Weekly Inspiration: Staying on top

I was going to call this week’s Weekly Inspiration “Catching Up” or something like that. I realize that I will probably never catch up: There will always be laundry to do, paperwork to fill out and file, blog posts to write, paid posts to compose, reviews to write (I am so freaking behind on those), a house to clean and on and on and on… So, staying on top of the week’s to-do list is what’s inspiring me.

Although I realize I have a lot to do – and a lot that’s overdue – I am going to begin the week as if I am all caught up because if I don’t do what I need to do each day then I’ll be even further behind, right? Right. Just nod, okay?

So, with the extra time I have … wait, I have to think of another word besides “extra.” Let me take a different track. So, with everything coming together in a much organized and calm manner while I stay on top it’ll end with me catching up. Agreed? Just nod again, okay?

Let us all begin this week (well, Monday is almost over … hey, I didn’t say I would be on time, I said I would stay on top!) with a little calmness and organization. Not worrying about what I’m not getting finished, but concentrating on what needs to be accomplished.

This week when you get bogged down with all there is to do and all you have to do, just know that you have a partner in the fight to get everything done. I’m over here focusing, clicking and working just like you. Together, we can get it done, right? … You know what I’m going to say: Just nod.

Thanks to Maternal Spark for inspiring us each week. Check out how others are inspired at her place.

And the winners are…

Thanks to all who entered these giveaways. I am really excited to make these announcements:

The winner of The Zoopendous Surprise by Boots Hensel is

WmmaHaney (wmmahaney @ att . net)

The winner of the $25 gift card to Eden Fantasys is

Huguette (henglish @ nb.sympatico . ca)

Congratulations to the winners!!

You have four days, from the date of the email I will send you, to respond with your mailing address. If no response is received then another winner will be chosen.

There’s still one more chance to win: Comment on Add ‘MyPleasure’ to your to-do list for your chance to win a $25 gift card to MyPleasure.com.

The winners were chosen by Random.org.

I dream of…

Lion, tigers and bears. Oh my!

Well, not exactly. I just couldn’t resist saying that.

Actually, a lion was in one of my dreams last night. I was living in a two-story house that sat in front of another house that was in disrepair. I didn’t find out the house was so close until later in the dream. An-t-way, one night I was in one of the rooms when I heard weird sounds. I thought it sounded like scratching, but I was too scared to find out what it was. The next day I looked out into the yard and saw lions. Like four lions. My eyes blurred and I blinked hard then suddenly there was one GIANT lion. He stood higher than the house I was in. Now that was scary.

I hid and peeked, called people and yelled and no one could help me. Then I started crying. By the time I called 9-1-1 I was so distraught I could barely tell the operator what my address was. I just said, “Please send someone quickly there’s a lion in my backyard and he’s trying to get us.” (I think there were other people there by then. IDK) I was just so dizzy and distraught.

I looked out the window and saw ambulances, fire trucks, rescue workers and animal control racing down the street. Then I guess they got the lion. Please tell me how I missed that part because next thing I know I was at college, school or work.

Not sure which. There were people who someone told about the lion and they didn’t believe it. A lady had an Associated Press printout that she referred to and “confirmed” that it was true. Everyone said, “That was in your yard?”

“Yup,” I nodded and hurried away.

The rest of the time was filled with wandering around the school/building looking for various things and people. Not sure what I was doing.

Later I returned home and peeked into the backyard where parts of the head-high grass were stomped down. I could see where the Giant Lion had been dragged from the yard. It looked like it had tried to squeeze into a small spot to get away from those who were trying to remove it, but they somehow grabbed it and drug it out. There were giant claw marks in the ground. Odd, huh? Especially since I expected to see blood from dead people and not signs of a frightened large lion.

I don’t think that was the end of my dreams last night, but that’s all I remember. Later in the dream I realized it was directly in my backyard, but was in a yard that was connected to mine in away.

I, of course, consulted DreamMoods.com to interpret my dream. This is what it said:

To see a lion in your dream, symbolizes great strength, aggression and power. You will overcome your emotions and/or difficulties. As king of the jungle, the lion also represents dignity, royalty, leadership, pride and domination. You have much influence over others. You need to exercise some restraint in your own personal and social life.

To dream that you are attacked by a lion, indicates that you have many obstacles to overcome. You must resist the force that is driving you to self-destruction.

As usual, I found the interpretation very interesting and pretty accurate. Although I wasn’t attacked in my dream, the lion did bang against the door and roar toward the house that I was in. I guess the second part partially applies too.

This isn’t the first time I’ve had dreams and looked up their interpretation. Here’s one of the previous dreams I’ve had: Too scary & too accurate. And I believe some of my Subconscious Thoughts were revealed in another dream.

Do you remember the last dream you had? What do you think it meant?

The image of the giant lion was obtained from PhotoShop Pix.

Random & rambling thoughts, fighting procrastination

There’s nothing like a holiday filled with tasty food, free time and chilling with friends to get me behind on my work. I met one deadline yesterday and have one today. It’s nice outside – sunny and warm – so why am I still procrastinating? It’s Sunday, a day I like to goof off and get outside before the sun sets. I don’t think that’s going to happen today even if I make it out at all.

I’ve tweeted, commented, entered and announced contests (don’t miss the two that end today, okay? $25 gift card to Eden Fantasys and a copy of the children’s book The Zoopendous Surprise), checked and answered emails, read blog posts… so what’s left to do? GET. TO. WORK.

Okay, well, as I ignore the television in the background, I’m going to commit to at least an hour of straight work. Then I have to take a break and do a little housework. Then I’ll go back to working. So much work. So little desire to do it.

“A Joyful Noise” Original Art from Debra Flanagan

I’m not going to complain though. This holiday weekend has been very nice. Joyful even. Little drama. Majorly enjoying time with my teenager (I so don’t want her to go back to school today). A little relaxing. Spending time with someone I like. Chatting with friends. A bit of shopping. Lots of eating.

All in all a good time was had by all. Now if I can only get to work. :)

Please share: How was your holiday and weekend?

Looking at the Sky on Friday & other observations

I wrote this post two weeks ago in Windows Live Writer and never got it to post.

Every reference is to two weeks ago. :)

This morning before the children were awake (at around 5:30 a.m.) I went outside to put the trashcan on the curb. Too many irritations and darkness prevented me from doing it last night. As I walked out into the cool morning air, with a sweater thrown over my pajamas, I paused to soak in the quiet moment.

I also paused to make sure there weren’t any scary night critters lurking nearby.

When I walked down (up?) my driveway, I looked to the sky… my normal response and action when I go outside… and the sky was AMAZING. I saw the big dipper and thousands of other stars. I can’t remember the last time I saw a sky full of stars like that. It’s such a magical thing – the sky – and I’ve always been in love with it. What a clear and beautiful morning.

