as usual - I've had tons of blood work done. Still waiting on results.

I guess there was no way to tell that quickly and I'm sure I'm forgetting something. It's so much that it can be overwhelming. Overall, I don't feel any worse than I normally do. The things I need to do more of, or better, are exercise and get more sleep. Both of which are said to help those who deal with chronic pain.

Anyone wanna be my personal trainer? I'm willing to barter. :)

On the weight side of things: I'm maintaining very well. Just gained about five pounds, but that's to be expected from someone who has been eating a lot of sweets and chocolate lately. I'll get back on track within the next week.

Wordless Wednesday: Beauty of the beach

My Wordless Wednesday posts

5 Minutes for Mom WW participants

Relaxing with Joshua Bell

Joshua Bell's new CD "At Home with Friends" is what I like to call (a phrase I stole from a friend) grown folks music. I didn't know what to expect when I popped in the disc, but I was more than pleased.

His music carries the rhythm and sound of relaxation and prompts the listener to envision the beauty of elegant ballroom dancers. I've listened to the CD more than four times in the past two days and I'm no less enthralled when I hear it again. In fact, it must be good because my 18-year-old daughter expressed how much she liked it. Now that's what I call impressive.

Bell is a Grammy award-winning violinist who has been playing for 20 years (since he was 14) and come out with 30 original albums. The album is out now and if you haven't picked up your copy yet, you should do it soon 'cause it's music that soothes the heart and soul.

Sibling bonding over art, baking

My daughter Amber is a wonderful big sister. Each time she comes home from college she always makes time for her three younger siblings. She'll take them to the store with her, they'll help her cook, they do crafts together, have a sleepover in the living room, go to the park or any other activity she can think of. Amber had a four-day weekend and decided they would do crafts and bake an apple pie.

When they do arts and crafts it's quite funny to me because Amber is really patient and normally lets them be creative. She dug through the crafts supply box (which I started several years ago so Amber would have supplies for class and science projects) and pulled out a bunch of interesting stuff. I asked her what they were going to make and she had no idea. At first I was going to say that she should decide on a specific project, choose the appropriate supplies and direct them accordingly. Then it dawned on me that I need to butt out for several reasons: The younger children were excited, quiet and occupied without my input; Amber's method allowed them to use their imagination and be creative; and she's the one who has worked with children most of her young life.

I promptly, and happily, walked away to get some work done. I peeked in or walked by every now and then, and I captured a few shots to share with you:

Andre is proudly displaying his in-the-works project.

Anna is busy filing her Styrofoam ball.

That's Andre and Anna happily working on their Styrofoam ball thingies. LOL. I think I heard Andre saying he was making a rabbit and Anna was busy "filing" her ball with a Popsicle stick. Her reason? Amber just shrugged her shoulders and left her alone since she was so engrossed. This is what they came up with:

Amber made this unique flower with a Styrofoam ball,
pipe cleaners and a Popsicle stick.

This is Amareah's flower. Yes, I have them both on my desk.

Andre's rabbit and person came out pretty good. He was pleased
and happy about it. Funny thing is, it does bring a smile to your face.

Remember the picture of Anna (above) filing her Styrofoam ball? Well, she has paint on her face because they had already completed their painting projects, which you can see here:




I liked these so much (I really like abstract art) that I mounted them to construction paper and hung them in the kitchen. The children were proud to see them there and Andre told me all about his: The white at the stop is the sky, the black line with a dot on the top is an animal - if I remember correctly - and, although you can't see it well, there's a rendition of a person next to the animal that he said is me. How sweet.

They started their pie-baking project kind of late in the day so I missed getting pictures of them before it went into the oven and they were in the bed when it came out. I also forgot to get pictures of them working on the pie. But here's a picture of the finished product.

That pie was so good (I finished off the final piece last night!) and I hope they make another one when Amber comes home again. :D

If you have more than one child, what do they like to do together?