Let the book tour begin!

Author Cynthia Roberts is on a blog tour (beginning tomorrow) to promote her book Wind Warrior. I first introduced you to Cynthia and her book at the end of July when I announced her upcoming contest in honor of her book tour. Then I reminded you about her when she revealed her ah ha moment. Check out the links for a refresher.

Now it’s time to get down to this exciting blog tour…

Cynthia Roberts, author of her debut historical romance, Wind Warrior has something pretty darn dynamic for all of It’s a woman’s world visitors, friends and subscribers ... one of the largest blog tour promotional giveaways ever attempted.

Breaking into the world of romance fiction is a challenge unto itself but more so, when you’re a newly published author. I’m excited about participating in this venture and helping introduce Wind Warrior to the world of romance readers. The bonus … every one has the chance to compete for not one, but five pretty extraordinary prizes which will include:

1. Romantic Two-lid willow picnic basket with deluxe service for two ~ $125.00 value
2. Succulent Godiva Chocolate Tier ~ $75.00 value
3. Exquisite Pearl & Crystal Necklace ~ $50.00 value
4. Amazon Gift Certificate ~ $25 value
5. Amazon Gift Certificate ~ $25 value

To view the gifts and read further descriptions, visit her at Romance by Cynthia.

Contest Rules Are As Follows

1. Leave a comment at the end of this post

2. Tweet the following text:

Wind Warrior by Cynthia Roberts. A story of longing, wanting & a love so strong it conquers human evil. On sale now at Major Book Retailers.

3. Post the same text on your Facebook and/or MySpace profiles.

4. Become a fan/follower/subscriber of the blog you visit.

5. The list of participating blogs are registered on Cynthia’s website and you may enter to win on every blog, however, only one family member may do so in a household.

6. Open to ALL not just the US & Canada

7. Each participating blog will randomly choose five entrants to compete for the grand prize pool where the final 5 winners will be randomly selected

8. Winners will be chosen on Sept. 30^th and notified via email by Cynthia

9. All finalists must provide their email, name and official delivery address at the time of finalist selection to the blog owner

10. All prizes will be shipped no later than Oct. 30^th directly from the distributor

11. The steps above will be checked to determine your eligibility.

Wind Warrior ~ The Iroquois Series ~ Book One

Leslie Michaels is a visionary, and only those close to her know of her special gift and the visions that come when her mind and body surrender to sleep.  Fate has a way of righting many wrongs, and for Leslie it is a destiny that changes her life dramatically. But not before she is forced to flee into the wilderness to escape a murderous trapper bent on claiming her for his very own. Faith and a strong will to survive are her only companions, until she encounters Winnokin, the handsome Seneca war chief who first came to her in her dreams. Not only does he prove to be her rescuer and protector, he teaches her that tragedy can breed happiness and the passion to live and love deeply once again.
Wind Warrior plunges readers into the intimate depths of a relationship that unfolds like a live drama before their eyes while painting an insightful and intriguing portrait of Native Indian life in the 1800s. It is a story of longing, of a wanton need to survive all odds, and a love so strong it conquers human evil. Wind Warrior expresses with cunning words the simple, raw human emotions that hold readers spellbound and captivates their hearts.

On Sale Now at Amazon, Borders, Barnes and Nobel ISBN# 978-1-61663-162-8. Read more than a dozen reviews on her website at Romance by Cynthia.

School begins…

Part 3

About three weeks ago, my two middle children – Andre and Amareah – went back to school, and I shared that with you in Part 1. Amareah excitedly began kindergarten and Andre went on to first grade. About two weeks ago – remember Part 2? – Amber went back to campus to begin her second year of college. Now it’s time to share how the baby of the family started head start this past Friday.

Although it was a momentous occasion, it wasn’t as tearful and “oh-where-did-my-baby-go” as one would think. Anna has been going to daycare for about two years so being without her during the day has become somewhat normal. That and the fact that mommy forgot that Friday was the first day of head start.

I know, I know: Bad mommy.

The momentousness of the day was overshadowed by mommy’s lack of brain cells. More than a month ago the center director called to ask me if I had received the letter saying Anna had gotten into head start. Well, I had assumed she did because two siblings before her had went. I hadn’t received it and she told me that the first day of school would be the 27th. She thinks. Yup, she said, “I think.”

She said the letter would come in the mail and I could verify the date on that. Well, the “letter,” which was actually a flyer said that the 27th was Parent Orientation from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. In my scramble to ensure the other children arrived at school on time, completed their homework and went to bed on time it slipped my mind that the two dates – Parent Orientation and the first day – were actually the same dates.

As Anna and I drove to Parent Orientation I explained to her that she wouldn’t be there all day and that she’d meet her teacher and see her classroom. When we arrived I walked in the door and stared at the group of parents sitting in the meeting area sans children. All of a sudden the realization set in. This…must…be…the…first…day, my brain started to kick in.

Instead of jumping into action I raised my coffee cup to my lips. Slowly.

I’ll leave out all the embarrassing gory details and tell you that Anna was such a trooper. I kissed her and told her I was going to a meeting, but I’d be back. I went to the meeting and found out they were doing bus evacuation practice for the parents and children afterward, and as the parent chairperson (a new one hasn’t been appointed yet) for the past two years I was expected to stay.

I visited Amareah’s old teachers then strolled into Anna’s classroom. The look on her face was one of awe at everything going on around her. She was slowly eating a snack and staring as the assistant teacher loudly instructed them what to do above the constant din of about 20 3-year-old voices.

There was only mild tearing most of the morning except when she thought that getting on the bus meant she was going to leave and go somewhere without her mommy. She was promptly told (‘cause she couldn’t see over the seat) that I was right there.

After the bus evacuation practice they went to the playground and I took that moment to say, “Bye, have fun at the playground. I’ll see you in a little while, okay?”

Happy nods and off she trotted. She even happily went to school today without any tearing during the day and the biggest prettiest smile I’ve ever seen when I picked her up. Even though I was more than an hour and a half late. Well, that’s a story for another day.

Just enjoy the pictures and forget I said anything about that. :-D (I’ll also leave out the part about forgetting I had the camera in my purse and forgetting to take pictures until I saw another parent with a camera!) Oh, and pray for me and my mommy brain.

Notice the suspicious look on Anna’s face. She’s eyeing the school bus. The boy behind Anna holding the teacher’s hand cried the.entire.day.

As I look closely at the above picture, Anna looks a little terrified. This is right before they got on the school bus for the practice evacuation.

She’d heard my voice on the bus, but she hadn’t seen my face yet. This is her first glimpse of me on the bus as she excitedly waved and told me that she did her seatbelt by herself.