On the way back into the house, my eyes searched for the moon. I found it by craning my neck and looking between a tree and my house. It was just a sliver with the shadow of the entire moon in view. Like the ghost of it hanging around. It was so bright in the sky that the entire moon could be seen even though it wasn’t a full moon. How cool is that? I thought.

What a wonderful moment?

I sighed because I had to go back inside to start the day and wake the noisy sleeping children. Oh well, maybe I’ll get a chance to see that type of sky again. I didn’t try to take a picture because my camera doesn’t do well with photos of a night sky.

This afternoon, before my son got off the bus, I noticed that I could see the sun in a spot that I normally can’t. Ahhh…. must be the missing leaves. This is what I saw:

Although I don’t get to do this every week, I love participating in Looking at the Sky on Friday. It allows me to pause and take notice of something wonderful and beautiful.

 

In other observation news, I went to my son’s school on Thursday for their Thanksgiving luncheon. They had tables set up in the gym for us to eat with our children – it was very nice. Andre’s class had made their parents placemats and thank you cards. They piped in classical music and my son was so proud to eat with me and his youngest sister. He was also proud to show of his Indian headdress. Of course I forgot my camera, but I captured him at home showing his siblings.

Doesn’t he look sweet?

Boy, am I glad it’s Friday and my children will be spending the weekend with their father. TGIF, for real!

All the way around the rambling barn

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

It’s 12:47 a.m. on Thursday morning. Thanksgiving. I’ve been trying to get to bed since about 11:30 p.m. Wednesday night. What’s the hold up? My computer.

I really want to rant and rave about how I am so extremely, overly, completely tired of this laptop, but in the spirit of trying to remain thankful I am flipping through a magazine as the computer sloooowwwlllyyyyyy loads, shuts down, opens, etc.

You see, I needed to do one more thing (well, actually more than one, but I was going to settle for one) before I turned in. Now, I don’t know if my computer gets tired at this time of day, if FireFox decides it’s done fooling around with me or if the Internet superhighway is backed up with traffic, but whatever the problem it. happens. about. every. night. Oops, did I just spend the last two paragraphs complaining?

Since the new day has already arrived, I am scheduling this to post in the morning so I can be one of the first to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving on the actual day. Despite my irritation at this piece of technology, I also want to acknowledge you – my blogging friends – and let you know how much I am grateful to have you in my life.

A few of the other things I am thankful for:

1. My children
2. My computer ‘cause something is better than nothing
3. Stealing from Lin: My washer and dryer
4. The food that we eat everyday!
5. My brain, body and everything up, down and in between
6. The ability to breathe, walk, talk, sing, jump… you get the point
7. Looking 28 - LOL. (That’s the age someone told me I looked yesterday!)
8. True friends. Even if/when we argue.
9. Heating pads
10. Legal drugs (don’t ask.)
11. Men … LOL, I couldn’t resist. Well, most of them. No, really. Men.

This list is in no way all inclusive. In fact, I should probably get some sleep so I can think more clearly. But, I am sure you get the point, right?

I’ll break it down just in case: My computer irritated me and I chose not to get irritated, but to think about pleasant things and what I am thankful for. Even if I can’t be serious in the process.

I really hope you enjoy your day and are able to relax. Even if it’s for just 30 minutes or so. Try to shoot for an hour, okay? I’m already thinking about how I can best spend time with my children tomorrow and still get some things done. This, in fact, is not my weekend with them so I should maximize on doing something fun and positive with them because this is the first time I’ve had them all together in about a month when my oldest came home last.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Wordless Wednesday: Put your heads together

Little instructions = lots of giggles!

My Wordless Wednesday posts

5 Minutes for Mom WW participants

Add 'MyPleasure' to your to-do list (GIVEAWAY)

WIN a $25 gift card to MyPleasure

At the risk of being labeled as the blog that gives away sex toys, I am delighted to introduce you to MyPleasure.com. Some of you may be familiar with this company because on The Oprah Show when Oprah held the Aphrodite up during one of Dr. Laura Berman's appearances. The Aphrodite, pictured here, is an infrared massager has interchangeable, soft heads and two vibration speeds.

MyPleasure.com, which is the official online store for Dr. Berman, sells that awesome product along with a wide range of other choices - books, vibrators, lotions and creams, lingerie and anything else you can think of for your sexual education and spicing up that part of your life. The company is, according to their site, "...dedicated to providing the finest adult toy shopping experience possible. We don't use pornographic images or cheap marketing tactics to make money; we try to appeal to a broad, upscale and mainstream audience by offering only the highest-quality products in a clean, comfortable and elegant online shopping environment." This was my first time visiting their site and I was pleasantly surprised at the tastefulness, quality and expansiveness of it. 


MyPleasure has generously offered to give one of you a $25 gift card toward any product from their site.

How can you win the $25 gift card to MyPleasure?

There's one simple way to enter: Leave a comment on this post that answers one or both, if you're brave, of these questions: 1) What do you think about the Aphrodite? 2) Do you think we - as a society - talk about sex (as it relates to committed relationships) too much or not enough?


If you don't have a blogger profile that includes your email address, be sure to include that in your comment.

Who is eligible?

This giveaway is open to US and Canadian residents.

Giveaway extended
This giveaway has been extended until December 3rd. The winner will be announced Friday, December 4th on this post and a separate announcement post. The winner, who will be chosen by Random.org, will receive an email and have four days to respond. If a response is not received in that time then a second place winner will be chosen.

Enter another giveaway while you're here:

Click to enter to win a copy of The Zoopendous Surprise by Boots Hensel or a $25 gift card to Eden Fantasys.

*I was not paid for this post and did not receive any products as payment. The opinions expressed and information given are truly my own and were researched by little ole me. Any questions? :)

Balancing health and life

My health and weight loss journal

Do you remember when I told you about my magazine addiction and the large reading pile that I normally have? Well, that pile is about as big as it normally is. I've even picked up a magazine in it and realized it was the September or October issue. Today, I finished reading the October issue of Working Mother magazine. The cover article* was about Stephanie Ruhle Hubbard, wife and mom of two boys and managing director of structured credit sales at Deutsche Bank Securities in New York City.

Sometimes I'm not able to read the cover article in Working Mother magazine because (picture me with head bowed in shame) a lot of the women they feature are younger than me and way more successful. In my eyes. I know, it's bad to compare.

Anyway, there was something Stephanie said that made me feel a little better about the feelings of discontent I have about having my children at home during working hours (the youngest all day and the two middles ones from 3 p.m. on).

Acknowledging that every mom makes trade-offs, Stephanie believes many fail to make themselves a priority. "I hate it when I hear some great working moms say they know they'll never be the best mom," Stephanie says. "The best mom is a happy mom. It's not about martyring yourself. You don't need to change ten diapers a day to be an excellent parent."

That doesn't specifically apply to moms like me - working from home, staying at home or a lot of both - but it did echo with a realization: I can be my best when I'm happy. It's the reason I put my two middle children in daycare part-time when I was trying to grow my freelance business and take better care of my health situation. It's the reason I needed to put the youngest in daycare when my divorce proceedings began and I was trying to make more money in my freelance business.

I don't have to feel guilty, inadequate or beat up on myself for not wanting my children around sometimes. I don't often reveal my feelings because I don't want to get the frown from the moms who gush about how much they love and appreciate every second and just want to be around their children 24/7. My feelings of love for my children overflow and I know how blessed I am to have them, but I also know that I do them a disservice when I don't have my sh*t together.

If I'm rushing to do paid posts and yelling at them to be quiet. Or telling them I have to work when all they want to do is show me another drawing. When I'm late for a deadline or a promised post and I don't sit down to eat with them. ... All of that just makes me feel worse when I know I have to do it to make money because it's all I have coming in under my own steam and hard work. Not only do I feel like a failure as a parent, but as a writer, provider and businesswoman.

So, I'm going to try and keep in mind that I have to do what I need to in order to be happy to be a better parent, a better person and to maintain my health. I also have to remember what the article said a little further down: "For Stephanie, being a good mom is about memory-making..."

That's why despite looming deadlines I went into the living room this afternoon and pulled my pre-school daughter into my lap, asked my 4 year old for the picture she wanted me to color and we - along with my 6-year-old son - colored for about 40 minutes or so. It wasn't all pleasant because a couple of them whined and I was a little tense because I feel stagnated today, but I finished coloring my picture and spending time talking about colors and how beautiful they did with their coloring.

Tomorrow my children probably won't think twice about whether I need to work or not, but they'll most likely ask if I want to color again. I'm going to let that make me happy and go make some more memories with them.

*The article in the October issue of Working Woman was written by Suzanne Riss for a regular column called "This Is How She Does It."

Weekly Inspiration: Self-less love & Happy Blogsgiving

One of the things I like to do each week is participate in Weekly Inspiration that is hosted by Heidi (ROFL - inside joke) Heather at Maternal Spark. Sometimes I am not feeling inspired at all and a lot of times I "don't feel the love," but when I go to her place and read her current inspiration or any one of her other posts I am often inspired. Today, I click on by to see what's inspiring her and get a little inspiration of my own and the love is all over the place.

For me.

Wow.

I was so surprised and pleased that I sat here with a silly grin on my face and tears popping up behind my eyes. I even felt chills. :D Yup, the big silly grin is still there.

Heather is Canadian and celebrated Thanksgiving in October (shame on me for not saying Happy Thanksgiving) and she's selflessly recognizing Blogsgiving today by putting up the Blogsgiving button. Her comments, her linky love and her undying support of me and my blog is what's inspiring me. I am always amazed at the love my blog friends display to me:

Lin at Duck and Wheel with String always has something funny and encouraging to say. If that doesn't work then she just kicks me in the butt!
Patricia at PJ's Prose offers the sweetest comments and always ends with a hug.
Valerie at Frugal Family Fun Blog even comments on my paid posts - now that's bloggy friend love!
Shaunalynn - the Mom behind The Art and Science of Parenting - has a no nonsense way of giving advice, offering tips and spreading love.

These bloggers, and many others (don't feel left out if I didn't include you), have embraced me and showed me what it's really like to show self-less love. I wish each of you a Happy Blogsgiving and pray that you enjoy your week, your family and your food... Happy Thanksgiving too!

I know I didn't quite follow the rules, but knowing me I will forget to do this another day and I want to acknowledge a few of my friends - even briefly. If I remember to do this again then I'll pass on some more bloggy and linky love. I'm currently in my daughter's dorm (where she's stalking me telling me they're ready to go) so I better get off of here before she comes back from putting her stuff in the van. :)

Can I get a little support?

As a person who suffers from chronic pain, I am always thinking of ways to make life a little easier on myself. In order to do that I have to pay attention to my body. For instance, I've noticed that my lower legs, shins and ankles ache more when the temperature starts to drop. My forearms and wrists hurt more when I am really cold, and when there is a chill directly on my shoulders then those start to ache. If I'm out walking around and it's cold then the pain of walking or standing too long is added to that.

A little preparation, which I rarely do, is all it takes to be somewhat more comfortable. For instance, lately I've been getting chills right before I go to bed and if I don't do something about it before I lay down then I end up having a little restless leg syndrome throughout the night. It's like I'm trying to create friction with my legs to stay warm. So I turn on the two heating pads that I have and put them under the covers. I can't believe what a huge difference this has made in my comfort while sleeping.

When I'm out and about it would be better to wear long kneesocks or tights under my jeans instead of the ankle length socks that I normally wear. That would probably prevent the additional chill even though it wouldn't do much for the chronic pain. I was wondering if some juzo support hose would make a difference. There are a variety of knee high and thigh high socks to try out as well as full pantyhose. I wonder if that would make a difference. I guess it wouldn't hurt to try a little support.

Who are you?

Today the three bambinos and I rode (well, I drove) two hours south to pick up their big sister from college. The plan was to get here in time to have lunch with her after her first class then she would go to class, and we'd all leave later this afternoon.

Of course while she's in class I decided to get some work done while the two younger girls bug one of Amber's roommates and the boy gets caught up in cartoons. As I'm opening up the various sites that I work on, read or just visit, I'm continually confronted with signing in. It's funny how using someone else's computer can alienate you from your regular virtual stomping grounds. I almost wanna go to every community and every site that I belong to just so when I visit someone's blog my picture will come up. LOL... Don't worry, I resisted and, yes, I realize it's not a big deal. But what blogger would let that pass by without mentioning it?

Speaking of people wondering who I am: Amber treated me and her siblings to lunch at the campus cafeteria. That place was packed. We had to walk around looking for somewhere to sit. My children were stunned at how many kids were there and stared in wide-eyed wonder. I, on the other hand, felt a little uncomfortable. Here I am a 40+ year old woman with four children and I felt like every eye in the place was on me. It made me think of my freshman year in college when I was just 17 years old - walking into the cafeteria then trying to find somewhere to sit is a form of torture.

It amazed me that Amber walked around so confidently - at least she appeared that way - with not a care in the world just searching for a place to sit. I kept pausing at different tables where just a few people were seated, but she urged me on. Didn't she know that everyone was looking at me?

:)

I already know that people are surprised when they see us together. They often think we're sisters and then they glance at the younger children trying to figure it all out. One of the ladies who worked there said Amber and I look just like sisters. I bet I didn't have those college teenagers fooled despite my trendy jeans, layered t-shirt and jingly bangles. I wonder if they thought, "Look at that mom trying to fit in." However, I'd like to think they thought, "Is that that girl's mom? Wow, she's hot and she looks so young!" LOL

I guess I should take this opportunity to search for paid posts and finish a couple of other assignments while hoping I don't come across a site/account where I can't remember my user name and password (yea, they're normally the same all over, but there's always one...). Please, if you see an URL lurking about that you've never seen before, it's just me, you don't have to wonder: Who are you?