I’m not exactly sure what this look is (LOL!) I think it’s when they started rushing off the bus as they were being timed. Whatever she was thinking or saying doesn’t matter ‘cause this expression is priceless.

You can see the back of her little head as she gets assistance from one of the staff members as she gets off the bus.

Get cheap event tickets

When is the last time you’ve been to a ball game, the theater or a concert? If you’re like me then the mere thought of the cost keeps you from checking into those types of events. But with ACheapTickets.com you may not have to worry about prices any longer. A Cheap Tickets is the spot to buy tickets for spots, theater and concerts, and they’re a professional ticket broker that has the 411 on a lot of events across the country.

Visitors to the site can check the cost  of IZOD CENTER TICKETS and be comfortable in knowing there’s a ticket price that fits everyone’s budget. Know someone who is a fan of the New York Knicks Tickets? Check the price of the tickets and surprise them with courtside seats. And it’s never too early to get ready for Christmas celebrations so check out the how much, when and where of Radio City Christmas Spectacular Tickets.

It’s simple to search the site for the ideal event; all you have to do is search by location or event and you’ll get a complete list of everything available. I performed a search of my area and came up with event dates from now through February 2011 and then, to sweeten the deal, the search revealed other types of Atlanta ticket brokers making this – what I consider – an all-encompassing site.

Test it out for yourself, click one of the links and take a preview of A Cheap Tickets.

Testing… 1… 2… 3…

UNDER CONCTRUCTION!

I’ve been wanting to change the look of my blog and I’m a really big chicken about it ‘cause I’m scared I’m going to mess something up. So, you may see a lot going on around here. If you say anything amiss, please tell me. If you have any suggestions, tell me that too. I need as much help as I can get!

First thing is, with this template the tabs I had at the top are now missing in action and I have no idea how to get them back. Do you think I need them and how do I add them back myself?

Also, where can I get the cute little widget thingy to go at the top of the column for following on Twitter, Facebook and e-mail subscription?

Thanks blog friends… and please be patient. :-)

Relieving back pain {book review}

Most of us spend an uncountable number of hours bent over computers, cell phones, desks, books and the like, which often causes neck and back strain. I know I’ve often suffered from neck and back pain due to those things and chronic pain so I seldom experience relief. In “8 Steps to a Pain-Free Back,” author Esther Gokhale reveals her method for relieving all of that pain. Gokhale developed an anthropological-based method for pain based on her observations of individuals with lower back pain. This method teaches how to sit, bend and lay in the manner of those with low incidences of back pain: our ancestors and individuals in other cultures.

Honestly, I was a bit skeptical when I received the book, but – given my own suffering from back pain as well as neck strain – I was willing to give it a try. The first thing that caught my attention, and intrigued me, about the book was the references, pictures and examples of actual people with the correct posture and stance as opposed to those with the incorrect posture and stance. Gokhale quickly explains and illustrates how we are made and how that can help, not hinder our control and healing of our posture. She writes, “If we respect our natural design, our bodies heal spontaneously, and we can function well for close to a century. Indeed, there are many populations where most people live painlessly into old age (fig.F-1).”

The photographs she’s referring to show an older woman bending to gather water chestnuts and an older man bending to mold clay bricks. (Pictured here is a demonstration of the correct way to bend.) Neither individual, who are both from a different culture, experiences any negative physical impact and they have been doing that type of hard labor most of their lives. She counters this by showing how we have, in our culture, taken on a slouchy posture.

Gokhale’s method is not a quick and easy fix. It is an adjustment and exercises meant to correct and bring awareness over time. Here is a quick overview of eight lessons comprising her method:

1. Stretchsitting – it’s learning to put your back into gentle traction when seated. It teaches how to sit comfortably and undoes some of the damage caused by years of hunching or swaying (arching the back).
2. Stretchlying on back – In lesson two you learn the technique of stretchlying to elongate the spine when lying on your back, which puts the spine in gentle traction.
3. Stacksitting – This lesson teaches the art and science of sitting, and incorporates a key concept
4. Stretchlying on side – This lesson teaches a healthy, restful and therapeutic sleep position as opposed to sleeping on one’s side, which curls the spine into a “C” shape compressing the anterior part of the discs.
5. Using inner corset – This involves using your muscles to protect and lengthen the spine. This powerful technique can give you additional length by contracting specific muscles in the abdomen and back to make an inner corset.
6. Tallstanding – Learning to tallstand will enable you to stand for longer period without discomfort or fidgeting. This is achieved by aligning hips over heels with the knees and the groin area remaining soft.
7. Hip-hinging – The simplistic explanation of this is “hinging at the hips to bend.” Gokhale says, “People who bend well usually enjoy good back health.” Successful bending involves a healthy baseline back contour, which will have been achieved by following the other lessons.
8. Glidewalking – Glidewalking strengthens butt muscles, which in turn support pelvic anteversion, and they play a key role in balance.

A good posture, which is contrary to popular belief, is relaxed, Gokhale teaches. In her book she shows readers, through lots of illustrations, pictures and examples, how to achieve proper positioning to eliminate back pain. I am just delving into the third lesson and I’m already a 100 percent convert of her method. (Pictured here is an example of the good way to hold your purse.)

The bit I’ve learned thus far, which I have to continually remind myself to be aware of, has already made a difference in my neck and back pain. That is, when I make use of it, of course. I’m already aware of when I’m positioned incorrectly because I can feel the strain on my back. Over time, and with dedication, I’m looking forward to being pain-free. Gokhale admits that this isn’t a quick-fix method, but a change of lifestyle habit that once learned and incorporated will become a natural part of everyday life/posture.

As I was reading the book there were some areas and examples that seemed to me were against assuming yoga and pilates positions. A quick question to Esther and she cleared that up for me, “Yoga is traditionally practiced without swaying the back. Backbends, even extreme backbends, happen mainly at L5-S1, as can be seen in this [reference to the illustration in the book] cobra pose by BKS Iyengar. It's important to bend backwards only so far as your L5-S1 flexibility allows with a small amount of back bend distributed evenly throughout the rest of the spine. Compensating for stiffness at L5-S1 by arching the upper lumbar spine is counterproductive and not in the spirit of yoga.” 

She went on to explain, “Pilates is a more recent construct, and does encourage an unnatural pelvic tuck (even the instructors who teach ‘neutral spine’ teach a tucked, though less tucked pelvis). Pilates also tends to result in a lot of neck strain. One of our certified Gokhale Method Foundations instructors, who is also a pilates instructor, is in the process of modifying some of the pilates moves to make them compatible with the Gokhale Method. One of the problems with pilates is that their method is not trademarked so it is done in with a variety of interpretations. The good part is that we are free to interpret the approach in a posture-friendly way.”