Holiday eyeglasses

I remember when I was growing up I used to wear a snowman sweater during the holiday. I've grown out of that look, but there's always a way to add some holiday cheer to your wardrobe. How about a little of that cheer on your eye wear? I spotted a pair of stylish, rectangular frames that sport a white poinsettia flower on the temple at ZenniOptical.com. Now that's what I call Holiday Fun Eyeglasses.

Buying a new pair of glasses doesn't have to break the bank; there are $8 Prescription Zenni Glasses and to stay up to date you can check out their New Arrivals. Whatever type of specs you're looking for, you'll find a wide variety for the occasion you're looking for or to use everyday.

Where has the day gone?

First of all, if you see Lin, don't tell her I was on the computer today. I forgot that I'm supposed to be taking a break - one day a week on the weekends - because there were some things I wanted to get accomplished. And I have a deadline to meet. I guess that means I better plan my weeks better in order to be able to take that day off, huh?

Today has been a relaxing day, but I am a little irritated that it's almost over. All I did was wake up, take a nap (the highlight of my day), eat/fix two meals (so far, with the kids), write a paid post, finish reading a good book, send a couple of e-mails, talk on the phone, FB, work on my assignments, take out the trash, wash my hair, shave my legs, etc., and that doesn't count disciplining the children and doing for them.

That doesn't sound like much to me since I still have some things to get done. I sat down to write this post and my butt hadn't even made a dent in the seat before one of my children said they want juice. So, I'm off to get juice and fix a late dinner then I'll be back eventually. I must convince myself that washing one child's hair will be a headstart in getting things done tomorrow.

What did you do today?

Holiday family fun

Sometimes trying to come up with activities, outings and events to keep everyone occupied during the holidays can be hectic and tiring. But with a little planning and creativity everyone can have a stress-free, fun holiday break with a little variety.

What types of activities and traditions does your family participate in during the holidays? There's always large, lively dinners, neighborhood light tours and the yearly holiday movie marathon. Now is a good time to insert some holiday games that are an excellent way for group interaction, and a lot of the games can be altered and played with a festive Christmas twist.


Teach someone how to play a game of Bingo and include a friendly wager or prize package. There is also Chinese Checkers, Monopoly and a large selection of other board, Internet or computer games that will interest family members of all ages and skill levels. To put a holiday twist on other games, pop in a Christmas CD to jam to, mix some eggnog and don Christmas attire, family members can laugh through a game of Charades, have someone make up a Christmas Trivia game or organize Christmas Bingo.

Now along with the good food, surprise gifts, holiday music, entertainment and decorations, there will be good times had by all with the addition of a couple of fun games.

Forbidden sleep

Last night I did not sleep well at all. Not.At.All. I started coughing and couldn’t stop. I thought I had been asleep for several hours, but when I stopped trying to keep my eyes clamped shut and glanced at the clock I saw that it had only been about an hour or so.

All night long, between the coughing, tossing, turning, going to the bathroom then a crying child who only wanted me to put their blanket back in place, I never got more than a few minutes of sleep at a time. Can you imagine my frustration?

When my first alarm made a loud announcement this morning at 5:30, I didn’t hear it at first. I accidentally hit snooze, but that’s no problem because I have a second alarm set for just such a mishap. Well once the second alarm went off I was wide awake… oh, for about three minutes I guess.

Suddenly I jolted awake only to discover it was about 6:45. Only 30 minutes – give or take – before my son’s bus was to arrive. I rush to get him up, his clothes ready, breakfast prepared, etc. No matter how late I am I always make sure he gets on the bus so then only one child will be late – the one I have to drop off.

It’s funny how as soon as it was time to get up my body relaxed and I dropped into a deep sleep. Funny is so not the right word ‘cause I am not amused. As I sit here with a lack-of-sleep headache and keep the momentum with the fuel of three cups (16 ounces each) of coffee, I hope that I have that deep, peaceful sleep tonight. YAWN.

Pump up the pleasure (GIVEAWAY & Review)

GIVEAWAY CLOSED!

WIN a $25 gift card to Eden Fantasys

My belief is that an intimate relationship often needs (or should include) a variety of elements to keep it alive and spicey. That's why when I was contacted by Eden Fantasys* to review a product I didn't hesitate. What better way to pay tribute at It's a woman's world than to discuss a part of being a woman that's very important.

EdenFantasys.com provides adult toys, books, products, resources and community. I had the pleasure of reviewing the Kama Sutra Strawberries & Champagne Treasure Trove, which is a gift set that includes Honey Dust body powder with its own feather applicator, skin-warming Oil of Love and Stimulating Pleasure Balm. The products come in a tasteful red box that's perfect for storing the flavorful and sweet smelling goodies.

To my dismay (insert blush here), I was not able to review the products in the way that I would have liked. However, I did test them. The first thing I thought was, "I'm going to have to do some more research on Eden Fantasys to figure out exactly how people are using these products." That's what the site is there for -- there is information provided by Eden Fantasys as well as reviews by customers who come together as a community to discuss these topics. Okay, let me start with the good part of the Treasure Trove: The smell is intoxicating. The Oil of Love goes on smooth and feels warm while it's being massaged in. And it doesn't leave a greasy residue, which is important. It's probably my favorite out of the products in the box.

The Stimulating Pleasure Balm is similar to the consistency of a gel and it also feels good being rubbed on. At first I thought it to be a little thick, but after experimenting with applying it to different areas of the body it proved to be ... uh... pleasurable. I was delightfully surprised by the taste of the Strawberries & Champagne - it is subtly sweet yet flavorful.

The only "bad" I had with the product is the Honey Dust body powder. Although it feels great being dusted on with the feather, I just don't see the purpose. I didn't like the fact that my skin had an ashy look to it with the powder on it and when I used the feather duster a couple of the feathers fell out.

My overall rating though is a definite thumbs up. I believe that if I experience this product in the way that I imagine I'll have an entirely different perspective. ;)

How can you win the $25 gift card to Eden Fantasys?

There's one simple way to enter: Leave a comment on this post telling me what you think of sensual products. If you don't have a blogger profile that includes your email address, be sure to include that in your comment.

Who is eligible?

This giveaway is open to US and Canadian residents.

The winner will be announced Monday, November 30th on this post and a separate announcement post. The winner, who will be chosen by Random.org, will receive an email and have four days to respond. If a response is not received in that time then a second place winner will be chosen.

Enter another giveaway while you're here:

Click to enter to win a copy of The Zoopendous Surprise by Boots Hensel.

*I was given the Strawberries & Champagne Treasure Trove from Eden Fantasys to facilitate my candid and honest review. No other compensation was received.

I am Black.

I really had no intention of writing another post today. I have quite a few other things that I need to do so I was resisting the urge to write something random or forced. But I just had a very interesting and unexpected (isn't it always?) conversation with my son.

Most nights we read a book because it's required for school. Yes, I'm one of those parents who doesn't read to their children on a daily basis, but I do enjoy it. I actually love books and you can often find me with my nose buried in one.

I digress.

The book I chose to read tonight is "Shades of Black: A Celebration of Our Children" by Sandra L. Pinkney with photographs by Myles C. Pinkney. This is not a review, but I must say that I think this book is beautiful. It's a quick read with superb pictures. I've read this to my children before, but this is the first time it's clicked.

The first page is of a beautiful young girl - maybe about 4 years old - who has greenish/gray eyes, black hair and yellow brown skin. The next page says, "I am Black, I am unique."

My son says, "I don't see any black on her."

Although I've tried to explain this to him before it was obvious that he wasn't getting the meaning. (The English language can be so hard to explain.) I said, "Black isn't the color of our skin, Black is who we are. It's what we're called as a people. We're all different colors, but we're all Black."

I kept reading. He saw a very light-skinned child with dark eyes, a chocolate brown boy and those that had a blue tinge to their skin, an orange tone and the pretty brown of a pretzel. And there were even more. The way this book described each tone of skin was sweet. I just can't think of another word. It was a perfect way to relate it to children to help them understand.

Through the book the phrase "I am Black. I am Unique" is repeated. At the end, my son said, "I didn't know I was Black and unique."

"Do you know what unique is," I asked him.

He didn't. So I explained that it means special, different. Also during this conversation I said, something to the effect of, "A group of White people would be called white, but the shades of their skin may be different. They're all different. We're different too we're just all called black."

He then investigated our skin and I showed him how I am a light brown with a little red and that he's a little darker then me. Then he started pointing out scars and darker areas on the skin so I had to explain that without using the word "pigment."

Then, do you know what he said? "Do some people kill black people?"

"Where did you hear that?"

I don't recall his answer, but I tried to give him a quick and kid-friendly rundown of slavery and even now some people are killed regardless of their color 'cause people do bad things.

"Are black kids killed?"

Well, how do you answer that? I didn't want to say no because that would be a lie and eventually he would learn or hear of something that told him that children are killed. I ended with telling him he didn't have to worry about that right now.

My son, in all of his 6-year-old wisdom, learning and capabilities, said, "I want to learn more about being Black. Black people."

I sort of smiled. "We'll talk about it again soon and we'll try to get a book about it, okay?"

"Okay," and he skipped off to tell his sisters about what he learned about being Black. They were in the bathtub, but I guess it was important for him to relay the information before he forgot.

It dawned on me - even regardless of one's race - that it's so important to teach our children about who we are and give them the pride, knowledge and history. I'm just surprised that the subject came up, but I'm glad I had a chance to answer his questions and teach him something that is important to us as a people. It also made my "proud to be Black" feeling even stronger.

Interested in purchasing a copy for your kids or to give as a gift then click the book image. It's one of those books you'll be proud to share with your children.

Wordless Wednesday: Whooo? Whoooo?

My Wordless Wednesday posts

5 Minutes for Mom WW participants

Give a gift card

Every year for as long as I can remember I have packed my oldest daughter's stocking with a variety of small gifts. Watches, gum, candy, chapstick, lipgloss, fingernail polish and files... As she got older I gave her travel toilet paper and paper towel rolls, hand sanitizer and any little travel-sized item I could find. Yes, believe it or not, she uses every one. She used to tell me how nasty the girls bathroom is in high school and that they sometimes don't have toilet tissue, hence the gift of a travel-sized toilet paper.

Now that's she's gone away to college I was thinking I would get her the "normal" stocking stuffers, but will mix it up a little this year. She'll probably get more than one Gift Cards so she can purchase exactly what she needs for her dorm room and herself.

Gift Cards - there are quite a few sold at Shop.com - are the perfect gift. They're easy to purchase on Shop.com because you can search the category from which you want to purchase. Make giving a little easier - and brighter - by giving gift cards.

Bare Skin - new fragrance by Leslie Blodgett (REVIEW )

Before I read about the inspiration behind someone's creation, I like to test it out for myself. That's why I've been avoiding reading in-depth information about Bare Skin, which is the first fragrance from Leslie Blodgett Perfume Diaries exclusively for Sephora. I received my sample a few days ago and, honestly, upon first sniff I wasn't quite feeling it. Then it dawned on me that a lot of fragrances adjust a little to your natural body chemistry so I put it on and fell in love.

Bare Skin is one of those scents that seems like a natural part of you. The scent blends nicely with my style and vision of myself as well as being gentle on my sensitive nose. As a matter of fact, by the end of the day, I could still faintly smell it and I was still enjoying it.

After I had that entire experience and asked a male friend what he thought (he gave it a thumb's up), I ventured into Leslie's world. Here's what I discovered:

Bare Skin "revisits and evokes pivotal moments" that occurred in Leslie’s life. I really enjoyed the way the press materials relay Leslie's thoughts and the process that resulted in this fragrance so I'm going to share that with you here:

"Having kept journals since she was a young girl, Leslie has captured the essence of every trip she has taken through the pages of her journals. With the release of its first fragrance Bare Skin on [October 8], these pages have been brought to life through scent, enabling Leslie’s ardent fans to walk a fragrant mile in her shoes. Bare Skin, the first scent in the series, is reminiscent of an experience during a trip to Mexico, where Leslie cart-wheeled fancy-free down a sunny beach while emanating true, unbridled joy."

Leslie says, "When I have an experience, I like to have a scent behind it. Bare Skin, which is what Mexico reminds me of, is the way you feel when the sun is beating down on you during the day, but then you go out at night and you’re still sizzling from the warmth of the day which mingles with the night air and the music."

Isn't it amazing how she describes that? Makes you wanna get a whiff of it yourself. Once I read what she was feeling behind it, I could feel and see her memories and my own surfaced as well. I happen to love being outside and enjoying the beach. Now when I inhale and enjoy the scent of Bare Skin my mind is flooded with my own memories of lazy days on Jamaican beaches and the calm, but joyful feelings that come from gazing at the sea.

Bare Skin is sold in 1.7 ounce eau de parfum - $55, solid perfume compact - $35 and perfumed body cream - $30. You can purchase it at Sephora.com, but don't wait too long to get your hands on some because it's a limited edition fragrance collection. Also, check out Leslie on Facebook fan page (LeslieBlodgettPerfumeDiaries) or follow on Twitter @LBperfumediary.

Want to meet Leslie? She'll be in New York City at Sephora Times Square on November 18th and in Tampa at Sephora International Plaza on November 19th. For more information or to RSVP click here: NY and Tampa.

Let the GIVEAWAY begin!

GIVEAWAY CLOSED!

WIN The Zoopendous Surprise by Boots Hensel

When I first read about this children's book I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy and share it with my children. Now, I can't wait to share it with one of you. The author Boots Hensel has graciously offered to giveaway a copy of The Zoopendous Surprise to an It's a woman's world! reader.

I originally reviewed the book on August 27th and you can read that review here. 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.