Esther recommends people take up exercise they enjoy because that makes it sustainable and emphasizes that the exercise form should be posture-friendly. She also favors exercise approaches that satisfy a lot of needs at once because most of us are busy and adds that dance is her favorite form of exercise because it satisfies cardio, stretch, strengthening, social, creative and musical needs all at once.

We take a lot of time reading, studying, typing, texting, tweeting and a good amount of time exercising and doing other activities that put our spines in precarious positions, so let’s all take some time to study the “8 Steps to a Pain-Free Back.” It could be the difference between life and death… uh, I mean, pain and pain free.

Disclosure: This post is in no way comprehensive of the method and should not be used as a replacement to the book “8 Steps to a Pain-Free Back.” It is simply an informative review and should you wish further information on the method and the eight steps, purchase of the book is suggested. This post does not serve as a medical recommendation. If applicable, before engaging in this method please consult your physician. I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review, but that in no way influenced my opinions – those are my own. No other compensation was received. However, any links and linked images are connected to my Amazon affiliate account to which I receive a commission on purchases. Further information can be found in my complete disclosure policy.

Just a little more bling

I’ve admitted in the past that I’m addicted to chocolate, coffee, beauty products especially skincare creams and jewelry. So, you should never be surprised when I talk about any of those things, right? Well, today I’m going to tell you about a site I think quite a few of you are familiar with and that’s ChunkyBling.com. I visited them quite a few times and drooled over the offerings.

This site carries watches including the popular beaded watches, bracelets, necklaces (the charm necklaces are my favorite) and rings. They also have handmade jewelry including the cutest Swarovski Crystal rings. ChunkyBling.com is an easy to navigate site with clear pictures and descriptions. It’s also a great place to find a gift for a loved one.

Have you visited ChunkyBling before? If not, click on over and tell me what you would buy if you had the chance.

Disclosure: I’m writing this post as a part of ChunkyBling.com’s Blogging for Bling program. Upon approval of this post I’ll receive a coupon to get a free Swarovski Crystal ring, but that in no way influenced my opinions – those are my own. No other compensation was received. More information can be found in my complete disclosure policy.

Searching for quality bedroom furniture

In the attempt to get my home to a comfortable, well-decorated and organized state, I’ve been “screen shopping” (window shopping online) for furniture pieces for my children. All four of my children need new beds. The three younger ones are still in toddler beds and two of them, ages 5 and 6, have limbs hanging over the sides during the night. Luckily they’re petite children so they haven’t gotten too long as of yet, but there’s only about an inch of space left.

It’d be nice to get the three girls white bedroom furniture. (That link goes to an established company in the UK that sells absolutely beautiful furniture.) I think that white wood is a universal look for all girls in every age range. Unfortunately, my 19-year-old daughter shares a room with her two younger sisters when she’s at home. I’d like a daybed for her and two twin beds or a full-size bed with a trundle. Whatever I choose it has to be affordable, stylish and well made.

I’m going to keep looking and do a lot of research so I can ensure I get the best deal. Do you know of any U.S.-based retailers that sell quality and inexpensive bedroom furniture?

Do you floss or BrytonPick? {product review}

When it comes to my teeth and dental hygiene I don’t do the best that I could, but I normally brush two to three times per day, floss and use mouthwash. In addition to my medical issues, I know it’s really important to keep up with my dental health. That’s why when I was presented with the opportunity to test BrytonPick – thanks to TheMomBlogs.com – I  didn’t hesitate to put in my request.

The BrytonPick, which is reusable for up to 30 days, comes in a slender little pack (about as thin as a credit card) that can easily slide into a wallet or purse. It is suggested that the first time the BrytonPick is used it should be done in front of a mirror and after a meal by gently sliding it between the teeth while avoiding contact with the lips. So, that’s exactly what I did.

The first couple of slides went fairly well. I was a little nervous because the pick part is metal – steel actually – so I had a fear that it would scrap against my teeth like the tip of a fork or something and give me the hebie jebies. I’m happy to say that didn’t happen. I also thought it would be too thick – that wasn’t a problem either. At least not with the majority of my teeth. There were a few further in the back that are really tight and since it’s a slightly flexible material I couldn’t get it into a couple of spots because it would bend a little when I tried.

For me, the downside was steering clear of my lips. I barely nicked the corner of my lip and I cut it so that’s a negative for me because I need to be able to reach all of my teeth – front and back – to do a thorough job. And I don’t want to have to worry about cutting up my lips. It’s possible that once I get used to it or use it more that that wouldn’t occur. (I’ll use it again as soon as I remember where I slipped that little thing!) When using the BrytonPick you also have to be careful of the gum area. My gums are very sensitive and normally bleed anyway (yes, I know I need to get to the dentist) so it wasn’t too shocking that touching them with the Pick caused bleeding.

Since I was sent two of them – they come in different colors – I gave one to my BF to try. He said he didn’t like it much because he couldn’t get in between his teeth in the back. I asked him whether he tried from the other side of the tooth, but he doesn’t think he did. It’s possible that had he tried to clean his tooth from the inside it would have slipped right through.

Overall opinion: Like it; don’t love it – yet! I will try it again and use it for 30 days to draw a firm conclusion.

BrytonPick Facts:

The BrytonPick, a “new and unique interdental cleaner,” is made in the USA from recyclable materials and it’s reusable because of the germ-resistant stainless steel cleaning strips. It’s designed for daily and on-the-go use, and is stylish, convenient and discreet. It’s currently available at Meijer Stores, A&P, Pathmark, Winn Dixie, C&S, Kinney Drugs, Save Mart, Pearson Dental Supply and online at CVS.com and Drugstore.com.

Check out the BrytonPick site for more information, to order or watch a video of how it’s used.

Disclosure: I received samples of BrytonPick to facilitate my review, but that in no way influenced my opinions – those are my own. No other compensation was received. (Thanks to BrytonPick and TheMomBlogs.com.) More information can be found in my complete disclosure policy.

Televisions in bedroom

For the majority of my life I’ve never want a television in my room. Wait, let me amend that. As a teenager, I had a television in my room (it was a black and white set and I remember programming the Commodore 64 that I hooked to it one Christmas) and when I was a single adult I had a television in my room sometimes. But, for the most part, I’ve kept television watching to the living room and have allowed my children to have them in their room – without cable access – to watch movies on.

After doing some reading in women’s magazines and marriage websites that talked about keys to fostering a healthy relationship I decided it would be best not to have a television in the master bedroom because it should be a sanctuary for sleep or a playground for lovemaking.