Boots would often visit her daughter at the zoo and watch the interaction of the animals as they played together. She noticed the elephants' sensitivity and antics, which compelled her to write about her daughter's "girls."

The Zoopendous Surprise is 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 (by Andrea Gabriel) 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. Honestly, it's one of my favorites.

How can you win?

There's one simple way to enter: Leave a comment on this post telling me about your child's favorite book. If you don't have a blogger profile that includes your email address, be sure to include that in your comment.

Who is eligible?

This giveaway is open to US and Canadian residents.

The winner will be announced Monday, November 30th on this post and a separate announcement post. The winner, who will be chosen by Random.org, will receive an email and have four days to respond. If a response is not received in that time then a second place winner will be chosen.

Finished pouting

Guess what? Pouting doesn't make a computer do what you want it to do. I pouted about the Window's Live not working the way I need it to - giving me an error when I try to post with pictures - and boycotted updating my blog. Nothing changed about it not posting. So I have to get back to work and figure out the problem. I really like the way the program works besides that so I can't stall any longer.

As for the post that's waiting in the wings, it was specifically for posting on Friday so I will delay it until this Friday and hope I've fixed the problem (or had it solved!) by then. Hopefully it won't take long and it'll be easy.

Any tips on using Window's Live?

Hugh SIGH

Through the wonders of Facebook, I was instructed to try Windows Live Writer. I love it… except for the fact that I can’t get my post to publish. One of my best friends who is also my computer guru extraordinaire linked up to my computer while I was away to see if he could solve the problem.

It’s still a no go.

So, that’s why there’s this random post… to apologize for my absence and delinquency. Guess I should have planned this better as well. I have an entire post written and formatted with pictures.

Just sitting… waiting for someone to figure out how to get it published. Right now I have to go rustle up some grub for the beggers… uh, children. I can’t wait until their father arrives… it’s been a long two weeks.

Hopefully I’ll be back real soon. Once again, wish me luck.

Has anyone seen my brain?

I'm not exactly sure what I did with it, but it's missing. It started taking long breaks sometime last week. First I misplaced a jar of peanut butter, but since it didn't show up I figured I was mistaken and it all had been used. I was wrong. The past week has been a comedy of errors, mishaps and faux pas... some of them you'll enjoy:

• The "missing" jar of peanut butter was found in a box - a care package - that I was going to mail. There were three jars of peanut butter. Two new, one opened. Somehow I got them mixed up and ended up putting the open one in the box. Luckily I had to rearrange the box. Case of the loss peanut butter solved.
  
• I've walked up to a light blue van, put my key in the door and tried to turn. To no avail. Twice. Once yesterday and once today. I think the same person is following me around with a video camera, purposefully parking near me and waiting to see how many times I try to get into the wrong van.
• This week was my son's week to take snacks for his class. First, I forgot to buy them on time so they didn't have them on Monday. Second, I sent some on Tuesday, which he didn't give to his teacher. Third, I send a note saying, "They were in his bag." He came back saying they needed more. It immediately dawned on me that I had sent enough for a day, not a week.
• Two of my children are taking a trial Tae Kwon Do class at a local studio. The teacher wrote their names on the uniforms in Japanese. After spending three hours there the other day I decided that both children couldn't go on the same day. So Amareah had class today and as soon as she walked in the studio the instructor started calling her Andre and he kept calling her that until one of the other instructors told him her name. "Ahhh, wrong uniform," he says. Oops, guess I can't read Japanese very well.
• I went to mail that care package (which was a little large) today and afterward I asked the lady if she knew where the closest FedEx drop box was. She said she didn't. I walked out of the post office, glanced to the right and there was one right there on the sidewalk next to the building. Was she being a smartass? (I was fussing at children and struggling with the box ...) Or was she just clueless. Can't decide whether she loses cool points or whether I do.
• I didn't plan the giveaway that well so the two week celebration may have to be cancelled or postponed. I'll have a giveaway, but it'll probably be three things. Not the 14 that I planned. Hmmm... maybe these companies need more than a week's notice.
• I'm not even going to mention how many times I've been running late to get Amareah to school or the reason's why. However, you best be believing that regardless of how late I get up, I still manage to get Andre on the bus so I only have to take one child to school (they attend different ones) not two.

There ya have it. Well, at least that's everything I can recall. Recall. Hmmm... I didn't recall that the clothes in the dryer hadn't been sent through the cycle when I went to take them out.

Now, I'm about to help Andre with his homework. Hopefully there won't be anything amiss tonight. Wish me luck.

Wordless Wednesday: Siblings relaxing

My Wordless Wednesday posts

5 Minutes for Mom WW participants

Discovering pearl jewelry

As I get older my taste in jewelry - and all things fashion for that matter - has changed. I thought that I no longer liked pearl jewelry even though I've seen some up-to-date pieces in magazines lately. I was wrong. OrientalPearls.net has quite a few pearl jewelry pieces that I absolutely love.

The site lists quite a large selection of freshwater pearl jewelry as well as loose pearls, which are perfect for those interested in making their own jewelry. The carry more pearl choices than I imagined: matching sets, necklaces, classical pieces, bracelets, brooches, rings and earrings.

It's a great site to explore when looking for a holiday gift for a friend or family member. Is this the type of jewelry you would buy for someone on your list?

Tackle It... & To Do Tuesday

There are only about 34 minutes before Tuesday is over so this post is extremely late for Tackle It Tuesday hosted by 5 Minutes for Mom. However, for To Do Tuesday at Crazy Adventures in Parenting you can jump in at anytime.

I've decided to dive into both. I had an impromptu Tackle It Tuesday when I couldn't find a slip that I needed to fill out, sign and return to my son's school. I threw everything off of my desk and onto the floor. Never mind the fact that I am now scrambling to get everything cleaned up and find everything a home.

Before:

I remembered - way too late - where I had placed the slip so putting everything on the floor was unnecessary. However, I like the way my desk looks now... Maybe next Tuesday I can tackle the entire office especially the piles I have all over the floor.

After:

It still seems a bit cluttered all over the office, but I can't bring myself to get rid of anymore books. I've cleaned them out as much as I can. Maybe one day I could try color coordinating or something. No, that won't work because I like to have the books together that are by the same author. IDK... Any ideas?

What am I going to do this week? Hmmm? What am I not going to do is probably a more accurate question. These are the things that aren't on my regular to-do list:

1. Establish a spot to put gift items so that everything is in the same place. I can't remember whose blog I read it on, but someone called it a gift closet. It doesn't have to be an entire closet just somewhere I'll remember.
2. Mail care packages and items to my oldest daughter.
3. File papers, answer mail and find a home for everything that lurks on and under my desk.
4. Try to remember what else I need to do that's not already on my list. :D
5. Biggest one: Stop procrastinating and letting fear of failure (fear of success?) take over.

There ya have it. I've told you about my tackling and to doing in about 10 minutes.
What did you get accomplished today? What's on your to-do list?

Here's to accomplishments!

Shop Borders.co.uk

Hello. My name is Petula and I am a bookaholic.

No matter how hard I try I can not resist a good book. If I walk into a store that sells books - even if it's just a grocery store - I gaze at the books, I may touch them or I'll flip through them. I feel the same way about sharing information I find out about books or something I read in a book. At least a few times a month, besides the book reviews I write, I tell someone about a good book I've read or heard about.

This is the most recent book information I've seen today: At the UK Borders online Book Shop, you can find deals on a large selection of books, CDs, DVDs, magazine subscriptions and much more with free delivery to stores. Book lovers can find fiction, nonfiction, children's and ebooks to choose from. Although I haven't really gotten into reading an eBook, it's a convenient and much-loved way that a lot of people enjoy their reading material.

eBooks can be enjoyed while traveling and are especially handy when you're reading something that's rather thick and heavy. How much more convenient would it be to drop a The Elonex ereader into your bag instead of worrying about how much space a 300-word hardcover novel is going to take up.

Don't waste anymore time, click on over to Border.co.uk and get the next item on your to-be-read list.

Download free fonts

Creative types are gonna love this one. Want some fun free fonts for scrapbooking, printing or website projects? There are more than 9,000 free fonts to download at FreeFontFun.com!

This information is provided courtesy of The Mom Blogs. It's not a paid post, but I am hoping to win a contest. :)

Weekly Inspiration: Begin anew

When I sat down to write this post I couldn't think of one thing that's inspiring me then I looked at my desk. It's mess, but once again this week I will get it in order (or at least make an attempt to) and start anew.

That's what the beginning of each week is... the beginning of each day. It's an opportunity to start over. Although it's easier said than done, when the to-do list isn't completed one day there's always the next day to finish up. Unless you're on a deadline then you better pull an all-nighter. Otherwise, just begin again.

Women, and moms in particularly, have so many balls in the air that it's difficult to juggle them and maintain balance. If we can decide to say "There's always tomorrow" without guilt then maybe we can reduce some of our stress.

This week I'll try not to beat myself up for what I didn't get done last week and I'll start fresh with new goals and a somewhat organized to-do list. What this also means is that I can't feel guilty for not getting to that drawing and artwork I told you about before.

Let each day be a fresh start to achieve, create and succeed.

For more Weekly Inspiration head over to Maternal Spark.

Take a day off

Although I get behind on work (responding to emails, getting and writing paid posts and making money), I've decided to take at least one day off each week. The last couple of weeks it has been Saturday, but I'm not going to worry about which day it is - I am just going to do it.

Each week Lin at Duck and Wheel With String has been encouraging us to take a day off from the electronic gadgets (mainly the computers) that strap us down and snag all of our time. I think it's a good idea. Whether it's simply to get some rest, enjoy the outdoors, spend time with family or read a book, we all need to take a break. Maybe I can fit in exercise and housework on my day off.

So, here's to getting unplugged at least one day a week. We deserve it, right?

Looking at the Sky on Friday - peeking through

I'm posting my contribution to Looking at the Sky on Friday, but better late than never. This is what I see when I glance up while standing outside my front door... These pictures don't do justice to the beauty of the leaves with the sky in the background.

Check out others at Crazy Working Mom.

Finding Purpose Beyond Our Pain by Doctors Meier and Henderson

On My Bookshelf

"Finding Purpose Beyond Our Pain: Uncover the Hidden Potential Beyond Our Pain," by Paul Meier, MD and David L. Henderson, MD, was written to teach readers how to confidently face painful struggles in a way that allows growth as well as emotional and spiritual maturity. The book explores the seven most common life challenges: injustice, rejection, loneliness, loss, discipline, failure and death.

Honestly, I had difficulty getting through this book because it seemed a little too preachy for me. However, I could see the purpose and how it would help someone who 1) is easy to reach through these authors' style of writing, and 2) is thinking that they've lost all hope.

Despite my initial impressions of the book there were definite areas and passages that stuck out for me. From the introduction, "It is not easy to find purpose beyond our pain in such trails, but God assures us it is there. Over and over the Bible reveals a good and loving God who allows our pain as part of His greater plan of redemption and new creations. Through the prophet Isaiah, God assures His people, 'I will not cause pain without allowing something new to be born' (Isa. 66:9 NVC) If you focus on Him during your pain, it will be worth the wait."

This book, I believe, definitely offers truth, necessary Biblical references, examples and tangible steps to take. I simply did not find it interesting. It could be because I don't believe it's relevant for me at this time, however, it is one that I will keep on my bookshelf for reference and later reading.

Judge for yourself, get your own copy of the book then let me know what you think. If you've already read it, please leave me a comment to let me know your thoughts.

I am a member of Thomas Nelson’s Book Review Blogger program and received a copy of the book to review.

Moving in Los Angeles

I know someone who recently moved from the west coast to the east coast by car, and I'm betting she would have loved to have hired a moving company instead of doing all of the work herself. Even if you're moving locally, it's convenient and easier to hire a moving company.

In California there is Moving Companies Los Angeles that's insured and bonded serving the residential and commercial local area. They offer competitive prices, top customer service, free estimates, professional packing using experienced and professionally trained movers. Use Los Angeles Office Movers to take care of your business moving needs. U
Moving Company Los Angeles

Call 1-800-431-3920 to get a free moving quote if you're moving in Los Angeles.

Music lovers, lovin' music

Inadvertently I've raised four children who love all types of music. My oldest daughter jams to R&B, hip hop, classical, rock, Motown and everything in between. She often bursts out singing songs I've never heard and if I say something she'll look at me and say, "What? You started it."

She's right. When she was little I always played the radio and cassette tapes (yes tapes!). I mostly sang old Motown hits and she easily memorized them. It's funny how her brain clicks for music... she can often memorize a song the first time she hears it.

My three youngest children are also taking to music. They enjoy gospel, rock, hip hop, rap, R&B and Reggae. Today when I was in the car with the younger girls a song came on that I'd never heard - Fireflies by Owl City. When we arrived at Amareah's school, I left the car running so I could hear the rest of the song, turned around and saw Amareah bopping her head.

"You like that song?"

She nodded, not wanting to miss a word.

When it was over I said, "That was called Fireflies."

"Yea," she said, having heard it herself. I, on the other hand, had read it on the radio read out.

After taking Amareah to her classroom and getting back in the van, I heard two other songs that I really enjoyed: Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus and Come on Get Higher by Matt Nathanson. Never heard of him. So, I decided to search for these folks on YouTube and share them with you here.

Before we get to that though, I wanted to reveal something I've learned about myself. "Back in the day" you probably wouldn't catch me exploring other radio stations. I only wanted to listen to a certain type of music - hip hop, R&B, Reggae and jazz. Now my tastes have matured and expanded. I even surprise myself with some of the songs that I like. I guess it goes a little beyond the beat now... It's about the words as well.