I still believe the same thing… sort of. Since RP and I have been together we’ve used my laptop to watch movies on before bedtime and I’ve been thinking it would be nice to have 50 inch tv mounted on the wall for our viewing pleasure. Well, maybe it doesn't have to be that large, but it’d be nice to snuggle and enjoy a movie we both want to watch while relaxing in bed.

Can you imagine having a 50 inch plasma tv on your bedroom wall? Do you have one in your bedroom? If so, how often do you watch it and what type is it?

School begins…

Part 2

About two weeks ago my two middle children went back to school and last weekend I took my oldest, 19-year-old Amber, back to her campus. Since this is her second year it was a little easier getting everything done as far as what she needed to take and have. Luckily, she had already bought most everything last year and just needed a few additional items. After we – her boyfriend and I – had her moved in, set up with groceries and the majority of things put away we left.

It was bittersweet to leave her, but it was way easier than last year when I smiled, waved and drove away… two minutes later I was bawling and couldn’t see the rode. :-)

Here’s a peek at Amber in her dorm room last year. It’s the slideshow I included with last year’s post.

Create Your Own

This year, can you believe, I forgot to take some pictures. So Amber was sweet enough – at her mother’s insistence – to take some pictures for me.

    

Isn’t she the cutest?

In a couple of weeks, I’ll be telling you about my youngest daughter’s first day of head start… And the cycle continues. :-)

How was your children’s first day of school?

Memories of grandmother & her dinnerware

When I was a young girl in the early 70s both my mother and my father’s mother had beautiful china cabinets, which contained all sorts of memorabilia, crystal, formal dinnerware, champagne flutes, wine glasses and silverware sets. I remember getting my nose as close to the glass as I could to peer at the treasures within. My mother would normally admonish me for getting so close and remind me not to touch, and the only time I had a chance to see the items up close was during the holidays – when she used the fancy dinnerware and serveware sets. Afterward the items were placed in their places of honor and would only come out to be dusted, cleaned or to be used again.

At my grandmother’s house when I peered into her china cabinet there were times when she’d ask me what I was looking at. There were gravy boats and crystal salt and pepper shakers that always caught my attention. She’d tell me a story about how her grandmother had gotten the gravy boat, which was pale yellow with delicate flowers painted on it, or tell me which items were casual dinnerware and which were formal dinnerware.

From the time I was very small, my grandmother would talk to me as she prepared dinner or set the table so when I got old enough I started doing it without too much instruction. But, of course, there were still some things I didn’t know like the importance and meaning of the silverware sets that she used. My grandmother’s silverware was kept in the buffet table in a drawer that was lined with velvet to protect the silverware. She explained to me how each item was used and where it was placed on the table as well as if it should be used with formal dinnerware or casual dinnerware.

As I got older, I began setting formal place settings, folding cloth napkins and placing cutlery in the right places on my own. Even now, as an adult, I still think about those dinnerware sets and how special they are. I have some of them here waiting to be placed in my own “semi off limits” cabinet for my future grandchildren to marvel at and learn the stories behind each piece.

‘Enter If You Dare!’ {book review}

What is it about the odd and unbelievable that draws humans to see more? I don’t have the answer, but I do know I can’t stop looking at and reading the new book from Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Enter If You Dare! My children and my BF can’t seem to put it down either, which is why it sits on a table in the living room so everyone can reach it went they’re ready for a little something shocking, intriguing or entertaining.

The Ripley’s Believe It or Not! new addition was released on August 10th and is the seventh in its multimillion bestselling series. This edition is an “all-new collection of the strangest stories and features from around the globe.” It includes mind-boggling facts, stories, interviews and features in a colorfully designed layout.

One of my children’s favorite sections in the book is Body Oddity, which includes a true-to-size picture of 16-year-old Jyoti Amge who’s from Nagpur, India. She is one of the smallest teenagers in the world and stands 23.5 inches. My children were amazed when I held up the two-page foldout next to my 3-year-old daughter. My daughter, who’s about 27 pounds, is markedly bigger than Jyoti who weighs a little over 11 pounds.

It’s those amazing stories that keep us peeking in the book.

On my desk I have a tiny rubber band ball so imagine the kids’ surprise when they saw a picture of a rubber band ball that needed to be lifted by a crane to transport to the Ripley’s museum. Of course when I went to look in the book to give you more information about the rubber band ball I couldn’t find it. And that’s one of the fun and amazing things about the book: Each time you crack it open you’ll see something you hadn’t seen or read yet. So far, we’ve mostly been reading the entries that include pictures, but soon I will start reading the hundreds of other entries in each section.

This amazing book is guaranteed to be a source of entertainment – and education! – for myself and the children. My son is fascinated by anything having to do with animals, all of the children can’t resist finding out about everything concerning children and the littlest one just wants to know what everything is. (Small warning to parents: Some of the images I sensor from my middle daughter because she’s very sensitive and has dreams about things that scare her. So you may want to look at the book before you allow your children to then you’ll know what to avoid. Oh, there was some stuff I found yucky as well!)

Go ahead and get your own copy of Ripley's Believe It or Not! Enter If You Dare!

Disclosure: I received a copy of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Enter If You Dare! to facilitate my review, but that in no way influenced my opinion – those are my own. No other compensation was received. Any links are to my Amazon affiliate account. More information can be found in my complete disclosure policy.

Secure belongings with web slings

There has been a lot of individuals needing moving equipment lately. As I was riding down the street I live on I was surprised to see one of the residents who has lived in this neighborhood awhile with a moving truck in their driveway. The other day I saw someone trying to get heavy equipment secured with web slings and nylon straps. With so many people making such drastic changes lately, money issues and the economy are at the forefront of my mind.

New friend, new face product… life is good! {product review}

As many of you know one of the benefits of having a blog is the friendships that are made with other bloggers. I love having friends across the United States and in different countries – it often feels like I get to visit and talk with them everyday. I didn’t know when I clicked over to the Mom Deal of the Day (around mid July) and discovered the deal was samples of Votre Vu French beauty products that I would also meet a new friend.

I contacted Arlene about getting samples and she sent me about five to test. When they arrived there was a nice letter explaining the products and offering a person-to-person to give me instruction on application. We chose to “talk” on Yahoo Instant Messenger (she’s in California and I’m in Georgia), and I’m so glad we did.

Arlene sent me the products for oily skin because my face is particularly oily during the summer months. She sent the cleansing gelee, tonic (Peau Equilibree Tonic for Oily Skin, serum (Peau Equilibree Serum Balance Pour le Visage) and moisturizer (Peau Equilibree Creme de 24/7). Note: Please forgive my lack of punctuation with the French words. And, as a bonus, I received a sample of Tarte d’Amande Luxe Hand Creme, which is actually one of the best hand creams I have ever tried. In addition to the luxurious feel of the cream it smelled heavenly. Note to self: Buy some!

What I thought of the products:

The first thing I noticed was how even the skin on my face looked. I looked and felt extremely refreshed after using the products in the order instructed. Truthfully, I was pretty amazed. As an admittedly skincare fanatic, I’ve tried many facial products and this is absolutely one of the best.  (The photo above is before and the one below is, of course, after. I’m not sure if you can tell the slight difference in how my face looks oiler in the first photo.)

The cleanser was gentle, the tonic – which is sprayed on – was refreshing and the moisturize was not overpowering. The only thing I didn’t like was the serum because it felt a little sticky at first. The second time I used it I made sure not to use as much and that seemed to alleviate the problem. However, as I’m reading over the IM notes I think I was supposed to rinse it off. Ut oh. LOL.

The best part about the products? When I perspired my face didn’t feel like it was leaking oil, which is how I normally feel with the products I’m currently using. So, obviously, I’m extremely please. Not so pleased that I’m out of samples though! LOL.

Just a little information about the products from my IM with Arlene:

She suggested the cleansing gelee because “the other cleansers are milk based but for oily skin you need the gelee as it has natural ingredients to calm, detoxify and stabilize as well as prevent breakouts and take care of … blemish causing issues.”

About the tonic: “This helps with shine and gives your skin that perfect ph-balance to be receptive to the next step. It has calendula, rose water and sage extracts so it smells wonderful. It also helps to tighten pores and there is no soap or alcohol.” (My two cents: It smells divine.)

About the moisturizer: “This is nice as it boasts high levels of vitamins E, A and B, grape seed and apricot kernel oils, rosemary and geranium oils and more. It is nice and light.” (My two cents: Love, love, love it.)

Let’s wrap this up:

In the process of learning about the products, Arlene and I chatted about our children, etc. It was a conversation that I really enjoyed. Not only did I get my skincare fix, but I think I made a new friend. :-)

If you’re interested in checking out the products for yourself, hop on over to the Votre Vu site. I think you’ll love how there are brief videos about the products. I’m off to stalk the site and see how much the luxe hand cream is (in the Duette that Arlene told me about) and to price the oil skin facial products.

Disclosure: I received Votre Vu French beauty treats to facilitate my review, but that in no way influenced my opinions – those are my own. No other compensation was received. Special thanks to Arlene and Mom Deal of the Day. More information can be found in my complete disclosure policy.

Shopping for moving supplies

I’ve noticed in my blog hopping that quite a few people are moving. Some are moving due to military assignments and new jobs; some are ready for a change or need a change, others are moving for financial reasons whether downsizing or expanding. But there’s one thing that they all have in common. The need for moving supplies.

US Cargo Control has a huge selection of moving products including turnbuckles, moving blankets, ratchet traps and many additional items that are available at competitive prices. So whether you need a moving dolly or a tie down, you’ll find everything you need.

PTA tattles and tells

Tonight was the first PTA meeting at my two middle children’s elementary school. I’ve been trying to prep myself to become as involved at the elementary school as I was at their head start so even though I didn’t feel like going I’m feeling quite accomplished for pushing through and going anyway.

The tattle: Imagine my dismay when I get there and see only about 20 or so parents. As a matter of fact, Andre was the only one that showed up from his class and I don’t think there was anyone from Amareah’s class (including her MIA teacher). It’s pretty disappointing for the first meeting of the school year. And, I hate to say it, if someone had said the children were going to perform the place would have been standing room only.

ATTENTION PARENTS: Don’t complain about the school if you aren’t going to participate.

The tell: I filled out my volunteer form and turned it in. I grabbed and filled out a PTA member application, which I’ll send to school tomorrow with the fee. And I’ll try not to complain about the rude mother who kept interrupting while I was asking the Girl Scouts rep some questions. She, for some reason, felt as if her questions (that she seemed to already have the answers to) were more important. 

So, there ya have it. My tattle tells. Now, if I was going to tell a tall tale I would have said these are my tattle tales! LOL… Ut oh, it appears as if this long day has gotten to my brain. I’m off to look at the PTA schedule and put some of the events on my calendar. I’m sure I’ll have more tells … and tales… soon.

Finding free Wordpress themes

Have you been looking for wordpress templates ? Well, your search may be over. WPRex has a free gallery of templates for bloggers that are easy to download and that don’t require logging in. The site is well laid out and easy to use. In fact, I’ve been thinking about switching to a Wordpress platform and the templates here are making me seriously consider it.

What platform do you use and why?

Tasty treat & win (I love fruit baskets!)

With all the commotion of the past week, what with school starting for the two middle children and getting Amber back to college (and a bunch of other stuff), I’ve been forgetting losing track of what I’m supposed to be doing and posting.

One of the things I want to share with you is a very tasty win that was delivered on Wednesday last week. Well, first, let me tell you how I won it. I opened up my TweetDeck window one night and saw a tweet directing me to a conversation about 1800Baskets.com on Musings From My Minivan (you’re probably familiar with her as Miss Lori). Well, while Miss Lori was away having oodles of fun at BlogHer, she left her trusted readers to coming up with ideas for baskets for a chance to win one.

There were quite a few of us participating, but three of us stuck in until the end. And guess who won? All three of us did! LOL… That was really surprising and greatly appreciated. One lady won the APRES RAIN SPA Gift Basket (retail value $79.99) and someone else scored the BOUNTIFUL SWEETS GIFT BASKET (retail value $89.99). I wish I lived near them so I could enjoy some of their baskets as well – especially the one with the chocolate in it.

I received the BOUNTIFUL FRUIT AND GOURMET GIFT BASKET (retail value $89.99). What do I think about it? In a word: YUMMMMYYYY! I guess I should say what did I think about it ‘cause it’s basically all gone except for these final three pieces that are camped out in my fridge waiting to be devoured:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s a peek of what I saw when I opened the box:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do you see that Caramel Cashew Crunch and the licorice? Let me tell you that was the best tasting licorice I’ve ever had. I read on the site that this basket normally comes with chocolate-covered cherries and although I’m sure they would have been good, I’m so delighted to have tasted the licorice. Really!

Other items were tasty pistachios, apples, pears, oranges, a pineapple and sparkling pear flavored cider.

  Besides how tasty and fresh everything was, one of the best things about 1800Baskets is their gorgeous baskets, which can be reused for many things including re-gifting. …

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…  For now, I’ve found a new home for mine (I think that’s where I’m going to keep it) on top of one of the bookshelves in my office.