Here's to all the music lovers out there:

Owl City - Fireflies
Uploaded by UniversalMusicGroup. - Explore more music videos.

I was surprised at how much I like Miley's song... She's really growing up.

What do you think? Did you enjoy these songs? Heard them before?

Don't you just love them!?

Quite a bit ago I won a $100 gift card from Famous Footwear at the Cutie Booty Cakes blog. I've been meaning to share my absolutely cute clogs with you, but it kept slipping my mind. So, without further delay, meet my new pair of clogs:



Don't you just love them. Besides these shoes, I bought my oldest daughter a pair of shoes and we both got some new socks - about 12 pair! - and I still have a little bit of money left on the gift card.

Thanks Renee for holding such a fabulous giveaway and to Famous Footwear. A girl can never have too many shoes. ;)

Wordless Wednesday: Model material

My Wordless Wednesday posts

5 Minutes for Mom WW participants

I do not want to share!

My health and weight loss journal

After two weeks of craving sweets (specifically chocolate) and giving into the cravings, I have gotten back on track. The last two days - an eternity - I've been eating Lean Cuisine's for lunch. Yesterday I fed my 2-year-old daughter Anna, who had already been munching away most of the day, and then sat down to enjoy my lunch. Guess who wanted some?

{SIGH}

I.DID.NOT.WANT.TO.SHARE.

I got over my frustration of not being able to do one thing by myself since she's been home during the day. Well, I got over it a little bit and decided that if she ate some of my Lean Cuisine then that would be even less calories, right? Yea. Come dinner time I couldn't figure out why I was so freaking starving.

I.had.to.share.

Today, I did the same things. Fixed her lunch then sat down with mine. She said, "I want chicken."

"You have chicken."

"I want some," she whined looking at my lunch.

"You have some," I pointed to her plate, "that's chicken."

I used my fork to cut her Perdue chicken breast dinosaur-shaped nuggets (that were on sale at Publix - BOGO! Score!) and fed it to her. Even though she had just sat there and eaten about three of them, she made a face that slowly changed into: "Oh..."

She's stubborn though and didn't give up. Neither did I. I ate all of my lunch by myself and I don't feel guilty! Sorry, call me a bad mother. {Guffaw} Hopefully today will set the pattern for the rest of my week... the rest of her life. Hey, a mom can wish, right?

Now, onto other topics. Keep in mind: This is "a woman's world!" I am a woman. And this is the health and weight loss journal. Okay...

WARNING: Following is potential TMI. Please proceed with caution! You've been warned.

Women, you know how when you enter a stall in the women's restroom not too long after another woman has exited? And you get that unpleasant, abusive whiff of someone else's personal area? It's the most insulting thing, isn't it? I mean can people keep their smells to themselves? LOL

Well, those of us who have older daughters understand this "offense" on the home front. Ever walked into the restroom right after your teenage daughter? Adult daughter? Or one who has recently hit puberty? Good gosh-almighty! I have to say here, as gross as all of this is, it isn't always a nasty smell it's just the simple knowledge of the fact of WHAT the smell is and WHERE it is coming from.

It's a violation of my nose. ROFL

Funny thing is I was talking about this with my teenage daughter and she eeewwed right along with me. Then it dawned on me that she must have the same reaction when walking in behind me. AARGH! EEEW! OMG! I voiced that and she solemnly nodded.

My dilemma with all of this is that I am offended by my own fragrance. :O ... Yes, I admit it. When this scent changed (due to hormones, pregnancy and age), it was like a physical assault. What the heeeyyyy? I think I mentioned it to my mother and asked why in the world she didn't tell me this would happen. Of course, to her, this was normal. I am an aging virgin and was - still am - shocked by the entire experience.

Shouldn't there be a manual given out about this? It should be apart of regular mother/daughter conversations along with puberty, menstruation and s-e-x. My daughter won't be surprised about 22 years from now when she walks into the bathroom and smells someone else then realizes it's herself who she smells. Double freaking eeewww!

What makes it so bad is that the changes keep happening. As soon as I adjust to one aroma another develops. Then another. {SIGH!} Does it ever end? I've been told that I don't... uh, hmmm... never mind. Insert awkward snicker and silence here.

I know that I have a sensitive nose so maybe this isn't as bad for some as it is for me. I'm sorry. I couldn't resist sharing. Can you relate!?

Weekly Inspiration: Developing creativity

Sometimes I go off on my own little tangent during my Weekly Inspiration post, but today I'm going to feed off of what Heather* queried of us: "Do you actively work at developing your creativity?"

My overall answer is YES! However, I don't think it's something that I consciously do each day. I believe I am a creative and talented writer (yup, I think I was born with the talent) who knows that the only way to keep it fueled, progressing and flowing is to constantly work on it. Because writing is something I love to do it's natural for me to simply do it. By just doing it I have noticed that my writing has changed, and my hope is that it has matured.

There are other areas that I am creative, but I don't nurture them as much and they don't necessarily come naturally. For instance, I'm a fairly descent artist. I showed an interest and a talent when I was younger. That talent was encouraged by an uncle who is an extremely gifted, and tortured, artist. As I grew up, I didn't take the time to nurture the talent. I think I became a little intimidated when I went to high school and saw the obvious talent that other kids had.

Then when I went back to college in my 20s I took an art class that I loved. We used different mediums and I learned what I was good with: I could work wonders with charcoal, pastels and clay. Pencil and other things - not so much. I made a piece once that caused my instructor to say, "You have an art deco style."

Art deco? Wow, I thought, I have a style.

This is the piece that my instructor called art deco. It's sitting on a dusty shelf in my home office. Maybe it needs a place of honor.
If I recall correctly, we were told to incorporate more than one technique that we learned.

I made this piece in the same class. It's on my desk holding up some books and whatnot.
I guess it's a bookend. :) I think I actually named these two pieces, but I don't recall the names.

Because life became so busy I have not been able to (well, I guess I haven't taken the time to) work on my art even though I bought a kit for myself a couple of years ago. I'd also love to take another art class. I think about that part of my creativeness quite often. In fact, while helping my 6-year-old son with his homework he asked me to draw a couple of pictures for him. I used an ink pen and was surprised at how well some of the drawings turned out.

"I didn't know you could draw that, Mommy!" Andre said with what sounded like pride and awe in his voice. I smiled and gazed at the drawings. I didn't know I still had it in me.

There must be a message in all of this for me because before I sat down at the computer and read this week's prompt for Weekly Inspiration (Is it in you?), I was reading an article in the November issue of Redbook magazine titled "Make time for what you love." I've been making time for writing although not all the types of writing that I'd like to do, and now I realize I need to make time for all of my artistic and creative endeavors. They make up who I am; nurturing me in the process.

If I'm nurtured and fulfilled it can only benefit those around me, right? And it should do the same for you. Pop on over to Maternal Spark (even if you're a guy) and think more about the creativity that dwells within you. The act on it. I know I will.

*Weekly Inspiration is hosted by Heather at Maternal Spark.