The kinds of gifts that 1800Baskets.com carries are enjoyable and practical. I’m going to consider one of them the next time I need to purchase a gift.

Disclosure: This is not a review although it does include my opinions about the fabulous basket I won from 1800Baskets.com via Miss Lori TV. My win in no way influenced my opinion – those are my own. No other compensation was received. Any links are to the sites for your information. More information can be found in my complete disclosure policy.

What weight loss sites do you trust?

If you’ve been reading my blog for awhile, you know that I often talk about my health challenges and my continued desire to lose more weight. I’m not one to follow strict or unusual diets… or any diet for that matter. I prefer to make lifestyle changes that I’m able to maintain over the course of – at minimum – a few years. That’s what I did to lose 10 pounds: I exercised fairly regularly, I counted calories and portions sizes and I reduced my fat intake.

Although that worked for me before for about three years, it doesn’t seem to be working now. I recently came across a new blog Fast Weight Loss Diet – How To Lose Weight, Quick Weight Loss Tips, which supposedly provides advice and information about all things relating to weight loss and dieting. I, however, will need to see it developed a little more with factual references and links to determine its legitimacy.

Nowadays, we have to be really careful when someone is touting good weight loss diets because oftentimes when the word "diet" is used it's speaking of restrictions and sacrifices. When you’re trying to lose weight wouldn’t you prefer to eat almost everything you want in moderation and maintain a healthy lifestyle? I know I would. So, tell me, have you found any weight loss sites that you trust?

Use your gifts, follow your heart, share your experiences

A book review of Silent Tears: A Journey of Hope in a Chinese Orphanage by Kay Bratt

When I picked up Silent Tears I didn’t expect to be drawn into Kay Bratt’s story because I am normally not a memoir reader. Normally, when – and if – I pick up a memoir I skim the cover and read a few pages here and there as the words or story captures me. I am rarely captured enough to finish it from cover to cover. This did not prove true with Kay’s memoir, Silent Tears: A Journey of Hope in a Chinese Orphanage.

It is written in a way that makes me feel like I’m snooping in someone’s journal, but it speaks to me in a way that only a true account, heart-wrenchingly sad and selflessly good book can. For me, it’s more than a mere relaying of events that occurred, it is a message of how to use our gifts and the struggle to be true to that. It’s a story of how not to give up on what your heart – and spirit – are leading you to do. And it’s a story of sharing your experiences in the hopes of helping others to realize their gifts, follow their hearts to share their experiences, which will – in essence – change someone else’s life.

Here’s an excerpt from the book’s cover:

What started out as an adventure for Kay Bratt became an unforgettable and life-changing experience.

When her family relocated to rural China in 2003, Kay Bratt was thrust into a new world, one where boys were considered more valuable than girls and poverty and the one-child policy had created an epidemic of abandoned infants. As a volunteer at a local orphanage, Bratt witnessed conditions that were unfathomable to a middle-class mother of two from South Carolina.

Based on Bratt’s diary of her four years at the orphanage, Silent Tears offers a searing account of young lives rendered disposable. In the face of an implacable system, Bratt found ways to work within (and around) the rules to make a better future for the children, whom she came to love.

The love Kay feels for the Chinese children she helped care for leaps off of the page. The surprising conditions of the orphanage and how the children are treated is like a splash of cold reality because although I know (or have heard) such conditions exist; in my mind I was hoping that it would not be true in this day and age. It is for this reason that Silent Tears took me so long to finish. I often long to sit and read it until I’m through, but can sometimes only take a little bit at a time because of the images that flow through my mind because of the details Kay shares. It was also necessary to stop and absorb what Kay had written because I believe there is more than just an account of events here; it is a message.

Not everyone will have a chance to travel to a Third World country or experience the selflessness of a missions trip, but everyone can identify what their gifts are and utilize them to help others. As I near the end of Silent Tears, I hope the message, the accounts of the children’s suffering and the faith in which Kay stood her ground and kept on her mission don’t leave me. Should you decide to read this book be prepared to absorb the message and be moved by the story then let it stay with you so you – as I hope to do – can use your gifts, follow your heart and share your experiences.

Disclosure: I received a copy of Silent Tears to facilitate my review, but that in no way influenced my opinion – those are my own. No other compensation was received. Any links are to my Amazon affiliate account. More information can be found in my complete disclosure policy.

School uniforms for the kids

This is the first year I’ve had two children (Andre and Amareah) needing school uniforms and I’ve found that providing and purchasing them isn’t necessarily cheaper than buying mainstream children’s clothing. With that in mind, I’m still interested in finding the best deals I can on school uniforms.

To stock up on school uniforms, I have to be a little creative and shop at different stores or stalk the sales. One of the places I’ve found that has an excellent sale on school uniforms is the Children’s Place. Not only do they have adorable regular children’s clothing, but they have a complete line of uniforms for boys and girls along with accessories I haven’t seen elsewhere.

I’m definitely going to shop while there is a Children’s Place sale going on because I have to save every cent I can. What about you? Is there a particular back-to-school items you’re saving money on?

What in the world was I thinking?

… I should have taken the week off.

Right now I’m sitting at the kitchen table with the sound of cartoons and pre-schooler noises floating around my head (yes, Anna is home today). I have my feet propped up and a cup of coffee standing by. I wish I felt as unfrazzled as I look, but the fact of the matter is time is slipping by at a record speed and I am nowhere close to accomplishing or completing or something-ing anything.

Let me explain why my head is frazzled, but I’m trying to maintain my cool:

• The two middle children started school on Monday.
• When I pick them up each day I drive them to the daycare for afterschool.
• I had a doctor’s appointment yesterday morning, which I was late for.
• Today, I have to (I’m going to!) drive two hours to my best friend’s place and take him to get his dental surgery. Then come back.
• Friday I have to ensure Amber has everything she needs and has the van loaded because…
• I have to drive three hours (Is it three? I can’t remember.) on Saturday to take her to campus and drive home.

In the middle of all of that I had writing and editing assignments, posts and reviews I was supposed to be doing along with the parenting and household stuff. Well, I thought I had it all under control ‘til I started getting behind on work two days ago. Because I started getting tired. Because I started going to bed later. Because I was trying to get everything done.

(If you’re really into grammar and sentence structure and all of that please forgive me. My eyes are blurry and my head hurts.)

So, you see, I should have taken the week off from work. You know, scheduled a few posts and slipped in some paid ones when I could. As it stands now I have two late assignments and others pending.

Did I already say I should have taken the week off?

Okay, gotta run to shower and get dressed so I can pick the two middle kids up from school early for their big sister to care for so I can get on the road.

Well, I am looking forward to munching on some of my goodies that I got from 1800Baskets. Now that’s one of the highlights for the week I’ll have to tell you about later.

What’s your secret blog weapon?

About 10 minutes ago I signed up for BlogCopy.com? I know you’re wondering what it is, right? Just nod politely. According to the site Blog Copy monitors and analyzes what your blog “readers copy from your blog and share with their friends.” Sounds like a handy tool, right?

I tested it out for myself by copying something on my site then logging back into Blog Copy to see the results. I was surprised at how accurate it was and how much information it gave it regards to what was copied. Test it out for yourself. It will definitely come in handy to ensure that no one is using your words as their own.

Plus and minus – Part 2

It’s a girl!

Last week, in Part 1 of Plus and minus, I told you about some recent changes that are going on: The organization of my office. The cancellation of a contract. And working on making my business and life conducive to the life I want to live. This has come about through some business and personal coaching that I’m doing with a long-time friend/colleague/client Rick Sherrell.

One of the things we discussed last week is my desire to work on my dream of making jewelry and selling it. Right now I mostly make jewelry for my own use and enjoyment, and I recently made a piece for my daughter’s 19th birthday. (Sidebar: It was one of her 19 days of gifts that’ll I’ll have to tell you about at a later date.)

I’m really pleased with how the set turned out. I call her The Prudence Set.

I can’t take full credit for the bracelet because I left the pattern of the beads and adornments as they came. I liked the pattern and design. I shortened it to fit Amber’s wrist and added the toggle clasp. The only thing I need to get a little better at is considering and determining length before I get started. The necklace looks fabulous on her, but the top square adornments hit right at the base of her neck and I would have liked them to be down some maybe to her collarbone.

If you recall, quite some time ago I mentioned to you and asked your advice about making jewelry. Here’s the link to that post to jolt your memory.

And, not too long ago, I told you about the one piece I made that I’m talking myself into sure I’m going to sell. Her name is Abby. Funny how the name of my first piece to sell begins with the letter ‘A’ just like my children’s names.

Now, one of the things Rick and I discussed was avenues (and customers!) in which I can test my jewelry-making skills on. I won’t reveal what that is right now, but I am really excited to have some initial “orders.” Everything I make will be one-of-a-kind because I want this process to be somewhat spontaneous, extremely creative and – overall – magnificently enjoyable. When I was making Prudence, I walked pass the supplies and the pendant a million times. I sat and stared at it. I touched it and rearranged beads… originally I had planned on it being beaded and not in chain… and tried to put myself into Amber’s mindset about what she really likes and feels when it comes to accessories.

And I hit the nail on the head.

Like I told you in last week’s post; it’s all about change and enjoyment. I’m confident that I’m on my way to doing exactly that. (And they say Virgos are resistant to change! LOL – It’s true.)

I’m anxious to hear what you think about the jewelry I’ve made, and any suggestions you have for me. Thank you…

Vehicle modification/equipment for persons with disabilities

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of NMEDA. All opinions are 100% mine.

Not too long ago I was waiting for the valet at the veteran’s hospital to bring my minivan around when I saw an older couple getting into their van. The husband was in an electric wheelchair and his wife got in behind the wheel of their minivan.

Before I even realized what had happened, she had pushed a button that lowered the van and put down a wheelchair lift, which he then rolled onto. The wheelchair lift rose and he maneuvered into place in the right front passenger area. He reached up and pushed a button and the door smoothly slid close after the wheelchair lift was stored. The vehicle then returned to its normal height.

Had I passed that van on the street I probably wouldn’t have noticed anything different. I was really impressed at the ease in which it accommodated him and his wife, and could only imagine where they had to go to get what I thought of as a “customized.”

And just today I because aware of NMEDA, which is a non-profit trade association that educates consumers on buying products from a NMEDA qualified dealer. This association promotes safe driving and equipment for the disabled. Members  (are the ones that sell handicap vans and vehicle modifications) of this association are required to adhere to the standards of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Believe it or not there are adapted vehicles sold over the Internet and through catalogs, but NMEDA warns against purchasing these as no two people with a disability are alike. A NMEDA dealer will do a personalized “in person” evaluation.

If this is a service that would be beneficial to you or a loved one, it’s easy enough to find a dealer near you. Go to NMEDA.org and put in your zip code to find the dealer closest to you. I put in mind and there are three NMEDA dealers within a 40-mile radius. Why don’t you do the same thing and then leave a comment letting me know the closest dealer to you?

Testing L’Oreal® micro-pulse™ technology – product review

Have you heard about L’Oreal® Paris Collagen Micro-Pulse™ Eye? I first saw it on a television commercial and wondered if it worked. Well, thanks to  BzzAgent, which I’m a member of, I am reviewing the product. This is especially exciting to me because as most of you know I’m addicted to skincare products.

Here’s a bit of information from the brochure about the product, which is the first to market the micro-pulse technology:

“… L’Oreal® Paris Collagen Micro-Pulse™ Eye is the next generation Eye Treatment that effectively reduces dark circles, wrinkles and puffy bags. The results are brighter, smoother eyes. … this first-of-its-kind total eye correction system with a Micro-Pulse massager, featuring an innovative micro-pulsing technology unlike anything you’ve tried before. It’s a combination of a unique and potent cream with Erasyl to help diminish dark circles and Collagen to help smooth away wrinkles with a ground breaking micro-pulse massager to minimize eye puffiness.”

This is definitely a product like none other that I’ve tried especially given the micro-pulse technology. The results that it’s reputed to give are immediate reduction of crow’s feet and eye bags and in four weeks crow’s feet will appear reduced, dark circles will appear minimized and eye bags will appear visibly diminished.

It’s easy to use: All I have to do is dot the cream under my eyes then turn the micro-pulse massager on holding it in about five different spots for about two seconds each. Then I sweep the massager from middle of eye to inner eye and from middle of eye to outer eye for about 10 seconds on each eye and I’m done. The entire process takes about two minutes – if that long – twice per day.

Now let’s see what my photographic evidence shows. (Sidebar: All of my lovely blogger friends never see the dark circles and wrinkles that I see. It is there just not as pronounced as I think it is, I guess.)

Here are my eyes before using the L’Oreal® Paris Collagen Micro-Pulse™ Eye on June 27 (I could have sworn it was just two weeks ago, but I see it’s been more than a month). Do you see the dark circles and slight puffiness?

I applied it later that day (I didn’t get it applied near as pretty as they do on the commercial)…

The following two were taken on the same day a little while after I used the product. (Sorry for the blurriness.) Can you see a difference yet? Although puffiness is not normally a major problem of mine, I can see a slight difference in that area compared to the first picture.

 

 

 

 

The next one is also the same day.

The next three are today (more than 30 days after I started using it) and I’ve only used the product once thus far. When I took the first one I had the flash on and I thought, “Wow, there is a difference in the dark circles. They don’t look as dark.”

So I decided to turn off the flash and see if it’s true and, to me, it looks like my dark circles have been diminished. What do you think? I’m going to keep using it to see if there’s a marked difference by the time I run out of the L’Oreal® Paris Collagen Micro-Pulse™ Eye.

     Thus far I’m pleased with this L’Oreal product. I’m not really surprised because – in general – I like the brand.

Other facts you may find interesting:

1. It’s ophthalmologist and dermatologist safety tested
2. It features a non-greasy, fragrance-free formula (true! It goes on very smoothly)
3. As of July 1st, it can be found in all major drug stores, supermarkets and big box stores for a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Have you tried it yet? If not, do you plan to? What do you think about it so far? Leave a comment and share your thoughts.

Benefits of earning an online degree

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of USC. All opinions are 100% mine.

There are a lot of things to consider when making the decision to go back to school to get a degree. In order to make that decision, one must consider the pros and cons of all available options. The two main choices to start with are whether you want to learn in a classroom or work toward an online degree.

Each option has its cons, but let’s consider the benefits of earning an online degree. One of the main things that returning or nontraditional students consider is the convenience and flexibility of online learning. You can often work at your own pace, from wherever you are and dress however you want. If that means waking up in the morning and sitting in bed wearing your favorite pajamas to “go to” class or hanging out at your favorite cafe while you participate then it’s up to you.

For educators and aspiring teachers the USC Rossier School of Education’s MAT@USC offers the prestige of earning a Master of Arts in teaching from an elite and internationally renowned research university that has a 100-year history of educating teachers.

USC’s School of Education is ranked #22 in the United States and #9 among all private universities by US News and World Report. And there are other facts to take into consideration when comparing them with other programs. The interactive online learning is combined with field-based experiences that are facilitated and directed by faculty who are recognized for their contributions to modern education.

They offer a tuition reimbursement program for MAT@USC graduates and complete USC student status and benefits, participation in commencement ceremonies, free lifetime Alumni Association memberships and more. Additional program information can be found on their site.

 

School begins…

Part 1

Today is the first day of school for my two middle children. Andre heads to the first grade (I so can’t believe it!) and Amareah is excitedly on her way to kindergarten. This was their dad’s weekend so I met them this morning to wish them well and give them hugs, kisses, high fives and reassurances that I would be there when school is over.

I’ve mentioned before that I’m not one of those extremely mushy moms who gets all teary eyed at new milestones, but today I became a little “thoughtful” (I guess that’s the correct word). I returned home after watching them walk into school with their father and younger sister, and I thought about the upcoming weeks. Their older sister will be returning to college this week (that’ll be Part 2) and the baby sister will be starting head start at the end of the month (that’s Part 3).

I stared at that picture. That little girl on the left – the one who I breastfed for a year, the one who sucked her two middle fingers for four years until she decided to stop on her own and the one who declared she didn’t want to go to head start any longer – is proudly and eagerly looking forward to her school year.

Their little faces and bodies hold all of those memories and feelings. And although I’m anxious for the empty nest, for days where I can take a nap and not have to concern myself with someone else’s schedule and pick up times – I am still the mommy and I’m semi-ready to tackle another school year.

Pleasures of new friends

A few days ago I shared with you about the No-Go BlogHer Blog Hop. Through that I’ve been meeting a lot of new friends and reading their creative and interesting blogs. There are definitely some fascinating, beautiful people to get to know.

There are many I could mention here, but today I just want to share what a new friend has done. Ellie, of Book Blab for KIDS!, has given me an award.

This is particularly special to me because it’s from a new friend, it’s the first award I’ve received in forever and I think it fits me. After posting this I realized I think I’m supposed to reveal seven things about myself. Is it seven or 10? IDK…

1. I’m addicted to magazines and books.
2. I’m addicted to chocolate.
3. I’m addicted to my BF.
4. I’m addicted to coffee.
5. I’m addicted to my laptop.
6. I’m addicted… no, I just kidding. No more addictions: I like action-filled, murder, suspense-type movies.
7. My favorite color is red.

Not that exciting, but parts of me nonetheless. Now for a little sharing – my choices for this award are:

• Crazy Adventures in Parenting
• A Hen’s Nest
• Mom Knows Everything

There are so many other deserving blog friends. Just because you aren’t listed here doesn’t mean I don’t think you’re extra, super-dee-duper fabulicious!

Slow down, mom, don’t panic!

This morning I awoke to the best feeling ever: I was able to sleep/lounge until 9 a.m. Last night I had the bright idea that since school would be starting for the younger kids next week that I really needed a little more rest before then. (One: Because my teen is going back to college at the end of next week, and Two: Because I’ll go from rising from 6:30 to 7 a.m. to being jolted out of sleep by an angry alarm at 5:30.) So, I asked Amber, the teen, to get up with her three younger siblings this morning and get them to daycare by 9 a.m.

She agreed because, for one, she hadn’t planned on sleeping in because of plans with her BFF. Cool, I thought, and added that if she could keep them from waking me or bothering me then that would be even better. I awoke briefly when my BF heard the kids and inquired as to why I was still laying down and there was so much activity “out there.”

“Amber,” I mumbled. And we went back to sleep.

Around a little after 9 I stretched and got out of bed, threw on a sarong, took care of my bathroom business and shuffled into the kitchen. I cleaned up the breakfast remnants that the kids left (they must have been in a hurry) and munched on some grapes. I put my coffee water on to boil, threw some bread into the toaster and wandered to look out of the front window.

The van was in the driveway. I scrunched my face – perplexed.

I went back to Amber’s room and looked inside. She wasn’t there. I went back to the window thinking that maybe she had just pulled up and was sitting in the van. She wasn’t.

“Amber?”

No answer.

A little wave of panic went through my heart as my mind raced trying to figure out where she could be if the van was in the driveway. I saw my keys hanging in their spot so that meant she had been in the house…

Oh… suddenly realization dawned as I recalled what she said last night.

“I’m supposed to be going somewhere with Doneshia tomorrow morning.”

Just to comfort myself, I called her and was relieved to hear her voice. I explained to her what had happened. She chucked and I told her, “I’m glad you’re okay.”

In my head I thought, “It was like Without a Trace.” … “I don’t know, officer, she must have came back from taking the kids then she just disappeared…”

Yea… I’m back.

Even though it’s a little funny it is definitely a scary thought to think one of your children is missing.

How’s the rest of the day been going? Nicely uneventful, thank you.